Vestnik 2014 12 17 by SPJST

Volume 102 Number 50

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

Christmas

ISSN —07458800

★ Brotherhood

The winning 2014 SPJST Youth

Greetings! District Four Hunter Wood Lodge 49, Rowena Grace Schwertner Lodge 49, Rowena Cammi Teplicek Lodge 49, Rowena Sutton Schwertner Lodge 49, Rowena

Christmas Tree ornaments are located on the Christmas tree in the SPJST Home Office Lobby throughout the Christmas season. District ornament contests were held statewide in the fall to select first place winners in four age categories. Congratulations to this year’s contest winners:

District One

Wyatt Beasley Lodge 17, New Tabor Maylee Dowell Lodge 17, New Tabor Sydney Faust Lodge 9, Snook Hayden Kovar Lodge 9, Snook

District Five

Jered Polly Lodge 88, Houston Keith Wockenfuss Lodge 88, Houston Sean Moncrief Lodge 88, Houston Denae Bronikowski Lodge 88, Houston

District Two

Tyson Bilbrey Lodge 47, Seaton Trent Wuensche Lodge 48, Beyersville Brandon Girod Lodge 29, Taylor Brandon Hoelscher Lodge 47, Seaton

District Six

Grant Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton Lauren Kresta Lodge 30, Taiton Cynthia Garcia Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

District Seven

Joshua Spence Lodge 202, Jourdanton Katlyn Polasek Lodge 202, Jourdanton Kelly House Lodge 202, Jourdanton Sammy Hoggard Lodge 202, Jourdanton

District Three Kendall Tucker Lodge 84, Dallas Quinlan Dobecka Lodge 6, Cottonwood Dakota Holder Lodge 6, Cottonwood Jason Sims Lodge 84, Dallas

N N N N N N N N

Vestnik Deadlines................................2 Readers Write ......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 100 Pennies Donor Update.................6 Lodge Section......................................7

December 17, 2014

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Youth Section ....................................22 Death Claims .....................................25 In Memoriam ......................................26 Czech Culture ....................................28 Advertisements .................................29 Lodge Calendar .................................30

Pages 4 - 5

Scenes from Temple Christmas Parade and SPJST Open House

N N N N N N N Page 7

District Six hosts SPJST Float in El Campo Christmas Parade

Page 10

Scenes from Lodge 88 Houston Christmas Party

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

ˇ ´ VESTNIK 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 CLIFTON COUFAL Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 931-5231 email: cliftonc@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 JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Road • Waco, Texas 76705 (254) 799-4247 email: john.engelke@hotmail.com

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 email: blackbayer39@hotmail.com FRATERNAL FIELD MANAGERS DISTRICTS ONE/TWO/THREE Philip (Phil) McBee, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 647-1949 • Fax: (325) 784-7448 email: philipmcbee@aol.com DISTRICTS FOUR/SEVEN Bobby Davis, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 450-3748 • Fax: (325) 657-2003 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICTS FIVE/SIX Delisle Doherty Mobile: (254) 239-9616 • Mobile: (832) 232-2049 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 77853 • (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 - Kay Weeks, 4203 Treehaven Ct, Arlington, Texas 76016 • (817) 896-5277 - email: kgweeks@att.net District Four - Pam Lehmann, PO Box 637, Tahoka, Texas 79373-0637 - (806) 561-5105 - email: plehmann@poka.com 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, 77853 - (979) 884-1451 - email: Texas 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, 4001 North Shepherd, Suite 112, Houston, Texas 77018 - (713) 683-0018 - email: mmholeman@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - (979) 244-4415; (979) 479-0056 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

Merry Christmas from Melanie and David and Our Kitty Family

A Little Song of Christmas Cheer

The most beautiful song in the air this year Is the greeting of friends, exchanging good cheer. It’s a magical time for coming together. In snow or in sun—whatever the weather.

The song of the season’s a sweet tune to share, With peace and goodwill; with love and with care. Each note rings true, for it comes from the heart. As each friend contributes their own special part.

There’s no Christmas carol or holiday song That invites us more freely to come sing along, Than a chorus of warm words and wishes from friends— Whose love echoes long after this season ends.

• • • IMPORTANT NOTICE • • • No December 24, 2014 Vestnik will be printed. • • •

December 31 Vestnik will not be a regular issue. It will be a special issue celebrating SPJST, its benefits, and its membership. • • •

Deadline for January 7 Vestnik is Friday, December 26 at 5 p.m. VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of September 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, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

Family Fun and Important Dates

Dec. 19 Dec. 21 Dec. 21 Dec. 21

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Children’s Christmas Party (3) Lodge 81, Needville Christmas Meeting (5) Lodge 87, Temple Special Meeting (2) Lodge 133, San Antonio Christmas Luncheon Good Shepherd Activity Center (7) Dec. 24 No Vestnik Printed Dec. 24-25 Christmas Eve/Day • SPJST Home Office Closed Dec. 26 Deadline for January 7 Vestnik Dec. 31 Special Vestnik Featuring SPJST Members Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Game Party/Social Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3) Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 18, Elgin (2) Pure Country Band Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 35, Elk (3) Nolan Pick Band Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 47, Seaton (2) Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 88, Houston (5) The Moonglow Orchestra Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 172, Pasadena (5) Caney Creek Outlaws Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 191, Lufkin (5) Glenn Lenderman and Friends Jan. 10 State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3) Jan. 20 - 22 Supreme Lodge Meeting • Home Office, Temple Jan. 31 SPJST Awards Banquet Frank Mayborn Convention Center, Temple Feb. 1 SPJST Scholarship Paperwork Due Feb. 7 State Tarok Tournament • Lodge 84, Dallas (3) Feb. 7 Fraternal Bowling Tournament Feb. 14 Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Valentine Dance (1) Feb. 21 Presidents’ Day • SPJST Home Office Closed Fiesta Lanes, New Braunfels Number in ( ) denotes SPJST District. —SPJST—

From the Supreme Lodge President

Readers Write

Lodge 29, Taylor Christmas party thanks

Hello, Melanie. Thank you! Just a note to say that I was invited to the SPJST Lodge 29, T a y l o r Christmas party, and I went. It was a beautiful party. The meal was wonderful and had a lot of good foot. I was welcomed by all the members. Guess what? Even Santa Claus came! I even sat on his lap! Love, Victoria (Pospisil) Domel P.S. Jesse Pospisil is my cousin! —SPJST—

Reader appreciates obituary notice

Melanie, I am Al Svetlik, Jr., son of the late Agnes M. Svetlik. Thank you for the memorial write-up in the December 3, 2014, Vestnik issue. Our mom had many, many relatives and friends, and she was loved by all. A lot of her friends didn’t know she had past and are now just finding out, so having it in the Vestnik will help get the info out. Thanks again, and keep up the good work.

May all of you at SPJST have a blessed, safe, and Merry Christmas. Al Svetlik, Jr. Lodge 107, Floresville —SPJST—

Reader shares family history book

Dear Melanie, My daughter has completed a family history book for John and Anna Polasek Hurta of Taylor, Texas. This Hurta Family Tree is the history of John and Anna Hurta’s family once they came to Texas and their children’s families here in Texas. This would include the families of Josef (Joe) Hurta (Taylor, Texas), Mary Hurta Woytek (Hallettsville, Texas), Anna Hurta Stiba (Taft, Texas), Jan (John) Hurta (Taylor, Texas), Rosie Hurta (Taylor, Texas), August Hurta (Taylor, Texas), Albina Hurta Hora (Taylor, Texas), Karl (Charles) Hurta (Taylor, Texas), and Julia Hurta (Taylor, Texas). The family tree can be purchased two ways—a book or a digital copy. Books cost $25 plus $5 shipping and a digital copy is $15 plus $5 shipping. If you are interested in this book, you can email her at hruskawd@sbcglobal.net or you can send a letter to her at 6006 Duxbury, Houston, Texas 77035. Thank you, Eugene Hruska Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

Members Invited to Special Called Lodge 87, Temple Meeting

Dear Lodge 87, Temple Members, As a valued member of SPJST, you and your family are invited to join in a special called meeting of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple at the lodge hall, located at 320 North 50th Street in Temple on Sunday, December 21, 2014. Lunch will be served starting at 1 p.m. in appreciation of your attendance. The meeting will follow and door prizes will be awarded. SPJST is a family organization that cherishes the idea of service to each other and the community. In addition to reviewing your benefits of membership in SPJST, Society officials want to visit with lodge members and receive their input in helping to make decisions

which will determine the future course of direction for Lodge 87, Temple and its members. Feel free to extend this invitation to others in your household or friends who are not already members. Please RSVP on or before 5 p.m. Wednesday, December 17 by calling SPJST Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez at (254) 773-1575 or (800) 727-7578. Thank you for your attention and consideration. I look forward to seeing you on December 21! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek Supreme Lodge President —SPJST—

SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 11/01/2014 - 01/31/2015 SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Rates

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

Farm/Commercial Property Rates

75% Owner Farm Property 4.75% for 1 to 30 years Commercial Property 6.00% for 1 to 10 years 6.25% for 11 to 15 years

Universal Life Universal Life 3 (plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 3.00%

Whole Life/ Universal Life 3 (plans 1223-1232 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 3.50%

Annuities Annuity 5 (plans 8032-8039 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 3.00%

Annuity New 5 Year (plans 8040-8041 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 3.00%

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

SPJST Participates in Temple Christmas Parade

VӖSTNÍK

Monday, December 1, 2014 • Downtown Temple, Texas • State Royalty • District Two Royalty SPJST “Bake My Day - A Minions Christmas” Float — 2nd Place • SPJST “A Frozen Celebration” Float — 3rd Place

VӖSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Scenes from SPJST Home Office Christmas Open House

Monday, December 1, 2014 • SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas • More photos on SPJST’s Facebook page.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Donors’ List

This is the first donor listing for

the 2014-2015 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Members and friends are encouraged to support the 2014-2015 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. In sending in your donation, please be sure to include donor’s name(s) so that proper acknowledgement may be published in the Vestnik. Donations are tax deductible, and 100 percent of the amount that you contribute is used for scholarships to SPJST members. Mail your contribution to: SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

There have been 144 donations made to the 2014-2015 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive. Donations to date are $1,945.04. SPJST Memorial donations to date are $2,380. Thank you for your generous donations to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Because of your generosity, many young SPJST members will be able to attend or continue with college. The 2014-2015 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive goal is $20,000. Thank you for your kind support. For more information or printed donation solicitation forms, please contact the Fraternal Department at (800) 7277578.

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

Note: Please print donor’s name(s) clearly.

Lodge District

47 17 17 29 6 183 6 6 6 29 29 6 178 29 29 29 47

29 6 183 183 183 6 200

202 185 185 246 246 246 246 246 246 246 29 29 29 54 29 183 200 29 29 79 200

187

200 29 23

29 29 189 189 202 29 29

2 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 2

2 3 3 3 3 3 2

7 7 7 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 2 7 2

2 2 6

2 2 1 1 7 2 2

Name

Bilbrey, Tyson Beasley, Weston Beasley, Wyatt Campbell, Charlie Charanza, Carter Daniel, Katelyn Dobecka, Peggy Dobecka, Quinlan Dobecka, Rendon Eulenfeld, Bobby Eulenfeld, Laverne Ferguson, Payton Franzen, Rose and Don Girod, Brandon Girod, Cristy Girod, Hailey Gomez Larry and Beverly Grieger, Adolph Hajek, Raiven Higgins, Brittney Higgins, Cassidy Higgins, Destiney Holder, Dakota Hosch, James and Michael House, Kelly Howard, Lilyanna Howard, Zachary Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Howell, Larry C. Jansky, Ila Mae Kaderka, Leonard Kaderka, Sharon Kaluza, Freddie and Janice Karkoska, Louren Karr, Michael LaFlamme, Harvey Machu, Albin Marek, Melissa Marek, R.S. McBride, Gene and Frances McCarthy, Mathieu and Luke Nauert, David Nygrin, Barbara Olsovsky, Albert and Dorothy Patschke, Joyce Pokorny, Anton Polasek, Geri Polasek, James Polasek, Katlyn Pospisil, Jesse Pospisil, Jesse

29 2 23 6 29 2 29 2 29 2 29 2 29 2 n/a n/a 189 1 49 4 49 4 49 4 49 4 29 2 29 2 29 2 15 2 187 2 13 1 133

155

Pospisil, Linda Pospisil, Ollie Prinz, Kendall Pustejovsky, Frankie Pustejovsky, Mary Jane Rieger, Lyn Rieger, Ronnie Rod, Milton Scasta, Albert and Helen Schwertner, Bella Schwertner, Grace Schwertner, Olivia Schwertner, Sutton Skrhak, Clyde Skrhak, Dorothy Skrhak, Terry Smit, Birdie Smith, Andrew SPJST Lodge 13 Dime Box SPJST Lodge 133 San Antonio SPJST Lodge 155 Austin SPJST Lodge 28 East Bernard

49 49 49 49 49 29 200 29 29 29 29 29 29 18 18 49 49 49 185

4 4 4 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 4 4 7

54 6

3 3

VӖSTNÍK

SPJST Lodge 4 Hallettsville SPJST Lodge 54, West SPJST Lodge 6 Cottonwood Youth Club Teplicek, Brandon Teplicek, Cammi Teplicek, Holt Teplicek, Hudson Teplicek, Hunter Trcka, Lucille Trigg, Sr., Allen Voigt, Connie Voigt, Wayne Vybiral, Theo Whatley, Collin Whatley, Kaitlyn Whatley, Tammy Wiesner, Ruby L. Wilson, Charles R. Wood, Hunter Wood, Morgann Wood, Tanner Woodall, Jordan —SPJST—

SPJST Home Office will close: Tuesday, December 23 (at 11:30 a.m.) Wednesday, December 24; Thursday, December 25; Wednesday, December 31 (at 12 noon) and Thursday, January 1.

District Two Royalty Rides in Taylor Christmas Parade

Riding in the Taylor Christmas Parade in a Corvette are, left to right, 2014-2015 District Two Duke Cody Voigt of Lodge 29, Taylor and Queen Kacie Vanecek and Duchess Makayla Newsom, both of Lodge 48, Beyersville.

VӖSTNÍK

SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

Lodge 6 Cottonwood: no December social

Dear Members, Lodge 6, Cottonwood members voted to cancel the Friday, December 19 social night. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Lodge 6, Cottonwood! Milton Peterson President —SPJST—

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

Lodge 15 Buckholts: your help is needed to fund roof repairs

The meeting was called to order at 5 p.m. by President Doug Williams. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Virginia Williams followed by a moment of silence in memory of our departed members. All officers were present except for Vice President A.W. Zajicek. We are looking forward to him being back with us very soon. Several of our

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

members were sick and could not attend. We really miss those who are unable to attend. President Williams greeted everyone and thanked them for attending. Treasurer Sandie Fischer had our tables decorated so beautifully in celebration of Christmas. We appreciate her doing this so much. It helped getting us in the mood for the holiday season. Sandie gave us the treasury report, and it was approved as read. In old business, we are still seeking help to finance the repairs or replacement of our lodge building roof. The Věstník has been a great help to get the word out for our need. Alfred and Anton Vrazel read about it in the Věstník and sent us a nice contribution. We appreciate this so much. We are so appreciative to all who have contributed. At this time, we are still seeking bids for our project. We have several bad leaks in the roof. On one occasion when we had the hall rented, a very hard shower of rain of fell, and the host of the party happened to be standing in the wrong spot. He got soaked - even the brim of his hat filled with water! Luckily, it was an informal party; he was a very understanding person so he was not unhappy. Some folks would have re-

ally gotten upset and demanded a refund on the rental. This was a very embarrassing situation and proves the seriousness of our problem. Two employees Chuck Clemens and Travis Clifford, the Claim Supervisor from RVOS, came and got up on the roof to check it out. We have not gotten their report. We certainly appreciate RVOS’ interest and concern. We surely hope they can help us out. Marguerite Burtis Vogel gave us two boxes of miscellaneous items that belonged to her mother Hilda Burtis, to be used as door prizes. We appreciate this so much. Virginia Williams made the motion that we adjourn, seconded by Frank Tomascik. Motion carried. Door prizes were drawn, followed by a delicious meal of her famous taco soup, cornbread muffins, salad, and a cream cake. Those who didn’t attend really missed a real treat. The food was prepared by Sandie Fischer from the Post Office Restaurant here in Buckholts.

Next Meeting—January 12 The next meeting will be on Monday, January 12, 2015. We hope you can attend. Submitted by, Dorothy Tomascik, Secretary —SPJST—

District Six Hosts SPJST Float in El Campo’s “A Frozen Christmas” Parade Thursday, December 4, 2014 • El Campo, Texas • First Place Non-Commercial Float LEFT PHOTO: 20142015 District Six Duchess Aiyana Gonzalez and Queen Daisy Enriquez. CENTER PHOTO: Emma and Abby Hoelscher are ready for the parade. RIGHT PHOTO: District Six Director Karen Kaspar rides with float driver John Hoelscher.

LEFT PHOTO: District Six youth enjoy the “Frozen” float ride. CENTER PHOTO: Left to right are Lisa Hoelscher, District Six Director Karen Kaspar, Yvonne Marcaurele, and Debbie Krpec. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodges 30,

Taiton and 40, El Campo-Hillje Youth Club members participate in the El Campo “A Frozen Christmas” Parade. The float earned the first place non-commercial award in the parade.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard meets January 18

Dear Members, Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard will hold its next meeting on the third Sunday, the 18th of January at 12 noon in the Community Room of the East Bernard Branch Library, 746 Clubside Drive. A standard agenda will be followed. As to the fraternal hour luncheon, it’s still in the air and unknown. On a sad note, it has been learned that one of our longtime members Leo Pribyl passed away on Sunday, December 7 at the age of 81. The lodge extends its condolences to the family and understands their sorrow. More about the meeting to come after the first of the year. Veselé Vanocé a Št’astný Nový Rok!

To the faithful: Hope you make it through the holiday, see you on January 18, and this writer remains . . . Ze bratrskym pozdravu Joseph D. Nezval, FIC Vice President —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Lodge 15, Buckholts Member Achieves 50-Year Membership Pin

Congratulations to Alfred Vrazel, right, of Lodge 15, Buckholts for receiving his 50-year SPJST membership pin. He was presented the pin by Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek.

Lodge 29, Taylor reports on December meeting

Lodge 29, Taylor held its meeting/Christmas party on Sunday, December 7, 2014. President Ronnie Rieger opened the meeting and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ronnie asked for a few moments of silence to honor our departed veterans and those presently serving our country. All officers were present. The November minutes were read and approved. Sharon Kaderka read a thank you note from the Czech Heritage Museum and thanked Ruby and Norris Schroeder for their donation to Lodge

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia

The 2015 officers of Lodge 23, Moravia are, left to right, President Elizabeth Holub, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Treasurer Marilyn Palmquist, and Secretary Kathleen Guenther. They were installed by District Six Director Karen Kaspar.

29, Taylor. She also informed us of the State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament in Fort Worth on January 10, 2015. Youth Leader Cristy Girod reported the SPJST Float was in the Taylor Christmas Parade on December 6. The float won two first place awards. The awards were “Best Decorated” entry and “Best Out-of-Town” entry. Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny also drove her Corvette carrying the District Two Royalty. On December 14, the youth will prepare a family dinner for three needy families along with presents for Christmas from Santa. Kelsey Moore, a Lodge 29 youth member, read an article about Czech Christmas customs. Jesse Pospisil presented John Perkins, the Taylor SPJST Hall manager, his Christmas bonus and thanked

him for all of his work at the hall. Jesse welcomed Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride and wife Frances to our meeting and Christmas party. District Two Director Jesse Pospisil installed the 2015 officers for Lodge 29. Members celebrating birthdays in December include Jesse Pospisil, Ila Mae Jansky, Meredith Tate, Edwina Jezisek, Gary Johle, Shelly Wiegand, and John Valis. Leonard and Sharon Kaderka celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 5. Door prizes were furnished by Jesse and Linda Pospisil. In January, Barbara Nygrin and Frankie and Mary Jane Pustejovsky will bring door prizes. Next Meeting—January 14 The next meeting will be on Wednesday, January 14 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was then adjourned. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Member Bags his Biggest Buck

Johnnie Plsek, age 94, of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton recently bagged his biggest buck ever. Johnnie hunted in Bell County with his crossbow to take down the buck. The animal had 11 points and a 19- and one-half inch spread. Admiring Johnnie’s trophy antlers is Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy member James Hosch, left, who is Johnnie’s double cousin.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

Scenes from Lodge 29, Taylor Christmas Party Sunday, December 7, 2014 • Lodge 29, Taylor

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

Lodge 88, Houston Hosts Annual Christmas Party Saturday, December 6, 2014 • Lodge 88, Houston

VӖSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Officers and Property Committee

The 2015 officers of Lodge 29, Taylor are President Ronnie Rieger, front, seated. Back: Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Sharon Kaderka, Secretary-Reporter Linda Pospisil, Treasurer Tammy Whatley, Youth Leader Cristy Girod, and Assistant Youth Leader Connie Voigt. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured are the 2015 Lodge 29, Taylor Of-

Lodge 80, Holland meets January 4

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland will hold its January monthly meeting on Sunday, January 4, 2015, at the lodge hall beginning at 5 p.m. Board meeting will begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by the general meeting with installation

Happy Anniversary, Leonard and Sharon Kaderka!

Happy 50th Anniversary to Lodge 29, Taylor members Leonard and Sharon Kaderka. They were married on December 5, 1964. Congratulations!

of officers by Frank Horak. A meal will follow. Please mark your calendar about the change in date and time. Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—

Lodge 87, Temple: members invited to Sunday, Dec. 21 special meeting

ficers and Property Committee members. They are, left to right, Jesse Pospisil, Adolph Grieger, Ronnie Rieger, Connie Voigt, Wayne Voigt, Frankie Pustejovsky, Sharon Kaderka, Leonard Kaderka, Tammy Whatley, Linda Pospisil, and Cristy Girod. —Submitted by Linda Pospisil, Secretary/Reporter

Wednesday, December 17 by calling SPJST Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez at (254) 773-1575 or (800) 727-7578. Thank you for your attention and consideration. I look forward to seeing you on December 21! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek Supreme Lodge President —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston seeks scholarship applicants

Lodge 88, Houston is accepting scholarship applications for high school seniors who are members of Lodge 88 and who will be attending college or furthering their education through a vocational or technical school. Applications may be obtained at Lodge 88 office or by calling the of-

Lodge 38, Kovar hosts SPJST Float in Smithville Christmas Parade

Lodge 38, Kovar hosted the SPJST Float in the Smithville Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, 2014. Pictured on the float are, left to right, Dorothy Lastovica, Elizabeth Holder, front, Matt Holder, and Alyssa and Alexis Newby. The float received the “Most Beautiful” award in the parade.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

fice (713) 869-5767. The application deadline is January 15, 2015. If you have questions, please contact the office or Mrs. Patricia Bruce, scholarship chairman, at (281) 890-4933. —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Happy Birthday, Collin!

Happy Anniversary, Erwin and Juanette Meiske!

Happy Birthday, Bret!

Lodge 97, Placedo collects donations for food bank

Lodge 97, Placedo collected 33 pounds of food at its Christmas dinner and December business meeting. The food was donated to the local food bank in Victoria, Texas. A special thanks to all that donated. Thanks, Diana Redd Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 133 San Antonio Christmas luncheon Sunday, Dec. 21

Lodge 133, San Antonio is hosting its annual Christmas luncheon on Sunday, December 21, 2014. It will be held at Good Shepherd Activity Center, located at 1630 Goliad Road. Registration begins at 12 noon. A meal with ham and all the trimmings

Happy birthday Collin Vanecek of Lodge 48, Beyersville. Collin celebrated his special day on November 8, 2014.

including dessert will be served. After a short meeting, we will have our Christmas party. Please join us for an afternoon of fun and fellowship. Who knows? Santa may even make an appearance! Jarolyn Popp, President —SPJST—

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 63, Sweet Home

The 2015 officers of Lodge 63, Sweet Home are, second from left to right, President Diane Ward, Vice President Preston Koncaba, Secretary Ann Marie Moseley, Treasurer Earline Zabransky, Reporter/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Elaine Berkovsky, and Flag Bearer Dillon Ward. They were installed by District Six Director Karen Kaspar, far left.

Happy anniversary to Erwin and Juanette Meiske. Juanette is a member of Lodge 48, Beyersville, and this adorable couple celebrated their special day on November 9, 2014.

Lodge 191 Lufkin readies for New Year’s Eve

Nathan Ham and the Country Boys did a great job for the November dance. He did a fine job of playing the trumpet and singing; also other members of his band are good singers. We had a lot of good food. No one should have gone away hungry as much food as we had. Thanks to all of the good cooks. Thanks to our hosts, Mary Baker, Pat Bermingham, and Raymond Rowlett. They did a fine job. The 50-50 drawing was won by Woody Porterfield, and dance tickets were won by Carolyn Hughes and Ruth Welch. Woody also won a dance ticket but turned it back in to be given away again. Congratulations to all of the winners. The 50-50 tickets are sold at each dance. Fifty percent is given to the winner, and 50 percent is put into the scholarship fund for seniors or college students of members of the lodge who have not received a scholarship before. Each year, the lodge gives $500 scholarships for eligible students, and every little bit helps toward their education. Linda Kay and the Texas Pride will play for the December Christmas dance. The lodge will be decorated all in Christmas so wear something festive for the holidays. This is the time

Happy birthday, Bret Wuensche of Lodge 48, Beyersville, who celebrated his birthday on December 10, 2014.

of the year to socialize with other good people. Come on out for a great time.

New Year’s Eve Dance— Glenn Lenderman and Friends Wow! Can you believe another year is almost here. Please make plans to be at the New Year’s Eve Dance. Glenn Lenderman and Friends will be playing. Tickets are $20 each and will also be sold at the door. The time is 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. The food is changing this year. Instead of having black-eyed peas and trimmings at midnight, they will be served during the dance. Just bring a dish that will go with peas, cornbread, cabbage, and ham. This way you do not have to stay so long to eat. Please bring an unwrapped toy for children to be given to the Salvation Army for Christmas. The next lodge meeting will be December 15 starting at 7 p.m. and usually lasts about an hour. Lodge members, please attend. I apologize that some of you did not get a newsletter last month. I sent them out twice, and some of them came back to me; yet some got it. I do not know what was going on. If I knew what I did wrong, I would fix it. Linda Kaye and Kool Katz will be playing in December for the Lufkin Dance Club. Two Friday nights in a row, you get to dance at the SPJST lodge. What great exercise! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to each of you! Fraternally, Pat Scogin, Reporter —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Lodge 204 Stephenville reports on Christmas party

Lodge 204, Stephenville members had their annual Christmas party at the Postafina Restaurant in Stephenville on Saturday, December 6, 2014. The present officers were reelected for the year 2015. Fraternal Field Manager Philip McBee joined us. We had a good

meal and got some updates about the happenings at SPJST Home Office. We spent some time talking about evants of the day, and Philip installed the officers for 2015. More information will be presented at a later date for the January meeting. Norman M. Kneschk President/Treasurer/Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Lodge 246 Morgan’s Point reports on November meeting

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point met Tuesday, November 4, 2014, at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. We welcomed members, youth, and guests Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek; District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda; Lodge 87, Temple President Terry Festa; and

David Nauert of Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy. The treasurer’s report was presented. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Susan Hutton discussed the lodge officer workshop, 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, Christmas Open House, domino tournament, and bowling tournament. Lodge 87, Temple President Terry Festa discussed the status of the lodge and invited all members to a special meeting on Sunday, November 16 at the lodge hall in Temple. Lodge 246 will host a Christmas

Lodge 49, Rowena Hosts Christmas Party, Membership Drive

Merry Christmas! The Christmas spirit was plentiful at SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena’s annual Christmas party and membership drive held Sunday, December 7, 2014, at the lodge hall with a great turnout. Lodge officers and youth club members had the hall decorated beautifully. A meal was prepared by the Pospichal family. All members present must have brought a

dessert because there were more than were eaten—had to try each as our members are super cooks! Dominos and bingo were played by both young and old. We were honored to have members Milton and Beverly Holubec from Hereford, Texas, (over 300 miles) and a senior member, Vendeline Foltz from San Angelo, both attending for their first time.

Thank you for coming! Instead of a gift exchange, everyone present brought a canned good for he local food pantry—we had a table full of items. Carolyn McNelly led the blessing before the meal. Apparently, St. Nicholas had been checking on the youth as he left “candy sleds” with Laura Pospichal for each of the youth

present. Thank you, Laura, for seeing that they were distributed according to St. Nicholas’ instructions. Thank you to each of you for making this Christmas event so successful. What a great way of starting the Christmas season! Fraternally, Beverly Teplicek, Secretary —SPJST—

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

party on Sunday, December 7 at the Home Office. All members of Lodges 246 and 87 will be invited. Lodge 246 will provide the meat dish and drinks, door prizes, and activities. Members will be asked to bring covered dishes. We need to decide what to prepare for our next Feed My Sheep meal which is Sunday, December 14. We welcome new member Matthew Scott Reid, who is also a new sales agent for Lodge 246. We hope to meet him soon so we can officially welcome him to Lodge 246.

Next Meeting—January 13 Our next meeting is Tuesday, January 13, 2015, at the SPJST Home Office in Temple at 6 p.m. A meal will be served; the meeting will follow at 6:30 p.m. Fraternally, Ingrid Petrik Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Scenes from Lodge 63, Sweet Home Christmas Social

Lodge 63, Sweet Home members enjoyed their annual Christmas social on Sunday, December 7, 2014, at To-

bola’s Party House. TOP LEFT PHOTO: Ann Moseley was honored for her birthday. Happy Birthday, Ann!

Lodge 1 Fayetteville Historical Marker Documents December 9, 2014

Lodge 88, Houston Birthday Club Sisters Enjoy Christmas Party

Lodge 88, Houston Birthday Club Sisters held their annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 10, 2014, at Lodge 88, Houston. Pictured, left to right, are Delores Pavlicek, Nell Stautberg, Betty Hurta, Eillie Mae Pechacek, Louise Jacob, Dixie Raskin, and Helen Hegwood. Seated in front is Esther Heinsohn.

Melanie Zavodny Vestnik Editor P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

Dear Melanie, I have enclosed the information prepared by Lillie Mae Brightwell in her application for SPJST Lodge 1, Fayetteville historical marker. A neighbor shared this week’s issue of he Věstník with me, and I was so pleased to see your coverage of the historical marker dedication. It is very gratifying to see the lodge get so much well-deserved attention. Appreciatively, Rox Ann Johns Chairman, Fayette County Historical Commission —SPJST—

SPJST Pokrok Texasu Lodge 1, Fayetteville SPJST Complex, Hall, Storage Shed, and Bar CONTEXT Between 1834 and 1900, approximately 200,000 people of Czech descent emigrated from their native lands to America. A good many of those ended up in Texas. Generally stated, the Czech immigrants and their families stuck together. In the 1880s, Czech pioneers in Texas joined other people of Czech descent in the United States in a fraternal benefit union called the C.S.P.S. - Cesko-Slovanska Podporujici Spolecnost which at the time was the largest organization of the Czech immigration community in the United States. The organization was formed in St. Louis, Missouri, on March 4, 1854, and was the first fraternal benefit society of its kind in the nation. One of the main purposes of C.S.P.S. was “ . . . to foster and preserve the Czech language in this new nation and (to preserve) the general moral, spiritual, and economic well-being of our countrymen.” In spite of this rapid growth, considerable discontent was expressed by members from Texas and the Midwest

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

that the organization’s insurance premium guidelines were overwhelmingly skewed in favor of eastern industrial workers. Texans leading the efforts to reform these pricing concerns were two members, I.J. Gallia and J.R. Kubena. Multiple requests for reform were largely unheeded and shortly after the 1896 convention, Texas delegates decided to secede from C.S.P.S. On December 28, 1896, the sounds of traffic on the square were the gentle clopping horses’ hoofs and the swish of buggy wheels when Texas delegates gathered in the Fayette County Court House in La Grange and set about the task of forming a new fraternal society. They directed lawyer Augustin Haidusek and two of their members, Frank Cihal, and Jan R. Kubena. In March 1897, the constitution was submitted to the Texas C.S.P.S. lodges for their consideration. Seven of the 25 Texas lodges approved the constitution and withdrew from the older society. Official records of the Society indicate that SPJST started its operations on July 1, 1897, as the Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas (Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas) with 782 members and 25 lodges. SPJST received its state charter on August 12, 1897. Kubena, widely regarded as the “Daddy of SPJST” became its secretary - a position which he held until 1938 when he was killed in an auto-pedestrian accident in Galveston. To non-members, SPJST is a concept that is sometimes easily misun-

Happy 90th Birthday, Frances!

Happy 90th birthday to Frances Tirk Matthews! She will celebrate her special day on December 19, 2014. Frances is a member of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth.

derstood. To some, iťs strictly an insurance company; to others, it’s a social club; and, finally, to others, it’s a cultural preservation society. So who’s right? At its best, SPJST embodies the characteristics of all these definitions, demonstrating that its strength lies in its diversity. SPJST is a society that members can join for any number of reasons. It’s a “package deal” built upon the idea of addressing human needs - financial, social, and cultural. The ability to meet those needs and uphold strong human values is the mortar that holds the society together.

The fraternal component of SPJST further enhances membership by emphasizing Czech heritage and the social and civic responsibilities that members share with each other and the communities in which they live. There are few limiting factors placed on local lodges and how they choose to meet their fraternal obligations. Really, what it comes down to is initiative and imagination. The guidelines which describe how the business of SPJST is to be conducted are found in the SPJST By-Laws. SPJST members have regular lodge meetings and conventions every four years to address the big issues. Reform and innovation are healthy processes, and they are what keep SPJST growing. Reform and innovation, in fact, provided the basis for the founding of SPJST. (SPJST History: A Proud Past. A Bright Future. www.spjst.org) The whole region used the SPJST Lodge 1 Complex—Hall, Storage Shed, and Beer Bar for all kinds of functions not only for the members to meet and speak Czech, bond together, and join in old customs on holidays, but also for the community as a whole. Band concerts, dances, picnic grounds, baseball, basketball, volleyball, school functions, fundraising, meetings, meetings of various organizations, and fat stock shows.

OVERVIEW SPJST was formed in Fayette County in 1897 due to several occurrences which had happened in Texas and in C.S.P.S. lodges in the east. The delegations to C.S.P.S. conventions had threatened to form their own organization for many years unless the C.S.P.S. would reform its policies. In the C.S.P.S. convention of 1896, the eastern delegates refused to alter their policies; and so the Texas chapters decided to form their own organization. This was further brought about by the formation of KJT in the Catholic church which did not allow Protestants to join and by the formation of the Sons of Hermann, primarily a German organization that did allow Germanspeaking Czechs to join. The first meeting of the organizational committee of SPJST was held in the district courtroom on the second floor of the Fayette Court House with 25 members of C.S.P.S. lodges attending. These delegates organized SPJST, and some of the articles in the by-laws state that there would be no claims against real estate held by the individual lodges by the Supreme Lodge, that the ownership of the land would be owned by the individual lodges who purchased it, a payment of $1 per year was to be made to a fund until the member attains 25 years of membership, and after that the mortuary payments would be made out of the interest earned on the fund, and that no religious or political activity would be allowed at the meetings of the new society. Later, the membership of

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 97, Placedo

Lodge 169, Brenham Members Celebrate Christmas; Collect Canned Goods for Pantry

The 2015 officers of Lodge 97, Placedo are, left to right, Treasurer Dennis Vanek, Secretary/Reporter Diana Redd, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Donna Vanek, and President Gay Revel. The officers were installed by District Six Director Karen Kaspar.

Members of Lodge 169, Brenham gather for their Christmas social and collect canned goods for the local food pantry.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

women was allowed and rates were set according to age of the member. The first meeting of the newly organized SPJST society was held June 20, 1897. Since the district courtroom on the second floor of the Fayette County Courthouse is the largest room in the courthouse, it is logical to assume that this is where the first meeting took place. The lodges from Fayette County were Lodge 1, Fayetteville; Lodge 2, La Grange; Lodge 3, Novohrad; Lodge 5, Ammannsville; Lodge 11, Praha; Lodge 12, Dubina; and Lodge 21, Engle. I.J. Gallia was elected president, and J.R. Kubena was elected secretary. Augustin Haidusek was a prominent figure in the organization of SPJST and was one of the three appointed to draft the original chapter and thereafter resigned. The business offices of the Supreme Lodge were located in Fayetteville in the J.R. Kubena building. J.R. was secretary of the lodge. They remained in Fayetteville until September 1953 when they were moved to Temple, Texas. The Věstník Publishing Company under the supervision of Mr. Hornak and Mr. Tapal was also located in Fayetteville for many years until it was moved to Granger.

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy

The 2015 officers of Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy are, left to right, President Allen Trigg, Sr., Vice President James Hosch, Secretary/Reporter Michael Hosch, Treasurer David Nauert, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Gene McBride, and Sergeant-at-Arms Harvey LaFlamme. They were installed by District Two Director Jesse Pospisil.

Upon leaving Fayetteville after over 50 years of being the location of the SPJST Headquarters, the officers of the association issued the following proclamation: “Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Supreme Lodge, SPJST, on behalf of the entire membership of the order, extends to the city

of Fayetteville and to its peoples its sincere thanks and words of appreciation and gratitude for the friendly, neighborly, cooperative and fraternal spirit and attitude that the city of Fayetteville and its inhabitants have always shown, manifested, and extended to the Supreme Lodge, SPJST,

VӖSTNÍK

while it was located in their city and their midst. Signed, Edward L. Marek, President; Frank G. Svadlenak, Vice President; J.F. Chupick, Secretary; Jos. J. Koliha, Treasurer; R.A. Urbanovsky, Financial Secretary; and Adolph D. Pavlicek, Attorney. SPJST had been founded to provide both reasonable insurance to primarily those of Czech-Moravian origin as well as to provide a sense of fraternalism to make the members feel like they were part of an organization which cared for their welfare. Today, SPJST is still active in Fayette County with the largest lodge in terms of members — Lodge 1, Fayetteville has a property which contains a dance hall-type facility, a concession stand, a storage building (these three buildings comprise the original complex built by the Lodge 1), rest rooms, and a baseball stadium which is used by the Fayetteville High School as well as local residents and their children. The facilities are leased to the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce which in tum leases the hall to people for family reunions, weddings, parties, and other such activities at a very reasonable price. There are volleyball courts on the property, basketball courts, which are used by local

Scenes from Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy’s Christmas Party Thursday, December 4, 2014 • Raymond’s Southern Kitchen in Lorena, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Allen Trigg, Sr., Michael Hosch, and James Hosch. PHOTO 2: Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard

Mikeska and wife Dorothy. PHOTO 3: Cynthia and Frank Holt. RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right, Logan Whitaker, Megan Odle, and Garrett Odle.

LEFT PHOTO: Tammy Yakesch, left, Jane Miracle, and Harvey LaFlamme. CENTER PHOTO: Front, left to right, Nancy Leshikar, Linda Pospisil, Dorothy Mikeska, and Frances McBride. Back: Honorary Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar, District Two Director Jesse

Pospisil, Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska, Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, Czech Heritage Museum Administrative Assistant Kenny Lange. RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are David Nauert, James Hosch, Michael Hosch, and Craig Row.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

residents at no charge, and the grounds are used by many for picnic lunches and other such activities. Since Fayetteville has no other city park, the SPJST Complex—the hall, the storage shed, and the beer bar facility—fulfills the need for Fayetteville residents to go to a nice, shady location and for the children to play. Lodge 1 is also active in other civic and charitable activities throughout the Fayetteville area. A new baseball field, bleachers, and score board all have been added. Some other lodges in Fayette County such as Ellinger, La Grange, and others are also still active. Even though Fayetteville is no longer the site of SPJST Headquarters, it has left its mark on the organization, and the organization has done the same for Fayetteville and Fayette County. —by Louis Polansky (FAYETTE COUNTY. TEXAS HERITAGE VOLUME 1, page 351, published 1996 T348)

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Fayetteville, Texas NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT EST 1840s Inc 1882

SPJST Supports Taylor Hall Bruceville-Eddy Senior Center

SPJST Lodge 1, Fayetteville 507 East Main Street Fayetteville, Texas United States 78940

SPJST (Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Status Texas or Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas) constructed a dance hall in 1910 and two ancillary buildings. The hall is a large wood-frame building clad in white board and batten siding. The rectangular plan building is covered with a front-facing gable roof with monitor and is vernacular in style with arts and crafts influences. A front porch with hipped roof and pediment marks the front entrance. There is a small wing at the rear of the hall under a cross gable roof. The building has simple shutters constructed of narrow vertical boards with diagonal supports that swing open to one side when the building is in use. This is typical of dance and meeting halls throughout this central region of Texas. There are two associated out buildings: a concession building and a storage building with restrooms. The concession building features an oversized pyramidal roof, with eves extending far beyond the body of the building. Shutters, which swing down to rest on knee brackets, create countertops when the building is in use. The storage building is a rectangular plan

structure with hipped roof clad in board and batten siding. Current use of the compound that comprises the SPJST Hall, Storage Shed, and Beer Bar: Lodge Hall—507 East Main Street, Fayetteville, Texas. Directions—Lodge building is located on Highway 159 East, three blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information—(979) 966-3795. Lodge Meetings—First Monday of even-numbered months February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at the lodge hall; Secretary Debra Pflughaupt (979) 249-6249.

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Member Donates Stuffed Animals, Toys to Santa Pal

Special thanks to George Brown of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point for his very generous donation of many, many stuffed animals and toys that filled the Santa Pal

box located at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Pictured with George and the toy donation is Laynee Lingo.

District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, far left, presents a check to Craig Row, center, who is the Taylor Hall representative. Assisting with the presentation is Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy President Allen Trigg, Sr.

Youth Club Meetings—First Monday of each month at 6:30 p.rn. at the lodge hall. Youth Leader: Sharon Fritsch. (Submitted for Fayetteville, Texas National Historic District EST 1840’s Inc 1882 by Anna Mod) SIGNIFICANCE The “Do Your Duty Club of Fayetteville” composed of ladies in the Fayetteville area used kolaches as a fundraiser for the town clock. The Supreme Lodge of the SPJST located in Fayetteville at that time paid for a blueprint of a Seth Thomas clock to be placed on top of the precinct court house on the town square - (same clock today, 2012). The mayor decided that all of this money should not be spent on a town clock, but on sidewalks. The president of the club reportedly told the mayor that if he thought that the money they raised was to be used to build sidewalks so the men could spit on them, he was wrong and the women wanted to build the clock in a high place, so the men could look up to them. (FAYETTE COUNTY, TEXAS HERITAGE,” VOLUME 1, THE STORY OF THE TOWN CLOCK, T 439, page 413.) Bacas of Fayetteville The first Baca Family Band—a Czech musical group—was formed in 1892 in Fayetteville, Texas, by Frank J. Baca. Baca was the son of Joseph Baca, who had emigrated from Czechoslovakia to Galveston in 1860. Frank displayed an amazing musical talent as a child and taught himself to play clarinet, alto sax, and slide trombone before formally studying music.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

Scenes from Lodges 87, Temple; 246, Morgan’s Point Christmas Party Sunday, December 7, 2014 • SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: Members of Lodges 87, Temple and 246, Morgan’s Point gathered at SPJST Home Office to enjoy a Christmas party. Members are pictured preparing their plates for dinner. PHOTO 2: Betty and

Gene Engbrock of Lodge 87. PHOTO 3: Nichole and Alexis Festa of Lodge 87. RIGHT PHOTO: Bill McGarvey, left, Honorary Supreme Lodge Legal Advisor Sidney Kacir, and Bill Brody, all of Lodge 87.

LEFT PHOTO: Paul and Rhonda McCann of Lodge 246. PHOTO 2: Left to right are Supreme Lodge Vice President Clifton Coufal, James Lee, III of Lodge 246, Lee Hanusch, and Fraternal Field Manager Philip

McBee. PHOTO 3: Joe Lingo, left, George Brown of Lodge 246, Laynee Lingo, and District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky. RIGHT PHOTO: Members and guests play games.

Frank was a member of the Fayetteville city band and a member of an informal family band before he officially formed the first Baca Band. These groups performed traditional Czech polka and waltz music. In addition to attracting the talents of all thirteen of Frank Baca’s children, the Baca Family Band drew participants from around Central Texas. Upon Frank’s death in 1907, his son Joe, who had won local and national comet competitions, assumed leadership of the band. Demand for the group throughout the area as entertainment for festivals and special events increased. Among the most noteworthy of their appearances was the band’s participation in an enormous celebration at the Fayetteville SPJST Lodge 1 Complex, Hall, Storage Shed, and Beer Bar at the end of World War I. In 1920, Joe Baca died, and his brother John assumed leadership of the band. Under John, the Baca Band played on Houston radio station KPRC in 1926 and 1927 and made phonograph recordings on the OKeh, Columbia, and Brunswick labels during the 1930s. (Baca on line) The Baca Band and the Baca Orchestra practiced, performed, and played at the SPJST 1 Complex lodge often.

NARRATIVE HISTORY At the lodge meeting of February 13, 1910, it was voted that the lodge purchase some land to build on. In the meeting of April 16, 1910, it was announced that 2.69 acres had been purchased for the site of SPJST Lodge 1. The hall was dedicated on October 2, 1910, just a little over three months later. The members did not waste time and got things accomplished. Josef Jurecka remembered that the dedication was so huge that the occasion netted approximately $1,200. On July 20, 1911 an adjoining one acre was purchased from Frances Tydlacka, and an additional 2.72 acres was purchased from Mrs. Tydlacka on May 23, 1914. (“A History of the SPJST, A Texas Chronicle, 1897-1980” compiled by Nick A. Morris)

The Storage Shed was built originally out of necessity for a kitchen for baking kolaches, in wood fired ovens. The day of the sales, people were in line early in the morning waiting for the hot kolaches. This was in the days of fresh milk, cottage cheese; sour cream, real butter, all from the farms in the surrounding area. The ladies in the surrounding area used the building for playing games like stick, bridge and 42, 88, and 80 dominoes, and other fundraisers for the community, selling coffee, sandwiches, cakes, and kolaches. The

building was also used to store beer bottles and extra barrels of beer during a celebration. Today, it is used to store Christmas decorations for the city. The Beer Bar was also a necessity. Only a few Czechs did not drink beer. In 2012, we discovered if we had a barrel of beer at a school reunion, more ex-students showed up. Originally, the building had a dirt floor, but today it has a concrete floor. It is still used for the sale of refreshments, wonderful charcoaled hamburgers with big slices of 10 to 15 onions, and wonderful hotdogs covered with homemade chili during celebrations or high school baseball games as a fundraiser by various school groups. As a child, I (Lillie Mae Vavra Brightwell) lived next door and still do. After a celebration, Frank Marek (Buddy), SPJST Supreme Lodge President Edward L Marek’s son, Mary Frances Chupick Bennett, Supreme Lodge Secretary J.F. Chupick’s daughter, and I would search the ground around the Beer Bar and find nickels, pennies, quarters, and sometimes paper money. After a hard rain, we would look for crawfish hanging on to a blade of grass where the water had run through the property. I noticed that my great-great-grandfather (Thomas Hruska) notarized the land sale from the Pagels to Lodge 1. The SPJST Hall was the home

court of the Fayetteville Boys Basketball teams. In 1942, the boys were state runners-up and 1943 State Semifinalist. There is a sign to this effect over the north door inside of the hall. (Yes, we really played inside of the hall, but there was a practice court outside in the dirt). School plays were given in the hall on stage and graduation ceremonies were in the hall on stage. I also have pictures to verify this found in the 1945 school annual Bluebonnet. FFA Fat Stock shows were held on the grounds. Baseball and volley ball were played on the grounds in the dirt. I played softball there while in high school (“FOOTPRINTS” Wolff Case Tractor and Implement Co. online The Fayette County Texas Gen Web Project). The hall has been rented for weddings, antique shows, reunions, private dances, parties, and the grounds and outdoor restrooms are open to the public for picnics. There is a potable water faucet on the grounds, and I often see people getting bottles of water (shallow wells in the area can have sulfur). There is a dump station for RVs. Every year, there is a chili, bean, and meat cookoff on the grounds during Lickskillet, and all three buildings of the complex are used. The SPJST Home Office and Lodge 1 have been wonderful to the community. Today’s major improvements to the baseball field will benefit

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

VӖSTNÍK

the school and community. The town is a mixture of cultures with Czech and German culture still prevalent. You may hear someone say Jak Se Mas or Guten Tag, greetings in Czech and in German. There has been no substantial change to the exterior of the storage shed, beer bar, or main hall except reroofing and the addition of inside restrooms to the storage shed and the main hall. The original outside restrooms were behind the shed in the oak trees. All three buildings were painted in 2005. Plans are to repaint again soon. The purpose and mission of the lodge goes further than insurance and has enhanced the cultural, social, and fraternal life of Czechs and others in the community. Without the Lodge 1 complex, I don’t know where the school would have held so many functions that affected the whole community. The lodge has helped saving homesteads for the orphans, assisted members in saving their properties, and educated its members in the duties of citizenship. Lodge members rate as substantial, respected, law-abiding citizens. There many activities for the youth in the lodge today. The Supreme Lodge and all of its lodges have maintained financial strength. The picture titled SPJST - 1910 was taken of a copy. The original photo is at the Kasmiersky home on Wecheta Road in Fayetteville, Texas. The proof of ownership is on the picture titled SPJST Property Appraisal 2012.

IMPORTANT HISTORICAL MEMBERS Jan Chupick Charter member, assisted immigrants with food, money, jobs, housing when they arrived in Fayette County

S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living Residents Attend Nutcracker Ballet

John Kubena County Clerk, Fayette County

R.R. Kubena Post Master, Fayette Post office J.R. Kubena

Jerry Vavra Vavra Chevrolet

R.B. Spacek Texas State Representative, the recognition of Fayetteville as “cradle of Czech immigration to Texas” was due in part to his helping immigrants Find homes and jobs E.J. Knesek Knesek Funeral Home, beer distributor Charlie Baca Baca band member

Rudolph Baca Baca band member

Cmajdalka officer in charge, post office

YOUNGER MEMBERS Mary F. Chupick Ballard author, Invitation to Cat Spring, school teacher Karen Orsak Pesche teacher, guidance counselor

S.PJ.S.T. Assisted Living residents attended the famous Nutcracker ballet at the Long Center in Austin, Texas. Pictured, from left to right, are Social Coordinator Liz Haisler, Charles Urbanek, Allene Paris, Ramona Urbanek, Ann Geil, Jo Tollett, Gladys Nelson, Alice Anderson, Vivian Yezak, Gladys Mott, Katharine Thompson, Celest Weber, and Trudie Gauntt.

Ballard Bennett attorney

Sharon Fritsch teacher, volleyball, basketball coach, SPJST youth leader, Czech sing and dance instructor Ronnie Pflughaupt mayor, city of Fayetteville

Editor’s Note: Thanks to Lillie Mae Brightwell and members of Lodge 1, Fayetteville for their work on the documentation for the historical marker. And, thanks to Fayette County Historical Commission Chairman Rox Ann Johnson for sharing the information. —SPJST—

Morgan’s Point Hosts SPJST Floats in Christmas Parade

Riding the SPJST Frozen Celebration Float in the Morgan’s Point Christmas Parade on Friday, December 5, 2014, are SPJST Investment Specialist/Executive Assistant to the Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer

Janie Coakley and granddaughter Bella Cooper. RIGHT PHOTO: Janie, second from right, with granddaughter Bella Cooper, daughter Ashley Cooper, husband Tony Coakley, and mom Margie Niekamp.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

We Won’t Tell Cake Recipe Submitted by SPJST Home Office Accounting Assistant Dorothy Stuchly Lodge 47, Seaton

1 box white cake mix 1 box instant pudding mix (4-serving size) 4 large egg whites 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup sour cream 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup oil

Preheat oven as indicated on the box, generally to 350 degrees. Grease and flour your pans. Mix on low for about 30 seconds until all the ingredients are incorporated. Then mix on medium speed, scraping the sides of the bowl, for 2 minutes. Pour batter into pans and bake as directed for the size of your pan. Allow to cool before frosting. This cake will have a good

texture and is very moist. It also holds well together when cutting.

To make the recipe even more special, experiment with fillings between layers before frosting.

• Make your own “custard” by mixing a package of vanilla or chocolate instant pudding with a pint of heavy cream. Blend until thickened and then refrigerate.

• Use your favorite flavor fruit jam, which you thin out by heating and adding a little water to spread between layers. Add chunks of fresh fruit for extra appeal.

• Whip up a batch of homemade whipped cream or meringue. • Make your own chocolate ganache. Simply melt chocolate chips or baking chocolate over a doubleboiler or in the microwave until just melted. Fold in heavy cream.

Eggnog Icing Accounting Assistant Dorothy Stuchly shared a delicious, festive recipe for Eggnog Icing. Thanks, Dorothy! Can’t wait to try it. 1 1/2 cups butter 8 cups powdered sugar, sifted 1/2 cup eggnog 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Whip all together and frost. —SPJST—

Czech Heritage Museum Red Bowl Challenge Donate Today!

VӖSTNÍK

Czech Heritage Museum continues Red Bowl Challenge

Thanks to each and every person who has donated to the Czech Heritage Museum’s Red Bowl Challenge which began in January 2014. The total raised with the campaign is $21,756.05. The Museum is very excited and appreciative of these funds. The Red Bowl Challenge continues. Your contribution will be greatly appreciated. Please mail to: Czech Heritage Museum 119 West French Avenue Temple, Texas 76501

Thank you, and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Czech Heritage Museum! —SPJST—

Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny Honored for SPJST Home Office Service

Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny was recognized and honored by the Supreme Lodge for 20 years of service to SPJST Home Office in a surprise dinner held October 14, 2014, at Clem Mikeska’s Barbecue in Temple. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured, left to right, are Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, Frances McBride, District

Six Director Karen Kaspar, David Nauert and wife Melanie, Nancy Leshikar, and Honorary Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar. CENTER PHOTO: Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek presents a plaque to Melanie. RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Karen Kaspar, Frances McBride, Melanie, Linda Pospisil, Nancy Leshikar, and Dorothy Mikeska.

LEFT PHOTO: Melanie with husband David Nauert. PHOTO 2: Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, left, and Honorary Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar who together hired Melanie as Communication Assistant in 1994. Melanie worked for then Vestnik Editor Vanicek from 1994 to 1998 and for then President Leshikar as State Youth Director from 1998 to 2004. She has served as Vestnik Editor since 2004. PHOTO 3: Communication Specialist Katherine Morris and

Melanie. RIGHT PHOTO: Melanie with longtime friend James L. Lee, III. Others attending (but not pictured) include Interim Vice President Cynthia Hutka and husband Glenn; Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska; Financial Secretary Roy Vajdak and wife Becky; Human Resources Administrator Debbie Klinkovsky; Joan Vanicek; and District Directors Donnie Victorick, Jesse Pospisil, John Engelke, Billy Rollwitz, Larry W. Pflughaupt, and Bob Bayer.

VӖSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

SPJST Home Office Staff Participate in Christmas Door Decorating Contest

The Home Office hosted a Christmas Door Decorating Contest for staff to participate in. Thanks to all who decorated a door and added Christmas beauty at the Home Office during the season. Winners of $20 gift cards were Donica Zabcik, Frank Horak, and Marissa Salinas. Congratulations! Doors, left to right, are New Business/Marketing and Re-

search Technician Donica Zabcik, State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Horak, Annuity Specialist Marissa Salinas, and Communication Assistants Jerry Pechal and Brooke Hoelscher. RIGHT PHOTO: Human Resources Administrator Debbie Klinkovsky’s Home Officethemed decorated door.

Left to right are Accounting Manager Debbie Dohnalik, Certificate Service Specialist Holly Knecht, Insurance Technician Karen Franklin, Com-

munication Specialist Katherine Morris, Certificate Issue Technician Doris Tyroch, and State Youth Director Lynette Talasek.

Left to right are Accounting Assistant/Customer Service Representative Billye Westlake, Accounting Assistant Sharla Pechal, Insurance Operations Manager Cynthia Hutka, Supreme Lodge Vice President Clifton Co-

ufal, Fraternal Department Assistant Ruth Hanusch, Customer Service Specialist Susan Shofner, and Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

SPJST Youth

Section

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

This section is dedicated to the youth of SPJST. As part of its membership benefits, SPJST offers a statewide youth program. If you or someone you know is interested in learning about opportunities offered to young members of SPJST, please contact your local lodge, District Youth Counselor, State Youth Director at (800) 727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.

Lodge 47, Seaton youth reports on December meeting

On December 7, 2014, we had our youth club meeting and Christmas party. After the meeting, we wrapped presents for Lamar Middle School families. We also enjoyed many different snacks and were awarded door prizes.

Next Meeting—January 4 The next meeting will be on January 4 at Star Hall at 1 p.m. I hope to see you there, and I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Brandon Hoelscher —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth share activities

Thanksgiving and Turkey

I get to see my family on Thanksgiving, and I get turkey. Josh Mitchan •••

Giving to Others

At the December meeting, we gathered the stockings that each of us were supposed to fill with toys for boys or girls. After the meeting, we wrapped presents to help one of the counselors at Lamar Middle School give presents to the kids that don’t get gifts. Payton Porubsky •••

Thankful for Jesus’ Birth

This Christmas, I am most thankful for Jesus’ birth. Nash Belson

Float Ride

•••

Last Monday, I enjoyed riding the SPJST Float in the Temple Christmas Parade. Dannikka Bartek

New Piano

•••

I had fun at Thanksgiving with my family. Emma Regan

I got a new piano, and I just started piano lessons! I hope one day, I will be good at it. I would love to play like the people I see on television. Kimora Davis

Fun at Temple Parade

Fun December Meeting

Thanksgiving Fun •••

I had fun at the Temple Christmas parade with Dannikka. Kyndall Carroll •••

•••

I went to the December meeting. It was so much fun. Morgan Porubsky •••

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Youth Prepare Goodie Bags for Quality Care Home

Loves Helping

I’m really excited about the Christmas parties. I love helping out. It’s great that we can help kids that don’t get gifts. I love SPJST. Brinley Belson •••

Better to Give Than Receive

Jesus is the reason for this season, and it is better to give than to receive. Colby Marinik •••

Members of Lodge 6, Cottonwood prepare goodie bags for Quality Care Nursing Home in Waco. The facility is home to many of the West Rest Haven residents who were displaced after the April 17, 2013, West Fertilizer Plant Explosion.

Cold Christmas Parade

For the Christmas parade, first of all, it was cold then I did face-painting for the little kids. It was fun. Hunter Bartek •••

Last Baseball Game

When we had a baseball game last week, our team was falling apart at the first game. If we won that game, we would have trophies, and if we won the next, we will get a ring, but we did not get to win the first game. The score was seven (them) to five (us). I was not happy that we did not get to get a ring; that’s okay. P.S. It was the last game. Kasen Carroll •••

Loving Family

I had a great Thanksgiving with my family. We went to my Aunt Christi’s house and ate a lot of yummy food. We also watched football and played games. I really enjoy the holidays with my family. I am thankful that I have a family that loves me. Tyson Bilbrey —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Leader reports on activities

Dear Věstník Readers, We held our monthly meeting on December 7, 2014, at 3 p.m. President Julia Zavodny called the meeting to order. Payton Porubsky led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and club motto. There were 22 members, guests Kingston Davis and Riana Gepnar, and a lot of parents in attendance. It was great to see the youth room full of Christmas joy. Everyone brought their stockings filled with toys for the Salvation Army. There were all kinds of snacks and drinks. We had door prizes, and everyone received candy and a Christmas cup. Old Business The dedication of the pavilion was held on Sunday, November 2. Thanks to all who helped in the kitchen that day to make it a success. Saturday, November 8, we had a dance celebrating David and Tammy

VӖSTNÍK

Pechal’s 25th wedding anniversary and Elden Zavodny’s birthday party. I would like to thank Brenda Hoelscher, Jamie and Ann Bostick, and Justin Kraatz for working and for the Mitchan family for also volunteering to help.

On Saturday, November 15, we delivered items to Churches Touching Lives Through Christ (CTLC). They were so grateful for all the clothes, blankets, caps, gloves, and food that we brought. It was the first time for some of our members, and they were

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

surprised with all that CTLC does to help the community. Please call them if you want to volunteer. November 15 was also when LITs went to Cooper Farm to plant trees. Pictures were in the Věstník. Attending from our lodge were Hunter

Bartek and Zoe Talasek. December 1 was the Temple Christmas parade in downtown and Open House at the Home Office. There were lots of good kolaches, cookies, punch, and hot chocolate. The adults enjoyed music in one section, and the kids had

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Shares Activity Scenes Submitted by Joyce Kraatz, Youth Leader

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

their areas - storytelling by Sandra Dubcak, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie-decorating, face-painting again done by our youth club, and on hand making balloons animals, swords, etc., was Malinky the Clown. It was a fun-filled night. And, congratulations to Melanie and David on the beautiful floats for the parade. They were gorgeous. Everybody loved them. We were glad to see Melanie was okay after her fall. We then discussed the District Two Lock-in which was postponed because of the football play-offs. We thought Friday and Saturday, January 9 and 10, 2015, would be good days to reschedule the lock-in. Watch for information in the Věstník and our emails. New Business We talked about the stockings and our Christmas party. After the meeting, we wrapped presents for CIS. Thanks for letting us help you, Catherine. We enjoyed wrapping the gifts and we were happy to write you a check for $150 to pay for the gifts. Thanks to all the youth members and their families who helped with filling the stockings. Also, a big thanks to Sharon and David Kolinek, Judy and Edwin Pechal, Rosemary Coufal,

Lodge 185 New Braunfels youth wins games

Dear Readers, My weekend was so fun! My soccer team played in a tournament this weekend, and we won all our games and tied one. We won our age group! Happy day, Rileigh Kitchen, age 8 —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Lodge 162, Iowa Colony Collects Toys for Mia’s Toy Drive

Lodge 162, Iowa Colony members collected toys at their Christmas party on December 7, 2014, and donated them to Mia Spargo’s 1st Magic Toy Drive for Texas Children’s Hospital Cancer Floor. Mia is a sweet, seven-year-old, little girl who was diagnosed with a brain tumor last year. She has decided to have her very first toy drive to share with the kids at Texas Children’s Hospital. She still remembers how lonely

Patsy Koslovsky, and Danny Stepan for helping us out. We appreciate your assistance. I’m sure each child will really get great enjoyment when they receive a stocking at Christmas. God bless you all. The next event will be on Sunday, December 14 - our annual Christmas party. The memorial service will start at 3 p.m. followed by youth club members who will present poems and musical entertainment. If the kids are good and sing loud enough, Santa may come by for a visit, followed by happy hour then a delicious meal. Everyone is to bring a side dish and dessert. Watch for pictures in the Věstník. We will need help in the kitchen for New Year’s Eve. Please volunteer to help out. We will be selling hamburgers and fries. The Věstník project for December was about donating eyeglasses to be recycled and repurposed to the needy. If you would like, we could start collecting them and bring to the next lodge meeting on Saturday, January 4 at 1 p.m. Suggestions as to where to find glasses are lost and found departments at hotels, stores, school, police stations, garage sales, secondhand stores, grandparents, and family members. Let’s help the Lion’s Club. At the next meeting, we will hand out entry forms for the camp tee-shirt design contest. This year’s theme is Mardi Gras 2015 - Let the Good Times Roll. Grand prize will be $100 Visa gift card and a free tee-shirt for the winner. You also get points for participating. The SPJST Youth Program is spon-

and sad she was last year at Christmas while in the hospital. Now that she is at home with her family, she wants to be able to spread the joy of Christmas with those children who will be in the hospital during Christmas continuing their fight. If you are interested in helping Mia with her cause, please like her Facebook page ‘Miracles for Mia Spargo.’ —Submitted by Alyssa Moyle

soring the President’s Volunteer Service Awards for all SPJST youth who log their hours from January 1 and December 31. Read more about the program in the SPJST Youth Club Handbook on page 40. Forms must be in by February 28. If you didn’t write a letter to the Věstník at the meeting, please do so. You get points, and people enjoy reading about what you are doing in the youth club or in your community. We will be having scrapbook meetings starting in January so if you have ideas, please attend. Also, collect your ring tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. We have a lot to take to them, and you will get a prize. We have a lot of dates to share with you for next year. Please watch for them in the Věstník or in your emails. Fraternally, Joyce Kraatz, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth: fun time at Christmas party

Dear SPJST, I had a really fun time at our Christmas party. We played some games, and I won at bingo and even won a door prize. Tanner Wood —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth: games, food, fun

Dear SPJST, At our Christmas party, I played some games and bingo. I got a sled made from candy and ate some really good food. I had a fun time. Hunter Wood —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth needs a break from school

Dear SPJST, I’m ready for the Christmas break. Being a freshman isn’t as much fun as I thought it would be with all the homework. I need a break from school. Morgann Wood —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

Lodge 92 Fort Worth youth Christmas party Friday, Dec. 19

Dear Members, You are invited to enjoy and celebrate the Christmas season with SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth Youth Club! The Children’s Christmas Party is Friday, December 19 at SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth National Hall, located at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road in Fort Worth, Texas 76114. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the program begins at 6:30 p.m. The tradition continues with a new date and time. Special guest will be Santa! Santa’s gifts should be placed under the tree by 6:30 p.m. Members, please bring cookies, candy, or cupcakes to share. Bring a stuffed toy to support Autumn’s Angel Bears benefitting the Snowball Express charity. We look forward to seeing you and your family at both of these activities! Merry Christmas from Lodge 92, Fort Worth Youth Club. Fraternally, Holly Anderson, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 187 Round Rock youth youth enjoys volleyball

I played volleyball for this season with Round Rock. I really enjoyed getting to know my teammates. We really enjoyed playing the games and practicing. This was the best season. Alexandria Johnson —SPJST—

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

1 small package chopped pecans 1/2 bag miniature marshmallows 1 container whipped topping, thawed

Cooking With Kids:

Cherries in the Snow

Ingredients 1 can cherry pie filling 1 small jar of green maraschino cherries

Instructions Place cherry pie filling in a mixing bowl. Mix in green maraschino cherries. Add pecans and marshmallows. Fold in whipped topping being sure to

mix well so all ingredients are incorporated together. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. —SPJST—

Death Claims Paid in November 2014

Name Ellis Logan Ramsey William P. Forbes Junior T. Merritt Wayne Carlton Buss Bernice Marie Machicek Dell L. Cloyd Helen Pesek William Curtis Henderson Johnnie Ray Dlabaja Zachary Benjamin Sullivan Clara E. Hays William A. Johnson Minnie Bell Johnnye Lee Mokry Ann Bunch Albert Martin Pechal Ella Vera Kropp George A. Franz Ernest Dan Kubin James Teplicek Agnes Marie Svetlik William Keith Miller Dixie Deaun Tharp Franklin J. Karasek Steven W. Hilbers San Juanita Longoria Anita J. Lyne Vickie Lynn Kaatz Johnnie W. Surovik Greg A. Urban Dolly Diebel Daniel J. Petroski, Sr. Grace A. Mensik

SPJST • Temple, Texas

Lodge 80 74 172 28 23 88 23 49 79 81 154 29 196 29 88 47 29 47 39 49 4 207 87 17 73 79 73 84 201 142 18 88 172

Location Holland Lovelady Pasadena East Bernard Moravia Houston Moravia Rowena Corpus Christi Needville Fort Worth Taylor Houston-West Taylor Houston Seaton Taylor Seaton Bryan Rowena Hallettsville Iowa Park Temple New Tabor Seymour Corpus Christi Seymour Dallas Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Houston Elgin Houston Pasadena

Date of Admission 6/10/1968 6/07/1972 4/27/2009 4/05/1947 8/09/1955 10/13/1970 1/02/1946 4/19/2007 3/09/1950 9/01/1993 5/29/1980 2/24/1960 1/22/1943 3/09/1944 12/29/1970 11/21/1949 2/01/1963 12/29/1978 1/14/1969 4/21/1945 4/12/1996 9/13/2002 10/01/1985 11/01/1946 8/30/1966 3/07/2008 9/03/1965 3/12/1952 7/11/1958 10/01/1989 1/14/2005 5/01/1990 6/28/1996

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

Date of Death 9/29/2014 7/12/2014 9/21/2014 2/22/2014 10/01/2014 10/18/2014 9/26/2014 10/02/2014 10/18/2014 9/23/2014 5/04/2014 10/09/2014 10/06/2014 10/16/2014 10/02/2014 11/03/2014 10/28/2014 9/13/2014 10/10/2014 10/04/2014 10/21/2014 10/24/2014 10/29/2014 10/16/2014 10/16/2014 10/10/2014 11/03/2014 10/25/2014 11/02/2014 10/17/2014 10/02/2014 11/10/2014 5/15/2014

Age 90 82 70 72 75 95 94 88 64 22 88 70 100 80 99 79 83 75 68 80 87 68 80 88 53 71 65 63 60 36 88 82 90

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

In Memoriam

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of F. JOE PREISLER, JR. F. Joe Preisler, Jr., age 69, of East Bernard, died Wednesday morning, December 3, 2014, in Houston, Texas. He was born on September 16, 1945, in Wharton, son of the late Frank Joseph Preisler, Sr. and Josephine Balajka Preisler. Joe was raised in Wharton County, attended Holy Family grade school, and graduated from East Bernard High School in 1963. He received his bachelor of science degree from Texas A&M University in January 1968. He married JoAnn Polak on August 27, 1967, in East Bernard. Joe worked in the banking industry all his life, specializing in agriculture credit. He retired as vice president of Prosperity Bank - East Bernard Banking Center. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, raising cattle, banking, and baseball. He was very active in the community, coached little league softball and baseball, served as president of the East Bernard Chamber of Commerce and Brahma Booster Club, and chaired church bazaars. Joe was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton. Preceding him in death were his parents; and sisters Katherine and Diane Preisler. Visitation was Monday, December 8 after 6 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard with a rosary recited at 7 p.m. Funeral service was Tuesday, December 9 at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard with Reverend Donald Ruppert officiating. Entombment followed the Holy Cross Mausoleum. Pallbearers were Daniel Orsak, Larry Duyka, Michael Preisler, Robert Preisler, Randall Manville, and Joey Polak. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Buck Boettcher, Raymond Rabius, Neil A. Banfield, Joe Doyle, Leonard Preisler, Stephen Luco, and his brothers and brothers-in-law. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, JoAnn Preisler of East Bernard; daughter Kerrie Preisler Rabius and husband Russell of East Bernard; son Trey Preisler and wife Katie of Vir-

ginia; brothers James Preisler and wife Dorothy and Robert Preisler and wife Karen, both of East Bernard; and granddaughter Haley Grace Preisler with another grandchild on the way. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be left at www.whartonfuneralhome.com. Funeral services were under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home. Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

In Memory of Tilda Gene Boudny

Tilda Gene Boudny, 91, died November 23, 2014, in Austin, Texas, after a brief illness. Gene was born March 14, 1923, to A.L. Boudny and Mary Monroe Boudny on a farm near Coupland, Texas. A graduate of Taylor High School, class of 1940, she took a job at Consolidated Aircraft in Fort Worth, Gene Boudny Texas, and later Marietta, Georgia, where she worked on the assembly line, building bombers for the war effort. After World War II ended, she returned to Taylor. For several years, she worked in the office of McCroys. She then moved to Austin where she worked for E.M. Scarborough and Sons Department Store. She then became a telephone operator with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, where she worked until her retirement in 1982. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Taylor. She was also a member of SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor where she was honored earlier this year as a 75-year member of SPJST. She made her home in Austin but spent many days on the family farm near Coupland, which she loved. Gene was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Barbara Boudny, Dorothy Drozd, and Patricia Bryan; and brother Alfred Boudny. She is survived by sisters Ruth and Alice Boudny of Coupland; Irene

Turner and Helen Fremin of Austin; and many nieces and nephews and their children. She also leaves behind many close friends. Funeral services were held Friday, November 28 at Condra Funeral Home in Taylor. Interment was at the Taylor City Cemetery. —SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of the Resolution Committee of Lodge Hvezda Texasu No. 47, Seaton, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, DELLA PAVELKA. Mass of Christian burial for Della Pavelka, age 90, of Temple, Texas, was held at 2 p.m., Friday, December 5, 2014, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple with Reverend Steven Sauser as celebrant. Burial was in Bellwood Memorial Park. Visitation was at 1 p.m., Friday, December 5 at the church. Mrs. Pavelka died Wednesday, November 26 at her residence. She was born July 21, 1924, in Temple to Joe and Mary Martinec in Temple. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. She was also a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple. She was preceded in death by husband Laddie Pavelka about 30 years ago; and son Tommy Pavelka. Survivors include daughter Sharon Gault of Temple; sister Millie Johnson of Temple; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Hewett-Arney Funeral Home of Temple was in charge of arrangements. Resolution Committee Ruth Kohutek Joyce Skrabanek LaVerne Vanicek —SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy

VӖSTNÍK

We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge 17, Novy Tabor, wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge brother, FRANKLIN JOE KARASEK, SR. A funeral mass for Franklin Joe Karasek, Sr., age 88, of Caldwell, Texas, was held at 10 a.m., Monday, October 20, 2014, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Frenstat with the Most Reverend Edward Karasek officiating. Burial followed in Frenstat Holy Rosary Cemetery. Mr. Karasek died Thursday morning, October F.J. Karasek, Sr. 16 at Burleson St. Joseph Manor in Caldwell after a lengthy illness. He was born February 5, 1926, in Burleson County, the son of Joe Paul and Emilie (Gaas) Karasek and had resided in the Caldwell area his entire life. He graduated from Caldwell High School in 1944 then enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country in World War II in France and Germany. After returning from his military service, he was a farmer and a rancher and worked at various other jobs, including Nagel Coat Hanger factory in Caldwell. Franklin married Ramona Shenkir on April 12, 1950. They were blessed with three children - Franklin, Jr., Sharon, and Edward. They celebrated 45 years of marriage and enjoyed gardening, spending time with family, church activities, and listening to polka music. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Emilie; and wife Ramona. Survivors include children Franklin Karasek, Jr. and wife Frances of Caldwell, Sharon Vytopil of Huntsville, and the Reverend Edward Karasek of Lockhart; sister Frances Baron and husband Lambert of LaGrange; grandchildren and their spouses Joe and Katy Karasek of Bryan, Jerry, III and Becky Vytopil of Humble; Jane Anne and Laton Giese of Caldwell; Jonathan and Nathaly Vytopil of Vir-

VӖSTNÍK

ginia Beach, Virginia, and Elizabeth and Jeremy Falls of Ropesville; greatgrandchildren and another expected to arrive in March 2015 - John, Ellie and Anna Karasek, Michelle and Ethan Vytopil; Lydia Giese, David, Daniela and Vanessa Vytopil, Blaise Falls and his awaited brother or sister; and several nephews, nieces, and cousins. Pallbearers were Joe Karasek, Jerry Vytopil, Laton Giese, Jeremy Falls, Darren Gaas, and Chris Baron. Memorials may be made to Frenstat Holy Rosary Cemetery or Clerical Endowment Fund. May he rest in eternal peace and his memory remain with us forever. Fraternally, Resolution Committee Susan Skrabanek Evelyn Henry Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. —SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy

We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge 17, Novy Tabor, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge sister, JOYCE NELLA DUSEK. Funeral service for Joyce Nella Dusek, age 85, of Caldwell, Texas, was held at 10 a.m., Saturday, November 15, 2014, at Strickland Funeral Home in Caldwell. Interment followed at Slovak Cemetery. Visitation was held 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, November 14. Mrs. Dusek passed away Joyce Dusek Wednesday, November 12 at St. Joseph’s Regional Health Center in Bryan. Joyce was born September 1, 1929, to Leslie August Nowak and Ruby (Poehl) Nowak in Caldwell. On June 7, 1952, Joyce married Theodore F. Dusek, Sr. Joyce retired from the City of College Station, after 17 years. She loved the farm and country life. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, and playing piano which she did at the local nursing home. Joyce was a breast cancer survivor and was very active with Relay for Life fundraising. When Theodore became ill, she was his loving caregiver, and after his death she enjoyed luncheons with the “Lunch Bunch,” as

her support system. Joyce was a member of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. She was also a lifelong member of Cooks Point United Methodist Church where she played the piano for Sunday School. and the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion and VFW. Joyce was especially proud of her four grandchildren who are or will be Texas A&M graduates. Joyce is survived by sons and daughter-in-law Theodore Dusek, Jr. of Caldwell and Dick and Angela Dusek of Bryan; sister Doris Shaw; grandchildren Andrew, Jacqueline, Grace, and Grant Dusek; brother and sisters-in-law Dan and Marie Dusek of Tyler, Victoria Dusek of Bryan; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband Theodore F. Dusek, Sr. Pallbearers were Andrew Dusek, Grant Dusek, Joe Rychlik, Bob Piwonka, Jeff Reeves, Dennis Dusek, Gerald Steck, and Kverin Urbanovsky. Memorials are requested to be sent to Cooks Point United Methodist Church, 4902 East State Highway 21, Caldwell, Texas 77836; or the American Cancer Society, 3207 Briarcrest, Bryan, Texas 77802. Arrangements were under the care and direction of Strickland Funeral Home of Caldwell. May she rest in eternal peace and her memory remain with us forever. Fraternally, Resolution Committee Susan Skrabanek Evelyn Henry Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. —SPJST—

In Memory of Allen Bacak

Allen Emil Bacak, 81, of El Campo, passed away on December 8, 2014. He was born on October 23, 1933, in El Campo to the late Emil and Bessie Bartosh Bacak. He was a veteran of the United States Army and a member of the Knights of Columbus 2490. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje. He is survived by wife Josephine Bacak of El Campo; nephews Doug Trochta, Alan Paul Trochta, Bradley Bacak, Frank Bacak, Jr.; and nieces Kay Pilat and Kristie Choate.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Frank and James Bacak; and sister Georgia Trochta. Visitation was at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 11 at Triska Funeral Home with rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral service was at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 12 at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church with Reverend Albert Yankey officiating. Burial with military honors under the auspices of American Legion Post 251 followed at Holy Cross Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to St. Philip School. Condolences may be shared with the family at triskafuneralhome.com Triska Funeral Home in El Campo was in charge of the arrangements. —SPJST—

In Memory of Albert Macik

Albert Joe Macik, age 77, passed away Sunday morning, November 30, 2014, at St. Joseph Regional Health Center. Funeral service was held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 3 at Hope Evangelical Free Church in College Station Albert Macik with Reverend Rudy Junek and Pastor John Gantt of-

ficiating. Interment followed at Snook Cemetery. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, December 2 at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan. Albert was born August 10, 1937, at his home in Snook, the son of Ed George and Mary Frances (Adamek) Macik. He was a charter member of Hope Evangelical Free Church and a member of SPJST Lodge 39, Bryan. Albert retired after 31 years with Texas Agricultural Experiment Station at Texas A&M University. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and taking pictures of family and friends. Albert was a very friendly person, always greeting everyone he came into contact with “Hi!” Albert was preceded in death by his parents; wife Annalyn Macik; sisters Patricia Matcek and Frances Storemski; and grandchildren Matthew and Heather Macik. He is survived by sons and daughters-in-law Albert Edward and Terri Macik of Bryan, Adam Joe and Rebecca Macik of College Station; brother and sister-in-law Eddie and Denise Macik of Bryan; sisters and brothers-in-law Laura and Kenneth Jeske of Caldwell and Rosie and Roy Kehlenbrink of Kurten; granddaughter Amber Macik of Bryan; and stepmother Floy Wilkerson of Bryan; and numerous extended family members and friends. Memorials may be made to Hope Evangelical Free Church, 5376 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, Texas 77845. —SPJST—

Podpora Wednesday, December 17, 2014

BENEVOLENCE

ROČNÍK 102 CISLO 50

New items in Czech Heritage Museum gift shop

The Czech Heritage Museum is busy filling orders for the Christmas holidays. New items include “The Lord’s Prayer” (Protestant version) written in Czech or English. These are 11-inch by 14-inch print size and ready for framing. Three new-to-us cookbooks along with other flip-over books are also available. Some new ceramics have been added to include cheese boards, coffee mugs, salt and pepper shakers, and spoon rests. Of course, there are plenty of tree ornaments as well as egg ornaments. Please visit our website at www.czechmuseum.org for more information and pricing. —SPJST—

Fort Bend CHS sets Jan. 30 soup tasting summer

Save the date—Friday, January 30, 2015, from 5 to 8 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, located at 13609 Highway 36 in Needville, Texas. It’s Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Society’s annual soup tasting supper. Featured soups will be sauerkraut, chicken noodle, vegetable beef, and potato. The supper includes salad, breadsticks, crackers, and tea/coffee. Czech pastries and desserts will be available. Cost is $7 per person. Children ages six to 12 are $3. Under age six is free of charge. A prize drawing will be held at 7 p.m. Glenn McDonald Lodge 81, Needville CHS Fort Bend County —SPJST—

★

Lidskost

Česká

HUMANITY

Bratrství

VӖSTNÍK

★

Část

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

What is Sokol Gymnastics?

The American Sokol is the representing body to USA Gymnastics. It has the lone voice for the entire group of Sokol organizations in America. American Sokol represents not only the American Sokol but Sokol USA, DA Sokol, Catholic Sokol Union, Yugoslav Sokols of America, Croatian Sokols of America, Russian Sokol Union of America, Polish Falcons of America, and a few other Sokol entities. Sokol has a long and rich history of developing gymnastics in America. Gymnastics began in the USA in the backyards of Central European immigrants. They brought with them their great passion for the sport of gymnastics. Their backyard gymnastics was not seen by previous Americans. Neighbors thought they were crazy, but it also looked fun and so classes began.

Sokol Floresville Gymnasium 1920

Over 200 years ago in Europe, there began a surge in awareness. Due to dictatorships and monarchies, the bondage of labor presented among citizens created suffering and loss of identity, eliminated free time, and destroyed families. People’s health, both physically and mentally, were dwindling. In the late 1700s, Perh Hendrik Ling of Sweden witnessed this attrition and created what was described as the first modern style of recreation. It was exercise gymnastics and became known as Swedish Gymnastics. It was movement-style calisthenics for individuals

and groups. It was performed for medicinal and health purposes. In the 1830s, Germanian Frederick Ludwig Jahns went further by describing gymnastics as also including apparatus to exercise on and with apparatus held in the hands like weights and clubs. This became known as German or Turnergymnastics. The movement was sweeping Europe and whole festivals of gymnasts were performing group calisthenics.

Southern District Slet in Texas 1920s

1938 Sokol’s Strohoff Stadium (Largest Sport Stadium in the World), Prague, Czech Republic. 43,000 men performing gymnastics calisthenics routines to music.

In the mid 1800s, Dr. Miroslav Tyrs of the Bohemia regions once again broadened and described the term gymnastics. Believing in the Greek philosophy, his version included that gymnastics was individual and group exercise with or without apparatus but also included any exercise with the gymnasts working with each other or against each other. This began the idea that any athletic exercise was included under the term of gymnastics. Tyrs officially began the Sokol gymnastics movement in 1862 in Prague. The ideals of the Sokol gymnastics spread with the speed of Euro-

BROTHERHOOD

17.prosinec.2014

pean immigration and in only three years, in 1865, American Sokol began in St. Louis, Missouri. The first international gymnastics competition in the United States took place at Sokol New York in 1879. It included 720 competitors. Sokol means “falcon” in Czech, named for its brisk, brave, and acrobatic attributes, the flying mascot was adopted and the word “Slet” which means the “flocking together of birds” was used to describe the large festivals of Sokol gymnastics. German Turnfests and Sokol Slets were the craze of Europe. All citizens, workers, and families more and more were demanding recreational time for these gymnastics and cultural activities. They were often viewed as nuisances to the leaders of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire which had oppressed both the Germanian and Slavic people at the time. There is one interesting side note about this craze of festivals and especially the Sokol Slets. One young Frenchman visiting a large Sokol Slet in the 1880s saw the numerous sports competitions being held by all the Slavic nationalities of people (all under the Austrian-Hungarian Empire but clearly different nationalities of people). He thought how great it would be for this type of event to occur between nations. This Frenchman was Baron De Coubertin. He corresponded with Tyrs and Dr. Joseph Schiner (Tyrs’ predecessor), who agreed and sent a young Czech Sokol leader named Jiri Guth-Jorkovsky to work with De Coubertin. The modern-day Olympic Games began in 1896 and so the Czechs have been involved since the beginning. Sokol Women’s Leader Maria Provasnikova was the first female officer of the Federation of International Gymnastics and was the major influence in establishing women’s gymnastics into the Olympic Games in the 1930s. Also, the Sokols created the uneven bars for women's competition. In the USA, the Sokols were the first competitions and a sequential pro-

VӖSTNÍK

gression of compulsory routines in the 1880s. AAU, Turners, and collegiate gymnasts often shared facilities and worked out with Sokol units across the country around the turn of 1900. Thousands of early competitors on college campuses and international teams were Sokols as well as Turners. Sokols were continuous in hosting every four years the large American Sokol Slets in the United States, which included thousands of participants.

over the last 100 years. American Sokol continues to host its well-known Sokol Slets every four years. The last was held in 2013 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 2015, American Sokol will be celebrating 150 years of Sokol Gymnastics in America. Sokol looks forward to the continued development and growth of the organization in the next 150 years. American Sokol headquarters is located in Brookfield, Illinois. For more information, visit www.americansokol.org. —SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org

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

For membership: Merlene Bravenec (254) 778-7285

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

COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501

SS. Cyril & Methodius Hall • Granger, Texas • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ proudly welcomes ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Mollie B and Squeeze Box

Sokol Zizka, Dallas Sokol classes 1920’s

Several Olympians including the first American gymnast to win an Olympic gold under a normal international competition was a Sokol gymnast—Frank Kriz of Sokol New York in 1924. He received the gold medal in the long horse vault at the Paris Olympic Games. Many other Sokol gymnasts have proudly represented the USA. Paul Fina of the Sokols in Chicago made the Olympic Team in 1940 and 1944. Henrietta Milan qualified to Olympic Trials in 1960. Sokol gymnasts Jim Hartung, Philip Cahoy, and Mike Wilson were all Olympians in 1980, and Hartung was on the gold medal team in 1984. Sokol female leaders such as Mildred Prchal and Janet Bachna were assets to the growth of women’s gymnastics in America. Sokol members like Paul Fina held positions on the USOC board representing gymnastic prior to the formation of the United States Gymnastics Federation (USGF). Several Sokol members were on the actual committees and boards that organized and formed the USGF. When the newly-hired USGF program director suggested a viable Junior Olympic (JO) program with a sequential progression of routines for age groups were needed, the USGF turned to the Sokols. USGF used the Sokol compulsories to create their first JO routines. Sokol members played a large part in securing the first-ever World Gymnastics Championships held outside the European arena in 1979 in Fort Worth, Texas. In fact, a countless number of Sokol coaches have influenced thousands of athletes

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Saturday, January 17, 2015 6 to 10 p.m.

For tickets, call (512) 859-2236 or email sscmhall@gmail.com Kitchen opens at 5 p.m.

MOVE FORWARD yet REMEMBER THE PAST /Ŷ ŽƌĚĞƌ ƚŽ ƉƌĞƐĞƌǀĞ ŽƵƌ ƌŝĐŚ ,ŝƐƚŽƌǇ ƚŚĂƚ ŝŶƚƌŽĚƵĐĞĚ ƚŚĞ ƐƉŽƌƚ ŽĨ ŐǇŵŶĂƐƟĐƐ ƚŽ ŵĞƌŝĐĂ͕ ǁĞ ĂƌĞ ƐĞĂƌĐŚŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ĂŶǇ ŽůĚ ŐǇŵŶĂƐƟĐƐ ƌĞůĂƚͲ ĞĚ ĂƌƟĨĂĐƚƐ͘ ŝƐĐĂƌĚĞĚ͕ ƐƚŽƌĞĚ Žƌ ŶŽ ůŽŶŐĞƌ ƵƐĞĚ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ĨŽƵŶĚ ŝŶ ŵĂŶǇ ^ŽŬŽů͕ dƵƌŶĞƌ͕ ,ŝŐŚ ^ĐŚŽŽů͕ E ĂŶĚ h ŐǇŵŶĂƐŝͲ ƵŵƐ͘ &Žƌ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƚ ϭϬ ǇĞĂƌƐ͕ Ă ĨĞǁ ƉĂƐƐŝŽŶĂƚĞ ^ŽŬŽů ŵĞŵďĞƌƐ ŚĂǀĞ ĐƌĞĂƚĞĚ ĚŝƐƉůĂǇƐ ƐŚĂƌŝŶŐ ĂƌƟĨĂĐƚƐ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŐǇŵŶĂƐƟĐƐ ,ŝƐƚŽƌǇ ͘ dŚĞƐĞ ĚŝƐƉůĂǇƐ ŚĂǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ƐĞĞŶ ĂƌŽƵŶĚ ƚŚĞ h^ Ăƚ ŵĂũŽƌ 'ǇŵŶĂƐƟĐƐ ĞǀĞŶƚƐ ĂƐ ǁĞůů ĂƐ ƐĞǀĞƌĂů ƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƟŽŶƐ͘ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ Žƌ ŬŶŽǁ ŽĨ ĂŶǇ ŝƚĞŵƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐŽƵůĚ ďĞ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚĞĚ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ƉĂƐƐ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ďĞůŽǁ͘

͞>Ğƚ͛Ɛ ƚĞůů ƚŚĞ ƐƚŽƌǇ ŶŽƚ ŚŝĚĞ ŽƵƌ ŐůŽƌŝŽƵƐ ƉĂƐƚ͘͟ ϭϵϮϬ ^ŽŬŽů &ůŽƌĞƐǀŝůůĞ͕ dĞǆĂƐ

/ƚĞŵƐ ŽĨ /ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ͗ ŝƌĐĂ ϭϴϬϬƐ ƚŽ ϭϵϲϬƐ

ĂƐƚ /ƌŽŶ ĂƉƉĂƌĂƚƵƐ ůŝŬĞ WŽŵŵĞů ŚŽƌƐĞƐͬ ďƵĐŬƐ ĞĂŵ ĂŶĚ ďĞĂŵ ůĞŐƐ ^ƉĂƵůĚŝŶŐ ϱ ĐĂďůĞ ,ŝŐŚ ďĂƌ WĂƌĂůůĞů ďĂƌƐͬ ƉĂƌĂůůĞƩĞƐ ,ŽƌƐĞŚĂŝƌ ŵĂƚƐ͕ sĂƵůƟŶŐ ďŽǆĞƐ sĂƵůƚ ƐƉƌŝŶŐ Θ ďĞĂƚ ďŽĂƌĚƐ /ŶĚŝĂŶ ĐůƵďƐ Θ ďĂƌďĞůůƐ ZŝŶŐƐ ǁŝƚŚ ŵĞĐŚĂŶŝĐĂů ƐƉŽŽůƐ DĂǇƉŽůĞ Θ ůĂĚĚĞƌ ŚĂƌĚǁĂƌĞ͕ >ĞĂƚŚĞƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĞĚ ƉŽŵŵĞůƐ DĞĚŝĐŝŶĞ ďĂůůƐ ͬ ƉƵŶĐŚŝŶŐ ďĂŐƐ hŶŝĨŽƌŵƐ͕ ŚĂƚƐ Θ ŐǇŵ ƐŚŽĞƐ ůŝŵďŝŶŐ ƌŽƉĞƐ͕ ƚƌĂƉĞǌĞ 'ƌŝƉƐ Θ ƐƉŽƫŶŐ ĂŝĚƐ WĂƚĐŚĞƐ ͬĞŵďƌŽŝĚĞƌĞĚ ŝƚĞŵƐ dƌŽƉŚŝĞƐ͕ DĞĚĂůƐ͕ ƉůĂƋƵĞƐ ^ůĞƚ ĂĚŐĞƐͬƐŽƵǀĞŶŝƌƐ

ŵĞŵďĞƌƐŚŝƉ Θ ĞǀĞŶƚ WŝŶƐ ^ŽŬŽů &ůĂŐƐ Θ ďĂŶŶĞƌƐ ŽŵƉĞƟƟŽŶ WƌŽŐƌĂŵ ďŽŽŬƐ dĞĂŵ Θ ĞǀĞŶƚ WŚŽƚŽƐ WŽƐƚĞƌƐͬĨƌĂŵĞĚ ƉŝĐƚƵƌĞƐ ZĞůĂƚĞĚ ƐĐƵůƉƚƵƌĞƐͬ ĂƌƚǁŽƌŬ dƌĂĐŬ ĂŶĚ ĮĞůĚ ŝƚĞŵƐ tĞŝŐŚƚ ƚƌĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ŽǁůŝŶŐ ďĂůůƐ ĂŶĚ ƉŝŶƐ ϯϱ Θ ϭϲŵŵ ŐǇŵ ĮůŵƐ /ŶƐƚƌƵĐƚŽƌ ƐĐŚŽŽů ŝƚĞŵƐ ^ŝŐŶĂŐĞ Žƌ ŽƚŚĞƌ ŵĞŵŽƌĂďŝůŝĂ 'ǇŵŶĂƐƟĐƐ ĐŽŵƉĂŶǇ ĐĂƚĂůŽŐƐ ƌŝĞĨ hŶŝƚ ,ŝƐƚŽƌǇ ƚŽ ĚĂƚĞ EĞǁƐƉĂƉĞƌ ĐůŝƉƉŝŶŐƐ͕ ƌƟĐůĞƐͬƐƚĂƟƐƟĐƐ ŽĨ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ƉĞƌƚĂŝŶŝŶŐ ƚŽ hŶŝƚƐͬůŽĚŐĞƐ hŶŝƚ ƉĞƌƐŽŶĂůŝƚǇ ŝŽŐƌĂƉŚŝĞƐ WŚŽƚŽƐ͕ ƉŚŽƚŽƐ͕ ƉŚŽƚŽƐ

/ƚĞŵƐ ŽĨ /ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ͗ ŝƌĐĂ ϭϵϲϬƐ ƚŽ ϭϵϵϬƐ EŝƐƐĞŶ ďƵĐŬƐ 'ǇŵŶĂƐƚ DĂŐĂǌŝŶĞƐ EŝƐƐĞŶ-DĞĚĂƌƚ ĂƉƉ͘ Žŝů ƐƉƌŝŶŐ sd ďŽĂƌĚ

ĮďĞƌŐůĂƐƐ ůĞĂĨ sd ďƌĚ &ŽůĚŝŶŐ WĂŶĞů ŵĂƚ ƵŵŝƐŬĞǇ ,ŽƌƐĞ EŝƐƐĞŶ ďůƵĞ ůĞŐ ĐŽŶĞƐ

ϴŵŵ ŐǇŵŶĂƐƟĐ ĮůŵƐ ZŽƐĞŶ ͬĐŚĂůŬ ďŽǆĞƐ ĞĂŵ ůĞŐƐ D& ĨĞůƚ ŵĂƚƐ

ϭϵϮϲ ^ŽŬŽů ŝǌŬĂ ĂůůĂƐ ͕ dĞǆĂƐ

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ZŽŵĞ DŝůĂŶ - ^K<K> &Žƌƚ tŽƌƚŚ

817 371-1944 or Email; romeparis@aol.com

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: (254) 773-8087. Email to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at (800) 727-7578 or email melaniez@vvm.com.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Hall Rental Information: (979) 966-3795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the lodge hall. Potluck served after meeting. Youth Club Meetings: First Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) 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) 686-4429; or Dean Carender (903) 564-7359.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Friday, December 19—Social night cancelled Saturday, December 20—Brennan family Christmas Wednesday, December 31—SPJST Lodge No. 6 New Year’s Eve party and game night. Everyone invited.

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) 799-8550; Hall Phone: (254) 227-8759. 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, 6:30 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) 272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Pure Country Band, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. $10 per person. Black-eyed peas, cornbread, sausage, coffee served after the dance. No reservations.

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information/Country/Western Band Bookings: David Meyer (512) 217-0162; Polka Band Bookings: Artie Monson (512) 281-3711; Hall phone: (512) 285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: 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: First Monday of each month (unless it’s a holiday, then the meeting will be held on the second Monday), 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) Monday, December 22—Strudel Fundraiser: Pick up, 2 to 7 p.m. For information, contact Betty (972) 8787719; or Margaret (972) 878-6149. Wednesday, December 24—Deagen family Christmas 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) 8758381. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.

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) Note: Wednesday through Friday, December 24 to 26—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Hall will be closed for the Christmas holidays. The hall will be open for business on Saturday, December 27 at 3 p.m.

All Wednesday and Friday night dances have free admission. Second and fourth Wednesday of the month/music by Bobby Jay Five Band; Fridays, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Old-fashioned hamburgers served every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday, December 17—Music by Sam and Bobby Band, 7 to 10 p.m. at the Taylor SPJST Hall. Friday, December 19—Sterling Country, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of the Thrall 4-H/FFA will make 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: Hall /Rental Phone: (512) 352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. For youth club info, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod (512) 468-1347. Music: First and third Wednesdays of the month, music by the Sam and Bobby Band. 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.

VӖSTNÍK

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: Danny Stepan (254) 760-7819; Hall Phone: (254) 985-2548. 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, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; except for the following months, the meeting time will be at 6:30 p.m. on May 12, June 9, July 14, and August 11 at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Note: Lodge 49, Rowena Youth Club will now hold its meetings the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m., and will continue to meet at the lodge hall in Rowena.

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: First Sunday of each month at 1 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 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Hall: 3502 North Laurent, Victoria. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November; the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street, West, Texas.

Saturday, December 20—Brett Hendrix Band Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Nolan Pick Band

LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Location, date, and time to be announced in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. Call (254) 799-4247 for more information.

LODGE 35, ELK (3) Note: Saturday, December 13 band schedule has changed: Midnight Mustangs Band will be on stage. See more information below.

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: Gene Pavelka (254) 7493326; Hall Phone: (254) 863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann (254) 7150275.

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: (512) 237-9099/day; (830) 8394353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR; go 2 miles to Mumford Road and turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. The lodge hall is at the bend of the road (white building). Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. For information, call President Wade O’Shields (979) 2183527; FAC Ronnie Roesler (979) 406-0158.

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: Cathy Garcia (979) 332-1614; 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) Wednesday December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5, 8 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Tickets: $10 per person. For information, call (254) 760-7819.

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

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

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

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Hall Phone: (361) 854-8423. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 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 Phone: (254) 657-2485. Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 4 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m at Youth Leader Connie Horak’s home; call (254) 5419165 for address. 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 Highway 36, Needville. Directions: Lodge building is located at the corner of Highway 36 and FM 361. Hall Rental Information: (979) 793-4313; email td_stavinoha@yahoo.com. Hall Phone: (361) 793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Bradley Stavinoha (979) 739-2386.

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 build-

VӖSTNÍK

ing on the right. Hall Rental Information: (469) 9517396. Hall Phone: (214) 823-0072. Band Bookings: Cherri Petr (214) 352-4397. 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: Terry Festa (254) 541-2285. 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, December 20—No dance Sunday, December 21—Holiday Blue Room Party: Greatful Geezers, 50s and 60s. 2 to 7 p.m. $35 per person Saturday, December 27—No dance Wednesday, December 31—The Moonglow Orchestra, big band. *Dress code. 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. $35 per person

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.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday, 7 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 p.m. Regular games start at 7:30 p.m. License No. 17407503501. LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (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. 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 Diana Redd (361) 649-4388 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.

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) Please Note: Lodge meetings are now held on the second Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 Main Street, Danbury, Texas. For information, call (979) 922-1279; or (979) 922-1553.

Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 Main Street, Danbury. For information, call (979) 922-1279; or (979) 922-1553.

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 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; cjkristinek@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: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony.

LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Thursday, December 4—Annual Christmas dinner/meeting, The Cannery Kitchen, 314 East Alamo Street, Brenham, 6:30 p.m. RSVP by December 1 to Secretary Lenora Bliznak (979) 277-8845 or (979) 836-2609.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Reservations/Hall Rental Information: Jo (713) 9936878; 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) 9824530. Hall Phone: (254) 982-4434. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall; Trustees meet at 4:30 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) 2953483; (817) 371-0255; (972) 268-0022; Hall Phone: (817) 295-9665. Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. at Central Library in Conroe. For more information, contact Barbara Williams-Rash (936) 2957778/email b.d.willrash@att.net; or Patsy McClellan (936) 520-6742; email pmcclellan@consolidated. net. Youth Club Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Conroe Public Library.

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

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH20 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, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Theresa Haag (830) 6258262 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. 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.

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C&J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan.

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: George Scogin (936) 875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Monday 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) 3739482. 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. 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 normkneschk@gmail.com. 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: Call President Chester Jenke (210) 413-3053 or Treasurer Colleen Jenke (210) 215-9494 for meeting date, location, and time. —SPJST—

Merry Christmas SPJST Float 1: Bake My Day - A Minions Christmas

SPJST Float 2: A Frozen Christmas Celebration