ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T
Benevolence
Volume 108 Number 13
H E R A L D
★ Humanity
“
Family Adventure Days
July 13, 2020
ISSN —07458800
What an extreme challenge on the 20th anniversary of giving birth to the one with your life in his hands! Clark Jones, thank you for keeping me and your daddy (Loy Jones) safe while we completed the 40-foot cargo net climb, telephone pole traverse, and pogo stick element at Camp Kubena during Family Adventure Days on Saturday, July 4.
Camp Kubena
★ Brotherhood
”
SPJST earned the “Most Patriotic Float Entry” in the Belton Fourth of July Virtual Parade with adult and youth members of Lodge 47, Seaton riding the float and, below, 2019-2020 District Two Royalty - Queen Emma Regan, Duchess Sidney Bilbrey, Duke Everhett Bartek, and King Koby Stone, all of Lodge 47, Seaton. They are pictured with Leaders Chelsea Bilbrey and Amber Bartek and Honorary District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky, far right.
CarrieAnn Jones
Lodge 154, Fort Worth
June Top SPJST Sales Agents in Certificates Issued and Annualized Premium 1st - Certificates Issued 2nd - Annualized Premium $300 Award
Mike Rodriguez, Jr., FIC Lodge 107 Floresville District Seven
1st - Annualized Premium 4th - Certificates Issued $300 Award
Carlos Benavidez Lodge 79 Corpus Christi District Seven
2nd - Certificates Issued 3rd - Annualized Premium $100 Award
Janice Jahns Lodge 88 Houston District Five
3rd - Certificates Issued 4th - Annualized Premium $100 Award
Carolyn Beseda, FIC Lodge 88 Houston District Five
33rd SPJST Convention —> NEW DATES <— AUGUST 13 - 15, 2021
Killeen Civic and Conference Center
( ( ( ( ( Inside This Week’s Věstník ( ( ( ( ( Readers Write ......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates ......................................3 Insurance Updates ............................21 Lodge Section....................................22 The SPJST Store ...............................27
Youth Section ....................................32 In Memoriam ......................................33 Czech Culture ....................................34 Advertisements .................................37 Lodge Calendar .................................38 Camp Kubena Info.............................40
Lodge 48 Beyersville family celebrates Fourth of July Page 24
Weldon Galler to celebrate 100th birthday Page 25
Lodge 30 Taiton youth shares church confirmation Page 32
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK
Editor’s Note
33rd SPJST Convention rescheduled for August 13 to 15, 2021
SPJST HERALD
SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 Fax: 254-774-7447 www.spjst.org VĚSTNÍK EDITOR/ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 email: vestnik@spjst.org or melaniez@usa.com SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) • Mobile: 254-534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT HIRAM DIXON, FICF, LUTCF, CFFM 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) • Mobile: 254-231-7722 email: hiramd@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) Mobile: 254-721-4739 • Home: 254-778-3720 email: leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) • email: royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 email: dv.aggie71@gmail.com 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/VICE CHAIRMAN JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Road, Waco, Texas 76705-5330 254-799-4247 • email: john.engelke@hotmail.com DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM 1886 Pecos Street, Suite 3, San Angelo, Texas 76901 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehman Road, Needville, Texas 77461 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 email: spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN 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 Mobile: 830-391-3375 OPERATIONS MANAGER/ MARKETING MANAGER RICHARD A. HRBACEK 254-773-1575 (ext. 246) • richardh@spjst.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jschroeder55@suddenlink.net DISTRICT TWO - Contact SPJST Home Office 800-727-7578 for assistance. DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com LODGE 219, EL PASO - Francisco Viniegra 915-203-3124 • fviniegra@vinquiz-insurance.com DISTRICT FIVE - Delisle Doherty 832-232-2049 • delisled@sbcglobal.net DISTRICT SIX - Carolina Covarrubia 281-779-9956 • covarrubia.carolina@yahoo.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Armando Perez, LUTCF 361-425-5543 • asperez6040@hotmail.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com
HUMAN RESOURCES LYNETTE TALASEK 254-773-1575 (ext. 146) • email: lynettet@spjst.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar, PO Box 28, Snook, Texas 77878 - 979-220-7904 - ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two - Contact SPJST State Fraternal Director Frank Horak 254-773-1575, ext. 177 for assistance. District Three - Mary Steinman, 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, Texas 76179-3463 - 817-731-2580 - appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Laura Pospichal, PO Box 253, Rowena, Texas 76875 - 325-365-6485 - yellowcar02@aol.com District Five - Melissa Victorick-Brown, 2324 Lakeway Drive, Friendswood, Texas 77546-6196 - 832-274-7369 district5dyc@gmail.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, El Campo, Texas 77437 - 979-543-7120 - lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - April Howard, 814 Madison Avenue, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 - 830-624-9242 - aprhoward@gmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, PO Box 252, Snook, Texas 77878 979-272-1243 - billorsak@gmail. com District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - 512-848-2416 - RonnieR1056@yahoo.com District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, Texas 76875 - 325-442-4841 - bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, 1243 Clovis Road, Houston, Texas 77008 - 713-859-8976 - dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 979-244-4415; 979-479-0056 cell - joesiptak@yahoo.com District Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Road, Poteet, Texas 78065 - 830-391-4169 - oscarkorus@gmail.com FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Debbie Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - 979-540-8532 - debbiekostelka@yahoo.com District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - 254-985-2282 - edwinpechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas 76706 - 254-744-8973 - mlgaller54@gmail.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 - malaktax@gmail.com District Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Court, East Bernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4461 - g2kamin@live.com District Seven - James House, 146 Deer Run Street, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 830-570-7750 - james.houseconstruction146@gmail.com INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - 979-272-3440 District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 254-985-2396 patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Robert Sill, 400 Westview Terrace, Arlington, Texas 76013 District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plainview Drive, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-234-8117 District Five - Mark Childres, 14011 Laskey Manor Court, Cypress, Texas 77429 - 832-496-6646 - mark@childresinsurancegroup.com District Six - Elizabeth Holub, 4624 Freyburg Hall Road, Schulenburg, Texas 78956 - 979-561-8640 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 County Road 47, Angleton, Texas 77515-9721 - 979-864-9999 - lorendave14@sbcglobal.net District Six - Helen Kelner, 911 Avenue K, Rosenberg, Texas 77471 - 281-342-2624 District Seven - Regina House, 146 Deer Run Street, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 830-570-2046
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his week’s Věstník features preconvention reports. Normally, that means the convention is 30 days away. However, things are a bit different in 2020! Delegates to the 33rd Convention will elect the President, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Editor/Director of Communication, district directors, and standing committee members through a mail ballot in August. Bylaws and other committee recommendations will be addressed at the 33rd Convention to be held August 13 to 15, 2021, in Killeen. By-Law, Finance, Insurance, and Publication Committees SPJST’s four standing committees By-Law, Finance, Insurance, and Publication - are comprised of seven members, one elected by each district. A member seeking to have to have his/her name included on the ballot for one of the standing committees must meet the same requirements as a voting delegate, namely to have attended at least one-half of their lodge meetings in the year 2019. Qualifying individuals are asked to submit their name and committee preference to me by sending an email to melaniez@spjst.com on or before Friday, July 24, 2020. There will not be elections for alternative standing committee members or alternate district directors at this time.
It was great to see State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, left, in person on June 24 at the Home Office as we prepared our entry for the virtual Fourth of July parade. We see each other in online meetings and talk quite often; however, it’s literally been months since we have seen each other due to working remotely. Thanks to my husband, David Nauert, right, who decorated and prepared the float for the “parade.” Thanks also to Communication Department Staff Katherine Morris and Brooke Hoelscher for their assistance during the evening. By the way, Frank, David, and I are wearing our “Superheroes Unite!” t-shirts that are available from the Youth Department for $14 (includes shipping). Call the Home Office to order, or visit spjst.org.
Věstník Dates and Deadlines July 27 Věstník deadline is Mon., July 20 at 5 p.m. August 10 Věstník deadline is Mon., August 3 at 5 p.m. August 24 Věstník deadline is Mon., August 17 at 5 p.m.
September 14 Věstník deadline is Mon., Sept. 7 at 5 p.m. September 28 Věstník deadline is Mon., Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. October 12 Věstník deadline is Mon., Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO 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 Věstník 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 Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
Readers Write ✍ District Seven Director shares Convention concerns To Members and Delegates of SPJST: With the increasing rise of COVID19, I believe that SPJST should postpone the convention until next year. This is getting very serious fast. I think that our lives are more important than the convention. Let’s not be forced to pick between our lives and the convention. The convention can be set for later. I think that our lives are more important for our families now. Our by-laws can stay in place for now. Also, our standing committees can stay in place until the convention. We could elect our officers and Editor/Director of Communication by mail poll until the convention. We need to do this now - reason being so the new board could take effect on October 1, 2020. This would give them a full quarter to serve on the board. This would give them time to close out the year and get ready for a convention in 2021. Fraternally, A Concerned Director Bob Bayer District Seven Editor’s Note: Since Director Bayer’s letter was received, the Supreme Lodge voted to reschedule the convention to August 13 to 15, 2021, in Killeen. —SPJST—
Member appreciates scholarship Thank you for selecting me as a recipient for an SPJST General Freshman Scholarship and a 2018 District Two Merit Award. I am truly honored and very grateful to receive these scholarship awards. I am very appreciative for the financial support that will help me achieve my dream of a college education. My senior year definitely did not end the way I had planned, but I am thankful for the many great experiences and opportunities I receive during high school. SPJST has been a huge part of my life since kindergarten, and I have made so many great friends and memories by participating in the youth club program. I
will truly miss serving as a Leader-inTraining (LIT) and participating in Youth Achievement Days (YADs). Thanks again for making an investment in my education. I can assure that I will strive to do my best to fulfill my obligations and make the most of my college education. Sincerely, Meghan Malcik Lodge 24, Cyclone Texas A&M University Class of 2024 —SPJST—
Member conveys scholarship thanks Dear Věstník, Thank you for all the numerous opportunities you have given to me. You have provided a lifetime of friendships and memories from being able to go to camp and becoming an LIT (Leader-inTraining) and being able to take care of the younger youth at camp. I also can’t thank you enough for the scholarships I received from SPJST. They will come in handy since I will be attending Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, in the fall. I will be pursuing a career in nursing. I will always be thankful for all the love and support I received from my SPJST family! SPJST will always be like another family to me. Fraternally, Katlyn Polasek Lodge 202, Jourdanton —SPJST—
Member expresses scholarship gratitude Dear SPJST, I am honored to be the recipient of the SPJST Scholarship for $1,000. Your generous contribution has allowed me to pursue my associate’s degree at San Jacinto College. I will be a full time student this fall of 2020. I am also currently taking a class this summer. I will be focusing on an Associate’s of Applied Science degree in radiography. SPJST will help pay my tuition and book expenses, allowing me to focus on my academic pursuits. Without your scholarship, I would
not be able to achieve the grades necessary to fulfill my professional ambition of becoming a radiation therapist. Thank you so much for the wonderful scholarship, continued support, and investment in my future. Delaney Bourque Lodge 162, Iowa Colony —SPJST—
Reader appreciates Karel Matejka article Once again, thank you, for running Karel Matejka’s story (June 22, 2020, Věstník on page 13). Lots of Americans take freedom for granted. Let’s not lose it. On a lighter side, Karel also was a Shiner Beer distributer at one point. Thank you, T Marek —SPJST—
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Member shares note of scholarship thanks Thank you so much for this generous amount of money from the scholarship that I have received. I am excited for going to college and my next venture in life. This money will help me with each step of the way. I am so blessed and thankful to have received this scholarship. Please know that the next year of my life will be less stressful and so much easier on my parents and just knowing that I have this help in paying for my HVAC certificate program at Wharton County Junior College. As I head toward my next challenge, I will be thankful that I am able to achieve my goal with your help. Thank you, Braxtin Lee Pieper Lodge 81, Needville —SPJST—
SPJST Family Fun and Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)
July 17-18 July 26 Aug. 9
Lodge 47, Seaton Barbecue Cookoff (2) Lodge 47, Seaton Drive-Thru Plate Lunch (2) Lodge 47, Seaton Fashion Bingo (2)
Aug. 13-15
2021 33rd SPJST Convention Killeen Civic and Conference Center
SPJST INTEREST RATES 05/01/2020 - 07/31/2020 Universal Life Universal Life 3
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
Delegates to elect statewide, district leaders in August; balance of 33rd SPJST Convention deferred to 2021 The Supreme Lodge voted in a Wednesday, July 1, 2020, teleconference to handle SPJST’s 2020 SPJST Convention-related elections by mail poll in August 2020 and to advance the By-Law and other Committee recommendations to the convention in the summer of 2021. Procedural items related to the August 2020 voting process were finalized during a July 8 Supreme Lodge teleconference and will be communicated to convention delegates in a July 15 webinar. “Addressing the elections in August enables SPJST to remain in compliance with the section of the Texas Insurance Code with mandates that we elect a board of directors every four years,” said Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek. In a recent online poll of SPJST Convention delegates, 80 percent expressed a preference to either advance the convention in its entirety to 2021 or to hold elections in August and advance all committee presentations and deliberations to 2021. Standing Committees SPJST’s four standing committees By-Law, Finance, Insurance, and Publication - are comprised of seven members, one elected by each district. A member seeking to have to have his or her name included on the ballot for one of the standing committees must meet the same requirements as a voting delegate, namely to have attended at least one-half of their lodge meetings in the year 2019. Qualifying individuals may submit their name and committee preference by email to Věstník Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny at melaniez@spjst.com on or before Friday, July 24, 2020. There will not be elections for alternate district directors and/or alternative standing committee members. Lodge Meetings In a related action, the Supreme Lodge also voted that SPJST lodges would not be required to adhere to their established regular meeting schedule for the month of July. “The Supreme Lodge requests that — if you do schedule a meeting — that you do so in a way that corresponds with the State of Texas guidelines for social distancing and
safety,” said President Vanicek. He noted that the Supreme Lodge will be deciding on a month-to-month basis on when it would again become expected for lodges to return to their regular meeting schedules. Even as lodges are exempted from their routine meeting schedules, lodges are encouraged to stay in touch with their active members by telephone as well as experiment with and/or incorporate online teleconferencing as a way to stay connected. To date, several lodges and youth clubs have taken advantage of meeting online. The spjst.org website includes some basic information that will enable you to get started. If you have any specific questions relating to setting up an online meeting, please know that you may contact Věstník Editor/ Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny at melaniez@spjst.com for additional information. Lodge Building Rentals As previously communicated, the State of Texas Department of State Health Services does not offer any specific meeting guidelines for civic groups and/or fraternal organizations; likewise, there are no specific protocols for public meeting facilities such as lodge halls. For this reason, SPJST has been deferring to the protocol which addresses wedding venues as a good many SPJST rentals relate to such usage. The most recent update to the “Protocols for Wedding Reception Venues,” dated June 3, states, “Wedding reception services held at other indoor locations are limited to 50 percent of the facility’s total listed occupancy. Wedding receptions held outside are strongly recommended and are not subject to an occupancy limit. Employees and contractors of the wedding reception venue are not counted towards the 50 percent occupancy limitation.” Current State of Texas guidelines for social distancing and safety are accessible online at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/ . There is a boxed link on that page with the headline “Opening the State of Texas” which will connect you to the above referenced link as well as to all Texas Department of State Health Services links relating to various types of businesses and services. —SPJST—
Delegates to the 33rd SPJST Convention The following is a list of delegates to the 33rd SPJST Convention which has been deferred to 2021. The listing is current as of July 6, 2020. Fraternally, Leonard Mikeska SPJST Chief Financial Officer • • • District One • • • Lodge 1, Fayetteville Sharon Fritsch Lodge 9, Snook William Orsak Donnie Victorick Janice Victorick Lodge 13, Dime Box Doris Ford Debbie Kostelka Lodge 17, New Tabor Randal Gaas Holly Narro Kyle Skrabanek Susan Skrabanek Lodge 38, Kovar Dorothy Lastovica Lodge 39, Bryan Ronald Roesler Lodge 51, Ellinger Diane Marusik Lodge 67, Schulenburg Adrienne Kobza Lodge 141, Sealy Ricky Martinez Lodge 186, Caldwell Victor Mendez, Jr. Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station Henry Mayo
• • • District Two • • • Lodge 15, Buckholts Sandra Fischer Mary Helen Rodriguez Lodge 18, Elgin David Meyer F.L. Meyer Charles R. Wilson Lodge 20, Granger Bridget Bohac Emilie Tischler Lodge 24, Cyclone Robert Hoelscher, Jr. Brenda Maddux Daniel Wilde Linda Wilde Lodge 29, Taylor Tammy Cannon Cristy Girod Adolph Grieger, Jr. Jesse Pospisil Linda Pospisil Frankie Pustejovsky Lynette Rieger Ronnie Rieger Lodge 47, Seaton Amber Bartek Brandon Bartek Patsy Koslovsky Joyce Kraatz Edwin Pechal James Skrabanek Joyce Skrabanek Daniel Stepan Edwin Vasicek Lodge 48, Beyersville Howard Leshikar Donna Vanecek Lodge 80, Holland Joseph Liles Frank Pajestka, Jr. Rita Spinn Lodge 87, Temple Carolyn Greene Linda Hopper Sidney Kacir
VĚSTNÍK Lodge 155, Austin Albert Klinkovsky Lodge 177, Academy Donald McCrea Shirley McCrea Lodge 182, Falls County Becky Beckendorf Lodge 187, Round Rock Carla Krenek Rubie Volek Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy James Hosch Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point David Nauert • • • District Three • • • Lodge 6, Cottonwood Jeanette Beseda Peggy Dobecka Barbara Hykel Milton Peterson Don Urbanovsky Lodge 25, Ennis Raymond Elleven Margaret Krajca Betty Macalik Linda Trojacek Lodge 35, Elk Gene Pavelka Randy Pavelka Lodge 54, West Linda Kaluza Ronnie Kaluza Mary Lou Mynar Marcela Vaculik Lodge 66, Waco Diana Engelke John Engelke Douglas Galler Michael Galler Dana McAdams Ronald Neumann Lodge 84, Dallas James Liska Lynda Novak Cheryl Petr Vicki Sims Justine Yeager
Monday, July 13, 2020 Lodge 92, Fort Worth Pamela Durham Kenneth Krivanek Mary Ann Krivanek Mary Saladin
• • • District Five • • • Lodge 81, Needville Baley Stavinoha Bradley Stavinoha Thomas Stavinoha
Lodge 154, Fort Worth Jerry Milan Lesli Milan Mary Steinman
Lodge 88, Houston Lori Bornaschella Doris Bronikowski Robert Bronikowski Melissa Victorick Brown Adam Curley Alex D’Ambrosio John Douglas Ryan Epps Carol Globke Sarah Godwin Kathleen Green Vanessa Guerrero Carolyn Havemann Donald Havemann Jeffery Hickl Jason Homrighaus Janice Jahns Wallace Jahns Ana Latigo Juan Latigo Sandra Latigo Dorothy Pflughaupt Josephine Pflughaupt Larry Pflughaupt Lynn Pflughaupt Aaron Rigamonti Dennis Roeder Joseph Sayegh Ashley Victorick
Lodge 180, Burleson Rhonda Hurtik Lodge 183, Arlington Antonette Pustejovsky Katherine Weeks • • • District Four • • • Lodge 49, Rowena Laura Pospichal Sylvia Rollwitz Brad Teplicek Lodge 76, Wichita Falls William Ibarra Lodge 157, Lubbock Cynthia Kristinek Lodge 160, San Angelo Charlene Dusek Sharon Hohmann Brenda Holik Sandra Jansa Betty Schwartz Herman Weise Lodge 207, Iowa Park Joyce Kotulek Lodge 219, El Paso Diana Lopez Aracely Quiz Maria Sanchez-Chacon Francisco Viniegra Lodge 229, Abilene Jesusita Hudson Lodge 230, Midland Lilah Deleon
Lodge 91, San Jacinto Frankie Brewer Malba Smesny Lodge 139, Danbury Lorenda Baldwin
Lodge 196, Houston-West Linda Bratina Mark Childress Donald Fruin Lodge 232, Houston Midtown Rudolph Rusnak • • • District Six • • • Lodge 4, Hallettsville Annie Vahalik Helen Zabransky Patricia Zabransky Lodge 8, Weimar Anton Machacek Lodge 23, Moravia Elizabeth Holub Lodge 28, East Bernard Glenn Kaminsky Helen Kelner Lodge 30, Taiton Lisa Bubela Karen Kaspar Yvonne Marcaurele Marjorie Treumer Lodge 32, Victoria Marguarette Frederick Mark Lester Wanda Lester Silvia Rangel Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Ardis Bacak Vlasta Bartos Mary Cerny Cathy Garcia Felix Garcia Lodge 41, Port Lavaca Darlene Baker Lodge 63, Sweet Home Elaine Berkovsky
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Lodge 97, Placedo Donna Vanek Lodge 151, Wharton David Bucek Gerald Macha Lodge 184, Moulton Elmer Michna • • • District Seven • • • Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Lydia Bridges Victor Bridges Gerilyn Donnell Larry Elzner Marcus Rebecek Virginia Rebecek Jerry Sijansky Michael Urbanovsky Lodge 107, Floresville Pauline Bayer Robert Bayer Erich Bielefeld III Oscar Korus Wendy Pruski Lodge 117, Robstown Frances McDonald Lodge 133, San Antonio Jarolyn Popp Robert Popp Vicki Reese Lodge 185, New Braunfels Donald Howard Lodge 202, Jourdanton Sandra Hoggard Sharon Lagrange Lodge 258, Seguin Chester Jenke, Sr. —SPJST—
Lodge 142, Houston James Coleman Dennis Hermis Kerry Herrington Patricia Schleider
33rd SPJST Convention
Lodge 172, Pasadena Jerome Dressler, Jr. Robert Mayfield Helen Schewe
August 13 - 15, 2021 Killeen Civic and Conference Center
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Monday, July 13, 2020
Pre-Convention Report President Brian Vanicek Dear Brothers and Sisters, Texans of Czech descent met to organThank you, delegates to the 33rd ize a new fraternal benefit society. The SPJST Convention, members, and sup- rededication of the historic SPJST porters of SPJST for all that you have Lodge 19, Velehrad building on May 19, contributed to our fraternal order. My 2019, on the campus of Texas Czech appreciation to you for the positive dif- Heritage and Cultural Center in La ference that you made in your lodges Grange reminded us of that history. and, perhaps most importantly, for the More than that – even as the Velehrad confidence, trust, and perseverance you project honors specific names, dates, mustered – even through the most chal- and places, the Velehrad story is also the lenging of times. story of immigraYour strength tion, integration, was a powerful and assimilation. driver and motiThis is something vator to me that all of us — knowing that as descendants of there were so many different many men and races, creeds, and women all over national origins Texas dedicated — have in comto the principles mon. and ideals of fraWith assets of ternalism! approximately I took pride $245 million, and found meanSPJST continues ing serving as to fulfill its finanSupreme Lodge cial obligations to President and in its members and sharing the joys keep pace with and challenges the life insurance you experienced industry. The Sothrough active ciety offers its Brian Vanicek, FIC involvement in members an exyour lodges and tensive menu of SPJST-related activities and events. life insurance options, including annuWhat did building a swimming pool in ities and IRAs. I’m especially excited to Houston have in common with a chari- point to the latest addition to that line – table fundraiser in Ennis or a canned one- and two-year annuities! SPJST refood drive in Hallettsville? Everything! cently received approval from Texas All of our activities – from Camp Department of Insurance to offer these Kubena to Corpus Christi were united in new plans that will offer an attractive rethat they brought life, vitality, and mean- turn in addition to the other advantages ing to the words fraternalism, broth- which annuities provide. erhood, and humanity. The good times On the fraternal front, our watchword and the bad times are the family history is “relevancy” — doing those things that that we as members of the SPJST bring meaning and substance to the Family shared. At times, they defined SPJST fraternal mission. In 2019, the dynamic character and progress of SPJST members devoted more than our Society; at other times, they re- 50,000 service hours to their comminded us that our mission to improve munities. SPJST also gave approxis an ongoing process. imately $250,000 to deserving service In 2020, we observe the 123rd anni- organizations and charities in 2019. In versary of the founding of SPJST. We 2020, there are approximately 40,000 are alive with the same energy, spirit, SPJST members in 104 lodges throughand promise that filled the Fayette out Texas. Our members are taking the County Courthouse in La Grange, best that the SPJST has to offer — a traTexas, on December 28, 1896, when 25 dition of helping people to care for their
VĚSTNÍK families — and are extending these values to their communities. Goodness knows, sharing that spirit has been a challenge during this season of social distancing mandated by COVID-19. My sincere appreciation to SPJST lodge and district leaders for taking responsibility and readily implementing the meeting and event cancellations that were mandated by the State of Texas. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation and helping to keep our communities safe. The silver lining that emerged as a result of the COVID-19 adjustments is that it helped to accelerate SPJST’s embrace of the digital workplace. Quite simply, necessity provided management with a motivational kick to break from the past and think about how to do things differently. Prior to March 2020, Home Office work activities routinely involved commuting to work, processing data, and handling sundry assignments in much the same way as the day before and the day before that. In three short months, we became more resourceful: Insurance applications completed without face-toface contact; business activities shifting to online formats, meetings conducted by teleconference, and even the first online SPJST Youth Showcase — an online competition created to fill the void created by the cancellation of the 2020 District Youth Achievement Days and State Youth Achievement Day. My thanks to the entire SPJST Home Office staff, sales agents, and Supreme Lodge for making it work! SPJST’s digital transformation process is an area that remains an area ripe with promise. Future developments in SPJST’s drive to integrate digital technology should begin and end with the objective to create technology solutions that members and prospective members want to use. SPJST’s performance since the 2016 Convention can be gauged in many ways — fraternal as well as financial. The statistical data that is presented in Controller Roy Vajdak’s message does a good job of quantifying organizational performance since the last convention. To that end, I am still compelled to reference the decline in unallocated surplus from $18.26 million as of December 31, 2016, to $16.27 million as of December 31, 2019. While an increase in unallocated surplus is always desirable, two of the key objectives over the last several
years — and this pre-dates 2016 — has been to address and to correct multiple legacy issues which had been intertwined within the insurance program, as well as to improve the credit quality of the investment portfolio. I am pleased to report these corrective actions were taken. It doesn’t stop there. SPJST is currently engaged in a system-wide effort to analyze and implement operational excellence within SPJST. The overriding objective is to achieve a more efficient operation and to implement the behaviors and work-related processes that will be necessary for SPJST to be successful in the future. Driving fraternal growth requires ongoing innovation and calculated investments in the business, in the form of new sales, marketing, and fraternal activities that support excellent customer service and member experiences. Sustainable growth, I believe, can best be achieved through a concerted effort to grow organically, through the servicing of our existing members, their families, and their circles of friends. Additional growth may be achieved by expanding our distribution channels within select new markets as well as those areas where SPJST enjoys good name recognition and fraternal presence. Thank you to everyone — sales agents and staff — in the SPJST Sales and Marketing area who worked to make a positive difference in the growth of our Society. Best wishes, too, in retirement to Supreme Lodge Vice President Hiram Dixon for his dutiful service to SPJST. In addition to his leadership in the Insurance Department, I will remember Brother Hiram as the man who conceived the idea for the Fort Hood November 5, 2009 Memorial. It was a tremendous honor for SPJST and to me, personally, to have been a part of that project from concept to completion. The last four years have been extremely productive for SPJST and for fraternalism. That’s not to say we didn't have our challenges, disagreements, and even a few reconciliations along the way. That’s the way it goes with families. In SPJST, we are family, if not by blood, then by common bond. Look through any typical issue of the Věstník over the past four years and what do you see? Countless examples of SPJST members working to make a positive
VĚSTNÍK difference for each other and for their local communities. At other times, the focus was all about getting together and enjoying life. SPJST tournaments, excursions, dances, game nights, and celebrations of all kinds contributed to the fraternal spirit that defined the friendly character of SPJST! Thank you to State Fraternal Director Frank Horak and Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez for their efforts to organize and coordinate events on the state and district level for the youths and adults. The scope of Brother Horak’s job duties expanded greatly when we combined the positions of State Youth Director and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator in November 2017. During that same time, we transitioned former State Youth Director Lynette Talasek into the Human Resources Administrator position, taking full advantage of her human resources training and background. Continuing, thank you to my assistant, Sandra Dubcak. She’s great at keeping me and the Fraternal Department on track. Her ability to effectively multi-task is exceptional. Finally, I want to extend my appreciation to our part-timer, Sister Ruth Hanusch — for the conscientious job that she does in helping the Fraternal Department remain responsive to the needs and concerns of our members. It’s great having a staff you can depend on! The collaborative ties that existed within the SPJST youth program and were nurtured by our statewide District Youth Counselors, their assistants, and youth leaders truly warrants recognition. Their commitment represented a powerful and driving force behind the success of the SPJST youth program. A special thanks to those youth club members and adult volunteers who helped to promote the colorful Czech heritage and culture by fielding Beseda dance groups throughout the state. Through participation in SPJST youth clubs, district and statewide events, members between the ages of five and 18 developed a greater awareness of our common bonds and obligations. SPJST sponsored Youth Achievement Day (YAD) competitions on the district and state levels as an educational activity for SPJST youth club members. Contestants fielded entries in a range of areas including arts and crafts, music, dance, drama, and public speaking. SPJST’s summer camping program fostered a spirit of cooperation, an ap-
Monday, July 13, 2020 preciation of the natural environment and helped campers to achieve their full potential. In 2016, SPJST purchased a 182acre property in Fayette County, Texas, which the Society designated in January 2018 as Camp Kubena. While running a camp can be considered a noble endeavor, it is also a business. My thanks to Camp Kubena Executive Director Rob Clift and the wonderful job that he is doing with the existing program and in the visionary role he is delivering for Camp Kubena. While the summer camp program was called off for 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns, it’s important to know that Camp Kubena wasn’t closed and the property is available for use by groups throughout the summer as a daycamp facility with limited activities. Thank you to all of our members who donated money to support the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive or contributed to our endowed scholarships. During the four-year period from 2016 to 2019, that amounted to $98,433.13. Your contributions combined with SPJST’s annual cash allocation enabled many of our deserving young members to pursue a higher education. A total of 256 scholarships totaling $271,000 were presented. This total represents a composite of SPJST’s General Scholarships, Leadership Grants, District Merit Scholarships, State Merit Scholarships, and Royalty Scholarships. Bear in mind, this total does not include the many scholarships that are also awarded by our local lodges! Since the last convention, SPJST Home Office continued to show strong support for a multitude of annual public events, most notably helping to sponsor such events as National Polka Festival in Ennis, Westfest in West, Caldwell Kolache Festival, and Slavic Heritage Festival in Houston. The Society also offered its support to an array of cultural and heritage groups including the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple, Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT), Texans of Czech Ancestry (TOCA), Czech Heritage Society of Texas, Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange, Czech Cultural Center of Houston, Taylor Czech Chorus, and Sokol. It was an honor for us to work with and to be affiliated with these fine organizations and the projects that they championed. The SPJST Foundation was established as an independent 501(c)3 non-
profit corporation in 2012 by SPJST to administer to the growth and development of the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in Temple, educational programs at Camp Kubena, and endeavors of significant merit and in line with the Foundation’s objectives. SPJST Foundation initiatives since the last convention included the Hurricane Harvey Relief Effort (2017), SPJST Founders’ Day Celebration hosted by Lodge 1, Fayetteville (2018), and the relocation and rededication of the historic SPJST Lodge 19, Velehrad lodge hall on the property of Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange (2019). Now, here we stand in 2020 – 123 years into the future from where we started. Present and future generations of our SPJST Family will benefit as a result of our harmonious and collaborative efforts. Trust, honesty, and responsibility to the membership and the public are the key pillars of fraternal life insurance and SPJST. These pillars are reinforced through the implementation and oversight of good corporate governance. Corporate governance in the life insurance industry — including fraternal life insurance — continues to be a growing focus among state regulators. Broadly speaking, the term describes the processes, practices, and structures through which a Society manages its business and works to meet its financial and fraternal objectives and achieve long-term substantiality. As Supreme Lodge President, my driving objective is to ensure the financial security and fraternal relevancy of SPJST. Everything else plugs into that equation. To that end, the Supreme Lodge at its July 2019 meeting voted unanimously to conduct a referendum vote on six by-law amendments that would better position the Society into the 33rd Convention. Of the six amendments that were overwhelmingly approved by delegates last September, two of the measures speak directly to ensuring good corporate governance: (1) Enabling members who attended at least half of the regular meetings of the lodge during one year preceding the Convention to serve as delegates. The pre-existing by-law requirement of attending a majority of the meetings in the three years was considered overly restrictive; and
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(2) Enabling individuals who have been a member for at least one year to serve as Supreme Lodge officers or directors. This was previously a three-year requirement. As this pertains to Supreme Lodge officers, the management positions have become increasingly specialized, requiring a demonstrated ability to perform. As such, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that the pool of qualified candidates not be narrowed to such a degree that it limits SPJST’s ability to fill key positions with qualified individuals. As this relates to Supreme Lodge directors, corporate governance standards also favor that directors possess a specific degree of industry experience, knowledge, and skill, as well as managerial, technical, or other expertise that will better enable them to effectively perform necessary governance and oversight responsibilities. For several years now, the Supreme Lodge has placed a premium on continuing education for its directors and has encouraged their active participation in educational forums hosted largely by our national trade association, American Fraternal Alliance. The modernization of SPJST’s bylaws reflects a thoughtful and deliberative process. The Special Structure Committee designated by the 2008 Convention delivered a presentation to the 2012 Convention, the foundation of which was enacted by delegates of the 2016 Convention. We will continue this dialogue leading into the 33rd Convention in 2021 through the traditional rulemaking process as provided for in our SPJST By-Laws. I look forward to elaborating on these recommendations in the months leading to the 2021 Convention. As a lifelong member of SPJST, it has been an honor to serve you as President these past 16 years. We’ve had a great run and are on track to achieve new heights in the years to come. With a deep awareness of the responsibility conferred by your trust, I humbly ask for your support for President for the next four years. I will continue to work hard for you as we carry our fraternal mission. Fraternally, Brian Vanicek SPJST President —SPJST—
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
Pre-Convention Report Vice President Hiram Dixon
1,037. In 2018, we produced 1,308 (216 applications submitted from a special program), and in 2019, we produced 1,200.
It has been one of my greatest honors 84 percent was approved within 14 to have had the opportunity to serve you, days, resulting in faster issuing, and the members of SPJST, as your Vice commissions were paid to the agents on President since the last convention in a more timely basis. We began relying 2016. It has been a period of many suc- on more technical information from cesses and at some times, not com- Script Search, Medical Information Bupletely achieving the desired result. You reau, and attending physician statelearn from the events that bring about ments. As a result of increasing our successful ventures and from the set- underwriting requirements, we realized backs. I am extremely excited about the larger face amounts of certificates and future: for our members, prospective more premium income. In 2016, we refiled a corrected members, and version of our for SPJST. My applications with vision for SPJST Texas Departin 2016 was to ment of Insurgrow the Society ance and began in membership using them in and to continue October 2016. our cherished Czech traditions. Sales I enjoyed the opIncreases portunity to work Our increased with what I besales of life inlieve, to be an surance from the amazing group last convention of men and was indicative of women. The the initiatives we sales agents, took to improve Home Office our method of Staff - and espeworking. We decially, the Insurveloped a new ance Department sales agents’ Staff - are second Hiram Dixon, FICF, CFFM, LUTCF webpage that alto none. The lows the sales willingness of each employee to service our members agents to have all of their members’ inand sales force with an outstanding atti- formation at their fingertips. The agents have the capability to sort through their tude is above reproach. membership list to determine birthdays, monthly anniversary of when a certifiBusiness Improvements In the past four years, we completed cate was purchased, cash values, due several improvements in the way we dates, contact information, and in most conduct business in the Insurance De- cases, beneficiary designations. Inpartment. One of the first items we ad- cluded in the sales agents’ webpage is dressed was the underwriting the agent’s commission statements. requirements which were not conducive Sales agents can also upload an applicato submitting larger face amounts of tion to the Home Office through a secoverage. The underwriting require- cure server instead of using their ments have been improved three times personal email as was done in the past. over the past four years. By doing so, we We developed and utilized electronic improved the turnaround time (time an notification and communications to the application is entered into the Home Of- sales force, relying very little on “snail fice system until it is issued) signifi- mail” thus adding a cost savings to the cantly and provided a cost savings to the Society. Society. We issued 1,104 life certificates Our sales performance through 2016 in 2019. From the 1,104 issued certifi- totaled 983 life applications with a first cates, 58 percent of the life applications year premium income of $606,976. Our were approved in the first day. A total of number of applications in 2017 was
Earned Premium Our earned premium increased from $564,437 in 2016 to $664,302 in 2019. Our first year premium increased from $606,976 to $999,497 in 2019. $1 Billion of Life Insurance in Force In 2019, we increased the face amount of life insurance in force to more than $1 billion, a mark we have been striving for since 2007. Our main concern in 2020 so far has been the health and safety of our sales force, their families, and the health and safety of our members and prospective members. Although our sales are down from the previous year, I am confident once this pandemic has passed, we will once again produce life insurance and annuity sales in an efficient and effective manner. Cost Savings In 2016, we employed three salaried Fraternal Field Managers across the state. Our average field distribution cost was $287 per application that we received in the Home Office. We developed a Regional General Agent (RGA) program that allowed us to have eight RGAs across the state, resulting in the field distribution decreasing to $93 per application. We also combined two positions in the Insurance Department at the Home Office. These changes have resulted in a cost savings of $200,000 per year. Illustration System The illustration system that was employed in 2016 was one of a cloud-based system and was going to be updated by the provider, and the Society would have experienced a large cost. We changed our illustration system to another provider that no longer requires a sales agent to be connected to the internet to run proposals. E-App Along with the new illustration system, we developed a true electronic application. The e-app will allow a sales agent to complete the application on their device, garner all required signatures, and transmit the application to the Home Office through a secure server. The e-app will practically eliminate all
errors on the applications coming into the Home Office. Use of the e-app will decrease underwriting and issue time, and produce faster commission payment to the agents. Sales Agents’ Training We developed sales agents’ training for our field force and conducted the training on a quarterly basis in each of the districts. Our training covered everything a sales agent needs to be successful in obtaining new members for SPJST and keeps them appraised of changes to the IRS codes for annuities. I believe the increase in applications we experienced over the past four years is a direct result of our training program and the Regional General Agent program We were mandated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to reprice all of our life insurance products to be in compliance with the 2017 CSO table (Commissioners Standard Ordinary Mortality Table). The repricing to the new CSO table was required to be completed by January 1, 2020. The repricing module was not an easy one. Prior to even beginning to work on the repricing project, we had to secure a new mortality study and found that coding errors from years ago required us to recode numerous certificates that were in benefit under paid up certificates or extended term. The repricing of all our products was a yearlong process. In 2017, Texas Department of Insurance conducted a six-month audit of SPJST and the Insurance Department. We were anticipating excellent results and were not disappointed. Texas Department of Insurance did not find any issues with SPJST. As I say goodbye to one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs I have ever had, I am once again reminded of General Douglas McArthur’s statement: “Old soldiers never die; they simply fade away.” Like General McArthur, I say, “Old insurance agents never retire, they just go onto extended term.” From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for this awesome opportunity I have thoroughly enjoyed. Fraternally submitted, Hiram Dixon FICF, CFFM, LUTCF Vice President —SPJST—
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Monday, July 13, 2020
Pre-Convention Report Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska The purpose of this report is to share a no available storage. Energy companies summary of management information and all their related suppliers have been with you. Management has dealt with the strained as well. Market professionals rechallenges of the low interest rate envi- ferred to this ‘upset’ as a market ‘dislocaronment and the pandemic, and SPJST tion.’ With the 2008-2009 financial crisis remains financially strong. To those still fresh in their memory, the Federal members who have placed their money Reserve stepped in around mid-March to into our products, be assured that we take provide liquidity. The Dow Industrial our fiduciary responsibility serious, and Average, which had declined as low as we will do whatever it requires to keep 18,591, immediately reversed its decline SPJST a strong and now stands at and viable Socimore than ety. 25,000. While we At this writdo not own ing, the investstocks, stocks are ment portfolio an important remains well pobarometer on the sitioned to endure overall financial the uncertain state health of the of the financial economy. Ultimarkets. Our mately, how fixed income COVID-19 plays portfolio has a out will deterbook value in exmine whether cess of more than some companies $222 million and are able to remain a market value of in business or not. more than $237 On the bright million. We have side, the virus has no exposure to presented an incommon stock, vestment opporand more than 95 tunity and we percent of the inhave been able to Leonard Mikeska, FIC vestment portbenefit from folio is invested higher reinvestin investment grade issues. “Investment ment rates. Further, AQS Asset Managegrade” refers to highest two quality des- ment, our fixed income advisor, has been ignations recognized by the National As- successful in reallocating some of our posociation of Insurance Commissioners sitions to take advantage of this. The Su(NAIC), which is our regulatory body. In preme Lodge will hear more from AQS addition, the securities that we own are is- at our quarterly board meeting in July. sued in public markets. This means we We are also exploring new sources of have liquidity when we or our members investment that will achieve these goals. need it. These two factors – credit quality While SPJST has previously offered and liquidity – insure we are able to serve mortgages to our members, we are seeing our members and agents now and in the opportunities in direct mortgage lending future. that provide not only a fair return but also The COVID-19 pandemic upset finan- the security we need. We look forward to cial markets beginning in early March be- the opportunity this may bring but remain cause the response to the virus caused many sectors of the United States econ- vigilant to the potential risks. Investment omy to close, including air travel, hospi- involves risk and reward. While we contality (hotels, restaurants, and the like), stantly seek the reward, we also seek to retail, leisure, and commercial real estate minimize the risk. We continue to be among others. Because Americans did aware of the fact that one of our primary not travel, they didn’t consume much fuel challenges is to generate enough returns either. You may have seen that oil prices on our investments to fund the fraternal actually traded below $0 (as low as - programs that in many ways define the $40/barrel!) owing to excess supply and nature of our Society.
I want to report that on May 18, 2020, the Supreme Lodge approved a new investment advisory firm. The new firm is AQS Asset Management headquartered in Austin, Texas. I did extensive reviews of the firm including interviews with officials of eight of the fraternal benefit societies that utilize their services and found highly positive recommendations about positive results they have experienced. I feel they will be a better match for our Society, and I appreciate the Supreme Lodge approving AQS. I want to comment that we do a complex study annually which is cash flow testing to determine if we have made adequate provision for the Society’s obligations under the certificates and contracts. Analysis determined that assumptions under the likely scenarios found we have made adequate provision for the Society’s obligations. In addition to more than $222 million in fixed income, the Society owned at yearend more than $8.7 million in mortgage loans, $5.2 million in real estate, $1.7 million in certificate loans, and near $6 million in cash and other assets. The real estate consists of the Home Office at $2 million and Camp Kubena and the Social Security Administration (SSA) Building at $3.2 million. The lease payment of $230,000 annually on the SSA Building to some extent offset the near term target of break even on the $3 million invested in the camp property which will likely generate a loss this year due to COVID-19. Comparison of Assets 2016 $238.1 million 2017 $238.9 million 2018 $243.7 million 2019 $244.7 million Custody of all matters relating to investment of funds of the Society including management and required record keeping is one of the prime responsibilities of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). There are many other responsibilities attributed to this position. I want to briefly review a few of them. Real Estate Management The CFO is responsible for managing the real estate owned by the Society which currently consists of the Home Office, the Social Security Administration Building, and the Camp Kubena physical facility. The lease on the SSA Building provides good income; however, it does require a lot of management time of staff to provide required services.
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Servicing Mortgage Loans Responsibility of servicing some $8.7 million of mortgage loans is the responsibility of the CFO’s Department. It involves receipt of payments, monitoring delinquencies, payment of taxes, and insurance coverage. This includes the special lending program for lodge property loans and mortgage notes that are purchased for income. Claims The CFO is responsible for managing the claims department and is proud of our record of prompt payment of death claims. We have worked to automate portions of the claims process and use email responses and forms to speed up the claim’s settlement. We are in process of automating more of the procedures so that we can improve on our excellent record of payment of death claims. Death benefits have ranged from $3.5 million in 2016 to $3.7 million in 2019 and have averaged near $3.7 million over the past four years. Member Services The CFO Department is responsible for providing member services which includes responding to member’s contacts for information, cash values, and certificate loans and surrenders. The department has trained specialists to provide information and administration of both IRA and non-IRA annuities and assist with withdrawals, required minimum distributions, and all general servicing questions. Service requests may come by mail, phone, in person, or email. We use email as much as possible for efficiency and to speed up response time. We have updated our phone system, but we always want to give you access to a person answering if you need assistance. Corporate Secretary-Treasurer The CFO position serves as the corporate secretary-treasurer of the organization and is responsible for attesting documents and maintaining records of documents. This includes maintaining record of minutes of the Supreme Lodge, the Investment Committee, the Supreme Lodge Officers, the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Committee, and the management team. Assistant to the CFO Janie Coakley was appointed by the Supreme Lodge to take minutes of the board meetings, and she has excelled at this assigned task as well as assistance with other management tasks.
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Chief Risk Officer The CFO serves as the Chief Risk Officer of SPJST. We have in place an Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Committee with three subcommittees. It is the responsibility of the ERM Committee and the subcommittees to identify risks and to put in place processes that will identify and mitigate risks the organization faces. A solid ERM program is essential to comply with our regulatory bodies.
duty of the CFO to maintain and motivate a staff that will provide the best possible service to our members and to oversee the many diverse administrative duties of this corporate office in a professional manner. I feel confident that I have done that and ask for your vote of confidence to reelect me to this position. If the governance changes in the by-laws are approved, I will ask to be appointed to the position of CFO.
New Technology The world around us is changing more rapidly than we sometimes imagine. We, the managers of the organization, are aware of the need to be innovative and relevant. The challenges of the need for change that will make us relevant to our younger members can test our management skills; however, we will move forward with new methods and new technology, and we will be competitive in this new environment. We focus a lot of attention to converting paper records to electronic form for efficiency and in preparation for enabling our members to electronically log in to their certificates and membership information. We will make new technology our focus to provide better service to our members.
“The Best is Yet to Come!” My many years of experience as secretary-treasurer, vice president, and chief financial officer have equipped me to meet the challenges of this time. I have an insurance license, annuity certification, decades of insurance administration and management experience, and a Bachelor of Science degree, and a love of new technology. In the 1990s, I adopted the phrase, “The best is yet to come.” I truly believe that for SPJST, “the best is yet to come.”
Challenges One of the significant challenges the Supreme Lodge faces is the current low interest rate environment. SPJST has a variety of programs that were put in place when interest rates and investment returns were as much as two to three times current returns. Investment returns provided an abundance of extra funds to support many of the programs that came to define SPJST. Currently, good, quality fixed income investments can yield 4 percent or less, and the Supreme Lodge and the Convention must act to reduce operating and fraternal expenses to avoid depleting surplus. While SPJST is financially strong, prudent action by the Supreme Lodge can preserve many of our prime fraternal programs for adults and children. I am of the opinion that our new investment advisory firm, AQS, will help us achieve better returns. Prime Responsibility In summary, the prime responsibility of the CFO is to manage the funds of the Society to produce income to support our benefit obligations to our members as well as the fraternal programs the Society provides. Of equal importance, it is the
Appreciation Appreciation and acknowledgment is expressed to the members of the CFO Department, in alphabetical order: Janie Coakley, Rudy Constancio, Tamara Gettys, Linda Hill, Ann Paruzinski, Marissa Salinas, Dorothy Tomasek, and Carol Wolf. I praise each of you for your dedication in serving our members and acknowledge how each of you have grown professionally. I want to especially recognize longtime SPJST veteran Dorothy Tomasek who began her career with the Society in the 1950s while the SPJST Home Office was still in Fayetteville. Dorothy comes in a few hours each month when we need help to keep current in payment of death claims. What an inspiration she is. Now, I thank God and give Him the glory for His blessings and all that He has done in leading us to victoriously meet the challenges we have faced the past four years. My wife Dorothy and I thank you for your friendship and hospitality during our years of service. Again, I humbly ask for support to allow me to serve in the position of Chief Financial Officer. Fraternally yours, Leonard Mikeska, FIC Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—
Pre-Convention Report Controller Roy Vajdak This report is submitted in accordance Funds (surplus) dropped to $13,022,948. with Article VI Section 8(b) and Article The surplus had increased to $16,379,403 VIII Section 31(m) of our 2016 SPJST by the time of the 2012 Convention and By-Laws. to $19,279,571 for the year ending before I have had the pleasure of serving as the 2016 Convention. However, the surController (previous titles were Financial plus has decreased by $3 million to Secretary and Director of Accounting/In- $16,271,871 for the year ending on Deformation Technology Services) for the cember 31, 2019. past eight and one-half years and want to There are two main reasons for this thank the Supreme Lodge members for decrease. The first reason is the discovery their support. The in 2016 that our Controller is reprior actuary had sponsible for all not properly calaccounting funcculated the retions of our Sociserve credit on ety including our reinsurance. both financial and The credit was statutory reportoverstated and reing and all IT (induced our reserve formation requirement. We technology) funchad to reduce surtions. My departplus by $1.6 milment provides lion to correct the member servicreserves we held. ing in the areas of The second reabilling questions, son is the Net address and Loss from Operaphone number tions in 2018 and changes, and gen2019. I will give eral certificate more information questions. We on the operating have continued losses later in this the task of digireport. tizing SPJST’s In 2016, Roy Vajdak paper certificate SPJST had a Net records. Gain from Operations of $362,002 and a realized capital gain of $175,219. HoFinancial Statement wever, we had to increase reserves by I have included a financial statement $1.6 million as noted above. This resulted of SPJST for a four-year period, which in a decline in surplus of slightly over $1 includes 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. All million. official figures are taken from the annual The Society had a Net Gain from Opstatement as submitted to Texas Depart- erations in 2017 of $81,059 but realized ment of Insurance (TDI) and National capital loss of $988,371 from the bankAssociation of Insurance Commissioners ruptcy of a bond holding in our bond (NAIC). Please see the statement on portfolio. SPJST is required to hold an pages 11 and 12. Asset Valuation Reserve (AVR) to help This financial statement enables you offset the effects of a loss on our investto compare assets, liabilities, net income, ment portfolio. The AVR offset this loss expenses, and surplus. Assets have in- and enabled us to recognize a $71 thoucreased by approximately $8.7 million sand gain in surplus. There is no way to sugar-coat 2018 dollars over the last four years. Total liabilities have also increased by $11.9 and 2019. The capital loss recorded in million dollars over the last four years 2019 from the complete liquidation of primarily due to the increase in reserves. our common stock portfolio should not SPJST has continued to suffer under the be a main focus. We are required to marklow interest environment that has existed to-market common stocks. Therefore, the since the economic downturns of 2008 capital loss recorded in Net Income is offand 2009. In 2008, our Unallocated set by the Change in Unrealized Capital
VĚSTNÍK Gains or (Losses) in the Statement of Changes in Certificate Holders’ Surplus. Maybe a better way to state this is that losses in the common stock portfolio have been recognized over the life of the common stock portfolio. This is not an excuse for the loss generated by the common stock portfolio but an explanation that it has been accruing for years. Condensed versions of the 2018 and 2019 Analysis of Operations by Lines of Business that are a part of the Annual Statement that SPJST files with the TDI and the NAIC are included on page 14. Please note that the losses are generated by our fraternal activities. Earnings on our surplus make it possible to support our fraternal programs that are non-contractual benefits for our members. These benefits including the youth program, refunds to lodges, incentive awards, and the Věstník are among the many benefits provided to our members. Our spending on the fraternal programs in 2019 was more than $1.9 million dollars or about $49 per member. Please review the chart on page 12. I have taken our invested assets from the year 2000 forward and calculated the yield on these Invested Assets based on the investment income. I multiplied the surplus by the investment yield to figure how much is available for fraternal expenses and subtracted the actual fraternal expenses. This calculation either left a surplus or a shortfall. You can see that given the declining investment yield and the change in surplus, we only covered all the fraternal expenses in the years 2000 and 2001. Every year since then, we have had to use funds from Net Gain from Operations to cover fraternal expenses. Therefore, we need to be diligent on two fronts. First, we must decrease fraternal expenses. A reduction in fraternal expenses is the only way to rapidly reduce the Net Losses from Operation. Second, we must strive to increase premium income to enable us to cover the current shortfall. However, any increase in premium income does not result in an immediate increase in income. Our current life products have a breakeven point anywhere from five to 10 years. The breakeven point on our annuities range from three to four years. A concerted effort has been implemented to increase the quality of our bond portfolio. The higher the quality of the bond, the lower the interest earned. However, a higher quality of bond also has a reduced possibility of a potential bankruptcy by the bond issuer. If we do not drastically cut fraternal ex-
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Monday, July 13, 2020
SPJST FINANCIAL STATEMENT A FOUR-YEAR COMPARISION
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL CONDITION ASSETS Bonds Stocks
2016
2017
2018
2019
$206,453,866
$213,251,567
$217,901,352
$222,932,360
3,830,017
3,102,791
3,886,343
0
13,294,448
11,314,945
9,744,265
8,724,511
Properties occupied by the Society
2,173,994
2,117,386
2,095,126
2,035,041
Properties held for the production of income
Mortgage Loans Real Estate:
3,536,134
3,354,667
3,312,360
3,205,103
Certificate Loans
1,560,740
1,617,531
1,665,919
1,703,135
Cash
3,893,032
728,348
1,842,675
2,927,601
Other Assets
3,347,532
3,461,458
3,293,350
3,201,876
$238,089,763
$238,948,693
$243,741,390
$244,729,627
$207,590,095
$208,796,569
$213,412,843
$215,618,316
$3,874,308
$4,261,173
$6,814,272
$6,956,743
983,574
1,185,577
1,362,698
883,285
TOTALS LIABILITIES AND RESERVES Certificate Reserves Liability for Deposit-type Contracts Certificate Benefits Payable Premiums Received in Advance
539,920
547,582
47,559
48,988
Interest Maintenance Reserve
2,913,894
2,810,221
2,343,091
1,971,598
Asset Valuation Reserve
2,806,543
1,865,585
1,748,890
1,750,773
Other Accrued Liabilities
1,123,939
1,153,204
1,140,871
1,228,053
219,832,273
220,619,911
226,870,224
228,457,756
18,257,490
18,328,782
16,871,166
16,271,871
$238,089,763
$238,948,693
$243,741,390
$244,729,627
TOTALS Unassigned Funds TOTALS
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS INCOME Insurance & Annuity Premiums Net Investment Income Amortization of Interest Maintenance Reserve Commissions & Expense Allowance Miscellaneous Income TOTALS
2016
2017
2018
2019
$14,689,949 10,262,187 751,233 1,133 59,840
$12,518,702 10,651,717 586,394 1,384 91,519
$13,956,243 9,951,689 532,311 702 39,409
$13,066,968 9,944,512 503,051 446 71,314
25,764,342
23,849,716
24,480,354
23,586,291
12
Monday, July 13, 2020
penses, we will continue to operate with a negative Net Gain from Operations which will continue draining surplus. A.M. Best Rating The Supreme Lodge voted to drop our rating by A.M. Best in the April 2020 meeting. We had maintained an A.M. Best rating of B since 2010, but the outlook was downgraded from stable to negative following our 2019 conference call. Refund to Lodges The Refund to Lodges program provides $1 per paid up certificate and 1.5 percent of earned premiums to the lodges. The Refund to Lodges program is focused on the two areas of concern previously expressed by A.M. Best: new membership growth and premium growth. A lodge can increase their refund by increasing their membership, and the earned premium generated by their lodge. The program has provided nearly $600,000 to the lodges during the past four years. Therefore, it is very important that each local lodge increase their membership and insurance sales so that these refunds may continue. Listed on page 13 are the top 15 lodges in several categories.
VĚSTNÍK DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME Life & Annuity Benefits Refunds to Members Additions to Reserves Operating Expenses TOTALS NET INCOME FROM OPERATIONS Net Realized Capital Gains or (Losses) NET INCOME
2016 $17,520,191 (1,100) 1,612,396
2017 $15,032,704 (142) 1,206,477
2018 $14,578,602 (532) 4,616,271
2019 $16,133,660 (515) 2,205,474
6,270,853
7,529,618
6,163,993
6,062,413
25,402,340
23,768,657
25,358,334
24,401,032
$362,002
$81,059
($877,980)
($814,741)
175,219
(988,371)
(52,904)
(2,514,593)
$537,221
($907,312)
($930,884)
($3,329,334)
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN CERTIFICATE HOLDERS’ SURPLUS 2016
2017
2018
2019
Balance, Beginning Net Income Change in Unrealized Capital Gains or (Losses) Change in Asset Valuation Reserve Miscellaneous Changes
$19,279,571
$18,257,490
$18,328,782
$16,871,166
537,221 657,511 (631,883) (1,584,930)
(907,312) 35,114 940,957 2,533
(930,884) (616,422) 116,695 (27,005)
(3,329,334) 2,799,216 (67,294) (1,883)
BALANCE, ENDING
$18,257,490
$18,328,782
$16,871,166
$16,271,871
SPJST FRATERNAL EXPENSES COVERED Return BY EARNINGS ON SURPLUS onReturn Earnings Net Net Earnings on Invested Investment onon Investment Invested Assets Income Income Surplus Assets Surplus
Net Net Fraternal Fraternal Expenses Expenses
Fraternal Fraternal Expense Expense Shortfall Shortfall
1,714,163
1,054,613
659,550
5.93%
1,531,623
1,288,517
243,106
5.37%
1,280,178
1,426,096
(145,918)
8,723,993
5.19%
1,238,692
1,515,074
(276,382)
178,957,846
9,299,460
5.27%
1,301,801
1,897,800
(595,999)
183,056,826
185,322,488
10,480,069
5.73%
1,452,795
1,745,955
(293,160)
25,742,531
188,354,331
190,661,326
10,072,012
5.35%
1,376,550
1,788,355
(411,805)
24,261,038
189,705,950
192,059,326
10,841,467
5.71%
1,386,489
2,068,678
(682,189)
12/31/2008
13,022,948
183,343,406
185,108,063
7,889,909
4.30%
560,423
2,258,477
(1,698,054)
12/31/2009
13,807,532
195,004,450
196,978,272
8,600,186
4.41%
608,947
1,990,336
(1,381,389)
12/31/2010
16,185,721
209,263,885
211,879,313
9,758,692
4.66%
754,796
2,109,765
(1,354,969)
12/31/2011
16,379,403
214,625,994
217,751,169
10,221,924
4.76%
780,097
1,888,631
(1,108,534)
12/31/2012
17,249,404
222,904,352
226,626,612
9,714,004
4.36%
751,716
2,262,636
(1,510,920)
12/31/2013
18,727,459
227,272,435
230,578,498
9,645,233
4.24%
794,776
2,237,590
(1,442,814)
12/31/2014
19,241,757
230,877,915
234,251,749
410,285,633
4.46%
857,222
2,285,682
(1,428,460)
12/31/2015
19,279,571
232,727,968
235,999,512
10,312,222
4.43%
854,282
2,232,851
(1,378,569)
12/31/2016
18,257,490
234,742,230
238,089,763
10,262,187
4.37%
798,160
2,222,833
(1,424,673)
12/31/2017
18,328,782
235,760,582
238,948,693
10,651,717
4.52%
828,099
2,100,889
(1,272,790)
12/31/2018
16,871,163
240,566,911
243,741,390
9,951,689
4.14%
697,920
1,994,144
(1,296,224)
12/31/2019
16,271,872
241,647,633
244,729,627
9,944,558
4.12%
669,639
1,893,814
(1,224,175)
Year Year Ending Ending
Surplus Surplus
Invested Invested Assets Assets
Total Total Assets Assets
12/31/2000
26,808,646
130,503,402
132,433,760
8,344,477
6.39%
12/31/2001
25,817,745
137,254,226
139,231,234
8,142,528
12/31/2002
23,842,726
151,926,042
153,871,299
8,157,307
12/31/2003
23,872,330
168,130,601
170,485,151
12/31/2004
24,724,428
176,619,839
12/31/2005
25,376,178
12/31/2006 12/31/2007
Department of Insurance and Independent Audit A Texas Department of Insurance audit was completed in 2018 for years 2013 through 2017. I am pleased to report that no financial discrepancies were found, and no changes were made to my financial statement as submitted. The financial reports are audited annually by Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd & Therrell, P.C. The Supreme Lodge reviewed all independent audits for years 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018, and no discrepancies were noted, or items changed. The Supreme Lodge is scheduled to review the 2019 audit in their July 2020 meeting. As required by state insurance regulations, we are required to file these independent audits with TDI and the NAIC. Cost of these audits for the past four years has been more than $96,000. Data Processing Cybersecurity was a concern in my 2016 Convention report and has become an even larger concern today. We must continually patch, upgrade, and replace systems to stay diligent. There are many IT firms and providers that claim to be cybersecurity experts but are soon found to be lacking especially in dealing with IBM operating systems. SPJST has engaged BFB Consulting, Inc. to assist us
VĚSTNÍK in this area due to their background and expertise with IBM operating systems. However, if SPJST would experience a cybersecurity breach, we have cybersecurity insurance in place to assist with the remediation costs. The only deficiency noted in the last TDI audit was not a financial issue but a lack of a formal disaster recovery policy and business continuity policy. BFB Consulting has assisted in these areas starting with formal IT Security policies. Our IT Security policies were adopted in the July 2019 Supreme Lodge meeting. During this same Supreme Lodge meeting, the Supreme Lodge also voted to engage TierPoint as a disaster recovery site. SPJST had been backing up our data files, but this information would not be easily available in a disaster. We are in the final stages of making this disaster recovery site operational. We are currently trying to schedule our first disaster recovery test which involves operating on the remote site.
The COVID-19 crisis has tested the systems put into place for a business continuity issue. Many of our staff have been operating remotely these past few months without having any issues servicing our members. The final step needed is to document the business continuity planning in a formal policy. We continue to employ McLane Intelligent Solutions to monitor and maintain our Windows-based operations. We have Windows-based servers and desktops to handle our office operations and emails. We continue to maintain our certificate admin programs with United Systems and Software, Inc. (USSI) in Lake Mary, Florida. We are continually working with USSI to ensure the software is operating as expected and to utilize our data to the fullest. The USSI software runs on an IBM Power 9 server. We finalized an upgrade to the admin software following the last Convention and are about to implement another upgrade.
TOP 15 LODGES ACCORDING TO TOTAL NUMBER OF CERTIFICATES AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019
Number of Certificates
Amount of Insurance
Average Insurance per Member
5,146 1,959 1,598 1,550 1,172 1,088 1,053 1,042 945 932 925 919 904 877 872
90,610,648 41,043,758 39,005,780 26,906,923 18,205,948 36,564,152 11,419,233 19,434,659 19,379,851 24,894,090 9,177,999 30,438,465 18,731,131 15,058,701 21,991,652
17,608 20,951 24,409 17,359 15,534 33,607 10,844 18,651 20,508 26,710 9,922 33,121 20,720 17,171 25,220
Total of All Plans Lodge Number
Ranking
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
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Monday, July 13, 2020
88 47 79 29 66 160 84 40 6 17 25 30 81 54 107
Houston Seaton Corpus Christi Taylor Waco San Angelo Dallas El Campo-Hillje Cottonwood New Tabor Ennis Taiton Needville West Floresville
Total Total Change
12/31/2019 12/31/2018
Total Change
12/31/2012
46,578 47,090 (512)
1,050,297,546 1,039,362,012 10,935,534
22,549 22,072 477
51,579 (5,001)
956,942,707 93,354,839
18,553 3,996
TOP 15 LODGES ACCORDING TO TOTAL INSURANCE IN FORCE AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019
Number of Certificates
Amount of Insurance
Average Insurance per Member
5,146 1,959 1,598 1,088 669 919 597 1,550 633 779 932 872 280 604 684
90,610,648 41,043,758 39,005,780 36,564,152 35,162,318 30,438,465 27,291,515 26,906,923 25,342,380 25,175,945 24,894,090 21,991,652 21,543,609 21,481,635 20,069,050
17,608 20,951 24,409 33,607 52,560 33,121 45,714 17,359 40,035 32,318 26,710 25,220 76,941 35,566 29,341
Total of All Plans Lodge Number
Ranking
88 47 79 160 219 30 196 29 49 9 17 107 171 133 142
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Houston Seaton Corpus Christi San Angelo El Paso Taiton Houston-West Taylor Rowena Snook New Tabor Floresville Lockhart San Antonio Houston
Totals for all Lodges
46,578
1,050,297,546
22,549
Top 15 lodges account for 46 percent of total insurance in force. TOP 15 LODGES ACCORDING TO TOTAL AMOUNT OF PREMIUM PAYING INSURANCE IN FORCE AS OF DEC. 31, 2019 Ranking
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
88 79 219 160 47 30 196 49 29 9 17 171 133 107 142
Totals for all Lodges
Lodge Number
Number of Certificates
Houston
1,550 930 641 687 756 490 398 414 563 318 293 260 416 486 241
Corpus Christi El Paso San Angelo Seaton Taiton Houston-West Rowena Taylor Snook New Tabor Lockhart San Antonio Floresville Houston
19,629
Amount of Premium Paying Insurance
76,569,312 35,381,356 34,993,650 33,679,623 33,582,667 28,339,231 26,209,870 23,472,597 22,881,693 21,987,452 21,550,566 21,238,426 20,330,478 19,438,140 17,636,753 925,615,314
Top 15 lodges account for 47 percent of total premium paying insurance in force.
14
Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
In Conclusion At this time, I would like to thank the dedicated employees of my department for a job well done. My staff handles all the premium billing and answers your questions about your invoices or your certificate. They take your address changes and maintain the Věstník mailing list. We have a Spanish-speaking staff member to assist our Spanish-speaking members. My staff is also diligently working on digitizing (scanning) all our certificate records. They have completed scanning the new records that were in 24 six-drawer filing cabinets and are now
scanning the old pocket part records. I continue to make many changes in the departmental processes to make my department more efficient, and my staff has embraced all the changes. All my work would be impossible without an efficient office staff. My employees include Dorothy Stuchly, Debbie Dohnalik, Lisa Kirby, Nancy Miller, Sharon Ingram, Jennifer Wright, Mary Carrillo, Marie Wolf, Joyce Harris, Danny Walden, and Hollie Lintz. Debbie (43 years of service), who is our accounting manager, assists me in supervising the staff and is invaluable with her
efficient work and dedication. Lisa (28 years of service), my executive assistant, is responsible for the day-to-day accounting and has proven her capabilities and dedication to this position. Marie, Joyce, Danny, and Hollie have all joined my staff since the prior Convention. They and Dorothy (54 years of service) also performed their duties very efficiently and have become invaluable assets to my department. I am very pleased that they represent me and SPJST at a high level. I must not forget the other team members of the Home Office. It has been a pleasure working with the other em-
ployees and with my fellow Supreme Lodge Officers and Directors and the Editor/Director of Communication. There exists a strong cooperation among those responsible for the daily operations of SPJST. I find much pride in representing SPJST. My roots go back to the founding of SPJST. My wife Becky and I try our best to represent you well. Fraternally, Roy W. Vajdak Controller —SPJST—
ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS BY LINES OF BUSINESS - 2018 1. 3. 4. 6. 9. 10. 11. 12. 14. 15. 17. 18. 19. 21. 22. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29.
Premiums and annuity considerations for life and accident and health contracts........................................................................................... Net investment income............................................................................................................................................................................................... Amortization of interest maintenance reserve (IMR).............................................................................................................................................. Commissions and expense allowances on reinsurance ceded........................................................................................................................... 8.3 Aggregate write-ins for miscellaneous income.............................................................................................................................................. Totals (Lines 1 to 8.3)................................................................................................................................................................................................. Death benefits.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. Matured endowments (excluding guaranteed annual pure endowments)......................................................................................................... Annuity benefits.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... Surrender benefits and withdrawals for life contracts.......................................................................................................................................... Interest and adjustments on contract or deposit-type contract funds............................................................................................................... Increase in aggregate reserve for life and accident and health contracts.......................................................................................................... Totals (Lines 10 to 17)................................................................................................................................................................................................ Commissions on premiums and annuity considerations and deposit-type funds (direct business only).................................................... General insurance expenses and fraternal expenses........................................................................................................................................... Insurance taxes, licenses and fees......................................................................................................................................................................... Aggregate write-ins for deductions.......................................................................................................................................................................... Totals (Lines 18 to 25)................................................................................................................................................................................................ Net gain from operations before refunds to members (Line 9 minus Line 26).................................................................................................. Refunds to members.................................................................................................................................................................................................. Net gain from operations after refunds to members and before realized capital gains or (losses) (Line 27 minus Line 28)......................
Total ..................13,956,243 ....................9,951,689 ....................... 532,311 .............................. 702 ......................... 39,408 ..................24,480,354 ....................3,830,300 ......................... 64,844 ....................9,467,446 ....................1,035,483 ....................... 180,529 ....................4,616,271 ..................19,194,873 ....................... 818,460 ....................5,183,214 ....................... 162,318 .................................. 0 ..................25,358,865 ......................(878,512) ............................. (532) ......................(877,980)
Life Insurance ................ 6,788,124 ................ 4,025,831 ....................215,340 .................................. ........................6,349 .............. 11,035,644 ................ 3,830,300 ......................64,844 .................................. ................ 1,035,483 .................................. ................ 2,590,358 ................ 7,520,985 ....................694,342 ................ 2,495,824 ......................91,019 ............................... 0 .............. 10,802,170 ....................233,474 ..........................(532) ....................234,006
Insurance Individual Annuities ................ 7,168,119 ................ 5,925,858 ....................316,971 .................................. ......................17,914 .............. 13,428,862 .................................. .................................. ................ 9,467,446 .................................. ....................180,529 ................ 2,025,913 .............. 11,673,888 ....................124,118 ....................723,023 ......................26,377 ............................... 0 .............. 12,547,406 ....................881,456 .................................. ....................881,456
Accident and Health .................................. .................................. .................................. ...........................702 ............................... 0 ...........................702 .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. ............................... 0 .................................. .................................. .................................. ............................... 0 ............................... 0 ...........................702 .................................. ...........................702
Fraternal .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. ......................15,145 ......................15,145 .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. .................................. ............................... 0 .................................. ................ 1,964,367 ......................44,922 ............................... 0 ................ 2,009,289 ............... (1,994,144) .................................. ............... (1,994,144)
6
7
ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS BY LINES OF BUSINESS - SUMMARY - 2019 1
1. 3. 4. 6. 9. 10. 11. 12. 15. 17. 19. 20. 21. 23. 24. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33.
Premiums and annuity considerations for life and accident and health contracts............................................................................................................................. Net investment income............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Amortization of Interest Maintenance Reserve (IMR).............................................................................................................................................................................. Commissions and expense allowances on reinsurance ceded............................................................................................................................................................. 8.3 Aggregate write-ins for miscellaneous income.............................................................................................................................................................................. Totals (Lines 1 to 8.3).................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Death benefits.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Matured endowments (excluding guaranteed annual pure endowments)............................................................................................................................................ Annuity benefits.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Surrender benefits and withdrawals for life contracts............................................................................................................................................................................ Interest and adjustments on contract or deposit-type contract funds.................................................................................................................................................. Increase in aggregate reserves for life and accident and health contracts.......................................................................................................................................... Totals (Lines 10 to 19)................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Commissions on premiums, annuity considerations and deposit-type contract funds (direct business only)............................................................................... General insurance expenses and fraternal expenses............................................................................................................................................................................. Insurance taxes, licenses and fees, excluding federal income taxes................................................................................................................................................... Aggregate write-ins for deductions........................................................................................................................................................................................................... Totals (Lines 20 to 27)................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Net gain from operations before dividends to policyholders, refunds to members and federal income taxes................................................................................ (Line 9 minus Line 28)................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Dividends to policyholders and refunds to members............................................................................................................................................................................. Net gain from operations after dividends to policyholders, refunds to members and before federal income taxes....................................................................... (Line 29 minus Line 30)............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Federal income taxes incurred (excluding tax on capital gains)........................................................................................................................................................... Net gain from operations after dividends to policyholders, refunds to members and federal income taxes and before realized capital gains or (losses) (Line 31 minus Line 32)......................................................................................................................................................................
2
4
Total
Individual Life
Individual Annuities
Accident and Health
Fraternal
............... 13,066,968 ................. 9,944,512 .................... 503,051 ........................... 446 ...................... 71,314 ............... 23,586,291 ................. 3,705,955 ...................... 60,252 ............... 10,851,887 ................. 1,318,380 .................... 197,186 ................. 2,205,474 ............... 18,339,134 .................... 818,610 ................. 5,083,926 .................... 159,877 ............................... 0 ............... 24,401,547
................. 6,724,202 ................. 4,107,413 .................... 207,777 ................................... ........................ 7,321 ............... 11,046,713 ................. 3,705,955 ...................... 60,252 .............XXX.............. ................. 1,318,380 ................................... ................. 2,405,701 ................. 7,490,288 .................... 717,532 ................. 2,986,224 .................... 108,119 ............................... 0 ............... 11,302,163
................. 6,342,766 ................. 5,837,099 .................... 295,274 ................................... ........................ 9,903 ............... 12,485,042 ................................... ................................... ............... 10,851,887 ................................... .................... 197,186 ................... (200,227) ............... 10,848,846 .................... 101,078 .................... 194,513 ........................ 7,043 ............................... 0 ............... 11,151,480
................................... ................................... ................................... ........................... 446 ............................... 0 ........................... 446 .............XXX.............. .............XXX.............. .............XXX.............. .............XXX.............. ................................... ................................... ............................... 0 ................................... ................................... ................................... ............................... 0 ............................... 0
................................. ................................. ................................. .............XXX............. ..................... 54,090 ..................... 54,090 .............XXX............. .............XXX............. .............XXX............. .............XXX............. .............XXX............. .............XXX............. .............XXX............. ................................. ................ 1,903,189 ..................... 44,715 .............................. 0 ................ 1,947,904
................... (815,256) ................... (255,450) ................. 1,333,562 ........................... 446 ............... (1,893,814) .......................... (515) .......................... (515) ................................... ................................... .............XXX............. ................... (814,741) ................... (254,935) ................. 1,333,562 ........................... 446 ............... (1,893,814) ............................... 0 ................................... ................................... ................................... ................................. ................... (814,741) ................... (254,935) ................. 1,333,562 ........................... 446 ............... (1,893,814)
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
Pre-Convention Report Supreme Lodge Directors SPJST SUPREME LODGE BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019 ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
ACCOUNT BALANCE
ASSETS: CASH & CASH EQUIVALENTS.......................................$2,926,601.13 INVESTMENTS Bonds ..............................................................................223,044,384.98 Mortgage Loans...................................................................8,724,511.32 Certificate Loans..................................................................1,703,135.45 Home Office Building...........................................................2,035,040.64 Ho Property Held For Income..............................................3,478,855.55 Accumulated Depreciation - Prop Held................................(321,070.50) Capitalized Leasing Fees.........................................................45,991.81 Amortized Leasing Fees ........................................................(14,742.09) Investment In SSA Building ......................................................49,115.65 Accumulated Depreciation - Inv In SSA Building.....................(1,798.00) Investment In SPJST ENC, LLC ................................................1,000.00 Investment In SPJST Camps, LLC.........................................119,880.58
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Fed. Tax w/h-Salaries .................................................................2,440.00 Fed. Unemployment Taxes Payable-Salaries ...............................198.99 Sales Tax Payable .........................................................................509.77 Payable To Ft. Hood Memorial ......................................................365.41 West Benevolence Fund ..........................................................23,835.95 Reserve For Future Conventions ...........................................245,000.00 Reserve For Bylaw Committee Expenses................................17,500.00 Reserve For State Exam/Audit.................................................13,050.00 Cash With Application...............................................................12,542.22 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND PRIOR YEAR’S SURPLUS ...................................244,300,698.66 TOTAL CURRENT YEAR GAIN (LOSS) IN ASSETS................................................(1,787,497.27) TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SURPLUS..........................$242,513,201.39
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2019 Year to Date Amount
TOTAL INVESTMENTS .................................................238,864,305.39
REVENUE Insurance...........................................................................$8,610,776.79 Annuities and Investment Contracts...................................7,021,571.57 Investments.........................................................................8,778,227.68 Other Revenue.........................................................................54,085.66
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
TOTAL INCOME.............................................................$24,464,661.70
Accounts Receivable..................................................................2,938.52 Prepaid Expenses ....................................................................13,081.34 Deposits Receivable...................................................................1,834.00 Agent’s Balance Account ......................................................430,147.50
FURNITURE, EQUIPMENT AND INVENTORY EDP Equip Hardware ...............................................................88,396.24 EDP Equip Software...............................................................120,441.12 SPJST Store Inventory.............................................................18,727.39 Furniture and Office Equipment ...............................................46,728.76
EXPENSES Death Claims.....................................................................$5,202,960.16 Contractual Obligations ...................................................13,790,554.67 Lodge and Member Benefits .................................................307,423.27 Insurance Sales and Marketing ..........................................1,302,598.82 Supreme Lodge Expense ......................................................377,288.66 Youth Expense.......................................................................225,305.45 Fraternal Expenses ...............................................................212,011.90 President’s Department ...........................................................39,009.15 Investments............................................................................447,552.40 Financial Secretary’s Department .........................................465,197.04 Home Office ........................................................................3,882,257.45
TOTAL FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT ..............................274,293.51
TOTAL EXPENSES .........................................................26,252,158.97
TOTAL ASSETS ...........................................................$242,513,201.39
NET REVENUE/(LOSS).................................................($1,787,497.27)
TOTAL ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE......................................448,001.36
—SPJST— LIABILITIES AND PRIOR YEAR’S SURPLUS Balance-Mortuary Account ...........................................$243,459,625.42 SPJST Scholarship Fund .......................................................460,306.28 SPJST Dist. Scholarship Fund .................................................43,790.00 Premium Over/Short...................................................................2,437.78 Premiums Pending ........................................................................129.11 Cash Over/Short on M.L................................................................175.84 Federal Tax w/h - Annuities & Surrenders 18,791.89
33rd SPJST Convention August 13 - 15, 2021 Killeen Civic and Conference Center
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Monday, July 13, 2020
Pre-Convention Report Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny Dear SPJST Members, increase brand relevance. By adapting Thank you for your membership in and embracing changes - in SPJST. Our delegates will soon begin communications and in SPJST’s their work to set the course for our great governance - we will remain relevant in fraternal organization over the next four the fraternal and life insurance industry. years—and beyond. This week’s Věstník A bi-monthly publication since features pre-convention reports. I encour- October 2019, the Věstník continues to age you to take the time to read these re- be the voice of SPJST and its members. ports and to stay tuned to the Věstník While the reduced frequency has created through the next a significant cost year as we presavings for pare for the inSPJST, the same person 33rd amount of work SPJST Convengoes into each tion in August o v e r a l l 2021. publication. The We have same amount or accomplished more content many things in continues to be the Věstník/ d e s i g n e d , Communication developed, and Department over edited in fewer the past four publications with years. The increased page communication counts. industry is The average constantly page count per changing, and week in 2020 is we are staying 37 pages. The abreast of the average Věstník m a n y subscriptions opportunities currently being Melanie Zavodny, FIC that exist — mailed out are especially as it 4,709. The 2020 relates to digital marketing, branding, and Věstník cost is an average of 64 cents for communications. printing and mailing each issue. Several special Věstník features are “The Voice of Our Members included throughout the year. These and SPJST” include valentine greetings, Czech The Věstník is the tool that bonds all Easter activities, graduate recognition, members in all departments - throughout 100 percent families, and Czech SPJST in youth clubs, lodges, districts, Heritage Month activities. and across the state. It is the voice of the My sincere thanks and appreciation to membership and the entire organization. Temple Daily Telegram, which has A weekly publication since its beginning printed the Věstník since 2005. The in 1912, the Věstník is currently in a state relationship between SPJST and the of transition. Several efforts to reduce Telegram has always been very friendly. Věstník expenses were implemented in I greatly appreciate the management and late 2016, which have resulted in a personnel at Temple Daily Telegram for savings of almost $289,000. In their professionalism and expertise in the September 2019, through a ballot in lieu publication and news media industry. of convention, delegates to the 2016 Věstníks are also sent digitally to Convention approved for the Věstník to approximately 1,100 subscribers on the convert to a bi-monthly publication. The second and fourth Monday mornings of primary reason for the change was to each month. Members can sign up increase efficiency and allow SPJST to online for a digital subscription. expand its communication by integrating To those who submit articles and new media tools and strategies to photographs to the Věstník . . . my utmost
VĚSTNÍK appreciation to you— for you truly are the backbone and voice of our newspaper. Adult lodge and youth club correspondents and members provide a never-ending flow of lodge news, photos, feature ideas, and other communication projects for the Věstník for each issue. Please keep those items coming! Thanks, too, to the readers for their loyalty. It is the readers and members who make it all worthwhile. Thank you. Věstník Celebrates 108th Anniversary September 1, 2020, will be 108 years since Frank Fabian edited and published the first Věstník in Hallettsville. To recognize the Věstník’s significant 100th anniversary milestone in 2012 and to preserve SPJST’s history, the Věstník/Communication Department partnered with Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) to scan all available past Věstníks from 1912 through 2004. Through a partnership with the University of North Texas, the archived Věstník collection is hosted on The Portal to Texas History. The entire collection has also been uploaded to issuu.com, which is a digital discovery and publishing platform that enables distribution of digital content. In both collections, Věstníks are indexed and organized by years and can be searched in numerous ways. A link to the Věstník archives appears on the spjst.org website. This project has connected generations and has provided valuable historical research for SPJST and genealogical data for families. The Věstník Reading Room, which is located downstairs at the SPJST Home Office, includes bound copies of Věstníks and a computer with digital, searchable copies. A secure area of the room includes the permanent Věstník collection that is stored in acid-free archival boxes. Věstník/Communication Department Duties During the past four years, in addition to editing and publishing the Věstník, the duties of the Communication Department have been vast and consisted of assisting other departments in a variety of capacities, including the promotion of fraternal and youth activities and programs and life insurance products and programs. This also includes the design and development of digital and printed materials, including newsletters, flyers, brochures, and advertisements for Society marketing and promotions. The Communication Department designed,
developed, and distributed more than 30 annual lodge and youth club mailouts each year. In addition, digital materials are designed throughout the year. Other printed communication projects that the Věstník/Communication Department produces include the annual calendar, youth club handbook, SPJST Convention Souvenir Book, and membership promotional materials. As a matter of routine, the Editor represents the Society at various SPJST and member-related activities including heritage and cultural events — throughout the state. In addition, the Communication Department promoted and assisted Home Office events and initiatives such as SPJST Founders Day, Corpus Christi Getaway, and State Youth Achievement Day. Digital Communications The Communication Department is responsible for designing and maintaining the SPJST website at www.spjst.org. A new website was premiered in late 2016. After extensive research, a common vision was created that enabled SPJST to re-engineer a site that better reflected SPJST’s evolving mission and helped build organizational and brand identity, awareness, strength, and interest in SPJST and the services it provides - while incorporating the latest web technology and functionality. The goal of the website was to fuse SPJST’s proud past with today’s technology to bring SPJST to life in the digital world. The new website unified and energized the SPJST brand online. It enhanced the user’s experience and increased access to organizational products, services, programs, departments, resources, and data. Lodge and agent locators, an interactive event calendar, and an online store were incorporated into the site’s final design. Instead of enrolling in a maintenance plan where costs range from $10,000 to $35,000 per year, the Communication Department updated and maintained the website from 2016 through 2019 thus yielding a significant cost savings. Due to technological advancements and the inability to update the proprietary design, the website, unfortunately, was outdated in mid-2019. After a fervent search for alternative approaches, a new website was launched in late 2019, with much of the work being handled inhouse through the Communication Department. This, too, resulted in a significant cost savings for SPJST. The Věstník/Communication
VĚSTNÍK Department continues to maintain the website. Additional features and updates will continue to be implemented. The Communication Department always works with Camp Kubena on its various marketing and communication efforts along with designing, developing, and maintaining the campkubena.com website. Email Campaigns The Communication Department has created and maintains email contact lists for various department and member audiences who have shared their emails with SPJST. Informational and call to action campaigns are designed and sent to members, sales agents, delegates, youth leaders, lodge officers, and other audiences. Social Media Several years ago, social media did not exist. Today, a company or organization must promote itself on numerous social media channels in order to stay relevant. SPJST’s brand and message are amplified across multiple social media channels and platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Vimeo. Through consistent engagement and content output, SPJST’s social following continues to increase. Relevant content topics are constantly developed to reach members and potential members. Social ad campaigns integrate SPJST’s overall marketing campaign plan and channels while analyzing key metrics. The Communication Department is an advocate for SPJST in social media spaces, engaging in dialogues and answering questions where appropriate. We also monitor trends in social media tools, applications, channels, design, and strategy. Digital Preservation The Communication Department captures SPJST’s events and activities through photography and videography. Video projects that the Communication Department completed include the annual state youth video, State Youth Achievement Day videos, and other SPJST promotional video projects. The department continues to develops an online digital preservation archive that features past photos and videos of SPJST’s activities. The Communication Department scanned and digitally preserved
Monday, July 13, 2020 approximately 300 lodge and youth club scrapbooks that are part of the online archive. SPJST Floats The Communication Department coordinates all aspects of the two SPJST Floats and parade appearances. Working with lodges, youth clubs, and city/festival officials across the state, the floats participate in approximately 25 small town and big city parades each year where they promote SPJST, its fraternal programs, life insurance products, lodges, and youth clubs. I extend appreciation to my dedicated husband David Nauert who designs, constructs, and maintains the two floats and prepares them for each parade. With the cancellation of festivals and events around the world this year, one of the year’s highlights has been SPJST’s participation in the Belton Fourth of July Virtual Parade. Members from Lodge 47, Seaton safely gathered at the Home Office on the evening of June 24. The float was filmed as it traveled through the parking lot. The entry footage was submitted to the Belton Chamber of Commerce, who coordinates the annual live parade that attracts more than 30,000 people each year. The virtual parade was broadcast on KCEN, a Central Texas television station, and was featured on social media. The entry received “Most Patriotic Float Entry.” SPJST Car Show and Czech Heritage Celebration Working with several Home Office staff members, local lodge volunteers, the Czech Heritage Museum, and Camp Kubena, the Communication Department coordinates the annual SPJST Car Show and Czech Heritage Celebration, which raises funds for The SPJST Foundation. The day includes arts/crafts vendors, silent auction, kids’ activities, music, food, and heritage displays and draws thousands of spectators. In 2019, the October event featured almost 250 show cars and many business, lodge, and individual sponsors. The event also brings an awareness of SPJST and its programs to the greater Central Texas community. SPJST Brand Standards The Communication Department is constantly collaborating with all SPJST departments and managers and with Camp Kubena on various projects. One of the current projects that we are
engaged in is developing consistent brand standards. The SPJST brand is much more than a logo, a tagline, or a set of colors. It defines who we are, what we say, and how we act. It’s how we see ourselves and how we want others to see us. Whether it’s a brochure, business cards, lodge signage, social media post, a baseball cap, letterhead, or an email, the goal is to display and communicate the SPJST brand consistently across all forms of media and platforms. Member Survey A membership survey was included with the SPJST privacy notice that was mailed to all members. A big thanks to each of the 1,000-plus members who responded to the survey. We are reading them, organizing them, interpreting them, and hoping they will provide valuable insights that will drive our strategies and products in the years to come. These valuable responses provide a handy snapshot of our members’ interests in our organization. Today’s Communications Even with the considerable efforts that have been made in the communication area, many exciting communication and growth opportunities exist for SPJST. Communications has changed dramatically over the past 15 years, and our ability to anticipate and respond to those changes is what makes an impact for our organization and ultimately drives success. Even though communications has changed, the underlying strategy hasn’t. Finding strong message pillars and brand story and communicating it clearly and effectively to target audiences is still the way to go. We can be effective telling our story—no matter how the media changes. And, of course, in a fastchanging world, creativity is always the best weapon! Publication Committee My sincere thanks to the Publication Committee for its service to SPJST and its tremendous support of the Věstník/Communication Department. The Committee’s role is to meet annually with the Editor/Director of Communication in order to evaluate past performance and to make recommendations for improving organizational communications on a regular and as needed basis. Current Publication Committee members are Chairman Floyd Kostelka of Lodge 13, Dime Box (District One); Vice Chairman
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Lynda Novak of Lodge 84, Dallas (District Three); Secretary Regina House of Lodge 202, Jourdanton (District Seven); Tammy Cannon of Lodge 29, Taylor (District Two); Sharon Hohmann of Lodge 160, San Angelo (District Four); Lorenda Baldwin of Lodge 139, Danbury (District Five); and Helen Kelner of Lodge 28, East Bernard (District Six). Thanks, too, to past committee members Jarolyn Popp of Lodge 133, San Antonio and Vonda Smesny of Lodge 91, San Jacinto for their service since the 2016 Convention. Appreciation and Thanks My thanks to everyone who has helped me achieve deadlines and goals over the past four years. Sincere thanks to Věstník/Communication Specialist Katherine Morris (22 years of service) and Graphic Designer/Communication Specialist Brooke Hoelscher (6 years of service) for their dedication and support. Both of these ladies are lifelong SPJST members and are graduates of the SPJST Youth Program. Their experience and knowledge of SPJST and the communication areas, along with their creativity, are invaluable assets to the Věstník/Communication Department and the entire SPJST organization. My thanks to our lodge and youth club correspondents for their input over the years and to all of our members who help to spread the good word about SPJST. And, finally, thank you to my husband David for his support, encouragement, and priceless assistance that have certainly been the wind that has carried me. As a third-generation and lifelong SPJST member whose heart is filled with excitement and passion for this organization, I will greatly appreciate your continued support and confidence in me as Věstník Editor/Director of Communication. The Věstník, promoting SPJST, and communicating the SPJST brand will continue to be my top priorities, and I will continue to work with the Supreme Lodge, Home Office Staff, and our members. Thank you for your consideration, and may God bless SPJST and our membership. Fraternally yours, Melanie Zavodny, FIC Věstník Editor/ Director of Communication —SPJST—
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
The 33rd SPJST Convention has been deferred to 2021. However, through a mail-in ballot to be sent in August, delegates to the 33rd Convention will elect the President, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Editor/Director of Communication, district directors, and standing committee members. Candidates for officers, editor, and district directors are pictured below in alphabetical order by the position they are seeking.
33rd SPJST Convention Candidates Dear Members, Due to the “on again-off again” dates of the Convention because of the coronavirus situation, the By-Law Committee did not publish the notice of the officer/director candidates who were eligible to run for office. This was discussed at the meeting on March 28, 2020. On April 21, the Supreme Lodge approved “Screening Committee Considerations” as guidelines for SPJST Directors and Officers. After some discussion, it was determined that the ByLaw Committee remain with its decision to say all delegates are
eligible on the date (March 28, 2020), and the guidelines were adopted after the fact. SPJST By-Law Committee Ronnie Rieger, Chairman/Beverly Teplicek, Secretary Note: At its July 8 meeting, the Supreme Lodge approved that all candidates may seek office on the basis of the guidelines that were in place on January 1, 2020. —SPJST—
Candidate for President BRIAN VANICEK, FIC Lodge 24, Cyclone
Candidate for Vice President DELISLE DOHERTY Lodge 196, Houston-West
Candidate for Vice President RICHARD HRBACEK Lodge 1, Fayetteville
Candidate for Chief Financial Officer LEONARD MIKESKA, FIC Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy
Candidate for Editor/ Director of Communication MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point
Candidate for District One Director DONNIE VICTORICK FIC, CFFM Lodge 9, Snook
Candidate for District One Director JIM SCHROEDER, LUTCF Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station
Candidate for District Two Director JESSE POSPISIL Lodge 29, Taylor
Candidate for District Three Director JOHN ENGELKE Lodge 66, Waco
Candidate for District Four Director BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM Lodge 160, San Angelo
Candidate for District Five Director BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC Lodge 81, Needville
Candidate for District Six Director ANNIE VAHALIK Lodge 30, Taiton
Candidate for District Seven Director SANDRA HOGGARD Lodge 202, Jourdanton
Candidate for District Seven Director REGINA HOUSE Lodge 202, Jourdanton
Candidate for District Seven Director DONNIE HOWARD Lodge 185, New Braunfels
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
33rd SPJST Convention
August 13 to 15, 2021 • Killeen, Texas
By-Law Committee shares submitted recommendations June 14, 2020 Recommendations to By-Law Committee for 2020 SPJST Convention Please see the attached recommendations for the upcoming SPJST Convention. These recommendations are being submitted by a group of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston delegates. Thank you to the By-Law Committee for serving. We look forward to seeing your recommendations to the Convention. Proposed Recommendations for 2020 Convention Article VI Section 12 (f) – Convention/Purpose - Add to the end of the sentence: Decide what donations will be made to various charities and educational institutions, etc. based on the financial performance of the Society of the year of disbursement. - Rationale: If the Society is not performing profitably, then either need to reduce or withhold disbursement. It is best to limit the amount of disbursements versus having an open amount. Article VI Section 14 – Convention / Special Conventions - Add the underlined portion to the fourth sentence: A call for a Special Convention shall be deposited in the United States mail or multiple forms of media currently in practice for commerce at least 30 days prior to the convening of such Special Convention, addressed to each delegate at his/her last known address or email address as shown by the records of SPJST. - Rationale: US mail is close but not an accurate form of communication. It should state that communications and notice will be given via multiple methods currently in practice for commerce. Article VI Section 20 (b) – Convention/Discussions - Add the underlined to the first sentence of the proposed amendment.
- No motion to change by-laws or amendment thereto can be presented to the Convention unless the motion or amendment thereto has been discussed and approved by a lodge and submitted to any member of the Convention Committee, with copy of the approved lodge minutes indicating the decision, not later than 60 days prior to the Convention so that the Committee could study such motion or amendment and deliver its opinion. - Rationale: This will ensure there was a proper discussion with members at a meeting, and a true approval by the membership. Article VII Section 26 (i) – Convention Committee / Duties - Remove language: The Supreme Lodge will determine if copies will be printed or available digitally and will provide copies to lodges and members upon request. - Replace with: The Supreme Lodge will make the newly adopted by-laws available electronically to all members or to the public at their discretion - Rationale: Members should be able to have access to the rules that govern them without having to request them. Can be made publicly available or behind a password protected site. Article VIII Section 32 – Lodge Delegate Elections / Votes - Remove language - Replace with: A lodge represented by its delegate or delegates is entitled to one vote for every adult member. Delegates from each lodge shall divide their lodge’s votes equally among themselves. In the event the votes do not divide equally among its delegates, the extra votes shall be assigned proportionally to all of the lodge’s delegates. (Example: A lodge with 4 delegates and 405 votes would result in each delegate having 101.25 votes). - Rationale: Delegates are voted to represent the entire lodge membership; therefore, the existing voting allocation should remain in place. Article IX Section 37 – Supreme Lodge / Composition - Remove President as a voting member of Supreme Lodge, and add the position to be hired
- Recommendation to reword: The Supreme Lodge shall be composed of the seven elected directors (one from each of the seven districts). The officers (President, who is hired by the directors, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Vice President of Communications, Chief Financial Officer, and Controller) shall serve as non-voting members of the Supreme Lodge. The Supreme Lodge shall have the authority to provide rules and regulations for the extension and development of SPJST and shall have all other necessary and incidental powers to carry out the objectives of SPJST and such other duties as prescribed by these bylaws. - Rationale: An effective board is a board of odd number versus even number. Should there be a tie, how does the Society progress? Article IX Section 40 (as proposed) – Supreme Lodge / Supreme Lodge Chair - Remove language: “however they may not be successive” - Rationale: Excessively burdensome. If someone is doing a good job and the rest of the directors want them to stay in office, why force a change? This position needs to have someone who knows parliamentary procedure and is a leader who can lead a group. Article X Section 53 (c) – Supreme Lodge Officers / Officer Requirements - Add to end of sentence: Home Office agent to forfeit commission. - Rationale: Who gets to write the policy? This would minimize this question by requiring the Home Office be the agent without commission. Article XV Section 71 – Local Lodges / Charter Withdrawal - At the end of the first sentence, add the following: “and the Society agrees with such determination by the Supreme Lodge. Such agreement shall be demonstrated via a majority vote at the next Convention or via calling a Special Convention as outlined in these bylaws.” - Rationale: Withdrawing a charter should not be left to seven officials. That should be determined by the entire Society. Article XV Section 76 – Local Lodges / Lodge Dues - Remove the following language:
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- First sentence “at the annual meeting” - Reword the last sentence: “Dues are to be paid to and according to the direction of the lodge treasurer.” - Rationale: If local lodges are allowed to determine their dues they should also be allowed to determine how they are approved and when they are due. Article XXV (c) (as proposed) - Reword: Grievances at a district or state level should be directed to the Supreme Lodge Chairman – or if the Supreme Lodge Chairman is being cited – to the Supreme Lodge Vice Chairman - Remove: President. - Rationale: If approved, President will be a hired position and not an elected one. Melissa Victorick Brown Adam Curley Alex D’Ambrosio John Douglass Ryan Epps Jeffery Hickl Jason Homrighaus Janice Jahns Wallace Jahns Ashley Victorick ••• June 14, 2020 Rigamonti Proposed Lodge By-Law Amendments Article V Section 9 (a) (5) Membership Classes / Adult Member - Remove last part: and shall not be required to pay annual dues or assessment. - Rationale: Local lodges should be allowed to determine who pays what dues and assessments. Article VII Section 26 (h) – Convention Committee / Duties - Remove language: The Supreme Lodge will determine if copies will be printed or available digitally and will provide copies to lodges and members upon request. - Replace with: The Supreme Lodge will make the newly adopted by-laws available electronically to all members or to the public at their discretion. - Rationale: Members should be able to have access to the rules that govern them without having to request them. Can be made publicly available or behind a password protected site.
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
Article VIII Section 31 (b) – Lodge Delegate Election / Number of Delegates per Lodge - Delete this section. - Rationale: Excessively tedious. Determination of delegate count should come at the time of the annual meeting. Ignores that some additions may be because members transferred in which case you would also need to logically deduct delegates from other lodges
Article XV Section 74 – Local Lodges / Lodge Meetings - Replace first sentence with: Local lodges must conduct meetings at least quarterly so as to remain in good standing and have authority to elect delegates to the Convention. - Rationale: This is consistent with the legal requirement. Time and resources committed to meetings could be used in more fraternal and charitable purposes.
Article VII Section 34 (c) Lodge Delegate Election / Delegate Requirements - Delete and replace with “Lodges shall determine any other participation based requirements as they see fit.” - Rationale: We have plenty of members who are very involved but cannot make monthly meetings. In many cases, they are married to other members and one goes to meetings while the other takes care of the kids. They are still very much actively involved in the lodge, its committees, and informed of lodge activities, they just cannot make the official meetings.
Article XV Section 76 – Local Lodges / Lodge Dues Remove the following language: - First sentence: “at the annual meeting” - Last sentence in its entirety: “Dues are to be paid to the treasurer before or at the end of the regular business meeting: - Rationale: If local lodges are allowed to determine their dues, they should also be allowed to determine how they are approved and when they are due.
Article IX Section 40 (as proposed) – Supreme Lodge / Supreme Lodge Chair - Remove language: “however they may not be successive” - Rationale: Excessively burdensome. If someone is doing a good job and the rest of the directors want them to stay in office, why force a change? Article X Section 53 (a) (as proposed) and (c) – Supreme Lodge Officers / Officer Requirements - Remove both - Rationale: If these are hired personnel and they are required to buy life insurance, this could be construed as a form of rebating. i.e. you get this job but you have to buy at least $50K of life insurance. Article XV Section 71 – Local Lodges / Charter Withdrawal - At the end of the first sentence, add the following: “and the Society agrees with such determination by the Supreme Lodge. Such agreement shall be demonstrated via a majority vote at the next Convention or via calling a Special Convention as outlined in these bylaws.” - Rationale: Withdrawing a charter should not be left to seven officials. That should be determined by the entire Society
Article XXV (c) (as proposed) - Grievances at a district or state level should be directed to the Supreme Lodge Chairman, not the President. - Rationale: If approved, President will be a hired position and not an elected one. Aaron Rigamonti Lodge 88, Houston ••• Dear By-Law Committee, We would like to submit this recommendation to the by-laws for the 33rd SPJST Convention: In the event that the Supreme Lodge proposal (corporate governance) does not pass, we would like to recommend that the Editor/Director of Communication serve as a non-voting Supreme Lodge officer and be referred to as Vice President of Communications. Fraternally, SPJST Publication Committee Floyd Kostelka, Chairman Regina House, Secretary Tammy Cannon Lynda Novak Sharon Hohmann Lorenda Baldwin Helen Kelner ••• Article X Supreme Lodge Officers
Section 53. Officer Requirements. To be a Supreme Lodge officer, an individual must meet the following requirements: (g) No Supreme Lodge officer or his/her spouse can receive commissions for services as a sales agent. (g) delete the words - or his/her spouse, and leave remaining of sentence. Reason: Sales are welcome and encouraged from district directors who are Supreme Lodge members so it should not be a conflict for spouses to serve as sales agents. Lisa Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton —SPJST—
District News District Two cancels delegates’ meeting Dear Members, District Two has canceled its delegates’ meeting that was to be held in July. Since the 33rd Convention will be held in 2021, a delegates’ meeting will be set at a later date. Fraternally, Ronnie Rieger, Chairman SPJST By-Law Committee Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
District Five cancels delegates’ meeting Attention, District Five Delegates: District Five has canceled its delegates’ meeting that was to be held in July. Since the 33rd Convention will be held in 2021, a delegates’ meeting will be set at a later date. Fraternally, Dorothy Pflughaupt District Five Representative By-Law Committee —SPJST—
Family Adventure Days at Camp Kubena! Good news! Family Adventure Days at Camp Kubena is going on this summer on Thursdays through Sundays from now until August 16, 2020. SPJST families can take advantage of the safe social gathering guidelines we have implemented at Camp Kubena. We have a structured day of activities. You provide your own lunch, and we will refrigerate it. Activities provided are: • BB, archery, axe throwing • High ropes and zip line • Exclusive pool and pavilion time for your group of 6 • Free time including games, hiking, disk golf, or relaxing in the air conditioned dining hall The cost for attending a Family Adventure Day is $25 per person. Some of our safe social gathering guidelines are strategic face coverings – in the dining hall when not eating, anytime within 6 feet of staff; hand sanitizer stations; hand wash station; no touch water bottle filling stations; no groups larger than six together at a time; and three-day closure of camp per week for cleaning and nature surface disinfecting. Exclusive to SPJST Members Exclusive to only SPJST members, friends, and families, is the availability for overnight accommodations. There is a two-night maximum stay, and groups must already be signed up for the Family Adventure Day program. There is also a maximum six persons to each cabin. The guest kitchen area in the dining hall is also available. The cost is $110 per cabin, per night. Sign up for Family Adventure Day, book your overnight accommodations, and pay online at www.campkubena.com. Use the Code SUMMERFUN for a special 10 percent discount! We hope to see you at Camp Kubena this summer! Fraternally, Rob Clift Executive Camp Director —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
From the Supreme Lodge
From the Insurance Department
July 1, 2020 Minutes of the Special Called Meeting of SPJST Supreme Lodge held via teleconference
Through June: 336 Certificates Issued
SPJST Insurance update SPJST Records 76 Referrals Through the end of June, the following individuals contributed 76 referrals. Referrals Name Lodge
PRESIDING The meeting was called to order on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, at 4:10 p.m.
PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the meeting was to consider issues related to the SPJST Convention. CONVENTION RELATED ELECTIONS There was discussion about credentialing and seating the delegates that were elected to serve. It was decided by consensus that a Credential Committee would be appointed to verify the qualifications of delegates. The Credential Committee will submit its recommendation for seating of the delegates, and the Supreme Lodge will then have the authority to formally consider and seat all the elected delegates.
PUBLISHING OF REPORTS IN VĚSTNÍK Handling of officers’ and directors’ pre-Convention Věstník reports came up for consideration. After due consideration, Director Victorick moved, seconded by Director Bayer, that the Supreme Lodge officers’ reports be published in the Věstník in July and the reports of the By-Law Committee on by-law recommendations and other committee reports be deferred and published in 2021 to comply with the time requirements in the by-laws. The motion carried unanimously. LODGE MEETING POLICY Director Kaspar moved, seconded by Director Bayer, that the Supreme Lodge will not mandate that lodges meet in the month of July. We encourage staying in touch by telephone or online. Lodges can contact the Home Office for assistance with distance meetings. Motion carried unanimously. CANDIDATES ELIGIBILITY The matter of candidate’s eligibility came up, and this matter was clarified by the By-Law Committee Chairman by telephone. ADJOURNMENT Director Kaspar moved for adjournment. Director Bayer seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 5:09 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Leonard Mikeska Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—
Maria De La Cruz Holly Knecht Danny Walden Rose Dlabaj Betty Macalik Helmer Dahl Terry Malina Dorothy Stuchly Lynette Talasek Sharon Ingram Nikolas Noble Janie Coakley Tamara Gettys Ann Paruzinski Marissa Salinas
0 0 0 25 25 29 47 47 47 87 154 177 246 246 246
ATTENDING Supreme Lodge - Brian Vanicek, President; Hiram Dixon, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller; Donnie Victorick - District One; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Vice Chairman; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Karen Kaspar - District Six/Chairman; Robert J. Bayer - District Seven. Melanie Zavodny, Editor/Director of Communication.
The matter of convention-related elections came up, and a discussion concerned compliance with Texas Department of Insurance rules which provide that director elections must be held at least every four years. This includes Supreme Lodge officers since they serve on the Supreme Lodge as directors. After due consideration, Director Victorick moved, and Director Kaspar seconded, that the Society conduct convention-related elections of Supreme Lodge officers and directors by ballot in lieu of special convention and address By-Law Committee and other committee elections and recommendations at the Convention to be scheduled in the summer of 2021. The motion carried unanimously.
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1 1 1 1 1 1 30 1 1 12 1 2 7 4 12
Member Referral Incentive
All referral cards received during a given month, go into a drawing for up to three $25 Walmart gift cards.
Betty Macalik Lodge 25, Ennis District Three
SPJST Monthly Insurance Report Through June MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS
FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Issued Annualized Prem. Certs. Written Dist. Apps. $3,402.96 $170,000.00 2 $45,000.00 3 1 604.59 150,000.00 5 170,000.00 6 2 2,629.04 220,000.00 7 473,857.00 8 3 7,201.73 220,000.00 6 280,000.00 7 4 7,574.80 2,281,156.00 15 3,403,568.00 17 5 5,977.25 522,115.00 13 1,777,115.00 17 6 9,787.76 817,000.00 18 1,100,000.00 18 7 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 0 9 $37,178.13 $4,277,303.00 $7,249.540.00 66 76 Totals YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM
Dist. Apps. 53 1 42 2 36 3 75 4 75 5 50 6 60 7 0 9 Totals 391
Written $3,395,289.00 1,030,000.00 1,351,040.00 5,015,621.00 11,843,568.00 2,767,115.00 3,955,800.00 0.00 $29,358,433.00
Issued Annualized Prem. Certs. 69,207.04 $1,870,289.00 43 21,270.13 615,000.00 35 35,237.87 1,138,013.00 35 93,880.02 3,748,865.00 57 38,111.84 7,420,378.00 74 38,157.96 1,135,735.00 39 48,156.40 2,424,800.00 53 0.00 0.00 0 $344,021.26 366 $18,353,080.00
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
SPJST Lodge Section The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to:
/// Questions? Call 800-727-7578
Lodge 6, Cottonwood cancels annual picnic Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Lodge 6, Cottonwood will not host its annual picnic in 2020. Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin cancels July dances Attention Readers: Due to the current coronavirus situation, all July dances at Lodge 18, Elgin have been canceled. Please watch for event updates. Thank you. Fraternally, FL Meyer, Trustee —SPJST—
SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087
Email: vestnik@spjst.org
fourth prize - $75 Academy gift card. Tickets are available at Ratibor Country Grill or from Patsy Koslovsky 254-7181606/email patsyk2011@yahoo.com or any lodge member. The ceremony honoring Lodge 47 members with 50- and 75-year memberships will be rescheduled to another date. These members will receive their invitation by mail as soon as the date is rescheduled.
Fashion Bingo—August 9 Our first Lodge 47, Seaton Fashion Bingo will be Sunday, August 9 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Games prizes will be designer purses and other designer items. Doors will open at 1:15 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door, if available, or $240 for a reserved table of six. Tickets includes 10 game tickets, bingo dauber, snacks, and drinks. The event benefits the youth scholarship fund and Star Hall. Contact Amber Bartek, Chelsea Bilbrey, Patsy Koslovsky, Emily Ordogne, Judy Pechal, Melanie Regan, Ginger Ringwald, Joan Shelton, or Becky Zavodny to purchase a ticket or for more information. Please give me a call, and I will get you in touch with any of the above ladies. Take care, stay safe, and I hope to see you soon. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter patsyk2011@yahoo.com 254-718-1606 —SPJST—
Barbecue Cookoff This Weekend! Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18 Lodge 47, Seaton will host its annual barbecue cookoff on Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18. Hamburgers will be available on Friday night, and breakfast tacos will be available on Saturday morning. For more information, please contact EJ Pechal at 254-654-5995.
Lodge 80, Holland to meet August 18 SPJST Lodge 80, Holland will meet on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Items to be discussed include financial statements and options regarding the future of the hall. Members are encouraged to please attend this important meeting. Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville meets Sunday, July 19 For the next meeting of Lodge 81, Needville on Sunday, July 19, 2020, at 1 p.m., it was decided to have sandwiches, which will be provided by the lodge. Members, please bring your favorite side dishes you like to eat with sandwiches and/or a packaged dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST Home Office helps raise funds for Alzheimer’s Association
Lodge 47, Seaton plans July 26 drive-thru plate lunch Please note the changes to the Lodge 47, Seaton picnic which was previously rescheduled for Sunday, July 26, 2020 . . . a drive-through only plate lunch will be served beginning at 11 a.m. A total of 500 plates will be prepared for $10 per plate. The meal will consist of homemade fried chicken and sausage, potato salad, homemade cole slaw, pickles, onions, bread, and dessert. The drawing which was previously planned will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 26. Prizes are: first - 50-inch television; second prize - fire pit; third prize - kid’s web/saucer swing; and
Friends at RVOS Home Office in Temple challenged the staff at SPJST Home Office to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association by supporting the Alzheimer’s Angels “The Longest Day” - as they grilled from sunup to sundown in an effort to symbolize the difficult daily journey of those living with Alzheimer’s (and their caregivers). Together, the two
groups raised $1,102.00 for Alzheimer’s research – with RVOS raising $563 and SPJST raising $539. Special thanks to all who supported the project. Pictured above, volunteer Chip Howell delivers breakfast orders to the SPJST Home Office. He is pictured with Human Resources Administrator Lynette Talasek.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
Lodge 87, Temple supports Churches Touching Lives for Christ Dear Members, I recently received the letter below from Dr. Chris Ballard, the executive director of Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC). Dear SPJST Lodge 87, Temple and Sidney Kacir, Thank you for your recent generous gift to Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC). Your willingness to help needy families in our community makes a difference in their lives. Thanks to you, CTLC will purchase food and basic ne-
cessities for an average of 1,300 families each month. Update We especially thank you during this time of COVID-19. We are still providing food to our neighbors by setting up a drive-through, pick- up grocery line in our parking lot. We provide a nutritious cart of groceries on Tuesday and Saturday of each week. We have added more than 348 new families since we started the drive-through process because of the virus. Thank you so much for your support. Stay well and healthy. Again, thank you for all you do for the needy in our community. In Christ's Name, Dr. Chris Ballard Executive Director Churches Touching Lives for Christ
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P.S. We depend on volunteers to help us. If you would like to share your time, please contact us 254-778-6885.
Lodge 88, Houston meets Monday, July 20
Agricultural Land You will recall that the lodge recently voted in favor of qualifying the agriculture land for wildlife management as well as for a perpetual open space easement.
Lodge 88, Houston is planning to resume its monthly meetings in July. The date for the meeting is Monday, July 20, 2020. The meeting will begin promptly at 7 p.m. Due to the uncertainties of COVID-19, we will not be serving a meal at 6 p.m. Members are encouraged to come early so that they can visit with their fellow members. At this meeting, we will be practicing social distancing, and masks are encouraged. We will get an update on the pool construction, bingo, and the convention. If anything changes, we will inform the membership via the Věstník and email.
Controlling the Pandemic Also special thanks for the positive actions we are taking to control the pandemic. With best regards. Sincerely, Sidney Kacir President —SPJST—
SPJST wins “Most Patriotic Float Entry” in Belton Fourth of July Virtual Parade
SPJST participated in the 2020 Belton Fourth of July Virtual Parade that was held instead of the annual parade that attracts more than 30,000 spectators each year. LEFT PHOTO: State Fraternal Director Frank Horak drives 2019-2020 District Two King Koby Stone, Duke Everhett Bartek, Duchess Sidney Bilbrey, and Queen Emma Regan, all of Lodge 47, Seaton,
in a 2015 Chevy Corvette in the virtual parade that was filmed at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members are all smiles after the brief float ride in the Home Office parking lot. RIGHT PHOTO: Members practice social distancing while wearing masks on the SPJST Float ride.
The SPJST Float, which received the “Most Patriotic Float Entry” award makes its way through the SPJST Home Office parking lot for the filming for the virtual parade which aired on KCEN Channel 6 in the Central Texas area and on social media. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 47, Seaton Youth
Leader Amber Bartek, front, left, and Assistant Youth Leader Chelsea Bilbrey are pictured with the District Two Royalty. RIGHT PHOTO: District Two Duke Everhett Bartek enjoys a visit with David Nauert of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point and Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny.
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Monday, July 13, 2020
In the meantime, please stay safe and well. We look forward to seeing everyone there as it has been several months since we have had a chance to get together. Fraternally, Janice Jahns, President —SPJST—
Lodge 142, Houston cancels July meeting Dear Members, Due to the continuing coronavirus outbreaks, Governor Abbott’s orders, and for the safety and concern for all our members, Lodge 142, Houston’s monthly meeting which was scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2020, has been canceled. We will continue to update everyone when our next meeting will be, and the date will be announced in the Věstník. Take care, stay healthy, and be safe! Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 180, Burleson: cabin fever continues to grow Well, once again, I am writing an article for the Věstník about a meeting that we did not have this month because of the continuation of COVID-19. It seems really strange to me that this is still holding us hostage. In my observations, I have noticed that some people are adhering to wearing masks as has been asked of us by our medical professions and government to contain the spread of the virus. But, by the same token, some people are not following the standards. I find it disheartening to hear people say that they will not wear masks, and they “will not allow the government to tell them they have to wear masks.” I am 82 years old, and no, I do not like having to wear a mask. But I had rather wear a mask if it will be an example to someone else and if it will keep someone from getting this dreaded illness (if I am unaware that I have contacted the symptoms), plus, it protects
me from someone who may have the symptoms. The biggest problem with this illness is the lack of being able to socialize and developing a giant case of cabin fever. My cabin fever is growing on a daily basis, and I can relate to others who are also suffering from this fever. But let’s think about the medical profession, our police, our firemen, and any other group that must mask 24/7 as well as other protective gear, in order to help protect each of us on a daily basis. Let’s give thanks for each and every one of these individuals. July birthday wishes go out to Claudia Esquivel, Fabian Soria Jr., Sandy Almonte, Don Thomas, Bradley Janek, John Hilcher, Renee Greenlees, Janet Payne, Ernest Kelly Jr., Meredith Cox, and Chester Bean. We send each of you a happy birthday with wishes for many
★ ★ Reunions ★ ★ Reunion notices are published at no charge and as a benefit to SPJST members. First-run announcements may be edited to fit the space. There-
after, until the week prior to the reunion date - as space permits notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include your SPJST
Lodge 48, Beyersville families celebrate Independence Day with parade The families of Urbanek, Newsom, Miksch, and Poldrack of Lodge 48, Beyersville celebrated Independence Day on July 4, 2020, by making their own parade on their driveway. It was the perfect parade!
Lee Roy and Ruth Hanusch celebrate 50 years of marriage Congratulations to Lee Roy and Ruth Hanusch who will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 17, 2020! The couple was married on July 17, 1970, at Salem Lutheran Church by Reverend W.A. Muller in Rosebud, Texas. Lee Roy and Ruth have three children - Donna Hawkins of Arvada, Colorado, Pamela Bennett of Waco, and Wayne Hanusch of Round Rock. They also have nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Lee Roy worked for Ruth and Lee Roy Hanusch Temple Tile and Scott and White Hospital where he retired after 20 years. Ruth assistant under the President. She has works for SPJST. She served as un- worked for SPJST for more than 43 derwriter for 28 years in the Insurance years. Department where she retired in Ruth and Lee Roy have lived in 1999. She then returned to the Frater- Temple for 38 years. nal Department serving as a part-time —SPJST—
more. May each of you continue to have good health, and we look forward to the future. Respectively yours, Nancy S. Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—
The parade included decorated cars, animals, kids, royalty, and a Veteran. —Submitted by Michelle Newsom Reporter/Youth Leader
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
lodge number/name, and your contact phone number. Thank you. CANCELED—Kresta family reunion which was scheduled for Sunday, July 26, 2020, at Moravia Hall. Next year’s family reunion is scheduled on the fourth Sunday in July 2021. Submitted by, Marylyn Kresta Kubecka Bay City, Texas Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje —SPJST—
Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488 to draw for prizes at Lodge 24, Cyclone Here is a fundraiser update for the Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488, Temple Area. Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488 had originally scheduled its fundraiser for May 2, 2020, at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall.
However, the fundraiser was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak and restrictions placed upon us by our government. With the current restrictions on social distancing and limited gathering, the assembly has agreed to hold a fundraiser drawing for the giveaway of the prizes on Saturday, July 25 at 6:30 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall. No social gathering will take place. Anyone who has purchased a fundraiser ticket is welcome to attend to wit-
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ness the drawing of prizes. Winners of the drawing will be contacted, and prizes will distributed. Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488 thanks all of its supporters for their patience during the coronavirus outbreak. Submitted by, Kenneth Jezisek Lodge 177, Academy Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488 —SPJST—
Veterans’ Voices: Weldon Galler of Lodge 66, Waco by Mary Drennon Special to the Waco Tribune-Herald August 17, 2019 Weldon Galler, who will celebrate his 100th birthday on July 19, 2020, is an example of what time does to m e m o r y. Galler, a Waco resident, served several years in the United States Army, but time has a f f e c t e d Weldon Galler holds a what he photo of himself in can re- World War II. Weldon member. will celebrate his 100th S t i l l , birthday on July 19. —Photo by there are Mary Drennon s o m e things he can recall, such as the fact that he grew up on a farm in Buckholts and milked cows, gathered eggs, picked cotton, baled hay, and more. His parents, who spoke only German, taught him the language thoroughly. It would come in handy later when he served during World War II. Galler attended a two-room schoolhouse in Milam County until the eighth grade. He worked on other peoples’ farms, shearing sheep, and the like. At age 19, he wanted to enroll in the military, as his two brothers were already serving — one of whom was a prisoner of war for three years in Japan. With his parent’s blessing, he was off to basic training, but doesn’t remember where. His job, however, he does re-
member: Galler was a lineman, or more formally, a signalman who strung and repaired wires for improved communications on the front line. Practice was on 12-foot poles in the beginning, but the real thing came when he went to Oregon and learned to climb 150-foot poles. “It was interesting,” he said. Galler was sent to England, where he was stationed during World War II. He was part of the 433rd Signal Construction Battalion, just one of approximately 100 Signal Units in service during the war. Most likely, he was part of the twoyear buildup of men and infrastructure leading up to the Normandy campaign and D-Day. He recalls sleeping in tents in the beginning but later moving to buildings. Things were very busy. “I don’t even remember sleeping,” he said. Jane and Thomas Galler recalled a time when Thomas’ father remembered Lodge 66, Waco member Weldon Galler served in the United States Army during World War II as a lineman, or more formally, a signalman who strung and repaired wires for communication.
Weldon Galler, seated, is pictured with his family members at Lodge 66, Waco’s anniversary luncheon in November 2019. Pictured are, son Michael, daughter-in-law Jane, great-granddaughter Fiona, grandson Douglas, great-grandson Reid, son Thomas, Joan Shelton, and Hannah Galler.
more. One particular story they remember him telling was the time his superiors came to him because he spoke German and they needed a message deciphered as no one could read the language. The message detailed a planned attack, and because of his help, they were able to thwart it. It was an exciting moment in his service. There’s no doubt that the job he served overseas was dangerous, but Galler doesn’t recall ever being shot at. Still, being up in the air on a tall pole certainly made one a target. He also saw several piles of bodies from concentration camps where they had yet to be burned while he was in Germany. Research shows that the 433rd Signal Construction Battalion served in Ardennes-Alsace, Central Europe, Northern France, and the Rhineland. He recalls being on a boat headed to
Japan when the war ended. He never did make it there. Instead, he came back to the States and left the service with an honorable discharge as a staff sergeant. In 1948, Galler married Rose Mihatsch, who passed away after some 46 years of marriage. Together, they had three children (Debra, Michael, and Thomas), four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Both his brothers came home safely but have since died. Galler’s sister, Lorene Glaser, is 105 and still living in Central Texas. Galler went to work for American Desk before he took a job in Waco at L.L. Sams and Sons, where he made church furniture for approximately 45 years. Even though Galler’s memory is failing, he does remember one thing about his service: “It was something necessary,” he said. —SPJST—
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
Fun-Filled Family Fourth at Camp Kubena for Lodge 154, Fort Worth members The Cleveland/Jones family from Lodge 154, Fort Worth enjoyed an adventurous and fun-filled family fourth surprising their son/grandson/nephew Clark Jones, who is also a counselor at Camp Kubena, on his 20th birthday, which was on July 4, 2020. “We had the entire camp to ourselves to roam about,” reports BJ Cleveland. Activities that the family enjoyed included nine holes of disc golf, card game marathon, archery, BB gun target practice, axe throwing, ropes course, zip-lining, swimming, guitars, s’mores, and cornhole tournament.
This Summer, You’ll Be Swimming in Perks Make this summer the summer of savings! Check out your SPJST Discount Program, where you can find exclusive deals in categories like electronics, home goods, apparel, and more!
spjst.perkspot.com
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, July 13, 2020
HAPPY Golden BIRTHDAY BRENDA!
James and Regina House celebrate 33rd anniversary
Spotlight Items From The SPJST Store $4.55
Margaret A. Wilson achieves Grand Age of 96 SPJST congratulates Sister Margaret A. Wilson of Lodge 154, Fort Worth, who will celebrate her 96th birthday on July 28, 2020. As such, Margaret is entitled to all SPJST member benefits with no further dues or assessments. Margaret was born in Fort Worth, Texas, to Clyde and Robbie Jenkins. Her siblings are brothers Charles, Robert, and Rueben, who are now deceased. Sister Margaret married James W. Wilson in November 1959. They were blessed with son Gregory (wife Cynthia) of Saginaw and daughter Robin Keeler (husband Douglas) of Ocala, Florida. Margaret is retired from FAA. She loves to travel, watch live shows, attend church, and spend time with her family. We congratulate Sister Margaret A. Wilson on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Margaret, for all your devotion to our SPJST Society for all these years. May God bless you and your family. —SPJST—
Congratulations to Lodge 202, Jourdanton President James House and Youth Leader Regina House who celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary on June 13, 2020. We wish you many more happy years to share! —Photo by Sandra Hoggard
Retrieving the Morning Paper
$9.10
Patriotic Cap
Picture Frame Happy 50th Birthday to Brenda Hoelscher of Lodge 47, Seaton.
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$7.80 $8.45
Rain Gauge
Pen Set
by d.knape
In the morning just before dawn it is still dark and still in pajamas he makes a run for the paper lying there on the driveway like a dead bird that fell to earth he hurries to pick it up before a car comes to catch him in its headlights quickly back toward the front door before anyone sees him the next door cat does he’s been watching the whole time from behind the bush next to the house he thinks to himself people are crazy to be up at this hour this is the time meant for cats people should not intrude the cat tiptoes away disgusted people make such fools of themselves they don’t have much sense don’t they know the night belongs to cats. —SPJST—
All prices include shipping and handling. Complete the order form below or order online at spjst.org.
The SPJST Store Order Form Name ______________________________________ Lodge _______________ Address/City/Zip ___________________________________________________ Phone ____________________________________________________________ Picture Frame ($4.55 each)
I would like to order _____ Picture Frame(s).
Patriotic Cap ($9.10 each)
I would like to order _____ Patriotic Cap(s).
Rain Gauge ($8.45 each)
I would like to order _____ Rain Gauge(s).
Pen Set ($7.80 each)
I would like to order _____ Pen Set(s). Total Amount Enclosed: ___________________
Send your order along with your check/money order to: SPJST Home Office c/o Susan Shofner • P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503
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Monday, July 13, 2020
VĚSTNÍK
————— DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIFE INSURANCE ————— The money your beneficiary receives can help cover expenses and ensure that your family is not burdened with debt.
Make sure that you fully understand any policy you’re considering and that you’re comfortable with the company, agent, and product. When choosing a product, follow the tips below:
What are the different types of insurance? There are two basic types of life insurance: permanent and term. Permanent insurance pays your beneficiary whenever you may die; term insurance pays your beneficiary if you die during a specific period of time. The money your beneficiary receives can help cover expenses and ensure that your family is not burdened with debt. What is permanent insurance? Permanent (cash value) insurance provides lifelong protection as long as premiums are paid. It may build up cash value over time, which grows tax deferred. With all permanent policies, the cash value is different from the face amount. The face amount is the money that will be paid to your beneficiary if you die. Cash value takes time to grow. But after you’ve held the policy for several years, its cash value can offer you several options: • You can borrow from the insurer using your cash value as collateral. • You can get the loan even if you don’t have a good credit history. If you don’t repay the loan (including interest), it will reduce the amount paid to your beneficiaries after your death. • You can use the cash value to pay your premiums, which would create a loan (interest would continue to accrue), or to buy more coverage. • You can exchange the policy by using the cash value for an annuity that will provide a steady stream of retirement income for life or a specified period. • You can cancel (surrender) the policy and receive the cash value in a lump sum. You will pay taxes on the value that exceeds what you’ve paid in premiums. Basic types of cash value insurance Whole life offers premiums that generally stay fixed over the life of the policy, a fixed death benefit, and cash value that grows at a fixed rate of return.
Tips on buying life insurance
• After you’ve bought an insurance policy, you may have a “free-look” period—usually 10 days after you receive the policy—when you can change your mind. During that period, read your policy carefully. If you decide not to keep it, the company will cancel the policy and give you an appropriate refund. Information about the free look period is in your contract. Universal life gives you flexibility in setting premium payments and the death benefit. Changes must be made within certain guidelines set by the policy; to increase a death benefit, the insurer usually requires evidence of continued good health. A universal life policy can have a variable component.
• Premium costs that can be fixed or flexible to meet individual financial needs.
What is term insurance? Term insurance provides protection for a defined period of time—from 10, 15, 20, or even 30 years—and pays benefits only if you die during that period. Term insurance is often used to cover financial obligations that will disappear over time, such as tuition or mortgage payments. Premiums for term insurance either can be fixed for the length of the term or can increase at a point specified in the policy. They also can be less expensive than for a cash value policy. Some term policies can be renewed at the end of a term. However, premium rates will usually increase upon renewal. To qualify for renewal at the lowest rates, many policies require evidence of insurability (continued good health). At the end of a term, you also may be able to convert the policy to a permanent policy. Term policies don’t usually build up a cash value.
Cash Value Insurance Disadvantages • Cash value insurance is designed to be kept for the long term; therefore, cancelling a cash value policy after only a few years can be expensive.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of insurance? Cash Value Insurance Advantages • Lifelong protections as long as the premiums are paid.
• Cash value, which can be: used to pay premiums or buy more coverage; borrowed against; converted to an annuity; or surrendered for cash.
Term Insurance Advantages • A policy can cover financial obligations that will disappear over time, such as a mortgage or college expenses. • Premiums are generally lower than those for cash value insurance at younger ages. Term Insurance Disadvantages • Provides protection for a specific period of time, not for life. • Renewing coverage at the end of the term generally means premiums will increase.
• Keep your life insurance policy with your other financial records or legal papers, or anywhere your survivors are likely to look for it. However, don’t keep your policy in your safe deposit box. In most states, boxes are sealed temporarily on the death of the owner, delaying a settlement when funds may be needed most. • Contact your original company, agent, or financial adviser before cancelling your current policy to buy a new one. If your health has declined, you may no longer be insurable at affordable rates. If you replace one cash value policy with another, the cash value of the new policy may be relatively small for several years. • If you have a complaint about your insurance agent or company, contact the customer service division of your insurance company. If you’re still dissatisfied, contact your state insurance department. A state insurance department directory is available on www.acli.com. • Review your policy from time to time or when a major event occurs in your life—such as a birth, job promotion, divorce, remarriage, or retirement—to be sure your coverage is adequate and your beneficiaries are correctly named.
• Policies don’t usually build up a cash value.
• Visit www.acli.com for more consumer resources and information about life insurance.
Source: American Council of Life Insurers, www.acli.com
Source: American Council of Life Insurers, www.acli.com
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AFFORDABLE INSURANCE OPTIONS
In many cases, the application process can be accomplished in one meeting.
Are you and your family adequately covered?
Unless you deal with life insurance regularly, it can be an intimidating and sometimes difficult subject to discuss.
If you haven’t purchased insurance in a while, you may be surprised at the many affordable life insurance options available through your local SPJST sales agent. The following list provides a brief summary of the insurance options that are available: 10-Year Term. A modern term product issued to ages 18 through
75. Premiums are guaranteed for 10 years and can be renewed annually after that to age 95. The death benefit is guaranteed level to age 95. Renewals are guaranteed, even if your health is not perfect! Convertible to permanent coverage prior to age 65 with no health requirements. 15-Year Term. Just like the 10-Year Term, except premiums are
level for 10 years. Issued to ages 18 through 70. Convertible to permanent coverage prior to age 65 with no health requirements.
20-Year Term. Level premiums for 20 years (guaranteed level
for 15). Issued to ages 18 through 65. Just the thing for young families to provide benefits for the family while the children are growing up if the breadwinner dies. Convertible to permanent coverage prior to age 65 with no health requirements. 30-Year Term. A very sensible term product! Premiums are level
for 30 years (guaranteed level for 20). Issued to ages 18 through 55. It is excellent for mortgage cancellation as well as providing inexpensive coverage before retirement. Convertible to permanent coverage prior to age 65 with no health requirements. Whole Life. A whole life product designed for both young and mature applicants that offers affordable premiums and builds cash value.
Final Expense. A whole life plan designed to help with your final
expense needs whether you are in perfect health or even have health concerns (not guaranteed issue). Coverage is available on a modified, graded or level death benefit basis. The level death benefit has inflation protection available, to cover final expenses as they increase each year. Available from ages 40 to 80 with premiums payable for life or as a one-time single premium.
Annual Reviews Available To All Members Thank you for your membership in SPJST. You are a valued part of what makes SPJST a great organization that provides benefits, coverage, and services. These are all designed to not only provide security and peace of mind to you and your family, but to provide a better quality of life with others who value faith, family, and community. As part of our continued and valued service to our members, SPJST has implemented a program to ensure that your certificate information, such as named beneficiary and insurance coverage, is correct and up-to-date. By reviewing and knowing that your information is current, you can be assured that you are receiving the full value of your membership, and you have peace of mind that your
Paid Up at 65 Whole Life. You are covered to age 100, but
you only pay premiums to age 65. Cash values are available and continue to grow to age 100. Enjoy your retirement without life insurance premiums! 10 Pay Life. A whole life product designed for both young and
mature applicants with premiums payable for 10 years. Issued to ages 0 through 70. 20 Pay Life. A whole life product designed for both young and
mature applicants with premiums payable for 20 years. Issued to ages 0 through 60. Single Pay Whole Life. A whole life product available with
just one premium. The certificate is then paid-up. Issued to ages 0 through 80. Universal Life 3. A flexible protection plan issued to ages 0
through 80 which offers both a guaranteed and current interest rate on the cash value accumulation. Annuities. Both qualified (IRA) and non-qualified are offered
to SPJST members. Interest rates are posted every week in SPJST’s weekly newspaper, Věstník. For current rates, contact the SPJST Home Office, refer to the Věstník, or visit www.spjst.org. In many cases, the insurance application process can be accomplished at your home in one meeting. At other times, it may take an additional visit since the sales agent may need to spend some time assessing the information you provide in the initial meeting before he or she can recommend the appropriate life insurance solution. For more information on the life insurance options available to you, please contact your local lodge sales agent. If you’re not sure who that is, call the SPJST Insurance Department at 800-727-7578, and you will be put in touch with a sales agent in your area. Visit www.spjst.org for a listing of agents. —SPJST—
loved ones will receive the care they deserve. Please take advantage of this service. SPJST has the most competitive insurance products, annuities and IRAs to meet each family need along with being a fraternal society that recognizes its proud heritage and believes strongly in its youth by teaching patriotism, good citizenship, teamwork, and leadership. And, if you have recommendations for new lodge members, please share them with your Regional General Agent (RGA) or local SPJST lodge sales agent. Your name will be entered in SPJST’s monthly drawing.
• Marriage • A child or grandchild who is born or adopted • Graduation from school or college • Significant changes in your health or that of your spouse • Death of your spouse • Divorce • Taking on the financial responsibility of an aging parent • Purchasing a new home • A loved one who requires long-term care • Refinancing your home • Coming into an inheritance
How Often Should I Review My SPJST Certificate? If you have a major life event, you should contact your SPJST agent or the SPJST Home Office. This event in your life may have a significant impact on your insurance needs. Life events or changes may include:
For 123 years, SPJST has been a shining example in Texas of secure insurance plans and dedicated ideals of fraternalism. All this is possible because of you, our member. If you have questions or need our assistance in any way from the Home Office, please call us at 800-72-SPJST or 800-727-7578. We are here to help you.
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Should I buy life insurance through work or on my own? This isn’t always an either/or question. The answer is often “both.” Buying through work. Typically, your employer's "basic" life insurance benefit provides coverage equal to one or two times your annual income. Many employers offer the option of purchasing supplemental coverage, often through an automatic payroll deduction. This is convenient, and you may be able to obtain the extra coverage at a higher rate without having to answer any questions about your health, a big plus if insurability is a concern. SPJST is here to help you with what you need. Buying on your own. You can choose from among a wide variety of SPJST products, and you never need to worry about losing coverage if you change jobs. You also may be able to get coverage more affordably. Why? When you buy on your own, the price depends on your health and can be permanent. In a work plan, the rate often depends on the health status of employees in your age bracket and is usually temporary or until retirement age. Call us for more information 800-72-SPJST. —SPJST—
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VĚSTNÍK
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BUYING LIFE INSURANCE Beneficiaries do not have to pay federal income taxes on the money they receive from a life insurance policy. Getting Started As you prepare to buy a life insurance policy, evaluate your ongoing and future financial needs. To begin, ask yourself some basic questions: Why do I need to buy life insurance? If someone depends on you financially, the likelihood is that you need life insurance. Life insurance provides cash to your family after you die. The money your beneficiary receives (the death benefit) can be an important financial resource. It can help cover daily living expenses, pay the mortgage and other outstanding loans, fund tuition, and ensure that your family is not burdened with debt. Having a life insurance policy could mean your spouse or children won’t have to sell assets to pay bills or taxes (Note: Beneficiaries do not have to pay federal income taxes on the money they receive from a life insurance policy). Stay-at-home parents also might consider life insurance to help cover the costs of services they routinely provide, such as caring for children and the home. Retirees living on limited income also may find peace of mind knowing that a surviving spouse will not be faced with a financial burden after their death.
How much life insurance do I need? Everyone’s needs are different. An SPJST life insurance agent can help you determine what level of protection is right for you and your family based on your financial responsibilities, sources of income, and savings. There are online calculators that also can help you; however, sitting down with an insurance professional to review your financial information can give you a more personalized view of your needs. In general, deciding how much life insurance you need means calculating the total income that would need to be replaced upon your death to help pay for your family’s financial needs. Consider ongoing expenses (day care, tuition, rent, or mortgage), immediate expenses (medical bills, burial costs, and estate taxes), and long term financial goals (savings for college education and retirement). Your family also may need money to pay for a move or to cover daily expenses during a job search. While there is no substitute for evaluating needs based on your own financial information, some experts suggest that if you own a life insurance policy it should pay a benefit equal to seven to 10 times your annual income. Your needs could be higher or lower depending on your unique situation. Source: American Council of Life Insurers, www.acli.com
WHAT IS AN ANNUITY? In its most general sense, an annuity is an agreement for one person or organization to pay another a stream or series of payments. Usually the term “annuity” relates to a contract between you and a life insurance company, but a charity or a trust can take the place of the insurance company. There are many categories of annuities. They can be classified by: • Nature of the underlying investment – fixed or variable • Primary purpose – accumulation or payout (deferred or immediate) • Nature of pay-out commitment – fixed period, fixed amount, or lifetime
• Tax status – qualified or nonqualified • Premium payment arrangement – single premium or flexible premium. An annuity can be classified in several of these categories at once. For example, you might buy a nonqualified single premium deferred variable annuity. In general, annuities have the following attractive features: Tax deferral on investment earnings Many investments are taxed year by year, but the investment earnings—capital gains and investment income—in annuities aren’t taxable until you withdraw money. This tax deferral is also true of 401(k)s and IRAs; however, unlike these products, there are no limits on the amount you can put into an an-
HOW TO PURCHASE INSURANCE: CHOOSING AN AGENT The agent should be able and willing to explain the different kinds of policies and other insurance-related matters. Working With An Agent What should an agent do for me? The agent should be able and willing to explain the different types of policies and other insurance-related matters. You should feel satisfied that the agent is listening to you and looking for ways to find the right type of insurance at an affordable price. If you’re not comfortable with the agent, or you aren’t convinced he or she is providing the service you want, interview another agent. What should I expect during my meeting with an agent? An agent will begin by discussing your financial needs. You should have basic personal financial information available— along with a general idea of your goals—before you meet or talk with an agent. He or she will ask questions about your family income, other financial resources you might have, and any debts. The agent will be better able to assess your nuity. Moreover, the minimum withdrawal requirements for annuities are much more liberal than they are for 401(k)s and IRAs. Protection from creditors If you own an immediate annuity (that is, you are receiving money from an insurance company), generally the most that creditors can access is the payments as they’re made, since the money you gave the insurance company now belongs to the company. Some state statutes and court decisions also protect some or all of the payments from those annuities. And your money in tax-favored retirement plans, such as IRAs and 401(k)s, are generally protected, whether invested in an annuity or not. An array of investment options, including “floors” Many annuity companies offer a variety of investment options. You can invest in a fixed annuity which would credit a specified
needs with the information you provide. What types of questions will I be asked? In addition to questions about finances, be prepared to answer questions about your age, medical condition, family medical history, personal habits, occupation, and recreational activities. Always answer questions truthfully; a company will use this information to evaluate your risk and set a premium for your coverage. For instance, you’ll pay a lower premium if you don’t smoke; on the other hand, if you have a chronic illness, you can expect a higher premium. When it’s time to submit a claim, the accurate and truthful answers you provided to the agent will enable your beneficiary to receive prompt and full payment. When you apply for life insurance, you may be asked to take a medical exam. In many instances, a licensed healthcare professional hired and paid for by the life insurance company will make a personal visit to your home to conduct the exam.
interest rate, similar to a bank Certificate of Deposit (CD). If you buy a variable annuity, your money can be invested in stock or bond (or other) mutual funds. In recent years, annuity companies have created various types of “floors” that limit the extent of investment decline from an increasing reference point. For example, the annuity may offer a feature that guarantees your investment will never fall below its value on its most recent policy anniversary. Tax-free transfers among investment options In contrast to mutual funds and other investments made with “after-tax money,” with annuities there are no tax consequences if you change how your funds are invested. This can be particularly valuable if you are using a strategy called “rebalancing,” which is recommended by many financial advisors. Under rebalancing, you shift your investments periodically to return them to the pro-
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portions that you determine represent the risk/return combination most appropriate for your situation. Lifetime income A lifetime immediate annuity converts an investment into a stream of payments that last as long as you do. In concept, the payments come from three “pockets”: Your in-
vestment, investment earnings and money from a pool of people in your group who do not live as long as actuarial tables forecast. It’s the pooling that’s unique to annuities, and it’s what enables annuity companies to be able to guarantee you a lifetime income. Benefits to your heirs There is a common misconception about
annuities that goes like this: if you start an immediate lifetime annuity and die soon after that, the insurance company keeps all of your investment in the annuity. That can happen, but it doesn’t have to. To prevent it, buy a “guaranteed period” with the immediate annuity. A guaranteed period commits the insurance company to continue payments after you die to one or more beneficiaries
you designate; the payments continue to the end of the stated guaranteed period—usually 10 or 20 years (measured from when you started receiving the annuity payments). Moreover, annuity benefits that pass to beneficiaries don’t go through probate and aren’t governed by your will. Source: Insurance Information Institute —SPJST—
available on the www.spjst.org website under the products tab
Life Needs Calculator
Calculate Your Needs When purchasing life insurance, the question really isn’t how much you need, but how much capital your family will need at the time of your death, which depends on two variables:
How much will be needed at death to meet immediate obligations? This amount takes into account all final expenses: uncovered medical bills, funeral and estate-settling costs, outstanding debts, mortgage balance, and college costs to name a few.
How much future income is needed to sustain the household? This is the number you’ll arrive at after calculating the “present value” of cash-flow streams your family will need after your death.
We no longer require a face-to-face meeting to purchase our life insurance and annuity products. Contact your SPJST Sales Agent for more information. We are also available at spjst.org, email, or call 800-727-7578.
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Life Insurance and More
Home Office: 520 North Main Temple, Texas 76501
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800-727-7578 info@spjst.org www.spjst.org
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VĚSTNÍK The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to: SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org 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 (listed on page 2), or State Fraternal Director at 800-727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.
Lodge 20, Granger youth enters 2020 Showcase This past weekend, I entered the SPJST Youth Showcase which was the first time for all of us. It was a challenge yet fun. I encourage everyone to give it a try next year. James Teague, age 15 —SPJST—
Lodge 30, Taiton youth shares confirmation
Dear Věstník Readers, COVID-19 has put off a lot of things, especially SPJST functions. I’ve missed my SPJST family a lot. But recently, I got to finally have my confirmation, and it was extra special because my youth
club leader, Mrs. Lisa Bubela, was my sponsor. I’m so happy she gets to help and watch me grow in my Catholic faith. Sincerely, Brittany Baker, age 17 —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland Youth Club enjoys doughnuts, ice cream at June meeting Lodge 80, Holland Youth Club finally had a meeting in June! We have been missing all of our friends. We had doughnuts and ice cream. We also had a few extra little friends. We had our meeting outside on a nice, cool day. Molley Taisler, age 9 —SPJST—
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In Memoriam In Memory of Allen Trigg, Sr.
In Memory of Andrew Hollas
Allen Leonard Trigg, Sr., age 78, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2020. Funeral service was at 2 p.m., Monday, July 6 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home in Waco. Burial followed at Eddy Cemetery. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30 at the funeral home. Allen Trigg, Sr. Allen was born April 15, 1942, in Clifton to Wilbert and Lillian Pederson Trigg. He worked driving a truck for 25 years for the Teamsters. Allen loved to barbecue and entered and won many competitions, competing as far as Tennessee. Allen was a member of SPJST Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy, where he had served as president since 2006. Allen was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Trigg; and parents Wilbert and Lillian. He is survived by daughter Debbie Trigg; son Allen Trigg, Jr. and wife Tisha; sister Delores Sincerney and husband Eddie; grandchildren Taylor Trigg and fiancé Kara Scott and Tanner Trigg and Shelby Hyde; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog Max. —SPJST—
Andrew William Hollas, age 88 of Little River-Academy, Texas, our beloved husband, father, and grandpa, joined his heavenly Father on Thursday, May 21, 2020, while at home. Visitation was held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27 in Harper-Talasek Funeral Home Andrew Hollas Chapel in Temple. Funeral service was at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28 in Harper-Talasek Funeral Home Chapel. Pallbearers were Brandon Hollas, Brad Hollas, Eric Hollas, Andrew Hollas, Austin Hollas, and Robert Scott. Honorary pallbearer was Billy Easley. Andrew’s story started on December 5, 1931, in rural Falls County where he was born on a farm near Lott to Alvin Hollas, Sr., and Minnie Kadlacek Hollas. The baby of the family, he grew up with two brothers and one sister farming cotton and corn. Andrew married the love of his life Ruth Olis on June 25, 1955, and together, they raised three sons in Little River-Academy. Andrew worked for Coca-Cola delivering beverages to Fort Hood for 35 years. He then worked for 10 years as a custodian for Academy ISD. Through the years, he served with the Little River Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and Little River Lions Club. Andrew was well known for his sausage making skills, and he could frequently be found in “Dad’s Sausage Shack” in the backyard whipping up a batch for family, friends, or neighbors. He also enjoyed tinkering with lawn mowers so that he was always available to help his sons and neighbors cut the grass. Andrew spent many Saturday nights twirling Ruth on a dance floor to their favorite polka music. They also attended countless birthday parties, school programs, and special events with their sons
and grandchildren - and made the church picnic circuit every year. To celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2005, Andrew and Ruth traveled, along with a group of 90 family members and friends, on a memorable cruise of Alaska. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 177, Academy. Preceding Andrew to heaven are his parents, Alvin, Sr. and Minnie Hollas; brothers Lawrence Hollas and Alvin Hollas, Jr.; and sister Evelyn Knecht. Andrew is survived by his precious wife Ruth; sons Ernest Hollas and wife Kathy of Salado, Garland Hollas and wife Susan of Little River-Academy, and Leonard Hollas and wife Jessica of Salado; grandsons Brandon Hollas and wife Christina of Salado, Brad Hollas and wife Stephanie of Temple, Eric Hollas of McKinney, Andrew Hollas of Little River-Academy, Austin Hollas of Salado; and granddaughter Alaina Hollas of Salado. His first great-granddaughter Addison Hollas was born this year in early April. Memorial donations can be made in Andrew’s name to the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation via g1dfoundation.org. —SPJST—
In Memory of Clinton Lee Marek Clinton Lee Marek passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 27, 2020, in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was 55 years old. Clinton was a member of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi since 1971. He is survived by his parents Edward and Mary Ann Marek; sister Carla Marek Scott Clinton Marek of Cantonment, Florida; wife Nora Marek; sons Clinton Marek, and Caylab Cooney; daughters Dallas Marek and Sierra Marek of Corpus Christi; and son Michael Marek of Ash, North Carolina; and six grandchildren. —SPJST—
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In Memory of Marvin Tomas Marvin James Tomas, 87, of Victoria, Texas, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2020. Born on September 26, 1932, in Ganado to Jaroslav (Jerry) Tomas and Mary Lesak Tomas, Marvin was the youngest of six children and grew up on a farm near Ganado. He attended New Suterland grade school and Ganado High School. He Marvin Tomas married Joyce Smiga on November 18, 1952, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Inez. Marvin was in the Army and completed his basic training at Fort Bliss in Texas. He was then stationed in Chicago. As his children were growing up, he spent time coaching both boys’ baseball and girls’ softball. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his sons. There was not a project that Marvin could not do. He was knowledgeable in all working crafts and put his talents to work in building a lakehouse on Medina Lake. Marvin began his career with Central Power and Light at an early age and retired after more than 45 years of service as a transmission line supervisor. After retirement, Marvin and Joyce spent time camping with the CPL RV Retiree Club. They made two trips to the Czech Republic, and he was very knowledgeable about his Czech heritage. He wanted to return to the Czech Republic, but due to health problems, was unable to do so. Marvin and Joyce were also members of the polka and waltz and the western dance clubs at Dacosta. Marvin was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 97, Placedo. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jerry, Joe, and Adolf Tomas; sisters Frances Tomas Specht and Madeline Tomas Muzny Babik. Marvin is survived by his wife Joyce of 67 years; sons Darrell Tomas and Gary Tomas (Alberta) of Victoria; daughter Debra Tomas of Victoria; and grandchildren Douglas, Andrew, and Matthew Tomas.
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Due to COVID-19, a private graveside service was held. Words of comfort may be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com. Submitted by, Judy Bellanger Lodge 97, Placedo —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Česká
The Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek No. 4, Hallettsville on behalf of our entire membership wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge brother, MARVIN ADOLPH FOJT, age 88, of Hallettsville, Texas, who passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2020. He was born October 10, 1931, in Hallettsville to the late Adolph Victor and Mary Balusek Fojt. He was an electrician and retired from the City Electric Company of Victoria. He was a kind gentleman and in his retirement he devoted himself to serving others. He was a nursing home volunteer for more than 15 years, serving residents of Stevens Nursing and Rehab and Yoakum Nursing and Rehab in Yoakum. He was honored with many plaques and tokens of appreciation from those whom he served. Marvin was a member of SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law Jessie Kahanek, Marvin Grohmann, and Alfred Lorfing; and sister-in-law Charlene Fojt. Survivors include his step-daughter Dorothy Heller and husband Rodney; step-grandchildren McKinsey and Chase Heller; sisters Elrose Kahanek of Hallettsville, Eunice Lorfing of Victoria, Alene Steffek (Johnnie) of Hallettsville, and Thelma Grohmann of Houston; brother Delmar Fojt (Mary Jane) of Victoria; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. A memorial for family and friends will be held at a later date. Arrangements were by Thiele Cooper Funeral home, Yoakum, Texas. May our departed brother rest in eternal peace. Resolution Committee Gayenell Chudej Victoria Zak —SPJST—
Část
ROČNÍK 108 ČISLO 13 13.červenec.2020
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE
Resolution of Sympathy
is very intimate and very nice.”
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
HUMANITY
BROTHERHOOD
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
The popular špekáček: unhealthy for your body, but so good for your soul by Daniel Konewka and Daniela Lazarová July 26, 2018 The traditional špekáček – a short fat sausage best roasted on a stick over a campfire – is a Czech summer staple. It is a treat that Czechs associate with their childhood and one that is linked to socializing on carefree summer evenings when friends get together, roast sausages over a campfire, drink beer, and talk long into the night. The špekáček – which literally translates as “fattie” is more than just food – it is a phenomenon that links people across generations. A circle of friends sit around a campfire on a forest clearing on a warm summer’s night. They talk, laugh and sing much-loved tramping songs to the sound of a guitar. Children chase each other around the fire and eventually someone hands out the špekáčky – stocky, short sausages -which are sliced at the ends and pierced on sticks of wood to be roasted over the fire until they are reddish-brown, crisp, and dripping with grease. This summer staple is eaten with mustard and a slice of bread
and downed by cold beer drunk straight out of a bottle. Health food advocates would be aghast, but as Jaroslav explains for many Czechs the špekáček is more than just food. “In the Czech Republic the špekáček is a social thing. It tastes best when you eat it with other people, when you are sitting around a campfire, singing, playing the guitar, and relaxing. That is what it is about. In the company of friends, the špekáček tastes twice as good.” People enjoy this form of socializing on weekends spent in the country, away from the bustle of big cities, but many family gardens here in Prague and other big cities have a campfire where friends meet on hot summer evenings to relax and spend time together over a tasty špekáček and beer. Barbora, a student in Prague, says she looks forward to getting out of the city for this simple summer treat. She says there’s a special charm to eating food with your hands, out in the open, with friends. “I must admit that I adore špekáčky. It is my favorite food. Sometimes, just for the feeling of eating a špekáček again, I’ll put one on the grill, but it tastes nowhere near as good as the ones you roast over a campfire. One of my friends has a cottage up in the mountains, and we go there quite often with a group of friends. Špekáčky are part of the experience – we talk, we sing, we eat špekáčky and are glad to be together. It
Špekáček around for more than 120 years The famous Czech špekáček has been around for more than 120 years. It is believed to have made an appearance sometime in the second half of the 19th century. The first written records of it date back to the Agrarian Fair in Prague in 1891. The original recipe stressed the importance of using quality meat and respecting the stated amount of fat. The traditional špekáček was meant to contain 50 percent rump beef, 20 percent pork without skin, and 30 percent fat. It was seasoned with garlic, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg. In 2011, the špekáček was placed on the European Commission’s list of traditional Czech specialties. There are dozens of recipes and every region, meat shop, and delicatessen will offer you a wide variety of špekáčky to choose from. Food expert Petr Pipek from the Prague University of Chemistry and Technology says it pays to go for the authentic špekáček and choose with care. “The market offers a wide variety of products at a variety of prices. The really good ones are labeled ‘traditional guaranteed specialty’ with a blue sun or bear the label ‘traditional Czech specialty’ in Czech or English.” Other sausages closely resembling the špekáček may come under the name vuřt, buřt, or opekáček – but they are only distantly related to the original product.” So if you come to the Czech Republic and decide to try one – remember to get the real thing and keep in mind the fact that no matter how well it was made, a špekáček will never taste good
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if you eat it alone. Invite your friends and the špekáček will take you to a long-forgotten world – a world where people had the time to meet and talk for hours on end instead of texting each other, when they played the guitar and sung instead of listening to a CD, and when they didn’t count calories, but bit into a crisp roasted sausage, dripping with grease to swallow it down with beer drunk straight out of a can or bottle. Today, this experience is a brief escape from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives and a fleeting nostalgic memory of our childhood. Jaroslav says that this short, unhealthy roll of meat is much more than it seems. “The špekáček has been a part of my life since childhood, as it is with most Czechs. It is more than just a sausage. Once you have tasted a špekáček, you crave the taste for the rest of your life.” Source: https://archiv.radio.cz/en/section/czech-food-classic/the-popular-czech-spekacek-unhealthy-for-your-bodybut-so-good-for-your-soul
—SPJST—
TCGS announces July book of the month Emigration from Moravia to America 1855-1918 for the Area of Vsetin has been chosen as Texas Czech Genealogical Society’s (TCGS) July 2020 Book of the Month. Vsetin District lies in the southeastern section of the Czech Republic, at the foothills of the Vsetin, Hostyn, and Vizovice highlands, in the area of the Becva River. This beautiful land is quite hilly, with deep forest valleys, springs, and small bodies of water. In the early days, the people coming to the area were discouraged from settling there because the grounds were obviously difficult to farm. Nevertheless, many people eventually did settle there prior to the Industrial Revolution, and it became a bustling locality. The Industrial Revolution, during the 19th Century, brought hardship for the Czech people living in this area. Machinery took many jobs that people had handled previously. Drought prevented the farmland from producing and the people, many of whom were experiencing famine, began to hear about the wonderful
life they could live in America, where land was fertile and easy to obtain. Inhabitants from Vsetin District began thinking of selling everything they owned and taking the chance for a better life in America. The first settlers arrived in the early 1850s. The Civil War in America halted the emigration process from 1861 to 1864. Beginning about 1870, another strong wave of emigration began. Millions of Czech emigrants came to the USA between 1850 and 1900. MUDr. Josef Simicek was born on May 30, 1889. After graduating from Kromeriz Teachers Institute, and after teaching in the Hana region, he returned to his native Valachia as a specialized teacher, and later, he became superintendent of Vsetin, Hostalkova, and Hovezi schools. For Americans searching for family information in Moravia, his greatest works was chronicling the emigration of Czech people from Moravia to America. Emigration from Moravia to America 1855-1918 for the Area of Vsetin is one of seven books written by Dr. Simicek that Texas Czech Genealogical Society was privileged to publish in the English language. This book contains much information about the families who immigrated. It may include the name, age, occupation, destination, place of origin, place of birth, house number, ship name, death date, and cemetery, as well as the names of parents or other family members. In addition, there is a listing of the towns and villages in the Vsetin District. The information is laid out in alphabetical order to make research very easy. This book is available during the month of July 2020 for $45. Freight is included only for orders received on or before July 31, 2020. Please send a check, payable to TCGS, to Nancy Machu, 3337 Bianco Terrace, Round Rock, Texas 78665. For questions, please call 512971-4284 and leave a message for a callback. Submitted by, Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
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Westfest 2020 canceled
2020 Kolache Festival in Caldwell canceled
Westfest, which was scheduled for September 4 to 6, 2020, has been canceled due to the worldwide pandemic. An article on westfest.com states, “The Westfest Board of Directors in conjunction with the City of West Mayor have been continuously monitoring the COVID-19 situation. Over the past few months, the Westfest Board members have reviewed and discussed multiple configurations in an effort to continue this important tradition while focusing on creating a safe environment. “After exhausting every option, it is with deep regret that we must inform you that Westfest 2020 is canceled. “In order to continue our mission to provide fundraising opportunities for our community and schools, we are hopeful that we are able to host Westfest 2021. Westfest would not be possible without our loyal volunteers, vendors, bands, exhibitors, and sponsors. We hope to see you next year to make Westfest 2021 the best festival ever. If you have any further concerns or questions, please contact any Westfest Director or the Mayor.” —SPJST—
Caldwell Kolache Festival, which was scheduled for September 12, 2020, announced recently that the festival has been canceled. The festival’s Facebook page states, “We are living in uncertain times with COVID-19 and felt that we could not plan such a large event with the possibility of the governor shutting down mass gatherings the week of the festival. This is a family tradition for so many to come and celebrate the Czech culture.” —SPJST—
CZECH CULTURAL CALENDAR TEMPORARILY CLOSED. Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. ACTIVITIES TEMPORARILY CANCELED. First and third Tuesday tarok lessons • Czech film screenings at The Beltonian Theatre in Belton. Wednesdays POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Taylor Czech Speaking Class meets every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living, 505 East Lake Drive in Taylor. This is an informal class setting for learning to speak, write, and read Czech. For information, contact Instructor Lydia Kurtin 512-859-2543. Submitted by Alice Bracewell, Lodge 48, Beyersville. Second Sundays POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. 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. Fee is $10 per person per class.
Call or email to verify classes. Pre-registration preferred. For information, call 888-785-4500; 979-968-9399; or email info@czechtexas.org. Second Tuesdays POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Czech Film Nights and Matinees—at The Beltonian Theatre, 219 East Central, Belton. Showtimes - 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Free admission. Film is presented by Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC). For information, call CHMGC 254-899-2935; find them on Facebook; or on the web at www.czechheritagemuseum.org. Find The Beltonian online at www.thebeltoniantheatre.com or on Facebook. August 1 TCGS Cookbook Submission Deadline: for TCGS upcoming cookbook Cooking With Czech Recipes Cookbook. Contact Cookbook Project Chair Charlene Hurta for guidelines, information or for submission purposes: 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515; phone 979-849-0348; or email cmhurta@earthlink.net.
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VĚSTNÍK
Aqualand Moravia doubles in size; opens largest water slide in Czech Republic Aqualand Moravia doubles its outdoor swimming area for the summer and opened the largest water slide in the Czech Republic. The new outdoor swimming area, under construction all winter, features a number of new improvements, including a water world for children and a lazy river as well as a new entrance and changing rooms next to the campsite. The most notable new member of the outdoor area, though, is a brand new, 242-meter water slide. The new slide, or water roastercoast, will take guests uphill and downhill. Guests will start on a platform several stories up, approximately 17 meters. Guests will experience an adrenalinefilled ride up and down the slide; the direction of the two-seat raft will change approximately five times during the ride. The water slide is unique to this part of Europe; you can only find similar types of rides in the Canary Islands and in Galveston, Texas. The parts for the water slide came from one of the leaders in the field, a Canadian company called Whitewater. It took about a month for the parts to arrive in Europe. The water slide will be decked out in the Czech national colors. Passengers will be weighed before
getting on the ride to ensure the raft can go uphill against water pressure. More than 250 kids and adults will ride the slide each hour. The expansion will feature something for everyone. The new children’s area will have children’s slides, fountains, waterfalls, a water castle, and more. The pools will have a more shallow depth to accommodate children of all ages. Aqualand Moravia also build a new refreshment area next to the children’s world for parents to relax. In total, the new Aqualand Moravia outdoor area features 20 water slides and rides as well as 15 pools. Aqualand invested a quarter of a billions crowns on expanding and improving their outdoor pool area for the summer, according to the water park. For more information - and to view live cameras, visit http://www.aqualandmoravia.cz/en/ Source: https://news.expats.cz/weekly-czechnews/aqualand-moravia-plans-to-open-largestwaterslide-in-the-country-this-summer/
—SPJST—
TCGS seeks recipes for 20th anniversary Czech cookbook
TCGS announces publishing Czech Families Histories V
Celebrations bring good eats! The phone rings and you learn visitors are coming. Perhaps you open the church bulletin or you are in a meeting; a holiday is coming; whatever the occasion might be, you need to prepare a special dish or dessert. What is your “go to” recipe(s)? Will you share it with us? It is hard to believe the Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) will be celebrating it’s 20th anniversary in January 2021. As the saying goes, “My, where did the time go?” As with any special occasion, plans are made and action begins in order to achieve the goal of completing those plans. One such goal for our anniversary is a new cookbook. Our first cookbook, Tribute To Czech Cooks, sold out almost before it was received. A second order was placed, ending with the same results. While we paid tribute to Czech cooks in general, the cookbook’s main focus was on recipes of ancestors and articles on them as well. With this cookbook, we are calling for your delicious, special recipes. You know - it is the dish or dishes you prepare that are always requested. It may be for a special main dish, vegetable, salad, cake, pie, bread/rolls, etc., prepared as only you can, to taste that certain way. However, please do not get us wrong. If you did not have the opportunity to submit an ancestor’s recipe in the Tribute To Czech Cooks Cookbook, please feel free for it to be included in our upcoming Cooking With Czech Recipes Cookbook. Attention, Czech men! We know you are excellent cooks be it in the kitchen or the outdoor grill. You have your special “tricks” for giving the dish you prepare your own unique taste. Just know, we look forward to including your recipes, too. This cookbook will also be special in that we invite you to include photos photos of the person preparing the dish; the dish preparation process, and/or the finished dish or dessert. While the photos you submit will be in color, in the cookbook, they will be black and white. Charlene Hurta will serve as chair of this project. To contact her for more information or for submission purposes, she can be reached at 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515; phone 979-849-0348; or email cmhurta@earthlink.net. The submission deadline is August 1, 2020. —SPJST—
In January 2018, Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) announced the publishing of Czech Family Histories V. The project was then placed on hold. We are pleased to announce the publication is once again underway and is projected to be available during our 2021 anniversary year. It is hard to believe so many years have passed since the publishing of Czech Family Histories, Volumes I through IV. Yet, they have. Volumes I and II were published in 2005, followed by Volumes III and IV in 2007. TCGS is pleased to announce plans for publishing Czech Family Histories, Volume V. Lives have changed greatly since 2005 and 2007. We have celebrated many marriages, births, and graduations, and we have celebrated the lives of family members who have gone before us. Many who submitted articles for the previous histories are the family genealogist and, through research, new ancestors and family members have been discovered. Possibly several trips to the Czech Republic have been made whereby new photos have been gained of not only ancestors or newly found relatives, but of ancestral homes as well. Perhaps you do not have an article in any of the previously published volumes, and you would like to write your family history and cherished family memories so they will be documented and preserved but the cost of publishing such a document on your own prohibits it. If anything mentioned above fits your profile, Texas Czech Genealogical Society would like for you to seriously consider writing and submitting your story, or stories, along with photos to be part of our Czech Family Histories, Volume V. You do not have to be a member of Texas Czech Genealogical Society in order to participate; however, we would gladly welcome you. Please see the submission guidelines for further information. Sincerely, Charlene Hurta, Project Chair TCGS Czech Family Histories Volume V •••
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Submission Guidelines for Czech Family Histories, Volume V to be published by TCGS Submission Deadline: January 23, 2021 1. You may submit as many articles as you wish. Each can be of any length, but each submission must be submitted separately on a CD, DVD, or flash drive, and it must be accompanied by a printed copy of the article. Submissions can also be sent via email. If you do not have access to a computer, a typewritten hard copy will be accepted. We are sorry but we cannot accept handwritten articles. 2. Articles should be typed using number 12 Times New Roman font and be single spaced with double spacing between paragraphs. Margins should be set at one inch. 3. If at all possible, only black and white photos should be submitted as the book will not be published with color photos. If color photos are submitted, they will be published in black and white. Photos should be of good quality. Copies of quality photos can be made at Walmart, Walgreens, or CVS for your convenience at a very low price. 4. *Please do not send original photos as they cannot be returned.* 5. Please be sure to write the names of all persons on the back of the photo as they are viewed from the front of the photo, along with your name, address, and phone number, in the event we need to contact you. 6. It is best not to submit an article laid out in a particular manner as this, as a
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rule, does not comply with the book layout. Please, do not embed photos in the article. 7. Because of the number of printers involved, some do not recognize the Czech diacritical markings and will change the letters resulting in possible incorrect spelling. Having said this, please do not use the Czech diacritical markings. 8. Genealogical outlines and charts should not be submitted, as due to spacing, they cannot be reproduced. If this type of material is to be submitted, the submitter will need to place the information in paragraph form. 9. Texas Czech Genealogical Society reserves the right to make minor corrections only, i.e. grammatical or sentence structure. TCGS will not write articles. If the book committee has any questions regarding the content, contact will be made with the article’s author. All articles are expected to be in good taste. 10. Articles must be postmarked on or before January 23, 2021. Articles are now being accepted and should be mailed or emailed to: Charlene Hurta 1231 CR 201A Angleton, Texas 77515 email: cmhurta@earthlink.net Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit genealogical society founded by Texas Czechs dedicated to helping you with your Czech genealogy. —SPJST—
Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.” For membership: Marie Dulak 979-589-1903
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Czech Cooking
from SPJST Tasty Traditions Cookbook, published in 2011
KVAŠAKY - SALT PICKLES 1 large dill head Large cucumbers, halved or quartered 1 medium head green cabbage 6 cups water (well water if you can get it) 1/2 cup pickling salt 1/2 cup 90 grain vinegar (regular vinegar will not work) 1 Tablespoon garlic, crushed 1 Tablespoon black pepper Place dill, cucumbers, and cabbage wedges in gallon jar or crock. Bring water, salt, vinegar, garlic, and pepper to a boil. Pour over cucumbers and cabbage. Make sure all are covered with brine. Let jar sit out 5 days. Then refrigerate. Note: You can transfer pickles into quart jars if you wish. In Memory of Millie Rieger Ronnie Rieger • Lodge 29, Taylor
CZECH WEDDING EGG NOODLES 4 egg yolks Approximately 2 cups flour Add enough flour to egg yolks to make a moderately stiff dough. Knead until smooth. On a floured surface, roll dough as thin as possible into rectangular shape. Let dry by draping over a towel on a chair back for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Do not dry until stiff. Leave flexible enough to be able to roll into a tight jelly-roll shape. Slice dough crosswise very fine (the thinner the cut determines the quality of the noodles). Add noodles to our favorite broth and cook for 15 minutes. Dolores Skrabanek Lodge 47, Seaton —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 on the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: 254-773-8087. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. 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 vestnik@spjst.org. LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Lodge hall is located on Hwy 159 East, 3 blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of evennumbered months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Held every other month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call 361798-3347. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Friday, July 10—Meeting, 7 p.m. No meal served. CANCELED: Lodge 6, Cottonwood Annual July Picnic Sunday, August 2—Meeting, 2 p.m. No meal served Sunday, September 13—Meeting, time TBA Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. Lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road. Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-7170383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. 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 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net. LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. Dates are February 24, May 25, August 24, and November 23. 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: 979272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733. 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: 979-8841451. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Julie Schneider 512-269-8180. LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Directions: Hall is located on Hwy 36, east of Buckholts, 1/4 mile east of downtown Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly. For information, call 254-721-3902.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Hwy 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles then turn left on CR 225. Go 1 mile, veering to the right. Hall 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. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931. LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Sunday, August 23—Mark Halata Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Hall Rentals/Band Bookings: David Meyer 512-217-0162. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254-541-5344. LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. Directions: From Hwy 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West for 4 miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North; go 1 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. at the hall. LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit Hwy 53 at blinking light to FM 485; go 1 mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774; or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. 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. For information, call Kim Campbell 254-721-0586. LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) REOPENED!—Watch the Věstník for upcoming dates and activities. Thursday, July 9—Monthly members’ supper, 6:30 p.m.; lodge meeting, 7 p.m.; social follows Lodge Hall: 1901 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Mail: PO Box 129, Ennis, Texas 75120. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the lodge dining room with supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary social in the game room. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284. LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.Call Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624 for information.
Due to the global pandemic, please contact the lodge/district prior to attending any event due to possible schedule changes, postponement, or cancellation. LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) • All Wednesday, Friday night dances - free admission • Old-fashioned hamburgers served Fridays, 6 to 9 p.m. Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the large, 2-story hall. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Live Music: First and third Wednesday each month, free, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday night dance, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For information and meeting location, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod 512468-1347. 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 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-543-7120. LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Meetings: Held the second Thursday of every other month - January, March, May, July, September, and November, 2019 at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact Secretary Linda Mozisek 361-220-7725. LODGE 35, ELK (3) Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy 84 East through Bellmead; go approximately 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road; go approximately 1 mile; the road will dead end. Turn right at the dead end; go approximately 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com. 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, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758. 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; turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. Hall (white building) is at the bend of the road. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - watch for date in Věstník, 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; or 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: For meeting date, time, location, call Youth Leader Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614. LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca. For information, call lodge Secretary Mary Sitka 361552-5170 or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com. LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is 7 miles east of Temple on Hwy 53. Star Hall
is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Danny Stepan 254-760-7819; Hall Phone: 254-985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. 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.Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295. LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) After the lodge hall suffered devastating damage due to a fire on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, construction on a new hall has begun. For information or questions, contact Lodge 48 President Robert Leshikar 512-635-3021. Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112 and go about 0.8 mile. Turn right on FM 619; continue on FM 619 for approximately 4 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 512-739-9324. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-262-3377 - Butch Wood. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-656-0029. 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. For information, call Calvin Hlinsky 979-378-2364. LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303. LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For meeting location or information, call Lodge Secretary Ann Moseley 361-781-2644. LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Date, time, location TBA in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. For information, call 254-799-4247. LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Third or fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December (Christmas) at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg, 2 p.m. To confirm meeting date/s, call Ernest Kutac 979-561-7190. LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For meeting location, call Alice Orsak 940-889-2391. LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Attention: Beginning in June, 2020, lodge meetings will begin at 12:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Sunday, June 7; Sunday, September 13; and Sunday, December 6. Meetings are at 12:30 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls. For information, contact Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383. LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779. LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east on FM 2268. Go 1/2 mile to hall, which is on the right. Hall Phone: 254-657-2485. Bingo: Every Thursday, 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly. Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Board of Di-
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rectors’ Meetings: Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall, 6 p.m. Call Youth Leader Kelly Taisler 254-913-3309 for location, information.
LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date, time, and location, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214-9063385 or email jvrla@cebridge.net.
LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Hwy 36, Needville. Directions: Hall is located at the corner of Hwy 36 and FM 361, one mile from the traffic light in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings: Dan Natho 979-618-1426. Hall Phone: 361-793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Madeline Gadway 979-900-9566; or madeline.gadway@gmail.com.
LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings are held in March, July, October, and December at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio. For information, contact President Jarolyn Popp 830-9645135.
LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Meeting location will be posted in the Věstník. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. - unless otherwise announced in the Věstník. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456. 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. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254773-2363. LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Hwy 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 is on the right. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For more information, 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. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Starting January 2020, Lodge 88 Youth Club meetings will be held on the second Sunday of the month at the lodge. hall. For information, call Youth Leader Vanessa Guerrero 281-745-1697. LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings - TBA in the Věstník. For information, contact Lodge Secretary Vonda Smesny 832-694-8762. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North; it becomes Jacksboro Hwy (TX 199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cut Off, which is a right off of Jacksboro Hwy. Hall - also known as National Hall - is on the right about 2 or 3 blocks down the road. Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Monday, March 2; Monday, June 1; Monday, September 14 in the Community Room at Victoria Mall, 6 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935. LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West for 3 miles to FM 1303; turn right and go 2 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. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737. 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 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Hwy 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. Sokol Hall is on the left. LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting at 12 noon, luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979922-1553. LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of every other month February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. For information, contact Secretary Bernice Stolarski 979-885-6786. LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December which is the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377. LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 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. Call Youth Leader Melissa Zielonka for information 979618-1890. 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. For information, call 979-532-5884. 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 Hwy 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 Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 817731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net; or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information. LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: For dates time, and location of quarterly meetings, call Secretary Ginny Prasatik 512-472-1721. LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Last Sunday of every other month of March, June, and September; then December - the first Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For meeting location, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek - phone 806-763-7245; or email cyndynjerome@gmail.com. LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Wednesday of February, May, and August; and the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact President Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325-234-5879.
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. For information, contact President Betty Crawford 713-594-5049. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center. For information, call Youth Leader Brenda Moyle 713-3031471. LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, 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.) Lodge Information: Call Stephen Bliznak 979-2514150; or Lenora Bliznak 979-277-8845. LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Lodge Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. at the lodge hall, 3609 Preston Avenue, in Pasadena. November and December meetings will be held on the third Sunday. For information, contact Jo 346-317-4412; or Helen 713920-7172 LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November - Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 11 a.m. Location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138. LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S.W. Wilshire Boulevard, Burleson at 6 p.m. For information, call 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022. LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. For information, contact Youth Leader Becky Beckendorf 254-749-5732. LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North. Stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Turn right on Mayfield; go down and turn left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-800-3485. Game Nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. Lodge Meetings/Family Nights: Third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD building in the meeting room. RSVP to Elmer Michna at 361-772-3876 or Johnnie Hoffman at 361-772-5049. Please RSVP by Thursday of the week prior to the meeting. 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: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (subject to change). Call Youth Leader Jessica McCoy for information 979-777-8215. LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy 36, Caldwell. Directions: Hall is just off Hwy 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: 979567-4264. 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. Call Youth Leader Yolanda Brinkman for information 979-567-0637. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Directions: From Taylor, take Hwy 79 into Round Rock until you get to Sunrise. There will be a 7-11 store on the right. Turn right and proceed past Hopewell School. Continue through the four-way stop. Luther Peterson Boulevard is the first street on the left. From Temple, take IH-35 South. Just past Georgetown, exit on University Boulevard. Proceed to stop sign. Take left on University Boulevard. The
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third street is Sunrise. Turn right onto Sunrise. The second street to the right will be Luther Peterson Boulevard. Hall Rental Information: 512-255-1554; or 512-771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal. LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan. LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: George Scogin 936-8752867. Regular Dances: Third Friday night of each month, 7 to 10 p.m. Please bring finger foods for the snack table. Lodge Meetings: Monday night before the Friday dance of the month, 7 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Phone: 281-373-9482; email spjstlodge196@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Potluck social at 1 p.m.; meeting begins at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Cadance Wager 713-515-2835. LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month on even months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street, Eddy. For information, contact President Allen Trigg, Sr. 254-6245152. 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. For information, call Jenell 979-357-2181. LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly, the first Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m.; and the second Sunday of September and December at 1 p.m. A meal will be served at each meeting. Meetings are at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Secretary Bettie House 830-281-8246. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of every month at 1:15 p.m. except in September and December, meetings are held on the second Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830-570-2046. LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. For meeting location, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940-8550882. LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Secretary Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-632-5239. LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of March, April, and May at 6 p.m. at Puerto Vallarta Grill, 1611 Montana Avenue, El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062. LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. For meeting location information, contact Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089. LODGE 232, HOUSTON MIDTOWN (5) Lodge Meetings: Held the third Tuesday of every other month in January, March, May, July, September, and November, 6:30 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto, Houston. For information, contact Secretary Catherine Anderson 713-726-1928.
LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Unless otherwise announced, second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November, 11:30 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831 or Secretary Melanie Zavodny 254-534-0807. 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—
Gbnjmz!Bewfouvsf!Ebzt! bu!Dbnq!Lvcfob!! uijt!tvnnfs Reserve a Family Adventure Day this summer at Camp Kubena! Only $25 per person! Group size up to six people! Family Adventure Days at Camp Kubena are Thursdays through Sundays through August 16 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Camp Kubena is located at 2001 Waldeck Road in Ledbetter, Texas. Register online at www.CampKubena.com.
EXCLUSIVE TO SPJST MEMBERS Overnight accommodations 2-night maximum stay for groups signed up for the Family Adventure Day program Max of 6 persons to each cabin Cost is $110 per cabin, per night
Camp will host eight groups of six people per day. Camp directors have designed a day program that incorporates a ton of fun elements of camp while practicing safe social gathering.
Family Adventure Day Schedule 9 to 10 a.m. 10 to 11:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 1 to 2 p.m. 2 to 3:30 p.m. 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Arrival Activity Session One Activity Session Two Lunch Break Activity Session Three Activity Session Four
Activities include: • BB/archery • Swimming • Axe throwing • Basketball court • Zipline • High ropes • Gagaball
• Disc golf • Corn hole • Horseshoes • Bocce ball
Use code SUMMERFUN at checkout for a special 10% discount!
For more information, visit www.CampKubena.com or call 979-249-5674.
• Hiking • Volleyball