Vestnik 2015 02 25 by SPJST

Volume 103 Number 8

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

ISSN —07458800

★ Brotherhood

February 25, 2015

SPJST Announces 2015 Membership Program “Let

“Let the Good Times Roll!” is the campaign slogan for SPJST’s 2015 SPJST Membership Drive. The phrase “let the good times roll” is most frequently heard during the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. Essentially, it means to let the party begin and to let us enjoy our time together. 2015 is a new year, and it represents the opportunity for a new beginning in SPJST. It is important for everyone in SPJST to work with one another, to recognize each other’s strengths, and to help one another. The 2015 Membership Program is loaded with incentives for sales agents, members, lodges, and youth clubs working to make a positive difference in the lives of SPJST members. Complete details about the 2015 Membership Program appears on pages 19 to 23 of this week’s Vestnik.

the Good Times Roll!”

The goal is 1,500 new issued certificates.

We Are on a Mission! The goals and objectives of SPJST are reflected in its organizational mission statement and vision statement adopted by the SPJST Supreme Lodge on October 17, 2013: SPJST Mission Statement Insuring and Enriching Lives

SPJST Vision Statement Our vision is to provide a wholesome family environment; to encourage cherished Czech traditions; and to provide high quality, competitive life insurance for our members. A summary from the first month of the membership program appears on page 4 of this week’s Vestnik. 2015 Membership Program —SPJST—

Let the Good Times Roll!

Good Times Roll at Lodge 88, Houston Lodge 88, Houston members enjoyed a Mardi Gras night recently at the hall with king cakes for dessert. Pictured are, from left, Carol Globke, Cindy Messina, Carolyn F. Beseda, and Margie Moncrief, right, found the baby earning them rights to wear a crown.

N N N N N N N N

Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Incentive Program Updates................4 District News .......................................5 Supreme Lodge Meeting Minutes ......6 Lodge Section....................................13

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Membership Program .......................19 Youth Section ....................................24 Czech Culture ....................................27 Advertisements .................................29 Lodge Calendar .................................30 Member Referrals ..............................32

Page 15

Lodge 88 Houston members enjoy Founders’ Day

Michael Hoelscher wins Texas State BETA Champion

Michael Hoelscher, a member of Lodge 24, Cyclone, traveled to Grapevine, Texas, for the Texas State BETA convention on February 15 to 17, 2015. He ran for the State Chaplain office, and his is motto was, “Be Happy as a Minion, Vote Michael Hoelscher for Chaplain!” He presented a speech and was supported by his chapter with a promotional skit. Michael will now travel to Greeneville, Tennessee, this summer for a leadership camp, as well as Nashville, Tennessee, to run for the National BETA Chaplain office. Michael is the son of John and Lisa Hoelscher and grandson of Bobby and Alice Hoelscher. John and Lisa are members of Lodge 47, Seaton, and Bobby and Alice are members of Lodge 24, Cyclone. Michael served as 2012 SPJST State Duke. Congratulations and best wishes to Michael! —SPJST—

N N N N N N N Page 16

Lodge 67 Schulenburg shares Christmas party scenes

Page 17

Lodge 80 Holland member wins at Bell County Youth Fair

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Editor’s Note

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Always Grateful

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

VӖSTNÍK

y recovery from the December auto accident is going well. On February 14, I surpassed the twomonth mark of the projected six to nine months of recovery and healing. I am very much hoping that it will be the six months, and actually I would be fine if I was completely healed in four months or three months or even yesterday! I’m beyond ready to get back into doing everything and visiting lodges and youth clubs. I miss everyone, and I miss driving and being independent. I am no longer confined to a wheelchair. A walker is now my best friend! I am still working from home as doctors have not released me to physically return to the office just yet. As each day passes, it is one day closer to getting my life back, and I am very much looking forward to that. I am still so very thankful to be here and to be able to continue my job duties. Thank you again for the continued prayers, support, and thoughts. You have touched my heart in a very special way, and I will always be grateful. And, a very special thank you to my assistant Katherine Morris for keeping the office together and running so smoothly. Great job!

Congratulations, Carolyn! A big congratulations to Carolyn F. Beseda who is a 52-year member of SPJST. Her name was not included in the 50-year member listing that was published in the Vestnik. Carolyn is an active member of Lodge 88, Houston, and we appreciate her membership in SPJST! Missing Wife A husband went to the police station to report his missing wife:

Husband: I’ve lost my wife. She went shopping yesterday and has still not come home. Sergeant: What is her height? Husband: Oh, 5 something . . . Sergeant: Build? Husband: Not slim, not really fat. Sergeant: Color of eyes? Husband: Never noticed. Sergeant: Color of hair? Husband: Changes according to season. Sergeant: What was she wearing? Husband: Dress/suit/blue jeans—I don’t remember exactly. Sergeant: Did she go in a car? Husband: Yes. Sergeant: What kind of car was it? Husband: 2015 Corvette Stingray 3LT with the Z51 Performance Package, shark gray metallic paint, with the 6.2 litre V8 engine with Direct Injection generating 460 HP. 8-speed paddleshift automatic transmission, and GT bucket seats, and has a very thin scratch on the front left door . . . at this point the husband started crying. Sergeant: Don’t worry sir . . . We’ll find your car. Thanks to one of my car club friends for sharing this funny!

Save the Date—May 2 Spring is almost here, and that means warm, sunny days and . . . car shows! We are planning the 10th Annual SPJST Car Show on Saturday, May 2 at Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall. The day will include a big Czech Heritage Celebration with vendor booths, music, food, and lots of fun. Last year’s event attracted 200 of the most beautiful, classic cars from across Texas. We hope to have another successful day this year. Proceeds will benefit the Czech Heritage Museum and SPJST Education and Nature Center. Stay tuned to the Vestnik for complete details. —SPJST—

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, February 25, 2015

VӖSTNÍK

Family Fun and Important Dates

Feb. 28

District Seven Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge 107, Floresville March 1 Lodge 92, Fort Worth Texas Independence Day Celebration (3) March 7 State Straight Domino Tournament Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3) March 7 Lodge 24, Cyclone Spring Dance: Red Ravens (2) March 7 Lodge 29, Taylor Auction Fundraiser (2) March 14 District Three Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge183, Arlington March 15 District Two Spring Meeting • Lodge 29, Taylor March 15 District Six Spring Meeting Victoria Garden Center March 15 Lodge 84, Dallas Anniversary Celebration (3) March 21 Youth Leaders Retreat • SPJST Home Office (2) Mar. 27-28 District Three Youth Development Workshop Lodge 25, Ennis March 28 District Two Youth Development Workshop SPJST Home Office March 28 District Four Lodge Officer Workshop Chinese Restaurant, Midland March 28 District Four Lodge Officer Workshop Golden Corral, Abilene March 28 Lodge 88, Houston Easter Party (5) March 28 Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter Egg Hunt (5) March 29 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter Party (3) March 29 Lodge 47, Seaton Battle Dance (2) March 29 District Seven Spring Meeting Eagles Hall in New Braunfels March 31 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends April 3 Good Friday • SPJST Home Office Closed April 4 State 42 Domino Tournament Lodge 49, Rowena April 11 SPJST Float • Smithville Jamboree Parade (1) April 12 District Two Beseda Dancers Fundraiser Lodge 47, Seaton April 12 District Four Spring Meeting • Lodge 49, Rowena April 12 District Five Spring Meeting • Lodge 88, Houston April 26 District One Spring Meeting • Lodge 9, Snook April 26 District Three Spring Meeting • Lodge 6, Cottonwood May 2 Join Hands Day May 2 SPJST Car Show/Czech Celebration Lodge 47, Seaton May 10 Lodge 24, Cyclone Mother’s Day Barbecue (2)

From the Fraternal Department

Lodge 183, Arlington to host March 14 Lodge Officer Workshop

Attention: District Three Lodge Officers— Make plans to attend the second Lodge Officer Workshop at Lodge 183, Arlington on Saturday, March 14, 2015. This is an informative and interactive workshop so we ask that you attend. We know your time is valuable and do respect that time. Lodge 183, Arlington has asked lodge officers to

Lodge 6 Cottonwood hosts March 7 State Straight Domino Tourney

SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament is Saturday, March 7, 2014, at SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood. Check-in begins at 8 a.m., and play begins at 9 a.m. The tournament is open to the public, ages 16 and above. Cost is $7 per member and non-member. Entry fee includes snacks and lunch. Prizes will be awarded. The tournament will be a two-person team format. If you do not have a

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%

please RSVP for the workshop. The lodge needs a head count to determine the amount of food to prepare for the meal. You can RSVP by calling (817) 465-8538. Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

partner, one will be assigned (if available). To register, call Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez (800) 7277578 or email tammym@spjst.com. Participants may also register online at www.spjst.org. Please register by Monday, March 2.

Directions to SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood From I-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. Turn left on FM 2114 East for three miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. The hall is on the right about one-half mile down the road. —SPJST—

Want to receive your Vestnik on Tuesday morning? Subscribe to receive the Vestnik by email. Visit www.spjst.org to sign up for an email subscription.

SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 02/01/2015 - 04/30/2015 SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Rates

Mar. 14

Mar. 28

Feb. 28

2015 SPJST Lodge Officer Workshops

District Three Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge183, Arlington • 10 a.m. District Four Lodge Officer Workshop Chinese Restaurant, Midland • 10 a.m. District Four Lodge Officer Workshop Golden Corral, Abilene • 5 p.m. District Seven Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge 107, Floresville • 10 a.m.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

VӖSTNÍK

Let the Good Times Roll! Statewide Goal: 1,500 Certificates Issued Through January: 58 Certificates Issued

Membership Program Update

Member Referral Incentive

All referral cards received during a given month go into a drawing for three $25 Wal-Mart gift cards. All referral cards received during the year will go into a drawing for five $100 Wal-Mart gift cards to be awarded at the 2015 SPJST Awards Banquet.

Helmer Dahl

Insuring and Enriching Lives.

SPJST Mission Statement Our vision is to provide a wholesome family environment; to encourage cherished Czech traditions; and to provide high quality, competitive life insurance for our members.

Lodge 29, Taylor • District Two

SPJST Vision Statement

Lodge Incentive Guidelines

The 2015 Lodge Incentive Guidelines will include membership program incentives and be based upon premium income generated by the lodges. The formula for calculating the Enhanced Premium Refund is:

1. $1.00 for each paid-up certificate; and 2. 2.80% of the lodge’s annual earned premium.

To receive the Enhanced Premium Refund, lodges must meet the following three-point criteria:

1. Hold regular lodge meetings in accordance with Article 50 of the SPJST By-Laws and offer a well-rounded fraternal program. 2. Return all requested paperwork on time by the due date.

3. Submit regular letters/photos to the Vestnik.

For lodge incentive updates, please contact the Financial Secretary’s Department. —SPJST—

SPJST Monthly Insurance Report Through January

MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM

Dist. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Totals

Apps. 5 12 18 18 3 6 9 0 71

Written $ 190,000.00 633,539.00 1,105,334.00 1,526,657.00 55,000.00 215,000.00 320,000.00 0 $ 4,045,530.00

Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 4 $ 180,000.00 $ 4,461.75 10 218,737.00 4,059.20 14 530,675.00 8,861.52 11 727,430.00 4,522.08 3 55,000.00 2,884.32 6 325,000.00 2,018.16 10 495,000.00 4,148.92 0 0 0 58 $ 2,531,842.00 $ 30,955.95

Dist. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Totals

Apps. 5 12 18 18 3 6 9 0 71

Written $ 190,000.00 633,539.00 1,105,334.00 1,526,657.00 55,000.00 215,000.00 320,000.00 0 $ 4,045,530.00

YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM

Tyler Kaluza

Lodge 54, West • District Three

SPJST Records 17 Referrals

Through the end of January 2015, the following members contributed 17 referrals during the Step Up to the Plate Membership Drive. Lodge

24 29 47 47 47 54 80 177

Member’s Name

Margaret Campbell Helmer Dahl Sandra Dubcak Debbie Klinkovsky Donica Zabcik Tyler Kaluza Linda Hill Janie Coakley

Referrals

1 1 2 1 7 2 2 1

SPJST Youth Clubs’ Update

DISTRICT ONE YOUTH CLUBS

DISTRICT FOUR YOUTH CLUBS

Certs. Issued

Lodge No.

DISTRICT TWO YOUTH CLUBS

Lodge No.

9 17 186

Lodge No.

18 20 24 29 47 48 80 87

Youth Club Name

Snook Youth Club New Tabor Youth Club Caldwell Youth Club Youth Club Name

Elgin Youth Club Granger Youth Club Cyclone Youth Club Taylor Youth Club Seaton Youth Club Beyersville Youth Club Holland Youth Club Temple Youth Club

0 1 0

Certs. Issued

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

DISTRICT THREE YOUTH CLUBS

Lodge No.

6 25 84 154 183

Youth Club Name

Cottonwood Youth Club Ennis Youth Club Dallas Youth Club Fort Worth Youth Club Arlington Youth Club

Certs. Issued

0 0 0 3 0

49 215

Youth Club Name

Rowena Youth Club South Plains Youth Club

Certs. Issued

0 0

DISTRICT FIVE YOUTH CLUBS

81 88 142 162

Youth Club Name

Needville Youth Club Houston Youth Club Houston Youth Club Iowa Colony Youth Club

Certs. Issued

DISTRICT SIX YOUTH CLUBS

Lodge No.

30 40

Youth Club Name

0 1 0 0

Certs. Issued

Taiton Youth Club El Campo-Hillje Youth Club

0 0

DISTRICT SEVEN YOUTH CLUBS

Lodge No.

185 202

Youth Club Name

Certs. Issued

New Branfels Youth Club Jourdanton Youth Club

0 0

Listing reflects youth clubs whose quarterly reports were received by January 31, 2015, and youth clubs that are active.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

VӖSTNÍK

From the Districts

District One Spring Meeting Set for Sunday, April 26

Dear Members, Save the date . . . the District One Spring Meeting has changed to Sunday, April 26, 2015, with registration at 1:30 p.m. The meeting will begin at 2 p.m. Lodge 9, Snook will host the event.

We look forward to seeing you on April 26 in Snook. Fraternally, Donnie Victorick, FIC, CFFM District One Director —SPJST—

District Four Spring Meeting set for April 12 at Lodge 49, Rowena

Dear District Four Members, The time is coming for the District Four Spring Meeting. The meeting will be held at Lodge 49, Rowena on Sunday, April 12, 2015. Registration is at 11 a.m. A meal will be served, and the meeting will take place immediately after. The youth will participate in a Christmas card design contest. Also, this is the time for election of officers for the district. If anyone would like to run for an office, please

let me or District Four President Laura Pospichal know. Also, please RSVP to Laura (325) 365-6485 or Becky (325) 656-0029 so we can get a head count for the meal. We hope to have a large crowd. Your support will be appreciated. Fraternally, Becky Wood District Four Secretary —SPJST—

District Six Spring Meeting Agenda Hosted by Lodge 32, Victoria Sunday, March 15, 2015 Victoria Educational Gardens and Officer’s Club

10:30 a.m. – Audit and Nominating Committees Meet 11 a.m. – Registration Begins 12 noon – Catered Meal Served Lodges are to bring two desserts and a door prize.

Special reports will begin immediately following the meal. Czech Heritage Museum.................................................................Philip Vahalik Education and Nature Center..............................................................Lisa Bubela Rest Home......................................................................................Charles Bucek Cemetery...........................................................................................David Bucek

Business Meeting Call to order ..........................................................................President Joe Siptak Posting of Colors .............................................................Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Welcome ..................................................Lodge 32 President Michael Ahlstrom Response/ Second Vice President/FAC Introduction of Guests ...............................................................Helen Zabransky Roll Call of Officers, Lodges, and Standing Committees.............................................Secretary Wanda Dorotik Treasurer’s Report ....................................................Treasurer Marjorie Treumer Youth Report.............................................................................DYC Lisa Bubela

Standing Committee and Executive Reports By-Law ...........................................................................................Joe Siptak Publication ................................................................................Helen Kelner Finance.................................................................................Glenn Kaminsky Insurance................................................................................Jerome Hlavaty Supreme Lodge Report................................Financial Secretary Roy Vajdak Fraternal Field Manager........................................................Delisle Doherty District Six Director’s Report and Activities Report ...............Karen Kaspar

Old Business New Business Announcements Report of Nominating Committee and Election of Officers Report of Audit Committee Memorial Service...........................................First Vice President Annie Vahalik Recognition of 50- and 75-Year Members, Age 96 Honorees and Fraternalists of the Year

Adult and Youth Awards and Special Presentations Fall District Meeting Information Installation of Officers Adjournment

Directions Located by the old Aviation Control Tower at Victoria Regional Airport at 283 Bachelor Drive in Victoria, Texas. From State Highway 59, turn onto Foster Field Drive at Victoria Airport. Turn left at Aviation Circle. Turn right at Piper Street. Turn left on Hanger Drive which becomes Bachelor Drive. You will see Victoria Educational Gardens and the Officer’s Club on the left. Submitted by, Wanda Dorotik, District Six Secretary —SPJST—

SPJST Seeks Funds to Establish Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Scholarship

In loving memory of Honorary SPJST District Two Director and Home Office Staff Member Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. who passed away on May 10, 2014, Lodge 47, Seaton and Brother Frank’s family are seeking to raise funds to establish an endowed scholarship fund in Brother Frank’s name. When the fund reaches $10,000, SPJST will begin awarding scholarships in his name. Brother Klinkovsky had 23 years of service with the Home Office. He was employed as State Fraternal Activities Coordination from 1988 to 1996. He then served as District Two Director from 1997 to 2004. He returned to the Home Office as Fraternal Department Assistant in 2005 and continued in the position until his death.

Known for always being concerned about others, he was a man of service. He served his country in the Navy, served his community through SPJST, served children as District Two Youth Counselor from 1971 to 1988, served his family as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and most importantly, served his Lord and Savior. A lifelong member of Lodge 47, Seaton, Frank held many positions in the lodge. He also worked as curator for the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple. Please complete the form below and mail your donation today. Donors will be listed in the Vestnik. Thank you for your support. —SPJST—

SPJST Scholarship Fund — Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Donation Amount: $___________

In Memory of:_____________________________________ Donation by:______________________________________ Address:_________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Make checks payable to SPJST Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund. Mail to: SPJST Attention: Memorial Scholarship Fund PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Minutes January 20, 21, and 22, 2015, Regular Meeting of SPJST Supreme Lodge held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas

PRESIDING The meeting was called to order by Supreme Lodge Chairman Donnie Victorick on January 20, 2015, at 8 a.m.

ATTENDING Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Clifton Coufal, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer; Donnie Victorick - District One/Chairman; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three; Billy Rollwitz - District Four; Larry W. Pflughaupt - District Five; Karen Kaspar - District Six/Vice Chairman; and Robert J. Bayer - District Seven. Officer—Roy Vajdak, Financial Secretary. OPENING OF MEETING The meeting was opened by Chairman Victorick with a welcome and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed in respect to our departed members and in honor of our armed forces. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska then led the Supreme Lodge in an opening prayer.

ANNOUNCEMENTS President Vanicek announced a social this evening at Ratibor Country Grill. He announced that Consultant Buddie Ballard will present a report on investment performance on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. Tom Pyle and T. J. Johnson, actuaries from the Allen Bailey firm, will bring a report on actuarial matters at 4 p.m. on Wednesday. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 14, 15 AND 16, 2014 REGULAR MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. The minutes were approved as presented on unanimously adopted motion by Director Rollwitz, seconded by Director Kaspar. EXECUTIVE MINUTES The meeting went into executive session from 8:20 until 8:25 a.m. to consider executive minutes.

MINUTES OF OFFICERS’ MEETINGS CONCERNING INVESTMENTS The minutes of 19 officers’ meetings concerning investments were presented. They are: October – 6, 7, 17, 24, 28, 29, 31 November – 5, 6, 12, 17, 19, 24 December – 2, 3, 4, 10, 19, 31

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

MANAGEMENT TEAM MEETING NOTES Opportunity was given to review the weekly Management Team meeting notes. Additional information was asked and shared on various matters that came up during the team meetings. Clarification was asked on various reports and decisions made by the Management Team as recorded in the Management Team meeting notes. Suggestions were made relative to specific items that came up during several team meetings.

Permitted use of the meeting room space in the Home Office came up. The Supreme Lodge voiced its opinion of what uses are permitted when the space is not being used by SPJST. The team meeting notes were acknowledged on motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Director Kaspar, and the motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 9:17 until 9:32 a.m.

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OLD BUSINESS Director Kaspar reported for the audit committee on the audit that was done the day before. The audit was done by Director Kaspar, Director Pospisil, and Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick. President Vanicek was present for the audit. The other Supreme Lodge Officers were present for some portions of the audit.

The committee looked into various areas of the budget. Suggestions were made about reclassifying some categories in the general ledger. The committee questioned some items and received explanations. The certificate renewal procedures were reviewed, and it was suggested that certificate renewal notifications be followed up by a phone contact.

Suggestions were made that consideration be given to staggering employee lunch breaks. The matter will be reviewed by the Supreme Lodge Officers.

The audit committee reviewed a number of matters which will be taken up in due course during the meeting. Director Kaspar complimented the officers on moving the organization in a positive direction.

PRESIDENT’S OLD BUSINESS State Youth Director Lynette Talasek presented her report which included the State Youth Director’s daily time record, upcoming activities, and other items. She also discussed the camp allocation, online training, and youth leader incentive.

There was discussion about our policy for reviewing counselors and leaders who will work with children at camp and in our youth program. The importance of having accurate names and aliases was emphasized.

There was a detailed review of training of the leadership in our youth program. The training of summer staff also came up and how to make the camping experience better.

A motion by Director Pospisil, seconded by Director Kaspar, was adopted to provide for online training for leaders/counselors in the youth and camping program.

There was discussion about an incentive program providing a cash incentive to youth leaders for growing their youth clubs. The proposal was a $100 award for a youth club that adds five members and $200 for a youth club that adds 10 members. The incentive will be paid to the youth leader. If the youth leader has assistants, the amount could be shared with his/her assistant(s). Director Kaspar moved that the youth leader incentive be approved. Director Pospisil seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. The incentive would be based on the average increase in the youth club.

A detailed report of the 2015 camp allocation was reviewed. The following motion was adopted unanimously: To ask the Finance Committee for a camper allocation of $160 per camper because of increased cost. The District Youth Counselor (DYC) was then instructed to pay the projected camp costs early, resulting in a 10 percent savings. In turn, the savings incurred are to be directed to the DYC(s) in an amount commensurate with the number of campers participating in their district(s) camp. The resulting amount is to be used by the DYC(s) for healthy snacks and/or supplies. The motion was made by Director Kaspar and seconded by Director Pospisil.

The amount of $142 will be advanced and remaining amount will be paid to the camp and the districts get the balance. Recess was taken from 11:10 until 11:20 a.m.

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Horak presented a written report. The report included a list of lodge meetings he attended and his travel log.

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State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Horak reported the following goals for the coming months: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Attend officer workshops in each district Attend and run fraternal tournaments Attend district meetings Continue to work with District FACs Provide information to lodges to achieve a sense of purpose and mission Assist lodges in the implementation of fraternal programs

HUMAN RESOURCES REPORT President Vanicek referred to items in the Human Resource Department report. FOURTH QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS Among the items highlighted by President Vanicek were as follows:

• Ongoing discussions on matters related to ASCAP/BMI licensure • Summary of lodges that received special assistance and/or training during the quarter • Review of Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Annual Meeting in La Grange • Summary of events sponsored and/or hosted by SPJST during the quarter • Review of Christmas Open House celebration • Update on Fort Hood November 5th, 2009 Memorial • Summary of notable lodge developments in quarter President Vanicek reported that the November 5, 2009 Fort Hood Memorial is well underway. There will be a dedication of the Memorial in Killeen on November 5, 2015.

WEST BENEVOLENCE FUND President Vanicek reviewed the various developments in the West, Texas, funding and the importance of SPJST involvement. Our leadership helped to bring in a significant amount of funds. ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP President Vanicek gave an update on guidelines for the Frank Klinkovsky scholarship endowment fund and the Johnnie Krizan scholarship endowment fund.

REORGANIZATIONS President Vanicek discussed lodge reorganization meetings. He focused on the recent Lodge 87 reorganization effort.

VARIOUS LODGE ISSUES President Vanicek briefly reviewed dealings between lodges concerning issues connected to entertainment. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:10 until 1 p.m.

EARNED PREMIUM Vice President Coufal reviewed the earned premium report. He discussed the difference between earned premium and annualized premium when used to determine incentives and awards.

MONTHLY INSURANCE REPORT Vice President Coufal reviewed the amount of insurance written and issued during 2014. Certificates issued for last year were down 25.32 percent; insurance issued by dollar volume was down 23.50 percent; and earned premium was up 3.87 percent.

ISSUED APPLICATIONS AND PERSISTENCY Vice President Coufal reviewed reports of issued applications and persistency for 2012 to 2014. No agents were currently pending training.

ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONAL ITEMS Vice President Coufal reported on use of advertising and promotional items. A discussion took place about use and desirability of items given for door prizes. Vice President Coufal asked for input on the kind of items that are desirable.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

ANNUAL REVIEWS Vice President Coufal discussed progress on training and motivation to do annual reviews. The two districts with the greatest percentage of reviews were District Six with 38 percent of total returned annual reviews and District Five with 22 percent of total returned annual reviews. UPDATE ON LONG TERM CARE Vice President Coufal reported that no new long term care business has been received.

INCENTIVES Vice President Coufal gave a report on the cash for apps motivator and amounts paid out. Recess was taken from 2:55 until 3:05 p.m.

LODGE COMPLIANCE Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reported on lodge compliance. He reported on two lodges that were delinquent in providing us with evidence of filing their 2014 IRS Form 990. He also reported on lodges not furnishing an update of lodge officers. FINANCIAL SECRETARY VAJDAK’S OLD BUSINESS Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the following reports:

VESTNIK Vestnik subscription now stands at 9,619 with 47 non-member subscribers paying $25 annually. MEMBERSHIP COUNT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported the membership count is 42,112, and certificate count is 50,075 certificates.

ADDRESS UPDATE PROJECT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported progress on the unknown address list of 4,638 members. The list number is reduced to 3,708 unknown addresses.

ADMIN SYSTEM Financial Secretary Vajdak discussed that he is continuing to work with our USSI representative and reported the upgrade to the USSI Admin System has commenced and numerous necessary corrections and innovations are in process.

COMPUTER SYSTEM Financial Secretary Vajdak referred to an extensive report of various corrections and needed changes to our computer systems such as adding an in-house email server. He also reported that we have added the ability to electronically deposit checks.

DIRECTOR’S OLD BUSINESS DISTRICT TWO Director Pospisil reported that he attended Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy meeting; District Two Youth social; Lodge 80, Holland meeting; Lodge 29, Taylor meeting; District Two Beseda Fun Day; Lodge 15, Buckholts meeting; District Two Sales Agents’ meeting at Lodge 87, Temple; Supreme Lodge meeting; Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club bingo for S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living residents; retirement ceremony for Hiram Dixon; Fraternal Alliance Of Texas meeting; Fort Hood Memorial Fundraiser; Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point meeting and presented discretionary check to the lodge president; Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club meeting and presented discretionary check to the youth leader; Lodge 187, Round Rock meeting and presented discretionary check to the lodge president; Lodge 87, Temple meeting and presented discretionary check to the lodge president; Lodge 80, Holland meeting and presented discretionary check to the lodge president; Lodge 20, Granger meeting; Lodge 18, Elgin meeting; Home Office Open House; Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Christmas meeting and installed the 2015 lodge officers; Lodge 182, Falls County Christmas meeting; Lodge 29, Taylor Christmas meeting; Lodge 177, Academy Christmas meeting; Lodge 47, Seaton Christmas meeting and installed the 2015 lodge officers; Lodge 24, Cyclone Christmas

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

meeting; Lodge 18, Elgin Christmas meeting and installed the 2015 officers; and attended the Home Office Staff Christmas party. He also presented discretionary checks to the president of Lodge 155, Austin; to the assistant youth leader in Beyersville; and on behalf of Lodge 20, Granger to the First Methodist Church Christmas food pantry. Director Pospisil represented District Two at the ceremony for Brian Vanicek.

DISTRICT THREE Director Engelke reported that he attended the Texas State Fair in Dallas; District Three planning meeting in Hillsboro; Lodge 66, Waco meeting; Svacina presentation at the Home Office; Fraternal Alliance Of Texas meeting in La Grange; District Three Fall Meeting at Lodge 84, Dallas; Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting; Lodge 54, West meeting and elections; Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting and elections; Lodge 35, Elk meeting and elections; tree planting ceremony at SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm; Lodge 6, Cottonwood appreciation lunch; Lodge 66, Waco meeting; Sokol groundbreaking ceremony in West; Temple Christmas Parade and Home Office Open House; Holiday in the Park in Arlington; Lodge 54, West Christmas party and tour; Lodge 66, Waco meeting; visitation and funeral service for Mrs. Dobecka in West; Lodge 183, Arlington Christmas party; and Lodge 35, Elk Christmas party. He delivered scrapbooks, insurance paperwork, and Christmas treats to the Home Office. Director Engelke picked up 20 cases of cookbooks for Lodge 6, Cottonwood. He also presented a discretionary funds check to Caritas of Waco.

DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz reported that he attended the Supreme Lodge meeting in Temple; Fraternal Alliance Of Texas meeting in La Grange; S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home meeting in Taylor; Lodge 49, Rowena meeting and gave reports; Lodge 160, San Angelo annual meeting and gave reports; meeting with officers of Lodge 76, Wichita Falls to help plan upcoming programs for the year; Christmas Open House at the Home Office in Temple and presented a check to the museum; meeting with Bobby Davis to discuss existing certificates; Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas party; Lodge 76, Wichita Falls meeting and Christmas party; S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home meeting in Taylor; and a meeting with Bobby Davis to discuss programs and plans for 2015. He also accompanied Bobby Davis to Lodge 230, Midland for a meeting and Christmas party and to Tahoka to discussed 2015 meetings. He also attended a continuing education class in Plainview.

DISTRICT FIVE Director Pflughaupt reported that he attended a continuing education insurance class at Lodge 81, Needville; Fraternal Alliance Of Texas annual meeting in conjunction with the National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors annual meeting in La Grange; Lodge 142, Houston meeting and gave director’s report; Lodge 88, Houston meeting and gave director’s report; Czech Center Museum Houston Annual Gala Fundraiser; Lodge 81, Needville meeting, installed officers, and gave director’s report; Temple Christmas Parade and Home Office Open House; Home Office Staff social and team meeting at the Home Office; Lodge 91, San Jacinto quarterly meeting, installed officers, and gave director’s report (the meeting was held at China Ko Restaurant in Crosby); Lodge 88, Houston Bingo Committee Christmas social at the Taqueria Latigo in Houston; Lodge 88, Houston Birthday Club Sisters’ Christmas luncheon; Lodge 88, Houston annual meeting, gave director’s report, and after the social met with the officers of the lodge; Lodge 172, Pasadena meeting and Christmas social at Kelly’s Country Restaurant in Pasadena; visitation for Antonia “Earline” Hoffman of Lodge 88, Houston at the Family Chapel of Forest Park Lawndale in Houston; visitation for Clem “Butch” Pechacek of Lodge 88, Houston at Earthman Hunters Creek Funeral Home in Houston; visitation for Jeanette Marie Bender of Lodge 88, Houston at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Needville; funeral service for Clem Pechacek at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Houston; funeral service for Jeanette Bender at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Needville and interment at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Rosenberg; mandatory annual insurance class for Districts Five and Six at Lodge 81, Needville; and Lodge 88, Houston meeting for outside audit report and ballot result on possible sale of lodge building. He visited with the auditor handling the review and evaluation of Lodge 88, Houston’s procedures and financial records. He also participated in the Christmas program and presentation of monetary donation from Lodge 88, Houston to S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home No. 2, Needville.

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DISTRICT SIX Director Kaspar reported that she attended Lodge 30, Taiton meeting; Wharton County Czech Heritage Society Dozinky in Taiton; Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje meeting; EMSI meeting in Waco; Supreme Lodge quarterly meeting in Temple; Garry Kinder/Kinder Brothers call-in training; Fraternal Alliance Of Texas annual meeting and Texas Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors annual meeting in La Grange; Lodge 8, Weimar meeting; meeting with Lodge 40, El CampoHillje Treasurer Janet Marek; Lodge 30, Taiton meeting; Lodge 28, East Bernard meeting/install officers; Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting; attended Veterans Day Parade in Victoria with Lodge 97, Placedo and the SPJST Float; Lodge 41, Port Lavaca quarterly meeting; Lodge 184, Moulton holiday social, meeting, and to install officers; Lodge 32, Victoria meeting and to install officers; Lodge 8, Weimar meeting and holiday social; Temple Christmas Parade and Home Office Open House; Home Office staff, officers, and team meeting; participated in El Campo Christmas Parade-SPJST float; Lodge 97, Placedo quarterly meeting, Christmas social, and to install officers; Lodge 63, Sweet Home meeting, Christmas social, and install officers; Lodge 23, Moravia quarterly meeting, Christmas social, and to install officers; Lodge 151, Wharton quarterly meeting, Christmas social, and to install officers; Joe Priesler funeral service in East Bernard; and Lodge 30, Taiton meeting, Christmas social, and to install officers. She participated in a call-in American Fraternal Alliance/McBee Strategic information. Director Kaspar participated in the El Campo Christmas Parade with the SPJST Float. She also presented District Six Director’s discretionary funds Parkview Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation in Weimar; El Campo Volunteer Fire Department; El Campo Branch of Wharton County Library; and West Wharton County Crime stoppers in memory of Cindy Howell.

DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bob Bayer reported that he attended District Seven Fall Fun Day in New Berlin, hosted by Lodge 258, Seguin; meeting with Vice President Coufal in Floresville (we discussed SPJST business in District Seven; it was very informative); Lodge 107, Floresville Christmas supper; meeting with Bobby Davis to discuss sales agents and prior meetings; and Lodge 107, Floresville meeting. Director Bayer asked District Fraternal Activities Coordinator Glen Pruski to attend the Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meetings on his behalf along with meetings at Lodge 117, Robstown; Lodge 133, San Antonio; Lodge 185, New Braunfels; and Lodge 202, Jourdanton.

DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick reported that he attended American Fraternal Alliance Master Board Institute in Pittsburgh; Texas Fraternal Alliance Of Texas annual meeting in La Grange; Lodge 38, Kovar appreciation day for members; Lodge 9, Snook monthly meeting; Lodge 13, Dime Box monthly meeting; Lodge 1, Fayetteville Historical Marker dedication; Lodge 18, Elgin meeting per request; reception with Czech Prime Minister and ceremony for Brian Vanicek as Honorary Czech Consul for Texas; visitation for Dan Balusek in Cameron; Temple Christmas Parade and Home Office Open House; Lodge 9, Snook meeting; Lodge 169, Brenham meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 51, Ellinger meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 17, New Tabor memorial service and Christmas social; Lodge 141, Sealy meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 67, Schulenburg meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 47, Seaton memorial service and Christmas social; Lodge 186, Caldwell meeting and Christmas social; Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Party; and Lodge 39, Bryan monthly meeting. Recess was taken from 4 until 4:10 p.m. NEW BUSINESS

AWARDS BANQUET PREVIEW President Vanicek previewed the plans and arrangements that have been made on the SPJST Awards Banquet that will take place on January 31, 2015. He shared with the Supreme Lodge the various details of the wonderful program that is planned and what to expect at this event. CALENDAR OF SELECT EVENTS FOR 2015 President Vanicek reviewed the 2015 calendar dates for SPJST. The calendar is an important tool in helping everyone plan and schedule their participation in the many events that will be taking place.

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Wednesday, February 25, 2015

ELECTRONIC BROCHURES (PDF) PRESENTATION President Vanicek reported on efforts to bring all of our forms to a high level of standards utilizing the pdf format. He emphasized and outlined what is in process to bring us up-to-date.

Vice President Coufal reported that training is an essential aspect of production, and he began a quarterly training program of applicants in each district. He reported that an eight-hour training program has been developed for Universal Life.

Recess for the day was taken at 4:50 p.m. until 8 a.m. on January 21.

Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick called the meeting to order. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska led the opening prayer.

ENHANCED COMMUNICATIONS Vice President Coufal discussed the importance of communication with agents and our members. He reported on a bi-weekly newsletter of current events and providing of production numbers.

VESTNIK REPORT Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on the Vestnik discussing issues that have featured over 20 events or special items of interest.

Recess was taken from 9:25 until 9:35 a.m.

DRAFT OF NEW MODEL LODGE GUIDE President Vanicek referred to the SPJST Model Lodge Best Practices Guide. The guide includes topics for leaders to consider and discuss in building a more enjoyable and satisfying fraternal experience for our members and for the communities that we serve.

VESTNIK EDITOR/DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny joined the meeting by telephone and presented her report. She thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers during her recovery after the auto accident in December.

SPJST ONLINE PRESENCE Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny discussed updates to the website. She also reviewed social media accounts. She announced the groundwork for a new, updated website is in place, and work is projected to begin this quarter.

SPJST FLOATS/PARADE APPEARANCES Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reviewed a large number of parade appearances all over the state. She reviewed a list of 14 scheduled appearances for the floats in 2015.

ANNUAL LODGE MAILINGS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny referred to a list of 30 lodge mailouts that were completed by her department. VESTNIK COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on the following: 1. Various Home Office/District/Lodge/Youth Club activities 2. E-newsletter communication 3. Czech Heritage Month Vestnik contests 4. Home Office Halloween Party 5. 2015 SPJST Calendar 6. Vestnik archiving 7. Vestnik Reading Room

STATE OF THE VESTNIK Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny discussed the fact that all Vestniks were completed, and the auto accident did not keep her from publishing each issue of the Vestnik on time. She commented on how this was sometimes a real challenge. SPJST CAR SHOW Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported the SPJST Car Show is set for May 2, 2015, at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton.

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported that the Publication Committee meeting was rescheduled to Saturday, March 7 at the SPJST Home Office.

CHANGES MADE IN THE INSURANCE DEPARTMENT Vice President Coufal reported on several major changes made in the Insurance Department. One major change is that applications and documents with whiteout will not be accepted. The proper way to make a correction is to draw a line through the mistake and have it initialed by the applicant.

PENDING CERTIFICATES Vice President Coufal distributed a weekly report tracking progress of pending applications to assure that they are not being held up by some procedure at the Home Office. The number of pending applications and processing time has improved measurably.

DOCUMENT CHANGES/ACHS Vice President Coufal reported that we are now accepting faxes, scans, and email attachments as original documents. The form for accepting ACHs is in development to be utilized very soon. The process using ACHs was discussed, and the problems of generating a conditional receipt were explored. INVESTMENT REPORT Buddie Ballard, CFA was present to present a progress report on the SPJST Portfolio and a progress update on goals for 2014. Of the 10 goals for 2014, most have been met, or significant progress is evident.

Consultant Ballard reviewed goals for 2015. In summary, the goals were focused on: 1. Bringing asset duration closer to liability duration 2. Further strengthening SPJST financial position 3. Continue filling and extending duration and maturity ladder 4. Purchase securities that maintain a spread of at least 1.5 percent over cost of funds 5. Move A.M. Best BCAR score to 140 6. Add $1 million or more to surplus 7. Continue to ensure portfolio best practices are followed

Consultant Ballard thoroughly reviewed a performance analysis of the SPJST Portfolio. This included the time weighted net return, the standard deviation, Sharpe ratio, and Treynor ratio. Consultant Ballard discussed the outlook for 2015 and presented a report of projected income and any securities that are being closely monitored. Consultant Ballard was thanked for presenting a very thorough report. Recess was taken from 11:05 until 11:20 a.m.

Vice President Coufal proceeded with his report. It was agreed that if it was found that the ACHs could be handled by our system like a check for the initial payment, it was approved to proceed.

TERMINATED AGENTS Vice President Coufal discussed options for terminated agents with a negative balance. The information can be sent to TDI if the agent does not pay back the amount owed. PREFERRED STRETCH CRITERIA Vice President Coufal is proposing allowances for risk assessments to our preferred/preferred plus underwriting subject to approval by our reinsurer.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

AWARENESS ITEMS Vice President Coufal discussed products that would encourage captive agents to give SPJST more business. It was suggested that the best solution is to get the agent more involved with SPJST and our benefits in addition to life insurance.

Agents that are unsure of our products and don’t feel confident making a sale can be brought on board through proper training. There was a general discussion about setting minimum requirements to qualify for bonuses and incentives. The suggested number is 12 applications per year. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:15 until 1 p.m.

STAFF SERVICE AWARDS The Supreme Lodge recognized Tammy Martinez for 15 years of service. She is employed in the President’s Department and serves as Fraternal Services Specialist. She was praised for her fine service to SPJST. The award was presented to her by President Vanicek.

The Supreme Lodge recognized Rudy Constancio for 10 years of service. He is employed in the Secretary-Treasurer’s Department and is the Home Office Maintenance Manager. He was praised for his fine service to SPJST. The award was presented by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska.

Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick read a thank you message from Melanie Zavodny expressing appreciation for the event honoring her during the October Supreme Lodge meeting for 20 years of service.

The agenda returned to Vice President Coufal’s report. The discussion focused on the best method of caring for and servicing orphan members. There is a need to come up with more definitive figures to direct us in formulating our market approaches.

PAYING COMMISSION ON RATINGS Vice President Coufal discussed a change that would allow payment of commission on amounts paid for substandard ratings. The matter was deferred until we have more complete information.

PERSISTENCY Vice President Coufal proposed changing our persistency to 85 percent at 13 months to qualify for bonuses and incentives. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved that the persistency period be changed to 13 months, 85 percent for the 2015 incentive period. Director Kaspar seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. TERM FOR LIFE Vice President Coufal proposed we look into a Term for Life plan. After due deliberation, it was agreed to postpone development of the product.

YOUTH ACHIEVER PLAN Vice President Coufal proposed we look into a youth achiever plan focusing on youth. After discussion, it was agreed to postpone development of the product. Recess was taken from 2:30 until 2:40 p.m.

EMSI/UNDERWRITING Vice President Coufal reported he would like for us to have EMSI develop a policy of underwriting standards outside of our reinsurer. Estimated cost would be $3,000.

Director Pospisil moved the request be authorized. Director Engelke seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Director Kaspar moved that underwriting be retained in house as recommended by Vice President Coufal. Director Pflughaupt seconded, and the motion carried with nine in favor and one opposed. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President Coufal, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, Director Engelke, Director Pflughaupt, Director Kaspar, and Director

Bayer. Voting in opposition: Director Rollwitz.

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2015 INCENTIVE PROGRAM PROPOSAL Vice President Coufal brought up the incentive program for 2015 entitled, “Let the Good Times Roll!”

The proposed program was reviewed. Vice President Coufal discussed the changes from last year’s program and explained the reason for the changes.

After due deliberation, Vice President Coufal moved that the proposed incentive program be approved as amended and corrected. Director Pflughaupt seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

CASH FLOW TESTING (CFT) Actuaries Tom Pyle and T.J. Johnson were present to review results of CFT for SPJST. The CFT results indicated SPJST was well positioned. The annuity exposure appears to be well covered but needs to be monitored on an annual basis. Based on the CFT, SPJST will not need to put up additional reserves. There was a lengthy discussion about various actuarial, management, and financial matters. Recess was taken at 5:35 p.m. until 8 a.m. on January 22, 2015

Chairman Victorick called the meeting to order. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska led the invocation. PERSISTENCY BONUS Vice President Coufal brought up the persistency bonus.

Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska moved, Vice President Coufal seconded, that the persistency bonus be amended to: persistency of 90 percent; 2013 premium at 10 percent; 2014 premium at 5 percent; minimum of 10 applications in one of two periods. The motion carried unanimously.

The audit committee and Vice President Coufal expressed the need to continue to move forward with new development and to bring the SPJST website up to date. LOAN DELINQUENCIES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed recommendations on 12 delinquent loans and moved approval of the recommendations. Director Rollwitz seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT (ERM) POLICY Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska discussed the fact that our ERM Policy is in place. The committees now need to meet and spend some time reviewing and understanding their areas of responsibility. He recommended that be done soon and prior to our conference with A.M. Best.

QUARTERLY INVESTMENTS Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska presented the listing of securities purchased and sold during the quarter. The purchases and sales were ratified as reported on motion by Director Bayer seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

INVESTMENT POLICY STATEMENT (IPS) A copy of the IPS was included in Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska’s report and reviewed. No changes were deemed necessary since it had been amended during the March 2014 Supreme Lodge meeting.

ANNUITY PAYOUT RATES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska referred to a report on annuity plans and rates which included recommended payout rates. The recommendation for annuity payout rates for the period from February 1, 2015, through April 30, 2015, are:

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Product ID #1 Guaranteed rate 5.0% #2 Guaranteed rate 3.0% #3 Guaranteed rate 2.55% #4 Guaranteed rate 2.50% #5 Guaranteed rate 1.50% * #6 Guaranteed rate 2.00% #O5 Guaranteed rate 2.00% #A5 Guaranteed rate 1.50% * #A10 Guaranteed rate 1.00% * Minors’ Claim Settlement Option rate

Recommended Payout Rate 5.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% 2.50% 1.50%

The recommended annuity payout rates were approved on motion by SecretaryTreasurer Mikeska, seconded by Director Pospisil, and carried unanimously.

UNIVERSAL LIFE PAYOUT RATES Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska referred to a report on Universal Life Plans and rates which included recommended payout rates. The recommended payout rates for the period of February 1, 2015, through April 30, 2015 are: Product ID UL1 Guaranteed rate 4.50% UL2 Guaranteed rate 3.0% UL3 Guaranteed rate 2.50% * WLUL1 Guaranteed rate 3.00% WLUL3 Guaranteed rate 2.50% * Lodge Management Fund

*Denotes plans currently marketed.

Recommended Payout Rate 4.50% 3.00% 3.00% 3.50% 3.50% 3.00%

The recommended Universal Life payout rates were approved on motion by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, seconded Director Pospisil, and the motion carried unanimously.

2016 SPJST CONVENTION Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed information that the 2016 SPJST Convention is set for June 12 to 15, 2016, at Killeen Civic and Conference Center. The center is reserved for June 10 to 16, 2016, and blocks of rooms are set aside. We have confirmed that all reservations are in order.

COOPER FARM Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska discussed the fact that the ENC and its building are located on property leased by the ENC. He brought up the possibility that SPJST consider making an offer to purchase the property now leased to the ENC. He reported the details of opinions about the valuation of the property. The possibilities were thoroughly deliberated. Director Pospisil moved, and Vice President Coufal seconded, that Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska and Financial Secretary Vajdak meet with the Lessor to explore possibility of acquiring the property.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the December 2014 Statement of Operations, Balance Sheet, and Budget Variance report.

REFUND TO LODGES FOR 2014 Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the list of lodges due to receive a refund based on the new formula of $1 per paid-up certificate and 2.8 percent of earned premium. Lodges not in full compliance were placed on hold. SUMMARY OF ANNUITIES Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed a listing of the amounts and duration of annuities on our books.

LODGE MANAGEMENT ACCOUNT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that lodges withdrew $77,455 from the lodge management fund.

DIRECTOR’S NEW BUSINESS DIRECTOR POSPISIL Director Pospisil congratulated Director Rollwitz on completing 15 years of service to SPJST. Director Pospisil called attention to the fact that this is the first meeting for Vice President Clifton Coufal and complimented him on his good work.

DIRECTOR ENGELKE Director Engelke congratulated Director Rollwitz on his 15 years of service. Director Engelke thanked all for a good job of looking at everything that may need attention.

DIRECTOR ROLLWITZ Director Rollwitz warmly expressed his deep appreciation for honoring him with the dinner party marking his 15 years of service. DIRECTOR PFLUGHAUPT Director Pflughaupt thanked the audit committee for its thorough audit. He congratulated Director Rollwitz on his 15 years of service.

Director Pflughaupt thanked Vice President Coufal for progress in marketing plans. Director Pflughaupt emphasized key words—self-sufficiency and quality control—should be our first priority. He commented that first impressions are important on our website and anything we do, electronic or on paper. He emphasized that we need quality control. Regarding expenses, Director Pflughaupt commented that we need to monitor them, and if we don’t really need something, don’t buy it. DIRECTOR KASPAR Director Kaspar welcomed Vice President Coufal and stated she is looking forward to what we will accomplish.

FARM LOANS Director Rollwitz brought up the matter of cash advance farm loans and spoke in favor of this practice. After due deliberation, Vice President Coufal moved and Director Pospisil seconded that cash advance loans on farm real estate be allowed where the valuation is sufficient to secure such loans. The motion carried unanimously.

Director Kaspar congratulated Director Rollwitz on his 15 years of service to SPJST.

CALENDARS 2015 Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that calendars were sent to 26,035 households at a cost of $0.815 per mailing.

DIRECTOR BAYER Director Bayer congratulated Director Rollwitz. He commented that he always enjoys doing loan appraisals with Director Rollwitz.

PRIVACY NOTICE/UNCLAIMED PROPERTY Financial Secretary Vajdak reported he is working unclaimed property recovery and reporting to search for addresses of members with unknown addresses prior to mailing privacy notices to all certificate holders.

Director Kaspar expressed get well wishes for Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny and husband David on their recovery and also to Director Bayer as he recovers.

Director Kaspar thanked the audit committee members and commented it was good to work with them. She expressed her appreciation to the entire Supreme Lodge for their good work this week. She spoke positively about expectations for 2015.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Director Bayer congratulated Vice President Coufal on his first meeting.

Director Bayer reported that District Seven FAC Glen Pruski conducted officer installations in lodges during his rehabilitation which he appreciated very much.

Director Bayer commented that we had a very good meeting. He cautioned that we still have more study to do on the expense side. DIRECTOR VICTORICK Director Victorick congratulated Director Rollwitz on his 15 years of service.

Director Victorick complimented Vice President Coufal on bringing us new ideas.

Director Victorick thanked everyone for their efforts in making this a very good meeting. It was his opinion that we have made a lot of accomplishments and encouraged that we continue to move forward. He emphasized the importance of us making sure we do things the proper way and follow protocol to eliminate discrepancies. Director Victorick stated he is excited about 2015, and that we will see good improvement.

The Supreme Lodge went into executive session at 11:25 and returned to regular session at 11:30 a.m.

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tages of meeting with our legislators outweigh any negatives of changing the meeting dates. The meeting is currently scheduled for April 21 to 23, 2015.

Vice President Coufal moved, and Director Kaspar seconded, that the Supreme Lodge meeting dates be changed to April 22 to 24, 2015. The motion carried unanimously. Financial Secretary Vajdak handed out copies of the Report of Directors, the Balance Sheet, and a Statement of Operations. The documents were reviewed by the Supreme Lodge for signature by the directors. ADJOURNMENT Director Pospisil moved adjournment. Director Rollwitz seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned 12:10 p.m.

Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—

ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Director Rollwitz moved adjournment. Director Kaspar seconded and the motion carried unanimously. Chairman Victorick adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

The next regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge will begin on April 22 at 9 a.m. Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—

Minutes January 31, 2015 Special Meeting of SPJST Supreme Lodge held at the Mayborn Convention Center, Temple, Texas

The meeting was called to order at 11:30 a.m.

ATTENDING Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Clifton Coufal, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer; Donnie Victorick - District One/Chairman; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three; Billy Rollwitz - District Four; Larry W. Pflughaupt - District Five; Karen Kaspar - District Six/Vice Chairman; and Robert J. Bayer - District Seven. Officer—Roy Vajdak, Financial Secretary. PURPOSE OF MEETING The purpose of the meeting was to address the: 1. Conflict of the April Supreme Lodge meeting date with the American Fraternal Alliance Executive Summit. 2. To consider the Report of Directors, Balance Sheet, and Statement of Operations.

President Vanicek commented that he is usually reluctant to change Supreme Lodge meeting dates. In this case, moving the meeting one day would enable Supreme Lodge members at the American Fraternal Alliance to participate in the legislative contacts day to communicate with members of Congress. The advan-

Let the Good Times Roll! 2015 Membership Program

SPJST Supports Parkview Manor Nursing Home in Weimar

Lodge 8, Weimar Vice President Erline Janik, left, presents a donation to Parkview Manor Nursing Home in Weimar. The donation was on behalf of SPJST through the District Six Director’s discretionary funds.

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SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

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 24, Cyclone Lodge 47, Seaton invites all to announces March 7 dance upcoming Cabin fever can be cured at the Red meetings

Ravens dance at Flag Hall, home of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone, on Saturday, March 7, 2015. Doors open at 6 p.m.; dance starts at 7 p.m. Kitchen will be open. Bring your dancing shoes, and see you on March 7! For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge Karel Jonáš, No. 28, East Bernard meets March 15

Dear Members, Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard will hold its March meeting at the District Six Spring Meeting in Victoria on Sunday, the 15th - sometime before or after the spring meeting. More on that meeting and the following meetings later. To the faithful: Hope to see you in Victoria, plan to attend, and this writer remains . . . Ze bratrským pozdravů Joseph D. Nezval, FIC Vice President —SPJST—

Dear Vestnik Readers, Please make note of changes to the next couple months of Lodge 47, Seaton meeting dates and activities.

March 1 Meeting Sunday, March 1 will be the recognition of 50-year and 75-year members. Lodge members, please bring a side dish, salad, or dessert for the meal following in honor of these members. Meat will be furnished by the lodge.

April 12 Meeting On Sunday, April 12, adults and youth will meet at 3 p.m. Easter egg hunt follows the meetings. The District Two Beseda Dancers will have their annual fundraiser/silent auction/prize drawing at Star Hall on April 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

enjoy the barbecue meal prior to the meeting and support these Czech youth dancers! Thank you for making note of these date changes, and we hope to see you at Star Hall! Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

to join you. We thank you for being a member of this wonderful organization. We look forward to seeing each of you and your guest on March 1 at 2 p.m. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Lodge 66, Waco to recognize longtime members reports on February meeting Dear Members, The next monthly meeting of Lodge 47, Seaton will be Sunday, March 1, 2015, at 2 p.m. The meeting will entail a very special program with the honoring and recognition of our 50- and 75year lodge members. Lodge 47 is honored to recognize three 75-year members—Marvin James Chlapek, Eugene Harry Kotrla, and Martha Palla and 24 fifty-year members—Timothy Chlapek, Marcia Dodd, Donna Fricke Durbin, Deborah Hejl, Lois Hejl, Evelyn Fricke Henning, Sharon Hilliard, Douglas Holland, Joyce Klinkovsky, Martha Kopriva, Richard Kuban, Wilton Marek, Jr., Judy McCarthy, Kenneth Paysse Sr., David Pechal, Sandra Perry, Ginger Ringwald, Sherry Russell, Gene Skrabanek, Clarence Sodek, Lewis Sodek, Jr, James Sula, Lisa Tepera, and Elden Zavodny. Each of you should have received an invitation inviting you to this special occasion. A meal will also be served in your honor. Please invite your family

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Members Celebrate February Birthdays

Happy February birthdays to Lodge 6, Cottonwood celebrants Mary Neckar, left, and Evelyn Stuckly.

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President John Engelke on Monday, February 9 2015, at La Vega High School at 6 p.m. with all officers present with the exception of Vice President Michael Galler and Guide Mary Lou Urbanek. There were seven members present. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and motto. Secretary Sister Dana McAdams read the minutes of the Thursday, January 12 meeting, and they were approved as read. Sister Dana McAdams received the 50-year pins from Ruth Hanusch of the Fraternal Department. Members to receive 50-year pins are Paula Claridy, Larry Gene Juricek, Elwood W. Landa, Jerry G. Maynard, and Madeline D. Simcik. They will be presented at Lodge 66’s May meeting. Sister Dana McAdams received a letter from Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek informing us that we are to receive an enhanced premium refund at the SPJST Awards Banquet on Saturday, January 31. President Engelke read a flyer about the SPJST Valentine fundraiser dance on Saturday, February 14 at Lodge 25, Ennis. Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Entertainment Committee gave her report. Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Cheer and Condolence Committee reported she sent get well cards to Debbie Galler and Mary Lou Urbanek. Hope both are feeling better. Brother Louie Veselka reported there were no grievances. FAC Sister Diana Engelke read the fraternal activities coordinator letter from State FAC Frank Horak. Sister Diana Engelke distributed Every Day Hero pins to the members present at today’s meeting. Bookkeeper Diana Engelke gave the bookkeeping report.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Sister Diana Engelke read names of candidates for membership. Johnnie Gaidusek, Jr. wrote up Cynthia M. Kramer. Clifford Randal House wrote up Myra Adamik Abendschein. Nelson Washington, Jr. wrote up Akira Tatyana Barksdale, Tasia Barksdale, and Mildred H. Slaughter. All were accepted into Lodge 66. Lodge 66 will donate a total of $750 to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive and distributed as follows: $250 to the 100 Pennies Fund; $250 to the Gladys Yates Memorial Fund; and $250 to the Johnnie Krizan Memorial Fund. Notice to Lodge 66 is in the planning stage for an appreciation lunch at Lodge 6 on Saturday, November 14. A reminder that Join Hands Day is Saturday, May 2. This will be discussed at a later date. A $100 donation for February is being made to the Texas Ramp Project through St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Bellmead. Door prize winner was Dorothy Veselka. One hundred percent winner was also Dorothy Veselka. Next Meeting—March 16 The next Lodge 66 meeting will be held at La Vega High School on Monday, March 16 at 6 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81 Needville reports on February meeting

The February 2015 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 15th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed a meal of homemade gumbo made by Tom Stavinoha. Thanks to Tom for the delicious gumbo! Desserts were provided by members. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Darlene Blinka and her kitchen committee for getting everything ready for us. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Tom Stavinoha led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call except Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall and Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha. Added to our sick list are

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Lodge 41, Port Lavaca Members Enjoy Appreciation Dinner

dinner to follow. All members are asked to please bring a dessert to share. There will also be entertainment throughout the afternoon! So mark your calendars now so you don’t forget—Sunday, March 15 at Lodge 84. It is sure to be a festive day. Fraternally, Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas sets March 4 special meeting Lodge 41, Port Lavaca members enjoy the membership appreciation social and dinner held Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at Texas Tradition Restaurant in Port Lavaca, Texas. Officers announced that Lodge 41, Port Lavaca meets quarterly on the second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the Six Mile Presbyterian Church on Royal Road in Port Lavaca, Texas. They invite all members to the quarterly meetings for fellowship and the business areas of Lodge 41. Contact President Franklin Jurek for any questions.

Vivian Sabrsula and Willie Mae Kuykendall. Since Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall and Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha were not present, we went straight to Special Funds Chairman Tom Stavinoha. Tom Stavinoha read his report, and it was approved as read. We didn’t have any old business to discuss so we went to new business. Under new business, it was decided to donate some money to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Door prize winners were Darlene Blinka, Lawrence Janicek, Jeanette Newman, and Dorothy Blinka. Congratulations to all of our lucky winners!

Next Meeting—March 15 For our next meeting on March 15, it was decided to buy plates from the American Legion fundraiser. Members, please bring a dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81 Needville offers scholarship

Any college or technical school bound senior who has been a member of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville for at least one year may apply for a onetime scholarship. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, 9939 Peterson Road, Needville, Texas 77461 or email jjn9939@yahoo.com on or before March 15, 2015, to receive an application. —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas plans 105th anniversary celebration

Dear Readers, Mark your calendars for Sunday March 15, 2015! Lodge 84, Dallas will celebrate its 105th anniversary! Doors open at 1 p.m. with a one-half price social and fellowship hour. Initiation of new members and presentation of 50- and 75-year pins will then take place with a spaghetti

Dear Readers, Lodge 84, Dallas needs your help! We are holding a special committee meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2015, at 6:30 p.m. We will discuss things to improve our lodge. Additionally, there will discussion on ideas to bring life to our lodge. Lodge 84 is having its 105th anniversary celebration on Sunday, March 15, and the only way it has made it this far is with your help and participation. Please mark your calendars to make plans to attend this special meeting on March 4 to bring your ideas and suggestions to keep the lodge moving forward into the next generations to come. It is recommended to bring a sack lunch to snack on while we brainstorm ideas to meet our goals for the upcoming year. See you there! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

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Scenes from Lodge 88, Houston Founders’ Day

Sunday, February 8, 2015 • Lodge 88, Houston • Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt, FAC

LEFT PHOTO: Kitchen crew. PHOTO 2: Bartenders with Lodge 88 President Pat Bruce. PHOTO 3: Birthday Club Sisters pastry booth. RIGHT PHOTO: Anniversary circle. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Joe Henneke, Carol Stayton, Carol Globke, Joe Fietsam, and Josephine Pflughaupt. BELOW

PHOTO 2: Tony and Evelyn Lister celebrate 10-year anniversary on February 14. BELOW PHOTO 3: Josephine Pflughaupt, left, with son District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt and wife Dorothy. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: State Queen Denae Bronikowski participates in the line dance.

LEFT PHOTO: Leroy Migl celebrates his 60th birthday with wife Margaret and daughters Darlene and Marlene. PHOTO 2: Helen Hegwood, far right, directs the Lodge 88 Czech Choral Group. PHOTO 3: Josephine Pflughaupt, left, and JoAnn Buri sell tickets. RIGHT PHOTO: Lolly Hunter

and Katlyn Koch learn “The Chicken Dance.” BELOW LEFT PHOTO: State Queen Denae helps with the raffle. PHOTOS 2 and 3: Clarence Baca celebrates 95th birthday. PHOTO 4: Vernell Fojt. PHOTO 5: Red Ravens perform. RIGHT PHOTO: Barbara Linney-Gonzales.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Lodge 88, Houston member to celebrate 90th birthday

Lodge 88, Houston member Josephine Pflughaupt will celebrate her 90th birthday with a gathering of family and friends on Sunday, March 15, 2015, from 2 to 5 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, located at 1435 Beall Street in Houston, Texas. The reception will be hosted by Josephine’s children, Larry and Dorothy Pflughaupt, Carol Globke, and Lynn and Dana Pflughaupt. Family and friends are invited to join them in honoring their mom on her special occasion. Birthday cards may be sent to 6403 Lindyann, Houston, Texas 77008. —SPJST—

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Lodge 67, Schulenburg Shares Christmas Party Scenes

Lodge 67, Schulenburg held its annual Christmas party on December 13, with approximately 30 members attending. A catered fried chicken meal with trimmings and homemade desserts was served. TOP LEFT PHOTO: Pictured are Thadious Polasek, Leonard and Agnes Barta, Josie and Clarence Kloesel. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured, right to left, are

Wanda, Mary Ann, Venessa, and Sammy Kutac. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Enjoying the party are Wanda and David Carpenter and Laurette and Dennis Kutac. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Visiting at the party are Adrienne Kobza, Janice and Donnie Victorick, Johnny and Ellen Holub, Gladys Shimek, and Carol Urban. —Submitted by Adrienne Kobza

Lodge 91 San Jacinto meets March 7

Lodge 91, San Jacinto will hold its first quarterly meeting of 2015 on Saturday, March 7, 2015, at 11 a.m. at Peso’s. Peso’s Mexican Restaurant is located off of FM 2100 on the North end of Crosby next to Arlan’s Grocery Store. We encourage members to attend. See you there. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 92 Fort Worth invites all to March 1 celebration

Dear Members and Friends, Here are two important announcements from Lodge 92, Fort Worth! Sunday, March 1, 2015, is Texas Independent Day Celebration at Lodge 92! Randy and the 92nd Road House Band will play for a dance from 3 to 7 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Fifty- and 75-year membership pins will be presented during intermission. Doors will open at 2 p.m. HANK 92.1 FM will be onsite broadcasting live from 2 to 5 p.m. Listen for our

Lodge 117 Robstown meets March 7

National Hall jingles on 92.1 FM in February.

Game Nights Change Also, please change your calendars . . . starting in March, game nights will move to the second and fourth Tuesdays! See you at the dance on Sunday, March 1! Angela Casteel, President —SPJST—

Lodge 97, Placedo meets March 13

Lodge 97, Placedo will have its spring meeting on Friday, March 13, 2015, at 6 p.m. The location will be at Lodge 32, Victoria on Laurent Street in Victoria. Lodge 97 will provide a meat, and members are asked to volunteer a side dish or dessert. If you can’t bring a dish, no problem. Come anyway. The Lord always blesses us with plenty to eat. Bring your pull tabs if you have them. We look forward to seeing everyone. Diana Redd, Reporter —SPJST—

Dear Readers, SPJST Lodge 117, Robstown will hold its quarterly meeting on Saturday, March 7, 2015. The meeting will be held at Hilltop Community Center, located at 11425 Leopard Street. After the meeting, we will have our social. Fraternally, Frances McDonald President —SPJST—

Lodge 141, Sealy gives to library, 100 Pennies

SPJST Lodge 141, Sealy members met February 10, 2015, at Gordon Memorial Library at 6 p.m. to conduct their first meeting of the year. President Bennie Stolarski began the

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meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call of officers followed. The minutes were read, and new correspondence was presented. The treasurer’s report was given by Freda Jemela. A donation of $100 was approved for Gordon Memorial Library with a motion by Bernice Stolarski, seconded by John Simpson. This is in appreciation for the use of the meeting room for our meetings. Another donation was approved for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive with a motion by Freda Jemela, seconded by John Simpson. Join Hands Day was discussed, and our lodge will again participate along with four other fraternal groups.

Next Meeting—April 14 The next meeting will be April 14, starting at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library. Bernice Stolarski, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 142 Houston meets March 15

The next meeting of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston will be held Sunday, March 15, 2015. Meal will be served at 1 p.m. followed by the meeting at 2 p.m. Come join us! Respectfully submitted, Alice Jochen, Secretary —SPJST—

many years. Keep her family in your prayers. We hope you can attend our social and meeting. Fraternally, Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 155, Austin meets March 1

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 155, Austin will meet this Sunday, March 1, 2015, at 2 p.m. at Little Walnut Creek Library, located at 836 West Rundberg and Lamar Streets. For directions, please call Jean Motl (512) 836-0205. Members, remember to bring your volunteer hours totaled from our last meeting in December for our FAC report. Members are encouraged to attend this meeting to make plans for our summer social in June. See you there! Ginny Prasatik Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 177 Academy honors 50-year member

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

The regular meeting of SPJST Lodge 177, Academy was called to order at 5:36 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, by President Otis Beck. All officers were present. Everyone stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Otis welcomed to the meeting our very special member Ruth Irene Hollis. Minutes were accepted as presented. Correspondence included letters and cards from the following organizations thanking Lodge 177, Academy for recent donations to each: 1. Holland Volunteer Fire Department 2. Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc. (Temple Meals on Wheels) 3. CTLC (Churches Touching Loves for Christ) 4. Czech Heritage Museum

We also received a letter from Academy ISD concerning the upcom-

ing Project Celebration. The Sunshine Committee reported that a get well card had been sent to Joanne. Committee reports for January were presented.

FAC Report Bill reported on upcoming tarok and bowling tournaments. It was also reported by Trustee Bernice Hutka that she had attended the SPJST Awards Banquet, and that Lodge 177, Academy had received the Gold Star Award and also an incentive award. There was no old business.

New Business - Meeting Change Lodge 177, Academy meeting times will be changed effective March 1, 2015: Board of trustees will meet at 6 p.m. and regular lodge meetings will be at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. An audit committee was appointed - Bernice Hutka, Shirley McCrea, and Bill Hutka will audit the lodge’s books very soon. A very special presentation was then made. Ruth Irene Hollis was presented her 50-year membership pin by

Lodge 80, Holland Member Wins Youth Fair Awards

Lodge 151 Wharton meets March 9

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its quarterly meeting on Monday, March 9, 2015, at Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100 Sunset Street in Wharton. A light meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. Please call Carolyn Bucek at (979) 532-1910 before Thursday, March 5 if you plan to attend so she can make arrangements for the food. Members with birthdays in January, February, and March will be honored. We lost another member of Lodge 151. Pauline Kalina passed away on Wednesday, February 4. She was actively involved with SPJST and several community organizations for

Lodge 80, Holland member Haley Entrop of Tigertown 4-H won Grand Champion of the Clothing Division at the Bell County Youth Fair held February 7 to 14, 2015. Haley also won the Senior High Point Award. The award is given to the senior level Family and Consumer Science student who accumulates the most points in multiple areas of FCS

such as art, sewing, fashion revue, baking, textile crafts, food preservation, etc. These awards are representative of the many, many hours of meticulous work Haley has done to complete her projects. She was honored at the award presentation ceremony held Wednesday evening, February 11. —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Her beautiful projects show what excellent work Lodge 80, Holland member Haley Entrop has done. The display was featured at the Bell County Youth Fair held February 7 to 14. ABOVE: Haley is pictured with her Grand Champion banner and FCS award plaque. Congratulations, Haley, on a great job!

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Lodge 177 President Otis Beck. What a wonderful achievement, Ruth! After a motion by Bill, seconded by Bernice, passed unanimously, the meeting was adjourned at 5:59 p.m. In celebration of the occasion of Ruth’s 50-year membership, everyone enjoyed a time of fellowship as we all ate pizza together. Fraternally, Joanne Hutka Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 196 Houston-West sets March 28 Easter egg hunt

Lodge 196, Houston-West invites everyone to its third annual Easter egg hunt on Saturday, March 28, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the lodge grounds, located at 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress, Texas. There will be games, bounce houses, a fire truck, and plenty of food. Easter egg hunting will be divided into several age brackets with lots of eggs for every child. We are asking for everyone to bring your children, grandchildren, or your neighbor’s children for a day of fun, food, and fellowship at the lodge. We hope to see you there. Don Fruin —SPJST—

Fort Worth Friendship Club

Fort Worth Friendship Club met Wednesday, February 4, 2015, in St. Thomas Dining Room for the monthly meeting. The meeting was called to order by President Margaret Sears who welcomed everyone. It was so nice to have Betty and Stanley Krenek back after a long absence due to Stanley’s accident and illness. They were especially welcomed. Our theme for the month was Valentine’s Day, and all decorations were in red, pink, and white with lots of valentines. Thanks, decorators Lola and Rose Ann! Hostesses for the day were Lupe Esparza, Shirley Martin, and Lois Smith. We noticed that Betty and Stanley Krenek were also here helping. Thanks go out to all for a great job. Minutes from the previous meeting were read by Secretary Mary Ann Krivanek. Treasurer Jo Ann Wilcox gave the financial report. Both were approved as presented. A thank you note was read from Father Matthews for the Christmas monetary gift given to him. It was with great sadness that the death of Tom Konen was reported. I still recall many years ago when Nettie Nau-

ENC Zipline Ladder Rails Installed

SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm Executive Director John Hoelscher reports that the rails have been installed on the zipline ladder. “This allows the ladder to be pushed from one side to the other with little effort, and since the casters and steel are industrial grade that makes for a safe and steady takedown ladder,” he says.

gle moved in with her daughter, Darlene, to help take care of Tom. He eventually started coming to the Friendship Club with Nettie and with his humor and smiling face, he was enjoyed by all. Following lots of surgeries, in 2005, he became a double lung transplant recipient which gave him an additional nine years to be with family and friends. Tom will certainly be missed by all. A beautiful memorial service was held at St. Thomas Church. In honor of Tom’s wishes, his body was donated to medical science. Our sincere sympathy goes out to the entire Konen family. Sunshine person Darlene Tompkins reported on sending a sympathy card to the family of Tom Konen and a get well card to Bill Moncrief. Shirley Martin reported Mary Ann Kozel is at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston receiving a new treatment and supposedly she is to start improving in about three months. Let’s all pray for her that all goes well. It was also reported that member Faith Grathen fell and is currently at Harris Hospital. Shirley Martin will be having knee surgery on the 24th of this month. Let’s pray that all goes well for her. President Margaret asked for all those able to please sign up to be a hostess during the year. The duties of hostess were distributed. Also the “share a ride” list was distributed for anyone willing to pick up anyone not able to drive. The singing of “Happy Birthday” went out to our February celebrants Julie Chase, Maria Gill, Mary Ann Kozel, and Shirley Martin. (Mary Ann’s birthday is February 24; let’s all send her a birthday card!) May you all have a great day and many more! Vice President Lola Taylor reported on hearing a presentation on heart disease and asked for this person to give it to our Club. Since this was not possible, Lola spoke and did a really good job. She spoke on eating and exercising correctly. She distributed a paper for all to read at home. Very good! I also have heard that we will possibly have a surprise speaker at the March meeting. If so, the telephone committee will call everyone. Door prizes were donated by Paula Arsenault (two), Lorraine Cross, Helen Skrasek, Rose Ann Spann, and Mary Agnes Ward. Thanks, ladies. We had seven happy winners so apparently I missed the name of one donor. Whoever you are—thanks! Winners of the 50/50 dollar games were Marie Keller and Margaret Sears. Margaret said she won last month so this month she donated her winnings back to the Club.

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Lodge 169 Brenham member named Valentine King

SPJST Lodge 169, Brenham member James D. Rothermel was selected King for Valentine’s Day at Washington County Healthy Living Association Valentine’s Day Annual Program on February 13, 2015.

How nice! Thanks, Margaret! Following the meeting, grace was said and a great fried chicken lunch with all the extra wonderful dishes was enjoyed. Games were then played, and a good time was had by all. Our next meeting will be on March 4. Our theme will be St. Patrick’s Day so wear something green if you like. Hopefully, it will be a nice day so see you then. So Until, Keep Smiling! Libbie Vrla, Reporter —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

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Let the Good Times Roll!

Lodge Incentives Enhanced Premium Refunds

Cornerstone of the 2015 Membership Program Traditionally, one of the most important financial benefits that the SPJST Supreme Lodge has extended to local lodges is the annual Premium Refund Program. The purpose of this program has been to help SPJST lodges keep their operations on a sound financial basis. In addition to providing this premium refund, the Supreme Lodge has periodically approved other financial incentives for lodges, the most significant of which is the Society’s annual Membership Program incentives.

Lodge Incentive Guidelines

The 2015 Lodge Incentive Guidelines will include membership program incentives and be based upon premium income generated by the lodges. The formula for calculating the Enhanced Premium Refund is: 1. $1.00 for each paid-up certificate; and 2. 2.80% of the lodge’s annual earned premium. To receive the Enhanced Premium Refund, lodges must meet the following three-point criteria:

2015 Membership Program Statewide Goal: 1,500 New Issued Certificates “Let the Good Times Roll!” is the campaign slogan for the SPJST’s 2015 SPJST Membership Drive. The phrase “let the good times roll” is most frequently heard during the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. Essentially, it means to let the party begin and to let us enjoy our time together. 2015 is a new year, and it represents the opportunity for a new beginning in SPJST. It is important for everyone in SPJST to work with one another, to recognize each other’s strengths, and to help one another. The 2015 Membership Program is loaded with incentives for sales agents, members, lodges, and youth clubs working to make a positive difference in the lives of SPJST members. We Are on a Mission! The goals and objectives of the SPJST are reflected in its organizational mission statement and vision statement adopted by the SPJST Supreme Lodge on October 17, 2013: SPJST Mission Statement Insuring and Enriching Lives SPJST Vision Statement Our vision is to provide a wholesome family environment; to encourage cherished Czech traditions; and to provide high quality, competitive life insurance for our members.

1. HOLD REGULAR LODGE MEETINGS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 50 OF THE SPJST BY-LAWS AND OFFER A WELL-ROUNDED FRATERNAL PROGRAM. Every lodge is required to hold regular meetings to discuss lodge business with their members. Service to each other — as fellow SPJST members — and service to the community that we serve is an important part of SPJST’s mission. Rather than mandating a specific number of fraternal activities that your lodge must accomplish in a given year in order to remain in good standing and qualify for incentives, the greater focus is on lodges working to host a healthy mix of “quality” events that bring value to SPJST’s community presence. 2. RETURN ALL REQUESTED PAPERWORK ON TIME BY THE DUE DATE. Every lodge is required to send in all requested paperwork that is needed from the lodge. This includes Form 990, Form 990-T, and fraternal activity summaries. 3. SUBMIT REGULAR LETTERS/PHOTOS TO THE VESTNIK. Every lodge is required to routinely submit news of upcoming events, lodge meetings, and/or meeting/event summaries and/or photographs to the Vestnik. Of course, the lodge may contribute to the Vestnik more frequently than once a month. Unless otherwise noted in the Vestnik, the deadline for submitting items for publication is the Wednesday preceding the publication date of the next issue. For more information, please contact Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny. Enhanced Premium Refund will be withheld from a lodge deemed to be “non-compliant.” Enhanced Premium Refunds will be retained in escrow for a non-compliant lodge until May 1, 2016. Upon regaining compliant status, lodge will receive its Enhanced Premium Refund. The new Enhanced Premium Refund formula enables lodges to benefit in direct proportion to the amount of earned premium that is generated by the lodge. As such, there will be no maximum amount that any lodge can re-

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ceive. Lodges that have over the years consistently enrolled solid, pre- your prospective lead, make sure that he or she knows that an SPJST mium-paying business can expect to see an immediate increase in the Sales Agent will call. amount of Enhanced Premium Refund that its lodge receives at the SPJST Awards Banquet in January 2016.

Gold Star Lodge

In addition to receiving an Enhanced Premium Refund, qualifying lodges that generate at least $10,000 in earned premium — excluding dump-ins and 1035 exchanges — on new business issued in 2015 will receive designation as an SPJST Gold Star Lodge and recognition at the 2016 incentive awards presentation and banquet.

Sales Agent Incentives Guidelines

The 2015 SPJST Membership Program offers cash rewards for quality performance that is consistent with short- and long-term organizational objectives. They present visible goals with visible acknowledgment, helping keep all agents on track toward personal and SPJST performance. This section explains the monthly and annual incentive The Supreme Lodge reserves the right to periodically revisit the terms awards available to SPJST Sales Agents in 2015. The section also outand incentives provided in the 2015 “Let the Good Times Roll!” Mem- lines a cooperative advertising program that sales agents are invited to bership Program, making such adjustments and/or enhancements as use as a tool in developing their customer base. necessary to ensure the success of the program and its participants. Additional Guidelines for New Lodges and Lodges in Existence Monthly Incentives Each month, the Top 5 Agents will be recognized in two categories: Fewer Than 5 Years • Certificates Issued For a newly chartered lodge, the lodge incentive award will be pro• Amount of Annualized Premium rated from the date of the lodge’s organizational meeting. The lodge must also meet fraternal reporting requirements. The top producing agent in each of these categories will receive $250 and recognition in the Vestnik. The second through fifth ranked proDuring the first five years of its existence, any lodge that receives an ducers will each receive $50 and recognition in the Vestnik. award greater than $2,000, the excess amount will be deposited into To qualify, agents must have had a minimum of three certificates isthe SPJST Lodge Management Fund. The lodge can access the funds at any time with two lodge officers’ signatures, subject to the approval sued during the month and have at least an 85 percent persistency of the Supreme Lodge President and Supreme Lodge Vice President. over the preceding 13 months. Annuities and dump-ins are excluded.

Member Referral Incentives

All SPJST Members - Adults and Youth

Mid-Year Getaway Incentives

All agents who meet stated goals through June 30, 2015, will receive a trip to the SPJST Corpus Christi End of Summer Getaway on August 7 to 9, 2015.

When it comes to getting new members, there is no substitute for referrals. When an SPJST member refers a friend or family member for membership in SPJST, he/she is helping to build a stronger and more active lodge. It also qualifies you to participate in the monthly referral card drawing contest.

To qualify, agents must have a minimum of six certificates issued between January 1 and June 30, 2015, and have at least 85 percent persistency over the preceding 13 months. Annuities and dump-ins are excluded. Any lapses or terminations from January 1 through June 30, 2015, will be deducted from the qualifying totals.

Monthly Prize Drawing

Annualized Premium from January 1

The name of each member who sends in a referral card(s) during the month will go into a drawing for three $25 Wal-Mart gift cards. The referrer also benefits by helping to build a stronger and more active local lodge.

Annual Prize Drawing

The name of each member who sends in a referral card(s) during the year will go into a drawing for five $100 Wal-Mart gift cards to be awarded at the SPJST Awards Banquet in 2016. Referral cards are available from the SPJST Home Office and online at www.spjst.org. Please help us to ensure that the leads that you pass on are quality leads. We would not want any sales agents to devote precious time calling on unqualified leads. A good referral is someone who an SPJST member has spoken with about membership and/or life insurance in the SPJST and who has expressed an interest in joining. In visiting with

$5,000 Annualized Premium

$10,000 Annualized Premium

$15,000 Annualized Premium

Lodging at Corpus Christi Getaway $250 for expenses at Corpus Christi Getaway $350 shopping spree and dinner with SPJST President and Vice President

$5,000 Annualized Premium Mid-Year Getaway Incentive level winners must attend SPJST Corpus Christi End of Summer Getaway on August 7 to 9, 2015, to receive lodging incentive award. Cash will not be awarded in lieu of lodging. $10,000 and $15,000 Annualized Premium Mid-Year Getaway Incentive level winners who do not take the trip will receive the cash awards.

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CARNIVAL Award is the MARDI GRAS Award plus $1,000 cash and At the end of the year, SPJST Sales Agents will be recognized for their recognition as “Best of the Best” at the annual SPJST Awards Banquet amount of annualized premium. in 2016.

Mardi Gras Annual Incentive

Agents that produce at the following persistency and annualized premium production rates will receive an award. Persistency over 13 months

MARDI GRAS Award Annualized Premium

CARNIVAL Award Annualized Premium

80% Persistency

$23,000

$33,000

85% Persistency

$20,000

$30,000

90% Persistency

$18,000

$28,000

MARDI GRAS Award is a trip to New Orleans. SPJST will provide air from Dallas, Austin, Houston, or El Paso to New Orleans, Louisiana, and accommodations for a luxurious four-day, three-night stay from Friday, April 15 through Monday, April 18, 2016, at Bienville House in the French Quarter. Winners will also receive transportation from the airport to the hotel. New Orleans charms with its energy and community spirit: Dixieland jazz, laid-back locals, cherished architecture, and a distinctive French flair.

To qualify, the agent must have at least 12 certificates issued. Annuities and dump-ins are excluded. Any lapses or terminations from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015, will be deducted from the qualifying totals. Agents who do not achieve an annual award will be entered into a drawing for one of two MARDI GRAS trips. Agents will receive one chance for every $1,000 in annualized premium throughout the year (e.g. someone with $9,500 in annualized premium will receive 9 chances). MARDI GRAS and CARNIVAL Award winners must take trip to receive incentive award. Cash will not be awarded in lieu of the trip. CARNIVAL Award winners who do not take the trip will receive the $1,000 cash award.

Sales Agent Incentives Million Dollar Producers

CARNIVAL Award is the MARDI GRAS Award plus $1,000 cash and SPJST Sales Agents who present themselves as fraternal life insurance recognition as “Best of the Best” at the annual SPJST Awards Banquet professionals and stay abreast of changes in the industry are agents who in 2016. generate business and become million dollar producers. It’s a plateau that is worthy of notice and one that pays incentives to those agents To qualify, the agent must have at least 12 certificates issued. who make the grade. Annuities and dump-ins are excluded. Any lapses or terminations from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015, will For 2015, SPJST Sales Agents who achieve $1 million of life insurbe deducted from the qualifying totals. ance issued in the year 2015* and who maintain at least 85 percent persistency over the preceding 13 months will receive the following Agents who do not achieve an annual award will be entered incentives: into a drawing for one of two MARDI GRAS trips. Agents will receive one chance for every $1,000 in annualized premium • Recognition in the Vestnik and on www.spjst.org throughout the year (e.g. someone with $9,500 in annualized premium will receive 9 chances). • Recognition at 2016 SPJST Awards Banquet • 2.8 percent of annualized premium MARDI GRAS and CARNIVAL Award winners must take trip to receive incentive award. Cash will not be awarded in lieu of *Any certificates issued after December 23, 2015, will count towards the trip. CARNIVAL Award winners who do not take the trip the 2016 incentives. will receive the $1,000 cash award.

Mardi Gras Annual Incentive

Annuities and dump-ins are excluded. Any lapses or terminations from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015, will be deducted from the qualifying totals.

Agents who produce at the following persistency and annualized premium production rates will receive an award.

Persistency Bonus

At the end of the year, SPJST Sales Agents will be recognized for their amount of annualized premium.

Requirements • Persistency is based on certificates issued January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2014. To be eligible, the agent must have at least 90 percent persistency over the period. • Agent must have at least 10 applications issued in 2013 that remain in force for 24 months or 10 applications issued in 2014 that remain in force for 12 months. To receive the bonus, the agent must have 10 certificates currently in force from one of the two periods.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Bonus • Bonus will be paid to agents in early 2016. • Annualized premium is calculated for active certificates range entered into two groups: 1) Certificates issued from January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013 will be eligible for a 10 percent bonus on the certificates issued in 2013. 2) Certificates issued from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014 will be eligible for a 5 percent bonus on the certificates issued in 2014. Premium from annuities, plans 808, 809, 1095, 1096, and 1192 through 1196 are excluded. If the combined bonus is less than $10.00, the agent will not receive a bonus.

Cooperative Advertising Program for Sales Agents

SPJST provides a Cooperative Advertising Program for its sales agents who qualify. The program offers a cost-sharing arrangement between the SPJST Insurance Department and sales agents where SPJST pays for part of an agent’s radio, television, or print advertising. As your advertising partner, SPJST will reimburse up to 50 percent of your approved advertising, up to a maximum amount of $500 per year. The SPJST Cooperative Advertising Form is available online and through the SPJST Home Office. Each cooperative advertising request will be subject to review and approval by the SPJST Insurance Department. To qualify, agents must have at least six applications issued and 85 percent persistency over the preceding 13 months.

jectives listed below: r 1. Participation in District Youth Achievement Day (YAD). In the event that there are no youth club members participating, the youth leader can still help with District YAD. r 2. Participation in State Youth Achievement Day. In the event that there are no youth club members participating, the youth leader can still help with State YAD. r 3. Attendance at the district spring meeting. In the event that there are no youth club members in attendance, the youth leader and/or assistant are still encouraged to attend. r 4. Attendance at the district fall meeting. In the event that there are no youth club members in attendance, the youth leader and/or assistant are still encouraged to attend. r 5. Youth club participation in a district outing. r 6. Host a membership rally. This may be done in conjunction with the adult lodge or in conjunction with a district event. r 7. Spring Youth Leaders Retreat - youth leader in attendance. r 8. District training meetings as called by the DYC - youth leader in attendance.

District Youth Club Incentive

Requirements • Host one district youth membership rally (may be held in conjunction with district spring or fall meeting). SPJST believes that the values and leadership skills learned early on • Meet “Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives.” are important building blocks for life. Thanks to SPJST Youth Clubs, young people in lodges around the state are encouraged to take a Incentive Award greater interest in their community and make good life choices. SPJST $100 for each youth club in respective district that achieves its youth Youth Clubs also represent a starting point for youth to learn about be- club goal. Funds must be used for the benefit of the youth in the recoming and staying active in the affairs of SPJST. For that reason, ef- spective district. forts to grow our local SPJST Youth Clubs are encouraged and share an important role in the 2015 SPJST Membership Program.

Youth Program Incentive

Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives

Youth Club Incentive

Requirements • Meet “Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives.”

Incentive Award The District Youth Counselor (DYC) will submit a checklist to the State • $10 for each certificate issued, ages 0 to 17, in the respective lodge. Youth Director on January 1, 2016, acknowledging if the youth club has • Additional $10 for each certificate issued that joins the youth club met the following obligations in order for the youth club, youth leader, ($20 total). and/or assistant(s) and DYC and/or assistant(s) to qualify for cash incentives in the “Let the Good Times Roll!” Membership Program. The following requirement is mandatory: r 1. The youth club must meet all requirements as specified in the SPJST Youth Club Handbook. It is especially important to note that the youth club be in good standing and meeting the “Five Member Rule.” In addition to meeting the above requirement, it will be necessary for the youth club to meet at least five of the eight ob-

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DISTRICT TWO GOAL Lodge 18, Elgin 5 Lodge 20, Granger 3 Lodge 24, Cyclone 5 Lodge 29, Taylor 5 Lodge 47, Seaton 5 Lodge 48, Beyersville 5 Lodge 80, Holland 5 Lodge 87, Temple 5 Lodge 182, Falls County 3 Lodge 187, Round Rock 3 Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 3 DISTRICT THREE GOAL Lodge 6, Cottonwood 5 Lodge 25, Ennis 5 Lodge 84, Dallas 5 Lodge 92, Fort Worth 5 Lodge 154, Fort Worth 5 Lodge 183, Arlington 5

DISTRICT FOUR GOAL Lodge 49, Rowena 5 Lodge 215, South Plains 5 Lodge 229, Abilene 5 DISTRICT FIVE GOAL Lodge 81, Needville 5 Lodge 88, Houston 5 Lodge 142, Houston 5 Lodge 162, Iowa Colony 3

MEMBER REFERALS

DISTRICT ONE GOAL Lodge 1, Fayetteville 5 Lodge 9, Snook 5 Lodge 17, New Tabor 5 Lodge 186, Caldwell 5

DISTRICT SIX GOAL Lodge 30, Taiton 5 Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 3 Lodge 148, El Maton 3 DISTRICT SEVEN GOAL Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 5 Lodge 185, New Braunfels 5 Lodge 202, Jourdanton 5

“Top Youth Club in District” Award

When it comes to getting new SPJST members, there’s no substitute for member referrals. When an SPJST member refers a friend or family member for membership in SPJST, he or she is helping to build a stronger and more active lodge. It also qualifies you to participate in the monthly referral card drawing contest.

MONTHLY CONTESTS! All referral cards received during a given month will go into a drawing for three $25 Wal-Mart gift cards. The individual making the referral also benefits SPJST by helping to build a stronger and more active local lodge.

QUALIFY FOR THE DRAWING AT THE 2016 BANQUET! All referral cards received during the year will go into a drawing for five $100 Wal-Mart gift cards to be awarded at the SPJST Awards Banquet in 2015.

Please help us to ensure that the leads that you pass on are quality leads. We would not want any sales agent to devote precious time to calling on unqualified leads. A good referral is someone who an SPJST member has spoken with about membership and/or life insurance in SPJST and who has expressed an interest in joining. In visiting with your prospective lead, make sure that he or she knows that an SPJST Sales Agent will call. Referral cards are available from the SPJST Home Office and online at www.spjst.org.

Let the Good Times Roll! 2015 Membership Program

Top active youth club with most certificates issued in 2015 that remain in force. (Winning youth club must have a minimum of 5 certificates issued in 2015 and meet “Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives.”)

Award—Party for youth club members, families, and friends. Cost not to exceed $200.

Youth Leader Incentive

Requirements • Youth club must meet “Requirements to Qualify for Youth Program Incentives.” Incentive Award • Youth club increases average attendance for the year by 5 members: Youth leader receives $100. • Youth club increases average attendance for the year by 10 or more members: Youth leader receives $200.

Please return completed card to: SPJST Home Office, PO Box 100 Temple, TX 76503, Attn. Donica or visit www.spjst.org

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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 participates in county fair

Dear Readers, This past week, I was involved in the Bell County Youth Fair. I cooked various baked goods, showed my turkeys and rabbits, and showed some canning items. I got reserve champion on my canned tomatoes, eighth and ninth on my turkeys, and 10th and 12th on my rabbits. Our next meeting for Lodge 47, Seaton is on March 1. Fraternally, Brady Alexander —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club reports on February meeting

Dear Members, Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club members met on Sunday, February 15, 2015, for their monthly meeting. There were eight members and one guest present. We discussed the Lodge 88 Easter party on Saturday, March 28 and that we will dye eggs on Friday night. District Five President Ashley Victorick encouraged us to attend the District Five Spring Meeting on Sunday, April 12 and to work hard on our Christmas card design contest entries. Youth Leader Barbara Linney-Gonzales reminded us to work on our YAD projects and submit our camp forms. We all completed this month’s Vestnik project and enjoyed pizza and crafts after the meeting.

Wanted: Halloween Costumes!

The SPJST Youth Department is seeking your gently used Halloween costumes, wigs, and masks. Bring costumes (adult and youth sizes) to your spring district meeting and the Home Office representative will deliver them to Temple.

Next Meeting—March 1 Our next meeting will be on Sunday, March 1 at 2 p.m. I hope to see you there! Fraternally, Nathan G. Polly Publicity Committee —SPJST—

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Lodge 88, Houston youth enjoys Alex Meixner band

Dear Readers, Friday, the 13th, was my lucky day! My family and I saw the Alex Meixner band perform at Lodge 88, Houston on Friday night. I danced “The Chicken Dance” with my aunt Marlene and had a good time. I really like how Alex plays the accordion. Maybe I will play the accordion like him one day. Fraternally, Jered J. Polly, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth excels in sports, band

Dear Vestnik, As my last letter stated, this is my first year to play sports at my school. First, I excelled in volleyball, and our team received second in district. After volleyball, I played basketball. My teammates called me Tim Duncan from the San Antonio Spurs because he is No. 21 and my number was, too. Our team also placed second in district which was exciting for my team and I since we placed second in both of our district games. Now, I am doing tennis and track. I will see if I can excel in any of these sports. I also play clarinet in band and was chosen to play in region. Although I didn’t make it, I placed 27th out of 74, which is not bad for my first year to be able to go to region. Sincerely, Katlyn Polasek —SPJST—

Amya Rodriguez Sings National Anthem at Events

Amya Rodriguez, a member of Lodge 24, Cyclone and an eighth grader at Holland Middle School sang the National Anthem at the Bell County Youth Fair PRCA Mini-Rodeo on February 11, 2015. On Saturday, February 14, Amya performed the National Anthem at the Bell County Youth Fair Auction in the Assembly Hall at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton. She then traveled to Waco to sing the Anthem at the 22nd WACO 100 Zack and Jim Anniversary Party at the Extraco Center in Waco, Texas. Amya is the granddaughter of Sandra and Melvin Haisler. —SPJST—

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Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth: “It’s a Wrap!”

Camp applications are now available online at www.spjst.org. Camp dates are also listed online. Register today! All applications are due by June 1. LIT Contracts are due no later than May 15. Camp is free of charge to SPJST members who have attended at least seven youth club meetings between May 31, 2014, and June 1, 2015. SPJST members with less than seven meetings may attend camp for a prorated fee. All SPJST members may attend camp. If a youth does not attend youth meetings, the camp fee is $160. Contact State Youth Director Lynette Talasek for more information. (800) 727-7578 • lynettet@spjst.com

LEFT PHOTO: Grandparents Bettie and Lloyd House and Sam Hoggard congratulate Amanda after the

We closed our school’s musical Guys and Dolls a few weeks ago, and I believe it was the best production I’ve been in. Although I was filling two small roles (a nurse and a shop girl), the cast and crew of almost 100 people came together like a big family, no matter what part you played. We sold out two nights, and everyone had a lot of fun. I’m glad I was in this production and that I was able

show. RIGHT PHOTO: Nurse Amanda with Harry the Horse.

to spend two long months with the people I love. Although I’m sad it is over, I jumped right back into rehearsals for our UIL One Act play – A Streetcar Named Desire. Fraternally, Amanda Hoggard —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club Celebrates Valentine’s Day

Dear Readers, Our meeting was held Sunday, February 5, 2015, with a Valentine’s Day social afterwards. April gave the history of Valentine’s Day, and Paige played organized games with the members. Madison made the cupcakes. Thanks to all of you for your help.

Next Meeting—March 1 The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 1. See you then! Fraternally yours, Rita Holland, Youth Leader —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Dvoraks make Valentines to give to Meals On Wheels. PHOTO 2: Lundyn holds up the SPJST Youth Club Motto for everyone to recite. PHOTO 3: Lodge 25 Youth Club officers in action! RIGHT PHOTO: Payton, Madison, and Preston celebrate their birthdays.

BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Members enjoy playing the valentine game. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Everyone gets their turn playing the bean bag toss game. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Members come out to help Betty run the kitchen for the lodge fundraiser.

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Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Shares Exciting Activities

LEFT and CENTER PHOTOS: At the state championship game at AT&T Stadium—home of the Dallas Cowboys—in Dallas, Texas. RIGHT

Dear Vestnik Readers, I would like to, once again, apologize for not writing sooner. I’ve tried diligently to write a letter for quite a while. I just haven’t gotten around to it until now. My schedule has been crowded with cheerleading, Czechfest, Valentine’s Day, and so many other activities. After reading this letter, I’m sure you’ll know why I haven’t been able to write to the Vestnik. I’d like to start off with the most thrilling and sensational night of my life. If you didn’t know, the Ennis Lions went to the state football championship. Being a cheerleader, of course, I got to cheer at the game. It was so amazing to cheer on the field at Cowboys’ Stadium, be on the Jumbo Tron, support my team, be with some of my best friends, be on television, and most of all, win! I’m not even capable of describing the game. It was just so much fun, that fun isn’t even the right word to describe it. It was just so so amazing. In celebration of winning state, we had a pep rally and a parade. The thing was, the pep rally was right after we got back from Cowboys’ Stadium. Only in Ennis, do you have a pep rally at 1 a.m. A couple of

PHOTO: Me on the Jumbo Tron! BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Czechfest with Todd. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Getting asked to prom.

weeks after that, we had the parade. It was so exciting. There were confetti cannons; we handed out pom-poms to everyone; and I had such a fantastic time. In addition to these fun times, I went to Czechfest, and that was as perfect as usual. I danced the night away and had such a blast. The week afterwards was Valentine’s Day, and SPJST hosted a dance. Like any other dance, it was great. Of course, these dances wouldn’t be as great if it weren’t for my boyfriend, Todd. Without him, I wouldn’t have such a great dancing partner. Speaking of Todd, he asked me to prom the day before Valentine’s Day. He took me out to eat, and for

dessert we ordered a cake. On the cake, it said, “Prom?” and, of course, I said “yes.” I was so surprised and so so happy. I honestly think I’m the luckiest girl in the world. The best part of all these fun times are that there will be even more to come. I cannot wait for YAD, our district lockin, polka fest, LIT camp, and camp. I’ll try to keep y’all updated as much as I can on all the spectacular events going on. Thank you so so much for taking time out of your day to read my letter. It means the world to me. Your pretty polka dancing girl, April Dvorak —SPJST—

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth: Beauties Everywhere!

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I decided to scope out some princesses while I was spending New Year’s at Disney World! I got to meet Ariel, Cinderella, and Rapunzel. It was really cool to see how they lived the royal life at Disney World. Although I did notice that they seemed awfully lonely in that big cas-

tle all by themselves, perhaps I could join them and have three Valentines this year! Fraternally, Sammy Hoggard —SPJST—

Podpora

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BENEVOLENCE

ROČNÍK 103 CISLO 8

• Skanzeny •

★

Lidskost

Bratrství Wednesday, February 25, 2015

★

Česká Část HUMANITY

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

By Ivo Marek Choceň, Czech Republic

Skanzen Rožnov pod Radhoštěm is the most visited museum in the Czech Republic. It is located in northern Moravia. It has the official name Valašské Museum in nature Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, district Vsetín. It is the largest and oldest open-air museum in Central Europe. Open-air museum buildings stand in the spa park of the city Rožnov p. R. and on the slope over the river Rožnovská Bečva. The task of the museum and its staff is the presentation of forgotten folk crafts, folk arts, customs, social’s life, business and entertainment of our ancestors. Intent of Rožnov p. Rad.’s citizens to build an open-air museum was inspired by ethnographic Czechoslovak expositions holding in Prague by the end of 19th century and building first open air museums in Nordic countries. History of the open-air museum began WWI ago. Museum Association 1911 was founded and the first museum project was made and published in 1913. Museum’s building began 1925. At this time, the first Valašský folklore festival held. First built objects were a city-hall and burgher’s house from Rožnov`s Square. Almost 150 monument objects are now placed in the museum in three exposures. Exposure Dřevěné městečko (Wooden Little State) is the oldest and most visited one. There presents in it a life-way in a small town from half of 19th century (abbr. ct.) to the first quarter of the 20th ct. It takes place there several folklore festivals and

BROTHERHOOD

25.únor.2015

• Vlatavíny • By Ivo Marek Choceň, Czech Republic

other folklore and craft prog r a m s . Valašská dědina (Wallachian Town) is the largest exposure accessible since 1972. There exposed are farmsteads, huts, a mill, a blacksmith shop, fields, gardens and domestic animals. The interiors of residential houses show a way of housing from half of 19th ct. in sundry social classes. Exposure Mlýnská dolina (Mill Valley) was opened in 1982, and it is the youngest. They are placed until this time functional technical buildings (mainly water-powered) as a washboard, mill and sawmill. There are also an iron mill, blacksmith shop, a bell tower, oil mill and exposure “Vehicles in Wallachia.” Open-air museum of folk’s architecture and of crafts Veselý Kopec (Folk architecture Vysočina) is located on the border of Bohemia and Moravia in the hamlet Veselý Kopec. The first written mention of this hamlet is from 1654. The open-air mu-

seum was opened here in 1972. To this museum was original wooden buildings replaced from the surrounding from the 18th and 19th centuries, for example a barn, a mill and others. Except Veselý kopec (Merry hill), folk architecture objects are also located in the settlement Svobodné Hamry and in the quarter of Betlém in Hlinsko. The open-air museum held annually carnivals, harvest festivals, fairs, etc. Carnival has its own order. It is a period of treat beginning after the Epiphany and ending forty days before Easter between two lastings. Winter season ended for our ancestors with carnival and a new farming year started for them. Traditional country carnival parade in masks is a deal of World Heritage Site UNESCO. Since 2003 the open-air museum in Veselý Kopec is protected as a cultural monument. —SPJST—

Vltavíny are clear pieces of natural glass. They have a bunt scale of green to brownish hues and specific surface structure. They arose about 14.5 million years ago after the meteorite impact on Earth in area of today’s Bavaria, Germany. Meteorite impact with its huge energy morphed a sand being on the impact place. Meteorite impact wasted the sand with the enormous pressure on course to the northeast as far as 250 to 400 kilometers, especially to South Bohemia. They are still finding vltavíny, especially in the Miocen’s gravel-sands. The most known localities of vltavíny occurrence lies between the cities Písek and Nové Hrady. In 1787, Charles University professor Dr. Josef Mayer found near Týn nad Vltavou some interesting natural glass. Later on the glass had the nomenclature vltavíny (or moldavites) after the Bohemian river Vltava (German Moldau), where the neighborhood minerals were first found. The mean weight of moldavite found in Bohemia is only 6.7 grams and the moldavites discovered in Moravia mean weight reaches 13.5 grams. (Approximately 100 years after the moldavites discovery in Bohemia

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Czech finalist for mission to Mars

Lucie Ferstová advances in her bid to become one of the first people to colonize the Red Planet From PraguePost.com Published February 16, 2015 Written by André Crous

similar natural glasses were found at other locations in the world.) Moldavites are almost identical chemically to the clay rocks, but held almost no water. The moldavite glass held trash air bubbles. For the past 10 years illegal Moldavite diggers have devastated the area near the city Netolice in South Bohemia. Therefore, Netolice leased the devastated forest area to a specialized mining company, “Monday Morning,” for both side beneficial conditions. The company “Monday Morning” began mining green half-gemstones legally on May 2014, and will work there for three years. Extracted moldavites will be sold to Bohemian jewelers and Bohemian collectors. After moldavites extraction from the finding place, the firm will recultivate and re-plant the destroyed forest. City Netolice will not pay for reforestation. Since the coming of the mining company, the city has a quiet from illegal diggers. Moldavite finding place room keeps under constant control with fences and guard patrolling by hounds. Some Netolice`s inhabitants gained work here. The largest collection of natural moldavites in the Czech Republic is in the National Museum in Prague. Other smaller collections are in the Moravian Country Museum in Brno, the South Bohemian Museum in the České Budějovice (Bohemian Budweis), at the museum in Týn nad Vltavou, in a museum in Třebíč and the museum in the Český Krumlov (Bohemian Crumlaw). The largest collection of vintage jewelry with Bohemian Moldavites is in National Museum in Prague and in the Uměleckoprůmyslové museum in Prague. Source: http://budejovice.idnes.cz /tezba-vltavinu-u-netolic-0x5-/budejovice-zpravy.aspx?c=A141009_ 100538_budejovice-zpravy_khr —SPJST—

From more than 200,000 initial applicants for the Mars One Challenge, 100 have made it through to the third round, including 25-year-old Lucie “Lucy” Ferstová from the Czech Republic, who now moves on to the final round of the contest. The goal of the project is to take the first humans to Mars, and the latest group of finalists was winnowed down from 660 after

an exhaustive online interview process. The final 100, split equally between men and women, comprises 39 candidates from North and Latin America, 31 from Europe, 16 from Asia, seven from Africa and seven from Oceania. The eventual journey to the Red Planet will not be like any other the world has ever seen, however, and a description of the mission sounds more like a synopsis for a movie than a real-world voyage. For one thing, the cosmonauts would not be coming back. Their main objective would be to colonize the planet and prepare it for humans to join them in the future. Ferstová, who attended the English College in Prague but currently lives on the south coast of England, calls herself a “perfectionist . . . with a sense of duty” and says she likes “running

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trails in the woods, meeting new people, acquiring new skills and having witty conversations.” She also likes doing handicraft and moonlights as a seamstress. The venture is overseen by the Dutch nonprofit foundation Mars One, which launched the Astronaut Selection Program in April 2013. The goal of the foundation is as long-term as it is ambitious. For obvious reasons, colonization will not happen any time soon, as equipment such as rovers first need to be sent to the planet, along with communication satellites, to lay the groundwork for the arrival of the permanent settlers. The departure of the first crew members, or settlers, is not scheduled for nearly a decade, in 2024, once the outpost on Mars is operational. According to this timeline, the individuals would then arrive on

Czech Cultural Calendar

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

Second Sunday each Month Czech Language Class—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange, Texas, 1 to 4 p.m. Informal understanding of basic Czech terms, alphabet/conversational Czech, children’s literature, Czech song lyrics. Fee is $10 per person per class. Call or email to verify classes. Pre-registration is suggested, but not required. Call toll free (888) 785-4500; (979) 968-9399; or email info@czechtexas.org.

First/Third Tuesdays each Month Tarok Lessons with Tarok Champion Jimmie Coufal—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Temple, 7 p.m.: Designed for all skill levels, beginners to proficient. Come enjoy some inexpensive entertainment; it’s a great social game. Get off your Xbox and join us. Free and open to everyone. For information, call (254) 899-2935.

Beginning February 4 Conversational Czech Lessons—at Czech Cultural Center Houston, 6 to 7:35 p.m. and/or Saturdays from 2 to 3:35 p.m.: 13-week course. $10/lesson; or $90 pre-paid. Complimentary. first lesson. Respond to events@czechcenter.org; or cesvys@yahoo.com (subject: Czech Lessons).

Now Through April 25 Multi-media exhibition Texas Czechs: Rooted in Tradition on display—at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto. This unique exhibition features contemporary Texas Czech cultural traditions in photos, text and film. Museum hours at www.czechcenter.org or call (713) 528-2060. More information at www.polkaworks.org.

Now Through May 2015 Czech Kroj and Ceramics Museum Exhibit—at Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road, LaGrange, Texas: Kroj (costume) is the official apparel of Czechs. Czech glass and ceramics are very popular to Czechs. For information, contact TCHCC (888) 785-4500; email info@czechtexas.org; or visit www.czechtexas.org.

February 28 Polka Fest—at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz, Corpus Christi, Texas: Czech food, fun, dancing country store, prize drawing, silent auction, and kolaches! Doors open at 10 a.m. Visit www.chssouthtexas.org for cost, bands, and activities schedule/information. February 28 Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship Application Deadline—For information, write to: The Czech Heritage Society of Texas, Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship, Pat Parma, 3311 Carolina Way, Richmond, Texas 77406-9680.

March 1 Bexar County Czech Heritage Society Dance—at Martinez Social Club, 7791 FM 1346 at FM 1516, San Antonio,

Texas, 2 to 6 p.m. Music by the Ennis Czech Boys; refreshments. For more information, call (210) 649-2702.

April 3 to April 5 Czech, Slovak Easter Camping Weekend—at quaint Daingerfield State Park: Join a core group of Texas Czech campers for a traditional Easter camping weekend. Make reservations for the Cedar Ridge area (with the core group); otherwise, there are campsites all around. To book your space, visit http://tpwd.texas.gov/stateparks/daingerfield. The park rents: paddle boats, canoes, kayaks (single and tandem), hydro bikes, and flat bottom boats; bring bikes for kids and musical instruments. Bring Easter eggs for the annual Easter egg hunt (usually on Sunday morning); join in Easter egg coloring on Saturday; share your favorite Easter Mazanec or Beranek over coffee. There will be a lot of singing around a campfire for sure. Submitted by, Nina Marcussen, Czech School of Dallas.

May 17 Slavnost - May Fest and Tribute to Czech Immigrants—at Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road, LaGrange, Texas: Tribute to immigrants 1911 to 1915, 10 a.m. Music by Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, 12 to 4 p.m.; noon meal; desserts; gift shop; prize drawing; museums. For information, contact TCHCC (888) 785-4500; email info@czechtexas.org; or visit www.czechtexas.org. —SPJST—

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Mars in 2025. The idea is for more individuals to arrive and settle on Mars every two years, thereby expanding the colony. Naturally, the candidates need to be committed to a lifetime of responsibility, and for this reason all 660 candidates from the previous round were interviewed by the chief medical officer to determine their motivations for participation and how well they would cope. Besides intense desolation — at its closest point of orbit to the Earth, it is still more than 55 million kilometers away — and extreme temperatures, ranging from normal Earth-like temperatures around 20 C (68 F) to a mind-blowing –187 C (below –300 F), the settlers would have to contend with the challenges posed by having virtually no breathable air or drinkable water. In fact, there is almost no water at all, and the cosmonauts would have to bake the ground to extract water droplets that are subsequently either saved for drinking or split into its component parts to produce oxygen. This next round will assess how well the applicants work together as a team, and ultimately, in the fourth and final round, Mars One expects to have six teams of four team members each. On Earth, the habitat of Mars will be partially duplicated to help the suc-

cessful applicants with training and preparations for the life-changing journey ahead. The “aspiring Martians,” as they have been called, have a lot to live up to, but Ferstová says “this is the most incredible thing I can do with my life” and that she “can endure a lot with a smile.” If she reaches the last round, this challenging selection process will just be the start. Source:http://blogs.praguepost.com/th e-big-story/44448-czech-finalist-formission-to-mars#ixzz3SISWNqMj —SPJST—

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

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

• • • • • • •

Branson Sept. 21 - 26

Deluxe Motor Coach 6 Great shows All Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners Bossier City, LA Casinos Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Kilgore, TX Oil Museum New London, TX Museum and Tea Room

JOANN’S TRAVEL (281) 239-5452

Tour Italy, Austria & Germany May 11 - 23, 2015

Canadian Train Trip June 8 - 17, 2015

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Tour Poland, Germany and Czech Republic

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August 11 - 23, 2015

Details - www.abcatstravel.com ABCATS Travel Agency (361) 578-0828

(254) 778-1824

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

You’re Invited!

Dance Texas Independence Day Celebration Sunday, March 1, 2015

Lodge 92, Fort Worth

SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall 411 FM 964 • Burlington, Texas - 12 miles east of Temple past Zabcikville

3316 Roberts Cutoff Road

Saturday, March 7, 2015

Doors open at 2 p.m. Dance from 3 to 7 p.m. with Randy and the 92nd Road House Band

Music by

Admission: $5 per person 50- and 75-year members will be honored during intermission.

Live Broadcast from 2 to 5 p.m. with HANK 92.1 FM Listen for our National Hall jingles on 92.1 FM in February.

Red Ravens Doors and kitchen open at 6 p.m. Dance from 7 to 11 p.m.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

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) Note: Meetings are now held at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville, Texas, the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville, Texas.

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) Sunday, March 1—Lodge 6 meeting, 2 p.m. Friday, March 6—Social Saturday, March 7—SPJST State Domino Tournament Friday, March 20—Social Sunday, March 29—Lodge meeting, Easter party, and SPJST Lodge 6, Inc. meeting

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) 7998550; 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) 8843211. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 5:30 p.m. at the hall. Please join us!

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

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Highway 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles; turn left on CR 225. Go one mile, veering to the right. Lodge building is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (979) 272-3440. Lodge Meet-

ings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Sunday, March 8—Fritz Hodde, polka/waltz. 3 to 7 p.m. $8 per person. *Kitchen will be open. Sunday, March 15—Glen Collins Band, country and western. 3 to 7 p.m. $8/person.

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information/Country/Western Band Bookings: David Meyer (512) 2170162; 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 David Meyer for information (512) 217-0162.

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) Saturday, February 28—Rogers Project Celebration Saturday, March 7—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m. Doors and kitchen open at 6 p.m.

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 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) Thursday, March 12—Lodge meeting Saturday, March 14—RVOS No. 51 annual 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) 8758381; Hall Phone: (972) 875-8381. 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) All Friday night dances have free admission.

Friday, February 27—Sterling Country Band, 7:30 to 1130 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 4—Live music by the Sam and Bobby Band, 7 to 10 p.m. Guest musician - Fritz Hodde Friday, March 6—Lucky Dogs, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday 6 to 9 p.m. Fish burgers sold during lent.*** Sunday, March 8—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club meeting at 1 p.m. at Taylor SPJST Hall. Any youth entering kindergarten through high school senior is eligible to attend. For information, contact Youth Leader Cristy Girod (512) 468-1347. Wednesday, March 11—Taylor SPJST Lodge 29 members will hold their monthly meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m.; covered dish meal follows the meeting Friday, March 13—Texas Pioneers, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Fish burgers sold during lent.*** Wednesday, March 18—Live music by the Sam and Bobby Band, 7 to 10 p.m. Guest musician - Fritz Hodde Friday, March 20—Sterling Country, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Fish burgers will also be sold during lent.*** Friday, March 27—Edward Kopecky’s Czech Band, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Parents of Thrall 4-H/FFA make oldfashioned hamburgers, 6 to 9 p.m. Fish burgers will also be sold during lent.*** ***Thrall 4-H Booster Club will be serving fish burgers on Fridays during Lent which includes dates Friday, March 6 through Friday, April 3. As always, they will be selling grilled cheese sandwiches and old-fashioned hamburgers every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the hall. Hall Rental Information: (512) 352-9139; Hall Phone: (512) 352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For youth club info, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod (512) 468-1347. Music: 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, 6 to 9 p.m. LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo.

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 35, ELK (3) Saturday, February 28—Lost Heart Highway Saturday, March 7—Nolan Pick Band Saturday, March 21—Gordon Collier Band Saturday, March 28—Midnight Mustangs

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) 749-3326; 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) 715-0275.

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) 218-3527; FAC Ronnie Roesler (979) 406-0158.

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LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)

Note: Beginning in February, lodge meetings will begin at 1 p.m.

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, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:15 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Presbyterian Church, Royal Road, Port Lavaca, Texas.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Sunday, March 1—Recognition of 50- and 75-year lodge members Sunday, March 29—Battle of the Bands: Fritz Hodde and the Majik Band, 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, April 12—District Two Beseda Fundraiser Sunday, April 12—Adults/youth monthly meeting, 3 p.m. Easter egg hunt following the meeting.

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 non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Michelle Porubsky (254) 493-8020; 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) 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 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. LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. Call for meeting location.

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 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) 541-9165 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) 7934313; email td_stavinoha@yahoo.com. Hall Phone:

VӖSTNÍK

(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) 7392386.

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions: From IH-35 East in Dallas, take IH-20 East. From IH-20 East, take the IH-45 exit toward downtown Dallas. IH45 runs into Hwy 75. From Hwy 75, take a right at Bryan Street exit. From Bryan Street, turn right on Cantreal Street and go until you come to Floyd Street; take a right on Floyd Street. Hall is the second building on the right. Hall Rental Information: (469) 951-7396. 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)

Note: Effective immediately, lodge meetings are now on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 7—The Moonglow Orchestra, big band, *Dress Code. $15 per person Friday, March 13—Bobby Flores, country/western, $20 per person Saturday, March 14—Red Ravens, polka/variety, $10 per person Saturday, March 21—Third Coast Swing, big band, *Dress Code. $15 per person Friday, March 27—Joe Valentino “Sock Hop.” 50s/ 60s music, $10 per person Saturday, March 28—Lodge 88 Easter party, 2 p.m.

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: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First 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) 8707114. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Sunday, March 1—Texas Independence Day Celebration: See advertisement on page 29.

Note: Beginning in March, Game Nights will be held on the second and fourth Tuesday evenings.

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 2 or 3 blocks 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. Game Nights: second and fourth 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) 8262670/email mvrla@sbcglobal.net; or Sales Agent John Vrla (214) 906-3385/email jvrla@cebridge.net.

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

LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 2622 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy. 287 East exit. Stay Hwy. 287 on until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy. 34. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Larry Valek (214) 794-7674. Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month 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) Sunday, March 15—Lodge meeting held at Lodge 88, Houston annex building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Meal at 1 p.m.; followed by meeting at 2 p.m.

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Dining Room - unless otherwise noted - at 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Youth Club Meetings: Same time/location as adult lodge meetings. For information, contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick (713) 252-5564; 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.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, and December at Mobius Coffeehouse and Pizza Connection, 1120 South Market Street in Brenham. Meal, social, meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. The December meeting is at 12 noon on the first Sunday.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Reservations/Hall Rental Information: Jo (713) 993-6878; Hall Phone: (713) 487-3297. Country/western dances are held on the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., except when noted. Variety dances are held on the fourth Saturday of each month, 7 to 10 p.m., except when noted. Beer, soft drinks, and ice are available at the bar. (Do not bring them inside the hall.) Regular Lodge/Covered Dish Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, meal at 1 p.m. followed by meeting at 2 p.m. with the exception of November and December, as noted. Lodge Executive Board Meetings/Trustee Meetings and Workdays: Second Monday of each month, (unless the second 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)

Effective March 1, 2015: Board of trustees will meet at 6 p.m.; lodge meeting will follow at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the hall. Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Rental Information: (254) 982-4530. Hall Phone: (254) 982-4434. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall; Board of trustees meet at 6 p.m.; meeting follows at 6:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; kitchen is open. LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at Carmine Lions Club Building, 201 Centennial Street, Carmine.

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Hall: 1150 South Burleson Boulevard, Burleson. Directions: IH-35 West, one-quarter mile south of Hidden Creek Parkway exit in Burleson. Hall Rental Information: (817) 558-2400; (817) 295-3483; (817) 371-0255; (972) 268-0022; Hall Phone: (817) 295-9665. Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. at Central Library in Conroe. For more information, contact Barbara Williams-Rash (936) 295-7778/email b.d.willrash@att.net; or Patsy McClellan (936) 5206742; 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)

Note: Lodge meetings are now held on the third Monday of each month at the hall - and at the same time of 7 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North and stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Take a right on Mayfield; go down and take a left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone: (817) 465-8538; (214) 876-9029. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Last Friday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506.

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

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

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy. 36, Caldwell. Directions: Lodge building is just off Hwy. 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: (979) 567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the

hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Social games: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Kitchen and bar open. License Permit No. 1-74-2073309541002. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)

Beginning February 8: Lodge meetings will be held 2 to 3 p.m. followed by entertainment and potluck, and will continue to be held the second Sunday of each month. Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Hall Rental Information: (512) 255-1554; (512) 7714948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 to 3 p.m. at the hall followed by entertainment and potluck meal.

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C and 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 to 10 p.m. Please continue to bring finger foods for the snack table.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Rental Information: (281) 351-1045; Hall Phone: (281) 373-9482. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, at 1 p.m. at the hall. Covered dish meal will be served.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall/Bruceville-Eddy Senior Center, 100 Fourth Street in Eddy.

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) 727-2048 for meeting location.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. Call for meeting location Secretary Tammy Copeland (325) 320-4089. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Deborah Stevens (325) 660-1421 for meeting date/time/location.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday 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 Ingrid Petrik for meeting date/time/location (254) 7601831.

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—

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