Vestnik 2009 02 04 by SPJST

Volume 97 Number 5

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

H E R A L D

Humanity ISSN —07458800

Generations of members say, “Na shledanou” to Vrazels’ Polka Band

Courtesy of Staff of KMIL (www.kmil.com)

ABOVE: The Vrazels’ Polka Band ended its 55-year musical career on Saturday, January 24 at the Frank W. Mayborn Center in Temple. BELOW: About 1,500 people attended the retirement party and dance which was co-sponsored by SPJST. Attendees crowded the Mayborn Center from wall to wall dancing, singing, and saluting the popular sounds of the Vrazels’ Polka Band. The band has touched generations of members through dances at SPJST lodge halls across Texas from 1953 to 2008. Congratulations on 55 years to band leaders Alfred and Anton Vrazel, both of Lodge 15, Buckholts, and band members Thomas Strmiska and David Trojacek, both of Lodge 25, Ennis; Albert Heselmeyer of Lodge 29, Taylor; and Patrick Strmiska. Best wishes in their retirement. More on pages 15 to 17.

Interest Rates ......................................3 Family Fun Dates ................................3 Heritage ʼ09 Update.............................4 District Event .......................................5 State Events Info .................................8 Lodge Section .....................................9

Brotherhood

Preserving Memories

Lodge 24, Cyclone member Regina Zabcik, front, and her daughters Barbara Docekal of Lodge 130, Dallas, back, left, and Betty Hall of Lodge 24, Cyclone visited the SPJST Home Office and Czech Heritage Museum, currently located in the Home Office basement, last week. Mrs. Zabcik donated several of her late husband Ben’s United States Navy uniforms and memorabilia to the museum. The late Ben Zabcik served as SPJST Supreme Lodge Financial Secretary from 1964 to 1976.

MAY 2, 2009

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

In Memoriam ......................................18 Reunion ..............................................18 Youth Section.....................................19 Czech Culture ....................................20 Advertisements .................................21 Activities Calendar ............................22

February 4, 2009

Page 7

District Six Bowling Tournament scenes

Page 12

On May 2, 2009, fraternalists and nonfraternalists alike will come together for JOIN HANDS DAY— to make a difference in their communities through helpful projects that connect youths and adults. JOIN HANDS DAY gives fraternal benefit societies and volunteer organizations the opportunity to reach out to people they don’t know, to connect generations, and develop new relationships. Start planning your lodge/youth club project today. Watch the Vestnik for more information and for JOIN HANDS DAY ideas. Lodge 40 El CampoHillje twins baptized

Page 14

Lodge 219 El Paso presents donations

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Wednesday, February 4, 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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Salute to a legend: Vrazels’ Polka Band

Congratulations to the Vrazels’ Polka Band on 55 years of success.

The band’s retirement party was held January 24 at the Mayborn Center in Temple, and the center was overflowing with generations of Vrazels’ supporters and SPJST members. The Vrazels’ played another amazing dance with fabulous songs that have made us love them for so many years. I grew up listening to the Vrazels’ at Flag Hall and at Star Hall picnics. Mr. Alfred’s show on KMIL echoed through the house —and outside in my dad’s shed— every Sunday afternoon. That was the tradition then just as it is now. The band has touched generations of lives . . . and generations of SPJST members. The band is a legend, and its music will carry on for many more generations on radios, CDs and jukeboxes. Thanks, Alfred, Anton, Albert, David, Thomas, and Patrick, for keeping Czech music alive and fun. May you enjoy your retirement. Bowling for Kids Saturday, February 14 is Valentine’s Day. It is also the Fraternal Bowling Tournament to be held at 300 Austin. This is the fifth annual tournament, and it is sure to be another great day of fraternal fun. All proceeds from the day’s event—including the silent auction—benefit scholarships to youth involved in Texas fraternals. The bowling lanes—300 Austin—is located at 9504 North IH-35 in Austin, Texas. The lanes are located on the west side of I-35. If you are traveling from the north (Temple/Waco), take the Rundberg exit. If you are traveling from the south (San Marcos/San Antonio),

take the Braker exit. Then, a U-turn will bring you to 300 Austin. The center’s phone number is (512) 8347733. Check out page 8 of this week’s Vestnik for more information. Bowlers can register online at www.spjst.org in the fraternal section.

Next Weekʼs Vestnik Next week’s Vestnik will feature valentine greetings from members across the state. We have received many greetings and can’t wait to share them! The Vestnik will also introduce the 2008 local lodge fraternalists of the year and include complete information and maps for the SPJST Awards Banquet to be held Saturday, February 21 in Killeen. Other items to be included in next week’s Vestnik are:

• Scenes from the District Six Sales Agents’ Banquet • The story of a Cameron man who brings the English language to Czech students • Scenes from Lodge 219, El Paso’s Christmas party and dance Getting Things Done “It’s important to know that words don’t move mountains. Work, exacting work moves mountains.” —Danilo Dolci

“To get profit without risk, experience without danger, and reward without work is as impossible as it is to live without being born.” —A. P. Gouthey “Do more than you are paid for. There are never any traffic jams on the extra mile.” —Brian Tracy —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.

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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 2/01/09 through 4/30/09.

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

February 7 February 7

February 8 February 13 February 14 February 14 February 14 February 15 February 15 February 16 February 20 February 21

February 21 February 22

February 22 March 7 March 7

March 7 March 8 March 15 March 15 March 31 April 4 April 18 April 19 April 26

State Tarok Tournament • Lodge 29, Taylor (2) District Two Beseda Practice Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary Celebration (5) Valentine Dance: Hosted by Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3) Fraternal Bowling Tournament • 300 Lanes, Austin Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Valentine Dance (1) Lodge 172, Pasadena Valentine Dance (5) District Two Skating Social • Skate Haven, Temple Lodge 18, Elgin Valentine Dance (2) Presidentsʼ Day • SPJST Home Office Closed Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Fund-Raiser: Chili Supper/Silent Auction (2) SPJST Awards Banquet Killeen Civic and Conference Center SPJST Float • Victoria County Livestock Show Parade, Victoria (6) District Youth Counselorsʼ Spring Meeting Killeen Civic and Conference Center Lodge 32, Victoria Polka Fest (6) SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament Lodge 48, Beyersville District Two Beseda Beseda Bake/Sausage Wrap Sale Samʼs Club, Temple Lodge 29, Taylor Auction Fund-Raiser (2) Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Awards Banquet (6) District Two Spring Meeting • Lodge 48, Beyersville Lodge 84, Dallas 99th Anniversary Celebration (3) 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club Easter Party (5) SPJST Bloominʼ Temple Car Show • Temple District Two Core Challenge • Lionsʼ Park, Temple District Six Spring Meeting American Legion Hall, Moulton

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

NFCA Honors “Fraternalist-in-Action” for Volunteerism

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Member Charlie Herendon named Fraternal MVP

The National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) is proud to recognize Charlie Herendon—a member of SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point— as a Fraternal MVP (Most Valuable Participant) for the week of January 26, 2009. Fraternal MVPs are “Fraternalists-in-Action” who volunteer their time and energy to strengthen their communities through participation in local lodge activities and other charitable endeavors. “The NFCA wishes to salute those individuals as true fraternalists,” said NFCA Chair of the Board Barbara A. Cheaney. “As a Fraternal MVP, Charlie Herendon embodies the heart of fraternalism through his hard work, dedication and generosity.” Herendon has been a member of SPJST for nine years. He serves his lodge as president. Through determination and motivation, his lodge acquired 32 new members the past year. He makes sure all members who attend meetings and lodge functions feel welcome. Following each meeting, Herendon encourages social time among the members and guests. Between meetings, he is always planning for the next meeting, maintaining good relations with lodge officers, sales agents, and members. Herendon has coordinated various lodge events such as social dinners, a bowling team to benefit charity, assisting with preparations of the SPJST parade float, and promoting and supporting the SPJST 100 Pennies for Scholarship Fund Drive. Herendon served his community by working on the Texas Department of Transportation’s Adopt-a-Highway program, volunteering at the Morgan’s Point Annual Police Officers Support Team’s fund-raiser, volunteering in a booth to promote and raise funds for the Czech Heritage Museum, and participating in a JOIN HANDS DAY

project which benefited a nursing home in Copperas Cove and in a Make A Difference Day project to benefit Ronald McDonald House. Herendon worked closely throughout the year with the lodge’s youth leader to gain new members and organize community projects. The youth were involved in all community projects, teaching them the value of working together, responsibility and leadership. Fraternal MVPs are part of the NFCA’s Fraternalists-in-Action program, which recognizes individuals whose unique stories best represent 21st Century fraternalism. These fraternalists demonstrate exceptional compassion and vision through their volunteer activities.

About NFCA The 123-year-old NFCA unites 73 not-forprofit fraternal benefit societies operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. The association represents 10 million fraternalists in 37,000 local chapters, making it one of America’s largest member-volunteer networks. Fraternal benefit societies provide their members with leadership, social, educational, spiritual, patriotic, scholarship, financial and volunteer-service opportunities. Combined, the NFCA’s member-societies maintain more than $343 billion of life insurance-in-force and, in 2007 alone, contributed almost $418 million to charitable and fraternal programs, and volunteered over 95 million hours for community-service projects. These statistics demonstrate the commitment that fraternals make to those in need and exemplify the true meaning of the NFCA signature phrase: Joining Hands to Touch Lives. For more information, visit the NFCA’s Web site at www.nfcanet.org. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

The 2009 SPJST membership program — Heritage ’09: SPJST—Czech Us Out! — was announced in early January. At the January 20 to 22 Supreme Lodge meeting, officers and directors took another look at the program. “In past years, all of the goals were tied to written applications,” Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride said. “When we designed Heritage ’09, the annual goal was based on written applications, but everything else in the program was tied to issued certificates.” The new goal is 2,009 certificates issued. “The Supreme Lodge discussed updating the goal to reflect consistency throughout the Heritage ’09 program based on certificates issued,” Vice President McBride added. “Incentives will be awarded when 2,009 certificates are issued in 2009.” The Heritage ’09 program’s goal is to place a strong emphasis on families by evaluating current members’ coverage and recruiting family of current members. The program includes incentives for members, lodges, lodge officers, youth clubs, and sales agents. Changes to the program are denoted with an asterisk (*). Heritage ’09 Lodge incentive awards will be based primarily upon the number of certificates issued, says Vice President McBride. The SPJST Insurance Department will maintain all membership recruitment records, and progress reports will be posted monthly in the Vestnik. Parts of the 2009 membership program are outlined below. SPJST Home Office representatives will present complete program details at lodges and youth clubs around the state.

Certificates Issued Goal The statewide goal for SPJST is 2,009* certificates issued for the year January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2009. SPJST must meet the 2,009 certificates issued goal before any of the incentives listed are awarded.

Update: Heritage ’09 2009 Membership Campaign: SPJST — Czech Us Out! Lodge Incentive Goal to Achieve: State Goal of 2,009* Certificates Issued

Award $40 per certificate issued that remains in force for 25* months. If certificate lapses, the lodge will be charged back the funds. Fraternal acts must also be completed for respective incentive level.

Lodge Incentive Guidelines 1. The maximum amount any lodge can receive is $15,000. 2. For a newly chartered lodge, the lodge incentive award will be prorated from the date of the lodge’s organizational meeting. The lodge must also meet the fraternal acts of the respective incentive level. 3. During the first five years of its existence, any lodge that receives an award greater than $2,000, the excess amount will be deposited into the SPJST Lodge Management Fund. The lodge can access the funds at any time with two lodge officers’ signatures, subject to the approval of the Supreme Lodge President and Supreme Lodge Vice President. 4. A lodge must have at least six certificates issued to receive any incentive.* Top Lodge in District Top lodge with most certificates issued that remain in force in 2009.

Award Czech dinner to be served at a lodge meeting/event for lodge officers and active members. Cost not to exceed $200. Lodge Officer Incentive Goals to Achieve: • State Goal of 2,009* Issued Certificates • Promote Heritage ’09 program in lodge

Award Special certificate of appreciation presented at 2010 District Awards Banquet and recognition in the Vestnik and on www.spjst.org

Member Incentive All SPJST Members—Adults and Youth

Monthly Prize Drawing All recruiter cards received between the first and last day of the month will go into a drawing for a $25 Wal-Mart gift card.

Annual District Prize Drawings (7 winners - 1 per district) All recruiter cards from each district will go into a drawing to be conducted at the respective district awards banquet in 2010. One card will be drawn at each district for a $25 Wal-Mart gift card. Top District Recruiters’ Award (7 winners - 1 per district) • Trophy award and recognition at 2010 SPJST District Awards Banquet • Recognition in the Vestnik and on www.spjst.org

Member Incentive Guidelines All referrals must be valid and must have been informed that an SPJST Sales Agent will contact them. The referral must have some interest in SPJST.

District Youth Club Incentive Goals to Achieve: • State Goal of 2,009* Issued Certificates • Host one district youth membership rally • Meet requirements needed to qualify for Youth Program Incentives

Award The district youth club will receive an award for each youth club in the district that achieves its youth club goal. Additional requirements also must be completed to qualify. Funds must be used for the benefit of the youth in the respective district.

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Youth Club Incentive Goals to Achieve: • State Goal of 2,009* Issued Certificates • Meet requirements needed to qualify for Youth Program Incentives

Award Each youth club receives an award for each application issued, ages 0 to 17. Each youth club receives an additional award for each application issued that joins the youth club. Additional requirements also must be completed to qualify.

Top Youth Club in District Top active youth club with most certificates issued that remain in force in 2009. Award Pizza/ice cream, etc. party for youth leaders and youth members. Cost not to exceed $200.

Sales Agent Incentives* Upon meeting individual goals, sales agents will receive an award per certificate issued at the end of each quarter. Heritage ’09 will also recognize sales agents with monthly and annual awards based on certificates issued, insurance issued, earned premium, persistency, and consistency.

Again, please note that the state must meet the 2,009 certificates issued before incentives can be awarded.

Questions? If you have any questions regarding any of the incentives outlined, please contact the Insurance Department at the SPJST Home Office, your district director, or state field representative. Best wishes with Heritage ’09 and happy recruiting!

Copyright (c) 2009 by SPJST. All rights reserved. No part of Heritage ’09 SPJST Membership Campaign may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of the Supreme Lodge Vice President, except where permitted by law.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

VӖSTNÍK

From the President’s Department

State FAC invites all to tournaments

SPJST Awards Banquet The 2009 SPJST Awards Banquet is planned for February 21, 2009, at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center. The banquet will honor and recognize 2008 Fraternalists of the Year, award winning lodges, sales agents, districts, members, youth leaders and youth members. All lodge presidents and secretaries have been mailed an invitation and information related to their lodge. Please note the deadline to RSVP is February 13, 2009. If you have any questions, please contact Executive Assistant to the President Sandra Dubcak (800) 727-7578.

State Tarok Tournament The SPJST State Tarok Tournament will be held on February 7. Lodge 29, Taylor will host this event. If you have not pre registered, please feel free to come out anyway. Walk-ins are welcomed. Registration will be from 8 to 8:45 a.m. with tournament play beginning at 9 a.m.

Fraternal Bowling Tournament February 14 will be the Fifth Annual Texas Fraternal Congress (TFC) Bowling Tournament. Delegates at the TFC Convention in San Antonio this past October 3 and 4 voted to establish a scholarship fund with the proceeds of the tournament. An active graduating high school senior member of a participating fraternal belonging to TFC will be eligible to apply for the scholarship. Tournaments in past years have been filled with lots of fraternal fun and some good clean competition. Now is the time to get your teams and cheering sections lined up for this fun-filled day. If you do not have a team, do not worry! We will place you on a team with other members who were unable to fill a team. If you will recall, this event involves members of SPJST, Sons of Hermann, Catholic Life, KJT, and KJZT to benefit a worthy cause. Because the 2009 tournament is being geared to scholarships, even more fraternals, members and lodges are expected to participate. To compete, you must be at least 16 years of age and a member in good standing. Teams will consist of four players – any combination of men and

women. If you will be bowling and are a member of more than one of these organizations, you must choose which one you will be representing. The entry fee will be $20 per bowler, or $80 per team. Walk-ins will be registered from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., and bowling begins promptly at 12 noon. Be sure to pre-register as soon as possible to lock in your spot. The deadline to pre-register is Monday, February 9. A flyer and an entry form are available at www.spjst.org in the fraternal section. Make your plans now to join us at 300 Austin, located at 9504 IH 35 in Austin, Texas, on February 14.

SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville will host the 2009 State Straight Domino Tournament on March 7. The pre-registration deadline is March 2. Members of Lodge 48, Beyersville are working hard to make this event successful and enjoyable for everyone. If you have played in our tournament before, we will be sending out tournament information and a registration form in the mail. If you do not receive one soon, please contact the office of the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator to request a form or visit www.spjst.org to download a form and register for the tournament.

100 Pennies Scholarship Drive The 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive continues through March 31. Any amount will be graciously accepted. Our goal this year is to raise $20,000. This is in addition to the allocation which the SPJST Home Office has made.

Join Hands Day As your lodge or youth club makes plans for the coming year, we strongly encourage all lodges to mark May 2 on your calendar and make plans to organize a local Join Hands Day service project. The idea is simple: Adults and youth working together and with other organizations to make good things happen in your community. Join Hands Day is a national event sponsored by America’s Fraternal Benefit societies in partnership with The Points of Light Foundation and the Volunteer Center National Network. It is a day when young people and adults connect as equal partners in planning an activity that fixes or im-

proves a local problem and affirms the values of caring and working together. Again, this year, the SPJST Home Office will offer a $100 incentive to local SPJST lodges to be used in developing and/or promoting their project. This incentive will be for lodges who partner with their youth clubs. In lodges where there is no youth club, lodges are encouraged to join forces with other area lodges and/or community service organizations, civic, school and/or church groups. To receive the $100 incentive, lodges must register the event with the office of the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator on or before April 3. A registration form is available at www.spjst.org. Last year, 42 SPJST lodges participated in Join Hands Day projects. The Home Office has set a goal of 50 lodges participating in 2009. Please help us achieve this goal and plan your projects as soon as possible. Past SPJST projects have included cemetery clean-ups, highway beautification, assisting veterans and senior citizens programs, and a variety of fixup and refurbishing projects. If you will recall, in 2007, SPJST received many awards for local lodge participation in Join Hands Day projects from the Join Hands Day Association. One group even received the Excellence Award ($1,000 and a trophy). I would like to see one of our groups receive this award again in 2009. In addition to local lodge participation, the Home Office is planning a joint project with the ENC at Cooper Farm for any members who wish to participate. Watch the Vestnik for additional details. You may also call my assistant Tammy Martinez (800) 7277578 or (254) 773-1575 or me (210) 413-3053. Coming in April “42” Domino Tournament Bloomin’ Temple Car Show Three Gun Shooting Tournament Watch next month’s Fraternal Updates and the Vestnik for additional details.

Happy Valentine’s Day— February 14 Every February, across the country, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the

name of St. Valentine. Although the tradition of St. Valentine began many years earlier, Americans probably began exchanging hand-made Valentine’s in the early 1700s. In the 1840s Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass produced Valentine cards in America. According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. Remember your loved ones on this day. As always, if any of you need assistance, please feel free to call me (210) 413-3053; email cejenke@wmconnect.com; or Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez (800) 727-7578 or (254) 773-1575. Your District FACs are also available to assist you. They are: District One FAC Linda Gaas (979) 596-2606 District Two FAC Ruth Hanusch (254) 771-0193 District Three FAC George Pauling (254) 754-7633 District Four FAC Sylvia Rollwitz (325) 442-3141 District Five FAC Patricia Bruce (281) 890-4933 District Six FAC Helen Zabransky (361) 798-3347 District Seven FAC Glen Pruski (956) 235-8014 Fraternally submitted, Chester Jenke, FICF State Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

District News District Four sets Spring Meeting

Attention, District Four Members: The District Four Spring Meeting is Saturday, April 25, 2009. The meeting will be hosted by Lodge 157, Lubbock. More details will be coming later. Please mark the date on your calendar, and make plans to attend the meeting. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Scenes from District Six Bowling Tournament

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Saturday, January 10, 2009 • El Campo Bowling Center in El Campo, Texas

Cynthia and Sky Garcia; Lodge 97, Placedo—Youth Leader Bernadette Bellanger, husband David, and Sarah and Matthew Bellanger; Lodge 148, El Maton—Youth Leader Melissa Zielonka and Tristan and Jordon Voldan, Andrew, Myranda, Blake Zielonka, and Taylor Thurmond; Lodge 4, Hallettsville—Assistant Youth Leader Susan Siptak and members Mark and Sarah Siptak; Lodge

Adult Division 30, Taiton— First Place Team—Mama’s Family Youth Leader Debbie Krpec, Brad Krpec Lisa Bubela Joette Krpec, Travis Krpec and Kenna B u b e l a , Second Place Team—Runners-Up Stephanie, JesSheldon Holub, Chris Boudreaux sica and AlliChris Cleveland, Charlie Sanders son Fucik, Ryan and Third Place Team—Splitters S t e v e n Elaine Berkovsky, Donna Zabransky Drapela, GerB.J. Lewallen, David Zabransky ard and Luc A special thanks to this team. Marcaurele, They gave their winnings Vi n c e n t to the scholarship fund. Lutringer, and D y l a n Youth Division Treumer. First Place Team—The A Team We also Stephanie Fucik, Jessica Fucik want to thank our Sarah Siptak of Allison Fucik, Kenna Bubela Lodge 4, Halsurprise visitor lettsville bowls. State Youth DiSecond Place Team—Spare Us rector John Ryan Drapela, Steven Drapela Hoelscher and wife Lisa. It was great Vincent Lutringer, Gerard Marcaurele to have them come out and play with us for the day. And, guess what, they Third Place Team—4 Guys and 1 Girl are great bowlers. So, members, reMatthew Bellinger, Jordan Voldan member that when you are looking for Andrew Zielonka, Mark Siptak teammates next year—look them up! Sarah Siptak The winners were: —SPJST—

Adult Division Winners. LEFT PHOTO: First place - Mama’s Family. Second from left to right, Debbie Krpec, Brad Krpec, Joette Krpec, and Travis Krpec. Also pictured is District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom, far left. CENTER PHOTO: Second place - Runners-Up. Second from left to right, Shel-

don Holub, Chris Boudreaux, Chris Cleveland, and Charlie Sanders. Also pictured is Director Ahlstrom, far left. RIGHT PHOTO: Third place - Splitters. Second from left to right, Elaine Berkovsky, Donna Zabransky, B.J. Lewallen, and David Zabransky. Also pictured is Director Ahlstrom, far left.

Youth Division Winners. LEFT PHOTO: First place - The A-Team. Jessica Fucik, second from left, Stephanie Fucik, center, and Allison Fucik, right. Not pictured is Kenna Bubela. Also pictured are District Six Youth Counselor Lisa Bubela, far left, and State Youth Director John Hoelscher. RIGHT PHOTO: Second place - Spare Us. Gerard Marcau-

rele, right. Not pictured are Ryan Drapela, Steven Drapela, and Vincent Lutringer. Also pictured is SYD Hoelscher. RIGHT PHOTO: Third place - 4 Guys and 1 Girl. Second from left to right, Sarah Siptak, Jordan Voldan, Matthew Bellanger, Andrew Zielonka, and Mark Siptak. Also pictured are DYC Bubela, far left, and SYD Hoelscher, far right.

District Six held its bowling tournament on Saturday, January 10, 2009, at the El Campo Bowling Center located in El Campo. There were a total of five adult teams and seven youth club teams. A ball was had by all! We would like to thank Debbie Krpec of Lodge 30, Taiton for being the chairperson and District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom for all the time they put into getting ready for the bowling tournament. Great job, Debbie and Mike! DYC Lisa Bubela had a total of 28 youth club members from the District Six area who attended the bowling tournament, and 26 of them were on a bowling team. The youth were provided with lunch of their choice at the bowling center. They all had a great time and are ready to do this again next year. Some said they were going to practice during the year to become better bowlers. Members who participated were: Lodge 240, Bay City— Youth Leader Karen Sharp and Victoria, Christina and Charles Sharp; Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje—Felicia,

Roy Medina of Lodge 240, Bay City is ready to roll!

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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Scenes from District Six Bowling Tournament

Saturday, January 10, 2009 • El Campo Bowling Center in El Campo, Texas

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

No Paperwork - No Checks

Thanks to the many lodges that have submitted their regularly requested reports on the Home Office. Please know that 45 lodges have not submitted all paperwork as requested by the Home Office. Premium refund and incentive checks will not be issued until all paperwork (Mid-Year Report, Year-End Report, Fraternal Service Report, Community Service Report, Lodge Officer Listing, and 990 forms) has been submitted. If your lodge has yet to submit any of these reports, please respond to the SPJST Home Office.

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Attention all Texas fraternal bowlers and fans, make plans now to be in Austin, Texas on February 14, 2009 and join in the fun and excitement of the

Fifth Annual Texas Fraternal Bowling Tournament Cheer on your society’s bowlers as they compete for the coveted Golden Fraternal Cup! Proceeds benefit the Texas Fraternal Congress Scholarship Fund.

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—

SPJST Awards Banquet set for February 21 in Killeen

Dear Lodge Officers and Members, The Annual SPJST Awards Banquet will be held Saturday, February 21, 2009, at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center, located at 3601 South WS Young Drive in Killeen. I hope that you and your fellow lodge officers will be able to participate in what promises to be a rewarding and enjoyable day. Please refer to the following schedule for times. 11:30 a.m.—Doors Open Lodge and Sales Agent Photos The photo area will be available for winning lodge and sales agent photos. Please note that a noon meal will not be served. 1 p.m.—Awards Presentations Lodge and Sales Agent Photos 5 p.m.—Banquet

All 2008 and 2009 lodge officers

and a guest are invited to attend the banquet free of charge. The charge for all others is $7 per person for the barbecue dinner. All lodge secretaries received a registration form that must be returned to the Home Office by February 18 so we will know how many to expect. If there are any changes after you send in the form, please call my assistant, Sandra Dubcak, at (800) 727-7578 or (254) 773-1575. Watch the Vestnik in the coming weeks for complete banquet information including a map and a listing of the 2008 local lodge Fraternalists of the Year. Call Sandra if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you on February 21! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek Supreme Lodge President —SPJST—

Saturday, February 14 • 12 Noon

300 Austin in Austin, Texas

Please make sure that your registration materials are at the SPJST Home Office before February 9.

$20 Entry Fee Per Person

300 Austin (Formerly AMF Bowling Center) • 9504 North IH-35, Austin, Texas

Tournament Guidelines

Please see back for of this flyer for complete tournament guidelines and entry form.

1. Must be a member, at least 16 years of age, in good standing of one of the fraternal organizations participating in the Texas Fraternal Congress. Challenge is open to bowlers and non-bowlers. 2. Teams will consist of four members – any combination of men and women and any combination of membership. PLEASE NOTE THAT INDIVIDUAL ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE A FULL TEAM IN ORDER TO ENTER THE TOURNAMENT. Lodges may enter multiple teams. 3. Winning organization will be determined by pin fall. The total pin fall for each organization will be divided by the total number of participants for that organization to determine an average for the three games bowled. The organization with the highest average will be declared the winner. 4. Each participant will bowl three games. 5. If a participant is a member of more than one fraternal society, he/she must decide which organization, he/she is bowling for before bowling. 6. Awards will be presented to the top three males and top three females for high series and high game. 7. Cost will be $20 per person or $80 for a team of four (Bowling - $10.00 and Donation - $10.00). 8. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m. with the tournament starting at Noon. 9. Walk-ins will be accepted from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on the day of the tournament provided lanes are available. 10. Teams will draw for starting lane number at time of check-in. 11. Any questions about the tournament should be directed to SPJST State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke at 210.413.3053 or Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez at 800.727.7578.

Entry Form

Name ____________________________________________________ Lodge________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________________ Bowling for (Fraternal)_____________________________________________

Mail entry form and $20 entry fee per bowler to: TFC Bowling Tournament Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez c/o SPJST Home Office P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76501 Deadline is February 9. Make checks payable to SPJST.

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SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

Lodge 4 Hallettsville elects 2009 officers

Dear Members, Our lodge met Sunday, January 11, 2009, at the Legion hall at 2 p.m. President Joe Siptak opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Welcomed to the meeting were District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom and wife Kathy. Resolutions of sympathy were read for our departed members Adela Pohl and Ivey Woytek by Gaynell Chudej. Election of officers was held with all present officers re-elected: President Joe Siptak Vice President/FAC Annie Vahalik Secretary-Treasurer Helen Zabransky

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

Reporter Patsy Zabransky Youth Leader Shirley Kalmus Assistant Youth Leader Susan Siptak

Director Mike Ahlstrom installed the officers who were present. Officer and committee reports were given. President Siptak named the committees: Resolution Gaynell Chudej and Vicky Zak Audit Albert Smotek and Evelyn Holy Sunshine Lillie Balusek Refreshment Patsy Zabransky

The members voted to contribute $100 to District Six Scholarship Fund. The meeting adjourned followed by lunch. Door prize winners were Helen

Zabransky and Jonathan Vanek. Lunch was served.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Next Meeting—February 8 The next meeting will be Sunday, February 8 at the Legion Hall at 2 p.m. Door prizes will be given, games will be played, and lunch will be served. Many thanks to my sister Helen for her notes from the meeting since I did not attend. Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 17 New Tabor reports on January meeting

Dear Readers, Lodge 17, New Tabor held its monthly meeting at 2 p.m. on January 4, 2009. President Randy Gaas called the meeting to order. Vice President Hildebrand secured signatures of all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance was said by all. There were no resolutions at this time. Secretary Ben Trcalek called the roll of officers. He also read the minutes from our previous meeting. With no corrections, the minutes were approved as read. Treasurer Stanley Mrnustik gave the treasurer’s report. Secretary Trcalek read correspon-

SPJST assists Buckholts Fire Department

LEFT PHOTO: District Two Director Bobby Wuensche presents a $250 check to Gary Kleypas at the Hee Haw Show benefitting the Buckholts Fire Department on January 23, 2009. SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts donated the use of its hall to help raise funds for the fire department. Bobby matched the funds from the director’s discretionary fund. RIGHT PHOTO: Musicians play various instruments to entertain the large crowd attending the annual Hee Haw event in Buckholts.

dence. Debra Paul requested a transfer to Lodge 9, Snook. Susan Skrabanek made a motion to accept the transfer, and Kyle Skrabanek seconded. The motion carried. A Heritage ’09 brochure was received and handed around to all in attendance. FAC Holly Narro reported on a 42 domino tournament to be held in Dime Box and the SPJST Awards Banquet to be held on February 21 in Killeen. She reminded all of the year-end report to be submitted, and she encouraged everyone to get information to her. Youth Leader Mabrey Dowell reported the youth were approached about supporting the upcoming Harlem Globetrotter fund-raiser. The youth club’s January service is collecting old eyeglasses. Susan Skrabanek gave the hall report. Mr. Victorick reported on the inventive program and its changes. Mr. Orsak briefed the group on Heritage ’09. Under old business, there was discussion about income tax forms. Under new business, we discussed participating with the Lion’s Club Fund-raiser - Harlem Globetrotters. Susan Skrabanek was selected as the representative from New Tabor to play in the game. A motion was made by Susan Skrabanek and seconded by Betty Suehs to donate $100 towards the fund-raiser. The motion carried. It was discovered that we accidentally forgot about our Christmas service—fruit baskets to the nursing home. A motion was made by Skrabanek, seconded by Narro, that we assemble and deliver the baskets in February. The motion carried. With no further business, our meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be February 1 at 2 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Blum, Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Scenes from Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament

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Saturday, January 17, 2009 • Seaton Star Hall in Seaton, Texas Submitted by Lodge 47, Seaton Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Klinkovsky

Tarok players from many different areas of Texas came to Central Texas on Saturday, January 17, 2009. They had a beautiful day, and all were ready to play at the annual tournament at Lodge 47, Seaton. Some players traveled a long way to attend; they were from areas as far as El Campo, Houston, Schulenburg, Yoakum, Alvin, Fort Worth, Caldwell, Taylor, and other places. The players were all wanting to be in the top four. Thanks to everyone who attended to play with us. Congratulations to the winners; but we can’t all be winners— someone even has to be on the bottom. Please come again, and we hope you

are dealt betters cards next time. A big thank you to all Lodge 47, Seaton workers who helped with the meal, etc. Also, thanks to State FAC Chester Jenke and wife Colleen and Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez who helped. We appreciated all of your expert help. Best wishes to all! —SPJST— Seaton tarok winners and lowest score player are, left to right, first place - Kim Tschoerner; second place - Allen Bartosh; low score Frank Klinkovsky; third place Paul Schlesinger; and fourth place - Linda Gaas.

LEFT PHOTO: Pictured are, left to right, Frank Klinkovsky, Elizabeth Tidwell, Mark Mixon, and William Pavlat. CENTER PHOTO: Charlie Fri-

etsch, David Kucera, Peggy Dresbach, and Jerry Brezina. RIGHT PHOTO: Carolyn Coufal, Forest Dietrich, Joella Kubala, and Elias Bigon.

LEFT PHOTO: Bab Kurtin, Paul Schlesinger, Travis Mixon, and Kim Tschoerner. CENTER PHOTO: Bill Fojtasek, Pam Franks, Melvin Co-

ufal, and Lillian Kaspar. RIGHT PHOTO: Linda Gaas, Jimmie Coufal, Arnold Janda, and Joe Vyvjala.

LEFT PHOTO: John Paprskar, Clifton Coufal, Margie Hajda, and Edith Kurtin. CENTER PHOTO: Johnnie Tupa, Maggie Coufal, Johnnie Bar-

tosh, and Franklin Schlesinger. RIGHT PHOTO: Allen Bartosh, Jerry David, Jimmy Rebecek, and Walter Muehr.

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Lodge 79 Corpus Christi gives to 100 Pennies fund

On January 18, 2009, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi commenced with a delicious meal consisting of Mexican food and all the trimmings. The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance. All officers were present. President Rebecek introduced our guests State Youth Director John Hoelscher and District Seven Youth Counselor Wendy Pruski. Brother Hoelscher said he always enjoys coming to Corpus Christi and is excited that our lodge has a new youth leader and assistant. Sister Wendy Pruski stated that she is always ready to help our youth and work with the youth leaders of Lodge 79. The December minutes and treasurer’s report were read and approved. The FAC report was given by Brother Jerry Sijansky. He stated the “No Bake-Bake Sale” was in full swing, and he has received several donations. Correspondence was read by Secretary Virginia Rebecek. We received a letter from the SPJST Home Office congratulating Brother Mark Rebecek for being chosen Fraternalist of the Year from Lodge 79. Brother Rebecek read a letter from a soldier stationed in Afghanistan who received packages prepared by Lodge 79. He thanked us and had other soldiers sign the letter. Brother Sijansky made a motion we give our monthly donation to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Motion carried. Birthdays for the month of January were Meredyth Ilse on the third and Katy Wilks on the 14th. “Happy Birthday” was sung. The $25 door prizes were won by Gerilyn Donnell and Roland Fuentez. Next Meeting—February 15 Our February meeting will be held on the 15th with our meal consisting of Italian food. The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary Editor’s Note: Lodge 79 photos appear on page 13. —SPJST—

A s hl ey V e se lk a , E ri c Sh oe sm i th to w ed May 30

Freddie and Debbie Veselka of Robinson are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Ashley Dawn Veselka to Eric Newton Shoesmith, the son of Mark and Tracy Shoesmith of China Spring, and Maria Keen of Lorena. Ashley is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Zavodny of Rogers and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Veselka of Chilton. She is a 2002 graduate of Robinson High School and a 2006 graduate of Texas A&M University. Ashley is a senior clinical research

Lodge 87, Temple members enjoy Christmas meeting

SPJST Lodge 87, Temple held its monthly meeting in the form of a Christmas party. A blessing was said, and turkey and dressing and all the trimmings were enjoyed by all. The Pledge of Allegiance was said, and a brief moment of silence was observed for departed members. A Chinese gift exchange was done with lots of laughs. District Two Director Bobby Wuensche and wife Ruth Ann were present and brought door prizes for the party. Sammie Kacir entertained the group with Christmas carols played on the violin. Members brought canned goods which were to be taken to Churches

associate with Pharmaceutical Product Development in Austin. Eric is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Merle Shoesmith of Valley Mills and Mr. and Mrs. Herman Keen of Lorena. He is a 2001 graduate of Lorena High School and a 2007 graduate of Texas State University. Eric is a business sales consultant with Dell in Round Rock. The couple will exchange vows May 30 in Austin. Ashley, her parents and family are all SPJST members. —SPJST—

Touching Lives for Christ. The next meeting will be on January 13. The meeting adjourned. Fraternally, Diane Troy, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 87, Temple learns about Heritage ʼ09

District Two State Field Representative Hiram Dixon was present as a guest and gave the group an update on 2009 goals for SPJST and our lodge. The theme for the year is “Heritage ’09 - Czech Us Out” and emphasis is being put on contacting all old members. There was no business conducted in December. Under new business, President Troy brought up Join Hands Day. The lodge will look at ideas on how we can participate. Birthdays celebrated were Sammie Kacir, Charles Kacir, and Mary Ann Zatopek.

Next Meeting—February 10 The next meeting will be February 10. Pizza will be purchased by the lodge, and members can bring salad or dessert. The meeting adjourned at 8 p.m. Fraternally, Diane Troy, Secretary —SPJST—

Flat Hat Accolades

SPJST Lodge 87, Temple met on January 13, 2009, for a potluck supper and meeting. There were nine members and two guests present. Following the meal, the meeting was opened by President John Troy with members repeating the Pledge of Allegiance.

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

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

the Houston SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). To get involved, please call Vonda Smesny (281) 462-8987 or Malba (281) 328-5209. Fraternally, Malba Smesny Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

Mrs. Regina Zabcik, a 75-year member of Lodge 24, Cyclone holds a photograph of her late husband Ben Zabcik who is pictured in his Navy uniform. Mrs. Zabcik is also wearing Brother Zabcik’s Navy hat. She visited the SPJST Home Office and the Czech Heritage Museum recently and donated Brother Zabcik’s Navy uniforms, war rations carrier, postcards, and other memorabilia to the museum. Brother Zabcik is a past SPJST Supreme Lodge Financial Secretary.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Lodge 88, Houston invites all to Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary Day sets 44th this Sunday Anniversary Day Celebration Dear Members and Friends,

We cordially invite you to the SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary Day on Sunday, February 8, 2009. Baked chicken and all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adults are $6 per plate; children under 12 years of age are $3 per plate. Lodge 88’s Orchestra will play from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the Lodge 88 Choral Group will perform at 12:15 p.m. Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six will play for the dance from 2 to 6 p.m. Admission is $8 per person. The Birthday Club Sisters will sell desserts, and the youth club will sell homemade ice cream. SPJST Lodge 88 is located at 1435 Beall Street in Houston, Texas. The phone number is (713) 869-5767. We look forward to seeing you at the Anniversary Day celebration on Sunday, February 8! Fraternally, Pat Bruce, President —SPJST—

February 8, 2009, will be the 44th anniversary celebration commemorating the Lodge 88, Houston home at 1435 Beall Street. This year’s agenda will be a delicious lemon pepper baked chicken with rice and green beans lunch. Price for lunch will be $6 for adults and $3 for children. Serving begins at 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Birthday Club Sisters will serve their delicious pastry for dessert and ask that anyone wishing to donate their favorite dessert to please do so. The youth club will have homemade ice cream for those wishing more sweets. There will be a drawing with prizes awarded at the first intermission of the dance. The entertainment for the afternoon will feature The Fabulous 6 band playing in our beautiful Chandelier Ballroom from 2 until 6 p.m. Admission to the dance will be $8 (no discounts). Also, anyone wishing to play dominoes or card games in the afternoon is welcome to do so. We will have space available for you. Those who have regular game parties are invited to bring your friends and spend the day with us. We hope to see all of you on February 8. Jo Ann Buri Second Vice President —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena presents 2009 officers

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Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje twins baptized

Cody Morgan and Wyatt John Fox, twin sons of Lucas and Kara Fox, were baptized on Sunday, January 18, 2009, at Faith Lutheran Church. The twins are members of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje. Their grandparents are Charlie and Betty Sanders, who are also members of Lodge 40.

Lodge 92 Fort Worth announces 2009 committees

The 2009 committee members were recently announced. They are: Audit Committee Evelyn Scaff Margaret Laymance

Resolution Committee Alene, Kercho, Liz Howard Ann Schneider Sunshine Committee Mary Ann Kozel

Hospitality Committee Staci Hubenak Sandra Hubenak

Dance Committee Frank Prochaska, Helen Kubala Mary C. Krivanek, Joe Kozel Al Kercho

Rules and Regulations Committee Joe Kozel, Kenneth Krivanek Sherrie Kubala Watkins

The 2009 officers of Lodge 49, Rowena are, left to right, Treasurer Laura Pospichal, Secretary Becky Wood, President Beverly Teplicek, and Vice President/FAC Sylvia Rollwitz.

Guide Frank Tesar

A planning meeting was held on Sunday, January 25 with the following present: Gordon Hubenak and Cheryl

Hubenak, Mary C. Krivanek, Joe Kozel, Bill and Norma Chaloupka McLendon, Joe and Sandra Hubenak, Kenneth and Mary Ann Krivanek, Pam Durham, Gayle Scaff Krengel, Evelyn Scaff, Jan Taborsky, Frank and Joyce Tesar, Albert and Helen Kubala, Staci Hubenak, Holly Hubenak, and Al and Alene Kercho.

Next Meeting—February 8 Our next meeting is Sunday, February 8 at 2 p.m. Please come out to hear about the results of our planning meeting. It is anticipated that the Rules and Regulations Committee will have an updated version of the rules and regulations for initial review at this meeting.

Chairs Available for Dedication We have approximately 200 chairs that can still be dedicated to one of your friends and loved ones for a nominal donation of $50. Also keep in mind that we are grateful for any memorial donations that you give for the benefit of the Building Maintenance Fund.

Barefoot Becky—February 22 Barefoot Becky Livermore and her Ivanhoe Dutchmen of Iowa will be at our hall on Sunday, February 22 from 3 until 7 p.m. Bring your friends and relatives, and let’s fill up the dance floor. Al Kercho Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

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Lodge 187 Round Rock meets this Sunday

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi introduces new youth leaders

Lodge 187, Round Rock will meet Sunday, February 8, 2009, at its regular times. I hope to see you there! Margie Haas, FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 191, Lufkin sets February 21 dance

At our January meeting, we approved our estimated 2009 budget. The building and grounds committee was appointed—Frank Juarez, Billy Breazeale and Ed Mount. If you are willing to serve on a committee, please call one of our officers. We will work hard to keep our lodge a place where we can enjoy good dancing and fellowship. If you are a member, this is your lodge and you are expected to do your part. Please volunteer as often as possible. If you missed the January dance, you really missed a wonderful time. We had a total of 82 people to sign in. As always, Glenn did a great job with the music. The crowd really did lots of dancing, and we all had a great time. Make plans to be here on Saturday, February 21 to hear The Silver Eagles. Remember, the dance is from 8 until 11 p.m. The new admission fee

On Sunday, January 18, 2009, District Seven Youth Counselor Wendy Pruski, left, and State Youth Director John Hoelscher, right, front, met with and welcomed new Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Youth Leader Paige Watson and Assistant Youth Leader Roland Fuentez.

is only $4 for members and $5 for guests. You can’t beat that price for good entertainment. Dues must be paid by March 31 to remain a member, so don’t forget to get your dues in. If you are a regular member (one with insurance or annuity), your dues are $12. Social member dues are only $15 per person. They can be mailed to SPJST Lodge 191, P.O. Box 3113, Lufkin, Texas 75903. Reservations are not necessary at our regular dances; should you want to reserve a table or if you have a large party that wishes to sit together, you can call Alma Breazeale (936) 829-

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi honors December birthday celebrants

December birthday celebrants were, left to right, Frank Sacky, Brock Donnell, George Marek, and Viola Repka. Brother George Marek celebrated his 94th birthday.

5805, and I will make sure your table has a “reserved” sign on it for you. We do not have hosts for the February dance. If you are willing to host, please give one of our officers a call. If you are interested in buying insurance or an annuity, you may call Tucker Weems (936) 634-4801 or Ken Carter (936) 637-7785. Please remember our members who are having health problems. It was good to see Anda out Saturday night, but she still needs our prayers. Peggy’s back is some better but still a long way

to go before she is pain free. Glova has good days and bad, let us remember her. I’m sure there are others who I have missed, and I apologize. We hope to see you on Tuesday, February 3 at the business meeting and again on saturday, February 21 dancing to the music of the Silver Eagles. Fraternally, Alma Breazeale, President —SPJST—

Lodge 204 Stephenville: keep fraternal spirit going

The members held the regular monthly meeting of SPJST Lodge 204, Stephenville on Sunday, January 18, 2009, at the Koffee Kup Restaurant in Hico. It was a nice day, and the members enjoyed a nice meal after the meeting. The members were saddened to learn that Betty Wilson was on the sick list. We hope you have a speedy recovery, Betty, and are able to come to the next meeting. The lodge was notified that yours truly will receive a 50-year pin this year. It has been that long since my aunt and uncle, the late Otto and Gaynell Meissner, introduced me to the late Anna Milan, and I became a member. It has been an enjoyable trip.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi welcomes 2009 officers

The 2009 officers of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi are, left to right, Youth Leader Paige Watson, Treasurer Frank Sacky, Secretary Virginia Rebecek, Vice President Jerry Sijansky, and President Mark Rebecek. Also pictured is District Seven Director Bob Bayer who installed the officers.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

There have been a lot of meetings and good times along the way. When I moved to Arlington, it became too long of a trip to go home after a dance at Lodge 154, Fort Worth. I transferred to Lodge 183, Arlington where I became a charter member. I helped them get their lodge going and made a lot of new friends in Arlington. Then, I retired from Bell Helicopter and moved to Hamilton County out in the country just in time to find out that there was a lodge starting in the Stephenville/Hico area. I transferred to Lodge 204 and became a charter member. I have been helping the lodge get going. It has been a struggle; but it has also been fun, and I have made a lot more new friends in Stephenville/Hico areas. My health has slowed me down a little this last year, but I am still going. I hope to be around a few more years. I would like to let all of you SPJST members know that I hope to see a lot of you at the awards banquet in February. SPJST is great organization, and I hope that you younger members keep it going for the next 100 years. Everything is going very well in this part of the world except that it is dry. My little lake in the backyard is going dry. My fish are dying. I hope it rains soon and puts some water back in the little lake. It is a new year. I hope that you members have a good year. Last year was a bad year for some of you. Some of you are old enough to remember the hard times in the 1930s, but we made it, and I am sure that somehow we will make it again if everyone works together to keep the fraternal spirit going. Everybody relax. Keep a smile on

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Lodge 160, San Angelo presents phone cards to veterans

your face. Do your very best, and we will see you in the funny paper. Next Meeting—February 15 The next meeting will be on the third Sunday—February 15—at Koffee Kup Restaurant in Hico. I hope that all of you members can be there. Have a nice day. Norman M. Kneschk President/Treasurer/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo presented prepaid phone cards to patients at the VA Hospital in Big Spring. Here, Lodge 160 member Martha Broz presents a phone card to one of the patients. The patient was so appreciative and told Martha that he could now call his sister.

Lodge 219, El Paso gives to World Victory Center

Lodge 219, El Paso recently presented a contribution to World Victory Center. World Victory Center is a nonprofit nondenominational Christian fellowship and 24-hour alcohol and drug abuse Christian growth center that has been serving the El Paso community for over 24 years. We provide alcohol and drug prevention and intervention classes, problem solving skills, Bible studies, and one-to-one Biblical sessions in a strict structured setting.

Men in the program are required to make a minimum three-month commitment, but may be encouraged to stay six months to a year or more according to the individual’s needs and situations. Men must satisfactorily follow all rules and policies and attend all activities and church services to remain in the program. There are no charges for the services provided. The center receives many men from the courts, jails, and the streets and have been very successful working with hardcore drug addicts, gang members, and ex-convicts, etc. Over the years, we have seen a great number of them become responsible productive members of society. Any other lodges or members who wish to help World Victory Center Men’s Home, may send contributions to World Victory Center Men’s Home, 1305 Rio Grande, El Paso, Texas 79902. Fraternally, Baltazar Nunez, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 219, El Paso supports World Victory Center

Lodge 219, El Paso supports Panorama Community Center

Lodge 219, El Paso Treasurer Jesus Alcocer, right, presents a check to Panorama Community Center Director Reyna H. Esparza. Panorama Community Center is a non-profit organization that has three community health worker volunteers who help run the center. The mission is to improve knowledge and education within the communities in order to have a better lifestyle, offering free English, citizenship and GED classes, aerobics, yoga, and family counseling.

SPJST Lodge 219, El Paso presents a contribution check for $100 to World Victory Center Men’s Home. Left to right are Lodge 219, El Paso Secretary Bertha Rodriguez, Home Director Juan Ramirez, Jr., and Lodge 219, El Paso Reporter Baltazar Nunez.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Vrazels’ Polka Band: 55 Years of Success

The Vrazels’ Polka Band completed their 55th year of playing music not just in Texas, but many other states as well. Anton and Alfred Vrazel are the sons of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Vrazel, Sr. and are lifelong residents of the Yarrellton-Marak communities near Cameron in Milam County, Texas. Their interest in music started early in life. At the age of 10, Alfred talked his parents into buying him his first accordion. He purchased a two row Horner button accordion from Sears for $32. A short time later, Anton began playing the piano accordion and Alfred switched to playing the tenor and alto saxophones and guitar. The band was originally known as the Vrazels’ Playboys and consisted of Alfred, Anton and their three cousins, Leo, Louis, and Ladis Vrazel. They began playing at small stores and halls such as Oscar Store near Temple, Three Oaks near Cameron, Country Bar and Grocery Store near Marak, Otto’s Place in Taylor, The Wagon Wheel Inn in Beyersville, Tom Sefcik Hall in Seaton, and the SPJST Hall in Buckholts. At some of their first engagements they received no regular salary, just small donations from appreciative listeners and dancers. This probably was the origin of the Vrazel Band motto, “Playing for our Friends.” Shortly after this, Alfred and Anton changed the name of the band to Vrazels’ Polka Band. A third brother, Lawrence Vrazel, Jr. joined them playing drums for the following 12 years. The band started playing for larger crowds at annual picnics at Moravian Hall in Corn Hill, Marak Hall in

Marak, Flag Hall in Cyclone, Star Hall in Seaton, and the SPJST Hall in Buckholts. Their popularity grew and the number of engagements began to increase rapidly. In the 2000s, the band had a full schedule of appearances performing approximately 50 engagements per year all over Texas and other states. Only two years after the band was organized, Radio Station KMIL 1330 AM in Cameron was established and the Vrazels’ were engaged for a Sunday afternoon program. In the early years, they all gathered at the station to do the program live and unrehearsed. The radio program was initially only 30 minutes long, but due to its popularity was increased to two hours. It is now heard every Sunday afternoon from 12:15 to 2:15 p.m. on 105.1 The Ranch and is in its 45th year of continuous broadcasting. Alfred has always served as the host on the program using selections from their supply of recorded music in addition to recordings by various other bands. The band made its first recording in 1959 and has recorded since that time twenty 45 RPM records, nine 8-tracks, 13 LP albums, two videos, six cassettes, and three CDs. The members felt very close to their audience when they played. They played for the people, not themselves. Although some of the musicians read music, they all play “by ear” and not by notes and are self taught. Their music renditions are the most emulated by other polka musicians. Alfred has been the leader and the master of ceremonies or announcer at all dances and appearances. His joyful and easygoing manner of speech helped to create the very close feeling of friendship between the band and their audience. Anton was the band’s manager and took care of any business, sales and bookings for the band. They were highly concerned that each dance hall was satisfied with their appearance and performance. Present musicians are Thomas Strmiska of Yarrellton who is featured on the drums and vocals. He has been with the Vrazels’ for 35 years. He is the son-in-law of Alfred. Albert Heselmeyer of Taylor who is featured on the bass guitar. He has been with the Vrazels’ for 32 years. David Trojacek who is featured on tenor and alto saxophone, lead guitar and vocals. He has been with the

Vrazels’ for 10 years. Patrick Strmiska plays lead, rhythm and steel guitar. He rejoined the band three years ago after sitting out for over 10 years. T h e Vrazels’ Polka Band has a combined total of 198 years of playing music. On occasion, Jessica Strmiska sings along in both the English and Czech language. She is 20 years old and has been singing with the Vrazels’ for eight years. She is featured on Volume 1 of the two videos. Her brother Matthew also performs with the band on the drums. He is 23 years old. They are the children of Thomas and Cindy and the grandchildren of Alfred. Vrazels’ Polka Band was chosen by Texas Folklife Resources - Accordion Kings to represent traditional TexasCzech polka music. Pat Jasper, director of the statewide organization based in Austin, considers them to be “among the best.” She also states, “Their history is really characteristic of the tradition because it is a family band and one of the few bands to use two different accordions, the button and the keyboard accordion. Their Czech repertoire is very extensive.” They have performed for the Texas Folklife Resources - Accordion Kings

Festivals held in Austin, Dallas, Eagle Pass, Houston and Plano. In addition to performing throughout Texas, the band has also performed in Washington, D.C.; Vienna, Virginia; Tucson, Arizona; Wichita, Kansas; Las Vegas, Nevada; on a Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans, Louisiana; and an Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver, B.C. They have been honored as recipients of many awards from the Texas Polka Music Association. The Vrazels’ Polka Band celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Cultural Activities Center in Temple, and its 40th, 45th and 50th anniversaries at Seaton Star Hall, each with overflow crowds. Anton and Alfred divide their musical time with the farming and ranching business. All of the band, being very dedicated musicians, always gave the best, for their music is from the heart. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

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Scenes from Vrazels’ Polka Band Retirement Party

Saturday, January 24, 2009 • Frank W. Mayborn Convention and Civic Center in Temple, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: Willie Bohuslav of Polka Lovers Club of Texas in La Grange presents an award to the Vrazels’ Polka Band at the retirement party and dance on January 24 in Temple. CENTER PHOTO: John Ri-

vard of Texas Polka News recognizes the Vrazels’ Polka Band. RIGHT PHOTO: Retta Chandler of Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center honors the Vrazels’.

LEFT PHOTO: Glen Chervenka of Texas Polka Music Museum recognizes the band with personal plaques. CENTER PHOTO: Freida Chervenka and members of Loving Friends of the Vrazels recognize the band

members’ wives. RIGHT PHOTO: City of Caldwell Mayor Bernard Rychlik presents an award to the Vrazels’. Several other awards and toasts were also presented.

VӖSTNÍK By Sara Hendricks Telegram night editor

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Vrazels’ Polka Band gives final performance

Polka music is happy music for happy people, they say. Well, more than a thousand of those happy people lightly stepped around the dance floor on Saturday night (January 24, 2009) for the final performance of Vrazels’ Polka Band. The Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center on Saturday night was wall-to-wall smiles. White-haired folks in brightly colored polka costumes, Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen 2008-09, teenagers and tots two-stepped to country tunes, danced the 2/4 step of the polka and gracefully waltzed with a loved one in their arms. Some dressed in their Sunday best, some wore jeans and cowboy hats, Lee Roy Petersen of Plantersville wore liederhosen and a green hat with feather and buttons. Some danced with big smiles on their faces, others had looks of pure concentration as they followed their partners around the crowded dance floor. Alfred and Anton Vrazel are the heart of the band. Thomas and Patrick Strmiska are there, too. And Albert Heselmeyer has been with them for 32 years, brought in by Thomas and Patrick’s father, George, who died recently. David Trojacek has been with them for 10 years. Alfred took a much needed break to talk to a steady stream of fans while door prizes were awarded. “It’s hard to express into words,” Vrazel said in response to a question about what the night meant to him. “I knew we would have a crowd, but never envisioned this many people. I’ve talked to people from Washington, D.C., South Carolina, Arizona, many other states. We appreciate this so much. We’ll miss the music and what you see here, these fine polka people. It’s a happy family. “The music will continue,” he said. “We have more polka bands now than 50 years ago and they are playing it very well.” Anton Vrazel returned from a break. Once again, the question: What does this night signify? “Oooh, what can I say? Fifty-five years of happiness, and the happiness is shared by all these people.” Anton won’t be retiring really. He’s in the cattle business and cattle have to eat, he said. He’ll also be restoring some old tractors, something he’s been

SPJST was a proud sponsor of the Vrazels’ Polka Band retirement party and dance. Pictured above Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, third from right, presents a plaque of appreciation to Alfred Vrazel. Band members pictured are, left to right, David Trojacek, Albert Heselmeyer, Patrick Strmiska, Thomas Strmiska, Alfred Vrazel, and Anton Vrazel. Also pictured are Supreme Lodge Chairman/District One Director Donnie Victorick, front, and District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt, far right. President Vanicek served as master of ceremonies for the event.

trying to get to for years. Ed Gray and Joann Winstead, were here from the Red and White polka club in Dallas. Ed’s been listening to polka music for about 60 years and dancing to Vrazels’ Polka Band for about 10 years. “They play a good variety of music, classic polka, country, waltz, fox trot. It’s sad to see them go. They’re too young to retire,” he said. Jerry Valek, 33, and Jacob Gerik, 27, looked like a couple of rock ’n’ roll fans who made a wrong turn. Not so, they were quick to say. “I’m Czech and from Ennis, which is a big Czech community. Polka is still in,” Valek said. “It’s something we don’t want to lose,” Gerik said. “It will fade away if people don’t keep coming.” Standing on the edge of the dance floor, they watched as dancers moved round and round, many wearing blue retirement party commemorative shirts. Large screens flashed pictures of the band and their families through the years. Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen 2008-09, Ashley Sulak of Hillsboro, was a beauty queen on a mission. She won her title with interviews, kroj (costume) modeling and by playing a medley of Vrazel polks arranged by John Dujka. “As we young people are trying to determine who we are, I say we need to learn about our past, who our ancestors are and how they got to where they are now.” About 18 months ago at one of the Vrazels’ Polka Band dances, there was

one “May I have this dance?” that led to romance. “It was love at first oom-pa-pa,” say family and friends of 20-year-old Ricky Brenek and Alison Matous, 18. At Saturday’s farewell performance, they talked about their love for Czech polka. “I have been coming to see these guys play since I was born,” said Brenek, who attends the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. “We never left early. Dad would bring blankets and if we got tired we would curl up under them near a table or in a corner.” Matous, a Texas Tech student, used to go to polka dances with her grandfather. “Now the whole family goes.” “We are going to miss them,” Brenek said of the band. Matous finished the thought, “And they are our favorites.” Walter and Christine Kopriva of Temple are members of the Polka Club of America. “We’ve grown up with them. Two of my brothers married two of their cousins. We used to go girl hunting together,” he said, laughing at the memory and glancing at the girl he finally caught. In fact, it was hard not to bump into a member of the large Vrazel clan. Alfred is brother-in-law to Adolph and

Dorothy Vansa of Cameron. Adolph remembered the time he’d just put a stick shift on the floor of his 1950 Chevrolet and Alfred wanted to drive it. “It was snowing and there was a thick pile of snow on the ground,” Adolph said. Sure enough, Alfred locked up the gears and they had to walk home through the snow. “This is a sad moment,” Adolph said in a more serious moment, “very sad and joyful because they can spend time with their families.” Other family members joined the band on stage. Alfred’s granddaughter, Jessica Strmiska, drew wild applause when she greeted the crowd with, “Jak se mas?” (Czech for “how are you?”) The slight, pretty girl then sang “Pretty Dancing Girl” in a high, sweet voice. On the screens were pictures of a tiny Jessica in her grandfather’s arms, singing into the microphone. Her dad, Thomas Strmiska then joined her for “Beautiful America Waltz.” Both songs were in English and Czech. Her grandmother later said Alfred taught her the Czech words when she was three years old. Polka music is happy music for happy people, but there were tears as well. When disc jockeys and polka clubs from far and wide presented the band with awards for their 55 years of making music, Vince Reisner, Jr. of Cameron said, “I believe I saw Alfred Vrazel wipe tears from his eyes.”

Telegram staff writer Tanya Cooper contributed to this report.

Editor’s Note: The preceding article was originally printed in the Temple Daily Telegram on Sunday, January 25, 2009. Special thanks to the Temple Daily Telegram for reprint permission. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

In Memoriam

In Memory of Mary Vrla Beran

Mary Rose Vrla Beran went home to be with her Lord and her daughter Ellen on January 6, 2009. She was born January 16, 1930, in Ennis, Texas, to Mary Hattie and Frank B. Vrla. After high school, she moved to Dallas to attend business school. She married and had four children. She devoted her life to her family. She loved to visit and talk— she knew no strangers. Her hobbies included gardening, studyMary Beran ing the Bible, watching mass on EWTN, attending theatre and musical events with her daughter, playing games with her grandchildren, and listening to Czech music. Mary was a member of SPJST Lodge 130, Dallas. Mary is survived by husband August; sons Thomas and Milton; daughter Catherine Yancy; grandchildren Lauren and Jacob Yancy and Crystal and Amber Beran; and siblings Millie Breden and Frankie Vrla. We already miss her so very much. The world has lost a beautiful soul, but Earth’s loss is Heaven’s gain. Rosary was at Sparkman Crane Funeral Home on January 9. Funeral mass was at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 10 at Calvary Hill North Chapel with Reverend Ernesto Torres as cele-

brant. Interment followed at Calvary Hill Cemetery. Fellowship for friends and family was held at Divine Mercy of Our Lord Catholic Church in Mesquite. —SPJST—

In Memory of Wayland Smajstrla

Wayland Smajstrla, 70, died Saturday, January 17, 2009, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Mass of Christian burial was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 20 at St. Patrick Cathedral. Interment was at St. Martin Cemetery in Tours. Rosary was at 6 p.m. Monday, January 19 at T h o m p s o n ’s Harveson and Wayland Smajstrla Cole Funeral Home with visitation following until 7:30 p.m. Wayland was born July 5, 1938, in Waco, son of Eugene and Ada Frances Wilson Smajstrla. On February 27, 1960, he married Del Sanders. Wayland graduated from North Texas State College (now UNT), with a degree in business. While at North Texas, he was a drummer with the One O’Clock Lab Band and played with the Ted Weems Orchestra. He was a band director at Ernest Parker Junior High. His dance band played for many social events and private clubs.

He was instrumental in contracting musicians for many national acts that come to the area, including Liberace, Chuck Berry, Tom Jones, Isaac Hayes and Phyllis Diller. Wayland was in commercial sales for Fort Worth Roofing Supply Company. He was a member of Ridglea Country Club. An avid golfer, his perfect day was shooting a hole in one on the course. Wayland was preceded in death by his father Eugene. Survivors include his wife Del; daughters Beth and Camilla; mother Ada Frances Smajstrla of Waco; brothers Rodney Smajstrla and wife Sharon of Fredericksburg, Michael Smajstrla and wife Janet of Kerrville, and Paul and wife Anne of Waco; sister-in-law Ronnie Fanning and husband Michael of Waco; and numerous nieces and nephews. —SPJST—

In Memory of Lois M. Dusek

Lois M. Dusek, age 85 of Elgin, Texas, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Lois was born on January 22, 1923, in Manda Community to Walfred and Josephine Morell. Lois was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years Milton Dusek. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin. She is survived by her loving family: daughters Sharon Wertz and husband Al of Houston and Jan Moden of Austin; sister Hildegard Hall of Round Rock; grandchildren Rebekah, Patri-

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cia, Aaron, Alicia, and Allan; and by numerous nieces and nephews. The family received guests from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 24 at the Elgin Funeral Home. Services followed at 3 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation; or American Lung Association. May she rest in peace. Respectfully submitted, Evelyn Gustafson —SPJST—

Reunion

Reunion notices are published at no charge and as a benefit to our SPJST members. First-run announcements may be edited to fit the space. Thereafter, and until the week of the reunion date as space permits, notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include SPJST lodge name/number and contact phone number. Thank you!

Dobecka-Pratka families: Joseph and Theresa Wick Dobecka and Joseph Pratka families and includes Frank and Mary Dobecka, Joe and Mary Kubesch, Rudolf and Agnes Hollek, Cyril and Anna Sassin; Joe and Antonie Dobecka, Joe and Anna Dobecka, John and Albina Dobecka, and Louis and Adela Pratka, and Emil and Angeline Pratka—at Dubina Parish Hall, Dubina, Texas. Call Shirley Dobecka Caesar (817) 980-7501; or visit www.dobecka.com for information. Submitted by Toni Akers, Lodge 130, Dallas. —SPJST—

New Sign Welcomes Guests to SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm

A new entrance sign at the SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm greeted guests to the annual La Grange Area Chamber of Commerce banquet held January 22, 2009, in the Merl Sternadel Meeting Barn at Cooper Farm. SPJST members in attendance were State Youth Director John Hoelscher and Ronnie

Pflughaupt of Lodge 1, Fayetteville. The SPJST ENC is a new member of the Chamber. Other events held recently were the North Central Fayette County Wildlife Co-op meeting. Mark your calendar for April 25 for a party and welcome to the SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm. More details later.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Saturday, April 4 Lodge 88 Easter Party We will dye eggs that Friday night.

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, We will be reorganizing our beseda groups this Saturday, February 7 at 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. 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. I look so forward to seeing all of you at the skating party. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Two Youth Counselor —SPJST—

Questions? Call (800) 727-7578

Lodge 32, Victoria Youth Club seeks garage sale donations

Dear Readers, Lodge 32, Victoria Youth Club will be having a garage sale in March, and we are looking for donated items to sell. We will take the following items: clothes (all sizes), toys, shoes bedding, coats that no longer fit household items books, lamps, tools old appliances (must work) old furniture, seasonal items

If you want to get rid of it, we’ll take it! If it no longer fits, we want it! If you got a new one, we’ll take the old one! Please call Youth Leader Mary Monclova (361) 648-1191 or Assistant Youth Leader Mary Tijerina (361) 212-5985. Fraternally, Mary Monclova, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth ready to skate

Dear Readers, On February 15, 2009, at Skate Haven in Temple, Texas, we will have a skating party from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. I hope everyone can come join us for a lot of fun. I look forward to seeing everyone. Fraternally, Chase Alexander —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club plans chili supper

Dear Readers, Hello, everyone! I hope you all are having a good year so far. On February 20, 2009, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., the youth club at Lodge 47, Seaton will have a chili supper. I hope you all can come to Star Hall for food, fun, and games. I hope to see you on Friday, February 20. Fraternally, Brady Alexander —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club sets activities

The Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club meeting was called to order on January 25, 2009, at 2 p.m. by President Austin Harmon. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by the youth club motto. Ms. Barbara discussed how well we did in 2008 with our Thursday night bingo kitchen sales and asked if everyone would continue to help out when available. Here is a list of upcoming dates to remember: Sunday, February 8 Lodge 88 Anniversary Day We will be making and serving homemade ice cream.

Sunday, February 15 Deliver Valentines to nursing home. Meet at Lodge 88 at 10 a.m., attend the Needville lodge meeting, and then proceed to the nursing home. A potluck lunch will be served at the meeting, so please be sure and bring a dish to share.

Mr. Pflughaupt talked about how the new camp was coming along, and we agreed to visit and work at the camp for Join Hands Day in May. We sang “Happy Birthday” to members, Austin and Reanna. The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m. We then had refreshments and made our valentines. Fraternally, Jessica Schoen, age 7 Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Taking Polly to the vet . . .

A distraught woman brought a limp parrot into a veterinary office. She laid her beloved pet on the table, and the doctor pulled out his stethoscope to listen to the bird’s heart. After a moment, the doctor shook his head and said, “I’m sorry, Polly is dead.” The woman cried out, “Are you sure? You haven’t done any tests or anything. How do you know? She might just be in a coma or something.” “As you please,” said the vet, and he left the room. He returned with a beautiful black Labrador. The parrot owner watched in amazement as the dog stood up on his hind legs, put his paws on the table, and sniffed Polly up and down. After a while he stopped, looked at the vet with sad eyes, and shook his head. The vet escorted the dog out of the room and returned a few moments later with a cat. The cat jumped onto the table and delicately sniffed Polly. Then the cat sat back, shook its head sadly, and ran from the room. The vet looked at the woman. “I’m truly sorry, but your parrot is 100 percent dead.” He then turned to his computer, hit some keys, and handed her a bill. The bird’s owner was still in shock, but took the bill. “Two hundred dollars!” she cried. “Just to tell me my bird is dead?” The vet merely shrugged. “If you’d taken my word for it, the bill would only be $30. But what with the Lab Report and the Cat Scan . . .

Podpora Wednesday, February 4, 2009

BENEVOLENCE

ROCNIK 97 CISLO 5

Hromnice— February 2

The day of Hromnice - pronounced HROM-nyi-tseh - is an important day for Czech weather-related folklore. It falls on February 2, the same day the popular Groundhog Day is celebrated in the United States. And no wonder; both are based on the same ancient Celtic tradition. The Czech word Hromnice is derived from sanctified “hromnice” candles that were lit on the night of February 2 if there was a thunderstorm (thunder = hrom). The weather on Hromnice is a sign

Lidskost

Česká

Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST Založené rok 1897

of how long winter will linger. According to the tradition of Groundhog Day, the groundhog comes out of his hole after his winter sleep on February 2, and if sees his shadow (i.e. if the day is sunny), he will go back to his hole and we should be ready for six more weeks of winter. If the day is cloudy, he will stay above ground, expecting the spring. There are dozens of Czech Hromnice sayings that predict the same, many of them reminding us that although we are starting to think about the spring, winter is by far not over and may not have even reached its peak. Below are some Czech Hromnice

CHMGC plans Blue Danube River Cruise

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

Danube River Cruise

Část

HUMANITY

Bratrstvi

VӖSTNÍK

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—

Prague Old Town

sayings for you to enjoy (translated by My Czech Republic). Predicting the Length of Winter Svítí-li slunce na Hromnice, bude zimy o šest neděl více. — If the sun is shining on Hromnice, there will be six more weeks of winter. Hromnice-li jasné, čisté, potrvá déle zima jistě. Pakli sněží nebo hřímá, jaro jistě v blízku dlívá. — If Hromnice is bright and clear, winter is sure to linger. If there is snow or thunder, spring must be near.

BROTHERHOOD

4.unor.2009

Jihne-li na Hromnice, přilož do kamen; mrzne-li, po zimě amen. — If the snow is melting on Hromnice, add more wood to the fire; if it’s freezing, the winter is over.

O Hromnicích déšť - na jaře sníh; o Hromnicích sníh - na jaře déšť. — Rain on Hromnice - snow in the spring; snow on Hromnice - rain in the spring. Zelené Hromnice, bílé velikonoce. — Green Hromnice, white Easter.

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.

Through 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: Pronunciation, grammar, reading, vocabulary, Czech history/culture presentations. Ffor beginners, but good review for advanced Czech language students. Free. For information, contact course instructor SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson member Joe Janecka via email joejanecka@att.net; or telephone (817) 295-3068. February 6 Fort Bend County CHS Seventh Annual Soup Tasting Supper—at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville Hall, on Highway 36, Needville, Texas. 5 to 8 p.m.

February 7 Czech Music Festival, Ennis—at Sokol Activity Center, 2262 East Highway 34. Five Czech bands; Czech kroje encouraged. Kitchen will be

open. Cost for the daylong festivities $5 per person; children 14 and under, free. For information, contact Committee member/band participant Tony Vitovsky; or Event co-founder David Slovak.

February 15 Polka Mass—at Penelope Parish, Penelope, Texas, at 11 a.m. Dinner follows. Dance 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. For information, call Dorothy Macac (254) 533-2309. 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 visit www.czechheritage.org.

March 1 Bexar County CHS Annual Dance— at Martinez Social Club, 7791 FM 1346 at FM 1516, San Antonio: Czech music, food, sausage-in-a-bun, kolaches available for sale. For information, call (210) 648-2681.

June 6 TCGS - Window of Opportunity: A Czech Family Research Workshop—at Caldwell Civic/Visitor Center, Caldwell, Texas. Visit www.txczgs.org. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

VӖSTNÍK

Animal Forecasters Vyjde-li jezevec o Hromnicích z díry, za čtyři neděle zpátky zas pílí. — If the badger comes out of his hole on Hromnice, he’ll be rushing back four weeks later.

CEFT recognizes SPJST

SPJST State FAC Chester Jenke recently accepted a certificate from Diane Sulak Wilson of CEFT. The certificate is in recognition of SPJST’s lifetime membership in the Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT) and of continued support in preserving the Czech language and culture in Texas.

Jest-li o Hromnicích teplo, staví medvěd boudu; pakli o Hromnicích zima, bourá medvěd boudu. — If Hromnice is warm, the bear builds himself a shed. If Hromnice is cold, the bear tears down his shed.

Na Hromnice husa po vodě - na velikonoce po ledě. — If the goose swims on water on Hromnice, it will walk on ice at Easter.

Jak dlouho skřivan před Hromnicemi zpívá, tak dlouho po nich bude mlčet. — However long before Hromnice the skylark sings, that’s how long it will be silent after Hromnice.

nice, the skylark must sing even if it were to freeze to death.

Marking the Middle of Winter Na Hromnice zimy polovice. — Hromnice, the middle of winter.

Predicting the Year’s Crops Pošmourné Hromnice sedláku milé jsou velice. — Cloudy Hromnice makes the farmer happy.

O Hromnicích anebo okolo Hromnic jistá zima bývá; odkuž mnozí chtějí, že jest toho času polovice zimy. — On or around Hromnice it is certain to be cold; which makes many believe that this is the middle of winter.

Na Hromnice kalužky, budou jabka i hrušky. — If there are puddles of water on Hromnice, there will be apples and pears.

Na Hromnice půl krajíce a půl píce. — Have half of your loaf and half of your fodder left on Hromnice.

The Days are Getting Longer, Nature is Awakening Na Hromnice o hodinu více. — On Hromnice, the day becomes an hour longer (than on winter solstice). Na Hromnice zima s jarem potkává se. — On Hromnice, winter and spring meet.

Na Hromnice musí skřivánek vrznout, i kdyby měl zmrznout. — On Hrom-

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

Kdyby o Hromnicích napadlo jen tolik sněhu, co je na černé krávě znát, bude úrodný rok. — If as little snow falls on Hromnice as can be noticed on a black cow, the year will be fertile.

Jestli na Hromnice mrzne a sněží, úrodný rok na to běží. — If Hromnice is freezing and snowy, a fertile year will follow.

Na Hromnice má sedlák raději vlka ve chlévě i ženu na marách než slunce. — On Hromnice, a farmer would rather have a wolf in his barn or a wife dead than the sun in the sky. —SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org

Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs”

For membership: Merlene Bravenec (254) 778-7285

English/Czech name equivalents

B - Female Barbara - Barbora Beatrice - Beáta Bernice - Bronislava Bertha - Berta Betty - Běta, Bětuše Blanche - Blanka Bridget, Brigitte - Brigita

B - Male Bartholomew - Bartoloměj Benedict - Benedikt Bernard - Bernard Bill - Vilém Boris - Boris —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville to host Fort Bend TCGS Czechs County CHS soup in Uniform submission tasting supper deadline Feb. 9 Mark your calendars for Friday,

February 6, 2009! Fort Bend County Chapter CHS will host its Seventh Annual Soup Tasting Supper from 5 to 8 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, on Highway 36, Needville, Texas so please join us. Submitted by, Glenn McDonald SPJST Lodge 81, Needville —SPJST—

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(254) 778-1824

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The Texas Czech Genealogical Society 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 those who have served, or who are currently serving, in the military of the United States, the Czech Republic, or the lands of Czechoslovakia. To be one of high quality, this soft-covered book will be treasured for years to come. Deadline for submitting material is February 9, 2009. Submit all information to Charlene Hurta, 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515; phone (979) 849-0348. Visit the TCGS website for updates and full information: www.txczgs.org. —SPJST— Ask about our European Tour 09.

Wonderful Mediterranean Cruise October 15 - 27, 2009 12 days in Europe

Tour Italy, Croatia, Sicily, Spain, and Monaco Reserve now - going fast!

ABCATS Travel

(361) 578-0828; email: czechtravel@abcatstravel.com See www.abcatstravel.com

Wednesday, February 4, 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.

rentals, please call Irene Helgren (512) 281-4534. For band bookings, call Artie Monson (512) 2813711. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility.

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 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 4, HALLETTSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD Sunday, February 1—SPJST Lodge 6 meeting Friday, February 6—Social night Friday, February 20—Social night

Sunday, March 1—RVOS Lodge No. 46 meeting, 12 noon Sunday, March 1—Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting, 4 p.m. Friday, March 6—Social night Friday, March 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

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 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 Wednesday, February 4—Senior Citizens dominoes, 2 to 4:30 p.m., covered dish meal follows Friday, February 6—Night Skies with A.P. Patschke, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thrall 4-H makes oldfashioned hamburgers every Friday 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 11—Lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m.; covered dish meal follows. Live music by the Bobby Jay Five band 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, February 13 – Texas Pioneers, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thrall 4-H makes old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday, February 19—Bunco games for men and women; light meal at 6:30 p.m. Bunco played 7 to 8:30 p.m. Call Connie Voigt (512) 352-2038 for further information. Friday, February 20—The Lawmen, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thrall 4-H makes old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, February 21—Live dance music: Denny Hamilton and the Memories, 8:30 p.m.; free admission. Wednesday, February 25—Live music: Bobby Jay Five Band, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, February 27—Country Express, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. * The Thrall 4-H Booster Club will be serving fish burgers on the Fridays during Lent which include the dates of Friday, February 27 through Friday, April 10. As always, they will be selling grilled cheese sandwiches and old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 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, February 7—Heart of Texas Road Gang Saturday, February 21—Cherokee Rose Saturday, March 21—Flat Rock Junction Saturday, March 28—Kimberly Kelly

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, 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

Thursday, March 5—Private Saturday, March 7—Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six

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.

VӖSTNÍK

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).

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, February 7—Bobby Layne Orchestra, big band. *Dress Code. $12 pp Sunday, February 8—Lodge 88, Houston Anniversary: Fritz Hodde and 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

VӖSTNÍK

Saturday, February 21—Texas Legacy Czech Band, polka/variety. $7/person Saturday, February 28—No dance Saturday, March 7—The Moonglow Orchestra, big band. *Dress Code. $11 pp Saturday, March 14—Mark Halata and Texavia, polka/variety. $8 per person

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 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 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 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 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 89, ROSEBUD For meeting time, date, and location, contact Secretary Patsy Baker (254) 985-2457.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH 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 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 142, HOUSTON Sunday, February 8—Lodge meeting

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, February 14—Valentine Dance: Stringbenders

Saturday, March 7—Danny Williamson

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

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

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. 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 at 1150 South Burleson Boulevard (I-35 West), one-quarter mile south of Hidden Creek Parkway exit 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) 558-2400; 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.

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 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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