Diary of a Youth Camper

WINTER
2010
Woodmen of the World Fraternal Magazine
An American
Original
Forever Family
Diary of a
Youth Camper
The Decade of Confidence
Welcome to 2010 – a new decade ripe with possibility and opportunity.
One of my hopes for the upcoming decade is that people live with less fear.
It was President Franklin D. Roosevelt who said the only thing we have to
fear is fear itself. He’s right – fear can build on itself and create isolation,
paranoia and rash behavior.
While we can’t live in a bubble and we need to be aware of our surroundings,
we also have the freedom to choose to be calm and confident about our situation.
Your membership in Woodmen of the World should be one of the things
that brings you a sense of serenity. We are a financially secure and stable
organization. Your trust and safety are our number one priority, and we
do everything in our power to protect your future. The other aspect of
our organization – our fraternalism – brings many a sense of purpose and
community. Volunteering with your lodge can be a great way to gain a
sense of perspective on the world, and to feel better about yourself after
making a difference in your community.
I truly feel optimistic about our future as an organization, and about our
world in general. We have so much unfulfilled promise, and I see it every
time I look at my grandkids. It’s impossible not to be filled with hope
when we think about our children and grandchildren and how much they
can accomplish in their lives. It’s comforting to know that Woodmen of
the World will be with them through life, too, just as it has been with us.
As always, thank you for your membership. I look forward to a great new
decade with you in this amazing millennium.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Danny Cummins
President and CEO
2
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Our Mission
Woodmen of the World
exists to benefit our members
through every stage of life.
Woodmen of the World Life Insurance
Society and/or Omaha Woodmen Life
Insurance Society, founded in 1890, is
a fraternal benefit organization offering
insurance protection with member benefits.
Our nearly 750,000 members, who hold
nearly one million insurance and annuity
certificates, belong to 2,000 lodges
throughout the United States. Lodges
conduct fraternal projects of benefit to
people and their communities. These
projects include presenting U.S. flags to
civic and community organizations; donating
equipment to police, fire and rescue units;
providing assistance to senior citizens,
the physically impaired and orphans; and
providing assistance through our disaster
relief program with the American Red Cross.
Life and health insurance and annuity
products are issued by Woodmen of
the World Life Insurance Society and/or
Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society
(Woodmen of the World), a Nebraska
corporation that is licensed as Woodmen
of the World Life Insurance Society in
all states and the District of Columbia,
except CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA
and WY. In those states, Woodmen of the
World is licensed as Omaha Woodmen
Life Insurance Society. Not all products are
available in all states. Not all Woodmen of
the World Representatives are licensed to
sell all products offered through Woodmen
of the World and its subsidiaries.
Securities are offered and processed
through Woodmen Financial Services, Inc.,
1700 Farnam Street, Omaha, NE 68102,
877-664-3332, member FINRA/SIPC, a
wholly owned subsidiary of Woodmen of
the World Life Insurance Society and/or
Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society.
Securities other than Woodmen Variable
Annuity are issued by companies that are
not affiliated with Woodmen of the World
Life Insurance Society and/or Omaha
Woodmen Life Insurance Society.
Products that are not issued by Woodmen
of the World or offered and processed
through Woodmen Financial Services,
Inc., may be offered through Woodmen
Insurance Agency, Inc., a wholly owned
subsidiary of Woodmen of the World
Life Insurance Society and/or Omaha
Woodmen Life Insurance Society. These
products are issued by carriers that are not
affiliated with Woodmen of the World.
Wfm
Winter
2010
this
issue:
12
f e at u r e s
Dear Diary …
Experience five fun-filled days at a Woodmen
of the World Youth Camp through the eyes of
a 12-year-old member attending for the very
first time. Page 6
The Only Constant
Change doesn’t have to be difficult. Woodmen
of the World now offers Family Term Life
Insurance, which can grow and change as your
President’s Message Community Connection With you Through Life Page 2
Pages 5, 28
Page 8
Member News Pages 10, 17, 31, 36, 40, 43
Newsworthy Pages 11, 42
Member Spotlight Page 12
family does. Member Abdulmustufa “Andy”
Malik shares his family’s story of adjusting to
life’s changes. Page 8
Unconditional Love
Even today, adoption sometimes carries a
stigma. But not for members Bonnie and Billy
Walker. They have welcomed 18 adopted
children to their “Refuge Ranch” to go along
18
with their three biological children, and still
have plenty of love to spare. Page 14
8
3
on the cover:
Harley Ellington (left)
took time away from
all the fun at Camp
Woodmen this past
summer to keep a diary
of her experiences for
Wfm. Here she poses
with fellow North
Carolina East campers
Hollie Wasilewski and
Hailey Thompson.
14
The Cover Story Begins on Page 6.
credits:
American Mosaic Page 18
Chairman of the Board
William C. Owen, Tallahassee, FL
Fraternal Spirit Page 21
Fraternal Feature Page 34
Directors
Danny E. Cummins,
President and CEO, Omaha, NE
Healthy Living Page 38
Pamela J. Hernandez,
Executive Vice President, Operations & Secretary, Omaha, NE
Fun Zone Page 44
Mark L. Schreier,
Executive Vice President, Finance & Treasurer, Omaha, NE
In Memoriam Page 46
Larry R. King,
Executive Vice President, Field, Omaha, NE
28
Mark D. Theisen,
Executive Vice President, Fraternal, Omaha, NE
Thomas T. Gallion III, Montgomery, AL
Daniel W. Rice III, Kinston, NC
Lucia G. Taylor-McCoy, Elkview, WV
Stephen W. Mellor, Memphis, TN
M. Lane Harvey, Mt. Vernon, IL
Dr. James W. Bosler III, Louisville, KY
Dr. James W. Shaver, Landis, NC
Roger B. Moore, Lynchburg,VA
James W. Bridges Jr., Las Vegas, NV
Michael C. Shealy, Lexington, SC
Magazine Staff
Managing Editor: Billie Jo Foust
Content Editor: Andy Oerman
Design Editor: Joe Bavaresco
Writers: Nicole Schmoll, Angie Schendt, Heather Bockert
Designers: Jerry Underwood, Mike Wilson, Sarah Richart
Contributors: Kathy Cardwell, Angel Stottle
Marketing & Public Relations Team Vice President:
Steve Haack
If you have questions, comments or suggestions for
articles, please direct them to [email protected].
woodmen.org
e-mail us at: [email protected]
41
Wfm (ISSN 1069-1790) is published quarterly for $2.00 per
year by Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society and/
or Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society, 1700 Farnam
St., Omaha, NE 68102.
Periodicals postage paid at Omaha, NE, and additional
mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Wfm,
c/o Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society and/or
Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society, 1700 Farnam St.,
Omaha, NE 68102.
EQUAL ACCESS POLICY
Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society and/
or Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society is an Equal
Access fraternal benefit organization. It is the policy of
Woodmen of the World to seek qualified members on
a nondiscriminatory basis and to provide all members
with equal access to and allow their participation
in the organization’s lodge system, lodge events,
fraternal benefits and all other fraternal activities on a
nondiscriminatory basis.
4
WINTER 2010 VOL. 120, NO. 1
COmmuni ty CO nnection
Make A Difference Day
Members help around their communities
Valentine, SC Members of Lodge 2 partnered with
Midlands Orthopedics to schedule a day at the lake
and invite Limitless Sports, a volunteer group that helps
disabled children enjoy water sports. Participants from
local rehabilitation clinics took turns riding the specially
designed ski chairs, water tubing and canoeing.
Morris Chapel, TN Lodge 213 member Kenneth Perkins
helped clean up the grounds at Morris Chapel Community
Center and Fire Station.
Falmouth, KY Lodge 611 members Charlotte Whaley
(left), Margaret Haley and Janice Field, along with Lodge 1
member Judy Hensley (right) helped clean cabins and the
dining area at the local camp facility.
Murray, KY Lodge 827 members Mike Faihst (left),
Andrew Anderson and Mark Anderson (right) helped a
local family clean up their yard and rake leaves.
5
Feature
Lodge 1446 member Harley Ellington from Stem,
NC, had never been to Camp Woodmen before this
past summer, so she didn’t quite know what to expect.
A lot of first-time campers are apprehensive about the
experience, but like most of them, Harley, who is 12, fit
in right away and made a bunch of new friends.
“I always tell first-time campers to make the most of
camp and try new things. I’ve seen kids who were
basically hiding in their cabin the first day, go to
participating in everything and making all sorts of
friends by Thursday,” said North Carolina East Camp
Director and Fraternal Coordinator Eric Pilson.
And there’s plenty to try. From the talent show to
swimming to archery, there’s something new to do all
the time.
6
About 625 kids went to Camp Woodmen in East
North Carolina this past summer. Camp Woodmen
is offered as a fraternal benefit to members who are
between the ages of 8 and 15 during the time of camp.
Camp invitations are mailed out in the spring. More
information on Camp Woodmen can be found on
woodmen.org.
“Kids learn life lessons at camp. That confidence you
get from trying new things and meeting new people
sticks with you,” Pilson said.
Wfm asked Harley Ellington to keep a diary of her
experiences at camp this past summer to record
what it’s like for a first-timer at Camp Woodmen.
Thanks, Harley!
Harley Ellington took the time away from all
the fun at North Carolina East youth camp last
summer to keep a diary of her experience.
Monday, July 6
Thursday, July 9
Today was the first day here. After I got my stuff in my
cabin I took the swim test and got a green band, which
meant I could go anywhere in the pool. The slide is so big I
can’t wait to go down it. I got a top bunk in cabin two and
met all my cabin members. I am excited to see what we do
the rest of the week.
Today was the track and field events. I was in the tug-ofwar and my cabin won. I wish I could’ve done the belly
bumpers, because they were funny. They also had a rock
climb today. It was AWESOME because I’ve never done it
before. The talent show was good. I wasn’t in it, but I liked
the acts I saw.
Tuesday, July 7
Friday, July 10
We got to go to the lake today and there is so much to do
there. My favorite was the blob, even though I was scared
to jump at first. My cabin is pretty good at sports – we won
the kickball championship.
I am so sad today we are all leaving. I wish I could stay all
summer. The activities, staff, food, EVERYTHING was
way better than I imagined or could put in words. I cannot
wait until next year. Now I have something to look forward
to each summer. This camp is way better than any other
camp I’ve been to. I will miss it until I come back. zx
Wednesday, July 8
So far the food has been better than expected. My favorite
was the chicken nuggets. We had the slip ‘n’ slide, which
was a lot of fun. Kangaroo Court was hilarious! I still can’t
decide whether to do the talent show or not, but I want to
see all the acts.
7
with you through LIFE
Spare
Change
A
bdulmustufa “Andy” Malik would give you the shirt
off his back, and then dry clean it for you, too. There
are no customers at Malik’s dry cleaning business, just
friends. Woodmen of the World Representative Michael
Langley started out as one of those customers, but it didn’t
take long for their mutual respect for one another to grow
into a lasting friendship.
Change the only constant
Twenty-three years ago Malik left his native India to settle
down in Georgia. He could not understand the language
he heard or visit with his new neighbors. “I knew some
British English, but I found that it wasn’t the same as what
is spoken here. Over time, I developed friendships with
good people who helped me learn the language. People
like Michael.”
Langley has a lot of respect for Malik and is thankful that a
common need caused their paths to cross.
Andy Malik (left) and
Field Representative Michael Langley
A story of friendship and
family protection forged
from the fabric of life
8
CI 0002 11/09
“I go to the dry cleaners all the time. After a little while,
Andy and I got to know each other. He and his family are
really nice people,” said Langley. “Before he ever became a
member, he told me that I could put my business card on
his counter. Whenever I came to pick up my dry cleaning,
he’d tell the other customers in line that if any of them
needed life insurance, they needed to talk to me, because
I’d take care of them.”
In time, Langley told Malik about Woodmen of the World
and explored his life insurance needs. When the Family
Term product became available in Georgia last year,
Langley thought it might be a good fit for the Malik family,
which is made up of Andy, his wife, Shahin, and their
three sons, Arbaz, 14, Shaqib, 12, and Abdulsamad, 8.
Although Malik no longer misses India and feels Georgia
is his home, like everybody, he still has to deal with changes
in life. A desire to get his children into a better school
district prompted him to move his family to Buford. He
started a dry cleaning business. He bought a home. All
of these changes made the Family Term Life Insurance
product Langley spoke about resonate with Malik.
“It was Michael’s birthday and I told him that I’d purchase
life insurance from him, sort of as a birthday present,” said
Malik, laughing softly. “My wife and I wanted the peace
of mind that the Family Term Life Insurance (certificate)
could bring. It was affordable and it just made sense. On
top of all that, I felt like Woodmen of the World was an
(organization) that I could trust.”
Life insurance that changes with you
Family Term Life Insurance from Woodmen of the World
was introduced in 2009. It is a product that covers an entire
family – up to two adults and all eligible children1 – with
one life insurance certificate at an affordable cost. As a
family grows, so can the coverage; when children are born
or adopted, the life insurance certificate covers them, too.
“Family Term is an excellent product for families on a
budget who need life insurance,” said Langley. “Members
get a lot of bang for their buck.”
If you think Family Term Life Insurance might be a good
fit for your family, contact your local Representative or call
1-800-225-3108 to find out more. zx
Family Term Features
Life changes. Families change. Sometimes those changes
are dramatic, like Abdulmustufa “Andy” Malik’s move from
India to Georgia; at other times, they’re simple. Regardless,
you need a life insurance product that’s flexible enough to
meet all of the changing dynamics of your life. Family Term
Life Insurance from Woodmen of the World is that special
product that gives you the ability to cover your entire family
– up to two adults and all eligible children1 – with one life
insurance certificate, at an affordable cost. Check out these
features of Family Term Life Insurance:
• Provides 10-year level term life insurance to a singleparent or two-parent family, ages 18-50. This means
premiums are level and will not change during the first
10-year period.
• Adult face amounts available are $50,000 or $100,000.2
• After 10 years, the adult coverage is annually renewable
to age 95.
• Coverage is available at certificate issue to eligible
children,1 ages 15 days through 17 years.
• Provides $10,000 of term life insurance for eligible
children until age 25.
• Coverage on the child may be converted to
permanent coverage at any time before the child’s
25th birthday, without proof of insurability, for the
same amount of coverage.
• As additional children are born or adopted, they are
covered by the certificate for no additional premium.3
• Upon the death of the Primary or Other Insured, all
coverage continues on the other insured adult and on any
eligible children, with no additional premiums required.4
If Family Term Life Insurance from Woodmen of the
World seems like a good fit for you, contact your local
Representative to find out more. At that time you can discuss
the costs, benefits and details of coverage, including any
reductions, exclusions and limitations that may apply.
1. Children born or adopted by the Primary insured or Other
insured, or for which the primary insured or other insured
has been appointed permanent legal guardian. The child
must be less than 18 years of age on the date of application.
2. The face amount of the Other Insured can never be more
than the Primary Insured.
3. Certain eligibility requirements and age restrictions apply.
4. Except by suicide within two years from the effective date
of the certificate. In Missouri, except by suicide within one
year from the effective date of the certificate.
Certificate Forms 8063 10-08, ICC09 8063 10-08
9
MEMBER NEWS
Robertson and Wessels are
encouraging all their lodges
to partake in the merge. They
have created e-mails and mailings
to let members know about the
opportunity and how they can, too,
become a part of the trend. “I have
sent stuff out to the lodge secretaries,
so they can bring it up in the meeting,”
said Robertson. “It does need to be
included in the meeting minutes.”
Family lodges are also projected to be
a way for members to spend more time
as a family.
“Woodmen of the World is all about family, so
I believe this transition will increase attendance
at meetings,” said Wessels. “If our youth and adult
Lodges merging to form Family Lodges
Less paperwork and more opportunity – it’s all part of the
lodges meet at the same time, it’s more convenient for
families, which is nice for everyone.”
equation when an adult and youth lodge merge to equal a
successful Family Lodge.
Robertson is looking forward to providing the opportunity
for youth members to become more involved. “This is a
Officially approved at the 2009 National Convention, the
chance for the younger members to step up and run to be
number of Family Lodges are beginning to add up. “It is a
a lodge officer and even a delegate.”
tremendous opportunity,” said Alabama North Fraternal
Coordinator Philip Robertson. “It eliminates the liability
Both Robertson and Wessels are excited about the
of another bank account and duplication of paperwork,
transition. “All of our lodges are looking at completing
including the lodge calendar and annual financial reports.”
this,” Wessels said. “I think it’s just a sign of the times and
that we are moving forward and making things happen.”
Texas Southwest Fraternal Coordinator Doug Wessels is
hopeful that his area lodges will complete the mergers
For more information about Family Lodges, contact your
in the spring. “Many of my lodges discussed the issue in
Fraternal Coordinator or Community Outreach Manager. zx
November and are planning on getting started after that,”
Wessels said. “I’m hoping that the merge will be complete
by springtime.”
10
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Newswort hy
All That You Can’t
Leave Behind
Pamela Hernandez
The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, forever changed the way we travel.
Between Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines and most
major airlines charging a hefty fee to check luggage, you have to think carefully
about which items you absolutely can’t afford to travel without. In short, you end
up taking all that you can’t leave behind with you on your journey.
As we embark upon 2010, Woodmen of the World is on a journey of its own. We’re
growing membership by engaging with our communities in fresh ways, without
compromising the core values that have gotten us where we are.
As we learn about more effective ways to draw the interest of a new generation of members,
some older members are being challenged to change the way they run lodge meetings, or
the types of social events they hold. Our core values aren’t changing. In fact, the great thing
about our values is that they are timeless.
We are still as committed as ever to integrity, trust and community service. Those values are
appealing to people of all generations because they meet the needs of the heart. However,
the expression of our values may need to change to effectively reach the ears of younger
generations today.
If you are active in your lodge, your challenge is to think of how you can communicate
the value of community service to youth in your area. Maybe you can ask a young person
to create and maintain a blog about the community outreach events your lodge performs.
Ask yourself how your lodge can reach families with the excellent products Woodmen of
the World offers. Maybe you can invite a Woodmen of the World Representative to host a
seminar on Woodmen of the World’s new Family Term Life Insurance product.
The possibilities are as endless as your resolve to put your imagination into action. The best
way to ensure that our organization lives on after we’re gone is to be willing to leave behind
old expressions of our values if they no longer connect with the community around us.
After all, our values themselves are the only things we truly can’t afford to leave behind.
Pamela Hernandez
Executive Vice President, Operations and Secretary
11
Member spotlight
McLain
Comes
to his
Census
Member hired to help
with 2010 Census
12
Woodmen of the World member Larry McLain thought
he was ready for retirement, until he got the “subtle urge
to get back out there and take in a new experience.” Acting
on his instincts, he is currently helping the United States
Census Bureau in its mission to collect completed forms
and fulfill its 2010 goal.
According to the Census Bureau, the objective of the 2010
Census, mandated by the United States constitution, is to
get the accurate number of residents living in the United
States on April 1, 2010. “Our goal is to count all residents,
despite their legal status,” said McLain. “The form is
confidential, easy and will give accurate data that will
affect the $3 trillion allocated to communities over the
next 10 years.”
A new phase in life
McLain, a retired electrical utility company employee,
decided to take an early retirement after more than 39 years
of employment. “I enjoyed having more time with my wife,
Necia, and my granddaughters, Diane and Danielle, but I
missed being more involved with the community,” he said.
One day a radio advertisement for positions with the
Census Bureau caught McLain’s attention. “Why not try
it? It’s something different,” he thought at the time. “I went
and tested out and they offered me a position as the Crew
Leader Assistant in the Address Canvassing Phase.”
McLain’s duty was to oversee 17 address canvassers in the
area. Once the canvassing phase was complete and the
next phase was under way, he was offered the position as
Partnership Assistant. “I am focused on connecting with
businesses, churches and other community and faith-based
organizations with disadvantaged employees and members,
and I encourage everyone to help one another fill out the
form,” he said. “We have Houston, Madison and Leon
Counties in Texas, all of which have Woodmen of the
World lodges.”
Membership spreads the word
As a member of Houston County Lodge 4652, McLain
has the opportunity to get the message out about the 2010
Census. “It’s in the lodge program for February and I plan
on visiting all the lodges in my area,” he said. “I am going
to explain the form and ask members for their participation
in completing the form and getting the word out to family
and friends.”
There are three messages the Census Bureau is hoping
to convey this year. “One message that we want to convey
is that the form is safe and absolutely confidential,” said
McLain. “The second message is that the form is simple;
only 10 questions. And the last is the importance; the
results determine representation in Congress and the
appropriation of funding.”
Survey says …
Along with the main form, designed to be filled out by
the head of household, there are seven short questions that
should be answered by other members of the household.
“The average response in the past has been only 67
percent,” said McLain. “This needs to improve in order to
get an accurate count.”
McLain is hoping that through his efforts to inform
people, he can help surrounding communities get the
allotted amount of money they need. Facts gathered from
the census will help in determining decisions made about
health facilities, transportation, education, senior services,
and neighborhood improvements. “I think I am in a great
position to help my community and the communities
around me.” zx
For more information on the 2010 Census, visit http://2010.census.gov.
13
Today's Family
A Forever Family
by Angie Schendt
Some kids don’t know the answer to, “Where did you
get your beautiful blue eyes?”
Some parents have to come up with a polite reaction
when someone says, “But she looks nothing like you.”
And yet inquiries from strangers are often the least of
the headaches and heartaches involved in the life-long
adoption process. Often, behavioral issues, medical
challenges, mountains of paperwork, and financial
considerations weigh on families.
But for the children who find stability and security in
a permanent home, and for the parents who find their
homes filled with boundless joy and love, the pain of
adoption is more than worth it.
14
Child’s Welfare Comes First
The history of current adoption practices dates back
to at least 1851, when the state of Massachusetts passed
the first modern adoption law, which outlined the
child’s welfare as being the first priority. Adoption
had already been a part of society for centuries, and
many times children were moved in and out of families
because of what was in the best interest of the adults.
But in the late 1800s, the focus shifted to doing what
was right for the child.
Adoption practices were far from perfect, however.
Not every Little Orphan Annie found her Daddy
Warbucks. Even later into the 1900s, a stigma was
sometimes attached to adopting a child, as dramatized
in the current popular television show “Mad Men,”
which takes place in the early 1960s. In the second
season, in an episode entitled “The Inheritance,” character
Pete Campbell’s mother threatens to disinherit him if he
and his wife adopt a child. His mother quotes her recently
deceased husband by describing adoption as “pulling from
the discards.”
Unfortunately, stigmas associated with adoption still exist.
Parents who place their child for adoption sometimes face
a backlash – people may wonder in the back of their minds,
“How could they give up their child?”
The Walker children love helping out with the
“It’s a myth to think that parents don’t care about their
children when they place them for adoption. I’ve worked
at this agency for 12 years and have yet to meet a parent
who does not truly love their child. On the other hand, I’ve
also met many who don’t know how to express that love,
who didn’t learn how to love when they were children, or
who have substance abuse or mental health problems that
compete with their love for their children,” said Lisa Blunt,
Therapy and Support Program Director at the Child Saving
Institute in Omaha, NE. The Child Saving Institute began
facilitating adoptions in 1892 and offers many programs and
services for both parents and children today.
Another stigma rests on the shoulders of the children.
Despite the recent trend of celebrities adopting older kids,
there is a high demand (and often waiting lists) for infants,
and an overflow of older children waiting to be adopted.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, there are about 130,000 children in public foster
care waiting to be adopted each year.
“It is harder to place older kids than babies. But adopting
an older child can be a great way to build a family. Babies
come with a history attached to them, too, which is a good
thing. Kids of all ages bring such richness with them. All
of these experiences, it’s part of who they are and it can be
beautiful to see,” Blunt said.
Unconditional Love
This unfolding of a person is something that Bonnie
Walker of Rhine, GA, knows very well indeed. Walker
and her husband, Billy, who is a member of Lodge 1192
in Milan, GA, have adopted 18 children and have three
biological children. Most of the children they have adopted
chores at Refuge Ranch near Rhine, GA.
have been older. Most parents who adopt older children
start off as foster parents, and the Walkers are no exception.
“Foster children live with so many uncertainties, it’s very
hard emotionally for everyone,” Bonnie Walker said.
The Walkers decided to become foster parents after Bonnie
experienced four miscarriages within 16 months after their
third daughter was born. After a year filled with training,
home visits and paperwork, they were approved. So far
they have fostered 10 children, some of whom they adopted.
Each of their 21 children came to their family in different
ways; some came with siblings, and others came as babies.
“It’s about loving a child unconditionally regardless of what
stage they’re in,” she said. “Unconditional love heals.”
They have 10 children living at home right now – they’ve
had as many as 17 kids living under their roof at one time.
Their oldest child is 32 and their youngest is 10 – and they
haven’t ruled out adopting more children. They have three
grandchildren, and some of their children have expressed
interest in adopting children themselves.
The Walkers live on a 600-acre farm where they grow
watermelons and other crops, and they raise longhorn cattle
and hogs. They own a five-bedroom house, and also own
a trailer on the property that serves as their home school.
They’ve named their home Refuge Ranch, inspired by
Psalm 46, which starts with “God is our refuge.”
15
All the Walker children came into the family
in different ways, but each has provided
Bonnie and Billy with endless joy.
The Adoption Process
Adoption differs from state to state, so the first step for
parents who would like to adopt children is to make an
appointment with a local agency.
“I would encourage parents to reach out and talk with an
adoption counselor. Every situation is different, so that
person can sit down with you and discuss your goals for
your family,” said Lisa Blunt of the Child Saving Institute.
“The adoption process is tough. I’ve seen people wait two
weeks, and I’ve seen people wait two years. But that’s what
adoption is all about: putting your interest in a child ahead
of your own interest.”
One thing that families should be doing throughout the
process is building up their support system, Blunt said.
“You need to have your extended family, your work family
and your friends all on board. It’s an amazing experience,
but you also need to be prepared for the ‘what-ifs.’ The
adoption counselor and agency can be a great resource
throughout the child’s life, too,” she said.
The Child Saving Institute in Omaha, NE, hosts an adoptive
family picnic each year. Blunt has seen kids grow up
throughout the years, something that has been personally
rewarding to her.
“To see families together and to see the sparkle in the
Bonnie turned some of her journal entries into a book,
entitled Refuge Ranch: A Story for His Glory. She also
writes a family newsletter for those who sign up on her
mailing list, and she speaks at church groups, Mother’s
Day luncheons and conferences. She also does six loads of
laundry a day.
kids’ eyes, it warms your heart. Every kid needs a place to
belong,” she said.
Adoption Resources
Heart Gallery – A site of more than 120 photo galleries that
display photos and biographies of older children who are
available to be adopted right now.
“I am very gifted at being organized,” she said. “But I
couldn’t do it without the Lord.”
It’s through her journals that she learns things about
herself, and she uses her own experiences to lift others up.
“I went back and read something that tickled me. When
we had six kids living at home, I had written, ‘God, don’t
send me more children, I can’t tend to this six we have!’
It taught me that we may feel overwhelmed, but things
change,” she said. “So many people have a heart to adopt,
so I say, ‘You can do this. Don’t quit; those kids are worth
fighting for.’” zx
16
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
heartgalleryofamerica.org
Adoption History Project – A history professor at the
University of Oregon has compiled a comprehensive history
of adoption, including a timeline and explanation of laws.
uoregon.edu/~adoption/index.html
Refuge Ranch – Learn more about the Walkers and their
lifelong journey of adoption.
refugeranch.com
Member News
2010
Refunds
Refunds paid to members holding life and accident
Member
Transforms
Into Actor
A while back, Staff Sergeant Brian Grainger answered
and health certificates during 2010 are expected to be
a Hollywood casting call on the U.S. Air Force Base
approximately $105.5 million, Woodmen of the World’s
where he is stationed – something he had never done
Board of Directors recently announced.
before. About a year later, his father, Woodmen of the
World Representative Ray Grainger, watched him appear
The Board also announced that beginning Jan. 1, 2010,
in seven scenes alongside actor Josh Duhamel in last
Woodmen of the World will pay 4.80 percent interest
summer’s film, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
on refunds left on deposit with the organization. The
4.80 percent rate will also apply to monies being held
“It was a great experience. The food was really good, the
while an Adjustable Life or Flexible Life certificate is
actors were down to earth and the Director, Michael Bay,
waiting to be issued.
was respectful toward the military members involved,”
said Brian Grainger. “It was interesting to see how things
The maximum interest rates used to calculate refunds on
are filmed multiple times in different sequences. It has
Adjustable Life unloaned cash values will range from 4.45
changed the way I watch television and movies. I’d
percent to 5.35 percent, depending on the certificate
recommend being an extra to anyone who has an interest
year, issue age, sex, face amount, and other classifications.
and the time to do it.” zx
The maximum interest rates used to calculate refunds on
Grainger (left) and Duhamel
Flexible Life unloaned cash values will range from 4.60
percent to 5.65 percent, depending on the certificate year,
issue age, sex, face amount, and other classifications.
The interest rate applied to monies received as
advanced premium will be 4.80 percent on fixed
premium life insurance plans and 4.00 percent on new
flexible premium life insurance plans.
Woodmen of the World’s Executive Committee, taking
into account investment market yields, will set annuity
rates monthly. zx
17
American Mosaic
Love
Celebrating
with an American Original
by Nicole Schmoll
18
Will you be one of the many Americans to send a Valentine’s Day card this
year? According to the Greeting Card Association, after Christmas, more
cards are bought for Valentine’s Day than any other holiday. And even
though Valentine’s Day did not originate in America, at least one strong
American brand built its legacy on the back of this popular holiday.
Hallmark – an American Tradition
Cards to Connect
When Joyce C. Hall stepped off the train that carried him
from his tiny birthplace of David City, NE, to Kansas City,
MO, at 18 years of age, he had nothing with him but two
shoeboxes of postcards and some pocket change.
A wide range of candy, cards and flowers are available for
Americans to use to express their affection for one another
on Valentine’s Day. When it comes to cards, Hallmark
strives to create items that will enable people to make a
genuine connection by reflecting the range of relationships
that exist between senders and receivers.
One hundred years later, the card company that Hall
founded – Hallmark – creates cards in 30 languages,
sells them in 100 countries and is still led by one of his
descendants. Hall overcame poverty and an early fire that
destroyed his inventory to leave his mark on an industry
that has come to generate nearly $7.5 billion in retail sales.1
Constant innovation kept Hall moving forward throughout
his tenure. In 1917, he invented gift wrap, and in 1932
signed Hallmark’s first licensing agreement with another
American brand mogul – the Walt Disney Company®. In
that same year, Hall revolutionized the way greeting cards
were displayed by creating a patented “Eye Vision” display
that pulled cards out of drawers and placed them on top of
table tops for easy perusal.
“J.C. Hall was an entrepreneur and innovator who very
early on grasped the power of a brand,” said Hallmark
Public Relations Representative Sarah Kolell. “He began
advertising Hallmark greeting cards in 1928, introduced
our ‘When you care enough to send the very best’ slogan in
1944, and launched the Hallmark Hall of Fame series of
television specials in 1951 – all things that helped associate
Hallmark with quality and creativity.”
“Maybe you want humor. Maybe sentimentality. Perhaps
you're looking for a card for your granddaughter and
would like to be able to record your voice telling her how
much she’s loved,” said Kolell. “It’s very dependent on the
relationship, so we strive to produce products that enable
people to connect in a genuine way.”
Over the years, cards have had a way of capturing the
metamorphosis in how people express their affections for
each other. Some expressions, such as sentimentality, seem
timeless. Others, such as irreverent humor, came along
more recently. Today, there seems to be a card for every
occasion and a Valentine’s Day card for every relationship.
Whatever emotion you want to express on this holiday that
originated overseas, chances are good that you can find it in
a card produced by an American original – Hallmark. zx
1. http://www.answers.com/topic/handmade-greeting-card-company-6
19
How will you express your affections this Valentine’s Day?
Valentine’s Day has become an opportunity for more than just lovers to express their emotions for each other. Hallmark
Representative Sarah Kolell shares a look at how Hallmark Valentine’s Day cards have changed over the years.
20
Teens
J.C. Hall used a
printing press to
manufacture his
own cards, changing
the format from
a postcard to a
flat card mailed
in an envelope.
1920s
Humor cards
consisted mostly of
puns, a move that
reflects the overall
trend of valentines
moving from
messages strictly
focused on love to
messages appropriate
for friends. Valentines
for teachers were
introduced.
1930s
Making the best of
hard times, many
cards contained
references to a lack
of money. Folded
cards appeared
frequently and
Hallmark began
using Mickey Mouse
on its greeting cards.
1940s
Cards for soldiers,
as well as teens, are
produced. Colors
remained traditional.
1950s
A contemporary
card line was
introduced featuring
alternative humor,
a tall, skinny shape
and a new graphic
look. Such modern
cards marked a
strong departure
from traditional
cards popular in
earlier decades.
1960s
Traditional
valentines with red
satin hearts, sachet
centers and lace
were still popular.
However, cards with
an irreverent sense
of humor appealing
to teenagers
made big sales.
1970s
Warm, personal
messages came back
into style and cards
reflected that shift
with more personal
and romantic
valentine cards.
1980s
In a decade of
excess, traditional
valentine motifs –
hearts and flowers –
became more glitzy.
Cards featured
new techniques,
like intricate laser
cuts and unusual
sizes. Surprise
and blank cards
were introduced.
1990s
Cards addressed
relationship stages
– from casual to
close – in a variety
of ways. Valentine’s
Day became more
a celebration
of friends and
family. Electronic
greeting cards
were introduced.
2000s
Humorous messages
remain popular,
as well as cards
featuring popular
characters and hightech extras. Today,
Hallmark offers
interactive e-card
designs, personalized
photo cards and
mobile greetings
sent via cell phones.
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Fraternal Spirit
Show us your spirit!
We’re listening to you! Starting in the Spring, we’ll
begin publishing more pages of Fraternal Spirit photos
in each issue. So now more than ever, we need photos
submitted from your lodge. Here’s how you can be
Marion, VA Field Representative Daniel King (center)
presented Lodge 418 members John and Ellen Stines with
50-year service pins at a lodge meeting.
certain your photo is considered:
• Make sure the photo is in focus and well-lit.
• Use a quality camera or high-resolution digital
camera of at least five megapixels. Copies or
Polaroids, for example, will likely not be selected.
• Have everyone pictured smiling and looking at the
camera.
In addition, photos of smaller groups of people
generally work better than large groups; a good rule of
thumb is no more than four people in one picture.
Last but certainly not least, be sure to send in photos of
all your lodge activities, including new member outreach
events, fun family events and service projects, as well as
Jacksonville, FL Lodge 3 member Christine Yearous
presented Landon “Sonny” Neil with a Past President’s pin
at a lodge business meeting.
the usual flag and check presentations that make us proud.
Americus, GA Lodge 202 member LeNell Cox helped
make 200 red, white and blue ribbon pins in honor of the
Fourth of July for homebound senior citizens who receive
Meals on Wheels.
Butler, PA Members of Lodge 8 enjoyed a day of pizza
and bowling for a lodge activity.
21
Hartselle, AL Youth members gear up for rock climbing
at the annual North Alabama Youth Summer Camp.
Clarkesville, GA Members of Cornelia Lodge 553,
Clarkesville Lodge 143 and Youth Lodge 1558 marched
together in the annual Mountain Laurel Parade.
Ruby, SC Lodge 516 held their annual supper for the
citizens of Hospice of Chesterfield County.
Seguin, TX Cariann Lee of Lodge 3040 presented
Oak Crest Elementary School with Texas and United
States flags. Field Representatives Paul Harst and Texas
Southwest Fraternal Coordinator Doug Wessels assisted
in the presentation.
22
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Bristol, VA Field Representative Fred Bowman presented
Life Saver Awards to local teachers Karen Branson (left)
and Suzanne Hawthorne (center) at the Awards Dinner
held by Lodges 269 and 6035.
New Albany, MS Field Representative Patricia Carlisle
presented Area Manager Charles Baggett with an Our Family
Award picture frame at Lodge 1456’s first 100% Woodmen of
the World Family Night at the Union County Library.
Arlington, KY Lodge 38 member Carolyn Hickerson
(left) presented a check for $100 to the Arlington First
Baptist Church Relay for Life team.
Cumberland, MD Youth Lodge 95 President Jessica
Michaels presented a Good Neighbor Award and “Buddy”
stuffed animal to Jake Block for pointing out to police
where a thief was hiding in his neighborhood.
Little Rock, AR Lodge 5 and Youth Lodge 1444 members
Austin Felix (left), Howard Harts and Tucker Felix presented
200 pencils and rulers and 150 belts to Sanford Tollett (right),
Executive Director of Pfeifer Camp in Little Rock.
Waynesville, NC Field Representative Bill Moore
presented a $500 check on behalf of Lodge 226 to Kim
Czaja, Director of the Haywood County Chapter of the
American Red Cross.
Macon, GA Membership Director and Lodge 6023
member Leroy Reliford, along with Georgia Central State
Secretary and Lodge 6023 President Karen Farmer (center)
presented a check from the Home Office to Tracy Kight
(left), Director of the local chapter of American Red Cross.
23
24
Lexington, KY Lodge 1 President Judy Hensley presents
Lauren Bosler with the Youth Fraternalist of the Year Award.
Also pictured are Holly Fultz (left), Brandon Adams (center)
and Board of Director Dr. James Bosler.
Greenfield, TN Lodge 1026 members set up a
promotional booth with prizes and co-sponsored a
carnival ride at the 2009 Greenfield Fiddlestick Festival.
Tarboro, NC Lodge 196 President Shirley Orr was presented
with the Tennessee West Fraternalist of the Year Award by Area
Manager Jerry Landrum (second from left), Representative Jon
“Steve” Kendall (left) and retired Representative Jim Kendall.
Russellville, AL Members of Lodge 1870 help with
their Swamp John’s Catering fund-raiser, a New Member
Outreach event.
Schulter, OK Henryetta Lodge 1218 presented John and
Franklin Stalik with Homeland Hero Awards.
Ecru, MS Lodge 423 Secretary Mabel McGee (left)
presented Robbie Walton with a 50-year service pin.
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Renton, WA Lodge 35 donated Easter baskets to the
Auburn Rehab Center and Joy Lee played the flute for
residents.
Savannah, TN Field Representative Bob Armstrong
presented an American History Award to Kelly Clausel
from Hardin County Middle School on behalf of Savannah
Lodge 50.
Waynesville, NC Lodge 226 members presented a $500
check to Lisa James (front) from Haywood Christian
Ministries, a non-profit organization that helps people in
need of food, clothing and shelter.
Myrtle Beach, SC Youth Lodge 1282 members
underwent gun safety training fundamentals with Will
Abbott of Coastal Sports.
Spring, TX Youth Lodge 4602 member Katy Jones
was crowned Miss Texas 2009 Preteen, which recognizes
community involvement and volunteerism.
25
26
Chattahoochee, FL Field Representative Amy Roberts
and Lodge 228 President Dan Turnage (right) presented Jack
Wiliford with his 25-year service pin during the lodge’s 100th
Anniversary celebration.
Elton, LA Lodge 1135 Secretary Henrietta Landry
presented Fire Chief John Richer with pots at the grand
opening of the LaFosse Fire Station.
Pitman, PA Lodge 433 members Shana, Wyatt and
Joshua Herb were presented with a 100% Woodmen of the
World Family plaque.
Orange Park, FL Field Representative Miley Smith
presented a flag to Faith Christian Academy owner Paul St.
Louis on behalf of Lodge 878.
London, KY Lodge 880 members presented a flag and
flagpole to Pastor Jimmie Brunen from the Old Pathway
Church.
Hartselle, AL Alabama North Community Outreach
Manager Philip Robertson (center) judged the egg toss at
the 2009 Alabama North Senior Camp.
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Valdosta, GA Lodge 6018 members presented a flag to
Fire Chief J.D. Rice and Police Chief Frank Simons at the
Valdosta Fire Department.
Flint, MI Lodge 252 member Pat Johnson (right)
presented a flag to Montrose Choice High School Principal
Terry Bigelow.
St. Charles, MO Lodge 912 member Travis Coomer
presented Missouri and United States flags to the Junior
Achievement Offices.
Roswell, NM Lodge 6 members donated a flagpole and
New Mexico and United States flags to the Valley Christian
Academy for their new elementary campus.
Monticello, AR Lodge 7 members donated a flagpole and
flag to the Mt. Zion Baptist Church.
Rock Springs, FL Lodge 825 and 625 presented two flags
to the Orange County Fire Department following a picnic.
27
C O mmunit y C O nnection
One
Nation,
Many
Lodges
Lakeland, FL Ace, the Flying Tigers mascot, showed his
support as Lodge 78 members Holland Henderson and
Joel Helm presented a 12’ x 18’ flag to the Joker Marchant
Stadium for its 2009 In Honor and Remembrance
ceremony. The flag will wave year round for both Lakeland
Flying Tigers fans and Detroit Tigers fans.
28
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Henryetta, OK Ex-Marines from the Oklahoma Chapter
of Leatherneck – MC paid their respects at the Clearview
Cemetery ceremony hosted by members of Lodge 1218.
Booneville, MS Lodge 60 held a flagpole dedication
ceremony at the Prentiss County Courthouse to honor
military personnel, law enforcement, firefighters, and all
those who risk their loves to keep our country safe.
Lawrenceburg, TN Field Representative Larry Hubbard
(right) held a flagpole dedication at the Shoal Creek Boy
Scout Center on behalf of Lodge 945.
Conroe, TX Lodge 13 held a ceremony to honor the
victims of 9/11. It was attended by local members of the
armed forces and veteran support groups.
Butler, PA Area Manager David Sinz (second from
right) helped present a flagpole to the Butler County
Communications Center – 911 Call Center, on behalf of
Lodge 8.
Bardwell, KY Lodge 38 members and city officials
gathered for a flag dedication ceremony.
29
30
Cumberland, MD Lodge 6 dedicated three flagpoles and
presented United States and Maryland flags to Darrow’s
Lane Field in Cresaptown.
Abilene, TX State Manager Buddy Pace (left), his
wife, Rachel, and Area Manager Larry Thompson held a
barbeque for Disabled American Veterans on September 12.
Columbia, MS Lodge 709 presented a flag to the
Columbia Fire Department, as well as to Columbia High
School and Columbia Elementary School.
Bowling Green, VA
Members of Lodge 345 handed out flags to ceremony
attendees and helped conclude the event with a flag
presentation to the Bowling Green Sheriff’s Department.
Selmer, TN Lodge 78 members Barbara Isbell (second
from left), Faye McCormick and Bradley Huckabee (right)
presented a flag to the Selmer Police Chief Neal Burks.
Benson, NC Lodge 480 member Patty McLean
presented a flag to Strickland’s Crossroads Fire Chief H.M.
Johnson at the lodge hall.
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Member News
South Carolina Lodge
Decorates Crutches
for Children in Africa
Julie Brannock, Vice President of Special Projects
for Lodge 1111 in Myrtle Beach, SC, figures a lot of
Woodmen of the World lodges are like hers – they have
old crutches just lying around not getting used.
“We had about 10 pairs of old crutches that the lodge used
to loan out to people. Some of them were in disrepair, but
some of them were perfectly good,” Brannock said.
Lodge 1111 still loans out convalescent equipment to
members in need, but they’ve upgraded their crutches to
metal ones. It wasn’t until Brannock was reading her local
The first day, they took apart the crutches and repaired
newspaper one Saturday morning that she figured out
any faulty parts or old handles. The second day, the
what to do with the old ones.
volunteers spray-painted the crutches a base color.
“I’m always looking for ideas here and there, and I saw an
ad for a church looking for old crutches, so I investigated
“It takes longer than you think it would,” Brannock said.
“There’s a lot of surface area to cover.”
it,” she said.
The third day was the big day where the volunteers got
She called the church, and found out that they were
creative and painted designs on the crutches. Each
collecting crutches for an organization called Hope’s
person took one crutch, so they had to be paired with
Crazy Crutches. That organization began in North
someone with the same creative vision. They painted a
Carolina when a friend of Hope Stout, a 12-year-old who
camouflage pair, a rainbow pair and even a red, white
was fighting cancer, decided to decorate Hope’s crutches.
and blue pair. All in all, they painted 14 pairs. After they
The pink, bell-adorned crutches were a hit, and Hope’s
dried, the core group put the crutches back together
Crazy Crutches was born. After serving the Charlotte
again. The project was so successful that the next South
area for several years, the organization decided to send
Carolina Senior Camp might be painting crutches.
crutches to children overseas. Now all crutches donated
are sent to the Doc to Dock organization in Brooklyn, NY,
“We loved it, and they all turned out so cute,” she said. zx
which is where Lodge 1111 members sent theirs following
their JOIN HANDS DAY project last May.
For more information on Hope’s Crazy Crutches,
The project took the lodge three days to complete, and
visit hopescrazycrutches.org. To donate equipment
other than the shipping fees to Brooklyn, was inexpensive
to Doc to Dock, visit doctodock.org.
to sponsor.
31
MEMBER NEWS
Southern Chef Paints
Picture for the Palate
Lodge 16 member Ceasar Thomas has always been
with different relishes. “Down South you can’t cook with
creative. As a young boy, he loved to draw, paint, sing,
enough butter, cheese and sugar. But recently, I made
and write music. Today, with food as his medium and
this dish with chipotle tilapia over almond rice. I added a
plates as his canvas, Thomas channels his artistic talent
pineapple relish to tone down the heat from the chipotle
into creating culinary masterpieces and passing along
peppers and add in sweetness. It was beautiful and my
that talent to children in his community.
customers enjoyed it.”
In addition to being a father of seven, Thomas is the
Thomas has a passion for helping his co-workers and
Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director of Keri’s
children understand how to prepare and present
restaurant at the Holiday Inn Mountain View in Cleveland,
delicious meals. Recently, Thomas was asked by one of
TN. Thomas became a Woodmen of the World member
his daughter’s teachers to give a cooking demonstration
after the Hotel’s owner introduced him to his nephew,
to her class.
Representative Ray Hughes.
“They were working on fractions, which I deal with
“When I started cooking, I was a single guy looking to
32
every day in determining the proper amount of food to
save money on my grocery bill. I thought, ‘If I can cook,
prepare for the number of customers I expect. We made
then I can eat at work.’ In the 20 years since, I have
cookie pizzas, and in the process, I was able to help
developed a passion for cooking because it allows me to
them understand both cooking and math a little better,”
create an experience for my customers,” said Thomas.
said Thomas.
Thomas developed a repertoire of dishes through trial
Thomas plans to take his teaching to his community
and error, and by watching seasoned chefs closely. Lately,
by offering free cooking classes for children at a local
he has been spicing up traditional southern comfort food
community center. zx
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Member News
Rolling with the
(Crimson) Tide
Now that Ben Howell
is practicing with
the highly ranked
Alabama Crimson
Tide football team,
it would seem
Turning
the Tide
natural to sit back
Woodmen of the World member Rick Fisher and
and review his list of
Woodmen of the World are helping to turn the tide of
accomplishments.
juvenile delinquency in Maury County, TN.
But that has never
Howell takes the field.
been Howell’s style.
Saturday, July 4, 2009, marked the second Turn the Tide
Run & Ride to raise awareness and attract volunteers for
Hailing from the “tiny little town” of Gordo, AL, west
Fisher’s Dream Builders mentoring program. This year’s
of Birmingham, Howell has achieved big honors in his
event also made it possible for 24 “at-risk” kids to leave
career. Perhaps the foremost of these was winning
their Columbia, TN, neighborhoods and escape negative
the 2009 Bryant-Jordan Award, which recognizes
influences at a nearby camp.
excellence in academics and athletics. The award is
named for two late college football coaches, Paul
“Bear” Bryant of Alabama and Ralph “Shug” Jordan
of Auburn.
Fisher says it was a life-changing, perspective-altering
event for them. “For some, it was their first time ever in
a lake.” But all the fun had a larger goal. “At night, we
would sit around and discuss what they learned, and
Howell, a member of Lodge 116 in Carrollton, AL,
ask, ‘How does this help you grow?’ The goal is to build
starred in football and baseball for the Gordo High
leadership skills, so (attendees) can go back and lead
School Greenwave and won numerous team and
their friends on a path to success.”
county awards. He was salutatorian of his class,
maintained a 4.0 GPA and also won a variety of
The cost of sponsoring one child was about $200. Field
academic awards.
Representative Neal Pulley and Woodmen of the World
were the first to write a check, said Fisher. “They didn’t
Now Howell is an “invited walk-on” with the highly
wait and sit back and watch who else would step up.
ranked Alabama Crimson Tide football team. He
That was a challenge to other organizations, and was
started working with the Tide in the summer and is
extremely helpful.”
now on the scout team, where he plays the role of
the opposing team’s starting running back to better
The Turn the Tide event began with a 5K run, then
prepare the first-string defense for the next game’s
featured a bicycle ride and party, including live music from
offense. So far he has been in uniform for one game,
local Christian bands, food and games. Pulley estimated
against North Texas State.
200-300 people were in attendance, and says he has
attracted several new members through the festivities.
“His father and I are proud of him,” said his mother,
For more information, visit turnthetideride.com. zx
Jackie Howell. “He’s a fine Christian young man. And
he’s still making A’s in college.” zx
33
F raternal F eat ure
when they became Woodmen of the World members 13
Through
it all
years ago, he knew they were beginning another caring,
lasting relationship. They’ve always been happy with
their life insurance coverage, but now, they’re grateful for
receiving the support of the Catastrophic Illness benefit.
They are also more aware of all the other fraternal benefits
offered to members.
The news
“I found out that I have malignant lymphoma, a disease
caused by cancerous growths, on June 24, 2009,” Lahr said.
“The doctor told me about it and from there, they started
doing several biopsies. Once the doctor determined that it
was in fact lymphoma, he said I would need to start a series
of six treatments.”
When the doctor made his diagnosis, Lahr didn’t know
how closely Woodmen of the World would be by his side,
ready to help. He discovered from his sister-in-law that
Woodmen of the World offers a Catastrophic Illness benefit
to good-standing members. The benefit offers a $1,000
benefit to members diagnosed with lung cancer, leukemia,
a brain tumor, tuberculosis, malignant lymphoma, multiple
myeloma or Hodgkin’s disease.
Lahr sent in the paperwork and just three weeks later
received a $1,000 check. “I didn’t expect anything like that,”
he said. “I haven’t received any bills yet, but the money will
Fraternal benefits help
members in tough times
be used for that sort of thing. I put it in savings and now I
know it’s there when I need it.”
Taking it in stride
Lahr and his wife are thankful for what Woodmen of the
Woodmen of the World is with you through LIFE®; not only
World has done for them and continue to show their
do we help create some of life’s best and most memorable
appreciation through fraternal activities. They are very
moments, we also offer fraternal benefits that help
active in Lodge 229 in Trevorton, PA, despite Raymond‘s
members through the worst.
recent illness. “We really enjoy attending lodge meetings
and events, and we’re both lodge Trustees,” he said. “We
Raymond Lahr is thankful to belong to an organization that
have only missed one meeting this year.”
offers benefits like these, but until recently, he never thought
he would need one of them.
Lahr is in the process of completing his treatments and is
hoping for the best. He feels a sense of comfort knowing
34
Life support
Woodmen of the World is committed to helping members.
When Lahr married his wife, Lucille, on May 23, 1959, they
“Woodmen of the World is there,” he said. “Woodmen of
vowed to be with each other in good times and bad. And
the World cares when you need them.”
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Woodmen of the World’s fraternal benefits
were created to help members in their times
of greatest need. These benefits include:
Catastrophic Illness Benefit
Youth Program, including Summer Camp
After one year of good-standing membership, Woodmen of
Our century-old youth program offers members ages 8
the World offers a $1,000 benefit should you be diagnosed
through 15 educational and social activities. And for more
as having one of the following diseases: Lung Cancer,
than 60 summers, youth members have taken advantage of
Leukemia, Brain Tumor, Tuberculosis, Malignant Lymphoma,
the annual summer camp experience. Adult members serve
Multiple Myeloma or Hodgkin’s Disease.
as leaders and mentors to Woodmen of the World’s most
valuable asset – our future leaders.
Orphan’s Care Benefit
Orphaned children of qualified members can receive
Homeland Defenders/Homeland Heroes® 2
monthly benefit payments. Plus, additional funds are
To be eligible for this special membership, an individual
available to orphans attending college or vocational
must be at least 16 years of age, be an official member of
training.
a fire department (firefighter, member of rescue unit, etc.),
and submit a completed Homeland Defenders/Homeland
Newborn Benefit
Heroes application form.
Qualified 100 percent Woodmen of the World families can
receive a $10,000 fraternal benefit if their newborn infant
Upon acceptance in this special membership program,
dies between the ages of 48 hours and six months. During
Woodmen of the World will pay a $5,000 benefit if a
that same period, a $10,000 guaranteed-issue life insurance
qualified member is killed during an emergency situation
certificate can be purchased at standard rates, regardless of
performing his or her duties as an official member of a fire
the baby’s health.
department.
Natural Disaster Fraternal Benefit
Dedicated Field Force
Qualified members whose homes are damaged or
Because insurance products and mutual funds can be
destroyed by natural disasters, such as hurricanes,
complex, Woodmen of the World offers an excellent
tornadoes, wild/forest fires or earthquakes, may be eligible
training program for Field Representatives that ensures
for up to $500 to help with home repair costs.
competent, professional advice for members. These men
and women are dedicated to providing exceptional financial
Prescription Drug Discount Card
1
security to members.
The no-cost prescription drug discount card offers
members the lowest price available on drugs purchased
For more information about Woodmen of the World’s
through the ScriptSave network of pharmacies.
member benefits, contact the Fraternal Services
®
Department at 1-800-225-3108, ext. 7790. zx
Senior Activities
Offered in most areas, senior camp and special appreciation
activities for senior members offer opportunities for
fellowship, fun and relaxation.
1. The Prescription Drug Discount Card is not an insurance policy and does not provide
insurance coverage. In addition, the card cannot be used in combination with a prescription
card issued by a health insurance provider. Woodmen of the World and ScriptSave® reserve
the right to discontinue this program at any time and are not responsible for the actions of
any participating pharmacy. Discounts are only offered through participating pharmacies.
2. Homeland Heroes is known as Homeland Defenders® in the District of Columbia, MD and VA.
35
MEMBER NEWS
Homegrown Authors Wow
Member Writes a Love Song for Children
Young Members Collaborate
Roanoke, VA, Lodge 14 member and State Manager Terry
on an Adventure Story for Kids
Wayne Carroll’s wife, Pamela Carroll, put her artistic talent
Rance Musco and Austin Young, members of Lodges
to work in writing God’s Little Beloved, a short story
633 and 857 in Alva, FL, defy the expectations normally
that tells children how special they are in God’s eyes. In
placed on young men their age. At ages 11 and 14,
addition to being an author, this mother of two is also an
respectively, Musco and Young are published, something
actor and singer who has dedicated her life to her family
many people never accomplish at any age.
and working with youth. She uses the humor of everyday
life situations to entertain audiences of all ages about the
Musco wrote and Young illustrated The Legend of
love of God displayed in nature. God’s Little Beloved can
Sabor, a jungle adventure for children ages 11 to 14. The
be ordered online at tatepublishing.com.
tale tracks a fierce black leopard’s encounters with a
hunter and two boys through the mysterious jungles of
Bursting with creativity and
respect, talented members turn
out literary works from children’s
adventures to war memorials.
Africa. Musco, who is autistic, and Young, who has faced
developmental challenges of his own, are friends who
gained a deep sense of accomplishment and awareness
of their abilities through working on the book together.
You can purchase their book online at Barnes and
Noble, Books a Million or Borders for $24.95. The boys
will receive about 30 percent of the profits and a dollar
from every sale goes to a scholarship in their names at
Breaking Free, a summer faith-based academic tutoring
program at Orange River School, run by Musco’s mother.
36
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Audiences With Their Work
Love for Nature Prompts
Veteran Gives Voice to Forgotten Heroes
Member to Craft A Children’s Book
Retired State Manager and member of Lodge 175 in
A love for all creatures great and small inspired
Bedford, VA, Bob VandeLinde knows from firsthand
Winchester, VA, Lodge 419 member Deborah Wanda to
experience that the freedoms we enjoy, including the
write and illustrate Wanda’s Little Wunders, a collection
freedom to write, are secured by the sacrifices of war
of short stories. Published by AuthorHouse in February
heroes. A Korean War veteran with three Purple Hearts
2009, the book helps children ages 3-8 learn their
and several other medals, VandeLinde poured three
ABCs. Growing up in the country, Wanda was drawn
years of his life into collecting and writing the firsthand
to the intricate detail of nature and would often make
accounts of 40 veterans who fought in World War II
sketches of her surroundings. Wanda is the wife of retired
and the Korean War. His book, Respect: Forgotten
Woodmen of the World Representative Timothy Wanda,
Heroes was published by Trafford Publishing in 2008.
and says the book teaches children lessons about caring
VandeLinde is donating all profits he receives from the
for the environment, sharing, honesty, and love for family.
sale of his book to the National D-Day Memorial located
in Bedford, VA.
Congratulations to these accomplished authors for
putting their passion on paper. We hope Woodmen of
the World members will continue to pen their dreams so
that they can be an inspiration to others. zx
37
H ealt h y L i v ing
Headaches
Where they come from, and more importantly,
how to make them go away
Ice cream, your boss
and light can all cause
headaches. Before you
give up your favorite
treat, quit your job and
become a night owl, read
on. The real explanation
for what causes headaches
and how to treat them is
a bit more complicated.
According to the National
Headache Foundation,
more than 45 million
Americans suffer from chronic, recurring headaches, and
of these, 28 million suffer from migraines.1 The Foundation
recognizes multiple types of headaches, including: rebound
or medication-induced, sinus, organic, tension, migraine,
cluster and hormone headaches.2
Stressed Out?
Medical professionals believe that stress and heart disease
38
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
are linked.3 But did you
know that headaches and
stress are also connected?
A headache occurs when
specific nerves of blood
vessels and head muscles
activate and send pain
signals to the brain.
Scientists don’t yet know
what triggers these signals,
just that stress might play
a role.1
Tension headaches, which
are the most common type of headache, are triggered by
stress. Stress can come from difficult or emotionally painful
relationships with family members and friends, or from
pressure at work or school. Tension headaches can also arise
from alcohol use, skipping meals, changes in sleep habits,
eyestrain, and neck or back strain caused by poor posture.
As bad as tension headaches are, there is another culprit
which causes even worse pain.
Migraines, the Mother
of all Headaches
Migraine and Headache Symptoms
Imagine a jack hammer pounding inside of your head. That
is how some sufferers have described what a migraine feels
like. Food, hormones, too much physical activity, fatigue,
bright lights, and weather changes can all trigger migraine
headaches. The potential causes are many when you consider
that different triggers launch migraines in different people.
greatly, one thing they all share is pain. Two of the most
Although the types and causes of headaches vary
common types of headaches – tension and migraine –
have recognizable symptoms. Check your experience
against this list4 from WebMD.com and then talk to your
doctor about what you can do to alleviate your pain.
Tension H ea daches
A migraine begins when overactive nerve cells cause blood
vessels to constrict and then dilate, releasing a pulsating
flow of inflammatory substances into the body. This
pulsating inflammation is what causes migraine sufferers
so much pain.4
“Take two of these and
call me in the morning.”
That adage has long been advertised as the quickest way
to relieve headache pain. But some types of headaches, like
migraines, require a more complex treatment plan.
• Headache upon awakening
• Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
• Chronic fatigue
• Irritability
• Disturbed concentration
• Mild sensitivity to light or noise
• General muscle aching
M i g raines
The symptoms of migraine headaches can occur in
various combinations and include:
• Moderate to severe pain (often described as pounding,
If you suffer from frequent tension headaches (constant
headache pain 15 days or more each month) or migraine
headaches, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about
what might be causing them, and formulate a plan for
treating the pain they cause.
throbbing pain) that can affect the whole head, or can
shift from one side of the head to the other
• Sensitivity to light, noise or odors
• Blurred vision
• Nausea or vomiting, upset stomach, abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
Not all headaches require medical attention. Your doctor
may recommend different types of treatment to try, may
recommend further testing or may refer you to a headache
specialist. The treatment you and your doctor decide
upon will be tailored to fit your unique situation. Stress
management, biofeedback and different medications may
be part of your treatment plan.
After you start a treatment program, track your results and
talk with your doctor about your experiences. The two of
you should make adjustments as needed.
Whether your headaches are alleviated with simple
over-the-counter medications or they require multiple
techniques to be brought down, the more you learn about
them, the better off you’ll be. Find out more about your
headaches and what might be causing them by talking to
your doctor and visiting WebMD.com and headaches.org. zx
• Sensations of being very warm or cold
• Paleness
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Bright flashing dots or lights, blind spots, wavy or
jagged lines (aura)
1. “Headache Basics.” WebMD and the Cleveland Clinic
Department of Neurology. Accessed online on August 18,
2009, at: http://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/
guide/migraines-headaches-basics
2. The National Headache Foundation. Information accessed
online on August 18, 2009, at: http://www.headaches.org/
educational_modules/completeguide/othindex.html
3. “Heart Disease and Stress.” WebMD and the Cleveland
Clinic Heart Center. Accessed online on August 18, 2009, at:
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/stress-heartattack-risk?page=4
4. “Migraines and Headaches.” WebMD medical reference.
Accessed online on August 18, 2009, at: http://women.
webmd.com/guide/migraines-headaches-migraines
39
MEMBER NEWS
Sharp Shooters
Even though they live on the East Coast, the three
members of the Mooneyham family have a little bit of the
Wild West in them.
Bruce and Sheila, and their 18-year-old daughter, Jamie,
who live in Raphine, VA, have been participating in Cowboy
Action Shooting for the last 12 years or so. The Mooneyhams
are members of Lodge 446 in Harrisonburg, VA.
Cowboy Action Shooting takes your average
marksmanship competition and adds a bit of theater to it.
Competitors dress up in period-correct clothing and they
take on an alias, along with a role in the “town.” Bruce is
Bruce Mooneyham and his daughter, Jamie,
Dig ‘Em Deep and he’s the town’s undertaker. Jamie is
proudly display the awards they won at the
Gemstone Jamie, and she’s the town’s jeweler. Sheila, who
2009 Virginia state match.
doesn’t compete anymore, is still registered as McCoy’s
Mate, a lonely cowboy’s companion.
The Mooneyhams have a small dry fire practice range
The camaraderie of fellow shooters is one of the main
in their backyard, and the gun range isn’t too far from
things the Mooneyhams enjoy about Cowboy Action
their house. Dry firing a gun means practicing pulling the
Shooting. “You never meet a stranger there,” Sheila said.
trigger, but the weapon has no ammunition in it.
The Mooneyhams also happen to be very good at
His love for shooting was recognized at the Virginia state
shooting. At the Virginia state match over Labor Day
match when he was awarded the Spirit of the Game
weekend, Bruce won overall male shooter, and Jamie won
Award, which is presented to someone who goes above
overall female shooter. They’ll be attending the regional
and beyond to promote and support the sport. In 2002,
match in Maryland this year, a trip they usually count on
the world organization of Cowboy Action Shooting, the
taking as a family every year. In fact, in 2007, when Jamie
Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), awarded Bruce
was still at the Junior level, she swept several regional
his Regulator badge. He was just one of two people from
matches and then traveled to New Mexico and won the
Virginia to be pinned as SASS Regulator that day.
World Junior Girls category.
“It’s a huge honor. You cannot buy this award, you have
“She’s a natural shooter. But she despises to practice,
dry fire that is – she loves to live fire. But her dad would
to earn it. People from all over put Bruce’s name in for it,”
Sheila said.
practice every day if he would get the opportunity,” Sheila
said. “Bruce has put his heart and soul into Cowboy Action
Just as Woodmen of the World has been central to their
Shooting,” she said.
family for many years – Bruce and Sheila have been
married 25 years and the minister who married them was
the same man who sold them their life insurance – Cowboy
Action Shooting has also hit a bull’s-eye in their hearts. zx
40
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2010
Member News
Tarr Beats the Cars
Tarr, who is a member of Lodge 8 in Butler, PA (she lives
in Karns City, PA), and her boyfriend both participate in
derbies, as does his dad and cousins. It’s a family affair –
they all work on the cars. And each car is different.
“We’ve been known to throw together a car in three or four
nights, or sometimes we spend months on a car. It just
depends on how well you want it put together and how
serious you are about it,” she said.
For instance, she and her crew spent a lot of time painting
the car for the Butler Farm Show this past August. They
Demolition derby driver Kristine Tarr shows off her
painted the Chevy Cavalier to look like a ladybug, and the
car, named the “Bug Mobile,” that won the Best in
car won the Best of Show trophy.
Show trophy at the Butler Farm Show last August.
The first derby she entered, in the fall of 2008, was at the
Kristine Tarr is a derby girl.
Dayton Fair, and she placed fourth out of 11 drivers. She
drove a Ford Escort, which, like always, had been gutted
Except she doesn’t wear fancy hats and sip mint juleps
and reinforced with safety features. She said the most
while watching horses run around the track. Nor does she
exciting part of the race is the first hit.
make up a tough name for herself and race on roller skates.
Nope, she’s a demolition derby driver.
“You get thrown around in the car sometimes, and my neck
has hurt the day afterward, but it’s not too bad,” she said.
During the day, Tarr is a Direct Care Nurse at Lifesteps in a
community home that helps people with special needs. At
During the winter, she and her derby family are
night and on the weekends, you can find her getting cars
collecting cars. Once spring comes around, they’ll start
ready to be demolished.
dismantling them and getting them ready for derbies.
They find cars anywhere from Craig’s List to the weeds
It’s estimated that there are 70,000 demolition derby
behind people’s houses.
drivers in the United States, where the sport was invented.
More than 2,000 derbies are held each year, most at
“It’s just something fun to do. We just love smashing cars,”
county fairs. Even though there are professionals, Tarr
she said. “It’s like an addiction. You can’t start to derby
does it just for fun.
then quit.” zx
“It’s such an adrenaline rush,” she said.
41
Newsworth y
Shealy Appointed
to Board
Michael Shealy became the newest
member of Woodmen of the World’s
Board of Directors on Nov. 1, but the
organization has been a part of his life
for as long as he can remember. Now,
he wants to bring all of his fraternal
and professional experience to the table
to help Woodmen of the World grow.
Michael Shealy
“Our number one objective is
to grow membership,” said Shealy. “We can do this by
continuing to offer excellent products and service, and by
reaching out into our communities through Woodmen of
the World local lodges to show people all the great things
we have to offer as an organization.”
Shealy plans to draw on his professional experience as coowner and President of Carroll’s Electric Service and his
expansive fraternal service to help Woodmen of the World
meet its strategic objectives.
Shealy is a lifelong member with an extensive fraternal
service record. He grew up with Woodmen of the World
and is currently Vice President of Oak Grove Lodge 273 in
West Columbia, SC. Shealy has held virtually every office
in the lodge at least once, including President from 1995
to 2000. He has also volunteered extensively in the South
Carolina Jurisdiction, including a term as President from
2001 to 2003.
“Many of my long-time friends and even my business
partner are members of the Woodmen of the World
family,” said Shealy. “And they are the finest, most caring
people I know.” Shealy’s own family includes his wife, Liz,
son, Mack, and daughter, Kendall. His father, J. Carroll
Shealy served as a Board member from 1992 until his
retirement in 2007. zx
42
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2010
Dees, Anderson Promoted
Appointments part of reorganization
Pat Dees was appointed to Senior
Vice President, Field, and Elvis
Anderson was appointed to Vice
President, Field, both effective Nov. 1.
Dees began his career at Woodmen
of the World in 1986 as a part-time
Field Representative in Texas. He
Pat Dees
was appointed California North
State Manager in 1996, Florida
North State Manager in 2000 and Georgia South State
Manager in 2006. He joined the Home Office in January
2009 as Vice President, Field.
“The recent changes round out our ability to support the
Field’s effort to grow our Field Force and turn the bottom line
around to a positive number,” said Dees. “We are excited!”
Dees will oversee Anderson, as well as Vice President,
Sales Randy Horrocks and Director, Field Education Jim
Pearson. He will also oversee his assigned marketing areas.
Anderson began his Woodmen of
the World career as a Georgia South
Field Representative in 1984, and
was promoted to Area Manager
in 1987. In 1996, he was promoted
to Tennessee West State Manager
before coming to the Home Office in
1998 as Assistant Field Manager. He
Elvis Anderson
was appointed Alabama North State
Manager in 2002 and returned to
the Home Office in 2009 as Director, Field Management.
Anderson will oversee Field Operations, as well as his
assigned marketing areas. zx
Member News
Interest Rates
Deferred Annuities In Force Rate*
December 2009
Tier 1 Tier 2
3.00% 3.00%
Tier 1: Values under $25,000
Tier 2: Values $25,000 and above
*Current inforce interest rates apply when a certificate’s initial rate
guarantee period has expired or when an initial rate guarantee period
has not been chosen. Current inforce interest rates are subject to
change monthly.
The above rates are for existing annuities that are out of their initial
guarantee period. You may be able to earn a higher rate with a
new annuity with a locked-in interest rate. Contact your Woodmen
of the World Representative if you are interested in receiving more
information. You can also call 1-800-225-3108 or go to woodmen.org.
Freedom Series Annuity Interest Rates
Certificates issued in December 2009 Rate credited during initial lock-in period.
Annuity Product
Tier 1
Tier 2
1
SPDA with First Year Interest Bonus
n/a
5.40%
FPDA with First year Interest Bonus2
n/a
4.40%
SPDA3
2.40%
2.80%
FPDA
2.25%
2.65%
3
Tier 3
Tier 4
Tier 5
Tier 6
5.65%
5.85%
6.25%
6.55%
4.65%
4.85%
5.25%
5.55%
3.05%
3.25%
3.65%
3.95%
2.90%
3.10%
3.50%
3.80%
1. The First Year interest rate on the Freedom Series Single Premium Deferred Annuity (SPDA) with a First Year Interest Bonus is guaranteed for the
first certificate year and includes the first-year-only interest bonus of 3.00%. Renewal (Current) interest rates are credited after the first certificate year.
Renewal (Current) interest rates are set monthly by Woodmen of the World. They will never be lower than the minimum guaranteed interest rate of 1.50%.
2. The First Year interest rate on a Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity (FPDA) with a First Year Interest Bonus is guaranteed for the first certificate year and
includes the first-year-only interest bonus of 2.00%. Renewal (Current) interest rates are credited after the first certificate year. Renewal (Current) interest
rates are set monthly by Woodmen of the World. They will never be lower than the minimum guaranteed interest rate of 1.50%.
3. During the initial lock-in period, the interest rate will not change. Lock-in periods of one month or one year are available.
December 2009 Rate credited after initial lock-in period expires.
Annuity Product
Tier 1
Tier 2
Tier 3
Tier 4
Tier 5
Tier 6
SPDA with First Year Interest Bonus
2.00%
2.40%
2.65%
2.85%
3.25%
3.55%
FPDA with First year Interest Bonus
2.00%
2.40%
2.65%
2.85%
3.25%
3.55%
SPDA
2.40%
2.80%
3.05%
3.25%
3.65%
3.95%
FPDA
2.25%
2.65%
2.90%
3.10%
3.50%
3.80%
After the initial lock-in period expires, interest rates may vary each month. Interest rates are set monthly by Woodmen of the World and will never be lower
than the minimum guaranteed interest rate of 1.00%.
Tier 1:Values under $10,000
Tier 2:Values $10,000 and under $25,000
Tier 3:Values $25,000 and under $100,000
Tier 4:Values $100,000 and under $500,000
Tier 5:Values $500,000 and under $1,000,000
Tier 6:Values $1,000,000 and above
SPDA (Single Premium Deferred Annuity)
FPDA (Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity)
Single Premium Deferred Annuity (SPDA) with First Year Bonus (Form 7961-XX-0707))
Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity (FPDA) with First Year Bonus (Form 7963-XX-0707)
Single Premium Deferred Annuity (SPDA) (Form 7962-XX-0707)
Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity (FPDA) (Form 7964-XX-0707)
43
F un Z one
Valentine’s Day
Can you uncover all 40 hidden terms, people and places relevant to Valentine’s Day?
Words can be found reading up, down, forward, backward, or diagonally. Answers to the puzzle can be
found on our Web site, woodmen.org, by clicking on the Wfm link on the home page. Enjoy!
American Greetings
Arrow
Be mine
Bow
Boyfriend
Candles
Carnations
Candy gram
Chocolate
Confectionery
Cupid
Date
E-cards
February
Friendship
Gifts
Girlfriend
Greeting card
Hallmark
Hershey’s
Hearts
Holiday
Honey
I am yours
Jewelry
Lace
Love you
Message
Money
Pink
Poem
Red roses
Ribbons
Romance
St. Valentine
Stamp
Sweetheart
Teddy bear
Too cute
XOXO
44
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
E G A
S
S
C G E
T
A D D N
E
I
R
E
A D
I
L
O H
A N R
G
I
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F
P
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Y O B
X
P
I
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R R
S
S N O
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Y O U R
K M Y
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F
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V H
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F
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D H H
O V
A N U O S
E O R G
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D O
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K
B
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I
R G K
B R
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S
I
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J
X W E
F
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I
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R
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P N R Q R
U H
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B
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A
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A W M H
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A G
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F
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E N O N
E
E
B
A M L
L
B G
Laughing About Love
A Limerick on Love
With Valentine’s Day approaching, love is in the
She made friends with a young undertaker;
air. These jokes and a limerick on love should
Her last boyfriend had forsaken her.
help get you in the mood to celebrate.
But she started to curse
When he turned up in a hearse.
She said, ”Next time I’ll date a baker!”
Lovely One-Liners
What did one dill pickle say to the other?
“You mean a great dill to me.”
Do skunks celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Sure, they’re very scent-imental.
What did the paper clip say to the magnet?
“I find you very attractive.”
What did the French chef give his wife for Valentine’s Day?
A hug and a quiche.
45
IN MEMORIAM
Raymond “Ray” Curtis
Retired New Mexico Fraternal Coordinator
Raymond “Ray” Curtis passed away at
the age of 91. A Woodmen of the World
member for 57 years, Curtis was a Fraternal
Coordinator, as well as a member of the National Fraternal
Committee, a Jurisdictional Representative and a two-time
Jurisdictional President.
Curtis was a member of Lodge 1 in Albuquerque, NM,
and became a member of Lodge 4 in Cleburne, TX, after
moving to Texas in 2006 to be close to family.
Grover L. Connor
Age: 93
Lodge 93
Baltimore, MD
Versie C. Nations
Age: 77
Lodge 9
Brookhaven, MS
Mississippi Jurisdictional President from 1993-1995
Roger D. Main
Age: 52
Lodge 210
Nacogdoches, TX
Billy Lloyd Murray Sr.
Age: 73
Lodge 7
Hamburg, AR
Judy L. Robison Parrott
Age: 59
Lodge 210
Nacogdoches, TX
Richard Simone
Age: 67
Lodge 232
Akron, OH
46
Wfm W I N T E R
2010
Calvin Edward Robinson
Retired Vice President and Associate
General Counsel Calvin Edward Robinson,
71, passed away at his home in Omaha, NE,
on Friday, July 24, 2009.
A Woodmen of the World member since 1951, Robinson
began working in the Woodmen of the World Home
Office in 1974 as Assistant General Counsel and retired in
2003 as Vice President and Associate General Counsel. He
was a member of Omaha Lodges 1 and 16, and served as
President of Lodge 1.
Prior to joining Woodmen of the World, Robinson
taught English, Social Studies and Amercian History at
Shenandoah, IA, Junior High School and Wheeler County
High School in Bartlett, NE. He received his Juris Doctor
from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 1964
and worked as an Associate at Gaines, Spittler, Neely, Otis
and Moore Law Firm in Omaha for two years. Robinson
then worked eight years as an Assistant Attorney General
with the State of Nebraska Department of Justice.
Among his many memberships and honors, Robinson
was a member of Delta Theta Phi Legal Fraternity
and the Nebraska Bar Association. He was a Fellow,
Life Management Institute, Life Office Management
Association member, serving as President of the FLMI
Society of Nebraska in 1984. Robinson was a Fellow, Life
and Health Claims, International Claim Association
member and received the Outstanding Claim Achievement
Award in 2002, and was also a member of the Association
of Fraternal Benefit Counsel (AFBC) and served as
President in 1982-1983.
Robinson is survived by his wife, Sandra; son and daughterin-law, Edward “Ted” and Christine; daughter, Amy;
grandsons, Ethan and Christian Robinson; and brother,
Charles “C.L.” Robinson.
Find and circle the five differences in these photos. See answers below.
No two families are alike.
Family Term Life Insurance from Woodmen of the World is flexible enough to fit every family with
all-in-one coverage.
Call today to learn more about how one Family Term Life Insurance certificate from Woodmen of the
World could protect your whole family for just one low monthly premium.
1. Boy has three feet (far left) 2. Boy has sunglasses (second from left) 3. Mom has closed smile
4. Mom has different necklace 5. Girl’s foot is missing
CD0444WOW 6/09
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