Volume 104 Number 20
ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence
H E R A L D
★ Humanity
★ Brotherhood
May 18, 2016
Johnnie A. Plsek Celebrates the Grand Age of 96
SPJST congratulates Johnnie A. Plsek, of Lodge 47, Seaton, who celebrates his 96th birthday on Monday, May 30, 2016. Brother Plsek will be entitled to all SPJST member benefits with no further dues or assessments. Johnnie Anton Plsek was born to parents Joe F. Plsek and Mary Kostroun Plsek, both deceased, on May 30, 1920, in the Marak-Buckholts area. He is the youngest of eight children, which included four brothers and three sisters; all siblings are deceased. Johnnie married Adela Valka in Cameron on April 8, 1947. The couple had one daughter Linda Darlene Armbruster (deceased); grandchildren Dr. Valerie Bobbitt of Cameron and John Lee Ashby; and great-grandson Justin Lee Ashby, both of Canyon Lake.
ISSN —07458800
Johnnie said that he is lucky to be here today. Years before he was born, his mother was very sick so his father rode a horse to Buckholts to tell the doctor how sick she was, and if he could come to check on her. Later, the doctor came on a horse and buggy. The doctor examined her and told his father that she was very ill. She couldn’t keep any food in her stomach and had double pneumonia. The doctor didn’t have anything he could give her, and he said that she would die. As the
doctor started to leave, my father stopped him and asked if there was anything that he could do to save his wife. The doctor studied for a minute and asked him if he could get some good moonshine whiskey. He said that he could. The doctor told him to pour one jigger of whiskey into a half glass of milk with one raw egg and a good amount of black pepper and let her drink this and see if this would stay in her stomach. He did this, and she didn’t vomit. An hour later, he made her drink another
one. Later in the night, her fever broke, and she started feeling better. Johnnie’s mother lived to be 84 years old. Johnnie’s father always said that whiskey saved his mother’s life. When Johnnie’s father was born, the midwife couldn’t get him to cry. She tried everything. She slapped him on his behind, but still no crying. The midwife asked Johnnie’s grandmother if they had any whiskey. She said there is a bottle in the kitchen. The midwife got the whiskey and poured some on her finger and placed her finger on his tongue. This brought out a big cry. Johnnie’s father always joked telling people that he drank whiskey before he drank milk. He lived to be 92 years old. A couple of months after Johnnie
Seeking the Treasures of SPJST - April Top Agents
Continued on Page 10.
1st - Certificates Issued 1st - Annualized Premium $500 Award
2nd - Certificates Issued 3rd - Annualized Premium $100 Award
2nd - Annualized Premium 5th - Certificates Issued $100 Award
3rd - Certificates Issued $50 Award
4th - Certificates Issued $50 Award
4th - Annualized Premium $50 Award
5th - Annualized Premium $50 Award
Gay Revel, FIC
Cristy Girod
Arnie Rivera, FIC
Wardell Starling
Via Randolph
Arnoldo Lerma
Carlos Eureste
Lodge 97, Placedo District Six
Lodge 29, Taylor District Two
Lodge 219, El Paso District Four
N N N N N N N N
Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates ......................................3 Readers Write ......................................3 Supreme Lodge Meeting Minutes ......5 Seeking the Treasures Update .........12 Lodge Section....................................14
Lodge 162, Iowa Colony District Five
Lodge 66, Waco District Three
Inside Th is Week’s Vestnik
In Memoriam ......................................27 Youth Section ....................................31 Lodge Calendar ............................35-36 Czech Culture ....................................37 Advertisements.............................38-39 Vestnik Graduate Form.....................40
Page 20
Lodge 88 Houston member rides in HLSR Grand Entry
Lodge 183, Arlington District Three
Lodge 171, Lockhart District One
N N N N N N N N Page 32
Lodge 17 New Tabor youth wins essay contest
Page 34
Lodge 162 Iowa Colony Youth Club cleans beach
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Editor’s Note
ˇ ´ VESTNIK
It’s almost Convention time!
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 76705-5330 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@gmail.com
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 4188 FM 1303, Floresville, Texas 78114-6092 Home: 830-393-2872 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, 77853 • 979-884-0807 - sharonTexas russell28@yahoo.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - 254-985-2396 patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Kay Weeks, 4203 Treehaven Ct, Arlington, Texas 76016 • 817-896-5277 - kgweeks@att.net District Four - Pam Lehmann, PO Box 637, Tahoka, Texas 79373-0637 - 806-561-5105 - plehmann@poka.com District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023-6510 - 713-649-6138 - district5dyc@aol.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, El 77437 - 979-543-7120 Campo, Texas lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - Lian Pruski, 418 West Hunt Street Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 830-480-2737 lianpruski@gmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - 979-884-1451 - dimebox5@aol.com District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - 512-365-2000 - 512-848-2416/cell - 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 - bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Mildred Holeman, 4001 North Shepherd, Suite 112, Houston, Texas 77018 - 713-683-0018 - mmholeman@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - 979-244-4415; 979-479-0056 cell District Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Road, Poteet, Texas 78065 - 830-391-4169 - oscarkorus@gmail.com
FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - 979-567-4264 - jtcannon60@hotmail.com District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - 254-985-2282 Edwin_Pechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas 76706 - 254-662-4934 - mgaller@brazoselectric.com District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM Highway 765, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-651-8550 - hdweise@zipnet.us District Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946-5118 - 979-249-5940 marceil@cvctx.com District Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Court, East Bernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4461 - gkamink@live.com District Seven - Roy Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive, New Braunfels, Texas 78130-3438 - 830-625-8262 39roha@gmail.com
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 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 - Charles Bucek, P.O. Box 147, East Bernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4118 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 Cannon, 305 Bluehaw Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78628-6367 - 512-948-5339 - tcannon4715@yahoo.com District Three - Lynda Novak, 7153 Cornelia Ln, Dallas, Texas 75214 - 972-948-4456 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
VĚSTNÍK
T
he 32nd SPJST Convention begins in about three weeks. The Howdy Party kicks off on Sunday, June 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. with music by Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five at Killeen Civic and Conference Center. Refreshments will be served. The convention begins at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, June 13. The banquet will be Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. Czech and Then Some will play for the evening dance. Lunch and banquet tickets must be purchased by May 23. An order form appears on page 11 of this week’s Vestnik. We hope to see you at the convention. And, this is a perfect time to visit the beautiful November 5, 2009 Fort Hood Memorial that is located on the grounds between the Killeen Civic and Conference Center and Shiloh Inn. Plan to spend some time at the memorial remembering those who passed away and appreciating its beauty and serenity. Pre-Convention Vestnik Last week’s Vestnik was the 56page pre-convention issue featuring all of the officers’ and standing committees’ reports. The photo on page 11 was incorrectly identified. The photo is of Roy W. Vajdak. Please make a note of the correction.
SPJST Car Show Success The 11th Annual SPJST Car Show and Czech Heritage Celebration was held Saturday, May 7 at Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall. What a bright, sunny, successful day we had. Despite many other events going on in and around Central Texas, we had many, many spectators and many, many car entries. Thanks to all who attended and participated in the event. Stay tuned to
the Vestnik for a summary of the event and lots of photos.
Let’s Honor Our Graduates! Congratulations to the Class of 2016 graduates! Whether it’s your high school commencement or college graduation, it’s quite an accomplishment. We invite you to share your achievement with other members of SPJST in an upcoming issue of the Vestnik. Graduates must be SPJST members. To be included, please complete the biographical sketch on the back page of this week’s Vestnik and mail it, along with a color headshot photograph, no later then Wednesday, May 25, to: Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny c/o SPJST Home Office PO Box 100 Temple, TX 76503
The information and headshot photo can also be emailed to melaniez@vvm.com. See the back page for complete details. Friendly Reminder . . . Vestnik Deadline Unless otherwise posted, the deadline for each week’s Vestnik is Wednesday at 5 p.m. Please help us to continue to meet our printer’s deadline each week. Thank you! —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the third week of October and the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Vestnik do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Financial Secretary Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
VĚSTNÍK
Family Fun and Important Dates
May 22
District Three Delegates’ Meeting Lodge 84, Dallas May 22 Lodge 84, Dallas Svačina (3) May 23 Lodge 66, Waco Honors Longtime Members St. Paul’s Church(3) May 28 SPJST Float • National Polka Festival Parade Ennis (3) May 28 SPJST Kolache Eating Contest National Polka Festival Parade, Ennis (3) May 30 SPJST Home Office Closed • Memorial Day May 31 Lodge 202, Jourdanton Scholarship Application Deadline (7) June 5 Lodge 47, Seaton Annual Picnic (2) June 5 Lodge 155, Austin Summer Social Pok-e-Jo’s Smokehouse (2) June 9-11 Leader-In-Training Retreat SPJST Education and Nature Center, Ledbetter June 12 SPJST Convention Howdy Party Killeen Civic and Conference Center June 13-15 32nd SPJST Convention Killeen Civic and Conference Center June 14 Flag Day June 25 District Three YAD Lodge 183, Arlington June 25 Lodge 18, Elgin hosts SPJST Float Western Days Parade, Elgin (2) June 26 District Seven YAD Coman County Fairgrounds, New Braunfels July 4 SPJST Home Office Closed • Fourth of July July 4 SPJST Float • Belton Fourth of July Parade (2) July 4 Lodge 183, Arlington hosts SPJST Float Arlington Fourth of July Parade (3) July 7-10 Districts One/Four/Five Camp SPJST Education and Nature Center, Ledbetter July 9 District Two YAD • Lodge 47, Seaton July 13-16 Districts Three/Seven Camp SPJST Education and Nature Center, Ledbetter July 16 District Four YAD Lodge 49, Rowena (4) July 16 Lodge 51, Ellinger Annual Picnic (1) Ellinger VESTNIK
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SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 05/01/2016 - 07/31/2016
SPJST Farm/Residential/ Universal Life Commercial Property Universal Life 3 Information (plans 1203-1222 with a Call the SPJST Home Office guaranteed rate of 2.50%) 800-727-7578 for information. Credited Rate: 3.00% 75% Residential/Farm Whole Life/ Loans for 5 to 30 Years Universal Life 3 Commercial Property (plans 1223-1232 with a Loans for 1 to 10 Years guaranteed rate of 2.50%) and 11 to 15 Years 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%
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Readers Write
District Seven Director shares information
This is an article that I have put together with some information. Some of you might know this, and some might not. I hope that it will help you to make sound decisions at the upcoming convention. We, the SPJST, must be willing to go along with the changes that the regulators (government) have sent out to us and other fraternals. Our convention will answer a lot of these questions. Our leaders must abide what the regulators and convention sets down. Some of these changes are mandatory. No way around them. But you must remember, we, the SPJST, will do everything in our power possible to protect our members and their monies. This is a top priority. We must work harder to keep what we have now and what will be in the future. Communication is another top priority item. You must remember, these changes are not the makings of the SPJST. I believe that the regulators have come up with a way to collect monies from fraternals, since we do not pay taxes. If you don’t meet their guidelines by a certain date, they will levy fines on your company. This is a way of collecting from the fraternals. We must be very careful with the regulations that come down from the regulators. Now, we must come up with good experienced leadership. We cannot afford leadership that will falter down the line. Our structural committee and By-Law Committee have come up with a good program for our 2016 Convention. Of course, there is always some changes to be made by the delegation. We need to have deliberations on some of the items brought up. We need good explanations on some of them. Everyone should understand what is happening. We must elect leaders that will lead us into the future. We cannot stand around and wait; we must act now. Our leaders must come together as a whole and discuss, not as individuals and be ready to make decisions that will propel us into the future. We must come up with a realistic business plan for the next five years. We must set goals that are achievable. We must recruit and train agents that want to sell SPJST insurance. We must come up with a marketing plan that will enhance the SPJST. The future is not all that rosy. Let
us work together as one unit and propel us, the SPJST, into the future as a leader among fraternals. We are on the edge of becoming a billion dollar company. Let us work harder to achieve this goal. Remember, good leadership reaps rewards in the future. I remind each delegate and their members to read and study the changes for SPJST. At the convention, you will make decisions. Remember, this is for real. Let’s make realistic decisions. May God bless each and every one of you. Fraternally, Bob Bayer Member of Lodge 107, Floresville District Seven Director —SPJST—
Members express appreciation
Dear Mr. Vanicek: I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to SPJST for making the General Freshman Scholarship possible. I was thrilled to learn of my selection for this honor, and I am very appreciative of your support. I am currently a senior at Angleton High School and will be graduating in the top 1 percent of my class on June 3, 2016. I have been admitted to Texas A&M University in the Dwight Look College of Engineering program and will begin this new chapter in my life in the fall of 2016. By awarding to me the SPJST General Freshman Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden in paying my college expenses, and it will allow me to concentrate more of my time for studying. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day, I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me. Sincerely, Avery Moyle Lodge 162, Iowa Colony •••
Dear SPJST Scholarship Committee, Thank you for selecting me to receive the General Freshman Scholarship. As one of this year’s SPJST recipients, I am both honored and
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
grateful for the opportunities this award will provide me. I appreciate your confidence in me and willingness to contribute to my future education. I have been accepted to Texas A&M University’s Dwight Look College of Engineering and will be majoring in civil engineering. The financial assistance you provided will be of great help to me in paying for my educational expenses. Sincerely, Cory Noak Lodge 29, Taylor •••
Dear Scholarship Committee: I am sincerely honored to have been selected as a recipient of the SPJST scholarship. Your generosity will help lighten my financial burden and allow me to focus more on my education. | am eager to begin my education at Tarleton State University in the fall. My career plan will focus on agriculture and horticulture. I am looking forward to the many opportunities that will arise on my educational journey.
Thank you for honoring me with this gift that has inspired me to help others as you have helped me. I hope one day I will be able to help my students achieve their goals just as you have helped me achieve mine. Sincerely, Caleb Skrivanek Lodge 25, Ennis —SPJST—
Suchedoly, Czechoslovakia
Dear Melanie, A typographical error appeared in the Macek family story of the April 27, 2016, Vestnik edition. The name of the small town that Joe Vince Macek and his wife Annie Novasad came from is Suchedoly, which is near the town of Kosice, Czechoslovakia. It is a beautiful, mountainous region that has now become a nature reserve. Sincerely and Fraternally, Jerry Wayne Macek Lodge 229, Abilene —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
From the Supreme Lodge President
Lodge 84, Dallas invites one and all to May 22 get acquainted svačina
The SPJST Home Office, in partnership with SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas and the Czech Heritage Museum of Temple invite all Lodge 84, Dallas and District Three members to come and celebrate “Svačina!” on Sunday, May 22, 2016, at the lodge hall at 2625 Floyd Street in Dallas. The many firstgeneration Texas Czechs now living in Texas are also being invited to attend. The informal social will last from 1 to 3 p.m. and be followed by the final District Three pre-convention delegates’ meeting. Guest presenter will be SPJST President Brian Vanicek. Entertainment will be provided by the Dallas Czech Folk Singers. The tradition of svačina can be traced back hundreds of years to the Czech lands of Moravia and Bohemia. The word itself — pronounced “svahchee-nah” is derived from the old Czech word “svac” which meant a
get-together of friends or acquaintances. “Svačina isn’t lunch and it isn’t dinner. It’s something in-between,” says Vanicek. “It can include everything from sausage and sauerkraut to kolaches, strudels, cakes, and pies.” The May 22 program tells the story of the svačina from early days to modern times, with an emphasis on the Texas Czech svačina, with an emphasis on kolaches. Make plans to come out to Lodge 84, Dallas and enjoy what is sure to be an enjoyable presentation — and a delicious svačina! The event begins at 1 p.m. The Svačina will be followed by the final pre-convention delegates meeting. An assortment of svačina items and recipes will be available for attendees to sample and enjoy. Although not required, attendees are welcome to bring their own svačina specialty items to add to the sample table. Hoping to see you there! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek Supreme Lodge President —SPJST—
District Delegate Meeting
District Three delegates’ meeting Sunday, May 22 at Lodge 84, Dallas
District Three delegates will meet for one final meeting prior to the convention on Sunday, May 22, 2016, at Lodge 84, Dallas from 3 to 5 p.m. The meeting will follow the svačina event
that will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Delegates are encouraged to attend the meeting and to bring their May 11 special pre-convention Vestnik that will include Supreme Lodge and standing committee reports and by-laws to be voted on at the convention. Fraternally, Kay Lynn Kovar By-Law Committee District Three Representative —SPJST—
District One Delegates Meeting at Lodge 17, New Tabor
LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Lenora and Vincent Bliznak (169), Edwin and Donna Zimmerhanzel (38), Janice Victorick (9), Shirley Vytopil (39), and Debbie Kostelka (13). RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Ashley Victorick (88) - barely visible, Henry Mayo (189), Kyle Skrabanek (17), Ben Trcalek,
Jr. (17), Susan Skrabanek (17), James Schoeneman (9), Bill Orsak (9), and Randy Gaas (17). RIGHT PHOTO: District One Director Donnie Victorick (9), left, and By-Law Committee Representative Ricky Ford (13) lead the delegates’ meeting on May 6, 2016, at Lodge 17, New Tabor.
VĚSTNÍK
Minutes April 19 and 20, 2016 Regular Meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas
PRESIDING The meeting was called to order by Supreme Lodge Chairman Donnie Victorick on April 19, 2016, 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; Karen Kaspar – District Six/Vice Chairman; Robert J. Bayer – District Seven. Officer—Roy Vajdak, Financial Secretary. Donnie Howard was present to visit the meeting. He is a member of Lodge 185, New Braunfels and a director of the Education and Nature Center.
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 led the Supreme Lodge in an opening prayer.
Director Bayer moved that this meeting be dedicated in honor of past District Six Director and Supreme Lodge Chairman Matt Vanek. Director Kaspar seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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ANNOUNCEMENTS President Vanicek announced that Consultant Buddie Ballard of Alpha Capital Management will present a report on investment performance on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. The auditors will give a report at 10:30 a.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 19 AND 20, 2016 REGULAR MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. The minutes were approved as presented on motion by Director Kaspar, seconded by Director Bayer, and carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 8, 2016 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING The minutes were considered page by page. The last sentence in the sixth paragraph was corrected to read, “Changes will be recommended by the Supreme Lodge along with corrections discovered during the review.” The minutes were approved as corrected on motion by Director Rollwitz, seconded by Director Pospisil, and carried unanimously. MINUTES OF OFFICERS’ MEETINGS CONCERNING INVESTMENTS The minutes of 10 officers’ meetings concerning investments were presented. They are: January – 4, 5, 11, 26 February – 3, 8, 24 March – 2, 14, 23
A Resolution of Respect to past Director/Chairman Vanek was read. SecretaryTreasurer Mikeska moved adoption, Director Bayer seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
There was a general discussion about circumstances that drive our investment decisions and a review of expenses. One factor that influences our investment decisions is the need for income to fund near $2 million of non-contractual fraternal benefits and programs along with general insurance expenses. Director Bayer stated it was his opinion that we call a meeting to review expenses and areas that could be cut.
WHEREAS, the Supreme Lodge and the SPJST membership was saddened to learn of the death of Matt S. Vanek; and,
Recess was taken from 9:15 until 9:25 a.m.
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, Brother Vanek left surviving him to mourn his departure, his wife Henrietta; five sons - James and wife Monica, Matthew and wife Mary, Dennis and wife Donna, Kenneth, and Thomas, and five grandchildren - Christopher, Jamie, Jonathon, Dana, and Dean, all of whom, with all the members of the Supreme Lodge SPJST, mourn his departure; and,
WHEREAS, the members of the Supreme Lodge SPJST desire to record their sorrow at the death on March 26, 2016, of Brother Vanek, who had worked harmoniously and diligently for the good of the Society and served SPJST as Director and Supreme Lodge Chairman and also in many capacities on the state, district, and lodge levels. Fraternalism was a way of life for Brother Vanek, and he will be missed and remembered by his many friends mourning his passing. Brother Vanek leaves an enduring legacy of his faithful and diligent devotion to support the work of his lodge - Lodge 32, Victoria. He was also a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church, KJT 115, Knights of Columbus Council 1329, VFW Post 4116, American Legion Post 166, Hermann Sons Life, Victoria County Czech Heritage Society, and Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Supreme Lodge of the SPJST meeting as a body in session on April 19, 2016, hereby gives its formal expression of sympathy and does hereby note in its records the passing from this life of a loyal member, who was respected by his associates and loved by his family and friends. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be tendered to the family as an expression of heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement. FOR THE SUPREME LODGE SPJST Brian Vanicek, President Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer
The minutes were ratified on motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Director Pospisil, and the motion 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. The Management Team meeting notes were acknowledged on motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Director Kaspar, and the motion carried unanimously.
EXECUTIVE MINUTES The meeting went into executive session from 9:55 until 11 a.m. to consider executive minutes.
During executive session, a letter was read from Kathryn Marek in behalf of Lodge 117, Robstown.
OLD BUSINESS STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR’S REPORT State Youth Director Lynette Talasek referred to her detailed written report. The report included the State Youth Director’s daily time record, upcoming activities, and preparations for camp. State Youth Director Talasek reported on positive information brought back from the American Camping Association conference. She also shared information from the Youth Leaders Retreat. A report was presented listing the ending balance of the District Youth Fund for each district.
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State Youth Director Talasek is a director on the Education and Nature Center Board, and she reported that the ENC Board filled the vacancy in the position of the camp director.
STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR’S REPORT State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Horak reported on the following: The positive impact of hosting the state progressive 42, state tarok, and straight domino tournaments at the Home Office was very good. Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny collaborated with State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Horak in reporting information from the American Fraternal Alliance’s Fraternal and Communications Mid-Year Meeting.
Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Horak reviewed information they brought back from the Fraternal and Communications Mid-Year Meeting. This included reports of surveys conducted, detailed information about recruitment of volunteers, modernizing your lodge system, publications, and college students programs. Recess for lunch was taken at 12:10 until 12:50 p.m.
Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny discussed various member perks.
President Vanicek moved that SPJST move forward with PerkSpot to integrate the program into the new SPJST website. Director Kaspar seconded, and the motion carried. The motion carried with eight in favor and one opposed. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President Coufal, Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, Director Engelke, Director Kaspar, and Director Bayer. Voting in opposition: Director Rollwitz. HUMAN RESOURCE ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT Human Resource Administrator Debbie Klinkovsky referred to her detailed written report which included employee benefits, insurance renewals, compliance reporting, and employee education.
Employee healthcare was considered. After review of bids and options, President Vanicek moved that we continue with the Baylor Scott and White Health Plan. Vice President Coufal seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. President Vanicek stated that he appreciated all the ways Human Resource Administrator Debbie Klinkovsky assisted with the Fort Hood Memorial project.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT President Vanicek was recognized for the excellent speech he delivered at the Fort Hood Memorial dedication. President Vanicek reviewed the A.M. Best conference call on April 8. Opinion was expressed that the conference was very positive.
President Vanicek reviewed first quarter highlights. There was a discussion about the awards banquet and steps proposed to shorten the event.
President Vanicek announced the first new lodge organized since 2009—Lodge 232, Houston Mid-Town.
VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President Coufal referred to a detailed report on sales. The report showed a 23.76 percent increase in certificates issued, insurance issued was up 65.08 percent over last year, and earned premium was up 19.42 percent. Annualized premium was up 23.67 percent. Vice President Coufal presented the following:
• • • •
Report of certificates issued. Report of progress of annual reviews. Report of application errors by agents. Results of membership calls made.
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Director Rollwitz asked when the Spanish-translated brochure would be ready. He requested completion of the brochure within two weeks. Recess was taken from 3 until 3:10 p.m.
SECRETARY-TREASURER’S REPORT LODGE IRS REPORTING/LODGE COMPLIANCE Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska presented a list of lodge compliance in regard to filing of IRS forms 990/990T, e-card filing, and furnishing of lodge officers’ reports. ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT (ERM) Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed key elements of our ERM policy. He referred to his report setting forth the risks identified by each of the three ERM subcommittees which need to be addressed.
There was a general discussion about developing a five-year business plan and setting priorities and a timeline for items that should be addressed.
In conclusion, it was generally agreed that the ERM subcommittees should meet prior to the July Supreme Lodge meeting and the main ERM committee would meet the day prior to the July Supreme Lodge meeting. It was further suggested that in keeping with the ERM Committee findings, the agenda for the fall strategic planning session should be to address the identified challenges. Specific actions should be decided upon, and priorities set with timelines for their mitigation.
PURCHASE OF PROPERTY Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reported that the purchase of the 181.884 acres from LCRA (Lower Colorado River Authority) has closed, and the lease to the ENC formerly held by LCRA has been assigned to SPJST. The purchase will enable SPJST to give the ENC more flexibility in how it utilizes the property. SPJST now owns the land and is the lessor. CONVENTION Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed details of convention arrangements with the Supreme Lodge.
FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S REPORT VESTNIK Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that the Vestnik subscriptions stand at 9,567.
LODGE MEMBERSHIP COUNT Financial Secretary Vajdak reported our membership count stands at 41,334.
ADMIN SYSTEM/PHONES Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that the first phase of the admin system upgrade system has been completed. He also referred to a written report of the changes and update of our computer system. Proposed changes to the phone system and disaster recovery are also underway.
CASH FLOW TESTING Financial Secretary Vajdak reported that cash flow testing was completed by our actuary and that it was found that no additional reserves need to be set up.
DIRECTOR’S OLD BUSINESS DISTRICT TWO Director Pospisil reported in January he attended Lodge 187, Round Rock monthly meeting and installed officers; attended Lodge 24, Cyclone meeting and installed officers; attended Lodge 29, Taylor monthly meeting and installed officers; attended the Supreme Lodge and Audit Committee meeting; attended and participated in the awards banquet in Temple; and attended the District Youth Counselor’s meeting in Temple.
Director Pospisil reported in February he attended the Supreme Lodge special called meeting; attended and participated in the District Two by-law meeting in Temple; attended Lodge 177, Academy monthly meeting; attended the Fraternal Bowling Tournament in New Braunfels; attended Lodge 6, Cottonwood appreciation dinner; and attended the standing committee conference.
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Director Pospisil reported in March he attended Lodge 155, Austin quarterly meeting; attended the Fort Hood Memorial dedication in Killeen; attended and participated in the District Two Spring Meeting in Beyersville; attended Lodge 15, Buckholts monthly meeting and presented a discretionary check to the Buckholts Volunteer Fire Department; and attended Youth Leaders’ Workshop in Temple.
DISTRICT THREE Director Engelke reported in January he attended the Supreme Lodge and Audit Committee meetings at the Home Office; attended the By-Law Committee meeting in Temple; participated in an ENC meeting by phone conference; attended Lodge 66, Waco’s meeting; attended the awards banquet and the ENC meeting in Temple; and attended the District Youth Counselors’ meeting in Temple.
Director Engelke reported in February he attended the Supreme Lodge Special Called Meeting in Temple; attended Lodge 35, Elk’s meeting; attended S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers’ meeting in Hillje; attended Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting; attended visitation and funeral of Bessie Petr; attended a lunch with Fraternal Field Manager Philip McBee in Waco; attended District Three delegates’ meeting at Lodge 183, Arlington; attended Lodge 6, Cottonwood member appreciation lunch; attended Lodge 66, Waco meeting; participated in two ENC meetings by telephone conference; attended Lodge 183, Arlington meeting and installed officers; attended a pre-convention meeting in Temple; attended a fundraiser at Lodge 25, Ennis; and attended visitation and funeral services for Ray Snokhous. Director Engelke reported in March he attended visitation services for Melissa Marmino in Hewitt; attended funeral services for Irene Mueller in Tours; attended meeting at Lodge 54, West; attended meeting and Easter program for Lodge 6 in West; attended meeting at Lodge 66, Waco; participated in an ENC meeting by phone conference; attended funeral service for Jimbo Hutchison in Prairie Hill; attended training in Waco for the MCC Board; attended Youth Leader Workshop in Temple; attended meeting at the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home in Taylor.
Director Engelke reported in April he attended a District Three delegates’ meeting at Lodge 6, Cottonwood; attended visitation service in Fort Worth for Larry Hargiss; attended a Supreme Lodge meeting on by-laws in Temple; participated in an ENC meeting by phone conference; attended a meeting at Lodge 66, Waco; attended visitation service for Cameron Bilby in Valliant, Oklahoma; and attended the Supreme Lodge meeting in Temple.
DISTRICT FOUR Director Rollwitz reported in January he accompanied Fraternal Field Manager Bobby Davis to Lodge 219, El Paso to meet with sales agents; attended the Supreme Lodge meeting; delivered supplies to FFM Davis; and attended the awards banquet in Temple.
Director Rollwitz reported in February he attended Lodge 49, Rowena meeting and gave reports; attended by-law meeting in Temple; attended Lodge 160, San Angelo meeting and gave reports; traveled to Wichita Falls with FFM Davis to meet with sales agents; and attended a by-law meeting in Temple.
Director Rollwitz reported in March he attended the dedication of the Fort Hood Memorial in Killeen and attended Lodge 76, Wichita Falls meeting and gave reports.
DISTRICT FIVE Director Pflughaupt reported in January he attended a soup tasting fundraiser for the Czech Heritage Society; attended the Fort Bend County Chapter held at Lodge 81, Needville; participated in the awards banquet in Temple; attended the ENC board meeting in Temple; and attended District Youth Counselors’ spring meeting in Temple.
Director Pflughaupt reported in February he attended the preliminary meeting for the proposed organization of Lodge 232, Houston Midtown which is to be housed at the Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMH); participated in the Supreme Lodge Special Called Meeting; attended the monthly meeting at Lodge 88, Houston and gave director’s report; attended the monthly meeting at Lodge
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81, Needville and gave director’s report; and attended a by-law meeting in Temple.
Director Pflughaupt reported in March, he met with a member about a potential mortgage loan; attended Lodge 91, San Jacinto quarterly meeting and gave director’s report; attended continuing education insurance class at Lodge 81, Needville; attended Lodge 88, Houston Easter egg hunt and party; attended Lodge 88, Houston monthly meeting and gave director’s report; participated in the organizational meeting with election of officers for Lodge 232, Houston Midtown; promoted SPJST at SpringFest, hosted by Harris County Chapter of the Czech Heritage Society, held at Lodge 88, Houston. DISTRICT SIX Director Kaspar reported in January she participated in a call-in meeting with the SPJST Insurance Department; attended District’s Five and Six sales agents’ meeting with Fraternal Field Manager Delisle Doherty in Needville; participated in a conference call with Lodge 184, Moulton; participated in the audit as the chairperson at the Home Office in Temple; attended the Supreme Lodge meeting in Temple; attended monthly meeting for Lodge 8, Weimar in Schulenburg; attended Special Called Meeting of the SPJST Foundation in Temple; attended awards banquet in Temple; and attended District Six Cemetery Association annual meeting in Moravia.
Director Kaspar reported in February she attended Leona Macha’s funeral services in El Campo; attended Lodge 30, Taiton monthly meeting; attended the Supreme Lodge Special Called Meeting; attended Lodge 41, Port Lavaca quarterly meeting/membership appreciation; attended Lodge 184, Moulton monthly meeting; attended meeting at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange; attended Lodge 8, Weimar monthly meeting in Schulenburg; and attended pre-convention meeting with standing committees in Temple. Director Kaspar reported in March she attended Lodge 30, Taiton monthly meeting; attended Lodge 151, Wharton quarterly meeting; attended Lodge 23, Moravia quarterly meeting and presented 75-year membership pins; attended Districts Five/Six sales agents’ meeting with FFM Doherty in Needville; attended Lodge 30, Taiton April monthly meeting; attended District Six delegates’ meeting at Lodge 30, Taiton; and attended funeral services of Honorary District Six Director Matt Vanek in Moravia. DISTRICT SEVEN Director Bayer reported in January he attended a meeting at the Home Office.
Director Bayer reported in February he attended the District Seven officers’ planning meeting; attended Lodge 202, Jourdanton meeting and made a presentation to Fraternalist of the Year Kathleen Polasek; attended the Special Called Supreme Lodge Meeting at the Home Office; attended Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; attended a meeting with members of Lodge 164, Rio Hondo; and delivered books and a check for the Czech Heritage Museum.
Director Bayer reported in March he attended a meeting at Lodge 117, Robstown; attended Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; attended Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting and awards banquet; and attended District Seven meeting at Lodge 202, Jourdanton.
Director Bayer reported in April he attended District Seven meeting at Lodge 202, Jourdanton; attended Lodge 107, Floresville annual banquet meeting and attended Lodge 133, San Antonio meeting. Director Bayer discussed the closing out of Lodge 164, Rio Hondo and forwarding their donation of their funds to the Czech Heritage Museum.
Director Bayer referred to a list of questions dealing with status of some budgeted items and information was provided.
DISTRICT ONE Director Victorick reported in January he attended the awards banquet at the Mayborn Center in Temple.
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Director Victorick reported in February he delivered an incentive award plaque and incentive to Lodge 67, Schulenburg; attended Lodge 9, Snook meeting; attended Supreme Lodge Special Called meeting to consider and review by-law proposals; attended Lodge 141, Sealy meeting; attended Lodge 179, Warrenton meeting; attended Bessie Petr’s visitation and viewing in Dallas; attended Lodge 9, Snook annual fundraiser; and attended By-Law Committee meeting and standing committee meeting at the Home Office. Director Victorick reported in March he attended Lodge 9, Snook meeting; attended Lodge 29, Taylor annual fundraiser; attended Youth Leaders’ Retreat at the Home Office; attended By-Law Committee meeting at the Home Office; and attended the organizational meeting of Lodge 232, Houston Midtown.
Director Victorick reported in April he attended Lodge 17, New Tabor monthly meeting; attended A.M. Best conference call reviewing SPJST at the Home Office; attended Texans of Czech Ancestry awards banquet at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange; attended District One Spring Meeting at Lodge 17, New Tabor; attended Lodge 141, Sealy monthly meeting; attended Lodge 13, Dime Box monthly meeting; attended the By-Law Committee meeting at the Home Office; and attended Lodge 38, Kovar picnic. Visitor Donnie Howard was given the opportunity to speak, and he addressed the Supreme Lodge.
Recess for the day was taken at 5:40 p.m. until 8 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20.
Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick called the meeting to order, and SecretaryTreasurer Mikeska led the opening prayer.
EDITOR/DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny presented a detailed quarterly report of her travel and meetings.
VESTNIK REPORT Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny commented on the fact that recent Vestniks have been larger than usual and attributed their size in part to the upcoming convention. WEBSITE Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on our online presence and progress on our website that is being developed by Sparxoo. She gave a preview of the progress.
SPJST FLOATS/PARADE APPEARANCES Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on two recent float appearances and some 17 scheduled events. Float maintenance has been completed on Float 1, and Float 2 is in progress waiting on the selection of a new theme.
ACTIVITIES IN PROGRESS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny reported on activities during the quarter and activities in progress include the Convention Souvenir Program Book, SPJST Car Show, the pre-convention Vestnik and scholarship/grant winners in the Vestnik. COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT GOALS Editor/Director of Communication Zavodny discussed progress on department goals. NEW BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS President Vanicek reviewed the rules for the scholarship program. If an annuity is used to establish membership to qualify for a scholarship application, the minimum amount of the annuity should be at least $5,000. President Vanicek reported that SPJST will be able to award 58 scholarships. The drawing for special scholarships was held, and the results were:
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Otto Hanus Scholarship*—Colton Henry Orsak District One/Lodge 9, Snook Ben and Martha Trcalek Scholarship—Tanner Allen Stefka District One/Lodge 17, New Tabor Gladys Yates Scholarship— Kelsie Lynn Frerich District One/Lodge 38, Kovar Ernest Wentrcek Scholarship—Fallon Elise Wenck District One/Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Slovacek’s Scholarship—Tyler Scott Evatt District Two/Lodge 24, Cyclone J.R. Kubena Scholarship—Julia Marie Zavodny District Two/Lodge 47, Seaton Denisse Wuensche Scholarship—Kacie Karoline Vanecek District Two/Lodge 48, Beyersville Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Scholarship—Jacob Tyler Horak District Two/Lodge 80, Holland Johnnie R. Krizan Endowed Scholarship—Andrew Joseph Cole District Three/Lodge 25, Ennis Otto Hanus Scholarship*—Hannah Beth Halfmann District Four/Lodge 160, San Angelo Nick Morris Scholarship—Baylis Mattea Zak District Six/Lodge 4, Hallettsville Myles Marek Scholarship—Samantha Renee Holub District Six/Lodge 23, Moravia SPJST District Six Scholarship—Sky Catalina Garcia District Six/Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Sid Pokladnik Scholarship—Regan Claire Lewis District Seven/Lodge 185, New Braunfels *Two scholarships awarded
Recess was taken from 9:30 until 9:45 a.m.
Consultant Buddie Ballard of Alpha Capital Management was present.
Past Vice President Gene McBride was present to visit the meeting. He was welcomed.
INVESTMENT REPORT Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska brought up the quarterly report of investments and asked Buddie Ballard, CFA to present a report. Mr. Ballard referred to a detailed report and referred to charts and graphs to illustrate portfolio performance.
There was a critical review of two lower grade securities which will be closely monitored.
AUDIT REPORT Chris Kim of Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd & Therrell, auditors, was present. He proceeded with the auditor’s review of the audit plan. Key issues were management responsibilities and compliance with laws and regulations. The engagement objectives were reviewed, and planned scope of the overall audit strategy was reviewed. The Supreme Lodge heard a detailed review of primary areas of focus and audit strategy. It was anticipated the report would be ready by the time of the convention.
President Vanicek returned to his report. He referred to Join Hands Day, SPJST Car Show, and National Polka Festival in Ennis. He discussed the Port Lavaca property. The lodge will deed the property to the volunteer fire department and will receive the right to use the building for its meetings. President Vanicek reported on the proposed move of the Velehrad lodge to Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange. He is working to arrange sponsorships to provide funds for the move and set up.
President Vanicek referred to activity in a number of lodges including Shiner, Wheelock, and other areas. He reported that the svačina program will be scheduled at Lodge 84, Dallas.
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SPJST FOUNDATION President Vanicek brought up funding for the Foundation start-up. President Vanicek moved that the sum of $30,000 be contributed to the SPJST Foundation. Director Pospisil seconded the motion, and the motion carried unanimously. NEWBORN BENEFIT Vice President Coufal distributed a brochure for the non-contractual new fraternal benefit program for newborns.
The benefit is $5,000 between the third and 180th day if both parents are a member. The benefit is one-half that amount if only one parent is a member. The plan also includes options to buy specified amounts of insurance on the child. Recess for lunch was taken from 12:05 until 12:45 p.m.
BENEFIT APPLICATION Vice President Coufal reviewed the new application. He reviewed the application and focused on new additions and/or changes. The application has been approved by the Texas Department of Insurance.
PREFERRED WAY TO PURCHASE LIFE APPLICATION Vice President Coufal reviewed marketing data providing information on peoples’ various preferences when buying life insurance. STAFF SERVICE AWARD The Supreme Lodge recognized Janie Coakley for 10 years of service. She is employed in the Secretary-Treasurer’s Department and serves as Executive Assistant to the Secretary-Treasurer and Investment Specialist. She was congratulated on her excellent, dependable service. Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska presented her with a 10-year service pin. She responded by thanking the Supreme Lodge for the service award. DELINQUENCIES OF REAL ESTATE LOANS Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska reviewed recommendations on 11 delinquent loans and moved approval of the recommended actions on each. Director Kaspar seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
QUARTERLY INVESTMENTS Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska presented the listing of 28 securities purchased and sold during the quarter. The purchases and sales were ratified as reported on motion by Secretary-Treasurer Mikeska, seconded by Director Rollwitz, and the motion carried unanimously. INVESTMENT POLICY STATEMENT (IPS) There were no changes considered for the IPS.
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 May 1, 2016, through July 31, 2016, are: 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 Single Premium Immediate
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% 3.00%
Director Rollwitz moved approval of the recommended rates, Director Pospisil seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. All rates remain unchanged from the previous quarter.
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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 May 1, 2016, through July 31, 2016, 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 Settlement Option
* denotes plans currently marketed
Recommended Payout Rate 4.50% 3.00% 3.00% 3.50% 3.50% 3.00% .50%
Director Pospisil moved approval of the recommended rates. Director Rollwitz seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. All rates remain unchanged from the previous quarter.
ANNUAL STATEMENT Financial Secretary Vajdak proceeded with a comprehensive review of the 2015 annual statement. Highlights from his review include report of $232.7 million assets and $216.5 million of liabilities. Surplus increased $19.5 million. Financial Secretary Vajdak continued with a detailed review of the entire statutory annual statement.
STATEMENT OF OPERATION ENDING MARCH 31, 2016 Financial Secretary Vajdak reported it was positive that our first-year premium income has increased.
Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed the statement calling attention to any variances and explained the likely reason for the variances. Many of the variances were positive. No significant variances were noted. SUMMARY OF ANNUITIES Financial Secretary Vajdak presented a report that breaks out annuities by plan.
SPJST LODGE MANAGEMENT FUND Financial Secretary Vajdak reviewed a report regarding administration of the Lodge Management Fund. DIRECTOR’S NEW BUSINESS DIRECTOR POSPISIL Director Pospisil expressed his comments that he thought that we had a really great meeting. He congratulated Janie Coakley on her 10 years of devoted service. He stated that he wished Director Pflughaupt the best in the future since this would have been his last official meeting before he retires.
DIRECTOR ENGELKE Director Engelke thanked the officers for their thorough reports. He stated that he appreciated that we have been able to get our meetings down to two days. Director Engelke thanked the directors for their cooperation. Director Engelke commented on the fact that we were sold out of the 100th anniversary cookbooks and was of the opinion we should order more. It was agreed to proceed with getting a price quote and ordering more of the cookbooks. President Vanicek will work on updating the introduction pages. DIRECTOR ROLLWITZ Director Rollwitz expressed congratulations to Janie Coakley on 10 years of service. He wished everyone well.
DIRECTOR KASPAR Director Kaspar expressed get well wishes to Director Pflughaupt. She acknowledged the 10-year service award Janie Coakley received and expressed her congratulations. She commented that it is heartwarming to see years of service and dedicated employees.
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Director Kaspar commented that it is good that we have shortened our meetings to two days. She remarked that our meetings are more and more fruitful in what is accomplished. Director Kaspar commented that she is looking forward to the 2016 Convention.
DIRECTOR BAYER Director Bayer congratulated Janie Coakley on her 10 years of service award. He wished Brother Larry the best on his retirement. Director Bayer questioned if anything is being done to update our SPJST history book. There are no plans to update the history at this time, and a discussion followed if we want to do an update of the history.
DIRECTOR VICTORICK Director Victorick thanked everyone for making this an informative and productive meeting. He thanked the officers for all they have done and continue to do to prepare us for this meeting.
Director Victorick congratulated Janie Coakley on 10 years. He said that we missed Larry and wished him well and a speedy recovery. Director Victorick commented that we have accomplished a great deal this meeting.
SPJST FOUNDATION Foundation Director of Development James Lee, III was invited to give a Foundation report. He presented an informational report to the Supreme Lodge and a new SPJST Foundation brochure.
Foundation Director of Development Lee reported on accomplishments to date and plans for the clean-out-your-barn auction. He also suggested coming up with a recognition program to be considered by the SPJST Foundation Board.
ERM SUBCOMMITTEES It was agreed to schedule meetings of the three ERM subcommittee meetings for 8 a.m. on May 26.
It was also announced that the directors of the SPJST Foundation will meet at 10:30 a.m. on May 26. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Director Kaspar moved for adjournment. Director Rollwitz seconded, and the motion to adjourn carried unanimously. Supreme Lodge Chairman Victorick adjourned the meeting at 4:05 p.m.
The next regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge will begin at 8 a.m. on July 19 and continue through July 21. Fraternally submitted Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—
Johnnie Plsek
Continued from Page 1.
was born, his mother again became ill; this time, with typhoid fever. The doctor told her that she could not breastfeed her newborn son. During this same time, the Tom Barta family was renting land from the Plsek family and also lived on the land. They had a daughter who was Johnnie’s age so Mrs. Barta would share her breastfeeding between the two young babies. When Johnnie got a little older, his mother would chew her food real
fine then with her fingers, place the food into his mouth. This was the way Johnnie was fed until he got old enough to chew his own food. Johnnie remembers some hard times in his early age. After working all week on their farm, on weekends, his father would give him 35 cents to go to the dance—25 cents for the dance ticket and 5 cents for sodawater at each intermission - a soda Johnnie shared with his dancing partner. One weekend, Johnnie’s father took his purse out of his pocket, unsnapped it and poured the money on the table. It was $37. His father said that this was all the money the family had.
Johnnie didn’t want to take it, but his father said to take it and that tomorrow, they would take some old hens to town and sell them. When Johnnie went to Yoe High School in Cameron, his father would give him 15 cents for lunch money: 5 cents for hamburger, 5 cents for a chili wiener hot dog, and 5 cents for sodawater. Sometimes, he would give Johnnie 10 cents so that day Johnnie didn’t drink sodawater. In his spare time, Johnnie worked on his neighbor’s farm for 50 cents per day; 5 cents per hour. In his later years on Saturday, he got a job at a beer joint for $1 per day. He was paid 99 cents. One cent was held back for social security. When he went into the Army, his pay was $21 per month. On weekends, someone would pay him $1 a day for taking his place on KP. Johnnie said he never got into any trouble because he was always too busy working. When they picked cotton, Johnnie’s father would take it to a gin in Buckholts. One day, he came home with a bale of cotton. Mother couldn’t understand why he brought it home. He informed her that before he sold it for 7 cents a pound, he would burn it. Months later, he took it back and got 5 cents per pound. At age 19 years, while plowing the field, Johnnie went to the house and saw his mother watching a young cow trying to have her first calf and was having problems. His mother gave Johnnie a tow sack and told him to help her deliver the calf. Johnnie said no way. Later, his mother said if he would help and the calf didn’t die, that he could have the calf. Johnnie said okay. The calf lived so Johnnie guessed he did a good job. After the calf weighed between 600 and 700 pounds, Johnnie sold it for $37.50. This was the most money he ever had before going into the Army. Johnnie was inducted into the Army on December 12, 1945. He spent two years in Iceland, then went to England. From there, Johnnie landed on Omaha Beach, Normandy. From Germany, he was sent back to the states on a 45-day leave for rest and recuperation. While Johnnie was home on his 45day leave, he met his wife Adela Valka. They started dating and two years later, the couple was married. When they got engaged, Johnnie and Adela went to Ray’s Jewelry to pick out the rings. Johnnie saw rings
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that were pretty nice for $20, but his future wife liked the ones that cost $34 so they bought those. Johnnie didn’t have that much cash money so he gave a check. Early Monday morning, Johnnie went to the bank when it opened and deposited his week’s pay of $42 so the check he gave would clear at the bank. After reporting back to Fort Sam Houston after his 45-day leave, the sergeant asked Johnnie how many points he had. Johnnie didn’t know what the sergeant was talking about. The sergeant said if Johnnie had 70 points, he could be discharged. The sergeant checked Johnnie’s records and said he had 95 points, and so they discharged Johnnie. Johnnie never had a furlough so when he was discharged, he received 105 days furlough pay. With that pay, he bought his first car - a 1940 Chevrolet. Johnnie decided to build a small one-bedroom house. He talked to the loan company, and he thought that they could loan him $2,000, but he didn’t get a firm commitment. So brother Bill and Johnnie built the house. When they finished, Johnnie called the loan company to check the house. Three appraisers went to appraise it and decided that they could loan only $1,000. So there Johnnie was: $1,000 short. He had to sell his 1940 Chevrolet to Dan Krcha for $1,050, for which he had paid $950. Then he bought a 1936 Plymouth Coupe for $200. Everything had worked out pretty nice, and on the couple’s wedding day, they moved into their beautiful, new home. Johnnie and Adela were married for 67 and one-half years when Adela passed away on November 21, 2014. The saddest day of Johnnie’s life was when the couple’s only child daughter Linda Darlene - died of cancer at age 62. Johnnie was a building contractor for 50 years in the Temple area. He retired at age 80. He was awarded the EAME Campaign medal with three Bronze Stars; World War II Victory Medal, European, African Middle East Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Johnnie’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, gardening, and dancing. Best wishes to Brother Johnnie for his continued good health. —SPJST—
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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32nd SPJST Convention • June 12 to June 15, 2016 Killeen Civic and Conference Center
3601 South W.S. Young Drive • Killeen, Texas 76543 • 254-534-3888
Sunday, June 12
Delegates’ Registration Howdy Party Complimentary snacks and cash bar. Music by Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five
12:30 to 4 p.m. 4 to 7 p.m.
Monday, June 13
7 to 8:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m. to 12 noon 12 noon to 1 p.m.
1 to 4 p.m. 6:30 to 10 p.m.
7:30 a.m. 8 to 12 noon 9:30 a.m. 12 noon to 1 p.m.
Tuesday, June 14
Late Registration Complimentary Coffee and Water Assembly of Delegates Opening Ceremonies Delegates’ Picture Morning Snacks and Beverages Business Session Lunch—available for $8 (Tickets must be purchased in advance no later than May 23) Smoked ham and swiss on a pretzel roll with kicked up mac and cheese or Smoked ham and cheese chef salad Both include banana pudding. Business Session Convention Banquet - $20 per person (Tickets must be purchased in advance no later than May 23) Suggested Attire: Semi-Formal Social Time: 6:30 to 7 p.m. Dinner: 7 p.m. • Cash bar available. Burgundy beef tips/smothered chicken in cream sauce, spring mix salad, garlic mashed potatoes, parmesan crusted asparagus, yeast rolls, assorted desserts Dance: 8 to 10 p.m. - Czech and Then Some
1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Complimentary Coffee and Water Business Session Morning Snacks and Beverages Lunch—available for $ 8 (Tickets must be purchased in advance no later than May 23) Chopped brisket sandwich served on a kaiser roll with southern style potato salad or grilled chicken salad Both include peach cobbler. Business Session
No Evening Activities Scheduled
Wednesday, June 15
7:30 a.m. 8 a.m. to TBA 9:30 a.m. 12 noon to 1 p.m.
Complimentary Coffee and Water Business Session Morning Snacks and Beverages Lunch –available for $8 (Tickets must be purchased in advance no later than May 23) Mesquite chicken salad sandwich on croissant with tomato, cucumber, and red onion salad or taco salad with fresh salsa and guacamole Both include lemon cream cake with blueberry compote.
SPJST CONVENTION LUNCH AND BANQUET TICKETS ORDER FORM
ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE Please complete order below and return with your payment, by May 23, 2016 to: SPJST Convention Tickets • PO Box 100 • Temple, TX 76503 • Make checks payable to SPJST. Days Sunday Monday Monday Monday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Total HOWDY PARTY
Number of Tickets
FREE
Lunch
Lunch
Evening
Lunch
$ 8.00
$ 8.00
$ 20.00
$ 8.00
Ham and Ham and BANQUET Chopped Cheese Brisket Swiss Sandwich Sandwich Chef Salad
Lunch
Grilled Chicken Salad $ 8.00
Lunch
Mesquite Chicken Salad on Croissant $ 8.00
Lunch
Taco Salad w/Fresh Salsa and Guacamole $ 8.00
If you have any questions or need any assistance, please do not hesitate to call Linda at 800-727-7578.
Amount Enclosed
$
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
12
VĚSTNÍK
Seeking the Treasures of SPJST Statewide Goal: 1,200 Certificates Issued Through April: 343 Certificates Issued
Membership Program Update 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.
Lodge Incentive Guidelines
The 2016 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 wellrounded 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 April
MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM
Dist. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Totals
Apps. 9 19 16 24 16 10 6 0 100
Written $382,000.00 365,000.00 890,770.00 1,331,540.00 695,872.00 435,481.00 95,000.00 0 $4,195,663.00
Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 8 $70,551.00 $2,823.50 17 345,000.00 4,803.24 16 836,770.00 6,724.88 22 1,548,989.00 16,904.90 12 676,230.00 5,588.42 12 935,481.00 4,811.04 6 185,000.00 4,009.44 0 0 0 93 $4,598,021.00 $45,665.42
Dist. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Totals
Apps. Written 35 $3,987,000.00 63 1,448,000.00 62 3,330,667.00 123 8,796,756.00 64 5,526,288.00 35 2,225,481.00 24 672,010.00 0 0 406 $25,986,202.00
Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 29 $3,444,111.00 $15,121.72 55 987,330.00 32,547.46 53 2,418,667.00 22,911.75 100 6,530,460.00 61,789.38 54 4,602,682.00 28,063.42 30 2,068,587.00 13,708.51 22 582,316.00 13,998.32 0 0 0 343 $20,634,153.00 $188,140.56
YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM
Member Referral Incentive
All referral cards received during a given month go into a drawing for three $25 Walmart gift cards. All referral cards received during the year will go into a drawing for five $100 Walmart gift cards to be awarded at the 2017 SPJST Awards Banquet.
Brandon Girod
Lodge 29, Taylor • District Two
Hailey Girod
Lodge 29, Taylor • District Two
Claude King, II
Lodge 29, Taylor • District Two
SPJST Records 118 Referrals
Through the end of April 2016, the following individuals contributed 118 referrals during Seeking the Treasures of SPJST Membership Drive. Lodge
0 0 9 24 24 25 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 47
Member’s Name
Dana Boyd Holly Knecht Riley Breanne Green Margaret Campbell Lisa Kirby Emil Martinek Brandon Girod Hailey Girod Kara Kaderka Claude King, II Irene King, II David Pokorny Connie Voigt Amber Bartek
Referrals 1 3 6 2 1 1 4 6 1 1 1 1 2 11
47 47 47 47 47 47 54 80 80 87 107 162 177 182 182 182 182 200 246 246 246
Joyce Pechal Sharla Pechal Emma Regan Lori Slack Dorothy Stuchly Donica Zabcik Kerri Kaluza Linda Hill Carol Wolf Billye Westlake Lian Pruski Zachary Collins Janie Coakley Bailee Beckendorf Becky Beckendorf Paetyn Beckendorf Tynlee Beckendorf Kayln Robicheaux Tamara Gettys Ann Paruzinski Marissa Salinas
2 4 1 2 1 7 1 5 3 9 1 1 1 6 1 6 6 1 4 2 13
SPJST Youth Clubs’ Update
DISTRICT ONE YOUTH CLUBS
DISTRICT FOUR YOUTH CLUBS
DISTRICT TWO YOUTH CLUBS
Lodge No.
Lodge No.
9 17 186
Lodge No.
20 24 29 47 48 80
Youth Club Name
Snook Youth Club New Tabor Youth Club Caldwell Youth Club
Youth Club Name
Granger Youth Club Cyclone Youth Club Taylor Youth Club Seaton Youth Club Beyersville Youth Club Holland Youth Club
Certs. Issued
0 0 2
Certs. Issued
0 0 8 12 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
3 1 1 0 2
Lodge No.
49
Youth Club Name
Rowena Youth Club
Certs. Issued
0
DISTRICT FIVE YOUTH CLUBS 81 88
Youth Club Name
Needville Youth Club Houston Youth Club
Certs. Issued
DISTRICT SIX YOUTH CLUBS
Lodge No.
30 40 148
Youth Club Name
2 2
Certs. Issued
Taiton Youth Club El Campo-Hillje Youth Club El Maton Youth Club
4 2 0
DISTRICT SEVEN YOUTH CLUBS Lodge No.
185 202
Youth Club Name
Certs. Issued
New Braunfels Youth Club Jourdanton Youth Club
0 0
Listing reflects youth clubs whose quarterly reports were received by as of April 30, 2016, and youth clubs that are active. —SPJST—
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
VĚSTNÍK
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Scenes from District Five Spring Meeting Saturday, April 16, 2016 • SPJST Lodge 88, Houston
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 139, Danbury officers Lonnie Lostak and Lorenda Baldwin receive their lodge’s incentive award for 2015. Congratulations! PHOTO 2: Members visit at the spring meeting. PHOTO 3: Pictured are, left to right, SPJST Foundation Director of Development James Lee, III, Supreme Lodge Secre-
tary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska, and District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt. RIGHT PHOTO: District Five Youth Counselor Barbara Linney-Gonzales. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: District Five youth present the flag ceremony. BELOW RIGHT PHOTOS: Members participate in the spring meeting.
LEFT and RIGHT PHOTOS: Members listen during the meeting. CENTER PHOTO: District Five Second Vice President Janice Jahns, left, and First
Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Patricia Bruce lead the memorial service in honor of District Five’s deceased members.
LEFT PHOTO: Members listen during the meeting. CENTER PHOTO: Pictured are S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Facility Director Lonnie Lostak, left, Czech Heritage Museum Director Patricia Bruce, and SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) Director Keith Kieschnick. RIGHT PHOTO: The
district hosted a baked goods contest. Congratulations to winners, left to right, Doris Bronikowski and Denae Bronikowski, both of Lodge 88, Houston, Zoe Saxton of Lodge 142, Houston, and Dorothy Pflughaupt of Lodge 88, Houston.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
SPJST Lodge Se ct ion
Lodge 6 Cottonwood honors mothers
President Milton Peterson called the meeting to order on Sunday, May 15, 2016. The youth led the Pledge of Allegiance and SPJST motto. A moment of silence was observed for the deceased of the lodge. Sister Georgie Soukup reported 14 members present. Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes and a thank you note from Catherine Polansky. Sister Peggy Dobecka gave the treasurer’s report and the youth report. The youth gave the mothers a plant for Mother’s Day. Sister Evelyn Stuckly gave her FAC report. Get well cards were sent to Monica Ferguson and Beverly Williams. Progressive door winner was absent. There were no May birthdays. Attendance door prize winners were Georgie Soukup, Mary Neckar, and Irene Peterson.
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
Next Meeting—June 5 The next meeting will be on Sunday, June 5; and a social will be on Friday, June 10. The men furnished the meal for the ladies. I want to thank Sister Barbara Hykel for telling me what went on at the meeting because we were out of town that day. Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 8, Weimar joins hands at Parkview Manor
Lodge 8, Weimar members met for their monthly meeting on Monday, April 25, 2016, at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg. Discussion included the annual Join Hands Day project. Members will join with Sons of Hermann members on
Supreme Lodge Vice President Candidate Visits with Mollie B
Cynthia Vrazel Strmiska, candidate for Supreme Lodge Vice President, is pictured with Mollie B at Sokol Hall in Ennis at Mollie’s RFD TV polka show taping on April 28, 2016. Cynthia is a member of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts.
Friday, May 13 at Parkview Manor Nursing Home in Weimar. Snacks will be provided, and members will assist with the bingo activity. Members will also present a $100 donation to Parkview Manor Nursing Home. Members also voted on a $50 donation for the District Six youth workday at SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC). Please take note: There will be no meeting in May.
Next Meeting—June 27 The next meeting will be Monday, June 27 at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg. It will be a special event honoring the 50-year pin recipients. The meal will be compliments of the lodge. Fraternally, Lodge 8, Weimar Officers —SPJST—
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Lodge 9, Snook reports on May meeting
The May 4, 2016, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7:15 p.m. Sierra Sebesta led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes from the April meeting were read and approved, and hall manager, treasurer, FAC, and statewide reports were given. Loree Lewis gave the youth club report. They recognized the graduating high school seniors, and Ms. Sheila Orsak who has been the assistant youth leader. The youth club and adult lodge will participate in Join Hands Day on May 7 by cleaning the Snook Cemetery. They will also participate in Relay for Life on May 13 and 14. New youth club officers were installed. Under old business, we discussed the new speakers and microphone system which will be ordered this month. The gutters need more down spouts, and we will stay with our current
Jerry and Lillian Beasley Celebrate 50 Years of Marriage
Jerry G. Beasley and Lillian V. Surovik Beasley celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and were honored by their children and grandchildren at The Lodge on Saturday, April 30, 2016. The afternoon was celebrated with the renewal of vows performed by Pastor Skip Stutts. “Look At Us” was sung by Melissa Ostman, cousin of the couple, and a toast was presented by Dr. Glen and Sallie Cochran. A delicious catered meal was served along with two beautiful, delicious cakes. In attendance were 50 very special friends and family including Lillian’s 94-yearold mother, Vlasta Surovik. Jerry was born in Normangee, and Lillian was born in College Station. They met through a mutual friend and married on April 29,
1966, in Anderson. They made their home in Cooks Point where they raised their three sons. Their sons are John and wife Jenny, who reside in San Antonio; Chris and wife Lindy who reside in Cooks Point, and Tim and wife Annie who reside in Giddings. Jerry and Lillian enjoy country-living, gardening, and attending all their grandchildren’s activities. They are very blessed with five grandchildren — Weston, Wyatt, Jaiden, Sierra, and Ayden Beasley. The Beasley couple enjoys traveling visiting family and friends in other states (they just returned from Kentucky). Jerry and Lillian continue to reside in Cooks Point. They are members of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. —SPJST—
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dumpster company. New business was discussed concerning concealed handguns; this will be looked into further. James Schoeneman made a motion, and Hannah Kovar seconded, to adjourn the meeting. Meeting was adjourned at 7:43 pm.
Next Meeting—June 1 Next meeting will be on June 1 at 7:00 pm. Fraternally, Marie Shelfer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts successful Mother’s Day Barbecue lunch
Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, May 9, 2016, a day after the successful Mother’s Day Barbecue. We are thankful for all the customers who came to Flag Hall for this special day. The meeting was called to order by President Daniel Wilde. He had a silent prayer for our deceased members and the military. The meeting started at 7:15 p.m. with a good crowd. Shirley Hoelscher read the minutes, and they were approved as read. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report, and there were no questions. Youth Leader Brenda Maddux gave the youth report. The quilt raffle was held. LIT forms are due May 26, and LIT camp is June 9 to 11. Camp forms are due June 30. May 7 was Join Hands Day, and their blessing bags went to Feed My Sheep for them to give out as needed. July 9 is District Two YAD. State YAD is August 6. Brenda also presented the FAC report. She said that 30 lodges were participating in Join Hands Day including Lodge 24, Cyclone. May 14 is the work day at ENC. Memorial Day is also the National Polka Festival in Ennis on May 27 to 29. Mark Maddux gave the hall report. There are several bookings.
Old Business The bar license was sent in on April 22 and is not back yet. Several checks were not cashed. Moravian Polka Band is looking for a booking in maybe January. Under new business, we discussed the Mother’s Day Barbecue. There
were 553 plates to-go and 469 inside plates served for a total of 1,022 plates. Thank you, everyone. We had a large pit crew with one family having three generations. The kitchen had many more workers also including several special guests including Cynthia Vrazel Strmiska, District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and his wife Linda and another couple from Taylor - Leonard and Sharon Kaderka. We had a super crew at every level. There were vendors that sent supplies that we did not have before. We appreciate everyone’s work and the families who came to buy us out. Happy 80th birthday to Wilbert Mikeska who began his special day on Sunday, May 8 at the barbecue pits at 3 a.m. Happy anniversary to Shirley and Jason Hoelscher on May 12. Happy birthday to Jennifer Hoelscher on May 2 and Joseph Hoelscher on May 20.
Next Meeting—June 20 Our next meeting will be Monday, June 20 because of the Convention on our regular meeting date. Upcoming rentals/events at Flag Hall are quinceañeras on May 12, June 11, June 18, and July 15; Reyna wedding on August 20; and Texas Polka Music Museum fundraiser on August 7. For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk reports on April meeting
On Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at 7:03 p.m., President Randy Pavelka called the SPJST Lodge 35, Elk meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by members and guests. A moment of silence was observed for Helon Holub, a 75-year member of Lodge 35. The lodge extends sympathy to her family and friends. On the sick list was Janie and Richard Brewer. We wish for their complete recoveries. Secretary Carla Pavelka read the minutes of the March meeting, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Barbara Pavelka gave her March report, and it was approved as well. Floor Chairman Gene Pavelka gave his March report. Under old business, the guys were
going to do some repairs to the hall. Under new business, it was voted to make a $100 donation to SPJST Education and Nature Center for the kids to help maintain and improve the camping facility.
Elk Hall, Inc. Meeting Secretary Carla Pavelka and Treasurer Barbara Pavelka gave their March reports and with no corrections, the reports were approved as read. Floor Chairman Gene Pavelka reported a good month for March. Bar Chairman Randy Pavelka gave his report for March. There were 12 members present. The meeting was adjourned at 7:27 p.m. Birthdays for April and May were Danny Kubitza on April 17, Janie Brewer on April 29, and Billy Kubitza on May 1. Anniversaries for April and May were Randy and Tammy Pavelka - four years on April 7, Walter and Karen Kubitza - 42 years on April 27, and Jack Levy and Wanda Sebik 17 years on May 1. Happy birthday and happy anniversary to all of these hard working members. Our next meeting will be Wednesday, May 11 after hall clean-up. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton readies for June 5 picnic
Dear Vestnik Readers, SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton met for the monthly meeting on Sunday, May 1, 2016. The meeting was called to order at 2 p.m. by President Edwin Pechal. Flags were presented by youth members Dannikka Bartek and Hunter Bartek along with reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Member Ginger Ringwald is on the sick list healing from surgery. Please keep her in your prayers for a quicker recovery. Please keep these families in your prayers in the loss of their loved ones: Albert Simcik, John Bakker, Daniel H. Wiley, John A. Hamblen, Helen Kelly, and Doris Ann Goldman. Roll call showed all active sales agents, board members, and officers present except Treasurer Becky Zavodny. Motion was accepted to count member David Pechal present as he was out on business concerning the lodge picnic. Board member Lynette
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
15
Talasek was also counted present as she was at the ENC representing District Two. The April minutes were approved as read by Secretary Koslovsky. Board Secretary Patsy also read the unofficial April board minutes. Our lodge is very pleased to accept and welcome new members Tanner Sires, written by David Pechal, and Baby Anthony Dellamarco, who was present today, Thomas Dellamarco, Kristen Aguilar, Brooke Aguilar, Nolito Zayas, and Richard Hilliard, written by Patsy Koslovsky. Also accepted was new member James Randolph Secrest. Please join us for our meetings and activities. We’d love to have you! Members transferring into Lodge 47 are Carol Wells, Jennifer Wells, Alice Lopez, and Lisa Lopez. We welcome each of you, and please join us also! How exciting to have you become a member of our Lodge 47 family! Correspondence included a letter from Cynthia Vrazel Strmiska, candidate for Supreme Lodge Vice President, asking for the lodge’s support at the 32nd Convention in June. A thank you note was also read from the District Two Beseda Dancers for the use of the lodge for the fundraiser, practices, and all the support shown to the all involved. FAC Tammy Martinez stated there were many activities going on around the state. May 7 is Join Hands Day and the SPJST Car Show which will be held at Lodge 47 Seaton. District Two ENC Board Member/Secretary Lynette Talasek has chosen our district to be in charge of volunteers building and funding a “Gaga Pit” and “Human Foosball Court” for the camp. Both are very popular and will be a great asset for enjoyment at our SPJST camp. There are many other areas and jobs to be done. Included in Lynette’s letter excusing her absence, she asked Lodge 47 to donate $250 toward the foosball activities. She has also spoken to Youth Leader Joyce Kraatz and asked that the youth club donate as such. Youth member Garrett Festa spoke to members on what Human Foosball entailed to give the members of a better understanding of the game. A motion was made and carried to support the project with the $250. A “Clean out Your Barn Auction” will be held with all proceeds to help with funding at SPJST ENC and the Czech Heritage Museum. And, of course, no one wants to forget about the 10th Annual Corpus Christi Get Away on August 12 to 14. A boat with a limit of 37 passengers has been reserved for
16
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
members who would like to fish on Friday. Please contact State FAC Frank Horak at the Home Office to reserve your spot. Seats will fill up quickly. In the absence of Treasurer Becky Zavodny, Patsy gave the treasurer’s report with President Pechal giving the first quarter audit report. Bar Manager Danny Stepan gave his report. Hall Manager Michelle Bartek-Porubsky gave an update on May bookings: May 7 - SPJST Car Show, May 14 wedding, May 27 - reunion, May 27 and 28 - Ocker Brethren use of the annex, and May 28 - wedding. A reminder to anyone who is needing to rent the lodge or the pavilion to please get in touch with Michelle at 254-4938020. Youth Leader Joyce Kraatz stated the youth had a good meeting with 28 members present. Youth will be joining hands by being responsible for the meal at the SPJST Car Show. Proceeds of $575 will go toward “Kids against Hunger.” On May 14, youth members will pack food in the annex building for 2,200 kids. What a wonderful gesture for our youth members to work for the money and also give their time in helping to pack food to feed so many children. Youth members will sell tickets for the picnic. Members are in a contest by selling these tickets. Purchase your tickets from youth members and not only support that youth member, but the lodge also. The youth club’s next meeting will be held on June 4 at 10 a.m. Members received their new youth club tee-shirts and were asked to wear them at all youth activities.
Barbecue Cookoff Judges Needed Edwin Vasicek stated help is needed in judging for the barbecue cookoff on July 16. Members and/or non-members are welcome to judge. President Pechal discussed details regarding the SPJST Car Show. Everyone is looking forward to a great day.
Picnic Help Needed All areas of the picnic, which will be held on Sunday, June 5, seem to be in good order. Workers are needed in all areas—setting up, taking down, dish washing, trash carriers, you name it, there’s a spot for you to volunteer. Please contact Joyce Skrabanek if you will help in the kitchen. We appreciate the help of members and friends who take the time to make our picnic a success. Workers are also needed on Sun-
day, May 29 at 2 p.m. preparing the cole slaw and on Saturday, June 4 at 8 a.m. preparing chicken and making potato salad. I am looking for volunteers to bring 20 pounds of boiled, peeled, and diced potatoes to the hall on Saturday, June 4 no later than 8 a.m. I would appreciate you letting me know prior to May 28 if you can help out. Thanks in advance for your help. Cakes are needed for desserts, and we’d love to have some nice ones for the auction. And, oh yes, we are in need of auction items. If you have any antiques you would like to donate, we would be most appreciative. The sweet booth is also in need of crafts, kolaches, and homegrown/canned vegetables. The youth will have a few games along with a dunkin’ booth and a bouncy house. We would love to see more youth, other than our youth club members participating. President Pechal thanked Earl Soudelier for once again furnishing the lodge with wood for the barbecuing. Celebrating May birthdays are Marile Cook, Terry Festa, Tyler Grant, Patsy Koslovsky, Barry Meier, Donnie Pechal, Payton Porubsky, Ginger Ringwald, Theresa Staten, and Elaine Zavodny. We wish each of you a happy birthday with many more good years of health, fun, and happiness. Anniversary congratulations to Joyce and Brad Kraatz - 18 years, Melanie and Chris Regan - 19 years, and Kindra and David Koslovsky - 11 years. Much happiness to each of you, and have a long, happy marriage. All mothers were asked to stand and be recognized. They were given the chance to win the lodge door prizes which were won by Nancy Meier, Tammy Martinez, and Joyce Skrabanek. Youth members handed out a gift to all mothers. Each mother received a package of flower seeds. What a nice gift! Thank you, youth members, for remembering moms in such a special way. Jerry Pechal shared with members the beautiful pictures be had taken and framed to the shape of a cross focusing on his Czech heritage. It is such a gorgeous piece of artwork and will be placed in the Czech Heritage Museum. Awesome work, Jerry!
Board Meeting Our regular board meeting held on the third Monday of each month will be changed to the third Tuesday, May 17 at 7 p.m. The change is due to the
District Two delegates’ meeting which will be held in Holland on May 16. Thank you, Lodge 80, Holland, for hosting this very important meeting.
Next Meeting—Monday, June 6 Please note, the next lodge meeting will be held on Monday, June 6 at 7 p.m. The 2016 graduates of Lodge 47 will be honored along with 96 years young Johnnie Plsek who has outlived his SPJST life insurance policy. Please join us to honor these special members. Members are asked to bring cookies and ice cream for the celebration. With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 3 p.m. To those of you who can arrive at the hall around 5:30 p.m. prior to the meeting on June 6, you will be very much appreciated to help finalize the cleaning from the picnic! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 48 Beyersville honors longtime members
The Sunday, April 10, 2016, meeting of Lodge 48, Beyersville came to order at 3:43pm with the Pledge of Allegiance with three officers absent. We had a moment of silence for Martha Wagner. Juanette read the March minutes. We had three terminations and one new certificate. Brett gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. Bobby gave a update on the property report. Bonnie Urbanek gave the treasurer’s report. State Queen Kacie Vanecek and State Duchess Makayla Newsom, both of Lodge 48, Beyersville, presented our 50-year members their awards. Congratulations to Carolyn Veselka and Karl Wuensche. Our door prize was admission to Spring Fling at St. Mary’s School in Taylor. It was won by Amy Wuensche. Meeting was adjourned at 4:19 p.m. with a meal served in honor of our 50year members and family. April birthday celebrants were Carolyn Veselka on the 3rd; Gilbert Shiller on the 9th; Bailey Urban on the
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13th; Demetra Shiller on the 16th; and Linda Mokry and Margie Faltesek on the 18th. Bonnie and Jody Wolf celebrated 43 years of marriage on April 24. Thanks, Michelle Newsom Reporter/ Assistant Youth Leader —SPJST—
Lodge 54, West receives Gold Star Award
The quarterly meeting of SPJST Lodge 54, West was held at St. Joseph Hall on Friday, March 4, 2016, and called to order at 7 p.m. by President Freddie Kaluza. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Kaluza followed by a moment of silence in memory of all our departed members, especially Robert Busby and Popeye Snokhous who had passed away since our last meeting. All of our officers and sales agents were present. We had 18 of our members in attendance, and our special guest was District Three Director John Engelke. President Kaluza welcomed all who were in attendance for the meeting. The minutes of the last meeting were read by Janice Kaluza. Maxine Sefcik made a motion to accept the minutes, and Christine Bishop seconded the motion. Motion passed. FAC Linda Kaluza let members know of some upcoming events for the next few months. Join Hands Day is May 7, and Janice Kaluza was going to see if we could get a project together for the residents at West Rest Haven. The Supreme Lodge will donate $100 to any lodge participating in this project. On April 2, the Home Office was going to host a state domino tournament, and May 7 is the SPJST Car Show at Seaton Star Hall if anyone was interested. The annual Corpus Christi Get Away was coming up on August 12 to 14 and if anyone would like to join in on the fun, you could call and sign up with the Home Office in Temple. A motion was made by Terry Sefcik to accept the FAC report, and Marcella Vaculik seconded the motion. Motion passed. The treasurer’s report was handed out and presented by Mary Lou Mynar. Terry Sefcik made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, and Ronnie Kaluza seconded the motion. Motion passed.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Czech Reporter Jan Vaculik did not have anything to report but commented how he is ready for the spring season to begin. Vice President Wilburn Willis said a few words about how the members enjoyed our Christmas party, and Sheriff Parnell McNamara really appreciated being welcomed as a guest. In old business, we discussed our Christmas party and announced 325 plates were served at the party. Freddie Kaluza stated he had talked to Mary Beth Dulock with Sokol to see if they had any plans for the rebuilding of Lone Star Hall in the near future. Mary Beth stated that Sokol West was adjusting to currently making payments on the gym and will have to see if they can take on another project. Freddie and Janice Kaluza, Ronnie and Linda Kaluza, Mary Lou Mynar, and Jean Maler attended the SPJST Awards Banquet at the Mayborn Convention Center in Temple, and Lodge 54 received the Gold Star Award receiving a check for $4,088.66 for this award and our premium refunds for 2013. Janice Kaluza was also presented a certificate and check for being a Million Dollar Producer in 2015. Director John Engelke gave us the statistics for our lodge and said we have 919 members in force for Lodge 54. In our Convention update, Freddie Kaluza let the members know he had to decline attending, and Wilburn Willis agreed to take his place as an al-
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Happy 50th Anniversary, Paw Paw and Maw Maw Beasley of Lodge 17, New Tabor! Jerry and Lillian Beasley celebrated 50 years of marriage on April 29, 2016. Our family had a party for them at The Lodge in Cooks Point, Texas. It was so good to see everyone. Paw Paw and Maw Maw renewed their vows, we had a catered meal, and we enjoyed Italian cream cake and chocolate Dr. Pepper cake. Everyone had lots of fun, and Paw Paw and Maw Maw were so happy. Thank you for being such an inspiration to your grandsons. We love you! From: Chris, Lindy, Weston and Wyatt Beasley —SPJST—
ternate. In new business, we welcomed new members/new insurance certificates to Lodge 54 - Ricky Eugene Hromadka, Cassidy Marie Dudik,
Walter Reaves, and Finn West Payne, sold by Freddie and Janice Kaluza. Ronnie Kaluza made a motion to accept the new members, and JoAnn Matus seconded the motion with all
members in favor of this. We normally donated to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive and failed to vote on it at the last meeting so all officers were called to get permission
Lodge 47, Seaton Thanks Frank E. Klinkovsky Scholarship Fund Supporters
Dear Brothers and Sisters, On behalf of Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall, a big thank you to all lodges, members, and friends of SPJST for supporting the Frank E. Klinkovsky Scholarship Fund. We were able to present a check in the amount of $5,000 to this fund.
Congratulations to the following winners: 1st prize winner - Mike Owens Gravely riding mower 2nd prize winner - Amber Bartek Echo edger 3rd prize winner - Roy Vajdak Echo chainsaw
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 47, Seaton President Edwin Pechal, left, Braxton White, grandson of President Pechal, and Fundraiser Chairman David C. Pechal, right, present first prize winner Mike Owens with the Gravely lawn mower. CENTER PHOTO: Third prize winner Roy Vajdak, left, receives his Echo chainsaw from David C. Pechal, center, and Edwin
God bless each and everyone for helping in any way, purchasing tickets, donating, selling tickets, and to Ross at Empire Seed in Temple for helping with the prizes (great folks to work with who are very caring). Fraternally yours, David C. Pechal —SPJST—
Pechal. Braxton White is also pictured. RIGHT PHOTO: Fundraiser Chairman David C. Pechal, center, and Lodge 47 President Edwin Pechal, right, and grandson Braxton White present a $5,000 check to Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek for the Frank E. Klinkovsky Scholarship Fund.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
to donate $100 towards this good cause. At our next meeting, we will be giving awards to each of our members who served as an Everyday Hero throughout the year. We will also be presenting a 75-year pin to Mary Louanne Prasifka and 50-year pins to Mark Kadlubar, Charlene Kirby, Edward Klish, David Maler, William Mynar, Raymond Parma, Edwin Sefcik, Jacqueline Sinkule, and Willie Zahirniak. The members decided to serve brisket, potato salad, beans, and cole slaw to our honored members. We received some tickets to sell for the Frank Klinkovsky, Sr. Scholarship Fund, and our members were encouraged to buy some tickets and contribute to the fund. In upcoming events, a delegates’ meeting will be held at 10 a.m. April 2 at Lodge 6, Cottonwood Hall to discuss the by-laws which will be presented at the Convention in June. The District Three Spring Meeting will be held at 10 a.m. on April 24 at Lodge 154, Fort Worth. There will be a dedication for the new Fort Hood Memorial on March 11 at 3 p.m. The Home Office will now be sending out birthday cards to members of all the lodges for the sales agents with a note to also let members know to contact us if they have questions or want changes to their certificates. Our lodge honored and presented
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Lodge 48, Beyersville Honors 50-Year Members
LEFT PHOTO: State Queen Kacie Vanecek and State Duchess Makayla Newsom present a 50-year pin to Karl Wuensche. CENTER PHOTO: Congratulations to 50-year members Carolyn Veselka and Karl Wuensche. They were honored at the April lodge meeting.
former FAC Jeannie Maler with a plaque for 11 years of dedicated service as a lodge officer to Lodge 54. Terry Sefcik made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Ronnie Kaluza. Motion carried. Door prizes were given away, and all enjoyed food and fellowship. We had a cake for all the birthdays celebrated since our last meeting with honorees Wilburn Willis, Mary Lou Mynar, Herman Matus, Ronnie Kaluza, Freddie Kaluza, and Jeannie
Members were served a meal and cake after the meeting with family, friends, and fellow lodge members. RIGHT PHOTO: State Queen Kacie and State Duchess Makayla present a 50-year pin to Carolyn Veselka. —Submitted by Michelle Newsom, Reporter
Maler. Door prize winners were Christine Bishop and Ronnie Kaluza each winning $15. Others winning door prizes brought by John Engelke were Elmer Bishop, Jan Vaculik, Herman Matus, Mary Lou Mynar, Albin Matusek, and Freddie Kaluza.
We hope to see more of our members in attendance.
Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him —1 John 4:16
Next Meeting—June 3 The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 3 at St. Joseph Hall where we will have a presentation of pins for the 50- and 75-year members and the Everyday Hero Awards.
Fraternally, Janice Kaluza, Reporter —SPJST—
March Meeting Scenes from Lodge 54, West
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 54 Treasurer Mary Lou Mynar reviews her notes at the March meeting. PHOTO 2: Lodge 54 President Freddie Kaluza presents an outgoing officer plaque to former FAC Jean Maler for 11 years of service. PHOTO 3: Birthday celebrants since the last meeting were recognized with a cake. They are, left to right, Ronnie Kaluza, Jean Maler,
John Engelke, Freddie Kaluza, Mary Lou Mynar, Herman Matus, and Wilburn Willis. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 54 President Freddie Kaluza recognizes Sales Agent Janice Kaluza as a Million Dollar Producer in 2015. BELOW PHOTOS: Members listen during the meeting. —Submitted by Janice Kaluza, Secretary
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Lodge 51, Ellinger Joins Hands to Clean Fire Station A group of members and officers from SPJST Lodge 51, Ellinger cleaned the Ellinger Fire Station for Join Hands Day. FAR LEFT PHOTO: Diane Marusik sweeps. LEFT PHOTO: Calvin Hlinsky, Larry Marusik, and Bradley Divin. RIGHT PHOTO: Ann Minar.
Lodge 66, Waco to recognize longtime members at May 23 meeting
The next meeting of Lodge 66, Waco will be Monday, May 23, 2016, at St. Paul’s Church at 6 p.m. Fiftyyear pins will be presented at this meeting. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: JoAnn Divin cleans the floor. CENTER PHOTO: Left to right are Larry Marusik, Diane Marusik, JoAnn Divin, Bradley Divin, Ann Minar, and Calvin Hlin-
sky. RIGHT PHOTO: Bradley Divin sweeps the fire station. Submitted by JoAnn Divin, Secretary/Treasurer
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Shares April Meeting Scenes
LEFT PHOTO: Larry Novosad, left, receives a Lifetime Achiever Award from District Seven FAC Glen Pruski. PHOTO 2: Members of Lodge 79 enjoy a catered meal of roast beef and trimmings. PHOTO 3: Guest speaker Rodney Clement with The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center ad-
dresses Lodge 79 members at their April meeting. RIGHT PHOTO: Thomas Burnside with The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center addresses Lodge 79 members at the Lodge April meeting. —Submitted by Mark Rebecek, President
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 79 donates $500 and District Seven Director Bob Bayer donates $350 from his discretionary fund to The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center. Pictured are, from left, Lodge 79 Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky, Lodge 79 Treasurer Frank Sacky, Thomas Burnside and Rodney Clement of The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center, District Seven FAC Glen
Pruski, and Lodge 79 President Mark Rebecek. CENTER PHOTO: Guest speakers at Lodge 79’s April meeting were Thomas Burnside, left, with wife Ann and Rodney Clement, right, with wife Jan. RIGHT PHOTO: Happy April birthdays to, from left, Marcia Rew and Glen Pruski on April 30, Jean Schwritlick on April 4, and Michael Urbanovsky on April 28.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Lodge 79 Corpus Christi welcomes guests
Youth guest Sarah Urbanovsky led Lodge 79, Corpus Christi in prayer before our catered meal of roast beef and trimmings on Sunday, April 17, 2016. President Mark Rebecek led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present. We had 30 members and guests in attendance. No one was on the sick or deceased list. President Rebecek introduced guest District Seven FAC and Lodge 107, Floresville President Glen Pruski and guest speakers Rodney Clement (wife Jan) and Thomas Burnside (wife Ann) who are with The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center. Mr. Clement and Mr. Burnside gave a very interesting and informative presentation. Our lodge donated $500, and District Seven Director Bob Bayer donated $350 from his discretionary fund to this organization. District Seven FAC Glen Pruski addressed the lodge. He talked about the SPJST Convention in June and weekend getaway in August. It’s always nice having Glen attend our meetings. District Seven FAC Glen Pruski presented member Larry Novosad with a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award plaque. Larry was in the youth
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Lodge 88, Houston member rides in HLSR Grand Entry
Lodge 88, Houston member Dorothy Pflughaupt, seated, third from back, rides with the Ladies Go Texan Officers Grand Entry in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on March 17, 2016. Grand Entry is the exciting opening to each and every RodeoHouston performance. When the gate opens and Show officials appear on horseback, the performance has
club and an active member for many years. Congratulations, Larry! Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the March minutes, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Frank Sacky gave the March financial report, and it was approved as presented. A thank you note from the scholarship fund was read for our many donations. Our lodge donates $100 each time someone from our lodge passes away. Secretary Virginia Rebecek read
officially begun. The winding trail of horses, buggies, carriages, hay wagons and fire trucks, brings a colorful exhibition of Show officials, dignitaries, sponsors, volunteers, and special guests to RodeoHouston fans nightly. Congratulations to Dorothy, who is pictured in the right photo in the center, on this great honor!
communications. We had several members from Lodge 153, La Salle and Lodge 164, Rio Hondo request to be transferred to our lodge. They were approved. There was no unfinished business. Under new business, Becky Urbanovsky made a motion that our monthly donation go to the Family First Church. Their church was flooded due to vandalism. Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave her report. She had six members and
guests in attendance. The youth are collecting pull tabs for Driscoll Children’s Hospital. Guest speaker was Judy Majek. She taught Czech words to the youth. Birthdays for April were Jean Schwritlick on the 4th, Michael Urbanovsky on the 28th, and Glen Pruski and Marcia Rew on the 30th. “Happy Birthday” was sung to these members. Twenty-five dollar door prizes were won by Becky Urbanovsky and Sarah Urbanovsky.
Lodge 81, Needville Joins Hands to Make Blankets for Children with Cancer
St. Michaels Youth Ministry eighth graders make blankets for Children with Cancer, with help from Cindy Valcher, Pam Vacek, Gwynne Sury, and Bradley Stavinoha. Funds for blankets were donated by Rosenberg Rotary Club, SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, and SPJST Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club. —Submitted by Bradley Stavinoha, Youth Leader
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Our next meeting will be Sunday, May 15 celebrating Mother’s Day. Secretary Virginia Rebecek volunteered to cook a ham and sausage and members are asked to bring a side dish. Meeting adjourned, Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas sets May 22 svačina
Dear Readers, Join us at Lodge 84, Dallas this Sunday, May 22 for an afternoon svačina and District Three delegates’ meeting. All members are invited to svačina from 1 to 3 p.m. This get-acquainted social time is for all Lodge 84 members and anyone else in the community. Our plans are to introduce the Czech community to each other. Come on out for a great afternoon. And, please bring your favorite svačina, if you wish! Refreshments will be served. Please call Tammy at 800-727-7578 if you will attend so we can plan for the event. We look forward to seeing you there!
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Lodge 91, San Jacinto: Czech Her Out!
Veronika Pospisilova from Tuchlovice, Czech Republic, visited Crosby, Texas, as an exchange student at Crosby High School. She is currently playing softball while attending Crosby High School and plans to keep in touch with all the new friends she has made here in Crosby. An 11th grade student, Veronika will return home in June. She has plans to study in the Czech Republic as a veterinarian or personal trainer. Her hobbies include aerobic dancing and pole dancing. I was overwhelmed with excitement to meet this young lady. After visiting with Veronika, I learned of her desire to succeed through hard work and perseverance. I invited her to my home,
District Three Delegates’ Meeting The District Three Delegates’ meeting will follow from 3 to 5 p.m. Bring your May 11 Vestnik which will have all of the convention information that we can review. The svačina is sure to be lots of fun, and the delegates’ meeting will definitely be informative for the upcom-
Lodge 91, San Jacinto Joins Hands with Churches United in Caring
Lodge 91, San Jacinto joined hands with Churches United in Caring on Sunday, May 8, 2016. Pictured are, left to right, Bob Malone, June Smesny, Vonda Smesny, Robert (in back) and Malba Smesny, and Marie Stasney. Members of Lodge 91 worked with CUIC hanging and sorting clothes and other items to be sold. Churches United in Caring, located in Crosby, is a non-profit organization ran by volunteers that accepts any donations to be resold at a reasonable price. Thank you, members, for donating your time and hard work. —Submitted by Vonda Smesny, Secretary
Vonda Smesny, left, of Lodge 91, San Jacinto and Veronika Pospisilova of Tuchlovice, Czech Republic.
and she interviewed my dad (Robert Smesny) about the journey his par-
ing convention. Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan Reporter —SPJST—
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ents took in 1912 to America. Veronika seemed really surprised to discover that Crosby was once a primarily Czech community. I spoke with her about SPJST and all the traditions we participate in to keep our heritage alive. She was really interested in the Vestnik with the Czech language in the back. To end the evening, I presented her with a pendant in the shape of Texas and a heart in the middle from Lodge 91, San Jacinto. I only wish I would have had time to bake her some kolaches. I plan to keep in touch with her and hope to possibly visit her in Tuchlovice some day. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny Secretary —SPJST—
Prom Memories
John and Diana (Veselka) Engelke attended John’s high school prom in 1972 at Reicher High School. RIGHT PHOTO: Diana and John are pictured at Lodge 66’s Linden Hall celebrating John’s 18th birthday. John and Diana will celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary on June 22, 2016. They are members of Lodge 66, Waco.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Lodge 91 San Jacinto meets June 11
Lodge 91, San Jacinto will hold its second quarterly meeting of 2016 at Luna’s Mexican Restaurant on Saturday, June 11 at 11 a.m. Luna’s is located off of Cedar Bayou Lynchburg in Baytown. There will be a short meeting followed by lunch. Please join us for good food and a fun time. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 92, Fort Worth. Get ready for a great time!
Tuesday, May 24 Game night at Lodge 92 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 5 Country/western dance from 2 to 6 p.m. with Randy and the 92nd Roadhouse. Admission is $6.
Tuesday, June 7 Lodge 92 trustee meeting at 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday June 8 Sportsmens’ Club meets at 7:30 p.m.; monthly meeting of hunting and fishing enthusiasts with speakers and door prizes. Free and open to the public.
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Friday, June 10 Tanglefoot dance from 8 to 11 p.m. Admission is $10 for members and $17 for non-members. Sunday, June 12 Lodge 92 meeting at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 14 Ladies Circle at 10:30 a.m.
Lodge 141, Sealy Joins Hands with Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Fraternals to Honor Deceased with U.S. Flags
Lodge 92 Fort Worth invites all to upcoming events
We invite you to mark these activities on your calendar and plan to visit
Lodge 97, Placedo joins hands with Hospice of Victoria
Placing United States flags on the graves of veterans at Sealy cemeteries were, front, left to right, Joshua Galan and Patrick Martinez (grandson of Rick Martinez), Jasmine Trejo (Troop 2294), Aaron Karl and Ira Minters (Wallis Troop 990), Daisy Townsley (Troop 934), Gage Townsley, Brandi Townsley, and Joanne Griffin and granddaughter Violet Griffin. Second row: Bernice Stolarski, Rick Martinez, Brittany Luttrall and Ryanne Laredo (Troop 2304), Gladys Frank, Melvin
Klatt, Ivy Konvicka, Wilbert Leschper, and D. J. and Annie Gautreaux. Back: Bennie Stolarski, Tom Knapp, Donald Karl, Johnnie Klatt, Leon Konvicka, and Gene Leschper. Also helping but not pictured was Jeremira Minters of Troop 990. RIGHT PHOTO: Placing flags on the graves of veterans at St. Mary’s Cemetery were Mason Dziadek and Damian Saucedo (Scout Pack 443), Lindsey Dziadek, Summer Burleson, Courtney Dziadek, Laura Saucedo, and Sheri Dziadek.
LEFT PHOTO: Rick Martinez, center, Patrick Martinez, and Joshua Galan place flags on graves. RIGHT
PHOTO: Annie and D.J. Gautreaux, Gage, Daisy, and Brandi Townsley honor the deceased with flags.
On May 7, starting at 9 a.m., five local fraternal societies sponsored a Join Hands Day project of placing small United States flags on the graves of veterans at seven local cemeteries. Join Hands Day is a day set aside for youth and adults to join hands to complete a community project. Participating were KJT Society 80, Hermann Sons Lodge 2392, Knights of Columbus Council Council 3313, SPJST Lodge 141, and Woodmen Life Chapter 105, assisted by Girl Scout troops 934, 2294, and 2304, Boy Scout Troop 990 of Wallis, Boy Scout Leader Donald Karl, and family members of the Scouts. The cemeteries covered were Sealy Cemetery, Immacu-
Lodge 97, Placedo Vice President Donna Vanek presents a donation of $100 to Garland Whitaker from Hospice of Victoria for Join Hands Day on Saturday, May 7, 2016. Hospice is located at 605 East Locust Street in Victoria, Texas. Donna, Garland, and Lodge 97 Secretary/Reporter Bernadette Bellanger made snack bags to be used at health fairs as well as handouts for senior citizens. —Submitted by Bernadette Bellanger Secretary/Reporter
late Conception Cemetery, Holy Cross Cemetery on Stockold Road, St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Frydek, San Felipe de Austin Cemetery, San Felipe Community Cemetery, and Hartsville Cemetery between Sealy and Wallis. Approximately 550 flags were placed on these cemeteries. Special thanks to Rick and Dora Martinez of SPJST Lodge 141, Sealy and Integrity Insurance for their donation covering the costs of this event and to the Fourth Degree KC Sealy Assembly 2103 for their donation towards the purchase of additional flags. —Submitted by Bernice Stolarski —SPJST—
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Tuesday, June 14 Game night at Lodge 92 at 7 p.m.
Hall Rentals Rental information for National Hall and/or to obtain an event schedule, contact Events Manager Jon Durham at 817-624-1361 or visit www.nationalhallfortworth com. Fraternally, Angela Paprskar Casteel President —SPJST—
Lodge 97 Placedo joins hands with Hospice of Victoria
Lodge 97, Placedo presented a donation of $100 to Hospice of Victoria for Join Hands Day. Hospice is located at 605 East Locust Street in Victoria. Lodge 97 Vice President Donna and Secretary/Reporter Bernadette Bellanger and Garland Whitaker of Hos-
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Prepares for Convention
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy members met on Wednesday, May 4, 2016, for their monthly meeting at Bruceville-Eddy City Hall. LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 200 members heard information about the upcoming SPJST Convention. Some lodge members gather around delegate David Nauert, seated, left. Standing are, left to right, Frances McBride, Secretary James
pice of Victoria teamed up to make snack bags to be used at health fairs as well as handouts for senior citizens. Lodge 97, Placedo would like to say, “Happy Mother’s Day” to all mothers, expecting mothers, pet mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters.
Lodge 130, Dallas Member Celebrates 90th Birthday
Joyce Ehrenberger celebrated her 90th birthday with her children, their spouses, and three of her grandchildren. Joyce has been a member of SPJST Lodge 130, Dallas for more than 50 years. Joyce and husband Joe Ehrenberger moved to Charlotte, North Carolina two years ago to be near their daughter Julie and her family. Pictured are, left to right, son-inlaw Jim Crawford of Dallas, granddaughter Evelyn Harris of Charlotte, North Carolina, daughter-in-law Ce-
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leste Ehrenberger of Plano, son Joseph Ehrenberger of Baltimore, Maryland, daughter Julie Harris of Charlotte, North Carolina, Joyce, grandson Will Harris of Charlotte, North Carolina, son-in-law David Harris of Charlotte, North Carolina, Michael Ehrenberger of Plano, daughter-in-law Kate Ehrenberger of Baltimore, Maryland. Joyce’s husband Joe could not attend because he was in the hospital due to a fall from which he is still recovering. —SPJST—
Hosch, President Allen Trigg, FAC/Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride. Seated are Treasurer David Nauert and Secretary Michael Hosch. RIGHT PHOTO: Visiting after the lodge meeting are, left to right, Gene McBride, Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska, and Allen Trigg.
Hope you all had a blessed day! Wishing you all God’s blessings of great health and happiness. Fraternally yours, Bernadette Bellanger Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock Adults, Youth Join Hands with Peaceful Blessings
Lodge 187, Round Rock and Lodge 187 Youth Club joined hands with the ladies from Peaceful Blessings Theresians at Saint John Vianney Catholic Parish, Round Rock. We collected many items for the Backpack Coalition. The Backpack Coalition is a collaboration of various churches, civic and business organizations designed to meet the needs of hungry children in the Round Rock Independent School District by providing them with nutritious and easy to prepare food to take home on weekends. Each week, volunteers and other groups in the community come together to prepare food kits for the children, deliver the kits to the schools, and distribute those kits to students in need. Currently, they have teams in 19 schools in Round Rock and Pflugerville ISDs. Pictured with the Ladies from Peaceful Blessings are Lodge 187 members, front, left to right, Luke McCarthy, Mathieu McCarthy, and Rubie Volek; Jennifer McCarthy, standing, far left, and Johnnie Haak, standing, in back, fourth from right. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Happy Birthday, Sammy!
Happy birthday to Sammy Hoggard of Lodge 202, Jourdanton who celebrated his special day on May 3, 2016. He was recognized at the lodge meeting.
Lodge 142 Houston meets June 19
The next meeting of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston will be Sunday, June 19 - the third Sunday at 2 p.m. with a meal served at 1 p.m. Members and friends will meet at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston. Keith Kieschnick, President —SPJST—
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Presents Checks to Show Participants
Lodge 155, Austin plans June 5 summer social
Lodge 155, Austin invites members and guests to its summer social on Sunday, June 5, 2016, at Pok-e-Jo’s Smokehouse, located at 2121 West Parmer Road, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Members are reminded to bring their activities sheet for the fraternal activities coordinator’s report that must be turned in to the Home Office after each of our quarterly meetings.
Exciting News! Youth Club Organizes at Lodge 155 Our lodge is excited to have a new youth club thanks to the combined efforts of District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky and Ashley Tullos, our vice president and newly-elected youth leader. We encourage grandchildren and great-grandchildren of our members to join and to tell their neighborhood, school, or church friends about the fun activities this group is all about so these friends will want to join also. Fraternally, Ginny Prasatik Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 180 Burleson shares updates
Happy Birthday! Lodge 180, Burleson celebrated May birthdays by congratulating the following people with the best of wishes with many more birthdays to come - Cathleen Kallus, Charles Faulder, Michael Psencik, Lisa Pustejovsky, James Johnson, Clint Dupew, William Standley, Doris Smajstrla, Regina Brown, and junior member Regina Brown. Congratulations to all!
With Appreciation Here is a thank you letter from an organization that received a donation from Lodge 180, Burleson prior to Christmas. We hope that you will receive the same blessings that we did when you read this letter. I was absolutely amazed how far dollars can
Kelly House received a check from Seven District Director Bob Bayer’s discretionary fund and Lodge 202, Jourdanton for placing her goat at the Atascosa County Livestock Show. Lodge 202 President James House is pictured making the presentation. Madison and McKenzie Lutz also received checks for placing at the show.
stretch when utilized to help others in their time of need.
Dear SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson, I would like to thank you for your donation in the amount of $1,000 to Harvest House in 2015. Your faithful support demonstrates your commitment to improving the lives of families in this community. Our commitment to you is to be a good steward of your resources by directly servicing those in need. With your donation, we were able to serve 18,113 individuals with food, clothing, utility, house, and prescription assistance. We gave out 446,140 pounds of food valued at $669,210. Your generous gift has helped us to accomplish our mission and allowed us the sustainable income required for our community’s welfare. The impact that you have made upon our organization changes lives and helps us to prevent the hopelessness that befalls poverty.
SPJST ENC Welcomes CampLIFE!
SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) at Cooper Farm in Ledbetter welcomed a group from CampLIFE! on Friday, May 6 to Sunday, May 8, 2016. CampLIFE! is a nonprofit connecting the families of fallen heroes
through a camp experience including inspiration, challenge, and adventure. —Submitted by Jeb Lapeyrolerie, SPJST ENC Executive Director
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Thank you for being one of the few organizations that care enough about their community to take the time to give back. Thank you for being such a blessing to all of us here at Your Harvest House. Blessings, Carolyn Miller Executive Director 349 NW Renfro Burleson, TX 76028 817-295-6252 Fraternally, Nancy S. Kelly Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
liver transplant. Please add this baby to your prayer list as we continue to pray for him. As a reminder, all of our meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month, and we do look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.
Next Meeting—June 7 Our next meeting will be Tuesday, June 7 at Sammy’s Bistro in Burleson. The following month will be on Tuesday, July 5 at Spring Creek Barbeque in Burleson. All of our meetings begin at 6 p.m. Fraternally, Nancy S. Kelly Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 180 Burleson supports Lodge 191, Lufkin community welcomes Lodge 180, Burleson held its new sales agent
monthly meeting at Spring Creek Barbeque in Burleson on Tuesday May 3, 2016. Our meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by prayer for all loved ones and those in need of support. All officers were present for roll call with Dina and Bryan Bowden also in attendance. Gordon Cox stopped by for a moment but was unable to stay as he was feeling ill. Speedy recovery to you, Gordon. The pending SPJST Convention was discussed with excitement as the officers of the lodge are planning to attend the Convention. This will be such an opportunity to meet and great our fellow SPJST members as well as learn more about the inner workings of the lodge. We cannot wait to make new acquaintances. Leon Flusche presented some of the upcoming fraternal events taking place in May. He and Bill Slavik are planning a trip to Cameron and to tour SPJST Education and Nature Center sometime in May. Following this trip, he and Bill will present to us all of the plans that are in the works for the development of this facility. Lodge 180 will participate in Join Hands Day by presenting a check in the amount of $100 to the Burleson Girl Scout Council to participate in the distribution of flags to honor our deceased veterans prior to Memorial Day. This has been a tradition of Lodge 180 in past years. A donation in the amount of $250 was also given to Dina Bowden for a seven-month-old baby in need of a
Thanks to all of you who came out for the April “Cruise the Seas” dance. If you missed this dance, you missed a good band; Linda Kaye and the Kool Katz were great. Also thanks to Kathy Riley, Diane McDowell, and Sarah Oliver for the decorations. Decorating is a lot of work, but it is worth it to have the lodge in a festive mood; also to the hosts AC and Kathy Riley and Marvin and Diane McDowell. This lodge could not run without volunteers. You also do not have to be a member of the lodge to participate in the decorations or being a host. If you would like to do one or both of these, please call Kathy Riley at 936-634-1635. I hope everyone had his/her picture taken in front of the blue and white balloons. I should have prints made from the pictures, and they will be on the wall to the right as you come into the lodge. You are welcome to pick up your picture to keep at the next dance. The 50-50 drawing was won by Jewell Nolan, which was $100 so that means the lodge got $100. The free dance tickets to any dance but New Year’s Eve was won by Roy Luce and Jimmy Rogers. The inflatable boat was won by Beverly Vann, and the inflatable octopus was given to the young lady that did the drawings. Congratulations to all of the winners. Giving away something free always adds to the interest of the dance. There was a great turn-out for the April dance lessons. We had a lot of home schoolers who will have their
prom at the lodge on Friday night, May 6. A very special thanks to Bernard and Catherine Hylands for teaching the lessons and to Helen Boyd for doing the music. SPJST and Lufkin Dance Club appreciates everything you do. The next SPJST business meeting will be Monday, May 16 at 7 p.m. The meeting does not last but about an hour and is very important for the running of the lodge. All members are urged to attend.
New Sales Agent SPJST membership is open to everyone. You become a member simply by purchasing an SPJST life insurance, annuity, or IRA. A social membership does not include the purchasing of an insurance certificate; you just have to pay yearly dues. Doyle Oliver has become the sales agent for the Lufkin SPJST, and if you are interested in one or all of these plans, please talk to Doyle. The regular monthly third Friday dance for SPJST will be May 20, and the band will be Glenn Lenderman and Friends. The theme for this dance will be “Covered Wagon Chowdown.” Just because there are themes for the dances does not mean you have to dress the part. You are welcome to dress in your regular clothes. We always have a food table, so please bring a covered dish. There is always a lot of good food. The dance is from 7 to 10 p.m., and admission is $6 for members and $8 for guests. Fraternally, Pat Scogin Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 202 Jourdanton plans June meal/meeting
Lodge 202, Jourdanton met Sunday, May 1, 2016, at Jourdanton Community Center. President James House presided. Kelly House led the Pledge of Allegiance. Silence was observed for deceased member Vlasta A. Pesek, and in honor of the United States Armed Forces. Secretary Bettie House read the minutes, and Treasurer Sandra Hoggard presented the financial report. The Jourdine Tymrak family appreciated the memorial contribution to the scholarship fund. Atascosa Family Crises Center noted items that are
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needed. Madison and McKenzie Lutz thanked the lodge for its support at the livestock show. Cynthia Strmiska sent her candidacy announcement. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kathleen Polasek reminded the guys that May 7 is Mother’s Day. The summer getaway will be August 12 to 14. Youth Leader Regina House was absent due to the death of her dad, Johnny Marek. Assistant Youth Leader Sandra Hoggard announced May 15 will be the youth club meeting at the home of Joan Wiederhold. The backpacks for the Bus Station Ministry will be assembled, and a photo workshop will be held. Lodge 202 donated $100 to the ministry. Congratulations to Lodge 202 youth Jillian Favor and Amanda Miller for receiving scholarships from SPJST. Lodge 202 donated $100 to the Relay for Life in San Antonio that Churchill High School is helping sponsor. Youth club member Amanda Hoggard will participate in the event. Lodge 202 will donate two $50 gift cards to the fundraiser at the summer getaway in Corpus Christi. Next Meeting—June 5 Sunday, June 5 is the meal/meeting at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center. Sandwiches will be provided. Bring sides or desserts. Fraternally, Bettie House, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 202 Jourdanton seeks scholarship applicants
Attention Lodge 202, Jourdanton High School Seniors: Lodge 202, Jourdanton is offering scholarships to its graduating seniors. If you are interested in applying for this scholarship, please email Youth Leader Regina House at spjst202youth@gmail.com or call 830-570-2046. Scholarship applications are due May 31, 2016. —SPJST—
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
★ ★ Reunions ★ ★
Reunion notices are published at no charge and as a benefit to our SPJST members. First-run announcements may be edited to fit the space. Thereafter, until the week prior to the reunion date - as space permits notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include your SPJST lodge number/name, and your contact phone number. Thank you.
June 4 Kelner family—at American Legion Hall, East Bernard. Contact the following for information: President PF Thomas 281-636-9822; Vice President Helen Vrana 979-532-3622; Secretary Helen Kelner 281-3422624; Treasurer Joey Pitman 281236-7652; Historian Lillian Neeley 713-947-2472. Submitted by Helen Kelner, Lodge 28, East Bernard.
June 5 Sefcik-Kubin families—at New Tabor Brethren Church Fellowship Building, on County Road 225, Caldwell. For your reservation, please respond by May 15 to Lillie Chafin, 880 CR 284, Caldwell, Texas 77836; (979) 272-1136. Submitted by Lillie Chafin, Lodge 17, New Tabor. —SPJST—
Belicek family
The annual Pavel and Rosina (Kovar) Belicek reunion will be Saturday, June 11, 2016, at the Senior Activity Center, 210 East Salty Street in Thorndale, Texas. The meal will be served at 12:30 p.m. Please bring salad, vegetable, and dessert. Meat, tea, coffee, ice, and paper items will be furnished. Pictures of your family and past reunions are welcome. We encourage all family members and friends to attend. For information, contact Johnnie Mogonye at 512-453-6014 or email jhemdlm2@aol.com. Jeanette Peterson Lodge 18, Elgin —SPJST—
Vajdak family
The 63rd annual Vajdak reunion will be Sunday, June 12, 2016, at SPJST Lodge 9, Snook hall. We will meet at 11 a.m., and a potluck meal
will follow. We will have a silent auction, prize drawing, domino tournament with prizes and fun and games for the young and young-at-heart. Help us out by bringing items for the silent auction or plants/veggies for the Vajdak family farm patch. Please help us spread the word to all Vajdak family members by notifying all of your family members. Call Carla Welch 979-229-3630 for more information. Submitted by, Margie Vajdak Nohra Lodge 9, Snook —SPJST—
Mosquito Repellents
By Wizzie Brown Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Program Specialist
As you have probably noticed, we have a bumper crop of mosquitoes this year, so make sure you take the proper precautions while spending time outside. Activity times for mosquitoes can vary. Most people are familiar with the four D’s - DRAIN (standing water), DEET (wear some repellent), DUSK and DAWN (stay indoors during dusk and dawn to avoid peak populations), and DRESS (wear long sleeves and long pants). While this is still good advice, it may be a good idea to spread the dress and repellent advice for anytime you will spend time outdoors. When outside, try to wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt in light colors. I know it’s getting hot, but if you can stand getting a little hot, it can reduce the number of mosquitoes that can reach your skin. Repellent should only be applied to clothing and exposed skin. Do not apply repellent underneath clothing! If you want to apply repellent to your face, spray your hands with repellent and rub it onto your face. Do not spray repellent directly into your face or near eyes or mouth. Make sure to apply repellent outdoors. Do not allow children to handle repellents. Wash hands before eating, smoking or using the restroom. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends using a product registered with the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) containing one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and some of
the products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET, also known N,N-diethyl-mtoluamide or N,N-diemethylbenzamide, was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 to protect soldiers in insect-infested areas. Pesticides containing DEET have been used by the general public since 1957. Products containing DEET should not be used on children younger than 2 months of age (read the label and check with your pediatrician if you have questions). DEET has a slight odor and may have a greasy feel to some people. It may damage plastic, rubber, vinyl or synthetic fabrics. DEET may be irritating to the eyes and skin for some people. DEET comes in a wide variety of concentrations, so choose the one that will work best for your situation. Picaridin was first made in the 1980s and resembles a natural compound called piperine (which is found in plants used to produce black pepper). Picardin has been used in Europe and Australia for many years, but has only been in the United States since 2005. Picaridin is non-greasy and is odorless. IR-3535, or 3-[N-Butyl-N- acetyl]aminopropionic acid, ethyl ester, was developed in the mid-1970s and became registered for use in the U.S. in 1999. It is registered as a biopesticide by the EPA because it is functionally identical to a naturally occurring substance (an amino-acid). It may dissolve or damage plastics and may be irritating to the eyes. Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol) are essentially the same thing; PMD is the synthesized (lab created) version of oil of lemon eucalyptus. “Pure” or “essential” oil of lemon eucalyptus is not labeled as a repellent and has not undergone testing and should not be used as a repellent product. OLE/PMD has been on the market in the U.S. since 2002. OLE/PMD should not be used on children younger than 3 years of age. The natural product (OLE) has known allergens within it while the synthetic version (PMD) has less of a risk to allergens. This product is classified as a biopesticide. OLE/PMD has a varying range of residual, some offering about 20 minutes of protection while other products may last up to two hours. Many factors play into how long a repellent will last for a person. Some of these are:
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• The concentration (or percent of active ingredient) of the product. You can find the percentage on the product label. • Person’s attractiveness. Some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others (and no scientific research has proven that it is because of eating garlic, taking vitamin B, using tobacco products, etc.). A person’s genetic code plays a large part on what makes a person so attractive to mosquitoes.
• Frequency and uniformity of application. In other words, how often is the repellent applied and how good of coverage did you get?
• Activity level of the person. The more active the person is, the more sweat they produce which can cause the repellent to wash off the surface of the skin.
As a word of caution, there are products that combine sunscreen and insect repellent. The CDC recommends that if you need sunscreen and repellent, that you choose two separate products. Sunscreen should be applied more often than repellents.
For more information or help with identification, contact Wizzie Brown, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Program Specialist at 512.854.9600. Check out my blog at www.urban-ipm.blogspot.com. —SPJST—
High Hopes
My poems are all real simple some say they are too plain, Still I go on writing them I am simple in the main
Don’t have any expectations high hopes are never claimed, I simply go on writing though most hope that I refrain. —SPJST—
~ d.knape
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In Memory of Rudolph Rejcek
Rudolph Robert Rejcek, 77, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 23, 2016. Funeral service was at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 28 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Arlington, Texas. Interment was at Emerald Hills Memorial Park. Visitation was from 7 to 9 p.m., with rosary at 6:30 to 7 Rudolph Rejcek p.m., on Wednesday, April 27 at Emerald Hills Funeral Home. Rudy was born April 12, 1939, the 15th of 16 children, to John and Agnes Kohut Rejcek in Abbott. It was there he met the love of his life, Janie Hubik Rejcek. During his service in the United States Army, they married and later moved to Arlington where he worked over 33 years at General Motors and raised five children. He was very involved in his children’s lives and would do just about anything they asked of him including coaching sports and welcoming their friends into his home. Rudy retired in Mansfield where he enjoyed gardening, raising chickens and goats, and visits from his grandchildren. With a golden heart, he enjoyed doing charity work mostly through the Knights of Columbus where he was a fourth-degree member and past Grand Knight and the Men’s Club at St. Vincent de Paul where he was an usher for many years. Rudy was also involved with SPJST Lodge 183, Arlington, KJT, and president of RVOS local lodge. He was proud of his family, Czech heritage, and involvement in the Czech Family Band, but, above all else, he was a Christian and led his life accordingly. Rudy was preceded in death by his daughter Sandra; and siblings Johnnie, Jerome, Louise, Alphonse, Jody, Raymond, Willie, Martha, Rudolfina, Leo, Edward, and Felix. Survivors are his wife of 53 years, Janie; son Steven and wife Amy; son Randall; daughter Lorrie Anderle and husband Gary; daughter Rhonda Steelman and husband Jeff; sisters Mary Miller and husband Albert, Wille Mae Janecka, and Edna Knapp; sister-in-law Genora Kriska and husband Ben; nu-
merous nieces and nephews; grandchildren Ryan, Derek, Brett, Troy, Chad, Cole, Jacob, Alexandria, Callie, Abigail, Jessica, Zach, Pate, and Wade; and great-grandchildren Jason, Summer, and Ryder. —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
We, the members of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of LILLIE ZAJICEK, age 98, of Copperas Cove, Texas, and formerly of Buckholts, who died Thursday, April 21, 2016, in a Copperas Cove assisted living facility. Funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 24 Lillie Zajicek at Marek-BurnsLaywell Funeral Home in Cameron with Reverend Gary Kleypas officiating. Burial followed in Hope Lutheran Memorial Park in Buckholts. Visitation was Saturday, April 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Zajicek was born February 8, 1918, in Ben Arnold to Emil and Olga Roesler. She married Joe Zajicek on September 19, 1936. She and Joe were very industrious. They owned and operated several businesses in Buckholts. Lillie also worked for Montgomery Ward for many years. She and Joe loved to dance, and they danced often. They both lived to almost 100 years of age. I think this proves that dancing is not only a lot of fun, but healthy as well. No matter how hot it was, Joe would be fully attired in a suit and tie, and Lillie would be beautifully dressed. They were both excellent dancers, and everyone looked forward to sharing a dance with them. At one time, they belonged to three different dance clubs in the area. Lillie was a member of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts. Both Lillie and Joe took a big interest in our local Lodge 15. They attended regularly and were always there when we needed help.
Lillie was preceded in death by her husband in 2007; brother Walter Roesler; and daughter-in-law Bennie Marie. She is survived by sons Joe Dean Zajicek and wife Bernice of Waco, Walter Zajicek of Bryan, and Jackie Zajicek and wife Suszanne of Copperas Cove; grandchildren David Zajicek and wife Leah, Gregory Zajicek and wife Lorraine, Gene Zajicek and wife Jana, and Tracy Allen; nine greatgrandchildren; and three great-greatgrandchildren. The Zajicek family was wellknown and loved by so many family and friends. They will certainly be missed, but the sweet memories will always be with us. Fraternally, Dorothy Tomascik, Secretary —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
We, the members of the Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed member, WALTER ANTON ZAJICEK. age 75, of Bryan, who died Saturday, April 23, 2016, at his home. Funeral service was held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 27 at Marek-BurnsLaywell Funeral Home in Cameron with Reverend Gary Kleypas officiating. Burial followed in Hope Lutheran Memorial Park in Buckholts. Visitation was Wednesday, April 27 from 12 Walter Zajicek noon until the time of the funeral service. Mr. Zajicek, a retired electrician, was born May 7, 1940, in Cameron to Joe and Lillie (Roesler) Zajicek. He married Bennie Marie Nors in 1961, and she preceded him in death in 2012. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts. Survivors include son Gene Zajicek and wife Jana of Bryan; brothers Joe Dean Zajicek and wife Bernice of Waco, Jackie Zajicek and wife Suszanne of Copperas Cove; and grandchildren Clint, Garrett, and Danica. Memorials may be made to Hos-
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pice Brazos Valley, 502 West 26th, Bryan, Texas 77803. Resolution Committee Virginia Williams Frank Tomascik —SPJST—
Resolution of Sympathy
We, the members of the Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of ALBERT WILLIAM “A.W.” ZAJICEK, JR. A.W., age 85, of Temple and formerly of Buckholts, died Saturday, April 23, 2016, at his residence. Funeral service was held on April 26 at Marek-Burns-Laywell Funeral Home in Cameron. Reverend Gary Kleypas officiated. Burial was in Corinth Cemetery in Buckholts. A.W. was born September 13, 1930, in Buckholts to Albert William and Lydia Frances Valka Zajicek. He attended Baylor University. He served in the United States Air Force. He married Lamerle Walker on August 27, 1950. A.W. was a member of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts and Hope Lutheran Church in Buckholts. He was director of finance for Baylor Scott and White Memorial Hospital. He also served on Buckholts school board for 42 years. He was preceded in death by son David Zajicek. Survivors include his wife of Temple; son Scott Zajicek of Lubbock; daughters Jennifer Mascotto of Waco, and Jana Connolly of Temple; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. A.W. will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends. He and his wife Lamerle were so willing to help with whatever community projects were going on. They took a big interest in their church, the Lions Club, and SPJST. Resolution Committee, Virginia Williams Frank Tomascik —SPJST—
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Expression of Sympathy
We, the Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 17, Novy Tabor, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge sister, EVELYN M. HENRY. Evelyn M. Henry, age 88, former Burleson County Clerk, passed away Saturday, April 2, 2016, at her residence in Caldwell, Texas. Mrs. Henry was born April 6, 1927, in Caldwell to Frank G. and Albina M. (Maresh) Mrnustik. She graduated from Caldwell High School and completed course work at Durham’s Business College in Austin. She and C.D. Henry were Evelyn M. Henry married on Easter Sunday in 1951, and after a honeymoon trip to Galveston, enjoyed over 31 years together before his passing. A presence in the county courthouse for almost half a century, Evelyn was employed by Burleson County for 47 years prior to her retirement and was elected to multiple terms as county clerk. She continued to volunteer “working the election” the remainder of her life, including this year’s primary. She greatly relished being a lifelong resident of Caldwell and found joy in community involvement. A devoted member of New Tabor Brethren Church, where she was baptized, confirmed in her faith and married, she was active in the Christian Sisters and sang in the choir, among other church activities. Evelyn also served as treasurer for VFW Auxiliary Post 4458 of Caldwell and SPJST Lodge 17, Novy Tabor. Earlier in her life, she assisted home-bound individuals with food deliveries and visits. This concern for the welfare of neighbors as they got older led her to volunteer at local nursing homes. When not spending time with others, she enjoyed being outside taking in the beauty of nature. She applied her green thumb in the garden and especially growing decorative flowers around her home. One of her favorite pastimes was ranching and tending to her cattle. She was a loving and caring daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She was preceded in death by husband C.D. Henry; parents; brother Stanley F. Mrnustik; and daughter-in-
law Diana L. Henry. Survivors include son George F. Henry; and grandson Travis C. Henry and wife Susan, all of Austin; granddaughter Joanna E. Henry of New Orleans; and stepson Carroll C. Henry and wife Charlotte of Bronson. Funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 5 at New Tabor Brethren Church. The family received friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, April 24 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Caldwell. Please consider a memorial contribution in Evelyn’s name to a charity of your choice. May she rest in eternal peace and her memory remain with us forever. Fraternally, Susan Skrabanek Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. —SPJST—
Resolution of Sympathy
The Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek No. 4, Hallettsville, Texas, on behalf of our entire membership wish to express our sincere and deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge brother, EUGENE “GENE” JURENA. He was born on October 25, 1928, and passed away on Monday, February 1, 2016. Eugene was a resident of Moulton, Texas, at the time of his passing. He was married to June. Gene was a member of SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville. Gene Jurena Visitation was from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 3 with the Schulenburg VFW memorial service at 6:30 p.m. at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home in Schulenburg. Funeral service was held on Thursday, February 4 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Schulenburg. Interment was in Schulenburg City Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Schulenburg; Schulenburg VFW; or a charity of one’s choice. May our departed brother rest in eternal peace. Resolution Committee Victoria Zak Gayenell Chudej —SPJST—
In Memory of Helon Holub
Helon Holub, age 97, of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 7, 2016, in Dallas. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 12 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellmead with Monsignor Isodore Rozycki as celebrant. Entombment followed at Waco Memorial Park Mausoleum. Visitation was at 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Helon Holub April 11 at Bellmead Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Scott Holub, Kris Holub, Mike Spangler, Matt Wilson, Billy Doss, and Brad Gyorko. Helon was born October 3, 1918, in Axtell to Zelda and Dennie Milner. Her parents were from Scurry and spent their lives farming in the Axtell area. Helon grew up working on the farm and assisting with her younger five brothers and two sisters. She attended school in Axtell and after graduation was employed by Alico in Waco. Her strong work ethic and caring attitude made her the loving, giving person she was to all her friends and family. On August 1, 1940, Helon married Edwin E. Holub in Elk. She was deeply dedicated to her family as wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She enjoyed working at Owens-Illinois Glass Company in her younger married years. Later, she assisted her husband in starting his own business as a Mobil Oil Consignment Agent. Helon appreciated the beauty and sounds of nature and especially loved gardening. She also enjoyed participating in sports, baseball, golf, bowling, and fishing. She always welcomed others into her home and enjoyed entertaining especially family dinners, barbecues and fish frys. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 35, Elk. She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband Edwin Holub; brothers Claude, Marion, James, Dennie, and Earl Milner; and sisters Dee and Mary. Survivors include daughter Sharon Pelletiere and husband Joe of Dallas; granddaughter Nikki Pelletiere Spangler and husband Mike of Dallas; granddaughter Danielle Pelletiere Wil-
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son and husband, Matt of Dallas; great-grandson Mason Spangler and great-granddaughter Ella Spangler of Dallas; son Ken Holub; grandson Kris Holub and wife Brandy; great-granddaughter Presley of Waco; son Ron Holub of Waco; and grandson Scott Holub of Arlington; son Johnny Holub and wife Lesa of Waco; and several nieces and nephews in South Dakota, California, Utah, Waco, and Houston. —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy
We, the Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 17, Novy Tabor, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge brother, ALBERT SUROVIK, SR. Albert Joe Surovik Sr., 86, was born on March 20, 1930, to Frank J. and Frances ( S u r o v i k ) Surovik. He passed away at his home in Bryan, Texas, with his loving family by his side on Monday, April 4, 2016. Albert Surovik, Sr. Funeral service was held on Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m. in the church sanctuary with Reverend David Johnson officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Brian Pendergraff, Jimbo Spiller, Billy Prescott, Coleman Wiederhold, Ryan Surovik, and Tre Heardmon. Honorary pallbearers were Brice Pendergraff, Ethan Spiller, Seth Spiller, Curtis Hickman, Shelby Sims, and Allen Garbs. A meal was served after the worship service at the church fellowship building. He was no stranger to hard work from an early age. After graduating high school, Albert held several part time jobs and developed his skills to become a very good craftsman. He was later employed with Texas A&M Food Services and was part owner in a small country store and filling station in Caldwell located at the intersection of Highway 21 and County Road 208. Albert also worked at Burleson Laboratories with W.L. Surovik for many years. After his father passed in 1963, Albert took over the family farm in the New Tabor community and continued working primarily as a carpenter throughout the Burleson County area.
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Albert married the love of his life, Winifred Ann (Odstrcil) Surovik, on August 31, 1963, at New Tabor Brethren Church near Caldwell. Together, they made their living cultivating the farmland growing maize, corn crops, and an enormous garden of fruits and vegetables to feed the entire family. They took great joy in offering items from the garden to friends and anyone that came to visit them on the farm. They also raised cattle, hogs, turkeys, and chickens, and the family remembers well the coming together to butcher them. Albert made it a point to involve the family with the work to be done on the farm such as de-beaking turkeys, gathering the garden produce for canning and freezing, hauling hay, planting crops, picking corn, cutting corn tops to feed the cattle, making homemade sausage, curing bacon in the smokehouse and pulling those weeds in the fields. Albert was no stranger to working in the fields on his tractor until midnight after a long day’s work as a carpenter, building new homes and remodeling the old ones. Albert and Winifred worked many long hours to provide for their family and Albert always made it a point to involve the children to work alongside him, teaching them the value of good work ethics in finishing the job showing them what the fruits of your labor produce. When Albert was no longer able to farm the land, he and Winifred moved to their property at 206 East Buck Street in Caldwell. He was able to commute to and from the farm to feed the cattle, chop weeds, tend to his garden, and feed his stray animals until 2013 when his health declined. In 2014, Albert and Winifred moved in with their oldest daughter Melissa and her husband Bob so she could assist Winifred in providing 24-hour care for him. In July 2015, they built a better equipped home in Bryan. On March 10, 2016, Albert was placed under Hospice care and on March 23, he was admitted to Brazos Valley Hospice Inpatient Facility. The family is unanimous in saying that his seven days there were gifts from God, and they are very thankful for this precious time. On March 30, the family was able to take him back home to live his last six days in the comfort of his home. He died peacefully with his family never leaving his side. He was a member of New Tabor Brethren Church where he was baptized and confirmed. He also attended
Hus School in 1951. He was a faithful church member, and every time the church doors opened, he made sure the Surovik family was there. He attended Sunday school and was the Young People’s Class Sunday school teacher for over 30 years. He and Winifred served as BYF sponsors for the youth; he was elected as an elder several times; and he sang tenor in the choir. He prepared the bread and wine for communion and was the bell ringer for the church. He and Winifred also served as the church custodians for many years, and Albert never hesitated
to use his carpenter skills when the church needed them. He and Winifred also donated some of the land for the church cemetery. He loved the quarterly meeting meals, the fifth Sunday singsongs, volleyball tournaments, the men’s brotherhood meetings, Wednesday night Bible studies, and all activities of the church. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. He was also a member of CSA, RVOS, and Farm Bureau. He was also chosen for the “Young Farmer” award for Burleson County in 1964 by the Bryan Production Credit
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Association. In his younger days, Albert enjoyed dancing, listening to music, and practicing volleyball with the church youth and providing many hayrides for them. He enjoyed gardening, shopping for bargains, playing dominos, and Sunday afternoon svacina with friends and family. Later in life, Albert enjoyed watching Mollie B Polka Party, The Price is Right, football, boxing, rodeos, but most of all, he enjoyed going back to the home place and being with his kids and grandkids; he always loved their
Death Claims Paid in April 2016
Name Melissa E. Macha Vlasta A. Pesek Bessie Marie Petr Carole J. Slavik James C. Templin John Thomas Markus Betty Joyce Huser Henrietta Forrest Pete John Merta, Jr. Tomaza Moffat Tommy Scott Lisenbe Ed M. Cain Patrick Bernhausen August Hosek, Jr. Joe Cavasoz, III Belen Pena Robert J. Hansen Ardy E. Blakley, Jr. Florence Surovik Joseph A. Neslony Geraldine Keith Agnes E. Haney William J. Janak, Jr. William F. McDaniel Leonard Sellers Samuel Weichert Jerome M. Kutach Jack S. Weinblatt John A. Hamblen Martha F. Marek Richard M. Massey, Jr. Benjamin V. Bohac Willis H. Gilliam Joyce Ann Moore Bennie A. Bartosh
SPJST • Temple, Texas
Lodge 151 202 84 180 25 79 67 28 30 219 177 74 28 133 32 215 196 172 201 35 25 88 63 79 25 186 88 47 47 84 229 88 186 47 20
Location Wharton Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Dallas Burleson Ennis Corpus Christi Schulenburg East Bernard Taiton El Paso Academy Lovelady East Bernard San Antonio Victoria South Plains Houston-West Pasadena Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Elk Ennis Houston Sweet Home Corpus Christi Ennis Caldwell Houston Seaton Seaton Dallas Abilene Houston Caldwell Seaton Granger
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Date of Admission 3/02/1971 12/03/1941 10/01/1955 12/10/1976 8/10/1973 11/10/1966 8/16/1996 4/12/1943 11/03/1952 2/24/2009 4/04/2000 9/06/1978 1/12/1952 8/03/1953 10/25/2005 12/04/2006 5/24/1973 10/21/1948 4/30/1973 4/03/1964 7/17/1961 7/01/1971 2/01/1992 12/01/1955 12/05/1957 8/12/1980 5/04/1971 4/25/1974 7/20/1972 11/01/1954 2/14/2005 9/27/1967 9/01/1981 1/02/1945 8/24/1971
Date of Death 2/21/2016 2/20/2016 2/12/2016 3/09/2016 2/09/2016 11/02/2012 2/13/2016 2/07/2012 3/12/2016 12/04/2015 3/24/2016 3/01/2016 3/11/2016 12/31/2015 3/02/2016 3/08/2016 2/26/2016 12/01/2015 1/19/2016 3/16/2016 3/21/2016 2/06/2016 3/04/2016 3/15/2016 2/17/2016 3/07/2016 2/21/2016 6/13/2015 3/09/2016 5/22/2012 3/19/2016 3/14/2016 12/13/2015 2/01/2016 3/01/2016
Age 94 93 92 71 76 46 83 85 91 76 73 89 65 93 40 76 89 84 67 96 88 88 73 83 86 68 81 88 87 83 47 82 75 72 87
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Name Doris Ann Goldman Verna Lou Anderson Ella Gillan Anneliese F. Stewart Ladean Kay Warren Ross Elise Gibbs Adolph F. Bialek, Jr. Elena P. Garibay Brandon Ray Church Milton B. Greenberg
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Lodge 47 29 81 177 230 191 97 66 13 148
Location Seaton Taylor Needville Academy Midland Lufkin Placedo Waco Dime Box El Maton
Date of Admission 4/29/1975 12/30/1944 9/19/1938 2/26/1986 9/09/2003 8/16/1979 5/23/1977 4/05/2012 3/01/1994 11/16/1937
To the Bereaved Survivors of Our Deceased Brothers and Sisters, the SPJST Supreme Lodge Expresses Its Heartfelt Sympathy. Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST—
visits. Those who preceded him in death include his parents; brothers George Surovik, Johnnie Surovik, and Frank Surovik; and sister Fannie Kovar. Survivors include his wife Winifred (Odstrcil) Surovik; son Albert “PeeWee” Surovik and wife Diane; daughters Melissa Ostman, Michelle Spiller and husband Jimbo, Shelly Pendergraff and husband Brian, and Charee Surovik; and sister Vlasta Surovik; grandchildren Nikki Hickman and husband Curtis, Lauren Sims and husband Shelby, Billy Prescott and wife Tasha, Mandy Wiederhold and Tomasita Heardmon, Coleman Wiederhold, Ryan Surovik and wife Robin, Emily Surovik, Brice Pendergraff, Branson Pendergraff, Briann Pendergraff, Ethan Spiller, Seth Spiller, and Victoria Bourgeois; great-grandchildren Analissa Rodriguez, Francesca Rodriguez, Layla Rodriguez, Maia Rodriguez, Tre Heardmon, Kent Prescott, Kenna Prescott, and Wyatt Sims; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to The New Tabor Brethren Church; Hospice Brazos Valley; or a charity of your choice. Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Caldwell in charge of arrangements. May he rest in eternal peace and his memory remain with us forever. Fraternally, Susan Skrabanek Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. —SPJST—
In Memory of Leonard Sellers
Leonard Sellers, age 86, went to be with the Lord from Ennis, Texas, on Wednesday, February 17, 2016, from the same family farm he was born. Leonard was born in Oak Grove on November 21, 1929, to Leonard and Hallie (Sparkman) Sellers. He grew up in the Oak Grove area and graduated from Leonard Sellers Ennis High School in 1947. On January 25, 1951, he married Florence Ramsey. They made their home in the Oak Grove community. He worked for Ben Franklin’s as a clerk, for Ennis Business Forms, Crump Business Forms, and Walmart. He was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church, and was one of the founders of the Central High Volunteer Fire Department where he also served as chief for many years. Leonard was a member of the SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. He earned his American Farmers Degree through the Future Farmers of America and was one of only two people from Ennis who has earned this degree. He enjoyed gardening and farming. He is survived by his wife of over 65 years Florence Sellers; children Franklin Sellers and wife Jayni, Pam Skinner and husband Larry, and Greg
Date of Death 3/28/2016 4/03/2016 8/26/2015 4/13/2016 3/29/2016 3/24/2016 3/24/2016 3/17/2016 12/30/2014 4/04/2015
Age 87 77 95 84 71 86 61 83 26 92
Sellers and wife D’Ann; 13 grandchildren: 21great-grandchildren; and sister Virginia Basinger. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Elsie. Visitation was on Friday, February 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. in J.E. Keever Mortuary in Ennis. Celebration of his life took place on Saturday, February 20 at 2 p.m. in Tabernacle Baptist Church of Ennis with Reverend Mike Sellers and Reverend Ed Ramsey officiating. Interment followed in Myrtle Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. Please make memorial donations to Central High Volunteer Fire Department, which was so near and dear to Leonard’s heart. Betty Macalik —SPJST—
A Silent Tear Author Unknown
Just close your eyes and you will see All the memories that you have of me Just sit and relax and you will find I’m really still there inside your mind
Don’t cry for me now I’m gone For I am in the land of song There is no pain, there is no fear So dry away that silent tear
Don’t think of me in the dark and cold For here I am, no longer old I’m in that place that’s filled with love Known to you all, as “up above” —SPJST—
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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.
State King: hectic senior year; ready for polka festival
Dear Readers, Life has been hectic between the end of senior year, AP exams, and working on the side; but even with a busy schedule, this year has flown by faster than I or my parents wanted it to. After applying to college and registering for classes, the only thing left to do is graduate. I am eager to go to the National Polka Festival in Ennis with State Queen Kacie on Saturday, May 28. It is always a joy to hang out with my SPJST family. Fraternally, Brady Alexander SPJST State King —SPJST—
President Nathan Polly Vice President Anahi Guerrero Secretary/Treasurer Jade Caffey Flag Bearers Juan Guerrero and Keith Wockenfuss Reporters Jered Polly and Zoe Saxton Sergeants-at-Arm Denae Bronikowski and Alyssa Moyle
We talked about changes to the youth club handbook, our upcoming District Five outing to Huntsville Folk Festival, SPJST camp, LIT camp, and District Five and State YAD. Afterwards, we enjoyed pizza and soda. Fraternally, Nathan G. Polly District Five Youth President —SPJST—
District Seven District Five youth Queen participates learn officer duties in youth workshop
District Five Youth Club met Saturday, April 30, 2016, for the District Five Youth Club Workshop at Lodge 88, Houston. Our 2016-2017 District Five Youth Club officers were introduced, and we went over their duties. They are: President Nathan
A few weeks ago, District Seven youth members participated in the youth development workshop. We discussed Youth Achievement Day (YAD), the merit point system (thanks, State Youth Director Lynette Talasek), and had a photography lesson with Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny. After our informational meeting, we spent the afternoon at San Antonio Botanical Gardens exploring tree photography and practicing techniques learned. The gardens were surrounded by artwork, flowers, and plenty of beautiful trees. It was fun to see other district members and play giant chess.
Thanks to DYC Lian Pruski for sharing this photo that her son, Colt, took at the gardens. Fraternally, Amanda Hoggard District Seven Queen —SPJST—
—Photo by Colt Pruski
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Leader announces activities
Dear Věstník Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club held its monthly meeting on Sunday, May 1, 2016, at 1 p.m. with 28 members present and one guest, Harlow. President Hunter Bartek asked Brayden Gilliam to lead us all in the Pledge of Allegiance and SPJST Youth Club motto. We remained standing for a moment of silence. May birthdays are Kyndall Carroll, Elisa Ranly, Payton Porubsky and Patsy Koslovsky. Thanks to Amber, we got our new youth club shirts. Please wear these to all our functions. Remember when
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you get your tee-shirts, we need your picture for the wall. We discussed upcoming events: Saturday, May 7 - SPJST Car Show: Our youth club will run the kitchen; the meal will include Slovacek’s sausage wraps; turkey legs, chips, barbecue-on-a-bun, and hot dogs. Thanks to everyone who signed up to work. This is our largest fundraiser of the year. So for our Join Hands Day, we will be donating to the SPJST Czech Heritage Museum and SPJST Education and Nature Center (ENC) then we will also donate to Kids Against Hunger. We will pack food on May 14 in the annex building. Please be there at 10 a.m. The more who show up, the faster this process will go. Our donation of $575 will feed 2,200 kids. Tuesday, May 31 - deadline for the SPJST Flag Essay Contest; and for children, kindergarten to age eight, there is a coloring contest. The theme is “My American Freedom.” See the youth club handbook for details. Tuesday, May 31 is the deadline for the 100 Pennies Drive. It is also the last day of the youth year. June 1 starts the new year. Wednesday, June 1 - Note: Everyone, this is the last day for signing up for camp. Saturday, June 4 - We will have our monthly meeting at 10 a.m. with installation of new officers. Sunday, June 5 - Lodge 47 annual picnic: Lunch will start at 11 a.m., dine-in or drive-thru. Plates will consist of fried chicken, homemade
Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth: I love basketball!
This was my first year to play basketball. I was on the Caldwell Spurs team. We had an awesome team and went undefeated all season long. This is a picture of my team. We had so much fun, and I cannot wait to play basketball again next year! —Wyatt Beasley
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sausage, cole slaw, and potato salad for $9 per plate. A horseshoe tournament will be held. Polka jam starts at 1 p.m., auction at 4 p.m. There will be a sweet booth and a bounce house for the kids. Come out for a great time. Fun for all ages. Remember, youth members sell the prize drawing tickets; we are having a contest. Monday, June 6 - Mother’s Day lodge meeting, 7 p.m.: We will be honoring our graduates also. Thursday, June 9 to Saturday, June 11 - Leaders-in-Training (LIT) at SPJST ENC at Cooper Farm. Tuesday, June 17 - District Two Swim Party at Walker Pool, 7 to 9 p.m. Bring a friend. All YAD forms are due with instructions for hobby kits, music for talent and your complete speech if you are running for royalty. Sunday, July 3 - monthly meeting, 1 p.m. Saturday, July 9 - District Two YAD at Seaton Star Hall: Start your projects early. If you have any questions, call any of us leaders. Friday, July 15 and Saturday, July 16 - Barbecue Cookoff: The youth club will sell hamburgers on Friday night, July 15. Thursday, July 21 to Sunday, July 24 - District Two Camp. Saturday, August 6 - State YAD at Frank Mayborn Convention Center, Temple. Sunday, August 7 - monthly meeting, 1 p.m. Friday, August 12 to Sunday, August 14 - SPJST Corpus Christi Get Away Fraternally, Joyce Kraatz Youth Leader —SPJST—
O SPJST Youth Statewide Food Drive O SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club Collects 75 Pounds
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Car Show Fun I love this thing we do. It is a lot of fun. I don’t know what I would do without this place and friends and the things we do. I can’t wait till the car show. It is going to be super fun to work and see all the cars. Kasen Carroll, age 11 •••
Ready for Queen Contest I am so excited to enjoy time with my family and friends for the car show. Finally, I get to know I can try out to be queen this year. Kyndall Carroll, age 13 —SPJST—
In the SPJST State Youth Food Drive, Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club collected 75 pounds of beans and rice.
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members share activities
Video Game Fun My sister and I play my video game called Marvel Super Heroes. Kingston Davis, age 6 •••
Trip to the Zoo I really enjoyed the Cameron Park Zoo trip. Madison, age 8 •••
Planting Time My mom and I planted plants, which are peppers, tomatoes cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Joke: My friend Sylvia said we could sell it to HEB. Kimora “Love” Davis, age 9 •••
Favorite Animal Last month, I went to the zoo with District Two. I saw a lot of animals. I had so much fun. My favorite animal was the buffalo. Tyson B., age 8
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club sets events
Dear Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club will host the kitchen at the annual SPJST Car Show on Saturday, May 7, 2016. We will also have our District Two YAD competition next month. Seaton would like to invite everybody to the car show on Saturday, May 7. Sincerely, Chase Alexander —SPJST—
•••
Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Wins First Place in Essay Contest
I recently entered an essay contest at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The theme of the essay was American Conservation Heritage. I wrote my essay about Theodore Roosevelt. The title of my essay was “The Conservative President.” My essay was chosen as a first place winner in Grades 6 to 8. For winning, I received a trophy and an Amazon gift card. Several of my friends also won with their essays. We were all honored at an awards ceremony at the George Bush Annenberg Presidential Conference Center on April 14, 2016. My family was also in attendance to cheer me on. Weston Beasley —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Weston, second from left, is pictured at the awards ceremony on April 14. The screen behind him reads “Essay 6th to 8th Grade - 1st place Weston Beasley, “The Conservative President.” CENTER PHOTO: Weston proudly displays his trophy
and Amazon gift card. RIGHT PHOTO: Weston with his parents, Lindy and Chris Beasley, and brother Wyatt. They are all active members of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. Congratulations to Weston on his honor!
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Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club meets June 5
Dear Members, Our next youth club meeting will be on Sunday, June 5, 2016, at 2 p.m. during Homecoming at the lodge. There will be a water slide for us to cool off on, and we will be selling homemade ice cream. So bring your swim suit, towel, and sun screen. This will be the first meeting of the new youth year. See you there! Fraternally, Keith Wockenfuss, President —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club elects officers
club on Saturday, May 14. Our youth club is collecting stuffed animals for a Join Hands Day project. We also talked about SPJST camp, LIT camp, and District Five and State YAD.
Next Meeting—June 5 Our next meeting will be on June 5 at 2 p.m. Our new officers were elected in March, and they are:
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
O SPJST Youth Statewide Food Drive O SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club Collects 129 Pounds
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President Nathan Polly Vice President Keith Wockenfuss Secretary Jered Polly Treasurer Tyler Parker Reporter Ian Fahrenhold Flag Bearers Cheyenne Parker and Addison Shaffner Sergeant-at-Arms Daden Chmiel
I am looking forward to working with our new officers. Fraternally, Jered J. Polly Youth Publicity Committee —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club held its May meeting on Saturday, April 30, 2016. We talked about our recent trip to the Czech Center Museum Houston for our youth club’s Czech heritage project, and how everyone enjoyed the exhibits. We talked about going to the Huntsville Folk Festival with our district youth
Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club collected 129 pounds of rice and beans, with the help of the lodge’s adult members, too. The donation will be presented to Meals on Wheels. Thanks to State Youth Director Lynette Talasek for putting together a great statewide collection drive. Pictured are, front, left to right, Madi Jirasek, Lauren Jirasek, Cheyenne Voigt, and Emily Sumner. Second row: Cody Voigt, Colten Voigt, TJ Hajda, Amanda Kaderka, and Bailey Sumner. BACK: Brandon Girod, Kaitlyn Whatley, Christian Moore, and Joseph Kaderka. —Submitted by Cristy Girod, Youth Leader
Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club Enjoys District Two Trip to Cameron Park Zoo
Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club members enjoyed the District Two Youth Development Workshop on Saturday, April 9, 2016, at Seaton Star Hall. We discussed Youth Achievement Day, camp, and being a great officer.
Afterwards, we spent a few hours at Cameron Park Zoo in Waco. Those that were able to attend had a wonderful time! —SPJST—
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club Honors Graduating Seniors
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club honored its graduating high school seniors at the May 1, 2016, meeting. LEFT PHOTO: Youth Leader Lisa Bubela, center, congratulates Jacob Supak, left, and Chelsea Korenek. CENTER PHOTO:
Memorial Day Facts
Memorial Day is Monday, May 30, 2016
Memorial Day was first celebrated on May 30, 1868. It was observed by placing flowers on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers during the first national celebration. After World War I, Memorial Day was changed from honoring civil war dead to hon-
oring Americans who died fighting in any war. See the fact file below for more information on Memorial Day. Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of the Grand Army of the Republic established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. This date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.
Lodge 30 Youth Club members are pictured with the 2016 senior graduates. RIGHT PHOTO: Youth club members conduct the May meeting. —Submitted by Kirby Lange, Assistant Youth Leader
On Memorial Day, the flag should be at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff. “Taps” is often played at ceremonies on Memorial Day. New York was the first state to officially recognize Memorial Day. Flowers and flags are the two most popular items people use to remember soldiers. The south refused to honor the dead on Memorial Day until after World War I when the meaning of Memorial Day changed from honoring civil war
dead to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war. Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday in 1971. Source: kidskonnect.com —SPJST—
Happy Birthday, Kyndall!
Lodge 162, Iowa Colony Youth Club Cleans Surfside Beach
Lodge 162, Iowa Colony Youth Club helped clean Surfside Beach in Brazoria County on Saturday, April 23, 2016. Those participating were Brenda, Avery, and
Alyssa Moyle; Lynn Garner and Delaney Bourque; MacKenzie and Zach Collins; and Tiffany Perez. —Submitted by Brenda Moyle, Youth Leader
Happy, happy 14th birthday to our Kyndall Baylee! We love you so much, and we are so proud of the beautiful young lady that you are. You have taught us so much about being parents and for that we are forever thankful. Your hard work, dedication, and devotion to your family and to God is just absolutely amazing. I hope your day is filled with joy, love, and laughter, sweet baby girl. Love, Mom, Pops, Kasen, Lexie, and Harley —SPJST—
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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. Directions: Directions: Lodge building is located on Highway 159 East, three blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: (979) 966-3795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months February, April, June, August, October, and December, 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. For information, contact Youth Leader Ronnie Pflughaupt 979-249-6702; rpflughaupt@hotmail.com.
LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Note: Lodge meetings are held at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville, 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.
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) Note: The bridge on the road to the hall is out; but good news; there is a detour to the hall. Directions: Take Farm Road 2114 East for 5 miles. Turn right on Adair Road and immediately veer right onto Marek Road. Marek Road runs into Czech Hall Road. Turn right onto Czech Hall Road. The hall is on the left about 1/2 mile. Friday, May 20—Social Sunday, May 29—Lander family reunion Sunday, June 5—Lodge 6 meeting 2 p.m. Friday, June 10—Social Saturday, June 11—Petter family reunion Sunday, June 12—RVOS No. 46 Family Day Saturday, June 18—Kaluza family reunion
Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Note: The bridge on the road to the hall is out; but there is a detour to the hall. Directions: Take Farm Road 2114 East for 5 miles. Turn right on Adair Road and immediately veer right onto Marek Road. Marek Road runs into Czech Hall Road. Turn right onto Czech Hall Road. Hall on the left about 1/2 mile down. Hall Rental Information: 254-799-8550; Hall Phone: 254-2278759. 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. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254799-8550; or dataped@sbcglobal.net
LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg.
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 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: 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979-884-1451; Hall
Phone: 979-884-1451. 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.
LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 36, Buckholts. Directions: Hall is located on Highway 36, east of Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: 254-593-2222. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Refreshments served after meeting, and door prizes awarded.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Highway 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles; turn left on CR 225. Go one mile, veering to the right. Lodge building is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 979-272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Note: Until further notice, youth club meetings will be held with the adult meetings, which are on the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Sunday, May 22—Glen Collins Band, country/western. 3 to 7 p.m. $8/person Sunday, June 5—Chris Rybak, polka/waltz, 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: Until further notice, youth club meetings will be held with the adult meetings, which are held on the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader David Meyer 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 at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall - unless it’s a holiday then the meeting will be held on the second Monday. 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, June 11—Quinceanera Saturday, June 18—Quinceanera Friday, July 15—Quinceanera Sunday, August 7—TPMM Fundraiser: Jerry Haisler and Praha Bros. Watch the Vestnik for details.
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) Saturday, May 28—Rental Saturday, June 4—Rental
Lodge Hall: 1901 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay on Hwy 287 East until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and go under the overpass at Interstate 45. Go approx. 3/4 mile on Hwy 34. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381; Hall Phone: 972-875-8381. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: 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 (unless otherwise noted), at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard. For information, contact Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624. LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) • All Wednesday/Friday night dances - Free admission • Old-fashioned hamburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches sold every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, May 18—Sam and Bobby Band, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 20—Old Friends, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Friday, May 27—Edward Kopecky’s Czech Band, 7:30 to 11:30 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 at 1 p.m. For information, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod 512-468-1347. Music: First and third Wednesday each month, music by Bobby Jay Five Band, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday evening, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. All Wednesday and Friday night dances are free admission. Old-fashioned hamburgers served every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.; fish burgers also sold during Lent.
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) Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From IH-35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy. 84 East through Bellmead; go approx. 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy. 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Turn right onto Elk Road; go approx. 1 mile; road will dead end - turn right; go approx. 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-7493326; Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agents: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275 and Gene E. Pavelka 254-749-3326.
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.
LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Directions: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 11:30 a.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.
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LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Highway 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. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com.
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 Monday, May 11; Monday, June 15; Monday, July 13; and Monday, August 10 at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the lodge hall.
LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: 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 in West.
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. For meeting location, call 361-594-8429
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 67, SCHULENBURG Lodge Meetings: Third or fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December (Christmas) at Frank’s Restaurant in Schulenburg at 2 p.m. Call Ernest Kutac to confirm meeting date 979-561-7190.
LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. For meeting location, call 940-256-2263.
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: 254657-2485. 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: 979-793-4313; email td_stavinoha@yahoo.com. Hall Phone: 361-793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Bradley Stavinoha 979-739-2386. LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Note: Youth club meetings are held one hour before the adult lodge meeting at the lodge hall unless otherwise noted.
Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions: From IH-35 East in Dallas, take IH-20 East. From IH20 East, take the IH-45 exit toward downtown Dallas.
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IH-45 runs into Hwy 75. From Hwy 75, take a right at Bryan Street exit. From Bryan Street, turn right on Cantreal Street and go until you come to Floyd Street; take a right on Floyd Street. Hall is the second building on the right. Hall Rental Information: Contact Kelly Tucker 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: Held one hour before the adult lodge meeting at the lodge hall unless otherwise noted. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-9484456.
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: Karin Bryant 254-947-3100 or Judith Little 254-913-8568. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Note: The regular April lodge meeting has been cancelled due to emergency flooding conditions. The next meeting of Lodge 88, Houston will be held Monday, May 16 at 7 p.m.; eat at 6 p.m. Scholarships will be presented. Please note this change.
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) Tuesday, May 24—Game night at Lodge 92 at 7 p.m.
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 Event/Rental Information: For hall rentals and upcoming events information, call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-6241361. Also visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfort-worth.com. 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 of each month. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual.
LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Friday in March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. For meeting location, call Secretary Bernadette Bellanger 361-579-8331/ Bbbellanger2011@hotmail.com.
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, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385; or via 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 Sokol 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. 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. LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Note: The next meeting of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston will be Sunday, June 19 - the third Sunday at 2 p.m. with a meal served at 1 p.m. Members and friends will meet at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston.
Lodge Meetings: Second or third Sunday of each month - whichever is noted, at 2 p.m., meal served at 1 p.m.; held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston dining room or annex building - whichever is 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 832-627-2842; 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, Wharton.
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. Contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek 806-763-7245; cjkristinek@yahoo.com for meeting location.
LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of January, April, July, and October, 12 noon at Wall Volunteer Fire Department, Wall.
LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony.
LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October at 6:30 p.m. at Texas Seafood and Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham. (December meeting/social information will be announced at a later date.) For information, contact Nello and Dorothy Strickland 979-836-2609.
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 held the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., except when noted. Variety dances are held 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) 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.; lodge 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) Tuesday, June 7—Lodge meeting at Sammy’s Bistro in Burleson, 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 5—Lodge meeting at Spring Creek Barbeque in Burleson, 6 p.m.
Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. Check Věstník for times or call one of the following: 972-268-0022 or 817-905-2097. LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Note: Watch the Vestnik for lodge meeting location/time to be announced.
Lodge Meetings: Lodge meeting location/time will be announced in the Vestnik. For further information, contact President Barbara Williams-Rash 936-295-7778; email b.d.willrash@att.net; Vice President Chuck Toney 281-362-9062; email cdtiii@toney.us; or Treasurer Patsy McClelland 936-788-5714; or email pmcclelland@consolidated.
LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Same time and place as adult lodge meeting.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Note: Lodge monthly meeting and family night are held together - the third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall.
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 and Family Night: Third Sunday of each month at 4 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. 1-74-20733095-41002. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) 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.
VĚSTNÍK
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) Friday, May 20—Covered Wagon Chow Down: Glenn Lenderman and Friends Friday, June 17—Hollywood: Linda Kay and the Kool Kats
Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: George Scogin 936875-2867. 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: 281-3739482. 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 Bruceville-Eddy City Hall.
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 at 1:15 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.
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: Second Saturday of January, March, May, July, and September at 6:30 p.m. at Tahoka Housing Authority (small room - 1400 Ave K). For any questions, call Secretary Pam Lehmann 806535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: For location/time, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-990-3351.
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 Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089 for meeting location.
LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street, Temple, 12 noon. For information, contact President James L. Lee, III 254-289-6816. LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7) Lodge Meetings: For meeting date, location, and time, contact President Chester Jenke 210-413-3053 or Treasurer Colleen Jenke 210-215-9494. —SPJST—
Podpora
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BENEVOLENCE
ROČNÍK 104 CISLO 20
Travis/Williamson CHS meets May 18
The Travis/Williamson Czech Heritage Society will meet Wednesday, May 18, 2016, at Golden Corral, located at 12509 North Lamar (corner of Parmer Lane and IH 35) starting at 6 p.m. In attendance will be our very own members, Monika Cavanaugh, who was recently crowned Miss Texas Czech Slovak 2016 and Little Sister 2016 Katie Hyzak. They will share their experience in being selected as queen and little sister at the recent state Czech Heritage Society contest. For more information, contact Eileen Rosipal at 512-452-3292 or ERosipal@aol.com. Submitted by, Pat Gerick —SPJST—
Schůze CEFT zaznamenala pokrok Jan Vaculík
Pravidelná čtvrtletní jarní schůze České vzdělávací nadace statu Texasu se konala 30. dubna 2016 v budově Katolické jednoty státu Texasu v Austině, Tx. za pěkného jarního počasí. Budova stojí uprostřed travnaté plochy a v okolí je dostatek místa pro další stavby, když by jednota plánovala výstavbu. Okolí se nachází na Ben White Boulevard a nyní je opravena cesta číslo 71 na jednu z hlavních výpadových silnic z hlavního města Texasu. Člověk má dojem, že celý Texas posílá peníze na výstavbu Austinu jako do bezedné studny. Předseda Sboru ředitelů Clinton Machann zahájil schůzi, složili jsme přísahu vlajce a republice, pro kterou stojí za poměrně velké účasti ředitelů.
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Bratrství Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Předseda připomněl, že minulý rok jsme stejně tak zahájili při schůzi v této budově. Poděkoval za pohostinství jednoty a uctili jsme památku nedávno zemřelé maminky našeho ředitele Rogera Koláře. Jeho matka Hattie Kolář, která se narodila 30. června 1918 v Brooken a zemřela 8. dubna 2016 ve Westském domově důcodců, navštěvovala westské školy a pak se vyučila kadeřnicí až do roku 1942. V listopadu roku 1940 se vdala za Henry C. Koláře z Westu. Během 2. světové války se přestěhovali do San Diega, Ca., kde Henry pracoval v letecké továrně.. Po návratu do Westu Hattie pracovala v Lorch Co. jako švadlena, pak pracovala více než 20 let ve West News až od důchodu v roce 1992. Manžel Henry C. je předešel na onen svět 7. září 1988. Byla členkou katolických jednot a organisací a zpívala v kostelním sboru. Bratr Otto Matuš je předešel z tohoto světa již před časem. Hattie měla za 97 roků života tři děti, nejstarší Geraldine s manželem Erwinem Laubertem z Westu, dva syny Rogera Koláře s manželkou Patty z Austinu, Tx. a Davida s manželkou Rebeccou z Westu, další příbuzné a vnuky a vnučky a pravnoučata a množství synovců a neteří Aderhold pohřební ústav měl v péči celý pohřeb. Příspěvky na její památku posílejte na podporu pracovníků v diocési v Austině anebo Americké oční degenerační nadaci. Zachovejme její světlou památku. Pak náš tajemník Paul Hlavinka přečetl zápis z poslední schůze, byl přijat s malými opravami. Pěkná zpráva finanční tajemnice Cindy Belknap byla přijata tak, jak byla čtena. Její adresa je: Cindy Belknap, 2520 Willing Avenue, Ft. Worth, Tx. 76110. V této souvislosti se znovu objevují různé pověsti o tom, proč naše nadace žádá příspěvky na činnost, když vybrala několik milionů dolarů na stipendia. Znovu je třeba zdůraznit, že všechny vybrané peníze byly odevzdány patřičným universitám a nadace má k disposici jen několik
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18.květen.2016
desítek tisíc dolarů na funkci nadace. Lidé si mylně představují, že všechny miliony dolarů, které podporují stipendia na třech universitách, jsou v našem vlastnictví a že nadace nepotřebuje další sbírky. Takoví lidé jsou krátkozrací a nevidí skutečnost, že veškeré dolary byly odevzdány na Texaskou universitu v Austině, Tx. na podporu ustanovení katedry českého jazyka, literatury a kultury, dále nadace ustanovila stipendium na Texaské A and M universtě v College Station, Tx. pro moravské studenty, kteří získávají tituly na katedře anglistiky, dále na Severotexaské universitě v Dentonu, Tx. nadace s pomocí rodiny Kostohryzovy ustanovila katedru
české hudby a kultury a později se přidal i Joe Bezděk a manželka Rosie, kteří založili stipendium na hudebním katedře. Dnes jsou všechna stipendia v hodnotě několika milionů dolarů, avšak nadace nemá žádný podíl z těchto peněz, protože university převzaly peníze a hospodaří s nimi podle vlastních záměrů. Nadace jen mohla prosadit, že máme poradní výbor pro všechny univrsity a když si myslíme, že by universita měla dělat něco jinak, než se nám jeví přijatelné, náš poradní výbor úředníky vyzve na poradu. A to je jediný vliv, který máme v této věci. O poměrech na Texaské universitě promluvil Christian Hilchey. Katedra
Wednesday Evenings Czech Language Class (extemporaneous)—at S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home, No. 1, Taylor, 500 East Lake Drive, Taylor, 6 to approximately 8 p.m. Informal gathering for the purpose of listening to Czech, and reading and speaking Czech.
Second/Fourth Tuesdays each Month Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center “Svacina Time!”—at 119 West French Avenue, Temple: Bi-monthly Czech language social hour, 2 to 3 p.m. Social hour will follow a structured format that changes every 15 minutes. This is not a class - no homework. Betty Marek and Janet Young will coordinate the logistics. For information, call 254-899-2935; or email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com. Submitted by Susan Chandler, Museum Administrator, CHMGC.
Czech Cultural Calendar
Second Sunday each Month Czech Language Class—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange, 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. Preregistration 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. 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 254-8992935.
Mondays during Spring Semester Brazos Valley CHS Czech Language Class—at St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Activity Center, 600 East 26th Street, Bryan: for all levels; 7 to 8:30 p.m. Cost of class $35. Instructor is Jan Benes, CEFT Fellow Hlavinka Fellow-selected student from the Czech Republic. For information, contact Jo Ann 979-846-2035; or Lynette 979-450-1820/email lurbanovsky@gmail.com. Submitted by JoAnn Zaeske, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station.
May 27 to 29 50th National Polka Festival—Ennis: Celebrate 50 wonderful years of Czech heritage festivities. Enjoy a weekend of polka dancing, Czech foods, and 19 sensational live polka bands including Grammy Award winning Brave Combo. Friday at 7 p.m.: opening dance featuring polka music and the King and Queen Dance Contest; everyone is encouraged to wear traditional Czech kroj (costumes). Saturday: floats, bands, and colorful costumes; polka bands; celebrities, public officials, motorcycles, horseback riders, clowns, kids, and seniors; traditions, religious customs, dancing, tastes, sights, sounds, and “a little bit of the Czech Lands” throughout historic downtown and at three spacious air-conditioned halls - KJT, KC, and Sokol. For more information, visit nationalpolkafestival.com.
June 10 Movie Night: “Venkovský učitel” - “Country Teacher”—at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto, Houston. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; movie begins at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. For information, contact CCMH 713-528-2060; or via email: events@czechcenter.org. —SPJST—
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
prochází neustá lými změnami, ale díky založené katedře úředníci nemohou dost dobře měnit činnost a tak kursy češtiny pokračují s úspěchem. Je třeba jenom podnítit zájem mladých lidí, budoucích universitních studentů, aby se zajímali o činnost Českého klubu a byli aktivní v činnosti katedry českého jazyka. Doposud veškerá činnost seznamovala veřejnost s náměty a akcemi, které přilákaly mladé zájemce o českou kulturu a někteří pak navštěvují třídy jazyka. President nadace Woody Smith upozornil, že v budově texaského parlamentu bude uspo řádána výstava o naší kultuře a v listopadu tohoto roku bude konána konference o českém jazyku ve Washigtonu, D.C. Zmínil se také o tom, že mnozí zájemci žádají finanční pomoc, což naznačuje, že mnozí lidé chtějí pracovat na různých projektech. Máme na mysli projekt našeho dědictví v Texasu a uspořádání sbírek Svatavy Jakobsonové. Písemný a filmový materiál je v několika plechovkách a je třeba vše roztřídit a hlavně přetočit na moderní formát, protože Svatava filmovala akce starším přístrojem . V každém případě musíme také vyřešit právní stránku věci, protože bez právnického rozhodnutí nemůžeme s těmito památkami pracovat. Rovněž jiní zájemci žádají peníze, naše nadace má však zájem o podporu češtiny, naší kultury na universitách. Naše stanovy nedovolují rozšiřování naší činnosti do jiných oborů. Naše anglicky píšící ředitelka Lynette Urbanovská doporučovala rozhlašování zpráv o čin nosti naší nadace a sama přispěla novou podobou oběžníku pro naši nadaci. S tím souvisí také práce Johna Šefčíka, který upravil naši webstránku a pokračuje v této záslužné práci. Potřebujeme podá vat zprávy o naší činnosti, která potřebuje být známa široké krajanské veřejnosti. Sama se snaží,aby veřejnost čtoucí americké noviny, si mohla přečíst o naší nadaci. Podle všech okolností je nutno využít moderních prostředků komunikace a
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
připravit naši webstránku pro širokou veřejnost. Vicepresident Ray Lenárt oznámil, že hudební katedra na Severotexaské universitě uspo řádá festival a můžeme očekávat zájezd dechovky z Moravy. Vicepresidentka Diane Šulák Wilson oznámila, že je připravena rozeslat děkovné doklady všem naším členům, kteří se zasloužii o prospěch naší nadace. Naše přiští schůze se bude konat 9. července 2016 na mísrě určeném později. Naše nadace učinila pokrok ve vytvoření oběžníku, upravení webstránky a můžeme s nadějí hledět do budoucnosti. Zveme všechny krajany, kteří mají zájem o udržení jazyka, kultury a hudby v Texasu, aby se připojili k nadaci a pilně pracovali na dalších úspěších. —SPJST—
Harold Strand welcomed to M.A.C.T. Hall of Recognition 2016
The Music Association of Central Texas (M.A.C.T.) board of directors welcomes Harold Strand to the Hall of Recognition - for those who have made a significant contribution to the Central Texas live music scene. H a r o l d Strand started playing in West in 1953 for many Czech weddings and other
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celebrations playing accordion with several local bands. In 1968, he started his own band “The Little Fisherman” and played at Toby’s place in West every Sunday afternoon. The band began to travel to Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio almost every weekend and grew from a four-piece to seven then an 11-piece orchestra. The Harold Strand Orchestra was capable of playing big band, polkas and waltzes, and country music. They played locally at the two Ballroom Dance Clubs and the Karem Shrine. They also performed at festivals all over Texas. Harold also performed every Wednesday and Friday night for 13 years as a soloist at Heitmiller’s Steakhouse in Elm Mott. Harold is particularly proud of organizing the Polka Teens in 1980 which included his then 13-year-old son Gordon plus six other teenagers. This young band played music for various nursing homes and some weddings. They also played for the
VĚSTNÍK
Crawford Polka Club. Harold Strand will be 83 in June 2016. He and his wife Adele are regulars at the Tuesday night Young at Heart Dance held at the Sul Ross Center at 15th and Waco Drive. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
g n i n e p O e t a D d e Project uly 2016 J
S.P.J.S.T.
Senior Living Community
Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitaion
Skilled Nursing, Rehabilitation and Memory Care Assisted Living 1810 Old Granger Road • Taylor, Texas 505 East Lake Drive • Taylor, Texas 512-352-6940 512-352-6337 www.spjstresthomes.com
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Join Hands Day. We plan
Fifty-year members will
b t
H
T
We hope to see everyone
Attention SPJST Graduates
and parents and grandparents of graduates!
W
hether it’s your high school commencement or college graduation, it’s quite an accomplishment. Share your achievement with other members of SPJST in a anMay issue of the Vestnik. To be included, please complete the following biographical sketch and mail it, along with a color headshot photograph, no later than May May 16, 25 to:
LAST CALL!
VESTNIK Editor Melanie Zavodny c/o SPJST Home Office P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503
Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you wish to have photo returned.
Information and headshot photographs can also be emailed to melaniez@vvm.com. Photograph must be in .jpg or .tif formats. For more information, contact the Vestnik Office 800-727-7578 or 254-773-1575 Please print clearly. Thank you!
Name ________________________________________________________
Lodge No. and Name _________________________________________
Graduating from (name of high school or college) ______________ ______________________________________________________________
Major/Degree (if applicable) ___________________________________
Parents_______________________________________________________
Grandparents ________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
Future Plans __________________________________________________
Telephone:____________________________________________________ — Graduates must be SPJST members —
Life Insurance and More Home Office: 520 North Main Temple, Texas 76501 800-727-7578
info@spjst.org www.spjst.org