Vestnik 2012 06 06 by SPJST

Volume 100 Number 23

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T

Benevolence

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

ISSN —07458800

★ Brotherhood

June 6, 2012

Parading, Kolache-Eating, Dancing at National Polka Festival in Ennis

SPJST participated in the National Polka Festival in Ennis on Saturday, May 26. The day began with the parade at 10 a.m. The float received the third place judge’s award. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured by the float are, left to right, Mary Steinman of Lodge 154, Fort Worth; Reagan Langer of Lodge 25, Ennis; Misty, Danny, April, and Jennifer Dvorak, all of Lodge 25, Ennis; Rosie Steinman of Lodge 154, Fort Worth; and District Three Director Johnnie Krizan. Not pictured are Pierce Tignor and Preston Sullivan. CENTER PHOTO: SPJST also sponsored the kolache eating

By Joyce Bowen Nelson Lodge 18, Elgin

contest at the festival. State King Robert Lewis, Queen Alyssa Torres, and Duke Jaxson Brisco assisted with the event. During a break, they met Miss Texas 2011 Kendall Morris of Ennis. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to Lodge 25, Ennis members Jake and Jessica Holland who were crowned the Polka Festival King and Queen on Friday night, May 25. They are pictured in the parade on Saturday with Princess Olivia Vyers, daughter of Lisa (Laznovsky) Vyers and granddaughter of Lil and the late Larry Laznovsky, all members of Lodge 135, Ennis.

Help Still Needed for Bastrop Wildfire Victims

The Bastrop Fires affected many people. It was a tragedy for the town of Bastrop and surrounding areas. Many people think that things are back to normal, but the truth is—they are not. Things are only on the road to recovery. There are still so many people needing help. People still need homes, furniture, help with clean up, etc. Most of all, people are in need of donations. I am asking SPJST members, lodges, and youth clubs to please con-

sider helping these people get their lives back together. All donations and volunteer time will make a difference. To donate or to help, visit www.BastropRelief.org or call (512) 850-6246 or toll-free (855) 2676246. Checks, money orders, gift cards, etc. can be mailed to MAIN/Bastrop Relief Org, P.O. Box 328, Bastrop, Texas 78602.

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Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Readers Write ......................................4 Supreme Lodge Meeting Minutes ......6 Lodge Section....................................14 Reunions ............................................20

The Metropolitan Austin Interactive Network is an awardwinning 501(c)3 volunteer-led nonprofit. MAIN’s office was caught in the most intense wildfire disaster in United States’ history on September 4, 2011. MAIN provides community (BastropRelief.org) and volunteer services, and the Bastrop County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), located at 1091 High-

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Youth Section ....................................21 SPJST Cookbook Order Form..........25 Czech Culture ....................................26 Advertisements .................................29 Lodge Calendar .................................30 Convention Schedule........................32

Page 13

District Six hosts delegates’ meeting

way 71 West in Bastrop. This new, locally-directed relief and recovery resource center is now offering extended services for fire survivors and long-term community recovery programs. DRC case managers are once again providing survivor relief and counseling services discontinued when the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center closed November 19. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Volunteer Center and Resource Warehouse are also open weekends.

Continued on Page 4.

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Page 16

Lodge 35 Elk member visits Vietnam Veterans Wall of Honor

Page 22

Lodge 4 Hallettsville graduate honored

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

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 VESTNIK Fax: (254) 773-8087

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 Mobile: (254) 534-2902 • Home: (254) 985-0007 email: vanicek@spjst.com

VICE PRESIDENT GENE McBRIDE, FICF, CFFM Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 534-1450 • Home: (254) 534-1930 email: genemc@spjst.com SECRETARY-TREASURER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 721-4739 • Home: (254) 778-3720 email: leonardm@spjst.com

DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM P.O. Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878-0085 Home: (979) 272-3265 • Mobile: (979) 224-3125 email: dv.aggie@verizon.net

DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR BOBBY WUENSCHE 2451 County Road 405, Taylor, Texas 76574-5421 Home: (512) 365-3013 • Mobile: (281) 352-3517 email: boggybob@peoplepc.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR JOHNNIE R. KRIZAN 11500 Heritage Pkway, West, Texas 76691-2017 Home: (254) 826-5882

DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BILLY ROLLWITZ, FIC, CFFM P.O. Box 195, Rowena, Texas 76875-0195 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 Rd, Houston, Texas 77008-6232 Home: (713) 864-2163 • email: lpflugh@aol.com DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIRMAN MICHAEL K. AHLSTROM, FIC, CFFM 407 Taos Dr, Victoria, Texas 77904-3777 Home: (361) 578-3279 • Mobile: (361) 676-3279 email: ahlstrom@suddenlink.net

DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR BOB J. BAYER, FIC 1100 Hospital Blvd, Floresville, Texas 78114-2912 Home: (830) 393-9073 STATE FIELD REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICTS ONE/FIVE Delisle Doherty Mobile: (832) 232-2049 • Home: (281) 855-2841 email: delisled@sbcglobal.net DISTRICT TWO/TRAINING DIRECTOR Hiram Dixon, FICF, LUTCF, CFFM Mobile: (254) 231-7722 email: lifeagent01@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE Philip McBee, FICF, CFFM (325) 784-9800 • Mobile: (325) 647-1949 email: philipmcbee@aol.com DISTRICT FOUR Bobby G. Davis, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 450-3748 Home: (325) 947-0027 • Office: (325) 657-8400 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT SIX Karen Kaspar, FIC, CFFM Mobile: (979) 332-1616 • Home: (979) 543-2532 Fax: (979) 543-8859 • email: k-kaspar@hotmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN Don J. Strickland Mobile/Office: (979) 820-8879 email: donj.spjst@gmail.com

FINANCIAL SECRETARY ROY VAJDAK (254) 773-1575 email: royv@spjst.com

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR CHESTER JENKE, SR., FICF Home: (830) 303-4316 Mobile: (210) 413-3053 email: cejenke@gvec.net STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com

DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836-4300 • (979) 272-3440 - email: spjst@aol.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - (254) 9852396 - email: patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside Ave, Dallas, Texas 75206-5840 • (214) 826-3557 - email: magiclady_46@hotmail.com District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, Texas 76875 - (325) 442-4841 - email: bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023-6510 • (713) 649-6138 email: district5dyc@aol.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, El Campo, Texas 77437 • (979) 543-7120 - email: lbubela@warpspeed1.net District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 CR 430, Pleasan78064 • (210) 535-4916 - email: ton, Texas poohbear78064@hotmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-1451 - email: dimebox5@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 - Kay Lynn Kovar, 3303 West Lake Bardwell Drive, Ennis, Texas 75119 - (972) 875-6827 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: bvhouse@att.net

FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 567-4264 District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 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 Highway 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 Court, 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 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Dolores Skrabanek, 13107 State Highway 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 Drive, 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, 3895 CR 430, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - (210) 535-4916

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-0112 District Two - Tammy Whatley, 141 Meadow Park Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78626 - (512) 948-5339 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Drive, 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 Avenue K, Rosenberg, Texas 77471 - (281) 342-2624 District Seven - Jarolyn Popp, 447 Shady Hollow, New Braunfels, Texas 78132 - (830) 964-5135 HR ADMINISTRATOR DEBBIE KLINKOVSKY (254) 773-1575 • email: debbiek@spjst.com

Editor’s Note

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That SPJST Connection

What a wonderful surprise it was to see Robert Castillo standing

on the front porch of the SPJST Home Office last week! Robert was passing through Temple and stopped in to say hi. He is a member of SPJST Lodge 196, Houston-West where he has served in the past as president and youth leader for many years. Robert was also Assistant District Five Youth Counselor.

Although I have not seen or talked to Robert much in the past probably seven or eight years, we have that SPJST connection. It’s where you pick up right where you left off. We enjoyed visiting about the past youth program days and just catching up on life. Thank you, Robert, for taking time to stop by the Home Office and for all of your past service to SPJST.

Convention Time The convention officially begins with the Howdy Party this Sunday, June 10. The business session starts at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, June 11 and continues through Wednesday, June 13. If you are in the Killeen area, be sure to stop by the Killeen Civic and Conference Center, located at 3601 South W S Young Drive. Several booths will be set up for visitors and delegates to browse. One of these

will be The SPJST Store where you can purchase various SPJST promotional items and souvenirs. And, it will be a great opportunity to pick up a copy of the special commemorative SPJST Tasty Traditions cookbook in honor of SPJST’s 115th anniversary and the Vestnik’s 100th year. These have been selling quickly, and supplies are limited. (An order form also appears on page 25 of this week’s Vestnik.) Another special booth will be volunteers from Texas Czech Genealogical Society selling various Czech items—many from the Czech Republic. What an opportunity to Czech it out! Plus, SPJST Education and Nature Center will have a display. Visit the Czech Heritage Museum The Czech Heritage Museum, located at 119 West French Avenue in Temple, will be open on Sunday, June 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for delegates and friends to drop by. Special convention week hours are Monday, June 11 to Saturday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Summer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you plan to bring a large group, please call the museum (254) 899-2935.

“Like” SPJST on Facebook for the Latest Convention Results If you cannot attend the convention but would like to keep up with what is going on, “like” our SPJST Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spjst. Various updates and election results will be posted as often as possible during the convention. And, to view all of the convention information, including candidate announcements that have been published in the Vestnik, please visit our website at www.spjst.org.

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. Members’ 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 Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

VӖSTNÍK SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Rates

SPJST INTEREST RATES Universal Life

Farm/commercial property rates are subject to change without notice. Call the SPJST Home Office (800) 7277578.

Farm/Commercial Property Rates

75% Owner Farm Property 5.00% for 1 to 10 years 5.25% for 11 to 20 years Commercial Property 6.00% for 1 to 10 years 6.25% for 11 to 15 years

Universal Life 4.50% for Annualized* Annuities

Annuity I** 5.00% for Annualized*

Annuity II** 3.50% for Annualized* Annuity III** 3.50% for Annualized*

**Not currently being marketed.

Annuity IV 3.50% for Annualized*

* Rates effective 05/01/12 through 07/31/12.

5-Year Annuity

When purchased, current interest rates are guaranteed for 5 years.

Band 1—$10,000 to $24,999 Current Rate: 3.50% Band 2—$25,000 to $49,999 Current Rate: 3.60% Band 3—$50,000 and up Current Rate: 3.70%

Find us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/spjst

SPJST Residential Mortgage Loans

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Family Fun and Important Dates

June 7-9

Leader-in-Training Retreat SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm June 10 SPJST Convention Howdy Party Killeen Civic and Conference Center June 11-13 SPJST Convention Killeen Civic and Conference Center June 14 Flag Day June 15 Lodge 97, Placedo Ice Cream Social Victoria Mall (6) June 16 SPJST Float • Holland Cornfest Parade (2) June 17 Father’s Day June 19 Lodge 87, Temple Member Dinner (2) June 23 Lodge 142, Houston Lake Outing Lake Conroe (5) June 24 District Three Youth Achievement Day Lodge 92, Fort Worth June 24 District Five Youth Achievement Day Lodge 88, Houston June 24 Lodge 155, Austin Pizza Picnic Motl’s House, Austin (2) July 1 District Seven Youth Achievement Day Jourdanton ISD July 4 Fourth of July • SPJST Home Office Closed July 4 SPJST Float • Belton Fourth of July Parade July 4 SPJST Float • Arlington Fourth of July Parade July 5-8 District Three Summer Camp • Cooper Farm July 12-15 Districts Five/Six/Seven Summer Camp • Cooper Farm July 14 District Two Youth Achievement Day Lodge 80, Holland July 14 Lodge 51, Ellinger Annual Picnic (1) July 15 District One Youth Achievement Day Caldwell Civic Center July 15 July 19-22 July 21 July 22

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Picnic (3) District One Summer Camp • Cooper Farm District Four Youth Achievement Day Lodge 49, Rowena District Six Youth Achievement Day Taiton Community Center —SPJST—

Czech Heritage Museum Challenge Grant Deadline Extended to June 15! Every SPJST Member is asked to give $10 or more. All donors’ names will be published in the Special June 27 Post-Convention Vestnik. Mail tax-deductible donation to: Czech Heritage Museum 119 West French Avenue Temple, Texas 76501

Thank you kindly for your donation.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Readers Write

Scholarship recipient extends gratitude

Dear SPJST, I am writing to thank you for your generous $1,000 Denisse Wuensche Scholarship. I was very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as the recipient of your scholarship. I am currently a senior in high school and plan to graduate later this month. I am an education major and will be attending the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in the fall. Upon graduating, I will be moving to Ukraine to teach English over in Europe. Thanks to you, I am one step closer to that goal. By awarding me the Denisse Wuensche Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school—learning. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Thank you for all that you do and for awarding me with this scholarship. Sincerely, Katelyn Heisch Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—

Reader shares “White Elephant Gift Exchange”

Dear Editor, I saw your article in the Vestnik about the white elephant story. Please print mine. A woman decided to host a white elephant party. Everyone was to bring something they could not use, but which was too good to throw away. The paty would have been a great success except that 11 of the 19 women brought their husbands. Lillie Matejka O’Shields Lodge 39, Bryan —SPJST—

Member grateful for SPJST

Dear Readers, I want to say thank you to everyone at SPJST for the impact that you have made in my life. I am honored to accept the freshman scholarship and the merit grant. As I head to college in the fall, I will not forget SPJST and all that the organization has done for me. Sincerely, Brooke Hoelscher Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

Member shares 34 years of Insurance Department experience

Dear Members, Next week, delegates will set the course for SPJST for the next four years and on into the future. Congratulations to those selected to represent their lodges at the 31st Convention. Serving as a delegate is an honor. I am writing to ask for support as I seek re-election to the office of Vice President of the SPJST Supreme Lodge. T w e l v e years ago, I was elected to the office of Vice President, and I have had the privilege and honor of working with many of you across the state. During the last 12 years, we have seen many changes in SPJST and the business world. During my tenure as Vice President, I have put into place a department that excels at customer service to our members and develops outstanding plans of insurance that are competitive in the market . . . and I still have many exciting plans for the next four years. I am thankful for my continued status of excellent health that allows me to completely and competently fulfill the obligations of the office of Vice President, and I look forward to another four years of serving you and the entire membership of SPJST. On June 11, 12, and 13 in Killeen, Texas, many issues will be brought before the delegates. One of those will be the election of a candidate to the office of Vice President. While

many are seeking the position, I know you will elect the candidate who has all the qualifications including, but not limited to, knowledge of the HIPAA Act, Privacy Act, FCRA guidelines, the ability to design and implement life insurance plans and products, and possession of a General Lines - Life, Accident and Health license with the Texas Department of Insurance. I meet and have met all of these qualifications for the past 12 years as SPJST Supreme Lodge Vice President. I also manage the Insurance Department, State Field Representatives, and all sales agents; oversee SPJST’s compliance program, ensuring that SPJST’s insurance program is in compliance with the rules and regulations of all state and federal regulatory agencies; work with the actuary to see that all functions of the Insurance Department are compliant; coordinate and implement all marketing and advertising; oversee the review of all insurance applications; prepare necessary material and sales aids for insurance work; direct and oversee educational sales programs in every district; organize new lodges; increase net gain in membership; and strive to maintain a substantial growth of the Society. As head of underwriting, I have had extensive training in the underwriting field. In addition, I have earned FIC (Fraternal Insurance Counselor), FICF (Fraternal Insurance Counselor Fellow), and CFFM (Certified Fraternal Field Manager) designations in the fraternal life insurance industry. I have also served as president of the

Bastrop Wildfires

Continued from Page 1.

Volunteer needs include monetary donations, business planning, marketing, fundraising, grantseeking, art and

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national Fraternal Field Managers Association where I made contacts with insurance professionals from other fraternal organizations that I continue to network and consult with to improve the high standards that we currently strive to uphold in the Insurance Department. I have faith in the members and the delegates elected by our lodges to keep our Society strong and providing all of the great benefits to our membership. This year, I will celebrate my 34th anniversary with SPJST. And throughout these years, I have built foundations of respect and teamwork that I will continue to build upon by working with all departments, officers, directors, local lodges, members, and youth clubs within SPJST. Join hands, and we will make great things happen! My wife Frances and I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy attending the many lodge functions and meetings across the state. The SPJST hospitality and friendship shown to us by the members is a commodity as precious as gold and is an important part of our lives. I look forward to seeing each of you at the 31st Convention and ask for your support in re-electing me to the office of Vice President. If you have any input, suggestions, or questions, please contact me. With your vote of confidence, I will pledge to continue to serve you to the best of my abilities. Fraternally yours, Gene McBride, FICF, CFFM Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy —SPJST—

graphics design, volunteer management, website management, social networking skills, and E-commerce projects. We are so thankful for all that has been done to help the fire survivors. Thank you for your consideration. —SPJST—

GRADUATE CONGRATULATIONS! RODNEY MOZEE

Rodney Mozee is a member of Lodge 182, Falls County and a graduate of Marlin High School. Lodge 182 and Rodney’s family congratulate him on his graduation and wish him the best in the future.

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Drew Popelka announces candidacy for Supreme Lodge Vice President Dear Brothers and Sisters, Following a hiatus since the last quadrennial convention after serving as your Supreme Lodge Legal Advisor, I am honored to announce my candidacy for SPJST Supreme Lodge Vice President. Many delegates from District Two had requested that I run for Vice President at the 2008 Convention. However, because of the uncertainty of the availability of the position of Legal Advisor, I declined to pursue the office of Vice President at that time. The 2008 Convention removed the position of Legal Advisor, and since that time I have continued to operate my law practice in Temple as both an attorney and CPA. Some delegates may ask why I have waited until this time to announce my candidacy. As you are undoubtedly aware, there have been several announcements regarding retirement and candidacy and then the withdrawal of retirement and candidacies. There has also been chatter regarding the passing of the baton. As for business experience, I have been employed by several accounting firms, worked in the SPJST Home Office under the leadership of SecretaryTreasurer Leonard Mikeska, operated my own law firm and tax practice since 1999, and previously served on the Supreme Lodge as Legal Advisor. You may have a concern in that I am not a sales agent and may further wonder how such experience would translate in operating the Insurance Department. As you are aware, the Vice President is in charge of the Insurance Department and is responsible for SPJST sales agents, State Field Representatives, Insurance Department personnel, and marketing. These aspects involve managerial capabilities that entail the qualities of successful leadership, camaraderie, and vision. In operating my own business for over 12 years while acting as counsel, mediator, and problem-solver, I have earned and acquired the experience necessary to effectively manage the Insurance Department in a competent and proficient manner while producing measurable achievements of performance. Running my own business of a law firm has also provided essential experience in marketing in a cost-effective and target-directed approach. Yes, the Vice President is also responsible for having an intricate knowledge of the insurance products offered. My business experience in ad-

vising clients in my tax practice and my additional experience in making decisions regarding insurance and annuity products while serving on the Supreme Lodge have provided invaluable insight into the mechanics of the insurance and annuity products offered by SPJST. In other words, I already have an in-depth working knowledge of the financial products marketed by SPJST. Undoubtedly, I would have to learn the detailed terms of each product, but I am confident, and not arrogant, in expressing my heartfelt belief that these details would be mastered through concentrated effort. The Vice President also has the duty and responsibility for underwriting to protect the Society from unwarranted losses due to insurance policies that have been unjustifiably issued and from potential lawsuits from insurance applications that may have been wrongfully denied. Without question, my legal background will prove invaluable in this regard. As many of you are aware from my prior service on the Supreme Lodge, I am a firm believer in operating the affairs of the Society in a cost-effective manner. My business philosophy is based upon sustainable, long-term growth as opposed to short-term gimmicks that provide finite results. Quality over quantity, always and without exception. Additionally, from my prior service on the Supreme Lodge, you are certainly aware that I am a strong supporter of the SPJST Youth Program. It is a treasure that instills cultural pride, benevolence, leadership, and self-esteem into the future leaders of SPJST. Accordingly, our youth program

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

should be guarded with all diligence and fostered with tender care. SPJST has enjoyed a prolific existence for more than a century. Presently, the business environment continues to change at an exceptional pace. In the midst of ever-increasing competition from other insurance providers and the constant revisions of consumer desires, SPJST must be proactive in confronting these obstacles while preserving our cultural roots and proud heritage. With the right leadership, this task can be accomplished. I hope that the delegates of the 2012

Convention insure that, if they believe it is time to pass the baton as expressed by another candidate, the baton is passed to the most qualified runner. I am keenly aware of the responsibility of the office of SPJST Vice President. With confidence and yet with humility, I ask that the delegates of the 31st SPJST Convention afford me the opportunity to once again serve SPJST by electing me as Vice President. Fraternally, Drew Popelka Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

Candidates who have submitted announcements to the Vestnik for positions currently elected by delegates at the June 11 to 13 Convention are:

Supreme Lodge Directors District One Donnie Victorick (i) Lodge 9, Snook

Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek (i) Lodge 24, Cyclone

Supreme Lodge Vice President Delisle Doherty Lodge 255, Katy Frank Horak Lodge 80, Holland Gene McBride (i) Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Drew Popelka Lodge 47, Seaton

Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska (i) Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny (i) Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point

District Two Jesse Pospisil Lodge 29, Taylor Bobby Wuensche (i) Lodge 48, Beyersville District Three Johnnie Krizan Lodge 6, Cottonwood

District Four Larry Capps Lodge 157, Lubbock Billy Rollwitz (i) Lodge 49, Rowena

District Five No announcements submitted.

District Six Karen Kaspar Lodge 30, Taiton

District Seven Bob Bayer (i) Lodge 107, Floresville Chester Jenke Lodge 258, Seguin

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Minutes April 17, 18, and 19, 2012 Regular Meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST Held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas

PRESIDING The meeting was called to order by Supreme Lodge Chairman Donnie Victorick on April 17, 2012, at 8 a.m.

ATTENDING Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Gene McBride, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer; Donnie Victorick – District One/Chairman; Bobby Wuensche – District Two; Johnnie Krizan – District Three; Billy Rollwitz – District Four; Larry W. Pflughaupt – District Five; Michael Ahlstrom – District Six/Vice Chairman; Robert J. Bayer – District Seven. Officer—Roy Vajdak, Financial Secretary (participated by phone).

OPENING OF MEETING The meeting was opened with a welcome and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed in respect to our departed members and in honor of our armed forces. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska led the Supreme Lodge in an opening prayer. President Vanicek reviewed the list of visitors who would be attending the meeting. Other announcements were also made. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 17, 18 and 19, 2012 REGULAR MEETING The minutes were considered page by page.

Minutes approved as presented on motion by Director Pflughaupt and seconded by Director Bayer. Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 28, 2012 SPECIAL-CALLED MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. There were no corrections, and the minutes were approved as presented.

EXECUTIVE SESSION An executive session was called at 8:20 until 8:25 a.m. to consider the executive minutes from the January 17 to 19, 2012, Supreme Lodge meeting. MANAGEMENT TEAM MEETING NOTES Opportunity was given to review the weekly Management Team Meeting notes. Additional information was asked and shared on various matters that came up during the team meetings. Clarification was asked on various reports and decisions made by the Management Team as recorded in the Management Team Meeting notes.

Further information was requested about a report of a sales agent who was not recognized at the awards banquet. It was explained that action to give proper recognition is in process. Recess was taken from 9:25 until 10:25 a.m.

MINUTES OF OFFICERS’ MEETINGS CONCERNING INVESTMENTS The minutes of the 17 officers’ meetings concerning investments were considered. They are: January – 16, 25, 26 February – 1, 2, 13, 15, 21, 27 March – 2, 7, 8, 9, 19, 20, 21, 27

The minutes of officers’ meetings were acknowledged on motion by Director Rollwitz, seconded by Director Ahlstrom, and carried unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS

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REVIEW OF ANNUAL STATEMENT Financial Secretary Vajdak proceeded with a detailed review of our financial statement filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. Included in the line by line review were assets, liabilities, surplus, and other funds and a report that surplus increased to over $16.3 million. He also reviewed his summary of operations showing net income of $1.2 million and analysis of operations and various exhibits and schedules. Financial Secretary Vajdak commented that we are well poised for a good year in 2012. Recess was taken from 11:35 a.m. until 12:45 p.m.

REVIEW OF 401(k) EMPLOYEES’ PLAN James L. Lee, III of Raymond James was present to review the employees’ 401(k) plan. He reported that Hartford was planning to exit the retirement plan business, but he did not anticipate any adverse impact to SPJST employees. He provided a detailed review of the plan and a comprehensive report covering various details. James L. Lee, III gave an update on new Department of Labor requirements, disclosures, and regulations.

President Vanicek complimented James L. Lee, III on the outstanding professionalism he brings to our 401(k) administration. He is active in the SPJST and holds the position of president of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:05 until 1 p.m.

TEXAS CZECH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY (TCGS) Charlene Hurta of the TCGS was present to review plans for their Czech Veterans’ Wall of Honor display. Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny was also present. The Wall of Honor features Czech Veterans and wartime memorabilia. Detailed plans were reviewed on proposed possible expansion of the basement space. SPJST FOUNDATION President Vanicek gave an update on the status of setting up the SPJST Foundation. The Supreme Lodge went into executive session from 1:50 until 2:30 p.m. Recess was taken from 2:30 until 2:40 p.m.

REPORT ON SALES Vice President McBride reported that sales production was improved. He referred to a detailed report of certificates issued, insurance issued, and earned premium by district.

MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS Vice President McBride reviewed detailed reports on trained and pending sales agents and a report on the advertising accounts.

IRS 990/990T FORMS AND LODGE COMPLIANCE Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reported on lodges that have not furnished the Home Office with a roster of lodge officers and other mandatory reporting documents. He also reported on Power of Attorney forms from lodges authorizing the Home Office to file e-cards on their behalf and other Form 990 matters. VESTNIK Financial Secretary Vajdak gave a report that total Vestnik subscriptions now stand at 9,970.

INDEPENDENT AUDIT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported on progress of the independent audit being conducted by Jaynes, Reitmayer, Boyd and Therrell. The final report will be delivered by June 1, 2012.

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ADMIN SYSTEM Financial Secretary Vajdak discussed the need to fix problems with our Admin system. He and USSI are working on an extensive list of problems.

LODGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM – 2012 Financial Secretary Vajdak presented a list of final guidelines for the 2012 lodge incentive program. The list was carefully reviewed by the Supreme Lodge members, and some provisions required clarification.

A.M. BEST REVIEW The A.M. Best conference was completed, and their review is in progress. The A.M. Best 2012 rating information request required extensive amounts of information as illustrated in a letter received from them and furnished to the Supreme Lodge. DIRECTORS’ OLD BUSINESS

DISTRICT TWO Director Wuensche reported the following activities: attended Lodge 9, Snook fundraiser; presented matching funds to Buckholts Fire Department during Hee Haw show; attended SPJST Awards Banquet; attended State Tarok Tournament at Lodge 17, New Tabor; attended the Jno. Trilica Photography Display at S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living; attended District Two Skating Party in Temple; attended Lodge 48, Beyersville Turkey Shoot; attended sales class at Lodge 18, Elgin; attended District Two Spring Meeting at Lodge 48, Beyersville; attended the very informative and educational meeting by American Fraternal Alliance held in Austin (Board Member Institute); attended District Youth Counselors’ Meeting at Home Office in Temple; attended the reorganization of Lodge 89, Rosebud; and attended District Two Sales Agents’ Banquet at Ratibor Country Grill. He attended meetings at Lodge 48, Beyersville; attended Lodge 20, Granger meeting and installed officers; attended Home Office committee meeting/By-Law Committee; Lodge 18, Elgin; attended the planning of District Two Spring Meeting; Lodge 155, Austin; Lodge 80, Holland; Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point; Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy; Lodge 15, Buckholts meeting and Grand Age of 96 for member recognition for Hilda Burtis; Lodge 24, Cyclone; Lodge 87, Temple; Lodge 177, Academy; and attended by-law meeting for delegates at Lodge 29, Taylor. DISTRICT THREE Director Krizan reported that the American Veterans Traveling Wall which is an 80 percent replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be in the city of West during Memorial Day weekend at the West Fair and Rodeo Grounds from May 23 through May 28. He thanked the SPJST Society and local Lodges 6, Cottonwood; 35, Elk; 54, West; and 66, Waco for contributing $3,000 to help make this possible. In addition, Director Krizan stated that the local VFW Post No. 4819 which is the sponsor has invited SPJST to participate in this project during its stay in West. The opening ceremony will be at 1 p.m. on May 24, and a commemorative banquet is scheduled for 6 p.m. that same day.

DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz serviced a loan for a customer in January; attended Lodge 160, San Angelo annual meeting; attended supper, special-called meeting, and SPJST Awards Banquet in Temple; attended Lodge 49, Rowena meeting; attended special-called meeting with By-Law Committee in Temple; went with Bobby Davis to a meeting with Lodge 219, El Paso; attended Lodge 157, Lubbock presentation by the By-Law Committee; attended Lodge 76, Wichita Falls meeting; serviced a loan for a customer in March; attended American Fraternal Alliance Board Member Institute meeting in Austin, Texas; and gave director’s report at the lodge meetings.

DISTRICT FIVE Director Pflughaupt reported visiting with District Youth Counselor Barbara Gonzales; gave director’s report at monthly meeting for Lodge 181, Conroe and installed 2012 officers; participated in the SPJST Awards Banquet at the Mayborn Convention Center; attended District Youth Counselors’ spring meeting at Home Office; gave director’s report at monthly meeting for Lodge 181, Conroe; at-

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tended the University of St. Thomas’ “Mosaics of Faith” program which was partially sponsored by District Five Director’s Discretionary Funds; gave director’s report at monthly meetings for Lodges 88, Houston, 139, Danbury and 255, Katy; attended American Fraternal Alliance Board Member Institute in Austin; helped set up and assist with Lodge 88, Houston Easter egg hunt and party; participated in District Five Spring Meeting held at Lodge 81, Needville; and also attended April quarterly meeting of the Supreme Lodge.

Director Pflughaupt commended Financial Secretary Vajdak on an outstanding job of managing the Financial Secretary’s Department while confined to rehab. President Vanicek complimented Director Pflughaupt on his role in the “Mosaics of Faith” program in Houston.

DISTRICT SIX Director Ahlstrom reported attending District Six Cemetery Organization meeting; Lodge 8, Weimar meeting; attended SPJST Awards Banquet in Temple; Lodge 41, Port Lavaca meeting; Lodge 32, Victoria meeting; attended By-Law Committee meeting at Home Office; assisted with Lodge 32, Victoria Polka Fest; attended District Six Spring Meeting; Lodge 32, Victoria meeting; Lodge 97, Placedo meeting and installed officers; Lodge 151, Wharton meeting; Lodge 143, Inez meeting; attended District Six Sales Agent Banquet; attended American Fraternal Alliance Board Member Institute in Austin; attended sales agents’ meetings in Taiton and Victoria; and attended Lodge 32, Victoria meeting and social.

DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bayer reported the following activities: attended supper for Peanut Festival workers for Lodge 107, Floresville; attended District Seven officers’ meeting to set up District Seven Spring Meeting; attended special-called Supreme Lodge meeting before SPJST Awards Banquet; attended SPJST Awards Banquet at Mayborn Center; attended Lodge 202, Jourdanton meeting; attended Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; attended By-Law Committee meeting at the Home Office; attended Lodge 133, San Antonio meeting; had back surgery (confined to home for three weeks and no driving); I asked District Seven Fraternal Activities Coordinator Glen Pruski to deliver a plaque to Lodge 117, Robstown; attended District Seven Spring Meeting in Floresville; hosted District Seven memorial at the District Seven Spring Meeting; attended District Seven caucus at the spring meeting in Floresville; set up and attended sales agents’ banquet for District Seven agents; attended Lodge 79, Corpus Christi banquet and meeting; and attended Wilson County Commissioner’s Court for proclamation to Lodge 107 on its 100year birthday in Wilson County.

Director Bayer commented on a special proclamation from the Wilson County Commissioner’s Court on the 100th birthday of Lodge 107. He is looking forward to Lodge 107’s 100th anniversary.

DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick reported the following activities: attended SPJST Awards Banquet at Mayborn Center in Temple; attended Lodge 9, Snook meeting; attended Lodge 17, New Tabor meeting; Lodge 13, Dime Box meeting and presented incentive award; attended Fraternal Alliance of Texas Bowling Tournament in New Braunfels; attended Lodge 1, Fayetteville meeting and presented incentive award; attended Clarence Matula’s (Lodge 106, La Grange member) rosary in La Grange; attended By-Law Committee meeting in Temple; attended Lodge 169, Brenham meeting; delivered Lodge 51, Ellinger incentive award; attended Lodge 29, Taylor fundraiser; attended Structure Committee’s sub-committee meeting in Temple; attended Lodge 141, Sealy meeting; attended By-Law Committee meeting in Temple; attended American Fraternal Alliance Board Member Institute in Austin; attended Youth Leaders’ Workshop in Temple; attended A.M. Best conference call with officers in Temple; attended Lodge 88, Houston Easter party; attended insurance sales class seminar in Schulenburg; attended insurance sales class seminar in Caldwell; attended Finance Committee meeting at Home Office; and attended District One Spring Meeting at Lodge 38, Kovar.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

EDITOR’S TRAVEL AND MEETINGS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny gave a detailed report of travel and meetings. VESTNIK REPORT Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on various matters pertaining to the Vestnik.

SPJST FLOATS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on float appearances this quarter and 18 scheduled appearances in parades and events.

ACTIVITIES AND MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on annual lodge mailings, lodge/youth club media assistance, Tribute 2012 promotions, SPJST Awards Banquet, Vestnik Valentines, term rate sheets, and her presentation at TCGS’ annual meeting. Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny also reported on numerous activities in progress. Recess for the day was taken at 5:05 p.m. until 8 a.m. on April 18, 2012. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska opened the meeting with prayer.

Jesse Pospisil, a member of Lodge 29, Taylor, was present.

Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky was present to give the human resources report.

RISK MANAGEMENT Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky reviewed a report on various insurance policy coverages insuring the Society. The matter of Errors and Omission coverage for sales agents was discussed. Cost and coverage were the focus of the discussion. It was decided that more information is needed, and the matter was postponed pending receipt of more information and details on the terms of insurance coverage.

Recess was taken from 11:20 until 11:35 a.m.

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STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR’S REPORT State Youth Director Frank Horak reviewed his detailed report. He distributed youth club reports and itemized listing of allocations. He also reviewed his daily time record and activities during the quarter.

President Vanicek moved that working with State Youth Director Horak, he will establish a common audit form for District Youth Counselors to be presented in the July Supreme Lodge meeting. Motion was seconded by Director Pflughaupt and carried unanimously.

State Youth Director Horak is preparing Leader-in-Training and Youth Leaders’ Workshop handouts. Various Supreme Lodge members complimented State Youth Director Horak on the fine job that he is doing. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:10 until 1 p.m.

EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARD Sandra Dubcak was honored and presented a 15-year service award. She serves as Executive Assistant to the President. President Vanicek praised Sandra for her outstanding service to SPJST, and she responded accordingly.

NEW EMPLOYEE New employee Susan Neal was introduced by Financial Secretary Vajdak. Susan serves as Accounting Assistant.

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR’S REPORT State Fraternal Activities Coordinator (SFAC) Chester Jenke presented his report for the quarter. He reviewed his attendance of lodge meetings and activities.

SFAC Jenke shared a list of goals for the coming months. He distributed a list of 30 lodges that will be participating in Join Hands Day events. SFAC Jenke was thanked for doing an outstanding job.

INCENTIVE PROGRAM – 2012 The final guidelines for the lodge incentive program were reviewed as corrected.

GROUP HEALTHCARE COVERAGE The matter of employees’ group health/life/long-term disability coverage was taken up. Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky reviewed an analysis cost over the past four years.

NEW BUSINESS

The Supreme Lodge went into executive session from 9:25 until 9:45 a.m.

NATIONAL CZECH AND SLOVAK MUSEUM AND LIBRARY President Vanicek reported on an invitation to attend the grand opening of the Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The dates of the events are July 14 and 15, 2012. Director Pflughaupt moved that President Vanicek and his wife Joan be authorized to attend. Director Ahlstrom seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 8:58 until 9:25 a.m.

INVESTMENT REPORT Buddie Ballard of Alpha Capital Management was present to review a quarterly report of SPJST’s investment portfolio. The report was extensively reviewed. Vice Chairman Ahlstrom was asked to chair the meeting. Various reports were reviewed and performance information was shared. The chair was returned to Chairman Victorick.

Reports indicated that the market value of the portfolio exceeds the book value by near $5 million. Statutory book yield as of March 30, 2012, is 5.99 percent.

The Investment Policy Statement (IPS) was brought up for review. Director Pflughaupt moved approval of the changes to the IPS as proposed including the action to liquidate all non-investment grade bonds within 30 days of each downgrade. Motion was seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska. During discussion, it was pointed out that due to vast improvement of the quality of our portfolio, it was now feasible to liquidate the few remaining non-investment grade legacy bonds left from past years. Vote was taken, and the motion carried unanimously.

SPJST MODEL LODGE PROGRAM President Vanicek discussed a prepared presentation of the SPJST Model Lodge Program. The goal is to present the program at every lodge. The program is not connected with any incentive program.

SCHOLARSHIPS There was discussion about SPJST scholarships. Financial Secretary Vajdak was auditing the funds received and distributed and would soon announce the amount of funds that would be available.

SERVICING UNIVERSAL LIFE CERTIFICATES Vice President McBride presented a report on the status of servicing Universal Life certificates. It was determined that a standardized response form be used to document the servicing contact. AGENT SPRING CLASSES Vice President McBride reported he has completed sales classes in four districts. He stated he intends to begin new methods of training contacts by using webinars.

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He also discussed setting up a process to enable sales agents to work with fraternal activities coordinators and perhaps lodge officers, etc.

NON-PRODUCING SALES AGENTS Vice President McBride reviewed a list of agents who have not written a certificate for the last two years.

CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM Jesse Pospisil was present and expressed appreciation for $10,000 donated to the Czech Heritage Museum by SPJST Lodge 88, Houston. Recess was taken from 3:10 until 3:20 p.m.

DELINQUENCIES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska brought up for consideration 10 delinquent loans. The circumstances of each loan were reviewed, and recommendations for action were presented. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the recommendations be approved. Director Rollwitz seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

QUARTERLY INVESTMENTS After due consideration, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the 133 investment actions and three real estate loans be ratified. Director Bayer seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

SECURITIES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reported that we were in process of converting our Schedule D investment software to a new Portman system.

INTEREST SENSITIVE PRODUCTS The payout rate for Universal Life was considered. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the UL payout rate be left at 4.50 percent for the period from April 30 through July 31, 2012. The motion was seconded by Director Krizan, and it carried unanimously. The payout rate for annuities was considered. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the payout rate on Annuity I be set at 5 percent (the guaranteed rate) and on Annuity II, III, IV, Roth, Immediate Annuities, and minor’s claims at 3.25 percent for the period from April 30 through July 31, 2012. President Vanicek seconded, and the motion failed on a tie vote. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President McBride, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Bayer, and Director Victorick. Voting in opposition: Director Wuensche, Director Krizan, Director Rollwitz, Director Pflughaupt, and Director Ahlstrom.

Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the payout rate on Annuity I be set at 5 percent, and the payout rate on Annuity II, III, IV, Roth, Immediate Annuities and minor’s claims be set at 3.50 percent for the period from April 30 through July 31, 2012. Director Krizan seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the rates on the 5-Year Annuity be set as follows: Band 1 – 3.50% Band 2 – 3.60% Band 3 – 3.70%

Director Krizan seconded, and the motion carried on a vote of six in favor and four opposed. Voting in favor: Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Wuensche, Director Krizan, Director Rollwitz, Director Pflughaupt, and Director Ahlstrom. Voting in opposition: President Vanicek, Vice President McBride, Director Victorick, and Director Bayer. The rate was set for the period from April 30 through July 31, 2012. SPJST 31ST CONVENTION Information was shared on plans in place for the convention. The information reviewed plans for events, food, convention center setup, staff requirements, and other details.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

MONTHLY STATEMENT Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the statement of operations for the month ending March 31, 2012. LODGE MANAGEMENT ACCOUNT Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the changes in the account during 2012. The sum of $10,000 was added, and $18,500 was withdrawn.

DUE DATE/GRACE PERIOD ON CERTIFICATES Financial Secretary Vajdak reported he is working to conform the dates for the grace period and lapse notices with the terms of our certificates. Recess for the day was taken at 5:20 p.m. until 8 a.m. on April 19. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska opened the day with prayer.

CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM President Vanicek read a letter from the Finance Committee addressing the need of an administrator for the Czech Heritage Museum requesting that the Supreme Lodge take some action that would enable filling of this need. The needs of the Czech Heritage Museum and SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) were discussed at length.

Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the Supreme Lodge endorse the following recommendation: That the Finance Committee request from the convention an allocation to the SPJST ENC and Czech Heritage Museum equivalent to the amount necessary to bring their loans current prior to year-end 2012 and that the Finance Committee be empowered to review and consider donation requests to the SPJST ENC and Czech Heritage Museum at its annual meetings in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Director Wuensche seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. ASSIGNING OF MEMBERS There was discussion about procedures in reassigning of members from disbanded lodges. Board went into executive session from 9:10 until 9:18 a.m. Recess was taken from 9:18 until 9:35 a.m.

EMPLOYEES’ GROUP HEALTHCARE BENEFITS Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky presented comparisons of the bids on the employees’ group benefit plan, and the Supreme Lodge carefully reviewed them.

Tim Davis of Texas Benefit Alliance was present to review his findings. He distributed a prepared proposal and discussed changes that might need to be made to the SPJST plan design. No action was taken. Director Krizan left the meeting at 10:15 a.m. for a medical appointment.

CONVENTION SEATING The directors drew for the seating positions of the delegates of each district. The outcome was that Districts Two, Five, and Four would have the front position in section one, two, and three. Districts Three, Six, and Seven would be seated next followed by District One. INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT Mack Purifoy of Purifoy Insurance was present to bring information on the outside sales force errors and omissions coverage. He explained how the primary policy is determined if an agent has their own insurance. Various options were explored, and premiums would be obtained for different options and limits. The current E&O policy expires in August 2012 and decision regarding E&O coverage will be made in the July Supreme Lodge meeting. Recess was taken from 11:03 until 11:15 a.m.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Actuary Allen Bailey of Bailey, Ramsey and Associates was present.

PRODUCTS Actuary Bailey commented that our portfolio of products was adequate. He did share some ideas to grow life premium base without affecting surplus. He discussed the success of the Final Expense Plan and proposed we look at mailing all annuity holders a proposal to buy an insurance certificate. The proposal was explored, but the plan was declined.

A plan was discussed that would allow annuity holders to convert after-tax proceeds from their annuity into life insurance, subject to insurability. It was decided to work up a proposed mailout for consideration in the July Supreme Lodge meeting. Another concept discussed is to develop a consistent program to send a letter to all annuities coming out of penalty providing them a bonus if the funds are transferred to a new annuity. The concept will be pursued for further development. President Vanicek brought up for consideration offering a 10-Pay Life policy. President Vanicek moved, and Director Pflughaupt seconded that we proceed with development and marketing a 10-Pay Life plan. Vote was taken, and the motion carried with eight in favor and one opposed. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President McBride, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Wuensche, Director Pflughaupt, Director Ahlstrom, and Director Bayer. Voting in opposition was Director Rollwitz. Actuary Allen Bailey discussed the positives his firm brings to SPJST.

President Vanicek acknowledged the generosity of the Bailey, Ramsey and Associates firm in underwriting the cost of entertainment on Sunday evening at the Convention Howdy Party and the band on Tuesday evening at the Convention Banquet. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:45 until 1 p.m. Director Krizan returned.

Wiley Shockley, President of RVOS, was present. He reviewed a proposal to allow each of our organizations to offer products that we do not currently offer. SPJST could organize an agency that could then offer products such as auto insurance and home products. It was agreed that President Vanicek pursue developing more information on this matter. AUDIT The directors will meet with auditors from Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd, and Therrell for an entry meeting at 10 a.m. on May 7, 2012.

Financial Secretary Vajdak reported his findings on several items questioned by the Audit Committee during the January 2012 audit. The Supreme Lodge went into executive session at 2:40 p.m. until 3:05 p.m.

DIRECTORS’ NEW BUSINESS

DISTRICT TWO Director Wuensche brought up for discussion the option to allow credit for a sales agent belonging to a lodge in one district to go to the district where the sale takes place. No action taken.

Director Wuensche reported that he was not in favor of publishing the names of members in a disbanded lodge to other lodges in the area.

DISTRICT THREE Director Krizan expressed his appreciation for being recognized at last night’s evening meal at Ratibor Country Grill for 15 years of service as a director of the Supreme Lodge. He also thanked the Supreme Lodge for the invitation to attend

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the American Fraternal Alliance Board Member Institute held recently in Austin, Texas. Director Krizan stated certain portions of this seminar were highly beneficial to him by reinforcing his feelings on the importance of membership requirements and meeting the common bond criteria to join the fraternal benefit society.

Director Krizan then offered congratulations to SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville on celebrating its 100th anniversary this Sunday, April 22, 2012, and thanked them for the invitation to which he would be unable to attend due to the District Three Spring Meeting held on the same day.

Director Krizan then stated our Society has always been very unique and forward looking and with the challenges facing us at this year’s convention, we should continue to thoroughly research each challenge and act in a way that preserves our independence and financial stability. He also stated that it is important to understand our chartered purpose, to always try to do the right thing, and be fair in all our dealings. In addition, Director Krizan reiterated that all members of the Supreme Lodge serve at the pleasure of the membership and should always hold their duty in high regard. In closing, Director Krizan made the following announcements:

April 22 – District Three Spring Meeting at Lodge 6, Cottonwood May 25 to 27 – National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas June 24 – District Three Youth Achievement Day at Lodge 92, Fort Worth July 5-8 – District Three Youth Camp at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm July 15 – 115th Annual Picnic at Lodge 6, Cottonwood July 28 – Lodge 92, Fort Worth Tarok Tournament August 18 – Princess Ball at Lodge 84, Dallas August 31 to September 2 – Westfest

DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz reported on upcoming activities in his district.

DISTRICT FIVE Director Pflughaupt discussed the many tasks that are a work in-progress. He commented on the recent American Fraternal Alliance conference and the challenges of the times. He stated we must look ahead. He commented on his observations of procedures of the Supreme Lodge and the Alliance’s interpreted position that the directors should be responsible for tracking effectiveness of officers. He commented on the American Fraternal Alliance’s positions on governance and the need for societies to follow best practices.

Director Pflughaupt thanked Director Krizan for his 15 years on the Supreme Lodge.

Director Pflughaupt said he was thankful to Financial Secretary Vajdak for using his talents to fulfill our objectives. DISTRICT SIX Director Ahlstrom shared various information with the Supreme Lodge and commented on the Red Flag Laws related to preventing identity theft.

Director Ahlstrom congratulated Director Krizan for 15 years on the Supreme Lodge. He also congratulated Lodge 107, Floresville on its 100th anniversary. DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bayer congratulated Director Krizan on his 15 years of service.

Director Bayer discussed the three-year moratorium of lapses in lodges. It was determined that lapses are only deducted for two years. The 2010 and 2011 lapses are eliminated. Certificates that lapse in 2012 will not be counted.

DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick congratulated Director Krizan on 15 years of service and Lodge 107, Floresville on its 100th anniversary.

Director Victorick commented we have a lot to do, and we are on the right track.

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ADJOURNMENT Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick adjourned the meeting at 4:35 p.m.

The next regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge will be held on July 17, 18, and 19, 2012. Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—

Minutes May 7, 2012 Special-Called Meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST Held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas

PRESIDING The meeting was called to order by Supreme Lodge Chairman Donnie Victorick on May 7, 2012, at 1 p.m.

OPENING OF MEETING The meeting was opened with a welcome and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed in respect to our departed members and in honor of our armed forces. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska led the Supreme Lodge in an opening prayer.

AGENDA OF SPECIAL-CALLED MEETING 1. Review and/or ratify recommendations related to SPJST employee health plan.

2. Discussion and affirmation of handling of lapse practices on certificates previously assigned, especially as this relates to any existing and/or pending SPJST incentive programs. 3. Review of matters related to SPJST life insurance certificate issuance and/or administration.

INCENTIVE PROGRAM President Vanicek brought up for final clarification the handling of lapses related to qualification for the incentive program. It was concluded during the discussion that $25 of the incentive amount will be credited on certificates issued. Subsequently, certificates in force 13 months later will be credited the additional $15 per certificate. No previous lapses will be deducted.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS RECOMMENDATION President Vanicek distributed cost comparisons of the proposals for employee benefits. The various features of each proposal were reviewed and discussed. The officers presented their recommendation. It was explained that the SPJST approach has made it possible to utilize higher deductibles for significant cost savings.

President Vanicek moved approval of the following plan: SPJST pays 80 percent of the premium on an employee-only case and employee pays 20 percent, and SPJST pays $15 of the $30 co-pay per visit for the first five visits. Additionally, SPJST pays the first $4,000 of the out-of-pocket maximum of $8,000 on an employee-only case. The total estimated annual cost of the employee benefit plan is

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$145,393.20 based on the current census. Vice President McBride seconded, and the motion carried on a vote of six in favor and four opposed. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President McBride, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Wuensche, Director Rollwitz, and Director Bayer. Voting in opposition: Director Victorick, Director Krizan, Director Pflughaupt, and Director Ahlstrom. The Supreme Lodge went into executive session from 1:45 until 3:08 p.m.

Various matters relating to life insurance certificate administration were reviewed.

ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick adjourned the meeting at 3:20 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—

From the Fraternal Department

State Fraternal Activities Coordinator: June Fraternal Updates

Reserve your Room Now for the End of Summer Getaway By popular demand, good times again await you at the Corpus Christi getaway. Start making your plans now to join us on August 10 to 12, 2012, for a fun-filled weekend. A new feature has been added this year. Lodge 79, Corpus Christi member Larry Elzner has organized a golf tournament for all you golfers on Friday morning, August 10. Contact Larry (361) 687-7125 to register. Rooms have been blocked at the Holiday Inn Emerald Beach. If you have not already done so, please make your reservations as soon as possible by calling the hotel (361) 883-5731 and refer to group code “SPJ” to assure proper room rates.

2013 State Tournaments Letters will be mailed to all lodge presidents and secretaries inviting them to submit their interest in hosting one or more of the 2013 state tournaments. If your lodge is interested, please submit your intent and choices to my office not later than July 1.

Flag Day is June 14 The week of June 14 is designated as National Flag Week. During National Flag Week, the President will issue a proclamation urging United States citizens to fly the American Flag for the duration of that week. In the United States, Flag Day is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental

Congress in 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day. In August 1949, an Act of Congress established National Flag Day. Please take a few moments on this date to pause and recite the Pledge of A l l e giance, and we encourage you to talk to your children, grandchildren, and friends a b o u t what the f l a g means to you. Because others have given their lives to secure our freedom, we have the freedom to participate in this national observance. In lieu of the traditional Flag Day celebration in Temple, SPJST will host a brief Flag Day celebration at 8 a.m. June 13 in front of the Killeen Civic and Conference Center prior to the convening of the final day’s activities of the 31st Convention. All members and guests are invited to attend the celebration. Your lodge may want to join with veterans organizations in your community and be a part of the celebration. This would count as a patriotic act on your lodge’s mid-year report.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Observe Father’s Day— Sunday, June 17 In the United States, the first modern Father’s Day celebration was held on July 5, 1908, in Fairmont, West Virginia. It was first celebrated as a church service at Williams Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church South, now known as Central United Methodist Church. Grace Golden Clayton, who is believed to have suggested the service to the pastor, is believed to have been inspired to celebrate fathers after the deadly mine explosion in nearby Nonongah the prior December. This explosion killed 361 men, many of them fathers and recent immigrants to the United States from Italy. Another possible inspiration for the service was Mother’s Day, which was recently celebrated for the first time in Grafton, West Virginia, a town about 15 miles away. Another driving force behind the establishment of the integration of Father’s Day was Mrs. Sonora Smart Dodd, born in Creston, Washington. Her father, the Civil War Veteran William Jackson Smart, as a single parent raised his six children in Spokane, Washington. She was inspired by Anna Jarvis’s efforts to establish Mother’s Day. Although she

initially suggested June 5, the anniversary of her father’s death, she did not provide the organizers with enough time to make arrangements, and the celebration was deferred to the third Sunday of June. The first June Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in Spokane. Unofficial support from such figures as William Jennings Bryan was immediate and widespread. President Woodrow Wilson was personally feted by his family in 1916. President Calvin Coolidge recommended it as a national holiday to be celebrated on the third Sunday of June. The holiday was not officially recognized until 1972, during the presidency of Richard Nixon. Therefore, Father’s Day was born as a token of love and gratitude that a daughter cherishes for her beloved father. Roses are for the Father’s Day flowers: red to be worn for a living father and white if the father has died.

Fraternal (FAC) Mid-Year Report Please keep in mind that the pink mid-year form (three-part carbonless) will be due in the office of the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator on July 13. Please take a few minutes to look over the form and complete the

Calling All Golfers!

Corpus C orpus C Christi hristi Tourney! Tourney! Pictured a Pictured above bove is one of the many pictur picturesque esque views Beach Course Corpus of the Oso Beac h Golf Cour se in Cor pus Christi. Cayo watershed, Built along the Cay o de Oso w ater shed, the course will site SPJST Tournacour se w ill be tthe he s ite of tthe he S PJST Golf T our naFriday, August ment tto o be held on F riday, A ugust 10 in conjuncconjunc Corpus Away tion with the 2012 Cor pus Christi Get Aw ay Weekend. Tournament will be We ekend. T our nament rregistration e gistration w ill b e player, including cart. To $31.66 per play er,, inc er luding golf car t. T o rregister, egister er,, please contact Larry Elzner SPJST Corpleas e cont act Lar ry E lzner of S PJST Lodge 79, C orChristi via att lar larry.elzner@yahoo.com. pus C hristi at at 361.687.7125 or v ia email a r y.elzner ner@ @yahoo.com.

Your Yo ur early early rresponse esponse to to tthis his c call all iis sg greatly reatly a appreciated! ppreciated!

first part (mid-year) and mail it to my office in Temple on or before the due date. If you have any questions or if you need assistance in filling out the form, please feel free to contact me. We are here to help if you need assistance. Please feel free to call me (210) 413-3053 or email cejenke@gvec.net, or contact Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez (800) 727-7578 or (254) 773-1575 or email tammym@spjst.com. Your District Fraternal Activities Coordinator is also available to assist you. District FACs are: District One FAC Kyle Skrabanek (979) 272-3440

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District Two FAC Ruth Hanusch (254) 771-0193 District Three FAC Vicki Sims (214) 763-0341 District Four FAC Sylvia Rollwitz (325) 442-3141 District Five FAC Patricia Bruce (281) 890-4933 District Six FAC Helen Zabransky (361) 798-3347 District Seven FAC Glen Pruski (956) 235-8014 Fraternally submitted, Chester Jenke, FICF State Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

Around the Districts From the Desk of Delisle Doherty Districts One and Five State Field Representative Many successful business people to pass my business to my son. As have been able to reach their pinnacle much as I love the business, I had to by removing their limitations. At the realize that I could not keep up with same time many have fallen from the the day-to-day grind. My customers peak because they wouldn’t let go. were not getting the level of service Pride keeps us they deserved. I could have held on going, and pride and watched my customers disappear will knock us because I couldn’t service them, or I down. could have passed it on to the team Brett Farve and let them continue providing our was one of the clients expected. I still consult for greatest quarterhim, and our business is as good as backs of our time. ever, because I let go. If I lived off my He was the best pride, I may ultimately not have a loved person in Delisle Doherty business to pass to my son. Wisconsin for Pride is one of the seven deadly many years. He could have been the sins. Don’t let pride kill everything mayor of Green Bay, if he wanted. He you accomplished. It is okay to go out had a chance to go out on top and pass on top. It is okay to say I gave it my the baton to what seems to be one of the best quarterbacks in the game best. It is time to enjoy my accomtoday, but he wouldn’t let go. He ulti- plishments. If you are an agent, it is mately retired and came back three okay to pass your clients to a younger times. Each time he failed. He has agent to keep up the level of service more detractors than ever. He is now your customers deserve. If you are a one of the most hated sports figures in lodge leader, it is okay to say I can’t Wisconsin. Forget about mayor, he put the time and effort needed to keep wouldn’t be able to wash a person’s with today’s needs. Whether you are car in Green Bay. Everything he did in an agent or a lodge leader, you earned his career (three MVPs, two Super the right to sit back and enjoy what Bowls, Pro Bowl for 11 years, and you accomplished. It’s okay to pass many records) are all forgotten be- the baton. Don’t let pride take it away cause he did not want to let go. When from you. If you are worried there will be no people talk about Brett Farve, the response you always hear is “What a baton to pass to your family, call an tragedy. He should have quit while he agent or your state field representative was on top.” and they can help preserve your acWe are all human, and there comes complishments for future generations. a time in everyone’s life when you We will give you a free analysis and have to let go and pass that baton. insure your legacy will live on. Two years ago, I realized it was time —SPJST—

Don’t Be Afraid To Pass The Baton

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

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Scenes from District Six Delegates’ Meeting Tuesday, May 22, 2012 • SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Hall

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Lisa Bubela (30), Rita Vanek (151), Carmen Kocurek (40), and Janie and David Bucek (151). CENTER PHOTO: Jeanette and Glenn Kaminsky and Helen and Anton J. “Tony”

Kelner, all of Lodge 28, East Bernard. RIGHT PHOTO: Jerry Gensler, Vlasta Bartos, Mary Ann Cerny, and Ardis Bacak, all of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje.

Left to right are Susan Siptak (4), guest Dorothy Mikeska, Franklin Elles (32), Elmer Michna (184), James C. Kocurek (40), Gayenell Chudej (4),

Ann Marie Moseley (63), Shirley Kalmus (4), Yvonne Garrett (97), and Karen Kaspar (30).

LEFT PHOTO: JoAnn and Leo Jares (8) and Wanda Dorotik (30). CENTER PHOTO: Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska, Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny, District

Six Director Michael Ahlstrom, and State Field Representative Karen Kaspar. RIGHT PHOTO: Guest David Nauert with Lisa Bubela, Karen Kaspar, Yvonne Marcaurele, and Debbie Krpec, all of Lodge 30, Taiton.

Left to right are District Six Director Michael Ahlstrom (32), Joe Siptak (4), Kathy Ahlstrom (32), Lois Elles (32), Jeanette Kaminsky (28), Frank

Faltisek, Delia Floyd (40), Susan Siptak (4), Helen Zabransky (4), and Elaine Berkovsky (63).

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

Lodge 24, Cyclone reports on May meeting

Dear Readers, Lodge 24, Cyclone held its meeting on Monday evening, May 13, 2012. There were 12 members and two guests present. We welcomed Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Pospisil to our meeting. They are from Lodge 29, Taylor. Mr. Pospisil is running for District Two Director. We began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and remained standing for a moment of silence for all deceased members. President Wilde also reminded us to continue praying for our men and women in the military, here and abroad. Minutes from the previous meeting were read by Secretary Margaret Mikeska. They were approved as read. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Shirley Hoelscher reported on upcoming events. The End of Summer Getaway is August 12 to 14. Cookbooks are still available. Bar Chairman Wilbert Mikeska gave his report. Assistant Youth Leader Brenda Maddux gave her report. There were 15 youth and 16 adults at their meeting. She said the quilt raffle that was held at the Mother’s Day Barbecue was a success. They will be donating money to the Special Olympics for youth, and they will also be helping at this event. We want to thank the youth who helped out at the barbecue. The youth club takes care of the dessert booth, and we also had kids helping serve in the inside and outside lines. We thank everyone who helped in any way at the barbecue and for donating desserts. A big thank you also goes out to all who came and purchased plates that day. We hope you enjoyed them.

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) 773-8087

Email: melaniez@vvm.com

Questions? Call (800) 727-7578

Congratulations to our recent graduates from different areas: Samuel Vanicek—Rogers High School Valedictorian; Shirley Hoelscher with a masters of science degree in library information science; Cathy Bruggman; and Kim Craft. We are proud of your accomplishments. Birthdays for May were Jennifer Hoelscher on the 2nd, Joseph Hoelscher on the 20th, Wilbert Mikeska and Theresa Klecka on the 8th, Ann Schneider on the 9th, and Kym Campbell on the 14th. Anniversaries reported were Jason and Shirley Hoelscher on May 6, Anton and Albina Vrazel on the 7th, and Jason and Kristin Nash on the 21st. Reported on the sick list was Judy Andel. Next Meeting—June 11 Our next meeting will be on June 11. Please come and join us. Fraternally, Theresa Klecka, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard honors longtime members

Dear Members, Due to the SPJST Convention, Lodge Karel Jonáš will not hold a regular meeting in June. A short meeting may take place at the convention site only if a quorum is present. The next monthly meeting is scheduled to take place on the second Sunday of July - the 8th - in the Community Room of the East Bernard Branch Library, 746 Clubside Drive, and will convene at 12 noon. Should there be a change, it will be in the next letter just before the meeting.

The May meeting, on the 20th, started a little early - 11:45 a.m. since 95 percent of those members usually present were there along with recipients and guests. After convening the meeting, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, remembering our departed members and servicemen, Vice President/Sales Agent Glenn Kaminsky, FIC, gave grace and the meeting recessed for the meal. The plates for the meal were purchased from the Little League fundraiser and consisted of barbecue chicken and trimmings. The persons doing the barbecue did an excellent job for not only was the chicken tasty, but it literally fell off the bones. Each plate had a half chicken plus a very generous serving of vegetables. After reconvening the meeting, three motions were made and passed. The first dispensed with reading of the minutes and treasurer’s report. The second was to not have a meeting in June. The third was to donate to a fundraiser for a very ill baby boy named Hayden Beeson who has a terminal genetic disorder known as SMA. He is the grandson of East Bernard resident Gary Kubicek. After the short business session, the floor was first turned over to retiring District Six Director/Supreme Lodge Vice Chairman Michael Ahlstrom, FIC, CFFM, for his report. Next, the floor was turned over to District Six State Field Representative Karen Kaspar, FIC, CFFM. Finally, it was turned over to Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, FIC for his report and presentation of the 50-year pins. The 50-year

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pin recipients present were Kenneth Bohacek and Josephine Ferguson. The no-shows were Robert J. Brandes, Gary Lee Korenek, and Kevin L. Sliva. Our 75-year membership pin recipient Ludmila “Lili” Talafuse could not attend so after the meeting, Supreme Lodge President Vanicek, Director Ahlstrom, SFR Kaspar, and Lodge 28 President Nezval took the pin plus to her for the presentation. Our very special thanks to SL President Vanicek, Director Ahlstrom, and SFR Kaspar for taking the time to attend. Special thanks number two goes to Jeanette and Glenn Kaminsky for getting the community room etcetera fixed up for the meeting. (Note: Glenn is Lodge 28 Vice President). Special thanks number three goes to Lodge 28 Secretary Helen Kelner and Lodge 28 Treasurer A.J. “Tony” Kelner for bringing the additionals needed for the meal etcetera. Special thanks number four goes to our youngest member - seven-year-old Wyatt Ohl - who was the presentation runner to give out United States flags to everyone for Memorial Day, handed out the door prizes to winners as they were called, and presented a gift to retiring District Six Director Ahlstrom. To the faithful: Watch for the news of the next meeting, hope you can make the next meeting, and this writer remains . . . Fraternally yours, Joseph D. Nezval, FIC President —SPJST—

Mickey Wiggins, Ian Brumlow, Cullen Hairrell Presented Scholarships

Congratulations to Snook High School honor graduates, second from left to right, Mickey Wiggins, Ian Brumlow, and Cullen Hairrell, all of Lodge 9, Snook. They were presented SPJST Scholarships by District One Director Donnie Victorick at Snook ISD.

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Lodge 30, Taiton hosts graduation social and Join Hands Day project

Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 30, Taiton held its regular monthly meeting on May 6, 2012 at the Taiton Community Center after having come together with the youth to clean the highway for Join Hands Day. The members returned from cleaning to enjoy a hot dog supper. President Yvonne Marcaurele called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. Members present recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was observed for any sick or departed members. Secretary Wanda Dorotik read the roll call of officers and members. Wanda then read the minutes from the April meeting. The minutes were approved as read. Treasurer Lisa Bubela gave her report on the financial standing of our lodge. She asked for any outstanding bills. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Tommy Drapela reported on the events occurring around the state. He thanked all members present for participating in our Join Hands Day. He gave an update on making a movable burn ring to be placed at SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) at Cooper Farm. Everyone was very excited about the plan. Youth Leader Lisa Bubela reported on the comings and goings of our youth program. She told everyone

about the upcoming trip to Splashway in Sheriden, and a date was discussed. Final plans will come next month. State Field Representative Karen Kaspar then gave a report on the sales for our lodge this year. Keep up the great work, all sales agents! She encouraged the members to continue to give the sales agents new leads to continue to build our lodge. Karen Kaspar asked if our lodge would be interested in donating the printing of the raffle tickets for St. John’s Catholic Church’s 100-year celebration. It was discussed and decided that we would make the donation. There were no birthdays or anniversaries in May. Our next meeting will be on Sunday, June 3 at Taiton Community Center. The adult lodge will meet at 1:30 p.m., and the youth meeting will follow. The meeting was adjourned by President Yvonne Marcaurele. Fraternally yours, Marjorie Treumer Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Lodge 18, Elgin Presents Scholarship to Abel Zapata

Abel Zapata received one of Lodge 18, Elgin’s 2012 scholarships. Abel is the son of Mary and Cecil Rico and Robert Zapata. Abel will attend University of Texas at San Antonio. Pictured above are, left to right, Mary Rico, Abel Zapata, Lodge 18 President Charles Wilson, and Cecil Rico. Congratulations, Abel! —Submitted by Irene Vrabel

Lodge 32, Victoria cancels June meeting

Our June meeting has been cancelled due to the convention. You will be notified by phone of a rescheduled date. Please do not show up on June 7 or 14 - no one will be there! Our July meeting will be on Thursday, July 12 at 6:30 p.m. We’ll finalize details of the August 9 meeting when we will honor our new 50-year members with a pin presentation and

Lodge 18, Elgin: A Great Place to Celebrate!

Happy times at SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin! Melba and Wayne came to the Holub Polka Band dance to celebrate one week of marriage. A great time was had to some great music by the Holub Band. Friends danced with the couple and helped them celebrate. A few pictured include Betsy, Evelyn, Patricia, Wilber, Betty, and Walter. The couple danced to a dedicated song as everyone made a big circle

around them like at weddings. What fun! Everyone at the dance enjoyed the great music. Lodge 18, Elgin hall is a great place to celebrate. On Father’s Day— Sunday, June 17—we have another great band Czech and Then Some. Bring your dad and have a party to help celebrate dad’s day. Cost is $7 per person and no clean up! What could be better? —Submitted by Irene Vrabel

meal. We’re happy to hear Evelyn Horelka is getting better each day. Please continue prayers for Evelyn and her family as she continues to recoup from her surgery. Wishing all fathers a happy Father’s Day . . . it’s just around the corner! Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje plans June 17 family day

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje was called to order by Vice President Dee Floyd on May 20, 2012, at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for the sick, deceased, and all of the men and women in our Armed Forces. Roll was called. All officers were present except President Allan Bacak. Trustees were all present. Motion was made by Brenda Cox and seconded by Ardis Bacak to accept Ann Mozisek to our lodge. Motion carried. Diane Seaman gave the treasurer’s report, and it was accepted as read. FAC Josephine Bacak gave her re-

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

port on the snack bar. She thanked the kitchen workers Georgie Henderson, Carmen Kocurek, and Gladys Knebel and greeters J.C. Kocurek and Ben Svoboda for a job well done. The kitchen workers for our Family Day meeting on June 17 at 12 noon are Karen Holub and Alice Laitkep. Greeter will be Ben Svoboda. The meal will be catered at 12 noon. Members are asked to bring desserts. Youth Leader Kathy Garcia gave the report on Join Hands Day. The Junior Catholic Daughters came out and joined our youth club for the day on May 5. All other committees gave their reports, and all were accepted. Under old business, we thanked J.C. Kocurek for bringing gravel to the hall and spreading it where it was needed. Thank you, J.C. There was no new business. The lodge furnished the chicken spaghetti lunch, and members brought desserts. It was enjoyed by all.

Next Meeting—June 17 Our family day meeting will be June 17 at 12 noon. The meal will be catered, and members are to bring desserts. The scheduled meeting for June 10 was rescheduled for June 17 due to the convention in Killeen. The meeting adjourned. Fraternally, Josephine Brandt, Secretary —SPJST—

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Lodge 35, Elk President Visits Vietnam Memorial Wall Replica in West

Lodge 66, Waco honors mothers, fathers

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President John Engelke on May 20, 2012, at 2:30 p.m. at Linden Hall in Elm Mott with all officers present. There were 11 members present. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and motto. Secretary Sister Dana McAdams read the minutes of the April 15 meeting, and they were approved as read.

Katelyn Heisch Receives Denisse Wuensche Scholarship

Congratulations to Katelyn Carter Heisch, third from left, of Lodge 29, Taylor. She was presented the SPJST Denisse Wuensche Memorial Scholarship recently by Denisse’s parents Bobby and Ruth Ann Wuensche. Also pictured are Katelyn’s mother Tasha Heisch, left, grandmother Geraldine Heisch, second from right, and brother Kyle Heisch, right. Denisse passed away in 2009. She was past youth leader and reporter at Lodge 48, Beyersville.

Lodge 35, Elk President Randy Pavelka visited the replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in West, Texas, on May 24, 2012. It was a wonderful and humbling experience to see the Wall. Lodge 35 is very proud to have been a part of bringing this amazing tribute of troops to the community.

President Engelke reminded members of the Vietnam Memorial Wall being available for viewing in West during Memorial Day weekend. Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Entertainment Committee reported that today we are celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with Bush’s Chicken, and thanks to Sister Mary Lou Urbanek who brought prepared vegetables from her garden. The food was enjoyed by all. FAC Sister Mary Alice Langlotz gave the FAC report. She stated that Brother George Pauling won fourth place at the State Horseshoe Tournament in Temple.

Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Cheer and Condolence Committee reported that she sent a get well card to Brother Gene Gerlich. We hope that he is feeling better. Brother Louie Veselka reported that there are no grievances. Bookkeeper Sister Diana Engelke gave the bookkeeping report. Sister Diana Engelke read names of candidates for membership. Christine Marie Galysh wrote up Elena P. Garibay. She was accepted into Lodge 66. Mother of the Year was won by Mary Lou Urbanek. Father of the Year was George Pauling. Door prize winner was Dorothy Veselka. One hundred percent winner was Louie Veselka. Next Meeting—June 19 The next Lodge 66 meeting date has been changed to June 19 at 6 p.m. Please make note of the change. The meeting adjourned at 3:15 p.m. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Matthew Hoelscher Achieves Leadership Grant

Matthew Hoelscher of Lodge 47, Seaton received an SPJST Leadership Grant in the amount of $1,000 on May 24, 2012, at Rosebud-Lott High School Awards Ceremony. Presenting the scholarship was District Two Director Bobby Wuensche, far right. Also pictured are Matthew's parents Mark and Patricia Hoelscher. Congratulations, Matthew!

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

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Lodge 66, Waco Recognizes Mothers and Fathers

LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to Mother’s Day and Father’s Day drawing winners Mary Lou Urbanek and George Pauling. CENTER PHOTO: Ladies were honored by Lodge 66 for Mother’s Day. Congratulations to, left to right, Diana Engelke, Mary Lou Urbanek, Debbie Galler, Mary

Lodge 84, Dallas meets June 18

Dear Members, In observance of Father’s Day, the next monthly meeting of Lodge 84, Dallas will be Monday, June 18, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited, and hopefully, there will be a good turn out! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Alice Langlotz, Dorothy Veselka, and Dana McAdams. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to the men who were honored by Lodge 66 for Father’s Day. They are, left to right, Michael Galler, Weldon Galler, George Pauling, Louie Veselka, and John Engelke.

Lodge 88, Houston changes June meeting date

Robert and Malba Stasney-Smesny Celebrate 50 Beautiful Years of Marriage

Lodge 87, Temple sets June 19 member dinner

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 87, Temple invites all members and their families to join in a catered meal, fellowship, and awards presentation on Tuesday, June 19, 2012, at the lodge hall, located onequarter mile north of the East Adams Avenue exit, on North 50th Street in Temple. The social begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meal at 7 p.m., which is being catered by Mungia’s Barbecue of Heidenheimer. There will be a short business meeting followed by our annual awards ceremony and prize drawing. Please return the RSVP card that you received in the mail by Friday, June 15, so we can plan for the meal. I look forward to seeing you. Fraternally, Hiram Dixon, President —SPJST—

All Lodge 88, Houston members please take note: the June monthly meeting of Lodge 88 has been changed to Monday, June 18, 2012, due to the SPJST Convention being held on the second Monday of June. Please note this change to the third Monday in June. JoAnn Buri Second Vice President —SPJST—

Lodge 91, Crosby meets this Saturday

1962

Crosby Czech couple Robert Smesny and Malba Stasney-Smesny celebrated 50 years of marriage on May 12, 2012, at the American Legion Hall. The couple hosted a reception and a delicious dinner followed with music provided by Chris Rybak. A blessing of their marriage was performed by the Reverend Arnel Barrameda at Sacred Heart Church. Robert and Marie were married on May 12, 1962, at the old Sacred Heart Church, and the reception was held at the old American Legion Hall. Mrs. Smesny’s mother, Vera Franta Stasney, was honored at the event. Mrs. Stasney passed away on

2012

that date at the reception. Mr. Smesny retired from Dupont in LaPorte after 34 years of service. Mrs. Smesny retired from Crosby Independent School District after 24 years of service. Mr. and Mrs. Smesny have two children, Aaron and Vonda, and one grandson, Reese. The couple wishes to thank all who shared the special occasion with them. They are thankful for their children, the beautiful celebration, and God’s blessings throughout their 50 years of marriage. Malba, Vonda, and Reese are all members of SPJST Lodge 91, Crosby. —SPJST—

Lodge 91, Crosby will hold its second quarterly meeting of 2012 this Saturday, June 9 at 11 a.m. at the Snak Shak. The Snak Shak is located in Highlands at the south end of CrosbyLynchburg Road. After you cross the railroad tracks, there will be a Valero gas station on the left. The Snak Shak is a yellow building just a little passed the Valero gas station on the left if you are coming from Crosby. See you there! Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Lodge 97, Placedo meets June 15

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Caleb Peters Receives SPJST Scholarship

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 97, Placedo will host its quarterly meeting and ice cream social on Friday, June 15, 2012, at Victoria Mall Meeting Room (next to Sears) in Victoria, Texas, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Please bring pull tabs from soda cans for Ronald McDonald House. We look forward to seeing you on June 15! Fraternally, Gay Revel, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 142 Houston sets June 23 lake outing

The June Meeting has been changed to the fourth Saturday on June 23, 2012. Lake Conroe has water in it again. So we are finally able to use the Lake Conroe outing that we purchased at the Czech Center Museum Houston’s 2010 live auction. We will be the guests of Barbie and Henry Hermis, Jr. at the Lake Conroe home for the day. Their address is 49 La Costa Drive in Montgomery, Texas 77356. We will start at 10 a.m. Bring your fishing license, bathing suit or a change of clothes, and sunscreen. We will have hamburgers and hot dogs with all the trimming to eat. There will be swimming, fishing, boat rides,

arrangements for the meal. The meeting will be held after the meal. Members with birthdays in April, May, and June will be honored. Please bring an item for the raffle. See you at the meeting. Fraternally, Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 155, Austin plans June 24 annual picnic Congratulations to Caleb Peters of Lodge 179, Warrenton who is a graduate of Lockhart High School. He was recently presented an SPJST Scholarship by District One Director Donnie Victorick, left. His parents Darla Kay (Hejl) and Kevin Peters are also pictured. Caleb was ranked no. 5 out of 292 in his senior class at LHS. He will attend Texas A&M University in the fall majoring in mathematics and minoring in statistics. Caleb’s mom Darla Kay and grandparents Monroe Hejl and Audrey Hejl are members of Lodge 9, Snook; great-grandmother Annie Hejl is a member of Lodge 17, New Tabor; and great-grandfather Arnold Peters, Sr. is a member of Lodge 179, Warrenton.

and games. In case you get lost, Henry’s cell number is (713) 320-7577 and Barbie’s is (713) 775-0503. If you have any questions, you can call me (713) 203-5510. We hope to see you there. We’ll have lots of fun! Fraternally, Mary Ann Kieschnick Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 151 Wharton invites members to June 18 meeting

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its next quarterly meeting on Monday, June 18, 2012, at Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100 Sunset Street in Wharton, Texas. A light meal, iced tea, and dessert will be served at 6:30 p.m. Please call Carolyn Bucek (979) 532-1910 if you plan to attend so she can make

Lodge 172, Pasadena Salutes Memorial Day

It’s a pizza picnic to be held Sunday, June 24, 2012, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Motl’s house at 11304 Hunters Lane. Call (512) 836-0205 for directions. Members are requested to bring a dessert or a side dish and lawn chairs for this backyard event. Pizza and drinks will be provided. Since this meeting/picnic follows the SPJST convention in June and our delegate Joe Motl is representing our lodge, he can inform the members about the election results and changes in the by-laws or amendments at this meeting/social. I hope to see you there. Also, this is a reminder to members that our secretary/fraternal activities coordinator needs to mail in the Fraternal Incentive Report by the due date of July 13. So please provide her with any Czech heritage/cultural activities or volunteer work in which you participated in the past six months. Remember to observe Flag Day on June 14 by proudly displaying the United States flag again as you did on Memorial Day. Ginny Prasatik Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 172 Pasadena changes June meeting date

LEFT PHOTO: Preparing to raise the flag in front of SPJST Lodge 172, Pasadena are, from left to right, Lucille Coker, Hilda Wiederhold, Jo Mayfield, Art Wiederhold, Carlos Henley, and behind Carlos is Ed

Schewe. RIGHT PHOTO: Saying the Pledge of Allegiance, from left to right, are Ed Schewe, Hilda Wiederhold, Art Wiederhold, Jo Mayfield, Lucille Coker, Carlos Henley, and Robert Mayfield.

Dear Members, Due to June 17 being Father’s Day, the regular covered dish meeting will be held on Sunday, June 24. Fraternally yours Jo Mayfield First Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

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Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station meets June 17

Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station is moving the June meeting date due to the SPJST Convention. We will meet one week later than normal—on Sunday, June 17, 2012, at 2 p.m. The meeting will be at the usual location— Charles Munday’s office on Oak Street in Bryan. Fraternally, Henry Mayo, President —SPJST—

Ladies Circle of Lodge 92 Fort Worth

Forty-three of our ladies assembled on May 8, 2012, for an enjoyable meeting, lunch, and afternoon of bingo. We began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, and President Marlene Bass offered a sweet Mother’s Day prayer. We had no guests this day so business continued as usual, and correspondence was read. Secretary Joan Shropshire shared

an email from Gloria Farek’s daughter updating everyone on her progress. We continue to send our prayers for Gloria’s healing, and we look forward to her return as soon as possible. Jo Ann Wilcox gave us an invitation to be read to the ladies. James Albert Wilcox, III, Jo Ann’s son, was to be ordained into the Catholic Church’s Sacred Order of the Diaconate on May 23, and all were invited to this formal occasion. This wonderful accomplishment and this step in his faith journey was a great Mother’s Day present for Jo Ann. Also, isn’t it great when our children are successful and we get to share the joyous times with our friends? Our thanks go out to Joy Booe, Linda Horner, Norma McLendon, and Lois Smith for kitchen duty. Linda provided those cute aprons once again, and we appreciate her sharing her sewing talents. Good stuff was brought by all, and one of my favorites—peach pie—went really fast and was gone by the time I went through the line. Once again, this month, we asked our birthday ladies to share a bit of personal information. I must say, we got a little involved with picture taking and listening to what they had to say that we forgot, almost, to sing the “Happy Birthday” song. Sunny Kercho, Andrew Tesar, Corina Cranfill, Hermina Cihacek, Doris Overstreet,

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Lodge 202 Jourdanton member receives award

District Seven Treasurer Valerie Barta presented her brother Jeff Barta with a plaque honoring him for his many years of service as a District Seven officer. Both Valerie and Jeff are members of Lodge 202, Jourdanton. —Submitted by Mary Ann Barta, FAC

and Magdalena Kronenberger were our honorees for May. Sunny has been a member for one year and is the

daughter-in-law of Alene Kercho. Doris announced that she is 39 and holding (smile), and Hermina remembered when bingo cards were a penny and she was treasurer. When asked how old she was, she stated, “A year older than I was last year!” That’s all we could get out of her. Corina Cranfill has a long history with SPJST and has been a member of the Ladies Circle for about 14 years. What else could we expect since Joyce and Frank Tesar are the proud parents! Joyce Tesar announced dance times and schedule changes for the hall. For more details, please check the listings under lodge activities in the back of the Vestnik or you may call the hall for details. Thank you to those who brought door prizes, and congratulations to those who won them. Since Mother’s Day was coming up the Sunday following our meeting, we had a lot of chocolate gifts: four to be exact. There was also lovely stationary, a couple of really cute purses, a pillow, Bath and Body Works stuff, a book, and a couple of items that I missed. The ladies of the Circle are certainly a generous bunch, and we can always count on them to share. The last thing we planned (which was a surprise to the ladies) was honoring of a couple of our mothers (yes, with more chocolates). We picked the youngest mother, oldest, and the

Taylor S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living Center Group Visits Czech Heritage Museum

A group from S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living Center in Taylor made a visit to the Czech Heritage Museum on Tuesday, May 29, 2012. Activity Director Liz Haisler led the way for the group visit. All had a great time saying “I remember this,” “This is how I got my Purple Heart,” and “I didn’t know there were so many Czech communities in Texas.” The most enjoyment that the Czech Heritage Museum staff got out of the visit is they learned a lot from the residents.

—Submitted by Don Mears CHM Artistic Director

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

mother with the most children. Corina Cranfill was the youngest, Lucille Kret was the oldest, and there was a tie for the mothers with the most children. Lois Smith and Evelyn Scaff had that unmatched designation. We wished that we could have given out chocolates to everyone because all mothers are special. After the lunch was blessed and we were filled to the brim, bingo began. Welcome to summer! Joan Shropshire, Secretary —SPJST—

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SPJST Officials Attend American Fraternal Alliance Fraternal and Communications Section Mid-Year Meeting

Convention Time

Reunions ★★★★★ ★★★★★

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

Stojanik-PavlasekKubala-SkrhakPospisil families

The 34th annual reunion of the Stojanik, Pavlasek, Kubala, Skrhak, and Pospisil families will be Sunday, June 10, 2012, at SPJST Lodge 20, Granger, located at 114 West Davilla Street in Granger, Texas. The hall is on the corner of West Davilla Street and Rio Grande Street. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. A noon meal follows. Dues are $5 per family and $3 for individuals and guests. Dues collected will help cover the cost of hall rental fees, supplies, etc. Each family is asked to bring a meat dish and a vegetable or dessert. Bring one item for the silent auction (bring more if you can). Try to bring something special and unique. Remember all age groups. Volunteers are needed to help set up and supervise the auction table. Bring old and recent family pictures and pictures from past reunions. Bring address updates and changes. Coffee, tea, and punch will

The next number is thirty-one Convention time, let’s git ‘er done

Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, left, Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny, back, center, Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez, seated, and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Chester Jenke and wife Colleen participated in the American Fraternal Alliance Fraternal and Communications Section Mid-Year Meeting held April 25 to 27, 2012, at Hilton Garden Inn in Austin, Texas. Representatives from more than 30 American and Canadian fraternals attended the meeting to learn new techniques and information in the fraternal and communications fields. Melanie serves as a member of the Advisory Council in the Alliance’s Fraternal and Communications Section.

be furnished (alcoholic beverages are welcome, but not provided). Linda Grigsby, Patsy Hightower, and Irene Stojanik will head up the kitchen committee. Additional volunteers are still needed on the day of the reunion to help in the kitchen and set out food. The 2012 reunion committee is Monica Stojanik (512) 859-2593, email mstojanik@peoplepc.com and Irene Cavanaugh (254) 527-3205, email irenec@fsbcentex.com Submitted by, Monica Stojanik Lodge 20, Granger —SPJST—

June 9 J.M. Halamicek family—at Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall, Ellinger. For information or to RSVP, contact Louisa Halamicek Stone (830) 5633762. Submitted by Beverly Teplicek, Lodge 49, Rowena.

June 9 Belicek family—Descendants of Pavel and Rozina Kovar Belicek—at the Senior Activity Center, Thorndale. For information, contact Bill Hodon (512) 251-5201; or email czbill@sbcglobal.net. Submitted by Leonardine Hodon, Lodge 29, Taylor.

June 10 Frank and Helen Patava-Hejl family—at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall. For information, contact Betty Lou Marek (254) 778-8520. Submitted by Betty Lou Marek, Lodge 47, Seaton.

June 10 Vajdak family—at SPJST Lodge 9, Snook Hall. For information, contact Denise Vajdak (979) 324-8550; or visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/173154279378581/ . Submitted by Colton Gantt, Lodge 9, Snook.

Tend to business — theme of the day Spend all your votes - in a wise way

Looking forward to seeing old faces How about the political races Losers try to show finesse Awful hard to hide the stress There’s always a guy who has a notion Only he should second every motion

You see - recognition that’s his best trick Like me - please, Mel, print this front page Vestnik

On every subject, some need to speak Only showing that their mind is weak

Hey - it makes them feel smart and warm They should have stayed July 8 down on the farm Novosad family: descendants of

George Novosad from Moravia, Czechoslovakia - children Frank, John, Frances, Theresa, and Mary—at St. Anthony Catholic School Cafeteria, Columbus. For information, contact Charlie Novosad (979) 7326336; or email novosad@swbell.net. Submitted by Margaret M. Novosad, Lodge 88, Houston. —SPJST—

More than anyone can take at one time Let’s end this feeble attempt at rhyme.

On a serious note . . . we have been selected and entrusted to conduct important business. Let us pray for guidance and the ability to think clearly and perform in a fair and honest manner. SPJST deserves us at our best. —Homer Buddy Hayseed —SPJST—

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SPJST Youth

Section

Leaders-inTraining retreat begins June 7

Dear Leader-In-Training, I am excited about our retreat that begins on Thursday, June 7, 2012. Registration will be from 6 to 7 p.m. under the outdoor pavilion. Youth and chaperones will leave bags under the pavilion during this time. Youth will make their way to the dining hall where movies and snacks will be provided. Make sure you eat before arriving at camp as there will be no meal on Thursday. Tammy Martinez, two chaperones, and Nurse Becky will be helping with registration. Of course, you can still register after 7 p.m. Those of you coming in after 7 p.m. will register at the dining hall and make sure you bring in your camp belongings with you. There is a lot to do in the two days of the retreat. On Thursday evening, we will have a hayride, and Colorado Valley Dark-Sky Explorers will have three telescopes on hand for stargazing – weather permitting. Friday will be a full day of fun. I have planned “The Amazing Race” adventure for you! In the evening, we are having a nerd-themed dance in the dining room – including a disc jockey playing a mix of music and some karaoke. Please bring your best and outrageous nerd clothes, glasses, pocket protectors . . . you get the picture! We will be having a number of contests during the dance. Here is a list of items you will need to bring with you to LIT retreat.

Items to Pack for LIT Retreat r Towels and wash cloth r Bedding – twin size r Pillow r Toiletry items – shampoo, soap, tooth brush, etc.

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) 773-8087

Email: melaniez@vvm.com

Questions? Call (800) 727-7578

r Watch r Flashlight r Closed toe shoes r Flip flops (for cabin use only) r 2 Swimsuits r 3 changes of clothes for the duration at camp r 3 pairs of socks r 3 pairs of under clothes r Sunscreen r Beach towel r Sleeping clothes r Appropriate “nerd” clothes

No cell phones or electronic devices. (If brought to camp, DYC will keep devices until Saturday.) SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) at Cooper Farm is located at 2001 Ledbetter Road in Ledbetter Texas 78946. Visit www.cooperfarm.org for a map. From La Grange: Go North on Highway 77 for 2.6 miles to FM 2145. Go right (east) on FM 2145 for 10.2 miles into Waldeck. Go left (north) on FM 1291 and turn right on CR 112/Waldeck Road go east on Waldeck Road for 2.6 miles to find SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm on the left.

From Brenham: Go West on Highway 290 for 23.3 miles to FM 1291 in Ledbetter. Turn left on FM 1291 and go 6.2 miles. Turn left on Albers Road and go 0.3 miles to CR 112/Waldeck Road. Go 2.6 miles to find SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm on the left.

From Giddings: Go East on Highway 290 for 9.0 miles to Ledbetter. Turn right on FM 1291 and go 6.2 miles. Turn left on Albers Road and go 0.3 miles to CR 112/Waldeck Road. Go 2.6 miles to find SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm on the left. I’m eager to work with each and every one of you. If you have any

questions, please contact me by email frankh@spjst.com or phone (254) 534-0681. Fraternally, Frank Horak State Youth Director —SPJST—

Lodge 9, Snook youth participate in Relay for Life

Dear Vestnik Readers, Members from Lodge 9, Snook recently participated at Relay for Life. Members enjoyed the nice weather and enjoyed visiting with one another. Former youth club members even participated in “Midnight Madness” games. The support for cancer survivors is overwhelming. Everyone was in a festive mood. As we begin a new youth club year in June, we say goodbye to some of our seniors. I wish them all the best. I am looking forward to Leaders-inTraining retreat this weekend and hope to see some of my friends from other clubs.

Next Meeting—June 6 Our next youth club meeting is next Wednesday, June 6. We will install new officers for the upcoming year. Don’t forget to bring your community service item (Play-Doh) brand PlayDoh for the Children’s Hospital. Fraternally submitted, Zachary Shelfer —SPJST—

Lodge 30, Taiton youth hosts graduation social

Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club held its regular monthly meeting on May 6, 2012, at the Taiton Community Center after coming together with the adult lodge to clean the highway for Join Hands Day. The members returned to enjoy a meal of hot dogs and the trimmings. The meeting was called to order by President Allison Fucik. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by the SPJST motto, and prayer. Secretary Ryan Drapela read the roll call of members. He then read the

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

minutes from the April meeting. The treasurer’s report was read, and the dues report was given.

Old Business LIT Retreat is set for Thursday, June 7 to Saturday, June 9 at Cooper Farm. We cleaned the highway for our Join Hands Day project.

New Business Youth Achievement Day cards were given out; they are due back to Mrs. Bubela by June 25. Camp forms can be found at www.spjst.org. They need to be filled out and submitted online to Frank Horak. Please include the shot record information on the online form. Trip to Splashway in Sheriden will be July 8 at 11:30 a.m. at the water park. Youth meeting will be at 12 noon with the adult meeting to follow. Election of Officers was held. Officers are: President Ryan Drapela Vice President Dylan Treumer First Vice President Jeremy Supak Secretary Allison Fucik Assistant Secretary Jacob Supak Treasurer Luc Marcaurele Assistant Treasurer Andrew Kresta Reporter Miles Svatek Flag Bearers Lauren and Emily Kresta Sergeant-at-Arms Grant Bubela Brittany and Bethany Baker

Youth Leader’s Report Mrs. Bubela handed out the new rulebooks to each member. Happy birthday was wished to Vincent Lutringer. Members then read letters to our graduating seniors Jessica Fucik, Vincent Lutringer, and Sarah Supak. We wish them good luck in their endeavors. Congratulations! Our next meeting will be held on June 3 at the Taiton Community Center. The adult lodge will meet at 1:30 p.m., and the youth meeting will follow. The meeting was then adjourned. Fraternally yours, Dylan Treumer —SPJST—

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Lodge 88, Houston youth to visit SplashTown

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Lodge 4, Hallettsville Graduate Honored with Cake, Gift Card

Dear Vestnik Readers, Members of Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club met on Sunday, May 20, 2012, at Lodge 88. We talked about going to SplashTown on June 16 and District Five Youth Achievement Day on June 24. We are all to keep working on our scrapbook pages. We will have YAD rehearsal at the lodge on Saturday, June 23 from 9 to 11 a.m. Fraternally, Jered Polly, Vice President —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club elects officers

Dear Vestnik Readers, The Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club held its monthly meeting on Sunday, May 20, 2012, at Lodge 88. We elected officers. They are: President Denae Bronikowski

fuss and New Ideas - Nathan Polly. We are all looking forward to camp on July 12 to 15. Fraternally, Nathan Polly Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 182 Falls County Youth Club elects officers Lodge 4, Hallettsville honored Mark Siptak, a 2012 graduate of Tidehaven High School, on Sunday, May 13 at the Hallettsville Legion Hall. He was presented with a cake and gift card by Lodge 4 Youth Leader Shirley Kalmus. Mark has been a member of the youth club since he was six years old. Mark is the son of Joe and Susan Siptak and grandson of Lillie Balusek. He is pictured with Youth Leader Shirley Kalmus and his dad and Lodge 4 President Joe Siptak. We wish Mark much success in his endeavors.

Vice President Jered Polly Secretary/Reporter Nathan Polly Treasurer Keith Wockenfuss Flag Bearers Matthieu Barcak and Lea Barcak

Sergeant-at-Arms Claire Casey and Ryan Bronikowski

Committee chairs were also elected: Sunshine - Allison Wocken-

The youth club met February 19, 2012 and elected officers to set up a new youth club. Youth Club officers are President Rodney Mozee First Vice President Summer Frillon Secretary Tiffany Simmons Treasurer Skylar Frillon Reporter Brianna Mozee

Fraternally, Teresa Cornett, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Participates in Relay for Life

Zachary and his mom, Marie Shelfer, who serves as Lodge 9, Snook Youth Leader.

LEFT PHOTO: Makayla Langdon and Zachary Shelfer. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 9, Snook members and friends. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Dacey Smith, left, and Allison Green. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Courtney Macik, in back, with Madelyn Rodriguez and Tatiana Tates. Standing behind Sharon Kovar are Dacey Smith, Makayla Langdon, Marie Shelfer, Allison Green, Natalee See, Addison Langdon, and Chip Shelfer.

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In Memoriam

Resolution of Sympathy

We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek, No. 4, Hallettsville, Texas, on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed lodge brother, LEON L. “RED” KAHANEK, JR. Leon “Red” Kahanek, Jr. of Hallettsville, who passed away Sunday, April 29, 2012, at the age of 80 years. He was born on June 27, 1931, to Leon Louis and Beatrice Appelt Kahanek in Hallettsville. He Leon Kahanek, Jr. married Emogene Adams on February 12, 1961. He served in the United States Army and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Red attended the University of Texas and then went on to the University of Houston where he received his pharmacy degree on June 4, 1958. He joined the family pharmacy and worked alongside his father at Kahanek and Renger Drugstore in Hallettsville. Red was on the consulting board of Lederle Pharmacy. He was a life member and district chairman of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and San Antonio Fat Stock Show; member of Quarter Horse Association; and honorary life member of the FFA and 4-H; past officer of the Rotary Club; member of SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville, Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, and Hallettsville Volunteer Fire Department. In his later years, he was a member of Hallettsville Developmental Industrial Corporation. Red is survived by sons Leon Kahanek, III and Robert Kahanek and wife Karen, all of Hallettsville; grandchildren Kindell DeFour and husband Damien of Katy, Texas, and Braden, Kade, and Kingsley Kahanek of Hallettsville; and great-grandchildren Peyton and Crew DeFour. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Betty Jean McMillan; infant sister Mary Bea; and wife Emogene. Visitation began at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1 at Kubena Funeral Home followed by rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral

mass was at 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 2 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville. Reverend John Peters officiated. Burial followed at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Accolade Hospice, or Donor’s Choice. May our departed brother rest in eternal peace. Resolution Committee Victoria Zak Gayenell Chudej —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of the Resolution Committee of Lodge Hvezda Texasu, No. 47, Seaton, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, CAROLYN SALAC. Carolyn Salac, 75, died Saturday, May 5, 2012, at a local nursing home in Temple. Visitation was held Monday, May 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple. Funeral service was held Tuesday, May 8 at 2 p.m. at the fu- Carolyn Salac neral home. Burial was at St. Joseph Cemetery. Ms. Salac was born to Ladis and Clara Salac on December 28, 1936, in Cyclone, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include sister Louise Hejl of Temple; one niece; and two nephews. Resolution Committee Ruth Kohutek Joyce Skrabanek LaVerne Vanicek —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, Texas, wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of SOPHIE ZICHACEK BLAZEK. Sophie Zichacek Blazek, 98, died Sunday, May 27, 2012, in Fort Worth, Texas. Sophie was born April 26, 1914. She was the office manager for National Photographers Album Company from 1954 to 1981. She was preceded in death by husband Frank; parents Ladislav and Helen; and six siblings. Survivors include several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great nephews. A graveside service was held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 31. May our departed sister rest in peace. Resolution Committee Alene Kercho Ann Schneider —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of ANN MIKEL LANGER. Ann Langer, 85, passed away at her home on Monday, May 14, 2012. Ann was born in Ennis, Texas, to Joe and Anna (Zabojnik) Mikel on October 18, 1926. She grew up around the Ennis area and attended schools in the rural school systems. She received her LVN from Navarro Ann Langer College. She married Emil H. Langer, and they made their home in Ennis and the Crisp Community. She worked for the Ennis Care Center and for the IOOF Nursing Home as an LVN for many years. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church and SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. She loved cooking for her family and others, gardening, and loved to be around her family especially all of her grandchildren.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

She is survived by sons Emil Langer and wife Judy and Richard Langer and wife Emily, all of Ennis; daughters Annette and husband Greg French and Nancy and husband Leslie Mach, all of Ennis; grandchildren Jennifer and husband Todd Krueger, Matthew Langer and wife JoAnna, Stephanie Langer, Ricky Langer and wife Aron, Kevin Langer, Jason French and wife Heather, Jeremy French and wife Ashlee, Rachel French, Stacy Mach, and Ryan Mach; great-grandchildren Dillon Lucas, Drew Lucas, Aubrey Roberts, Charlotte Langer, Peyton French, and Cooper French; and sister Betty Trlica of Ennis. She was preceded in death by husband Emil Langer on March 30, 1977; infant daughter Elizabeth; seven brothers; and four sisters. Visitation was Thursday, May 17 from 6 until 8 p.m. in J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis with rosary at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was held Friday, May 18 at 10 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church with Father John Dick as celebrant. Interment followed in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of the Resolution Committee of Lodge Hvezda Texasu, No. 47, Seaton, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, VIRGINIA M. RAMOS. Virginia M. Ramos, age 80, of Temple died Sunday, May 20, 2012, in a local hospital. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 23 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Reverend Ranjan Cletus as celebrant. Burial followed at Hillcrest Cemetery. Visitation was from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 22 with a rosary recited at 7 p.m. at ScanioHarper Funeral Home. Mrs. Ramos was born July 24, 1931, in Chriesman to Victor and Josefina Garcia Martinez. She married Matilde Ramos on July 11, 1957. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church where she served on the Altar Society.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include husband Matilde Ramos of Temple; sons John Ramos, Andy Ramos, and Martin Ramos, all of Temple; daughters Addy Weaver and Tina Houston, both of Temple, and Susan Baker of Raleigh, North Carolina; grandchildren Jordan, Colton, Tina, Eric, Madisyn, and Anthony; brothers Bartolo Martinez of Seymour and Martin Martinez of Caldwell; and sisters Placida Martinez and Apolonia Benavides, both of Temple. Resolution Committee Ruth Kohutek Joyce Skrabanek LaVerne Vanicek —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, Texas, wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of CARL E. PAPPAS. Carl E. Pappas, 52, went to be with his heavenly Father on Sunday, April 29, 2012. He was born May 13, 1959, in Sherman, Texas, and spent most of his life in Azle. He joined the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Azle High School in 1977. He served his country both domestically and internationally. Carl spent most of his working life operating heavy machinery to help build much of the infrastructure of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. He was an active member of the International Engineer Operators Union. He was also an avid gunsmith and loved to hunt and fish in his spare time. Carl was a collector of arrowheads, and while he enjoyed many outdoor activities, the time spent with his family was most important to him. A memorial service was held on May 3 in Biggers Funeral Chapel. Survivors are parents Tony and Janet Pappas of Azle; sister Debbie Crawford of Fort Worth; nephews Chad and Clint Crawford of Fort Worth; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. May our departed brother rest in peace. Resolution Committee Alene Kercho Ann Schneider —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis officers and members extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of LIBBIE BLAZEK. Libbie Blazek, 86, passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, in the Baylor Medical Center of Dallas. Libbie was born in Crisp, Texas, on December 30, 1925, to Libbie Blazek Josef and Emma

(Trojacek) Haskovec. She grew up in Telico, Texas, and graduated from Telico Schools in 1941. On July 15, 1947, she married Elick C. Blazek, and they were lifetime residents of Ennis. She was co-owner of Blazek Building Supply. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church of Ennis, KJZT No. 16, and SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. She was a very talented lady. A few of her talents included quilting, gardening, sewing, and cooking. Her greatest accomplishment in life was being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She had a real gift for loving people and making them feel important. She is survived by sons Kenneth

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Blazek and wife Jo of Rice, Robert Blazek and wife Polly of Ennis, and Greg Blazek and wife DeAnna of Ennis; daughters Libbie Ann and husband Bill Veselka of West, Barbara and husband David Hornik of Ennis, Elsie and husband Joe Slovak of Ennis, Judy and husband Richard Hornik of Ennis, Irene and husband Brian Harlan of Palmer, and Emily and husband Rick Langer of Ennis; 22 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; sister Leona and husband Emil Gerich of Porter, Texas; and sister-in-law Olga Kirkland of Dickinson. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Elick C. Blazek on December 27, 1973; infant son Elick A. Blazek; granddaughter Jennifer

Death Claims Paid in April, 2012 Supreme Lodge SPJST • Temple, Texas

Name

Emil Frank Vaculin Gregoria Jimenez Woodrow A. Spacek Mildred R. Bouska Lowell M. Kubala Charles E. Gentry Barbara J. Perry Edgar B. Stokley Lillie Louise Valis Frances A. Vavra Frank J. Hafernick Henry Fred Schneider Leo P. Majek, Jr. Guthrie Johnnie Sklar Rosalie Pulpan Charles W. Patek Elizabeth Ann Marek Carla Jean Peacock John L. Guthrie Leon Presley Smith Matilda Verlene Bubela Gary A. Marek Charley B. Scott, Jr. Charles Melvin Crocker Lillian A. Beisert Edmund A. Beisert David Lee Tegge Julia K. Cox Ruth E. Froehner David B. Lange

Lodge

15 177 13 25 67 25 66 172 29 39 40 81 79 97 88 4 141 48 177 209 88 35 35 177 13 13 48 88 88 49

From 4/01/2012 to 4/30/2012 Location

Buckholts Academy Dime Box Ennis Schulenburg Ennis Waco Pasadena Taylor Bryan El Campo-Hillje Needville Corpus Christi Placedo Houston Hallettsville Sealy Beyersville Academy Brownwood Houston Elk Elk Academy Dime Box Dime Box Beyersville Houston Houston Rowena

Date of Admission

1/06/1958 10/28/1981 4/16/1947 1/20/1954 10/01/1949 5/10/1977 3/28/2004 6/09/1999 5/05/1976 8/24/1967 2/20/1945 2/19/1951 3/21/1946 10/23/1941 3/25/1965 10/05/1977 7/07/1998 3/04/1977 9/04/1980 5/11/2006 5/15/1944 3/22/1962 8/23/1977 4/01/1984 7/02/1975 5/02/1975 3/04/1966 4/12/1993 4/01/2002 8/03/2011

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—

Date of Death

3/18/2012 3/10/2012 2/08/2012 10/04/2011 2/03/2012 1/11/2012 3/28/2012 3/27/2012 2/26/2012 3/08/2012 2/18/2012 3/19/2012 2/28/2012 3/25/2012 3/27/2011 3/29/2012 3/28/2012 3/18/2012 3/24/2012 3/10/2012 4/02/2012 3/12/2012 3/26/2012 4/16/2012 3/17/2012 3/09/2012 4/09/2012 2/12/2012 11/30/2011 3/17/2012

Age

84 98 91 87 80 88 66 48 90 94 84 74 90 86 87 85 58 55 76 66 89 62 83 83 75 76 58 97 96 74

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Hornik on May 14, 1980; grandson Andy Blazek on November 22, 2004; and brothers Joe Haskovec and Edwin Haskovec and his wife Geraldine. Visitation was Friday, May 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis. Rosary was at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was Saturday, May 19 at 10 a.m. in St. John Catholic Church with Father Henry Drozd as celebrant. Pallbearers were Mark Veselka, Jason Blazek, Robert Kovar, Dale Hornik, Thomas Slovak, Russell Hornik, Justin McGahan, Ricky Langer and Nathan Blazek. Honorary pallbearers were Curt Veselka, Jeremy McGahan, Kevin Langer, and Brandon Harlan. Interment followed in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. The family requests that memorial donations be made in Libbie’s name to the St. Joseph Cemetery Association, 401 East Lampasas Street, Ennis, Texas 75119. With deepest sympathy, Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, Texas, wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of SAMMIE HALES. Sammie Marie Hales, 80, passed away Saturday April 14, 2012, in Fort Worth, Texas. Sammie was born on December 23, 1931, in Fort Worth. She married Charles Gene Hales, and she was a loving wife, mother, sister, and best friend. When you were around her, you knew you were loved. A graveside service was held at 3 p.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Survivors are sons Terry Hales and Ricky Hales and wife Brenda; daughter Tana Hales; grandchildren Jennifer Dale and husband Stacey, Cody Hales and girlfriend Kristin, and Wes Wesala; great-grandchildren Bradyn Charles and Samantha Marie; brother Don Boles and family; extended family Belinda Moore and family and the Cagle family. May our departed sister rest in peace. Resolution Committee Alene Kercho Ann Schneider —SPJST—

In Memory of Dolores Coufal

Dolores Coufal was born to Edwin and Rose (Shiller) Janecek on December 27, 1920, in the New Bremen Community. She grew up on the family farm and attended all grades in the New Bremen School. She was a member of the Nelsonville Brethren Church, but later Dolores Coufal joined the Industry Brethren Church and was a member of the Industry Brethren Christian Sisters. On August 9, 1941, she married the love of her life Ben Coufal, and they had 33 wonderful years together. She and BJ lived in Iraan, La Grange, and Port Arthur, Texas, where he taught school. They also lived in Coleman, Texas, while he served as a navigation instructor in the United States Army during World War II. In 1945, they settled in Bellville, Texas, where BJ started his 28-year teaching and guidance counselor career with the Bellville Independent School District. She awarded many memorial scholarships to honor BJ and his love of students and teaching. She was an excellent homemaker and worked as a milliner specializing in bridal veils, hats, and wedding accessories. She served as a director for the local American Cancer Society and Oak Knoll Cemetery Association. She was a member and officer of the Bellville Professional Women’s Club. She served as a 4-H sponsor and member of the former Home Demonstration Club. She was a member of the Austin County Farm Bureau and AARP. Her favorite activity was serving as a volunteer with the Bellville Hospital Auxiliary where she has given more than 5,000 hours during a span of over 35 years. She loved to deer-hunt, fish, travel, and polish rocks with BJ. She had several kitty cats for companions and a bevy of ring-necked doves who would sing or coo to her while sitting on her shoulder. She kept her own house, conducted her daily business activities, kept flowers on several cemetery plots, and drove herself around Austin and Washington counties until about 18 months ago. She spent her last 14 months residing at Rose Hill Retirement Home.

She is survived by nieces JJ Klesel and husband Mike of La Grange, Texas, and Shirley Cmajdalka of Houston, Texas; nephew Wal Jean Janecek and wife Mary Lou of Lake Jackson, Texas; four great-nieces; three great-nephews; several greatgreat nieces and nephews; and a greatgreat-great niece. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Ben; nephew Alois Cmajdalka; brothers-in-law Ruben and Jerry Coufal; special friend John Machinsky; and sister by heart Osie Lock. Visitation was Saturday, May 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Schmidt Funeral Home in Bellville. Graveside service was at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 27 at Oak Knoll Cemetery in Bellville. Me-

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

morial service was at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 27 at Industry Brethren Church in Industry, Texas, with Reverends Kay Polasek and Milton Maly officiating. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to any of the following charitable organizations: The Austin County Unit of the American Cancer Society, c/o Vernice Luhn, 1710 Meissner Road, Bellville, Texas 77418; Industry Brethren Church, P.O. Box 73, Industry, Texas 78944; or Bellville Hospital Auxiliary, P.O. Box 977, Bellville, Texas 77418. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Schmidt Funeral Home in Bellville. —SPJST—

SPJST Tasty Traditions Cookbook Order Form SPJST is proud to present a treasured collection of recipes from our members whose contributions have made this cookbook possible. Cookbook includes 700 pages and approximately 1,400 recipes. Cookbooks are shipped via USPS Media Mail. Makes a great birthday, anniversary, wedding, or anytime gift! Order online at www.spjst.org. Please send me ______ copies of “SPJST Tasty Traditions Cookbook” at $15.00 each, plus $3.00 for shipping/handling/tax per book (total $18.00 each). Make checks or money orders payable to SPJST. Ship To: Name _____________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ City _____________________________________ State_________________ Zip_______________ Phone (_____)_______________________ Email__________________________________________ Payment Information:

Enclosed is my check or money order made payable to SPJST for $________. Please charge my credit card in the amount of $________.

Credit Card #__________ __________ __________ __________ Expiration Date ______/______ 3 or 4 digit security code _________ (usually on back of card) Billing Zip Code_____________ Signature____________________________________________________________ Mail Order Form to: SPJST Tasty Traditions Cookbook PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503-0100 Fax (for credit card orders only): (254) 773-8087 Phone (for questions only): (254) 773-1575 Email: info@spjst.org The proceeds from cookbook sales go to Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center and SPJST Education and Nature Center.

Podpora Wednesday, June 6, 2012

BENEVOLENCE

ROČNÍK 100 CISLO 23

Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech Lekce jedenadvacátá Lesson 21 Sedm pádů The Seven Cases

What is a Case? A case is the form which shows the function of a noun, adjective, or pronoun, in the sentence, and its relation to other words in the sentence. There are seven such cases in the Czech language.

1.Nominative, or subject case—první pád

Answers the questions: kdo?—who? (is the doer of, or subjected to, some action?); co?—what? (lifeless object or event is something said about?)

Example: Kdo tam chodí? Karel tam jde. (Karel is in the nom. case). Co se tam deje? Schůze se tam koná. (schůze is in the nom. case). .

2. Genitive case—druhý pád

This case has a function similar to the English possessive case, (my friend’s house, or the house of my friend). The genitive has acquired a wide range of meaning besides the basic sense of belonging. It answers the questions čeho?—of what?; čí?—whose?

Example: Z čeho je to výraběne. Ze železa a z litiny. Čí je to pučík? Je to pučík mého otce. (Otce is in the gen. case.) .

★

Lidskost

Česká

HUMANITY

Bratrství

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Část

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

BROTHERHOOD

6.červen.2012

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

3. Dative case—třetí pád

This is primarily a case of direction marking end or result towards which an act proceeds. It is, therefore, used after the verbs. Giving, sending, saying, or writing, something to someone. It answers the questions komu?—to whom?; and čemu?—to what?

Example: Komu píšeš? Píšu domu tatínkovi. (Tatínkovi is in the dative case). Čemu posloucháš. Poslouchám vysilácí stanici. (Stanici is in the dative case). .

4. Accusative, or direct object case— čtvrtý pád

It marks the receiver of the action or the thing acted upon by the subject. It answers the questions koho?— whom?; and co?—what?

Example: Koho’s tam viděl? Vidél jsem tam mého přítele. (přítele is in the acc. case). Co tam vidíš? Vidím moji matku. (matku is in the acc. case). .

5. Vocative case—pátý pád

It is used for addressing or calling to a person or a thing.

Example: Bratře Novátku! Otče můj! Matko má! .

6. Locative or prepositional—šestý pád

It is always used with prepositions. It cannot stand alone. It expresses posi-

tion in time or space. It answers the questions kde?—where?; o kom?— about whom?; or o čem?—about what? Example: Kde je Marie? Sedí na schodech. (na schodech is in the loc. case). O kom mluvíš? Mluvím o tetičce. (O tetičce is in the loc. case.) O čem se jednalo? Jednalo se o různých bodech. (o různých bodech is in the loc. case). .

7. Instrumental—sedmý pád

It expresses the means, way, manner, instrument, or casual condition. It answers the questions (s) kým?—with whom?; (s) čím?—with what?

All of the following endings are in the instrumental case.: Example: Čím jel do Ameriky? Letěl letadlem. (letadlem is in the instr. case). S kým jsi letěl? Letěl jsem se sestrou Anču. (se sestrou Anču here defines the ‘manner’ in which the flight was made).

Čím si psal? Pišu tužkou. Čistím šaty kartačem. Jel jsem vlakem. Pomáháme příkladem. Zemřel hladem. Stal se lékařem. Dům byl zničen bombou. Zde to voní růžmi. Jděte tuto cestou. Zvolili ho předsedou. .

Assignment Construct a sentence in each of the seven cases, answering the word functions in each case. Go back to the nominative case, and write sentences answering kdo? and co?, etc., then continue.

Translate these proverbs. Discuss these proverbs with someone:

1. Obecenstvo je často až dětinské: tleská chvilkovému ohňostroji, a každodenního velkolepého východu slunce si ani nevšimne.

2. Nejkrásnější jitro nevrátí dne předešlého. Co uplynulo, se nikdy víc nevrátí. 3. Jen slzy radosti jsou upřímné. .

—SPJST—

TCGS requests the honor of your presence

TCGS requests the honor of your presence at its summer event, “Two Became One – The Perfect Pair.” The conference, hosted by the Texas Czech Genealogical Society, will be held at the Caldwell Civic/Visitor Center in Caldwell, Texas, on June 16, 2012, with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. The theme of the event will be “Czech Weddings.” The first session of the day, featuring Anne Hyzak and her daughter Michelle Hyzak, will be a great beginning for the day’s program, as they relive April 2009, when they attended a Czech wedding of relatives in Southern Moravia. Many Czech traditions were carried out during the days preceding the wedding and through the final moments of the big day, and they will be shown and explained through video and conversation. “World War II Weddings” will feature photos of couples who were married between December 7, 1941, and September 2, 1945. Members and friends of TCGS are urged to mail

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photos of any couple married during that timeframe to Charlene Hurta, 1231 County Road 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515, and they will be featured during the event. Please include the name of the couple, the maiden name of the bride, the date and location of the wedding, children’s names, and the name of the person submitting the information. The deadline for submittal is June 6, 2012. June 14, 2003, was a very significant day in the life of Art and Ellie Woytek, during a Czech Republic tour with Tour Director Patsy Robertson. It was also a special day for those traveling with them, as, during the tour, Art and Ellie announced that they were going to be married in Licnov, which was a destination for the group. The fellow travelers knew nothing about the wedding plans prior to hearing the news that day. This presentation will give beautiful details of their extra special wedding, which was arranged and performed by Dr. Josef Simicek. TCGS Lifetime Member Tresa Tatyrek will offer two sessions entitled

“How to Use the Family Search Collection, Using the Card Catalogue” and “What is ‘Wiki,’ and How to Use and Edit,” along with “Using the Site Databases.” Family Search is regarded as one of the best available websites to use in searching for family information. Perhaps Tresa’s tips will impel many of us to begin, or return to, researching our families. While Tresa holds a degree in architecture and interior design, she became hooked on genealogy in 1997, while confined to bed for over a year and she continues to participate in genealogy research and presentations to this day. She is past president of the Dallas Genealogical Society, a member of the Cross Timbers Chapter of DAR, and the John Cavet Chapter of USD 1812, as well as a number of other state and local historical societies. No Czech event would be complete without good Czech music. Guests at this event will have the opportunity of listening to one of the best: Accordionist Henry Machicek and his wife Susan. Henry was born in Shiner,

Czech Cultural Calendar

Wednesday Evening Czech Language Class (extemporaneous)—at S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home, No. 1, Taylor, 500 East Lake Drive, Taylor, 6 to approximately 8 p.m. Informal gathering for the purpose of listening to Czech, and reading and speaking Czech.

June 9 22nd Kolache-Klobase Festival—at Riverside Hall, East Bernard, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.: music; food; indoor/outdoor entertainment; Czech costumes - kroje - encouraged to add ethnic flavor; patriotic grand march; arts/crafts; cake walk; plenty of kolaches for sale; kid games; family fun. For general information - (979) 3357907; Riverside Hall (979) 335-4875; or for booth information/(979) 3357699; or visit www.kkfest.com. Proceeds benefit KJT Society No. 40 Hall fund. See ad in May 23 Vestnik.

June 7 - 9 Czech Collectors Association Convention/Annual General Meeting at the Czech Center Museum Houston: CCA is dedicated to the ABCs – Austrian, Bohemian, and Czechoslovakian decorative arts. For information visit www.czechcollectors.org; or contact Dave Phleps (515) 2818189. June 16 Texas Czech Genealogical Society Summer Conference “Two Be-

came One - The Perfect Pair”—at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 Presidential Corridor W, Caldwell, Texas.

June 23 TCHCC and CHS Czech Youth and Family Day—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange, Texas. Contact TCHCC (888) 7854500.

Through June 25 Textile Exhibit—at TCHCC Museum, 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange, Texas: lace, embroidery, crochet, knitting, tatting, and fabrics. Anyone interested in sharing textiles, email TCHCC info@czechtexas.org; or call (979) 968-9399; also visit www.czechtexas.org. Submitted by Retta Chandler, TCHCC President/Lodge 25, Ennis.

June 27 - July 17 Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Summer Study Tour 2012—Tours of Czech historic places, Czech language classes, traditional Czech food, Czech cultural events, and a lecture on the current situation in the Czech Republic. For more information contact Thadious Polasek (979) 212-1372; email Polasek29@gmail.com; or write to Thadious T. Polasek, 730 County Road 230, Schulenburg, Texas 78956. Submitted by Thadious T. Polasek, Lodge 67, Schulenburg.

Texas. His dad was a farmer, and his mother was a homemaker. Music has always been a large part of his life. Anton Vrazel became his idol, and because of him, some 12 years ago, Henry decided to try to learn to play the accordion. He has become an accomplished player and now plays with the Praha Brothers Polka Band, and is often a one-man show at various other events around Texas. During a taping of Big Joe’s Polka Party, in Round Top, Texas, Henry met his wife, Susan, and she often joins him in song. They currently live in Granger, Texas, and were guests for our Parade of Kroje in January 2011. Besides great speakers, good music, and a warm, friendly atmosphere, food is something that everyone looks forward to, and again, Dave and Jerry’s will cater our noon meal of roast beef with gravy, buttered potatoes, green beans, tossed salad, rolls, tea, coffee and assorted desserts. The silent raffle, which is always popular, will be held during the event, and any donated items for the raffle will be appreciated. In keeping with its motto, “A genealogical society founded by Czech genealogists, dedicated to helping you with your Czech genealogy,” TCGS will again offer the Book Room, offering hundreds of family history research books, maps, and directories, and staffed with a number of experienced genealogists, to help guests with Czech genealogy. There is no charge for this service. A special surprise will take place during the late afternoon session! Early registration must be postmarked on or before June 7. The cost is $30 for TCGS members and $35 for non-members. Late registration, as well as registration at the door, will be $40 for TCGS members and $45 for non-members. Registration forms can be found at www.txczgs.org by clicking on “Two Became One-The Perfect Pair.” Questions about the event or registration should be directed to Bennie Stasny, 8402 Shenandoah Drive, Austin, Texas 78753; phone (512) 4976007; or email blstasny@aol.com. Submitted by, Nancy Machu SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Member shares Czech visit

We met with Vintners World Wide Importer for wines to the Czech Republic Karel Prusa III, Jakub Baranek, Jarek Slichta and wife Annie for a wine tasting of Jarek’s 16-plus varieties of wines. Mr. Prusa III is the son of Karel Prusa II longtime former director of Mikulov Vinopol until it was purchased by Bohemia Sekt of Prague. The father and son have formed an import and export business catering to wine salons and the large supermarkets here like Tesco and Albert bringing to this country wines from all over the world including California, Chilean, and Australian. Jarek had set up the meeting to discuss the proverbial problem of our not having Czech wines imported to the United States and to try to interest an importer and distributor there to handle these fine wines. Mr. Prusa routinely buys his grapes from J+J Slichta vines as they continously receive medal recognition for grapes from his vineyards. In summary, it was a good factfinding experience, educational and as far as Mr. Prusa was concerned with the amount of interest all around, exporting Czech wines to our country could easily be done. Of course, issues, certainly manageable, are unified branding, i.e. Grand Moravian Wines, using English equivalents of varietals such as Pinot Blanc for Czech Rulandske bile, etc. and applying labeling appropriate to the United States customs requirements. So we are happy to learn that much, but we need to interest a national distributor to market these wines such as Ben E. Keith Company who already distribute wines and Czech beers. We are looking for a musical instrument restorer as friends in the Znojmo Antique Erik, the Novaks, have gifted the CCMH with a vintage 1800s Zither made in Vienna. Remember this was once Austro-Hungary as the Czech First Republic was established by Tomas G. Masaryk and colleague Milan Stefanik of Slovakia with the assistance of our President Woodrow Wilson on October 28, 1918. It is an interesting and important concert string instrument in its original case. We enjoy the art works in galleries—and especially this trip one in Hodonin, home of the Masaryk Museum where Petr and Alena Cejka, a young couple who met at a university in London who speak perfect, well not quite like our American English.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Alena, nee Dzjuric, was from Presov, Slovakia, and we learned great information on several Czech artists who Alena thought would like to exhibit their work in the United States and especially the Czech Center Museum Houston. We don’t just run around every day. A home, wherever it is, requires domestic maintenance, repairing a lock, cleaning the light fixtures and cabinets, polishing the silver, watering our “English” garden, which is certainly Czech or European style, and need of a new stone driveway. There is no doubt that a Peony smells like heaven and is so beautiful. We lost six of our 10 rose bushes to the winter freezes of 20 degree F including the yellow rose of Texas which then Houston Mayor Bob Lanier sent here as an exchange for the Czech Lezak rose from CCMH which Charlie Pavlicek planted in the Hermann Park International Rose garden, our Czech Consul Ray Snokhous officiating! We had to replace our terrace furniture, actually three generations of plastic now, for a wood slat/black metal set. Those lifetime seating sets remind me of the old Die Hard car batteries, “lifetime” roofs, all such short lifes! We lunched with friends Viera and Vojtech Hrebacek. Viera’s family, the Nejeschlebas (don’t eat bread) for generations, had three houses next to each other, a large butchery, a smoke house, the residence. Under Nazi occupation, all businesses were required to have Hitler’s framed picture posted. On the first wave of Russian communist occupation, they were found with that picture still prominent. She remembers the family was held at gunpoint by four soldiers, irrational, intent to kill them until her father satisfied them with every piece of meat from the shop and smokehouse! Thereafter, a framed picture of Stalin and Gottwald was mandatory. To restore our Zither before coming to the CCMH, we fortunately found a Petr Peterzelka in Vracov, a large wine town, he a musician, composer, vocalist, director of folk culture, there in Vracov that is his hobby (konicek) since age 12. He and his brother were highly educated as chemists and work in that field. They were indeed fortunate to have enjoyed higher learning in spite of their father resigning from the Communist Party after which he was greatly maligned. Pavel plays with mallets a handheld Cimbal Zither with various music groups. His Zither is unlike our gifted one in that

this is played with a pick as a guitar. He has fabricated 17 of these vintage or baroque musical instruments which actually had their origin in early Persia although made their way to every country including the Czech eventually to a “cymbal” size. He tells us the Austrians still use instruments like our gifted one in concert music. So he was delighted to have the pleasure of restoring some of the 12 missing chord gut strings - two of the missing steel melody strings. He said the tone was still perfect with the remaining strings. We have noted the significant eight-month drought here and indeed saw a forest fire north of Hodonin still burning now for three days! We had coffee with Zdenka Vancova in Velke Bilovice, she who helped us find numerous kroj (folk costumes) items for CCMH as early as 1996 when she heard about the Houston effort to commemorate the immigrants to Texas and the United States. Bill enjoyed picking cherries off her

25-year-old tree which was bursting with fruit, helped by her eight-yearold grand niece Monica on a ladder while Bill held limbs down to assist her. Delicious, and we took some home. Zdenka offered a big, cold bottle of Martini liqueur, and we enjoyed toddy, coffee, and kolaches. We’ll always remember visiting her friend in Brno whose family were industrialists, owned a large hotel and their holdings were confiscated along with their large residence and that they were forced to live in their basement while families they didn’t even know were housed in their former first, second, and third floors! Her daughter who lives in Vienna is a retired first violinist for the Vienna Philharmonic. We are so grateful and try to stay in touch with all who have helped, and it hurts when they pass on. We visited the newly opened Military Museum on the border at Valtice (Shrattenburg, Austria, on the other side). We used to have to stop at that border with all the watch towers,

GOOD TIMES AWAIT YOU AT THE SIXTH ANNUAL

CORPUS CHRISTI GET AWAY WEEKEND AUGUST 10 - 12, 2012

Enj Enjoy a fun-filled weekend with family and friends at the Emerald Beach Holid Holiday Inn iin n Corpus C Christi. L oc Located at 1102 South Sh orel Shoreline, the th e Holiday IInn nn is the only beachfront b ea downtown hotel. d ow

Discount Rate: Disco $109 $ 109 Per Night Applicable A ppli Taxes Apply TTo o ma make your reservations, please pl eas call the hotel directly at 361.883.5 361.883.5731 and refer to group g roup code “SPJ” to assure that yyou ou rreceive e the pr proper pe room rate.

SPJST members will be treated to a fun-filled Aloha Party upon their arrival Friday evening. Fun, games, Fun, g ames, refreshments refreshments and and entertainment by the he Cowboy Accordionist st Chris Rybak. k. Saturday activities es include ude the th e Sand Sculpture re Competition n Beach Games, s, Horseshoe oe Tournament, t, Pizza Lunch, unch, “42” and Bunco co Tournaments and nd Blackjack Tournament. t. Saturday night’s party rty rt y will be a tribute to the he “Wild, Wild West.” .” Golf Tournament debuts ts on Friday morning. g. Watch Vestnik! W atch ffor or details details in in the the V estnik!

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barbed wire fencing and thorough searches of our then rent car. This museum is a must see and yet is little known, set up exactly as real life in many rooms, cells, military equipment walls with names of all those who perished trying to find freedom across the border. On departure, we thanked them for keeping alive the memory of this monument of containment that future generations should know about. This was a Communist travesty perpetrated on a hapless people which thankfully ended on November 17, 1989. It makes one proud to be American regardless of your roots. We traveled to Poysdorf, Austria, to an international wine festival where our friends won medals, which was a really incredible experience, out of hundreds of varieties and submittals. We met some Austria’s officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, heard some great music interludes including American jazz. Enjoyed our friends’ dual birthday celebrations after church with six hours of party under their huge walnut tree, cool breeze, and warm sun on a beautiful Sunday. The third generation of babies present, one three- and one-half-year-old Alzbetka (Elizabeth, Bettie) amazes us, reciting the actual recipe for honey made from the Lipa (state tree); pulling up a radish she planted with her “Babicka” eating it; producing a fresh English pea and strawberries she shared with us all. She plans to be a teacher and farmer amongst other things while Annicka and Christinka are babies not quite a year. Our earliest memories of Moravia, the clear blue skies, the warm sun, the millions of stars at night (which we don’t get to see at night in Houston), a full moon, brilliant sunsets above the Palava Mountains, the pure colors of the flowers, the birds singing ‘til dark and starting at daybreak at 4 a.m., all still fascinating! Thanks for your support for the Czech Center Museum Houston. My regards, Effie Rosene Lodge 232, Mid-Houston —SPJST—

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TCGS awards scholarships

Texas Czech Genealogical Society, for the first time, awarded two $1,000 scholarships to two very deserving high school seniors. The awards were presented at the “Czech Indoor Picnic – Bugs ‘n All” that was held on April 21, 2012, in Caldwell, Texas. The Scholarship Committee was chaired by Ann Hyzak, who presented the candidates to the attendees at the conference and awarded the scholarships. Each candidate, as a requirement for winning the scholarship, gave an oral presentation on “The Importance of Knowing Family History.” The scholarship winners were Erin Mitchell and Samuel Vanicek. Erin was in attendance and presented her report at the conference. Samuel’s presentation was a video presentation, due to the fact that he was representing his school in UIL competition on April 21, which prevented his attendance at the event in Caldwell. E r i n Mitchell, granddaughter of T C G S member Bernadette Mitchell, is a senior at Erin Mitchell and Ann Hyzak A&M Consolidated High School in College Station, Texas. With a grade point average of 4.43, she is in the top 3 percent of her class, ranking number 17 of 620 students. Her interests are in accounting, computer science, and theatre, and she has also worked in a law office. Erin was involved in numerous school activities, which included captain of her high school band, and she enjoyed playing clarinet with the Northgate

Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org

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

For membership: Merlene Bravenec (254) 778-7285

Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, she was a National Merit Finalist. Samuel Vanicek is the son of TCGS member Brian Vanicek. He is a senior at Rogers High School in Rogers, Texas. He has attained a grade point average of Samuel Vanicek 3.98 and is ranked number 1 in a class of 67 students. Samuel has been active throughout his high school years, in activities of SPJST, beseda dancers, and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where he served in many positions, including altar server and religious education instructor. His participation in high school activities included theatre, sports, and the marching band. Additionally, he was a National Merit Commended Performer. Samuel has been accepted as a student to the The University of Texas and will pursue a major in radio, television, and film programming. Congratulations and best wishes from TCGS to these two fine students. Submitted by, Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—

Czech Collectors convention this weekend in Houston

The Czech Collectors Association is devoted to fostering an appreciation of the Austrian, Bohemian, and Czechoslovakian Decorative Arts from 1850 to 1940. The CCA is having its annual convention at the Czech Center Houston Museum in Houston Texas June 7, 8, and 9, 2012. This year, it is a double dose of

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Czech culture enclosed in the Czech Center Museum Houston with the CCA Convention vendors and activities. There is an ongoing antique show and sale featuring multiple dealers, educational displays, mini presentations, a silent auction, Saturday evening banquet, an opportunity to bring in items to be identified, and great sharing. Debbie Truitt of the two Bohemian Glass and Bohemian Glass II books’ fame is giving the presentation “The Glassworks of the Counts Harrach— 300 Years of Quality and Innovation.” Jericho Mora presents “Loetz Tango and Czech Glass from the 20s and 30s.” There will be other presentations on Brytcha type figurines, Czech genealogy, and, of course, the colorful Czech pottery! For more information, visit www.czechcollectors.org or call Dave Phelps (515) 281-8189. —SPJST—

Lidice Destruction

The Czech lands were among the first places to be occupied by Nazi Germany in its aggressive expansion that led to the outbreak of World War II. During the years that followed, there was a small but effective resistance movement that aimed to hinder the occupying Nazi forces whenever possible. Lidice was a small village in the Czech Republic that was completely demolished by the Nazis during World War II. It served as a punishment to the Czech people by an enraged Hitler for the assassination of his third-incommand, and most powerful figure in occupied Czechoslovakia, Reichsprotektor Reinhard Heydrich.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

On May 27, 1942, Heydrich was ambushed by British-trained Czechoslovak paratroopers while driving through Prague. Heydrich died on June 4, 1942, as a result of his injuries. Early on the morning of June 10, 1942, a Nazi SS Task Force surrounded Lidice. All of the men over the age of 16, a total of 192, were shot and killed on the spot. Seventy-one women were murdered there as well, while the rest were sent to the Ravensbruck concentration camp. Eighty-two of the children were sent to different a concentration camp, and eventually murdered in the gas chambers of Chelmno. Only a few children that were deemed sufficiently Aryan were spared. Not only did the Nazis brutally murder the townspeople, but they completely “liquefied” the village. One by one the houses were blown to pieces until almost nothing was left. They even went as far as destroying the town cemetery, digging up the bodies buried there, and then burning them. It was truly horrific. June 10, 2012 marks the 70th anniversary of the destruction of Lidice and massacre of its people.

http://katelynzurovec.wordpress.com/2011/06/09/aroundhere-they-have-grave-memories/

—SPJST—

Delisle Doherty for Vice President

The role of Grand Lodge Vice President requires leadership skills. Delisle Doherty demonstrates leadership skills by publishing a weekly newsletter for sales agents in Districts One and Five and also by writing an article for all members in the Vestnik. Lodge 181, Conroe endorses Delisle Doherty for Vice President. Charles D Toney III, BS, MS, MBA “Chuck” SPJST Sales Agent and Secretary, Lodge 181, Conroe

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST 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., unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: (254) 773-8087. Email to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 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 (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Hall Rental Information: (979) 966-3795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the lodge hall. Potluck served after meeting. Youth Club Meetings: First Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Please take note of new lodge meeting time: Lodge meetings are held the second Sunday of each month, at the new time of 3 p.m. at American Legion Tap Room, 107 East Park Street, Hallettsville. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at American Legion Tap Room. LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA (3) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 2 p.m. at PointBank Community Center, 739 East Liberty Street, Pilot Point. For directions/meeting information, contact Brian Heitzman (940) 686-4429; or Jack and Dean Carender (903) 564-7359.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Saturday, June 9—Richard and Paula Veselka 25th wedding anniversary Friday, June 15—Social night, 6 p.m. Saturday, June 16—Lenart family reunion Sunday, June 17—Soukup family reunion, 10 a.m. Saturday, June 23—Girard family reunion Sunday, June 24—Filer/Pustejovsky reunion, 10 a.m. Friday, June 29—Malone Co-op, Inc. annual meeting, 6 p.m. Saturday, June 30—Krizan family reunion Sunday, July 1—SPJST Lodge 6 meeting, 2 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. The lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road. Hall Rental Information: (254) 826-5882; Hall Phone: (254) 826-0005. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Hall, 503 Park Drive, Weimar.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: (979) 272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Hall: 425 CR 424, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: (979) 884-1451; Hall Phone: (979) 8843211. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 5:30 p.m. at the hall. Please join us!

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 36, Buckholts. Directions: Hall is located on Highway 36, east of Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: (254) 593-2222. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Refreshments served after meeting, and door prizes awarded.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Highway 36 east onto FM

166. Proceed 2.1 miles; turn left on CR 225. Go one mile, veering to the right. Lodge building is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (979) 272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) \Sunday, June 10—Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, polkas/waltzes/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7/person Saturday, June 16—Peoples Choice, country/western/mix music. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. $7/person Sunday, June 17—Czech and Then Some, polkas/waltzes/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Irene Helgren (512) 281-4534; band bookings-Artie Monson (512) 281-3711; Hall phone: (512) 285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Rita Marburger (512) 859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Directions: Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. From Highway 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West four miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North. Go one mile; hall is on the right. Lodge Meetings: Tuesday after the second Sunday in March, June, and September, 7:30 p.m.; and the first Sunday of December, 3 p.m.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit at blinking light on Hwy 53 to FM 485; go one mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Wilbert Mikeska (254) 9852484; Hall phone: (254) 985-2393; wmmike@peoplepc.com. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Visit www.spjstflaghall.com. LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Thursday, June 14—Lodge meeting, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24—Dining room rental Saturday, June 30—Benefit

Lodge Hall: 1901 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay on Hwy 287 East until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and go under the overpass at Interstate 45. Go approx. 3/4 mile on Hwy 34. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (972) 875-8381; Hall Phone: (972) 875-8381. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Game room open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.

LODGE 26, SKIDMORE (7) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of March, June, and September, 3 p.m. at Skidmore Fire Station. Call Secretary Patricia Thompson (361) 364-1266 for December meeting date, time, and location.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Wednesday, June 6—Senior citizens’ dominoes, 2 p.m. Friday, June 8—Glen Collins Band, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. (Parents of Thrall 4H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.) Wednesday, June 13—Live music by the Bobby Jay Five band, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 15—Stepsiders, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. (Parents of Thrall 4H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.) Friday, June 22—Straight Up Country, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. (Parents of Thrall 4H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers from 6 to 9 p.m.) Wednesday, June 27 – Live music by the Bobby Jay Five Band, 7 to 10 p.m.

***Thrall 4-H Booster Club will be selling grilled cheese sandwiches and old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.

All Wednesday and Friday night dances have free admission.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the hall. Hall Rental Information: (512) 352-9139; Hall Phone: (512) 352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Music: Second and fourth Wednesday of the month/music by Bobby Jay Five Band; Fridays, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.; oldfashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.; Senior Citizens’ Dominoes: First Wednesday of the month, 2 p.m.

LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Hall: 3502 North Laurent, Victoria. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Sunday following the adult lodge meeting at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. LODGE 35, ELK (3) Saturday, June 16—Timeless Country Saturday, July 21—Cherokee Rose

Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From IH35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy. 84 East through Bellmead; go approx. 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy. 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Turn right onto Elk Road; go approx. 1 mile; road will dead end turn right; go approx. 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: (254) 875-2156; Hall Phone: (254) 863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: (512) 237-2438/day; (830) 8394353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR; go 2 miles to Mumford Road and turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. The lodge hall is at the bend of the road (white building). Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. For information, call President Wade O’Shields (979) 324-5961; FAC Dianna Everett (979) 693-5287. Insurance certificates info, call Secretary Lillie Matejka O’Shields (979) 324-5961.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Directions: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Brenda Cox (979) 543-7171; Hall Phone: (979) 648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:15 p.m. at the hall. Bingo every Monday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen and snack bar. Hall is non-smoking. License #17600539641. LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Presbyterian Church, Royal Road, Port Lavaca, Texas.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Sunday, June 17—Ocker Brethren Church Father’s Day Barbecue Dinner: includes all the trimmings; starting at 11a.m.; silent auction. Proceeds benefit the church. Saturday, June 23—Free Appreciation Dance for the public: Ennis Czech Boys, 7 to 11 p.m.

VӖSTNÍK

Sunday, June 24—Private Saturday, June 30—Jerry Haisler Saturday, July 7—Private Saturday, July 14—Private Friday, July 20—Annual Barbecue Cookoff Saturday, July 21—Annual Barbecue Cookoff

Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy. 53, Temple. Directions: Star Hall is 6 miles east of Temple on Highway 53 (Adams Avenue). Seaton Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Frank Klinkovsky (254) 773-4801; Hall Phone: (254) 985-2548. Saturday Night Dances: Hall and kitchen open at 6 p.m. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112. Go about 1/2 mile. Turn right on FM 619. Go about three miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (512) 365-3733. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of January through April and September through December at 5 p.m. at the lodge hall; meetings held the second Monday of May through August at 6 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of January through April and September through December at 5 p.m. at the lodge hall; youth meetings held the second Monday of May through August at 6 p.m. at the lodge hall. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: (325) 442-4841. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the lodge hall. LODGE 51, ELLINGER (1) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Ellinger Fire Department, West Main Street in Ellinger.

LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. at Lone Star Hall, 1201 North Davis Street, West, Texas. Youth Club Meetings: Third Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. Call Youth Leader Lisa Darnell (254) 644-2896 for location.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. Call for meeting location.

LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Hall: 722 Leroy Parkway, Elm Mott. Directions: From IH35 at Elm Mott, take FM 308 East exit. Go over the railroad tracks and go approx. 1/2 mile. Hall is on the right sitting back from FM 308 East. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Call for quarterly meeting date, time, and location.

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. Call for meeting location.

LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday in March and June at 1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls; second Sunday in September and December at 1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Hall Phone: (361) 854-8423. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east onto FM 2268; go 1/2 mile to hall on the right. Hall Rental Information: Frank Pajestka (254) 657-8176; Hall Phone: (254) 657-2485; or email SPJST80@yahoo.com. Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 4 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Board of Directors’ Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 3:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355.

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street, Needville. Directions: Lodge building is located south on Hwy 36, one mile from the traffic light in Needville. Hall Rental Information: (979) 793-4313; email td_stavinoha@yahoo.com. Hall Phone: (361) 793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.

VӖSTNÍK

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Monday, June 18—Lodge 84 meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions: From IH35 East in Dallas, take IH20 East. From IH20 East, take the IH45 exit toward downtown Dallas. IH45 runs into Hwy. 75. From Hwy 75, take a right at Bryan Street exit. From Bryan Street, turn right on Cantreal Street and go until you come to Floyd Street; take a right on Floyd Street. Hall is the second building on the right. Hall Rental Information: (214) 826-3557. Hall Phone: (214) 823-0072. Band Bookings: Cherri Petr (214) 352-4397/Ben Jarma (214) 348-1514. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2) Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Directions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50th Street; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Bertha Capps (254) 778-4371; Shop (254) 773-6164. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Saturday, June 9—Jack Melick Orchestra, big band music. *Dress Code. $12 per person Saturday, June 16—Red Ravens, polka/variety. $8 per person Saturday, June 23—No dance Saturday, June 30—Bobby Flores. $20 per person.

Take Note: All dances are held from 8 p.m. to midnight, unless otherwise noted. Reservations suggested, but not required, unless otherwise noted. Reservations held only 30 minutes past start of dance. For reservations, call (713) 869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Highway 290—Take Magnum Dacoma exit; stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto 18th Street. Go under freeway at third traffic light, turn on Beall Street. Hall Rental Information: Lodge Hall: (713) 869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. 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 91, CROSBY (5) Lodge Meetings: quarterly meetings—TBA in the Vestnik. Contact Secretary Vonda Smesny (713) 8707114. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Saturday, June 23—Metro Dance Club: Ronnie Martin, swingtime

Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From Interstate 35 West in Fort Worth, take Interstate 30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North, and it becomes Jacksboro Highway (TX199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cutoff which is a right off of Jacksboro Highway. The lodge also known as National Hall is on the right about 3/4 block down the road. (A Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner.) Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone (817) 624-1361. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Family Nights - first and third Tuesdays. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday and most third Friday nights. The other Friday nights will be live ballroom type music. Dressy casual. 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. Visit www.nationalhallspjst92.org. LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Friday in March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Gay Revel (361) 573-4443 for meeting location.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West three miles to FM 1303; turn right and go two miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (830) 393-7796; Hall Phone: (803) 393-6500. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of March, June, September, and December, 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard, Corpus Christi.

LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date/time/location, call Secretary Stanley (Martha) Vrla (214) 8262670/email mvrla@sbcglobal.net; or Sales Agent John Vrla (214) 906-3385/email jvrla@cebridge.net.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio.

LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 2622 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy. 287 East exit. Stay Hwy. 287 on until you come to Ennis.Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy. 34. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Larry Valek (214) 794-7674. Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. at Danbury City Hall, Danbury.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy, Texas.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m.; meal served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Annex Building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Annex Building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston).

LODGE 143, INEZ (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. at 508 Charleston Drive, Victoria.

LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month following the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Meeting Location Update—Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. However, the June meeting will be held on the third Monday in 2012. In addition, the March, June, and September meetings will be held at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 S. Sunset Street, Wharton. Our December meeting and Christmas party will be held in the meeting room of Hinze's Bar-B-que Catering, Hwy 59, Wharton.

LODGE 153, LA SALLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Mary Jane Sralla (361) 782-3374 for meeting location.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From IH35 West in Fort Worth, take IH20 West exit. Stay on IH20 West until you come to 820; stay on 820 until you come to Jacksboro Highway and Azle Street exit. Take Azle Street exit; go to the traffic light. Turn left at the traffic light. Go to the second traffic light, then turn right onto Boat Club Road. Go approx. 2 1/2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone: (817) 237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of March, June, September, and December. Call Secretary Ginny Prasatik (512) 472-1721 for meeting time/location.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of every other month, 1 p.m. Call Secretary Cynthia Kristinek (806) 763-7245; ckristinek@yahoo.com for meeting location.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of January, April, July, and October, 12 noon at Wall Volunteer Fire Department, Wall.

LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony.

LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Meeting Location Update: Lodge meetings are now be held at Country Inn Restaurant, 1000 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833. Meal and social at 6:30 p.m.; meeting follows at 7 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday of February, April, June, August, and October, and the first Sunday of December at 12 noon at Country Inn Restaurant, 1000 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Sunday, June 24—June meeting, 1 p.m. (note date change due to Father’s Day) Saturday, July 7—Lowell and Debi

Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Hall Rental Information: Jo (713) 993-6878; Hall Phone: (281) 487-3297. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of January through October, 1 p.m. at the lodge hall with the exception of November and December. Executive Board/Trustees Meetings and Workdays: First Monday of each month, (unless the first Monday is a holiday) at 2 p.m. Dances: Held the first Saturday of each month, unless otherwise noted. Variety Dances: Fourth Saturday of the month, unless noted.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Rental Information: (254) 982-4530. Hall Phone: (254) 982-4434. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall; Trustees meet at 6:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and kitchen is open. LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at Carmine Lions Club Building, 201 Centennial Street, Carmine.

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Hall: 1150 South Burleson Boulevard, Burleson. Directions: IH35 West, one-quarter mile south of Hidden Creek Parkway exit in Burleson. Hall Rental Information: (817) 558-2400; (817) 295-3483; (817) 371-0255; (972) 268-0022; Hall Phone: (817) 295-9665. Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at Ryan's, 1413 N Loop 336 W, Conroe. For more information, contact Barbara Williams-Rash (936) 295 7778 or email bwillrash@suddenlink.net or Chuck Toney (281) 362-9062 or email cdtiii@toney.us.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH20 East exit and proceed on IH20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North and stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Take a right on Mayfield; go down and take a left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone: (817) 465-8538; (214) 8769029. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Last Friday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Hall: FM 532 West, Moulton. Directions: From Texas 95 in Moulton, take FM 532 West four miles. Lodge hall is located on the right. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Theresa Haag (830) 625-8262 for meeting date/time/location.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy. 36, Caldwell. Directions: Lodge building is just off Hwy. 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: (979) 567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Social games: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Kitchen and bar open. License Permit No. 1-74-2073309541002. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Directions: From Taylor, take Hwy. 79 into Round Rock until you get to Sunrise. There will be a 7-11 on the right. Turn right; proceed past Hopewell School. Continue through the four-way stop. Luther Peterson Boulevard is the first street on the left. From Temple: Take IH 35 South. Just past Georgetown, exit on University Boulevard. Proceed to stop sign; take left on University Boulevard. The third street is Sunrise. Turn right onto Sunrise. The second street to the right is Luther Peterson Boulevard. Hall Rental Information: (512) 255-1554; (512) 771-4948. Lodge Meetings:

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall followed by a covered dish meal. Board meeting: 2 p.m.; entertainment, 2:30 p.m. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at Charles Munday’s office, 416 Oak Street, Bryan (behind the Kettle Restaurant on Texas Avenue).

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: Andy Anderson (936) 634-1962. Lodge Meetings: First Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. Regular Dances: First Friday night of each month, 8 to 11 p.m.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Rental Information: (281) 351-1045; Hall Phone: (281) 373-9482. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall with a potluck meal served. Lodge provides the meat.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall/Bruceville-Eddy Senior Center.

LODGE 201, BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions: Hall is across the street from the post office in Bleiblerville. Hall Rental Information: James Balke (979) 830-0796; (979) 830-0118. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m.) at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. (March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m.) at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton.

LODGE 204, STEPHENVILLE (3) Lodge Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, call Norman Kneschk (254) 386-3222; or email normk_82@hughes.net. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Sandra Pierce (254) 485-5801 for meeting date, time, and location.

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Mary Hatter (940) 322-8503; or any sales agent for meeting location.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: Every third Sunday of January, March, May, July, and September at 6 p.m. Contact Secretary Pam Lehmann (806) 561-5105 for location. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 5 p.m. Contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams (806) 990-3351 for location. LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 9 a.m. Call Secretary Edna Rivas (915) 727-2048 for meeting location.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. Call for meeting location Secretary Tammy Copeland (325) 320-4089. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Courtney Holzberlain (325) 829-3377 for meeting date/time/location.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: First Monday of each month at Best quality Meats and Sausage Shop, 2610 South General Bruce Drive, Temple. Meal at 6 p.m. followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact President James Lee (254) 289-6816. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Trish Konkler for meeting date/time/location (254) 780-9012. LODGE 255, KATY (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month 6:30 p.m. at China Buffet, 2001 Katy Mills Boulevard, Katy.

LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 4 p.m. at Alumni Student Center, conference rooms A and B, Texas Lutheran Campus, Seguin. —SPJST—

31st SPJST Convention • June 10 to June 13, 2012 Killeen Civic and Conference Center (KCCC)

3601 South W.S. Young Drive • Killeen, Texas 76543 • (254) 534-501-3888

Sunday, June 10, 2012 12:30 to 4 p.m. 4 to 7 p.m.

Delegates’ Registration Howdy Party Complimentary snacks and cash bar. The Houston Concert Orchestra will perform. (Sponsored by Bailey, Ramsey and Associates Actuaries)

12 noon to 1 p.m.

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Monday, June 11, 2012 7 to 8:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m. to 12 noon 12 noon to 1 p.m. 1 to 6 p.m. 7 to 10 p.m.

Late Registration Complimentary Coffee and Water Assembly of Delegates Opening Ceremonies Delegates’ Picture Morning Snacks and Beverages Business Session Lunch (Advance tickets only) Grilled Chicken Sandwich Baked Macaroni and Cheese Carrot Cake • Bottled Water Business Session No activities scheduled.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012 7:30 a.m. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 9:30 a.m.

Complimentary Coffee and Water Business Session Morning Snacks and Beverages

Lunch (Advance tickets only) Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwich Potato Salad • Baked Beans Banana Pudding • Bottled Water Business Session Convention Banquet (Advance tickets only) Suggested Attire: Semi-Formal Social Time: 6:30 to 7 p.m. Cash bar available. Dinner: 7 p.m. Burgundy Beef Tips/Smothered Chicken in Cream Sauce Spring Mix Salad • Garlic Mashed Potatoes Parmesan Crusted • Asparagus Assorted Desserts Keynote Speaker: John Sharp of Lodge 97, Placedo Dance: 8 to 10 p.m. Music by Fritz Hodde (Sponsored by Bailey, Ramsey and Associates Actuaries)

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

7:30 a.m. 8 a.m. 8:30 a.m. to TBA 9:30 a.m. 12 noon to 1 p.m.

Complimentary Coffee and Water Flag Day Ceremony Business Session Morning Snacks and Beverages Lunch (Advance tickets only) Mesquite Chicken Salad Sandwich on Croissant Parmesan Ranch Pasta Salad Vanilla Pineapple Cake • Bottle Water