Fall 2015 - Woodmen.org
Transcription
Fall 2015 - Woodmen.org
Photo by Marie Constantin FA L L 2 0 1 5 The Right Fit for Any Family XXXXXXXXX Special Jurisdictional Convention Issue learn more at: woodmen.org President’s Message Milestone Year Marks Continued Strength As we continue to celebrate our new brand identity and our 125th anniversary this year, I’m reminded of Larry R. King the many ways WoodmenLife is different from so many other insurance companies, and the role all of you play in our success. Through your participation in activities that make a difference in your local communities, including taking the time to help govern our organization by attending Jurisdictional Conventions (see page 19), you have a voice in what we do. Being a longtime member of WoodmenLife myself, I have never doubted the commitment of our members and the power of our chapters across America. I’m always impressed by stories of members rolling up their sleeves to help those in need, or coming together to promote patriotism through Flags Across America events and flag presentations (see Fraternal Spirit on page 11). This involvement has a positive impact on our organization, and your fraternal works continue to make WoodmenLife and our communities stronger, better places for everyone. As we travel through life, I believe it’s important for all of us to continue to grow and explore new opportunities. It’s also important for WoodmenLife to continue to grow and make sure the products and services we offer will always be relevant to American families. Thank you for continuing to embrace WoodmenLife, our values and our mission. I’m excited for the future of our company, and happy to have all of you as part of it. It’s your support and involvement that will keep us Standing Strong For Generations.sm Our Mission: WoodmenLife exists to benefit our members through every stage of life. WoodmenLife, founded in 1890, is a not-for-profit insurance company that also offers customer benefits. Our more than 700,000 members, who hold nearly one million insurance and annuity certificates, belong to nearly 1,000 chapters throughout the United States. Local chapters 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. Securities are offered through Woodmen Financial Services, Inc., 1700 Farnam Street, Omaha, NE 68102, 877-664-3332, Sincerely, member FINRA/SIPC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society (collectively ”WoodmenLife“). Securities other than the WoodmenLife Variable Annuity are issued by companies that are not affiliated with Woodmen of the Larry R. King President & CEO World Life Insurance Society. Products that are not issued by WoodmenLife 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 (”WoodmenLife“). These products are issued by carriers that are not affiliated with Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society. Not all products are available in all states. Not all Representatives are licensed to sell all products. 2 WoodmenLife Magazine in this issue Fall 2015 Sections 4From the Editor 5Community Connection 6Standing Strong For Generationssm 8Member Spotlight 10 Newsworthy 10 Puzzle Answer Key 11 Fraternal Spirit 14 NCF: Fighting Hunger 15Member News 19 Jurisdictional Convention Reports 32Chapter News Representative Carol Reed presented an American History Award to Brewton High School student Markail Mitchel, on behalf of Chapter 30 in Brewton, AL. 36Fun Zone 38In Memoriam Feature Stories 8 Fraternalist of the Year 18 Authoring a New Future Sherry Lee Waldrop of Sylvester, GA, has dedicated her life to helping children. After retiring from a nearly three-decade teaching career, she continues to make a huge difference in her community. After raising and homeschooling seven children, Tennessee member Camille Kendall pens a second career for herself as a published author. 16 Young Member Excels at West Point 34 Baking Up a Storm North Carolina member Zach Thompson carries on generations of both WoodmenLife and military tradition. The recent West Point graduate shares thoughts on representing his country and his chapter. WoodmenLife announces the winners of the 125th Anniversary Cake Contest. Through the efforts of three chapters, non-profit organizations in those three communities received a total of $6,000 to fight hunger locally. On the Cover Member Kacie Smith of Krotz Springs, LA, relied on WoodmenLife and her family for support while pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse and raising her young son as a single mother. WoodmenLife Magazine 3 Search: WoodmenLife to ‘like’ our page. Follow us on Twitter at: WoodmenLife from the Editor It is bittersweet to report the passing of Louise Mounce, the matriarch whom we featured on the cover of our Summer 2015 issue. The death of any fellow member is always sad, but Louise lived such a full, long and beautiful life. Even at 101 years old, she was extremely active in Chapter 423 in Ecru, MS, and she inspired generations of her family to become not only members, but active members. Our deepest sympathies to her close-knit family, and to all who knew her. – Angie Hempel Editor Want to see your chapter pictured? Email photos of your chapter members and events to photos@woodmenmag.com. 4 WoodmenLife Magazine National Board of Directors Larry R. King, Chairman, President & CEO, Omaha, NE Patrick L. Dees, Executive Vice President, Fraternal, Omaha, NE Denise M. McCauley, Executive Vice President, Operations & Secretary, Omaha, NE Robert T. Maher, Executive Vice President, Finance & Treasurer, Omaha, NE Daniel W. Rice III, Kinston, NC Dr. James W. Bosler III, Louisville, KY Dr. James W. Shaver, Landis, NC Michael C. Shealy, Lexington, SC Wesley A. Dodd, Cornelia, GA Daryl J. Doise, Sunset, LA Danny E. Cummins, Troup, TX Patricia L. Metheny, Durant, OK Ronald H. Aldridge, Jackson, MS Mark L. Schreier, Omaha, NE Magazine Staff Managing Editor: Angie Hempel Content Editor: Andy Oerman Design Editor: Joe Bavaresco Writers: Carmen Steele, Liz Perry Designer: Janelle Arthur Contributors: Jerry Underwood, Carli Cominoli, Sarah Kilian If you have questions, comments or suggestions for articles, please direct them to WLEditor@woodmen.org. visit us at: woodmen.org email us at: service@woodmen.org WoodmenLife Magazine (ISSN 1069-1790) is published quarterly for $2.00 per year by Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society, 1700 Farnam St., Omaha, NE 68102. Periodicals postage paid at Omaha, NE, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to WoodmenLife Magazine, 1700 Farnam St., Omaha, NE 68102-2025. Equal Access Policy Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society (“WoodmenLife”) is an Equal Access fraternal benefit society. It is the policy of WoodmenLife to seek qualified members on a nondiscriminatory basis and to provide all members with equal access to and allow their participation in WoodmenLife’s chapter system, chapter events, fraternal benefits, and all other fraternal activities on a nondiscriminatory basis. Community Connection South Carolina Couple Inspires Youth W hen fourth-generation WoodmenLife member, Shane Watson, became a Representative in 2011, he decided it was time to bring his chapter back to life. After trying many options, Shane and his wife, Tammie, found a solution – the WoodmenLife Queens program. Service in the Spotlight This pageant scholarship program, which the Watsons launched two years ago, has resulted in more than 100 new members for Chapter 379 in Easley, SC, dozens of community service projects, engagement of youth, and a highly increased awareness of WoodmenLife in the community. “I share the WoodmenLife story with them, and the girls have to be able to tell others about our organization and what we do,” Shane said. “A lot of people who didn’t know WoodmenLife still existed here now know that we do.” Shane Watson (left) credits his wife, Tammie (right), for the Tammie competed in pageants as a teen, and has been helping organize competitions since the early ’80s. Shane got involved when they were dating two decades ago by helping out as a judge. participate in group projects and personal platform projects. The girls’ individual platforms have ranged from cancer awareness to bullying prevention. “We really wanted to bring some youth into our chapter and get them involved,” Tammie said. “It’s been awesome for our chapter. We’ve all become a family.” The Watsons are also grateful for Chapter 379’s unwavering support. success of the WoodmenLife Queens program. ”I couldn't do this without her,” he said. “They each have a personal reason for serving the way they do,” Tammie said. “Their causes are very dear to them.” The program offers activities not available to many of today’s youth, Shane said. The $500 scholarship winner for each category is judged on points she receives for her account of community service activities, a business attire modeling portion and a business interview. The program’s focus is on natural beauty, not glitz, Shane explained. “Today, kids are not invited to help their communities or each other,” he said. “We found that when you get the kids involved, you also get the parents involved.” “It’s not your ordinary pageant,“ he said. “We teach them about life. The girls learn etiquette, as well as how to address large crowds in an educated way. “ WoodmenLife Queens Rule with Heart The Queens program awards $500 scholarships to girls in three age categories spanning 12-22; the funds are donated personally by the South Carolina Jurisdictional President. The program’s approximately 40 participants from multiple counties and WoodmenLife chapters The Watsons are excited for the program’s future and encourage any chapters around the country to contact them with questions via the WoodmenLife Queens Facebook page. “This is a great program for any area,” Tammie said. “We’d love to help them get started.” :: WoodmenLife Magazine 5 Standing Strong For Generations Kacie Smith's son, Kain, is the driving force behind her desire to provide her family with financial security. The Right Fit As a single mother living in Krotz Springs, LA, Kacie Smith relied on her close-knit family for support and assistance as she pursued her dream of becoming a registered nurse. “Nursing has been a calling for me ever since I was a young child. I watched several family members battle different illnesses, and every caregiver exhibited such compassion during the roughest of times,” she said. “I knew that one day I wanted to make a difference in someone’s life just like they did in mine, and thankfully, I was able to pursue my passion.” After graduating with her master’s degree in nursing, Smith, a member of Chapter 452 in Breaux Bridge, works as CI0028 7/2015 6 WoodmenLife Magazine Family Term Works for Louisiana Mom a R.N. in the ambulatory surgery department of Opelousas General Hospital. “Juggling school, a career and a child was a difficult task,” she said. “I have no clue where I would be now if I didn’t have the amazing help and support of the people in my life.” That support also helped Smith when she started searching for the best life insurance product for her family. “Kacie’s parents have been clients of mine for 15 years. I watched her grow up,” said WoodmenLife Representative Janie Neely. “So when her mother told me she was looking Photo by Marie Constantin sm All-in-One Family Coverage at some other companies for life insurance, I wanted to present her with some options from WoodmenLife.” The option that worked for Smith was Family Term Life Insurance. “I had looked for about two years, and WoodmenLife provided the absolute best choice for me,” Smith said. “It’s affordable and can help me protect my family from debt should something happen to me. It gives me peace of mind to know that I’m able to have enough coverage to do that.” As the WoodmenLife Representative who sold the most Family Term certificates in 2014, Neely believes in the product and knew it would be a good fit for Smith. “There are many single parents raising children with just one income. There is a great need out there, and I never want cost to keep a family from having some kind of life insurance coverage,” she said. “With Family Term, families are able to insure their family for a reasonable cost, and have additional options down the road.” These options include being able to convert the certificate into a more permanent insurance product down the road, and if the family chooses to have more children, they are covered.1 “Being able to convert a 10-year Family Term certificate into a permanent option without a medical examination works for many families,” Neely said. “And now with the increased face amounts for the product [see sidebar], families will be able to help cover the incomes of two people and their mortgage. I’m very excited about these changes.” In Smith’s case, once she started having more income available, Neely was able to help her convert her existing Family Term certificate into permanent coverage for Smith. “We increased the amount of Kacie’s coverage and also converted her son into a more permanent option,” Neely said. “However, I’ve always believed the best coverage to have is the one that’s paid for when you need it. And the most important thing is a family’s need and what they can afford to take care of their future.” :: Families go through changes, and whether you’re a single-parent or two-parent family, WoodmenLife’s Family Term Life Insurance is an affordable way to cover your entire family – up to two adults and all eligible children2 – with one life insurance certificate. Plus, as your financial situation changes or as your children become adults, all insured family members may be eligible to convert the term insurance into permanent life insurance that can last a lifetime. Here’s how WoodmenLife’s Family Term Life Insurance works: •Offers 10-year level Term Life Insurance to a single-parent or two-parent family, ages 18-50. This means the amount you pay is guaranteed not to change for the first 10 years. •After 10 years, the adult coverage is renewable annually until age 95. •Amounts available for adults are $50,000; $100,000; $250,000; or $500,000.3, 6 •Coverage is available to eligible children,1 ages 15 days through 17 years. •As additional children are born or adopted, they are covered by the insurance for no additional cost.2 •Provides $10,000 of Term Life Insurance for each eligible child until age 25. •Upon the death of the Primary Insured adult or Other Insured,4 all coverage continues on the remaining insured adult and on any eligible children, with no additional payments required. •You can convert either adult’s coverage to the same amount of permanent insurance or less at any time through age 72, without a medical examination.5 •You can convert each child’s coverage to the same amount of permanent insurance or less at any time before the child’s 25th birthday, without a medical examination. •60 days before each child’s coverage ends, you can convert the child’s coverage for up to twice as much ($20,000) without a medical examination. For more information on WoodmenLife’s Family Term Life Insurance, contact your local Representative today. Certificate Forms ICC09-8063 10-08, 8063 10-08 (XX) & O-8063 10-08 (XX) 1. Certain eligibility requirements and age restrictions apply. 2. Children born to 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. 3. The face amount of the Other Insured can never be more than the Primary Insured. 4. Except by suicide within two years from the effective date of the certificate. In Missouri and North Dakota, except by suicide within one year from the effective date of the certificate. 5. Upon conversion of the Primary Insured, the base certificate, including any attached riders or endorsements, will terminate. 6. Higher face amounts not available in all states. WoodmenLife Magazine 7 Member Spotlight Waldrop Believes in Getting Involved Georgia Member Named 2015 Fraternalist of the Year D uring her 28½ -year career as a math teacher, Sherry Lee Waldrop’s favorite thing about teaching were the students. “I loved working with children and helping them to understand,” she said. But teaching children wasn’t the only thing that kept Waldrop busy. She was also known for her many efforts to help those children and others in her community. And thankfully, after her retirement in November 2012, her efforts continued, and even increased, thanks to the support of WoodmenLife Chapter 172 in Sylvester, GA. “I grew up in a small town where people were willing to help others. It’s nice to feel like I’ve been able to give some of that back through many of the things I’ve done.” According to her fellow chapter members, Waldrop has helped to put new life back into their chapter by sharing many new projects and ideas that they are happy to support. In addition, they said Waldrop always invites people to the chapter meetings to introduce them to WoodmenLife and what we do. A member for 38 years, Waldrop was “honored in capital letters” when she learned she’d been named WoodmenLife’s 2015 Fraternalist of the Year. “I don’t think what I do is any 8 WoodmenLife Magazine Sylvester, GA more than what others do,” she said. “Knowing how many wonderful active people there are out there, it’s a humbling experience. But the credit should go to the chapter, not just me.” A sampling of the worthwhile projects Waldrop has brought to Chapter 172 includes: 2015 Fraternalists of the Year Jerry W. Benford Alabama North Deontrenise Macklin Alabama South Charles Austin Arizona Tommy D. Arnold Arkansas Martha E. Johnson Florida Beatrice York Georgia North Charlotte A. Wilson Georgia Central • Purchasing food and helping stuff bags for the Back Pack Blessings program, which provides food for children on the weekends; Sherry Lee Waldrop Georgia South Henry Fox Iowa Rachel Brown Kentucky West Kara Barone Kentucky East • Working with the local FFA chapter to deliver poinsettias to the local nursing home for the holidays – each with a WoodmenLife card attached; Elizabeth Jordan Louisiana Carolyn Mounce Mississippi North Sandra F. Harrigill Mississippi South Mary Benton Missouri Barbara Loos Nebraska Esther A. Wolski New Mexico Judith Hawthorne New York/New England Karen Carter North Carolina West Joyce Wrenn North Carolina East Kathy Jones Ohio • Providing books for the local Head Start Program’s three-year-old classroom and each individual student – complete with a label stating they were donated by Chapter 172; • Partnering with the local ROTC to place flags on the graves of all veterans in the county; and • Working with a local abuse shelter and CASA to provide a special Christmas for some local children. Jeff Thrasher Oklahoma “I started a lot of these things while I was teaching, so it’s great to continue them now in a different way,” Waldrop said. “I have the best chapter in the world! They stepped right in with these things that are dear to my heart. We’re few in number, but we get things done.” Joe Rosado Pacific Region Beth A. Collar Pennsylvania Dovie S. Sligh South Carolina Frieda S. Moore Tennessee West William Thomas ”Tommy” Brown Tennessee East Paul O’Rear Texas Northeast Eddie Hernandez Texas Southeast When asked why she’s so active with her chapter and in her community, Waldrop replied, “I grew up in a small town where people were willing to help others. It’s nice to feel like I’ve been able to give some of that back through many of the things I’ve done.” :: Ramiro Utley Texas Southwest Phyllis Lynn Elms Texas Northwest Frances Lam Shenk Virginia Brice “V” VanAusdal Virginia East Sandra Salyers West Virginia Terri Ammann Wisconsin WoodmenLife Magazine 9 Newsworthy Get Your Cookbook Before They’re Gone! W oodmenLife’s 125th Anniversary Cookbook has been flying off the shelves! So if you haven’t already ordered your copy, don’t delay! There were only so many copies of this limited edition cookbook printed, and once they’re gone … they’re gone. Each copy features more than 600 recipes submitted by WoodmenLife members from across the country, and costs only $10 plus shipping! Free Online FUNDRAISING Red Basket.org is a free crowdfunding website where individuals share their stories, recruit volunteers and raise money for personal hardships and community improvement projects. Need to raise funds? Or know someone who needs help? Get started now by visiting redbasket.org, contacting Red Basket at 1-877-969-7378 or emailing info@redbasket.org. Plus, 50 percent of the proceeds benefit Feeding America – the nation’s largest hungerrelief network. Order your copy today through the Company Store link at woodmen.org. :: V PUZZLE KEY T H V Y G H E L W T I R E E A B H D R H L S A A L I G H T S Y E I Q P R F H T O T K C M E B T J A O K O F R A P J Z F J K A H S P D W E K H X I K P L O J E Q K S G P T D F R B C G Z P U H S L Q H B Y Y I O S I B J P H A B C M U Y R D S E D Y I Q E T A W E B C D U M O L N I X M S E U E G B R Z D L D E C R J B E K R I N S A V E U K I R I T E A T R M O U N T A I N B K E D V H N I T E Y A W G K X Y Y B B R X E A T T L A C N J D W I H J D H M F P F F A U L N P J G H T L A E R E O E R I R E D M K E F Y O F P K L L Y U K U W R 10 WoodmenLife Magazine K E U B E I S D A P A J N E E R C Z A P R M E D M I L A R R A C X Y N W J X S X B A I S H A N D S I G N A L L S T C R I S E R R I I N D W K T H D E H C Y C F I C U A N N L C N E O U E I S H E K Member Spotlight fraternal spirit S UBMIT PHOTOS TO: photos@woodmenmag.com Chapter 3668 Orange Grove, TX Member Rosalinda G. Hinojosa (left) presented an American flag and four American Patriot’s Handbooks to Cub Scouts from Pack 396 in Alice, TX. Chapter 444 Church Point, LA Members Melony Hedrick (left) and Connie Figuron (right) presented a donation to Our Mother of Peace Elementary School Principal Debbie Fontenot, as part of the chapter’s Adopt-a-School program. Chapter 217 Princeton, WV Members presented snack bags to all the volunteers at Princeton Community Hospital during Volunteer Week. WoodmenLife Magazine 11 Fraternal Spirit Chapter 404 Cedar Bluff, VA Representative Karen Patton (left) presented the Community Leadership Award to Ginger Branton. Chapter 6 Cumberland, MD Members presented a Maryland state flag to the South Cumberland Library. Chapter 1498 Ozark, AL Member Lucia Amber helps assemble gift baskets for the Ozark Health Rehabilitation Center. Chapter 1031 Marion, NC Members donated a wheelchair to Lisa and Kierstan Barrier. Kierstan is nine years old and has CMT disease, a neurological disorder. 12 WoodmenLife Magazine Chapter 49 Lexington, TN Representatives Thomas Powers (left) and Jay Rosson (center) presented an auditorium flag to American Legion Post 286 Commander Rex McBee. Chapter 1025 Elbridge, NY Chapter 635 Fairfield, IL President Ryan Carr (second from right) presented American flags and American Patriot’s Handbooks to the Cayuga County Legislatures. Accepting were Chairman Michael H. Chapman (left), Administrator Suzanne Sinclair (second from left) and Purchasing Administrator Kim Taggerty. Secretary Connie Smith presented four American flags to Jeff Hall from the Fairfield Park District. Chapter 1228 Allen, OK Chapter 152 Darlington, SC Recruiting Sales Manager Stephen Priest (left), along with members Sam Brown (middle) and Wade Brown, participated in the Ride for Ataxia, to help raise money for Friederich’s Ataxia, which Sam is afflicted with. Representative Cam Watson presented an American History Award to Trinity Burnes Collegiate School student Harrison Corns. Chapter 254 Charleston, WV Members participated in Red Nose Day, a campaign to raise money for children living in poverty. WoodmenLife Magazine 13 Movement to Fight Hunger Building Momentum W oodmenLife’s National Community Focus of fighting hunger is steadily growing – more and more chapters are finding ways to meet this need in their individual communities. You can find out how much food and money we’ve collected on our website – just look for the National Community Focus button on the right side of woodmen.org. Chapter 1961 Semmes, AL Secretary Patsy Little (right) presented a donation to a representative from the Bay Area Food Bank. Chapter 561 Effingham, IL Members presented a donation of baby formula to the Family Life Center, an infant support organization. 14 WoodmenLife Magazine Chapter 143 Clarkesville, GA Members presented canned goods to Sharing and Caring Place. Chapter 38 Bowling Green, KY Members Ed Gann (left), Linda Finch (center) and Emily Cunningham volunteered at the chapter’s backpack program packing event. member news Love and Fraternalism Summer Campers Discover Romance, Call to Serve I t started with a dance under the stars at the WoodmenLife North Carolina West RC Cliff Payne Youth Camp in Randleman. Kevin Jarrell asked fellow camp counselor Natalie Mosley for that dance in 2008. A week later they began dating, and they will marry this fall. separate colleges. They saw each other just once a month, and they continued to serve as counselors together each summer. "Every summer until Kevin When Mosley graduated college in 2012, she took some time off to pass her boards and officially become a nurse. She didn't stay away long, though, as she returned as the camp’s nurse and a counselor last year. Today, she has a successful career in a Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, while Jarrell is a City of High Point police officer. Both Mosley and Jarrell were introduced to WoodmenLife through family members, and have been active in their chapters. They have participated in homemade ice cream dinners, delivering flags to surrounding schools, visiting area nursing homes at Christmas, and spending Valentine's Day playing bingo at a workspace for people with special needs. Photo by Melissa Boyack Mosley and Jarrell both attended the camp from age 8 on. “We went every year possible and loved it,” Mosley said. The couple credits WoodmenLife for bringing them together, and sees the organization as a part of their future for decades to come. “One day my children will have They both enjoyed the experience life insurance with WoodmenLife, so much that they later decided to Engaged members Kevin Jarrell and Natalie Mosley and hopefully attend the same become counselors. “After attending camp where Kevin and I met,” of North Carolina found love as WoodmenLife summer camp for nearly seven years, Mosley said. “WoodmenLife camp counselors. it became a summer ritual. Living offers a wide variety of member close by, what better way to spend the graduated college in 2010, we worked benefits including camp, volunteer summer than working at summer camp, side by side at WoodmenLife camp,” opportunities, community and continuing to enjoy the summers Mosley said. “There were some years connections, and an overall sense of with kids doing what I did as a kid?” that I was his boss, and then others belonging. I became who I am today Jarrell said. where he was my boss. We never let that because WoodmenLife has been in my Following their dance beneath the come between us. We shared a dance life since I was 8 years old.” :: moonlight, the couple sustained a long- every Friday night at camp to our song distance relationship while attending ‘Lost in This Moment with You.’” WoodmenLife Magazine 15 Member News Dreams Lead to West Point Member Takes the Military Path to Adventure A s a child, Zach Thompson knew he wanted an adventure when he grew up. “Both of my Grandpas served in the military, and I always remember my mother’s father telling me cool stories,” he said. “That made me want to travel, to do things, see things … I wanted stories, too.” That desire for adventure continued into high school where things finally “clicked” for Thompson. “When I started Junior ROTC, that’s when I bought into the idea of a future in the military hook, line and sinker,” he said. “Then when I saw a documentary on West Point, I knew that was the way to do it.” Pictured above: Zach Thompson receiving his Second Lieutenant pins from his parents, Jeff and Charleen Thompson, at his commissioning ceremony in front of the American flag he received from his chapter. 16 WoodmenLife Magazine But the United States Military Academy at West Point isn’t like other universities. To gain admission, individuals have to receive a nomination from a member of Congress or the Executive Branch. Thompson embraced the opportunities the Academy had to offer. “I was a history major with a passion for the French language, and my favorite thing was the travel I got to do,” he said. “I was lucky enough to apply for and receive the nomination from North Carolina Congresswoman Sue Myrick,” Thompson said. “I remember the day I got my nomination. I called my Mom and she had to pull over because she was so excited. Then when I told my Grandpa, he cried That travel would take him to France twice (for three weeks in Normandy studying D-Day and three weeks at a language school), Canada and many places across America. “I was a member of the Pipes and Drums Club, so I got to travel to competitions in many locations,” he said. Zach Thompson receives the flag that was flown in his honor over the Matthews, NC, Town Hall from Matthews Chief of Police Rob Hunter. “It’s an honor to have the nation put this trust in me to lead its sons and daughters.” because he always wanted it for me.” Next came three months of preparation before reporting to West Point for six weeks of training, referred to as “Beast.” “When you report on Reception Day, you’re not yet a cadet. You have to earn that title,” Thompson said. “That was the most trying time. Everything you do at West Point has a purpose, and you’re graded in academic, military and physical areas. Fortunately, I had the military experience from JROTC that helped me.” After completing his first year, “Everything about the Academy was an unforgettable experience.” Earlier this year, when it came time for Thompson to graduate and be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, he needed a flag for the ceremony. That’s when his WoodmenLife chapter, 379 in Matthews, NC, stepped in. Just like the military tradition that runs in Thompson’s family, so do three generations of WoodmenLife membership. “The chapter arranged to have a flag flown over the town hall in Matthews on Zach’s birthday, March 17, and then it was taken down and given to him in a special presentation,” said Charleen Thompson, Zach’s mother. “That flag was then used as the backdrop for Zach’s commissioning ceremony, and he plans to carry it with him wherever the Army sends him.” Thompson’s first duty station will be Fort Hood, TX, with the First Brigade Combat Team, First Cavalry Division. “When I got to West Point, I knew I wanted to be a Cavalry officer. I was sold as soon as I saw the Stetsons and spurs,” he said. “It’s an honor to have the nation put this trust in me to lead its sons and daughters. Having the flag from my chapter back home and knowing I have their support makes me appreciate my WoodmenLife family even more.” :: WoodmenLife Magazine 17 Member News Community Involvement Sparks Second Career C amille Kendall has dedicated countless hours to her family and her community. She never anticipated that it would all lead to a second career as a published author. Decades of Dedication Her journey began with her first career as a mother and homeschooler. Kendall has homeschooled all seven of her children from kindergarten through high school; the youngest is currently a high school junior. “My oldest child was born while my husband was actively serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, and our family was introduced to homeschooling by other military families,” Kendall said. “Many military families choose to homeschool their children because it allows them to maintain continuity in their children’s education despite frequent relocations to new duty stations.” A New Journey With her love of writing renewed by her years of homeschooling and a recommendation from a friend, Kendall began a blog, “The Hurricane Report,” in 2008. As an active community member, her writings on life and faith quickly gained a following. Soon a new opportunity presented itself. “Another writer read my work on my blog, and she challenged me to take my writing to the next level,” Kendall said. “We became friends, and she patiently mentored me through the process of writing and publishing my first fiction book.” Kendall published her first Christian fiction book, Slow Sun Rising, in 2013. “I was initially intimidated at the thought of tackling a major project such as writing an entire book, and writing fiction was something entirely new to me,” she said. “But the process was so much fun and the feedback from readers was so positive that I couldn’t wait to begin on book number two!” Kendall became a WoodmenLife member shortly after marrying her husband, Steve, and her children grew up attending chapter meetings with the She has since published Hornbeak, TN family. Throughout the years, an additional fiction novel, the children earned Junior Bethel Road, and a non-fiction Ranger of the Year awards, and two of them served as officers book, Wish You Were Here: Letters From the Foot of the Cross, a with the Tennessee Junior Fraternal Alliance. The entire collection of letters applying the Gospel to everyday life. “Ideas family is also very involved in church activities. The Kendalls come from questions or concepts that I am mulling over in have been active in many community projects through their my head,” she said. She is currently working on two additional church and their WoodmenLife chapter, and Camille has books, continues to blog at “The Hurricane Report” and served as an officer for Chapter 196 in Hornbeak, TN. writes a weekly newspaper article for homeschoolers. :: 18 WoodmenLife Magazine 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Every two years, WoodmenLife chapters elect delegates to jurisdictional conventions across the country. This year, members gathered in 23 different cities to celebrate WoodmenLife’s 125th anniversary, discuss new ideas, elect officers, support the National Community Focus, and vote on important fraternal matters. Seattle, Washington 1951 WoodmenLife Magazine 19 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Alabama 54 th B Conievne nial ntion Presiding President: Kenneth May Host Regional Director: Jason Reed National Directors in attendance: Patrick Dees and Robert Maher 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Kenneth May President – Gerald Howell Vice President – Kimberly Kervin Secretary – Julie Huff Treasurer – Patricia Latimer Trustees – Richard Gordon (chair), Joe Williamson, Helen Riemann, Marjorie Mills, Donald Doyle VP, Community Outreach – Karen Parten VP, Youth Outreach – Erica Lovell VP, Membership – Jerry Benford VP, Publicity – Mary Allen Fraternal Committee members – Greta Greene (chair), Sharon Anderson, Louverne Blackmon, Ruby Carden, Johnnie Ennis ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased two stainless steel carts and four heavy duty hand wrappers for the Montgomery, AL, Area Food Bank. ★★ ★★ ★★ ★★ Pictured above: Volunteers at the Montgomery Area Food Bank posed with the items donated by the Jurisdiction. 20 WoodmenLife Magazine Arkansas 56 (including Missouri counties of Boone, Cass, Clay, th Greene, Howell, Jackson, Livingston, & Platte) B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Karen Greenhaw ★★ Host Regional Director: Tom Mathews ★★ National Directors in attendance: Robert Maher and Danny Cummins ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Karen Greenhaw President – Laura England Vice President – Michael Buchanan Secretary – Nancy Garner Treasurer – Joyce McCullah Trustees – Tommy King (chair), Emery Francis, Brenda Moon, Henry Swift, Harlie Treat Sergeant at Arms – Rebecca Ross Musician – Tharon Yandell Fraternal Committee members – Bettye Berryman (chair), Pamela McCullah, William Mitchell, Deloise Mowdy, Karen Greenhaw Escort – Briget Maner ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 worth of food to the Ouachita Children's Center in Hot Springs, AR. Pictured above: Representative Michael West and Executive Vice President, Finance and Treasurer Robert Maher helped stock the Ouachita Children’s Center pantry. California (including HI, NV, WA, OR, ID, UT, WY, AK & MT) 39 th B Conievne nial ntion Presiding President: Kenneth Keim Host Regional Director: Bill Arden National Directors in attendance: Patrick Dees and Daniel Rice III 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Kenneth Keim President – Michael Duke Vice President – Carol Anderson Secretary – Sheila Eakle Treasurer – Christine Lee Trustees – Cynthia Stevens (chair), Alexandrea Coutts, Gail Duke, William Faubel, Joseph Nemeth Sergeant at Arms – John Dobrinski Greeter – Stephen Ensey Musician – Molly Coutts Fraternal Committee members – Geneva Trisler (chair), Mark Brunelle, Maria Gomez, Nancy Pasic, Zhalena Slaughter, Richard Varney ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased and donated a total of $775 for grocery gift cards for the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care to present to homeless veterans. ★★ ★★ ★★ ★★ Florida 51 st B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Melissa Vinson ★★ Host Regional Director: Bryan Carroll ★★ National Directors in attendance: Patrick Dees and Dr. James Bosler III ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Melissa Vinson President – Onis Holley Vice President – Justin Wilson Secretary – Clifford Palmer Treasurer – Bernadine Stanaland Trustees – Thomas Moilanen (chair), Lloyd Adams, Jonathon Bowman, Elizabeth Rafford, Joelle Roberts Fraternal Committee members – Bryan Alsup (chair), Christopher Desrochers, Cynthia Goodson, John Henley, James Simpson ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased furniture for the foyer at the 5-Star Veterans Center in Jacksonville, FL. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for the 2015-17 term. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for 2015-17 were sworn in at the Convention. WoodmenLife Magazine 21 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Georgia ★★ ★★ ★★ ★★ 58 th B Conievne nial ntion Presiding President: Angela Meadows Host Regional Director: Daryle Hardaway National Directors in attendance: Larry King and Wesley Dodd Jr. 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Angela Meadows President – Nora Waters Vice President – Senoria Henderson Secretary – Rosa Hartley Treasurer – Charles Frazier Trustees – Billy Flowers (chair), James Martin, Andrea White Fraternal Committee members – Angela Meadows (chair), Wesley Dodd Jr., Phillip Hartley, Audie Hough, Larry Maioriello ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 to the Golden Harvest Food Bank in Augusta, GA. Pictured above: Convention attendees stood with food they collected and purchased for the Golden Harvest Food Bank. Great Lakes 2 nd (including IL, IN, MI, & the Missouri counties of Audrain, St. Charles & St. Louis) B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Vicky Weber ★★ Host Regional Director: Greg Robertson ★★ National Directors in attendance: Daryl Doise and Ronald Aldridge ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Vicky Weber President – Audrey Fanselow Vice President – Tonya Young Secretary – Sharon Goldstein Treasurer – Christine Noble Trustees – Brenda Pearson (chair), Bobby Buske, Vernabelle Hayes, Patricia Johnson, Lillah Williams VP, Community Outreach – Yolanda Rinconeno VP, Youth Outreach – Annamaria Farris VP, Publicity – Marsha Shull Sergeant at Arms – Travis Coomer Greeter – Tamara Golubski Musician – Paul Orich Fraternal Committee members – Leslie Wells (chair), Donna Brendel, James Carey, Tina Mahoney, James Popkey Escort – Charles Mabry ★★ Convention City Project: Presented $1,000 worth of the mostneeded food items to the Midwest Food Bank. Pictured above: Convention attendees posed with the Midwest Food Bank truck after they loaded it with 1,471 pounds of donated food, plus another 550 pounds of food purchased by the Jurisdiction. 22 WoodmenLife Magazine Iowa (including MN & WI) 54 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Denise Yates ★★ Host Regional Director: Jeff Bridges ★★ National Directors in attendance: Ronald Aldridge and Mark Schreier ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Denise Yates President – Jerry Wilson Vice President – Mary Foutch Secretary – Constance Wilson Treasurer – Pamela Kenkel Trustees – Wade Joy (chair), Terri Ammann, Richard Clement, Jeanyce Hansen, David Pierzina VP, Community Outreach – Dean Kenkel VP, Publicity – Joshua Axness Fraternal Committee members – Heather Gouker (chair), Adeline Clement, Henry Fox, Barbara Keysor, Sandra Knutson Escort – Deanna Kuhl ★★ Convention City Project: Assembled 100 birthday party packages with ingredients for a spaghetti dinner, cake mix, frosting, balloons, candles, and paper goods and presented them to the Bethesda Lutheran Church Food Pantry in Ames, IA. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for the 2015-17 term. Kentucky (including Missouri county of Dunklin) 54 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Wilma Smith ★★ Host Regional Director: R T Jefferson ★★ National Directors in attendance: Larry King and Dr. James Bosler III ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Wilma Smith President – Charles Slaton Vice President – Gary Riggs Secretary – Karlie Smith Treasurer – Patricia Latimer Trustees – Virgil Dryden (chair), Kara Barone, Steven Darnall, Julia Davis, Mary McNew VP, Community Outreach – Patricia Walker VP, Youth Outreach – Margie Renchen VP, Membership – Mary Baldwin VP, Publicity – Cindy Baker Sergeant at Arms – Leveda Hayes Greeter – Connie White Musician – Diana Phillips Fraternal Committee members – Kevin Logsdon (chair), Brandon Adams, Michael Faihst, Richard Finch, Connie Lewis Escort – Richard Newsom ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased and stuffed 1,000 backpacks for Blessings in a Backpack, Inc., in Louisville, KY. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for 2015-17 were sworn in during the Convention. WoodmenLife Magazine 23 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Louisiana 53 rd B Conievne nial ntion Mid-Atlantic (including DE, MD & D.C.) 25 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ ★★ ★★ ★★ Presiding President: Wanda Simon Host Regional Director: Desi Doise National Directors in attendance: Patrick Dees and Daryl Doise 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Wanda Simon President – Bobby Duhon Vice President – Rufus Fruge Secretary – Evelyn Stringer Treasurer – Judy Gaudet Trustees – Ralph Bender (chair), Minos Landry, Janice Meaux Sergeant at Arms – Lee John Greeter – Raymond Richard Fraternal Committee members – Elizabeth Lindsay (chair), Patsy Babin, Lorraine Landry, James Perkins, Gene Simmons Escort – Linda Duhon ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 worth of food to St. Joseph's Diner in Lafayette, LA, which was founded by Catholic Services of Acadiana in 1973 to feed lunch to the hungry. ★★ Presiding President: Doris Gee ★★ Host Regional Director: Jeremy Carroll ★★ National Directors in attendance: Daniel Rice III and Patricia Metheny ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Doris Gee President – Carol Kirchner Vice President – Kathryn Jenkins Secretary – Jessica Michaels Treasurer – Bonnie Lawson Trustees – George Zimmerman (chair), Janet Freeland, James Murray Greeter – Lucy Stein Fraternal Committee members – Calista Sommerkamp (chair), Catherine Moore, Deborah Zimmerman Escort – Kenneth Guyer ★★ Convention City Project: A presentation was made to the Southern Maryland Food Bank with donations from individual chapters and the Jurisdiction. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for the 2015-17 term. Pictured above: Members of Chapter 11, Oakland, MD, attended the Jurisdictional Convention. 24 WoodmenLife Magazine Mississippi 54 th B Conievne nial ntion Nebraska (including ND, SD & CO) 58 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Loyd Young ★★ Host Regional Director: Phillip Pace ★★ National Directors in attendance: Denise McCauley and Ronald Aldridge ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Loyd Young President – Charles Calvert Vice President – Edna Boyte Secretary – Martha Brown Treasurer – Jannie Brown Trustees – James Kirkland (chair), Shirley Howell, Carolyn Mounce, Larry Strohm, Jarvis Winstead Sergeant at Arms – Alvia Blakney Greeter – Joseph Johnson Musician – Peggy Allen Fraternal Committee members – Tawanna Thornton (chair), Bradley Crowder, Jennifer King, Edith White Escort – Jerry Tapp ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 to The Salvation Army of Jackson, MS, in support of their food pantry. ★★ Presiding President: Mark Fitzgibbons ★★ Host Regional Director: Jeff Bridges ★★ National Directors in attendance: Mark Schreier and Dr. James Shaver ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Mark Fitzgibbons President – Linda Filipowicz Vice President – Marita Schroeder Secretary – Randall Rotschafer Treasurer – Blake Warneke Trustees – Laura Sparks (chair), Dorothy Margrave, Charles Richardson VP, Community Outreach – Shawn Bengtson VP, Youth Outreach – Michael Bednarz VP, Membership – Christy Hodges VP, Publicity – Kristie Johnson Fraternal Committee members – Mary Craig (chair), Jill Camargo, Debra Hansen, Judith Moser, Darren Olson ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased food and assembled 320 backpacks for the Food Bank for the Heartland in Omaha, NE. Pictured above: National Director Ronald Aldridge (left), Jurisdictional President Calvin Young (second from right), and Regional Director Phillip Pace (right), gave WoodmenLife bags to Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant and Miss Mississippi Jasmine Murray. Pictured above: Convention attendees assembled backpacks at the Food Bank for the Heartland. WoodmenLife Magazine 25 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports New Mexico (plus Texas counties of El Paso & Hudspeth & AZ) 50 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Sammy Cordova ★★ Host Regional Director: Jim Clough ★★ National Directors in attendance: Robert Maher and Danny Cummins ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Sammy Cordova President – Melvin Chavez Vice President – Clark Peters Secretary – Mary Chavez Treasurer – Shirley Lockyer Trustees – Valerie Cordova (chair), Samantha Cordova, Jose Sanchez, William Solomon, A. Quintana Thomas Sergeant at Arms – Jordan Martinez Greeter – Cheryl Urrutia Musician – Theresa Martinez Escort – Dolores Montoya ★★ Convention City Project: Assembled 24 boxes of food to feed 24 families for three days at the La Mesa, NM, Presbyterian Church. Pictured above: Jurisdictional Convention attendees gathered for a group photo. 26 WoodmenLife Magazine Northeast (NY, CT, MA, RI, ME, NH, NJ & VT) 2 nd B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Linda Gonyo-Horne ★★ Host Regional Director: Rodney Barber ★★ National Directors in attendance: Denise McCauley and Wesley Dodd Jr. ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Linda Gonyo-Horne President – Lucille Stemkowski Vice President – Wilfred Trombley Secretary – Elaine Roman Treasurer – Carol Norton Trustees – Marie Trombley (chair), Ella Blixt, Jacqueline Fayette, James Knoeller, Philip Yanulis Sergeant at Arms – Donna Zabrosky Greeter – Alexandria Sobrane Musician – Daniel Urick Fraternal Committee members – David Blixt (chair), Jeanne Bushey, John Ellis, Constance Kudlack, William Sullivan Escort – Margaret Urick ★★ Convention City Project: Donated an Arctic Air commercial refrigerator to the Franklin Community Center in Saratoga, NY. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for 2015-17 were sworn in during the Convention. North Carolina 51 st B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: David Evans ★★ Host Regional Director: Joe Walters ★★ National Directors in attendance: Larry King, Dr. James Shaver and Daniel Rice III ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – David Evans President – Lowell Keel Vice President – Deborah Johnson Secretary – Karen Carter Treasurer – Thomas Hodges Trustees – Anita Sigmon (chair), Gertrude Bowers, Thomas Parker, David Warren, Phyllis York VP, Community Outreach – Timothy Corriher VP, Youth Outreach – Shirley Peele VP, Membership – Sue Surratt VP, Publicity – James Seaman Sergeant at Arms – Atlanta Hodge Greeter – Harold Fipps Musician – Margaret Nelson Fraternal Committee members – M. Stallard (chair), Teresa Blake, Woodrow Glaze, Charlotte Kelly, Dearl Ledford Escort – Wayne Patty ★★ Convention City Project: Donation to InterChurchOutReach, Inc., and Main Street Mission, along with continuing support of the NC Children's Home/Nursing Home Program. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for the 2015-17 term. Ohio 53 rd B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Dwight Jones ★★ Host Regional Director: Kevin Crouse ★★ National Directors in attendance: Patricia Metheny and Michael Shealy ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Dwight Jones President – Julie Mullins Vice President – Brenda Serrano Secretary – Valerie Adkins Treasurer – Kathy Jones Trustees – John Mullins (chair), Dolores Kolb, Carmen Laboy, Mary Mullins, Cindy Wetzel Sergeant at Arms – Ramon Torres Greeter – Luz Torres Musician – Richard Serrano Fraternal Committee members – Marjory Joseph (chair), Benjamin Adkins, Elisabeth Adkins, Beverly Gilbert, Kelsey Mullins Escort – Frederick Joseph ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 worth of food to a local food pantry. Pictured above: Convention attendees loaded up their donation for a local food pantry. WoodmenLife Magazine 27 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Oklahoma-Kansas 53 rd B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Michael McElyea ★★ Host Regional Director: Justin Clough ★★ National Directors in attendance: Patricia Metheny and Wesley Dodd Jr. ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Michael McElyea President – Thomas Cline Vice President – Gary Taylor Secretary – Kathy Cline Treasurer – Terry Metheny Trustees – Derek Davilla (chair), Shirley Allison, Michael Doak, James Eisenlohr, Diana Kelley VP, Community Outreach – Molly Nye VP, Youth Outreach – Kristina Calvert VP, Membership – Trina Burdge VP, Publicity – David Morris Sergeant at Arms – Cynthia Davis Greeter – Louie Pool Musician – Phillip Pitt Fraternal Committee members – John Moy (chair), Lynetta Bell, Andy Bergeron, Billie Floyd, Charlotte McGowen Escort – Tammy Spivey ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased food for the Midwest City Food Bank. Pictured above: Convention attendees posed with their donation to the Midwest City Food Bank. 28 WoodmenLife Magazine Pennsylvania 57 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Janice Halterman ★★ Host Regional Director: Jeremy Carroll ★★ National Directors in attendance: Denise McCauley and Daryl Doise ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Janice Halterman President – Phyllis Mervine Vice President – Christine Frazier Secretary – Karen Schreffler Treasurer – Melodie Paul Trustees – Mary Beckey (chair), James Ford, Gerald Gelgot, Karen Harring, Dennis Moyer Sergeant at Arms – F. Danowsky Greeter – Cheryl Pohrer Musician – Elaine Schreffler Fraternal Committee members – Sara Bender (chair), Eleanor Clark, James Irwin, Anna Johnson, Jessica Truesdale Escort – Steven Zellers ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased protein (meat and fish) for the Valor Veteran's Unstoppable Floating Soup Kitchen. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for the 2015-17 term. South Carolina 57 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Carroll Eargle ★★ Host Regional Director: Don Molineu ★★ National Directors in attendance: Denise McCauley and Michael Shealy ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Carroll Eargle President – Walter Merritt Vice President – Alisa Sistare Secretary – Iris Bedenbaugh Treasurer – Cathy Meetze Trustees – Adrian Falgione (chair), Johnnie Bolt, Mary Christmas, David Le Bleu, James West Sergeant at Arms – Sharri Hammond Greeter – Horace Delk Musician – Ronnie Howard Fraternal Committee members – Carroll Eargle (chair), Pauline Bryant, Loretta Dickard, Dorothy Richardson, Matthew Senn Escort – Leila Balliet ★★ Convention City Project: More than $3,600 worth of food was purchased and placed into 1,500 bags for the local backpack program. In addition, donations from chapters resulted in a check for $10,861 being presented to the Help 4 Kids/Backpack Buddies Program in Myrtle Beach, SC. Pictured above: Community Outreach Manager Randy Barnett presented a check to Barbara Mains, Director of Help 4 Kids/ Backpack Buddies. Tennessee 58 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Willard Finch Host Regional Director: Roger Anderson ★★ National Directors in attendance: Larry King and Mark Schreier ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Willard Finch President – Linda Mullen Vice President – Bobby Tucker Secretary – Gary Thompson Treasurer – Kathy Leonard Trustees – Kenneth Irwin (chair), Terry Carter, Lowell Gable, Shirley Orr VP, Youth Outreach – Tonya England Sergeant at Arms – Adrian Reynolds Musician – Kristi Armstrong Fraternal Committee members – Margaret Love (chair), Elisa Barr, Marion Emerson, James Taylor Escort – Janet Cunningham ★★ Convention City Project: Donated 600 lbs. of food and a monetary donation of $7,000 from the chapters to Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee in Nashville, TN. Pictured above: WoodmenLife President & CEO Larry King and other Convention attendees presented a check for $7,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. WoodmenLife Magazine 29 2015 Jurisdictional Convention Reports Texas (except for the counties of El Paso & Hudspeth) 57 th B Conievne nial ntion Virginia 56 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Patricia Cleaton ★★ Host Regional Director: Jim Clough ★★ National Directors in attendance: Patrick Dees and Danny Cummins ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Patricia Cleaton President – Dierdre Harris Vice President – Curtis Birchfield Secretary – Ruby Wood Treasurer – Patrick Shannon Trustees – Troy Curl (chair), Kenneth Farr, Craig Logan, Rondia Manchen, Alvin Seay Sergeant at Arms – Thomas Plagens Greeter – David Everett Fraternal Committee members – Daniel Sibert (chair), Penny Brim, Linda Collins, Thomas Knapp, John Rolls Escort – Primitivo Torres ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $1,000 in gift cards ($25 each) to Corpus Christi, TX, Ronald McDonald House guests to purchase food to eat and to stock their pantry while staying at the house. Chapters also donated money to assist the Ronald McDonald House in their daily operations. ★★ Presiding President: Brice Vanausdal ★★ Host Regional Director: Terry Wayne Carroll ★★ National Directors in attendance: Robert Maher and Dr. James Bosler III ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Brice Vanausdal President – Sheila Brown Vice President – Jeanne Shelburne Secretary – Rebecca Baffuto Treasurer – Cathryn Mobley Trustees – Naomi Simpson (chair), Arlene Gunter, David Harmon, Robert Nichols, Ira Witt Sergeant at Arms – Stacey Ferrer Greeter – Ginger Shotwell Musician – Nicholas Thomas Fraternal Committee members – Geraldine Wallace (chair), Thomas Baffuto, Stacie Champion, Nancy Hazzard, Douglas Wheeling Escort – Ashley Simpson ★★ Convention City Project: Donated $5,000 worth of canned food to the Virginia Peninsula Food Bank. The cans were also used to build sculptures in the lobby of the convention hotel. Pictured above: Newly elected Jurisdictional Officers for 2015-17 are sworn in during the Convention. Pictured above: Recruiting Sales Manager Wayne Anderson, his wife, Sheri, and Community Outreach Manager Marla Baker posed in period costumes with Donna Tighe, Food/Fund Drive Manager with Virginia Peninsula Food Bank. 30 WoodmenLife Magazine Important Notice to Member Website Users West Virginia 49 th B Conievne nial ntion ★★ Presiding President: Patricia McClellan ★★ Host Regional Director: Kevin Crouse ★★ National Directors in attendance: Dr. James Shaver and Michael Shealy ★★ 2015-2017 Officers: Immediate Past President – Patricia McClellan President – Margaret Conner Vice President – Ruth Plum Secretary – Rebecca Lego Treasurer – Lois Louk Trustees – Norma Snyder (chair), Jon Mick, Mary Thomas, Deborah Watkins, Rox Workman Sergeant at Arms – Anthony Lunsford Greeter – Bobby Brown Musician – Donna Mick Fraternal Committee members – Audrey Cline (chair), Helen Chaney, Douglas Smith, Anna Spears, William Thomas Escort – James Workman ★★ Convention City Project: Purchased $1,000 worth of food for Facing Hunger Food Bank in Huntington, WV. If you use Internet Explorer as your browser to access the member website to make payments or access certificate information, you will need to upgrade your browser to IE11 by December 1, in order to continue to access the member site. If your current Internet Explorer browser is out-of-date, you will begin to see a reminder message each time you access the site. If you use another internet browser like Chrome, FireFox or Safari, you will not need to make any changes. You can access the member website from woodmen.org. Pictured above: Convention attendees proudly displayed some of the food they purchased and donated to the Facing Hunger Food Bank. WoodmenLife Magazine 31 chapter news Fraternally Speaking Focus Pays Off Throughout the course of this year, I’ve been reminded more than ever that our members go Pat Dees above and beyond when we ask them to step up in support of a specific effort. In 2015, we challenged you to celebrate our 125th Anniversary with a Day of Service, and to commit to our National Community Focus of fighting hunger. I’m proud of all the good you’ve done this year. In the two-week time period surrounding our June 6 anniversary, more than 300 chapters participated in service events, engaging more than 2,000 volunteers. Right here in Omaha, nearly 150 volunteers, including many Home Office associates, participated in three community service events organized by our local chapters. In addition, your efforts to support the National Community Focus have resulted in more than $45,000 raised, more than 20,000 pounds of food collected and more than 10,000 volunteer hours donated across the nation. Please remember that in the U.S., one in five children and one in six seniors are food insecure. This means they don’t know where their next meal will come from. Continue to be mindful of your neighbors and friends who may need help. To join our cause, please get involved in your local chapter system. A calendar of upcoming events in your area is included on the back of this magazine. Sincerely and Fraternally, Chapter Centennials Chapter 885 Chapter 695 Dillard, GA Oct. 11, 1915 Dover, NC Nov. 18, 1915 Chapter 704 Chapter 40 Aynor, SC Oct. 11, 1915 Henderson, TN Nov. 30, 1915 Chapter 340 McClure, IL Nov. 18, 1915 Dates to Remember September Hunger Action Month Life Insurance Awareness Month Sept. 11 In Honor and Remembrance Sept. 30 Pat Dees Executive Vice President, Fraternal Submit chapter officer list and January, February and March 2016 events to receive full Fraternal Challenge points Oct. 1 Chapters begin submitting events for Spring 2016 Oct. 24 Make A Difference Day Nov. 11 Veterans Day 32 WoodmenLife Magazine Community Outreach Profile Campbell Captured Her Passion F or her first full-time professional gig after college, Meredith Campbell landed in the perfect place: a Community Outreach Manager (COM) role for WoodmenLife. “From the Meredith Campbell moment I stepped into the office on the day of my interview, I felt comfortable,” she said. “This position fit my professional passions. Giving back where help is needed, making a positive impact and ultimately leaving a legacy – that’s what I was looking for in a career.” Currently the COM for southern Alabama, Campbell grew up as an Army brat, traveling throughout the United States with her parents and two siblings. “I was raised to live life faithful to God, country and family, so I believe in and appreciate the standards of WoodmenLife,” she said. These are standards upheld by the members Campbell works with in her area. “The first word that comes to mind when I think of our chapters is giving,” she said. “These individuals have some of the most servant-like hearts, and they will give wherever there is a need. They are also always willing and eager to tell people about the fraternal and business sides of WoodmenLife.” Her members’ eagerness and kind hearts are a big help to Campbell when it comes to planning events and creating awareness about WoodmenLife. “The way to create a successful outreach event or initiative is 100 percent with the heart, so I always ask members what organizations or needs matter most to them,” she said. From Special Olympics with Chapter 3 in Selma and annual flag retirement ceremonies with Chapter 1885 in Chatom, to visiting grave sites with Clanton Chapter 322 and packing fruit baskets with Camden Chapter 1916, there are many fraternal activities Campbell counts as her favorites. One particular event that has proven to be successful is a yearly family event for members and non-members in Montgomery and Mobile. “This year is our second annual event where we provide members with tickets for their family and friends to attend a minor league baseball game,” she said. “Kids, parents, grandparents … everyone who attends always has a great time! Plus, the event has proven to be positive advertising for WoodmenLife by connecting members and nonmembers with local Representatives.” Campbell jokes that because she works with her chapter officers and other members so often, she has more than 20 grandfathers looking out for her. “That’s what these people have become to me,” she said. “My WoodmenLife family.” :: Meredith Campbell volunteered with members from Evergreen, AL, Chapter 1896 at the local Senior Center. WoodmenLife Magazine 33 Chapter News Cakes for a Cause What is an anniversary party without a cake? 1st - Illinois Chapter 561 T he WoodmenLife 125th Anniversary Cake Contest challenged members to tap into their creativity to celebrate this momentous occasion by decorating an epic cake worthy of this anniversary. In addition to honoring this milestone year, participants had the opportunity to win funds to help the hungry in their communities. 8 5 5 r e t p a h C a 2 - Oklahom nd 3 rd - Illinois Chap ter 50 34 WoodmenLife Magazine Each chapter that entered a decorated cake received $50 to help cover material expenses. In total, 68 chapters from 23 states stepped up to the challenge. (See the full list at right.) After narrowing the field down to 10 finalists, voting on the cakes was open to the general public via the WoodmenLife Facebook page. The winning entry received nearly 1,000 votes. Congratulations to the contest winners Each chose organizations in their local communities to support in conjunction with WoodmenLife’s National Community Focus of fighting hunger: First Place, $3,000 Chapter 561, Effingham, IL $2,500 to Golden Circle Nutrition Program, $500 to Food Program at Effingham Senior Center Second Place, $2,000 Chapter 558, Durant, OK $1,500 to Hands of Hope, $500 to Families Feeding Families Third Place, $1,000 Chapter 50, Carbondale, IL $1,000 to Gumdrops, a non-profit backpack program :: Cake Contest Entries City Brewton Dothan Prattville Hartford Phenix City Thomasville Enterprise Brantley Jackson Monroeville Evergreen Notasulga Phoenix Sacramento Palatka Hawkinsville Cornelia Winder Carbondale Effingham South Bend Des Moines Hopkinsville Cadiz Germantown Scottsville Somerset Rayne Amite Oakland Grantsville Booneville Aberdeen Philadelphia State Chapter AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AL AZ CA FL GA GA GA IL IL IN IA KY KY KY KY KY LA LA MD MD MS MS MS 30 131 298 310 338 391 458 930 1024 1057 1896 1901 117 339 7 15 553 1395 50 561 6001 18 5 20 871 924 969 31 44 11 41 60 147 330 City Union/Newton Lincoln Las Vegas Hempstead Wadesboro Cerro Gordo Matthews Catawba Statesville Asheboro Denton Winston-Salem Durant Howard Orangeburg Sumter Florence Marion Easley Newberry Pomaria Loris Greeneville Crossville Smithville Sparta Bluff City Nacogdoches Waller Corpus Christi Bedford Harrisonburg Mechanicsville Charleston State Chapter MS NE NM NY NC NC NC NC NC NC NC NC OK PA SC SC SC SC SC SC SC SC TN TN TN TN TN TX TX TX VA VA VA WV 332 264 2 467 4 130 379 606 647 921 976 6025 558 691 17 19 52 122 379 437 1054 1123 111 900 1077 1110 1150 210 2053 2126 175 341 468 254 WoodmenLife Magazine 35 fun zone HAVE AAGOOD HAVE GOODJOKE? JOKE?Make Makeyour yourfellow fellowmembers fraternalists laugh. laugh. Please send contributions to WLEditor@woodmen.org. Get On Your Bike and Ride! Autumn is a great season for bike riding – feel the crisp wind in your face and enjoy the spectacular fall colors without a window in your way! Find all the words below to get inspired for your next ride. (Answers can be found on page 10.) Word Bank Basket Bicycle Brake Car Rack Century Ride Chain Clips Cruiser Cyclist Derailleur Gear Hand Signals Helmet Hybrid Lights Mountain Bike Pannier Pedal Recumbent Road Bike Saddle Spokes Tail Wind Tandem Tire Tour de France Training Wheels Tube 36 WoodmenLife Magazine V T H V Y G H E L W T I R E E K A B H G Z P U H S L Q H D R H L S A A L I G H T S B Y Y I O S Y E I Q P R F H T O P T K I B J P H B T J A O K O F R C M U A P J Z S K K T D F R B C G Y B C R D Y I S Q E A E D J K A H G B R P D W E K H X I A W E B C D U M O L P L O J N I Z D X L E K R E Q S F M E M S T D E U E E C R J B I N S A V E U K I R I T T A I N B I K E D V A W G K X Y Y B B R X E A P F F E A T R M O U N H N I T E T T L A C N J D W I H J D H M F A U L N U P J G H T L A E R E O E R P I R E D M K E F E Y O F P K L A L Y U N E E R C A P K U W R R M E D M I L C A R R A C X S X B A I S I I X E B Y J Y N W J Z S D K A A N N L E O U C N E I E N D W K T H H A N D S I G N A L S H D C Y C L T C R U I S E R R E H F I S Cycling Humor Q: Why can't a bicycle stand up on its own? A: Because it's too tired. Q: Did you hear about the vampire bicycle that went around biting people's arms off? A: It was a vicious cycle. Q: What did the dog owner do when she found her dog was chasing everyone on a bicycle? A: Took his bike away. Q: What's the hardest thing about learning to ride a bicycle? A: The road. Q: Why is the bank manager a good cyclist? A: She has an excellent balance. Q: When is a bicycle not a bicycle? A: When it turns into a driveway. Q: Why did the silly boy take his bicycle to bed with him? A: Because he didn't want to walk in his sleep. WoodmenLife Magazine 37 in memoriam Mitzi C. Cole Age: 62 Chapter 117 Benton, KY James D. “J.D.” Mullins Age: 81 Chapter 254 Charleston, WV George R. Johnson Age: 89 Chapter 65 Grand Ridge, FL Irvin C. Darnall Age: 86 Chapter 20 Cadiz, KY Herbert Harold Rogers Age: 93 Chapter 527 Villa Rica, GA Karla Ryser Age: 51 Chapter 11 Honey Grove, TX Charlie Helwig Age: 79 Chapter 6013 Little Falls, NJ Siegfried “Ziggy” Scholl Age: 72 Chapter 449 Merritt, NC Peggy Ann Wright Age: 71 Chapter 514 Athens, AL Edith Henderson Age: 92 Chapter 117 Benton, KY Ezra Charles “Hezzie” Sharer Age: 90 Chapter 1 Hagerstown, MD John Cameron Imler Age: 74 Chapter 688 Bedford, PA Donald Hilbrecht Age: 72 Chapter 117 Benton, KY Warner “Red” Shingleton Sr. Age: 88 Chapter 1 Hagerstown, MD Louise Mounce Age: 101 Chapter 423 Ecru, MS Norene Umphlett Taylor Age: 96 Chapter 328 Ahoskie, NC Former Jurisdictional President In Memoriam Submission Guidelines: The editors of WoodmenLife Magazine 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 WLEditor@woodmen.org: your loved one’s full name as you would like it printed, age, chapter number, and hometown. Also let us know if he or she served as a Jurisdictional Officer, a National Committee member, a Regional Director, or a National Representative. In addition, when including photos, please submit photos of the highest possible quality to assure adequate printing. Thank you. 38 WoodmenLife Magazine Feed your family’s unique needs. While no two families are alike, Family Term life insurance from WoodmenLife helps to satisfy them all – it’s all-in-one coverage for your one-of-a-kind family. Call today to learn more about how one Family Term life insurance certificate from WoodmenLife could protect your whole family for just one low monthly premium. D0452 6/15 PERIODICALS Fall 2015 Please note: If members in your household belong to different chapters, the magazine will be sent to the oldest member and will feature events for his/her chapter of record. You can access other chapters’ events on woodmen.org. Information concerning events and activities is subject to change. Visit your chapter’s website for the most current information. Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society (WoodmenLife) is an Equal Access fraternal benefit society. It is the policy of WoodmenLife to seek qualified members on a nondiscriminatory basis and to provide all members with equal access to and allow their participation in WoodmenLife’s chapter system, chapter events, fraternal benefits, and all other fraternal activities on a nondiscriminatory basis. If you would like an additional calendar printed, please contact your Community Outreach Manager. fun zone HAVE AAGOOD HAVE GOODJOKE? JOKE?Make Makeyour yourfellow fellowmembers fraternalists laugh. laugh. Please send contributions to WLEditor@woodmen.org. Get On Your Bike and Ride! Autumn is a great season for bike riding – feel the crisp wind in your face and enjoy the spectacular fall colors without a window in your way! Find all the words below to get inspired for your next ride. (Answers can be found on page 10.) Word Bank Basket Bicycle Brake Car Rack Century Ride Chain Clips Cruiser Cyclist Derailleur Gear Hand Signals Helmet Hybrid Lights Mountain Bike Pannier Pedal Recumbent Road Bike Saddle Spokes Tail Wind Tandem Tire Tour de France Training Wheels Tube V T H V Y G H E L T D F R B C G W T I R E E K A B H G Z P U H S L Q H D R H L S A A L I G H T S B Y Y I O S Y E I Q P R F H T O P T K I B J P H A B T J A O K O F R C M U B C R D S E D A P J Z F J K A H Y I Q E T D S P D W E K H X I A W E B C D U M O L K P M S E U E K M E G B R Y E Q S L O J N I Z D X L E C R J B E K R I N S A V E U K I R I T E A T R M O U N T A I N B I K E D V H N I T E Y A W G K X Y Y B B R X E A T T L A C N J D W I H J D H M F P F F A U L N P J G H T L A E R E O E R P I R E D M K E F E Y O F P K L L Y U B J N E E R C Z A P K U R M E D M I L C A R R A C X Y N W J X S X B A I S H A N D S I G N A L S T C R I W R E U I I N D W K T H D E H C Y C F I U S D A A A N N L C N E O U E I L S H E S E R R K
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