BEACON
Newsletter for Our Wisconsin Members
A Day Filled with Energy, Connection, and Inspiration
BetterLife's recent Great Lakes Regional Gathering in Cadott, WI, was a huge success! Members, member leaders, and guests showed incredible engagement throughout the event. There was a variety of speakers, including two of our National Board Directors, Daniel Biank and Russell Denk. We were also honored to welcome special guests Megan Moucha, who was crowned Miss Czech Slovak Wisconsin State Queen 2024-25, and Princess Ashlee.
The dance floor was busy all evening with the sounds of the Home Grown Tomatoes Band. The ZCBJ Bohemian Hall was impressive, boasting a rich history and stunning beauty. The food was excellent, and the kolaches, lovingly made by Cadott Member Group President Dana Carlson, were a special treat. Enjoy a few of the photos taken from the event.
A Community Wide Walk to Help Find a Cure
Wausau, WI
On a beautiful Saturday in early October, BetterLife Members – Wausau, WI, held their annual community fundraising walk to support T1D (type 1 diabetes). This year's walk was a big success, raising over $70,000 for T1D research and education. The emotional impact was even greater, bringing together families, advocates, and passionate individuals working toward one goal: finding a cure.
From the event's start, there was a spirit of joy and unity. Attendees − whether newly diagnosed or long-time supporters − shared stories, laughter, and encouragement.
One of the most touching moments came from Colleen Boling, whose heartfelt dedication continues to inspire. Her daughter, Teagan, is deeply committed to building meaningful relationships with people who have been diagnosed with T1D. Her advocacy is already making waves, and her future is bright.
Cooking Up Booyah Fun
Denmark, WI
BetterLife Members - Denmark, WI, rose early on September 14 and cooked up their annual batch of Booyah. In case you've never heard of it, Booyah is a meat-and-vegetable soup, typically prepared in a large pot or vat and simmered over an open fire. The group met at Rooster's Coop to savor a warm bowl of soup, and enjoy hot dogs and beverages. Everyone had a wonderful time!
A Toe-Tapping Good Time Was Had by All
Black River Falls, WI
On October 5, BetterLife Members – Black River Falls, WI (Lodge Ratolest 196), hosted a fun community polka dance at their Bohemian Hall. Old Time Sounds provided the tunes for attendees, including residents from Meadowbrook at Black River Falls, to enjoy. The highlight of the night was when everyone sang along as the band played "Happy Birthday" to celebrate one resident's upcoming 98th birthday. While there were more toe tappers than dancers this year, it was clear everyone enjoyed themselves.
Upcoming Events Around Wisconsin
Events, dates, and times are subject to change. For the latest information and details about the events below, and more activities for you to join, go to:
betterlifeins.com/events or call the Member Engagement at (800) 779-1936 option 7
10/25/25 Kewaunee, WI and Pilsen, WI
10/31/25 Shiocton, WI
Easy Butternut Squash Soup
11/25/25 Denmark, WI Thanksgiving Cupcakes 10 - 10:30 AM Scandinavian Court Assisted Living Denmark, WI Fall is the perfect time to use your stock pot to cook this delicious and comforting butternut squash soup recipe!
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
½ tsp salt
Directions:
Healthy Recipe Ideas.
Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, salt, and fresh black pepper. Sauté until soft. Add squash and cook until it begins to soften. Stir in garlic, sage, rosemary, and ginger; cook until fragrant. Add 3 cups vegetable broth and bring to boil. Cover and reduce heat to simmer. Cook until squash is tender. Let cool slightly. Pour into blender and blend until smooth, adding more broth if too thick. Season and serve with parsley, pepitas (pumpkin seeds), and crusty bread. *Source: loveandlemons.com/butternut-squash-soup
1 (3 lb) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped
½ Tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
3-4 cups vegetable broth
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
BetterLife’s Fixed Annuities can provide:
✓ Financial Security
✓ Competitive Interest Rates
✓ 401K Rollover Options
Take the next step toward a more secure future. Contact an agent at: (800) 779-1936, Opt. 6, or agenthelp@betterlifeins.com
To find out more about our annuity options, visit: betterlifeins.com/annuities
This Is Goodbye for Now
Jake Manne, Sr. Director of Member Engagement jmanne@betterlifeins.com
For those of you I haven't met yet, my name is Jake, and I am the Senior Director of Member Engagement at BetterLife. Over the past seven months, I have had the opportunity to meet members across the state, and I have been blown away by the incredible work your groups are doing in your communities. It's amazing what a group of like-minded, mission-driven individuals can accomplish!
For the past year, the Beacon has been a great way to share those stories with you. Hopefully, you learned about the work your fellow BetterLife member groups were doing across the state. With that being said, this is going to be the last issue of the Beacon. As we pause our pilot of the Beacon, we would greatly appreciate hearing from you about what you liked and any suggestions for improvement. If you have any feedback or questions, send me a note at jmanne@betterlifeins.com.
Keep up the incredible work you do!
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