August 2025 | Page 5

BetterLife board members and their spouses hosted an open-to-all luncheon for the community following the VFW tribute at Saint John’ s Cemetery in Mandan, ND. About 35 guests enjoyed a wonderful assortment of food and desserts.
Honoring Veterans and Strengthening Community Bonds
On Memorial Day, BetterLife board members and their spouses hosted an open-to-all luncheon for the community after the Veterans of Foreign Wars( VFW) tribute at Saint John’ s Cemetery in Mandan, ND. About 35 guests enjoyed a selection of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and fruit trays, along with desserts brought by attendees. Replacing the previous coffee-and-treats tradition, the luncheon has grown in attendance over the years. Some years, the VFW members will attend before they continue to the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery for their program. This year, a free-will offering jar collected $ 250 to support the event. This annual gathering continues to honor Veterans and strengthen community bonds.
A Lively Gathering of Friends, Family, and the Community
As the clock struck 2:00 pm, the doors of Tabor Hall in Dorchester, NE, opened, welcoming a lively gathering of friends, family, and community members. The wonderful event included not only a great meal and polka dance but also a tribute to remarkable 50- and 75-year members, as well as the member group’ s naitonal scholarship winners.
A lifetime member of BetterLife Members – Dorchester, NE, 10-year-old Korbin Kunc led the Pledge of Allegiance during the event at Tabor Hall.
The afternoon began with a spirited dance full of laughter and mingling. Guests enjoyed uplifting polka tunes from the Leo Lonnie Trio, led by accordionist Lonnie Pitz. During the celebration, Lonnie invited Gary Veprovsky to sit in and play a few numbers on the accordion while he danced with his three daughters. Guests were treated to a hearty meal of pork loin, dumplings, sauerkraut, and gravy— a feast that delighted the senses and brought a touch of tradition to the occasion. For a lighter option, classic hot dogs and creamy potato salad were also served.
As the sun set and the celebration wound down, Tabor Hall took pride in having hosted such a meaningful gathering. The gathering was not just about marking important milestones; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of this vibrant community.
BetterLife Members-Dorchester, NE, President Gary Veprovsky( standing) and Treasurer Larry Fuller( seated behind the desk), had fun handing out BetterLife goodies to the children in attendance.
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