ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T
Volume 101 Number 20
Benevolence
H E R A L D
" Humanity
" Brotherhood
May 22, 2013
ISSN —07458800
Submitted by Delisle Doherty Districts Five/Six Fraternal Field Manager Life is constantly changing to the had any changes in your life, make point sometimes it is hard to keep up. sure you contact your life insurance We move, we get married, we get di- companies and get these changes done. vorced, we have Many times, your children, grandchilagent is no longer Lodge 177 dren, change jobs, around and you igAcademy: have medical issues, nore the changes beor even just change certificate annual cause you don’t as a person. know who to conreviews coming These changes tact. Unfortunately, may seem like a part As part of our continued that is an industry of your everyday and valued service to our problem. life, but with each members, SPJST has impleSPJST is taking a change could bring a mented a program to ensure proactive approach potential problem in that your certificate informa- to help you fix these the future. What tion, such as named benefici- issues before they happens if your ben- ary and insurance coverage, become a problem. eficiaries on your is correct and up-to-date. By We are currently life certificates are reviewing and knowing that working our way no longer around. your information is current, through all lodges This could be an you can be assured that you and calling our issue when the need are receiving the full value of members to make is there. What if you your membership, and you sure everything is got married and you have peace of mind that your current in their cerhaven’t done a name loved ones will receive the tificates. Agents are change? That could care they deserve. working together to slow down the SPJST Lodge 177, Acad- contact you and ask process when your emy members will begin re- to spend time to family needs the ceiving certificate annual make sure everymoney the most. reviews, according to thing is good. UnWhat if you have Supreme Lodge Vice Presi- fortunately, we seem children? You don’t dent Gene McBride. “Linda to ignore the agent’s want them as your Johnson and other SPJST call or just don’t beneficiary? What if sales agents, including Mar- want to welcome you moved and no- keting Manager Don Strick- them into our body knows where land from the Home Office, homes. We may tell them we don’t need your certificate is? Continued on Page 11. anything and don’t All these little things now can make a big difference in the future. If you have Continued on Page 11.
Honorary District Six Director Michael K. Ahlstrom, center, reads the text on the Texas Historic Cemetery Marker for SPJST Moravia Cemetery as Lodge 23, Moravia Treasurer Eddie Vrana, far left, and Lodge 23 President Albert Olsovsky (back to camera) unveil the marker during the dedication ceremony held Saturday, April 13. The marker was made possible by a grant from Lavaca County Historical Commission. See story and pictures in next week’s Vestnik.
See the SPJST Float in the National Polka Festival Parade on Saturday, May 25 at 10 a.m. in Downtown Ennis!
! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Interest Rates.......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Readers Write ......................................3 Model Lodge Program.......................10 Sales Agents Mandatory Classes ....11 Lodge Section ...................................13
Vestnik Graduates .......................21-24 Youth Section.....................................29 Kraslice Winners ...............................34 Lodge Calendar .................................35 Czech Culture ....................................37 Advertisements..................................39
! ! ! ! ! ! !
Page 9
SPJST participates in Join Hands Day kick-off at State Capitol
Page 18
KHOU visits Lodge 88 Houston’s Thursday night bingo
Page 32
Lodge 17 New Tabor member celebrates 80th birthday
2
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK
Editor’s Note
TEAM . . .
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 JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, Texas 76574-2164 Home: (512) 365-1110 • Mobile: (512) 826-7371 email: jlpospisil@yahoo.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 KAREN KASPAR, FIC, CFFM 8550 N. State Highway 71 El Campo, Texas 77437-9819 Home: (979) 543-2532 • Mobile: (979) 332-1616 email: k-kaspar@hotmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR BOB J. BAYER, FIC 1100 Hospital Blvd, Floresville, Texas 78114-2912 Home: (830) 393-9073 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/ MARKETING MANAGER Don Strickland Mobile: (254) 239-8206 • Office: (254) 773-1575 Fax: (254) 774-1456 • email: dons@spjst.com FRATERNAL FIELD MANAGERS DISTRICTS ONE/THREE Philip (Phil) McBee, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (254) 239-7580 • Fax: (325) 784-7448 email: philm@spjst.com DISTRICTS TWO/SEVEN Hiram Dixon, FICF, LUTCF, CFFM Mobile: (254) 231-7722 • Fax: (254) 501-4479 email: hadixon2003@yahoo.com DISTRICT FOUR Bobby Davis, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (254) 239-9153 • Fax: (325) 657-2003 email: bobbyd@spjst.com DISTRICTS FIVE/SIX Delisle Doherty Mobile: (254) 239-9616 • Fax: (281) 855-3039 email: delisled@spjst.com
FINANCIAL SECRETARY ROY VAJDAK (254) 773-1575 email: royv@spjst.com
STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR FRANK HORAK Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR LYNETTE TALASEK Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 931-0639 email: lynettet@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Sharon Russell, 1292 CR 441, Dime Box, Texas 778853 • (979) 884-0807 - email: sharonrussell28@yahoo.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, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 • (210) 535-4916 - email: 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) 540-8531 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 HUMAN RESOURCES DEBBIE KLINKOVSKY (254) 773-1575 • email: debbiek@spjst.com
I
came across an amazing video recently about how teams work effectively. What I love about it is the power of teamwork it demonstrates. When we unite as a team and stick together with a common purpose, we can do great things. There is unbelievable power in teamwork. The video shared this story: One day, a lion was watching a herd of water buffalo feeding in an open field. He had attempted to attack in the past but he was no match for the strong buffalo with their sharp horns and hoofs. The lion had lost hope . . . however, he couldn’t keep away. Hunger kept him coming back. One afternoon, the buffalo had an ugly fight. This time when the lion came to watch them . . . he found them in separate corners of the field. It was now easier than ever to attack the buffalo one at a time . . . which the lion did to his delight. Regardless of our differences, we must strive together shoulder to shoulder. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. —Anonymous Together, ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results. —Becka Schoettle However . . . a house divided against itself cannot stand. —Abraham Lincoln We must indeed all hang together or most assuredly, we shall hang separately. —Benjamin Franklin
Would you like a kolac? Thanks to Lodge 47, Seaton member Michael Morris for sharing a great piece of information. Michael writes, “I feel I owe this to the general population—If you want to order one, ask for a kolač. If you want two or more (plural), then you should ask for kolače. There are no kolaches! Also, if it has meat inside of it then it’s not a kolač. That would make it a “pig-in-a-blanket” . . . or a ham and cheese puff . . . or some other Americanized treat. Thus endeth your Czech lesson for the day. Please help me spread the word! Děkují vám.” Correction On page 29 of the 2013 Life Insurance and Annuity Extra (published in lieu of the April 10 Vestnik), the listing under Lodge 88, Houston for Secretary Dorothy Cook should read: (713) 683-0018 dotcook1006@yahoo.com The listing is also incorrect in the May 1 Vestnik on page 5 under Lodge 88 Secretary. Please make a note of this correction. Thoughts and Prayers Our thoughts and prayers are with District Seven Director Bob Bayer and his family. Brother Bob’s son John and daughter-in-law April were in a car accident on Monday, May 13 in Floresville, Texas. John is improving, but April did not survive the accident. Please pray for the family. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of August and the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. 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.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Family Fun and Important Dates May 25
SPJST Float: National Polka Festival Parade Ennis (3) May 27 Memorial Day • SPJST Home Office Closed June 2 Lodge 47, Seaton Annual Picnic (2) June 2 Lodge 88, Houston Homecoming (5) June 14 Flag Day June 14-16 Leaders-in-Training Retreat SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm June 23 District Three Youth Achievement Day Lodge 154, Fort Worth June 29 District Four Youth Achievement Day Lodge 49, Rowena June 30 District Five Youth Achievement Day Lodge 88, Houston June 30 District Seven Youth Achievement Day Lodge 107, Floresville SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm July 4 Fourth of July • SPJST Home Office Closed July 4 SPJST Float • Belton Fourth of July Parade (2) July 4 SPJST Float • Arlington Fourth of July Parade (3) July 6-9 District Three Camp at ENC at Cooper Farm, Ledbetter July 11-14 Districts Five/Six/Seven Camp at ENC at Cooper Farm, Ledbetter July 13 District Two Youth Achievement Day Lodge 47, Seaton July 13 Lodge 51, Ellinger Picnic (1) July 16-18 SPJST Supreme Lodge Meeting, Temple July 18-21 District One Camp at ENC at Cooper Farm, Ledbetter July 21 District Six Youth Achievement Day Taiton Community Center July 25-28 Districts Two/Four Camp at ENC at Cooper Farm, Ledbetter July 28 District One Youth Achievement Day Caldwell Civic Center Aug. 4 State YAD • Mayborn Center, Temple Aug. 9-11 Corpus Christi Getaway Sept. 7 SPJST Education and Nature Center Fundraiser Cooper Farm, Waldeck Sept. 7 Lodge 48, Beyersville Annual Fundraiser Number in ( ) denotes SPJST District. —SPJST—
SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 05/01/2013 - 07/31/2013 SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Rates
Universal Life Universal Life 3 (plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 2.75%
Annuities Annuity 5 (plans 8032-8039 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 2.50%
Farm/Commercial Property Rates
Whole Life/ Universal Life 3 (plans 1223-1232 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 3.50%
Annuity New 5 Year (plans 8040-8041 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 2.50%
Farm/commercial property rates are subject to change without notice. Call the SPJST Home Office (800) 7277578.
75% Owner Farm Property 5.00% for 1 to 30 years Commercial Property 6.00% for 1 to 10 years 6.25% for 11 to 15 years
3
Readers Write Lodge 9, Snook member shares thanks Just wanted to drop a line to say thank you for the scholarship. Every little bit helps. Thank you, Cody Dever —SPJST—
Lodge 15, Buckholts member expresses thanks Dear Scholarship Committee, Thank you for honoring me with the SPJST Scholarship. This scholarship will be very helpful in gaining my degree in kinesiology at Sam Houston State University. Thanks again. Kayla Janicek —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton member conveys gratitude SPJST, Thank you for selecting me for the Leadership Grant Scholarship. This will aid me tremendously in my college expenses. Thank you. Chris Zavodny —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland member expresses appreciation Dear Mr. Vanicek, Thank you for selecting me to receive an SPJST General Freshman Scholarship. The money will be used to further my education at Texas A&M University. I look forward to a bright future in engineering. Sincerely, Joann Mazoch —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland member appreciates SPJST scholarships Dear SPJST Members and Friends, As a recent graduate of the class of 2013 of Texas A&M University (whoop!), I want to express my sincere and deep appreciation for the wonderful scholarships from the SPJST that I was!privileged!to receive. Scholarships such as these are a testimony to the ongoing support and concern that SPJST has for its future generations of leaders. !Your scholarships helped me to achieve my dream of a college education and put me on the path to a career as an educator. As an active member of SPJST, I have had many opportunities for developing !valuable skills and competencies such as self confidence, leadership skills, organizational competencies, and, of course, community service experiences. These experiences and the wonderful scholarships have helped me throughout my college career. !Thank you, SPJST, for your support!! Very sincerely yours, Victoria Pajestka Class of 2013 Texas A&M University —SPJST—
Find us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/spjst
4
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Minutes of the April 16, 17, and 18, 2013 Regular Meeting of the SPJST Supreme Lodge held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas PRESIDING: The meeting was called to order by Supreme Lodge Chairman Donnie Victorick on April 16, 2013, at 8 a.m. ATTENDING: Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Gene McBride, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer; Donnie Victorick – District One/Chairman; Jesse Pospisil – District Two; Johnnie Krizan – District Three; Billy Rollwitz – District Four; Karen Kaspar – District Six; Robert J. Bayer – District Seven/Vice Chairman. Officer: Roy Vajdak, Financial Secretary. Announcement was made that Director Larry W. Pflughaupt was not present as he was recovering from recent illness. 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 and in tribute to the victims of the horrific bombing by terrorists in Boston, Massachusetts. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska then led the Supreme Lodge in prayer. ANNOUNCEMENTS President Vanicek announced a pre-audit meeting with representatives of our external auditors, Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd and Therrell, set for 9 a.m. on April 17. Investment Consultant Buddie Ballard is scheduled to make his presentation on asset performance on April 18 at 9:30 a.m. Lynn Woolley will meet with the Supreme Lodge on April 18 to discuss proposed advertising on the Lynn Woolley radio show. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 15, 16 AND 17, 2013 REGULAR MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. Minutes approved as presented on motion by Director Kaspar, seconded by Director Pospisil, and carried unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 26, 2013 SPECIAL MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. There were no corrections, and the minutes were approved as presented on motion by Director Rollwitz and seconded by Director Kaspar and carried unanimously. The Supreme Lodge went into executive session at 8:20 a.m. to consider minutes of executive meetings. The executive session adjourned at 8:35 a.m. 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 team meetings. Clarification was asked on various reports and decisions made by the Management Team as recorded in the Management Team meeting notes. Suggestions were made relative to specific items that came up during several team meetings. There was extensive discussion about the general business matters and procedures of SPJST. The Management Team meeting notes were acknowledged on motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Director Kaspar, and carried unanimously. Jerry Milan, president of the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, was present and expressed appreciation for the help and input CHMGC has received from the Supreme Lodge.
VӖSTNÍK CHMGC President Milan commented on many upcoming events. He stated that the trip advisor named the Czech Heritage Museum as the top attraction in the Temple area. The name of a museum administrator will soon be announced. CHMGC President Milan stated he appreciated the support of people in SPJST. Recess was taken at 9:40 until 10 a.m. OLD BUSINESS STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR’S REPORT State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Horak reviewed his written report. He reported that the drawing for lodges wanting to host various tournaments would be held at the next Supreme Lodge meeting. SFAC Horak’s report included lodge meetings and activities and his travel log. STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR’S REPORT State Youth Director Lynette Talasek reviewed her written report. The report included her daily time record, upcoming activities, the third quarter report, the allocations report, and the youth fund annual report. State Youth Director Talasek reported the Youth Development Workshop was a very positive event. Appreciation was expressed to State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Horak and State Youth Director Lynette Talasek Talasek for their excellent cooperation. The option for online meetings for the youth was discussed, and it was determined that there is currently no provision for the youth to hold online meetings. MINUTES OF OFFICERS’ MEETINGS CONCERNING INVESTMENTS The minutes of 13 officers’ meetings concerning investments were considered. They are: January – 4, 8, 16, 23 February – 1, 4, 11, 28 March – 1, 4, 18, 21, 27 The minutes of officers’ meetings were acknowledged on motion by Director Pospisil, seconded by Director Bayer, and carried unanimously. SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY ACTIVITY President Vanicek discussed many of the positive developments in SPJST. He discussed preparation for the Legislation Awareness Day in Austin and commented that SPJST plays a key role in this important function. SPJST will participate in the May 1 event on the Southwest Lawn of the Texas State Capitol. President Vanicek reported he and Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick recently attended the American Fraternal Alliance President’s Section Meeting in Washington, D.C. He and Chairman Victorick commented on the very positive and helpful information received there. President Vanicek stated that special effort was given by Financial Secretary Vajdak and Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska in preparing for the A.M. Best conference call. President Vanicek reported that it has been a busy quarter. He is looking forward to the Bloomin’ Temple event which provides SPJST with an opportunity to become better known in the area. Recess was taken from 11:20 until 11:25 a.m. REPORT ON SALES Vice President McBride gave a detailed report on sales. He commented that sales were good and improving as illustrated by written reports which he reviewed. Vice President McBride reviewed a detailed comparison report and a report on status of training new sales agents. Vice President McBride reviewed the persistency report and stated he was pleased with SPJST’s very good persistency.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK Vice President McBride discussed current advertising efforts and new advertising programs being considered. Vice President McBride gave reports of actual results being experienced as a result of our servicing member’s campaign. Members of the Supreme Lodge expressed enthusiasm and great expectations for the campaign’s success. Recess for lunch was taken at 12 noon until 12:45 p.m. LODGE COMPLIANCE Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed lists of lodges that have not provided the Home Office copies of their IRS reporting and/or lodge officer rosters. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed the status of the annuity to single premium life offer on certain annuities. The administrative details have been worked out and the proposal letters will be mailed at an early date. VESTNIK Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that the Vestnik subscription list stands at 9,934. Weekly postage is approximately $2,411, and publishing cost is approximately $2,208. INDEPENDENT AUDIT The independent audit being conducted by Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd and Therrell will be completed by May 31, 2013. COMPUTER SYSTEM Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed a list of pending projects related to our computer system. The operating system was upgraded to 6.1, and an additional upgrade will soon be done. The memory in the AS400 has been doubled. Upgrading our system and servicing processes to fully utilize new technology is a priority which requires time and orderly efforts to successfully and fully implement. REFUND TO LODGES Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed a listing of refunds paid to each lodge for 2012. He reported the refund is paid at the rate of $1 per paid-up certificate and $8.50 per premium-paying certificate. 2012 ANNUAL STATEMENT REVIEW Financial Secretary Vajdak conducted a detailed review of the 2012 annual statement filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. Assets at yearend 2012 increased from $217.7 million to $227.3 million. Surplus at yearend 2012 increased from $16.3 million the previous year to $17.2 million. Net income for 2012 was $367,661. The Supreme Lodge thanked Financial Secretary Vajdak for a very thorough analysis of the annual statement. Recess was taken from 2:55 until 3:10 p.m. SUPPLEMENTAL RATING QUESTIONNAIRE Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed a detailed SRQ report which was prepared for A.M. Best and Company. The questionnaire includes a large amount of information about our operations. VESTNIK Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported that 130 Vestniks went out by email that morning. The primary reason cited for members wanting email subscriptions is that they receive their copy earlier. WEBSITE Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported that the www.spjst.org website had over 10,000 visitors from January 1 to April 9, 2013. She discussed plans for a total website revision, reconstruction, and redesign to remain attractive, informational, and up-to-date. SPJST FLOATS Report was made on many recent and future scheduled float appearances.
5
VARIOUS ACTIVITIES Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on the following: 1. Orel refurbishing 2. Social media and contests to encourage facebook visits 3. Annual lodge mailings 4. Term sales rate sheets, sales brochure development, and life insurance application forms 5. SPJST Insurance and Annuity Extra 6. SPJST Tasty Traditions Cookbook 7. SPJST Car Show at Bloomin’ Temple Festival 8. Vestnik feature of graduates 9. Vestnik archiving 10. Solicitation of 100 Percent SPJST Families DIRECTOR’S OLD BUSINESS DISTRICT TWO Director Pospisil reported that he attended Lodge 29, Taylor meeting; Publication Committee meeting; Supreme Lodge audit; Supreme Lodge meeting; Rogers High School Project Celebration fundraiser at Lodge 47, Seaton; Lodge 182, Falls County meeting; Buckholts VFD fundraiser; SPJST Awards Banquet; District Youth Counselor Workshop; Voigt medical fundraiser at Lodge 29, Taylor; Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point meeting; Lodge 48, Beyersville meeting; District Two spring planning meeting; Lodge 87, Temple Chili Cook-Off; Youth Development Workshop; sales agent meeting; Lodge 29, Taylor fundraiser; Lodge 80, Holland meeting; Czech Heritage Museum employee interview selection; SPJST Finance Committee meeting; Lodge 155, Austin meeting; District Two Spring Meeting at Lodge 80, Holland; Lodge 18, Elgin meeting; and Lodge 18, Elgin Easter egg hunt. He also performed a loan evaluation at Lodge 18, Elgin. DISTRICT THREE Director Krizan reported that Lodge 25, Ennis accepted our offer to find part of the cost of upgrading their frontage sign to better promote SPJST. Also, Director Krizan mentioned that on occasion, he receives two or three mailings from the Home Office with the same mailing date and suggested better coordination by combining into one priority mail package as an example of a small costs-saving measure among many others. DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz reported that he attended Lodge 160, San Angelo meeting; Supreme Lodge Meeting in Temple; Supreme Lodge Special-Called Meeting; SPJST Awards Banquet in Temple; Lodge 49, Rowena meeting where he presented reports; Lodge 229, Abilene meeting; Lodge 76, Wichita Falls meeting; and Finance Committee Meeting in Temple. He helped Fraternal Field Manager Bobby Davis set up an SPJST booth at the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo; went with Fraternal Field Manager Bobby Davis to Lodge 219, El Paso’s meeting; worked SPJST booth at San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo; and presented awards to Lydia Talamantez in San Angelo and Carl Carlson in Odessa. DISTRICT SIX Director Kaspar reported that she attended Lodge 30, Taiton monthly meetings; Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje monthly meeting; Supreme Lodge Meeting in Temple; sales agent training at Home Office in Temple; Supreme Lodge SpecialCalled Meeting; SPJST Awards Banquet in Temple; District Youth Counselor Spring Meeting in Temple; District Six Cemetery Association Annual Meeting in Moravia; Lodge 8, Weimar and Lodge 23, Moravia social in Schulenburg; Fraternal Alliance of Texas Annual Bowling Tournament in New Braunfels; Lodge 28, East Bernard monthly meeting; Lodge 41, Port Lavaca quarterly meeting; Lodge 184, Moulton monthly meeting; Youth Development Workshop at Home Office in Temple; Lodge 32, Victoria Annual Polka Fest in Inez; Lodge 8, Weimar reorganization meeting in Schulenburg; SPJST District Six Spring Meeting; Finance Committee Meeting at Home Office in Temple; Youth Leaders Workshop at Home Office in Temple; Lodge 151, Wharton quarterly meeting; Lodge 23, Moravia quarterly meeting/plans for dedication; Lodge 32, Victoria monthly meeting; Lodge 143, Inez quarterly meeting; Fraternal Alliance of Texas planning meeting in La Grange; and Lodge 8, Weimar monthly meeting. She served as a
6
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
member of the audit committee at the Home Office in Temple; member of committee for interviews for the State Youth Director’s position; assisted with Taiton Community Center’s grounds cleanup; and held a Texas Fraternal Insurance Counselor board meeting in Schulenburg. DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bayer reported that he installed Lodge 79, Corpus Christi’s officers. He attended SPJST Awards Banquet; Supreme Lodge Special-Called Meeting in Temple; memorial service for Susie Pavliska Blubough; Lodge 107, Floresville meetings; Lodge 133, San Antonio meeting and delivered awards plaque; District Seven officers’ spring planning meeting; Lodge 258, Seguin meeting; Lodge 202, Jourdanton meeting; and Lodge 107, Floresville annual meeting and banquet. He met with Fraternal Field Manager Hiram Dixon and eight sales agents in Floresville. Director Bayer discussed a request from a member to locate sales agents for their lodge. There was discussion on the process. Director Bayer inquired about the cost of the incentive awards program. He stated he calculated it to cost some $85,000 plus a few additional items. He proceeded to review the list of actual costs and stated it was his opinion that this cost was too large. Director Bayer pointed out some changes that should be made regarding handling of awards and recognition. He questioned how some awards are structured and perhaps there should be a minimum number to qualify. He expressed general concerns about our incentive programs. DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick reported that he attended Lodge 9, Snook meetings; Lodge 39, Bryan meeting; audit committee meeting for the Supreme Lodge; SPJST Awards Banquet at the Mayborn Center in Temple; Fraternal Alliance of Texas Bowling Tournament in New Braunfels; Founder’s Day Program at Lodge 88, Houston; Lodge 9, Snook fundraiser; Lodge 169, Brenham meeting; Lodge 29, Taylor fundraiser; Finance Committee meeting at the Home Office; A.M. Best conference call and review at Home Office; American Fraternal Alliance President’s Section Mid-Year Meeting in Arlington, Virginia; and District One Spring Meeting at Lodge 186, Caldwell. He participated in interviews for the State Youth Director’s position and in a sales agent training class at the Home Office. Recess for the day was taken at 5 p.m. until 8 a.m. on April 17. NEW BUSINESS GROUP HEALTHCARE Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky reported that she has information that the Scott & White Health Plan will not increase our group healthcare premiums. On motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Director Pospisil, it was agreed to continue with the current Scott & White Health Plan. Motion carried unanimously. HR ADMINISTRATOR REPORT Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky reviewed her written report. A.M. BEST BCAR RATING PROCESS President Vanicek asked Financial Secretary Vajdak to discuss the Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio. He discussed the rating process and steps we can take to improve our BCAR score which to a great extent influences our A.M. Best rating. HISTORICAL MARKER President Vanicek reported that Lodge 23, Moravia has received a historical cemetery marker. The criteria for receiving a historical marker was discussed. President Vanicek reported there is a current program to provide up to $500 of funds, if requested. On motion by Director Bayer, it was agreed to authorize $500 based on precedent. Motion carried unanimously.
VӖSTNÍK SPJST MODEL LODGE BEST PRACTICES GUIDE President Vanicek reviewed the guide and discussed how it will be used to benefit the functioning of our local lodges. LODGE DUES There was a discussion exploring how many lodges have local dues. The potential benefits of lodge dues were discussed. Recess was taken from 8:45 until 8:50 a.m. PRE-AUDIT CONFERENCE Jim Therrell from the audit firm of Jaynes, Boyd, Reitmeier and Therrell was present to conduct a pre-audit conference with the Supreme Lodge. Mr. Therrell summarized various matters related to the planned scope and timing for the audit of the statutory financial statements of SPJST for the year ended December 31, 2012. He also discussed their responsibility, planned scope of the engagement, and the new SSAP Rule No. 101. EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK President Vanicek informed the Supreme Lodge that the Management Team had extensively reviewed the SPJST Employee Handbook and are recommending changes to be ratified by the Supreme Lodge. Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny was present. Human Resource Administrator Klinkovsky proceeded to review the proposed changes and cited reasons for each recommended change. There was discussion about a proposed change stating that firearms or weapons cannot be brought into the Home Office at any time whether or not such individuals have a concealed carry license. After deliberating on the matter, Director Krizan moved that firearms and weapons are prohibited from being brought into the Home Office at any time unless such individuals are licensed, permitted, and have the authority under current federal, state, or local law to carry a weapon. Director Bayer assumed the position of chair. The motion was seconded by Director Victorick. There was discussion on pros and cons. Individuals expressed serious concern about allowing firearms in the building under any circumstances. Vote was taken, and the motion carried with six in favor and three opposed. Voting in favor: Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, Director Krizan, Director Rollwitz, and Director Kaspar. Voting in opposition: President Vanicek, Vice President McBride and Director Bayer. Consideration of other recommended changes to the handbook resumed. Recess was taken from 10:40 to 10:55 a.m. Supreme Lodge Vice Chairman Bayer continued to chair the meeting. Review of proposed changes to the SPJST Employee Policy Handbook continued. The changes were considered page by page, and some of the changes were amended. Director Victorick moved approval of the SPJST Employees Handbook as proposed by the Management Team during this meeting. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska seconded. Motion carried unanimously. Recess for lunch was taken from 12 noon until 12:45 p.m. Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick resumed the chair. VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President McBride acknowledged the challenges in the area of marketing. He stated he would be presenting a plan which might require more time for approval.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK ORPHAN CERTIFICATES Vice President McBride referred to the status of the SPJST annual reviews. He reported that 81 percent of our memberships have not received annual reviews. He referred to a report of agents’ performance on member annual reviews. Vice President McBride reviewed reports showing the success of some agents in doing members’ annual reviews. He expressed the need for training our agents to be proficient in conducting reviews. Fraternal Field Managers would be the key link in training agents to be effective in their reviews. NON-PRODUCING AGENTS Vice President McBride referred to graphs illustrating the very large number of agents with no sales. The problem was discussed as well as possible responses. ANTICIPATED NEEDS Vice President McBride discussed the need for full-time or well-trained agents who would enable us to adequately service our membership. SPJST may need to restructure our benefits, commission, and incentives for successful salespersons. Strategy for the next quarter was discussed. The need to evaluate the success of approaches was stressed. The Supreme Lodge went into executive session on April 17 from 2:35 to 4:25 p.m. President Vanicek reported on a letter received from a sales agent stating he would prefer cash in lieu of a cruise he had won. There was a review of previous action taken by the Supreme Lodge not allowing cash in lieu of trips. A motion was made by President Vanicek, seconded by Director Rollwitz, to send the winning sales agent travel vouchers. Motion carried unanimously. Recess was taken at 4:30 p.m. until 8 a.m. on April 18. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska led the Supreme Lodge in prayer focusing prayers on the tragedy in the West community and the people in West, Texas. MARKETING ACTION PLAN Discussion turned to reports of success in one district with the servicing of members’ campaign. There was discussion about replicating the efforts in all districts. It was reported that Director Krizan would be late due to the catastrophic explosion and tragedy in West, Texas. A marketing action plan was presented and reviewed in detail. After due consideration, it was agreed to take the steps to fully implement the plan which is to focus on needs of existing members and their families. DELINQUENCIES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska presented a report on 11 delinquent loans. After due deliberation, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the recommendation on each loan be approved. Director Kaspar seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. QUARTERLY INVESTMENTS Two loans and 104 investment decisions were reported. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved ratification of the transactions. Director Bayer seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. UNIVERSAL LIFE PAYOUT RATES The following payout rates were set on Universal Life plans on motion by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, seconded by Director Kaspar, and carried unanimously: UL 1 –
Plans 501-518 with a 4.50% guaranteed rate. Not currently marketed. Approved rate: 4.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
UL 2 –
Plans 979-998 with a 3.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed. Approved rate: 3.0% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
UL 3 –
Plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50% Available for purchase Approved rate: 2.75% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
WLUL 1 –
Plans 1168-1169 with a 3.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed Approved rate: 3.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
WLUL 3 –
Plans 1223-1232 with a 2.50% guaranteed rate Available for purchase Approved rate: 3.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
7
ANNUITY PAYOUT RATES The following payout rates were set for annuities on motion by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, seconded by Director Rollwitz. Motion carried unanimously. Annuity 1 –
Plans 8001-8004 with a 5.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed Approved rate: 5.0% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
Annuity 2 –
Plans 8011-8015 with a 3.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed Approved rate: 3.0% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
Annuity 3 –
Plans 8021-8025 with a 3.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed Approved rate: 3.0% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
Annuity 4 –
Plans 8027-8031 with a 2.0% guaranteed rate Not currently marketed Approved rate: 2.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
Annuity 5 –
FLEX, SPDA, SPIA, QUALIFIED, NONQUALIFIED Plans 8032-8039 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate Available for purchase Approved rate: 2.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013
Annuity New 5 Year – Plans 8040-8041 with a guaranteed rate of 1.50% Available for purchase Approved rate: 2.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013 Annuity New 10 Year – Plans 8042 and 8043 with a guaranteed rate of 1.50% Available for purchase Approved rate: 2.50% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013 Original 5 Year Annuity – Plan 8026 with a 2.0% guaranteed rate Rate for renewals only Approved rate on renewals: 2.75% effective 5/1/2013 – 7/31/2013 Minors Claims – Approved rate of 2.50% effective 5/1/2013 until further action is taken Recess was taken from 9:30 until 9:45 a.m. INVESTMENT CONSULTANT Buddie Ballard, CFA of Alpha Cap Management was present to review portfolio performance. The time weighted return for the first quarter is 2.03 percent. A detailed written report was distributed and reviewed.
8
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
INVESTMENT POLICY STATEMENT (IPS) The IPS was brought up for review. After review, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that Section VI – Asset Allocation Policy (c.) be amended by changing the language “ . . . shall not exceed 50 percent . . .” be changed to “ . . . shall not exceed 25 percent . . . ” President Vanicek seconded, and the motion carried unanimously, effectively reducing the permitted investment in equities. GENERAL CONSULTING CONTRACT A general consulting contract presented by Parkway Advisors was considered item by item. The ongoing consulting services proposal was reviewed, and some areas were thought to be currently covered and would be redundant. It was decided that we should ask for a billing for services performed and meet with the consultant to arrive at a revised proposal at a reduced fee that would be positive and complimentary to our management. AMERICAN FRATERNAL ALLIANCE Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reported he planned to attend the American Fraternal Alliance Investment Section meeting in Oakbrook, Illinois. ADDRESS UPDATE PROJECT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that March 20, 2013, listing of 4,638 unknown addresses has now been reduced to 4,323 unknown addresses. Eleven death claims were identified with the oldest dating back to 1994. The process that is being followed in seeking to identify members with unknown addresses was reviewed. QUARTERLY STATEMENT Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the March 31, 2013, quarterly statement and statement of operations in detail. QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION Financial Secretary Vajdak referred to questions and information requested by directors and referred to written reports responding to the questions. SUMMARY OF ANNUITIES Financial Secretary Vajdak referred to a detailed summary of annuities. SPJST LODGE MANAGEMENT ACCOUNT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported on deposits and withdrawals to the SPJST lodge management fund account. CONFERENCES Financial Secretary Vajdak reported he will attend an American Fraternal Alliance conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. MATURING UNIVERSAL LIFE CERTIFICATES The matter of maturing UL certificates was discussed. It was agreed that we follow the terms of the contract in UL certificates maturing at age 95. Recess for lunch was taken at 12 noon until 12:45 p.m. SCHOLARSHIPS President Vanicek reported on scholarship selections and proceeded to conduct a drawing for nine honorary scholarships. He also provided a list of scholarship/grant winners. EMPLOYEES’ GROUP HEALTH PLAN The group healthcare plan was reconsidered. A proposal from Humana was considered. President Vanicek moved that since the Humana plan’s premiums appear to be more favorable, that if further study shows the plan to be more favorable, the officers be authorized to decide on health plan coverage. Director Pospisil seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. Executive Assistant to the President Sandra Dubcak was present and recognized for handling the administrative details of the scholarship selection. ADVERTISING Lynn Woolley and Ben Barrack were present to discuss SPJST sponsorship of the
VӖSTNÍK Lynn Woolley Show, a top-rated conservative radio talk show. Mr. Woolley discussed the radio coverage area of his show and shared some proposed spots produced for SPJST. On motion by Director Rollwitz, seconded by Director Bayer, it was agreed to authorize a contract for three months for spots on the Lynn Woolley Show. Motion carried unanimously. Director Krizan arrived at the meeting at 2:10 p.m. DIRECTOR’S NEW BUSINESS DISTRICT TWO Director Pospisil had a brief report with appropriate comments. DISTRICT THREE Director Krizan reported on the explosion tragedy in West, Texas. He provided updated information on the recovery efforts. He commented that SPJST has 1,435 members in West. Director Krizan encouraged SPJST to set up a fund to aid victims of the West tragedy similar to the Fort Hood project or the manner in which SPJST helped its members during Hurricane Katrina or Hurricane Rita. In closing, Director Krizan made the following announcements: Sunday, April 28 – District Three Meeting at Lodge 183, Arlington May 24 to 26 – National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas Sunday, June 23 – District Three YAD at Lodge 154, Fort Worth July 6 to 9 – District Three Camp at Cooper Farm Sunday, July 21 – 116th Annual Picnic at Lodge 6, Cottonwood DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz gave a brief report with appropriate comments. DISTRICT SIX Director Kaspar gave an update on a lodge reorganization effort in Weimar and stated it is going very well. She thanked President Vanicek for being present at the Moravia Cemetery dedication. Director Kaspar offered best wishes for a quick recovery for District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt. She offered prayers of concern for the people in West, Texas. DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bayer announced the District Seven meeting in San Antonio on May 5. DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick stated this was a very good meeting and thanked everyone for their input. He looked forward to the plan of action for the next three months. He offered sympathy for the people in West, Texas. ADJOURNMENT Director Rollwitz moved adjournment. Director Pospisil seconded, and the motion carried unanimously; whereupon Supreme Lodge Victorick adjourned the meeting at 2:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge was set for July 16 to 18 to begin at 8 a.m. Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—
VӖSTNÍK
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
9
Texas kickoff for Join Hands Day on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin. House Resolution 1683, presented by State Representative Ralph Sheffield, a member of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple, was read on the House of Representatives floor of the 83rd Texas Legislature and adopted by the House on that same day.
“This biennial event was a great opportunity for all of us to communicate good information to our elected officials and the entire team at the Texas State Capitol about the great works that our respective fraternals do for their members and for the communities that we seek to serve,” SPJST Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek said. The fraternalists also served approximately 1,550 hot dogs. —SPJST—
SPJST Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, left, visits with Texas House Representative Ralph Sheffield (R), District 55, and his office staff - Chief of Staff Brad Tegeler, Legislative Director Alexa Calligas, Legislative Aide Trevor Spears, and Scheduler Anna Wood on the Capitol
grounds. Representative Sheffield is a member of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple. RIGHT and BELOW PHOTOS: Members of Fraternal Alliance Of Texas prepare and serve hot dogs and entertain legislators and their staffs at the Capitol.
Members of the Texas chapter of the American Fraternal Alliance hosted a
10
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
SPJST Model Lodge Program: Best Practice Nos. 8, 9, and 10 Best Practice No. 8
Lodge has an active sales agent. The importance of having a self-motivated SPJST life insurance sales agent with a passion for helping and improving the lives of people serving your lodge and community cannot be overstated. Financial health and well-being are no less important than physical health. SPJST’s business philosophy — to work to establish a reputation for quality among members, sales agents, employees, and management remains an ongoing initiative. Moving forward, one of the goals of the SPJST Insurance Department is to ensure that the life insurance and related financial needs of its existing members and their extended families are being effectively met. The financial rewards of being an SPJST sales agent are limited only by one’s initiative. SPJST makes a significant investment in new SPJST sales agents by providing a commission arrangement, training, and continuing education classes for lodge sales agents. Does your lodge have one or more active SPJST sales agents? Different traits comprise great fraternal life insurance sales agents. Although there is no perfect formula for being excellent, a good sales agent will have good people skills — a good personality, friendly, the ability to communicate effectively, and be a good listener. He or she needs to be knowledgeable about the products and be able to explain the features and benefits of what is being sold. Some of the same characteristics that define a strong lodge leader can also help one succeed as an SPJST sales agent. These include high ethics, perseverance, flexibility, energy, the desire to help and give back, commitment, and passion. Who do you know in the lodge — or in the community — who might be a good SPJST sales agent? For more information on becoming an SPJST sales agent, please contact the Office of the Vice President at (800) 727-7578. —SPJST—
Best Practice No. 9 Lodge hosts an annual member appreciation event.
Lodge members are an essential part of making SPJST a strong fraternal organization. All SPJST members have a basic need to feel appreciated, respected, and valued. To maintain a cohesive team, all members need to feel appreciated for their efforts. Lodge members who are not esteemed and recognized for their contributions have little chance of remaining cohesive, functional, and successful. Demonstrations of gratitude, acknowledgements of effort, words of congratulations and other actions of appreciation function as the glue which binds a successful and cohesive team together.
Does your lodge currently host an annual member appreciation event? If yes, based on your most recent member appreciation event, identify the positives as well as negatives. What could be done to accentuate the positives and eliminate the negatives? —SPJST—
Best Practice No. 10
Lodge maintains a lodge building. The lodge does not stand alone within the community. In most cases, there are relationships with other community, educational, cultural, social, recreational, and business groups. Our aim in including the lodge building as a model lodge component is the acknowledgement of the important role the lodges with buildings play in conveying the “face” of the SPJST in the community. Successful lodge buildings bring together a wide variety of folks from the surrounding community for social, educational, and recreational activities that improve the quality of life for area citizens. A well-managed lodge building is particularly useful in helping to raise the profile of SPJST as an active fraternal organization within a community. —SPJST—
For Your Consideration
What makes or would make your lodge building uniquely SPJST? How does or could your lodge building contribute to the quality of life in the community? What are the opportunities for collaboration on your lodge building? Are there potential partners in the community who could assist with operating expenses? —SPJST—
Parliamentary procedure lends structure and order to meeting process Have you ever been to an out-of-control lodge meeting? A meeting where several items were being discussed at once? A meeting where you never had a chance to express your views? A meeting where a vote was never taken and, in the end, the president — or someone else — made the final decision? As a result, you may have left the meeting feeling as if nothing was accomplished or what was accomplished was questionable. Lodge meetings don’t have to be that way. A well-conducted lodge meeting should be the goal of every officer and member. Parliamentary procedure helps the officers and members follow a logical order in conducting a meeting. For a presiding officer to conduct a good business meeting, the entire membership should have an understanding of the basics of parliamentary procedure. Each member needs to at least be aware of five principles of parliamentary law: • Courtesy and justice to all. • Consider one thing at a time. • The majority rules. • The minority must be heard. • The purpose of the meeting process is to facilitate action.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Basic Parliamentary Procedure Guidelines
The 15 points listed on the next page represent a procedural guideline for implementing the basics of parliamentary procedure in your lodge meetings. Please know that parliamentary procedure handbooks are available for SPJST lodge officers at no charge from the SPJST Home Office. 1. Lodge president calls meeting to order. (“This meeting will come to order.”) 2. The president follows the prescribed meeting agenda. 3. Only those who get recognized by the president may speak during a meeting which has “come to order.”
Did you know? Two taps of the gavel call the meeting to order. Three taps of the gavel is the signal for all members to stand in unison on the third tap. One tap follows the announcement of the completion of each vote or the announcement of a recess or adjournment. A series of sharp taps is used to restore order during the meeting.
6. In order to discuss something the group needs to vote on, someone (other than the president) has to make a motion (“I move that . . . happens”). 7. In order to even discuss a motion, someone has to “second” it. (“I second the motion”). 8. The minutes need to reflect who makes motions, who seconds them and what exactly the motions are (so the secretary may ask the president to clarify these things at any time). 9. If there is no second, the motion “dies,” meaning it will not be discussed. 10. If there is a second, the president calls on people to speak in favor of or against the motion. 11. If someone who supports the basic motion wants to suggest a change within the motion, he/she may make
Wednesday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m. SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Dear Sales Agents in District Two, Please make plans to attend one of these District Two Sales Agent Training Seminars. The purpose is to ensure you are equipped to begin contacting your members and perform annual reviews. Annual reviews are the best way to maintain a continued relationship with your members and know their information is current in the event something should happen. This mandatory agent training seminar is set for: Tuesday, May 21 at 6:30 p.m. SPJST Lodge 87, Temple
4. If someone wants to speak, it should be to the whole group unless the president gives permission to have a small side conversation for the purpose of furthering the meeting. 5. The president acts as a neutral “gatekeeper” in discussions of matters to be voted upon.
11
Life is . . . an “amendment” in the form of a new motion. (“I would like to move that the current motion be amended like this . . . ”) 12. The motion to make an amendment either gets a second and the newly altered motion gets discussed or it dies and discussion returns to the original motion. 13. Once a vote is taken by eligible voting members, the secretary announces the numbers and the president announces whether it passed or not. 14. The president then gives di- rections or requests that appropriate action be taken by whomever is responsible to act on the motion that has been passed. 15. At the end of the meeting, the president asks for a “motion to adjourn.” Someone seconds and the president asks for a vote. If it passes, the meeting is officially over. —SPJST—
As a sales agent, it is mandatory you attend this meeting. Please RSVP to me no later than May 19 so we will know how much food and training materials to prepare. Please come prepared to accomplish great things for SPJST! Thank you for your service to SPJST. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Fraternally, Hiram Dixon FICF, CFFM, LUTCF (254) 231-7722 hadixon2003@yahoo.com —SPJST—
Lodge 177, Academy
Continued from Page 1.
Continued from Page 1.
see why they should come by. Then something happens, and we don’t have anyone to call because your agent is no longer around. When you get that call from the SPJST sales agent, welcome him/her into your home. Even if you don’t see a need, a nice conversation today may help you in the future. Sometimes just talking to someone makes us feel good. Who knows you may even find a new friend! This sales agent will bring a “change of agent” form so you will have an agent to call if the need does arise. He/She will make sure you know what insurance you have and guide you along. He/She will smile and shake your hand or give you a hug. Whatever you want, he/she is here for you. You just need to welcome the agent into your home. As a Fraternal Field Manager, I get paid to help you . . . to answer your questions . . . to make sure life’s changes don’t become an issue in the future. And, to make sure you have an agent who wants to help you. There are four Fraternal Field Managers across the state, and we all share the same goal—to make sure all your needs are met. If you have a change in your life, don’t wait for the sales agent to call. Call your Fraternal Field Manager, and I promise we will be there to serve you. Let us earn our paychecks. —SPJST—
will be calling on lodge members as a part of our continued and valued service,” Brother McBride says. “We will be visiting with each member regarding their insurance certificate, and it will take only a few minutes to complete.” “Lodge 177 members, please take advantage of this service and opportunity,” Marketing Manager Don Strickland adds. “SPJST has the most competitive insurance products, annuities, and IRAs to meet each family’s needs along with being a fraternal society that recognizes its proud heritage and believes strongly in its youth by teaching patriotism, good citizenship, teamwork and leadership . . . and, if you have recommendations for new lodge members, please share them with your representative.” For 116 years, SPJST has been a shining example in Texas of secure insurance plans and dedicated ideals of fraternalism. All this is possible because of you, our members, Brother Strickland states. “If you have questions or need our assistance in any way from the Home Office, please call on us at (800) 72SPJST or (800) 727-7578. We are here to help you!” —SPJST—
12
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VÓ–STNĂ?K
# # # Presenting 2013 Officers # # # SPJST District Three
# # # Presenting 2013 Officers # # # SPJST District Seven
The 2013 officers of District Three are, left to right, Assistant District Youth Counselor Lynda Novak (84), District Youth Counselor Bessie Petr (84), Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki Sims (84), Flag Bearers Dakota Holder (6) and Angel Pace (154), in front, Treasurer Mary Steinman (154), Secretary Patricia Dieterich (6), President John Engelke (66), Second Vice President Cheryl Petr (84), and Assistant District Youth Counselor Kay Weeks (183).
The 2013 officers of District Seven are, left to right, President Colleen Jenke (258), Fraternal Activities Coordinator Glen Pruski (107), Second Vice President Jerry Sijansky (79), Secretary Bettie House (202), Treasurer Valerie Barta (202), and District Youth Couselor Wendy Pruski (107). Not pictured is Assistant District Youth Counselor Regina House (202).
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
SPJST Lodge Se ct ion Lodge 15 Buckholts proud of new refrigerator The May meeting of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts was called to order at 5 p.m. by President Douglas Williams. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Regina Peevey followed by a moment of silence in memory of our departed members. All officers were present for the meeting. President Williams welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending. Reports were read and approved. President Williams said we were short on rentals for this month, but next month, it looks good for we have every weekend rented. We are so delighted over the new, slightly used big doublewide refrigerator. Thanks to Carl Jurca who located it for us in Temple. He called Doug about it, several others wanted it, but
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 Carl had first chance so he paid for it in order to hold it. Then, we reimbursed him for it. It has an icemaker which will really come in handy. We really want to thank Carl for doing this for us. We appreciate it so very much. We also want to thank William Story and his friend Bob for helping load it. That was a big task. It is so large and heavy. Thanks to President Doug for all he did to make this all possible. In old business, they worked on the electrical problem with the outside lights. There is still more to do later. In new business, we will need to run a water line to the new refrigerator so we can get the icemaker going. Lamerle Zajicek is getting us some prices on replacing the front doors, which we need very badly. Frank Tomascik made the motion that we adjourn, seconded by A.W. Zajicek. Motion carried. Door prizes were drawn, followed by a delicious meal.
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje youth and adults joined with JCDA St. Robert’s Court 2275 and CDA Court 2295 to clean all the cabinets at St. Robert’s Hall on May 5, 2013, at 5:30 p.m. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured are Kelly and Kierra Taylor, Trianna and Adryanna Manzano, Sky and Cynthia Garcia, JCDA member Alayna, and JC and Carmen Kocurek.
Next Meeting—June 10 The next meeting will be on June 10 at 5 p.m. We hope you can be there. Fraternally, Dorothy Tomascik, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts successful barbecue SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone met at Flag Hall on Monday, May 13, 2013. Most present were feeling the long day of our wonderful Mother’s Day Barbecue. We were elated at the turnout and the number of families that joined us on a really nice day. The meeting was called to order at 7:14 p.m. by President Daniel Wilde, and we had the Pledge of Allegiance and silent prayer for our sick and deceased members. There were no minutes of the last meeting as Secretary Margaret Mikeska was not at the last meeting. Treasurer Linda gave her lengthy report which was outstanding. Brenda Maddux gave the bar report that showed a great deal of activity. Brenda also gave the youth report. Their April meeting was at the new bowling alley in Temple. They had 18 youth, two guests, and 12 adults. Amya Rodriguez sang at Temple’s Bloomin’ Fest; May 12 was their Join Hands Day at our Mother’s Day dinner; May 19 - District Two party; June 14 - LIT Camp at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm; District Two Swim
13
Party is tentatively set for June 23; July 26 to 29 is District Two Camp at Cooper Farm; August 3 - State YAD; August 9 to 11 is Corpus Christi getaway; and September 14 - District Two Six Flags Trip. Cyclone Youth Club will go to Schlitterbahn on a date to be determined. Shirley Hoelscher gave her report. Mother’s Day started in 1914; State Horseshoe Tournament is May 18 at Lions Park in Temple; end of summer getaway; cookbooks for sale for gifts this time of the year; and the West Benevolence Fund has been set up by the Home Office. We donated $100 to the West Benevolence Fund for now. More to come later. We discussed at length, the Mother’s Day Barbecue. President Wilde thanked everyone who helped. We had good crews at the pit, in the kitchen, and in the serving lines. Especially thanked were Wilbert and Margaret who were chairmen of the event. Margaret has special dedication as she put off going to the doctor until after the event. President Wilde also thanked Jesse and Linda Pospisil, Melanie Zavodny and David Nauert, Carla Kacir, Charlie Herendon, and all the youth who really did a good job. We are in their debt. Polka Dance—August 4 The next polka dance at Flag Hall is on Sunday, August 4 with music by Czechaholics from 2 to 6 p.m. Please make plans to attend. Lodge 24 has a popcorn machine and hot dog maker available to any lodge who wants them. Free of
RIGHT PHOTO: Seated in front are Virginia Cruz, left, and Cathy Garcia. Back: Left to right are JC and Carmen Kocurek, Trianna and Adryanna Manzano (center, front), Sky and Cynthia Garcia, Alayna Cruz, and Mary Ortiz. —Submitted by Cynthia Garcia, Lodge 40 Youth Club President
14
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
charge. Birthday celebrants are Jennifer Hoelscher, Joseph Hoelscher, Kristen Nash, Wilbert Mikeska, and Ann Schneider. Celebrating a wedding anniversary are Shirley and Jason Hoelscher. On the sick list is Wayman Richter. The weather has been wild in this area. Many corn fields are stripped by the hail and winds. The corn is growing so fast from the two-inch rain that most can hear it grow. Bobby Hoelscher Reporter —SPJST—
VӖSTNÍK
Lodge 29, Taylor recognizes mothers Lodge 29, Taylor members met Wednesday, May 8, 2013. President Ronnie Rieger led the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our departed and especially for Mike Girod’s mom who recently passed away. All officers were present. The April minutes were read and approved. Tammy Whatley gave the treasurer’s report. Sharon Kaderka gave the FAC
On Saturday, April 27, 2013, the adult and youth club members met at SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Hall. Some of the projects the members worked on included finishing the replacement of new cabinet doors in the kitchen and painting doors and walls on the west side. The youth members cleaned all the arcade machines in the game room and
report. The State Horseshoe Tournament will be Saturday, May 18 in Temple. Memorial Day is May 27, and we need to remember our fallen soldiers. The Bloomin’ Temple Festival and SPJST Car Show is Saturday, May 11. Sharon read a letter about the tragedy at West. Connie made a motion to donate $200 to the West Benevolence Fund, and Leonard Kaderka seconded. The motion prevailed. Sharon also recommended we give a donation in memory of Patricia Girod, Mike’s mother. Leonard Kaderka made a motion to donate $50 to SPJST Education and Nature Center, and
Barbara Nygrin seconded. The motion passed. Sharon read a thank you note from the family of Clara Voigt. Jesse Pospisil gave the property committee report. Roof construction has begun on the hall building. Jesse introduced D.J. Jirasek as a new sales agent for Lodge 29. He also talked about our Join Hands Day project. Adult members and youth club members cleaned inside and outside the hall. Jesse praised the youth for the good job they did cleaning. Cristy Girod reported there were 15 youth and two guests at their youth club meeting. They made a Mother’s
also cleaned the walls and baseboards. They also cleaned around the inside perimeter of the hall upstairs and downstairs. They also picked up trash around the outside grounds of the hall. The upstairs bar area was cleaned and organized, and the back bar room storage shelves were painted. —SPJST—
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK Day craft. Officer elections were held. Cristy asked for donations to the bake sale/garage sale Lodge 29 is sharing with the Taylor Country Club on May 17 and 18. The youth club donated $100 to the West Benevolence Fund. They will be in the Lakefest Parade in Granger on the SPJST Float on Saturday, May 11. SPJST District Two Royalty will also be on the float. Ronnie Rieger recognized all the mothers. He had them stand and say how many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren each one had. Members celebrating May birthdays are Kathryn Adamek, Colten Voigt, Christian and Kelsey Moore, Aubrey Bazan, Madison Jirasek, and Tammy Miller. Wedding anniversaries are celebrated by Ronnie and Lyn Rieger and Frankie and Mary Jane Pustejovsky (43 years). Sharon Kaderka and Ila Mae Jansky brought door prizes. Barbara Nygrin, Evelyn Simcik, and Lauren Karkoska volunteered to bring door prizes next month. Next Meeting—June 12 The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 12 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting then adjourned. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk gives $2,000 to West Benevolence Fund President Randy Pavelka called the monthly lodge meeting to order on Wednesday, May 8, 2013, at 7:06 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by members and guests. A moment of silence was held in honor of the people who lost their lives due to the West Fertilizer Plant explosion. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who lost family members and to the first responders who lost their lives to save others. May God be with you all at this time. Secretary Carla Pavelka read the minutes of the April meeting, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Barbara Pavelka gave her report as well, and it was approved as read. Bar Chairman Randy Pavelka and Floor Chairman Gene Pavelka both
gave their reports. There was discussion to donate $2,000 to SPJST Home Office’s West Benevolence Fund to benefit West following the explosion. Janie Brewer made a motion to donate $2,000, and the motion was seconded by Fred Kubitza. The motion carried. There will be a work day in August. The date will be announced at a later meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m. We had 12 members and two guests present. Those having birthdays this month are Tammy Pavelka on May 13 and Gene Edward Pavelka on May 28. Happy birthday to these two hardworking members. May they be blessed with many more happy birthdays. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton to honor graduates June 3 Dear Vestnik Readers, On a beautiful and slightly warm Sunday, Lodge 47, Seaton’s meeting was called to order on May 5, 2013, at 2 p.m. by President Edwin Pechal. Twenty-nine members, one youth, and five visitors were in attendance. Flags were presented by youth members Jerry Pechal and Maya Denman who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We remained standing for a moment of silence for the town of West, whose lives will be changed forever. We remembered Memorial Day for all the military who have fought for our country. May God bless all these families. Visitors welcomed were District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda and the Richter family and their friends. Thank you for visiting, and please join us again. Roll call of officers showed all officers, board members, and active sales agents present except Parliamentarian/Board Chairman James Skrabanek. A motion was made to count Lynette Talasek present as she was attending another district function as her State Youth Director’s duties. The April lodge minutes, taken by Becky Zavodny, were accepted as read by Secretary Koslovsky. As secretary of the board, Patsy also read the unofficial April board minutes. Patsy thanked Becky for filling in as secre-
tary in her absence. Correspondence included two thank you notes to Lodge 47 for the use of the hall and all the help by members to make their fundraisers such a success: one from District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky, beseda coordinator for the District Two Beseda Dancers in behalf of the dancers and parents, and a note from Merlene Bravenec, co-chairman of the Texas Czech Genealogical Society. Our lodge is very blessed to help both of these organizations. President Pechal asked all mothers to stand and be recognized. All the men gave these ladies a round of applause for a job well done. How blessed we are to have such wonderful moms and adopted moms in our lodge! President Pechal thanked all adults and youth who came out to join hands in the cleaning of the annex building. He praised the youth for the wonderful job and how hard they worked. He was so proud of the many youth who came out and their willingness to do whatever was asked of each one, without a complaint from even one. Thank you also to the parents and a big thank you to RVOS Lodge 5 (Ace Chlapek and David Coufal) for the lunch and drinks for all workers. Fraternalism was really shown by Seaton youth and adults and RVOS. Vice President/Hall Manager Frank Klinkovsky gave his report and announced upcoming activities at the lodge. A May private opening will be on the 10th. On May 18, a dance with the Red Ravens will be held. A board meeting will be held on the 20th, and preparation for the picnic is May 26 at 2 p.m. June 1 at 8 a.m. is picnic work day, and of course, June 2 is the lodge’s annual picnic. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Tammy Martinez reminded everyone to attend the Bloomin’ Temple Festival on May 11. Ratibor Country Grill will sponsor Miss Texas who will be in attendance. Miss Amya Rodriguez, Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club member, will perform with her beautiful voice, and District Two Youth Beseda Dancers will perform at 2 p.m. The car show will be sponsored by SPJST with proceeds going to the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center. On May 18, the State Horseshoe Tournament will be held in Temple at Lions Park. Treasurer Becky Zavodny gave the treasurer’s report which was approved along with Bar Manager Danny Stepan giving his report. President Pechal asked the wishes
15
of the lodge to support the West Benevolence Relief Fund, sponsored through SPJST. Members voted unanimously to donate $500 to this most worthy cause. Youth Leader Joyce Kraatz gave the update on all upcoming events for the youth club. The youth club will be sponsoring a sausage sale booth at the Bloomin’ Temple Festival on Friday and Saturday. District Two outing to the Round Rock Express game on May 19, lodge picnic, youth club meeting on June 3, and the adult meeting on June 4 to honor Seaton’s high school graduates—Jerry Pechal, Chris Zavodny, Kandace Stone, and others. Youth club officers were voted on at the meeting, and members received their lodge tee-shirts. Deadline for YAD cards, District YAD, camp, State YAD, the Corpus getaway, and the district’s September 14 Six Flags Over Texas trip were all discussed. I would say our youth leaders and youth are getting quite busy. What a true blessing all these activities are available within the SPJST organization. And, just to show us how much they believe in true fraternalism and care for others, youth members presented flowers to all mothers for Mother’s Day. In fact, all ladies received flowers. What a treat! Thank you, youth club! We love you all! Member David Coufal was asked to come forward regarding the Texas Czech Genealogical Society benefit, which benefited the Czech Veterans’ Wall of Honor and Military Museum. He thanked the lodge for use of the hall and the drinks which were donated. The benefit was a great success. David along with all members of TCGS sent their appreciation to all who helped and donated towards this most worthy organization. May birthdays are Donnie Pechal, Elaine Hoelscher, Theresa Zavodny, Kyndall Carroll, and Patsy Koslovsky. Hope you all have a happy birthday and many more healthy and happy ones to come. Happy May anniversaries to Edwin and Judy Pechal - 38 years; Brad and Joyce Kraatz; Melanie and Chris Regan; and David and Kendra Koslovsky. Congratulations and many more years of love and happiness. Door prizes brought by Director Pospisil were won by mothers - Lucy Mihatsch, Tammy Pechal, Joyce Skrabanek, Dorothy Richter, Becky Zavodny, and Dolores Skrabanek. Lodge prizes were won by Ruth Hanusch, Mary Soudelier, and Joyce Kraatz.
16
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Next Meeting—June 3 Our next meeting will be held on Monday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. All lodge graduates are asked to attend to be honored for their great accomplishment. Members are asked to bring ice cream and desserts for the meeting and enjoy this most joyous celebration for our graduates. Final cleanup from the picnic will be held at 5:30 p.m. prior to the meeting. All help will be appreciated. Hope to see you all at the lodge picnic on June 2 at the picnic and on June 3 for the meeting! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton plans June 2 annual picnic A reminder to everyone . . . SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton will be having its annual picnic on Sunday, June 2, 2013. Fried chicken and homemade sausage along with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. until sold out. You can enjoy your meal in the comfort of the hall or outdoors. Once again, plates-to-go will be available with the convenience of not having to get out of your vehicle. Last year was such a success with the drive-thru— we will have it again. If you take advantage of the drive-thru, we hope you will come back and enjoy an afternoon of a good time in East Bell County. We are looking forward to a day of good food, fun, and fellowship. Highlights of the day will be “The Polka Jam” with live music outside provided by a host of friends, a bake sale with kolaches, cakes, pies, home-grown vegetables, good home-canned food, and crafts. All activities will begin at 1 p.m. with the country spinning wheel and bake sale being held inside. Make plans to sign up for the horseshoe tournament by 12 noon that day. Activities will end at 3:30 p.m. for everyone to be able to enjoy the District Two Youth Beseda Dancers and the live auction. The District Two Youth Beseda Groups will perform at 3:45 p.m. We are proud to have these dancers, which consist of youth ages six to 18 performing for your entertainment There will be a prize drawing held with some really nice prizes: 1st prize - 40-inch Samsung LED HDTV; 2nd prize - Nikon Digital Camera; 3rd
VӖSTNÍK prize - Samsung laptop computer; 4th prize - $150 Academy gift card; and 5th prize - $75 HEB gift card. Who knows? It may be your turn to be the lucky winner of one of these really nice prizes. There will be a live auction held at 4 p.m. It’s always a treat to see what items are to be auctioned off. This year, we are in hopes to have some antiques. I have always heard one of the most enjoyable things about the Seaton Picnic is getting to see friends and visiting with one another. I truly believe this. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon. We hope to see you there! Mark the date: June 2 at Seaton Star Hall! Members and anyone who would like to help: we are in need of country store items, desserts for the meal, desserts and crafts for the sweet booth, and live auction items. Your donations for any of the above mentioned will be greatly appreciated. Workers are needed in all areas. Please remember that your help is needed for preparations on Sunday, May 26 at 2 p.m.; on June 1 at 8 a.m.; again on the day of the picnic at 8 a.m.; and throughout the day. Please contact Joyce Skrabanek if you are willing to help in the kitchen. We thank everyone in advance for your support of our lodge picnic. With your support, we are proud to be able to give back and help our community and other organizations. We hope to see you all at Star Hall on Sunday, June 2! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky, Secretary —SPJST—
in mind the end of summer getaway at Corpus Christi in August. The youth leader reported that the kolache bake on May 11 at Taylor Brethren Church was a big success. A total of 129 dozen kolaches were made. Donna Vanecek expressed appreciation to all the youth who helped with this project and to Carol Tallas for her expertise and guidance in kolache baking. Lodge 48 members who helped were parents of the youth and Ruth Ann Wuensche, Juanette Meiske, Paula Kennedy, and Alice Bracewell. Robert Leshikar reported that a website for Lodge 48 is being developed so that the upcoming events will be posted and can be accessed by members and friends of Lodge 48. A motion was made and approved to donate $200 to West, Texas, towards their recovery after the recent explosion. Kimber Eve Finn is welcomed as our new member. Juanette Meiske and Kaci Vanecek are celebrating birthdays in May. We wish to thank Demetra Shiller and Juanette Meiske for serving the meal prior to the meeting. Bunco is being held the second Tuesday of each month with a potluck meal. Men are welcome to come join in the fun. Next Meeting—June 9 The next meeting will be held on June 9 at 3 p.m., and a light meal will be served after the meeting. Fraternally, Alice Bracewell, Reporter —SPJST—
help their neighbors in the time of need. I am so proud to be a part of this community. Please keep Maxine Sefcik and our current Lodge 54 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanne Maler in your thoughts and prayers as they lost their homes in this explosion along with all the SPJST and Sokol members who have been affected by this tragedy. Also, the Sokol gym and The Lone Star Hall were severely damaged and will have to be rebuilt. May God bless West. Fraternally Freddie Kaluza, President —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas to host Czech ukulele players June 15 Dear Readers, Save the date! Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 15, 2013, at 7 p.m. to attend a wonderful cultural experience featuring Texas Czech Ukulele players at SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas, located at 2625 Floyd Street. The concert price is $15 per person and will help send Noel Kopecky Tardy and Kate McLennan as the first ukulele players invited to perform in the Czech Republic from Texas. For more information, contact me (214) 8270920. Fraternally, Justine Yeager, President —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Lodge 54, West plans June 2 reschedules Lodge 48 Beyersville reports meeting to Aug. 2 Homecoming Please make plans for HomecomDue to the explosion that occurred on May meeting President Robert Leshikar opened the Monday, May 13, 2013, meeting of Lodge 48, Beyersville with the Pledge of Allegiance. The secretary read the minutes from the last meeting which were approved after corrections were made. The property committee report gave an update on the specific plans for the barbecuing area with hopes that this project will be started in June. Hall rentals are steady as reported by the hall manager. FAC reminders were that the SPJST cookbooks are still available for purchase and to keep
on April 17, 2013, in West, the quarterly meeting for SPJST Lodge 54, West which was scheduled for June 7 has been rescheduled for August 2 at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Hall, located next to St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption, 303 South Harrison Street in West, Texas. Please keep all the victims and families who were injured, displaced, and lost homes in this tragedy in your prayers. It will be a long and painful road to recovery, but this strong Czech community will rebuild and survive to grow even stronger. It is amazing how all the residents have come together to
ing set for Sunday, June 2, 2013, at Lodge 88, Houston, located at 1435 Beall Street in Houston, Texas 77008. Members and guests of all ages will enjoy a fun-filled day. Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. of grilled chicken and sausage, potato salad, pinto beans, and coleslaw. Lunch will be free to all members with paid dues and $7 for guests and $4 for guest’s children. Members must be present to claim their free lunch. The Birthday Club Sisters will sell their famous pastry. The SPJST Orchestra and Choral Group will perform live entertainment
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK for your enjoyment from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A prize drawing will be held for an outdoor barbecue pit and gift cards. The youth club will have outdoor entertainment for all the youngsters with a water slide. So . . . bring your bathing suits or a change of clothes. To top off the day, we will have a dance beginning at 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. The Ennis Czech Boys will play polkas and variety music. Price for the dance will be $10 per person. Make plans to come out and have a really fun day! Visit our website at www.lodge88.org. Czech us out on Facebook at SPJST Lodge 88. For more information on this and all other activities at Lodge 88 phone: (713) 869-5767 Jo Ann Buri Second Vice President —SPJST—
Lodge 91, Crosby meets June 8 Lodge 91, Crosby will hold its second quarterly meeting of 2013 on Saturday, June 8, 2013, at 6 p.m. at Peso’s in Crosby. Peso’s Mexican Restaurant is located off FM 2100, north of Crosby across from Iguana Joes. We encourage members to attend. Dutch treat. See you there. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 97, Placedo sets June 14 meeting Lodge 97, Placedo will meet Friday June 14, 2013, at 6 p.m. at Lodge 32, Victoria’s building, located at 3502 North Laurent in Victoria, Texas. This will be our membership drive meeting so bring someone who would like to become an SPJST member.! The lodge will provide fried chicken for the
Grandmother Sheryl Tabor of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje holds her three grandbabies, all born in October 2012, to her three sons. Left to right are Madelyn Brooke Tabor, born October 23, 2012, to William and Heather Tabor of Iago; Kaleb Michael Gerberman, born October 22, 2012, to Koby and Leslie Gerberman of Palacios; and Abigail Lynn Tabor, born October 11, 2012, to James and Amy Tabor of Wharton. The babies are all members of Lodge 40. Great-grandmother is Janet Marek of Pierce and the late Melvin Marek. Congratulations to Sheryl and her family.
17
meal, and all members are asked to bring their favorite side dish.! There will be a special speaker joining us at this meeting, too. Please bring your drink can pull tabs to donate to Ronald McDonald House. Fraternally, Gay Revel, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 177 Academy: certificate annual reviews coming As part of our continued and valued service to our members, SPJST has implemented a program to ensure that your certificate information, such as named beneficiary and insurance coverage, is correct and up-to-date. By reviewing and knowing that your information is current, you can be assured that you are receiving the full value of your membership, and you have peace of mind that your loved ones will receive the care they deserve. SPJST Lodge 177, Academy members will begin receiving certificate annual reviews, according to Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride. “Linda Johnson and other SPJST sales agents, including Marketing Manager Don Strickland from the Home Office, will be calling on lodge members as a part of our continued and valued service,” Brother McBride says. “We will be visiting with each member regarding their insurance certificate, and it will take only a few minutes to complete.” “Lodge 177 members, please take advantage of this service and opportunity,” Marketing Manager Don Strickland adds. “SPJST has the most competitive insurance products, annuities, and IRAs to meet each family’s needs along with being a fraternal society that recognizes its proud heritage and believes strongly in its youth by teaching patriotism, good citizenship, teamwork and leadership . . . and, if you have recommendations for new lodge members, please share them with your representative.” For 116 years, SPJST has been a shining example in Texas of secure insurance plans and dedicated ideals of fraternalism. All this is possible because of you, our members, Brother Strickland states. “If you have questions or need our assistance in any way from the Home Office, please call on us at (800) 72-SPJST or (800) 727-7578. We are here to help you!” —SPJST—
Three-year-old Marcus A. Rebecek caught this 24-inch red fish while fishing with his father Stephen Rebecek and grandfather Mark Rebecek at Bird Island Corpus Christi. They are all members of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi.
Lodge 183 Arlington reports on May meeting The monthly meeting of SPJST Lodge 183, Arlington was held and called to order at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 13, 2013, at Lodge 183, located at 3100 Pleasant Valley Drive in Arlington, Texas. Roll of officers was called, and all were present except First Vice President/Trustee Ella Mikeska. Present were President Ann Pustejovsky, Financial Secretary Angeline Stiborek, Treasurer Annette Cepak, Secretary/Reporter Darlene Hollingsworth, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Debra Daniel, Youth Leader Kay Weeks, and Trustee Raymond Mikeska. Our thoughts and prayers go to Katelyn Daniel, Robert and Pat Sill’s daughter Kelly, Kay Weeks dad Eugene Gerlich, and all the families in West, Texas. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a prayer of silence was observed for all those who are ill or who have recently been in the hospital. Minutes were read from April’s meeting by Secretary/Reporter Darlene Hollingsworth. There were no corrections. Daniel Roznovsky made a motion to approve the minutes,
18
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
and Annette Cepak seconded. All approved the minutes from April as read. President Ann Pustejovsky gave the bar report. Ann stated that for April, we had 12 bingos and no rentals. For April, the kitchen totaled $571.05. Ann stated that bingo is doing well. She then gave the bingo report. Angeline Stiborek gave the insurance report and stated in April, there were 11 new members and 11 terminations. New members are Alex Flores, Guadalupe G. Rojas, Gabriel Rios, Ray Jordan, Jr., Brailyn Gomez, De Juan Lacy, Zaniah Gomez, Brandon Gomez, Britney Aldridge, and Brionnica L. Gomez, and Virginia Gomez. Welcome to Lodge 183! Robert Sill made a motion to approve the new members, and Daniel Roznovsky seconded. All approved. Debra Daniel gave the FAC report. The State Horseshoe Tournament is scheduled May 18 at Lions Park in Temple. Remember the fallen soldiers and the troops overseas on Memorial Day (May 27) and on May 30, flowers will be placed at Arlington National Cemetery. The end of summer getaway and golf tournament are sched-
VӖSTNÍK uled for August 9 to 11 at Holiday Inn in Corpus Christi. Cookbooks are still available to purchase. SPJST has established West Benevolence Fund for the West relief fund for the tragedy that happened on April 17. The first check arrived on April 22 and began the road to recovery for many families. Many thanks to everyone who has donated items and or money for the tragedy in West. Let us all keep our thoughts and prayers for everyone in West. A motion was made on the floor from Daniel Roznovsky to make a donation from Lodge 183, Arlington to the families in West. Robert Sill seconded. All approved. Kay Weeks gave the youth club report. Kay stated the Join Hands Day project was Saturday, April 27. Everyone did a great job cleaning! Sunday, April 28 was the District Three Spring Meeting at Lodge 183, Arlington. We had 80 in attendance, and everyone complimented on how clean the hall was and the good food which was catered by Babe’s of Arlington. The meal was free of charge for anyone who brought six canned goods. We collected 306 cans, and they were
brought to the families in West. Katelyn Daniel won first place in ages 15 to high school senior, and Milka Bralic won first place in the adult category for the kraslice Czech egg contest. Congratulations to you both! Leaderin-Training (LIT) camp at SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) is Friday, June 14 to Sunday, June 16. District Three YAD is Sunday, June 23 at Lodge 154, Fort Worth. Raymond Mikeska had no trustee report. Old Business President Ann Pustejovsky wished a happy Mother’s Day to all moms and encouraged everyone to remember Memorial Day. She thanked everyone for helping at Join Hands Day and shared a special thank you to Angeline Stiborek and Annette Cepak for doing a great job on the bathrooms! Ann also thanked everyone who participated in and helped with the District Three Spring Meeting. It was a great success! Remember to list your volunteer hours. There will be a rental on Sunday, June 9 at Lodge 183 Arlington that will be open to the public. This will be a battle of the bands
and will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. Come and enjoy the fun! We have received a thank you card from Dorothy Adamek, and she is doing well in rehab from her surgery. New Business President Ann stated Jerry Matus’s son had a heart attack and was moved back to the nursing home in Midlothian. We have received a high school graduation card from Angeline Stiborek’s granddaughter, Katie Stiborek. Ed and Kathy Fitzgerald’s daughter, Emerald Fitzgerald, graduated from TCCC College, and Ed Fitzgerald graduated as an registered nurse also from TCCC College. Ed received two awards, one for leadership and the other one for community service. Congratulations to all of you for this great accomplishment! No family night will be held in May due to Memorial Day weekend. Next family night is June 28. Birthdays for the month of May are Shelby Sill on the 16th and Nick Culliton on the 26th. We celebrated the birthdays with delicious ice cream! Happy birthday to all of you, and
Photos by Michelle Wockenfuss, Assistant Youth Leader
KHOU Channel 11 from Houston visited Lodge 88, Houston’s Thursday night bingo on May 9, 2013, to do a feature story that appeared during the Friday, May 10 newscast. A link to the story appears on SPJST’s Facebook page. LEFT PHOTO: KHOU Reporter Tiffany Craig, left, interviews a representative of the Breast Cancer Foundation, an organization that benefits from bingo proceeds. CENTER and RIGHT PHOTOS:
Cameraman Greg Ramirez prepares to shoot footage for the story. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Tiffany Craig interviews bingo player George Baltrez. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Tiffany talks to Brooke Dedmon about the bingo attraction by the under age 35 crowd. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Cameraman Greg records the interview as many attendees gather for the bingo games.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK thank you, Ann, for the ice cream! Raffle was drawn, and $25 was won by Kathy Fitzgerald! Congratulations! Annette Cepak made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8 p.m. Pat Sill seconded the motion. All were in favor. Next Meeting—June 10 The next meeting is June 10, the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Lodge 183 hall. Respectfully submitted, Darlene Hollingsworth Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Birthday Club Sisters of Lodge 88, Houston President Nell Stautberg opened the meeting at 11:15 a.m. Our chaplain said an opening prayer and led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The roll of membership was called, and we had nine members present. The minutes from the month of April were read and approved as read. President Stautberg had no report, so she asked for cakes for our June meeting. Bette Hurta and Dixie Raskin volunteered to bring cakes. We decided to have sandwiches and salads for our June meeting. Helen Hegwood and Esther Heinsohn will bring sandwiches. Everyone else will bring salads or finger foods. Since our treasurer was unable to attend the meeting, President Stautberg gave the treasurer’s report. Our sunshine chairlady Delores Pavlicek said she mailed out three birthday cards in April. We had no birthday celebrants present at the meeting. Helen Hegwood told us about a trip we will be taking on Wednesday, May 22 to the George Ranch in Richmond. The bus leaves at 8:30 a.m. so plan to be at the lodge by 8:15 a.m. Next, we had a discussion about the Lodge 88 Anniversary on June 2. We
19
Pavel and Rosina Kovar Belicek family
decided to get 25 dozen kolaches, and Nell Stautberg will make the arrangements. Calcutta was won by Willie Mae Pechacek (two times) and Esther Heinsohn. A closing prayer was said, and the meeting was adjourned. We had a wonderful lunch of turkey and dressing and our covered dishes. Many thanks to Willie Mae for baking turkey and making dressing and gravy. It was delicious. Fraternally, Bette Hurta, Secretary —SPJST—
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.
The 31st annual Pavel and Rosina Kovar Belicek family reunion is Saturday, June 8, 2013, at Senior Activity Center, located at 210 East Salty Street in Thorndale, Texas. The Frances Belicek Mikeska family will be hosts for this year’s reunion. A covered dish dinner will be served at 12:30 p.m. Please bring salad or vegetable and dessert for your
Five fraternal organizations from the Sealy area sponsored a Join Hands Day project on Saturday, May 4, 2013, by placing small United States flags on the graves of veterans at seven local cemeteries. The cemeteries covered were Sealy Cemetery, Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery, the Polish Cemetery on Stockold Road, St. Mary’s of Frydek, two cemeteries
in San Felipe, and the Hartsville Cemetery between Sealy and Wallis. Participating were Woodmen of the World Lodge 105, SPJST Lodge 141, KJT Society 80, Hermann Sons Lodge 239-2, and Knights of Columbus Council 3313, assisted by Girl Scout Troop 2304 and Troop 261. Bennie and Bernice Stolarski of SPJST Lodge 141, Sealy coordinated this event.
The first Saturday in May has been set aside as Join Hands Day and is sponsored by America’s fraternal societies. Its purpose is to encourage adults and youths to work together to accomplish worthwhile projects for the community. Submitted by, Bernice Stolarski —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Gathered to place flags on the graves of veterans at Sealy Cemetery and Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery are Woodmen member Kaitlyn Witt, Girl Scout Troop 2304 members Taylor Howard, Brittany Luttrall, Jordan Murray, Kendall Krenek, Madison Luther, Ellie Hajovski, Madison Klotz, and Danielle Thaxton. Adults representing the organizations are Waddel Brandes, Joanie Griffin, Melvin and Johnnie Klatt, Kari Witt, Tom and Patricia Knapp, Larry Kana, and Bennie and Bernice Stolarski. Freda Jemela and parents of the Girl Scouts also helped with the flag project.
LEFT PHOTO: Adults and scouts take a refreshment break after completing the San Felipe Cemetery project. RIGHT PHOTO: Gathered at the Frydek St. Mary’s Cemetery for the Join Hands Day project are members of Girl Scout Troop 261 – Courtney Dziadek, Taylor Treybig, Lindsey Dziadek, Katelyn Stone, Rebecca Bailey, Kendall Young, and Wood-
men member Kaitlyn Witt. This group also travelled to the San Felipe cemeteries. Sponsoring fraternal society members are Kari Witt, Joanie Griffin, Wilbert Leschper, Johnnie and Melvin Klatt, Gene Leschper, Scout Leader Sheri Dziadek and Mason, Tom Knapp, Larry Kana, Patricia Knapp, and Bennie and Bernice Stolarski.
20
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
family. Fried chicken, tea, coffee, ice, and paper items will be furnished. As in previous years, we will have a silent auction with white elephant items as our fundraiser. Also, we would enjoy seeing any pictures of your family or past reunions. For more information contact Bill Hodon (512) 251-5201 or email czbill@sbcglobal.net. Leonardine Hodon Lodge 29, Taylor, —SPJST—
and watch the twinkling stars above till they drift off in welcome sleep
Lodge 155, Austin President Joe Motl presents checks from SPJST to Pastor Cindy Layton of St. Marks United Church for their food pantry.
Martinec family Descendants of Joe and Rose (Martis) Martinec will hold their 2013 reunion on Saturday, June 15, 2013, at Maxie and Linda Morgan’s home, located at 1709 North Houston Street in Cameron, Texas, beginning at 11 a.m. Each family is requested to bring a side dish, vegetable, or dessert. Barbecue, sausage, coffee, tea, plates, napkins, forks/spoons will be furnished. Lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m. For more information, contact Linda Morgan (254) 697-6168 or James Kocurek (512) 444-2527. Submitted by, Maxie and Linda Morgan Lodge 24, Cyclone —SPJST— May 25 Zabcik family—at Ocker Brethren Church Fellowship Hall, Zabcikville. For information or to confirm attending, call Barbara Zabcik Docekal (972) 562-5970. Submitted by Barbara Zabcik Docekal, Lodge 130, Dallas. June 1 Descendants of Anton and Alouise Jancak Kelner—at the American Legion Hall, East Bernard. Contact any one of the following for information: Donnie Kelner/Co-President (979) 335-4795; Anthony Kelner/Co-President (832) 595-4179; Anthony (Tony) Kelner/Vice President (281) 3422624; Helen Kelner/Secretary (281) 342-2624; Cheryl Garbs/Treasurer (979) 566-5108; or Lillian Neely/Historian (713) 947-2472. Submitted by Helen Kelner, Lodge 28, East Bernard. June 2 Sumbera-Mozisek-Kruppa families—at Holy Rosary Catholic Church Parish Hall in Hostyn. For information, contact Carolyn Heinsohn (979) 9683806. Submitted by David Knape, Lodge 187, Round Rock.
they’ve done their best at work few get to do or care to try cowboys is what they are some say the cowboy life ain’t worth it but to them it’s all they need all they wanted out of life for while they may be poorer than the city man they’re richer in their dreams. —SPJST—
Brain Drain
By d.knape Lodge 187, Round Rock SPJST Lodge 155, Austin President Joe Motl conducted a food drive with St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. The effort was part of Join Hands Day, a national event sponsored by Americans Fraternal Societies in cooperation with the American Fraternal Alliance. The Lodge 155 membership voted to contribute money for St. Mark’s food pantry. District Two Director Jesse Pospisil matched Lodge 155’s contribution. —SPJST— June 9 Sliva-Kocurek families—at St. Andrews Catholic Church Hall in Hillje, Texas. For information, visit www.prairieswitch.net; or contact Fred Vacek (979) 677-3316; Patricia Johnson (210) 649-2319; Shirley Hudson (361) 782-0866; or Bob Vacek (512) 964-7260. Submitted by Submitted by Fred Vacek, Lodge 30, Taiton. —SPJST—
satisfaction comes from doing what they always wanted to do since they were kids playing cowboys and Indians chasing each other and their dreams tonight they’ll settle down in bedrolls sleep on the ground with heads resting on saddles
My brain got clogged my mind stopped up, I can’t unplug the clog I got, pour cleaner in but still it’s stopped, I can’t unplug what I forgot. —SPJST—
Cowboy Dreams By d.knape Lodge 187, Round Rock Men sit in dusty torn jeans around the camp fire having fought all day with stubborn smelly cows their hands are cut and bleeding from wrestling hooves and horns and weary muscles ache from long exhausting work that started and ended with the sun now just a plate of biscuits and gravy is all they get cups of coffee wash down the dirt they ate all day yet they don’t complain it’s good enough for work done in pure pleasure
For Join Hands Day, Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy members gathered to paint the Bruceville-Eddy Pavilion. Pictured are, left to right, James Hosch, Allen Trigg, Blanche Shollenberger, and Butch Shollenberger.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
MATTHEW BELLANGER Matthew is a member of Lodge 97, Placedo and a graduate of Industrial High School. He is the son of David and Bernadette Bellanger, and grandson of Sylvia Bluhm, and Harold and Judy Bellanger. Matthew plans to attend will college in Victoria, Texas.
BLAKE BELTRAND Blake is a member of Lodge 30, Taiton and a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in civil engineering. He is the son of Clare and Dan Beltrand, and the grandson of Jerome and Georgia Dorotik. Blake will begin his career at Jacob Engineering in Dallas.
21
AUSTIN BELTRAND Austin is a member of Lodge 30, Taiton and a graduate of A&M Consolidated High School. He is the son of Clare and Dan Beltrand, and the grandson of Jerome and Georgia Dorotik. Austin’s future plan is to attend UCLA where he will study neurology.
KAYLA NICOLE BLAND Kayla is a member of Lodge 92, Fort Worth and a graduate of Keller High School. She is the daughter of Keith and Kim Bland, and the granddaughter of Frank and Theretta Praslicka. Kayla’s future plan is to attend Tarleton State University.
COY CASS
EMILY KATHERINE DANIEL
Coy is a member of Lodge 17, New Tabor and a graduate of Caldwell High School. He is the son of David and Mary Cass, and the grandson of Mr. Benny Cass, the late Mrs. Carolyn Sebesta Hobbs, and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hudson. Coy will enroll at Texas State Technical College where he will study mechanical engineering technology.
Emily is a member of Lodge 125, Westhoff and a graduate of Texas A&M University in College Station with a degree in civil engineering. She is the daughter of Douglas and Janet Baros Daniel, and the granddaughter of Edwin A. Baros and PatteAnn Daniel. Emily will begin employment with Jones and Carter in Dallas.
STERLING MONTGOMERY ‘MONTY’ DANIEL Sterling is a member of Lodge 125, Westhoff and a graduate of Texas State University in San Marcos with a degree in construction technology. He is the son of Douglas and Janet Baros Daniel, and the grandson of Edwin A. Baros and PatteAnn Daniel. Sterling is undecided about his future plans.
ANNA CHRISTINE DOUGAN Anna is a member of Lodge 154, Fort Worth and a graduate of L.D. Bell High School. She is the daughter of Curtiss and Christy Dougan, and the granddaughter of Debbie Milan Willman and Emil and Sally Milan. Anna plans to major in dance at the University of Texas in Austin.
22
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
ALLISON FUCIK
COLTON ERIC DUNK Colton is a member of Lodge 1, Fayetteville and a graduate of La Grange High School. He is the son of Ralph and Melinda Dunk, and the grandson of Florian Skubal and Delbert Dunk. Colton will enroll at Blinn College and where he will study mechanical engineering.
Allison is a member of Lodge 30, Taiton and a graduate of El Campo High School. She is the daughter of David and Nancy Fucik, and the granddaughter of A.J. and Jo Ann Hlavaty, and Annie Fucik and the late Pete Fucik. Allison plans to study agri business at Wharton County Junior College, receive her bachelor of arts degree from Sam Houston State University, work alongside her dad, and start her own farm and ranch.
BRITTANIE MARIE GAAS
LAWRENCE E. GRAVES, V
Brittanie is a member of Lodge 17, New Tabor and a graduate of Somerville High School. She is the daughter of Randy and Linda Gaas, and the granddaughter of the late Edwin and Mavis Gaas, and the late Laddie and Helen Matula. Brittanie’s future plan is to attend Tarleton State University.
Lawrence is a member of Lodge 47, Seaton and a graduate of Troy High School. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Graves, IV, the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Graves, III, and the great-grandson of Elizabeth Graves. Lawrence plans to earn a master of science degree in kinesiology for a career as a sports doctor.
LEAH MICHELLE HOUGH
ALLISON GREEN Allison is a member of Lodge 9, Snook and a graduate of Snook High School. She is the daughter of Eddie and Stephanie Green, and the granddaughter of Tony Kubicek. Allison plans to enroll at Blinn College, and later transfer to Texas A&M University.
SAMANTHA KACIR Samantha is a member of Lodge 87, Temple and a graduate of Temple High School. She is the daughter of Dan Kacir and Lauren Kacir, and the granddaughter of Joel and Susan Buxbaum, and Sidney and Dorothy Kacir. Samantha plans to broaden her horizons through education.
Leah is a member of Lodge 54, West and a graduate of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She is the daughter of Jana and Gary Hough. Leah’s future plan is to teach middle school math in the Central Texas area.
CHRISTINA MARIE KRAL Christina is a member of Lodge 183, Arlington and a graduate of Bishop Dunne High School. She is the daughter of Richard and Donna Kral, and the granddaughter of Thelma Trojan and the late Harold Trojan, and Helen Kral and the late Al Kral. Christina will enroll at the University of Texas in Denton.
ROBERT CHAD LEWIS
JOANN MAZOCH
Robert is a member of Lodge 9, Snook and is graduating as valedictorian of Snook High School. He is the son of Justin and Loree Lewis, and the grandson of Larry and Yvonne Kovar, Mary Murphy, Barbie Lewis, and the late John Lewis. Robert will study civil engineering at Texas A&M University.
JoAnn is a member of Lodge 80, Holland and a graduate of Holland High School. She is the daughter of Michael and Marsha Mazoch, and the granddaughter of Ann and EC Mazoch and Hilda Eubank JoAnn plans to study petroleum engineering at Texas A&M University in College Station.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
23
DYLAN MCADAMS
CALLAN JAMES NOAK
Dylan is a member of Lodge 6, Cottonwood and is a graduate of Connally High School. He is the son of Duane and Lisa McAdams, and the grandson of Joan Ondrej and the late Lawrence Ondrej, and Linda McAdams. Dylan’s future plan is to enroll at Texas State Technical College.
Callan is a member of Lodge 29, Taylor and a graduate of Thrall High School. He is the son of Eddie and Amy Noak, and the grandson of Albert and Alice Heselmeyer, Wilbert and Lois Noak, and Marcella Noak. Callan’s future plan is to attend Texas A&M University.
GARRETT JAMES OWENS
JERRY PECHAL
Garrett is a member of Lodge 142, Houston and a graduate of Pasadena Memorial High School. He is the son of Edgar J. and Karen Owens, and the grandson of Nelson and Alice Jochen, and Albert and Sandy Parmer. Garrett plans on studying business management at the University of Houston.
Jerry is a member of Lodge 47, Seaton and a graduate of Rogers High School. He is the son of David and Tammy Pechal, and the grandson of Riky and Hazel Knight, and Gloria Beck. Jerry plans to study nursing at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor for a career as an anesthetist nurse.
NICHOLAS LEE PELZEL Nicholas is a member of Lodge 29, Taylor and a graduate of Rockdale High School. He is the son of Clayton and Audrey Pelzel, and the grandson of Albert and Alice Heselmeyer, and Clayton Pelzel. Nicholas will attend Blinn College and later transfer to Sam Houston State University.
BRIANNE PRASLICKA Brianne is a member of Lodge 92, Fort Worth and a graduate of the University of Texas in Dallas with a bachelor of arts degree in arts and performance. She is the daughter of Bron and Teri Praslicka, and the granddaughter of Frank and Theretta Praslicka, and Billy and Joyce Walters. Brianne plans to pursue a PhD after graduation.
JEREMY PAUL SUPAK
ZACHARY SHELFER Zachary is a member of Lodge 9, Snook and a graduate of Snook High School. He is the son of Buddy and Marie Shelfer, and the grandson of Juanita Shelfer. Zachary plans to study criminal justice at Blinn College.
CAITLIN SURMAN Caitlin is a member of Lodge 88, Houston and a graduate of La Grange High School. She is the daughter of Micheal and Colette Surman, and the granddaughter of Blanche and Joe Stibora, and Gladys and the late Herbert Surman. Caitlin plans a teaching career in early childhood or elementary education.
Jeremy is a member of Lodge 30, Taiton and a graduate of El Campo High School. He is the son of Terry and Linda Supak, and the grandson of Deacon Edward and Agens Wendel, and the late Willie and Alice Supak. Jeremy’s future plan is to study petroleum engineering at Texas A&M University.
ANDY TOWNE
Andy is a member of Lodge 88, Houston and a graduate of Cypress-Ranch High School. He is the son of Patrick and Kristen Towne, and the grandson of Hattie Lamza. Andy will attend Blinn College.
24
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
JONATHAN VAHALIK Jonathan is a member of Lodge 4, Hallettsville and a graduate of Victoria West High School. He is the son of Philip and Annie Vahalik, the nephew of Patsy and Helen Zabransky, and the grandson of the late Frank and Andela Zabransky. Jonathan’s future plan is to play football at Southwestern University in Georgetown.
CHRIS ZAVODNY Chris is a member of Lodge 47, Seaton, and a graduate of Rogers High School. He is the son of Elden and Becky Zavodny, and the grandson of Leon and Vallie Zavodny, and Royella and Maxie Roessler. Chris plans to study business at the University of Houston or Blinn College.
CHARLES KACIR Charles Kacir was announced as salutatorian of the 2012 senior class. Charles has worked extremely hard throughout his four years of school at Temple High to earn this award and distinction. After graduation, Charles spent a year in Germany as a foreign exchange student where he learned the culture and environment better before returning to the states where he will choose a college and continue to broaden his horizons
CAMERON MOHR Cameron Adair Mohr is graduating from the University of Nevada at Las Vegas with a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. Cameron will be graduating with Academic Distinction by graduating cum laude. While at UNLV, Cameron was inducted into the Golden Key Honor Society and is a member of Alpha Phi Sigma, a Criminal Justice honor society. Cameron was a Nevada Millennium Scholarship recipient all four years at UNLV. In addition, he was an active member of the UNLV ROTC program and a member of the performing UNLV Brass Band. Cameron graduated from Faith Lutheran High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cameron is a member of Lodge 88, Houston and is the son of Roy and Becky Vajdak of Lodge 88, the grandson of the late Dr. Adair Wayne White, Jr., MD and Margaret Ann White of College Station, Texas, and the late Dr. Henry Mohr, DVM and Elizabeth Mohr of Andrews, Texas. He is also the grandson of the late Walter Vajdak and Ella Vajdak of Lodge 9, Snook. Cameron is undecided on his future plans.
with a degree in German. Charles is completing his United States Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange Program in Germany and plans to spend several days in the District of Columbia before his return home.
VICTORIA PAJESTKA Victoria Pajestka, member of SPJST Lodge 80, Holland, graduated!cum laude!from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, with a bachelor of science degree in interdisciplinary studies. !Her emphasis is in English and Social Studies. Victoria plans to teach and attend graduate school.! Victoria is the daughter of Frank and Risa Pajestka of Holland, granddaughter of Frank and Helen Pajestka, also of Holland, Regina Peevey!of Buckholts, and Joe and Doris Swanner of Austin. Victoria is an active SPJST member having been involved in SPJST activities at the local, district, and state levels for most of her young life. !She served as a delegate to the 30th SPJST Convention when she was 16 years old.!!As a young adult, she works and continues to be active in the lodge’s many events and fundraisers. ! Congratulations to Victoria Pajestka on her accomplishment!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Accordion Kings and Queens Festival set for June 1 in Houston Texas Folklife’s 24th annual Accordion Kings and Queens Festival will be another fabulous night for accordion and traditional music lovers! This year’s concert features The Hometown Boys, Rosie Ledet and the Zydeco Playboys, the Czechaholics, Avizo, and 2012 Big Squeeze Champion Peter Anzaldua. The star-studded affair will take place on Saturday, June 1, beginning at 6:30 p.m., and will be co-emceed by writers Joe Nick Patoski and Tony Diaz. The Festival is free and open to the music-loving public. Festivalgoers wanting seats in the pavilion area can pick up their free tickets the day of the Festival at the Miller Box Office or become members of Texas Folklife and receive up to four reserved tickets in advance. The night features Texas Folklife’s 2013 Big Squeeze Accordion Contest Playoffs. This year’s finalists selected at the Semifinals Playoffs at the Bullock Texas History Museum in Austin include: Tony Garcia, 18, of Mission; Yesenia Garcia, 17, of Houston; Luis Gonzalez, 17, of Grand Prairie; and Michael Ramos, 17, of Dallas. Finalists will compete for a prize package valued at more than $4,000, including a cash prize, a new Hohner accordion, performance opportunities in Austin and Houston, publicity, and professional developmentopportunities. By the end of the night the new Big Squeeze Champ will be selected by a panel of esteemed judges. Seasoned accordion stars and dynamite bands will also take to the stage. The Grammy nominated Hometown Boys, from Lubbock, have been around for many years and have won numerous awards, as well as the hearts of Texas music fans. Band founder Roman Martinez is an inductee of the Conjunto Hall of Fame and the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame, while the band is also an inductee of the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame, and has won Conjunto Album of the Year twice from the Texas Talent Musicians Association. Rosie Ledet, one of a handful of women performing zydeco in the country, has been hailed by the Wall Street Journal as “today’s premier female artist … whose soulful voice kicks her male counterparts’ right out of the club.” Ms. Ledet, who will be performing with her band the Zydeco
Playboys, was born in Louisiana and adds a touch of Creole French and blues to her songs. She has played at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, St Louis Blues Festival, Frog Island, and was named Best Zydeco Vocalist twice by Offbeat Magazine. The Czechaholics are the premiere Czech Polka band in South Central Texas and have been instigating lots of dancing in that part of the world since forming the band about a decade ago. “Houston’s Powerhouse” Avizo will add their signature sound to the stage accompanying the Big Squeeze contestants. And The 2012 Big Squeeze Champ, Peter Anzaldua, will join the Festival’s all-star lineup. On this special night, Texas Folklife will be releasing a CD of last year’s Accordion Kings and Queens concert—“Accordion Kings and Queens Live 2012.” This is the first time Texas Folklife has created a CD of the annual concert. Last year’s program was a good one to start with as it featured Grammy-winners and accordion legends Mingo Saldivar and Flaco Jiménez. The CD is recorded and engineered by SugarHill Recording Studiosand is featured in an ambitious Kickstarter campaign. More information can be found at: http://kck.st/15lhFYm. The Accordion Kings and Queens Festival and The Big Squeeze are funded in part by the Board of Texas Folklife, the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, Houston Endowment, Texas Commission on the Arts, H.E.B., Hohner Inc., and the Raven Grill. Additional support for the contest is provided by the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs, Texas Music Office, Hacienda Records, South Central Music Source, Cactus Music and Record Ranch, SugarHill Recording Studios, Texas Gas Service, and the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division. About Texas Folklife Texas Folklife is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State. For more than 25 years, Texas Folklife has honored the authentic cultural traditions passed down within communities, explored their importance in contemporary society, and celebrated them by providing accessible and joyful arts experiences. It is located in Austin, Texas, in the SoCo neighborhood—one of the city’s vibrant commercial and arts district. —SPJST—
In Memory Barbara Martinka Barbara Jean Sheely Martinka died Monday, May 13, 2013, at her home in Longmont at the age of 89. Born in Fort Collins, Colorado, on March 29, 1924, to Margaret Hovey Harpster Sheely and Arthur Charles Sheely, Barbara attended school in Fort Collins and graduated from Fort Collins High School before attending Dickenson Secretarial School in Denver. Barbara and her family supported the war effort and after World War II, at a USO event, she met Charlie J. Martinka. On December 14, 1947, they married. They lived in Denver and Cheyenne before Chuck was discharged from the Air Force; at that time, they moved to El Campo, Texas, where Chuck was briefly engaged in the trucking business before returning to Fort Collins in 1949. In 1954, the family moved to Longmont where Chuck worked as owner/manager of Sheely Motors Inc. (later Prestige Motors). She worked part-time at Sheely Motors and volunteered at Longmont United Hospital. In 1969, her husband Chuck founded Shee-Mar, Inc. and together they enjoyed many “road trips” that combined business and pleasure while Chuck sold turn signal cams to parts stores around the United States. Barbara was primarily a homemaker and mother who loved hosting family bar-
25
becues, shopping, and buying stuff for her grandkids, listening to big bands, and reading. She not only loved to dance, but loved doing so in the living room with her grandkids whom she attempted to instruct (not always successfully). She had a great sense of humor, even when the jokes were terrible. She was a great supporter of her children and grandchildren, even when they were totally wrong. The couple moved to Baytown, Texas, in 2001, but health concerns brought them back in 2005 to Longmont where they enjoyed closer proximity to family. Barbara is survived by her husband of 65 years; daughters Sally (John) Gaddis and Sue (Michael) Knaus; grandchildren John (Kate) Gaddis, Christopher (Katie) Gaddis, Katharine Gaddis, Caroline Knaus, Kirk Knaus, Julie Knaus, and Jay Knaus; and greatgrandchildren Aiden, Grant, Cole, Clare, Ty, and Griffin Gaddis; sister Caroline Sheely Farrell of Greeley; and numerous nieces and nephews. Barbara was a member of SPJST Lodge 156, Baytown and LifeBridge Christian Church. A celebration Barbara’s life was held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 17 at Howe Mortuary. Donations can be made in her memory to the Longmont Community Foundation, A Woman’s Work, or the donor’s charity of choice c/o Howe Mortuary. —SPJST—
26
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
In Memory of Ronald Socha Ronald Wayne Socha, 66, of San Angelo passed away Tuesday, April 9, 2013. Rosary was at 7 p.m., April 11 at Holy Angels Catholic Church. Funeral mass was held Friday, April 12 at 10 a.m. at Holy Angels Catholic Church. Interment followed in Calvary Cemetery. Ronald Socha Ron was born October 30, 1946, in San Angelo, Texas, to Laddie and Bea Socha. Ron attended Sacred Heart and graduated from Central High School in 1964 and Texas Tech University in 1969. He held a bachelor in electrical engineering, masters in business administration, and masters in interdisciplinary studies. Ron began his service with the United States Army in March 1970. He served in Vietnam and received a Bronze Star. He was relieved of active duty in November 1971 as a First Lieutenant. Ron married Ann Schertz at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Brownfield on June 3, 1972. After service, he began his professional engineering career at Rockwell/Collins Radio, Richardson. In 1981, Ron moved his family to San Angelo to start a career as a electrical contractor then forming Socha Electric in 1988. Ron passed on his electrical knowledge to his three sons creating a third generation of electricians. Ron was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Home Builders Association, and a 32-year member of Holy Angels Catholic Church. During his devoted membership, he served as Eucharistic minister, president of the parish council, and usher. Ronnie loved watching football with family and was a season ticket holder at Texas Tech. He loved spending time with grandchildren, playing tennis, working in the yard, and taking pictures. He was a longtime member of SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo. Ronald’s dad Laddie Socha served as president of Lodge 160, San Angelo for many years. Ron is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ann; children, spouses, and grandchildren: Mike and Charlotte Socha of Midland, Julie and Jimmy
VӖSTNÍK
Crooks, Scott and Renee Socha, Sarah and Danny Waters, all of San Angelo, and John Socha of Lubbock; grandchildren Spencer Bounds, Abby Burcham, Jacob Burcham, Zach Burcham, Maddie Burcham, Ava Kate Socha, Jaydon Waters, and Garrett Waters; father and mother-in-law Vince and Leona Schertz; brother Larry and Stephanie Socha; sisters Beverly and Craig Lennefelt and Mary Anne Socha; sister-in-law Lois and Donnie Howard; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were John David Stickney, Scott Creecy, Stephen Freatman, Kevin Dusek, Russell Socha, Matt Socha, Spencer Bounds, Warren Socha, Jeff Socha, and Chris Howard. Ron will be remembered as a loving husband, dedicated servant of the Lord, outstanding father, son, brother, and friend. He was a man who lived his life with a hard work ethic and great knowledge. —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy We, the members of Lodge 66, Waco, wish to express our deepest and sincerest sympathy to the family of our departed brother, ANTON GLATTER. Anton Glatter, 86, of West, passed away Wednesday May 1, 2013, at Senior Care Center in Hewitt. A rosary was recited and a mass of Christian burial celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 9 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tours with Monsignor Isidore Rozycki as celebrant. Military graveside rites followed at St. Martin’s Anton Glatter Cemetery conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard. The family received visitors from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday May 8 at Aderhold Funeral Home in West. Anton was born September 9, 1926, in Tours, the son of Michael Joseph and Lena Rose Glatter. He attended Leggett School and also schools in the Tours and West areas. In serving his country, he joined the
United States Navy and during World War II, served aboard the U.S.S. Langely Aircraft Carrier. On September 9, 1972, he married Doris Pickens. She preceded him in death on June 6, 2009. For 43 years, he was a carpenter and built church furniture for Trautschold Millwork in Waco until his retirement in 1990. Anton loved woodworking, handiwork, yard work, gardening, and gambling. He was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Waco, past president of his RVOS local lodge, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2148, American Legion Post 121, and SPJST Lodge 66, all in Waco. Anton was preceded in death by his parents; brother Michael Joseph Glatter, Jr.; and sister Leona Weinberger. Survivors include sisters Irene Mueller of Elm Mott and Evelyn Gauer of West; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Pallbearers were Gerald Glatter, Derrick Hurtt, John Weinberger, Michael Weinberger, Seth Weinberger and Boonie Witt. Memorials may be made to the West Disaster Relief Fund. May our departed brother rest in peace. Resolution Committee Diana Engelke Dorothy Veselka —SPJST—
Resolution 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, LORENE PALLA, age 90 of Temple, who died Monday, May 6, 2013, in a local nursing center. Service was held at 10 a.m., Friday, May 10 at ScanioHarper Funeral Home in Temple with Reverend Mark Labaj officiating. Burial followed at Bellwood MemoLorene Palla rial Park. Visitation was 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 9 at the funeral home. Mrs. Palla was born in Granger, Texas, on August 4, 1922, to Joe and
Lenora Mucha. When she was two, the family moved to Temple, where her father opened a cabinet shop. She attended Temple schools, and graduated from Temple High School in 1940. After graduation, Lorene attended the Hieronymus Business School, then worked at King’s Daughters Hospital. In 1941, she married Johnnie Palla in Temple, and soon after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. They lived in several places around the country for the next few years. Their favorite station being in Mountain Home, Idaho. After the war ended, they and their first born daughter moved back to Temple to live and raise their family. Lorene was active in the Temple Brethren Church all her life. She served in the Christian Sisters, the flower committee, and the Quilting Group. She was also active in PTA and was a Brownies and Scout Leader. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. She and Johnnie loved to travel, but their passion was the American West. Southwestern Colorado was their family’s favorite destination for many years. Lorene loved big band music and songs from the singing cowboys. She loved to cook and bake for her family and was most often found working in her beautiful flower garden. Lorene was preceded in death by husband Johnnie, after 49 and a half years of marriage. She is survived by daughters Shirley Paysse and husband John, Cheryl Posey and husband Bob, and Joan Palla, all of Temple; grandchildren Kenny Paysse and wife Becky of Temple, Sandy Deyoe and husband Rodney of Austin, Robert Posey and wife Dea of Temple; great-grandchildren Jonathan, Andrew, and William Paysse, Kristi and Matthew Deyoe, and Dawson Warren; sisters Jo Wade of Temple and Rose Ann Johnson of McComb, Mississippi. The family requests that memorials be made to Temple Brethren Church Christian Sisters, 2202 Birdcreek Drive, Temple, Texas 76502. Resolution Committee Ruth Kohutek Joyce Skrabanek LaVerne Vanicek —SPJST—
VӖSTNÍK
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
27
LEFT PHOTO: In the to-go serving line are, left to right, Nash Campbell, Linda Pospisil, Margaret Mikeska, Theresa Klecka, Charlie Herendon, District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, Melvin Haisler, and Nancy Posvar. CENTER PHOTO: Some of the crowd that lined the inside and outside of the hall. RIGHT PHOTO: In the inside serving line are, left to right, Shirley Hoelscher, Linda Smetanka, Judy Andel, Joan Vanicek, Rosie
Craft, and Kenneth Andel. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: In the tea serving area are Wilbert Mikeska, Carla Kacir, and Derek and Cade Campbell. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Enjoying lunch are Charles and Retta Chandler along with Henrietta Slavik who will celebrate her 101st birthday in June! BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Preparing desserts are Cathy Bruggman, left, Kim Campbell, and Sandra Haisler.
LEFT PHOTO: Daniel and Linda Wilde sell plates. PHOTO 2: Jason Hoelscher helps clean up. PHOTO 3: Amya Rodriguez and Luke Ray serve desserts. RIGHT PHOTO: Charlie Herendon, left, Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny, and Bobby Hoelscher take a break from assisting at the barbecue. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Thanks to Margaret and Wilbert
Mikeska who oversaw this year’s barbecue. BELOW PHOTO 2: Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek restocks potato salad in the serving line. BELOW PHOTO 3: Taking a much needed break are, Wilbert Mikeska, Mark Maddux, and Jerry Cabla. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Serving onions is Seth Ray, and serving pickles is Nash Campbell.
28
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Submitted by SPJST ENC Executive Director John Hoelscher Recently, SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) hosted a group called CampLife. CampLife’s mission is to connect to families of fallen soldiers through a summer camp experience by providing encouragement, inspiration, and adventure. This was one group that everyone should know about with the work that they do. Something interesting about the group is the backgrounds of their volunteer staff. Most have a background in camping, but also have some very interesting professional jobs. The leader is a pilot who flies for a major airline, which is where the group gets lots of its funding. One was a young brain surgeon, and several had jobs with the military
TOP PHOTO: CampLife group gets ready to go canoeing. CENTER PHOTO: CampLife group are all smiles and ready to take a hayride around Cooper Farm. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: This young camper proudly shows off a fish he caught at Cooper Farm. This is the first fish this young man has ever caught!
in some really interesting areas. I have never seen a group that takes their mission to heart as much as the CampLife staff did. Many of the kids who were here had lost one of their parents and were needing someone to play with them and listen to what they had to say, and this group made it happen. The volunteering and making a difference was not
just done by CampLife volunteers, but also by SPJST volunteers. Some members from Lodge 88, Houston gave up their Mother’s Day weekend to prepare and serve meals and assist with running programs. Their contribution had a very positive impact on the entire CampLife retreat. They deserve high praise for what they did with this group. Also, just wanted to share that if you know of someone who has lost a soldier and would like to get them involved with a support community like CampLife, you can find out more information about the organization by going to www.camp-life.com. —SPJST—
TOP PHOTO: Members of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston serve breakfast to the CampLife group. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: CampLife campers enjoy a fishing session. BELOW PHOTO: SPJST Lodge 88, Houston member Karl Pflughaupt, far right, instructs CampLife participants in an archery session.
Save The Date! Saturday, September 7, 2013
# # # Grand Re-Opening # # # SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm 2001 Waldeck Road in Ledbetter, Texas
Open House Fun Day 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Barbecue Cook-Off • Ennis Czech Boys - 2 to 7 p.m. • Burgers • Games
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
SPJST Youth
Section Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club joins hands Dear Vestnik Readers, The youth club members of Lodge 9, Snook recently participated in Join Hands Day. Our project was cleaning Snook Cemetery. This has become an annual event for us, and we can really see the difference from year to year. Each year, we have a targeted area we work on while maintaining graves from previous years. This makes it
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 much more easier to maintain. This year, we had 40-plus members and adults participate. Most members have relatives that are buried here so we take pride in the job we do. Earlier in the day, members participated in the benefit for Ms. Sharon Hooper. Members helped with the serving line, purchased gift cards, and brought items for the silent auction. The fundraiser was a success. Our youth club also participated at Snook Fest on May 4. We rode in the parade and served water during the day. Thanks to Mrs. Melanie and Mr.
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club members and adults participate in a benefit for Ms. Sharon Hooper. Members helped with the serving line, purchased gift cards, and brought items for the silent auc-
David for taking part in the parade with us. Fraternally submitted, Zachary Shelfer —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis youth shares recent experiences Vážení člověk který je čtení můj dopis, (Dear person who is reading my letter,) As usual, I’ve been very busy lately, and I can’t wait to tell you all about everything. I’ve been doing everything from STARR testing to modeling my new Czech costume. These last few weeks have been so My National awesome! Junior Honor Society dress. To begin
29
these awesome few weeks, I took all my STARR tests. I took writing, math, and reading. The writing was really fun because I absolutely love to write, but the other two were pretty hard. Even through it was hard, I still tried my hardest. I don’t know how I did, but as soon as I find out, I’ll let y’all know. The second thing I want to tell you about was that I got into the National Junior Honor Society. It was really cool because to get in you had to have community service, and mostly all of my service hours were with SPJST youth club. I turned in all my community service hours and a couple other things, and it turns out that I got accepted! I was so excited! There was an introduction ceremony so I got to go buy a new dress. It was so gorgeous! Another thing that’s made these last few weeks so exciting was that I got braces and a ‘butterfly’ in my mouth. If you don’t know what a butterfly is, it’s a metal thing that looks like a butterfly and it goes at the top of your mouth. I’m not going to lie . . . it hurts. I can’t eat a few foods, but that’s all right because at least I’ll look good this summer! Ha ha! The third thing I want to tell you
tion. RIGHT and BELOW PHOTOS: More than 40 youth and adults gathered to help clean Snook Cemetery for Join Hands Day. Most members have relatives buried at the cemetery.
30
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
about is Mother’s Day. Aunt Kimberly and Uncle Tim came down, and they also brought my cousins Sara and Adam. Adam came all Happy the way from Mother's Day! college in Nebraska! Grandma and Grandpa made barbecue, spaghetti, guacamole, potato salad, beets, tomatoes, onions fresh from the garden, cheesecake with cherries on top, and Aunt Kimberly and Uncle Tim brought a coconut cake. It was so delicious! After we left, my Mima came over to our house and we gave her a bouquet of roses. After that, she supervised my sister and I on our YAD (Youth Achievement Day) projects. This Mother’s Day was definitely unforgettable. The fourth thing I want to tell y’all about is donating to West. My city Ennis is a little Czech town like West, so our entire city decided to help out in ways we could. One of the ways I helped out was my family donated a lot of money to help out. As I said,
VӖSTNÍK
Dear Readers, On May 6, 2013, I participated in my first golf tournament with Caldwell Middle School Golf Team. I have never played golf before, and learning
this new game was very exciting to me. I hope to be on the golf team next year. Dillon Narro —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Me playing my first round of golf. RIGHT PHOTO: I was honored to have my church pastor (Brother David Johnson of New Tabor Brethren Church) come and support me at my tournament.
Ennis wanted to help West in any way we possibly could, so we hosted one of the West baseball games. I went to it early with a lot of my Student Council friends and a few other friends to welcome West and make them feel at home. It was so awesome to see the
LEFT PHOTO: Carlee and J.Beaux. PHOTO 2: Emily, Grace, and Natalee. PHOTO 3: Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club with the SPJST Float. RIGHT PHOTO: Josh. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Jaxson, Dakota, and
smiles on the boys’ faces when they got out of their bus. A lot of people went to the game and cheered them on. Another thing Ennis did to help West was we donated a lot of supplies and money. Our school district raised over $10,000, and our church is still
raising money. So far, they’ve collected $7,000! Another thing is that Sokol had donations and a huge garage sale to help out West. The fifth Hay bailing! thing I want to tell y’all about is that I went to a dance last weekend, and it was beyond fun. Two really good polka bands played, and I danced almost every single song! One of the best things about being Czech is polka dancing, and believe me, I do a lot of it. I get four hours of sleep so I can dance 16 hours straight. I have to admit, I’m a polkaholic! The last, and most definitely not the least thing I want to tell y’all about is the Annual National Polka Festival is coming up! Oh my gosh! I’m so excited! I can’t wait, literally! I got a new Czech costume made, and it’s absolutely, 100 percent, without a doubt, perfect! It’s beyond gorgeous! As much as I want to show y’all what it looks like, I’m not because it’s going to be a surprise. If you want to see it, you have to put on your dancing shoes, go to the polka festival, dance a
Josh. BELOW PHOTO 2: Kade and Caleb. BELOW PHOTO 3: District One Royalty! BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Tatiana and Madelyn. —Submitted by Zachary Shelfer
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK couple polkas, and I guarantee you, you will see me at one of the halls in my new Czech costume. Words can’t explain how amazing and stunning it At grandma’s is. house for One thing Mother’s Day! I’m going to have to tell you is that this year, I can’t ride the SPJST Float in the parade because I have to be with the Ennis Junior High School Cheerleaders. Trust me, I really want to ride, but I can’t. I’m so sorry! Well, at least I’ll go to the booth downtown and polka dance
Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club members and adults cleaned New Tabor Cemetery for Join Hands Day on May 4, 2013. We weeded, picked up trash and old flowers, and replaced with new flowers.
until I can’t stand up anymore! When I say I’ll dance until I can’t stand anymore, I’m not kidding. Believe me, I dance so much that I can barely stand up when the hall closes. Polka dancing is my absolute passion, and I love it! So anyway, I can’t wait to see you at the Annual National Polka Festival in good ol’ Ennis! Uvidíme se na tanečním parketu. (See you on the dance floor,) April Dvorak, age 12 —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis youth ready for summer Dear Vestnik Readers, We have four weeks of school left. I am so excited! I can’t wait until summer. I was in a play at school. It was a Dr. Suess play. I had five speaking parts. I was Thing 1. My best friend Victoria was Thing 2. I took pictures in Grandma’s poppies and larkspur and a picture in the bluebonnets. Since we are finished with the STARR test, our principal, Mr. McCabe, treated us to a pizza picnic. I had a slice of pepperoni pizza, a slice
31
of cheese pizza, and three cookies. Next week, the whole school will have field day. It will be a lot of fun. I’m going to do the 400-meter run, 100-meter run, the obstacle course, the three-legged race with my other best friend Lisly, baseball throw, and tug of war. I can’t wait! See my pictures on page 33 of this week’s Vestnik! Sincerely Meee, Misty Dvorak, age 9 —SPJST—
32
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
On May 6, 2013, our granny, Gladys Hejl, celebrated her 80th birthday. On May 5, a birthday celebration was held at SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor Hall
with Czech music, lots of food, family, and friends. Happy birthday, Granny! —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Granny and her family. They are all members of Lodge 17, New Tabor. CENTER PHOTO: Gladys, center, and her girls, left to right, Betty Suehs, Carol Petty, Susan Skrabanek, and Donna Jones.
RIGHT PHOTO: Three generations of SPJST members—Youth club members Macy and Dillon, mom Holly Narro, and Granny Hejl. We love you, Granny!
Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club reports on May meeting Our May 3, 2013, meeting was called to order by Dounia Mohad. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Amanda Kaderka and Colten Voigt followed by the SPJST Youth Motto. We had 15 members, six adults, and two guests present. Minutes from our last meeting were read and approved. Brandon Girod gave treasurer’s report. Youth Leader Cristy Girod presented the upcoming youth club events and talked about our fundraiser garage sale/bake sale that will be held
May 17 and 18 with the Taylor Country Club. She also mentioned that we will elect officers. Officers for the 2013-2014 year are: President Kaitlyn Whatley Co-President Dounia Mohad Secretary/Reporter Brandon Girod Assistant Secretary/Reporter Kara Kaderka Treasurer Hailey Girod Assistant Treasurer Joseph Kaderka Flag Bearer Colten Voigt Assistant Flag Bearer Amanda Kaderka Sergeant-at-Arms Aaron Kaderka Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms Garret Sumner We made coasters for Mother’s Day, and our refreshment was root beer floats. Next Meeting—June 3 Our next meeting will be June 3 at 1 p.m. Submitted by, Colten Voigt, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club member Abby Hoelscher is proud to share the newest members of her family—two red-eared sliders. Abby named them Sheldon, left, and Awesome.
Dear Readers, My cheer team qualified to go to the world championship in New Orleans, Louisiana, on April 20 and 21, 2013. It was a lot of fun. After the competition, we went all around New
Orleans and saw a lot of neat things. I had fun because I got to spend a lot of time with my friends. Also, our team won second place! Macy Narro —SPJST— LEFT PHOTO: Me, Gamma, and my brother Dillon enjoying New Orleans. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Me at World Championship. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Me and my friend Marina, who is a member of Lodge 186, Caldwell Youth Club.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Lodge 30, Taiton youth enjoys honoring grads Dear Vestnik Readers, I really enjoyed the meeting at Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club had for graduates at Los Cucos. I liked reading the cards I made for the grads, and I really enjoyed the cake, too! Fraternally, Brooke Bacak —SPJST—
Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje Youth Club reports on May meeting The regular meeting of SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Youth Club was held May 5, 2013, at 5 p.m. at St. Robert’s Hall. President Cynthia Garcia called the meeting to order. Cynthia led the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Youth Club Motto. All remained standing for a moment of silence for the good of our members and friends.
In attendance were six members, youth leader, five adults, and guests Angelica Manzano and Alayna and Avery Cruz. Members present were Cynthia and Sky Garcia, Trianna and Addy Manzano, and Kelly and Kierra Taylor. Adults present were Youth Leader Cathy Garcia, adult lodge members Inez Villarreal, and JC and Carmen Kocurek, CDA - Mary Ortiz and JCDA Chairperson Virginia Cruz. Sky made a motion, seconded by Kelly, to accept the previous meeting’s minutes as read. Motion passed. Treasurer Sky gave the balance of the bank statement. Balance was $2,329.15. It was motioned by Adryanna and seconded by Kierra. Motion passed. Cynthia reported on correspondence. A packet was received from the Home Office, and the bank statement was received. Old business—Joins Hands Day will be at St. Robert’s Hall with JCDA on May 5 at 5:30 p.m. We discussed District Six Youth Achievement Day and State YAD. New business—we discussed the online meeting, Flag Day essay/patriotic picture, and May Vestnik projects. Youth leader’s report—Don’t forget to participate in the Flag Day essay/poem contest. It is possible to provide food free of charge at YAD.
Submitted by Misty Dvorak, age 9
The Vestnik project was discussed and completed. Cathy will mail them in. The meeting adjourned at 5:16 p.m. Cynthia Garcia, President Trianna Manzano, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton youth dances at Bloomin’ Temple This weekend, we worked and danced at the Bloomin’ Temple Festival to raise money for beseda. Thank you to all the people who supported us. Fraternally, Brady Alexander —SPJST—
33
Studying Music Can Help Kids Do Better in School (StatePoint) From higher test scores, to enhanced coordination, to improved time management skills, the benefits of music education are numerous, say experts. Unfortunately, many school music programs nationwide are facing cutbacks. Parents can help budding musicians learn outside a traditional classroom by investing in properly-sized, quality instruments that are suited for learning. If you’re shopping for a keyboard for your child, opt for a lightweight, portable model that reproduces the touch feeling and sound quality of a piano. For example, Casio’s new Privia PX-150 model has a duet mode particularly ideal for teaching. More information can be found at www.CasioMusicGear.com. While practice makes perfect, be sure to keep musical study enjoyable for children. They’ll be more likely to stick with it.! —SPJST—
34
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Order Your SPJST 2013 Camp Tee-Shirt Today!
2013 SPJST Czech Easter Egg Decorating (Kraslice) Contest Winners Kraslice is the Czech word for Easter egg. Hand-painted or decorated eggs are the most recognizable symbol of a traditional Czech Easter. Each year, in conjunction with SPJST District Spring Meetings, youth club members across the state are encouraged to
design and create their own colorful kraslice. Kraslice are judged on creative ability, skill and design, and appearance and neatness. This year’s winners in the SPJST Kraslice Czech Easter Egg Decorating Contest are listed below.
Tee-Shirt Design by Sydney Faust Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club The 2013 camp tee-shirts are light yellow color with the “Friendship 2013,”design on them. Tee-shirts must be pre-ordered and pre-paid. Youth club members attending camp will receive their tee-shirts at camp. Tee-shirts can also be mailed for an additional $2.00 for postage per shirt.
Order Deadline: May 31, 2013 Name
Lodge
Address/City/Zip Phone
Please order the following tee-shirts. Adult $7.75 Small (34-36) ______ Medium (38-40) ______ Large (42-44) ______ X-Large ______ Adult XX-Large $8.75 ______ Adult XXX-Large $9.75 ______ Youth $6.75 Small (6-8) ______ Medium (10-12) ______ Large (14-16) ______ Total number of shirts ordered: ______ Postage for shirts, if mailed ($2.00 per shirt): ______ Total Amount Enclosed: ______ Send your order along with your check to:
SPJST Home Office c/o State Youth Director Lynette Talasek P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503
Grand prize winner Katelyn Daniel of Lodge 183, Arlington. RIGHT PHOTO: All first place kraslice are displayed in the SPJST Home Office in Temple. BELOW INSET: Katelyn’s painted kraslice.
Grand Prize Winner Katelyn Daniel - Lodge 183, Arlington
District One Weston Beasley Lodge 17, New Tabor Jessica Enrique Lodge 186, Caldwell Kelli Ihlenfeldt Lodge 17, New Tabor Zachary Shelfer Lodge 9, Snook District Two Abby Hoelscher Lodge 24 Cyclone Zoe Talasek Lodge 47 Seaton Brady Alexander Lodge 47 Seaton Andrew Smith Lodge 187 Round Rock
District Three Quinlan Dobecka Lodge 6, Cottonwood Dakota Holder Lodge 6, Cottonwood Clark Jones Lodge 154, Fort Worth Katelyn Daniel Lodge 183, Arlington Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Youth Club members are pictured discussing business during the youth club’s meeting held Sunday, May 5, 2013, at St. Robert’s Hall.
District Four Hunter Wood Lodge 49, Rowena
Morgann Wood Lodge 49, Rowena Katelyn Taylor Lodge 229, Abilene Audree Williams Lodge 215, South Plains District Five Keith Wockenfuss Lodge 88, Houston Alyssa Moyle Lodge 162 Iowa Colony Avery Moyle Lodge 162 Iowa Colony Claire Casey Lodge 88, Houston District Six Grant Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton Andrew Kresta Lodge 30, Taiton Myranda Zielonka Lodge 148, El Maton Allison Fucik Lodge 30, Taiton District Seven Josh Spence Lodge 202, Jourdanton Katlyn Polasek Lodge 202, Jourdanton Amanda Hoggard Lodge 202, Jourdanton Lane Hoggard Lodge 202, Jourdanton
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK 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) All Wednesday and Friday night dances have free admission.
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) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, at 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) 6864429; or Dean Carender (903) 564-7359. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Sunday, May 26—Lander reunion, 10 a.m. Sunday, June 2—SPJST Lodge No. 6 meeting, 2 p.m. Friday, June 7—Social night, 6 p.m. Sunday, June 9—RVOS Lodge No. 46 meeting/Family Day 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) 884-3211. 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) 2723440. 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) Saturday, June 1—Jerry Haisler, country and mix music, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. $7 per person Sunday, June 9—Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person Sunday, June 23—The Czechaholics, polka/waltz/mix music. 3 to 7 p.m. $7 per person Note: Youth club meetings are now held the first Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. Call Youth Leader Joyce Bowen for information (512) 8562481. 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) 2853100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Joyce Bowen for information (512) 856-2481. 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: Mark or Brenda Maddux (254) 985-0002; Hall phone: (254) 985-2393. 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. LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Sunday, June 2—Youth Club Meeting, 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 8—Private party Thursday, June 13—Lodge meeting, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 15—Wedding Saturday, June 22—Private party Lodge Hall: 1901 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 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: Youth club meetings are at 1:30 p.m. and are scheduled on a different Sunday of the month depending on hall rentals. Call Youth Leader Rita Holland for youth club information (469) 337-2284. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 22—Live music by the Bobby Jay Five Band, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 24–Old School featuring Regina Ball and Jeff Graybill, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 31—Glen Collins band, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers beginning at 6 p.m. 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. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 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.; old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. As always, Thrall 4H Booster Club will be selling grilled cheese sandwiches and old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 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: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo.
35
Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy. 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is five miles east of Temple on Highway 53 (Adams Avenue). Star Hall is a nonsmoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Frank Klinkovsky (254) 773-4801; Hall Phone: (254) 9852548. 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) 450-8310. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall, except July 15 at 6:30 p.m. and August 12 at 6:30 p.m., and October 13 at 4 p.m. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 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. LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. Call for meeting location.
LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Hall: 3502 North Laurent, Victoria. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.
LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Location, date, and time to be announced in the Věstník minutes for each month’s meeting. Call (254) 799-4247 for more information.
LODGE 35, ELK (3) Saturday, June 22—Cherokee Rose
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Call for quarterly meeting date, time, and location.
Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From IH-35 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) 839-4353/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’Shea’s (979) 324-5961; FAC Dianna Everett (979) 693-5287. Insurance certificates info, call Secretary Lillie Matejka O’Shea’s (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. 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 2—Annual Picnic: Meal serving begins at 11 a.m. Live music, live auction, bingo, horseshoes, games. Saturday, June 8—East Bell County Fundraiser Sunday, June 16—Ocker Brethren Church Fundraiser: noon meal and silent auction, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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 SPJST@yahoo.com. Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 4 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month 2 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) 7934742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions: From IH-35 East in Dallas, take IH-20 East. From IH20 East, take the IH-45 exit toward downtown Dallas. IH-45 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.
36
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
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 Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Saturday, May 25—No dance Friday, May 31—Good, Bad, and Ugly, country western. $15 per person. Sunday, June 2— Homecoming: Ennis Czech Boys, polka/variety, 2 to 7 p.m. $10 per person Saturday, June 8—River Road Boys, western swing. $10 per person Saturday, June 15—Red Ravens, polka/variety. $10 per person Friday, June 21—The Dancehall Kings, country western. $15 per person Saturday, June 22—No dance Saturday, June 29—No dance All dances are held from 8 to 11:30 p.m., 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 Mangum 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.lodge.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. 17407503501. LODGE 91, CROSBY (5) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings—TBA in the Věstník. Contact Secretary Vonda Smesny (713) 870-7114. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) 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. 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) 826-2670/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.
VӖSTNÍK LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 2622 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 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 IH-45. 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 6 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. unless otherwise noted. ; meal served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Annex Building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Note: May, July, and August meetings will be held on the third Sunday - same time, same location. 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 (the Heights). For information, contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick (713) 203-8712; or Secretary Alice Jochen (979) 743-3613. 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) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street in 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 IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-20 West exit. Stay on IH-20 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 Sunday 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) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, and December at On The Deck, 1600 FM 389, Brenham, Texas 77833. Meal and social at 6:30 p.m.; meeting at 7 p.m. LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Reservations/Hall Rental Information: Jo (713) 993-6878; Hall Phone: (713) 487-3297. Country/Western dances are held on the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., except when
noted. Variety dances are held on the fourth Saturday of each month, 7 to 10 p.m., except when noted. Beer, soft drinks, and ice are available at the bar. (Do not bring them inside the hall.) Regular Lodge/Covered Dish Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, meal at 1 p.m. followed by meeting at 2 p.m. with the exception of November and December, as noted. Lodge Executive Board Meetings/Trustee 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.; 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: IH-35 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 Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at Incredible Pizza, 230 South Loop 336, Conroe, Texas 77304 (north side of South Loop 336 immediately west of I-45). For more information, contact Barbara Williams-Rash (936) 2957778/email b.d.willrash@att.net; Chuck Toney (281) 362-9062/email cdtiii@toney.us; or Jim Dinaso (281) 836-3649/email jimdinaso@gmail.com. LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 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) 876-9029. 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 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. 1-74-20733095-41002. 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: 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: George Scogin (936) 875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Thursday night before the third Friday night of the month, 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. Regular Dances: Third Friday night of each month, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Please continue to bring finger foods for the snack table. 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, at 2 p.m. at the hall. 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) 7272048 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 Deborah Stevens (325) 660-1421 for meeting date/time/location. LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: First Monday of each month at SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street, Temple. Meal at 6 p.m. followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact President James L. Lee, III (254) 289-6816. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Trish Konkler for meeting date/time/location (254) 780-9012. 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—
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Podpora
BENEVOLENCE
ROČNÍK 101 CISLO 20
Horní Čermná mayor, village express condolences To the Residents of West, Please let me express on behalf of Horní Čermná village my sincere condolences to the victims of the tragic accident in West. Allow me to give strength to deal with such a tragedy. Inhabitants of Horní Čermná village are deeply affected by this event for many of our ancestors settled down in West more than 160 years ago. One part of our village is called Nepomuky, where Josef Lidumil Lesikar - the organizer of the emigrant expedition was born. I would like not only the Czech community but also other residents who live in West to know that there is a small village in Central Europe that keeps thinking about you and feels for you. Yours faithfully, Hana Motlová the Mayor of Horní Čermná ••• Vážení, Dovolte, abych Vám jménem obce Horní Čermná projevila upřímnou soustrast s obětmi tragického výbuchu, dovolte, abych Vám všem obyvatelům města West popřála mnoho duševní síly, se s tak obrovskou tragedií vypořádat. Tato mimořádná událost nás, obyvatele Horní Čermné zasáhla o to více, že právě naši předci byli jedni z těch, kteří se ve Vašem městečku před více jak 160-ti lety usídlili. Součást naší vesnice je osada Nepomuky, v které se narodil organizátor vystěhovalecké výpravy Josef Lidumil Lešikar.
"
Lidskost
Česká
HUMANITY
"
37
Bratrstvi´
Část
BROTHERHOOD
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Uředni orgán SPJST " Založené roku 1897
Byla bych velice ráda, aby nejenom česká komunita, ale i ostatní obyvatelé Westu věděli, že ve střední Evropě je malá vesnice, která s Vámi cítí a Vaši tragedii prožívá. S úctou Hana Motlová, starostka obce Horní Čermná —SPJST—
Czech Fest for Kids begins June 17 in Temple
Wednesday Evenings 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.
Contact President Dave Phelps (515) 281-8189; or www.czechcollectors.org.
Now Through Dec. 31 Czech Muzika, Texas-Style Exhibit— at Czech Heritage Museum, Temple, 119 West French Street. (254) 8992935. Visit www.czechmuseum.org. May 15 Brown Bag Genealogy: Memoir I/Life Story Workshop Session 6— SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main, Temple, 12 noon. Sponsored by Texas Czech Genealogical Society. Contact TCGS President Charlene Hurta (979) 849-0348; or via email cmhurta@earthlink.net.
Czech Heritage and Genealogy Museum, located at 119 West French Av-
June 22 Youth Day—at TCHCC, 250 Fairgrounds Road, La Grange. Sponsored by CHS and TCHCC. (888) 785-4500; also visit czechtexas.org. July 12 - 13 TCGS hosts Generation to Generation Research Conference—at Caldwell Civic/Visitors’ Center, 103 Presidential Corridor-Highway 21W, Caldwell, Texas. Visit www.txczgs.org. August 1 TCGS Magazine Česke Stopy Submission Deadline—“Open topics”. Contact TCGS President Charlene Hurta via email cmhurta@earthlink.net. Also visit www.txczgs.org.
May 19 Slavnost, ‘Mayfest’—at TCHCC, 250 Fairgrounds Road, La Grange TCHCC grounds: Immigrant recognitions for 1901 to 1905; picnic-style dinner; dance; Czech village; tours. Contact TCHCC for recognition forms(888) 785-4500; visit czechtexas.org.
August 12 TCGS Friends of the SPJST Library Inventory Day—at SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street, Temple. Contact TCGS President Charlene Hurta via email cmhurta@earthlink.net; or via phone (979) 849-0348. Also visit www.txczgs.org.
June 7, 8 Czech Collectors Association Convention Antique Show—at Garfield Hotel, 2 Garfield Place, Cincinnati, Ohio: Austrian, Bohemian, and Czechoslovakian pottery, glass, and decorative arts 1850 to 1940; seminars, silent auction mini sessions, and convention banquet; bring items for experts to identify. Sponsored by Czech Collectors Association. For information,
September 28 TCGS One-Day Genealogical Conference: Great Ingredients (Individuals) = Great Casseroles (Families)—at Caldwell Civic/Visitors’ Center, 103 Presidential CorridorHighway 21W, Caldwell, Texas. Contact TCGS President Charlene Hurta via email cmhurta@earthlink.net; or via phone (979) 849-0348. Also visit www.txczgs.org.
22.květen.2013 enue in Temple, will be holding a summer camp for youth ages eight to 12 years old from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the museum. Lunch and snacks will be provided each day. Campers will be experiencing Czech culture through music, dance, food, crafts, language, and history. We will be making kolaches, creating kraslice eggs, exploring family trees, learning traditional Czech songs and dances, discovering the Czech language, and using crafts to learn about the Czech Republic. Tuition for camp is $65 per camper, and applications are available from the museum at 119 West French Avenue in Temple or by calling (254) 899-2935. The summer camp will also be collecting school and art supplies to be donated to teachers and schools in West. We will be creating a card to send with the supplies. Close-knit community and generosity is an important part of Czech culture. —SPJST—
Temple’s Czech Heritage Museum announces junior docent program The Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, located at 119 West French Avenue in Temple, Texas, announces a new program to provide a new learning opportunity for youth— the Junior Docent program. Are you interested in how your grandparents immigrated to Texas, how they survived the voyage to Texas, and how they lived once they made it here? What influences have the Czech people had on the life you live today? If you are even just a little bit curious, then the Junior Docent program might be for you. The Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center Junior Docents pro-
38
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
gram is designed for area boys and girls ages 14 to 18. Junior Docents receive training on greeting visitors, assist with curating and curating maintenance, and learn how to give guided tours. Junior Docents will have the responsibility of helping museum visitors better understand and appreciate the Czech way of life. Docents will learn how the museum preserves the history of our ancestors through artifacts, photographs, textiles, books, music, and much more. This volunteer program will begin in June and continue through the summer. Junior Docents will need to commit to volunteer for six hours once a week. This can be done with some flexibility in scheduling. Occasionally, you may be asked to volunteer for special museum functions. Junior Docents will have a hands-on opportunity few have the opportunity to experience. This is an excellent opportunity to earn service hours for school, clubs, or other organizations. These volunteer hours can also be used for SPJST Youth Program’s merit points by promoting Czech heritage. This program will work for the President’s Volunteer Service Award which is currently being sponsored by the SPJST Youth Program. The Junior Docent Program is an excellent way for you to obtain work experience by dealing with the public, answering phones, handling retail sales, and performing tasks with a computer. The Junior Docent Program will provide you with invaluable community service to include on applications for college, honor societies, awards, scholarships, or future employment. Our Junior Docents will be presented with museum membership, certificate of participation, and special recognition for their service. If you are interested in applying for the program, come by the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center at 119 West French Avenue in Temple or call (254) 899-2935. —SPJST—
VӖSTNÍK
Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum sets summer hours The Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum is a non-profit charitable organization serving the public by furthering their knowledge of different aspects of Czech history and culture. Doors are open to the public each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the months of June, July, August, and September. Our feature display this summer will be items used to raise babies and toddlers during the early 1900s. The Carriage House (next door to the museum) has several genealogy books listing information of immigrant families arriving in Texas. The museum is located at 200 Fawn Street in downtown Caldwell, Texas. Private tours are available by calling Lora Petty (979) 567-1871 or Margaret Polansky (979) 535-8127. —SPJST—
Czechoslovakia’s Velvet Divorce: 20 Years Later By Rev. Bob Uzzel Lodge 6, Cottonwood 2013 marks 20 years since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, in which the Czech Republic and Slovakia, entities which had arisen in 1969 within the framework of Czechoslovak federalization, became immediate subjects of international law. It is sometimes known as the Velvet Divorce, a reference to the bloodless Velvet Revolution of 1989 that led to the end of the rule of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia and the formation of a democratic government. On November 13, 1992, the Federal Assembly passed Constitution Act 541 which settled the division of property between the Czech lands and Slovakia. With Constitution Act 542, passed on November 25, Czechoslovakia was dissolved effective January 1, 1993. Neither the Czech Republic nor Slovakia sought recognition as the sole successor state to Czechoslovakia. Thus, Czechoslovakia’s membership in the United Nations ceased upon dissolution of the country but, on January 19,
1993 the two republics were admitted to the UN as new and separate states. With respect to other international treaties the Czechs and Slovaks agreed to honor the treaty obligations of Czechoslovakia. The Slovaks transmitted a letter to the Secretary General of the United Nations on May 19, 1993 expressing their intent to remain a party to all treaties signed and ratified by Czechoslovakia, and to ratify those treaties signed but not ratified before dissolution of Czechoslovakia. This letter acknowledged that, under international law, all treaties signed and ratified by Czechoslovakia would remain in force. From 2002 to 2005, the Czech Armed Forces formed together with Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic a joint Czech-Slovak KFOR battalion in Kosovo that contributed to the Multinational Brigade CENTRE. Trade relationships were re-established and stabilized, and the Czech Republic continues to be Slovakia’s most important business partner. Following the death of the last Czechoslovak president Václav Havel on December 18, 2011, both the Czech and the Slovak Republics observed the day of national mourning. During the funeral mass in Prague’s St. Vitus Cathedral, prayers were recited in an equal ratio in the Czech and the Slovak languages. On October 29, 2012, in order to commemorate Czechoslovakia´s declaration of independence of October 28, 1918, the Czech and the Slovak governments held for the first time a joint cabinet meeting in the communities of Trenčín and Uherské Hradiště in the vicinity of the common border. In his new book entitled Czechs and Slovaks in the 20th Century: Cooperation and Conflicts, historian and ethnologist Jan Rychlík argues that the dissolution of Czechoslovakia was inevitable and that communism only postponed this event. In an interview with Radio Prague, he described different expectations of each nation when Czechoslovakia emerged in 1918: “For the Czechs, the new state was a resurrection of the mediaeval Bohemian state which gradually ceased to exist in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Slovaks never saw it like that. They were part of the Hungarian Kingdom. The Slovaks had a vision of Czechoslovakia was that of a union of two semi-independent states, something like the old Austria-Hungary. The Slovak approach today basically maintains that Czechoslovakia was good for the Slovak nation which
could prepare for the final step – independence. On the Czech side, we have the permanent continuity of the present Czech Republic with Czechoslovakia. We consider the First Republic part of the same tradition; October 28, the day Czechoslovakia was proclaimed in 1918, is observed as a public holiday.” Martina Gregorova, a Slovak married to a Czech who now calls the Czech Republic home, was also interviewed by Radio Prague. She stated: “Sometimes it is said that Slovakia lost out economically; that we needed the Czechs to be economically stronger and materially better off. But you would have to ask an economist if this is really the case. I am an idealist and I think that a lot was gained by that unity simply because of the cultural exchange, the fact that you learn to love certain aspects of the other culture with which you live but also the fact that you learn to tolerate some other aspects that you may not like so much. So in that sense I think that there were many more pluses than minuses from the unity of the Czechs and Slovaks.” —SPJST—
23rd Annual Kolache Klobase Festival set for June 8 This is the 23rd year for the annual Czech Kolache Klobase Festival scheduled for Saturday, June 8, 2013, at Riverside Hall in East Bernard, Texas. This event brings people together to enjoy good music and good food and to celebrate ethnic heritage and culture. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. and continuing nonstop until 11 p.m., this year’s festival again features a first-rate lineup of entertainers. This year’s entertainers include Texas Sound Check, Czech and Then Some, Dujka Bros., Red Ravens, Al Sulak’s Country Sounds, Praha Bros., and The Washers whose album “Tired Eyes” just received Album of the Year at the Texas Music Awards in March. There will again be a three-band concert at 4:30 p.m. inside the hall. Two sets of dancers are also on the program this year – students from Keller Academy of Performing Arts and from the A Time to Dance Studio. Festival admission remains at $7 per person. Children age 12 and under will be admitted free of charge. The admission fee covers all entertainment
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
VӖSTNÍK
Uncle Sam (John Kramr) takes a turn around the floor with Texas Czech Slovak Queen Caitlan Orsak, mamber of SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville, at the Kolache Klobase Festival in East Bernard.
and music provided by bands and entertainers in the hall and outdoors in the pavilion. Massive water fans will cool the pavilion to provide a more comfortable setting for dancers and spectators. A large mesh canopy will cover a large area in front of the pavilion to protect festival visitors from the heat of the June sun. Arts and crafts booths will be located both inside and outside the hall. Crafts and goods of every kind will be available for sale. This is a good opportunity to shop for all types of hand-crafted items, jewelry and clothing. The cakewalk returns this year providing an opportunity to win a delicious cake to take home and enjoy. This year, there will again be entertainment for the younger set. Kid games and activities will keep the youngsters occupied. They will also enjoy a performance at 12:30 p.m. by
CUBA & CUBA, P.L.C. Attorneys & Counselors at Law
• ESTATE PLANNING • WILLS • TRUSTS PROBATE • REAL ESTATE • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL FARM AND RANCH • MORTGAGES • LAND USE EMINENT DOMAIN • CONTRACTS • LEASES • FRANCHISES BUSINESS SALES AND ACQUISITIONS • CORPORATION • PARTNERSHIP • LLC • INSURANCE CLAIMS • TRIAL • MEDIATION
(254) 778-1824
BENJAMIN J. CUBA COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501
students from Keller Academy of Performing Arts of East Bernard who will feature Czech costumed students and some typical Czech folk dances. The Academy is under the direction and choreography of Tanya Keller. At 4 p.m., students from the A Time to Dance Studio also of East Bernard will perform. This studio is under the direction of Morgan Fritz. A plate lunch will be served again this year featuring sausage, barbecue chicken, sauerkraut and other trimmings. The sausage and chicken will be prepared on site the morning of the festival by society members assuring a fresh cooked meal. Serving will begin at 11 a.m. This year, drive-thru platesto-go will again be offered from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festival admission will not be charged for drive-thru plate customers. Of course, there will be hundreds of kolaches for sale throughout the day. As in prior years, hamburgers and sausage sandwiches will be available in the afternoon. A great list of prizes highlights the drawing this year including several quilts hand-crafted in Texas, gift certificates, and a number of other great prizes. Drawing tickets are available from each KJT Society member and from various local businesses. They are also available through the mail if so desired – contact Albert Smaistrla (979) 335-4473. This year a penny drawing will again be part of the festival activities. The Kolache Klobase Festival, in its 23rd year, provides fun and entertainment for the entire family. The Festival Committee welcomes and encourages the wearing of Czech costumes to add a festive atmosphere and to further promote the preservation and celebration of ethnic heritage. The P.O.L.K. of A. are also urged to attend in their “red and whites” and to join in the spirit of fun and appreciation of the happy sounds of polka and waltz music. A moving flag tribute is scheduled at 3 p.m. and will recognize attending armed services veterans. This will be followed by a grand march fea-
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
turing the Czech and festive costumes on parade. For information about game or arts and crafts booths, call (979) 531-9747 or email srdujka@gmail.com For general information and band schedules, call (979) 335-7907. Visit the festival website at www.kkfest.com for further information. KJT Society No. 40, the festival sponsor, is a non-profit organization and has been in existence in East Bernard since 1905. The society participates in a program of charitable works including special youth programs, scholarships, social welfare, and civic support. KJT Society No. 40 would like to extend a special invitation to everyone to come out and enjoy the festival. East Bernard is located about 45 miles southwest of Houston on Hwy. 90-A. See the advertisement in next week’s Vestnik. —SPJST—
39
San Antonio Czech Gala set for August 23 On August 23, 2013, the 12th Annual San Antonio Czech Gala will be held from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. This event is benefiting Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange, Texas. You are invited for an evening of Czech music and Czech food. This event will be held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church Parish Hall in San Antonio, Texas. The versatile Chris Rybak will provide the music. Come enjoy good food, good music, great prize drawing, and silent auction. For more information and for ticket prices, call (210) 410-8840. Submitted by, Alice Vida —SPJST—
Do you remember Nonat?
The popular Czech healing salve. Every Czech household had a tube in its medicine cabinet. After an absence of 60 years, it is now back on the market in 3/4 oz. tin for $12.49 including shipping/handling from:
Alfred Novacek 3831 NE Wasco St. Portland, Oregon 97232 (503) 234-5594 www.nonatsalve.com
Save This Ad We are pleased to announce a new and exciting Benefit! ULTD LLC, a Statewide Real Estate Brokerage, is offering a special program to SPJST members who wish to purchase or sell Real Estate. As Principals, members could be eligible to receive a compensation for participating. This program is available for both Buyers and Sellers! Residential • Commercial • Farm and Ranch • Investment Please contact:
ULTD LLC (512) 472-1095 ultd@swbell.net
* Real Estate Brokers and Agents are invited to apply for participation . . .
Financing Available
A Tribute to Our Soldiers on Memorial Day Life Insurance and More Home Office: 520 North Main Temple, Texas 76501 (800) 727-7578 info@spjst.org
Today we honor the memories of the brave American soldiers who made the sacrifice for this country. Their courage, commitment, and selflessness will always be remembered with gratitude. We will never forget that freedom is not free.
www.spjst.org