we celebrate our heritage on our 100th anniversaryvol. 68 no. 2 spring 2008 we celebrate our...

VOL. 68 NO. 2

Spring 2008

We Celebrate Our

Heritage on Our 100th Anniversary

People will not look forward to posterity who never look backward to their ancestors.

Edmund Burke

The Jugosalv colony, comprisingSlovenes and Croats, first settled inPueblo in 1885. They came fromSlovenia and Croatia, formerprovinces of Austria, but now partof the new post-war kingdom,Jugo-Slavia.

At first settlers foundemployment in the smelters andrailroads doing hard labor, whichincited them to be saving and seekeasier methods of gaining alivelihood. They soon found meansto open stores and pave a way toget away from hard labor.

This new country being sostrange to them, it was foundexpedient to found societies forsocial recreation and mutualfinancial benefits.

Reprinted fromThe Pueblo Chieftain

January 12,1927

SPRING 2008

FRATERNAL VOICEThe Official Publication of

WSA Fraternal Life11265 Decatur Street, Suite 100

Westminster, CO 80234Phone (303) 451-1494

1-800-451-7528Internet:www.wsa-life.com

USPS - 208-740

Published quarterly in the interest of and for the progress, good and welfare of WSA Fraternal Life. Also to promote and maintain a

mutual and fraternal understandingbetween all members, to unite our whole membership, and to develop

a fraternity, brotherhood and cooperation to the highest degree.

Subscriptions by membership only.

Shannon McCauleyManaging Editor

HONORARY DIRECTORS:Tony MehelichAnn Mobilia

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:John J. Kogovsek ChairmanDiana Bartolo Vice-ChairmanGary Moore DirectorLisa Povich DirectorCynthia Conte DirectorRoger P. Lewis DirectorRocco Santangelo DirectorMicheal R. Osborn DirectorRandy R. Fuss Director/President/CEO

ARTICLE AND LETTERSUBMISSIONS

All articles and letters submitted for publication must be legible or

typewritten and must reach the Editor no later than the first day

of the month prior to publication.

PostmasterSend address changes to:

WSA Fraternal LifeFraternal Voice Editor

P. O. Box 351920Westminster, CO 80035-1920

Periodicals Postage PaidAt Thornton, Colorado

50,60,70,80 Yr Members4-5Honoring this year’s 50, 60, 70 & 80 Year Members

2008 Scholarships 6The qualifications for this year’s scholarships.

LettersWelcome mail from our members and friends. 7-13

Spotlight 14-17Lodges and Jr. Members report on their activities.

Jr. Members 20-22Check out the list of activities for April, May and June

Financial Report 192007 4th Quarter Financial Report.

Fraternal Pipeline 23Upcoming events at WSA- Don’t miss out!

Annuity Interest Rates

Existing Deferred Annuities 4.5%This is the renewal rate for owners of 1 year guaranteed WSA Deferred Annuities with anniversary dates in April, May and June.

New Five Year Deferred Annuities 4.5%This interest rate is guaranteed for five years.

New Immediate Annuities 4.5%Annuitize Existing Certificates 4.5%

Surrender charges are waived.

These rates are subject to change at any time. Please call the Home Office for current rates.WSA reserves the right to refuse new or additional deposits at any time.

Please call the Home Office prior to sending deposits.

Spring 2008

2

FRATERNAL VOICE

WSA and its Lodges support many organizations and causes. Each newsletter we will feature those agencies which have received donations in the past quarter,because we feel it is an important part of our fraternal purpose. If you know of any groups which

may be in need of our help, please contact your Lodge. Let’s make this list grow!

Are you interested in donating to one of these organizations or causes supported by WSA? If so, please contact the Home Office and we will provide you with the information to contact them.

Call us at 1-800-451-7528, or 303-451-1494, or e-mail us at: [email protected]

• American Lung Association • Post-News Season to Share• Pueblo Soup Kitchen• Rocky Mountain Cancer Center

• Pueblo Salvation Army• Cause for Paws• Northern Lights Little League• Ch of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Omega• Ronald McDonald House

• Slovenian Library, Museum &Genealogy Center

• St. Anthony’s Catholic Church• Police Unity Tour

WSA Helps Out

$$$$ ““Your Donations can Make a Difference

““

3

Back by Popular Demand! WSA Cookbooks Are HERE! Order Yours Now!

Please Submit your orders by Mail: P. O. Box 351920, Westminster, CO 80035-1920

Only $10 each

• Over 300 recipes from WSA’s diverse membership • Stories & anecdotes related to the recipes & WSA’s heritage

WSA members’ best recipes, all together in one book!

Member Name: ____________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________________________________

State:_________Zip:________________Phone #: _________________________

Number of Copies Ordered:____________@ $10 each = ___________________

Shipping $2 per Book = ___________________

Total Due = ___________________

Enclosed = ___________________

(To be used only to contact you if we have questions)

Plus, $2 shipping per book

SPRING 20084

Lodge #1Beverly Crites

AndrewsLittleton, Colorado

~Anna J. BrunoDenver, Colorado

~Geraldine J. ChildWestminster, Colorado

~Helen June Drobnick

Lakewood, Colorado~

Helen PesniakLevittown, Pennsylvania

~Caroline M. GonceyLevittown, Pennsylvania

~Alvera R. Livingston

Denver, Colorado~

Ann Irene PeltzWestminster, Colorado

Lodge #1 cont.Adele SchamberAurora, Colorado

~Helen I. SmithNunn, Colorado

~Eva Stutz

Golden, Colorado~

Robert Lester WilliamsIrvine, California

Lodge #3Shirley Ann Atteberry

Pueblo, Colorado~

George E. PlutePueblo, Colorado

~Lawrence H. Stanko

Pueblo, Colorado~

Barbara AnnTuttoilmondo

Avondale, Colorado

Lodge #4Marie P. Lucero

Colorado Springs, ColoradoLodge #9

Norma Jean FazzinoCanon City, Colorado

Lodge #16Anica StonichPueblo, Colorado

Lodge #17Adolph J. LesserGreeley, Colorado

Lodge #33Mary Kay Demick

Joliet, IllinoisLodge #38

Frank A. CostelloBig Piney, Wyoming

Lodge #41Antoinette Christensen

Denver, Colorado~

Lodge #41 cont.Elaine Charotte

DunlapWalnut Creek, California

~Marlene Joan Hensley

Billings, Montana~

Lillian M. KrasovichBroomfield, Colorado

~Charles MiskeWibaux, Montana

~Dorothy Ann Sungaila

Littleton, Colorado

Lodge #52Francis Peternel

Price, Utah

Let us honor the pioneers who are responsible for making WSA the strong and successful

association that we have come to know!

Our 50, 60, 70, & 80

These youngsters have been adult Members 50 years:

Dear WSA:First of all, thank you for the check you sent

me. I am living in Mt. Home, Arkansas now,after living and working at the CaterpillarTractor Company in Joliet, Illinois for 29 yearsas a tool designer. I retired in 1980 thenmoved to Arkansas. I have been married foralmost 60 years and my wife is also a memberof WSA and was secretary/treasurer in Jolietfor many years. I have three children, sixgrandchildren and four great grandchildren.

I used to bowl and golf for many years but

now at 86 years ofage, I had to giveit up. I still walk amile a day and domy own mowingand yard work. Ienjoy visting mychildren who arescattered in Florida and Virginia. Life has beengood to me.

Sincerely,Anton Lever

THANK YOU! Thank You!

FRATERNAL VOICE

Year Members Honored

5

Lodge #1Edward J. BohnLittleton, Colorado

~Anna Grey

Kulpmont, Pennsylvania~

Frederick GreyKulpmont, Pennsylvania

Lodge #3Dorothy B. Brewer

Littleton, Colorado~

Matt J. KikelPueblo, Colorado

~Audrey Ann Perko

Pueblo, Colorado~

Dorothy L. SkerjanecPueblo, Colorado

Lodge #5Joann Cirullo

Leadville, Colorado~

Lodge #1 cont.Annie Krasovec

Longmont, Colorado~

Katherine Ann MartinLongmont, Colorado

~Robert W. Ponikvar

Grand Junction, Colorado

Lodge #7Dolores May Cwik

Arvada, Colorado

Lodge #9Lorraine M. Hoge

Pueblo, Colorado

Lodge #16Betty Jo BabichPueblo, Colorado

~Lillian Dorothy Burleson

Pueblo, Colorado~

Frank MismashRye, Colorado

~

Lodge #16 cont.Donald E. Novak

Pueblo, Colorado~

Edmund J. OrazemPueblo, Colorado

~Frank Zupancic

San Juan Capistrano, California

Lodge #21Francis Josephine

PetersonSeattle, Washington

Lodge #24Lucille M. O’Brien

San Bernardino, California

Lodge #33Anton J. Lever

Mountain Home, Arkansas~

Bernard J. MalburgPalisade, Colorado

~Willis H. Petersen

Joliet, Illinois~

Lodge #33 cont.Eugene R. Salakar

Elmhurst, Illinois~

Francis YuceviciusJamul, California

Lodge #41Fernand D. Klein

Wheat Ridge, Colorado

Lodge #52Callie D. McMurdie

Salt Lake City, Utah

Lodge #59Julie Delasko

Central City, Pennsylvania~

Jenny NovakCentral City, Pennsylvania

Lodge #60Cathryne Tilby

Ely, Nevada

Lodge #67Pauline Polyner

Ely, Minnesota

Lodge #1John Korsick

Thornton, Colorado~

Frank MearshaDenver, Colorado

~Bernice L. SaboManteca, California

Lodge #3John Peter KolbezenCameron Park, California

Lodge #9Millen LauriskiPueblo, Colorado

Lodge #14Virigina E. Tasker

Helper, Utah

Lodge #16Joseph Frank Horvat

Pueblo, Colorado~

Vernice F. KlineLaguna Woods, California

~Mary Lucille Manguso

Pueblo, Colorado~

Josephine M. YenkoPueblo, Colorado

Lodge #32Mary Johanna Prebevsek

Euclid, Ohio

Lodge #33Ann Martha KuzielWonder Lake, Illinois

~Dorothy Stefanski

Wheaton, Illinois

Lodge #41Leo J. Arko

Centennial, Colorado

Lodge #59Mollie Naymick

Uniontown, Pennsylvania

Congratulations: The following Members have been enrolled as adults for 60 years:

The Real Pioneers - Our 70 Year MembersCongratulations

to our80 Year Member

Thank You Allfor Making WSA

The GreatOrganization

We Are!

Lodge #59Remo Spigarelli

Helper, Utah

SPRING 20086

To qualify you must:• Currently be a member of WSA Fraternal Life, and• Have been a member for the last four years continuously, and• Provide:

- A copy of your High School transcript reflecting a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA(based on a 4.0 scoring system) and verifying your graduation in the year 2008.

- A letter of acceptance from an accredited college or university for the ensuing year.- Three letters of recommendation from teachers and/or school administration personnel.- A recent photograph suitable for publication.- An official application (available on the internet from www.wsalife.com, or from the

Home Office), completed and signed by project leaders and/or coordinators documenting 40 hours of community service during your Senior Year.

All Scholarship applications must be receivedby the Home Office on or before June 27, 2008

All Continuing Education applications must be receivedby the Home Office on or before June 30, 2008

For a copy of the 2008 Scholarship and 2008 Continuing Education Program Applications, call the Home Office, or Check our website at: www.wsalife.com

2008 ScholarshipProgram

2008 Continuing Education ProgramWSA Scholarship Recipients in 2005, 2006 and 2007 may apply for

Continuing Education funds for the year 2008 awarded at 100% of their initial scholarship award.

To qualify you must:• Continuously maintain your WSA Fraternal Life membership in good standing

during your entire educational assistance eligibility period, and• Complete and submit the application (available from the Home Office,

or on the internet at www.wsalife.com), and• Provide official transcripts from an accredited college or university documenting:

- A minimum 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 grade point scale.- A student course load equivalent, on an annual basis, to that of a full time student.

7FRATERNAL VOICE

Our Members Write:Dear WSA:

I want to thank you forthe check. I neverdreamed I would ever wina prize for being old!

I have lived and workedin Pueblo, Colorado since1945 except for six yearsin Nevada.

My husband, Frank,and I celebrated our 50thWedding Anniversary in1997. I retired in 2005 after working a various occupa-tions including the Colorado State Hospital.

I have a great family, two children, seven grandchil-dren and eight great grandchildren.

Thank you again,Betty Jo Babich

Dear WSA:I want to thank you for

the letter, certificate com-memorating my 70 yearsof membership, and thecheck, which came as acomplete surprise, I recallsigning up for the lifeinsurance policy. Mymother was the secretaryfor the Pueblo branch atthat time and, of course, encouraged me to do so.

I was seventeen when I graduated from high schooland went to work for Sperry Packard, the Referee inBankruptcy, and recorded the minutes of the bankrupt-cy proceedings in Federal Court. He didn’t believe inmarried women working, so after a couple of years, Iwent to work at Montgomery Wards. I also worked atthe Walter Brewing Company when my husband wasdrafted into the service. After he was discharged hebecame a State Highway Patrolman in ColoradoSprings and Pueblo.

I worked at the Pueblo Ordinance depot, GMAS andCorwin Hospital. We moved to Livermore, Californiaand I worked for the Department of Water Resources,and then for the City of Livermore, for a total of seven-teen years. I always did secretarial work. I retired in1981 after which time I did volunteer work. I becameinterested in genealogy and have researched both mymother’s and father's families.

Very truly yours,Bernice L. Sabo

Dear WSA:It’s been a while but I wish to thank you for remem-

bering me on my 70th year as a member in WSA.I believe it was my father, Frank Primozich and his

friend Leo Jurjovic who started Lodge #33. We enjoyedmany good times, picnics and meetings. I was just ateen then and I remember my Dad going to conventionsin Colorado. I am enjoying my life and I volunteer at ahearing center at school.

Thank you again,Mrs. Ann Kuziel

Dear WSA:I am very grateful for the check that I received.

Thank you very much.My husband worked on the Ely, Nevada local rail-

road as a conductor. I also worked at our medical centeras a bookkeeper. So when the railroad shut down, weboth retired.

Ely, Nevada is a small community with the popula-tion of 8,000. We are located in the mountains. we havesevere winters and delightful summers.

My husband is an avid hunter and fisherman.We have a daughter that lives in Salt Lake City,

Utah, only 240 miles away. We visit her often.Respectfully,

Cathryne Tilby

SPRING 20088

Dear WSA:Thank you for the generous check and

certificate for my fifty years of being amember of our great WSA Fraternal Lifeorganization.

My service of being Vice President,Treasurer and Trustee of Lodge #3 forforty years is a pleasure, and to receive

this honor is a great surprise.In the past, I have enjoyed play-

ing golf, especially for CozzetaDisabled Children. I received an

award of ten years for participating which as quite an accom-plishment.

I have served in the U.S. Army for three years as a Surgical Tech,mostly overseas in the E.T.O. and 39 years with the U.S. PostalService.

I find that the WSA is the best for practicing the principle of fellow-ship founded by our foresighted charter members.

Fraternally,George E. PluteDear WSA:

First and foremost, Iwant to thank you for theunexpected check.

I spent two years inthe service. Retired fromRio Grande Railroadafter 40 years, and havebeen retired going on 21years.

In August my wife andI will have been marriedfor 55 years. We have 4children and nine grand-children, two cats and adog.

We enjoy visiting ourmoney in Blackhawk.

Thank you again,Eddie J. Bohn

50, 60, 70 Year

Dear WSA:What a wonderful surprise. Thank you

for the generous 60th Anniversary gift andcertificate.

I was born in the Chicago St. StephenSlovenian neighborhood to John andJosephine Toplak. I was the fifth of 9 chil-dren. After graduating high school I workedfor Time Incorporated as Life MagazineRenewal Promotion Coordinator. I marriedStanley Yucevicius and we had 5 children.

Stanley and I have traveled to Japan,England, Switzerland, Italy and Slovenia. We have also traveled throughthe interior of Croatia to Medjugorje then on the Dobrovnik and up theAdriatic Coast of Yugoslavia back to Milan.

Due to business we moved our family from Chicago to Huntsville,Alabama; El Paso, Texas; Freeport, Illinois and Arlington, Texas, buthave resided in San Diego, California since 1988. Now retired, I remainactive within the church, and travel frequently. Throughout the years anddespite the distances I have maintained close connections to mySlovenian roots and family and friends both in Chicago and throughoutthe United States. One of my greatest joys is to pass on this heritage tomy five grandchildren.

Sincerely,Frances Yucevicius

9FRATERNAL VOICE

Members Write:

Dear WSA:Thank you so much for the acknowledgement of my

50 year membership.My parents Bobbie and Darrell Smith signed me up

in 1958. I think they had to convert a childhood policywhen I turned 17 or 18.

I lived in East Denver, after moving from WestDenver in 1949, and graduated from Smiley Jr. andEast High. I will be attending my 50th High Schoolreunion this July. I graduated in 1965 from theUniversity of Colorado with a degree in English,Humanities and Art History. After seven months inEurope, in 1967, I moved to San Francisco where, in1969, I married Greg Dunlap and spend another fivemonths in Europe. In 1972 I received an MA inHumanities from San Francisco State University andbegan to teach Humanities (Cultural History) andEnglish at several Bay Area community colleges. Itaught for 35 years at Diablo Valley College in PleasantHill, California, until retiring in 2007.

In 1973 our son Oliver Quinn was born. He is cur-rently an attorney for Morrison and Foerster in SanFrancisco, married the British Hindu Vlash ThakorgDunlap. She is a Marriage and Family Therapist andhigh school counselor working in San Francisco. Weare all hoping for a grandchild soon.

In 1977 our daughter Chandler Lauren was born. Sheis a Tibetan Buddhist who is the personal assistant toSogyal Rinpoche (author of The Tibetan Book ofLiving and Dying). She has recently moved fromLondon to Lodeve, Southern France with her British

husband Simon Day, ajeweler. She travelswith the Rinpoches atleast four times a year.

In 1975 we movedfrom San Francisco toWalnut Creek,California. In 1984 myhusband Greg, whoworks as a computerSr.. Systems Analystfor the Bank ofAmerica, was postedto London where we all lived for 1-1/2 years, returningagain in 1987 when I taught college for a semester. Wehave a flat in London and I spend at least 2 months ayear there. I travel quite a bit and recent trips includePeru, Egypt, Jordan, traversing the entire country ofChina, East to West, on the Silk Route, also visitingKyrgistan and Uzbekistan. In mid February I will visitBuenos Aires and Antarctica.

I have written an historical novel and am currentlyworking on another, more modern one. I have alsowritten poetry for over 50 years. I also like to cook andgive parties, go to the theatre and classical concerts andart museums and belong to Shakespeare, reading, gar-den, books and movie clubs and I love riding Londonbuses.

Thanks,Elaine Smith Dunlap

Dear WSA:Wow! Seventy years - where did they go? I will be 86 in June of this year, and

have been living in Cameron Park, California for the past 16 years with mydaughter and her family.

In 1984, I retired from Owens Illinois Glass Company in Oakland, Californiaafter 29 years.

Before I retired I lived in San Lorenzo, CA with my sister Mary Perse. There Ienjoyed going to church, dancing and being with my friends.

After I moved to Cameron Park, CA I volunteered at a Seniors Lunch programand worked a part-time job 7 days a week, 3 hours a day to keep busy. I finallyslowed down at age 80. Now I spend my time playing with my grandson, caringfor 3 large goldfish, eating out, doing small jobs around the house and watchingNotre Dame play football.

Sincerely,John P. Kolbezen

SPRING 200810

Our Friends &Dear WSA:

I wanted to drop you a note of Thank You for promoting the RockyMountain Cancer Centers Foundation. We are so thankful for the gen-erous donations we have received from you.

Our vision is to be the preeminent Colorado charitable entity assist-ing cancer patients in meeting their needed living expenses. Our mis-sion is to provide temporary financial support to cancer patients under-going treatment.

The financial assistance provided by the RMCC Foundation typical-ly pays for the most basic of needs: food, housing, utilities,

transportation, and medicines. Your contribution isdesigned to reduce the stress of maintaining daily routinesduring treatment, and contributes to retaining dignity and

quality of life.From all of us at the Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers

Foundation and those we serve, we express our gratitude foryour contribution to our organization. Your gift will help cancerpatients during their time of need.

All the best to you in 2008!Stephanie Shulman, Administrator

RMCC Foundation

Dear WSA:On behalf of The Senior Hub’s Meals on Wheels clients

and staff, as well as the agency’s board of Directors, thankyou for your donation in support of the seniors we service.

We sincerely appreciate your support of the program andrecognition of its purpose for homebound older or chronical-ly ill adults. The Senior Hub’s Meals on Wheels programcontinues to provide more than 40,000 meals a year to sen-iors in our community as well as providing daily wellnesschecks and caring contact by adult volunteers.

Your donation was a big help and much appreciated! Itwas put to use to pay for client meals immediately!

“You do make the difference.”Sincerely,

Marita Hafner, Meals on Wheels DirectorRenee Dees, Development &

Community Relations Director

Dear WSA:Happy

Valentine’s Dayfrom Carlie!

17-month oldCarlie is an engag-ing baby whoattends AnchorCenter’s infant program. Carlielikes playing with her older brotherand sister, music, “peek-a-boo” andbaths.

Babies in the infant program areencouraged to use their feet toexplore new games, objects, toysand even foods. As you can see,Carlie loves learning with her barefeet!

Carlie thanks you for sendingyour love to all the children atAnchor Center for Blind Children.

Love,The Anchor Center Crew

The Board, Staff, Children andFamilies of Anchor Center for

Blind Children

Dear WSA:Thank you very much for the scholarships I

have been awarded over the last several years.Your generosity has been greatly appreciated.

David Ripper

FRATERNAL VOICE

Members Write:

Dear WSA:Twas the night before Christmas and all through the

House. . .We all know the poem and it brings back a sense of

joy, wonder and feelings of family, children and eageranticipation. Right now at our House we have familiesthat will not experience that excitement during the holi-days, they are waiting for test results, wondering if theirchild will live through a dangerous surgery, will thenew chemotherapy work, will their child receive a newheart, will the radiation take effect, will their very pre-mature baby survive the night and what does the futurehold.

However each and every family staying at the Househas told us this House holds a special place in theirhearts. They let us know that they don’t know whatthey would have done without it. Here they find afriendly, comfortable, safe and peaceful place to getaway from some of the anxieties and concerns they arefacing. We want to say thanks to you and let you knowthat without your generous gift for our families wewould not be able to provide this special home-away-from-home.

We know that thanks to you hundreds of familieseach year are able to find comfort, care and hope. Nowit may not be the magic of the Night Before Christmas. . .but it is indeed magic from our wonderful friends,supporters and donors. You have made our holiday aspecial time and our New Year looks much brighter.Thanks for years of support and caring, you are trulythe magic for the House.

May the magic of the season be with you for the yearahead, we are so grateful for your support

We really appreciate this incredible gift.

Warm regards,Pam Whitaker, Executive Director,

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Dear WSA:Thank you for helping make the season brighter by

contributing to the Post-News Season to Share, a fundof the McCormick Tribune Foundation. TheMcCormick Tribune Foundation is matching donationsat 50 cents for every dollar contributed, and 100 per-cent of every contribution is going directly to non prof-its that help people in need in our community. TheDenver Newspaper Agency and the McCormickTribune Foundation pay all administration costs.

Because of your generosity, and the generosity ofthousands of other readers, this program will continueto make a real difference in our community. All contri-butions will be distributed to Denver-area organizationsthat help children as well as those who are hungry,homeless or in need of medical care. A completeSeason To Share disbursement report will be publishedin The Denver Post and Rocky Mountain News inMarch 2008, and as one of our generous donors a copyof this report will be mailed directly to you as well.

Again, we thank you for helping make the 2007-2008 Season to Share campaign and overwhelming suc-cess. Together we truly can make a difference in thelives of people who need our help the most.

Sincerely,Harry Whipple, President and CEO,

Denver Newspaper AgencyDonal Alan Cooke, Senior Vice President

of Philanthropy, McCormick TribuneFoundation

Dear WSA:We greatly appreciate your gifts through out the year

to the Pueblo Community Soup Kitchen. The kitchenruns all year and is always in need of your thoughtfuldonations.

Especially at Christmas time, when people are hun-gry and very lonely, are your gifts appreciated. Food aswell as other items are handed out at Christmas, giftsfor the children, hats and most of all a kind word.

Thank you so much,Zola Hunyada

President, Soup Kitchen BoardThe Pueblo Community Soup Kitchen

11

SPRING 200812

Dear WSA:The Alpha Omega Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority would

like to thank you for your most generous gift to our “Hard of HearingProgram.”

It is through the support of people like your organization that we areable to continue our program of testing children in all the county andparochial schools and if there is need for a hearing aid, to see that theyare taken care of. We also have been checking seniors with a hearing

problem and see that they also are helped.We appreciate the donation of “used hearing aids” which

we are able to use for those who cannot afford to buy one,they are repaired and adjusted to fit those in need.

Thanks again for your support.Sincerely,

Bernice Elich, PresidentAlpha Omega Chapter Epsilon

Sigma Alpha Sorority

Dear WSA:Through your gift to Colorado AIDS Project you helped

improve lives affected by HIV and AIDS and prevent newHIV infection.

Your gift was an act of compassion. More than 70% of the1,800 people Colorado AIDS Project serves through itsWellness Resource Center annually are under the poverty lineearning less that $780 per month. Your gift helped connectthese individuals with food, housing, counseling and financialassistance.

Your gift fueled action. CAP took its vital message to thestreets, the airwaves, the state Capitol and the community toassure that those living with HIV and AIDS have access tomedical care and resources for a quality life.

Your gift is prevention. Your contribution signals yourunderstanding that our efforts to halt the spread of HIV mustcontinue as we build bridges to marginalized communitieswho are at-risk for HIV infection. Your donation provides sta-ples of daily living including HIV information to those on thestreets, and information about how to prevent getting infectedwith HIV to youth at-risk, who are now one of the fastestgrowing HIV risk groups.

Once again, we thank you for your generous and timely contribution,

Deirdre Maloney, Executive DirectorRich Corbetta, President, Board of Directors

Dear WSA:Thank you so much for thinking ofus, or more correctly the animals atour shelter. Your in-kind donationsof pet food and supplies very muchhelps with the care of stray andunwanted pets.We depend on people and organiza-tions like you.

Sincerely,Donna Straub,

Director of OperationsPueblo Animal Services

Dear WSA:Thank you for your generous dona-tion to Cause for Paws. We will useit to help with the medical care ofour foster cats: worming, defleaing,testing, vaccinating and spaying, orneutering, to prepare them for adop-tion into loving, permanent homes.Your ongoing support of our littlegroup means so much to us.

Gratefully,The Volunteers

with Cause for Paws

Our Friends and

FRATERNAL VOICE

Members Write:

Antonia Hoefferle has seen the worst human naturehas to offer in her 100 years, but even the horror shehas witnessed has not stopped her from smiling andpraying daily.

“Toni,” as she is called by her friends, was born Dec.20, 1907, in Slovenia, one of 11 children.

Her first husband, Louis, died in World War II.Although some of the specifics are fuzzy of

Hoefferle, she clearly remembers that her husband wastaken out of his home and killed.

“Her first husband was killed in Slovenia,” her friendOlga “Ollie” Kitts of Lacon, who served as a translator,said. “They took him overnight.”

The next day, her husband and other men who alsowere taken at that time, were shot and killed, Hoefferletold Kitts.

Hoefferle also had two brothers who were killed,Kitts said. Hoefferle is the last one living of her sib-lings.

During a five-year stay in a concentration camp inYugoslavia, Hoefferle met her second husband, John.

Hoefferle said the men and women were kept sepa-rate in the camp. The women were forced to sew, washclothes and do other chores, They were allowed to eattwice a day, she said.

When asked by Kitts what she was given to eat, shereplied, “Stale bread. It was rotten.”

She escaped from the camp and traveled to Italywhere she waited for John, who had gone to the UnitedStates.

Sponsored by the Rev. Michael Zeleznikar, pastor ofSt. Roch’s Catholic Church in La Salle, she immigratedto the United States. She married John, now deceased,in Colorado.

She worked at Electrical Utilities in La Salle for 18years before retiring.

A former resident of Peru, Hoefferle has resided atSt. Joseph Nursing Home in Lacon since 2003. Thesedays she enjoys playing cards and bingo.

“She’s faithful about her bingo,” Harriet Cowell, asocial rehabilitation worker at the nursing home, said.

Sister Justina who often visits with Hoefferle - theDaughters of St. Francis of Assisi own the nursinghome - said Hoefferle has had a very hard life.

“She had to walk miles and miles without shoes inthe old country,” sister Justina said. “That’s what shetold me when she came here.”

Sister Justina said Hoefferle’s strong faith has beenimportant to her during her life.

“She always has her rosary,” Cowell confirmed.“She’s always saying her prayers.”

Hoefferle attends Mass daily at the nursing home.She recently celebrated her 100th birthday with a

party at the nursing center. It is a day she rememberswell.

She uses her hands to estimate how big her birthdaycake was.

Well wishers came to see her. Hoefferle, who attrib-utes her long life to eating well, working hard and pray-ing every day, said she received more than 100 cards.

“(At the party) we sang songs in Slovenian,” Kittssaid.

Even after decades in the United States, Hoefferleenjoys hearing songs and reading newspapers inSlovenian.

The fact that Hoefferle still can smile after every-thing she has been through amazes Cowell.

“How can someone after all she’s gone through, stillsmile?” she said.

13

Slovenian Woman Lives Life FullyPrayer has led ‘Toni’ through worst of timesby Shannon Crawlely-Serpette - Putnam-Marshall Bureau Chiefreprinted from News-Tribune, LeSalle, Illinois, January 7, 2008

Antonia Hoefferle Celebrates Her 100th Birthday

Lodge #41’sBurt Rhodes

and Bob Kimball getthe fun of deliver-

ing to some of theThanksgiving Basket recipients.

SPRING 2008

Spotlight

14

Lodge 41 Spreads Thanks

Lodge #41 members start arrangingThanksgiving Food Baskets for the needy.They didn’t forget to add the love.

Lodge #41’s Bob and Mary Miller makea delivery to another happy family.

Twochildren of oneof the families are thankful tohave everything in the boxes.

SPMDTU Convention to be Held

Location: Lakewood Elks Lodge 1455 Newland Street, Lakewood, CO 80214

QUESTIONS?? Please CALL Eppie C. Perea or LeeRoy Perea303-431-7227 303-935-7402

Don’ t Miss It!!Denver, Colorado September 12-13, 2008

Check Out These Convenient Lodging OpportunitiesHoliday Inn

14707 W. ColfaxGolden, CO

1-800-729-2830

Days Inn15059 W. Colfax

Golden, CO303-277-0200

Motel 6480 Wadsworth Blvd.

Lakewood, CO303-232-4924

FRATERNAL VOICE

on WSA

15

Lodge #41 Shows Their Heart

. . .And Has Some Fun

Lodge #41’s Cheryl Santangelo and Rachel Bramblett getready to deliver Christmas presents to their “Adopted”family. Jada (8 yrs.), Sean (4 yrs.), and Eileen (2 yrs.).

(Below) Members of Lodge #41 celebrated Christmasfraternalism at The Fort Restaurant. The food wasgreat and the white elephant exchange. . . too fun.

Lodge #41 donated three First AidKits for police canines in Arvada.Cheryl and Rocco Santangelo getthanks from Det. Brian Daley andMatzo

CherylSantangelo

present a checkto Tony and

JosephineFedrizzi, for the

Anchor Centerfor BlindChildren.

“Just a littlelove.”

Lodge #3 Celebrates Christmas Together

Larry Higinbotham, Celie Montgomery, Mary JoKogovsek, Ben Montgomery, Albert & Irene Mismash,Del Kogovsek & Ann Shepard wait for dinner.

Ben and Celie join John Kogovsek, Juanita Blatnick, and Helen &George Plute ready to enjoy a nice dinner and a good time.

Lodge 41Silent Auction

Dinner & Dance

“What a fun, wonderful time every-one is having.” Lodge #41 Membersand guests get down on the dancefloor for a great time.

Something for everyone. The SilentAuction Gifts were fun. The only badthing was deciding which one to bidon.

SPRING 2008

Spotlight

16

WSA Juniors Hit the Slopes!

It was 70’s Day at Eldora. Alex andJordan try their luck at trivia with the

Boulder History Museum.

Let’s go! JordanKremer is readyto hit the skislopes.

Those finishingtouches. Mom’s

are alwaysgood to help

find a place toattach your lift

ticket.

The Sudbeck Family is ready to ski!

The Zadel Family are ready to ride thelift and come on down!

Alex Thorfinsonlooks fashionableand warm, readyto ski.

Big Sis’ helpslittle Sis’ with

her boots.

Cyndi helpsAlex with

those hard toget on boots.

Cyndi Kremer looks greatsoaking up the sunshine

on this beautiful day.

Once again the WSA Juniors pick the best day of theyear to go skiing. And this March 1st was that day.Our Junior members and their families hit the slopesup at Eldora for a fun day of skiing and boarding.

FRATERNAL VOICE 17

Dear WSA:Thank you for the gift of

money. I will buy a car.Wesley Kauppi

Dear WSA:Thank you for the pencils you

gave to our class.Sincerely,

Jose, Samantha, Luis, and Alex

Dear WSA:Thank you so very much for

the money at Christmas.Grandma Ann Mobilia’s ForestLodge #67 is truly a specialgroup.

Thanks,Jack & Virginia Nystrom

Dear WSA:You’re the greatest WSA!

Elizabeth, Morgan, Johnand Makayla

WSA Juniors

The Kanary family intently watches theNational Western Stock Show Rodeo.

Leah Zadel honored WSA by singing the National Anthem at this years

National Western Stock Show Rodeo.

Our Own Stock Show Star

Juniors Efforts are Appreciated

Last January our Juniors, theirfamilies and friends attended theNational Western Stock Show andRodeo.

In addition to the fun time, therewas another treat. Hearing our ownLeah Zadel sing the NationalAnthem at the rodeo. “Way to goLeah!”

SPRING 2008

Chairman John Kogovsek called the meeting of the Board to order. AllDirectors were present. Guests Honorary Director Mehelich, SeniorSystems Administrator Richard Perry, Vice-President of Operations TinaScribner, Controller Tammy Kanary and Asset Administrator Jack Hallwere also present.Reports were given by the following individuals:

• Controller Tammy Kanary • Senior Systems Administrator Richard Perry • President/CEO Randy Fuss • Asset Administrator Jack Hall• Vice President of Operations Tina Scribner• Board Junior Department Advisor Roger Lewis

The Board performed the following actions:• Approved the minutes of the meeting of the Board of Directors held July 14, 2007.• Approved the 2007 third Quarter Statement of WSA.• Approved the minutes of the Finance Committee and ratified the actions of the Finance Committee

since the prior Board meeting.• Approved the 2007 budget as amended. • Approved the 2008 budget as presented.• Approved, for the 2008 calendar year, that dividends on all non-1980 CSO life products shall be paid

using the current scale of 3.5% of statutory reserves as of 12/31/07, and shall be calculated on the net certificate reserve value. Dividends shall be suspended for post-1980 CSO products for the 2008 calendar year. The cash values of the affected certificates will continue to grow as per the contract guarantees.

• Approved the 2008 LAFP allocation per lodge based on a $15 per member per month allocation based onthe average attendance in 2007. (Additionally, subsidies for events shall not exceed $25/per member inany given month for any given lodge.)

• Approved the renewal of the LAIP for 2008, with a maximum budget of $6700 and with the qualifications and parameters as outlined in the lodge reference manual.

• Approved the creation of a scholarship budget allowing for $2000 per qualified applicant who meets thequalifications of a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average, 40 hours of community service during the applicant’s senior year, and a minimum of 4 years continuous membership with WSA.

• Approved the discontinuance of the Scholarship Banquet effective 2008.• Approved the 2008 allocation for the Junior Department.• Re-appointed Ernest R. Foerster as WSA’s illustration and valuation actuary for 2008 and reviewed and

approved his compensation for 2008.• Approved the continuation of the Lodge Secretary Retirement Compensation for 2008 for the

individual named in 1988 at the funding amount set in 1988.• Approved the continuation of the employee SEP plan.• Approved the list of authorized bond brokers.

No further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Copies of the minutes are available upon request from the Home Office.

18

Summary Of The Meeting OfThe Board December 8, 2007

•

Your Board Meets

Chairman John Kogovsek called the meeting of the Board to order. All Directors were present. Guests Honorary DirectorMehelich and Vice-President of Operations Tina Scribner were present.The Board performed the following actions:

• Approved the minutes of the meeting of the Board of Directors held December 8, 2007.• Approved the 2007 annual Statement of WSA.• Approved the minutes of the Finance Committee and ratified the actions of the

Finance Committee since the prior Board meeting.• Approved the illustration certifications.

No further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Copies of the minutes are available upon request from the Home Office.

FRATERNAL VOICE

. . . and Meets

ASSETS

BONDS $12,828,763MORTGAGE LOANS 20,532,336REAL ESTATE 2,075,420CERTIFICATE LOANS 286,310CASH & SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS 4,896,011OTHER INVESTED ASSETS 2,252,241DEFERRED PREMIUMS 721INVESTMENT INCOME DUE 409,040INCOME TAX RECOVERABLE 0FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT 2,556

Quarter Ending December 31, 2007

TOTAL NON-ADMITTED ASSETS $2,138,406TOTAL ASSETS $45,421,804

SURPLUS (ADMITTED $11,861,603)

TOTAL LIABILITIES & SURPLUS $45,421,804

TOTAL LIABILITIES $31,421,795

TOTAL SURPLUS $14,000,009

LIABILITIES

CERTIFICATE RESERVES $22,346,476AMOUNTS LEFT ON DEPOSIT 6,586,042CLAIM RESERVES 35,00012 MONTH REFUNDS ESTIMATED 100,000ADVANCE PREMIUMS 64,188INTEREST MAINT. RESERVES 88,634GENERAL EXPENSES PAYABLE 185,973TAXES, FEES, LICENSES PAYABLE 35,208TRUSTEE WITHHOLDINGS 293,441ASSET VALUATION RESERVE 1,686,833

19

TOTAL ADMITTED ASSETS $43,283,398

Summary Of The Meeting Of The Board March 8, 2008

•

SPRING 2008

RSVP to ROGER LEWIS at:970-663-0533

or RSVP on the web at: www.wsa-life.com20

This event counts toward your community

service points forfuture events

Please RSVPby April 12

Help us with Share Colorado, the non-profit food and community network to help people save on their grocery bills at the same

time they help their communities.

What We Do!You spend just two hours of your timesorting or sacking fruit and vegetables.Then, WSA donates the food packages

to a local charity.

EEvveenntt

When:Saturday April 19Where:9360

Federal Blvd.Time:

10:00 AM-

NOON

Share ColoradoNEW DATE!

Plan to

Help With This

Worthwhile Cause!!

21FRATERNAL VOICE

RSVP by May 10 to ROGER LEWIS at: 970-663-0533

or RSVP on the web at: www.wsa-life.com

The Living Sea!at the

IMAX Theater

PLUNGE INTO THE DEEP BLUE SEA TO AN UNDERWATERREALM OF MYSTERY AND MAGIC AT THE IMAX THEATER!

WHEN: Sat., May 17, 10:00 AM SHARP!WHERE: In front of the Building at

the IMAX Theater,2001 Colorado Boulevard

COST: $5 - Jr. MembersFREE -w/2 Community Service Events

$6 - Adult Members $9 - Non-WSA Members

Cost includes Admisssion to theImax Theater Presentation of The

Living Sea and the Museum ofNature and Science

SPRING 200822

2008 WSA Family Day at the Ball Park

Tickets areLimited...

MAIL YOURRESERVATION

FORM &PAYMENT

ASAP!Payment must be

received by June 14.Tickets will be mailed to you!

HURRY! Please fill out and return the following by June 14, 2008:Child’s Name Age Cost_________________________________ _____ _______________________________________ _____ _______________________________________ _____ _______________________________________ _____ ______Adult’s Name Cost_______________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ ______

Total Cost ______

MAIL this form & your check (payable to WSA) to: Roger Lewis, 2862 Kiowa Dr., Loveland, CO 80538Tickets to event will be mailed, please include your address:Name__________________________________________Address_______________________________________City____________________State_______Zip_________

H

WHEN:Sunday, June 22nd

GAME TIME: 1:05 PMCOST: $20 - Jr. Members

FREE -w/2 Community Service Events$30 - Adult Members

$46 - Non-WSA MembersCost incl: game ticket & lunch voucher

Reservation Deadline:Saturday, June 14th

Your Colorado Rockies

vs.New York Mets

NEWDATE

23FFRRAATTEERRNNAALL VVOOIICCEE

April7 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #7 will meet*8 5:30 PM Pueblo Lodges #3 & #16 will hold a joint meeting at the S.R.D.A.*9 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #41 will meet*

15 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #6 will meet*16 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #1 will meet*17 5:30 PM Loveland Lodge #17 will hold a meeting*19 10:00 AM WSA Tomorrow Members. Share Colorado Community Service Event20 5:30 PM Minnesota Lodge #67, and Chicago Lodge #33 will meet*.

May5 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #7 will meet

13 5:30 PM Pueblo Lodges #3 & #16 will hold a joint meeting at the S.R.D.A.*14 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #41 will meet*15 5:30 PM Loveland Lodge #17 will hold a meeting*17 ?:00 AM WSA Tomorrow Members. Imax Theater - The Living Sea.18 5:30 PM Minnesota Lodge #67, and Chicago Lodge #33 will meet*20 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #6 will meet*21 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #1 will meet*26 6:30 PM HOME OFFICE CLOSED. Memorial Day.

June2 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #7 will meet*

10 5:30 PM Pueblo Lodges #3 & #16 will hold a joint meeting at the S.R.D.A.*11 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #41 will meet*15 5:30 PM Minnesota Lodge #67, and Chicago Lodge #33 will meet*17 6:30 PM Denver Lodge #6 will meet*18 5:30 PM Denver Lodge #1 will meet*19 5:30 PM Loveland Lodge #17 will hold a meeting*22 1:05 PM WSA Tomorrow Members. WSA Family Day at the Colorado Rockies.- NEW DATE!27 6:05 PM Scholarship Application Deadline.30 6:05 PM Continuing Education Application Deadline.

*These meetings are tentative. Please call the Home Office for correct place and time.

Contact the Home Office at:(303) 451-1494 or 1-800-451-7528

for more details on any of these eventsAnd check out our web site at: www.wsa-life.com

FRATERNAL VOICE

Check out our own web site at: www.wsa-life.com, or e-mail us at: [email protected]

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Meeting Denver : Lodge #41

Meetings Pueblo:Lodges 3 & 16






Meetings Pueblo:Lodges 3 & 16


Meeting Pueblo:Lodges #3 & #16

Meetings Ely, Minn: Lodge #67Chicago: Lodge #33


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Meeting Ely, Minn.: Lodge #67Chicago: Lodge #33

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FIRST DAY OFSUMMER

D-DAY,NORMANDY1944

FLAG DAY

FATHER’SDAY

CONTINIUINGEDUCATIONAPPLICATIONDEADLINE

ST. JEAN-BAPTISTE DAY

SCHOLARSHIPAPPLICATION

DEADLINE

NATIONAL DAYOF PRAYER

MOTHER’S DAY

V-E DAY, 1945

RED CROSS,1881

MEMORIAL DAY

ARMEDFORCES DAYASCENSION

ALLFOOLS’ DAY

THOMASJEFFERSONBIRTHDAY,1743

EARTH DAY ARBOR DAYPASSOVER

1

SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

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Please see page 23 for more details about events & meetings.

4

May

June


Happenings!

Loveland: Lodge #17

Meeting Loveland : Lodge #17

Meeting Loveland : Lodge #17

Meeting Ely, Minn.: Lodge #67Chicago: Lodge #33

19TomorrowMembers:ShareColorado

TomorrowMembers:IMAXTheater

NEW DATE!TomorrowMembers:COLORADOROCKIES GAME

3

we celebrate our heritage on our 100th anniversaryvol. 68 no. 2 spring 2008 we celebrate our...

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