January 17, 2022
Spotlight On Our Members
Whether it’s honoring our veterans, baking goodies, performing for a cause, or celebrating the holidays, our members love to give back to their communities.
Here’s a snapshot of what some of our members did throughout the end of 2021!
Pictured: BetterLife members present their Matching Funds check to Kurt. Left to right: Doug Hauk, Michelle Reedy, Kurt Flesner, Karla Kroetch, Shar Moses, Harlan Moos, and Linda Kroetch.
Youth Honoring Veterans
On September 5, 2021, Alex Ellingson, BetterLife Lodge 85 member in Protivin, IA, completed an Eagle Project for his local American Legion. With the help of his family and a donation from his lodge, Alex paid tribute to 23 deceased Veterans at the Memorial Flag Honors Ceremony at Ossian Community Center in Ossian, IA. At the ceremony, he folded flags and presented them to Veterans’ families.
Thank you, Alex, for volunteering and serving as a role model for other young people in the community!
Pictured: Alex Ellingson with flags before the presentation.
Baking Up a Storm
Members of Lodge 357 baked up a storm for a church Christmas craft fair on November 19 and 20, 2021. They made a plethora of delicious Czech pastries, including Kolaches, coffins, and doughnuts. Pastry sales at the craft fair raised money for Sokol Milwaukee, which provides individuals and families in their community with cultural, physical, educational, and social programs.
Pictured: BetterLife bakers include Stephanie Christenson (left back), Katie Janette (right back), and MaryAnn Lorence (front).
Concerts for Causes
Bethlehem Brass is a band from the suburbs of Chicago, IL that holds concerts to raise money for those in need in their community. Over the years, several BetterLife Branch 145 members have played in and continue to perform in the band!
On November 28, 2021, Bethlehem Brass and Branch 145 partnered to hold a benefit for a local man, Steve Heronemus. Unfortunately, Steve is battling ALS and cancer, so funds raised at the event (including a BetterLife Matching Funds grant) will help pay for medical costs. Bethlehem Brass and Branch 145 also held a fundraiser on December 11, 2021, supporting our local bell ringing efforts for The Salvation Army.
Ringing in Holiday Cheer
On December 4, 2021, Lodge 38 members in Austin, MN, spread cheer and raised money for The Salvation Army. They collected so much money during their shifts that they had to empty the kettle before they finished for the day!
Pictured: Some of the BetterLife bell ringers, Mary Haggerty, Dorothy Denisen, and Jerry Denisen, spreading joy while raising funds for The Salvation Army.
Matching Funds for Kurt’s Battle
Branch 185 in Philip, ND, worked with Piroutek Auction Services to organize a fundraiser for a local man, Kurt Flesner, who is battling a brain tumor. The event was held on October 17, 2021 and included a silent auction, bingo, food, and more to help raise money for Kurt’s chemotherapy, radiation, and other medical bills.
See photo at top of blog post.
Lunch With Santa
On December 4, 2021, Santa visited Branch 27 in Antigo, WI. BetterLife members and the community gathered for lunch with Santa. After lunch, they baked homemade cookies, sat on Santa’s lap to give him their Christmas wish lists, and received early Christmas presents. It was a wonderful start to the holiday season.
Pictured: Members Stephanie, Richard, and Lucy Olmsted visiting Santa.
Want to see your event in future publications of the magazine, The Better Buzz, or on social media? Submit your photos and event information to our Member Engagement team at memberengagement@betterlifeins.com.
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