Fraternity-Testvériség, 2004 (82. évfolyam, 2-4. szám)
2004-04-01 / 2. szám
Fraternity- Testvériség Page 9 like William and Helen Szuch. The golf hole sponsors are also the keys to a successful outing as they bring in the bulk of the money raised. Rev. Bertalan then reported on the passing of Rev. Stephen Kovács whose memorial service will be held on April 2nd and again on Monday, April 5th in Trenton, NJ. President Torok welcomed and introduced the Branch Managers and Area Coordinators present and stressed the importance of their working together. Chairman Dózsa gave his welcoming remarks, and CFO Megyeri presented the financial report. Discussion followed about the annuity plan. Mr. Dózsa commented that although start-up costs are high, HRFA begins to make money after three or four years. Thirty days after one’s death, the beneficiaries must decide how the money should be distributed. Again, it was stressed that 10% can be withdrawn without penalty, and the monies can be taken out partly on a monthly basis if needed. It is important to remember that the money is tax-deferred income and does not become part of probate. HRFA’s annuities are not insured by the FDIC because HRFA is a tax-exempt organization, but our six million dollars in surplus is certainly a guarantee, and as Mr. Dózsa pointed out, that amount is a reserve put aside by law for annuity holders. Further clarification was needed to emphasize that a life annuity is a guaranteed interest-bearing policy with a guaranteed income that holds options for its policy holders who do not lose any of the money invested. Strict state laws require HRFA to maintain cash reserves equal to the withdrawal amount of the annuity to protect the invested money. An annuity holder receives a guaranteed minimum rate of return so he can count on receiving a definite amount of money in the future. No taxes are due on the interest earned until the money is withdrawn, at which time one is usually in a lower tax bracket. The annuity preserves Medicaid Eligibility once the funds are “annuitized.” One can control how much is withdrawn and when the withdrawals commence. Probate is avoided because the funds are rolled-over to a spouse upon the holder’s death. A short Pre-Need presentation was given by Home Office’s Silvia Fedor followed by a talk by Mr. John Feher of the Outlook Company. Fraternal Coordinator Teri Pflum gave an update on fraternal activities and emphasized the importance of documenting any and all activities, how to use the handbook, and she reiterated the duties of Branch Managers and Officers. She spoke of Join Hands Day on May 1, the Veterans’ Project, and a convention project of a helping nature. She also reported on the Breakfast Bunch at the Hungarian Reformed Church in Fairport Harbor, Ohio that is coordinated by Elizabeth Medgyesi. The project is of particular value to parents who work as a warm breakfast is served in the church to children before school. For this project, boxed cereal is especially needed. Mrs. Pflum also stated that the Clothe a Child project, which helps kindergarten to sixth grade children, is in need of socks, underwear, gloves, and t-shirts. That program is also run by Elizabeth Medgyesi. Mrs. Pflum said, “The community is so proud of Elizabeth because she is known as a caring and loving person who serves whenever needed or called upon.” Mr. Joe Fabri stressed the importance of continuing contact with clients after a policy is purchased. William Szuch requested a computer print-out of policies' expiration dates. Board Member Clara Csikesz said that with her scattered membership, it seemed necessary to have a big event through the Kossuth Club. Bethlen Home activist Edit Szep said that the Hungarian Cultural Club appreciates members who come to the home to be with the residents. Baba Ujvagi stressed the importance of combining activities with the youth in Ligonier in intergenerational linkages. Pat Armel often writes of such activities and takes pictures that are submitted to the local paper. Peggy Fabri also requested that when premium notices are sent out, it would be helpful to put in a change of address form for those who move. Mitzi and Joe Berei said that it was important that student financial aid winners and birth notices be continued. Mitzi told of carrying her HRFA briefcase and when it was recognized by a long-term member, both struck up a conversation and reminisced about their HRFA experiences. Rev. Alexander Jalso said that his members were widely scattered as well, and transportation is difficult because the membership is elderly. Olga Darnay continues cooking and making cakes for the elderly, which are much appreciated. The attendees then enjoyed a luscious lunch served by the kitchen of the Bethlen Home before adjournment. TIPS TO INCREASE SALES AND HRFA MEMBERSHIP By Joe Fabri Board of Director Member of HRFA 1. Get involved with your community. For example, on March 15th and Aug. 20th, the Hungarian community celebrates its special days. Those events offer an ideal time to speak to the participants of HRFA’s offerings. 2. Appeal to others who are not necessarily Hungarians but who may have an affinity for your product. For example, at coaching and sports events, craft meetings, bake-offs, PTA organizations, church events, and in classes, people you meet and network with may be potential buyers of HRFA products. 3. Target the young people. They need HRFA services, would be interested in the camp and need college scholarship money and life insurance. The youth bring in their parents, grandparents, friends, and then word gets out about our offerings. 4. Work as a team because while the husband
