the Royal Neighbor Issue 2 • 2009 Women in Leadership series: Rosamaria Caballero Stafford shows others how to ‘go green’ Turn your trash into cash 2008 Financial Summary Royal Neighbors posts strong results Make your own cleaning products Save money and the planet A Message from the President/CEO If you ask 10 people what “being green” means, you’ll get 10 different responses. If, however, you ask why “being green” matters, the answers will most likely be similar – to protect our environment, preserve our resources, and make our world a safer, healthier place to live for ourselves and future generations. In this issue, we’re hoping to encourage you to help make your own impact by saving energy, recycling, and using products that are healthy for you and your family. It’s all about taking small steps that will make a big difference. Our cover story is about an entrepreneur who, along with her husband, found a way to help others live and work in environmentally safe surroundings. Their new business, called Green Irene LLC, is already successful enough to have caught the interest of the Wall Street Journal and Oprah magazine. In addition, we’ll let you know what our chapters are doing to green up their local communities. This also is the issue in which we share our financial results. Because we hear so much negative news about the financial industry today, it’s my pleasure to give you good news – 2008 was a very successful year for Royal Neighbors. Our financial achievements allow us to effectively continue the work the organization has been doing for 114 years, offering Insurance with a DifferenceSM. Our financial strength also is the backbone of our ability to pay our members’ claims and continue our fraternal mission. Our assets are $671.6 million, with a surplus of $213.5 million, and a surplus ratio of 31.8% which is significantly above the industry benchmark of 8.6%. This ratio demonstrates the percentage of total assets we hold to provide for unexpected losses. Our net income for 2008 was $10.4 million. Premium collected on members’ certificates was $130.8 million. Because we remain among the most financially secure insurance carriers in the industry, you can be assured that you and your family are well protected for the future. Cynthia A. Tidwell A fraternal benefit since 1900, The Royal Neighbor magazine exemplifies the values of our Society by providing members useful, stimulating information and a forum for connecting throughout the country. Board of Directors Sister Francis Clare Radke Chairman Cynthia Tidwell President/CEO Dr. Joyce Elam Patricia Gibford Nancy Hanna Patsy Kneller Wan Ling Martello V. Sue Molina Linda Neuman Dr. Benet Spence Theresa Bonin Operations Executive Judith Tshibangu Marketing Executive and Editor Rita Toalson, FLMI, ACS Managing Editor contents Issue 2, 2009 Your Money 4 Turn your trash into cash You and Your Family 6 Make your own cleaning products Front and Center 8 Rosamaria Caballero Stafford shows others how to “go green” Your Health 10 Fit and fabulous forever – ideal weight and fitness 2008 Annual Report 14-17 Royal Neighbors posts strong financial results Important information inside! Because the Society’s Annual Report is included in this issue, every Royal Neighbors household will receive a copy. Members Send change of address with chapter number and ZIP Code to: Member Services, 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 61201-8645. Send all publication materials and magazine ideas to: The Royal Neighbor Magazine, 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 61201-8645. The Royal Neighbor (ISSN 0035-905X), Issue 2, June 2009, is an official publication of Royal Neighbors of America. Published quarterly. Office of publication at 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 61201-8645. Periodicals postage paid at Rock Island, IL, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Royal Neighbor, 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 612018645. It is not necessarily intended that articles express views held by Royal Neighbors of America or its financial representatives, nor is it intended as legal or tax advice. Home Office 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 61201-8645 Contact Us: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central Time Toll-free: (800) 627-4762 Local Quad-Cities: (309) 788-4561 www.royalneighbors.org your Money Turn your trash into cash Whether you need money for bills or you’re just tired of walking around the clutter in your home, you can turn your trash into cash with a little time and effort – and make your living space cleaner and more inviting and the environment better. We’ve all heard the saying, “one person’s junk is another person’s treasure.” No matter what you think of that ugly vase you received as a gift, there’s probably someone somewhere who will pay money for it. So don’t just dump unwanted items at your curbside. Do something constructive with them! Go online If you’re looking for some extra spending money (and who isn’t?), and if you and your family have more “stuff ” than you’ll ever use (and who doesn’t?), there are ways to remedy your situation...and help the environment by keeping more trash out of landfills. There are many online auction sites where you can buy and sell used/new items such as amazon.com and ebay.com. Do your homework. Type your item’s description into the search box of an online auction site and see if similar items have bids. If so, you’ll know it actually has some value and you’ll have a good idea of how much it’s worth. Simply place the item on auction for a minimum bid and let others begin to bid on it. If you need help, your tech-savy children or grandchildren might be willing participants in your foray for cash, especially if you share the profits. And, it’s a great way to spend some quality time together. TIP: “Nothing in nature is exhausted in its first use.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, Works Before discarding gift boxes and used packaging materials, think about how you might use them to ship items you sell online. Saving the materials will not only keep them from the trash bin, but will save you money in the future. Sell secondhand Consignment shops welcome many items that have outlived their usefulness at your house. They do the selling and split the profits with you. You’ll save time and the cost of shipping and/or newspaper ads. Resale shops are good places to sell used computers, musical instruments, books, and CDs. Some stores will even let you trade electronic items for upgrades. 4 to discard. For example, scrap metal can earn you cash. Search online or contact your local public works department to learn where to recycle tires, appliances, clear glass containers, etc. Also, there are places that will pay for the gold jewelry you no longer wear. Hold a garage sale Garage sales can net big profits. If you don’t have enough to sell on your own, make it a neighborhood effort. You can split the cost of newspaper ads and signs too. • Don’t skimp on your ads and signs. Remember quality and quantity! • Price to sell. Determine what you would pay at a sale and start with that. You can always go lower. • Think like a merchant and show your wares as a store would. Make sure clothes are clean, items are well organized, clothes are hung according to sizes, and extension cords are handy so customers can see that electronic items work. Make sure every item has a price tag that’s easily visible. Stock up on used grocery bags (another way to recycle them) and use for purchases. stamps and checks by making your Royal Neighbors payments at www.royalneighbors.org, or by using our Consider selling, donating, or recycling: Donate to charity If you want to do good with what you have around your house, consider donating items to local or national charitable organizations. Not only will you be extending the life of the items, but your donation will generally entitle you to receive a tax deduction if you itemize your tax return. Recycle Most cities have some sort of recycling program and some may pay for what you want • Clothes, shoes, coats • Containers (plastic, cans, detergent bottles, etc.) • Electronics • Musical instruments • Bicycles • Video games • Movies, books, CDs • Furniture • Print cartridges (some stores give rebates for recycling used cartridges) • Scrap metal Preauthorized Collection (PAC) plan. Call (800) 627-4762 for more information. Trash-to-cash tips for valuables • Stay safe. Use a fanny pack or apron to collect money and make change (be sure you have $50 worth of change and small bills). Keep shoppers outside your home. • Go to your local library and check out books on collectibles and price guides on the item. Search the Internet under sites dedicated to your particular item to find an approximation of the value. Don’t use color-coded tags. They’re confusing and can be easily switched. • Visit pawn shops. They offer to buy articles for a fraction of what they’re worth, so if you’re offered a decent amount, you know you have something of value. TIP: Save the cost of • If you have something that may have an unusual value, do some research before you sell it. • Hire an appraiser if you have what may be an antique. It could be worth the investment. your Money 5 you &your Family Green your cleaning products Most modern synthetic cleaners are based on age-old formulas that use natural, non-toxic ingredients. Why not use the originals? Budget wise Ounce for ounce, homemade cleaners cost one-tenth the price of their commercial counterparts. Why not save 90% of the more than $800* families spend on household cleaning supplies each year? *Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007 With growing concerns about the environment – some 80,000 chemicals are in common use – and for families tightening their belts, “green clean” alternatives promise help for all. Homemade cleaning agent recipes save money, result in a healthier household, and have a light impact on the environment. Ingredients like those shown below, can be found at your local supermarket, natural food store, or drugstore and make cleaners that are safe, effective, and inexpensive. Baking soda Cleans, deodorizes, removes stains, (sodium bicarbonate) and softens fabrics Washing soda (sodium carbonate) Liquid soap/detergent If you have hard water, buy biodegradable detergent without perfumes; if you have soft water you can use liquid soap White distilled Cuts grease, removes clothing stains; vinegar or lemon juice excellent water softener and alternative to bleach Tea tree oil Eco friendly Natural cleaners avoid the unhealthy environmental and household dangers of toxic chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOC), and other health risks. 6 A stronger cousin of baking soda that increases the cleaning power of soap Expensive, but worth it as a natural fungicide Olive oil Natural emollient Herbs or essential oils Disinfects; provides pleasant fragrances Spray bottles, Be sure to label ingredients and re-sealable glass jars batches; keep out of the reach of children Here are a few recipes for making your own green cleaners. Information contributed by Degree of Honor. you&your Family 7 Front&Center Q: What is Green Irene? Rosamaria Caballero Stafford shows others how to ‘go green’ Raised by entrepreneurial parents who believe in America and a strong work ethic, Rosamaria Caballero Stafford, New York, NY, left a high-powered law firm and started Green Irene LLC, an eco-consulting business. 8 Q: Where did your entrepreneurial spirit come from? A: Although both my parents were attorneys in Cuba, they couldn’t practice law when they came to the United States. So they started their own media business and never looked back. I was surrounded by their business friends, who were also their personal friends, and I learned so much. I helped them develop a TV network, which we eventually sold to Spanish MTV. A: It’s a business my husband, P. J., and I designed to get people on the path to being green. Our eco-consultants visit homes and businesses to show them how to implement green ideas. We eliminate the guesswork in making changes without making major sacrifices. We give them a green home makeover report with recommendations for implementing solutions. It’s a 25-page action plan for them to use at their own pace. Q: How did Green Irene get its start? A: As P. J. and I were keeping up with news and magazines, we noticed that everyone was talking about going green. It was everywhere. We wanted to adopt some green practices in our own home so we started doing research. We learned quickly there was so much information out there that it took time to find it all. Most people want to do the right thing when it comes to living more sustainably, but most don’t want to make a hobby out of it. I realized that I would gladly have paid someone to help me sort it all out and tell me what to do. We saw the need and found a way to help others. by 25%. People are realizing they can actually save money by making small changes. In light of today’s economy, going green is even more attractive. Q: What should people know about going green? One compact fluorescent light bulb in every home is the equivalent of removing 800,000 cars from the road in terms of green house gasses and emissions. A: Going green is a process, a journey. It’s a grassroots, community effort. The world will go farther in terms of going green if we can get many people to make a few changes rather a few people making many changes. We don’t have to change our lives completely to live green. Switching to a low-flow shower head to save water doesn’t mean we have to take showers under a trickle of water. Using a programmable thermostat and turning off lights we aren’t using doesn’t mean we have to go without heat and read by candlelight. Q: What are some of the basic tips for people just starting out on their green journey? A: Use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL). You may initially pay $300 to change your regular bulbs, but over the life of the new bulbs, you could save $6,000 on utility bills. Unplug appliances when not in use. A flat screen TV uses up to 40% of its power when it’s off. Dryer balls reduce your dryer time Q: As an outstanding leader, how have you shared your interest in helping the environment with your children? A: We use public transportation and walk most places. We’ve taught them to recycle and they both have been instrumental in planning green programs in their schools. They’re really getting into it and understand the importance. Q: What are the qualities of a good leader? A: You have to lead by example and prove to people why they should follow you. Leaders are passionate, compassionate, and respect others, their relationships, and friendships. Q: Who do you look to as a good leader? A: My father because he taught me how important education is. He and my mother came here from Cuba with nothing but education and resilience. He taught me that no one can take away what you have in your head. You can have many material things, but those aren’t necessarily forever. He was a pioneer in the Spanish radio and TV business because he was great at bringing people together. He never burned any bridges and has earned great respect from others. For more green ideas from Rosamaria and Green Irene, visit www.royalneighbors.org/ gogreen My husband is a good leader because he has such vision and can share it. We’re building a great life and business together. It’s a true partnership. We gained a new outlook on life when we had our daughters. Children make you understand what’s important and what’s not. Q: Who would you invite to a dinner party? A: Thomas Jefferson because he was such a fascinating, multi-faceted, and multitalented man. And, Fidel Castro because he had such an impact on my family. I’d like to understand what went through his head when he turned Cuba to communism. Front&Center 9 your Health Fit and fabulous forever – ideal weight and fitness By Cynthia Tidwell, President/CEO The average clothes size for women in the U.S. is a size 12, pushing a 14. In 2000, the average women’s waist size was 37 inches! That is up from 30 inches just a few years before. Every extra pound takes about one month off your life span. An extra 25 pounds can take away years! Getting to your ideal weight and a feeling of well being is tied to three basic keys to success: 1. Reduce serving size 2. Find substitutes for “emotion” eating 3. Move it to lose it Gaining weight is nothing more than fuel in and energy out. If you take in more fuel (food) than you expend, you gain weight. If you take in less, you lose and if the two are equal, you hold steady. While this amount is different for everyone, there is some basic information that you must understand to lose weight and achieve improved health. Calories are your fuel-in. A 125 pound person needs about 1800-2000 calories to hold steady. So in order to lose pounds, you must take in less than what you need. Each of us has unique lifestyle needs and overall health goals. A successful program will achieve desired results if you have a healthy lifestyle and don’t chase after fads. The first thing you need to understand is there are no magic bullets. One pound is 3600 calories. In order to lose one pound, you must reduce your intake or increase your activity to burn 3600 calories of fuel. The fastest and best way to lose is to do both, eat less and increase activity. If you reduce your calories by 500 per day, you will lose one pound per week (500 x 7 = 3500). Education is Power In order to be successful, you need to be armed with information. Two thirds of U.S. adults are considered overweight and one third is actually considered obese. Obesity is defined by being 20% or more above ideal body weight. Being 10 to 19% above ideal body weight is defined as overweight. 10% are severely obese. The cost to our health and our health care system is staggering. One mile of activity equals about 100 calories. So in order to lose one pound, you must run or walk 36 miles! No wonder it comes off so slowly! 10 If you increase your activity each day and reduce the calories or fuel, you lose weight faster than with diet or exercise alone. The speed in which you lose weight should be steady, as fad diets are too restrictive and cannot be maintained. Your goal is steady weight loss. Get the concept of diet out of your mind…lifestyle change is just that – over your life! Calories Calorie counts per gram of food: • Fat: 9 calories • Carbohydrates: 4 calories • Protein: 4 calories Fat Since fat contains 9 calories per gram of food, a diet too high in fat puts on pounds. However, fat calories are very filling and satisfying, so some fat helps hold off hunger pangs. There are two types of fats, saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fats have been linked to heart health issues. These are found in animal foods and hydrogenated vegetable oils, such as shortening. Unsaturated fats are good fats and include essential fatty acids linoleic and linolenic. These mainly come from plant foods, such as olive, safflower, and flaxseed oils and avocados. Carbohydrates Carbs have 4 calories per gram of food. There are “good and bad” carbs. This is determined by how fast they convert to sugar. All food converts to glucose sugar in order to give us energy. Carbs do this the quickest. Carbs are given a glycolic index. Where they fall on the index determines how fast they convert to sugar. Too much too fast is bad and has contributed to the high rate of obesity and diabetes that we see today. Protein Protein has 4 calories per gram of food. They are made up of amino acids and are considered the building blocks of enzymes, muscle, and some hormones. Protein can come from animal sources as well as plant. Animal protein is considered complete protein as it contains all essential amino acids. Plant protein is incomplete. Vegetarians miss some needed amino acids and must get them from supplements. Fad diets are all the rage because people want the magic bullet. However, as we all realize, it is much easier to gain weight than to lose weight. The wrong kind of food is everywhere. Fast food, chips, dips, donuts, cookies, pie, cake... and on and on. Serving size matters Of course this is not to say you need to forego these foods forever. Serving size is the most important change you can make. If you ordered a McDonald’s hamburger and fries in Europe, the serving size that you would get is similar to a Happy Meal in the U.S.! In the 50s the average hamburger from a fast food place was 1 ounce. By the late 90s it was 6. Soda was 8; now it is 32…everything is super sized! But fast food is not the only culprit. A muffin has grown from 1-1/2 ounces to 6. Break weight loss into obtainable goals. Instead of thinking, “I need to lose 50 lbs,” think “I need to lose 5 lbs.” When you lose 5 lbs., start again. ‘Emotion’ eating In past generations, dessert was a real treat. Today, many people have it every day! If you try to avoid it, you may wind up feeling so deprived that you binge or “emotion” eat. So when you decide to eat dessert, have some, but limit yourself to three bites…enough to taste and get some satisfaction. Three bites of most desserts have 100 to 120 calories. That’s a mile of exercise! When the desire to “emotion” eat strikes, it is important to be ready. Triggers include – stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, etc. At those times, many people find temporary comfort in food. That’s why substitutes are necessary. Listen to music, walk, dance in your living turn to page 12 It is necessary to understand the concept of serving sizes! The Atkins Nutritional Approach provides easy analogies for serving sizes. For example: Ideal single serving 1 cup cereal, pasta Medium fruit 1 cup of salad 1 serving of vegetables 2 tbsps. peanut butter 3 ozs. beef, chicken, or pork 1 oz. chips 1 oz. cheese 1 cup of ice cream Looks like A baseball A tennis ball A fist 1 scoop of ice cream 2 tea bags Small package of tissue Medium-size handful 1-inch cube A baseball your Health 11 room, call a friend. Just get your mind and body going in a different direction. Eating ‘green’ is good for your health - and can save you money The most successful programs include a food log. It is not as hard as it sounds, and it clearly lets you see what your intake is. Love what’s local Farmers markets are a great place to buy good locallygrown food that’s good for you. You can talk to the farmer who grew what you’re buying and ask questions about her/his growing practices. You’ll enjoy the fact that you’re buying locally, and you’ll love the taste of what you’re eating. Nutrition for life Food is the lifeline of health. You can’t stop eating. It is critical that what you eat to fuel your body has the nutrients to get you through the toughest days. So remember to eat these foods regularly for good health: • Beef, chicken, fish • Fruits and vegetables – remembering their serving sizes, you should have a minimum of five servings per day, and work up to nine per day • Whole grain bread and cereals, including oatmeal • Dairy – try to get organic brands as they do not contain added hormones; this includes cheese (serving size is a one-inch cube) The last item is exercise; you have to move it to lose it. While there are no magic bullets, exercise is the closest thing. The best programs combine aerobics, strength training, and flexibility. Conclusion Lifestyle dictates weight and health. There are three basic principles to get healthy and meet the ideal weight for you! • Reduce and control serving sizes • Find substitutes for “emotion” eating • Move it to lose it Think about eating as little processed food as possible. According to Annie B. Bond, author and green living expert, a good rule of thumb is to eat as many colors of the rainbow as you can. “If you’re looking for colors, you’ll end up walking through the fruits and vegetable section of your grocery store more often. In addition to colors, you’ll get more nutrients from these foods.” 12 Enjoy the season Although we are able to buy all foods all year long, much of what is on grocery shelves has been shipped across the country or the globe before it reaches our tables. The typical U. S. food item travels approximately 1,500 miles to reach a plate. Eating foods in season is better for your budget and your health. Grow a garden or join a CSA If you have the time and space, grow your own garden. You can cut costs, ensure your food is organic, and know it is at its ripest stage at harvest. Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) operation. It allows local residents to buy shares of a farmer’s harvest each season. This can be a less expensive way to buy your food and will support your local economy as well. Canning your own produce will save you even more money. Buy organic Grocery stores are carrying a larger variety of organic food today. Look for foods that have an organic logo and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) seal. When considering which products to buy with the 100% organic label, experts recommend beef, milk and dairy, peaches, apples, bell peppers, strawberries, lettuce, potatoes, and tomatoes. Foods with protective skins such as bananas, kiwi, onions, and pineapple need not be as high of a priority on your organic list. Living Better: ARE YOU AT RISK? Did you know... Stroke is: • 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. • #1 reason people move into nursing homes 80% of stroke victims show no apparent symptoms or warning signs Your membership in Royal Neighbors comes with valuable member benefits that are designed to improve your quality of life. One of these benefits is a discount on preventive health screenings, an affordable and effective way to identify hidden disease risk. Stroke, Vascular Disease & Heart Rhythm Package • First step in early intervention • Convenient locations near your home • State-of-the-art ultrasound technology and highly skilled sonographers used • Results reviewed by board-certified physicians • Discounts available for your entire family • All four important screenings for $129: “My husband and I both had the screenings and we found he had a rare type of cancer. I’m sure the tests saved his life.” – E. F., Nebraska • Stroke/carotid artery • Abdominal aortic aneurysm • Peripheral arterial disease • Atrial Fibrillation Screening • Osteoporosis ($10) Call (800) 690-7310 today to set up an appointment or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/rna. Please mention source code BHFB-045. Member benefits are provided at the discretion of Royal Neighbors of America and are not part of any insurance or annuity contract. RNA 0609A 13 The State of Royal Neighbors of America The State of Royal Neighbors of America as of December 31, 2008 The Audit Committee is comprised of four independent board members: Chairperson – Audit Committee Report to Members, May 2009 The Royal Neighbors of America Audit Committee operates under a written charter adopted by the Board of Directors, and is responsible for overseeing the Society’s financial reporting process on behalf of the Board of Directors and Society members. This responsibility is accomplished by following a detailed work plan of activities. Management is responsible for Royal Neighbors’ financial statements and the financial reporting process, including internal controls. The Society’s independent auditors are responsible for performing an independent audit of Royal Neighbors’ financial statements in accordance with applicable regulatory accounting principles. V. Sue Molina Dr. Joyce Elam Patricia Gibford Dr. Benet Spence The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes. In this context, the Audit Committee is authorized, among other things, to approve and retain the independent auditors to conduct the annual audit of the Society’s financial books and records, review the proposed scope and results of the audit, review and pre-approve the independent auditor’s audit and non-audit services rendered, approve the audit fees to be paid, review and approve related party transactions, recognize and prevent prohibited nonaudit services by Royal Neighbors’ independent auditors, review the annual operating expense budget proposed by management, and establish procedures for complaints received by the Society regarding accounting matters. The Audit Committee was formed in September 2004 and meets at least quarterly through the year. The Committee meets with representatives of management and the independent public accountants to review matters of a material nature related to auditing, financial reporting, internal controls, and audit results. For 2008, the Audit Committee retained the firm of Kerber, Eck & Braeckel, and LLP (KEB) as Royal Neighbors’ independent auditors. The Audit Committee is comprised of four independent board members. They are: Chairperson V. Sue Molina, Dr. Joyce Elam, Patricia Gibford, and Dr. Benet Spence. 14 Royal Neighbors Financial Statement Summary (dollars in thousands) Balance Sheet December 31 Investments including bonds, common stocks, and mortgage loans $ 2008 2007 623,329 639,366 Real estate 6,475 6,773 14,225 9,932 17,640 14,118 7,778 15,189 $ 671,601 683,224 $ 429,272 28,826 413,594 25,271 $ 458,098 438,865 $ 88,523 124,980 87,190 157,169 Contract loans Cash and short-term investments Other assets Total admitted assets Insurance reserves and claims Other liabilities Total reserves and liabilities Certificateholders’ surplus: Fraternal fund Unassigned surplus Total certificateholders’ surplus 213,503 244,359 $ 671,601 683,224 $ 57,214 36,727 26,310 50,448 36,732 30,009 120,251 117,189 Benefits paid or provided Commissions General and administrative expenses 58,994 25,431 23,983 50,259 22,796 22,015 Net income (loss) before net realized capital gains (losses) Net realized capital gains (losses) Net income (loss) 11,843 (1,429) 10,414 22,119 13,197 35,316 Total insurance reserves, liabilities, and surplus Income Statement Premium income, net of reinsurance Investment income Reinsurance allowances and miscellaneous income Total income $ Philanthropic Expenses In 2008, 27 new national scholarships were awarded, valued at We paid 73 scholarships totaling $82,500 $163,750 Fraternal Support $1,254,745 Nation of NeighborsSM Program $413,046 Royal Neighbors Foundation Contributions from Royal Neighbors Contributions from other sources Benefits paid out (Heroes at Home, Disaster Relief, State Scholarships, etc.) $210,000 $27,022 $92,665 2008 Results 15 The State of Royal Neighbors of America Management’s Report to the Membership December 31 2008 2007 (dollars in thousands) Insurance in force face amount 2.2 billion 2.0 billion $671,601 $683,224 213,503 244,359 Premium income, net of reinsurance 57,186 50,449 Net income 10,414 35,316 Admitted assets Certificateholders’ surplus 16 In its 114th year, Royal Neighbors is pleased to report another successful financial year. Our financial position is strong with assets of $671.6 million and surplus of $213.5 million, resulting in a surplus ratio of 31.8%, which is significantly above the industry benchmark of 8.6%. The 2008 financial year was indeed a successful one and we are more excited than ever about the future of Royal Neighbors. The Royal Neighbors leadership team remains committed to a Net income for 2008 was $10.4 million. Premium income, before reinsurance, increased $3.2 million to $130.8 million. New sales in 2008 resulted in more than $26.4 million of annuity premium and $8.3 million of annualized life premium. This growth was accomplished while management continued its efforts to monitor and control operating expenses as illustrated by the 2008 expense to premium ratio of 17.8%. • • • • responsible growth strategy that benefits all members and to continuously executing against our long-standing commitment of neighbors helping neighbors. Product options available • • • • • Whole Life Level Premium Term Life Universal Life Single Premium Immediate Annuity Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity Traditional Individual Retirement Annuity Roth Individual Retirement Annuity Single Premium Whole Life Simplified Issue Whole Life • Graded Death Benefit Whole Life • Single Premium Deferred Annuity (1, 5, and 6-year interest guarantee) • Medicare Supplement These insurance products are not available in all states. Please call: (866) 845-6665 for more information, or visit us at www.royalneighbors.org. Insurance benefits paid to members have nearly doubled over the last 20 years 1,800 Royal Neighbors is rated A(Excellent) $1,562 1,500 by the A.M. Best Benefits Paid in millions of dollars Company. 1,200 900 $852 600 $468 300 $238 $69 0 1927 1895-1928 1948 1968 1988 2008 Years Since 1895, Royal Neighbors of America has been paying and/or providing insurance benefits to members and their beneficiaries This chart illustrates the cumulative amounts that have been paid or provided at selected intervals during that time. There are many ways in which our members receive these benefits, including death benefits, interest earned, and refunds. We are very proud to report that over the last 114 years benefits paid to members have grown from $69 million in the first 33 years to more than $1.5 billion. In the last 20 years alone, the benefits to our members have nearly doubled. We believe this record of performance demonstrates the enduring financial strength of the Society as well as our commitment to honor the promises made in the insurance contracts held by our members. Royal Neighbors opens new office Mesa, Arizona, is the site of a new branch office of Royal Neighbors. It joins Austin, Texas, as a branch and Rock Island, Illinois, as the Home Office. 2008 Results 17 your RoyalNeighbors connection It was ‘sew’ easy going green on JOIN HANDS DAY! Cynthia Tidwell, Royal Neighbors President/CEO, taught Jack Reemstma how to use a sewing machine. Even the very young ‘joined hands.’ JOIN HANDS DAY is all about adults and young people working together to build lasting relationships and make their communities better. And, that’s just what happened when our Home Office chapter, along with several other chapters in the area, participated in a project designed to take a step toward helping the environment. Through it’s “sew” easy going green project, reusable shopping bags were created from recycled fabrics and materials. Sewing stations were set up for all ages and skill levels with everyone designing bags with their own unique touches. The bags were then donated to a non-profit organization for fund-raising. “This is a wonderful project,” said Luzhelena Upegui. “It’s fun to be with others to use our creativity for a good cause.” “I’m having fun today. It’s important to help our environment. If we don’t start now, the next generation will continue our bad habits.” – Codey Bender 18 “I like to sew so this is great. I recycle at home and do all I can to make a difference.” – Alice King Making a ‘green’ difference Members of the Augustana College chapter, Rock Island, IL, have been busy taking part in several activities that make a “green” difference in their community. In order to bring awareness to water scarcity, students who made a donation were allowed to “soak” their professors with a water gun using recycled water. The donations were given to Circle K International’s Six Cents Initiative, an organization working to provide children safe drinking water. Royal Neighbors reusable water bottles were also given away. Members also participated in “Project Pedal,” an event that gave incoming freshmen an opportunity to win a bicycle to use on campus. The 14 winners signed a contract saying they would not bring a car on campus their first year. This event led to an award from the Quad City Transportation Advocacy Group for Best Organization to Raise Consciousness about Transportation. Recipes for healthy eating Chicken Breast with Sautéed Cherry Tomatoes Serves 4 1/2 1/2 4 2 2 2 1/4 1/8 tbsp. ground cumin tsp. salt boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 4 ozs. each), all visible fat discarded tsps. olive oil cups whole cherry or grape tomatoes tbsps. snipped fresh cilantro or parsley tsp. ground cumin tsp. salt Sprinkle 1/2 tbsp. cumin and 1/2 tsp. salt over the chicken. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the chicken for 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm. In the same skillet, cook the tomatoes, covered, over medium heat for 4 minutes, or until the skins are lightly browned and begin to burst, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cilantro, remaining 1/4 tsp. cumin, and remaining 1/8 tsp. salt. Spoon the tomatoes over or beside the chicken. -Courtesy of the American Heart Association Walnuts & Feta Cheese Whole-Wheat Pasta Salad 1/2 lb. whole-wheat fusilli or other spiral shaped pasta 1/2 cup walnuts 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup diced red onion 1-1/2 cups chopped baby spinach leaves 2 tbsps. walnut oil 2 tbsps. red wine vinegar 1 1/2 clove of garlic, minced (about 1/2 tsp.) tsp. Dijon mustard Salt Freshly ground black pepper Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and put it in the refrigerator to chill. In a dry saute pan toast the walnuts over a medium-high flame until they are fragrant, about 2 minutes. Set the walnuts aside to cool then chop them coarsely. In a large bowl, toss together the chilled pasta, walnuts, feta cheese, onion, and spinach. In a small bowl whisk the oil, vinegar, garlic, and mustard. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. your RoyalNeighbors connection 19 your RoyalNeighborsconnection Don’t miss out on this year’s Nation of NeighborsSM Program We established the Nation of Neighbors Program as a tangible expression of our neighbor-helping-neighbor philosophy. The program is about helping our members and those our members care about change their lives in a significant way. It is designed to help individuals who rise up to meet their challenges received a gift from head on and face the future with dignity, even when that future looks The Ramirez family bleak. It is for those who strive for independence and have the will to hbors Program. the Nation of Neig overcome unfortunate choices. And, it is for those who want to motivate others to achieve their highest aspirations and give back within their Program Guidelines communities. • Self nominations are It is, for example, for those who need help to: accepted • Start a small business • Previous recipients are • Rebuild after a disaster not eligible • Go back to school to change careers • Information provided • Recuperate from a major injury or illness must be detailed, • Better the lives of others thorough, accurate, and In the past two years, we’ve made a difference by giving financial complete assistance to nearly 500 families and individuals in need. This year may • Nominator and Nominee be the year we help you or someone you know. Complete and return must be 18 or older the nomination form on the opposite page by September 15, 2009 • Royal Neighbors reserves (form also can be downloaded at www.royalneighbors.org). the right to verify background and information provided • Recipients are responsible for any public aid or tax implications • Nomination deadline is Sept. 15, 2009 For more information, call (800) 627-4762 20 A panel of judges will review all nominations and determine the recipients. All awards will be presented by December 15, 2009. We hope we can make a difference in your life or help you make a difference in the life of someone else. Send in your nomination today! your RoyalNeighbors connection 15 21 your RoyalNeighborsconnection Royal Neighbors Foundation changes women’s lives in Parkersburg, IA It’s been a year since an F5 tornado ravaged the small town of Parkersburg, IA. As the rebuilding and healing continue, the Royal Neighbors Foundation is doing its part to help. eighbors The Royal N ublic a 501(c)(3) p Foundation, pic e philanthro charity, is th of l Neighbors arm of Roya to is dedicated America and Help men’s lives. changing wo en on help wom ti a d n u fo e th Send ng” a brick. by “purchasi tion uctible dona your tax-ded Neighbors to the Royal eet, 230 16th Str Foundation, IL 61201. Rock Island, 22 Kelly Panther and her family The Royal Neighbors Foundation is providing financial assistance to two women who need help starting over. One woman will receive funds to rebuild her home from the ground up and the other has a new roof courtesy of the foundation. “This help means so much to us,” said Kelly Panther. “God and the Royal Neighbors Foundation really came through for us.” The roof on the home Kelly shares with her disabled mother was damaged and needed to be replaced. The new roof means their daycare center can continue operating and takes one more thing off their “worry list.” “Everything you hear about a tornado is true,” said Kelly. “It sounds like a train going by at 100 miles an hour and your ears pop. It’s very scary. And, the aftermath looks exactly like a war zone.” Kelly looks at life differently now. “I’m planning more. I now have life insurance which I didn’t have before. I don’t take anything for granted and appreciate all I have. Everyone has been so supportive. We’re one big family in Parkersburg.” See our most recent donations to the Royal Neighbors Foundation Chapter 2993 Chapter 8500 Chapter 562 Josephine Perez Mapleton, IA Antwerp, OH Louisville, NE $25 $100 $25 $25 Elbert & Betty Chapter 449 Chapter 3648 Mary Peterson Sawley Crawford, NE Thomas, OK $10 $25 $50 $50 Dr. Joyce Elam $100 Chapter 3000 Exline, IA $50 Dr. Benet Spencer $100 Chapter 4183 Newberry, IN $50 Chapter 606 Sharon, WI $100 Sherry Nowell $25 - In memory of Clovis Beasley Coralinn Kuehl $25 Chapter 8753 Hillsboro, OR $100 Chapter 5327 Milton Freewater, OR - $25 Chapter 562 Louisville, NE - $10 Chapter 191 St. Anne, IL $30 Chapter 270 Bagley, WI $100 In memory of Martha Meisinger Chapter 179 Watseka, IL $75 Chapter 1228 Chapter 7651 Chapter 8138 Chapter 9099 Chapter 4829 Rexford, KS Hurdsfield, ND Washington, MO Hillview, IL Chicago, IL $100 $25 $50 $25 $25 Chapter 3076 Chapter 100 Chapter 6674 Winnetka, IL Cynthia Tidwell Esther Deboer Rock Falls, IL Sioux City, IA $10 In memory of $200 $100 $100 $20 Lillian Wooten Chapter 1884 Racine, WI $25 Chapter 5197 Council Bluffs, IA $50 Chapter 1997 Osgood, IA $100 Chapter 2317 Rathdrum, ID $25 Chapter 1893 Norcatur, KS $25 Antoinette Gajdor $20 Dorothy Poulus Valeria Loges $100 Linda Neuman $100 Johnny Stidger $25 - In memory of Kate Stidger Chapter 2845 Sioux Falls, SD $25 Chapter 2377 Ponca City, OK $25 Nancy Ferger $10 Gwendolyn Johnson $50 Jeanette Psencik $10 Sally Kennedy $25 - In memory of John Kennedy In memory of Muriel Linda & Bill Boyd Juanita Kirtley Divine Jeanette Denhartog $50 $100 $100 Chapter 3674 Ste. Genevieve, MO Margaret Gaskins $10 $25 Lucille Lambie $10 Patsy Kneller $50 Chapter 1150 Harwood, MO $25 Theresa Bonin $100 Amelia Stephenson $50 Sylvia Harris $25 Eleanor Kuehl $25 Chapter 1473 Edna, KS $100 Marian Berlin $10 Doris Leitt $25 - In memory of Gladys Hadala $10 Chapter 3798 Walcott, IA $100 Nancy Hanna $50 Chapter 10331 Verona, WI $25 Edna Arnold $25 Betty Coleman $10 Chapter 296 Aberdeen, SD $50 Chapter 620 Corwith, IA $250 Chapter 2753 Nampa, ID $25 Robert Freeman James Boettcher $25 - In memory of $50 - In memory of Cerilla Freeman Baldwin Marion Boettcher Helen Johnson $250 - In memory of Hilda Kuoni Chapter 1391 Sauk City, WI $25 Chapter 1570 Thomas, IL $75 Agnes Guthrie $20 Chapter 8778 Chapter 7299 Chapter 1068 Chapter 30 Mrs. L.E. Crane, Sr. Selby, SD Pasco, WA Wilton, IA Sterling, IL $25 $96.50 $127.65 $20 $50 Chapter 1491 Chapter 20001 Chapter 2 Chapter 8471 New Bedford, IL San Angelo, TX - $25 Judith Tshibangu Omaha, NE Chamberlain, SD In memory of Vince $10 - In memory of $25 $150 Doris Gaskill Kilberg Malmstrom $25 Chapter 5062 Chapter 5062 Chapter 5062 Chapter 3348 Chapter 516 Grand Rapids, OH Grand Rapids, OH Grand Rapids, OH Patience Kellogg Kenmare, ND Prophetstown, IL $33 - In memory of $33 - In memory of $33 - In memory of $50 $25 $25 Josephine Freeworth Geneva Vollmer Alice Perry as of February 1 - April 30, 2009 Chapter 6818 McHenry, IL $25 your RoyalNeighbors connection 15 23 Guaranteed benefits. Flexible premiums. SecureLife universal life insurance from Royal Neighbors is the best of both worlds. In uncertain times, you want flexibility. SecureLife universal life insurance is the ideal custom solution if you want the flexibility to build the life insurance certificate that’s perfect for you – and it’s backed by the reliability of Royal Neighbors of America. • • • • Adjustable benefit levels, starting at $25,000 Flexible premiums to fit your budget Choice of riders deliver benefits where and when they matter most Fixed interest crediting rate Call (866) 845-6665 today to find out how you can have the flexibility and reliability of SecureLife. Form series 200911 Not available in all states. RNA 0609B Visit www.royalneighbors.org
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