Vestnik 2009 02 11 by SPJST

Volume 97 Number 6

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

H E R A L D

Humanity ISSN —07458800

Brotherhood

February 11, 2009

Raymond Tomek rediscovers Czech roots

SPJST to name 2008 State Fraternalist of the Year at Awards Banquet

Since 1987, SPJST has honored its outstanding statewide fraternalists—members who have demonstrated exceptional service to the lodge and community. Local lodge fraternalists are then considered for statewide recognition. The applications are reviewed and a decision is made by an outside selection committee. The 2008 SPJST State Fraternalist of the Year and four

2008 SPJST Local Lodge Fraternalists of the Year

DEBRA PFLUGHAUPT Lodge 1 Fayetteville

MILTON PETERSON Lodge 6 Cottonwood

GEORGE JANIK Lodge 8 Weimar

MARIE SHELFER Lodge 9 Snook

JOSIE STRMISKA Lodge 20 Granger

honorable mentions will be announced at the final statewide SPJST Awards Banquet on Saturday, February 21 in Killeen. Photographs of the 2008 SPJST Local Lodge Fraternalists of the Year appear in this week’s center spread, on pages 20 and 21. A listing of the dedicated members who have earned the SPJST State Fraternalist of the Year distinction appears on page 21.

CHRISTOPHER NOVAK Lodge 84 Dallas

JOE B. CAMP Lodge 87 Temple

BARBARA LINNEY- GONZALES Lodge 88, Houston

AL KERCHO Lodge 92 Fort Worth

E.R. PRASEK Lodge 93 Hobson

DOUG HENKE Lodge 107 Floresville

DANIEL A. ROZNOVSKY Lodge 183 Arlington

LINDA S. JOHNSON Lodge 187 Round Rock

SANDRA K. HOGGARD Lodge 202 Jourdanton

NORMAN M. KNESCHK Lodge 204 Stephenville

SPJST State Fraternalists of the Year

1987 Frances Olexa Lodge 88, Houston District Five

ANTON J. KELNER Lodge 28 East Bernard

NANCY FUCIK Lodge 30 Taiton

BETTY SANDERS Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje

DAVID PECHAL Lodge 47 Seaton

DENISSE WUENSCHE Lodge 48 Beyersville

CHARLIE HERENDON Lodge 246 Morganʼs Point

JANA M. VACULIK Lodge 54 West

BRENDA BUSBY Lodge 66 Waco

MARCUS F. REBECEK Lodge 79 Corpus Christi

JEWEL WOLF Lodge 80 Holland

CURRY JENKE Lodge 258 Seguin

2000 Gussie Spacek Lodge 202, Jourdanton District Seven

1990 Dolores Skrabanek Lodge 47, Seaton District Two

1996 Evelyn Gustafson Lodge 18, Elgin District Two

2002 Leona Stalmach Lodge 48, Beyersville District Two

1998 Cyrill “Sid” Pokladnik Lodge 84, Dallas District Three

2004 Bettie House Lodge 202, Jourdanton District Seven

1989 Alvin J. Sefcik Lodge 172, Pasadena District Five

1992 Jerome C. Dressler Lodge 172, Pasadena District Five

Interest Rates ......................................3 Family Fun Dates ................................3 Awards Banquet Info.......................3, 5 100 Pennies Donor Listing .................6 Lodge Section .....................................7 Vestnik Valentines.............16-19, 22-28

1999 Helen Hegwood Lodge 88, Houston District Five

1994 Jerry Elzner Lodge 79, Corpus Christi District Seven

1991 Della Kadlecek Lodge 88, Houston District Five

BECKY WOOD Lodge 49 Rowena

1993 Bennie A. Jarma Lodge 84, Dallas District Three

1988 Timothy S. Kostom Lodge 88, Houston District Five

1995 Libbie Bartek Lodge 177, Academy District Two

1997 Willie E. Kohutek Lodge 47, Seaton District Two

2001 Dean Brisbin Lodge 80, Holland District Two

2005 Estelle Coker Lodge 80, Holland District Two

2006 Robert Hagen Lodge 246, Morganʼs Point District Two 2007 Ronnie Pflughaupt Lodge 1, Fayetteville District One

2003 David Nauert Lodge 24, Cyclone District Two

SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts mem- found a niche there,” Raymond said. Later, while visiting the Defense ber Bea Williams enjoyed a preChristmas visit by her brother Language Institute English Language Raymond Tomek in December, and Center at Lackland Air Force Base in the Véstník had the pleasure of talking San Antonio, Texas, Raymond discovwith Raymond during his Texas visit. ered a job opportunity — and a way to make a T h e difference children to Czech of Clem students. a n d He disMartha covered To m e k , that indiBea and viduals Raymond w e r e w e r e needed to raised on a teach the farm five English miles west language o f in the Cameron Czech Rein the Elm public. So R i d g e Raymond Commun i t y . SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts member Bea Williams s t a r t e d her brother Raymond Tomek to Texas. asking a Clem and welcomed Raymond teaches the English language to military lot of M a r t h a students in the Czech Republic. questions still reside to learn t h e r e today. Both Bea and Raymond are more about the country that his ancesgraduates of Cameron Yoe High tors came from. Raymond then decided he needed a School. The Tomeks grew up in a Czech change in life’s direction so he applied household. “Mom only knew Czech for a teaching of the English language when she was a young girl,” Raymond position in the Czech Republic. To said. “We only learned a few basic apply, he had to submit several items, Czech words though, but I wish we including copies of his birth certificate and degree from the University of learned more.” In the year 2000, Raymond visited Texas. “I was never a teacher in America; the Czech Republic, and he was inspired. “At that time, I thought the I was never interested in teaching,” Czech Republic may be a place to live Continued on Page 29. and work in the future because I really

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Youth Section.....................................30 In Memoriam ......................................34 Death Claims......................................35 Czech Culture ....................................36 Advertisements .................................37 Activities Calendar ............................38

Page 8

Lodge 66 Waco recognizes members

Page 9

Lodge 117 Robstown hosts reorganizational meeting

Page 33

Lodge 246 Morganʼs Point youth enjoy valentines

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Wednesday, February 11, 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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Happy Valentine’s Day!

This week’s Vestnik includes 11 pages of valentine greetings. Thanks

to everyone who submitted their expressions. Happy Valentine’s Day to all Vestnik readers! Enjoy these quotes: “Men fall in love with their eyes. Women fall in love with their ears.” —Quoted by Dr. Phil McGraw

“Love is blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener.” —Paula Deen American cook/restaurateur

“If you have a boat and a happy marriage, you don't need another thing.” —Ed McMahon in TV Guide “Here’s the secret to a happy marriage: Do what your wife tells you.” —Denzel Washington

1099 Questions Form 1099 was recently mailed out from the Home Office to many members. If you received one of these and have questions about it, please call the following Home Office staff members. 1099 Misc If your sales agent number is listed in the account number box, please call Cynthia or Frank. 1099R If your certificate number is listed in the account number box, please call Marissa. 1098 Please call Carol.

1099 Misc For all other questions about 1099 Misc forms, please call Lisa K.

Correction Last week’s Vestnik included updated changes on Heritage ’09, this year’s membership campaign. The award in the lodge incentive section should have stated, “$40 per certificate issued that remains in force for 24 months.” Here is the complete lodge incentive from the Heritage ’09 program. Lodge Incentive Goal to Achieve: State Goal of 2,009 Certificates Issued

Award $40 per certificate issued that remains in force for 24 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. —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of August and the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Membersʼ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Vestnik do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Financial Secretary Jerry Mikulas, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

VӖSTNÍK

2009 SPJST Awards Banquet Saturday, February 21, 2009 Killeen Civic and Conference Center 3601 South WS Young Drive in Killeen, Texas

11:30 a.m. - Doors Open Lodge and Sales Agent Photos

The photo area will be available for sales agent and winning lodge photos. Please note that a noon meal will not be served.

1 p.m. - Awards Presentations Fraternalists of the Year Youth Awards • Lodge Awards Sales Awards 5 p.m. - Banquet Dinner

All 2008 and 2009 lodge officers and a guest are invited to attend the banquet dinner free of charge. The charge for all others is $7 per person for the barbecue dinner. Cash Drawings (10 - $100 door prizes) for 2008 and 2009 Lodge Officers and Winning Sales Agents (must be present to win) Please RSVP no later than Wednesday, February 18 to Sandra (800) 727-7578. More information on page 4.

Fifth Annual Fraternal Bowling Tournament Saturday, February, 14, 2009 300 Austin • Austin, Texas

Proceeds benefit the Texas Fraternal Congress Youth Scholarship Fund To sign up, contact your local lodge FAC or visit www.spjst.org.

Family Fun and Important Dates

February 13 February 14 February 14 February 14

February 14 February 15 February 15 February 16 February 20 February 21

February 21

February 22

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%

February 22 March 7 March 7

March 7 March 8 March 15 March 15 March 22 March 22 Mar. 28 - 29 March 28 March 29

March 31 April 4 April 5 April 18

Valentine Dance: Hosted by Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3) Fraternal Bowling Tournament • 300 Lanes, Austin Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Valentine Dance (1) Lodge 91, Crosby “Love for Animals” (5) Food/Supply Drive • Wal-Mart in Crosby 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) Lodge 18, Elgin St. Patrickʼs Day Dance (2) Lodge 30, Taiton Awards Banquet (6) Youth Leadersʼ Retreat at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm Lodge 18, Elgin hosts Don Peachey (2) of Burnet, Wisconsin Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosts Don Peachey (3) of Burnet, Wisconsin 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club Easter Party (5) Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter Party (3) SPJST Bloominʼ Temple Car Show • Temple

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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Scenes from District Six Heritage ’09 Kick-Off Party—Part 1

Saturday, January 10, 2009 • Home of State Field Representative Karen Kaspar and husband Leroy in Taiton, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: A Heritage ’09 placemat was at each person’s place setting. PHOTOS 2 and 3: Czech heritage-themed decorations greeted sales agents and guests to the party. RIGHT PHOTO: The evening concluded with a delicious cake topped with chocolate-covered strawberries. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Back to front, left to right, are Lodge 97, Placedo agent David Bellanger, Lawrence Bacak, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje agent Dee Ann Bacak, Jackie Pilgrim, and Lodge 151, Wharton agent Ray Pil-

grim. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 30, Taiton agents Carolina Covarrubia, Connie Davila, and Sandra Espericueta, along with Lodge 32, Victoria agents Mary Monclova, Marcia Jaffe, and Mary Tijerina and their guest family members look forward to Karen’s District Six evening celebration. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje agent Brad Bacak, left, and Lodge 143, Inez agent Otto Mozisek Czech out the snack table. Also pictured, far left, is Lodge 40 agent J.C. Kocurek.

LEFT PHOTO: Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, standing, right, awards door prizes for the evening with the assistance of SFR Karen Kaspar, Lodge 240, Bay City agent Roy Medina, second from left, and District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom. CENTER PHOTO: SL Vice President McBride hands lucky winner Lodge 223, Palacios agent Robert Solis a door prize. RIGHT PHOTO: Director Mike Ahlstrom, SFR Karen Kaspar, and SL Vice President Gene McBride lead a toast to the

new Heritage ’09 year. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: SFR Karen toasts our promising new year with agent Albert Olsovsky, Dorothy Olsovsky, and agent Elizabeth Holub, all of Lodge 23, Moravia, and Karen Holub and agent Sheldon Holub, both of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: It’s almost dinnertime for Lodge 32, Victoria agent Marcia Jaffe, Rose Thurlkill of Lodge 223, Palacios, and Lodge 32 agent Mary Tijerina. Kudos to the chef! SFR Karen and District Six very much appreciate Leroy Kaspar for taking care of the dinner and frying fish! It was delicious. Thanks, Leroy!

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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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. Maps are included below. A hotel listing appears at right, and the 2008 local lodge Fraternalists of the Year are pictured on pages 20 and 21 of this week’s Vestnik. Call Sandra if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you on February 21! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek Supreme Lodge President —SPJST—

Directions to Killeen Civic and Conference Center

Killeen is located approximately 19 miles west of Belton on US Highway 190. The Killeen Civic and Conference Center is located at 3601 South W.S. Young Drive in Killeen, Texas.

Killeen Area Motel and Hotel Accommodations

La Quinta Inn and Suites 1112 South Fort Hood Street • (254) 526-8331 Offering “SPJST” Rates Friday and/or Saturday: $63 (double) Shilo Inn and Suites 3701 South W.S. Young • (254) 699-0999 “SPJST” Corporate Rates: Friday $106.21; Saturday $114.71 Baymont Inn and Suites 2506 Trimmier Road • (254) 554-3615 • www.amerihostinn.com Best Western 2709 East Veterans Memorial Boulevard (Bus 190) • (254) 526-6651 Candlewood Suites 2300 Florence Road • (254)501-3990 Comfort Suites 2709 Cunningham Road • (254) 634-4251 Days Inn 810 Central Texas Expressway (US 190) • (254) 634-6644 Executive Inns and Suites 1601 East Central Texas Expressway • (254) 699-4081 Fairfield Inn and Suites 200 East Central Texas Expressway (US190) • (254) 526-3333 Hampton Inn 2702 O.W. Curry Drive (US 190) • (254) 554-7110 Hawthorne Suites 1502 East Central Texas Expressway (US 190) • (254) 634-7795 Hilton Garden Inn 2704 O.W. Curry Drive • (254) 554-3900 Holiday Inn 300 East Central Tex Expressway • (254) 690-5511 Holiday Inn Express 1602 East Central Texas Expressway (US 190 • (254) 554-2727 Plaza Hotel 1721 East Central Texas Expressway (Bus 190) • (254) 634-1555 Sleep Inn 700 East Central Texas Expressway • (254) 616-2345 Super 8 Motel 600 East Central Texas Expressway (Bus 190) • (254) 634-6868

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Donors’ List

SPJST’s 100 Pennies Scholarship

Fund Drive for 2008-2009 began October 1. There have been 364 donations made to date that total $5,047.56. SPJST Memorial donations to date are $3,805. Thank you for your generous donations to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Because of your generosity, many SPJST members will be able to attend or continue with college. The 2008-2009 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive goal is $20,000. Guidelines for Giving

1. Donations made by lodges out of lodge funds will be listed as a lodge donation. 2. Collected donations from a lodge meeting will be listed individually by memberʼs last name in alphabetical order. Individuals submitting a donation will also be listed by memberʼs last name alphabetically. 3. Gifts of $50 or more will be printed in bold. 4. Families or groups, which desire names, listed under a particular last name or group name should indicate this on the donation form or letter, otherwise, the names will be listed as individual donations by last name in alphabetical order. 5. 100 pennies donations made as a memorial will be listed under memorial donations in a separate listing. 6. Please print donorʼs name(s) clearly.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this program, please contact the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator’s Office at (800) 7277578. Thanks again to all of the donors in this year’s drive. Donors are listed by lodge, district, last name, and first name. Lodge District

92 4 202 202 202 202 202 172 47 20 97 20

3 6 7 7 7 7 7 5 2 2 6 2

Name

Alholm, Roy L. Balusek, Lillie Barta, Evan and MaryAnn Barta, Mary Ann Barta, Travis Barta, Valerie Barta, Veronica Becka, Jerry C. Beckers, Gertrude Bell, Doris Bellanger, David and Bernadette Bohac, Bridget

Lodge District

20 91 30

80 92 20 20

20 20 20 20 20 24 180 47 30

2 5 6

2 3 2 2

2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 6

30 6 30 6 32 6 79 7 178 3 30 6 30 6 30 6 66 3 40 6 74 2 20 2 20 2 88 5 n/a n/a 88 5 63 6 20 2 177 2 133 7 54 3 54 3 142 5 79 7 25 3 30 6

Name

Bohac, Gilbert Bryson, Shirley Bubela, Greg, Lisa, Kirby Kenna and Grant Byrd, Roy Carsten, Evalee Cavanaugh, Caitlin Cavanaugh, Jimmy and Debra Cavanaugh, Kelly Cavanaugh, Kevin Cavanaugh, Mary Cavanaugh, Norma Cavanaugh, Tim and Karen Cockrell, Ann Cox, Gordon Dach, Lisa and Shawn Dorotik, Wanda and Anthony Drapela, Ryan Drapela, Steve Elles, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Elzner, Jerry J. Franzen, Rose and Don Fucik, Allison Fucik, Jessica Fucik, Stephanie Gaston, Allison Gensler, Jerry Gibson, Billy Ray Ging, Tracie and Curtis Goodman, Brita and Shane Granad, Roger Grandma and Grandpa T. Grossman, Steve Heiman, Dorothy Hejl, Gordon and Pat Hess, Gloria P. Hull, Cecil and Sophie James, Sally James, Wesley Janik, Willie and DeAnna Janosek, Ben Jurcik, Charles and Rose Kaspar, Karen and Leroy

Lodge District

133 40

39 29 30 177 20 48

160 88 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 30 47 30

7 6

1 2 6 2 2 2

4 5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 6 2 6

196 5 54 3 189 1 202 7 84 3 84 3 n/a n/a 133 7 66 3 20 2 133 135 92

7 3 3

84 133 29 29

3 7 2 2

201 25 29 20 47

1 3 2 2 2

Name

Kaspar, Lenice, Michael Jason, Tamara and Kyle Keller, Ed Kocurek, James C. and Carmen Kolbasinski, Ruth T. Kotrla, Jr, Edwin Krpec, Donovan LaFlamme, Harvey E. Langley, Jonathon Leshikar, Howard and Mary Lewallen, Irene Lewis, Irene G. Loessin, Kelly Loessin, Lauren Loessin, Leslie Loessin, Michelle Loessin, Rubie Loessin, Terry Loessin, Trevor Lutringer, Vincent Mabry, Janet Marcaurele, Gerard and Luc Masar, Dennis Matus, Ray and Lill Mayo, Henry Mazur, Stephen McManus, Rachel McManus, Zachary McRae, Diane Miculka, Victor J. Middlebrook, James Mikulencak, Frank and Georgia Moczygemba, Doris L. Morris, Jeaneta Murphy, Sr., John H. and Victoria Noviskie, Mattie Novy, Pauline A. Orrick, Rosalie K. Pace, Leslie Pechal, Clarence and LaVerne Pokladnik, Richard A. Popp, Jarolyn and Bob Prinz, Kendall and Jody Prinz, Kendall and Jody

Lodge District

24 63 133 29

2 6 7 2

88 139 172 20 18 32

5 5 5 2 2 6

20 999

35 39 73

107

133

153

246

189 88 74 66 25 20 20 20

2 9

3 1 4

1 5 2 3 3 2 2 2

20 2 30 6 20 2 n/a n/a 24 2 20 2 20 2 20 2 29 2 117 7 88 5

Name

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Psencik, Regina Pullin, Lillie and Howard Reese, Vicki and Ken Ripper, Henry and Marie Ann Rose, Fred Rothermel, James D. and Dorothy Ann Roznovsky, Elsie E. Rusnak, Rudolph Sims, Margie Sklar Spinn, Buck SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria SPJST Lodge 35, Elk SPJST Lodge 39, Bryan SPJST Lodge 73, Seymour SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville SPJST Lodge 133, San Antonio SPJST Lodge 153, LaSalle SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Stetz, Betty Svoboda, Herman Temple, Syble Terry, Annie A. Thomas, Jacob Tiger, Darwin Kovar Tischler, Elizabeth Tischler, Emilie and Charles Tischler, Mary Kathryn Treumer, Dylan Turner, Kathy and Robert Varro, Charles L. Veselke, Debbie Vestal, Clif Vestal, Maura and Cavan Volcik, Shirley Walker, Doris N. Williams, Vivian Mrazek Wockenfuss, Allison —SPJST—

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SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

Lodge 8, Weimar welcomes meeting speaker

On Monday, January 26, 2009, members of Lodge 8, Weimar met in regular session. Our attendance was weak for the first meeting of the new year. President Leo Jares called all to order, and we recited the Pledge of Allegiance. He also led in our opening prayer, and we remembered our departed members and our troops and public servants serving our country. All of the officers were present. Secretary JoAnn Jares read the minutes, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Henrietta Veselka gave her monthly report . A motion to accept her report was made by George Janik, and Gene Veselka seconded it. Motion was passed. FAC Erline Janik provided information on the SPJST Awards Banquet coming up. She also reminded everyone of the tournaments in February such as the tarok and bowling tournaments in the next few weeks. The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive still continues through March. A letter from Tammy Martinez acknowledging our Fraternalist of the Year was read. Henrietta and Gene reported having a good time at the District Six Bowling Tournament in El Campo a few weeks ago. They are planning to bowl next year. The check for the Schulenburg Area Food Pantry was delivered by JoAnn. This was the money donated at our Christmas party. Scott Shaffer, membership coordinator of the Air Evac Lifeteam, was a visitor. He gave us a short program on the benefits of becoming a member of the Air Evac Team. Approximately 10 flights a month are made from the La Grange Hospital. The majority of

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

these are not members. The cost is $10,000 to $12,000 per flight. We will have him return for another meeting night to give us an in-depth program. We will try to schedule one for this summer. This program is available in Fayette, Colorado, and Lavaca Counties. No further business was on the agenda. The meeting then adjourned. JoAnn Jares, Secretary —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Lodge 47, Seaton invites all to youth chili supper Friday, February 20

The February 1, 2009, meeting of Lodge 47, Seaton was called to order by President Edwin Pechal. Youth club members Justin Kraatz and Jerry Pechal presented the flags. How fortunate our lodge was to have no deceased members for the month of January. Joyce Skrabanek read the list of sick members. Joe Dubcak had been in the hospital. He is home now and feeling much better. Emma Regan broke her collar bone and is healing very well. Clarence Pechal will be having surgery. Clarence, we hope your surgery goes well and you will be feeling better soon. When anyone knows of a member who is in the hospital or has surgery, please contact Joyce Skrabanek. We want to send our members get well wishes along with keeping them in our prayers. David Pechal spoke on ideas of getting more members to attend meetings and functions held by our lodge. A committee will be formed to share these ideas. Thank you, David, for chairing this committee. Anyone interested in helping, please contact David. We always welcome any suggestions in helping our lodge to grow. Assistant Youth Leader Tammy Pechal gave the youth report. There

Lodge 8, Weimar gives to Schulenburg food pantry

Lodge 8, Weimar Secretary JoAnn Jares, far left, presents a check donation to the Schulenburg Area Food Pantry. Food pantry representatives accepting the lodge’s check are, left to right, Rose McClain, Kathy Quinlan, and Debbie Blansitt.

Ben and Martha Trcalek Endowed Scholarship fund-raiser set for March 1

Everyone is invited to the Ben and Martha Trcalek Endowed Scholarship Fund-raiser on Sunday, March 1, 2009, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor hall, located on CR 225 near Caldwell. A chili meal will be available for $5, dine in or carry out. Activities include a silent auction and a prize drawing. Meal tickets are available at The Cottage, Citizens State Bank (Caldwell Branch), and Cooks Point Store. All proceeds will benefit the youth of the District One area in the form of annual scholarships in memory of Ben and Martha Trcalek, active SPJST members for many years. For more information, call Susan (979) 272-3440. —SPJST— were 15 members and eight adults present. She invited everyone to the youth club’s fund-raiser on Friday, February 20. The youth club will have a chili supper with a donation for the meal. There will be a cake walk, a silent auction, and a country store. Adult and youth members are asked to bring an items for the booths (cakes, canned goods) and the silent auction. We hope to see many of you there to support the youth club. Come out for an evening of good food, fun, and fellowship. With the meeting being on the same day as Super Bowl Sunday, several topics were tabled until the March meeting. Please join us for our March 1 meeting when we will be discussing the District Two Spring Meeting in Beyersville, our annual June picnic, honoring our 50-year members, and the Easter egg hunt. Special recognition was given to those celebrating February birthdays: President Edwin Pechal, James Skrabanek, David Koslovsky, Nathan Sanders, Ken Pomykal, Madelyn Thompson, Lynette Wiggington, and Hope Cozart. Door prizes were won by Dorothy Pechal, Ruth Janacek, and Willie Kohutek. We look forward to seeing you on Friday, February 20 at the youth club fund-raiser. We also look forward to the SPJST

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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Lodge 66, Waco Recognizes past SFR, sales agent, January birthday celebrants

LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 66, Waco President Milan Dujka, III, right, presents past State Field Representative Johnny Wiseman with an “Honorary District Three SFR” good work certificate. CENTER PHOTO:

Awards Banquet on February 21. It will be nice to see folks from across the state—many of whom we have not seen since the convention. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco recognizes past SFR, fraternalist

The meeting was called to order by President Milan Dujka, III, on Sunday, January 18, 2009, at 2:30 p.m. with all officers present. Present were 25 members and seven guests, Nora Lee Zavodny, Al Straten, Edward Vorderkunz, Pat Cantu, Christine Munoz, and Johnny and Diane Wiseman. Please come again. The flag was presented, and members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and motto. Members stood for a moment of silent prayer for our deceased members Dennis Lee Gerik, Betty Urbanovsky, and Olin Monthie. Secretary Sister Dana McAdams read the minutes of the November 16, 2008, meeting, and they were approved as read. Sister Darlene Engelke read correspondence from Sandi Wicker of the Czech Heritage Museum. The lodge also received a thank you card from Frank Andrle, CPA, for our business and to let us know that he has joined the group of Pattilo, Brown and Hill. Sister Dana McAdams read a letter from Ruth Hanusch of the SPJST Home Office listing names of 50- and 75-year members who will be receiving pins. They are Mildred Andrle,

Larry Bartosh, Stephen Chupik, Darlene L. Engelke, Michael L. Galler,

President Dujka presents Brenda Busby with a certificate recognizing her number of insurance sales in 2008. RIGHT PHOTO: Happy birthday to January celebrants Alan Stearnes and Bernice Pankonien.

Weldon Carl Galler, Bernadette Gerik, Edward J. Gerik, Eugene A. Gerlich,

Lodge 88, Houston welcomes Jacqueline Malota’s 13th birthday

Happy birthday to Jacqueline Amanda Malota! She turned 13 years old on January 20, 2009, and left the childhood years behind by becoming a teenager. To make this a memorable birthday, she had the surprise of her life on Saturday, January 17 when she was expecting to go to a friend’s birthday party, but instead was shocked as she entered the doors of the SPJST Lodge 88, Houston’s Annex Building. Close to 50 of her seventh grade friends from St. Ambrose Catholic School in Houston were on hand along with her parents Djuana and Kenneth and sister Brianna. The entire school, parents, family and neighborhood lied for two months to make sure this would be a major surprise. It could not have gone any better. Special thanks to Lodge 88 Pres-

ident Pat Bruce for making sure we were able to get into the hall and have plenty of time to decorate. A big thank you to Ernest Anders for checking on the party and making sure that we had all that we needed. Kenneth is a member of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston. We hope that you had a great birthday Jacqueline! —SPJST— Jacqueline Malota gets the surprise of her life at Lodge 88, Houston on January 17. Her family and friends gathered to celebrate her 13th birthday. Happy birthday, Jacqueline!

Gilbert Franklin Marek, Anita H. Mazanec, and Beverly K. Urech. Sister Dana also read events of 1959 and 1934. The 50- and 75-year pins will be mailed to Sister Dana, and the lodge will distribute them at a later date. Sister Dana also read a letter from Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride reporting that August Wayne Carrell is a new sales agent. A note was received from Tammy Martinez of the Home Office congratulating Brenda Busby for being selected the Lodge 66 Fraternalist of the Year. Chairman of the Board Brother George Pauling had Secretary of the Board Sister Darlene Engelke read the minutes of the board meeting as of today. Bookkeeper Sister Diana Engelke gave the bookkeeping report. Chairman of the Entertainment Committee Sister Janie Dujka reported that today, leftovers from the Christmas party are being served. She also reported that she purchased a new microwave. FAC Sister Mary Alice Langlotz read the January monthly letter from State FAC Chester Jenke listing state tournaments for 2009. Sister Dorothy Veselka gave the cheer and condolence report. She sent get well cards to Jodie McAdams, Otis Cesak, and Dorothy Gerlich. Hope everyone is feeling better. She sent sympathy cards to Tony and Mary Jane Chudej on the death of his brother Henry Chudej; to the Olin Monthie family; to the Dennis Lee Gerik family; to Alfons Urbanovsky on the death of his wife Betty; to Leona Nors on the death of her sister Betty Urbanovsky; to the family lof Lillie Mae Nors; and to the Wayland Smajstrla family. Congratulations to Gene and Dorothy Gerlich on their

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56th wedding anniversary on January 29. Brother Milan Dujka gave the insurance report. Youth Leader Sister Debbie Galler thanked everyone who purchased tickets for the prize drawing at the Christmas party. Sisters Irene Mueller, Janie Dujka, and Megan Dujka audited all the Linden Hall books and reported that they were in excellent order. Sister Darlene Engelke read names of candidates for membership, and they were all accepted into Lodge 66. Brenda Busby wrote up Johnnie D. Willis, Jerry D. Willis, Terry Lee Willis, Landyn E. Pierce, Steven S. Pierce, Patsy R. Casey, Alejandro Gonzalez, Lorena Urbina, Adriana Urbina, and Aliyah Urbina. Rudy J. Clayborne wrote up Edna R. Tudman. Johnnie Gaidusek, Jr. wrote up Thomas L. Lopez and Eugene Lopez.

Milan Dujka, Jr. wrote up Cynthia Klepper and Boyd L. High. Sister Darlene Engelke read resolutions of sympathy on Olin Monthie, Dennis Gerik, and Betty Urbanovsky. May they rest in peace. Nominees for the plaque for achievement awards will be selected. Brother John Engelke thanked the entertainment committee and members for a great Christmas party. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Sister Dana McAdams thanked members for their prayers and get well cards for her husband Jodie McAdams. She reported that he is doing well. It was good to hear that. A certificate was presented to former District Three State Field Representative Johnny Wiseman honoring him on his good works for District Three. A certificate was also given to Brenda Busby recognizing her for the

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

number of sales she produced in 2008. Congratulations, Brenda! Sister Dorothy Gerlich thanked the members for the get well card sent to her in December. She broke her wrist, but it is healing nicely. January birthday celebrants present were Bernice Pankonien and Alan Stearnes. Adult door prize winner was Roger Berry. The 50-50 winner was Darlene Engelke. Door prizes were donated from the SPJST Home Office, and the winners were Darlene Engelke towel; John Engelke - tote bag; Alan Stearnes - note pads; Dorothy Veselka - candle cup; Mary Helen Gonzales cup; Gene Gerlich - cookbook; and Mary Lou Urbanek - Christmas ornament.

be Sunday, February 15 at 2 p.m. with the regular meeting beginning at 2:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 3:40 p.m. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Next Meeting—February 15 The next board of directors and entertainment committee meetings will

Scenes from Lodge 117, Robstown’s Reorganizational Meeting Next Meeting—February 20 A meeting will be held on Friday, February 20 to elect new officers and to plan meetings for 2009. More information on our 2009 meeting schedule will be forthcoming so watch for this in a future Vestnik. Several door prizes were received by happy recipients. Those members who missed the January 30 meeting

Friday, January 30, 2009 • Joe Cotton’s Barbecue in Robstown

A reorganizational meeting and rally for Lodge 117, Robstown was held on Friday, January 30, 2009, at Joe Cotton’s Barbecue in Robstown, Texas. Six members and seven guests were present, including SPJST Home Office and District Seven officials. After the meeting was called to order by President Frances McDonald,

all present enjoyed a fabulous meal of barbecue and sides. An informative presentation was held by Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek. State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke and District Seven Director Bob Bayer guided members of Lodge 117 with various methods of reviving interest in our meetings and activities.

LEFT PHOTO: Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek presents the first place attendance prize to Lodge 117 President Frances McDonald. PHOTO 2: District Seven Director Bob Bayer presents a 50-year mem-

really missed out on a great meeting!

March Social Planned A social is planned for March at Lake Corpus Christi, and we look forward to seeing Lodge 117 members. Fraternally yours, Dianne Raska, Secretary —SPJST—

bership pin to Mary Ann Livengood. OTHER PHOTOS: Members and guests socialize at the Lodge 117, Robstown reorganizational meeting on January 30, 2009.

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Lodge 160, San Angelo touches lives in Ahuas, Honduras

A group of seven men representing the Brethren churches of Texas made a mission trip to Ahuas, Honduras, in January. Walmar Hohmann, husband of Lodge 160, San Angelo President Sharon Hohmann, was among the men mak-

ing the trip. Lodge 160, San Angelo sent frisbees, caps, pencils, coloring books, colors, and beanie babies to be given to the children of the village.

LEFT and RIGHT PHOTOS: Hazel Goff, niece of the doctor of the clinic, holds an SPJST frisbee given to her by Lodge 160. CENTER PHOTO:

Peter, son of the doctor in the clinic, wears an SPJST cap sent to him by SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo.

4. Active Member (Applicant and his/her parent or grandparent must be present at the March and June meetings of 2009).

to Animals). To get involved, please call Vonda Smesny (281) 462-8987 or Malba (281) 328-5209. Fraternally, Malba Smesny, FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 81 Needville to award scholarship

Any college or technical school bound senior who has been a member of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville for at least one year can apply for the local lodge scholarship. Please send a selfaddressed, stamped envelope to: SPJST Lodge 81 9939 Peterson Road Needville, Texas 77461

on or before March 31 to receive an application. —SPJST—

Lodge 91, Crosby offers scholarship

SPJST Lodge 91, Crosby will be awarding a $500 scholarship to a 2009 graduating high school senior. The following criteria must be met:

1. A 400-word essay on “Fraternalism” (no less than 400 words).

2. Grade Point Average (if more than one applicant, GPA will be a determining factor). 3. Community Involvement (Applicant should indicate in a paragraph what type of involvement he/she has been a participant).

Please contact Marie Stasney (281) 843-2882 for an application and additional information. All applications must be received by March 29, 2009. Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 91, Crosby “Love for Animals” this Saturday

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 the Houston SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point President receives Fraternal MVP award

Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, right, presents a certificate from the National Fraternal Congress of America to Charlie Herendon of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point. Charlie was recognized as the Fraternal Most Valuable Participant (MVP) for the week of January 26, 2009.

Lodge 107 Floresville honors Peanut Festival workers

On January 17, 2009, at 5 p.m., President Pruski opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance being recited by all. A moment of silence was observed for all deceased members. All officers were present. Natalie Henke read the minutes from the last meeting as she was secretary at the time. Roxanne Bertrand made a motion to accept the minutes. Oscar Korus seconded the motion, and it carried. Correspondence included a letter from the SPJST Home Office about 50- and 75-year members who are eligible to receive their pins. The youth report showed three youth members present. The finance report was then presented. One transfer request was received. Wendy Pruski made a motion to accept the member. Travis Purchis seconded the motion, and the motion carried. Six new members also joined our lodge. The fraternal activities coordinator stated that the year-end reports were

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all submitted on time. Lodge 107 is very active in collecting pull tabs and eyeglasses. These are very good projects as it helps many people. Every Day Hero pins will be ordered. The building committee reported on the progress of work that has been done and what is to be done. Under new business, Connie Jo Purchis thanked everyone for words of wisdom, flowers, etc. for her father who passed away December 20. The banquet for 50- and 75-year and new members was discussed. It is to be held April 18 at 6 p.m. Split-the-pot was won by three members present. A catered meal was enjoyed by all present. This was in appreciation for working so hard to make peanut brittle and different kinds of peanuts and for all who worked the booth at the Peanut Festival. The meal was very good. Thanks to Doug Henke and Oscar Korus for making it all happen. A great job to all! Oh, a little bird just flew in and told me some big news! District Seven Director Bob Bayer has completed 20 years of service to SPJST. Great job! He is not only our director but also District Seven Director. He has put in a lot of time and hard work. Congratulations, Mr. Bob, for your hard work and many the will of God prepare you for another 20 years. Fraternally, Lucille Novak, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 133 San Antonio meets this Sunday

The members of Lodge 133, San Antonio met on Sunday, January 18 at 2 p.m. We were honored to have District Seven Director Bob Bayer and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke and his wife Colleen with us. We were also privileged to have Maria Bazan, one of the sales agents for Lodge 133. Director Bob Bayer congratulated Lodge 133 for its sales during the 2008 incentive campaign. Brother Chester Jenke addressed the members and provided information on the new Education and Nature Center which SPJST was helping to develop. He talked about fundraising activities for the new venture. Lodge 133 will host the District Seven Spring Meeting on May 17. Information will be provided in the Vestnik as the event gets closer. Stay tuned. Members celebrating January birthdays included Don Netek, Ernst Greives, Evelyn Matula, Frances Schimcek, Ginger Lee, Hailey Neff, Raymond Schimcek, Bill Mares, and Agnes Rohan. Attendance prizes were won by Maria Bazan, Vicki Reese, and Eric Trinidad. Split-the-pot was won by Agnes Rohan. Members enjoyed refreshments and

100 Percent SPJST Family is 100 Percent behind the SPJST ENC

This 100 percent SPJST family is 100 percent behind the SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm! Stanley, Alice and Garland Blaha, owners of Stanley’s Lawnmower Service in El Campo, along with Greg and Lisa Bubela and family, all Lodge 30, Taiton members have made a donation of a weed eater, chain saw, leaf blower, and paint to get ready to shape up the Cooper Farm project.

a games party.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Next Meeting—February 15 Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 15 at 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road. Please join us for our meeting and social hour. Respectfully submitted, Jarolyn Popp President —SPJST—

Lodge 177, Academy welcomes new sales agent

The regular meeting of Lodge 177, Academy was called to order at 6:55 p.m. by President Otis Beck. All officers were present. Louis Driska led members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Otis welcomed two special

Wayman Chapel celebrates 129th anniversary

By Dr. Robert L. Uzzel of Lodge 6, Cottonwood On Sunday, January 25, 2009, we celebrated our 129th anniversary at Wayman Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, the friendly church where everybody is somebody and Christ is All, located across from Super 1. This celebration was awesome indeed! This service included the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” invocation, our 1966 cornerstone); and my old Scripture, words of welcome by Sis- friend Masonic Past Grand Secretary ter Joan Turner, a proclamation by C. A. Glaspie. Special remarks were Ennis Mayor Russell Thomas, and a made by Presiding Elder Emeritus presentation of a Landmark Plaque Albert Moore, the man who first by Ennis Heritage Society President suggested that I come to Ennis in Sugar Glaspy. 2002. Reverend Moore then introMusical selections were rendered duced Presiding Elder Marshall S. by Sisters Jessie Leaks and Nettie Hobbs, Sr., who delivered the mesBrown, accompanied on piano by sage in place of Bishop Gregory G. Brother Buford Gee; as well as by M. Ingram, who had to return to his Reverend K. M. Williams, the Texas home state of Michigan due to a Country Blues Preacher. Fraternal weather-related emergency. At the greetings were brought by District conclusion of the service, the conGrand Master Gerald Black of the gregation assembled by our elecGrand United Order of Odd Fellows tronic Cross Sign, where Reverend (the organization that laid our 1905 Hobbs led us in a Prayer of Dedicacornerstone); Worshipful Master tion. Charles Holliday of Cherubim To God be the glory, for great Lodge No. 237 of the Prince Hall things He has done! Masons (the organization that laid —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

guests, District Two State Field Representative Hiram Dixon and sales agent Mary Lou Dusek. Minutes were approved as presented. The Sunshine Committee reported that two get well cards had been sent to Louis Driska’s brother. Correspondence included several thank yous for special gifts and donations made by Lodge 177: from the Beck family for the flowers for Jackie Beck’s funeral; from Patsy Koslovsky for the donation to the youth beseda dancers; from the Little River Volunteer Fire Department for a $500 donation; and from Cynthia Russell, director of CTLC (Churches Touching Lives for Christ), for a $500 donation. Committee reports for December, 2008, were given. New business included a letter from the SPJST Home Office informing our lodge that we have two members who qualify for a 50- or 75-year membership pin. Otis led a discussion that we should present the special pins to these members at our March meeting. It was suggested that we also have refreshments at the March meeting. Pertaining to the audit committee, the books will be ready in two weeks. Hiram Dixon then presented a very informative message about Heritage ’09, the theme for the 2009 membership drive. He told us that he and the sales agents will be more visible in our lodges this year. Hiram introduced Mary Lou Dusek as one of our new sales agents. Mary Lou is looking forward to her new position; and we are glad to have her represent us. To both of you, thank you for coming to speak to our lodge. FAC Bill spoke about the Christmas party social. He also announced that we have one January birthday celebrant—Otis Beck whose birthday is January 28. Happy birthday, Otis! You are so special to our lodge. Bill also mentioned several upcoming events including the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, Join Hands Day in May, the February bowling tournament, the January tarok tournament at Seaton Star Hall, and the Every Day Heroes recognition program. Joylynn E. Smith was welcomed unanimously into Lodge 177, Academy as a new member. We would love to see you at our next meeting, Joylynn! The meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Fraternally, Joanne Hutka, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 202 Jourdanton to honor 50-year members

Lodge 202, Jourdanton met Sunday, February 1, 2009, with 30 members and guests present. President Lloyd House presided. Flag Bearer Sammy Hoggard presented the colors. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited followed by silence for the deceased members. Special guest was District Seven Youth Counselor Wendy Pruski. Secretary Bettie House read the minutes that were approved as read. Treasurer Valerie Barta presented the financial report. Correspondence included a letter from the Atascosa County Junior Livestock Show thanking the lodge for the donation that was applied to three youths’ animals. FAC Mary Ann Barta noted February is American Health Month, Library Visitor’s Month, and Dental Health Month as well as Valentine’s Day Month. The lodge has a bowling team and will pay the registration fee for the February 14 bowling tournament. Youth Leader Regina House reported a good attendance for the youth bowling outing. She encouraged the youth to contribute to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. The youth wrote letters to Lian Pruski who is in the Army. At the March 1 meeting, the lodge will honor its 50-year members. The lodge will provide fried chicken and rotisserie chicken. Members are asked to bring side dishes. Celebrating birthdays are Sandy Vasquez, Roderick Vasquez, and Amanda Hoggard. Valentines were exchanged followed by cookies and tea furnished by the Evan Barta, Sandra Hoggard, James House, and Lloyd House families. Next Meeting—March 1 The next meeting is Sunday, March 1 at 1 p.m. at the Jourdanton Community Center. Bring side dishes to share. The 50-year members will be honored. Fraternally, Bettie House, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 271, Laredo reports on January meeting

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 271, Laredo was called to order by President Mr. Vitela. The first topic discussed was for the authorization for the presentation in the George Washington Birthday parade. Members agreed to buy a recorder and a book to record all the monthly meeting minutes and for members to sign in at each meeting. During the meeting, we talked about the new activities for the youth club. Mr. Gale kindly reported to the members the activities for the next month which are the volleyball camp, community work within SPJST, and to whom SPJST can donate money and/or resources. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The next meeting will be on February 4 at Coyote Creek at 7 p.m. Submitted by, Cynthia I. Cabello, Reporter —SPJST—

Seaton Brethren Church sets sausage supper

The 18th Annual Sausage Supper of Seaton Brethren Church will be held Saturday, February 21, 2009, beginning at 4 p.m. until the sausage is gone. The church is located seven miles east of Temple on Highway 53 in Seaton, Texas. The menu will be homemade pork sausage, sauerkraut, new potatoes, seasoned green beans, bread, homemade dessert, and tea or coffee. Plates will be $8 each. The supper is sponsored by the Friendship Sunday School Class. All proceeds of the supper will benefit the church’s building fund. Priority One Youth Fellowship will be having a bake sale selling kolaches, pies, cakes, strudels, etc. A free gospel concert will begin at 6 p.m. Brighter Vision, SBC’s mixed trio of Joe and Christi Emerson and Tammy Pechal, will perform. Christi and Tammy are members of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. The public is invited to the event. For more information, please see the advertisement on page 37 of this week’s Vestnik. Joyce Skrabanek Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

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Grandma’s Hands By d.knape Lodge 187, Round Rock

grandma’s hands wrinkled like folds in an accordion covered with age and lined with memories scarred by work in the cotton patch burnt from the hot wood stove bruised from working kids and cows clinging to existence scrapping out a life I remember showy veins that meant decline and years of purgatory washing and ironing and baking cooking and cradling holding the family together as best she could with little money but lots of love

I remember her hands were so soft and small as she lay in bed and I would be told to go say hello and see her in her last feeble days just a shadow in her bed sick and frail but always a smile peeping above the covers and I remember I was always hesitant not knowing what to say and being somewhat afraid not knowing why other than she was old and I was little and the gap between us was like an ocean immense and dark too wide to see the end

those wrinkles followed me and found my own hands now and as I tighten my fist they go away but I can’t hold my fist forever I let it go and let the wrinkles return let age wash over me like waves upon a beach the rock worn away becoming sand and in the end I’ll remember grandma’s hands. —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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Scenes from Lodge 219, El Paso Christmas Party—Part I

Saturday, December 13, 2009 • El Paso, Texas • Submitted by Baltazar Nunez, Reporter

SPJST Lodge 219, El Paso members and guests enjoy participating in a prize drawing. ABOVE PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: Lodge 219 Vice President Ana J. Ahumada, pictured left in the photos, and Secretary Bertha Rodriguez, right, present the prizes to, left to right, District Four Direc-

tor Billy Rollwitz, Sylvia Rollwitz, Josh Stevens, Arnulfo Rivera, Norma Rivera, and Maria Magdalena Armendariz. BELOW: Prizes are presented to, left to right, Edna Rivas, left; Fernando Mena, Aracely CuandaQuiz, Elizabeth McCue, Karla Yvonne Garcia, and Rafael Davila.

ABOVE PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: Prizes are presented to, left to right, Jesus Alcocer, Soledad Alcocer, Hilda Rosa Escajeda, Cesar Villalobos, Veronica Guerra, and Miguel Mendoza. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Norma Minjares receives a door prize. BELOW PHOTOS 2 THROUGH RIGHT

PHOTO: District Four State Field Representative Bobby Davis presents JC Penney gift card prizes to, left to right, Norma Rivera, third from left; Rocio Rivera, second from left; Fernando Mena, second from left; Antonio Alvarado, second from left; and Elizabeth McCue, left.

TOP LEFT PHOTO: SFR Bobby Davis presents a gift card to Lucy Burgos. PHOTO 2: Luis Alberto Estrella as Elvis Presley . . . PHOTO 3: . . . and mariachi perform for the Saturday evening dinner and concert event. PHOTO 4: District Four Director Billy Rollwitz and wife Sylvia. PHOTO 5: District Four Youth Counselor Janice Stevens and son Josh. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 219 President Arnulfo Rivera and wife Norma. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Alejandro and Edna Rivas. PHOTO 2: Bertha Ro-

driguez and Maria Magdalena Armendariz. PHOTO 3: Carlos A. and Ana Ahumada. PHOTO 4: Jesus and Soledad Alcocer. PHOTO 5: District Four SFR Bobby Davis, front, left, District Four Director Billy Rollwitz, front, right, and Lodge 219 President Arnulfo Rivera, back, left, congratulate the top number one Lodge 219 sales agent in 2008 Baltazar Nunez. RIGHT PHOTO: Daniel Rivera and Jerry Sepulveda. More photos in next week’s Vestnik.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Exercise for people over 50 Submitted by Ray Posival of Lodge 15, Buckholts

Begin by standing on a comfortable surface where you have plenty of room at each side. With a five-pound potato sack in

each hand, extend your arms straight out from your sides, and hold them there as long as you can. Try to reach a full minute, and then relax.

Each day, you’ll find that you can hold this position for just a bit longer. After a couple weeks, move up to 10pound potato sacks. Then, try 50pound potato sacks. Then, eventually try to get to where you can lift a 100-pound potato sack in each hand, and hold your arms straight for more than a full minute.

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(I’m at this level.) Once you feel confident at that level, put a potato in each sack. —SPJST—

Scenes from Lodge 271, Laredo’s January Meeting Wednesday, January 7, 2009 • Coyote Creek in Laredo

Happy January birthday, left to right, to Cynthia I. Cabello (22 years old on January 14) and Adelaida Martinez (four years old on January 15), and happy February birthday to Norma Cabello (February 7) and Osmold

Castillo (February 26). BELOW PHOTOS: Members enjoy the meeting and dinner. Watch the Vestnik for details about the next Lodge 271 meeting.

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Great eating and lifestyle tips for Heart Health Month

(StatePoint) From Valentine’s Day to Heart Health Month, February is all about matters of the heart. It’s a time to tell loved ones they matter. And what better way than to help you and your sweetheart get healthier than through smart lifestyle choices? Heart and cardiovascular disease continue to be the number one killer in the United States, according to medical statis-

tics. With this in mind, every year since 1963, Congress and the President have proclaimed February “American Heart Month.” It’s a great time to get the whole family started on a healthier path. “As a doctor and a food executive, I've seen many, many people unnecessarily suffering from heart ailments," says "We all know that bad eating and lifestyle habits are direct contributors to heart disease, so why not make a change in your family's lives simply by making some better choices?" Here are some basic heart health tips from Dr. Peter Praeger, a practicing heart surgeon and founder of Dr. Praeger’s Sen-

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

sible Foods, that you and your loved ones can follow: • The key to being healthy is moderation and exercise. Keep this in mind when setting healthy living goals. • Get your blood pressure and cholesterol screened starting at the age of 14. • Make simple changes in your lifestyle to become more active, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. • Walking two miles per day can help keep your heart healthy. • Focus on eating sensibly most of the time, but don’t deprive yourself of all the foods you enjoy. • Make sure your grocery list includes

foods that are all-natural and preservativefree. • Eat more fiber. Eating fiber from fruits, vegetables, and grains may help lower your chances of getting heart disease. • Try to avoid foods high in trans fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. • When purchasing vegetables, keep in mind that the more colorful they are, the more heart-protective antioxidants they typically contain. For ideas for heart healthy foods, visit www.drpraegers.com. —SPJST—

ENC Directors, Friends Gather for Workday at Cooper Farm Saturday, January 31, 2009 • SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm near Ledbetter, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: District Six ENC Director Lisa Bubela and grandson Grant clean windowsills. CENTER PHOTO: Diana Engelke, wife of District

Three ENC Director John, rakes leaves. RIGHT PHOTO: District One ENC Director Susan Skrabanek cleans the walls.

LEFT PHOTO: Lisa Blum of Lodge 17, New Tabor cleans the sink. PHOTO 2: Supreme Lodge President/ENC Director Brian Vanicek cleans the bathroom. PHOTO 3: District One ENC Director Ronnie

Pflughaupt and his wife Debby clean up the grounds of Cooper Farm. RIGHT PHOTO: Greg Bubela, wife of District Six ENC Director Lisa Bubela, mows the grass at Cooper Farm.

LEFT PHOTO: District Seven ENC Director Doug Henke is ready to do some cutting at Cooper Farm. PHOTO 2: District One ENC Director Randy Gaas weed whacks. PHOTO 3: Kyle Skrabanek, front, son of District One ENC Director Susan Skrabanek, and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke, unload the trailer. RIGHT PHOTO: District

One Director Donnie Victorick and wife Janice and District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom cook lunch for the workers at Cooper Farm. State Youth Director John Hoelscher states, “A lot was done, and the place looks good. Special thanks to the ENC directors and friends for helping out at Cooper Farm.”

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Alexandra Slack aka Monkey You are our Valentine, and we love you lots. Happy Valentine’s Day, Monkey Love. From: Grandma and Papa Kelly Moore

To: Evan, Valerie, Jeff, Walter, Phillip, Veronica, Stephen, and Travis the most important people in my life. You all light up my life and make my heart beat. I love you so much forever and always. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Mary Ann - who is mom and gramma, too

To: All District Five Youth Hope you have a very Happy Valentine’s Day. I look forward to seeing all of you at YAD and camp. From: Mrs. Barbara Linney-Gonzalez

To: Beverly S. Kovar my wife of 40 years I love you, and appreciate how you have stood by me with your love and understanding for over 40 years. Each year brings new peaks and valleys on our journey through married life - testing our true love for each other. May we continue to relish both good and tough times together and perfect our love and kindness to each other in Jesus Christ. Know that you are a very special and talented wife whom I adore. With bunches of red roses and all my love, hugs, and kisses - Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Walt, your husband

To: Linda Happy Valentine’s Day to a very special lady. We love you. From: Val and Keaton

To: Aunt Susie, Unc, and Kyle Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: Tye Roses are red, violets are blue Flowers smell good, and so do you! From: Cody

To: Florian Skubal Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to say . . . May your heart be filled with smiles and the day filled with all the warmth and joy you bring to our lives! From: Ralph, Melinda, Bradley, and Colton

To: Brian and Cathy Happy Valentine’s Day to my son and daughter-in-law. Lots of love! From: Mom

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To: Granny Gladys Hejl Happy Valentine’s Day, Granny! We love you! From: Ralph, Holly, Dillon, and Macy

To: Jim Redd Happy Valentine’s Day and looking for many more. From: Diana Redd

To: Mother and Granny Happy Heart Day! XOXOXO! Love from: Mike, Barbara, Mike, Jr., and Amber! To: Our Mom, Granny, and Nanaw Your hugs warm our hearts and console our tears. Your love has been a constant for us all these years. Thank you for all you have done and still do. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you much! From: Larry, Jackie, Emmy, Brock, John, Ethan, and Donica To: My Nephew Colton and Nieces Kylie, Drew, Leigh, and Selena Happy Valentine’s Day. I love you all! From: Aunt Sandra

To: Kadejha Rodriguez I love you! Love from: Mom To: Kentrell, My Son I love you! Love from: Mom

To: Judy Murphy Happy Valentine’s Day, Judy and to all the Czechs in Texas From: George Ladislav

To: Mo Mo and Po Po Louis and Ruth Kohutek Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you very much! Love from: Ryan, Jared, Travis, and Russ

To: Mitchell and Jada Parks You are very special to us. We love you both. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Uncle Jim and Aunt Ann To: My Dear Aunt June Just wanted to let you know that someone is thinking about you on this day we celebrate our love. When I think about what love truly is, I think about you; for I have always felt how much you love and care for me. From: Vonda, your favorite niece To: Joe Seay I love you with all my heart. From: Marilyn Milan Seay To: Kimberley Happy Valentine’s Day, my little sweet flower. From: Grandma

To: Jake, Reese, and Bree Gallant Happy Valentine’s Day to our sweet grandchildren. We love you! From: Grandma and Grandpa Jansa To: Allison P. and Jake Congratulations, again, on your engagement. The next year is going to fly by. Have a great Valentine’s Day, but you’ll never top the romance of January 21! Wish you were here instead of Alabama. We love you! From: Mom and Dad

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To: Willard Walden Happy Valentine’s Day to the love of my life. I love you dearly. From: Idabel Walden, your sweetheart To: Melanie I believe in Sharing smiles, Hello hugs, And goodnight kisses. I believe in Playing fair, Taking turns, And holding hands. I believe in Making wishes, And magic words like “I’m sorry,” “Thank you,” and “Yes.” I believe in you, I believe in us, And, I believe the Love we share was Always meant to be.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you always. From: David

To: Grandma and Grandpa You are very special to us. We love you! Love from: Seth and Kal-El Martinez

To: Megan We hope you have a Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you. From: Aunt Sandra and Chloe

To: Granny Gladys Roses are red, violets are blue Nobody loves you as much as we do! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: SWM This is Austin, and I still love you. From: ABM

To: Grandma and Grandpa Happy Valentine’s Day! I love y’all! Love from: Tyler To : Grandpa and Grandma Meier Grandma Kosel Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Grandchildren Brandon and Katie

To: Jake Happy Valentine’s Day! I can’t believe this is already our fifth Valentine’s Day together, but I hope we have many more! All my love. From: Allison

To: Vincent and Jeanette Happy Valentine’s Day! God’s blessings to you on Valentine’s Day and always. Love from: Reggie and Valerie

To: Youth Members of Lodge 239, Hondo Happy Valentine’s Day! Thanks to all my active youth members. I enjoy having all of you in our club. Let’s keep up the great work and have a great year. XOXOXO From: Bridget Rodriguez Lodge 239, Hondo Youth Leader

To: Brianna Malota Your strength is your determination. I am so proud of you. Stay as you are. Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you! From: Daddy

To: Lodge 54, West Youth Club Happy Valentine’s Day! I’m so glad that ya’ll are a part of our youth club. You all are special to me. I hope you have a very happy day! From: Lisa Darnell, Youth Leader

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Ron and Kathy Yeager You are both very special to us. We love you both very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Dad and Mom To: Big Mama (Pauline Psencik) Happy Valentine’s Day, Big Mama. We hope you have a very special day! Eat lots of candy. From: Kresta, John, John Warren, Sara, Terry, and Micah

To: Jerry H. Happy Valentine’s Day, my love; and prayers for your good health to return. Love from: Bette H. To: SPJST Fraternalists Thank you for your time and devotion. Keep up the good work! From: Your Secret Admirer

To: All Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Members Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Sue

To: Michelle Thanks for everything you do for me. I could not do the things I do without your help. I love you. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Mom To: Lawrence E. Keller, Sr. The last 27-plus years have been full of surprises and blessings. You have filled my life. No matter what lies in the future, I know that hand-in-hand and with God’s help, we will be OK. I hope that in our retirement years, we can have more fun, relax, and play a little more. I will love you always. From: Pat To: Adolph Salac Happy Valentine’s Day to our “other Dad” and Papaw. This will be our 32nd Valentine’s Day together. We love you, and hope we share many more! Love from: Paul, Cindy, Jordan, Allison, and Jake

To: Vonda Smesny My valentine promise to the woman I love: I promise to always take care of our love, to never forget the laughter and smiles we have created in each other’s hearts. I promise to look beyond the little things that sometimes come between us, so that nothing can stand in the way of the closeness we share. I promise never to take for granted our quiet times when just being together feels so very right and nothing matters more than the love we share. Happy Valentine’s Day. Love from: Will

To: Nathan and Jered This special hello goes to our nephews with a great big hug and a wish for a fun-filled Valentine’s Day! XOXO. From: Aunt Marlene and Uncle Steve

To: Mom - Nora Lee Zavodny Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you and miss you. Love from: Bobby

To: Dorothy Pechal Šťastného Valentýna! From: Melanie and Katherine

To: Lacy, Lindsey, and Logan Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you all very much. Love from: Mom

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Mymaw and PawPaw Memaw Esther Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Trey Groce To: Joshua and Matthew Machicek Happy Valentine’s Day! Lots of love to you. You are so special to us. From: Grandma and Grandpa

To: Jada Have a Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you. From: Aunt Sandra and Chloe

To: Taylor and Tyler Kalmus Happy Valentine’s Day! From: The Dowells

To: Uncle Marshall, Aunt Roxanne, Hunter, and Josh Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: Mom and Dad Happy Valentine’s Day to you, both. We all love you so much. You are the best parents any kids could want. From: The Delgado kids and all the Family

To: Papaw Happy Valentine’s Day! I can’t wait to see you next time I am in town. I love you! Love from: Allison, your Godchild

To: Pauline Psencik Happy Valentine’s Day! From: John, Kresta, and John Warren Franklin

To: Jayden Be my Valentine, please! From: Grandma

To: My Someone Special in Lodge 107, Floresville Grass is green, sky is blue, My heart belongs forever to you. From: Someone special in Lodge 202, Jourdanton

To: Melanie Happy Valentine’s Day! We wish you lots of love today and always. Bring us kitty treats! Love from: Liberty, Miley, and Richard

To: My Sisters Marcie and Michelle Botello I love you both very much! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Bridget

To: My Family I love ya’ll! Ya’ll are the best family ever. I love you all! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Kadejha Rodriguez Lodge 239, Hondo

To: Sweet Pea - Kayla You’re my little Valentine. Love you bunches! From: Daddy - old man To: Lodge 18, Elgin Youth You are the best! I wish everyone a very Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Joyce, Youth Leader To: Joan I love you today, as I did from the start. I’ll love you forever with all of my heart. Happy Valentine’s Day! XOXO From: Brian

To: Jerry Have a very Happy Valentine’s Day. From: Your ol’ mother-in-law

To: Memaw Esther Zavodny Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you so much! From: Randy, Brayla, and Trey

To: Djuana Malota the love of my life and the most beautiful woman in the world I love you with all of my heart and soul. From: Kenneth

To: Nathan and Jered We love our two special valentines. Both of you are always in our hearts. We love you. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Mamaw and Papaw

To: Sandra Schoeneman You are very special to us. We love you very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Dad and Mom

To: Aunt Georgia Georgia Navratil Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you and miss you. Love from: Karen

To: Frances Trojacek Happy Valentine’s Day, Granny. We love you very, very much! From: Jeremy and Amanda

To: My District Two Youth, Leaders and Parents Happy Valentine’s Day! You are the best! From: Patsy Koslovsky, DYC

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To: Nicholas and Hailey Neff Happy Valentine’s Day! You are very special to us, and we are proud of your accomplishments especially in school and in sports. We hope and pray that each day you will learn how much God really loves you, and that year-by-year, you will discover God’s plan for your lives. Taking care of those around you is the secret to having real joy and peace in life. Love always. From: Granny and Grandpa To: Ben and Jackie Marek Všichni posilame lásku vám na Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! From: Mike, Debbie, Gina, Jamie, Jill, Chris, and Samuel Benjamin To: Michaela, Cassie, and Bryce Niemeyer Happy Valentine’s Day to our favorite nieces and nephew. We love you all! From: Aunt Lisa and Uncle Jimmy To: Mom (Jackie N.) Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: David and Melanie To: Kayla, Ryan, Simona, and Sara

To: Joshua, Jason, and Victoria

Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! Milujem vaš. Love always from: Mom Katherine

To: Bruce Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you so very much. Love from: Donna

Wishing all of you a day filled with love and happy wishes. May your dreams come true. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Grandma and Poppy Elles

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To: Gamma - Sylvia Bluhm and Uncle Shel We love you with all our hearts. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Matthew, Sarah, David and Bernadette To: Dorothy Ann Rothermel Happy Valentine’s Day! Ever since I fell in love with you, I haven’t been able to imagine my life with anyone else. With love from: Jim Rothermel

To: Carmen Kocurek, My Wife Happy Valentine’s Day to a good and hardworking wife. I love you, sweetheart. From: James C. Kocurek, your husband

To: Vallie and Leon Zavodny Mom and Dad I can’t repay the lessons that you taught when I was small, Or give you gifts for the daily treasures I recall. I can’t return encouragement and loving words of praise, In quite the way you did for me through all my childhood days. But there is one gift that I can give It’s all the love you’ve earned. For love is what you always taught, and love is what I learned. Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you. From: Elaine and Theresa

To: Mitchell Have a Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you. From: Aunt Sandra and Chloe

To: Uncle Ralph and Aunt Holly Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you both! Love from: May May

To: Michele Motl Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you. From: Louis, Christine, Michael, and Brittany Motl

To: Bill You are very special to me in every way a man can be. You are the best thing that has come into my life. You were a Godsend, and I love you so much. My heart belongs to you and only you always. All my hugs and kisses. From: Yolanda

To: Dad, Mom, Jordan, and Sassy Happy Valentine’s Day! I wish I could be there. I miss you so much! I hope ya’ll have a wonderful day that’s full of love! Love from: Allison

To: Adeline and Willie Kohutek Roses are red, violets are blue, We sure do miss you! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: John, Kresta, and John Warren Franklin

To: Richart J. I knew when I met you at our first dance, we were meant for each other and not perchance. In your arms is where I like to be, sharing our love for all eternity. From: Ginny P.

To: Mom and Dad, Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you very much! I appreciate everything that you have done for me. All my love. From: Lindsey Jones To: Celinda Palomo Happy Valentine’s Day! Thanks for doing so much for our lodge. We all appreciate everything you do! From: Lodge 239, Hondo

To: My Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, and Grandma and Grandpa I love you guys. Happy Valentine’s Day. I hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day! Love from: Kadejha Rodriguez Lodge 239, Hondo

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Mommy Malota the best mom We love you so much and thank you for all that you do. Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you. From: Jacqueline and Brianna

To: Karl and Cheryl You are both very special to us. We love you both very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Uncle Jim and Aunt Ann To: Grandma and Grandpa You’re the best grandma and grandpa in the world. Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: Brandon and Hailey Girod

To: Emma Kate Regan the most precious little girl in our lives Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: Nana and Popo To: Issac Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Grandma

To: Glenn Our lives would not be complete without you by our sides. We love you very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Cynthia and Sassy To: Arnold and Emilie Sefcik Happy Valentine’s Day! We miss you guys and wish we could be there with you. Even though the miles separate us, know that you are always in our thoughts and close to our hearts. Thanks for all you have done for us throughout the years as parents and grandparents. We love you! From: Troy, Kathy, David, James, Tiffany, Nate, and Aimee your “up north” family

To: Louis Kohutek my loving husband Happy Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart! I love you! Love from: Ruth

To: Stephanie and Sam We’re very proud of you and of your many talents. The times we share are our greatest treasure! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love always. From: Mom and Dad To: Amy Polasek We are proud of how hard you have worked to stay in the top ranks of your class in college and your job. Keep up the good work, but do not forget to take a break to reflect on your accomplishments. Spend some relaxing, or time fishing or hunting instead of texting. We love you. From: Dad and Mom To: Wayne O. “SPJST Lodge 246 Secretary”

Lordy, Lordy, Best Quality Meats’ owner is almost 40! Over the hill and ready to roll . . . 40 isn’t old, if you’re a tree! Happy birthday and Happy Valentine’s Day! Thanks for your spirit! From: Members and Friends of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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2008 SPJST Local Lodge Fraternalists of the Year

DEBRA PFLUGHAUPT Lodge 1 Fayetteville

MILTON PETERSON Lodge 6 Cottonwood

GEORGE JANIK Lodge 8 Weimar

MARIE SHELFER Lodge 9 Snook

JOSIE STRMISKA Lodge 20 Granger

ANTON J. KELNER Lodge 28 East Bernard

NANCY FUCIK Lodge 30 Taiton

BETTY SANDERS Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje

DAVID PECHAL Lodge 47 Seaton

DENISSE WUENSCHE Lodge 48 Beyersville

BECKY WOOD Lodge 49 Rowena

JANA M. VACULIK Lodge 54 West

BRENDA BUSBY Lodge 66 Waco

MARCUS F. REBECEK Lodge 79 Corpus Christi

JEWEL WOLF Lodge 80 Holland

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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CHRISTOPHER NOVAK Lodge 84 Dallas

JOE B. CAMP Lodge 87 Temple

BARBARA LINNEY- GONZALES Lodge 88, Houston

AL KERCHO Lodge 92 Fort Worth

E.R. PRASEK Lodge 93 Hobson

DOUG HENKE Lodge 107 Floresville

DANIEL A. ROZNOVSKY Lodge 183 Arlington

LINDA S. JOHNSON Lodge 187 Round Rock

SANDRA K. HOGGARD Lodge 202 Jourdanton

NORMAN M. KNESCHK Lodge 204 Stephenville

SPJST State Fraternalists of the Year

1987 Frances Olexa Lodge 88, Houston District Five

CHARLIE HERENDON Lodge 246 Morganʼs Point

1999 Helen Hegwood Lodge 88, Houston District Five

1988 Timothy S. Kostom Lodge 88, Houston District Five

1994 Jerry Elzner Lodge 79, Corpus Christi District Seven

2000 Gussie Spacek Lodge 202, Jourdanton District Seven

1990 Dolores Skrabanek Lodge 47, Seaton District Two

1996 Evelyn Gustafson Lodge 18, Elgin District Two

2002 Leona Stalmach Lodge 48, Beyersville District Two

1998 Cyrill “Sid” Pokladnik Lodge 84, Dallas District Three

2004 Bettie House Lodge 202, Jourdanton District Seven

1989 Alvin J. Sefcik Lodge 172, Pasadena District Five

1991 Della Kadlecek Lodge 88, Houston District Five

CURRY JENKE Lodge 258 Seguin

1993 Bennie A. Jarma Lodge 84, Dallas District Three

1992 Jerome C. Dressler Lodge 172, Pasadena District Five

1995 Libbie Bartek Lodge 177, Academy District Two

1997 Willie E. Kohutek Lodge 47, Seaton District Two

2001 Dean Brisbin Lodge 80, Holland District Two

2003 David Nauert Lodge 24, Cyclone District Two

2005 Estelle Coker Lodge 80, Holland District Two

2006 Robert Hagen Lodge 246, Morganʼs Point District Two 2007 Ronnie Pflughaupt Lodge 1, Fayetteville District One

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Cybaline Felf A healthy and Happy Valentine’s Day to my wife Cybaline whom I love and trust and enjoy doing things together. Thanks for being my wife. From: Floyd

To: Emil and Evelyn Matula We love you, Mom and Dad. From: Bob and Jarolyn To: James (J.C.) Kocurek, my husband Happy Valentine’s Day to a sweet, hard working husband. I love you very much. From: Carmen Kocurek, your wife

To: Kathy and Ron We hope ya’ll have a great Valentine’s Day! Love from: Sandra and Chloe To: Aunt Mica Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you. Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: James and Callie Bedrich and Ellis Talley Happy Valentine’s Day to our wonderful grandchildren. We love you! From: Gaggy and Gamma Jim and Mary Bedrich

To: Jana Darlene Fot Hough, my lovely wife I love you to the end of time and with all my heart. From: Gary, your husband

To: Granny Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you. From: Kyle

To: Kacey Lynn Dach Happy 11th Valentine’s Day. We are so proud of your accomplishments! We love you so much! From: Mom and Dad

To: Hall Ma Ma I (Brandon) like playing dominoes with you, and we both love you. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Brandon and Hailey Girod

To: Raul, Jr. and Evelyn Corinne Cartagena Happy Valentine’s Day with lots of hugs and kisses. I love you. From: Great-granny Evelyn Pappas

To: Colton Regan You make us so proud! We love you! From: Nana and Popo

To: Marcie Botello Lodge 239, Hondo President (Adult) We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Youth members To: Mom and Dad Happy Valentine’s Day, Mom and Dad. I hope you have a fun day on Valentine’s Day. I hope your dreams all come true. I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day. Roses are red, violets are blue, Candy is sweet and so are both of you! From: Ladejha Rodriguez

To: Mama/Memaw Malota Wishing you all of God’s blessings and love. Continue to be as caring as you are. We love you. From: Kenneth, Djuana, Jacqueline, and Brianna

To: Jason and Donna Alexander You are both very special to us. We love you both very much. Happy birthday, Jason! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Uncle Jim and Aunt Ann

To: Mama and Daddy Thanks for everything you do for me. I appreciate it very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you. From: Cynthia To: Grandma Vanicek Thank you for being all that you are: forever giving, forever caring, forever loving, and most of all, forever loved. From: Stephanie and Sam, your next door domino players To: Melinda You are a precious angel. We are very proud and lucky to have you as our daughter. We love you a million, zillion, trillion times. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Mom and Dad

To: Alexandra

To: Vestnik Readers Thanks for your loyalty and your support each week. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Melanie and Katherine

To: Ruth Kohutek, My Loving Wife Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you very much. Love from: Louis

To: Derek Polasek We are proud of the lessons you have learned in taking your first truck from a pretty rough state to a good looking truck. Heck, you do not even need help to work it anymore. You used that truck to take care of your FFA project (Gordy) to proceed and win first in class and seventh overall. Good job! We love you. From: Dad and Mom To: Granny I love you very much, and I hope you have a great and loving Valentine’s Day! Chocolates and flowers may be a gift you receive, but nothing is better than the love that you have from your family! Love always from: Lindsey Jones To: Liška/Nekuža Families

Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! My Milujeme váš všichni. From: Katherine Morris and Michael Morris

To: Mom and Dad/ Mymaw and Pawpaw Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you so much! From: Randy, Brayla, and Trey To: Nathan Yo-ho-ho! We hope you arrrrr having a wonderful Valentine’s Day! Love from: Mommy and Daddy

To: “MaMo” Diane Dossett Will you be my Valentine? From: John Warren Franklin

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Happy Valentine’s Day. I love you! From: Mommy

To: Irene Pagel Happy Valentine’s Day to the best granny and mother in the universe! We love you, From: Ashleigh, Katie Amy and Paula

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To: Valerie Barta Your hair is red Your heart no longer blue Because you have someone like me to love you. My eyes are brown My face ah glow Because I know To whom all this poem for you will go. So with no further ado I say to you . . . how I love you. From: Oscar Korus

To: Polly I love you, and I want to love you the rest of my life. From: Bob

To: My Other Family the Faithful Members of Lodge 202, Jourdanton We always get the job done and have some fun, too. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Mary Ann Barta, FAC

To: Madison and Carson Hebert Happy Valentines Day! We love you both very much. From: Mimi and Papa

To: The New Tabor Youth Club Happy Valentine’s Day! Thank you for making my job worthwhile. I love you all! Love from: Mabrey

To: Granny and Paw Paw Majek We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Carlos, Christy, David and Emily

To: Leah Michelle Hough my daughter Just to let you know that I love you very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Dad

To: Gamma and Grandpa Suehs Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you so much. Thanks for being the best grandparents in the whole world. Thanks for all you do for us. From: Dillon and Macy To: Lane Michael Dach Happy 9th Valentine’s Day. We enjoy your soccer games. We love you very much. From: Mom and Dad To: Matthew I love you! Thanks for being such a wonderful boyfriend! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love always from: Lindsey Jones

To: Lodge 239, Hondo Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Bridget Rodriguez Youth Leader

To: Sechelle DeLeon I love you so-o-o much! Love from: Tia Bridget

To: Aunt Mary Wunderlich You are so very special to all of us, and we only wish that others can see the same. We love you! From: Kenneth, Djuana, Jacqueline, and Brianna

To: Ginger When I count my blessings, I count you twice. I love you. From: Roy

To: Johnny and Rita Kovar You are both very special to us. We love you all very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: James and Ann

To: Rooster I’ll always love you more. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Hen

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Great-Grandma Pospisil We hope you feel better and get well soon. We love you a lot. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Brandon and Hailey Girod To: Kimberley, Kody-Lee, Jayden, and Isaac You are the best nieces and nephews! I love you. Ya’ll make my life so worth it. You don’t know it yet, but I am your favorite aunt for a reason! From: Auntie Kayla

To: Mamaw and Papaw We’re racing to give you lots of hugs and kisses on Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: Nathan and Jered

To: Emma and Colton Roses are red, violets are blue, Sugar is sweet and so are you for letting us in and keeping us warm when it’s so cold. From: Buster and Cha Cha

To: Dustin Polasek We are proud of how hard you have worked to stay with baseball which you love so much. Even with a team that did not gel real well, you never missed a game. And let’s not forget the duck-hunting trip. This was the second time the guide commented on how well you and Derek handled yourselves. After the trip, he told me he was a little worried before the trip, but you and Derek proved to be “better shot and safer than many adults” he has taken. We love you. From: Dad and Mom

To: Youth of District One May you all have a wonderful Valentine’s Day and a great youth year. Love from: Mrs. Susan, DYC

To: Panenko

Posilam tobě moji lásku na den Svateho Valentýna a hodňe zdravy. From: Tvůj Miláček

To: Gene and Vicki You both mean more to us than you’ll ever know. You are so much more than friends, you are our “family.” Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: Paul and Cindy P. To: Jordan P. Happy Valentines Day! We wish you continued success on the show and the many more to come. Hail, Caesar! Love from: Mom and Dad To: Morris/Mareš Families

Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! My milujeme váš všichni. From: Katherine Morris and Michael Morris

To: Jerry Brown I love you more every day. Our journey together is a daily adventure. Thanks for loving and taking care of me. From: Arlene Brown To: Joe Happy 20th anniversary. Thanks so much for the wonderful memories. I look forward to the next 20. I love you. From: Pam

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: My Brothers, Sisters, and their Spouses Happy Valentine’s Day to all and hope we have many more. Love you all. From: Lillie and Howard

To: All My Brothers, Sisters, their Spouses, and Sister-in-law Happy Valentine’s Day! My milujem váš všichni. From: Joe and Genevieve Pekar

To: Natalie Joe Mabry Happy Valentine’s Day to a very precious granddaughter. I love you. From: Grandma To: Melinda My thank you seems so small compared to all you’ve done, but it comes from my heart. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Mom

To: Babycakes Happy, Happy Valentine’s Day, Babycakes! Hope you have a good one! From: Bam Bam the Beast

To: Pauline Jones

To: Mama and Daddy Thank you for everything you always do. I love you both more than words could ever say! Love from: Mabrey

To: Grandpa and Grandma Majek Thanks for all you do. We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Carlos, Christy, David, and Emily

To: Grandpa and Nanny Schwertner Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much. Ya’ll teach us something new every day. We are so thankful for having grandparents like you. We love you! From: Tanner and Hunter Wood To: MoMo and PoPo Happy Valentine’s Day! You are both so special to us! We love you. From: Garry, Valerie, and Keaton

To: Dillon and Macy Narro Happy Valentine’s Day to the best two kids in the whole world. We love you so much! From: Mom and Dad

To: Maddie Jean Dach Happy 4th Valentine’s Day! We love you very much. From: Mommy and Daddy

To: Grandma Martinek Get stronger so you can go home. We love you. From: Miranda, Raychel, Madeline, and Erica Happy Valentine’s Day to our stock show-attending, corney dog-eating mother. We love you. From: Johnny and Anne

To: Mama and Daddy Happy Valentine’s Day! Wishing you good health from now on. We love you! From: Nancy, Judy, Sandra, and Glenn

To: Ladejha Rodriguez I love you! Love from: Mom

To: My Family and Friends Happy Valentine’s Day! I just want you to know that I love you all, and that I am always here for you. Love from: Sechelle DeLeon Lodge 239, Hondo

To: Aunt Margie Stockman and Aunt Janet Malota, Our Aunts and Godmothers Wishing you both a very happy birthday and a great Valentine’s Day. God bless and love always. From: Jacqueline and Brianna To: Macey and Colbey McCuller You are very special to us. We love you both. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Uncle Jim and Aunt Ann

To: Ms. Patsy (Koslovsky), You are a wonderful person, and we’re so happy that you are our SPJST youth counselor. Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club

To: Ruth Janacek the sweetest and most loving aunt in the entire world We love you so much, Ruth Janacek! From: Albert and Patsy

To: Carrie Milan We love you, mother. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Joe and Marilyn Seay

To: Kody-Lee Won’t you be my Valentine? From: Grandma

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To: Angelina Happy Valentine’s Day, Bug! We love you. From: Daddy and Mommy To: MomZ and Pop You are the greatest! Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! From: Rusty, Joy, and Melinda To: Helen Polasek Being at a company 25 years proves that you are a valuable asset to the company and co-workers. Closing of the office is hard to take, but this opens the door for new and better opportunities for you. Keep a positive outlook as I am confident you and your old co-workers will find something better. In the meantime, let’s go fishing. We love you. From: Amy, Derek, Dustin, and Donald To: Alfred and Evelyn Horelka Grandpa and MeMe Happy Valentine’s Day! Hugs and kisses and lots of love. From: Chaston, Callee, Conner, Clare, Hallie, Paden, Madeline, Jacqui, Lilly, Madison, and Taylor, your grandchildren To: King Colby I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day! Love from: Queen Lindsey To: Czech Republic Relatives Liška/Nekuža; and Moris/Morys/Mareš Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! My Milujeme váš všichni. From: Katherine Morris and Michael Morris To: Crystal and Josef Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you both so much. You surprise us everyday with your new accomplishments. From: Mom and Dad

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To: Momma and Randy Hey, ya’ll Just wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Trey Groce

To: Seth and Kal-El Martinez Wishing the two of you a very special Valentine’s Day. We love you very much! Love from: Mommy and Daddy

To: J.R., my husband and Matthew and Jacob, my two sons Happy Valentine’s Day! I cherish our family memories yesterday, now, and forever. I look forward to the future of times we will spend together. Love you always from: Margaret Santana

To: Mom and Dad: We hope you have a very special day! Thanks for all you do for us! Love ya’ll. From: Sandra and Chloe

To: Grandma and Grandpa Y’all are the best grandparents in the whole wide world. We love you both so, so much! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: Shelby Happy Valentine’s Day! You are the best babysitter. We love you! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: Kaylin and Branson Greger Happy Valentine’s Day! You are what makes Nana’s heart beat! I love you both to the moon and back! From: Nana

To: Granny and PaPa Zavodny Hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day. Get well soon, Granny. Love ya’ll! From: Julia and Chris Zavodny

To: My Family I love you so much. You are my world. I am so happy and blessed to have the best “wild” kids in the world. Thanks for all the weird things and keeping me busy. I would not change anything about any one. I love you. Love from: “Mommy” Bridget Rodriguez Lodge 239, Hondo

To: Ernest and Annie Braden We just wanna say a big thank you for being such great parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents to all of us. We love you very much. From: Your 8 children, 20 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 5 step-great-grandchildren

To: Uncle Willie and Aunt Adeline Kohutek Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you and miss you. Love from: Karen

To: Mom and Dad Milton and Martha Zavodny Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you both. Love from: David and Melanie

To: Kevin, Crystal, Kaylon, and Branson Happy Valentine’s Day to a great son-in-law, daughter, and two great grandkids, Kaylon and Branson. Love you all. From: Grandpa and Dad Bartek

To: Grandpa and Grandma Rollwitz Hope your Valentine’s Day is filled with hugs and kisses! We love you lots! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Laura and Ana To: Megan Yeager You are so special to us. Keep up the good work. Always remember that we love you very much. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Grandpa and Grandma

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Nannie and Papa Happy Valentine’s Day! We hope your day is filled with lots of love and candy! We love you both. From: Kresta, John, John Warren, Sara, Terry, and Micah To: Alexandra Tardy Happy Valentine’s Day, my little pumpkin. Busa loves you. From: Busa Barbara

To: Mikhaila Have a wonderful and blessed Valentine’s Day. We love you. From: Mom

To: Faron, Martha, Eva, and Kenneth, Janie, and Tony, My Children, and to All My 42 Sweethearts I love you all! From: Margie Niekamp

To: Faye and Carroll Debbie and Freddie Ashley and Eric and Scott Happy Valentine’s Day! Wishing you all a very special day. Love from: David and Melanie

To: Gladys Hejl Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you very much! Love from: Donna

To: Tim Happy Birthday and Happy Valentine’s Day, my lover! You are my best friend and an outstanding husband and father . . . my everything! Thanks for filling my daily life with love, joy, and laughter. I love you! From: Peggy

To: Keith You are my little man. You and Allison give me so much pleasure; I could not survive without you. I love you very much. Happy Valentine’s Day. Love from: Grandma To: Grandma and Grandpa Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much! Love from: Kaitlyn and Collin To: Trey Groce Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you so much! From: Mom and Randy

To: Mom (Wilma) Vrla Happy Valentine’s Day, Mom. I am so happy to be your daughter-in-law. From: Cindy To: Jacqueline Malota Words cannot express how proud you make me. Keep up with your dreams. Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you. From: Daddy To: PawPaw and Mommo Happy Valentine’s Day to the best grandparents! PawPaw - you teach us to hunt and build things from recycled materials. Mommo - you take care of us when Mom is gone, and we love your cooking especially the cookies. Love always from: Lane, Sammy, and Amanda

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Members of Lodge 179, Warrenton You are all great people and a pleasure to work with. Thank you for your dedication to our lodge and to each other. From: Joan Sue Goehring, FAC To: Justin, Christopher, and Amanda We are so proud of you and love you very much. Have a great Valentine’s Day! From: Grandma and Grandpa T.

To: Martha Jane and Ottmar Schimek Mother and Daddy We hope that you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day - one that’s full of love. We thank you for all of the love that you’ve shown to our family and to all of your loved ones over the years. We love you very much, and we thank God for you! From: Sylvia and Jimmy Huey

To: Popo and Granny I don’t know what we’d do without you. Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much! From: Don Don and Ethan

To: Mom Happy Valentine’s Day. I love you! From: Tyler

To: Aunt Betty and Uncle Donnie Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! Love from: Tabor and Maylee To: Pauline M. Kovar - my mom I wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day on your 95th Valentine’s Day. Thanks be to God for the ways you gave your family much love and support these many years and to me these 68 years. May each new day of your life be beautiful and sweet, and your pains few. Our Lord bless you and bestow His everlasting love on you, as you have surely given us yours. I love you, Mom! You deserve roses, hugs, and kisses each day. From: Walter, your son

To: Keaton Have a great Valentine’s Day! We love you and we are so proud that you are our son! From: Mom and Dad

To: Mimi and Papa Brezina Happy Valentine’s Day! We love our Mimi and Papa very much! From: Madison and Carson

To: Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club You are all very special to us. Keep up the good work and remember to always treat everyone as you would like to be treated yourself. We love you all. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Mr. James and Ms. Ann

To: Ralph Thanks for being a great husband and father to our two great kids. I love you so much. From: Holly

To: Dear Granny Roses are red, violets are blue our love for you is true. Will you be our Valentine? We love you. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day. Love from: Andrew, Matthew, and Sarah

To: Treyton Puntch of Lodge 191, Lufkin Happy Valentine’s Day to our sweet grandson. We love you. From: PaPa and Pam-mo Hopkins

To: Latrell Rodriguez I love you! Love from: Mom

To: LaKeisha, my princess I love you! Love from: Mom To: Mark Yeager Happy Valentine’s Day, Babe. I love you. From: Scarlett Redd

To: William Locke I don’t know why I put up with you . . . oh, yeah . . . because you put up with me. Guess we’re even. Thank you for giving me fun times to look back on, many days to look forward to, and laughs that make me forget my biggest worries. Happy heart day! From: Vonda

To: Mia and Michael Huckman Happy Valentine’s Day! Busa loves my stinker and squirt. From: Busa Barbara

To: Mommy You are the best mom ever! I love you so much! From: Your loving son To: Certain Family Members Thank you for the support. Thanks for catching me when I fall. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I love you. From: Mac To: Lodge 88, Houston Youth It is so great having all of you in the youth club. You are wonderful. You make being a youth leader a real pleasure. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day. From: Mrs. Linney-Gonzalez To: Grandma Nora Lee Zavodny Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much! Love from: Ryan, Jared, Travis, and Russ

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To: Crystal Greger Roses are red, violets are blue; daughter, you have given to me the biggest “sighs of my life,” who are my grandchildren Kaylin and Branson! Crystal, you amaze me everyday with everything you do. Wow, what an awesome daughter, mother, wife, granddaughter you are . . . and to top it all off, my best friend! With all my love. From: Mom To: Allison Wockenfuss Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you very much and are so proud of you! Congratulations on A-B honor roll for the first semester of school and just one point from straight A Honor Roll. What an honor! Keep up the good work, and remember we love you. From: Mommy, Daddy, and Bubba To: David I love you very much. Thanks for sharing your life with me. You are my everything. Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Melanie

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To: Alta Wishing you a wonderful Valentine’s Day! I love you very much! Love from: TLAA To: Rose Jurcik U R my Valentine for 53 wonderful years. Love you! From: Dad

To: Brianna Puntch of Lodge 191, Lufkin Happy Valentine’s Day to our only granddaughter. We love you. From: PaPa and Pam-mo Hopkins

To: Granny Mikeska We are thinking about you and send our love on Valentine’s Day! From: Madison and Carson

To: Granny Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Tyler

To: Aunt Donna, Uncle Bruce, Lacy, Cody, Lindsey, Matt, and Logan Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you all! Love from: Tabor and Maylee

To: My Dearest Aunts on Sebetka side - Helen Haller and Hattie Sebetka; and on the Kovar side Billye Kovar, Georgie Myers, Emily Newman, Lillian Quinn, and Mary Swain May only the roses of life come your way, together with blue skies full of sunshine. Forgive me for not seeing you in person these years, but do know that I think of you and pray that the love and blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ flow over you and is with each one of you throughout the year. Happy Valentine’s Day to every one of you, as you are special. Hugs and kisses! From: Walter Kovar, your nephew

To: Mom and Dad Happy Valentine’s Day! Thank you for everything that you do for us. We love you a lot. From: Jessica, Allison, and Stephanie Fucik

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Jadie Jones

To: Garry We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day! From: Val and Keaton

To: Lorena DeLeon Happy Valentine’s Day! XOXOXOXO From: Joe and Mom

To: Meme and PoPo Krajca Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you. From: Miranda, Raychel, Madeline, and Erica

To: Kangie Botello I love you! Love from: Mom

To: Julio Guerrero I love you, nephew! You mean so much to me. Love from: Tia Bridget

To: Mom (Wilma) Vrla Hi, Mom! We wanted to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day and thank you for all the many years of love and care you’ve given us. And an extra special wish to you this year as we celebrate your 75th birthday! How do you stay so young and beautiful? From: David, Darrell, and Frank

To: Annie, Philip, Nicholas, Elizabeth, and Jonathan Happy Valentine’s Day to our special valentines. Have a great day. We love you very much. From: Patsy and Helen

Have a great Valentine's Day! We love you! From: Mommy and Daddy

To: Mom and Dad Thank you for accepting me into your home and giving me such a wonderful life. I am so overwhelmed with happiness I just don’t know what to do with myself. I hate when you leave me in the morning, and I can’t wait until I get to sleep by your feet at the end of the day. I love the walks, the treats, the toys, the clothes - all the attention you give me and yes, even the baths. I never knew life could be so good. Happy heart day! From: Chloe, your very best friend

To: Dad and Edie Happy Valentine’s Day! We hope you have a wonderful day. We love you. Eat lots of candy today! From: Kresta, John, John Warren, Sara, Terry, and Micah

To: Charlie B. Happy Valentine’s Day! You are wonderful. From: Barbara

To: Neil Happy Valentine’s Day to a wonderful grandson. Love you. From: Mer and Tone

To: Allison You are such a great help to me all the time. I could not do without you. Hope you have a very Happy Valentine’s Day, and remember how much I love you. Love from: Grandma To: Mom and Dad! Louis and Ruth Kohutek Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you very much! Love from: Karen

To: Kevin Greger Daddy you make our hearts race! Zoom, zoom! Love from: Kaylin and Branson To: Keith Wockenfuss Happy Valentine’s Day, Bubba. Mommy and Daddy are very proud of our big boy. Thank you for being such a joy in our lives! Keep up the good work at school and keep earning your Bible bucks. We love you. From: Mommy, Daddy, and Allison To: Madison Brown Happy Valentine’s Day, babby girl. Momma misses and loves you! From: Scarlett Redd To: Lucille Trcka and Anton Pokorny Happy Valentine’s Day to the sweetest couple in Taylor. We love you, Mom and Pops, and hope you have a special Valentine’s Day! From: Your loving family

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

To: Crystal Greger Mommy, we love your stories and cookies, but most of all, we love your hugs and kisses! From: Kaylin and Branson

To: Jerry Wockenfuss Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much and just wanted to make sure you knew. Thank you for working so hard! Love from: Michelle, Allison, and Keith

To: Elizabeth Happy Valentine’s Day to a wonderful granddaughter. Love you. From: Mer and Tone To: Alan Happy Valentine’s Day to a wonderful grandson. Love you. From: Mer and Tone

To: William J. Mareš

Happy Valentine’s Day, Dad! You are very special to us, and you are always in our hearts and in our prayers. You have so very many friends (old and new) who think that you are such a sweetheart . . . and so do we. We are thankful that you are part of our lives, and we pray that God will bless you, keep you in His care, help you feel better, and give you happiness each day. We love you always. From: Pat and Ed

To: Hall Maw Maw Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you bunches! Love from: Kaitlyn and Collin

To: Cheryl, Chris, Colby Lynn, Scarlett, and Rusty - my children Happy Valentine’s Day. I love you. From: Mom - Diana Redd

To: Jered our sweet little monkey We’re bananas over you! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Mommy and Daddy

To: MMM Michael Matthew Morris maly bubenik Šťastny svateho Valentýna den! Miluju tě! You are the best! Love from: Your sister, Katherine

To: Megan, Andrew, and James Darnell Happy Valentine’s Day to the sweetest children ever! We love you and thank God daily for sending each of you to us! From: Mommy and Daddy

To: Kenneth, Michael, and Lindsey To my three wonderful kids whom I think the world of. Now I have four wonderful grandchildren as well. Remember, mom loves you all very much. Love always. From: Mom

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To: Donald I would like to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day. I really want to let you know how much I love you! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Helen Polasek

Wishin g all Vestnik Readers, C on tributors and Advertisers a swee t Valentine’s Day! We sin cere ly apprec iate you.

To: Marvin Kunetka A big Happy Valentine’s Day to you! From: Margie, your wife To: Andrea, Brooke, Myranda, Justin, Blake, Taylor, Drake, Madison, and Jenifer I love you! From: Gamma Redd To: Barbara Linney—Mom I don’t know how to tell you how much we love you and thank you for everything you do for us. Thanks for everything now and always. We love you. From: Michelle, Jerry, Allison, and Keith To: Great-Grandma Pospisil Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you! Love from: Kaitlyn and Collin To: Dad We would like to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day! Love from: Amy, Derek, and Dustin Polasek

From: Ves tnik Edit or Melanie and Communicatio n Ass ist ant Kathe r ine

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

VӖSTNÍK

Raymond Tomek

Continued from Page 1.

Raymond remarked. But, the opportunity to teach in the Czech Republic was one that Raymond could not pass up. After learning he was accepted for a one-year contract, Raymond moved to the Czech Republic in September 2004. Since then and several contract renewals, he has resided in the Czech Republic and taught English classes at Ustav jazykové přípravy (Institute of Language Preparation) in Vyškov, Czech Republic. Vyškov is located about 25 miles north of Brno in Moravia. The Institute of Language Preparation is located on a Czech military base. Raymond’s students are mainly those who are stationed in the Czech military. Only about five percent are civilians, and they are working for the military, he said. Raymond mentioned that about 10 million people live in the Czech Republic. Of those, about 27,000 are currently serving in the military. Czech forces have been gradually downsized from 90,000 in 1993 to about 63,000 in 1999 to 35,000 in 2005 and at the same time, modernized and reoriented toward defensive posture. In 2004, the army transformed into a fully professional organization, and compulsory military service was ended. “People are driven to apply for the military because they want to help with civilian issues and be a part of the emergency force with floods, etc.,” Raymond stated. Many say the military personnel are not paid well, according to Raymond. “But their status is middle to upper class, and they are highly respected,” he said. Students also wear military clothing to his classes. “I enjoy interacting with students and teaching them to speak English,”

Raymond Tomek is pictured with military students in his classroom in the Czech Republic.

Raymond said. “English is the most common language abroad - it’s universal.” He added that he likes to engage in informal, casual conversation with his students. “My job is to teach them, but I must be a good socializer both in and out of class,” he said. Raymond said that he likes to help the students in class, but he also enjoys helping them learn outside of class. “I always try to go in to class and teach the students to ‘just be yourself,’” Raymond remarked. “I want to get them to talk.” Raymond admitted that the students make a lot of mistakes when learning the English language. “But I don’t want to constantly correct them; I simply try to help the person improve his or her speaking skills.” The classes consist of eight to 10 students each with about 15 percent female and 85 percent male. “It’s definitely a classroom atmosphere,” Raymond expressed. “We all learn to speak the English language together.” He explained that he meets with one of the classes every two weeks for friendly competition in kuželka or Skittles. “Both are kind of like bowling,” Raymond informed. “ . . . except

LEFT PHOTO: Raymond Tomek is pictured in his classroom. CENTER PHOTO: Raymond visits with Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny at the Czech

there are only nine pins, and the ball and the lanes are smaller.” He said that older pins are held by strings. “But they also have automatic pins, too,” he pointed out. Raymond and the students enjoy the game; snacks of meats, cheeses, and vegetables; and lots of conversation. “This is such an important time of learning and having fun,” Raymond concluded. Raymond teaches about six lessons each day. The classes last between five to six months, and they are held in fall and spring sessions. A test consisting of four parts (reading, listening, writing and speaking) is conducted at the end of the course that the student must pass. Raymond lives in Brno, and he commutes every day by car with one or two other teachers. He owns a 1995 Skoda, but with gas prices at sometimes up to $7 per gallon, he mostly relies on public transportation. “I always try to drive with someone or take the bus or train,” he said. It took Raymond a while to acclimate himself with the Czech Republic and its lifestyle, culture, and traditions. “After four years, I think I have finally adjusted!” He stated that life is always

interesting in the Czech land. “I have experienced the Czech Christmas traditions of Ježíšek and vanočka and have been to Czech festivals and seen people dressed in kroj or Czech costumes,” Raymond added. Ježíšek means Little Jesus in Czech, and he brings presents at Christmas. “Trees are decorated for Christmas, but there are no presents under them at first,” Raymond said. “Presents are put under the tree after Ježíšek visits.” Raymond also said that he usually eats carp for Christmas that was farmed in ponds. “The tradition is fried carp,” he said. The carp head is used in soup that we eat. “We also eat potato salad, desserts, and varieties of sweets like little kolaches, vanočka, and other sweet pastries,” he added. “And, we drink wine with our Christmas dinner.” Vanočka is a Czechoslovakian Christmas bread. “It is really good when it’s made at home and fresh out of the oven,” Raymond said. “It’s better than homemade bread!” Raymond said he has not met many Americans in the Czech Republic. “I am the only native American teacher,” he added. “And, the Czech language is a very difficult language to learn.” “At first, I don’t know if my parents and my sister Bea were supportive of my job in the Czech Republic,” Raymond said. “But I know they are now because I am experiencing my Czech roots.” As for permanently returning to America, Raymond has no immediate plans. “If I did come back to the United States, I think I would want to work with helping international students,” he said. Thanks to učitel anglického jazyka (English teacher) Raymond for sharing his story with the Vestnik and to his sister Bea and her father-in-law Lodge 15, Buckholts President Doug Williams for introducing us to Raymond. —SPJST—

Heritage Museum in Temple in December 2008. RIGHT PHOTO: Učitel anglického jazyka Tomek visits with students in his Czech classroom.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to:

SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447

Email: melaniez@vvm.com

Attention, Youth: notice regarding merit points for Vestnik submissions

Dear Youth Leaders, Parents, and Youth Members, All youth are encouraged to write letters and/or submit photos, original artwork, and/or original articles, reviews or verses to SPJST’s weekly newspaper, Vestnik. Under the new Merit Point System, youth club members can earn a maximum of three points each quarter for submissions to the Vestnik. Each submission is worth one point. Submissions to the Vestnik will be monitored by the SPJST Youth Department. In the event that multiple letters are submitted by one letter writer for a single issue, in the interest of space, the Vestnik editor reserves the authority to combine those letters under one headline entry. Fraternally, John Hoelscher State Youth Director —SPJST—

Questions? Call (800) 727-7578

State Youth Director readies for spring activities

Dear Youth Leaders, Get ready! The 2009 Youth Leaders Retreat will be Saturday and Sunday, March 28 and 29 at SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm. We will be meeting at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm, located close to Ledbetter and Fayetteville. The workshop starts at 1 p.m. That should allow plenty of time for everyone to drive in on Saturday. We’ll finish up at noon on Sunday, allowing plenty of time for you to make it home that afternoon. All youth leaders and their assistants are strongly encouraged to attend! If you have any questions or if you are planning to bring a spouse, please let me know so I can make arrangements. We’re going to cover a lot of ground at our two-day workshop. In addition to addressing all of the regular topics

such as rule book changes, YAD and camp, we’ll also be providing you with some great tools to use in building your youth clubs. You can also plan on experiencing a great night of fraternalism with dinner and entertainment. Included in your February youth leader’s mailing is a registration form for the event. A form is also available online at www.spjst.org in the youth section. If you have a rooming preference on who you would like to room with, please identify that group on your registration form. If you don’t, I will get to pick for you! I need to get the rooming list made, so please send your registration forms to me. The absolute deadline is March 13. In the meantime, if you have any questions about the youth leader retreat, please feel free to contact me at the Home Office.

Heritage ’09 Membership Drive This year’s membership drive is Heritage ’09. Here are the incentives: District Youth Club Incentives Goals to Achieve • State goal of 2,009 certificates issued • Host one district youth membership rally • Meet requirements needed to qualify for Youth Program incentives

Award $100 for each youth club in respective district that achieves its youth club goal. Funds must be used for the benefit of the youth in the respective district.

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Youth Club Incentives Goals to Achieve • State goal of 2,009 certificates issued • Meet requirements needed to qualify for Youth Program incentives

Award $10 for each certificate issued, ages 0 to 17, in the respective lodge, that remains in force for at least one year; additional $15 for each certificate issued that joins the youth club ($25 total) “Top Youth Club in District” Award 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.

Good luck with your youth club’s participation in the Heritage ’09 Membership Drive. In addition to these items, please note the list of requirements that youth clubs will need to meet in order to qualify for cash incentives. Please review these guidelines carefully as they are the standard for awarding youth program incentives at the banquet. If you have any questions about the requirements, please give me a call. Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives Offered Through the SPJST Heritage ’09 Membership Program

The DYC will submit a checklist to the

District Three Leaders Plan Spring, Summer Activities

District Three youth leaders met Sunday, January 25, 2009, at IHOP in Hillsboro to plan spring and summer activities for the youth. Home Office representatives in attendance were State Youth Director John Hoelscher and Fraternal Department Assistant Douglas Galler. District Three representatives were District Youth Counselor Bessie Petr; ADYC Lynda Novak;

ADYC Diana Engelke and husband John; and Director Johnnie Krizan. Youth leaders and assistants attending were Peggy Dobecka and Pat Dieterich, both of Lodge 6, Cottonwood; Betty Macalik of Lodge 25, Ennis; Holly Hubenak and Stacy Hubenak, both of Lodge 92, Fort Worth; and Kay Weeks and husband Tom, both of Lodge 183, Arlington.

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State Youth Director in January 2010, acknowledging if the youth club has met the following obligations in order for the youth club to qualify for cash incentives in the Heritage ’09 membership program. The following three requirements are mandatory:

1. Standing Requirements of Heritage ’09 Membership Program: • State goal of 2,009 certificates issued met • Promote incentive program 2. The youth club must submit all quarterly reports and requested paperwork.

3. The youth club must meet all requirements as specified in the SPJST Youth Club Handbook. It is especially important to note that the youth club be in good standing and meeting the “five member rule.”

In addition to meeting the above requirements, it will be necessary for the youth club to meeting at least five of the eight objectives listed below: 1. Participate in district youth achievement day (YAD). In the event that there are no youth club members participating, the youth leader can still help with District YAD. 2. Participation

State

Youth

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Achievement Day (YAD). In the event that there are no youth club members participating, the youth leader can still help with State YAD. 3. Attendance at the district spring meeting. In the event that there are no youth club members in attendance, the youth leader and/or assistant are still encouraged to attend. 4. Attendance at the district fall meeting. In the event that there are no youth club members in attendance, the youth leader and/or assistant are still encouraged to attend.

5. Youth club participation in a district outing.

6. Host a membership rally. This may be done in conjunction with the adult lodge or in conjunction with a district event. 7. Youth Leaders Spring Retreat. Youth leader in attendance.

8. District training meetings as called by the DYC. Youth leader in attendance.

Leaders-in-Training Retreat Leaders-in-Training Retreat is June 12 to 14 at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm. This will be an opportunity for all the Leaders-in-Training (LITs) to acquire some great skills, including learning what their responsibilities are

SPJST Youth – Czech Us Out ’09 • February Vestnik Project• Charles Bridge This project earns a maximum 1 points in the SPJST Youth Clubs Merit Points System. Mail Completed project no later than March 10, 2009 to: SPJST Youth Program c/o SPJST Home Office • P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

Name__________________________________________________________________ Age______________ Lodge______________

The Charles Bridge

The Czech city of Prague is famous for its many bridges. The most well known of these bridges is the Charles Bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague, Czech Republic. Its construction started in 1357 under the direction of King Charles IV, and was completed at the beginning of the 15th century. As the only means of crossing the river Vltava, the Charles Bridge was the most important connection between the Old Town, Prague Castle and the surrounding areas until 1841. Also this “solid-land” connection made Prague important as a trade route between east and west Europe. The bridge was originally called the Stone Bridge or the Prague Bridge but has been the “Charles Bridge” since 1870. The bridge is 564 yards long and nearly 11 yards wide, resting on 16 arches shielded by ice guards. It is protected by three bridge towers, two of them on one side and the third one on the “Old Town” side. The Old Town bridge tower is considered to be one of the best examples of civil gothicstyle architecture in the world. The bridge is decorated by a continuous alley of 30 statues, most of them baroque-style, installed around 1700. The statues depict popular saints of the day. Beginning in 1965, all of the statues have been replace by replicas and the originals have been exhibited in the National Museum. At night Charles Bridge is a quiet place. During the day, it changes its

face into a very busy place, with painters, and traders along with numerous tourists crossing the bridge. You may have seen Charles Bridge in the past and not recognized it. The bridge appears in the action films Mission: Impossible and XXX. It has also appeared in an episode of the CBS television show, Amazing Race Asia. Another recent appearance of the Charles Bridge is a scene in the Playstation 3 game Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

Answer the three true or false questions about the Charles Bridge:

1. Charles Bridge connects the Czech Republic and Germany. True False

2. Charles Bridge bridge statues depict saints of the day. True False

3. Charles Bridge appeared in the second Harry Potter movie. True False

Source: wikipedia.org

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

at camp. Currently, the program for LIT retreat will depend on the availability of sleeping facilities. Keep a close eye out for next month’s letter for an update on the program for LIT retreat. LITs must attend this event in order to be eligible to assist with their district’s summer camping season. LITs will also assist their youth leaders with their youth clubs throughout the year. Who’s eligible to be a Leader-InTraining? An LIT is an active high school-aged youth who has been ap-

proved by his/her youth leader and district youth counselor as responsible and mature enough to be a LIT. The youth club member may attend the LIT workshop after completing a Leader-inTraining application. Forms are available from Youth Leaders and District Youth Counselors. A sample LIT form is available at www.spjst.org in the youth section. SPJST Easter Eggstravaganza Please note the SPJST Home Office

will no longer be hosting the Easter Eggstravaganza in Temple. This will allow us to help out with more lodgebased activities during the Easter season.

100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Thanks to all of the youth club members who have been sending in their donations for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. This year’s drive ends on March 31. Youth club members receive two merit points for

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donations of $2 or more. For donating $5 or more, youth club members also receive a certificate of participation.

Eyeglasses and Hearing Aid Donations Please keep those old eyeglasses and hearing aid donations coming in. This is an ongoing collection effort that we have been doing for some time now. Thanks to your efforts, we have already helped many people through this program. The actual program is

Scenes from Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club’s February Meeting

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club met on Sunday, February 1, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the dining room. A Relay for

Sunday, February 1, 2009 • Lodge 25, Ennis

Life fund-raiser was discussed, along with District Three Youth Achievement Day and camp plans.

After the meeting, the youth played Valentine games provided by the Dvorak family and enjoyed chocolate chip

and heart-shaped cookies made by Haley and Hannah Slovak. —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Future youth club member four-month-old Chad Jurik attends his very first SPJST youth club meeting, along with proud brother Michael and proud sister Amanda. PHOTO 2: Raychel poses with her sisters Madeline and Erica. Raychel announced that she will be wearing

maroon and white in the fall! Go, Aggies! PHOTO 3: The Slovaks take time out for the camera while Lane takes a nap! RIGHT PHOTO: Devin shows off his valentine bingo prize and his teeth. He just got his braces off this past week!

LEFT PHOTO: Officers and youth leader Betty Macalik recite the Pledge of Allegiance. CENTER PHOTO: Youth say the SPJST Motto.

RIGHT PHOTO: Regan Langer, far left, reads the minutes from January’s meeting.

LEFT PHOTO: Pierce is the winner of the monthly guessing game! PHOTO 2: April, Misty, and Paige enjoy valentine bingo! PHOTO 3: Youth

show off their prizes. RIGHT PHOTO: Misty watches her sister April play the blind-folded marshmallow game.

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being run through the Houston Eyeglass Center and the University of Houston. The reconditioned eyewear is redistributed throughout the United States and the world, and the repairable hearing aids are given to various care shelters throughout the county.

Pull Tabs for Ronald McDonald House The continuing support of sending pull tabs in for the Ronald McDonald House is also a worthy charity that we have been supporting. They use the money from the sale of the pull tabs to buy gas for their transportation vehicle and to buy much needed supplies for the house. I strongly encourage all of the SPJST youth clubs to save pull tabs for this worthy and ongoing project. Your youth club will receive a thank you letter from the Ronald McDonald House and the knowledge that the members helped someone in need. Please mark your donations clearly so I can make sure your group gets the proper recognition that it deserves. 2009 Camp Tee-Shirt Contest January 31 was the deadline for the camp tee-shirt contest. I have received lots of creative and wonderful designs. A panel of judges will be judging them in the coming days. Thank you to all the young people who entered the contest. Winners in the four age categories will receive a $75 Wal-Mart gift certificate. The grand prize winner will also receive an additional $25 to his or her gift card for a total of $100 shopping spree at Wal-Mart along with having their design printed on the camp tee-shirt and youth handbook.

May 2, 2009 - Join Hands Day The SPJST is making a big push for all of the adult lodges and youth clubs to get involved in Join Hands Day in 2009. Make sure to set aside May 2 on your SPJST youth calendar. Join Hands Day can be a really great way for your youth club and adult lodge to work together on a special project in 2009. Fraternally, John Hoelscher State Youth Director —SPJST—

District Two Skating Party this Sunday

Dear Readers, The annual District Two Skating Party is this Sunday, February 15 from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. at Skate Haven in Temple. Please make plans to attend. You may bring a guest. Door prizes will be given. I look forward to seeing all of you at the skating party this Sunday in Temple. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Two Youth Counselor —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin youth reports on winter activities

Dear Věstník, To begin the hectic and busy events, the youth attended the District Two Lock-in at Lodge 80, Holland on November 22, 2008. For a 12-hour ordeal, the youth had a blast. On December 6, the youth patriciate in the Parade of Lights. Even though we did not place, we had fun. I would also like to give a special thank you to Ray for decorating and driving his truck in the parade. This year, the youth decorated little Santas and delivered them to Elgin Golden Years on December 20. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the residents keeps us going back every year. From December 7 to December 14,

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

the youth helped decorate stockings with Elgin Angels. This is truly an amazing organization with kind and generous volunteers. I hope everyone had safe and happy holiday. Sincerely, Mikhaila Nelson —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin youth makes new friends

Dear Věstník, On Friday, I had to take my big sister back to college at Texas State University. When I got back to Elgin, I went to my friend’s house. We went to the park to play some basketball. Then, we went to the store to buy some sodas. We then went to one of the old malls in Austin that got turned into a skating rink. We skated until about 10 p.m. When we got back to his house, we played “Call of Duty IV” online with people from all over the world. We even made some new friends who live in Canada. We played all night until 8 in the morning. E.J. Anderson —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin youth enjoys reading, fishing

Dear Věstník, I have a new book, and it is called “The Wizard Heir.” It is a really cool book. I have already read it two times. It is awesome! It is a science fiction book. I also went fishing and got a whopper - 18 pounds, three ounces! It is the largest fish I have caught in my life. J.B. Anderson —SPJST—

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club reports on February meeting

The SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club meeting was called to order on February 1, 2009, at 2:23 p.m. by President Steven Drapela. Ryan Drapela led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the members recited the SPJST motto and prayer. Secretary Jessica Fucik called the roll of officers and members. The balance as of February’s meeting was read. All members have paid their dues. Old business was discussed, and new business was introduced. 2009 District Six Youth Achievement Day will be on July 19 and will be hosted by Lodge 30, Taiton. State YAD is set for August 1 in Temple at the Mayborn Center.

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Youth Club: Valentine Fun! LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Youth Club members Natalie Morales, left, and Alissa Flores show off their valentines at the Lodge 246 meeting on February 2. RIGHT PHOTO: Ryan Mathis is all smiles about his new football!

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Youth Leader Lisa Bubela discussed the newsletter with the club. The awards banquet in Killeen will take place on February 21. The Youth Leaders Retreat is at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm on March 28 and 29. The Lodge 30, Taiton awards banquet will be March 22. Members are asked to make Easter decorations for door prizes. The flag project was discussed during the meeting. Stephanie Fucik made a motion to pay for the flag and the delivery of its pole. Dylan Treumer seconded the motion. Our next meeting will be March 1 at 2:30 p.m. Dylan Treumer made a motion to adjourn the meeting, and Ryan Drapela seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 2:36 p.m. Sarah Supak, age 15 Reporter —SPJST—

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 earns place in honor band Lodge 47, Seaton youth to participate in county fair

Dear Readers, Starting February 7 through February l4, 2009, will be the Bell County Youth Fair. I have been working very hard on completing my projects. I hope you all can visit the fair and see all the different items on display. I hope to see everyone at the chili supper on February 20 for good food and games for everyone to play. See you soon! Fraternally, Brandon Hoelscher —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club sets February 20 chili dinner

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club invites you to a chili dinner on Friday, February 20, 2009, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Seaton Star Hall. A meal of chili, corn bread, dessert, and all the fixings will be available for voluntary donations. The dinner is being held in conjunction with Lodge 47 Youth Club’s membership drive. The evening will also include games, fun, friends, and a silent auction. If you or someone you know would like more information about Lodge 47’s youth club, please call me (254) 931-0639 or Assistant Youth Leader Tammy Pechal (254) 721-5718. The youth club meets at 1 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month. Please mark Friday, February 20 on your calendar, and join us at Seaton Star Hall for a delicious chili dinner. See you then! Fraternally, Lynette Talasek Youth Leader —SPJST—

Dear Readers, On January 28, 2009, I went to Riesel for High School Cen-Tex Honor Band. I was 10th chair overall in the flute section. I am fourth chair in concert band, and we will preform on Saturday January 3l. I hope to see everyone at the skating party on February l5 from 5:15 until 7:15 p.m. at Skate Haven in Temple. Fraternally, Brooke Hoelscher —SPJST—

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Lodge 239, Hondo youth give to 100 pennies drive

Today is January 27, 2009. We all had a new year’s talk about how we need to start listening more and stop having so much work. Then, we listened as our adult lodge officers—president, vice president, secretary, reporter, and youth leaders— were elected. My cousin Sechelle and I each won a mug. Everyone received candy bags. We also donated money to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. My sister and I donated $1. My cousin donated $1.38. Submitted by, Kadejha Rodriguez —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston youth to deliver Lodge 239, Hondo valentines Youth Club reports Dear Members, We will deliver the valentines that on January meeting

we made at our last meeting to the nursing home in Needville on Sunday, February 15, 2009. Please plan to be at Lodge 88 by 10 a.m. so we can get loaded up and start off to the nursing home. After we deliver the valentines, we will attend the meeting at the Needville lodge. On the way home, we will stop for refreshments. I hope to see you there. Fraternally, Allison Wockenfuss, age 12 Social Committee Chairman —SPJST—

Today, January 27, 2009, we had our youth club meeting. We did puzzles and Vestnik projects, and I donated money to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. We expressed our ideas for projects, snacks, and fun things. I suggested going to Pizza Hut when President Marcie Botello is working. I drew pictures. We ate cupcakes and drank juice. Submitted by, Latrell Rodriguez, age 6 —SPJST—

In Memoriam

Expression of Sympathy

We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple, on behalf of the officers and entire membership, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of VLASTA VALCHAR, who passed away on January 26, 2009, at the age of 89 years. Services were held at ScanioHarper Funeral Home with Dr. Mark Labaj officiating. Mrs. Valchar was born in Schulenburg, Texas. She attended school in the St. John Community of Fayette County. She married Jerry Edward Valchar on January 21, 1946, at St. John’s.

Mrs. Valchar was a member of the Temple Brethren Church, RVOS Lodge 133, SPJST Lodge 87, and the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 1820. She was a homemaker. Survivors are daughters Gladys Ann Valchar of Irving, Texas, and Bernice Jane Valchar Henry of Temple, Texas, and two grandchildren. Burial was held at Bellwood Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to either Temple Brethren Church, 2202 Bird Creek Drive, Temple, Texas 76502 or SPJST Pioneer Museum, 520 North Main, Temple, Texas 76501. May she rest in eternal peace. Respectfully submitted, Bertha Capps Sidney Kacir —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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Death Claims Paid in January, 2009

Supreme Lodge SPJST • Temple, Texas

Death Claim 27000 27001 27002 27003 27004 27005 27006 27007 27008 27009 27010 27011 27012 27013 27014 27015 27016 27017 27018 27019 27020 27021 27022 27023 27024 27025 27026 27027 27028 27029 27030 27031 27032 27033 27034 27035 27036 27037 27038 27039 27040 27041 27042 27043

Name

Geo Travis Cervenka Stephen S. Kelly Roy Lee Shiller Gene Vickery Shwadlenak John William Galure Wilma Dianne Taylor Victoria V. Matocha Frank M. Lagrange Dora Lee Kopecky Arthella J. Holder Pauline Fila Irene Linda Rundberg Annie Krcha Helen I. Dulock Olin H. Monthie Clara Mary Adams Wilbert Holdt Betty Jo Strauss Florian John Meleski Edith Kaiser Eugene Clayton Parma Adolf Piel Ivey M. Woytek John T. Boylan Ignacio R. Peralta Linda C. Navratil John Marial Kosut Herbert D. Williams Adella Pohl Cleveland Frank Palmer Dennis L. Gerik Lillie Novy Mildred V. Maresh Betty Jurica Holleen G. Taska Mary McVey Dean W. Schumacher Mary R. Beran Betty B. Urbanovsky Terry Lynn Dudley Horace Bayne Knox Helen E. Tome Vinola Inell Karnei Goldie P. Kaase

Lodge 4 88 160 205 47 88 38 333 151 47 74 29 47 35 66 81 201 201 88 29 130 160 4 130 239 76 88 88 4 177 66 25 88 117 148 89 175 130 66 333 74 24 88 201

From 1/01/2009 to 1/31/2009 Location

Hallettsville Houston San Angelo Terrell Seaton Houston Smithville First State Bank Wharton Seaton Lovelady Taylor Seaton Elk Waco Needville Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Houston Taylor Dallas San Angelo Hallettsville Dallas Hondo Wichita Falls Houston Houston Hallettsville Academy Waco Ennis Houston Robstown Blessing Rosebud Rosenberg Dallas Waco First State Bank Lovelady Cyclone Houston Bleiblerville-Nelsonville

Date of Admission 11/14/1941 9/01/1959 2/01/1948 12/01/1961 3/02/1971 11/21/1955 10/01/1947 4/06/2005 12/02/1944 12/28/1976 2/08/1977 8/03/1951 10/01/1946 6/16/1966 5/24/1966 4/23/1965 11/09/1939 1/01/1949 8/07/1948 12/08/2000 11/21/1977 1/28/1976 9/15/1954 2/28/1980 7/19/2004 9/09/1955 2/28/1985 2/03/1976 3/15/1938 2/01/1983 2/03/1977 10/11/1933 7/21/1947 3/15/1931 9/19/1944 10/21/1953 3/31/1971 2/18/1946 10/23/1933 3/18/2005 7/20/1973 8/14/1980 1/19/1967 8/16/1946

Date of Death

9/07/2008 12/02/2008 12/05/2008 12/12/2008 12/20/2008 11/19/2008 8/08/2008 12/05/2008 12/01/2008 12/16/2008 12/23/2008 1/01/2009 12/23/2008 12/28/2008 12/24/2008 12/12/2008 12/05/2008 1/02/2009 12/30/2008 12/27/2008 11/24/2008 12/06/2008 11/20/2008 11/19/2008 10/20/2008 12/10/2008 12/10/2008 10/07/2008 11/27/2008 1/09/2009 1/09/2009 12/28/2008 12/19/2008 9/10/2008 1/09/2009 1/18/2009 12/30/2008 1/06/2009 1/16/2009 12/11/2008 6/21/2008 1/12/2009 12/08/2008 12/29/2008

Age 84 94 76 84 80 60 76 64 83 79 86 89 86 76 78 97 85 72 80 81 83 72 96 84 62 53 87 74 93 82 58 94 89 93 80 96 67 78 84 57 88 88 68 90

Certificate Number 300932 22797 609643 26583 50137 903054 609683 2064084 800087 70035 70528 611096 99672 35852 35235 32568 605271 610013 609861 2050097 73478 66820 504516 81008 2061531 1600006 93224 2025953 604363 88215 70487 300016 503837 601383 607570 611948 50404 612881 1000011 2063924 58236 82223 37839 608777

To the Bereaved Survivors of Our Deceased Brothers and Sisters, the Supreme Lodge SPJST Expresses Its Heartfelt Sympathy. Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—

Podpora Wednesday, February 11, 2009

BENEVOLENCE

ROCNIK 97 CISLO 6

Concho CHS meets February 15

The Concho Chapter of the Czech Heritage Society of Texas meeting will be held Sunday, February 15, 2009, at 2 p.m. in Wall, Texas, at St. Ambrose Fellowship Hall. Members and guests are urged to attend as we will be discussing and planning for the state meeting which our chapter will be hosting this year on Saturday, November 21. We will also have a time of fun and fellowship as we play Czech bingo and have svacina, a mid-afternoon meal. Bring your favorite dish or snack food to share. For more information, please call (325) 942-6598. Sincerely, Janelle Shockley —SPJST—

Travis-Williamson CHS meets February 18

The Travis- Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2009, at Charlie’s Steak House, located at 15601 Vision Drive in Pflugerville, for a meal and a meeting. (Separate tickets will be issued for the meal.) The mission of our society is to preserve the Czech culture. For more information, contact Phyllis Teykl (512) 453-4453. Submitted by, Pat Gerick, Reporter —SPJST—

Lidskost

Česká

Část

HUMANITY

Bratrstvi

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Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST Založené rok 1897

Austin Czech Historical Association meets February 24

Austin Czech Historical Association’s monthly potluck meeting is set for Tuesday, February 24, 2009, at 7 p.m. at the Gethsemane Lutheran Church, located at 200 West Anderson Lane in Austin, Texas. The program will consist of Czech accordion music by Chris and Edita Rybak and Bernard Tupa, and attendees will hear about their 2009 European tour. The mission of the association is to preserve Czech culture. Everyone is invited. Bring your favorite dish (Czech or other) to share and enjoy. For more information, visit www.austinczechs.com or call President: Kay Bouska, 585-7627 Submitted by, Happy Almaguer —SPJST—

St. Valentineʼs Day in the Czech Republic

It’s that time of year again. Although the origins of the St. Valentine’s Day tradition are uncertain, it has long been customary for people in the AngloSaxon world to give their lovers a small token of appreciation such as flowers or cards on this day. In recent years, St. Valentine’s Day has also been establishing itself as a tradition in the Czech Republic. Although St. Valentin’s Day has been a tradition in places like Britain since the Middle Ages, it was practically non-existent in the Czech Republic less than a decade ago. Now, it is everywhere — from shops offering a

BROTHERHOOD

11.unor.2009

wide selection of special Valentine’s cards to restaurants advertising ‘romantic’ dinners for two, it is hard not to be reminded that St. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, even though this ‘tradition’ is only a few years old here. The main reason for this is presumably commercial, as businesses try to drum up sales during the quiet period between Christmas and Easter. Bohemia Flowers, one of Prague’s leading florists, has undoubtedly benefited from the fact that Czechs have taken so readily to St. Valentine’s Day. Nevertheless, Eva Lysakova, Bohemia Flowers’ Creative Project Manager, explains how she believes Valentine’s Day may

have been introduced here for commercial reasons, but that Czechs were now beginning to get into the spirit of this tradition:

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.

Way, Richmond, Texas 77406-9580 (281) 342-4898; or visit www.czechheritage.org.

“We think that it was mostly due to companies who first began pushing Valentine’s Day, because it’s primarily a holiday for giving, which means you can use it to sell something. But now I realize that—even among my friends—people are saying, ‘Well, you know, I don’t really care about Valentine’s Day, but I’m definitely going to do something little.’” So if Czechs have been more than happy to adopt this foreign tradition of

Czech Cultural Calendar

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 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

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. June 23 - 29 2009 International Sport and Cultural Festival/2009 American Sokol Slet—in Fort Worth, Texas, June 23 to 28. Visit www.2009iscfestival.com. June 28 - July 18 Czechoslovak Foreign Institute 20th Prague Summer Study Program (depart United States on June 27) to Praha, Česká Republika. For information, contact Thadious Polášek, Czech Study Tour, 730 County Road 230 in Schulenburg, Texas 78956; email polasek29@hotmail.com; or call after 8 p.m. CT (979) 562-2207. —SPJST—

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giving their lovers flowers, cards or small gifts on St. Valentine’s Day, what do they actually give each other? Is it the same as everywhere else or do their Valentines’ gifts have a particularly Czech theme? Robert Carter, the founder and owner of Bohemia Flowers says that some presents are the same and some have a more local flavour:

Robert Carter: “Twelve red roses is definitely the most popular product that we deliver. We also get a lot of additional orders. People will go on our website and ask for a dozen roses but also want a bottle of Bohemia Sekt that’s very Czech - or they’ll request a box of chocolates to be delivered with the flowers.”

RP: “So, for Czechs, flowers are not enough?” Eva Lysakova: (laughing): “Flowers are never enough!”

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

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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—

I asked Eva Lysakova and Robert Carter if any similar ‘standard’ Valentine’s message was emerging in the Czech Republic: Eva Lysakova: “I don’t think so . . .”

Robert Carter: “I don’t think so either. People are very individualistic about it. There’s certainly no cliché; it’s always something different.”

Eva Lysakova: “Well if we looked into

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1. Place egg whites in a large mixing bowl; let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar; beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1-1/4 cups sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff peaks form. Sprinkle cornstarch over egg white mixture; fold in. Fold in lemon juice and extract.

2. Coat a 14-inch pizza pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon meringue onto pan, forming a 12-inch heart; build up edges slightly. Bake at 250 degrees for 45 to 55 minutes or until crisp. Cool on pan on a wire rack. 3. In a mixing bowl, beat cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Spoon over meringue; arrange strawberries over top. Serve immediately. Yield: 12 Servings.

Robert Carter: “But they’re a good start . . .”

In the English-speaking countries where Valentine’s Day is well established, it is very traditional to add a small, poetic message to the flowers or card you send your lover. This message is usually instantly recognizable by its opening lines: “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue . . . ,” which are then usually followed by a humorous personalised epigram.

Directions:

Source: Taste of Home Celebrations —SPJST—

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our orders and found the message part, I’m sure we’d find something really ‘interesting’, but we wouldn’t do that . ..” Robert Carter: (laughing) “It’s a very secretive thing, I guess . . . ”

— Coilin O’Connor Ian Willoughby

Source: Czech Radio 7, Radio Prague. (13/02/2004); http://www.radio.cz/en/article/50572 © 1996 - 2008 Radio Prague, Czech Radio 7. Radio Prague - Czech Radio 7; Vinohradska 12; 120 99 - Prague; Tel / Fax: +420 2 2155 2971.

—SPJST—

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Prague Old Town

Strawberry Pavlova Preparation time: 15 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes

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Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your upcoming fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 5 p.m. Send your updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: (254) 774-7447. Email to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $3 per column inch for lodge ads; $6 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $10 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at (800) 727-7578 or email melaniez@vvm.com.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Monday of February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. followed by a potluck meal. The Christmas party is on the first Sunday of December. The youth club meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. For hall rental information, call (979) 9663795.

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

LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA Lodge meetings are held the first Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at the PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty Street, Pilot Point, Texas 76258. The Community Center is on the same parking lot as PointBank. For directions or information about meetings, Ms. Angie Heitzman (940) 437-5561; or Jack and Dean Carender (903) 564-7359. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD 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 15—Valentine Dance: Czech and Then Some, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person

Sunday, March 22—St. Patrickʼs Day Dance: The Holub Polka Band, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person. Saturday, March 28—Don Peachey, from Burnett, Wisconsin, polka/waltz/mix music. 7 to 11 p.m. $7/person Lodge hall is located at 702 Highway 95 North, Elgin. Adult lodge meetings are the third Tuesday

of each month, 7 p.m.; youth club meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. unless otherwise stated. For all Lodge 18, Elgin hall rentals, please call Irene Helgren (512) 281-4534. For band bookings, call Artie Monson (512) 2813711. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility.

LODGE 20, GRANGER Meetings are the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. LODGE 21, ENGLE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. LODGE 23, MORAVIA Lodge meetings are the Tuesday after the second Sunday of March, June, and September at 7:30 p.m. and the first Sunday of December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE Adult lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Flag Hall is located 10 miles east of Temple, off Highway 53. For more information regarding hall bookings/rentals, please call Hall Manager Wilbert Mikeska (254) 985-2484. For more information, visit www.spjstflaghall.com.

LODGE 25, ENNIS Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Game room open every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. For rentals, reservations, or more information, call the hall (972) 875-8381 and leave a message.

LODGE 26, SKIDMORE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD Meetings are held at the Wharton County Library, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR 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) 352-9139; 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 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 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 Saturday, March 14—John Holub Polka Band

Seaton Star Hall is located five miles east of Temple on Highway 53. Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Saturday night dance time is from 7 to 11 p.m. Hall opens at 6 p.m. Hall phone (254) 985-2548. For rentals, please contact Dolores Skrabanek (254) 985-2344. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. Lodge 48, Beyersville holds ladies Bunco night on the second Tuesday of each month. A light meal is served at 6:30 p.m. followed

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

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Lodge hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston, Texas (the Heights). For reservations, call (713) 869-5767. Lodge meetings are the second Monday at 7:30 p.m. Youth club meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., unless otherwise notified. All dances are 8:30 p.m. to midnight, unless otherwise noted. *Dress code dances: evening attire, ladies, and gentlemen. Bingo every Thursday evening; early bird special starts at 7:15 p.m. Regular games start at 7:45 p.m. License No. 3-00-621-2077-41001. LODGE 89, ROSEBUD For meeting time, date, and location, contact Secretary Patsy Baker (254) 985-2457.

LODGE 91, CROSBY Lodge meetings are quarterly. March and June meetings will be on the second Saturday of the month at the Crosby Community Center at 11 a.m. or as otherwise specified. September and December meetings will be held at a restaurant.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH Friday, 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 Burnet, Wisconsin, 3 to 7 p.m.

Lodge 92 membership meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., or as otherwise specified. The youth club meets on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Family Night—first and third Tuesdays. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Country/western dances on the first Sunday and polka/waltz dancing as announced. Big band sound ballroom dancing on Friday nights 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Dress code required for ballroom dances. Listen to KNON 89.3 FM on Sunday at 2 p.m. for up-to-date announcements. Tune in to KAAM 770 AM for some easy listening music. To reserve for large parties celebrating weddings, anniversaries, or other special events, call early (817) 624-1361/Joyce. SPJST Lodge 92/National Hall is located at 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76114. Visit www.nationalhallspjst92.org.

LODGE 93, HOBSON Lodge meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at Polakʼs between Karnes City and Kenedy. Contact E.R. Prasek for information (830) 780-5166. LODGE 94, WHEELOCK Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 1 p.m.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO Adult lodge meetings are held in March, June, September, and December. Youth club meetings are the first Sunday of every month at Casa Ole in Victoria Mall at 3 p.m., excluding months where they are quarterly adult lodge meetings. To verify the meeting, call Youth Leader Bernadette Bellanger (361) 578-4253.

LODGE 106, LA GRANGE Lodge meetings are the first Tuesday of each month at the Subway Sandwich Shop at 109 South Jefferson Street (south of the red light at the 71 and 77 cross road) in La Grange, 7:30 p.m.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the lodge hall, unless otherwise noted. LODGE 125, WESTHOFF Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 130, DALLAS For monthly meeting time and location, please contact lodge secretary Stanley Vrla (214) 826-2670; or lodge president John Vrla (214) 906-3385; or email jvrla@cebridge.net.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road in San Antonio.

LODGE 135, ENNIS Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 139, DANBURY Lodge meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Danbury City Hall. For information, call (979) 922-1279 or (979) 922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY Lodge meetings are now held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, located at 917 North Circle in Sealy.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at W 15th, Houston, Texas. For information, contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick (713) 203-8712; or Secretary Alice Jochen (979) 743-3613. LODGE 143, INEZ Lodge meetings are the third Friday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m.

LODGE 148, EL MATON Monthly lodge meeting is the second Sunday of the month at Frank Hahnʼs Camphouse in El Maton at 3 p.m.

LODGE 151, WHARTON The quarterly lodge meetings will be held on the second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 7 p.m., in the meeting room of Hinzeʼs Bar-B-Que Catering, Highway 59, Wharton, Texas. LODGE 153, LA SALLE Lodge meetings are held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 3:30 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Youth club meetings are the third Sunday at 5 p.m. LODGE 155, AUSTIN Lodge meetings are held quarterly on Sundays. Contact Secretary Ginny Prasatik (512) 472-1721 for meeting location, date, and time.

LODGE 156, BAYTOWN Lodge meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call (281) 422-9611; or (281) 573-1612. LODGE 157, LUBBOCK Lodge meetings are held on the second Sunday of every other month at 1 p.m.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in April, July, October, and January at 12 noon at Wall Volunteer Fire Department Hall or as announced. LODGE 164, RIO HONDO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2:30 p.m.

LODGE 169, BRENHAM Lodge meetings are held the fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. The first Sunday of December will be the Christmas dinner and officer elections. The meetings will be held at Bilskiʼs Camphouse, 2577 Old Chappell Hill Road, Brenham, Texas. For information, contact President Annette Bilski (979) 8303930; Vice President/FAC Stephen Bliznak (979) 836-9875; Secretary/Treasurer Glenda Weyand (979) 451-3231; or Reporter Leroy Kamas (979) 836-8179. LODGE 172, PASADENA Saturday, 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 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.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

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—

A s we enjoy the extended Presidents’ Day weekend, let’s not forget the true meaning of the holiday.

Take a moment to pay tribute to George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and the other great men who followed in their footsteps to lead our country where it is today. Their courage, patriotism and hard work serve as an example to all of us. Our gratitude, prayers and remembrances go out to them on Presidents’ Day.

SPJST

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