Catholic Aid Journey Official Publication of the Catholic Aid Association
March/April 2009 Vol. 114 Issue 2
2008
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Annual Report- 7 Don’t get caught out in the rain - 12
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Recession Buster: Member Businesses - 15
From the President
Volunteerism is an obligation of our shared faith. During times like these, it’s more important than ever. Is the news really as bad as it seems? Is the economy destroying the fabric of our society? Should we all be hunkering down for the long and cold winter of an economic depression? Whether you believe we are in the beginnings, middle or just facing the bleak future of a society that gambled its future on financial success one thing is clear: Things are going to be different. A few weeks back I attended a conferene on volunteerism in America entitled “Neighbors Helping Neighbors: A Summit on Volunteerism.” The message from the outset was one of gloom and doom. The opening speaker stated that unemployment would soon reach 10 percent. That we have to do
more with less, and that there will certainly be more who need our help. It was said that America is the world leader in giving money by 50 percent. That made sense, we are the richest country in the world so it follows that we should be the most generous. But will that continue to be the case? So is the almighty dollar the answer to all our sorrow? Of course we know there are more powerful means to recovery than cash. Its been said that the key to business should not be greed. To go against the 80’s mantra, greed is not good. It’s not a plan, or a solution. The true answer to what a business’s goal should be is the “common good.” Besides the opening speaker though, the message of the event was one of hope and optimism. The takeaway from each speaker was the same: more people are volunteering today than ever before, and giving is up. In fact I just heard on the news that the unemployed were giving more of their time to volunteer than any time in modern history. America is a country of values based on our heritage and faiths; helping others is in our blood. Several leaders of major charities spoke and reiterated the same points, they were offering great programs, and many people were answering the call. But they never addressed one point: Why volunteer? Finally, Father Larry Snyder came to the podium and eloquently On the Cover
On the Cover Catholic Aid Association President/Chairman Michael F. McGovern, Northfield Senior Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer Harald Dennis Borrmann, L. Olson, Vadnais St. PaulHeights Lead Director Frances M. Barten, Union Hill Board of Directors Bernard B. Bastian, North Mankato; George Gmach, Rogers; Joseph F. Kueppers, Mendota Heights; John W. Maile, Cold Spring; Deborah M. Pauly, Jordan; Gary E. Polaczyk, Woodbury Magazine Staff Publication No. 093500/Official Publication of the Catholic Aid Association
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Publisher Michael F. McGovern Editor Jared Roddy Marketing Director ofManager Marketing Steve Steve Wendorf Wendorf
Staff Susan Detlefsen, Rebecca Redlin
Office of Publication: Catholic Aid Association, 3499 Lexington Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55126-8098; 651490-0170 or 1-800-568-6670. Postmaster: Send change of address notice to above. Periodicals postage paid at St. Paul, MN. Subscription price is 50 cents a year. Published bimonthly.
March/April 2009
Photo: Bob Pearle
Baking Easter cookies: Mary, Grace, Photo: Kelsey SmithJim, Sally and Michael Ennis, John Nelson of Yankton, members of the St. Peter S.D., and his aunt, Elsie, & Clemens Council in St. organized a holiday food Paul, Minn., take a break drive for a food shelf in in their kitchen in November (see page 6). Roseville, Minn. www.catholicaid.org
“...we are the richest country in the world, so it follows that we should also be the most generous. But will that continue to be the case?” Michael F. McGovern addressed the “why” of volunteerism. He is president of Catholic Charities USA, the former director of Minnesota’s Catholic Charities, and a great friend to many in the Midwest. I felt a sense of pride as I listened to him link the common good theme to our faith. As he laid it out, the foundation of volunteerism is the face-to-face contact with the human situation. He reminded us that our faith gives us a mandate through the parable of the Good Samaritan. Not just the giving of money, but the actual cleaning and clothing of the sick, downtrodden, dying and living. You have to be personally involved, not from afar but face to face. Cardinal Egan of New York also spoke of helping our fellow human beings. Referring to the old testament of Isaiah, God commands us to “clothe the poor”, not only with garments, but with kindness, caring and love. I tried to think of a way to paraphrase all the things I had heard for this column, when the Bishop William Lori of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Con., took the stage and said, “It should not be a surprise that Faith works wonders.” What a wonderful message for the world.
Contents Contents
I don’t intend to switch gears suddenly, but it was brought to my attention that a Catholic Aid institution has come to an end. Our recipe expert, Betty Krenner, has decided to retire from her column. I had to ask around to find out the exact amount of time she’s been writing for us, since she was well established by the time I came along 13 years ago. I’m told it was actually 1982 that she first began writing recipes for Catholic Aid members. In that time, I know from all my council visits and comments from many members that Betty has made a big impact in kitchens all across the Upper Midwest. I also know from our member survey that the recipe column is the most widely read, even more so, if you can believe it, than my own. So on behalf of all the members of Catholic Aid, I’d like to thank you Betty. (She’s a member, so I’m sure she’s reading this magazine and of course, this column first.) In my own house and in homes across Catholic Aid, our taste buds will miss you. May the Lord bless you in every way.
Features
Sections
CAA Annual Time To Get 7 4 12 Seminarian Study up! 12- Under Cover 4-5 WhyReport insuring thethe college studentdid Find out how Association Too many Americans rely solely Yearbook in your lifeamakes during year wesense won’t forget. 13 onMeetemployer-sponsored life the 90 seminarians who insurance — in a bad economy received grants from the Msgr. it’s a bad idea. Schuler Charitable Trust.
615 14 A Place to Belong
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news@catholicaid.org
CAA Foundation Annual Report
How giving was affected in 2008.
Member stories, CAA tidbits and news headlines.
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Recession Buster
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Company Business
Members Leopold and Jennifer Maas.
One CAA family is using the web to help those with disabilities find accessable churches and schools.
Scrapbook
CA Journey shines the spotlight on two member-owned businesses.
Wellness, Recipes, Sales Awards, Board Minutes, Memorials & more.
March/April 2009
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Scrapbook
Attention Prospective Board Members! Think you’ve got what it takes to help steer a membership organization with more than half a billion dollars in assets? The Catholic Aid Association Board is comprised of nine members who work throughout the year to help prepare CAA to meet any challenge. The president and two board positions will be up for re-election at this year’s Annual Convention in August. If you would like to run, you must submit to the President, in writing, your intention to do so. Letters announcing your intention to run must be received no later than June 1, 2009.
Parkston, South Dakota: Fraternal Secretary Phyllis Stadlman and Christine Newton of the Holy Cross/St. Mary council said the Youth Allotment skating party in Mitchell, S.D., was a huge hit. The 43 skaters were fed a steady diet of cookies and pop and look like they had a great time.
Member Spotlight: Names: Mary Jane La Plant & Eileen Hoy Hometown: Jordan, Minn. Council: St. John the Baptist Achievement: La Plant (in green) and Hoy
were both presented with Community Service Awards by the St. John the Baptist Council.
St. John the Baptist Fraternal Secretary Judy Pint said: “We give Mary Jane and Eileen the award for everything they do for the parish and community. You know with them, if there’s a job to do, then they’re ready and willing to do it.” How much money has CAA given to your diocese? Find out @ www.catholicaid.org/links/giving
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March/April 2009
www.catholicaid.org
How to Contact your Field Representative: Look on the back cover of this magazine. Your Field Representative’s name and contact information should be below your name. Otherwise, visit www.catholicaidrep.com, or call 1-800-568-6670.
Searles, Minn.
Did You Know?
Chips (and sugar, and sprinkles, and coconut...) Ahoy! St. John the Baptist Council in Searles, Minn., didn’t get the memo about cutting back on the sweets! The council puts on its annual Christmas Cookie drive every year, and pumped out more than 500 dozen last December — more than 6,000 cookies! Each one is baked and hand decorated by the Searles council members, then delivered to families in the community. The CA Journey staff would like to remind all CAA councils that we too love cookies.
Cool Treats: St. Ambrose Fraternal Secretary April Schreiber and Lonnie Schreiber with Treasurer Barb Tallier (in antlers) await the crowd at the Wabeno, Wisc., Winterfest. The money they raised went to help St. Ambrose youth programs.
Turn to page 23 for a list of local CAA events
Contact the Fraternal Department at 651-490-0170 to have your event listed in an upcoming issue of CA Journey news@catholicaid.org
JOIN HANDS DAY is fast approaching Register today! JOIN HANDS DAY is coming May 2, 2009. Catholic Aid is a proud participant in the annual event, which seeks to bring together multiple generations to improve communities. Just about any service project can qualify for a JOIN HANDS DAY project, the only qualification is that it brings together citizens both old and young like the event pictured above. Rose Schaefer of the St. Louis Council in Paynesville, Minn., hands out bags of goodies to young parishioners, and young member Mitchel Bertram gladly accepts. A JOIN HANDS DAY project is necessary for a council to reach a platinum star status.
March/April 2009
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2008 Fraternal Year in Review Kathleen Moriarty, Fraternal Director I’m proud to report that in 2008, Catholic Aid continued its 130 year tradition of fraternalism. We provided funds to assist Catholic families, parishes and schools; encouraged volunteerism, and created opportunities for spiritual growth. On this page, you’ll see how our fraternal dollars were spent this year. This total is a small part of our whole fraternal picture. One of our major functions is simply to prime the pump and let the fraternalism flow. For example, we gave matching funds of about $219,000 last year. That’s only a small part of the picture. That money is only a partial “match” of what we raise with our councils. So, when combined with the $851,868 raised by our councils, the total impact was $1,070,868. Here are some other highlights and accomplishments of Catholic Aid in 2008:
• We have 159 active councils and
252 parish units doing fraternal work in the Upper Midwest. In 2008, 13,360 members donated time to fraternal events. This doesn’t even include council meetings or fraternal education sessions. And those members spent more than 55,000 hours contributing to their causes. • Once again in 2008, we awarded a record number of post high school scholarships to 435 Catholic Aid members who continued their education at community colleges, universities, business and vocation schools throughout the Upper Midwest. $143,700 was awarded to students in their first or second year of post-secondary education, $117,000 of which has already been paid. One of our goals in
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March/April 2009
2009 is to improve our ongoing contact with our scholarship recipients; they are our future Church and community leaders and we want to be sure they understand and value the many benefits of Catholic Aid membership (see Young Adult sidebar on page 20). • A significant amount of money ($233,578) was allotted to the 159 active Catholic Aid councils and their fraternal secretaries. These funds are based on adult and youth membership and to our fraternal secretaries in recognition of their administrative support of the fraternal programs. This is the fuel that keeps councils active and contributing in their parishes and communities and is a significant part of the fraternal budget. No one would dispute that the fraternal funds going to our councils and individual members are essential to the continued work of Catholic Aid. However, we are also committed to supporting our members in their spiritual growth and volunteerism. And we have listened to our council officers emphasize the importance of planning for the future and reaching out effectively to young adults. Fraternalism is alive and well in our local councils, parishes and with our dedicated Home Office and sales employees in our regional territories. We are most grateful to members of the association who are the heart and hands of Catholic Aid when help is needed by our members and communities. This is why we were formed; the fraternal spirit is why we will continue to prosper and grow into the future.
Fraternal Dollars: $883,009 given in 2008
Matched Funds - $219,390 Council Allowances - $233,578
Donations & Gifts - $180,659 Scholarships - $117,000 Education & Events - $50,850 Ministree - $50,195 Youth Programs - $19,061 Misc. Fees & Expenses - $12,276
www.catholicaid.org
on Dear Members and Friends of the Catholic Aid Association: As in most years, we look back with pride on the multiple accomplishments of our Association in 2008, yet we also must reflect on the difficult economic times facing all Americans. None of us function in a vacuum, and we and our members are certainly affected by the recent downward spiral in the investment world. How your Association has prepared for, and responded to, this situation is what we want to share with you. We hope this letter will both reassure you about the financial strength and stability of the Catholic Aid Association and your investments, and also provide perspective about Catholic Aid’s ongoing strategies for growth and stability. Though this section discusses only our finances, our fraternalism most differentiates Catholic Aid from our commercial competitors. On the facing page, you will find a summary of the many positive activities of our fraternal programs this past year. We encourage you to look it over, to see the extent that we and our members are committed to our core mission and vision.
FINANCIAL REPORT The 2008 Balance Sheet and Statement of Operations of the Catholic Aid Association are printed in this report for your review. You may also examine the complete Annual Statement in our home office in Saint Paul, Minnesota, if you wish. It would be practically impossible to find CAA members who have not seen their investment portfolios negatively affected by the unprecedented financial turmoil of 2008, and continuing today. Thus, we take great pride in stating once again that no Catholic Aid members have ever lost money on their investments with us in our 131 years of existence. At Catholic Aid, we take the responsibility of investing your monies very seriously. We know that preservation of your capital, invested for reasonable returns, must dictate our actions. While it’s true that CAA’s investments were somewhat affected by the financial market turmoil, it is to a far lesser degree Continued on next page.
news@catholicaid.org
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Paul and Paula Rabaey of Hastings, Minn., and their children: (from left) Isaac, Joseph, Samuel (the youngest), Dominique, and Jacob.
than most other financial services companies. Let’s look at the numbers. Assets increased to an all-time high of $581.8 million at the end of 2008, an increase of $22.9 million, or 4%. Similarly, our Life Insurance in Force and Annuities in Force increased to $1.87 billion and $314.8 million, respectively. Both are all-time highs. Our capital and surplus, however, declined from $30.2 million (which had been our highest ever) to $24.6 million, somewhat higher than our 2005 surplus level. Last year’s report to our members remarked that “… surplus growth means that the Association has a cushion in case unforeseen contingencies arise…” Undeniably, the financial stress of 2008 has been just such a contingency. Our surplus did its job in 2008. It is important to note some specific facts: • Our life and annuity insurance operation produced solid net income of $1.3 million. • The reduction in our surplus was essentially attributable to two charges, one in connection with our employees’ pensions and one in connection with a securities lending transaction. Both are related to market volatility. • The pension-related charge is required in order to make sure our employees’ pensions are properly protected. As the equity markets resume a more orderly and profitable operation, we are confident that this investment in our
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March/April 2009
employees’ financial security will pay future dividends and ultimately work to our members’ benefit. • The securities lending charge is a one-time charge, and one that we expect to reduce in 2009. We do not expect to take any further charges in connection with this transaction. • While one should never simply accept a loss of surplus, we nonetheless expect that many commercial as well as fraternal companies will show a greater loss, as a percentage of surplus, than did CAA. • CAA’s assets are invested very conservatively, primarily in bonds. Nearly 80 percent of your assets are in bonds, many of which are guaranteed by the U.S. government. We have never invested any material amounts in the stock market. We never will. • Our mortgage loan portfolio has always been underwritten cautiously and is of excellent quality. We have never considered any “sub-prime” loans, and never will. The bottom line is that while many companies were scrambling in an attempt to do things differently, your Association was doing business “the right way” all along. For us, and therefore for you, it is business as usual. CAA continues to be an excellent choice as your financial partner. No summary of a year’s
Assets:
$581,787,850 79% Bonds 11% Mortgage Loans 6% Cash/Short-term investments 1% Mutual Funds 1% Policy Loans 1% Investment Income Due/Accrued 1% Other Assets
Assets
Liabilities & Surplus
Liabilities & Surplus:
$581,787,850 90% Reserves 4% Surplus 4% Supplementary Contracts 1% Investment Reserves 1% Other Liabilities www.catholicaid.org
2.0
$ Billions of Life Insurance In Force
350
$ Millions of Annuities in Force
300 1.5
$274.5
$286.4
$296.1
$314.8
150
$260.7
200
$236.9
$1.87
$1.85
$1.84
$1.79
$1.75
$1.68
1.0
250
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
100
0.5
50 0.0
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
0 35
$ Millions in Assets
$ Millions in Surplus
$236. 9
600
2003
30
500
25
400
Despite the announcement last December by the Federal Reserve that the U.S. was in a recession— and had been for 12 months — Catholic Aid remains strongly positioned to thrive during this downturn. People know that when thunderclouds appear on the horizon, it’s best to get somewhere safe. That’s what Catholic Aid is. Thank you for being a part of our great society.
20
$24.1
$28.4
$30.2
$24.6
10
$22.0
15
$21.9
$581.8
$558.9
$538.9
0
$516.5
100
$494.3
200
$458.2
300
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
5
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
accomplishments would be complete without our heartfelt thanks to our members and council officers, Board of Directors and employees for your unfailing support for the values and vision of our Association. Our members are the lifeblood of this organization; for that reason, we want to close by asking all current members to encourage your Catholic friends, relatives, co-workers and neighbors to become part of the Catholic Aid Association. Membership growth is critical. In recent years, our numbers have remained constant and that’s not the result we want. We must continue to attract new people, both to expand our revenue base and, more importantly, to ensure the viability of our local council systems and our presence as leaders in the volunteer communities where we are located. Please help us spread news@catholicaid.org
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the word about the many benefits of membership in Catholic Aid. A growing association is a vibrant one, and that’s the goal of all of us who care about our admirable past and hopeful future of the Catholic Aid Association.
CATHOLIC AID ASSOCIATION STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND BALANCE SHEET 2008 2007 TOTAL INCOME $66,922,144 $62,012,299 Total Claims & expenses $63,741,979 $59,225,853 Net Gain from operations $3,180,165 $2,786,446 Refunds to Members $437,574 $438,152 Net Gain After Refund to members $2,742,591 $2,348,294 Net Realized Capital Gains or (Losses) ($1,422,564) $155,486 NET INCOME $1,320,027 $2,503,780 BALANCE SHEET Total admitted assets $581,787,850 $558,897,625 Total Liabilities $557,154,393 $528,732,134 Surplus $24,633,457 $30,165,491 Total liabilities and surplus $581,787,850 $558,897,625
CA A Foundation
“To support financially the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Catholic community where Catholic Aid Association has a presence.”
The Catholic Aid Association Foundation’s mission is “To support financially the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Catholic community where Catholic Aid Association (CAA) has a presence.” We accomplish our mission by supporting, promoting, and complementing the work of CAA. As a trusted resource and partner of Catholic Aid Association, we help individuals take advantage of the tax savings available through charitable giving while, more importantly, supporting the causes and charities they choose. The Foundation offers donors a variety of funds to accommodate their diverse interests and concerns through our Priority Funds. These funds are focused on
Giving Since 1997 Priority Funds
three priority areas of giving: providing funds for technology in Catholic schools and parishes; promoting chastity and abstinence programs for young Catholics; and continuing to procure and distribute aid for victims of natural disasters. Through these initiatives, the Catholic Aid Association Foundation strives to financially support the spiritual, educational, and social needs of Catholic communities throughout the Upper Midwest. This past year our CAA members suffered significant losses due to several storms across the southern Minnesota area resulting in over $38,000 in Disaster Relief grants. We continue to receive a record number of applications from Catholic schools and churches for Tech-
nology and Chastity grants. The demand exceeds the amount of financial resources available. In closing, we hope that you are inspired by the generosity of our members and the impact the Foundation has on the lives and organizations we touch with our financial support to consider contributing to the Foundation. With the support of our members, donors, and Fraternal Councils, we will build a Foundation for a stronger, more vibrant Church. May God Bless You Paul Naumann Executive Director
Chastity and Abstinence Grants
$22,520
$347,595
Disaster Relief Grants Technology Grants
$198,550
$126,525
$38,550
$40,000 $35,000 $30,000 $25,000
$18,140
$20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000
2008 Giving Priority Funds 104
March/April2009 2009 March/April
$60,490
$3,800 Chastity & Technology Abstinence Grants Grants
Disaster Relief Grants
www.catholicaid.org
Income Statement
Balance Sheet
Statement of Activity and Change in Net Assets for the Fiscal Year Ending Dec. 31, 2008 (unaudited) 2008 2007 Revenues & Gains Contributions $233,698 $518,462 Less CAA Contributed Services Revenue ($132,437) ($148,245) Net Contributions $101,260 $370,217
Statement of Financial Position, Dec. 31, 2008 (unaudited) Assets 2008 Cash & Short Term Investments $512,370 Life Insurance Contracts $1,224,900 Immediate Annuities $295,502 Deferred Annuities $942,126 Total Assets $2,974,899
Other Revenues Special Event Revenue Investment Income Realized Gain (Loss) Unrealized Gain (Loss) Change in Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Change in Value of Split Interest Agreements
$37,800 $21,068 ($17,649) ($68,692)
$35,556 $59,913 -($15,284)
$7,713
($6,568)
$0.00
($23,579)
Total Revenues and Gains $81,500
$420,256
Expenses Programs $114,573 $172,234 Administrative $71,035 $80,808 Fund Raising $17,855 $14,508 Less: CAA Contributed Services ($132,437) ($148,245) Net Direct Operating Expenses $71,026 $119,305 Other Expenses Costs of Direct Benefits to Donors - Special Event $8,683 Premiums on Life Insurance Contracts $12,439
$9,827
Total Expenses
$92,149
$143,760
Change in Net Assets
($10,651)
$276,495
Liabilities Gift Annuities Payable Amounts Held for Benefit of Others Miscellaneous Payable Total Liabilities
$289,701
2007 $771,229 $1,149,832 $365,013 $331,826 $2,617,901
$357,894
$1,544,642 $1,109,293 $385 ($104) $1,834,728 $1,467,083
Net Assets Unrestricted $432,546 Temporarily Restricted $289,779 Permanently Restricted $417,849 Total Net Assets $1,140,170
$478,437 $236,269 $436,117 $1,150,818
Total Liabilities & Net Assets
$2,617,901
$2,974,899
Save the Date!
CAA Foundation Golf Tournament May 18, 2009
$14,628
River Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove, Minn. Call 1-877-275-7145 for more details.
Net Assets - Jan. 1 $1,150,820 $874,322 Net Assets - Dec. 31 $1,140,169 $1,150,817
2008 news@catholicaid.org
Annual Report 11 5
March/April 20092009 March/April
(COVER)
Get There is
Relying exclusively on group life insurance can leave you out in the rain. It’s time to get under cover.
a disturbing trend in American households, one that if left unchecked could do to a family’s finances what a death does to its emotions. Analyzing statistics from the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association (LIMRA) and the United States Bureau of Labor and Statistics, it’s clear the convergence of two trends — people relying solely on employerprovided group insurance; and exploding joblessness — could leave millions of Americans completely uninsured in the wake of more bad economic news. The first sign of danger, according to LIMRA’s Trends in Life Insurance Ownership Among U.S. Individuals, is that 37 percent of individuals in America rely exclusively on group coverage: “Today, insured adults are more likely to own only group life insurance obtained through the workplace. Adults with only group coverage carry the lowest amounts of life insurance.” (Emphasis LIMRA.)
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March/April 2009
This trend coincides with a 40-year decline in life insurance ownership in U.S. households. The end result is too little coverage — a reality illustrated by the fact that nearly half of all households say they don’t have enough life insurance coverage. “Employer-sponsored group insurance is a great benefit,” Director of Sales Tom Schisler says, “but it really should be part of an insurance program, not the sole source of protection.” Aside from being near the bottom in terms of coverage (only individuals with no insurance have less) people with only group policies have other problems. Foremost is the fact that if you lose your job for any reason, you lose the policy. This results in a complete loss of coverage at the time you can least afford it. Another is the steep price. Schisler says even if the policy is convertible to an individual policy, the conversion can be much more expensive than equivalent term www.catholicaid.org
“
Without breaking the bank, you can have the coverage you need for your family, without depending on factors outside your control.
coverage. Unfortunately, if you’re unhealthy, converting may be your only way of staying insured. “Once you’re no longer part of the group,” Schisler explains, “you no longer get whatever discount that group enjoys. You also lose the benefit of having your employer pay the premium. Most people often just can’t afford them.” The news that many people rely only on what insurance their employers offer and the limitations of that coverage comes to light just as joblessness is spreading across the country faster than any time since 1982. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, between February 2008 and February 2009, unemployment rose 68 percent, from 4.8 percent to 8.1 percent – an increase of 5 million people out of work. But despite the grim economy and the relatively poor state of insurance coverage across the country, there are a number of things you can do to prepare and protect. Advanced Case Specialist John Tetzloff says with a couple easy steps, you can ensure that even if you do lose your job, you won’t lose any sleep over your insurance coverage. First, decide what level of coverage is necessary to protect your news@catholicaid.org
family should die. LIMRA the average in the U.S. insurance household 3.6 years. “You’ve got someone to number works says. “3.6 years might be right remember households incomes now. on what you does
a breadwinner research says household carries enough to replace income for
to work with figure out what for you,” Tetzloff of total income for you, but that most have two So depending or your spouse and whether you have kids or debts, you may need significantly more.” Then figure out the most cost-effective method of reaching that coverage. Catholic Aid offers Whole Life, Universal Life and Term Life coverage to get you there. “A modest Universal Policy, combined with your group coverage from work and an affordable Term Policy can add up pretty quickly,” Tetzloff says. “Without breaking the bank, you can have the coverage you need for your family without depending on
”
factors outside your control.” There are more benefits to owning individual insurance. For personal Term insurance, vast amounts of coverage are available at very reasonable prices, especially if you start young and while you’re healthy. And if you do lose your job, Universal Life premiums can be adjusted while you try to save money. Whole and Universal Life policies also allow you to borrow against the cash value of the policy if times get especially tough. Most importantly, they’re with you for life. It doesn’t matter who you work for or how old you are, once you own one of these policies, you’re covered and your family is protected. LIMRA’s research says the three reasons people avoid purchasing life insurance are fear of the cost, difficulty of the decision, and plain old procrastination. Losing a job can be traumatic, but being without insurance coverage at the wrong time can be devastating to a family. So buck the trend of owning less insurance. With the right professional at your side, the decision is easy and the cost can be low. Avoid falling victim to the temptation of hoping for the best, without preparing for the worst. March/April 2009
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Access for
All
Member creates unique, online resource to aid disabled Catholics and their families by Susan F. Detlefsen, Staff Writer Monica Duffy, Catholic Aid member of Columbia Heights, Minn., said that even before she had children it was her desire that they attend Catholic school. When this mother of three approached her Catholic parish to inquire if her daughter Colleen could attend their school with her older brother, Kevin, and her younger sister, Rachel, Monica was heartbroken when the school said no. Colleen, age 7, has Down Syndrome, and school officials knew they didn’t have the resources to adapt their curriculum and facilities to serve Colleen’s special needs. Monica and her husband, Pat, started a search to find Catholic resources in the St. Paul metro area for the disabled and their families. During her search, Monica discovered that some parishes had been offering services to the disabled for years, but those services weren’t publicized. “It was very frustrating in the very beginning,” said Pat. Monica explained further, “We had difficulty finding other parents, other families like us. There aren’t any active faith-based support groups.” Secular support groups offered help, but Monica was looking for more. “It’s very difficult for me to talk about my daughter without talking about God’s plan and that she’s God’s creation. She’s not an accident of nature,” said Monica. Rather than give up, the Duffys decided to take action. As they connected to other people about this issue, an idea blossomed. “It seemed like there was a really big need for a website where people could go to that was localized for Catholics with disabilities,” said Pat. The couple founded Exceptional Catholic
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March/April 2009
The Duffys: Patrick, Colleen, Rachel, Kevin and Monica
Inc., a nonprofit group and web site, whose mission is to connect the disabled and their families to faith-based groups, resources, schools and churches within the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. To compile their information, the Duffys contacted parishes around the Archdiocese to inquire if they had any special services for the disabled. They then posted those services to a list on www.exceptionalcatholicmn.com. The list includes accommodations at Catholic churches that serve all kinds of special needs: Mass services with sign language translation; churches with accessible facilities; religious education programs for those with developmental disabilities; and the list goes on. The Duffys emphasize that their organization isn’t meant to criticize the Catholic church, but to encourage parishes and schools to start investigating accommodations for the disabled in their own programs. The process of compiling and listing resource information on the site continues as the Duffys contact parishes by phone, email and snail mail. They hope in the future to expand the listings to include parishes in other Minnesota dioceses. In the next year, the Duffys hope to have the church section completed, they hope to meet more parents of disabled children, and to continue to connect disabled Catholics to the resources they need.
www.exceptionalcatholicmn.com
supporting CAA Recession Buster: Consider member-owned businesses! Members Business S Spotlight potlight Astound Video Duplication and Transfer Steven Maas (with daughter Rebecca) — St. Paul, Minn. “When things get tough,” Stephen Maas says, “people tend to focus on what’s most important – friends and family.” So despite softening corporate sales and video production, his company’s service for individuals is still growing. Maas is the owner of Astound Video Duplication and Transfer, a company he started while in college. Astound Video has two main customers, small businesses who need video shooting, editing and duplication, and individuals, who mostly need transfer and duplication to preserve family memories. “Lots of people have family memories in formats you just can’t play anymore. A lot of 8 mm, betamax and VHS, slides and photographs – we basically transfer them to current formats that people
can enjoy and share.” Mostly DVDs, Maas says. And even though it probably hurts the business (think lastminute Christmas gifts), Maas insists on closing the shop on Sundays and religious holidays. “People ask ‘How can you be closed on Christmas Eve!?’ but it’s just what we think is right. We also don’t deal with content that’s contrary to the faith. We’ve had to pass up some lucrative jobs, but we don’t deal with non-family friendly material.” By finding good employees, nurturing their talents, and keeping a strong hand on their moral tiller, Maas says Astound Video not only creates high quality video, but highly satisfied customers. Maas is optimistic about the state of things right now, hoping that the
readjustment on Wall Street will help people readjust their thinking. “The economy might be causing people to take a good look at their priorities and put a little more emphasis on what really matters.” Astound Video can be found on the web at www.astoundvideo.com or reached at 651-644-2414.
If you are a Catholic Aid Member and a small business owner, and you would like your business profiled, write to news@catholicaid.org, or call 651-490-0170.
Hughes Chiropractic Julie Hughes — Cannon Falls & Apple Valley, Minn.
news@catholicaid.org
From nine weeks to 90 years old, everyone can use an adjustment every once in a while, says Hughes Chiropractic owner Julie Hughes. From the office her husband built in their home, and one she operates out of Apple Valley, Hughes is determined to help
people get the most out of the body God gave them. “God made our bodies so wonderfully,” she says, “if we take good care of them and put good things into them, we’ll live long healthy lives.” It was always Hughes’s hope that she could find a career that also allowed her to also be a wife and mother. Now, she sees about 20 patients a week helping them to recover from ailments like high school sporting injuries, colicky babies, and parents who throw out their backs working too hard. “I try to look at the whole picture of health,” she says. “People may come in thinking they just need an adjustment, but nutrition is something I always look closely at, and it’s almost always involved,” she says. “Stress is also a terrible
impediment to healing.” Although it would obviously benefit her to have patients who need repeat visits, her philosophy toward curing is simple. Hughes says, “I’m not worried about healing someone ‘too fast’ because you haven’t lost a patient, you’ve gained one. And you’ll have them in the future.” The recession has definitely affected her business, she says. “It seems like every week someone is coming in – or not coming in – because they lost their job.” So if you think you need an adjustment, and you live near Cannon Falls, Minn., or Apple Valley, Minn., contact Hughes Chiropractic at 651-755-7227. March/April 2009
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CAA Cookbook
From the Kitchens of Catholic Aid Members About These Recipes: Drop-in guests have you scrambling for something quick to serve? Prepare and bake our Hungarian Coffee Cake recipe below in less than 30 minutes. And for those of you with a freezer full of meat from last hunting season, give your venison a Hawaiian twist with this simple but delicious recipe.
Hawaiian Venison Ingredients: 1 lb venison, cubed ½ cup boiling water 1 tsp salt 2-3 green peppers, cubed ½ cup pineapple chunks prepared white rice Sauce 2 ½ tblsp cornstarch ½ cup pineapple juice ¼ cup vinegar ½ cup sugar 2 ½ tblsp soy sauce
Preparation Meat: Brown cubed venison in pan with vegetable oil. In a different pan put water and salt and cubed squares of peppers. Boil peppers for 10 minutes. Drain the pineapple juice in bowl and add pineapple chunks with the peppers. Then add the peppers and pineapple in with the meat. Sauce: Mix the sauce ingredients in a separate pot on medium heat. When all ingredients are mixed together and done, pour the sauce over the meat, peppers, and pineapple. Serve with rice.
Hungarian Coffee Cake Ingredients: 3 cups sifted flour 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup sugar 1 cup shortening 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1 cup buttermilk 2 eggs
Preparation Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix sifted flour, sugars, and shortening. Reserve 1 cup of mixture for topping. Add baking soda, baking powder, buttermilk and eggs to remainder. Mix well and pour into two, 9” x 13” pans. Sprinkle reserved cup of dry ingredients over the top. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, or at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.
Show off your baking and cooking talent. Send us the recipe that’s been your family favorite for generations and we’ll publish it! Email: news@catholicaid.org
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March/April 2009
Hail to Cheesy Potatoes the Chef!
Betty Krenner passes her chef’s apron on to you No recurring feature has proven as enduring as the recipes offered to Catholic Aid’s members by Betty Krenner. Now, after almost 30 years of creating delicious, easy to follow recipes, Betty is gracefully stepping down as our unofficial executive chef. Betty began her career with Catholic Aid in 1979 as part of the Fraternal Department. In January of 1982, the new column “Recipes ‘n Things” appeared in the Catholic Aid News, apparently by popular demand after 20 years of absence. In August of that year, Betty made her first submission – Beer Beef Stew – and in May 1983 she took over the column. After her retirement from the Home Office in 1993, she continued in her role as head recipe provider. Now, she passes the torch to you, our readers. Pass on your favorite family recipe or kitchen tip and your picture and we’ll publish it in an upcoming issue. From the staff and members of Catholic Aid, thank you, Betty.
www.catholicaid.org
Sales News Winter Conference bestows awards
Field Representative Dean Demarais (center, with bronze eagle) received the impressive (and heavy!) sales trophy for the coveted Top Producer Award. Presenting were Sales Director Tom Schisler (left) and Catholic AId President Mike McGovern.
“STOLI” law pending in Minnesota House A bill to ban Stranger Originated Life Insurance (STOLI) in Minnesota has passed the State Senate. It is currently pending in the House of Representatives. Catholic Aid, along with the Minnesota Insurance and Financial Services Council, supports this legislation. With STOLI, explains Compliance Specialist Paul Lindemann, a person with a short life expectancy would buy life insurance and plan to sell it within several years for much more than the policy’s cash value. The third party buyer would receive the death benefit when the insured dies. “STOLI is an unethical practice,” Lindemann says. “It goes against the principle that a beneficiary must have a vested interest in the insured remaining alive,” By contrast, the owner of a STOLI policy would benefit if the insured dies sooner; they would cut premium expenses and receive the death benefit quicker. The pending anti-STOLI bills would allow legitimate life settlement agreements, where people could sell unneeded policies that have been in force for many years and receive more than the cash value.
news@catholicaid.org
Catholic Aid’s Winter Sales conference were in St. Paul, Minn., again this year to reward the hard-working field representatives of Catholic Aid for a good year despite bad economic news all around. Officers Mike McGovern and Harald Borrmann were on hand along with Sales Director Tom Schisler to hand out awards and thank the dedicated field staff for their dedication. One of the most coveted awards for field representatives changed hands for the first time in many years. The Top Producer went to Dean Demarais after six years of monopoly by Rick Mathiowetz. Peter Ryan was awarded the FIC of the Year award, which goes to the Field Representative who best represents the values of a Fraternal Insurance Councellor. And for the sixth consecutive year (since the inception of the award in 2003,) the Peter Loskiel New Member Award went to Butch Byers, who recruited 158 new members in 2008. Also stepping to the podium in consecutive years was the Metro Region, which won the Region of the Year award for the third time running. This excellent field force is the engine that drives Catholic Aid. Their successful year in the face of grim economic news underscores the great work they do. From all of Catholic Aid, thank you!
The Metro Region once again took home the Region of the Year Award for top producing region. The sales force behind the perennial regional powerhouse include from left: Mary Fitzpatrick, Dawn Walker, Joyce Saucier, Robb Smith, Ryan Selleck, Susan Stenzel, Manager Patrick Brown, Peter Ryan, (kneeling) Keith Jereczek, Roger Reitmaier, Michael Gross, (kneeling) Roger Bauer and Jeff Plank. What a team!
Act of Congress allows deferment of RMD The Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008, passed into U.S. law late last year, allows for owners of IRAs and 403(b)s (among other products) to forego their required minimum distribution (RMD) in 2009. “Although Catholic Aid IRAs did not lose money as a result of the recent market downturn,” says Compliance Specialist Paul Lindemann, “this legislation will allow our members to keep money in their IRAs to earn interest that they would otherwise have to withdraw. “ Questions can be directed to the Home Office at 651-490-0170. March/April 2009
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Standing: Joseph Kueppers, George Gmach, Bernie Bastian, Gary Polaczyk, John Maile Seated: 2009 Lead Director Fran Barten, President & Chairman Michael McGovern, Senior Vice President & Secretary/Treasurer Harald Borrmann, Deborah Pauly
Minutes of the Editor’s Note: The minutes listed below have been summarized for space. The December 2008 Board Minutes can be viewed in their entirety by visiting www.catholicaid.org, or call 1-800-568-6670 to receive a printed copy. December 11, 2008 The meeting opened with a prayer led by Dennis Olson and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All directors were present. All members read and signed the Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest statements. Consent items including the revision of the Agenda and the minutes of the October meeting, the Investment Report, the appointment of Harald Borrmann as the Compliance Officer, the appointment of Howard Heidorn as the Illustration Actuary, the appointment of Mr. Borrmann as the Illustration Officer and the 2009 Dividend Allocation were all approved. Chairman McGovern led a discussion regarding the problems faced by insurers offering variable life and annuity products. There was also a discussion on the improved quality of investment bonds being shown to Catholic Aid Association (CAA). The Bylaws for the councils of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (Hastings, MN), St. John the Baptist (Jordan, MN) and St. Anastasia-St. Boniface (Hutchinson, MN) were all approved. Chairman McGovern led a discussion of certain Policy Governance items. The Communication and Support and Privacy Resolution items were approved. Chairman McGovern led a discussion of the Board Committees for 2009. Dennis Olson’s nominations to the CAA Foundation Board and Credit Union Board were approved. Tracy Skuza will no longer serve on the CAA Foundation Board. Director Polacyzk offered to be added as a Pension Trustee. All other Committee members will continue to serve in
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CAA Board of Directors
2009 as they served in 2008. Fran Barten was re-elected as the Lead Director for 2009. Joe Kueppers led a discussion of the report of the Audit Committee. The following points were noted: the D&O insurance was favorably renewed; the committee charter was revised to reflect that the Committee “oversees” the risk management function, which will be expanded upon at the January Board Retreat. The Board discussed the economy and the effects on CAA and its members. CAA feels it is well-positioned, yet cautious, as 2009 approaches. The Compensation Committee met and finished its work and all its recommendations were approved. Dennis Olson, on behalf of the Pension Committee, reported that the CAA 401(k) plan was successfully updated and restated. The Policy Governance Book will be updated. Chairman McGovern reported on the current status of the Securities Lending situation. The Investment Committee will set up criteria for the review of potential further actions. Dennis Olson led a review of the preliminary 2009 Budget; it was noted that CAA is working with a budget tightly controlled from an expense standpoint. Chairman McGovern led a review of the Msgr. Schuler Seminarian Trust and the recent Board meeting. It was noted that all priests on the Board were protégés of Msgr. Schuler. Chairman McGovern led a review of the CAA Credit Union Board meeting; the credit union is planning to change its charter to a Federal charter for better flexibility for its members. Chairman McGovern led a discussion of the Minnesota Guaranty Fund and the recent efforts by the Minnesota Insurance Department to consider having fraternals become a part
of the Guaranty Fund. The President’s report by Chairman McGovern contained the following highlights: • Members are down 466 YTD, Life premium up 2.8%, Annuity premium up 38%. • McGovern met with Bishop Swain in South Dakota last week. • Sales meetings are planned for January to increase sales skills. The January Board retreat will be at Midland Hills Country Club on Jan. 8, starting at noon. Chairman McGovern will try to start with a Mass. Topics to be discussed at the meeting are: Sarbanes Oxley (SOX); Risk oversight and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM); Board self-evaluation; Name change; Cost of Governance policy; Securities Lending update; Re-evaluation of Board laptop use, log-in procedures. Chairman McGovern led the closing prayer and the meeting was adjourned at 3:45 pm. The next meeting will be held January 8, 2009, at the Midland Hills Country Club as a half-day retreat per the above notice. Respectfully submitted, Harald E. Borrmann Senior Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer-Elect The Compensation Committee met at the Home Office April 15, June 12, Sept. 9, Oct. 11 and Dec. 11. The Compensation Committee made the following recommendations to the full Board of Directors at the December Board meeting. Recommendations were approved as noted below: The Committee recommended a Christmas bonus of $1,250 each to (continued on next page) www.catholicaid.org
In loving memory of our deceased members February 2009
Kathleen Grant, 90
Brenda Lenertz, 55
Rita Bertrand, 89
Hubert Lang, 93
Rose Schmidt, 76
John Hassler, 84
Irene Marthaler, 85
Rodney L Earlywine
Barbara Little, 65
Veronica Seleski, 83
Gordon Hennen, 65
Marie McCarthy, 89
Elmer Eichers, 90
Gilbert Mages, 69
Barbara Speltz, 62
Robert Herlitz, 47
Clarina McInnes, 87
Eugene Essler, 55
Henry Marx, 91
Linda St. Ores, 52
Richard Hiemenz, 83
Richard Messer, 75
Ralph Fischbach, 83
Stella Matties, 90
Kenneth Steffl, 83
Viola Honermann, 93
Frank Pesek, 90
Ruth Fischer, 94
John McCarron, 88
Peter Szleszinski, 78
Judith Hoppe, 57
Veronica Rohe, 92
Alice Frank, 89
Bennedict Middendorf, 88
Martha Torborg, 87
Marion Kalis, 78
Alois Schneider, 94
Bernard Goettl, 81
Bonita Muller, 61
Timothy Tschida, 58
Earl Kaufman, 82
Mildred Thielen, 89
Delores Hansen, 71
Mildred Northway, 81
Margaret Welter, 91
Josepha Kerfeld, 93
Edwin Torborg, 85
Donald Hassler, 80
Mary Orchard, 85
Veronica Westrup, 94
St. Michael, Minn. St. Michael
Evelyn Kiefer, 78
Raymond Verheyen, 72
Delmar Helget, 78
Flora Plotnik, 91
Mary Ann Wirtz, 88
Leona Ditsch, 85
Ervin Kinzer, 83
Green Bay, Wis. St. Mary Parish
Della M Wagner, 94
Leroy Johnson, 90
Richard Prochaska, 84
Clinton Zweber, 85
Richard Klimek, 38
Marystown, Minn. St. Anthony
John Witt, 73
Mary Kellen, 66
Elenora Reinhart, 93
December 2008
Elizabeth Klopf, 86
Union Hill, Minn. St. John
Barbara Wrycza, 72
Sylvester Richter, 92
Mildred Lang, 92
Bloomington, Minn. SS Ann & Wendelinus
Charles Kern, 65
St. Paul, Minn. S Anthony- Maria Hilf
January 2009
James Klaers, 89
Larry Rohr, 57
Lucille Lasota, 88
Harold Berdan, 94
Leo Kockelman, 91
Ada Schlick, 96
Donald Armagost, 88
Mahtomedi, Minn. St. Jude of the Lake
Andrew Auer, 92
Pine City, Minn. Immaculate Conception
Herbert Becker, 93
Hampton, Minn. St. Mathias
Joseph Bender, 60
Little Falls, Minn. Tri Parish
Myrna Bissen, 85
Eden Valley, Minn. SS Joseph & Mary
Gilbert Blatz, 90
Adrian, Minn. St. Joseph
Joseph Bovy Jr, 71
Freeport, Minn. Sacred Heart
Werner Brown, 88
Little Falls, Minn. Tri Parish
Rose Cisewski, 61
Cold Spring, Minn. St. Boniface
Isabelle Dayon, 96
Freeport, Minn. Sacred Heart
Pine City, Minn. Immaculate Conception Albany, Minn. St. Joseph
Faribault, Minn. SS Lawrence & Anna Mahtomedi, Minn. St. Jude of the Lake Johnsburg, Minn. St. Theresa
Faribault, Minn. SS Lawrence & Anna Lucan, Minn. Our Lady of Victory New Ulm, Minn. St. Joseph
Winona, Minn. SS Joseph/ Elizabeth
Waconia, Minn. St. Joseph
Emily Eilers, 85 St. Cloud, Minn. St. Anthony
Peter Faber, 66
Rolllingstone, Minn. SS Nicholas/Theresa
Thomas Garhofer, 53 Sykeston, N.D. SS Joseph/ Elizabeth
Rita Goettl, 87
Mankato, Minn. Holy Family
Austin, Minn.
Gilman, Minn. SS Peter & Paul
Millerville, Minn. St. Catherine
Hastings, Minn. St. Eliz Ann Seton
St. Michael, Minn. St. Michael
(continued from previous page) the two principal officers of the Association, the President, Mr. McGovern, and the Vice-President-Secretary/Treasurer, Mr. Olson. Mr. Borrmann, the newly-elected Senior Vice President/Secretary Treasurer will receive a Christmas bonus in the amount of $300. The Committee set a range for an increase in salary of the CEO position of 0% to 4.25%. The recommennews@catholicaid.org
Strasburg, N.D. St. Mary
Sauk Centre, Minn. Our Lady of Angels Bird Island, Minn. St. Mary Winsted, Minn. Holy Family
Sauk Rapids, Minn. Sacred Heart St. Leo, Minn. St. Leo
Freeport, Minn. Sacred Heart
New Ulm, Minn. St. Joseph
Little Falls, Minn. Tri Parish
Richmond, Minn. SS Catherine/Joseph
New Ulm, Minn. St. Mary
Sleepy Eye, Minn. St. Mary Buffalo, Minn. St. Joseph
Cold Spring, Minn. St. Boniface Elrosa, Minn. St. James
Melrose, Minn. St. Bernard
Winona, Minn. SS Joseph/Elizabeth Wabasso, Minn. St. Anne Mankato, Minn. Holy Family
Jacobs Prairie, Minn. St. Jacob Anoka, Minn. St. Stephen
Sleepy Eye, Minn. St. Mary
Sauk Centre, Minn. St. Paul Adrian, Minn. St. Joseph
Faribault, Minn. SS Lawrence & Anna Loretto, Minn. SS Peter & Paul Dawson, Minn. St. James
dation of the Committee was a raise of 2.75% resulting in a base salary of $303,383.82. In regard to the incoming executive, Harald Borrmann, his salary was negotiated prior to his election in August. Per the recommendation of the Board, his hiring salary was negotiated at $185,000 and will remain in place throughout 2009. Board Compensation: In 2008 an independent committee consisting of Edward Wollerman, Julian Wick and Bonita West-
Holdingford, Minn. St. Joseph Faribault, Minn. SS Lawrence & Anna Comfrey, Minn. St. Paul & St. Mary
Wabasha, Minn. SS Joseph/Kunigunda St. George, Minn. St. George
St. Paul, Minn. S Anthony-Maria Hilf Richmond, Minn. SS Catherine/ Joseph Hastings, Minn. St. Eliz Ann Seton
Minneapolis, Minn. St. Ann’s Mankato, Minn. Holy Family St. Paul, Minn. St. Bernard’s
Union Hill, Minn. St. John New Ulm, Minn. St. Mary
Sykeston, N.D. SS Joseph/ Elizabeth Wadena, Minn. St. Joseph St. Martin, Minn. St. Martin
Albany, Minn. St. Anna
Hastings, Minn. St. Eliz Ann Seton
Rollingstone, Minn. SS Nicholas/Theresa St. Paul, Minn. SS Peter & Clemens Callaway, Minn. St. Joseph
River Falls, Wis. FR Solanus Casey
Eden Valley, Minn. SS Joseph & Mary
St. Paul, Minn. S Anthony- Maria Hilf Morgan, Minn. St. Michael
Eden Valley, Minn. SS Joseph & Mary Cologne, Minn. St. Bernard
Lakeville, Minn. All Saints
Liela Macht, 74 Seaforth, Minn. St. Mary
Irene Eichers, 89
Eden Valley, Minn. SS Joseph & Mary
Bernard Kerber, 90 Chanhassen, Minn. St. Hubert
berg was established to review and make a recommendation for Board and Committee compensation. Following their recommendation, the Compensation Committee recommended compensation for the outside directors for 2009 be set at $14,000. This will be payable at a rate of $3,500 per quarter to each Director. Respectfully submitted: John Maile, George Gmach, Fran Barten, and Deborah Pauly, Chair
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March/April 2009 March/April 2009
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Youth
New and Improved!
CAA improves existing youth and young adults programs, adds new incentives Actions speak louder than words. Catholic Aid supports the spiritual education and growth of young people, and we want to prove it. That’s why the Fraternal Department has made some significant changes to its youth programs, starting with renaming the programs. But, there’s more to these changes than just words. Formerly known as the Youth Grant, the “Project: Multiply” program provides $25 in seed money to help raise funds for the youth programs and provides 20% bonus on monies raised (minus the $25 seed money). Catholic Aid has increased the matching portion of this program from $100 to $500. Catholic Aid will match 20% of the monies raised up to $500 maximum per council. In addition, the Fraternal Department will give out two $100 awards annually to groups that come up with the “Most Creative Idea” for their event or to promote
their event. The benefit given out under the former name Youth Parish program has been doubled! Now known as “Project: Volunteer,” this program promotes youth volunteerism in parishes among youth ages 19 and younger. A benefit of $2 per hour, up to $400 with a min-
“Fraternal has made some significant changes ...starting with renaming the programs. But, there’s more to these changes than just words.” imum of 25 hours required, will be paid to parishes. The youth allotment now has a new name: “Project: Bonus”. Per the recommendation of the Good of the Association Committee at the 2008 Annual Convention, the amount for this program has increased from $1 to $1.50 per youth member ages 15 and under on a
council’s roster. The change takes effect for events scheduled in 2009. A new program that Catholic Aid is introducing this year is “Project: Bonus Plus”. Project: Bonus Plus offers a new incentive for councils to involve teenagers in their council. This project is similar to Project: Bonus, but offers an additional $0.50 per youth member for councils that plan a social gathering for teens, ages 13 to 19. Updated details about the program can be found in copies of the revised 2009 Fraternal Manual and on the Catholic Aid web site. Catholic Aid members who wish to help the young adults of their parish through these programs can contact their Field Representative to get the process started. Call Heather Vargo, Youth Fraternal Liaison, with any questions about these changes. You can contact Heather at 1-800-568-6670 ext. 187, or hvargo@catholicaid.org.
An Update from Catholic Aid’s Youth Fraternal Liaison As the youth liaison at Catholic Aid, my primary goals are to increase the visibility of Catholic Aid, promote volunteerism and foster Catholic spirituality. I would also like to assist our Catholic Aid councils in strengthening their relationships with young people. Catholic Aid took a step to increase our visibility online by joining Facebook in January 2008. I am using Facebook to help connect Catholic Aid members with each other and to promote parish and Catholic Aid activities. I am also using Facebook to announce our new youth programs and remind Catholic Aid young people to get their scholarship applications in on time. You can find Catholic Aid on Facebook by searching “Heather Vargo” and looking for the Catholic Aid emblem. In 2008, the Fraternal Department of Catholic Aid
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March/April 2009
and the Catholic Aid Credit Union joined together to present financial workshops for teens at two diocesan youth conferences. These were well attended. Looking ahead in 2009, I am presenting these financial workshops to councils, youth groups and parenting groups in hopes of teaching teens how to make good financial decisions as they move into adulthood. Please contact me if you would like to learn more about this workshop: Heather Vargo hvargo@catholicaid.org. www.catholicaid.org
Catholic Aid Kids
Cool Kid Name: Brandon Bursack Age: 9 Hometown: Canby, Minn. School: Canby Elementary The Buzz about Brandon! Brandon is in the third grade and loves to play sports. His mom says he loves them all and can’t wait for nice weather. Before the snow was even off the ground, Brandon was outside shooting hoops. He also likes playing his Xbox. Brandon’s favorite subjects in school are reading and spelling. He is at the top of his class in spelling. Congratulations, Brandon! Be the May/June Cool Kid! Fill out the puzzles on this
page as best you can and submit them to the Catholic Aid Journey. One winner will get a Catholic Aid T-shirt and a special prize! Include your name, age and phone number and send to: Catholic Aid Association, 3499 Lexington Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55126.
news@catholicaid.org
Smarch/April 2009
Catholic Aid Kids
Incredible Saints artwork and games ©2009 Mario D. Macari. All rights reserved. mario@incrediblesaints.com
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ye on the Industry Your sneak peek into current trends of the fraternal life insurance industry
What does Hawaii state law have to do with Catholic Aid Association? Regardless of politic views, it can’t be denied that the federal government is extremely busy trying to sort out the current economic problems, to maintain security in Iraq and Afghanistan, and to tackle policy issues both on the domestic and foreign fronts. This list of priorities appears to take precedence over tax code reform and most threats to the federal tax exemption that fraternal benefit societies benefit from, reported Joseph J. Annotti, president of the National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA), in February. However, fraternal societies like Catholic Aid still face challenges to our tax exempt sta-
Life Insurance Stats • Four out of five households in the U.S. own life insurance. • Life insurance was invented in 17thcentury Europe as a way for tradesmen to help each other’s families during times of sickness and death. • The average policy owner has enough life insurance to replace a little less than 4 years of annual income. • Three out of four Americans believe life insurance is a financial necessity.
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March/April 2009
tus from state and local governments. In his Feb. 11 blog post on www.nfcanet.org, Annotti cited that legislators in Hawaii are considering a bill that would require fraternal organizations pay premium taxes to the state. Hawaii is 4,000 miles away from us in the Upper Midwest, so should this concern us? Yes, said Annotti, “In the rather small network of state legislatures, it wouldn’t take long for lawmakers in other states to see the revenue potential in taxing fraternals. And not just on premiums, but property, income, and every other aspect of the business that commercial insurers are subject to.” Catholic Aid encourages our members to contact their state legislators to let them know of the good that fraternal organizations do for society.
Study shows insurance professionals are trusted sources of information A recent consumer study conducted by poller Synovate discovered that most people who bought life insurance turned to advice from an insurance professional, and found that professional to be a source of useful information. The survey revealed that the same people found their insurance professional’s advice more useful than that of a financial advisor, their family or friends, and even information they found on the Internet. This survey means that people trust and value the advice of insurance professionals when they are trying to determine their insurance needs. Catholic Aid has an educational program in place to encourage our employees and field representatives to participate in ongoing training and education in the field of insurance and financial products. This helps our Home Office employees best serve our members, and ensures our Field Representatives are useful sources of information for our members. Sources: LIMRA International, Forbes magazine, LIFE Foundation, Synovate
www.catholicaid.org
Field Representatives in Your Area
Directory
March/April 2009
5
Field Representatives in Your Area
Denise Degerstrom, FIC
Greg Tallier, FIC
320-384-0339 ddegerstrom@catholicaid.org Braham, Cambridge, Isanti, Mora
715-473-3844 gtallier@catholicaid.org Wabeno, Antigo, Pelican Lake
Directory
Mike Kirchhoff, FIC
218-391-9444 mkirchhoff@catholicaid.org Duluth, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Cloquet
Datebook
Join your Field Reps at these events Immaculate Conception Parish in Pine City, Minn., is holding a raffle of a beautiful donated painting valued at $2,000. Raffle tickets for $3 each. The drawing will be held on April 5, Palm Sunday. Call 320-384-0339 for more details.
April
5
The Holy Family Council in McGregor, Minn., will have an egg bake breakfast after the 9 a.m. mass. A free will offering will be taken during the breakfast. Call Mike Kirchhofff at 218-391-9444 for more details.
April
5
April
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news@catholicaid.org
Visit Denise Degerstrom at the East Central Home Show in Mora, Minn., and register for her free drawing. Call 320-3840339 for more details.
Eat hearty at “That’s Italian” Matching Grant fund-raiser by St. Patrick’s Parish in Oak Grove, Minn., starting at 6 p.m. Entertainment will be a variety show and basket silent auction.
April
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Catholic Aid Association Credit Union President Nicolas Jaeger will be presenting a youth financial workshop titled “Survival Guide: Your Cash, Your Credit.” The workshop will take place at 6:30 p.m. at St. Ambrose Church, 1793 Elm Ave, Wabeno, Wis. For more details, contact Heather Vargo at 800.568.6670 ext 187..
April
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Church of the Sacred Heart Parish in Rush City, Minn., will host a 6th Annual Matching Grant Spaghetti Dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $6 per person in advance or $6.50 at the door. Children under 5 eat free. Call 320-384-0339 for more details.
April
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Real Catholic Aid members, the Plaseks of Hinckley, Minn.
March/April 2009 January/February
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Directory
Field Representatives in Your Area Roger Bauer, FIC
Rick Mathiowetz, FIC
651-437-6026 rbauer@catholicaid.org Hastings, Cannon Falls, Red Wing
952-447-2546
rmathiowetz@catholicaid.org
Robb Smith
Scott County
952-938-5859 rsmith@catholicaid.org Northeast Minneapolis, Fridley, St. Anthony
Jeff Plank, FIC 507-457-0413 jplank@catholicaid.org Wabasha, Rollingstone
Mary Fitzpatrick, FIC
651-295-2040 mfitzpatrick@catholicaid.org St. Paul area
Michael Gross
Susan Stenzel,
ChFC, LUTCF, FIC 507-282-1793 sstenzel@catholicaid.org Rochester, Adams, Johnsburg
Roger Reitmaier, FIC 507-454-4979 rreitmaier@catholicaid.org Winona
651-641-1740 mgross@catholicaid.org Mahtomedi, St. Paul, Roseville
608-539-5121 kjereczek@catholicaid.org La Crosse
Peter Ryan, FIC 763-972-8283 pryan@catholicaid.org Delano, St. Michael, Albertville
Carol Lindner, FIC, LUTCF 952-657-2210 clindner@catholicaid.org Waconia, Victoria, St. Bonifacius
Ryan Selleck, FIC 952-933-0780 rselleck@catholicaid.org S. Minneapolis, Richfield, Bloomington
Keith Jereczek
Dawn Walker
651-337-1807 dwalker@catholicaid.org Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Stillwater
Sam Welter, FIC 952-448-4865 swelter@catholicaid.org Chaska, Glencoe, Winsted Pat Brown, FIC 888-412-9766 pbrown@catholicaid.org Regional Manager
Datebook
Join your Field Reps at these events John Tetzloff will present ‘Financial Planning during Times of Uncertainty’ at Immaculate Conception School at 7 p.m. at 1 Wall St., Fountain City, Wis. Call Keith Jereczek for more information at 608-539-5121.
April
2
Join Roger Reitmaier at Springfest Matching Grant Fund Raiser at the Winona County fairgrounds in St. Charles, Minn. Call 507-454-4979 for times and location.
May
17
news@catholicaid.org
Join Mary Fitzpatrick at Fellowship Sunday, St. Joseph Catholic Church after each Mass at 1154 Seminole Ave., St. Paul, Minn. Don’t forget to have your picture taken with the Pope! Call 651.295.2040 for more details.
April
May
5
St. John the Baptist Catholic Aid Council will host its Annual Banquet Dinner at 210 Broadway Street North, Jordan, Minn. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 6:30 p.m. Call 952-492-5730 for more details.
April
18
Annual Golf Tournament at River Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove, Minn., starting at 11:30 a.m. Support the CAA Foundation. Call 1-877-275-7145 for more details.
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March/April 2009
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Field Representatives in Your Area
Directory
Your connection to Catholic Aid begins with your local Field Representative. Don’t hesitate to give them a call if you have a question about business and fraternal topics. Becky King, FIC
Rebecca Anderson
218-841-4600 bking@catholicaid.org Detroit Lakes, New York Mills, Perham
320-769-4642 randerson@catholicaid.org Morris, Chokio, Dawson
Luke Bauman, FIC
320-763-4835 lbauman@catholicaid.org Alexandria, Glenwood, Brandon, Osakis
John Klocke, FIC
Donna Cushman, FIC
Sarah Price
888-274-0459 jklocke@catholicaid.org Fargo, Moorhead, Grand Forks
218-739-1617 dcushman@catholicaid.org Fergus Falls, Breckenridge, Elbow Lake, Pelican Rapids
Lyle Turbes, FIC
320-222-6422 lturbes@catholicaid.org Hutchinson, Willmar, Kandiyohi
Mike Bredeck, FICF
605-262-0957 sprice@catholicaid.org Aberdeen, Ipswitch, Redfield
800-504-6805 mbredeck@catholicaid.org Regional Manager
Datebook
Join your Field Reps at these local events April April 3: Sacred Heart Catholic Church will host a Friday Night Matching Grant Fish Fry from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Please contact Sacred Heart Catholic Church for more information at 320-875-2599. April 5: St. Olaf’s Spring Dinner and Bazaar Matching Grant event will be held at 518 Division Street East in Elbow Lake, Minn. The event starts at 11 a.m. Call Donna Cushman for more details, 218-739-1617. April 22: Ave Maria’s Spring Salad Luncheon will be held at the American Legion in Wheaton, Minn. Cost is $5 per person. Call Donna Cushman for more details, 218-739-1617 April 26: Holy Cross Church will host a matching grant breakfast after Mass from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., held at 1420 16th St. E, West Fargo, ND. For more information, please call 701-282-7217.
news@catholicaid.org
April 29: St. John’s Catholic Church will host a Barbeque Supper Matching Grant Event after the end of the year Mass at 3:45 p.m. The meal will be served from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.. The parish is located at 301 Cedar Avenue East, Hector, Minn. Please contact the parish for more details at 320-848-6437.
May May 12: Church of the Nativity is holding their Spring Salad Buffet from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 1825 11th St in Fargo, N.D. Proceeds support parish faith formation education. The buffet is $7 per person. May 18: Annual Golf Tournament at River Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove, Minn., starting at 11:30 a.m. Support the CAA Foundation. Call 1-877-275-7145 for more details.
Real Catholic Aid members, the Mitchells of Fargo, N.D., enjoy a morning at the playground.
March/April 2009
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Directory
Field Representatives in Your Area
Your connection to Catholic Aid begins with your local Field Representative. Don’t hesitate to give them a call if you have a question about business and fraternal topics.
Butch Byers, FICF
Mike Matuska, FIC
Dean Warta, FIC
Bob Skillings
Doug Martinka, FIC, CLF
507-345-1324 mmatuska@catholicaid.org Mankato, Nicollet, Madelia St. Peter, St. James
605-665-4756 bbyers@catholicaid.org Yankton, Mitchell and surrounding area
Paul Hlavnicka
605-595-5670 phlavnicka@catholicaid.org Worthington, Luverne, Tea S.D., and surrounding area
800-807-8616 dwarta@catholicaid.org Sleepy Eye, Springfield, Windom, Comfrey
507-354-7593 bskillings@catholicaid.org New Ulm, Searles
Dan Klecker, FIC
888-799-1257 dmartinka@catholicaid.org Regional Manager
Curtis Wangen
605-336-3930 dklecker@catholicaid.org Sioux Falls and surrounding area
866-942-7710 cwangen@catholicaid.org Winthrop, Redwood Falls, Gibbon
Datebook
Join your Field Reps at these local events May
Join Bob Skillings at the Communion Breakfast where St. Mary Council in New Ulm, Minn. The Council will hand out their 50-Year Member Awards during the breakfast.
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news@catholicaid.org
May
17
2009 CAA Scholarship winners will be recognized during an awards banquet at New Ulm Cathedral High School.
May
18
Annual Golf Tournament at River Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove, Minn., starting at 11:30 a.m. Support the CAA Foundation. Call 1-877275-7145 for more details.
March/April 2009
23
Directory
Field Representatives in Your Area Mike Barten
Gary Gall, FIC
Matt Bugnacki, FIC
Gregory Gall, FIC
Greg Steele
Dean Demarais, FIC
James Haag, FIC
Bob Wieber, FIC
320-836-2617 dehlert@catholicaid.org Melrose, Freeport, St. Rosa, Greenwald
Tim Parks
Peter Spaniol, FIC
Shawn Ehlert
Bob Sorensen, FIC, FLMI
320-987-3296 mbarten@catholicaid.org Sauk Centre, Elrosa, West Union
320-251-8163 ggall@catholicaid.org St. Cloud, Waite Park, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, Foley, Rice
763-390-7992 mbugnacki@catholicaid.org Brainerd, Baxter, Nisswa, Cross Lake, Pequot Lakes
320-685-8899 ddemarais@catholicaid.org Cold Spring, St. Joseph, Kimball, Watkins
Dave Ehlert, FIC
320-845-6612 sehlert@catholicaid.org Albany, Avon, Bowlus, Upsala, Holdingford
320-229-0717 greggall@catholicaid.org S. St. Cloud, Clear Lake, Clearwater, Little Falls
763-263-2450 gsteele@catholicaid.org Becker, Princeton, Zimmerman
320-453-2107 jhaag@catholicaid.org Eden Valley, Richmond, Paynesville, Belgrade
218-924-4118 bwieber@catholicaid.org Long Prairie, Sebeka, Menahga, Wadena
763-753-5758 tparks@catholicaid.org Elk River, Monticello
320-363-7462 pspaniol@catholicaid.org Regional Manager
763-682-6001 bsorensen@catholicaid.org Buffalo, Maple Lake
Datebook
Join your Field Reps at these events April April 4: St. Andrew’s Catholic Church of Brainerd, Minn., will host a talent show and silent auction matching grant at ForestView Middle School in Baxter, Minn., at 7 p.m. Call 218.822.4040 for more details. April 5: St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Council in Long Prairie, Minn. is having its Biscuits & Gravy feed after 8:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. Call Bob Wieber, 218-924-4118 for details. April 6: ‘Helping Kids Navigate the Rocky Road of Finances’ seminar for parents,
news@catholicaid.org
presented by Nick Jaeger and Peter Spaniol. St. Anthony’s Church at 2405 North 1st St., St. Cloud, Minn. For more details about this event, please call 320.252.4721. April 17: Support the youth of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Council in Long Prairie, Minn., at the Fish Fry Matching Grant event. Call Bob Wieber, 218-924-4118 for details. April 25: Sacred Heart Parish will host an “An Evening in Paris” Matching Grant event at Sacred Heart Area School, 324 4th Street SE, Staples, Minn., starting with Mass at 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 each. Call 218.894.2077.
May May 4: Seminar for parents, ‘Adolescent Sexual Health and Fertility Awareness’ presented by Dr. Blickenstaff at St. Anthony’s Church, 2405 North 1st St., St. Cloud, Minn. For more details, please call 320.252.4721. May 18: Annual Golf Tournament at River Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove, Minn., starting at 11:30 a.m. Support the CAA Foundation. Call 1-877-275-7145 for more details.
March/April 2009
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