Volume 97 Number 3
ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence
H E R A L D
Humanity ISSN —07458800
Brotherhood
January 21, 2009
SPJST ’09: Projects, Pleasure, Patriotism
LEFT PHOTO: Newly-elected Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Leader Betty Macalik assists Hannah Slovak with a winter scarf project at the January youth club meeting. More photos on page 22. CENTER PHOTO: The State Progressive 42 Tournament kicked off SPJST’s 2009 state tournaments on January 10 at Lodge 13, Dime Box. Pictured, left to right, Ruby Schroeder and Dorothy Markert, both of Lodge 29, Taylor,
Send your special someone a valentine in the February 11 Vestnik! See page 3 for details. Deadline is February 2.
Attention, SPJST Scholarship/Grant Applicants! Scholarship/Grant Application Deadline: Must be postmarked by February 1. Call Sandra (800) 727-7578 for questions.
Interest Rates ......................................3 Family Fun Dates ................................3 Vestnik Valentines Info .......................3 State Tarok Tournament Info..............3 Lodge Section .....................................4 Poetry .................................................19
and Milton Peterson of Lodge 6, Cottonwood participate. Tournament pictures and results will appear in next week’s Vestnik. RIGHT PHOTO: “I pledge allegiance . . .” Grace Lewis, Riley Allen, Sierra Sebesta, Colby See, and KJ Macik lead fellow youth club members in the Pledge of Allegiance at Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club’s first meeting of the new year on January 7. More pictures on page 21.
Inside This Week’s Vestnik
Youth Section.....................................20 In Memoriam ......................................25 Czech Culture ....................................27 Vrazelsʼ Retirement Info ...................27 Advertisements .................................29 Activities Calendar ............................30
Page 6
Lodge 39 Bryan visits delivers greetings to nursing center
Page 12
Lodge 92 Fort Worth gives to local charities
Page 24
Lodge 215 Youth Club supports victims assistance
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ˇ ´ VESTNIK
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SPJST HERALD
SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 (800) 727-7578 • (254) 773-1575 Fax: (254) 774-7447 www.spjst.org
VESTNIK EDITOR/ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0807
email: m e l a n i e z @ v v m . c o m
SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 985-0007 • Mobile: (254) 534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com
VICE PRESIDENT GENE McBRIDE, FICF, CFFM Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 771-3837 • Mobile: (254) 534-1450 email: genemc@spjst.com SECRETARY-TREASURER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 778-3720 • Mobile: (254) 721-4739 email: leonardm@spjst.com
DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM P.O. Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878 Home: (979) 272-3265 • Mobile: (979) 224-3125 email: dv.aggie@verizon.net DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR BOBBY WUENSCHE 2451 CR 405, Taylor, Texas 76574-5421 Home: (512) 365-3013
DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR JOHNNIE R. KRIZAN 11500 Heritage Pkway, West, Texas 76691 Home: (254) 826-5882
DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BILLY ROLLWITZ, FIC P.O. Box 195, Rowena, Texas 76875 Home: (325) 442-3141 • Mobile: (325) 277-5362 Office: (325) 442-3038 • email: brollwitz@verizon.net DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR LARRY W. PFLUGHAUPT, FIC 1243 Clovis Road, Houston, Texas 77008 Home: (713) 864-2163
DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIRMAN MICHAEL K. AHLSTROM, FIC, CFFM 407 Taos Street, Victoria, Texas 77904 Home: (361) 578-3279 • Mobile: (361) 676-3279 email: ahlstrom@suddenlink.net DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR BOB J. BAYER, FIC 1100 Hospital Blvd., Floresville, Texas 78114 Home: (830) 393-9073
COMMITTEES BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-1451 - email: dimebox4@aol.com District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - (512) 365-2000 - (512) 848-2416 cell - email: RonnieR1056@yahoo.com District Three - Al Kercho, 2444 Stonegate Dr. North, Bedford, Texas 76021 - (817) 282-5065 email: alkercho@sbcglobal.net District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, Texas 76875 - (325) 442-4841 - email: bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Mildred Holeman, 1006 Chantilly Lane, Houston, Texas 77018 - (713) 683-0018 email: mmholeman@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - (979) 244-4415; (979) 479-3430 cell District Seven - Bettie House, 1721 Continental Drive, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - (830) 281-8246 email: landbhouse@juno.com
FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372., Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 567-4264 District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Hwy. 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - (254) 985-2282 District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas 76706 - (254) 662-4934 District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM Hwy. 765, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - (325) 651-8550 District Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946-5118 - (979) 249-5940 District Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Ct., East Bernard, Texas 77435 - (979) 335-4461
District Seven - Roy Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive, New Braunfels, Texas 78130-3438 - (830) 625-8262
INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 F.M. 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Dolores Skrabanek, 13107 State Hwy. 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - (254) 985-2344 District Three - Daniel Roznovsky, 2513 Custer Court, Irving, Texas 75062 - (972) 252-6763 District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plainview Dr., San Angelo, Texas 76905 - (325) 234-8117 District Five - Helen Hegwood, 6702 Lindy Ann Lane, Houston, Texas 77008 - (713) 864-0489 District Six - Jerome Hlavaty, P.O. Box 174 Lolita, Texas 77971 - (361) 874-4461 District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 1100 Hospital Boulevard, Floresville, Texas 78114 - (210) 535-4916 PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-0112 District Two - Tammy Whatley, P.O. Box 367, Weir, Texas 78674 - (512) 864-9183 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Dr., San Angelo, Texas 76903 - (325) 651-5884 District Five - Lorenda Baldwin, 219 CR 47, Angleton, Texas 77515 - (979) 922-1279 District Six - Helen Kelner, 911 Ave. K, Rosenberg, Texas 77471 - (281) 342-2624 District Seven - Jarolyn Popp, 447 Shady Hollow, New Braunfels, Texas 78132 - (830) 964-5135 FINANCIAL SECRETARY JERRY MIKULAS Office: (254) 773-1575 email: jerrymik@spjst.com
FIELD OPERATIONS MANAGER PHILIP McBEE, FICF, CFFM (325) 784-9800 • Mobile: (325) 647-1949 email: philipmcbee@aol.com STATE TRAINING COORDINATOR JIM WIEST, FIC, CFFM Mobile: (254) 541-5555 email: spjst@hotmail.com
STATE FIELD REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT ONE - Bill Orsak, CFFM Mobile: (979) 324-0056 • Home: (979) 272-8902 Fax: (979) 272-8902 • email: borsak@tconline.net DISTRICT TWO - Hiram Dixon, FICF, LUTCF Mobile: (254) 231-7722 email: hadixon2003@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE - Contact Home Office, Phil McBee or Jim Wiest for assistance. DISTRICT FOUR - Bobby Gene Davis, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 450-3748 Home: (325) 947-0027 • Office: (325) 657-8400 DISTRICT FIVE - Ricky Peralta, FICF Mobile: (832) 515-8558 DISTRICT SIX - Karen Kaspar, FIC, CFFM Mobile: (979) 332-1616 • Home: (979) 543-2532 email: k-kaspar@hotmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Contact Home Office, Phil McBee or Jim Wiest for assistance.
STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR CHESTER JENKE, SR., FICF Home: (830) 303-4316 (210) 413-3053 email: cejenke@wmconnect.com STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR JOHN HOELSCHER Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0681 email: johnh@spjst.com
DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519 (254) 985-2396 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Janice Stevens, P.O. Box 613, Hawley, Texas 79525 (325) 537-9224 District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzalez - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023 - (713) 649-6138 District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide, El Campo, Texas 77437 - (979) 543-7120 District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 1100 Hospital Boulevard, Floresville, Texas 78114 - (210) 535-4916 email: wap6564@felpsis.net CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM (Formerly SPJST LAM) Executive Director Sandi Wicker (254) 899-2935 • www.chmgc.com email: ssandiwicker@aol.com
Editor’s Note
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Thanks for Vestnik Submissions!
Thank you to all of those who continuously submit information and
photographs to the Vestnik. We greatly appreciate you. And, please keep the items coming! Last week, we received a record number of items and photographs. We tried to get everything in this week’s issue . . . but it just wouldn’t fit! So, awaiting next week’s Vestnik include: • State Progressive 42 Tournament results • Lodge 18, Elgin hosts Christmas dance • Lodge 54, West members celebrate Christmas • Lodge 133, San Antonio Christmas party scenes • Lodge 155, Austin Christmas party scenes • Lodge 196, Houston-West reorganizational meeting scenes • Sokol representatives visit SPJST Home Office
Also, thanks to the Williams family of Lodge 15, Buckholts for introducing us to Raymond Tomek. Raymond is originally from the Cameron, Texas, area and is currently teaching English in the Czech Republic. He recently shared his story with the Vestnik which we will bring to you soon. So stay tuned to the Vestnik! And, a special thanks to our readers. “Love for Animals” Lodge 91, Crosby is sponsoring a very creative project on Valentine’s Day—February 14. The lodge is partnering with the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and the local WalMart in Crosby to host a food and supply drive for the SPCA from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The lodge is inviting
other lodges and youth clubs in District Five to also get involved and participate in the project. What a great way to make a difference for our furry friends who make such a difference to us. Hats off to Lodge 91 for a unique project and to Lodge President Will Locke for the idea. For more information, see page 11.
Speaking of Valentines . . . In the February 11 Vestnik, we will feature valentine greetings from our readers. A form appears on page 3. Greetings can also be submitted online at www.spjst.org in the Vestnik section. The deadline to submit greetings is February 2—so submit yours today. Greetings are free of charge, but goodwill donations will be accepted and donated to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Photos may also be included for a minimum $5 donation. Recognize your special someone with a valentine greeting in the Vestnik. It will make someone’s day— and make you feel good. Happy Valentine’s Day from the Vestnik!
Return Policy Sam had an interview for a big job, and wanted to make the right impression. He went out and bought a suit, shirt, shoes and tie. Before the interview, he continually checked his appearance to make sure it was perfect. While meeting with his prospective boss, Sam enthusiastically made his point, leaning his arm on the man’s desk for emphasis. Both his and the interviewer’s eyes immediately fixed on the price tag still attached to Sam’s suit. Thinking quickly, Sam said, “Well, if I don’t get the job, at least I can take the suit back.” —adapted from Reader’s Digest —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of August and the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Membersʼ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Vestnik do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Financial Secretary Jerry Mikulas, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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Happy Valentine’s Day f r o m t h e V e s t n i k! Send Your Someone Special a Valentine in the February 11 Vestnik. Greetings are free of charge.
Any goodwill donations that are received will be cheerfully accepted and directed to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Photos may be published with a greeting for a minimum $5 donation.
Please Print Clearly. Thank You!
To: _________________________________________________________________ Message: _____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ From: _______________________________________________________________ The following will not be published, but please include in case of questions:
Phone (_____) _____________________ Email Address:________________________
by Monday, February 2, 2009, to: If sending by Valentines fax, please Vestnik Valentines may also be SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny call to verify submitted fax was P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 online received FAX: (254) 774-7447 — Attn: Melanie www.spjst.org E m a i l : m e l a n i e z @ v v m . c o m (254) 773-1575 Send, Fax or Email your greetings
Greetings/photos must be received by February 2 to be published.
SPJST State Tarok Tournament Saturday, February 7 at Lodge 29, Taylor
The SPJST State Tarok Tournament is set for Saturday, February 7, 2009, at SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor. Registration is from 8 to 8:45 a.m., and play begins at 9 a.m. The tournament is open to SPJST members ages 16 and above. A $7 entry fee includes snacks and lunch. Prizes will be awarded. Register before Monday, February 2 online at www.spjst.org (in the Fraternal section) or by mailing your name, address, phone number, and lodge number to SPJST State FAC, P.O. Box 100 in Temple, Texas 76503.
For more information, call Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez (800) 727-7578 or email tammy m@spjst.com or State FAC Chester Jenke (210) 413-3053.
Directions to Lodge 29, Taylor In Taylor, turn from Highway 95 onto East 11th. Turn Left on Washburn at the “T”. Veer right on Thorndale Road. Go 1.8 miles to the lodge on FM 619. (From Highway 79, turn left on FM 619, go 1.8 miles to the lodge.) —SPJST—
SUNDAY
DECEMBER 2008
MONDAY
FEBRUARY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
11
12
25
26
18
5
19
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Attention, Members! If your household did not receive a 2009 SPJST calendar, please call (800) 727-7578 or email info@spjst.org to have a calendar mailed to you.
Januar y 2009
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
4
3
TUESDAY
6
First Quarter Moon
Full Moon
Last Quarter Moon New Moon
13
20
27
WEDNESDAY
7
January
Leden
1
THURSDAY
8
14
15
28
29
21
SPJST Home Office Closed
New Yearʼs Day
22
SPJST Supreme Lodge Meeting, January 20 - 22
2
FRIDAY
9
16
23
30
3
SATURDAY
10
17
SPJST State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament Lodge 13, Dime Box
24
31
Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT) Meeting SPJST Home Office
SPJST Deer Antler Contest Ends
SPJST INTEREST RATES
SPJST Mortgage Interest Rates
Mortgage rates are subject to change without notice. Call the SPJST Home Office (800) 727-7578.
Commercial Property 6.50% for 1 to 10 years 6.75% for 11 to 15 years Universal Life
Home or Farm Mortgages Universal Life 5.00% for Annualized* 75% Owner Residence Property
5.00% for 1 to 15 years 5.50% for 16 to 20 years 6.00% for 21 to 30 years Farm Property
5.50% for 1 to 10 years 6.00% for 11 to 20 years 85% Owner Residence Property
7.00% for 1 to 30 years
Annuities
Annuity I 5.00% for Annualized*
Annuity II 4.15% for Annualized*
Annuity III 4.15% for Annualized*
Annuity IV 4.15% for Annualized* * Rates effective 11/01/08 through 1/31/09.
Five-Year Annuity
When purchased, current interest rates are guaranteed for 5 years.
Band 1—$10,000 to $24,999 Current Rate: 3.95% Band 2—$25,000 to $49,999 Current Rate: 4.10% Band 3—$50,000 and up Current Rate: 4.20%
Family Fun and Important Dates
January 20-22 Supreme Lodge Meeting SPJST Home Office, Temple January 24 Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT) Meeting • SPJST Home Office, Temple January 24 Vrazelsʼ Farewell Dance at Mayborn Center, Temple January 30 Lodge 117, Robstown Reorganizational Meeting (7) K-Bobʼs Steakhouse, Highway 77 January 31 Deer Antler Contest Ends February 1 SPJST Scholarship Application Deadline February 7 State Tarok Tournament • Lodge 29, Taylor (2) February 8 Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary (5) February 13 Valentine Dance: Hosted by Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3) February 14 Fraternal Bowling Tournament • 300 Lanes, Austin February 14 Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Valentine Dance (1) February 14 Lodge 172, Pasadena Valentine Dance (5) February 15 District Two Skating Social • Skate Haven, Temple February 15 Lodge 18, Elgin Valentine Dance (2) February 16 Presidentsʼ Day • SPJST Home Office Closed February 20 Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Fund-Raiser: Chili Supper/Silent Auction (2) February 21 SPJST Awards Banquet Killeen Civic and Conference Center February 22 District Youth Counselorsʼ Spring Meeting Killeen Civic and Conference Center February 22 Lodge 32, Victoria Polka Fest (6) February 23 Lodge 15, Buckholts Hosts Hee Haw Show Fund-Raiser (2) March 7 SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament Lodge 48, Beyersville March 7 Lodge 29, Taylor Auction Fund-Raiser (2)
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SPJST Lodge Se ct ion
Lodge 6 Cottonwood sets February socials
President Milton Peterson called the meeting to order on Sunday, January 4, 2009, at 2 p.m. The youth club led the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST motto. A moment of silence was observed for the sick and deceased of the lodge. Sister Georgie Soukup reported 27 members present. Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek was present. He installed the officers for the coming year and gave a short talk. Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting and also
The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to:
SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447
Email: melaniez@vvm.com
Questions? Call (800) 727-7578
gave her FAC report. She read thank you notes from the Raymond Marek family and the Raymond Kallus family. Sister Peggy Dobecka gave the treasurer’s report and the youth report. The youth took down the Christmas decorations and enjoyed taking Christmas bags to the rest home. Brother George Straten gave the hall report. New members accepted into the lodge are Colton Peterson, Madison Magouirk, Joseph Krizan, Andrew Rodriguez, and Crystal Castaneda. Socials will be January 16, February 6, and February 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Sister Jerelene Lenart sent a get well card to Lucille Sulak. Lucille fell
and broke her hip. President Vanicek presented Milton Peterson with a clock for the lodge. He reminded everyone about Join Hands Day on May 2. Brother Johnnie Krizan addressed the members. Birthdays for January were Ray Perez, Barbara Hykel, Al Soukup, and Brian Vanicek. The name drawn for the $8 progressive door prize was Paul Haberl. Since he was not present, the next drawing will be for $9. Attendance door prize winners were Georgie Soukup, Peggy Dobecka, and Mary Neckar. Winners of prizes from the Home Office were Joe Dvorsky, Al Soukup, George Straten, Don Urbanovsky, and Bobby Dobecka. Next Meeting—February 1 The next meeting will be Sunday, February 1 at 2 p.m. Fraternally, Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
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Lodge 9, Snook reports on January meeting
Donnie Hejl called the January 7, 2009, meeting of Lodge 9, Snook to order at 7:30 p.m. Hayden and Hannah Kovar, Josef and Colton Orsak, and Zachary Shelfer led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Ann Schoeneman read the minutes of the last meeting, and they stood approved as read. David Kovar gave the hall manager’s report. Bonnie Walker gave the FAC report. Donnie Victorick gave the treasurer’s report. Marie Shelfer gave the youth club report. There were 50 youth, three guests, and 19 adults present. The charity for the month was to bring coats for the Mission. The youth will go to the movies on January 19. The youth club sponsored the New Year’s Eve dance at the hall, and it went very well. Everyone who attended the District One Christmas party at Horseshoe Junction in Brenham had a good time. The new flag pole is in. The officers hope to have it up before the fund-raiser. The lodge accepted two new members. There was some discussion about
SPJST Publication Committee gathers for annual meeting
SPJST assists Victoria Little League Fire Fund
SPJST’s Publication Committee met Saturday, January 10, 2009, at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Pictured are, seated, left to right, Vice Chairman Bessie Petr - District Three; Chairman Jarolyn Popp - District Seven; and Secretary Helen Kelner - District Six. BACK: Communication Assistant Katherine Morris; Tammy Whatley - District Two; Lorenda Baldwin - District Five; Floyd Kostelka - District One; Sharon Hohmann - District Four; and Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny.
District Six Director Michael Ahlstrom, back, far right, presents a check for $1,000 to the Victoria Little League to help purchase new equipment. Accepting the donation are, front, left to right, Little Leaguers Cruz Palacios, James Murphy, IV, and Jasper Martinez. Back: Esther Salazar (SE Zone) and James Murphy (SW Zone). All of the Victoria Little League equipment for three zones was recently destroyed by a fire at the storage shed where the equipment was stored for the winter.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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the fish fry to be held in August of this year, instead of the barbecue around the Fourth of July. More information to come later. Lodge 9 will be a sponsor for Snook Little League.
Lodge 25, Ennis Installs 2009 Officers
Next Meeting—February 4 The adult meeting will be February 4 at 7:30 p.m. The youth club will meet at 6:30 p.m. Make an effort to come out and support your lodge. We need you to get involved. James Schoeneman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 15 Buckholts to host February 23 Hee Haw Show
SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts met on Monday, January 12, 2009, at 5 p.m. President Doug Williams called the meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all, followed by a moment of silence in memory of our departed members. We had 14 members present and six visitors which was the most we have had in attendance in some time. Guests were Honorary District Two Director Frank Klinkovsky and LaVerne Vanicek, Honorary District Two Director Willie Kohutek and wife Adeline, District Two State Field Representative Hiram Dixon, and Howard Klemet. We en-
District Three State Field Representative Johnny Wiseman, far right, installed the 2009 Lodge 25, Ennis officers on December 11. Officers are, left to right, Treasurer Cathy Krajca, Financial Secretary/Youth Leader Betty Macalik, Vice President Jim Holohan, President/FAC Eugene Dolezal, Flag Bearer Victor Trojacek, and Secretary Pat Fowler.
joyed having all guests visit us so much. President Williams greeted everyone and thanked all for coming. The secretary and treasurer gave their reports which were approved as read. President Williams asked Adeline Kohutek if she would bring us up to date on the historical marker. Sister Adeline said that she had not received any more information, but we do need to start planning the dedication celebration. She also gave us some pointers on things we can start doing. We
Lodge 38, Kovar Presents 2009 Officers
The 2009 officers of Lodge 38, Kovar are, front, left to right, President Johnnie Janak, Secretary Joe Sulak, and Vice President Edwin Zimmerhanzel. BACK: Treasurer/FAC Donna Zimmerhanzel. Not shown is Reporter Betty Barta.
appreciate all of her suggestions and help so much. SFR Hiram Dixon spoke to us. He stated that SPJST is going back to the basics. He works closely with the sales agents. He said to feel free to call him at any time. He said changes have been made in the sales program for 2009. We will no longer have a quota to meet. He said the goal for the year is for our total lodges to sell 3,150 new certificates. A $40 incentive will be awarded to the lodge for each new
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member. Brother Dixon said he hopes that the sales agents can meet with old certificate holders and go over their certificates and make any necessary changes.
New Business Sandie Fischer invited everyone to attend the upcoming Hee Haw Show which will take place on Monday, February 23. It is the main fund-raiser for the local fire department. It begins at 7 p.m., but come early for a good seat—for we are expecting a crowd. Come watch an entertaining show and come hungry, as there will be plenty of delicious food available. Joe Kopriva made the motion that we adjourn and was seconded by Frank Tomascik. Motion carried. After door prizes were awarded, we enjoyed a delicious meal and visiting.
Next Meeting—February 9 The next meeting will be on Monday, February 9 at 5 p.m. We hope that you can join us at that time. Fraternally, Dorothy Tomascik, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 32, Victoria Announces 2009 Officers
The 2009 Lodge 32, Victoria officers and trustees are, front, left to right, Trustee Doris Elsik, Trustee Evelyn Horelka, Trustee Alfred Horelka, and Assistant Youth Leader Mary Tijerina. BACK: President Franklin Elles, Vice President/FAC/Reporter Kathy Ahlstrom, Secretary Mary Raska, Treasurer Lois Elles, and Youth Leader Mary Monclova.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 25, Ennis expresses appreciation
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Lodge 39, Bryan Christmas Party Scenes Submitted by Lillie O’Shields, Secretary
The meeting of Lodge 25, Ennis was called to order by the president at 7:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for our departed members. The minutes were read, and all the other officers gave their reports. Under new business, the cuts and lodge incentives were discussed. Thanks, Johnny Wiseman! A brief statement was made, and a thank you card will be sent to Johnny Wiseman for all the work he did for Lodge 25 in 2008. There was also a discussion about the New Year’s Eve dance that was held. Fraternally, Eugene Dolezal President/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 30, Taiton discusses Join Hands Day project
Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 30, Taiton held its regular monthly meeting on January 4, 2009, at the Taiton Community Center. President Yvonne Marcaurele called the meeting to order at 1:40 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for our sick and departed members. Secretary Wanda Dorotik then called the roll of officers and members. The minutes for the December, 2008, meeting were read and ap-
proved. Treasurer Lisa Bubela gave her report on the financial standing of the lodge. FAC Wanda Dorotik read the correspondence from the SPJST Home Office. She informed the members of the upcoming February 2 deadline for the applications for SPJST scholarships. Debbie Krpec gave an update about the upcoming District Six Bowling Tournament to be held January 10 at the El Campo Bowling Center. There will be both youth and adult divisions. It was discussed that Lodge 30 will again pay for any active dues-paying member who wishes to bowl.
District Six State Field Representative Karen Kaspar reported that as a lodge we have far exceeded our goal this year in certificates and asked that if you have any referrals to please give them to one of our sales agents. She informed the members that Carolina Covarrubia is one of the top sales agents in our district with 90 percent persistency. Congratulations, Carolina, on a job very well done! Youth Leader Lisa Bubela then gave her report on what has been happening with the youth club. She told everyone that the cards that the youth club members made at Christmas were sent to the DAV Association in Victoria so that they could distribute them
Lodge 39, Bryan Members Visit Sherwood Nursing Center
Lodge 39, Bryan members visited Sherwood Nursing Center. Participating in singing were Omer, Dianna, Christi, Tim, Chad, Kim, Matthew and Tiffani Everett; Dylan, Lynde, Binnie Ann, and Ronnie Roesler; Anthony Gutierrez; and Wade and Lillie O’Shields. Gifts were brought for the residents.
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Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Presents 2009 Officers
The 2009 officers of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje are, left to right, FAC Josephine Bacak, Secretary-Treasurer Lorraine Kana, President Jerry Gensler, Secretary J.C. Kocurek, Vice President Ardis Bacak, and Youth Leader Norma O’Canas.
to the servicemen and women. The youth will be participating in the District Six Bowling Tournament as a district outing. We then discussed our plans for this year’s Join Hands Day project. It has been decided that we will work with the community and have a flagpole and flag installed at Taiton Community Center. We discussed size and price limitations. Wanda Dorotik will gather estimates and bring them to us at our next meeting. The birthday celebrants for this month were Wanda Dorotik and Carolina Covarrubia. We wish them many more. Karen and Leroy Kaspar have celebrated 33 wonderful years together. We wish them many more years of wedded bliss.
Next Meeting—February 1 Our next meeting will be on February 1. The adult meeting will begin at 1 p.m., and the youth meeting will follow afterward. President Yvonne Marcaurele then adjourned the meeting at 2:30 pm. Fraternally yours, Marjorie Treumer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 32, Victoria plans for February 22 Polka-Waltz Festival
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Our January meeting caught everyone by surprise. It was the usual second Thursday of the month—but being on the 8th and with the holidays it just didn’t seem like the second Thursday. And, even at that, we had great attendance. Hopefully, that means 2009 will be a good year for Lodge 32! Along with old and new business, we discussed the upcoming PolkaWaltz Festival that will be at Inez Community Center on Sunday, February 22. Please make plans to attend this fun-filled afternoon. It will certainly be worth a trip to our area! Our Christmas social was held at The Sky Restaurant on December 11. We had 32 attend the annual event, and a great time was had by all. The food was wonderful, and we all enjoyed visiting. A cozy fire and Christmas music made it even better! Canned goods were collected and do-
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nated to VCAM. Watch for pictures in an upcoming Vestnik! District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom installed the 2009 officers. They are: President Franklin Elles Vice President/FAC/Reporter Kathy Ahlstrom Secretary Mary Raska Treasurer Lois Elles Youth Leader Mary Monclova Assistant Youth Leader Mary Tijerina Trustees Doris Elsik Evelyn Horelka and Alfred Horelka
Next Meeting—February 12 Our next meeting will be on Thursday, February 12 . . . plan to come and celebrate an early Valentine’s with us! Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom FAC/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Celebrates Christmas
LEFT PHOTO: Brooke Bacak, daughter of Sales Agents Brad and Crystal Bacak, enjoys drinking from her sippy cup at the Christmas party on December 14 at Lodge 40. Brooke is 22 months old, and she enjoyed eating and dancing at the party. She is the granddaughter of Ardis Bacak and was
the youngest member at the party. They are all members of Lodge 40. CENTER PHOTO: Carmen Kocurek prepares to fill her plate with the delicious meal. RIGHT PHOTO: The Czech Mates entertained for the party. Also pictured, Mrs. Rudy Laitkep visits with Mrs. Karen Holub.
LEFT PHOTO: Mr. and Mrs. Emil Bilek are seated at the table in the background. Mrs. Daniel Linhart carries her plate.
RIGHT PHOTO: Mr. Joe Cerny is about to select delicious desserts from the table. In front of him is Norma O’Canas. Also pictured are Craig Cerny, Vlasta Bartos, and FAC Josephine Bacak.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje reports on January meeting
President Jerry Gensler called the meeting of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje to order at 2 p.m. Present were 24 members and one guest. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cynthia Garcia. A moment of silence was observed for deceased members and ill in the community. Roll call indicated that all officers were present. All trustees were also present. Motion by Sheldon Holub to accept the minutes as printed in the Vestnik was made and seconded by Dee Floyd. Motion carried.
Welcome, New Members List of new members was read. New members are Martin Garcia, Richard L. Clipson, Cody Morgan Fox, Wyatt John Fox, Carlos J. Gomez, Jr., Adryanna Rae Manzano, and Trianna Lynn Manzano. Reinstated is Florentino A. Gonzales, Jr. Motion was made by Ben Svoboda to accept the members. Dee Floyd seconded. The motion carried. Treasurer Lorraine Kana gave her report. FAC Josephine Bacak gave her report. Mowing Committee — The yard was mowed by J.C. Kocurek. There was no old business.
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Lodge 39, Bryan member enjoys scenic summer vacation
Lodge 39, Bryan member Darleen Henderson and husband Buddy enjoyed a scenic summer vacation trip through Canada to Alaska. They live in Marshall, Texas, and traveled six weeks in their motor home. Darleen is the daughter of Lodge 39 Secretary/Sales Agent Lillie Matejka O’Shields. LEFT PHOTO: Darleen is pictured in downtown Fairbanks, Alaska.
New Business Sheldon Holub made a motion for the lodge to pay a one-time fee of $40 for errors and ommissions insurance for active sales agents. They have to sell at least one certificate and attend one lodge meeting per year. Ardis Bacak seconded the motion. Motion carried. Outgoing officers Sheldon Holub, Dee Floyd, and Betty Sanders were honored with a plaque for their past service. Motion was made by Sheldon Holub to give $200 to each fire department - Danevang, El Campo, and Louise. The motion was seconded by
Lodge 54, West Presents 2009 Officers
The 2009 officers of Lodge 54, West are, left to right, Secretary/Assistant Youth Leader Jana Vaculik, FAC Jean Maler, Treasurer Mary Lou Mynar, Vice President/Sales Agent Freddie Kaluza, Youth Leader Lisa Darnell, President/Sales Agent Wilburn Willis, and Czech Reporter Jan Vaculik.
CENTER PHOTO: Buddy, front, is shown salmon fishing in Valdez, Alaska. Buddy and Darleen caught salmon the moment it hit ice water. They canned the salmon and brought it to family and friends. Family members report it was “the best you ever tasted.” RIGHT PHOTO: Darleen is pictured on a woodcarved fish in Fairbanks.
Dee Floyd. Motion carried. Cemetery report - Vlasta Bartos was not present. Josephine Bacak gave Vlasta’s report and stated that on January 25, there will be a cemetery meeting in Moravia at 2 p.m. Advertising Committee - Sheldon Holub said that advertising will be suspended for a while. Sheldon Holub reported that Lodge 40’s team came in second place at the District Six Bowling Tournament. A fried chicken meal was supplied by the lodge; members brought desserts.
Birthday celebrants for January are Edmund Kana, Ben Svoboda, and Angeline Bilek. Celebrating an anniversary is Jerry and Willie Gensler. The next meeting will be potluck beginning at 2 p.m. February kitchen workers will be Ardis Bacak and Norma O’Canas, and the door greeter will be Allen Bacak. Motion to adjourn at 2:51 p.m. was made by Dee Floyd. Motion carried. James Kocurek Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 48, Beyersville Installs 2009 Officers
District Two State Field Representative Hiram Dixon, far right, installed the 2009 Lodge 48, Beyersville officers. They are, front, left to right, President Robert Leshikar and Secretary Linda Wuensche. Center row: FAC Ruth Wuensche and Reporter Denisse Wuensche. BACK: Treasurer Bonnie Urbanek, Hall Manager Bonnie Wolf, and Youth Leader Donna Vanecek. Not pictured are Vice President Larry Beran and Assistant Youth Leader Ellen Hannington.
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Lodge 48 Beyersville announces activities
The January meeting of Lodge 48, Beyersville was held Sunday January 11, 2009. The youth club met simultaneously. Before the meeting, we enjoyed cowboy stew and hot dogs made by Denisse. The ladies brought desserts, and those were scrumptious as well. Linda W. made corn bread for the stew. Robert began the meeting by leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The December meeting minutes were read by Linda. Bonnie gave the hall manager’s report. We are steadily booking the hall every weekend. The ladies’ Bunco group will have a Valentine’s special. All of you gentlemen who are not doing anything better on February 10 should come on out and join the ladies for a wonderful homecooked meal and some dominoes—unless you would rather throw the dice—and you can do that as well. The group starts gathering around 6:30 p.m. Then, they eat around 7 and start playing soon after. I know that you will enjoy yourself, and everyone is invited to attend. Bring a friend. You do not need to be a member of SPJST to have a ball, you all. We want to remind all District Two members and friends of those lodges that Beyersville will be hosting the spring meeting. This will be held in March on the third Sunday—March 15. We would love to have you attend. Lodge 48, Beyersville will also be hosting the State Straight Domino tournament in March on Saturday, the 7th. If you are not a member of SPJST and would like to participate, please see Brian Patschke or Bobby Wuensche today to sign up for an insurance certificate. They can sign you up for any lodge that you want to join. By the way, since I am the defending state tarok champion, I am issuing a call to all tarok players to see me in Taylor on the first Saturday in February to see if you can rip the trophy out of my hands! I plan on playing hard, so come prepared. Gather all of your SPJST friends and come on out. I know that there will be great food; Taylor has some great cooks in their Lodge. Speaking of defending their titles, Beyersville came home with the State Progressive 42 trophy again this year. Congrats to Gilbert Shiller who won
first place. Margie Faltesek also brought home fourth place. And, Dorothy Markert who rode with us was given honorary Lodge 48 credit even though she is a member of Lodge 29. Our lodge received a lovely thank you note from Evelyn Zieschang. A benefit for her was held at our lodge recently. They were able to serve more than 1,100 plates and were very successful in the silent and live auctions. Beyersville would like to thank Irene Vrabel of Lodge 18, Elgin for working with us to purchase some of her wonderful homemade buchta and other items that were given to the benefit. This is just one of the ways that lodges within the district and SPJST can work together to benefit others. Please be on the look out for ways that you can help your sister lodges. Donna brought us up-to-date on the workings of the youth club. They adopted a family during the Christmas season. They spent more than $300 buying gifts and food. The group gathered at Wal-Mart to work together to make the purchases. The youth club and mother lodge will be working at Shepherd’s Heart food panty on February 28. The food pantry recently sent the youth club a thank you note—not only for taking a turn working there but also for the donations that they make each year. The youth club has adopted the food pantry as its Join Hands Day project, and each year the youth stand in front of Wal-Mart to collect food and money to give to the pantry. The mother lodge will also join them. Each year, we have collected at least $300 dollars and add the $100 from the SPJST Home Office as well as writing a
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
check to make the amount $500. We also collect about 100 to 150 cans of food. The food pantry usually ends up spending $1,300 per month of its own funds just to make up the difference in the amount of food donated and the amount of food that is needed to feed more than 1,500 people each month. This is a wonderful outreach program, and it needs your help. Please donate through your church or directly through Shepherd’s Heart by calling Jo Lynn Williams today. Ruth gave us the FAC report. We have three graduating seniors of whom we are aware. Scott Patrenella, son of Karl and Sherry Wuensche, will graduate from Thorndale High School; Bret Wuensche, son of Paula Kennedy (and my baby boy nephew) will graduate from Pflugerville’s Hendrickson High School; and Lynette Urbanek, daughter of Mike and Bonnie Urbanek, will graduate from Thrall High School. We wish these three young adults the very best as they open a new chapter in their life. The mother lodge recognized that thanks to the youth club’s membership referrals and hard work of the sales agents, our lodge met its sales goals last year. District Two State Field Representative Hiram Dixon joined us this month. He spoke to us about some of the responsibilities of sales agents and also reminded us not to always wait for them to come to us. Please check in with your sales agent often to make sure that you make any changes needed. For instance, who is your beneficiary? Is he/she still alive? Do you have contingent beneficiaries so that if your beneficiary dies at the same time that you do, your certificate
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will revert to the next person? Do you have enough insurance to at least pay for your burial? If not, maybe you should think about getting a little more. Do you receive the Vestnik? Do you have a current address on file? If you have any changes that need to be made to your address or if you want to receive the free-of-charge Vestnik, please contact the Home Office. Hiram also advised us that we are getting away from quotas and going to an incentive award instead. We welcomed new attendees Scott and Mindy Roeglin and their family. Scott helped Bobby put all of the Christmas decorations back in the storage area. Thanks. We also welcomed Lodge 29 member Mary Kotrla who attended with her sister Alice. We are always glad to have any visitors. We also want to remind our members about Lodge 29, Taylor’s annual fund-raiser to be held at Lodge 29 on the same day as the State Straight Domino Tournament. Since the fundraiser is being held that evening, there is no reason why you can’t attend both. Besides, after losing at dominoes, don’t you want to see if your luck will change and you win the grand prize at Lodge 29? I bet that you will.
Next Meeting—February 8 Our next meeting will still be held on February 8 at the lodge hall. Robert will provide the cold cuts, and you are asked to bring a dessert. See you then! Fraternally, Denisse Wuensche, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton Members Prepare Christmas Dinner
On December 13, several Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered at Star Hall to prepare the meal for the annual Christmas party. LEFT PHOTO: Ed Mares makes use of the grinder. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured are, left to right, Lucy Mihatsch, Otis Meier, Dolores Skrabanek, Edwin Vasicek, Woodrow Marek, James Skrabanek, Calvin Skrabanek, Leroy Dana, and Donnie Pechal. Thanks!
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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Scenes from Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas Party
Sunday, December 7, 2008 • Lodge 49, Rowena Hall • Submitted by Sylvia Rollwitz, FAC
LEFT PHOTO: Brad, Brandon and Cammi Teplicek and Margie and Cole Zentner register for door prizes. CENTER PHOTO: District Four Director Billy Rollwitz, Beverly Teplicek, District Four State Field Rep-
resentative Bobby Davis, and Bernard Beach. RIGHT PHOTO: Eddie Mae Huebner and Dorothy Schwertner visit at the Christmas party on December 7.
LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Mary Jo Klattenholf, Ruth Treadaway, Evelyn Schwertner, Margaret Hennig, Sweetie Willberg, and Sheila Rathmell. CENTER PHOTO: Pictured left to right are Dolores Franke,
Toni Schroeder, Dorothy Frenzel, Nadine Buxkemper, Grace Beach, and Laura Pospichal. RIGHT PHOTO: Sutton Schwertner, Lula Marecek, and Nancy Schwertner enjoy a game of dominoes.
LEFT PHOTO: Cole Zentner, Becky Wood, and Kaycee Rollwitz play pinthe-tail-on-the-reindeer. CENTER PHOTO: Becky Wood, Richard Roll-
witz, Tanner Wood, and Kaycee Rollwitz. RIGHT PHOTO: Becky and Tanner Wood, Joseph Pospichal, and Hunter Wood play a game of Sorry.
LEFT PHOTO: Grace and Olivia Schwertner and Hunter Wood receive their bag of goodies. CENTER PHOTO: Lula Marecek and Sylvia Roll-
witz assist in the kitchen. RIGHT PHOTO: Everyone enjoys the delicious meal.
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Lodge 76 Wichita Falls gives to organizations
Lodge 76, Wichita Falls Fourth Quarter meeting was called to order by Mary Jane Michna. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Secretary/Treasurer Mary Ann Cook was present. First Vice President Aileen Pokorny was absent due to an injury caused by a fall. Youth Leader Charlene Barbour was absent. Welcomed were District Four Director Billy Rollwitz and his wife Sylvia, District Four State Field Representative Bobby Davis, and District Four Youth Counselor Janice Stevens. A traditional dinner of turkey, dressing, and all the trimmings was served. The secretary/treasurer furnished each member a copy of the September 2008 minutes and a financial report for August 15 through November 15. Each was reviewed and approved. Lodge members selected four charities to receive cash donations. Canned goods and non-perishable items were
Lodge 91, Crosby invites District Five lodges to participate in “L ve for Animals”
Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 91, Crosby will sponsor “Love for Animals” a food and supply drive for the Houston SPCA on Saturday, February 14, 2009, at Wal-Mart in Crosby from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. We invite all District Five lodges and members to participate in this fund-raiser for
collected for Rathgeber House which shares donations and other items with the needy. Everyone attending received a box of candy. Director Rollwitz presented a check from the director’s discretionary funds to Lodge 76, Wichita Falls. These funds will be used in donations to charities. Each district representative gave us an updated report on what was happening in his/her respective area. We always appreciate the attendance of district representatives and the information they share with us. Thanks for attending our meeting.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
the Houston SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). To get involved, please call Lodge 91 Secretary Vonda Smesny (281) 328-5209. Fraternally, Malba Smesny Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—
Next Meeting—March 1 Our next quarterly meeting will be on Sunday, March 1. Please come and join us. Mary Ann Cook, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 79 Corpus Christi members enjoy ham dinner
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On December 21, 2008, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi began with a delicious meal of ham, sausage, and side dishes. Before the meeting commenced, we celebrated Brother George Marek’s 94th birthday. We all sang “Happy Birthday” to him and other December birthday members Viola Repa and Brock Donnell (December 6) and Brother Frank Sacky (December 20). Happy birthday to all! The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance. All officers were present. A moment of silence was observed for deceased member Sister Pauline Novasad. On our sick list was Sister Ruth Marek. President Rebecek introduced District Seven Director Bob Bayer and his lovely wife Polly. Brother Bob spoke to the membership about events in District Seven and the SPJST Home
Scenes from Lodge 76, Wichita Falls Quarterly Meeting
LEFT PHOTO: Betty Sottek Trott, left, and sister Mary Ann Cook. PHOTO 2: Pictured are Beverly Cuba, left, sister Elaine Cuba, right, and friend Jack Dolan. PHOTO 3: District Four Director Billy Rollwitz presents check from the director’s discretionary funds to Mary Ann
Cook. RIGHT PHOTO: Out-of-town District Four representatives visiting the Lodge 76 meeting are Director Rollwitz, left, District Youth Counselor Janice Stevens, and State Field Representative Bobby Davis.
LEFT PHOTO: George and Janie Kovarik, Mary Jane Michna, and Mary Ann Cook hold some of the groceries collected for Rathgeber House. CENTER PHOTO: Congratulations to 75-year member George Kovarik.
He is pictured with Lodge 76 President Mary Jane Michna, center, and his wife Janie. RIGHT PHOTO: Ray and Irene Esparza, daughter Dianna Ibarra and sons Joseph and Charles.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Office. It’s always nice to have Bob and Polly attend our meetings. The November minutes and treasurer’s report were read and approved. Treasurer Brother Frank Sacky read a thank you note from the Novasad family thanking Lodge 79 for the donation to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in their mother’s memory. We also received a thank you note from Toys for Tots for our monthly donation. FAC Jerry Sijansky stated it will be time for our “No Bake-Bake Sale” again. We have had great success and donated to several organizations in the past. Brother Sijansky thanked Brother Jerry Elzner for his hard work for the past nine years on running this project. Brother Sijansky made a motion that we nominate President Mark Rebecek as the 2008 Fraternalist of the Year for Lodge 79. It was approved. Congratulations, Brother Mark! Correspondence was read by Secretary Virginia Rebecek, and we have two new sales agents. They are Brenda A. Meyers and Mary Lee Rodriguez. Welcome! We also received
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Lodge 155, Austin Presents 2009 Officers
The 2009 officers of Lodge 155, Austin are, left to right, President Ted Marek, Treasurer Jean Motl, Vice President Joe Motl, and Secretary Ginny Prasatik.
a thank you note from Glen and Wendy Pruski for our lodge’s donation towards the fund on the loss of their home due to a fire. We elected officers, and they are: Election of Officers President Mark Rebecek Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky Secretary Virginia Rebecek Treasurer Frank Sacky Youth Leader Paige Watson Assistant Youth Leader Roland Fuentez
Congratulations, officers! Door prizes of $25 were won by Paige Watson and Jill Sijansky. Our next meeting will be January 18 with a meal consisting of Mexican food, and members are asked to bring a side dish. The meeting adjourned. We hope to see all of you at the next meeting. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston announces 2009 officers, trustees
The slate of officers elected at the annual Lodge 88, Houston meeting is: President Pat Bruce First Vice President Marceil Malak Second Vice President JoAnn Buri Secretary Ana Latigo Secretary-Treasurer Carolyn Pechacek
Lodge 92, Fort Worth supports Kash for Kids, Meals On Meals, Goodfellows
Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosted its annual charity dance on Sunday, November 16, 2008. The lodge raised funds through donations and the sale of dance and prize drawing tickets. Money raised went to three local organizations: Kash for Kids, the StarTelegram’s Goodfellow Fund, and Meals on Wheels. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band played country/western dance music for the afternoon event. With a donation of $1,500 from District Three Director Johnnie Krizan’s discretionary fund, the lodge raised $4,266 for the three organizations. Thanks to all contributed funds and who supported the charity dance.
Kash for Kids Community Partners of Tarrant County is a non-profit organization established by the Tarrant County Child Protective Services Board in 1981 under the original name “Kash for Kids” to provide holiday gifts for Tarrant County foster children. Since that time, the scope of Community Partners has been expanded to include not only children in foster care, but also needy children served by CPS who remain with their birth families while working with CPS to improve their parenting skills and ensure the safety of the children. Community
Lodge 92, Fort Worth recently presented checks totaling $4,266 to three community organizations. The funds were raised through the lodge’s annual charity dance held in November. Pictured are, left to right, District Three Director Johnnie Krizan who contributed $1,500 of his director’s discretionary fund to the project; Lodge 92 FAC Pam Durham; Gina Caldwell, Child Protective liason for Kash for Kids; Alley Morado, Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County Marketing Coordinator; Richard Greene, director of the Star-Telegram Goodfellow Fund; and Lodge 92 President Gordon Hubenak.
Partners continues to provide holiday gifts, graduation expenses, and enrichment opportunities such as summer camp and athletic programs. Community Partners also sponsors the Rainbow Room, an emergency resource room located at the CPS Office that provides diapers, formula, food,
clothing, and other emergency items needed by children served by CPS. Community Partners is governed by a board of volunteers and supported through the efforts of Child Protective Services staff, so there are no staffing costs and minimal administrative costs.
Meals On Wheels Meals On Wheels, Inc. is for Tarrant County residents who are homebound, unable to prepare meals for themselves, and have no one to help them on a regular basis. There are homebound, elderly, and disabled people throughout our community that need Meals On Wheels. Eligibility is based on need, not age or income. Anyone may recommend a person to be considered for receiving Meals On Wheels. It could be your next door neighbor, friend, or family member. The meals, plus daily contact by caring volunteers and professional case management, allow frail, homebound persons to remain in their own homes. . . where they want to be.
Goodfellow Fund Goodfellows began in 1912 when newspaper employees organized a Christmas season drive. Since then, Goodfellows in the community have responded to the newspaper’s annual campaign to provide for needy children during the holidays. The fund collects money and spends it on basics — clothes and shoes. In 2008, the fund raised more than $800,000, and gift cards were given to almost 16,000 children. —SPJST—
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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FAC Esther Heinsohn Youth Leader Barbara L. Gonzales Guide Josephine Pflughaupt Sergeant-at-Arms Johnny Broz
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SPJST Education and Nature Center: Setting up shop . . .
Board of Trustees John Broz, Clara Broz Lynn Pflughaupt, Dennis Roeder Linda Wehring, Lowrina Lindemann Clem Pechacek, Ernest Anders Susan Broz
Congratulations to all officers and Board of Trustees. Submitted by, Jo Ann Buri Second Vice President —SPJST—
Lodge 91, Crosby offers scholarship
LEFT PHOTO: SPJST State Youth Director John Hoelscher, left, and ENC Director Ronnie Pflughaupt are pictured by the Adopt-a-Highway sign on the twomile section of FM 1291 that the ENC has adopted on
the way to Cooper Farm. OTHER PHOTOS: The SPJST ENC Board is busy getting an office up and running at the ENC headquarters at Cooper Farm. Office furniture was picked up the week of January 12.
SPJST Lodge 91, Crosby will be awarding a $500 scholarship to a 2009 graduating high school senior. The following criteria must be met: 1. A 400-word essay on “Fraternalism” (no less than 400 words).
2. Grade Point Average (if more than one applicant, GPA will be a determining factor).
Lodge 155, Austin welcomes new member
Lodge 155, Austin welcomes new member Celeste Louise Williams. She is the daughter of Quinner and Janet Williams and the granddaughter of John and LaVerne Hejl —SPJST—
Celeste Louise Williams
3. Community Involvement (Applicant should indicate in a paragraph what type of involvement he/she has been a participant). 4. Active Member (Applicant and his/her parent or grandparent must be present at the March and June meetings of 2009). Please contact Marie Stasney (281) 843-2882 for an application and additional information. All applications must be received by March 29, 2009. Vonda Smesny Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 160, San Angelo Presents 2009 Officers
The 2009 Lodge 160, San Angelo officers were recently installed by Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska, far left. Officers are, left to right FAC Brenda Holik, Treasurer Sandra Jansa, Secretary Charlene Dusek, President Sharon Hohmann, and Vice President Dale Weise.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 92 Fort Worth sets January 25 planning meeting
All members are welcome to attend a special 2009 planning meeting on Sunday, January 25, 2009, at 2 p.m. All officers, trustees, and committee members should plan to be there. Fraternally, Al Kercho, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 117 Robstown invites all to January 30 rally
SPJST will host a reorganizational meeting and rally for Lodge 117, Robstown members on Friday, January 30, 2009, at K-Bob’s Steakhouse, located at 4153 Five Points Road in Corpus Christi, beginning at 6 p.m. Dinner will be followed by an informative presentation by SPJST District Seven and Home Office officials. Door prizes will be awarded. Come out and enjoy the dinner and reorganizational meeting. We look forward to seeing you all on the 30th! For more information or to RSVP by January 28, please call Tammy Martinez (800) 7277578. —SPJST—
Lodge 130, Dallas members say, “Happy New Year”
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Lodge 179, Warrenton Introduces 2009 Officers
In looking back over the past year, we at Lodge 130, Dallas have been very blessed. In the past year, we had the opportunity to come together as a lodge family at our first annual “Homecoming.” We were very pleased to have so many attend and share memories and talk about the future of our lodge. Texas Czech Beseda Dancers Our dance group—the Texas Czech Beseda Dancers—continues to represent us around the state of Texas and perpetuate our rich Czech heritage. We are very proud to have many young people in the group to carry on the tradition that was started many years ago by SPJST Lodge 130 members who are no longer with us. They would be proud! In Memory of August and Eugene This past year, we lost two very special lodge brothers—Brother August Hlavenka, who was instrumental in creating and organizing the original Texas Czech Beseda Dancers, and Brother Eugene Parma who was lodge treasurer for many, many years and a longtime member of the Texas Czech Beseda Dancers. We will miss them greatly.
Dallas SoupMobil The lodge has also had the opportunity to contribute monetarily and in volunteer hours to the Dallas area SoupMobil. This is an organization
Lodge 177, Academy supports District Two Beseda Dancers
District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky, right, accepts a $500 check from Shirley McCrea of Lodge 177, Academy for the District Two Beseda Dancers.
The 2009 officers of Lodge 179, Warrenton are, left to right, FAC Joan Goehring, Treasurer Ora Lee Levien, Second Vice President Brenda Callahan, Secretary/Reporter/Sales Agent Ricky Weyand, Vice President Lloyd Goehring, and President Orville W. Kunkel.
that feeds the homeless. Thanks to Brother John Boylan, Benevolence Committee Chairman, for heading this activity. Get Involved in Lodge 130 . . . We look forward to 2009 as a year of growth. We would like to see longtime members return and new members to join. Fraternally, Suzanne Vrla, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 183 Arlington members celebrate Christmas
Dear Readers, Happy New Year! Lodge 183, Arlington held its Christmas party on December 6, 2008. The dinner was catered by Black-Eyed Pea Restaurant which consisted of roast beef, potatoes, vegetables, salad, and assorted dessert dishes. After dinner, the new officers for 2009 were announced and their pictures taken. The lodge donated $1,000 to Mission Arlington and was matched by District Three Director Johnnie
Lodge 177, Academy gives to Churches Touching Lives for Christ Shirley McCrea, right, of Lodge 177, Academy presents a check for $500 to Cynthia Russell, operating director for Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC).
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Krizan’s discretionary fund which totaled $2,000 to Mission Arlington. Thank you, Johnnie, for your contribution! Santa Claus appeared with gifts for the children. The children sat and talked with Santa and took pictures. There was a white elephant gift exchange which everyone enjoyed. Daniel Roznovsky was chosen as Fraternalist of the Year for 2008. Congratulations, Daniel! May 2, 2009, is Join Hands Day. Members and participants will arrive at Lodge 183 at 9 a.m. and are asked to bring tools to help with yard work and various activities. April 11 is the date for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. More information and details at a later date. January 30 is Family Night at 7 p.m. Please bring family and friends and enjoy a delicious meal. Everyone is asked to bring a covered dish of their choice. The meat will be provided by the lodge. Next Meeting—February 9 The next meeting is February 9. We meet on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Darlene Hollingsworth Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 239, Hondo meets January 27
Lodge 239, Hondo will have its monthly meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at the Hondo Community Center at 7 p.m. All members are invited to attend. Fraternally, Celinda Palomo, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 246 Morganʼs Point supports groups
SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point held its monthly meeting on Monday, January 5, 2009, at Best Quality Meats and Sausage Shop. President Charlie Herendon called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. President Herendon welcomed special visitors Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogical Center Executive Director Sandi Wicker, SPJST State Youth Director John Hoelscher, and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke and wife Colleen. All new members were accepted. The minutes were approved as presented. A thank you for the Christmas party invitation was received from District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky. Under old business, we presented checks to the Czech Heritage Museum, SPJST Education and Nature
Happy Anniversary, Gussie & Ernest Spacek!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 202, Jourdanton members Gussie and Ernest Spacek will celebrate 67 years of marriage on January 28, 2009. They have provided coffee at our monthly meetings for many years. —Submitted by Mary Ann Barta
Center, SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund, and Lodge 246 Youth Club totaling $3,000. The money was raised from the lodge’s booth at Czech Feszt in Temple held in October 2008. On behalf of all Lodge 246 members, I sincerely thank the non-stop, 13-hour volunteers who worked to make this possible: Wayne Orange, Ty Krumnow, Charlie Herendon, Brent and Trish Konkler and son Ryan, and Ty
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and Susan Grothe. Without your help and support, this could not have been a big success. The FAC report was presented. The February 14 fraternal bowling tournament was discussed. Lodge 246 is working to get a team or two to participate. If you would like to bowl with us, give me a call (254) 534-0809 or email davidn@vvm.com. Also, the lodge and youth club will work with other organizations on a project for Join Hands Day. The treasurer’s report was read and accepted. The youth club report was presented by Youth Leader Trish Konkler and accepted. The dinner was catered by Best Quality Meats owner Wayne Orange. Thank you, Wayne. It was great! Door prizes were brought by State FAC Chester. Thanks, Chester! The meeting adjourned at 8 p.m. Next Meeting—February 2 Our next meeting will be Monday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m. at Best Quality Meats, located at 2610 South General Bruce Drive in Temple, with a dinner served before the meeting. Wayne will prepare the meat, and James and Melanie will prepare the side dishes and dessert. All members and friends are invited to attend. Fraternally, David Nauert, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 183, Arlington Presents 2009 Officers
Lodge 183, Arlington gives $2,000 to Mission Arlington
Lodge 183, Arlington President Ann Pustejovsky, second from left, and District Three Director Johnnie Krizan present a $2,000 contribution to Miss Tilley of Mission Arlington.
The 2009 officers of Lodge 183, Arlington are, front, left to right, Reporter Darlene Hollingsworth, Youth Leader Kay Weeks, Financial Secretary Angie Stiborek, First Vice President Ella Mikeska, and President Ann Pustejovsky. BACK: Trustee Randy Adamek, Trustee Raymond Mikeska, FAC Debra Daniel, Secretary Eugene Havran, and Treasurer Annette Cepak. Not pictured is Second Vice President Dorothy Adamek. Also pictured is installing officer District Three Director Johnnie Krizan, back, far right.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SPJST . . .
By Lian Pruski Lodge 107, Floresville
Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas, or Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas—SPJST was founded July 1, 1897, in La Grange, Texas, by early Czechoslovakian pioneers and farmers wanting to provide insurance benefits for their families. SPJST is a non-profit fraternal life insurance company. When SPJST was founded, it was based strongly on Czech heritage; however, it has been—and is—open to anyone wanting to join. To become a member, you simply purchase life insurance. I am 19 years old and am a lifetime member. SPJST is made up of seven districts all over the state of Texas, 120 local lodges, and more than 50,000 members. I am currently and have been a member of Lodge 107, Floresville in District Seven. We have lodge meetings once a month on a Sunday. Seeing that we all live in the Corpus Christi area, SPJST does have a local lodge located on Kostoryz Road. Today, we will examine the problem associated with people not having or wanting life insurance, learn how SPJST is addressing these problems, and find out what we can do to help. In today’s society, people feel that life insurance is an option and not the
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Lodge 183, Arlington Officers take oath at Christmas party
Lodge 183, Arlington officers for 2009 accept the oath of office read by District Three Director Johnnie Krizan, far right, at the lodge’s Christmas party on December 6, 2008.
true necessity that it is. You might not think so now at your young age, but worst case scenario, what if something were to happen to you, your parents, or your child? Do you know who would be paying for it? When a loved one passes, it puts a burden on the family when they have to cover all the expenses. I interviewed Polly Bayer, owner of the Floresville Flower Shop, and she said that one of the reasons funerals keep getting more expensive is because the cost of flowers keeps going up. If you have a big family, the burden is that much greater. Now that you have a better understanding of how extensive the problem is, let’s move on to the solution.
Lodge 187, Round Rock gives to Taylor Meals on Wheels
Lodge 187, Round Rock recently presented a check to the Taylor Meals on Wheels to assist with the expenses of serving meals to those in the community. Lodge 187 Director Janie Barron, right, presents a check to Meals on Wheels Director Verna Guajardo and Main Cook Adolfo Lopez, second from left. SPJST District Two Director Bobby Wuensche matched the donation from his director’s discretionary fund.
—Submitted by Darlene Hollingsworth, Reporter
I believe that one solution is to give the information to the public about SPJST life insurance. SPJST has many different kinds of policies. You can get one anywhere from a 10-year certificate to a term-for-life certificate. After you buy the insurance you want, you automatically become a member and you would be put in the local lodge nearest to your hometown. You would be eligible to partake in the activities for your community to make our world a better place. According to a survey, almost everyone here has an open Sunday. On one Sunday out of the month, we have meetings to talk about upcoming events and new business. When I in-
terviewed Wendy Pruski, District Seven Youth Counselor, I asked her if there are any opportunities for kids and teens to participate. Her answer was, “Yes, the SPJST feels that the youth are the future.” This brings to attention the life insurance certificates for children—newborns to 17-yearolds. What comes along with the youth certificates is the membership of SPJST and much more. Youngsters between the ages of five and 18 can participate in the youth club. Through active participation in local youth clubs and statewide contests, children and teens can meet so many new people and friends. SPJST has a summer camp that the entire district gets to go to. Summer camp is free of charge; however, it is based on active participation. SPJST also has Youth Achievement Day, or YAD, competitions as an educational activity. Contestants field in a range of areas including arts and crafts, music, dance, and public speaking. I have competed in YAD and State YAD many years and have won many trophies. As the kids get older, SPJST also offers scholarships and educational grants. An SPJST District Seven Merit Grant is presently aiding me in my current enrollment here at Del Mar College. According to the surveys, six out of 16 in here said that life insurance was too expensive. But through my research and prior knowledge, I know
Lodge 187, Round Rock supports Shepherd’s Heart
Director of Shepard’s Heart John Jones, left, and Board Member Olga Martinez, second from left, accept a check from Lodge 187, Round Rock Director Janie Barron to provide food for the needy. SPJST District Two Director Bobby Wuensche matched the donation from his director’s discretionary fund. With recent job losses and financial problems, the demand has grown to more than 150 bags of groceries a week.
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that the older you get, the more expensive life insurance gets. For example, if one were to buy a $70 policy, they would be paying $70 a year for the rest of his/her life. But if one waited and purchased it when they were 45 or 50 years old, they could pay up to $70 per month instead of once a year. SPJST is here to help insure and enrich its members’ lives. I interviewed Bob Bayer, District Seven Director, and asked him how long he has been involved in SPJST and what gives him the motivation to work for SPJST. His response was, “I have been involved for 39 years—20 of them as District Seven Director. I wish to promote a better life for SPJST members and future members.” SPJST is more than just life insur-
ance. It sponsors a wide range of family-oriented activities and community service projects. SPJST also offers annuities, IRAs, mortgage loans, and more. If you would like to know more about SPJST and its assets, then I would be more than happy to supply you with contact information, or you may also go to the SPJST website at www.spjst.org. As you can see, life insurance is a necessity, not an option.
Lian is the daughter of Glen and Wendy Pruski and the granddaughter of Bob and Polly Bayer, all of Floresville, Texas. They are all members of Lodge 107, Floresville, and Bob is the District Seven Director. Lian recently completed her first semester at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi. She has postponed her college career
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
for now and has enlisted in the United States Army. She left January 13, 2009, for North Carolina. Best wishes to Lian in her new endeavor. —SPJST—
Just BB gun
Editor’s Note: The following letter was written by Lian and appeared in the Corpus Christi Caller-Times on October 15, 2008.
Has the media really instilled such fear in American citizens that even a boy with a BB gun is considered a priority threat? I read an article the other day about a 15-year-old boy being ar-
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rested for sitting on his roof with a BB gun. A BB gun, though painful, is hardly a reason for police intervention, especially if he wasn’t hurting anyone. At his age, and considering the actual crime in question, arresting him and issuing a sentence would be blowing things out of proportion. Because of the actions of a few teens over the past decade, the media has everyone living in fear that every teen who plays with a gun or fits a specific profile, might be a “killer kid” who could be a lifethreatening danger to us all. We have bigger problems with crime than just a boy with a BB gun. —Lian Pruski
—SPJST—
Scenes from Lodge 202, Jourdanton Christmas Party Photos by Mary Ann Barta, FAC
LEFT PHOTO: Evan Barta, left, and Gus Novosad have the food all ready. CENTER PHOTO: From left are Gus Novosad, Martha Ciomperlik, Melba Novosad, Lloyd and Bettie House, and Ernest Spacek. RIGHT PHOTO:
Ready to make their plates are, left to right, Lloyd and Bettie House, Ernest Spacek, Lane Hoggard, Travis Barta, Sammy Hoggard, Angel Valdez, Sr., Diego (partially hidden), Samara, Angel, II and Virginia Valdez.
LEFT PHOTO: From left to right are Amanda Hoggard, Kelly House, Veronica Barta, guest Darren Ripple, and Erich Wiederhold. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured are Erich Wiederhold, back, left, with daughters Isabella, Liliana, and Miranda and Michelle, James and Regina House. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: At the dessert table are Samara Valdez and her mother Virginia. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Completing the audit are James House and Sandra Hoggard. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Faithful member Frances Kovar gave us pull tabs and eyeglasses.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Presents 2009 Officers
District Seven Director Bob Bayer, far left, installed the 2009 Lodge 202, Jourdanton officers recently. They are, left to right, President Lloyd House, Vice President Jeff Barta (standing in is Evan Barta), Secretary Bettie House, Treasurer Valerie Barta, FAC Mary Ann Barta, Youth Leader Regina House, and Assistant Youth Leader Sandra Hoggard.
Five life lessons about the way we treat people
Submitted by Raymond Posival Lodge 15, Buckholts
First Important Lesson - Cleaning Lady. During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and
had breezed through the questions until I read the last one: “What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?” Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50s, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade. “Ab-
solutely,” said the professor. “In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say ‘hello.’ I’ve never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.
Second Important Lesson - Pickup in the Rain. One night, at 11:30 p.m., an older African-American woman was standing on the side of an Alabama highway trying to endure a lashing rain storm. Her car had broken down and she desperately needed a ride. Soaking wet, she decided to flag down the next car. A young white man stopped to help her, generally unheard of in those conflict-filled 1960s. The man took her to safety, helped her get assistance, and put her into a taxicab. She seemed to be in a big hurry, but wrote down his address and thanked him. Seven days went by and a knock came on the man’s door. To his surprise, a giant console color TV was delivered to his home. A special note was attached. It read: “Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night. The rain drenched not only my clothes, but also my spirits. Then you came along. Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband’s bedside just before he passed away . . . God bless you for helping me and unselfishly serving others.” Sincerely, Mrs. Nat King Cole. Third Important Lesson - Always Remember Those Who Serve. In the
Lodge 202, Jourdanton gives to A.C.C.E.P.T.
Lodge 202, Jourdanton members brought non-perishable foods and gifts for children for the county Christmas box program for families in need—A.C.C.E.P.T. Pictured are, front, from left, Kelly House, Amanda Hoggard, Sammy Hoggard, Angel Valdez, II, Martha Ciomperlik, Regina House, Miranda and Isabella Wiederhold. Center row: Erich Wiederhold, Bettie House, Melba Novosad, Lane Hoggard, Cassandra Reyes, Michelle House, Travis and Veronica Barta, and Liliana Wiederhold, and Samara Valdez (dancing a jig to pass the time). Back: Lloyd House, Gus Novosad, James House, Evan Barta, and Ernest Spacek. A few members are not pictured. —Submitted by Mary Ann Barta, FAC
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Happy Birthday, Ernest Spacek!
Ernest, dedicated Lodge 202, Jourdanton member, will celebrate his 90th birthday on January 24. —Submitted by Mary Ann Barta
days when an ice cream sundae cost much less, a 10-year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in front of him. “How much is an ice cream sundae?” he asked. “Fifty cents,” replied the waitress. The little boy pulled his hand out of his pocket and studied the coins in it. “Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?” he inquired. By now more people were waiting for a table and the waitress was growing impatient. “Thirty-five cents,” she brusquely replied. The little boy again counted his coins. “I’ll have the plain ice cream,” he said. The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on the table and walked away. The boy finished the ice cream, paid the cashier and left. When the waitress came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish, were two nickels and five pennies. You see, he couldn’t have the sundae because he had to have enough left to leave her a tip.
Fourth Important Lesson. - The Obstacle in Our Path. In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then, he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king’s wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way. Then a peasant came along carrying a load of veg-
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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etables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand! Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition. Fifth Important Lesson - Giving When it Counts. Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz who was suffering from a rare and serious disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her five-year old brother, who had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the illness. The doctor explained the situation to her little brother, and asked the little boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister. I saw him hesitate for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, “Yes I’ll do it if it will save her.” As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the color returning to her cheeks. Then his face grew pale and his smile faded. He looked up at the doctor and asked with a trembling voice, “Will I start to die right away?” Being young, the little boy had misunderstood the doctor; he thought he was going to have to give his sister all of his blood in order to save her. —Author Unknown —SPJST—
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Members: Christmas Break from College
Helping Hands by d.knape Lodge 187, Round Rock
Sheep need shepherds lambs need ewes someone to lend a hand or two someone to guide us as we wander alone someone to help us stand on our own someone to help us learn from mistakes that gratification may have to wait
to teach us persistence to go steadily forward not to give up nor to be cowered
Enjoying their Christmas break from college life are Phillip Barta, left, son of Jeff and Belenda Barta, and Walter Mazur, son of Valerie Barta. Phillip is a student at Texas A&M in College Station, and Walter attends ITT Technical Institute in Austin. The young men are grandsons of Evan and Mary Ann Barta. They are all members of Lodge 202, Jourdanton.
someone to be there after a fall to help us back up after all
like nestlings we learn through trial and error but we’d never fly without someone to care a mentor, a minder a friend if you will someone to give us a hand up the hill
like toddlers we struggle we totter and balk without helping hands we’d just never walk
and a helping of love proves stronger than hate healing our scars and setting us straight
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life is a lesson hard to understand and we would not make it without helping hands. —SPJST—
Rocket Words
by d.knape Lodge 187, Round Rock
words can be rockets poetic flares streaming skyward over our stares
exploding in whiteness we wait for the pause we witness the meaning the oohs and the aahs
then breathless in wonder we stop and reflect imagination ignited causing effect
words burst with meaning bright flashing rays lifting us skyward lighting our way.
words are our rockets taking us far flashes of beauty like a shooting star. —SPJST—
Lodge 215, South Plains Announces 2009 Officers
Lodge 215, South Plains assists Lynn County senior citizens
Lodge 215, South Plains members, left to right, Reed Williams, Lee Lehman, and Keith Williams are pictured presenting a check to the Lynn County Pioneers Senior Citizens Center.
District Four Director Billy Rollwitz, far left, is pictured with the 2009 officers of Lodge 215, South Plains. Officers are, left to right, President Lee Lehmann, Vice President Keith Williams, Secretary/FAC Pam Lehmann, and Youth Leader Janeece Williams.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to:
SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447
Email: melaniez@vvm.com
District Two: spring youth activities planned
Dear Readers, Happy New Year to everyone! Here we are beginning a new year with a lot of fun and exciting activities for our District Two youth. We will be reorganizing our beseda groups on Saturday, February 7 at
Questions? Call (800) 727-7578
Seaton Star Hall. The time is 10 a.m. I need all former dancers to come dressed—that is if your costume still fits. Maggie will be there to make any adjustments or take orders for new ones. We will also practice. We need more beseda dancers. If you are interested, please call me. There is a spot for you. A big thank you to Lodge 177, Academy for its most generous donation of $500 to our beseda group. You
are awesome, and we appreciate you so much. Thank you. Thank you. The beseda group will be having a sausage wrap and bake sale at Sam’s Club in Temple on Saturday, February 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please join us for some good food and support our beseda groups. Skating Party—February 15 The annual District Two Skating Party will be held on Sunday, February 15 from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. at Skate Haven in Temple. Each year, this activity seems to get bigger and bigger. What fun we all have! It is so nice for the entire district to get together after what seems such a long time back in the summer. Please make plans to attend. You may bring a guest. Door prizes will be given. Good luck to those of you who referred your friends to join SPJST. I hope to see a District Two name drawn for the big prize. A big congratulations to Lodge 29, Taylor; Lodge 47, Seaton; Lodge 80, Holland; and Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point for reaching their goals with new members. I
am so proud of you.
Spring Meeting—March 15 The District Two Spring Meeting will be held on Sunday, March 15 at Lodge 48, Beyersville. This year, there will be no stuffing of the million Easter eggs. You will only get to hunt them. Be sure and bring your baskets. Please start decorating your Czech Easter egg (kraslice). See page 39 of your rule book for the rules. All youth and adults are welcome to enter. All youth who enter will receive a cash prize. For all youth ages three to prekindergarten, there will be a Little Mr. and Miss SPJST parade. What fun it will be to see our future youth members shining on that day. Sunday dress will be appropriate for your child. I ask that you let me know if you have a child who would like to participate. I want to be sure and have a surprise bag for each child. Mark your calendars for April 19—Core Challenge—to be held at Lion’s Park in Temple. We had a fantastic turn-out last year and hope to have even more involved this year.
Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Presents Christmas Program
Dear Vestnik Readers, I hope you all enjoyed the Christmas holiday and got everything you wanted from Santa. At the December meeting, we had our annual Christmas meal and program. A special thanks to Emily
Lewis who provided all the special Christmas music. Keep up the good work, Emily! After the program, we had a special visitor from the North Pole. We got to tell Santa what we wanted, and he gave us a sack filled with fruit and
candy. He must have known we liked apples, oranges, and chocolate candy! Now that the holidays are over, we look forward to having our annual Valentine’s Day Dance. It will be Saturday, February 14, 2009, from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Concessions will
TOP LEFT PHOTO: Emily plays the piano. TOP CENTER PHOTO: Cullen, Zachary, Robert, Taylor, Hannah, and Kim—never too old to sit on Santa’s lap! TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Kyleigh and J. Beau give Santa their wish lists.
LEFT PHOTO: Robert and Zachary present a skit.
RIGHT PHOTO: The twins are not so sure about Santa!
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be available. Admission will be $3. All members and community friends are welcome. Fraternally submitted, Bradley Shelfer Vice President —SPJST—
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This event is open to the public. I will need many workers for that day. Please let me know if you can help. These are the activities for only the next four months. As you can see, District Two youth stay very busy. And, wait until you hear about the next four months. Tell your friends. We hope they will want to join us. I want to thank the youth leaders who have stepped down this year: Melanie Regan, Chaundra Mitchan, Brenda Hoelscher, all of Lodge 47, Seaton, and Heleana White of Lodge 80, Holland. I thank you for all your hard work and dedication last year. Please stay involved. We need you. I am looking so forward to working with the new leaders of Seaton— Lynette Talasek, Tammy Pechal, and Crystal Morris and Holland new leaders—Frank and Connie Horak. I look so forward to seeing all of you at the skating party. It does seem so long ago that we were all together. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Two Youth Counselor —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club joins adults for Christmas party
Dear Readers, On December 14, 2008, the Lodge 24, Cyclone youth club joined the adult lodge members for a potluck Christmas dinner. The party was a great opportunity for the youth and adults to mingle and spread the holiday spirit! We collected toys for the Santa Pal program and had a food drive for St. Vincent de Paul. The youth did two Christmas crafts—decorating tree ornaments and decorating cookies. We also sang Christmas songs with the adults. Margaret Mikeska led the memorial service for our deceased Lodge 24 members, and the youth officers helped by lighting candles. Everyone enjoyed a nice meal and desserts. Fraternally, Stephanie Vanicek —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone youth ice skate, enjoy pizza, games
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Dear Readers, Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club held its last meeting on January 11, 2009, at Flag Hall. District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky attended and spoke to the members about beseda dancing and SPJST summer camps. Youth Leader Joan Vanicek spoke to the members about the February meeting when our club will be visiting the William Courtney State Veterans Nursing Home and delivering valentines to the residents. We will then eat pizza and go roller skating with the all the District Two youth. After our January meeting, youth club members and guests met at the Arctic Wolf ice skating rink in Bryan. We had a crowd of 48 members, guests, and parents at the skating rink! Ice skating was a refreshing way to kick off the new year. For several members, skating and slipping on the ice was a new experience! Afterwards for dinner, several families met at the GattiLand Pizza restaurant nearby. We enjoyed pizza and arcade games.
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Our next meeting will be at 3 p.m. at the nursing home. If you took home a Valentine card kit, please remember to bring your finished Valentines to give to the residents! Fraternally, Stephanie Vanicek —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor youth enjoys meeting, activities
At our last youth club meeting of Lodge 29, Taylor, we had fun eating popcorn, drinking kool-aid, and making bouncy balls. I am excited for the skating trip in February. Brandon Girod —SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club: Off to a Great Start in January
Dear Vestnik Readers, Happy New Year! Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club is off to a great start. At our January meeting, we had 51 members present and four guests—Brittanie Gaas, Jake and McKenna Green, and Kyleigh Hruska. At our meeting, Mr. Randy Gaas gave us an update on the new camp
site. I can’t wait until camp. Our youth club will be going to the movies on January 19. We will leave from the high school parking lot at 4 p.m. Our charity and community service for January was to bring new/used jackets. We collected a bunch. This will be taken to Christian Care. Our community and charity
LEFT PHOTO: Colton Gantt and Caleb Granger make cards for Lamar. CENTER PHOTO: Kyleigh Hruska, Natalee See, Jami Jakubik, and Jax-
service items for February will be to bring baby wipes, paper towels, antibacterial hand soap, rubbing alcohol, and/or Clorox wipes. Each family is requested to bring two items. The craft/door prize/jokes/games committee for February is Hoopers, Millers, and Swarbs. At our meeting, we made get-well
cards for Lamar Groce. The youth club wants to wish him a speedy recovery.
Next Meeting—February 4 Our next meeting is February 4 at 6:30 p.m. Hope you can join us. Fraternally submitted, Zachary Shelfer —SPJST—
son Brisco get creative on their cards for Lamar. RIGHT PHOTO: Jaycie Brisco selects her door prize.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lodge 30, Taiton youth: happy new year!
Dear Vestnik Readers, Happy New Year to everyone. I hope that you had a safe and fun time bringing in the new year. We stayed home and drank champagne (sparkling grape juice). We didn’t get to pop any firecrackers this year, but we heard our neighbors’ firecrackers. Have a great year! Dylan Treumer —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club meets January 25
Dear Members, This is just a reminder that we will have our next youth club meeting on Sunday, January 25, 2009, at 2 p.m. Please plan to attend. We will start talking about our annual Easter party that will be on Saturday, April 4. Fraternally, Allison Wockenfuss, age 12 Social Committee Chairman —SPJST—
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Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth ready to bowl
The first game I tried bowling, it was constant gutter balls. We laughed and cheered for each other, and Mom gave me great advice on how to keep the ball in the middle. Finally, I got a strike and I screamed! I am ready to go bowling again. Amanda Hoggard —SPJST—
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club went bowling for the January meeting. Hanging out with my friends was fun, but competing with my family was even more fun.
Scarves and Snacks at Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club’s January Meeting
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club met Sunday, January 11, 2009, at 2 p.m. After the meeting, everyone stayed for snacks and to make fleece winter scarves. Thank you, Betty, for the fun craft! LEFT PHOTO: Paige presents outgoing youth leader Margaret Krajca with a gift card to Chili’s
from the youth club as a thank you gift. PHOTO 2: Michael enjoys everyone singing “Happy 16th Birthday” to him! PHOTO 3: Tori won the $1 door prize. RIGHT PHOTO: The Dvoraks take a break to pose for the camera.
LEFT PHOTO: Justin, Pierce, and Austen (Austen won the guessing game). CENTER PHOTO: Paige leads the SPJST Youth Club motto. RIGHT PHOTO: Haley and her mom Sandra work on their scarves. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Dustin makes his scarf for his grandma as Pierce
and Preston watch. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Devin and his mom Kim work on his winter scarf. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: The youth club members proudly show off their finished products—winter scarves! Members enjoyed the fun craft.
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Lodge 215 South Plains youth plan activities Dear Vestnik Readers,
December Meeting On Sunday, December 7, 2008, Lodge 215, South Plains adults and youth had their monthly meetings. We had seven youth members present. We were given funds in November from District Four Director Billy Rollwitz’s discretionary funds that we gave to the Lynn County Victims Assistance program. We also presented a pre-lit Christmas tree and ornaments to the program for a family in the county. Youth members also participated in several food drives in their communities.
January Meeting On Sunday, January 4, 2009, Lodge 215 adults and youth met at The Center in Tahoka for their monthly meetings. There were five youth members present. Plans for upcoming meetings were discussed since the majority of our youth participate in local and major stock shows. Also, plans were
Lodge 47, Seaton Welcomes New Youth Club Member
LILLY CUMMINGS
Lodge 47, Seaton welcomes Lilly Cummings to the youth club. She is the daughter of Jeff and Noel Cummings. Lilly’s hobbies and interests include riding her bike and scooter, and she enjoys art. She loves books and going to the library. Lilly attends Lakewood Elementary in Belton where she is in kindergarten. —SPJST—
made to get a head start on Join Hands Day this year since it conflicts with area happenings and is hard to coordinate at the last minute. Sincerely, Reed Williams, Reporter —SPJST—
Keeping animals safe this winter
(SPM Wire) Winters can be hard on animals, just like they are on humans - especially outdoor pets and livestock. You need to provide sufficient food, water and shelter for animals. “Water is particularly important to check when the weather turns cold because low temperatures can cause water bowls to freeze, leaving an animal nothing to drink,” said Illinois State Veterinarian Dr. Mark Ernst.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Preventive medicine can lessen the risk of illness, according to Dr. Ernst. He advises livestock and pet owners to:
• Make sure animals are properly vaccinated. • Make sure animals not only have an adequate supply of food and water, but a clear path to the supply. Most importantly, remember that ice and snow are not a substitute for water. • Make sure animals have adequate shelter. Their coats provide some insulation from the elements, but a shelter is needed to protect them from severe winds, rain and snow.
The key is to make sure your animals are taken care of outside, even when weather conditions make it tough for you to get outdoors to care for them. —SPJST—
Art projects help kids beat indoor winter blues
(SPM Wire) Help your kids avoid cabin fever and winter blues by honing their creative energies into art projects. These “simple cures” can draw children away from televisions and video games by actively engaging their creative minds, says children’s art expert Shell Herman. “Getting children involved in creative projects can be energizing and can serve as a great alternative to the non-interactive activities that kids gravitate toward in the winter,” says Herman, CEO and cofounder of KidzArt, a national art enrichment franchise. Herman offers the following art ideas to beat the indoor blues:
Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club: Busy December
Dear Readers, Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club was busy in December. On December 14, 2008, we presented a youth Christmas program at the Lodge 84 Christmas party. There were dance routines, poems, a skit, a cello performance, and the Nativity scene. After the program, Santa came to visit. On December 21, we had the monthly meeting at Dar-
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ren and Kelly Tucker’s house. We made tray favors for residents of Scottish Rite Hospital. After finishing the favors, the Tuckers let us play with their Dachshund puppies. They were so adorable. I wish I could have taken one home. Fraternally, Melinda McClellan —SPJST—
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
• Group Creativity. Gather together the neighborhood kids and have an art party. Give them a theme and numerous art mediums (markers, paints, clay, etc.) and watch their creative flow.
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Lodge 183, Arlington youth gather for Christmas party
• Let It Snow, Even Without Snow. If it snows, get the family together and make a snow sculpture. No, not only generic snowmen! Bring out the gardening tools and try something new, such as carving a snow castle, polar bear or an igloo. If you don’t have real snow, try using white pastels on black paper to create unusual snow scenes.
• Art Workshops Whether it’s for a week, a day or just an evening, art camps and workshops give kids an experience that’s full of challenging design projects and fun surprises. Alleviate boredom by allowing kids to explore their creative potential.
For more ideas on stimulating kids’ imaginations or for details on art workshops nationwide, visit www.kidzart.com. —SPJST—
This month in history - January 2009
15 Years Ago 1994 (January 6)—An assailant clubs the knee of figure skater Nancy Kerri-
Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth receives Silver Star
Lodge 183, Arlington youth members enjoy the lodge Christmas party on December 6.
gan at a practice session in Detroit one month before the Olympics; he is later connected to her rival, Tonya Harding, who is eventually barred from competitive skating for life.
25 Years Ago 1984 (January 24)—Apple Corp. introduces its first Macintosh computer; it retails for $2,495. 45 Years Ago 1964 (January 11)—The United States Surgeon General, Luther Terry, delivers the first “Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health,” warning that smoking is hazardous to one’s health.
50 Years Ago 1959 (January 3)—Alaska is admitted
Lodge 215, South Plains Youth Club supports Lynn County program
Lodge 215, South Plains Youth Club members are pictured with a check and a pre-lit Christmas tree and ornaments that they presented to the Lynn County Victims Assistance program.
into the Union, becoming the 49th state.
80 Years Ago 1929 (January 7)—Buck Rogers in the 25th Century A.D. debuts as the first science-fiction comic strip. The character is based on the hero of two 1928 novellas by Philip Nowlan, and later spawned a radio series, a movie serial, and several television versions. —SPJST—
Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth: bowling antics
On January 10, 2009, Lodge 202 Jourdanton Youth Club met at the Pleasanton Bowling Alley to have some fellowship and food. After a brief meeting and announcements, we chose our lanes and let the fun begin. S a m m y Hoggard tried a new release technique in this picture. We laughed over our gutter balls and tried many methods to get that strike. My favorite release was backwards, between the legs, granny-style. Everyone laughed when I laid on the floor and did a “chest pass” with the bowling ball. My score was not very good (14) but it was fun keeping everyone laughing. Lane Hoggard —SPJST—
Lane Hoggard of Lodge 202, Jourdanton received a Bradley Middle School Silver Star Award for a second time. Lane was one of 38 eighth graders recognized at the fall awards ceremony. The prestigious Silver Star award is awarded to less than 8 percent of the student body twice per year for demonstrating the following school creed by actions and words. Bradley Bear Creed Protect the cubs Fight for honor Persist with courage Lead with might Strive for victory Achieve excellence Respect all others Nurture the weak Ascend the mountain of success
Each of the teachers can nominate a student who exhibits these traits. Lane’s recommendation noted his ability to motivate the class to get involved in the classroom discussions and complete assignments. His name will be engraved on a plaque which remains in the halls of the school. Lane has been a good role model by showing others how to get involved and succeed. Our grandparents Lloyd and Bettie House and mother Sandra Hoggard, all of Lodge 202, Jourdanton, are very proud of his accomplishment. Sammy Hoggard —SPJST—
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In Memoriam
Expression of Sympathy
We, the members of the Resolution Committee of Lodge 92, Fort Worth, on the behalf of our membership, wish to express our deepest and sincerest sympathy to the family of, WALTER S. MATOUSEK, who passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2008. Walter retired from the United States Navy and Army and from Bell Helicopter. He was a member of the Polka Lovers Club, Chapters I and II; SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, and VFW Post No. 8911. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty; and brother Louis Matousek. Survivors include a host of stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. Graveside service was held at Laurel Land Memorial Park in Fort Worth. May our brother rest in peace. Resolution Committee Alene Kercho Elizabeth Howard Ann Schneider —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of JOHN MARTIN GALLAGHER. Our loving husband, father, son, and grandfather passed away January 3, 2009, in Dallas. He was born January 19, 1956, in Chataroux, France. He was a current resident of Cedar Hill, Texas, and owned his own business, Aquatech Irrigation, Inc. John was well-respected in the industry statewide John Gallagher and was very adept in CAD design of irrigation systems as well as teaching certification courses to those in the irrigation business. He was a graduate of Ennis High School and a member of the Cedar Hill First United Methodist Church. John’s hobbies were fishing, hunting, playing poker, and spending time with
his family. John was preceded in death by his father Milton Gallagher. He is survived by wife Debbie; son John Gallagher and wife Jennifer; daughters Crystal Edgell, Suzanne Hamala White and husband Donald, and Sharon Hamala; mother Elaine Gallagher; sister Kathy Prachyl; brothers Michael Gallagher and wife Susanne, Robert Gallagher and wife Jayne, and Kevin Gallagher; grandchildren (who knew him fondly as Papa John) Jorden, Joseph, Avery, Zachary, Nicholas, and Benjamin; and many loving friends. Services were at 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 7 at Cedar Hill First United Methodist Church. Burial followed at Little Bethel Memorial Park in Duncanville. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 6 at Jaynes Memorial Chapel. A memorial has been made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of John Martin Gallagher. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of LILLIE HONZA NOVY. Lillie Mildred Honza Novy passed away peacefully while she slept on December 28, 2008, at the age of 94. She was born on April 28,1914, in Telico, Texas. She is survived by daughters and their husbands Janie and Jerry Marusak and Lillie Novy Dorothy and Ernest Dvorak; son and his wife Adolph and Rose Marie Novy; nine grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and two greatgreat grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Adolph; five brothers; four sisters; and one grandson. Lillie was a member of St. John Catholic Church. She was also a member of SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis for 75 years. She was married to Adolph Novy on October 18, 1932. She went to
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
school at Telico and Mott, completing the eighth grade. She was a farmer with her husband and was well-respected locally for being able to pick 300 pounds of cotton in one day. She also worked as a cook for Ennis High School and as a seamstress for Donovan Galvani. Lillie lived out her life in her home on the Novy farm until her passing. In recent years, her caretaker Sarah Patak and her baby daughter Eva Leigh helped make Lillie’s life as comfortable as possible. Lillie celebrated a wonderful Christmas entertaining her family in her home just a few days before her passing. We are all so proud of her peaceful passing, and we are certain that Heaven is rejoicing to finally have her where she deserves to be. Services were held on December 31 at 10 a.m. in St. John’s Church. Rosary was held Tuesday December 30 at 7 p.m. in Keever Chapel. Pallbearers were David Novy, Bryan Novy, Steven Novy, Tim and Danny Dvorak, and Jerry Marusak, Jr. Interment was at St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary. A memorial has been made to the SPJST Scholarship Fun in memory of Lillie Honza Novy. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of BOB FRANK SLOVAK. Bob Slovak, 94, of Bryan passed away Monday, October 27, 2008. A mass of Christian burial was held Thursday, October 30, 2008, in St. John Catholic Church in Ennis at 10 a.m. A rosary was recited on Wednesday, October 29 at 7:30 p.m. in Keever Chapel. Interment was in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary. Bob was born on August 10, 1914, in Ennis, Texas, to Frank Slovak and Antonie Galetka SloBob Slovak vak. He attended Creechville School. On August 29, 1949, he married Carrie Kubelka Slovak. He was in the United States Army stationed in
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the South Pacific Theatre. He was employed with LTV for 20 years as an aircraft assembler. He was with the Naval Air Station in the Post Exchange. Bob was a member of St. John Catholic Church of Ennis. He was also a member of St. Michael’s in Grand Prairie where he served as an usher for many years. He was a member of KJT, Knights of Columbus, SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis, American Legion, and VFW. His hobbies included gardening, singing and dancing to Czech music, and attending Czech festivals around the state. He was preceded in death by his wife Carrie on January 4, 1999; four brothers; two sisters; and his parents. Survivors include son Bobby and wife Becky Slovak of Bryan; brother John Slovak of Ennis; sisters Mary Mikel of Ennis and Georgia Harrell of Stockton, California; and grandchildren Christopher of Huntsville and Rachel of Bryan. A memorial has been made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of Bob Frank Slovak. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of MARTHA E. LUKSA. Martha Ellen Luksa, 79, passed away November 13, 2008, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Martha, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother joins her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Heaven, now in Martha Luksa peace. Martha was born April 8, 1929, in Garrett, Texas, to parents Ernest and Myrtle Wilson. She attended Garrett and Ennis schools and graduated from Ennis High School in 1946. Over the years, Martha had been a bookkeeper for Ennis Pharmacy, worked for Munn’s accounting office, The Little Shop, and Sears Store in Ennis. She was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church. Martha married Edward Luksa on
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
August 8, 1949, and they had been married for 59 years. Martha enjoyed life always smiling, loving the trips she and Eddie would take whether a cruise, Galveston Beach, or to the nearby mall. She continued to keep a smile on her face even in the worst of times, all the way until the end of her life. Martha’s dedicated companion Eddie has been faithfully by her side since the day he met her—she being the absolute love of his life. She is survived by her loving husband Eddie of Ennis; brothers Dr. Ernest Wilson of the Waco area and Clyde Wilson of Mesquite; daughters and their husbands Denise and Don Smith of Dallas and Cherie and Mike Collard of Rockwall; grandchildren Garrick Smith of University of Texas at Austin, Brantley Smith who attends Highland Park High School, Melissa Butler and husband Derrick of Rockwall, Taren Toth and husband Dustin of Rockwall, and Taylor Collard of Texas Tech University at Lubbock; great-granddaughters Macey Cate Butler and Camdyn Reece Toth, both of Rockwall; and a special sister-inlaw Dean Luksa of Ennis. Services were held on Saturday, November 15 at 2 p.m. in Keever Chapel. Visitation was held in the Chapel on Friday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Interment was in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary. Pallbearers were Ray Hughey, Al Slovacek, John Slovacek, Brantley Smith, Garrick Smith, and Dustin Toth. Jerry Slovacek was honorary pallbearer. A memorial has been made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of Martha E. Luksa. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis Officers and Members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of MARY MIKEL SULC. Mary Mikel Sulc was born in Alma, Texas, on May 27, 1932, to Josef and Anastasia Zabojnik Mikel. Mary passed away in Ennis, Texas, on September 29, 2008. Mary moved to Ennis where she was raised. She later moved to the Warsaw Community in 1955. In 2001, she moved back to Ennis. Mary was a member of the St. Ann Catholic Church in Kaufman and SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis.
She married Jerry Sulc in Ennis on July 29, 1950, and he preceded her in death on April 23, 1986. A son Greg Sulc also preceded Mary in death on May 28, 1981. Mary is survived by sons Jerry Wayne Sulc of Seagoville, Gary Sulc of Lively, and Dan Sulc of Garland; daughters Mary Ann Griffith of Tyler, Becky Harlan of Combine, and Melanie Hicks of Warsaw; brother Wesley Mikel of Ennis; sisters Annie Langer of Ennis and Betty Trlica of Ennis; 10 grandsons; one granddaughter; 11 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. A memorial has been made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of Mary Mikel Sulc. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—
In Memory of Roy Lee Shiller
Roy Lee Shiller, 76, of Miles, Texas, died on Friday, December 5, 2008. He was born April 13, 1932, in Taylor, Texas, to Edward and Anna Jansa Shiller. He served with the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean War. He married Judith Kubenka on April 27, 1957, in Rowena. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was a lifelong Roy Lee Shiller farmer and enjoyed music, dancing, fishing, hunting, football, and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo. The last of 10 children, Roy was preceded in death by son Michael Shiller; daughter Janice Marie Shiller; his parents; four brothers; five sisters; and his father-in-law and mother-inlaw Henry and Marcella Kubenka. He is survived by loving wife Judith Shiller of Miles; daughters Joan Neagle and husband Dale of Midland, Anna Lee Mueller and husband David of Roscoe; grandchildren Drew, Michael, and Scott Neagle, Stefanie Howard and husband Jake, and Kevin and Todd Mueller; sisters-in-law Alice
Shiller and Anna Kubenka; and several nieces and nephews. Rosary was recited at 4:30 p.m. Monday, December 8 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rowena. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 9 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rowena with the Reverend Magnus Chilaka officiating. Grandchildren served as pallbearers. Burial followed in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Lange Funeral Home. Guests may register at ballingerfuneralhome.com. Respectfully submitted, Charlene Dusek, Secretary Lodge 160, San Angelo —SPJST—
In Memory of Adolf Piel
Adolf Piel, age 72, of San Angelo passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2008, at a local hospital after a brief illness. Adolf was born on January 3, 1936, in Bonn, Germany, to Adolf and Katy (Sipen) Piel. He married Georgia (Boehm) Wells on March 26, 1975, in San Angelo, Texas. Adolf was a baker by trade, coming to the United States from Germany in 1974. He was extremely proud and honored to become a citizen of Adolf Piel the United States in 1983. He worked for Holsum Donut Shop for a number of years, later working for St. John's Hospital, Luby's and Baptist Memorial prior to his retirement. He was well known for his pastries, especially his Black Forest Cake. Adolf was an avid soccer fan. He loved polka music and dances. He belonged to the Polka Club at Wall and enjoyed going to the VFW hall for the dances and music. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is already sorely missed by his pet Trixi Girl. He is survived by his wife of 33 years Georgia Piel; sister Kathe Godesberg and husband, Hans; nephews, Hans Godesberg, Jr. and Jorge Godesberg all from Bonn, Germany; uncle Gene Bruno of San Angelo; and numerous cousins and friends. Rosary service was held at 7 p.m.
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Tuesday, December 9, at Johnson's Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Mass was at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 10, at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart with Father Voity celebrating the service. Burial followed at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers were be Richard Sklenarik, William Ruiz, David Blazek, Greg Matschek, Grant Matschek and D.J. Moore. Memorials in Adolf's honor may be made to charity of choice. Family and friends may sign an online memorial at mem.com. Respectfully submitted, Charlene Dusek, Secretary Lodge 160, San Angelo —SPJST—
Lodge 38, Kovar: a tribute to Jesse Hajdik
Our lodge lost a very good friend when Jesse Hajdik passed away on December 11, 2008, after a courageous battle with bone cancer. Although Jesse was not a member of our lodge, he was our neighbor to the north and never failed to stop to help us any time he saw us working there. He helped us do repairs, worked tirelessly at our bazaars, and let us use his pasture for parking. His wife Jean has been just as helpful, and we hope that she will continue to consider us her friends. Jesse Hajdik was born on August 22, 1939, in rural Bastrop County in the Kovar community. His family moved away when he was very young. He graduated from high school in Bellville and attended Blinn College. When his family moved to Giddings, Jesse met the love of his life, Jean Jatzlau. They were married for 45 years. He spent his working life in Houston, rising to heights in the construction industry. But his roots were in Kovar. In preparation for retirement, he purchased the land adjoining SPJST Lodge 38, Kovar and built a home there, only a half mile from where he was born. Jesse is survived by his wife Jean; sons Rick and wife Patricia and Jonathan and wife Lynn; grandson Ricky, Jr.; brothers Benny Hajdik and Ted Hajdik and wife Cathy; numerous relatives; and friends. He is buried in a small, rural cemetery across from his home. The country boy has come full circle. May he rest in eternal peace. The Officers and Members of SPJST Lodge 38, Kovar —SPJST—
Podpora
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BENEVOLENCE
ROCNIK 97 CISLO 3
Czech festival brings old Ennis back to townfolk
The Czech polka bands of Ennis invite you to the Third Annual Ennis Czech Music Festival on Saturday,
Lidskost
Česká
Část
HUMANITY
Bratrstvi Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas
Uředni orgán SPJST Založené rok 1897
February 7, 2009, from 2 to 11:30 p.m. at the Sokol Activity Center, located at 2622 East Highway 34 in Ennis, Texas. The event is an opportunity to listen to five bands for only $5 per person (ages 14 and under will be admitted free of charge)—and door prizes will be awarded. The bands performing are:
Vrazels’ Polka Band retirement dance/party this Saturday in Temple
2 p.m. – Czech and Then Some 4 p.m. – The Ennis Czech Boys 6 p.m. – Jak Se Do 8 p.m. – The Harvesters 10 p.m. – The Jodie Mikula Orchestra
The kitchen will be open if you get
A retirement dance/party is planned for Vrazels’ Polka Band for Saturday, January 24, 2009. The event will be held at the Mayborn Civic and Convention Center, 3303 North 3rd Street, Temple, Texas from 3 to 8 p.m. Doors will open at 1 p.m. Bar and kitchen will be open. No alcoholic beverages or food are allowed to be brought inside the facility. No video taping will be allowed. Admission is $8 per person; children under 12, free. SPJST Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek is emcee for the evening. For special presentations or toasts during the event, call him (254) 773-1575/office or (254) 985-
0007/ home. Due to numerous requests by Vrazels’ fans, the event will be videotaped, and a DVD will be available for sale at a later date. For hotel reservations, call Quality Inn in Temple, Texas (877) 7323320 and ask for the Vrazel group rate. You may also visit www.choicehotels.com and click on Quality Inn. More information and directions to the Mayborn Center can be found at www.vrazelspolkaband.com or by emailing bvrazel@farm-market.net. The event is sponsored in part by SPJST. —SPJST—
BROTHERHOOD
21.leden.2009
hungry. Come on out, and let’s party! This is a great way to extend your support and appreciation for Czech music and heritage. Dress casual, but this is also a great time to put on your kroj (Czech costume)!
Czech Cultural Calendar
Each Tuesday Evening Czech Language Class (extemporaneous)—at S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home, No. 1, Taylor, 500 East Lake Drive in Taylor, 6:30 to approximately 8:30 p.m. Informal gathering for the purpose of listening to Czech, and reading and speaking Czech.
Beginning January 14 Wednesday Evenings Czech Language Class — in the Activities Center at St. Josephʼs Catholic Church at 600 East 26th Street in Bryan, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. $35 per person. For information, contact Lou Zaeske via email louzaeske@aol.com or telephone (979) 846-2035.
Vrazels’ Polka Band consists of, front, kneeling, Thomas Strmiska, left, and David Trojacek. Back: Albert Heselmeyer, Anton Vrazel, Alfred Vrazel, and Patrick Strmiska.
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January 19 - April 6 Monday Evenings Czech Language Class - “An Introduction to Czech Language and Culture”—in the West Public Library Conference Room, 209 West Tokio Road, West, Texas: Concentrated course covers pronunciation, grammar, reading, vocabulary, and includes Czech history/culture presentations. Designed for beginners, but good review for advanced Czech language students. Class is free. For information, contact course instructor - SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson member Joe Janecka via email joejanecka@att.net; or telephone (817) 295-3068.
January 21 Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, 2009, at Pflugerville Community Library, 102 South 10th Street in Pflugerville. The mission of our society is to preserve the Czech culture. For more information, contact Phyllis Teykl (512) 453-4453.
January 24 Vrazelsʼ Polka Band Retirement Dance/Party—at the Mayborn Civic and Convention Center, 3303 North 3rd Street, Temple, Texas, 3 to 8 p.m. Doors open at 1 p.m. Bar/kitchen open. No alcoholic beverages/food allowed to be brought inside the facility. No video taping allowed. Admission - $8 per person; children under 12, free. Event is sponsored in part by SPJST.
January 31 TCGS Annual Membership Meeting/Program/Luncheon—at Caldwell Civic/Visitor Center, Caldwell, Texas. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Program, lunch, entertainment, traveling library, research room, Czech items/books for sale. Visit www.txczgs.org.
February 6 Fort Bend County CHS Seventh Annual Soup Tasting Supper—at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville Hall, on Highway 36, Needville, Texas, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
February 7 Ennis Czech Music Festival—at Sokol Activity Center, 2622 East Highway 34, 2 to 11:30 p.m. Five Czech bands. Czech kroje encouraged. Kitchen will be open. Cost for the daylong festivities - $5 per person; children 14 and under, free. Visit www.ennisczechmusicfestival.com. See the Ennis Czech Music Festival advertisement on page 29. February 28 Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship Application Deadline—for information, contact CHS Scholarship Committee, Patricia Parma, 3311 Carolina Way, Richmond, Texas 77406-9580 (281) 342-4898; or refer to website www.czechheritage.org.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
And, if you are in the area, come on out Friday night to the pre-party and jam session from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Sokol Clubroom. No admission will be charged. Please visit www.ennisczechmusicfestival.com; stay tuned to the Sunday Morning Polka Show from 9 to 10:50 a.m. on KBEC 1390 AM or www.kbec.com; and see the Ennis Czech Music Festival advertisement in this week’s Vestnik on page 29. —SPJST—
Anne and Michelle Hyzak. The mission of the association is to preserve Czech culture. Everyone is invited. Bring your favorite dish (Czech or other) to share and enjoy. For more information, visit the website www.austinczechs.com or call President Kay Bouska (512) 5857627. Submitted by, Happy Almaguer —SPJST—
Bexar County CHS plans annual dance
You are invited to come and enjoy an afternoon of music from the talented band Czech and Then Some on Sunday, March 1, 2009. The band is
Snack s and Par ty Fo od
Hello,
Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC) presents The Blue Danube River Cruise featuring Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Trip highlights include Prague, Hradcany Castle, Passau, Danube River Cruise, Wachau River Valley, Cooking Lesson, Durnstein, Vienna, and Budapest. The cruise departs on September 24, 2009, for 10 days. The trip will include a three-night stay in Prague that features the “Golden City” tour and visits to Hradcany Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. Local varieties of wine will be included with every dinner on the cruise. The cruise will also include an opportunity to visit spectacular
UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna. Approximate rate double is $4,299 (cancellation waiver and insurance is an additional $235). The cost includes land, air from Austin, and hotel transfers. Book today! The reservation deadline is February 24, 2009. For more information or a brochure, please call CHMGC Executive Director Sandi Wicker (254) 899-2935 or (254) 773-1575. Proceeds will benefit CHMGC. Submitted by, Sandi Wicker, CHMGC Executive Director —SPJST—
Danube River Cruise
Prague Old Town
chlebíčky
The Austin Czech Historical Association’s monthly potluck meeting is Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at 7 p.m. at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, located at 200 West Anderson Lane in Austin, Texas. The program will be Czech Christmas Winter Wonderland, Part 2 by
CHMGC plans Blue Danube River Cruise
coming from Ennis to entertain in south central Texas. So tell your friends and family to come to the Martinez Social Club, located at 7791 FM 1346 at FM 1516 in San Antonio. Sausage-in-a-bun and kolaches will be available for sale. Call (210) 648-
ABC of Czech
and welcome to the ABC of Czech. Today, we’ll be looking at typical Czech party food. Although parties in this country more and more resemble parties anywhere in the western world, including the food, in today’s ABC of Czech, we’ll look at the traditional food served at Czech office parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, exhibition openings, conferences, and similar types of events. The one thing that can’t be missing on a Czech party table is chlebíčky - literally “little breads”. They are open-faced sandwiches, but you don’t use Czech dark bread, but a special kind of very dull white bread, called veka which comes in long sticks and for some reason always seems to be a day old. Also, veka is hardly ever used for any other purpose than to make chlebíčky. Another compulsory ingredient is mayonnaise - majonéza. It’s either used to make potato salad bramborový salát - or any other such salad that’s often used to garnish the sandwich or there is a blob of mayonnaise sitting on it. If ham or šunka is the prevailing garnish on the sandwich, then we are talking about šunkové chlebíčky. If its crab with lots of mayo, then it is humrové chlebíčky from the word humr - lobster. If there is more of the Czech brie hermelín then they are hermelínové chle-
Austin Czech Historical Association meets January 27
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bíčky. There are of course salami varieties, sardine varieties or egg and caviar varieties and different kinds of spreads - pomazánka from the word mazat - to spread. For example rybí pomazánka - fish spread and humrová pomazánka crab spread. Chlebíčky are such an institution in the Czech Republic that there are even specialised shops selling only those. Another must on a party table are so-called jednohubky - cocktail snacks. The word suggests that they are only one bite each - jedna - meaning one, and hubky - from the word huba - a slang term for mouth. To make them, you need fresh Czech white bread rolls rohlíky. You slice them into round pieces the size of a bigger coin then spread butter over them, garnish them with a slice of salami, a bit of smoked salmon, and top with an olive, for example. Finally, the whole thing is pierced with a toothpick which serves as a handle or fork. Now you know what you can expect at a typical Czech party. Till next week, dobrou chuť, bon appetit! Na shledanou. — Pavla Horáková Radio Prague
chlebíčky
Source: Czech Radio 7, Radio Prague. (10-092005); http://www.radio.cz/en/article/70426; www.radio.cz © 1996 - 2008 Radio Prague, Czech Radio 7. Radio Prague - Czech Radio 7; Vinohradska 12; 120 99 - Prague; Tel / Fax: +420 2 2155 2971.
—SPJST—
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2681 for admission price or more information. Submitted by, Alice Vida, Reporter Bexar County CHS —SPJST—
Czech Republic takes over presidency of European union by Dr. Robert L. Uzzel Lodge 6, Cottonwood
The Czech Republic took over the rotating European Union (EU) presidency from France on January 1, five years after joining the 27-member bloc. Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek, who will chair the EU presidency, set energy, external relations, and the economy as the top priorities in his country’s tenure. However, amid renewed violence in the Middle East, the Russian-Ukrainian gas dispute, and a worst-indecades global financial crisis, analysts believe it will be no easy job for the Czech Republic to lead the bloc during its six-month term. In response to the gas dispute, improving the EU’s energy security has emerged as a key task for Prague, which is bound to explore alternative gas supply channels to Europe and develop renewable resources in order to reduce the bloc's energy reliance on Russia. Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg said that his country was planning to organize an EU-Israel summit and an EU-Palestine summit during its EU presidency. Topolanek also said he would welcome the EU’s more active participation in the Middle East peace process. The Czech Republic will lead the EU for the next six months in tackling the global financial crisis, including carrying out a 258-billion-United States dollar European economic stimulus package. However, analysts said Prague’s comparatively independent domestic economic policy is not fully compatible with the idea of a united and economically integrated Europe that is held by most EU leaders. The Czech Republic’s leaders agreed to a division of labor during Prague’s six-month EU presidency, notably over who should host which summits, the CTK news agency re-
ported. Prime Ministrer Topolanek will preside over different European summits scheduled during Prague’s stint at the EU helm, while President Václav Klaus will head summits between the European Union and third countries, the two decided during discussions. A noted euroskeptic, Klaus will meet with European Commission chief Jose Manuel Barroso, in Prague for his first meeting with the Czech government and the formal passing on of power from six-month EU president France. Klaus recently judged the rotating EU presidency “without importance.” However, the Czech president appeared to have changed his tune during his annual New Year’s address to the nation, when he said: “We will have the opportunity to influence the operations of this major institution.” Schwarzenberg, together with the EU Foreign Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner, French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner and the Foreign Minister of Sweden Carl Bildt, set out for Cairo, the first leg of the EU mission’s Middle-Eastern tour. Its objective is to secure the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and help mediate a cease-fire between Hamas and Israel. Before boarding the plane at Prague’s Ruzyně Airport, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner told reporters that the situation in Gaza needs an urgent solution. The EU officials moved on to Tel Aviv for talks with the Israelis, and to the West Bank, where they are meeting representatives of the Palestinian Authority. SPJST members, many of whose ancestors came from Czech lands, should join in prayer that the Czech Republic will successfully face the challenges of 2009. —SPJST—
Hector Garcia FIC, CFFM
Providing SPJST Life. Providing Health and Critical Illness Insurance. Options available for the uninsurable or uninsured. If you have been turned down for health insurance because of diabetes or other pre-existing conditions, I have affordable options available for you.
Phone: (361) 548-5702 email: hectorins@aol.com
TCGS: February 9 deadline for Czechs in Uniform book
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
TCGS would like to honor all those who have served their country, either in peacetime, or during wartime, by documenting their service in a book to be published in late 2009. This book will contain articles on those who have served, or those who are currently serving, in the military of the United States, the Czech Republic, or the lands of Czechoslovakia. Our goal is to document as many Czechs in uniform as possible, not just Texas Czechs. We encourage everyone to submit articles by using the following guidelines:
Submission should be on either a floppy disk or CD.
Persons need not be 100 percent Czech – only of Czech descent. List the military person’s Czech ancestor as this will add much genealogical information, and help with a non-Czech surname.
Give as much information as possible, such as date of birth, date of death if the person deceased, Branch of Service, enlistment, and discharge dates, rank, and sites where person was stationed.
Photos of service men and women are encouraged. If a military photo is not available, non-uniformed photo may be submitted. Please send either an original photo or a high quality copy. We are sorry, but we cannot accept photocopies. All photographs will be returned.
CUBA & CUBA, P.L.C.
• •
•
• •
Attorneys & Counselors at Law
ESTATE PLANNING • WILLS • TRUSTS PROBATE REAL ESTATE • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL FARM AND RANCH • MORTGAGES • LAND USE EMINENT DOMAIN CONTRACTS • LEASES • FRANCHISES BUSINESS SALES AND ACQUISITIONS CORPORATION • PARTNERSHIP • LLC INSURANCE CLAIMS • TRIAL • MEDIATION
(254) 778-1824
BENJAMIN J. CUBA COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501
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Persons submitting articles are not required to be a member of TCGS and multiple entries without limit, can be submitted. Articles should be limited to five (5) pages.
A special section will be dedicated to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice; who were wounded in action, or those who are missing in action.
All branches of service are welcome including those who served in the reserves and the Merchant Marines.
The deadline for submitting articles will be February 9, 2009. Submit all information to: Charlene Hurta, 1231 County Road 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515. Visit the TCGS website for updates/full information www.txczgs.org; or contact Charlene (979) 849-0348; or via email fhurta@brazosport.edu. —SPJST—
Alaskan Cruise
May 27 to June 3, 2009 Few remaining cabins
ABCATS Travel
(361) 578-0828; email: czechtravel@abcatstravel.com See www.abcatstravel.com
Ennis Czech Music Festival
Saturday, February 7, 2009 2 to 11:30 p.m.
Sokol Activity Center
2622 East Hwy 34 - Ennis, TX 75119 Czech and Then Some - 2 p.m. Ennis Czech Boys - 4 p.m. Jak Se Do - 6 p.m. Harvesters - 8 p.m. Jodie Mikula Orchestra - 10 p.m. Only $5 per person (Ages 14 and under free) Door prizes • Kitchen open Dress casual or in Czech kroj
Pre-Party and Jam Session Friday 7 to 11 p.m. Sokol Clubroom • No Admission
For more info: (972) 875-5988 www.ennisczechmusicfestival.com
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Fraternal Activities and Entertainment
Post your upcoming fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 5 p.m. Send your updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: (254) 774-7447. Email to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $3 per column inch for lodge ads; $6 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $10 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at (800) 727-7578 or email melaniez@vvm.com.
LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Monday of February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. followed by a potluck meal. The Christmas party is on the first Sunday of December. The youth club meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. For hall rental information, call (979) 9663795.
LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.
LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA Lodge meetings are held the first Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at the PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty Street, Pilot Point, Texas 76258. The Community Center is on the same parking lot as PointBank. For directions or information about meetings, Ms. Angie Heitzman (940) 437-5561; or Jack and Dean Carender (903) 564-7359. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD Sunday, February 1—SPJST Lodge 6 meeting Friday, February 6—Social night Friday, February 20—Social night
Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. For information regarding scheduling events at Lodge 6, call George Straten (254) 8265863.
LODGE 8, WEIMAR Lodge meetings are the fourth Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Weimar.
LODGE 9, SNOOK Local lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Youth club meetings are at 6:30 p.m.
LODGE 13, DIME BOX Lodge 13, Dime Box adult meetings are the second Sunday of the month at 5 p.m. Youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 1 p.m.
LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Refreshments served after meeting, and door prizes awarded. Call (254) 593-2222 to schedule a family reunion, wedding reception, baptism or celebration, quinceanera or graduation party. LODGE 17, NEW TABOR Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Youth meetings are also on the first Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.
LODGE 18, ELGIN Sunday, February 8—Dujka Brothers, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person Sunday, February 15—Valentine Dance: Czech and Then Some, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person
Lodge hall is located at 702 Highway 95 North, Elgin. Adult lodge meetings are the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.; youth club meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. unless otherwise stated. For all Lodge 18, Elgin hall rentals, please call Irene Helgren (512) 281-4534. For band bookings, call Artie Monson (512) 2813711. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility.
LODGE 20, GRANGER Meetings are the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited.
LODGE 21, ENGLE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. LODGE 23, MORAVIA Lodge meetings are the Tuesday after the second Sunday of March, June, and September at 7:30 p.m. and the first Sunday of December at 2 p.m.
LODGE 24, CYCLONE Adult lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Flag Hall is located 10 miles east of Temple, off Highway 53. For more information regarding hall bookings/rentals, please call Hall Manager Wilbert Mikeska (254) 985-2484. For more information, visit www.spjstflaghall.com.
LODGE 25, ENNIS Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Game room open every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. For rentals, reservations, or more information, call the hall (972) 875-8381 and leave a message.
LODGE 26, SKIDMORE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December.
LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD Meetings are held at the Wharton County Library, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard. LODGE 29, TAYLOR Friday, January 23—Edward Kopeckyʼs Czech Band, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thrall 4-H makes oldfashioned hamburgers every Friday 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, January 28—Live music by the Bobby Jay Five Band, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, January 30—Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, 7:30 to 11:30p.m. Thrall 4-H makes old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.
ADULT MEETINGS - second Wednesday of the month, 6:30; YOUTH MEETINGS - first Sunday of the month, 3 p.m. Youth Leader Cristy Girod (512) 281-4719. MUSIC - second and fourth Wednesday of the month/music by Bobby Jay Five Band; MUSIC - Fridays 7:30 to 11 p.m., old-fashioned hamburgers by Thrall 4-H; SENIOR CITIZENSʼ DOMINOES - first Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. followed by covered dish meal; BUNCO every third Thursday of the month - men and women invited - 6:30 p.m. light meal, 7 to 8:30 p.m. - Bunco, games; HALL RENTAL INFO: (512) 3529139; HALL LOCATION: 5025 FM 619, Taylor, Texas. LODGE 30, TAITON Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m.
LODGE 32, VICTORIA Lodge meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at the SPJST building, 3502 North Laurent in Victoria at 7:30 p.m. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Mary Monclova (361) 648-1191.
LODGE 35, ELK Saturday, January 24—Cherokee Rose Saturday, February 7—Heart of Texas Road Gang Saturday, February 21—Cherokee Rose Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each
month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise noted. To hall: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take the Highway 84 East exit. Stay on Highway 84 East through Bellmead and go approximately 8 miles. On the right side of Highway 84 will be a sign saying “Elk”. Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road and go approximately one mile and the road will dead end. Take a right at the dead end and go approximately 1/2 mile. Lodge 35 is on the left side of the road. The hall is open for rent every day of the week. For rental information, call (254) 875-2156. LODGE 38, KOVAR Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.
LODGE 39, BRYAN Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month starting at 1 p.m. Lunch is served at 12:30 p.m. followed by the adult and youth club meetings at 1 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items are provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Visitors are always welcome. For information, call President Wade OʼShields (979) 7781450. For information on lodge activities, call FAC Dianna Everett (979) 693-5287. Any questions or assistance with insurance certificates, call Secretary Lillie Matejka OʼShields (979) 778-1450. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Binnie Roesler (979) 272-1216. LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE Lodge meetings are held the second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Youth club meets the same day at 1:15 p.m. at the lodge hall, located just off US 59 South in Hillje. Members and guests are welcome. Bingo is played on Monday nights at 7 p.m. We have $100 nights every week and a $650 jackpot also every week. License #17600539641. For hall bookings, please call Rental Chairman Lillian Bartek (979) 543-9028; or (979) 6482317/lodge hall. LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA Attention: Lodge meetings are held quarterly on the first Thursday of February, May, August, and November at Six Mile Presbyterian Church on Royal Road, 7 p.m.
LODGE 47, SEATON Saturday, January 24—Open Saturday, January 31—Last Call Saturday, February 7—Jerry Haisler and Melody Five Saturday, February 14—Open Friday, February 20—Youth Club Fund-Raiser: Chili Supper/Auction, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, February 21—Open Saturday, February 28—Private
Seaton Star Hall is located five miles east of Temple on Highway 53. Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Saturday night dance time is from 7 to 11 p.m. Hall opens at 6 p.m. Hall phone (254) 985-2548. For rentals, please contact Dolores Skrabanek (254) 985-2344. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. Lodge 48, Beyersville holds ladies Bunco night on the second Tuesday of each month. A light meal is served at 6:30 p.m. followed by Bunco games then wrapping up with the distribution of prizes, and eating desserts. Hall is located at 10450 FM 619 - four miles southeast of Taylor. For hall rentals, please call Bonnie Wolf (512) 3653733. LODGE 49, ROWENA Lodge meetings are held the first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. LODGE 51, ELLINGER Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at the Ellinger Fire Department.
LODGE 54, WEST Lodge meetings are the first Friday in March, June, and November and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. Please note: Youth club meetings are held at Lone Star Hall every second Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For information regarding hall rentals for weddings anniversaries, birthdays or reunions call (254) 826-5990 (night); or (254) 8265343 (day).
VӖSTNÍK
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME All regular monthly meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the home of President Donald Zabransky in Sweet Home. Social meetings will be held March 15, June 14, and December 6 at the Queen of Peace Parish Hall in Sweet Home, and September 20 at Green Dickson Park in Shiner.
LODGE 65, CROSBY Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m.
LODGE 66, WACO Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. Youth club meetings at 2 p.m.
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG Lodge meetings are the fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 3 p.m. LODGE 73, SEYMOUR Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 12 p.m.
LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS Lodge meetings are the first Sundays of March and June and on the second Sundays of September and December at 1 p.m.
LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI SPJST lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, unless otherwise notified. Meal served at 1 p.m. and the meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Hall location: 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Hall phone (361) 854-8423.
LODGE 80, HOLLAND Lodge meetings are the first Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. Youth club meetings are the first Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. Board of directors meetings are the first Saturday of the month at 3:30 p.m. Bingo every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. For hall rentals, call Linda Hill (254) 657-9595; or the lodge hall (254) 657-2485.
LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. Luncheon served at noon, and the meeting follows.
LODGE 84, DALLAS Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the hall - 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. For band bookings, call Cherri Petr (214) 352-4397; or Ben Jarma (214) 348-1514. For rentals, call Bessie Petr (214) 826-3557.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For rental information, call Bertha Capps (254) 778-4371/shop; or (254) 7736164/home.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON Saturday, January 24—No dance Saturday, January 31—No dance Saturday, February 7—Bobby Layne Orchestra, big band. *Dress Code. $12 pp Sunday, February 8—Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary: The Fabulous Six, polka/variety. 2 to 6 p.m. $8 per person Saturday, February 14—The Moonglow Orchestra, big band. *Dress Code. $11/person Saturday, February 21—Texas Legacy Czech Band, polka/variety. $7/person Saturday, February 28—No dance
Lodge hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston, Texas (the Heights). For reservations, call (713) 869-5767. Lodge meetings are the second Monday at 7:30 p.m. Youth club meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., unless otherwise notified. All dances are 8:30 p.m. to midnight, unless otherwise noted. *Dress code dances: evening attire, ladies, and gentlemen. Bingo every Thursday evening; early bird special starts at 7:15 p.m. Regular games start at 7:45 p.m. License No. 3-00-621-2077-41001. LODGE 89, ROSEBUD For meeting time, date, and location, contact Secretary Patsy Baker (254) 985-2457.
VӖSTNÍK
LODGE 91, CROSBY Lodge meetings are quarterly. March and June meetings will be on the second Saturday of the month at the Crosby Community Center at 11 a.m. or as otherwise specified. September and December meetings will be held at a restaurant.
LODGE 92, FORT WORTH Friday, January 23—Charlie Patteson Orchestra Friday, January 30—Gary Lee Orchestra Sunday, February 1—Randy and the 92nd Road house Band, country/western - with fiddle! 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, February 6—Charlie Patteson Friday, February 13—Valentine Dance: Ron Martin Orchestra Friday, February 20—Charlie Patteson Sunday, February 22—Barefoot Becky and the Iowa Ivanhoe Dutchmen, 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, February 27—Charles Nemec Orchestra of West Sunday, March 1—Randy and the 92nd Road house Band, country/western - with fiddle! 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 29—Don Peachey of Wisconsin, 3 to 7 p.m.
Lodge 92 membership meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., or as otherwise specified. The youth club meets on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Family Night—first and third Tuesdays. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Country/western dances on the first Sunday and polka/waltz dancing as announced. Big band sound ballroom dancing on Friday nights 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Dress code required for ballroom dances. Listen to KNON 89.3 FM on Sunday at 2 p.m. for up-to-date announcements. Tune in to KAAM 770 AM for some easy listening music. To reserve for large parties celebrating weddings, anniversaries, or other special events, call early (817) 624-1361/Joyce. SPJST Lodge 92/National Hall is located at 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76114. Visit www.nationalhallspjst92.org.
LODGE 93, HOBSON Lodge meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at Polakʼs between Karnes City and Kenedy. Contact E.R. Prasek for information (830) 780-5166. LODGE 94, WHEELOCK Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 1 p.m.
LODGE 97, PLACEDO Adult lodge meetings are held in March, June, September, and December. Youth club meetings are the first Sunday of every month at Casa Ole in Victoria Mall at 3 p.m., excluding months where they are quarterly adult lodge meetings. To verify the meeting, call Youth Leader Bernadette Bellanger (361) 578-4253.
LODGE 106, LA GRANGE Lodge meetings are the first Tuesday of each month at the Subway Sandwich Shop at 109 South Jefferson Street (south of the red light at the 71 and 77 cross road) in La Grange, 7:30 p.m.
LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the lodge hall, unless otherwise noted. LODGE 125, WESTHOFF Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m.
LODGE 130, DALLAS For monthly meeting time and location, please contact lodge secretary Stanley Vrla (214) 826-2670; or lodge president John Vrla (214) 906-3385; or email jvrla@cebridge.net.
LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road in San Antonio. LODGE 135, ENNIS Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.
LODGE 139, DANBURY Lodge meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Danbury City Hall. For information, call (979) 922-1279 or (979) 922-1553.
LODGE 141, SEALY Lodge meetings are now held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, located at 917 North Circle in Sealy.
LODGE 142, HOUSTON Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at W 15th, Houston, Texas. For information, contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick (713) 203-8712; or Secretary Alice Jochen (979) 743-3613. LODGE 143, INEZ Lodge meetings are the third Friday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m.
LODGE 148, EL MATON Monthly lodge meeting is the second Sunday of the month at Frank Hahnʼs Camphouse in El Maton at 3 p.m.
LODGE 151, WHARTON The quarterly lodge meetings will be held on the second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 7 p.m., in the meeting room of Hinzeʼs Bar-B-Que Catering, Highway 59, Wharton, Texas. LODGE 153, LA SALLE Lodge meetings are held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 3:30 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Youth club meetings are the third Sunday at 5 p.m. LODGE 155, AUSTIN Lodge meetings are held quarterly on Sundays. Contact Secretary Ginny Prasatik (512) 472-1721 for meeting location, date, and time.
LODGE 156, BAYTOWN Lodge meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call (281) 422-9611; or (281) 573-1612. LODGE 157, LUBBOCK Lodge meetings are held on the second Sunday of every other month at 1 p.m.
LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in April, July, October, and January at 12 noon at Wall Volunteer Fire Department Hall or as announced. LODGE 164, RIO HONDO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2:30 p.m.
LODGE 169, BRENHAM Lodge meetings are held the fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. The first Sunday of December will be the Christmas dinner and officer elections. The meetings will be held at Bilskiʼs Camphouse, 2577 Old Chappell Hill Road, Brenham, Texas. For information, contact President Annette Bilski (979) 8303930; Vice President/FAC Stephen Bliznak (979) 836-9875; Secretary/Treasurer Glenda Weyand (979) 451-3231; or Reporter Leroy Kamas (979) 836-8179. LODGE 172, PASADENA Saturday, January 24—Variety dance/DJ Saturday, February 14—Valentine Dance: Stringbenders
Lodge hall is located at 3609 Preston Road in Pasadena. Executive board and trustees meet on the first Monday of each month at 12 noon. Regular lodge meeting is held on the fourth Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. The hall is available for rentals for your special event. For information, call Vicki (281) 542-1774. Dances are held on the first Saturday of each month, unless otherwise notified. Dancing hours are from 8 p.m. until midnight. Admission is $6 per adult and children 12 years and under are free. For inquiries or reservations, call lodge phone (281) 487-3297. We need your name, your phone number, and how many will be in your party. Lodge 172 is a nonsmoking facility. BYOB is back.
LODGE 177, ACADEMY Lodge meetings will start at 7 p.m., and trusteesʼ meetings will start at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Bingo every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Permit No. 1-74-1808390-7. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the kitchen is open.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
LODGE 179, WARRENTON Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Lions Club Building in Carmine, 201 Centennial Street.
LODGE 180, BURLESON Lodge hall is located on I-35W, 1.5 miles south of Renfro Street in Burleson. Lodge meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. For hall rentals, call (972) 435-2286; (817) 5582400; or (817) 295-3483. LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY Lodge meetings are held the third Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. Call President Donald Beckendorf (254) 803-2987 for lodge meeting location.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. For information regarding hall rentals—weddings, anniversaries, birthdays—call (817) 465-8538; or (972) 263-9031. LODGE 184, MOULTON Lodge monthly meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at the lodge hall at 7 p.m.
LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS Adult lodge meetings are held every other month— February, April, June, August, October, and December. For locations/times, call Lodge President Kathleen Mills (210) 216-2156. The youth club meets every month. Call Youth Club Leader Theresa Haag (830) 625-8262. LODGE 186, CALDWELL Youth club meetings are on the first Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the lodge hall unless otherwise announced. Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Social games are at 7:30 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Kitchen and bar open. License Permit No. 1-74-20733095-41002
LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK Lodge meeting and program are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. followed by a covered dish meal. Board meeting, 2 p.m.; entertainment, 2:30 p.m. Domino players meet the second Tuesday of each month 1 to 4 p.m. For information regarding building rentals, call (512) 255-1554 or (512) 771-4948.
LODGE 189 BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION Lodge meetings will be held on the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. Unless otherwise notified, lodge meetings are held in Charles Mundayʼs office, 416 Oak Street, Bryan, Texas (behind the Kettle Restaurant on Texas Avenue) in Bryan. LODGE 191, LUFKIN Business meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m., at the lodge hall, 197 Hughes Road. Regular dances are held the third Saturday night of each month from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. For lodge rentals, call Alma Breazeale (936) 829-5808; or email almab@consolidated.net.
LODGE 195, CLEBURNE Lodge meetings are the first Thursday of March, June, September, and December, 7 p.m.
LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month and begin with a potluck meal served at 2 p.m. Lodge provides the meat. Youth club meetings are held at 1 p.m. on the second Sunday. Activities are planned for ages kindergarten through high school senior. Hall address: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress, Texas, 77429 — off Highway 290 West at Skinner. The hall is available to rent for meetings, weddings, retirements, reunions, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, or any other event. Call Alma Schulz (281) 351-1045 or (281) 373-9482 for information, rentals, or reservations. LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. For hall rentals, contact James Balke (979) 830-0796; or (979) 830-0118.
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LODGE 202, JOURDANTON Lodge 202, Jourdanton meetings are the first Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m., at the Jourdanton Community Center except the meal/meetings in March, June, September, December which will be at 1 p.m. The youth club meets the same day. LODGE 204, STEPHENVILLE Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of the month, 4 p.m. at the Koffee Kup Restaurant in Hico, Texas, except in June (date and time to be announced) and the Christmas party in December (date and time to be announced). Call President Norman Kneschk (254) 386-3222 or Secretary Sandra Pierce (254) 965-5953 .LODGE 206, TRI-COUNTIES Lodge meets the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Lions Club in Mexia, 201 North Paris Street, Mexia, Texas.
LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS Meetings are held every third Saturday of January, March, May, July, and September at the Senior Citizens Building in Tahoka, 6 p.m. Youth club meets at the same time. LODGE 223, PALACIOS Lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at Palacios Eagles Lodge at 6:30 p.m.
LODGE 229, ABILENE Lodge meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. For information, contact (325) 676-5510. LODGE 230, MIDLAND For lodge meeting information, contact Oly Madrid (432) 301-3487.
LODGE 239, HONDO Lodge meetings are held at the Hondo Community Center on 18th Street. Watch the Vestnik for dates. For more information, call President Marcie Botello (210) 264-4587. LODGE 240, BAY CITY Lodge meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at Eagles Hall in Bay City at 7:30 p.m.
LODGE 246, MORGANʼS POINT Monday, February 2—Lodge and youth club meetings, 6:30 p.m. at Best Quality Meats and Sausage Shop. Dinner will be served.
Lodge and youth club meetings are the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Best Quality Meats and Sausage Shop, 2610 South General Bruce Drive in Temple. For information, call President Charlie Herendon (254) 760-7817 or FAC David Nauert (254) 534-0809.
LODGE 247, SAN MARCOS Lodge meetings are held the first Sunday of each month for October, November, and December at 3 p.m. For location directions, call your agent; Art Lopez, Sr. (512) 787-3384; or Patricia Garcia (512) 787-5449. LODGE 255, KATY Lodge meetings are held on the third Thursday at 7 p.m. at NBD Graphics, 19424 Park Row, Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77084. For location directions, call Lynn Johnsen (832) 875-5204.
LODGE 258, SEGUIN Meetings are held the fourth Sunday of each month. Meetings in May and November are held the third Sunday. Meetings begin at 3 p.m. with a social followed by the meeting at 4 p.m. Dinner is served after the meeting. The youth club meetings are on the same dates and begin at 3:15 p.m. Meetings are held at the Alumni Student Center, Conference Rooms A and B, on the Texas Lutheran Campus. Meetings in May and September will be in Starke Park in Seguin. Contact President Chester Jenke, Sr.; or Treasurer Colleen Jenke for more information (830) 303-4316. —SPJST—
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