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How Much Life Insurance Do You Need? Annual Report p. 14

Fraternal Spirit p. 18

What Makes a Hero? p. 27

learn more at: woodmen.org

Spring 2013

W O O D M E N O F T H E W O R L D M A G A Z I N E

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Woodmen of the World is currently in the middle of holding our 2013 Jurisdictional Conventions, and I’m

reminded of the important role these gatherings play within our company.

These 25 conventions illustrate the strength of our organization, and help us stay connected to our members by giving them a voice as we plan for the future.

Each jurisdictional delegate represents the interests of their lodges and fellow members, as they make connections, share ideas with each other and participate in a project benefitting the host city. I’m always impressed when I hear about all the ways our members are helping others in their communities and sharing our fraternal message. It’s truly our members and their involvement that make Woodmen of the World special.

The Jurisdictional Conventions also give me, other Executive Officers and members of the Board of Directors the opportunity to meet many of you and share the exciting things going on in our company. We’ve all been working hard to maintain Woodmen of the World’s financial strength, and these gatherings give us the opportunity to showcase everyone’s efforts.

Woodmen of the World/Omaha Woodmen, founded in

1890, is a not-for-profit insurance company that also offers

customer benefits.

Our nearly 725,000 members, who hold nearly one million

insurance and annuity certificates, belong to approximately

1,000 lodges throughout the United States. Local lodges sponsor

family activities and conduct community projects. 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 monetary assistance.

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 (Woodmen).

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 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 the

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. Not

all products are available in all states.

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.

And at the conclusion of each convention, I hope everyone who attended returns home feeling they made the most of the experience. If you’ve never participated at this level of our organization, I hope you’ll consider getting involved in the future. These events are one piece of the foundation that has allowed our company to thrive for more than 120 years.

Thank you for your ongoing connection to Woodmen of the World. I look forward to seeing many of you at the National Convention in Orlando, FL, later this year.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Larry R. King President & CEO

Our Mission: Woodmen of

the World exists to benefit

our members through every

stage of life.

Larry R. King

Fraternalism at its Best

President’s Message

2 WOODMEN LIVING

6 How Much Life Insurance Do You Need?

Life insurance is something most people know they need, but how do you know if you have enough? Thanks to some help from their Representative, Elizabeth and Merced Alfaro now feel prepared to take care of their family in the future.

12 Silver Anniversary for Falcons Woodmen of the World is celebrating a special milestone this year with the 25th anniversary of the Woodmen Tower Falcons. Since 1988, peregrines atop the Tower have been instrumental in aiding the falcon population in Nebraska.

27 Hero Wears Many Hats Member Mike Jones has worn many different hats throughout his career. He’s even been recognized as a national hero. But what he’s most proud of is helping underprivileged children in his community every year.

34 New Challenge Creates More Opportunities

Thanks to the newly revamped Five-Star Fraternal Challenge, lodges now have the opportunity to earn more matching funds for performance and reporting of activities that support Woodmen of the World’s fraternal objectives.

Feature Stories

Spring 2013

Sections

4 On the Web

5 Community Connection

6 with you through LIFE®

8 Newsworthy

14 Annual Report

18 Fraternal Spirit

26 Member News

30 Member Spotlight

32 Lodge Leader

36 Fun Zone

38 In Memoriam

On the Cover

Two years ago, members Elizabeth and Merced Alfaro of Mathis, TX, realizes the importance of having enough life insurance. Today, thanks to Representative Minerva Gutierrez, they have coverage to protect themselves and their daughters.

Woodmen of the World Member Magazine 3

in this issue

WOW Hall in Eugene, OR, isn’t affiliated with Woodmen of the World

anymore. But there are still lessons to be learned from how it stays

relevant and involves youth and volunteers in its success.

It’s that Time of YearUnfortunately, with the arrival of spring comes the arrival of storm and tornado season. As a Woodmen

of the World member, if your home is damaged by a tornado or other natural disaster, you can qualify

for up to $500 to help repair the damage with the Natural Disaster Benefit. For more information visit,

http://woodmen.org/members/disaster.cfm for details and download the Disaster Relief Fraternal

Benefit Application.

New in the Learning Center Are you a grandparent looking for a gift that will make a lasting impact on your grandchildren’s lives?

Woodmen of the World can help you leave a legacy for them with life insurance. For more information

about Grandparent Gifting and how you can help your grandchildren achieve their hopes and dreams,

visit woodmen.org. Once you’re on the site, click the “Learning & Tools” tab, select “Learning Center,”

and then click on the “Gifts for Grandchildren” link under “Wealth & Giving.”

Tiny Deeds, Tremendous Good Woodmen of the World has started an online person-to-person giving program called Red Basket.

Stories of people or communities needing assistance are published to raise money or identify

volunteers to help fill a need. Although in its pilot stage, we believe Red Basket has great potential to

provide an added, positive dimension to Woodmen of the World’s community programs. To read the

latest stories and learn more about Red Basket, visit redbasket.org.

Board of DirectorsThomas T. Gallion III, Chairman, Montgomery, ALLarry R. King, President & CEO, Omaha, NE Pat Dees, Executive Vice President, Fraternal, Omaha, NE Pamela J. Hernandez, Executive Vice President, Operations & Secretary, Omaha, NEMark L. Schreier, Executive Vice President, Finance & Treasurer, Omaha, NEDaniel W. Rice III, Kinston, NCStephen W. Mellor, Omaha, NEDr. James W. Bosler III, Louisville, KYJames W. Bridges Jr., Las Vegas, NVMichael C. Shealy, Lexington, SCWesley A. Dodd Jr., Cornelia, GADaryl J. Doise, Sunset, LADanny E. Cummins, Troup, TXPatricia L. Metheny, Durant, OK

Magazine Staff Managing Editor: Angie SchendtContent Editor: Andy OermanDesign Editor: Joe BavarescoWriters: Carmen Steele, Mitch Swain, Kerry HeinrichDesigner: Jerry UnderwoodContributors: Carli Cominoli, Sarah Richart,

Angel StottleMarketing & Fraternal Team Vice President: Steve JonesIf you have questions, comments or suggestions for articles, please direct them to [email protected].

visit us at: woodmen.orgemail us at: [email protected]

Woodmen Living (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 Woodmen Living, c/o Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society and/or Omaha Woodmen Life Insurance Society, 1700 Farnam St., Omaha, NE 68102.

Equal Access PolicyWoodmen 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.

Don’t see your lodge pictured?

Keep sending in those fraternal

photos. Every lodge has a great

story, and we love to help you

tell yours. Be sure the photo is

in focus and identify everyone

pictured clearly. Then email it to

[email protected].

Facebook.com/WOWInsurance to ’like’ our page. Follow us on Twitter: @WOWInsurance

on the web

4 WOODMEN LIVING

Community Connection

Woodmen of the World Magazine 5

In sweltering heat, carrying a full rucksack and wearing full military attire, participants in the Mountain Man Memorial March

do their part to show their gratitude for fallen soldiers and their families.

Held each May in Gatlinburg, TN, the deeply meaningful and emotional event brings communities and an increasing number of Tennessee lodges together to honor soldiers killed in active duty. The event started in support of a single family; the event now supports more than 70 of these “Gold Star Families,” or people who have lost loved ones in combat.

There are several aspects to the Memorial March, including a full 26.2-mile marathon run by a brave minority of participants and a 10k run for others. Some train year-round for the event, and by the end, the boots of the runners often have to be cut from their blistered feet. But there are no complaints at the finish line.

That’s because unlike so many other races, this event is not about competition. According to Community Outreach Manager Rochelle Cordova, “The Mountain Man Memorial March is an event about honor through action.”

Each team marches with a fallen soldier’s flag, and the runners cross the line to return the flag to their Gold Star Family. In that moment of fatigue and emotion, their journey is complete and their soldier is honored. “It’s such an incredible experience. In a way, when those runners cross the line and hug their Gold Star Family, it’s almost like the solider is right there,” Cordova said.

The March to Honor Those Lost in Service

Woodmen of the World provides all the flags for the event, as well as canopies. They also volunteer at drink stations and offer food cooked by local Representatives. In 2012, the Home Office even got involved, donating $1,000 toward a scholarship for a fallen soldier’s child.

Because of the involvement by Woodmen of the World lodges, Cordova is proud to report that the flags presented to Gold Star families are all American-made. Gold Star families also no longer have to put up their own money for food and lodging; this expense is covered by lodge sponsorships.

There are many reasons Woodmen of the World continues to participate, including increased awareness in the area and even in surrounding states. But there’s a more important reason. “One of our core values is patriotism,” Cordova said. “And there’s no better way than to support families whose son or daughter has paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.” ::

Tennessee lodges

participating with the

Mountain Man Memorial

March as of 3/1/13:

Lodge 6

Lodge 16

Lodge 70

Lodge 93

Lodge 101

Lodge 599

Lodge 803

Lodge 875

Lodge 879

Lodge 961

Lodge 1072

Lodge 1077

Lodge 1110

Lodge 6297

How Much Life Insurance Do You Need? with options,” she said. “It’s my mission to educate them and let them know I’m going to be part of their life. I tell them we can always add to or change their coverage down the road.”

“Down the road” isn’t as far off as most people generally think. In as little as a year, changes can happen that require you to review your life insurance needs. Some of these events may include:

• Marriage (or divorce). • A new baby. • A new home.• A new job or business.• A death in the family.

Life insurance. It’s something most people realize they need, but how do you know if you have enough?

According to the LIFE® Foundation, there are two questions you should ask yourself:

1. How much money will my family need after my death to meet immediate expenses, like funeral expenses and debts?

2. How much money will my family need to maintain their standard of living in the long run?

For Representative Minnie Gutierrez, addressing these questions is just one step in her process of helping clients apply for the right amount of coverage. “I do a needs analysis, ask the tough questions and present them

CI0018WOW 1/13

with you through LIFE®

6 WOODMEN LIVING

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Elizabeth and Merced Alfaro knew they needed life insurance, but they weren’t sure how much. “At first, we only had insurance on me because that’s what we could afford at the time,” Elizabeth said. “But then we added Merced because he’s the main breadwinner for our family and we realized we had to be prepared if something should happen to him.”

Growing up, Elizabeth saw firsthand the hardships families could face without enough life insurance. “I was raised by my grandparents and I saw a lot of people who were not prepared when they had a death in the family,” she said. “They didn’t have enough money, so they had to borrow additional money for expenses.”

Gutierrez helped the Alfaros determine how much coverage they would need to take care of their family. “When I first started talking to them about having enough protection, Merced thought he only needed enough money to bury himself,” Gutierrez said. “I reminded him that life insurance is meant to be an income replacement stream, not just for burial expenses. It’s a way to provide for your family even after you’re gone.” (See the sidebar for additional information.)

So Gutierrez set the Alfaros up with a Family Term certificate, and let them know they could always convert it to permanent insurance in the future. And as their three daughters – Lily, Leah and Melody – continue to grow and start to make lives of their own, the Alfaros are now thinking about additional coverage to help protect their family’s future even more.

There’s no right or wrong answerFor Gutierrez, addressing her clients’ ever-changing needs is part of being a successful Representative. “I run into people all the time who are underinsured,” she said. “I show them that if they put money into this now, they’ll be able to protect their family down the road. How awesome would it be knowing that if you should die tomorrow, your family will be taken care of?”

According to Gutierrez, there’s no right or wrong answer to how much life insurance you need. “I recommend 10 times their income, but many people may not be able to do that right away,” she said. “So, we set it as a goal to work toward.”

Ultimately, personal values, goals and affordability can help determine what is right for you and your family. Whatever you decide, your loved ones will appreciate it in the unfortunate event that it is needed.

“We never want to leave a burden for our kids, but I know having life insurance is like having cable to some people – they don’t see it as a necessity,” Elizabeth said. “But for us, we’ve always believed in life insurance and we want to make sure it will be enough. It’s just what you do when you have a family.” ::

How Much is Enough? The most important part of buying life insurance is determining how much you need. Since everyone’s financial circumstances and goals are different, there is no single answer to that question.

Half of America’s households claim to be underinsured when it comes to life insurance.1 Therefore, they may not have enough insurance to cover all the things life insurance may need to protect, which can include:

» Funeral expenses.

» Ongoing bills, including mortgage payments.

» Education expenses for family members.

A first step in countering many of the life insurance myths you may have heard, and determining how much coverage you need, could include a visit to an online life insurance needs calculator like the one on woodmen.org. Click Learning & Tools, then Learning Center, then select Life Insurance Needs under the heading Calculators.

However, remember that online calculators are no substitute for the advice a Woodmen of the World Representative can provide. He or she can conduct a thorough analysis of your needs, and help you determine the right amount and type of life insurance to protect the ones you love. 1. LIMRA International, “Trillion Dollar Baby Growing Up,” 2011.


Metheny Named to Board of Directors

Pat Metheny of Durant, OK, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Woodmen of the World, effective March 1, 2013.

Before her appointment to the Board, she was named Fraternalist of the Year in 2001 by the National Fraternal Congress of America. In that same year, she received a

Meritorious Service Award and attended Woodmen of the World’s National Convention as Jr. Past Jurisdictional President and was appointed to the Legislative Committee. In 2005, she attended the National Convention and was appointed to the Judiciary Committee. She was re-appointed to the Judiciary Committee in 2009. Metheny earned the Community Leadership Award in 2009 and 2011 and the Outstanding Contribution to Youth Award in 2012. Metheny has also served on the Oklahoma Fraternal Corporation Board since 1991.

Metheny became a Woodmen of the World member in 1985, when she joined Lodge 1191 in Durant, OK. Since 2003, she has held almost every lodge office, including President. At the Jurisdictional level, Metheny has held various offices, including President, and has served on numerous committees.

Metheny has been active in many community organizations, including Vice President and President of The Wishing Well; A Wish Granting Organization (AWGO - National); Southeastern Oklahoma State University Alumni Association; Court Appointed Special Advocate for Children (CASA); Durant First Baptist Church Free Medical Clinic and Pharmacy; Relay for Life; United Way; and the Pregnancy Center of Bryan County.

Metheny earned a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree (graduating cum laude), as well as a Master of Education Degree, from Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

She and her husband, Terry Michael (Mike) Metheny, have one living adult child: their daughter, Mishael; a son, Michael, who died as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in 1994; and one granddaughter, Raini Lee Metheny. In her spare time, Metheny enjoys watching Southeastern Oklahoma State baseball and other Southeastern sports, scrapbooking, crafts, jigsaw and crossword puzzles, antique collecting, and spending time with friends and family, especially her granddaughter. ::

Moore Retires from Board

Roger B. Moore of Lynchburg, VA, has retired from the Board of Directors of Woodmen of the World, effective March 1, 2013. He was elected to the Board in November 2007. He served as National Representative for three terms; as a member of the National Legislative Committee; and as a member of the National Judiciary

Committee for two terms.

Moore earned a Civil Engineering degree and completed traffic engineering courses at Northwestern University and Virginia Tech before retiring as Traffic Engineer for the Virginia Department of Transportation in 2010.

He is past member of Gladstone, VA, Lodge 340 and a Past President of Lodge 71. Moore has received the Mr. Woodman (Fraternal Spirit) award three times and Fraternalist of the Year for the Virginia Fraternal Congress. He has served as President of the James River Woodmen Association and is Secretary of the Executive Board of Directors of the Virginia Woodmen Fraternal Corporation. In addition, Moore serves as Chairman of the Salary and Benefits Committee and as a member of the Audit Committee.

He has been extremely active in the Virginia Jurisdiction, having served in all of the station officer positions, and is

Pat Metheny

Roger B. Moore

Newsworthy

8 WOODMEN LIVING

a Past President. He served many years as Chief Judge for Woodmen of the World Drill Team Degree competition.

Moore is Past President and member of the Executive Board for the Virginia Fraternal Congress. He also serves on the Central Virginia Transportation Safety Board and the Central Virginia Planning District Commission Steering Committee. He is active in Mt. Comfort United Methodist Church, and enjoys fishing, working in his garden and remodeling historic homes. ::

Taylor-McCoy Retires from Board

Lucia Taylor-McCoy of Elkview, WV, has retired from the Board of Directors of Woodmen of the World, effective April 1, 2013. She was appointed to the Board on Jan. 1, 2004, and most recently served on the Board’s Audit Committee, Governance Committee and as Chair of the Compensation Committee.

Before her appointment to the Board, Taylor-McCoy served as West Virginia Fraternal Coordinator for the Mountaineer Woodmen of the World Camp, Inc., from April 1, 2000, until Dec. 31, 2003. She served as an honorary board member of the Mountaineer Woodmen of the World Camp, Inc.

A Woodmen of the World member since 1981, Taylor-McCoy held nearly every officer position within her lodge and jurisdiction, including serving as President of the West Virginia Jurisdiction from 1997 to 1999. She has also been recognized by her lodge and jurisdiction for her fraternal dedication and community service, receiving the Woman of Woodcraft (Fraternal Spirit) award in 1988, the West Virginia Fraternalist of the Year award in 1991 and a Woodmen Meritorious Service Citation in 1999. Taylor-McCoy is also a Past President of the West Virginia Fraternal Congress.

Taylor-McCoy served on the Special Fraternal Strategic Committee, an ad hoc committee appointed in 2006 by

former President James Mounce to develop a long-range plan for the Woodmen of the World Fraternal Program. In addition, she served as a board member of the Woodmen Foundation and Woodmen Financial Services.

Taylor-McCoy has been active in various community organizations, including the Junior Women’s League of America, Boy Scouts of America and the Children’s Home Society of West Virginia. She has also served on a number of school and church-related committees, and has 20 years of experience working with young people as an elementary school teacher. She is a graduate of West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education. She has been an active leader within her church community, serving as director for Educational Programs and president of the Parish Council.

Taylor-McCoy and her husband, Keith, have five children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She enjoys working with crafts, walking and aerobics classes in her spare time. ::

Woodmen of the World Rated A+A.M. Best, an independent

rating agency, has recently

affirmed Woodmen of

the World’s A+ (superior)

financial strength rating.

Out of 15 possible ratings,

“A+” is A.M. Best’s second

highest rating, reflecting

its independent opinion of Woodmen of the World’s

financial strength and its ability to meet ongoing

insurance and contract obligations. A.M. Best’s

rating is based on a comprehensive and qualitative

evaluation of the company’s balance sheet strength,

operating performance and business profile. ::

Lucia Taylor-McCoy

Newsworthy


Schreier to Retire

Effective July 1, 2013, Mark Schreier will be retiring from Woodmen of the World after a 36-year career. Schreier will remain on the Board of Directors in a non-Executive Officer role.

A native of Verdigre, NE, Schreier started his career with Woodmen of the World in 1977 in the

Actuarial Department. He was named Actuarial Assistant in 1981, and in 1985 was promoted to Assistant Actuary. Schreier was appointed an Assistant Vice President in 1988 and Associate Actuary in August 1990. In 1994, he was named Actuary. In 2000, he was appointed Vice President, Chief Actuary and Actuarial and Accounting Division Manager. In 2008, he was named Executive Vice President, Finance and Treasurer.

Schreier is a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries (1982) and a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (1985). He has been active in the American Fraternal Alliance (AFA), Actuaries Section since the early 1980s, holding all officer chairs including President in 1989. Schreier was named the recipient of the 16th annual Luther College Jacobson-Rugland Award from the Alliance in 2008. He has been a member of the Nebraska Actuaries Club since the late 1970s and served as its President from 2005 to 2006.

Schreier is active in such fraternal endeavors as Paint-A-Thon and join hands day. He has volunteered in the Boy Scouts and assisted in coaching basketball and baseball for various organizations.

Schreier and his wife, Diana, have two sons: John and wife, Samantha; and Michael. ::

Mellor to Retire from Board

Stephen W. Mellor will be retiring from the Board of Directors of Woodmen of the World, effective July 1, 2013. Mellor became Executive Vice President, Finance and Treasurer of Woodmen of the World on Sept. 1, 2000. He retired from that position on May 1, 2004, and was elected to the Board of Directors. He previously served as

President of WFS Holdings, Inc., and was a member of the Board of Directors of Woodmen Financial Services, Inc.

Mellor graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in business. He began his Woodmen of the World career in August 1967 in the Investment Division. In February 1972, he was promoted to Mortgage Loan Department Manager and in March 1980, was named an Assistant Vice President. In August 1989, Mellor was promoted to Vice President and Investment Division Manager.

Mellor is a Certified Mortgage Banker and Chartered Financial Analyst. He is a past member of the Board of Directors of the Salvation Army, a Past President of the Investment Section of the National Fraternal Congress of America (now known as American Fraternal Alliance), past chairman of the NFCA Investment Management and Evaluation Committee, and a Past President of Omaha Lodge 16. He also served as Nebraska Jurisdictional President from 1985 to 1987. He and his wife attend Lifegate Church in Omaha, NE, and First Presbyterian Church in Gulf Shores, AL.

Mellor and his wife, Meriel, who is a retired financial analyst, have a son, Matthew, and a daughter, Elizabeth Holliday, and five grandchildren. He enjoys running, biking, weight lifting, reading, investment analyses, and golf. ::

Mark Schreier Stephen Mellor

Newsworthy

10 WOODMEN LIVING

Maher Elected Treasurer

The Board of Directors has elected Bob Maher to serve as Executive Vice President, Finance & Treasurer, effective July 1, 2013.

A native of Omaha, NE, Maher started his career with Woodmen of the World in 1981 in the Systems and Planning Department. In 1986, he moved to the Investment

Division, where he worked as a Mortgage Loan and Real Estate Analyst and later, Portfolio Manager. In 1997, he began working in the Securities Department, and in 1999 he was appointed an Assistant Vice President. In 2001, Maher was named Investment Division Manager. In 2002, he was appointed Vice President, Investment. In addition, Maher chairs the Board of Woodmen Financial Services, Inc.

Maher became a Woodmen of the World member in 1981 and joined Lodge 16 in Omaha. He has held most lodge offices, including President. He is a Past President of the Nebraska Jurisdiction and also a Past President of the National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) Investment Section. Maher received a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1981 and added a second degree in Real Estate in 1989. He is also a licensed Real Estate Broker and holds Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Series 7, 24, and 63 licenses.

Maher is a past Board Chairman of Junior Achievement, and is a member of the Commercial Investment Council of the Omaha Area Board of Realtors. He holds membership in the CFA Institute, the Mortgage Bankers Association of America, and St. Vincent de Paul.

In his free time, Maher enjoys golf and hockey. He and his wife, Christina, have two children, Luke and Madison. ::

Bengtson Named Vice President, Investment

Shawn Bengtson has been appointed

Vice President, Investment, effective

July 1, 2013.

In 2001, Bengtson began her career

with Woodmen of the World as

Securities Analyst. She was promoted to

Portfolio Manager in 2002 and became

Senior Portfolio Manager in 2007, before taking on her

current post as Director, Portfolio Management in 2010.

Bengtson received her Associate of Science degree from

York College in 1980, went on to earn three degrees

from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln – a bachelor’s in

Mathematics and Statistics, a master’s in Actuarial Science

and a doctorate in the Interdepartmental Area of Business,

with focuses in corporate finance, investments and banking.

Bengtson is a member of Lodge 704 in Bellevue, NE. In

her free time, she enjoys walking, singing and reading. ::

Clough Named State ManagerJustin Clough was appointed State

Manager of Oklahoma, effective Feb. 1,

2013. Clough began his Woodmen of the

World career as a Field Representative

in 1996, and was promoted to Area

Manager in 2000. He was named Field

Representative of the Year in 1999 and

Area Manager of the Year in 2003, 2009, 2011, and 2012.

He was a member of the President’s Club 11 years, the

President’s Cabinet eight years and was a Super Star in 2012.

Clough has been a member of Woodmen of the World

since 1986. He has earned his FIC and FICF designation,

as well as his Series 6 and 63 licenses.

Clough and his wife, Amanda, have one son, Justin

Clough Jr. In his free time, Clough enjoys golfing and

coaching his son’s baseball and basketball teams. ::

Bob Maher

Shawn Bengtson

Justin Clough


12 WOODMEN LIVING

Distance from Omaha to Paracas, Peru,

where Sky King was sighted in 1995.

Territorial battles for the nests on the

28th floor of the Woodmen Tower.

States – NE, IL, KS, OH, ND, MN – have

had confirmed sightings of falcons that

are associated with the Woodmen Tower.

Chicks have been hatched atop the Woodmen Tower.

M I L E S

Woodmen of the World will celebrate an important milestone this spring – the 25th anniversary of the Tower Falcons. This silver

anniversary brings another opportunity for the public to enjoy watching the newest falcon chicks. In addition, it represents an achievement in growing a population that was once on the endangered species list (see sidebar).

Silver Anniversary Celebration The current falcon Tower residents are expected to lay their eggs in March, with the babies hatching about a month later. The annual banding of the falcons will take place about two weeks after that and will include representatives from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and Raptor Recovery Nebraska, as well as guests from area nature organizations. The next big step will be the first flight of the new falcons, which typically occurs about five weeks after hatching.

Woodmen of the World will hold the annual “Name the Falcons” contest again this year through Facebook (Facebook.com/WOWInsurance). The winner of the contest will receive a framed photo of the falcons with the winning names on it, and will be invited to the falcon banding event in 2014.

Special educational activities have also been planned to commemorate the anniversary. Woodmen of the World has partnered with Fontenelle Forest in nearby Bellevue, NE, and Raptor Recovery Nebraska to create educational materials for third through fifth graders, including a scavenger hunt and a food chain worksheet.

The group will be working with area schools, and all materials are available online for anyone to use. A webcast filmed at Fontenelle Forest and featuring the educational falcon from Raptor Recovery Nebraska is available online. Finally, peregrine enthusiasts from around the country will be encouraged to view the live Falcon Cam to watch the falcons.

For younger students, Woodmen of the World will be creating a coloring sheet celebrating the falcons. Any child who sends in one of the colored sheets will see their work hung in the background during the banding ceremony.

Learn more!The public can find out more about the 25th anniversary celebration and the new falcon chicks at woodmen.org/falcons. They can also follow the falcons through their Twitter account, @WoodmenFalcons. ::

Aiding an Endangered Species In the 1950s, the peregrine falcon population had been

drastically reduced due to poisoning from pesticide,

specifically DDT. Efforts began to increase the population

by breeding peregrines in captivity and releasing them into

the wild. Many of the birds migrated to cities, where they

nested in tall skyscrapers and fed on pigeons. In 1988,

the Nebraska Peregrine Falcon Project released a pair of

falcons atop the Woodmen Tower. Thus began a long

relationship between peregrine falcons and Woodmen of

the World.

Since 1988, peregrines at the Woodmen Tower have

hatched more than 60 chicks. Woodmen of the World

works closely with Raptor Recovery Nebraska to monitor

the falcons and ensure the success of the program. This

partnership has been instrumental in aiding the Nebraska

peregrine population. “The tower was integral to the

nesting habits of the falcons,” said Denise Lewis of Raptor

Recovery Nebraska. “If Woodmen of the World hadn’t

stepped up, it would not have happened.” ::

Newsworthy

Celebrating the Falcons


Fraternal Service ReportWoodmen of the World members proudly celebrate our heritage of community service by collaborating with their lodges on a number

of projects that benefit their neighborhoods and surrounding communities. These outreach activities make us stronger by increasing

awareness of our company and providing opportunities for our member customers. In addition, Woodmen of the World provides many

customer benefits that offer protection and support in times of need.

Member Benefits

Youth/Senior Camp

More than 6,200 attendees

Natural Disaster Benefit$42,281 in benefit payments

Orphan’s Care$49,900 in benefit payments

Newborn Benefit$10,000 in benefit payments

First Responders Benefit$20,000 in benefit payments

Prescription Drug Discount$275,181 saved by members

Catastrophic Illness Benefit$862,000 in benefit payments

Community Service

Make A Difference Day

139 participating lodges

Flags Across America


JOIN HANDS DAY®


In Honor & Remembrance

389 ceremonies conducted

Matching-Fund Program

2,497 projects in support of individuals, families and communities

American History Trophies & Plaques

3,258 presented to students or placed in schools

American Patriot’s Handbooks

53,123 presented to schools, libraries and newly naturalized citizens

United States Flags

138,241 flags presented to non-profit groups, schools and communities

annual report 2012

14 WOODMEN LIVING

Generationto Generation

Financial HighlightsWoodmen of the World’s financial performance in 2012 included income of $1.2 billion. Life insurance in force reached a record

$36.4 billion. Woodmen of the World has total assets of $9.5 billion, and $110 of assets for every $100 of liabilities, further indication

of our strong financial position. Benefit payments to members and beneficiaries totaled $528 million, while refunds to members

were $77 million.

Sources of income Dec. 31, 2011 Dec. 31, 2012

Payments received from members for insurance and annuities $ 746,010,123 $ 806,688,014

Interest, dividends and rents less investment expenses and taxes 417,157,466 419,255,499

Other income 24,830,178 12,011,658

TOTA L $ 1,187,997,767 $ 1,237,955,171

How income was used

Death benefits $ 178,049,881 $ 184,689,963

Endowment benefits 2,252,671 1,694,202

Annuity benefits 178,171,826 189,632,277

Disability and hospital benefits 9,372,887 10,057,089

Payments to members and beneficiaries of monies previously deposited with the Society 40,638,776 41,739,085

Refunds to members of certificate values 129,632,235 133,119,006

Refunds to members 89,627,443 77,084,132

Set aside for members and beneficiaries to guarantee payment of future benefits 367,424,410 390,015,289

TOTA L paid to or set aside for members and beneficiaries $ 995,170,129 $ 1,028,031,043

Fraternal benefits $ 1,969,997 $ 1,434,593

Civic and community welfare, and fraternal expense 28,609,563 29,777,994

Federal, state and other taxes (insurance) 6,792,904 6,928,279

Compensation to Field Force for fraternal activities and securing new members 49,518,432 56,736,289

Insurance expense 105,936,742 115,046,973

TOTA L $ 1,187,997,767 $ 1,237,955,171

How Strong Is Woodmen of the World?• More than $9.5 billion in assets

• More than $862 million in surplus

• Rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best


$6

.44

$6

.87

$7

.21

$7

.47

$7

.65

$7

.58

$8

.07

$8

.57

$9

.34

$9.5

2

2005 2006 20072003 2004 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Bonds69.2%

Mortgage Loans15.4%

Other3.0%

Stocks5.0%

Separate Accounts2.8%

Cash & Short-Term1.9%

Certificate Loans1.8%

Real Estate0.9%

AssetsAssets Dec. 31, 2011 Dec. 31, 2012

Bonds $ 6,263,377,632 $ 6,587,791,302

Common Stock 461,703,209 474,698,681

Mortgage Loans 1,377,237,696 1,463,629,006

Real Estate 90,553,114 87,163,704

Other Invested Assets 488,172,807 211,453,689

Short Term Investments and Cash 189,173,518 177,560,048

Certificate Loans 170,740,710 168,277,466

Data Processing Equipment 679,634 503,151

Other Non-Invested Assets 1,202,529 2,643,861

Due & Accrued Investment Income 82,863,674 81,218,284

Separate Account Assets 214,967,776 262,507,752

Total Admitted Assets $ 9,340,672,299 $ 9,517,446,944

Assets 10-year history

$ of Assets (Billions)

Distribution of Assets

Annual Report 2012

16 WOODMEN LIVING

$3

2.8

$3

3.3

$3

4.0

$3

4.4

$3

4.7

$3

4.7

$3

4.9

$3

5.4

$3

5.8

$3

6.4

2005 2006 20072003 2004 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

$6

95

$6

96

$5

79

$5

38

$5

17

$8

22

$8

00

$7

48

$7

46

$8

07

2005 2006 20072003 2004 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

LiabilitiesLiabilities Dec. 31, 2011 Dec. 31, 2012

Certificate Reserves $ 7,097,179,949 $ 7,482,207,363

Certificate Claims 36,019,902 38,473,216

Certificate Refunds 344,263,205 327,913,440

Advance Payments 10,893,547 11,340,815

Asset Valuation Reserve 106,019,926 152,862,945

Other Liabilities 726,818,133 379,909,773

Separate Account Liabilities 214,967,776 262,507,752

Total Liabilities $ 8,536,162,438 $ 8,655,215,304

Special Reserve for Fluctuation of Assets, Mortality, Interest , Expense, and Fraternal Activities 804,509,861 862,231,640

Total Liabilities And Special Reserves $ 9,340,672,299 $ 9,517,446,944

Dollars of Assets to Every $100 of Liabilities $ 109 $ 110

Insurance in Force $ 35,826,242,307 $ 36,433,197,060

Life Insurance Issued $ 2,927,714,916 $ 2,930,946,332

Benefit Payments $ 497,479,500 $ 519,192,537

Insurance in Force 10-year history

$ of Assets (Billions)

Premium Income 10-year history

$ of Assets (Millions)


SUBMIT PHOTOS TO: [email protected]

Members made a $10,000 donation to the North Florida Youth Camp earmarked for camp improvements, and a $10,000 donation to the Howard Johnson Scholarship Fund.

President Chuck Haase (right) and Vice President Mickey Waldroop (left) presented a Flag of Honor to Marietta Fire Station #1.

Lodge 460 Perry, FL Lodge 1245 Marietta, GA

Lodge 1399 Yellville, AR

Youth member Aden Pittman, grandson of Area Manager Wayne Cowan, plays on a soccer team sponsored by his lodge.

fraternal spirit

18 WOODMEN LIVING

Members participated in a rally in downtown Omaha to support Youth Emergency Services, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending youth homelessness.

Members presented a flag to Camp Living Water Christian Camp in Bryson City.

Members presented a flag to Kuehn-Haven Middle School in Montrose.

President Jimmy Gunter (right) presented an American flag to Sam Hurley for the Riley Cemetery in Mohawk, TN.

Secretary Margaret Butler proudly wore her Easter hat she decorated as part of the lodge’s Hat Parade at a meeting last spring.

Members presented a check, food and cleaning supplies to the Des Moines County Humane Society.

Lodge 6124 Omaha, NE

Lodge 560 Sylva, NC

Lodge 252 Flint, MI

Lodge 111 Greenville, TN

Lodge 468 Mechanicsville, VA

Lodge 33 Burlington, IA


President Jose Rosado and Greeter Cheryl Johnston-Carr performed for residents at an Alzheimer’s facility for Halloween.

Lodge 84 Lakewood, WA

Members delivered gifts to patients at the Allegany County Nursing Home as their Make A Difference Day project.

Lodge 6 Cumberland, MD

Lodge 1218 Monroe, LA

Members presented checks to teachers at Royston Elementary School.

Lodge 251 Royston, GA

Jurisdictional Escort Kenneth Irwin and Jurisdictional Past President Harriet Irwin (right) presented a check to Melinda Brooks on behalf of the Pine Grove Soldier Project.

Lodge 6246 Maryville, TN

Representative Tony Brinkmeier presented a $2,000 check to Nell Calloway (left), Director of the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, and Rosemary Chennault Simrall (seated), daughter of Gen. Claire Chennault.

Fraternal Spirit

20 WOODMEN LIVING

Treasurer Bruce Watt presented a check to Tammy Blizzard for the Matthew 25 Food Bank of St. James United Methodist Church.

Lodge 1996 Bellville, TX

Lodge 336 Newport, NC

Area Manager Greg McLaughlin (left) presented a special membership pin and plaque to William Whorton and his wife, Caroline.

Lodge 1558 Leeds, AL

Members presented a Flag of Honor to the Belle Fire Department.

Lodge 254 Charleston, WV

Members presented a check to the Sunnybrook Children’s Home.

Lodge 2 Madison, MS

Representative Linda Streckfuss (left) presented a flag to Susan Hopkins from the Royal Early Childhood Center.

Members made a donation at Cub Scout Pack 37’s fundraiser chili supper.

Lodge 728 Murray, KY


Members presented a check to the Nettleton F.A.I.T.H. Food Pantry.

Lodge 130 Tupelo, MS

Representative Jeff Cox (right) installed the new lodge officers.

Lodge 1075 Loris, SC

Representative Steve Kendall presented Evonne Stewart with a 50-year membership pin.

Lodge 196 Hornbeak, TN

Representative Clayton Parrish (center) presented a flag to the Phenix City Fire Department.

Lodge 338 Phenix City, AL

Members presented a check to the Chilton County Emergency Assistance Center.

Lodge 322 Clanton, AL

Members presented a flag to the local VFW.

Lodge 104 Moultrie, GA

Fraternal Spirit

22 WOODMEN LIVING

Members Monroe and Susie Hubbard won the longest marriage award at the lodge’s Valentine’s Day meeting – they’ve been married almost 68 years.

Lodge 50 Savannah, TN

Lodge 458 Enterprise, AL

Members celebrated the season at the lodge’s holiday party.

Lodge 6099 Cleveland, OH

Representative Greg Brown (third from left) presented a flag to West Jessamine High School.

Lodge 1 Lexington, KY

Representative Harry Lilly presented the Fraternal Spirit Award to lodge President Margaret Miller.

Lodge 341 Harrisonburg, VA

Members Bill Faulk and Karen Parten assemble candy bags for residents of local nursing homes.


President Stewart Sayer (center) presented a case to Megan Wade and Sgt. Rob Wallace from the Habersham Central Air Force ROTC. The case will be used to secure their rifles when they travel to flag raisings and other patriotic ceremonies.

Lodge 553 Clarkesville, GA

Community Outreach Manager Marty Faircloth (right) presented the North Florida Fraternalist of the Year Award to Tom Moilanen.

Lodge 899 Jacksonville, FL

Members provided hand-held flags to all those in attendance at Myrtle Beach International Airport as veterans returned from a special trip to Washington, D.C.

Lodge 1111 Myrtle Beach, SC

Fraternal Spirit

24 WOODMEN LIVING

Representative Billy Crumpton presented a flag to Lucy Blair, a volunteer with the Parks and Recreation Department for the town of Shannon.

Santa Claus visited the lodge’s holiday party.

Lodge 130 Saltillo, MS

Lodge 8 Florence, AL

Josie York (left) and Lea Guadavrama played with some sheep at the lodge’s Fourth Annual Family Fun Fest at Coldwater Creek Stables.

Lodge 251 Royston, GA

President Monte Moser (right) presented a check to Dick Turpin from the Blue Moon Anglers, who are building a pier at Bowling Lake so those with special needs can fish.

Lodge 264 Lincoln, NE

Members assembled and then delivered sacks of groceries to shut-ins at the Arlington Joy Center.

Lodge 38 Arlington, KY

Members presented a flag to the Friendship Heights Senior Center.

Lodge 45 Friendsville, MD


W hile her first contact with Woodmen of the World was on a professional level as a consultant for the Human Resources Department at the

Home Office, Cy Wakeman quickly realized there was something special about this company she was considering working with.

“When I first met with them, saw how committed everyone was and learned about Woodmen of the World’s fraternal model – I knew I wanted to work with them,” Wakeman said.

A sought-after speaker and consultant, Wakeman has been sharing her Reality-Based Leadership philosophy with organizations around the world for more than two decades. She is the author of two books, Reality-Based Leadership and The Reality-Based Rules of the Workplace, and her ideas have been featured in a variety of national and international publications. In addition to Woodmen of the World, her clients include numerous Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, medical/nursing schools, and non-profits.

“I like to work with clients who have great missions,” Wakeman said. “In every interaction I have with professionals at Woodmen of the World, I see people at all levels living the mission and being fraternal.”

Within a few months of starting to work with Woodmen of the World in 2005, Wakeman herself became a member. “It was continuing to meet people who were living the mission that convinced me to become a member,” she said. “In addition to my membership, my four sons are also members.”

Since becoming a member, Wakeman has become even more aware of

Woodmen of the World’s reach. “I travel all over the country and I see them in

action,” she said. “From the disaster relief and other projects, I get a front row seat to

see Woodmen of the World doing great things in many communities.”

A self-proclaimed “Iowa girl,” Wakeman grew up in the small town of Belmond, IA,

the sixth of seven children, but her career has taken her to a variety of places in the

U.S. and around the world. In 2012, she was honored in Mumbai, India, with the World HRD Congress Outstanding Leadership Award for her achievements as a global thought leader.

From her current home base on a lake just outside of Omaha in Waterloo, NE, Wakeman stays connected with Woodmen of the World professionally and as a member. “I recently donated my time to a director’s meeting at the Home Office, and I make donations to various programs and events,” she said. “I try to stay involved and give back when I can.” ::

Waterloo, NE

From Consultant to Member member news

26 WOODMEN LIVING

Of all the many hats Mike Jones has worn over the years – police officer, detective, chief of police, board member, even national hero – the one he

treasures the most is red and white, and is tipped with a puffy ball.

As creator of the Salvage Santa project, which donates bikes and toys for approximately 1,000 underprivileged children every year, Jones wants to be remembered for his charity work, not the moment that made him the subject of headlines.

One fateful dayOn Dec. 14, 2010, in Panama City, FL, Jones was involved in a shootout with a disgruntled man who blamed the local school board for the dismissal of his wife. The man intended to take the lives of those he believed to be responsible. In an act of selfless heroism, Jones entered the school board meeting and incapacitated the man who had taken the school board hostage, certainly saving innocent lives.

Speaking frankly of the event, Jones said, “When you come that close to dying, it makes you closer to your family. I’m so grateful to be spending time with my grandchildren when I came so close to not being able to do those things.”

After the shooting, Jones told the media they would have to wait to speak with him. “I needed to take a day to spend time with my family and my pastor and get right with what happened.” After 24 hours, Jones went on to give interviews with dozens of TV networks, the Geraldo Rivera show and an A&E special. He has even given testimony alongside Oliver North.

A lifetime of heroismBut it wasn’t the actions of one fateful day that make Jones a hero. Thirty years ago, while working for Sears, Roebuck and Co., Jones saw fellow employees in the stock room

crushing toys that had been left unsold over the holiday season, because it was too expensive to send them back to the manufacturer. Rather than see those toys destroyed, Jones asked for the remaining toys to donate to local children.

And that was how the Salvage Santa project started. “During my time as a police officer, I was working on child abuse cases and knew those kids needed toys the most,” Jones explained. The toy program even landed Jones an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show in 1995.

Jones, a member of Lodge 406 in Panama City, now spends his free time building bikes for children who need them, proving that high-profile, life-altering experiences aren’t necessarily what define people. “I’m not Wyatt Earp. That shootout was only 21 seconds of my life, and that’s not what I want to be remembered for. I’m most proud of playing Santa Claus to 1,000 kids,” he said. Jones has also written a book about Salvage Santa entitled Salvaged Santa, which is available online, with all proceeds going to the project. ::

Panama City, FL

Hero Wears Many Hats

Member News


Rice Honored for Community Involvement When he looks back on his

childhood in rural South Carolina, Danny Rice

fondly remembers his Sunday school teachers, coaches and others in his life who volunteered. “I saw these people who were busy with their own lives, but still making time and giving back to others,” he said. “I learned from them, and tried to do the same with my life.” Luckily for Woodmen of the World members and the citizens of Lenoir County and Kinston, NC, Rice has succeeded.

A Woodmen of the World member for 39 years and a member of the Board of Directors since 2001, Rice has received many honors along the way, including Woodmen of the World’s Youth Program award, the Mr. Woodman (Fraternal Spirit) award, and North Carolina Fraternalist of the Year twice.

Beyond his numerous Woodmen of the World activities and awards, Rice has also been involved with numerous community projects and organizations in the Kinston area for more than 30 years. In January, those efforts were officially recognized when the Kinston-Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce named him “Citizen of the Year” for 2012.

“I was at this event to be installed to the Chamber’s Board of Directors and

I didn’t even know I was nominated for the award,” Rice said. “I had no idea what was going on until it was announced. It means a great deal to me, but mostly it validates the great organizations I’ve been fortunate to be a part of.”

The night of the award presentation, Rice was supposed to be in Texas at Woodmen of the World’s State Managers’ Meeting, but someone stepped in to change his plans. “President Larry King told me I’d have to miss the meeting because he needed me to represent Woodmen of the World at the Chamber event,” he said, “Initially I was concerned about missing the meeting, but then I realized he got involved so I could be there to receive the award.”

Rice’s list of achievements in the Kinston area is extensive, but a few organizations hold a special place in his heart. “I was very fortunate to be part of the founding board of the Lenoir County Friends of the Homeless,” he said. “In our 20 years of operation, we’ve become a role model for our state. We’ve never used a dime of state or federal funds – we’re completely supported by resources from the community.”

In addition, Rice was a founding executive director of the Caswell

Center Foundation – an organization that helps individuals with developmental disabilities and their families – and is actively involved with the Lions Club, Boy Scouts of America and the Woodmen Community Center.

Overall, Rice feels there’s a strong connection between his work with Woodmen of the World and his community involvement. “The organizations I align myself with have the same values of patriotism, family, helping others and giving back to your community that Woodmen of the World does,” he said. “Plus I’ve always been told, and believe, that public service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living in these awesome communities.” ::

Danny Rice

Member News

28 WOODMEN LIVING

WHEN members of Parliament-Funkadelic tell an assembled audience that

the former lodge hall they’re throwing a concert in is “The Mothership,” you know you’re dealing with a little bit different kind of lodge hall. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t lessons to be learned from its long and continued success.

“Eugene’s WOW Hall was built in 1931 during the Great Depression, with much of the work done by volunteers,” said the hall’s manager, Bob Fennessey. The current hall is not the original building on the site, but the corner it sits on has been a popular gathering place in Eugene, OR, since the town’s early days. “The site itself had been owned by Woodmen of the World since 1906,” according to Fennessey, but when the Eugene lodge became inactive, the land and building were leased out, with the potential to be sold or demolished.

“In 1975, a group of performers and historic preservation enthusiasts incorporated as the Community Center for the Performing Arts for the purpose of saving the building and keeping it in use,” Fennessey explained. They held a five-day

and five-night wowathon to raise the down payment. Through community involvement and various fund-raising efforts, the CCPA completed purchase of the WOW Hall in 1983. Then in 1996, the WOW Hall was officially designated a historic landmark by the National Register of Historic Places.

What makes the WOW Hall unique is the fact that it is run by a volunteer-based organization and truly remains a part of the community. It is also an all-ages venue all the time, when most venues in Eugene are only available to those age 21 and up.

For years, the WOW Hall has realized the importance of youth involvement. “Younger volunteers can demonstrate that they are dependable, punctual and able to work in a group – we can then be a job reference,” said Fennessey, who adds that about half of the hall’s volunteers are teenagers.

Another way the historic hall stays relevant is through modern programs. Inspired by Philadelphia’s School of Rock, “The WOW Hall has been offering summer rock band camps for kids that have become so popular we now have two each summer,” Fennessey said. Performances by artists such as Hank Williams III, The Squirrel Nut Zippers and The Dirty Dozen Brass Band have proven that a small, community-run hall can attract big names.

It also has the best dance floor in town, which Fennessey assures “won’t leave your legs in knots after a night of dancing.”

And the WOW Hall only continues to improve. With plans for an interior renovation, lighting and sound improvements and the addition of an annex, this WOW Hall only gets better with time.

Thanks to the efforts of volunteers and determination to preserve the past while staying relevant to modern culture, the WOW Hall is a testament to the power of community. ::

A Community Brought Together By Music


Member Spotlight

Jack Koontz isn’t one to sit around idle or fall behind. So it’s fitting that the Head Start Center

in his hometown of Mocksville, NC, now bears his name.

Koontz has dedicated a half century of his life to public service. In 1961, he joined the North Carolina Army National Guard and continued to

serve until his retirement in 1987 as a Platoon Sergeant. During his time with the Guard, Koontz joined the United States Postal Service and served for 39 years, eventually retiring as a Level 18 Postmaster.

Koontz is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Yadkin Valley Economic Development District (YVEDDI), a non-profit organization working for low-income community members, migrants and senior citizens. The YVEDDI also helps support Meals on Wheels, various retired senior volunteer programs, rural transportation programs, domestic violence survivors, the weatherization of homes for needy senior citizens, day care centers for migrant workers’ children, and senior centers across four counties, not to mention the Jack G. Koontz Head Start Center.

“It’s a real honor to have the Head Start Center named after me,” Koontz said.

“During his tenure, Jack has given his time very generously to the programs here at YVEDDI. Jack is always at the table for important events,” said Kathy Payne, Acting Director of YVEDDI. “Without a doubt, his leadership and dedication have made a profound difference in the quality of services provided to over 55,000 clients served by YVEDDI each year.”

And if being a Guardsman, Postmaster and local board member didn’t keep him busy enough, Koontz has remained active with Woodmen of the World, as well.

He has served as President of Lodge 323 in Mocksville; was the North Carolina Jurisdictional President from 1997-99; served on the National Fraternal Committee in 2009 and 2010; and spent many years serving on the Board of the R.C. Cliff Payne Youth Camp. A proud father of two and grandfather of four who will soon celebrate his golden wedding anniversary with his wife, Kay, Koontz’s immediate family are all Woodmen of the World members, too.

Area Manager Jeff Pardue counts Koontz as a friend. “He’s a true role model. If I were to introduce him, I would need a whole sheet of paper to list everything he’s done and continues to do in the community,” Pardue said. “He’s done it all. His name is synonymous with giving. He never looks at ‘what’s in it for Jack.’ He looks at what’s in it for other people.” ::

Koontz Has a Head Start on Service

Jack Koontz

Jack Koontz has made a name for himself with his good

deeds. Now a Head Start Center in his hometown of

Mocksville, NC, bears his name. He is pictured next to

the sign and with his wife, Kay.

30 WOODMEN LIVING

Some people have Type O blood. Some people have

A Positive. And a few have Middle C. Music has gotten into their blood, and they spend their lifetime surrounded by it. Benny Russell is one of those people.

A 30-plus-year member of Lodge 1893 in Tuscaloosa, AL, Russell recently celebrated his 50th production as Musical Director for the Tuscaloosa Children’s Theater. As a choral music teacher for 32 years, he has worked with children of all ages, from elementary school through high school and even college. “This has all been an adventure,” Russell said. “I get to watch these kids grow through music, and it’s all very rewarding.”

A family man, father, grandfather, and husband of 43 years, Russell knows the importance of nurturing and cultivating talent in youth. “I feel like I’m a musical farmer,” he said. “I get to plant the musical seeds and watch them

grow. Some of my students have gone on to do music professionally. I’ve had the opportunity to teach thousands of kids.”

For his 50th show, Russell was the musical director for “A Christmas Carol,” which included 80 local children in the cast, ages 5 to 18. Around 150 kids auditioned for various roles. “This year, we did 10 performances. Six were for school children who were bussed to the theater from across the state, and four of the shows were open to the public,” he said.

Russell isn’t just using his teaching skills and gift of music for the purposes of entertainment. By developing the "Alabama Choral Explosion," this passionate music teacher has recruited students to perform for the Alabama State House of Representatives, the Senate and the National School Board Convention to showcase the virtues of music programs in the school system. For 15 consecutive years, Russell was able to keep his and other music programs in Alabama alive, and even conducted two European Concert tours with his troupe of singers.

For the past 56 years, he has served as Minister of Music for churches in Huntsville, Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. He has served at Brent Baptist Church for the past 10 years. His wife, Jo; son, Bryan; daughter-in-law, Tammy; and grandson, Sean, are also Woodmen of the World members.

With his passion for music and cultivating talent, Russell has brightened the lives of his students and audience members for better than 50 years, and doesn’t plan to slow down. "I teach music, conduct the orchestra and I’m still having fun," he said. ::

Russell Teaches Music With Heart

Benny Russell has served as

Minister of Music for churches

in Alabama for 56 years …

and counting.

Tuscaloosa, AL


It’s been exciting to visit with so many of you at the Jurisdictional Conventions, which will continue

through May. As spring arrives, we have exciting things coming up for all of our members.

Woodmen of the World continues to offer even more opportunities to make a difference in your communities. Each year, we challenge lodges to strive for a five-star rating. These ratings are determined by points each lodge earns for annual planning, events, outreach, and reporting. This year’s challenge brings more ways to earn points, and an additional $750 in matching funds with a five-star rating.

Some of the tasks eligible for extra points include filling positions we’ve recently added for each lodge (Lodge Reporter, Website Administrator and Social Media Coordinator). We asked for your help, and thanks to your dedication and proactive response, we already have nearly 300 lodges that have filled all three of these roles.

Another area for growth is promotion via social media. We encouraged you to build Facebook pages, and to share your lodge stories and photos. I have been thrilled to see it take off – we already have more than 100 lodges with Facebook pages.

Now is the perfect time to set your sights on a five-star rating – see the story on page 34 for more information on the challenge.

Please connect with your local lodge to learn more about ways to give back and volunteer in your community. Also, watch your mail for youth and senior activities we are planning in your area. We have many opportunities to get involved and we hope you explore the ones that best fit your life and your family.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Pat Dees Executive Vice President, Fraternal

Pat Dees

Lodge CentennialsLodge 518Shelby, NC

April 30, 1913

Lodge 486Arden, NC

June 23, 1913

Lodge 630Alma, GA

June 23, 1913

Spring Offers Opportunities Fraternally Speaking

lodge leader

32 WOODMEN LIVING

Dates to RememberApril 30 Dues will be held if calendar

and/or financial report are not received

by Fraternal Outreach.

May In Honor and Remembrance order

forms will be mailed to Lodge Secretaries.

May 1 Fraternalist of the Year

nominations due to State Office.

May 4 Join Hands day

May 12 Anniversary of Woodmen

of the World’s Youth Program (1903)

June 6 Woodmen of the World’s

Anniversary (1890)

June 14 Flags Across America (Flag Day)

July Annual Lodge Membership Lists

will be mailed to Lodge Secretaries.

Community Outreach Profile

Amanda McNew is in the business of making once-in-a-lifetime events happen more

often than that.

“It’s nice to see generations attending a ball game together and families spending the afternoon at the ballpark,” she said. “It’s especially memorable to look over and see veterans with their kids and grandkids holding the big flag for the National Anthem at the ball game. For some people, that’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m proud to play a part in that.”

The Community Outreach Manager for eastern Kentucky came to Woodmen of the World after working for the local Parks and Recreation Department and has been a member of Lodge 888 in Berea since 2010.

Another once-in-a-lifetime event is meeting your spouse, and McNew met her husband, Brad, through Woodmen of the World connections. Soon after she started, she went to a lodge meeting, where Brad’s mother, Mary Ann McNew (Lodge 888 Secretary), told her all about her son. “Naturally, I wanted to stay away, and so did Brad, because we weren’t interested in having his mom introduce us.” But it was meant to be; eventually they met a couple of months later at an Adopt-a-School event where as a Woodmen of the World Representative, he volunteered with the lodge. “From then it was

history,” Amanda McNew said. “We went on our first date a week after the Adopt-a-School and married on Oct. 1, 2011.”

Partnerships are key to the successes in McNew’s area. “Lodges in our area benefit a variety of community organizations,” she said. “Many of our lodges have a partnership with their local fire departments, schools and youth sports teams.”

Each lodge’s partnership is different and tailored to fit their community, she explains. “The lodge officers and Representatives work together to find what works best in each community … we have experience from our seasoned officers and fresh ideas from our new officers, and the networks from both.”

And because her particular lodge has a younger culture, many of the community events revolve around local schools. “We have several counties that our lodge serves and we do our best to help with various programs and volunteer to help at their events including fall festivals, PTO fundraisers, adopt-a-schools, and more,” McNew said.

McNew has some lofty goals for the future. “All of our lodges are working to increase their membership, as well as having an active Field Representative in their lodge,” she said. And with membership growth, she is also hoping to charter new lodges to expand the service to eastern Kentucky.

“I’ve had some really great times with Woodmen of the World,” she said. “I’m looking forward to even more.”::

New Ideas for McNew

Lexington, KY

Community Outreach Manager Amanda

McNew (center) was introduced to her

husband, Brad, by his mother, Mary Ann

McNew (left).


W ould your lodge like the opportunity to earn additional Matching Funds

each year? With the newly revamped Five-Star Fraternal Challenge – you can!

The Five-Star Fraternal Challenge now provides lodges with the opportunity to earn additional Matching Funds – up to $750 more per year – for performance and reporting of activities that support Woodmen of the World’s fraternal objectives.

Lodges will be able to receive this additional money by earning Additional Points for completing

specific tasks in the Challenge. Each point earned is worth an additional $1 in Matching Funds, with a maximum of $750 to be earned.

“We are going to put additional money on the table for our lodges,” said Steve Jones, Vice President, Marketing & Fraternal. “It’s going to be theirs for the taking if they’re willing to complete the necessary requirements to earn it.”

Some of the performance and reporting tasks that are eligible to earn these additional points (and dollars)

for a lodge include:

• Up-to-date post-event reporting of all lodge activities on MyFraternalWeb;

• Members filling the positions of Lodge Reporter, Website Administrator and Social Media Coordinator;

• Promotional activities such as creating a Facebook fan page, posting photos and stories on Facebook and the lodge website, and “liking” the Woodmen of the World Facebook page.

New Challenge Creates More Opportunities for Lodges

Lodge Leader

34 WOODMEN LIVING

These additional points are in addition to a list of Core and Community Outreach Activity Requirements that lodges must complete to earn a specified Star Level.

Core requirements for each lodge wishing to achieve a specific Star Level include timely submission of a completed Lodge Officer Roster and Lodge Calendar, along with submission of the Annual Financial Report.

“The core requirements are really important to help a lodge stay on the right track,” Jones said. “They play a key role in helping them stay organized and working toward the Star Level they want to reach.”

The Community Outreach Activity Requirements for each lodge include:

• Annual Planning,

• Award Presentations/Banquets,

• Community Outreach, and

• Patriotic Presentations/Ceremonies.

“These requirements represent what is at the heart of our lodges and our overall mission,” Jones said. “They are in line with our Constitutional By-Laws and illustrate what lodges should be doing to be successful.”

The new guidelines and requirements went into effect for the 2013-2014 Fraternal Challenge, and will be highlighted at all of this year’s Jurisdictional Conventions.

“Overall, the Challenge really maps out what we’d like our lodges to do to strengthen our organization and their communities,” said Barb Courtier, Director, Fraternal Outreach. “It’s a guide for them to follow to be an active, healthy lodge and achieve their desired Star Levels.”

For additional information or questions regarding the Five-Star Fraternal Challenge, please contact your Community Outreach Manager or Sharon Warga, Fraternal Project Coordinator, at 1-800-225-3108, ext. 7940 or [email protected]. ::

Get SocialWhen your lodge identifies volunteers for

the three web positions – Lodge Website

Administrator, Lodge Web Reporter and

Social Media Coordinator – you earn points

in the Five-Star Fraternal Challenge.

If you filled these positions by March 31,

2013, your lodge took the first step toward

being entered into a drawing for an additional

$500 in Matching Funds for use in 2013.

What’s in it for your lodge? » Your lodge could win $500 in

Matching Funds!

» The opportunity for more money to

use in the community!

» Gain positive exposure by getting the

word out about local events!

» The opportunity to increase membership!

Members from Kentucky Lodges 38 and

741 learn how to use online fraternal

resources at a web training workshop held

on February 23 in Mayfield, KY.


A O R L M X D I S C I P L I N E S A C R I F I C EF P C O A S T G U A R D X W H A I S U M R A M Q SG F P X U H C A M O U F L A G E E N C O U R A G EH P A T R I O T I S M K C I C P V W W Q V B F A KA C U N T P V U U J G E O W I K B C F W I I W C WN C T O D T U G S A I R C R A F T C A R R I E R VI F R R P V F R C Z V V T R E T Z A A D W X O W CS J I M A S I S P Z Z S M L W A O S I E G U V R JT C P A R L L E S L D T H A N K S J R S E F E E ZA K O N M O R E T N E V I C T O R Y F E R R T A ZN O L D Y O N M A N A H H V L E N B O R O E E T UU J I Y N I H S C M A Z E P B K A H R T N E R H TW F W O R Y R F I J S M J A F V V G C S I D A X YD K H A G A J J W U K X M S R Q Y Q E T M O N J OU T M T T N O B A T T L E S K T F T C O O M B S NT W P S X W A N C H O R S A W E I G H R L S M A KU P A X I T O B K L M O N T E Z U M A M A R G U W

Memorial Day Word SearchCan you find the 30 words and phrases hidden in the puzzle below? Search across or down, forward, backward, or diagonally. You can find the answers to this puzzle by clicking the News/Media link on woodmen.org. Have fun, and thank a veteran or active duty member of our armed forces today! ::

AfghanistanAircraft CarrierAir ForceAnchors AweighArmyBattles

CamouflageCoast GuardCourageDesert StormDisciplineFreedom

GeronimoHonorIwo JimaKoreaMarinesMontezuma

NavyNormandyPatriotismPurple HeartSacrificeStars and Stripes

ThanksTripoliVeteranVictoryVietnamWreath

Word List

HAVE A GOOD JOKE? Make your fellow fraternalists laugh. Please send contributions to [email protected] zone

36 WOODMEN LIVING

Worse Punishment?An Air Force cargo plane was preparing for departure from Thule Air Base in Greenland. They were waiting for the truck to arrive to pump out the aircraft’s sewage holding tank.

The Aircraft Commander was in a hurry, the truck was late in arriving, and the Airman performing the job was extremely slow in getting the tank pumped out.

When the commander berated the Airman for his slowness and promised punishment, the Airman responded: “Sir, I have no stripes, it’s 20 below zero, I’m stationed in Greenland, and I’m pumping sewage out of airplanes. Just what are you going to do to punish me?” ::

Military EtiquetteOfficer: Soldier, do you have change for a dollar?

Soldier: Sure, buddy.

Officer: That’s no way to address an officer! Now, let’s try it again. Do you have change for a dollar?

Soldier: SIR! No, SIR! ::

Sergeant’s PhilosophyThe Company Commander and the First Sergeant were in the field. As they hit the sack for the night, the First Sergeant said, “Sir, look up into the sky and tell me what you see.”

The Commander said, “I see millions of stars.”

The First Sergeant replied, “And what does that tell you, sir?”

The Commander thought a bit. “Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Theologically, it tells me that God is great and that we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it tells me that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does it tell you, Top?”

“Well, sir,” the First Sergeant said, “it tells me that somebody stole our tent.” ::

Experience WantedShortly after joining the Army, a young man was in line with some other inductees when the sergeant stepped forward with that day’s assignments. He handed several tasks out and then asked, “Does anyone here have experience with radio communications?”

A longtime ham radio operator, the young man shouted, “I do!”

“Good,” he said. “You can dig the hole for the new telephone pole.” ::


Richard H. Mardis Age: 81

Lodge 879, Cookeville, TN

Goldie Smith PughAge: 87

Lodge 89, Rocky Mount, VA

A.J. RiceAge: 79

Lodge 879, Cookeville, TN

Gladys Robinson Age: 82

Lodge 136, Abilene, TX

Former Fraternal Coordinator

Joseph J. Strickland Age: 76

Lodge 924, Clinton, NC

Marvin Presley Thomas Age: 96

Lodge 974, Hodgenville, KY

Lad Becka Age: 69

Lodge 7, Columbus, TX

Helen Geer Age: 75

Lodge 3, Santa Fe, NM

James W. “Jim” Guillory

Age: 89

Lodge 47, Opelousas, LA

Marshall Haney Age: 87

Lodge 226, Waynesville, NC

Former Jurisdictional Officer

Ronald (Ronnie) Marion Kelley

Age: 65

Lodge 920, Waynesboro, TN

Harold D. Lett Age: 67

Lodge 173, Laurel, MS

Michael Wilburn Age: 54

Lodge 250, Center, TX

Joseph C. KnowlesAge: 82

Lodge 1483, Hampstead, NC

Phillip R. Pender Sr. Age: 71

Lodge 6, Wilmington, NC

Billy J. PowellAge: 76

Lodge 6, Wilmington, NC

LeRoy S. ZobristAge: 83

Lodge 105, Highland, IL

In Memoriam Submission Guidelines: The editors of Woodmen Living want to give your departed loved ones the most

respectful and complete recognition possible. To aid us in doing this, please include the following minimum information and send it

to [email protected]: your loved one’s full name as you would like it printed, age, lodge number and hometown. Also let us

know if he or she served as a Jurisdictional Officer, was a National Committee member, a State Manager, or a National Representative.

In addition, when including photos, please submit photos of the highest possible quality to assure adequate printing. Thank you.

in memoriam

38 WOODMEN LIVING

Feed your family’s unique needs. While no two families are alike, Family Term life insurance from Woodmen of the World helps to satisfy them all – it’s all-in-one coverage for your one-of-a-kind family.

Contact your Representative or call 1-800-225-3108 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.

Michael Wilburn Age: 54

Lodge 250, Center, TX

D0452WOW 6/09

PERIODICALS

JOIN HANDS DAY ® is Saturday, May 4

Check with your Representative,

lodge officers or at woodmen.org

to see what projects are planned in

your area.

We are all linked. Our connections run deep. We’re

bonded by history and shared

experiences, and by our hopes and

dreams. We all want to see a better

world for those who come after us.

Help us make those dreams a reality

on JOIN HANDS DAY. If we can

make our corner of the world more

friendly, more welcoming, maybe

even more beautiful on a Saturday in

May, just think what we can do with

the rest of the year.

A O R L M X D I S C I P L I N E S A C R I F I C EF P C O A S T G U A R D X W H A I S U M R A M Q SG F P X U H C A M O U F L A G E E N C O U R A G EH P A T R I O T I S M K C I C P V W W Q V B F A KA C U N T P V U U J G E O W I K B C F W I I W C WN C T O D T U G S A I R C R A F T C A R R I E R VI F R R P V F R C Z V V T R E T Z A A D W X O W CS J I M A S I S P Z Z S M L W A O S I E G U V R JT C P A R L L E S L D T H A N K S J R S E F E E ZA K O N M O R E T N E V I C T O R Y F E R R T A ZN O L D Y O N M A N A H H V L E N B O R O E E T UU J I Y N I H S C M A Z E P B K A H R T N E R H TW F W O R Y R F I J S M J A F V V G C S I D A X YD K H A G A J J W U K X M S R Q Y Q E T M O N J OU T M T T N O B A T T L E S K T F T C O O M B S NT W P S X W A N C H O R S A W E I G H R L S M A KU P A X I T O B K L M O N T E Z U M A M A R G U W

Memorial Day Word SearchCan you find the 30 words and phrases hidden in the puzzle below? Search across or down, forward, backward, or diagonally. You can find the answers to this puzzle by clicking the News/Media link on woodmen.org. Have fun, and thank a veteran or active duty member of our armed forces today! ::

AfghanistanAircraft CarrierAir ForceAnchors AweighArmyBattles

CamouflageCoast GuardCourageDesert StormDisciplineFreedom

GeronimoHonorIwo JimaKoreaMarinesMontezuma

NavyNormandyPatriotismPurple HeartSacrificeStars and Stripes

ThanksTripoliVeteranVictoryVietnamWreath

Word List

HAVE A GOOD JOKE? Make your fellow fraternalists laugh. Please send contributions to [email protected] zone

36 WOODMEN LIVING ANSWER KEY

how much life insurance do you need? › file-downloads › wl_20132_spring_we… · 1890, is a...

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