ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence
Volume 109 Number 16
H E R A L D
★ Humanity
★ Brotherhood
August 23, 2021
ISSN —07458800
Delegates revise by-laws, elect district officials at 33rd SPJST Convention held in Killeen, Texas D
elegates representing 63 lodges from across Texas convened in Killeen August 14 and 15, 2021, for SPJST’s 33rd Convention. Activities began on Friday, August 13 with delegate registration followed by a howdy party that featured music by Jerry Haisler and Friends. Refreshments were also served. Convention Highlights Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek of Lodge 24, Cy-
clone called the 33rd Convention to order on Saturday, August 14. Aracely Quiz of Lodge 219, El Paso and Mark Rebecek of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi posted the colors. Sarah Urbanovsky of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi led the convention in the National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, and the Czech National Anthem, Kde Domov Muj? David Bucek of Lodge 151, Wharton then led the Pledge of Allegiance. Supreme Lodge Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska of Lodge 200,
Bruceville-Eddy offered a convention prayer followed by greetings from Supreme Lodge Chair/District Three Director John Engelke of Lodge 66, Waco. President Vanicek then read a proclamation designating August 13 to 15 as “SPJST Days” in Killeen which was signed by City of Killeen Mayor Jose L. Segarra. A memorial acknowledgment was then presented by Supreme Lodge Vice President Delisle Doherty of Lodge 196, Houston-West in memory of departed members
who passed away since the 2016 Convention, including Jerry Mikulas, who served as Supreme Lodge Financial Secretary from 1960 to 2010; Michael K. Ahlstrom, who served as District Six Director from 2001 to 2012; Larry W. Pflughaupt, who served as District Five Director from 2000 to 2016; and Billy Rollwitz, Billy Rollwitz, who served as District Four Director from 2005 to 2018.
Continued on Page 4.
2021 SPJST Convention Delegates and Executive Committee Members pictured in front of the November 5th, 2009 Fort Hood Memorial —Photo by Brooke Hoelscher, SPJST Communication Specialist
; / ; / ; / ; / ; Inside This Week’s Vestnik ; / ; / ; / ; / ; Readers Write ......................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 “It’s Your Life”....................................22 Financial Report ................................22 Lodge Section....................................24
Youth Section ....................................31 Youth Clubs’ Quarterly Report .........31 In Memoriam ......................................36 Czech Culture ....................................38 Advertisements ............................42-45 Lodge Calendar .................................46
Lodge 88 Houston donates 200-plus backpacks Page 27
Page 28
Lodge 157 Lubbock sponsors hole at golf tournament
Scenes from Districts Three, Four, Five, and Seven Camp Pages 34-35
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST HERALD
SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 Fax: 254-774-7447 www.spjst.org VĚSTNÍK EDITOR: MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 vestnik@spjst.org melaniez@spjst.com melaniez@usa.com EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) Mobile: 254-534-2902 vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING DELISLE DOHERTY 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) Mobile: 832-232-2049 delisled@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS MELANIE ZAVODNY 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) Mobile: 254-534-0807 melaniez@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) Mobile: 254-721-4739 leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 dv.aggie71@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371 jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIR JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-799-4247 john.engelke@hotmail.com DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM 1886 Pecos St, Ste 3, San Angelo, TX 76901-3268 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville TX 77461-9164 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK 2508 N Levi St, Victoria, TX 77901-4059 361-649-4888 amvahalik@gmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE 146 Deer Run St, Pleasanton TX 78064-1510 830-570-2046 spjst202youth@gmail.com
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair PO Box 252, Snook, TX 77878-0252 979-272-1243 • billorsak@gmail.com District Two - Edwin Pechal 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, TX 76501-7446 254-721-2887 • edwinpechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler 526 Karen Dr, Robinson, TX 76706-5121 254-744-8973 • mlgaller54@gmail.com District Four - Brad Teplicek PO Box 372, Rowena, TX 76875-4006 325-442-2001 • bptep@aol.com District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, Chair 1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, TX 77008-6232 713-859-8976 • dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, Secretary 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - Oscar Korus 2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet, TX 78065-5013 830-391-4169 • oscarkorus@gmail.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com DISTRICT FOUR - EL PASO AREA - Arnulfo Rivera 915-630-8074 • arnulfok5@yahoo.com DISTRICT FIVE - Kerry Herrington 281-704-5737 • kerryherrington@yahoo.com DISTRICT SIX - Carolina Covarrubia 281-779-9956 • covarrubia.carolina@yahoo.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Ralph Juarez 361-537-5506 • juarez2112@aol.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar PO Box 28, Snook, TX 77878-0028 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two - Position Currently Open Contact Frank Horak • 254-534-0681 District Three - Mary Steinman 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 817-731-2580 • appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Ryan Jansa 10377 Penny Lane, San Angelo, TX 76905-7616 325-234-5879 • rjansa1@gmail.com District Five - Melissa Victorick-Brown 2324 Lakeway Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546-6196 832-274-7369 • district5dyc@gmail.com District Six - Lisa Bubela 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - April Howard 814 Madison Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130-3918 830-624-9242 • aprhoward@gmail.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com
Editor’s Note
33rd Convention is in the history books! The 33rd SPJST Convention is
officially in the history books. It was a great Convention filled with amazing SPJST members who embraced change and modernization for our organization. This week’s Vestnik features a summary along with several photos from the three-day event held August 13 to 15 at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center. More photos can be found on SPJST’s Facebook page. SPJST at Westfest SPJST will participate in Westfest which is scheduled for Friday, September 3 through Sunday, September 5. Newly crowned 2021-2022 State King Caleb See and State Duke Zane Lauderdale, both of Lodge 9, Snook, and State Queen Megan Ohnheiser and State Duchess Lily Howard, both of Lodge 185, New Braunfels, will ride in the parade on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. They will ride with District Three members on the SPJST Float. SPJST will also sponsor a booth at the festival, and Lodge 6, Cottonwood will host its food booth on the festival midway. It’s sure to be a fun-filled weekend!
Special Events on pages 42 to 45 This week’s Vestnik features special event advertisements on pages 42 through 45. Be sure to take a look at these events and support these lodges and organizations. Still to Come . . . Stay tuned to the Vestnik for these upcoming features: • Czech Heritage Month activities and a chance to win Czech-themed prizes • Lodge 81, Needville members share family adventures • Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosts Paprskar Memorial Tarok Tournament IX • Second Quarter Youth Merit Points Report
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines September 13 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Sept. 6 at 5 p.m. September 27 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Sept. 20 at 5 p.m. October 11 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Oct. 4 at 5 p.m. October 25 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. November 8 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Nov. 1 at 5 p.m.
visit www.spjst.org for details
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, August 23, 2021
SPJST Family Fun • • • • • and • • • • • Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)
August 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 6 Sept. 18 Sept. 18 Sept. 24 Sept. 24-25 October 1 October 10 October 17 Oct. 19-20 October 31 Nov. 11 Nov. 25-26 Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Dec. 18
Dec. 24 Dec. 31 Dec. 31
Lodge 48, Beyersville Fundraiser (2) SPJST Float: Westfest Parade, West (3) SPJST Home Office Closed • Labor Day Holiday SPJST Float: Burleson County Fair Parade, Caldwell (1) Lodge 47, Seaton Outdoor Extravaganza (2) Lodge 185, New Braunfels hosts SPJST Float: Comal County Fair Parade, New Braunfels (7) Lodge 29, Taylor Barbecue Cookoff (2) 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Begins Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float: Austin County Fair Parade, Bellville (1) District Three Fall Fun Day at Celebrating Heritage Day Dallas Sokol (3) Supreme Lodge Meeting • Home Office, Temple Lodge 24, Cyclone Barbecue Dinner (2) SPJST Home Office Closed • Veterans Day Holiday SPJST Home Office Closed • Thanksgiving Holidays Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas Party Vsetin Educational Building (6) Lodge 18, Elgin Christmas Dance: Red Ravens (2) Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float Wallis Christmas Parade (1) SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Holiday SPJST Home Office Closed • New Year Holiday Lodge 18, Elgin New Year’s Eve Dance Glen Collins and The Alibis (2)
SPJST INTEREST RATES 08/01/2021 - 10/31/2021 Universal Life Universal Life 3
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Readers Write Granger church plans Sept. 5 bazaar SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Granger, Texas, will host its annual bazaar on Sunday, September 5, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The bazaar will be held at the SSCM Parish Hall, located at 500 West Davilla in Granger. Everyone is cordially invited to begin the day with the 10 a.m. mass at 100 North Brazos Street. Premade take-out plates only - barbecue and sausage dinner with dressing and trimmings . . . dine in begins at 11 a.m. All premade plates are $12 (no child plates). Premade take-out plates will be available inside for $12. Drivethru from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or until sold out. Barbecue by the pound at the pit will be available at 7 a.m. Kitchen will be open all day until 10 p.m. Washers and corn hole tournaments are at 1 p.m. Sign up begins at 11 a.m. The cost is $20 per team. Prize payout is 50/50 split with 50 percent going to the church and 50 percent split among first, second, and third places. For information, call Dennis Repa - 512-9668563 (washers) or Joe Barchuch 512-922-6496 (cornhole). The day will be filled with fun, fellowship, and games. Games begin at 12 noon. Activities include a cake walk, ring toss for sodas, toy booth, fish pond, and prize bingo from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Live auction begins at 1:30 p.m. (payment by check or cash only). Auctioneer is Buddy Johnson (License No. TXS6520). Enjoy a dance at night from 7 to 11 p.m. with music by Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six. Admission is $10 per perWelcome to Your SPJST Member Discounts
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son. BYOB is not permitted. For more information, visit sscmchurch.org. For questions, call 512859-2223 or send an email to sscmchurch@gmail.com. See the ad on page 42 of this week’s Vestnik. Submitted by, Paula Marak Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
Marak church picnic set for Sept. 12 The Annual Homecoming Picnic in Marak, Texas, is Sunday, September 12, 2021, at SS Cyril and Methodius Church, which is seven miles northwest of Cameron on FM 2269. Mass is at 10:15 a.m. Home-fried chicken and sausage plates with all the trimmings will be served beginning at 11 a.m. Meal tickets are $12 each. Drive-thru line is available for plates-togo. Continuous serving while it lasts. The picnic includes entertainment for the entire family, games, and refreshments. Games begin at 11:30 a.m. Horseshoe tournament signup begins at 11 a.m., and play starts at 1 p.m. Cash payout for first through third places. Entertainment by the Praha Brothers is from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Vrazel Polka Band Memorial Pavilion. The auction begins at 2:30 p.m. inside the air-conditioned hall. Come on out for a great day of family fun at the Annual Homecoming Marak Picnic on Sunday, September 12! See the ad on page 42 of this week’s Vestnik. Submitted by, Debbie Dohnalik Lodge 47, Seaton
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Monday, August 23, 2021
33rd Convention Continued from Page 1. Credential Committee Chair Rita Spinn of Lodge 80, Holland reported that a total of 175 delegates, representing 63 lodges and 30,690 votes were seated for the convention on Saturday morning, August 14. The final delegate count, by district, was: District One....................2,735 Votes District Two ...................6,780 Votes District Three.................5,330 Votes District Four...................2,497 Votes District Five ...................6,480 Votes District Six.....................3,792 Votes District Seven ................3,076 Votes Delegates elected Donnie Victorick of Lodge 9, Snook as Convention Chair. Douglas Galler of Lodge 66, Waco was elected Convention Vice Chair. The following committees were assigned by Chair Victorick and Vice Chair Galler: Credentials Committee Rita Spinn, Chair (80) Michael Galler (66) Convention Secretaries Jennifer Jones (47) Lisa Kirby (24) Nancy Miller (177) Doni Powell (80) Tellers’ Committee Sandra Hoggard, Chair (202) Ronnie Pflughaupt (1) Joe Liles (80) Jim Liska (84) Brenda Holik (160) Doris Bronikowski (88) Donna Vanek (97) Resolution Committee Jarolyn Popp, Chair (133) Rubie Volek (187) Kay Weeks (183) Convention Order Committee Kyle Skrabanek, (17) Kerry Herrington (142) Elizabeth Holub, Chair (23)
VĚSTNÍK Grievance Committee Mark Rebecek, Chair (79) Henry Mayo (189) Linda Wilde (24) Peggy Dobecka (6) Betty Schwartz (160) Janice Jahns (88) David Bucek (151) Parliamentarian Daniel Knight (88) Timekeeper Chester Jenke, Sr. (258) Sergeant-at-Arms Brad Teplicek (49) Edwin Vasicek (47)
Department in the past five years, including its modernization efforts, efficiency, and thoroughness while working in an intense, fast-moving, deadline-driven environment that has confronted challenges requiring extraordinary team effort. Patriotic Tribute Sunday morning’s agenda included a Flag Day patriotic tribute presented by Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek. Youth club member Macy Narro of Lodge 17, New Tabor read her award-winning Flag Day essay. President Vanicek then invited all SPJST veterans to come forward and be recognized.
Convention Banquet Delegates and guests gathered at the convention center for an evening dinner on Saturday. Many special guests attended the banquet, including Alfred and Bernice Vrazel of Lodge 15, Buckholts, who have given their lives to sharing polka and waltz music and bringing vitality to the Czech heritage, and 2021-2022 SPJST State King Caleb See of Lodge 9, Snook and State Queen Megan Ohnheiser of Lodge 185, New Braunfels.
Delegate Recognitions President Vanicek recognized the delegates attending the most conventions—Bob Bayer of Lodge 107, Floresville and Josephine Pflughaupt of Lodge 88, Houston, both attending their 14th convention. The youngest delegate in attendance was Hannah Kovar, age 28, of Lodge 9, Snook, and the oldest delegate was Josephine Pflughaupt, age 96, of Lodge 88, Houston.
By-Laws Revised By-Law Committee members led deliberations on Saturday afternoon. By-law changes and amendments adopted by delegates at the 33rd Convention appear on pages 8 to 21 of this week’s Vestnik. The official by-laws of the SPJST will require final review and approval by the By-Law Committee and will be published at a later date.
District Caucus Following lunch on Sunday, the convention recessed into district caucuses to elect alternate District Directors, Governance Committee members, and alternate Governance Committee members. (District Directors were elected in a ballot in lieu of convention in August 2020.) The convention then reconvened for district caucus result announcements and installation. The convention adjourned at 3:10 p.m. with Sarah Urbanovsky of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi leading the delegates in singing “God Bless America.”
Financial Considerations The Finance Committee presented its recommendations for delegates’ considerations on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. The report included recommendations regarding remunerations for convention delegates and compensation for District Directors. Publication Committee Report Also on Sunday, a report was delivered to the convention by the Publication Committee. Reporting on behalf of the Publication Committee was Chair Floyd Kostelka of Lodge 13, Dime Box. He summarized the activities of the Vestnik/Communication
The official proceedings of the 2021 Convention will include complete reports of the By-Law, Finance, Insurance, and Publication Committees, Supreme Lodge Officers, and Supreme Lodge Directors. These proceedings and updated 2021 by-laws will be published and distributed to local lodges and convention delegates. They will also be available at spjst.org. —SPJST—
District Caucus Election Results District One District Director* Donnie Victorick Lodge 9, Snook Alternate District Director Susan Skrabanek Lodge 17, New Tabor Governance Committee William “Bill” Orsak Lodge 9, Snook Alternate Governance Committee Kyle Skrabanek Lodge 17, New Tabor
District Two District Director* Jesse Pospisil Lodge 29, Taylor Alternate District Director Rita Spinn Lodge 80, Holland Governance Committee Edwin Pechal Lodge 47, Seaton Alternate Governance Committee Bridget C. Bohac Lodge 20, Granger
District Three District Director* John Engelke Lodge 66, Waco Alternate District Director Douglas Galler Lodge 66, Waco Governance Committee Michael Galler Lodge 66, Waco Alternate Governance Committee Mary Steinman Lodge 154, Fort Worth
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District Four
District Six
District Director* Bobby Davis Lodge 160, San Angelo
District Director* Annie Vahalik Lodge 4, Hallettsville
Alternate District Director Beverly Teplicek Lodge 49, Rowena
Alternate District Director Joe Siptak Lodge 4, Hallettsville
Governance Committee Brad Teplicek Lodge 49, Rowena
Governance Committee Lisa Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton
Alternate Governance Committee Cynthia Kristinek Lodge 157, Lubbock
Alternate Governance Committee Yvonne Marcaurele Lodge 30, Taiton
District Five
District Seven
District Director* Bradley Stavinoha Lodge 81, Needville
District Director* Regina House Lodge 202, Jourdanton
Alternate District Director Kerry Herrington Lodge 142, Houston
Alternate District Director Wendy Pruski Lodge 107, Floresville
Governance Committee Dorothy Pflughaupt Lodge 88, Houston
Governance Committee Oscar Korus Lodge 107, Floresville
Alternate Governance Committee Ashley Victorick Lodge 88, Houston
Alternate Governance Committee Donnie Howard Lodge 185, New Braunfels
*District Directors were elected in August 2020 through a ballot in lieu of convention.
Delegates to the 33rd SPJST Convention District One
15 Delegates • 10 Lodges 2,735 Votes Lodge 1, Fayetteville Ronnie Pflughaupt Lodge 9, Snook Hannah Kovar Bill Orsak Donnie Victorick
Lodge 38, Kovar Dorothy Lastovica Lodge 39, Bryan Ronnie Roesler Lodge 67, Schulenburg Adrienne Kobza Lodge 141, Sealy Rick Martinez
Lodge 13, Dime Box Debbie Kostelka Floyd Kostelka
Lodge 186, Caldwell Larry Brinkman
Lodge 17, New Tabor Randy Gaas Holly Narro Kyle Skrabanek
Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station Henry Mayo
District Two
43 Delegates • 15 Lodges 6,780 Votes Lodge 15, Buckholts Sandy Fischer Mary Rodriguez Lodge 18, Elgin David Meyer F.L. Meyer Charles R. Wilson Lodge 20, Granger Bridget C. Bohac Emilie Tischler Lodge 24, Cyclone Robert (Bobby) Hoelscher, Jr. Brenda Maddux Daniel Wilde Linda Wilde Lodge 29, Taylor Tammy Cannon Cristy Girod Adolph Grieger, Jr. Jesse Pospisil Linda Pospisil Frankie Pustejovsky Lyn Rieger Ronnie Rieger Lodge 47, Seaton Amber Bartek Brandon Bartek Patsy Koslovsky Joyce Kraatz Edwin Pechal James Skrabanek Joyce Skrabanek Danny Stepan Edwin Vasicek Lodge 48, Beyersville Howard B. Leshikar Robert L. Leshikar Lodge 80, Holland Joe W. Liles Rita Spinn Lodge 87, Temple Linda Hopper Daniel Kacir George Sidney Kacir Lodge 155, Austin Albert J. Klinkovsky Lodge 177, Academy Don McCrea Shirley McCrea Lodge 182, Falls County Becky Beckendorf
Lodge 187, Round Rock Carla Krenek Rubie Volek Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy James R. Hosch Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point David Nauert
District Three 29 Delegates • 9 Lodges 5,330 Votes
Lodge 6, Cottonwood Jeanette Beseda Peggy Dobecka Barbara Hykel Milton Peterson Don Urbanovsky Lodge 25, Ennis Ray Elleven Margaret Krajca Betty Macalik Linda Trojacek Lodge 54, West Linda Kaluza Ronnie Kaluza Mary Lou Mynar Lodge 66, Waco Diana Engelke John Engelke Douglas Galler Michael Galler Dana McAdams Lodge 84, Dallas James (Jim) Liska Charles Nemec, III Lynda Novak Vivian (Cheryl) Petr Vicki Sims Lodge 92, Fort Worth Pamela Durham John E. Paprskar Lodge 154, Fort Worth Lori K. Pace Mary Steinman Lodge 180, Burleson Rhonda Hurtik Lodge 183, Arlington Ann Pustejovsky Kay Weeks
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District Four 17 Delegates • 7 Lodges 2,497 Votes
Lodge 49, Rowena Laura Pospichal Sylvia Rollwitz Brad Teplicek Lodge 76, Wichita Falls William J. Ibarra Lodge 157, Lubbock Cynthia Kristinek Lodge 160, San Angelo Charlene Dusek Sharon Hohmann Brenda Holik Sandra Jansa Betty Schwartz Herman Dewyan Weise Lodge 219, El Paso Diana Lopez Aracely Quiz Maria G. Sanchez-Chacon Francisco Viniegra Lodge 229, Abilene Jesuita Hudson Lodge 230, Midland Lilah Deleon
District Five
36 Delegates • 6 Lodges 6,480 Votes Lodge 81, Needville Kristen Jones Bradley Stavinoha Thomas (Tom) Stavinoha Lodge 88, Houston Carolyn F. Beseda Doris Bronikowski Robert Bronikowski Fred Buri Jo Ann Buri Alex C. D’Ambrosio Cindy Dobias-Mlcak John B. Douglas Ryan Epps Carol Globke Sarah Godwin Carol Havemann Donald Havemann Janice Jahns Wallace Jahns Daniel Knight Cindy Messina Carolyn Pechacek Dorothy Pflughaupt Josephine Pflughaupt Lynn Pflughaupt
VĚSTNÍK Aaron Rigamonti Dennis Roeder Ashley Victorick Melissa Victorick-Brown
District Seven 15 Delegates • 6 Lodges 3,076 Votes
Lodge 91, San Jacinto Malba Smesny Vonda Stasney
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Marcus Rebecek Virginia Rebecek Michael Urbanovsky
Lodge 142, Houston James R. Coleman Kerry D. Herrington Debra Ngo Patricia Schleider
Lodge 107, Floresville Polly Bayer Robert J. (Bob) Bayer Trey Bielefeld Oscar Korus Wendy Pruski
Lodge 133, San Antonio Jarolyn Popp Robert Popp, Jr. Vicki Reese Lodge 185, New Braunfels Donnie Howard Lodge 202, Jourdanton Sandra Hoggard Sharon LaGrange Lodge 258, Seguin Chester Jenke, Sr.
Lodge 196, Houston-West Donald Fruin Lodge 232, Houston Midtown Rudolph Rusnak
District Six
20 Delegates • 10 Lodges 3,792 Votes Lodge 4, Hallettsville Annie Vahalik Helen Zabransky Patricia Zabransky Lodge 23, Moravia Elizabeth Holub Lodge 28, East Bernard Glenn Kaminsky Jeanette Kaminsky Lodge 30, Taiton Lisa Bubela Karen Kaspar Yvonne Marcaurele Marjorie Treumer Lodge 32, Victoria Mark Lester Wanda Lester Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Ardis Bacak Vlasta Bartos Cathy V. Garcia Lodge 63, Sweet Home Elaine Berkovsky Lodge 97, Placedo Donna J. Vanek Lodge 151, Wharton David Bucek Gerald Macha Lodge 184, Moulton Elmer Michna
Recommendations of the Finance Committee as Approved in August 2021 by Delegates to the 33rd Convention The following is a summary of remunerations which were approved by delegates to the 33rd SPJST Convention.
No individual may qualify for more than one per day, “the higher per day” remuneration.
Convention Remunerations
Directors
Delegates........................$165 per day Directors.........................$165 per day Convention Chair...........$230 per day Convention Vice Chair ..$210 per day Convention Secretaries per day includes extra hours.................$260 per day Parliamentarian..............$165 per day By-Law Committee .......$165 per day Finance Committee........$165 per day Publication Committee..$165 per day Insurance Committee.....$165 per day Members on All Other Committees...................$165 per day Timekeeper.....................$165 per day Sergeant-at-Arms...........$165 per day Mileage, 56 cents or the IRS rate at time of travel for one round trip. Mileage will be paid only to the delegate furnishing the transportation. Delegates using commercial mode of transportation will be reimbursed for their expenses not to exceed the IRS adjusted rate at time of travel. The District Director of each district will encourage the delegates to minimize expenses for the district by utilizing carpooling or bus transportation for a group. The District Director will review and approve the delegate’s claim voucher for the district prior to submission for payment by the Supreme Lodge.
January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022...............$31,500 In addition to the annual salary, Directors will be paid $150 per day for attending Supreme Lodge meetings and be paid $100 per evaluation, including final evaluations on real estate, plus mileage at 56 cents per mile, or IRS rate at time of travel, lodging, and cost of meals with receipts, not to exceed $35 per day. The salary includes delivery of scholarships and insurance certificates, attending lodge meetings within the district, District Youth Achievement Day, workshops, and all other duties performed for the Society. Respectfully submitted: Finance Committee Members 2021 SPJST Convention Killeen, Texas Herman D. Weise, Chair (District Four) Michael Galler, Vice Chair (District Three) Ashley Victorick, Secretary (District Five) Debbie Kostelka (District One) Edwin Pechal (District Two) Karen Kaspar (District Six) Colleen Jenke (District Seven) —SPJST—
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Monday, August 23, 2021
33rd SPJST Convention Resolution Committee Report Whereas, the undersigned members of the Resolution Committee, for and on behalf of the entire delegation, convened in Killeen, Texas, on August 14, 2021, at the 33rd SPJST Convention, wish to express its appreciation to those persons responsible for making the Convention a pleasant and productive gathering. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the delegation extends its sincere thanks to: 1. The 33rd Convention of the SPJST which was called to order by Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek (24) at 8:30 a.m. Aracely Quiz (219) and Mark Rebecek (79) posted the colors. Sarah Urbanovsky (79) sang the National Anthem and the Czech National Anthem, Kde Domov Muj? David Bucek (151) led the Pledge of Allegiance. SPJST Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska (200) offered a convention prayer. Supreme Lodge Chairman John Engelke (66) issued words of welcome to the delegation. 2. Thank you to City of Killeen Mayor Jose Segarra who issued a proclamation naming August 13, 14 and 15 as “SPJST Days.” 3. Thank you to SPJST Standing Committee Members, Supreme Lodge Directors and Officers, SPJST Home Office Employees, and SPJST Members who gave of their time in getting the convention underway. 4. Thank you to Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny (246), Graphic Design/Communication Specialist Brooke Hoelscher (47), and Vestnik/Communication Executive Assistant Katherine Morris (47) for an excellent job on the 33rd Convention Souvenir Program Book, and thanks to the many well wishers who purchased advertisements as well as those organizations and individuals who sent letters of commendation. 5. Thanks for the Howdy Party entertainment by Jerry Haisler (47) and Friends on Friday evening, August 13, 2021, at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center. The performance was sponsored by Supreme Lodge President Brian and Joan Vanicek (24). The beer was sponsored by District One Director
Donnie Victorick (9) and District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha (81). 6. Thank you to Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek (24) for officially convening the 33rd SPJST Convention. 7. Thank you to District Three Director John Engelke (66), District Six Director Annie Vahalik (4), and District Seven Director Regina House (202) for the kolaches provided on Saturday, August 14; and thank you to Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek (24) and District Two Director Jesse Pospisil (29) for the beer provided for the banquet on Saturday night. Thank you to District Three Director John Engelke (66), District Four Director Bobby Davis (160), and Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny (246) for the kolaches provided on Sunday, August 15. 8. Thank you to Convention Chair Donnie Victorick (9); Vice Chair Douglas Galler (66); Parliamentarian Daniel Knight (88); Convention Secretaries Jennifer Jones (47), Lisa Kirby (24), Nancy Miller (177), and Doni Powell (80), and Standing Committee members for their work, participation, and guidance during the deliberations. 9. We would like to recognize the youngest delegate, Hannah Kovar (9), age 28; and the oldest delegate, Josephine Pflughaupt (88), age 96. The delegates who have attended the most past conventions were Bob Bayer (107) and Josephine Pflughaupt (88) with 14 conventions. We also recognize the delegates who are multi-generational in addition to those attending with their siblings. 10. Thank you to 2021-2022 SPJST State Queen Megan Ohnheiser (185) and 2021-2022 State King Caleb See (9) for their attendance and their voluntary assistance to the 2021 SPJST Convention and for their presentations on Saturday evening. 11. Thank you to “Let Us Do the Cooking” for providing lunches on both days during the convention; and thank you to Jake’s Barbecue of Dime Box for providing the banquet meal on Saturday night.
12. Thank you to Father Stephen Nesrsta (54) of Holy Trinity Catholic Church for delivering the Catholic Mass on Saturday night. 13. Thank you to Yvonne Macaurele (30), Karen Kaspar (30), and Lisa Bubela (30) for assisting with the Catholic Mass. 14. Thank you to special guests at the Saturday banquet, Alfred and Bernice Vrazel (15), who have given their lives to sharing the gift of polka and waltz music to so many and in the interest of bringing vitality to their Czech heritage. 15. Special guests at the Convention were District 55 State Representative Hugh Shine (87) and his wife, Debbie Shine; Director of the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center Susan Chandler; Director of Catholic Women’s Union of Texas (KJZT) Cindy Morris (15) and her husband, Michael Morris (47); Vice President of Operations and C.O.O. of Hermann Sons Life Samantha Schulmeier and her husband, Jonathan Kelley; President of RVOS Insurance Wiley Shockley (160) and his wife, Mary (246); Alfred Vrazel (15) and his wife, Bernice (15); Father Stephen Nesrsta (54) of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Jarrell; and Reverend Joe Emerson, pastor of the Unity of the Brethren Church.
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the Ecumenical Service on Sunday morning. 17. Thank you to Macy Narro (17), age 17, for delivering her winning SPJST Flag Day essay at the start of the patriotic program honoring SPJST veterans for the military service and for the contributions that they continue to make to the country, to their communities, and to their lodges. 18. Thank you to the SPJST veterans who were recognized for their service. 19. The Resolution Committee thanks the Home Office staff — Dana Boyd, Rudy Constancio, Sandra Dubcak, Linda Hill, Brooke Hoelscher, Frank Horak, Jennifer Jones, Lisa Kirby, Tammy Martinez, Nancy Miller, Lisa Mills, Ann Paruzinski, Doni Powell, Marissa Salinas, and Carol Wolf — and everyone else for their professional service leading into and during the 33rd SPJST Convention. 20. Finally, thank you to the delegates for moving SPJST to a new level of professionalism and fraternalism. Fraternally submitted, 33rd Convention Resolution Committee Jarolyn Popp, Chair (133) Kay Weeks (183) Rubie Volek (187) —SPJST—
16. Thank you to Pastor Joe Emerson of the Unity of the Brethren for delivering
Dear SPJST Home Office Staff who worked at the 33rd SPJST Convention, —Dana Boyd, Rudy Constancio, Sandra Dubcak, Linda Hill, Brooke Hoelscher, Frank Horak, Jennifer Jones, Lisa Kirby, Tammy Martinez, Nancy Miller, Lisa Mills, Ann Paruzinski, Doni Powell, Marissa Salinas, and Carol Wolf— It is with deep regret that I as Convention Chair failed to recognize you this past weekend. There is no excuse for this oversight, and I am embarrassed about not doing what I told Sister Mary Steinman of Lodge 154, Fort Worth that I would do later in the afternoon.
I want to personally thank all of you for your efforts and help in making the 33rd Convention a huge success. However, the ones behind the scenes are the ones who are so valuable that no one ever sees or notices. I also want to thank the secretaries for all of their efforts. All of you made our jobs much easier. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and may God bless each one of you.
Thank You!
—Donnie Victorick Convention Chair 33rd SPJST Convention
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Monday, August 23, 2021
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Scenes from the 33rd SPJST Convention in Killeen, Texas ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. Delegates at the 33rd Convention elected district representatives to the Governance Committee. They are, left to right, District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair (9), District Two Edwin Pechal (47), District Three - Michael Galler (66), District Four - Brad Teplicek (49), District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, Chair (88), District Six - Lisa Bubela (30), and District Seven - Oscar Korus (107). RIGHT PHOTO: Convention Parliamentarian Daniel Knight (88).
SPJST By-Laws as approved by delegates at the 33rd Convention on August 14, 2021
Section 5. Vision. Our vision is to provide financial security for our members; build a wholesome family environment; and encourage cherished Czech traditions.
The local lodge secretary notifies the candidate whether he/she is accepted or rejected. If rejected, the member may begin application to another lodge. No one may hold membership in more than one SPJST lodge.
ARTICLE IV FRATERNAL BENEFICIARY SOCIETY
Section 9. Membership Classes. There shall be the following classes of members:
ARTICLE I NAME
Section 6. SPJST is a 501(c)(8) non-profit corporation formed, organized, and incorporated under the fraternal benefit society laws of the State of Texas; and carried on solely for the mutual benefit of its members and their communities and beneficiaries; and having a lodge system, with a representative form of government. SPJST shall have all the powers granted to it by law. SPJST will strive to be a financially strong fraternal benefit society and to provide high quality, competitive life insurance and value-added benefits to its members. SPJST will conduct its affairs in a manner that is perceived as a good corporate citizen.
Section 1. The name of this Fraternal Benefit Society is SPJST, originally chartered as Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas (Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas {SPJST}). ARTICLE II PRINCIPAL OFFICE Section 2. The principal office (Home Office) of SPJST shall be located in Temple, Texas. ARTICLE III OBJECTIVES Section 3. The objectives of this Society, as organized by fearless and peace-loving Czech pioneers in Texas, are: (1) To provide and promote fraternal and social fellowship among its members. (2) To endeavor to keep alive the cherished traditions, customs, heritage, culture, and language of our forefathers. (3) Generally, through moral, spiritual, and economic respect, to encourage benevolence and humanity through the Society with sound practical life insurance products for its members. (4) To operate under the lodge system. (5) To provide for the payment of life, sick, accident, or other benefits to its members. Section 4.
Mission. Insuring and enriching lives.
ARTICLE V MEMBERSHIP Section 7. Application for Membership. Individuals may become members if they meet the requirements for membership established by SPJST, apply for membership upon a form in use by SPJST, and are accepted into membership in accordance with the rules, procedures, and rituals of SPJST. All members must be citizens, legal residents of the United States, or tax-paying nonresidents with a legal Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Section 8. Local Lodge Membership. The local lodge has the right to determine whether it will accept an applicant for membership into the lodge. Upon receipt of notification of a new candidate for membership, the local lodge shall vote to accept or to reject the candidate no later than the second regularly scheduled meeting after notification is received by the local lodge. The candidate for membership must receive a majority vote of those present and voting to be accepted as a member.
(a) Adult Member. (1) A person of 18 or more years whose application has been accepted and approved and to whom there has been issued a certificate of membership and insurance or annuity which is in force or who is receiving a settlement agreement benefit by reason of such insurance or annuity. It is expressly determined that in this latter event, the owner of the insurance or annuity, if different from the insured, shall have no privileges of membership and the insured will retain these rights. (2) A person may become a member by purchasing an annuity in a minimum amount as set by the Board of Directors and pays his or her local lodge dues and assessments, if any, annually in advance. (3) Further, it is determined that in the event that a third party owner surrenders the insurance or annuity, the insured who is the member shall have his/her membership privileges imparted by the surrendered insurance or annuity terminated immediately. (4) Members upon reaching age 18 automatically become adult members with all rights of adult members by complying with all requirements of adult membership. (5) Adult members whose life insurance certificates have matured based on the applicable mortality table shall remain members of SPJST, with all the privileges and benefits of
VĚSTNÍK active members and shall not be required to pay any dues or assessments. (6) An adult member suspended for non-payment of premiums, dues, and assessments, if any, loses his/her right to vote and is not eligible for election. (7) Adult members are eligible for election as officers of local lodges, in the district, delegates, as committee members, and as members of the Board of Directors. (b) Youth Member. SPJST may insure the lives of children. Such insurance shall be issued upon the application of an authorized adult (who shall not by reason thereof, nor by reason of any benefit providing for waiver of premium, become a member) who has an insurable interest. At age 18, the insured youth shall become an adult member. (c) Associate Member. An associate member is a person who holds an SPJST certificate purchased through an outside agency under contract with SPJST selling group insurance. This member will not have SPJST or local lodge privileges, benefits, or voting rights. (d) Social Member. (1) A social member is a member whom a lodge votes in as a social member, who completes a social membership form, and who pays his/her membership dues and assessments, if any, to the local lodge. (2) A social member is not eligible to vote or hold office; however, a social member may, at the discretion of the local lodge, serve on an appointed committee with the inherent right to deliberate and vote on that committee. (3) A social member must pay for the Vestnik if he/she desires to receive it.
Monday, August 23, 2021 (4) An uninsurable child whose parent or guardian is a member can participate in the youth program. Section 10. Membership Guidelines. All members shall guide themselves according to the charter, constitution, and by-laws of SPJST; otherwise, they are subject to penalty as defined by these by-laws and as prescribed by the Board of Directors for violation and non-observance of them. No subordinate body, nor any of its subordinate officers or members, shall have the power or authority to waive any of the provisions of the by-laws of SPJST. Such provisions shall be binding on SPJST and every member and beneficiary of a member. Section 11. Induction of New Members. Induction of new members may be conducted at a time and date convenient to the local lodge and the new members. ARTICLE VI CONVENTION Section 12. Purpose. The Supreme Governing Body of SPJST shall be known as the Convention and shall be composed of delegates elected according to the rules of these by-laws. The Convention is the sole judge of eligibility and qualifications of all delegates and substitutes. The Convention has the power to: (a) Adopt, amend, and supplement the by-laws of SPJST. (b) Receive and act on all reports filed by the Executive Committee and the Governance Committee, which must be published in the Vestnik 30 days before the Convention. The Board of Directors may make one combined report if they so agree. (c) Elect District Directors, Alternate District Directors, Governance Committee members, and Alternate Governance Committee members. (d) Determine compensation of District Directors.
LEFT PHOTO: The 33rd SPJST Convention was called to order by SPJST President Brian Vanicek, right, at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 14, 2021. David Bucek, left, of Lodge 151, Wharton led the Pledge of Allegiance. Sarah Urbanovsky of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi sang the American and Czech National Anthems. PHOTOS 2 and 3: Aracely Quiz of Lodge 219, El Paso and Mark Rebecek of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi posted the colors. PHOTO 4: SPJST Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska offered a con-
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Section 13. Regular Conventions. Regular Conventions are held once every four years. The date and location of the next regular Convention shall be set by the Board of Directors and published in the Vestnik no later than January of the Convention year. Section 14. Special Conventions. Special Conventions may be held upon a two-thirds vote of all members of the Board of Directors for an urgent matter concerning the welfare of SPJST. Such Special Conventions shall be held at such time and place as may be determined by the Board of Directors. No business may be taken up at such Special Convention except for the purpose for which called, which purpose shall be clearly and distinctly set forth in the call for the Special Convention. A call for a Special Convention shall be disseminated electronically at least 30 days prior to the convening of such Special Convention, addressed to each delegate at his/her last known email address as shown by the records of SPJST. At the Special Convention, delegates from each lodge shall have the same number of votes as at the preceding Regular Convention. Section 15. Quorum. Two-thirds of delegates seated at any Regular or Special Convention shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business. Section 16. Ballot In Lieu of Special Convention. In lieu of calling a special Convention, the Board of Directors may send a ballot to all delegates by mail or by email. The ballot may include one or more resolutions that could be considered and adopted at a special Convention. The proposed resolution or resolutions must be mailed or emailed to the delegates at least 30 days before the ballots must be returned. Delegates from each lodge shall have the same number of votes as at the preceding regular Convention. A resolution shall be deemed adopted upon receipt of signed ballots with votes equal to the number of votes that would have been needed to adopt the resolution at a special Convention at which all delegates were present.
vention prayer. PHOTO 4: SPJST Vice President Delisle Doherty presented a memorial acknowledgment in memory of departed members. RIGHT PHOTO: In one of the first items of business, convention delegates elected Donnie Victorick (9), left, to serve as convention chair and Douglas Galler (66) to serve as convention vice chair. Not pictured: Supreme Lodge Chair/District Three Director John Engelke of Lodge 66, Waco issued words of welcome to the delegation.
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Monday, August 23, 2021
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Section 17. Order. All proceedings of the Convention will be conducted in the following order, unless decided otherwise by the Board of Directors and approved by the delegates:
Section 19. Proceedings. All proceedings in the Convention, unless such rules are not covered by the bylaws, are conducted in accordance with the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order.”
(a) The President/CEO convenes the Convention.
Section 20. Discussions. All Executive Committee members and Governance Committee members may participate in the discussions at the Convention, but they do not have the right to make motions, vote, or nominate unless they are delegates.
(b) Credentials report. A list of names of elected delegates and number of votes each lodge and delegate is entitled to will be made available to delegates at the beginning of the Convention by the Board of Directors. (c) Elect Convention officers (Chair and Vice Chair) from among the delegates. (d) Reports by Governance Committee and Executive Committee. (e) Deliberate by-laws. (f) Miscellaneous business. (g) District caucuses. The purpose of the seven separate district caucuses is to nominate and elect a District Director, Alternate District Director, Governance Committee member, and Alternate Governance Committee member. Each delegate will vote in accordance with Section 31 (Votes) of the by-laws. The District Director will act as temporary chair of the district caucus until delegates elect a permanent chair. (h) Install District Directors and Governance Committee members. (i) Adjourn Convention. Section 18. Convention Officers. The President/CEO shall convene the Convention and shall preside until a Convention Chair is elected. The President/CEO shall appoint the secretaries of the Convention. The Convention Chair and Convention Vice Chair are the Convention officers.
(a) No concern can be discussed in the Convention unless it was first presented to the Governance Committee and acted upon by that committee. (b) 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 or the Board of Directors and submitted to any member of the Governance Committee not later than 60 days prior to the Convention so that the Governance Committee could study such motion or amendment and deliver its opinion. Recommendations must be submitted in the English language. The Governance Committee secretary shall forward all signed bylaw recommendations to the Vestnik for publication. Rejected recommendations can be presented by a delegate of the representative body in the Convention during deliberation of the respective article. Section 21. Voting. The enactment, deletion, or amendment to a by-law requires a two-thirds vote by authorized votes of delegates present. Unless otherwise required by law or the laws of SPJST, all other matters are decided by a majority of authorized votes of the delegates present. Delegates shall vote by voice, show of hands, standing, roll call, or secret ballot as designated by the Convention Chair. No delegate shall vote by proxy. Section 22. Minutes. The Convention minutes should accurately summarize what was discussed and actions taken by the Convention. The minutes should be accurate, concise, objective, and to the point, but written in
LEFT PHOTO: Convention Tellers take the oath of secrecy prior to the first tabulation of results. They are, left to right, Sandra Hoggard (202), Donna Vanek (97), Doris Bronikowski (88), Ronnie Pflughaupt (1), Joe Liles (80), Brenda Holik (160), and Jim Liska (84). CENTER PHOTO: Cre-
such a way that they do not leave out critical information and are easily understood and usable in the future. Minutes may include brief summaries of the discussions but should reflect a record of the exact wording of motions, amendments, and resolutions as well as who made the motions, who seconded them, and the outcome of any votes taken. The minutes shall be kept and approved in the English language. A copy of the Convention minutes shall be sent to each local lodge secretary, all Convention delegates, Governance Committee members, and/or members, upon request. ARTICLE VII GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE Section 23. Composition. The Governance Committee shall be comprised of seven elected members (one from each of the seven districts). Section 24. Eligibility. Executive Committee members, their spouses, and SPJST Home Office employees are not eligible for membership on the Governance Committee, but they are free to attend the Governance Committee meetings, make suggestions and recommendations, and assist the Governance Committee. (a) Governance Committee members are expected to attend their respective district meetings. If two meetings are missed during a four-year period, the alternate will be appointed to complete the remainder of the term. Section 25. Duties. The Governance Committee shall have the following duties: (a) Review submitted recommendations for changes to the by-laws. The Governance Committee secretary shall forward all signed by-law recommendations to the Vestnik for publication. The Governance Committee will consider, arrange, and recommend motions for amending by-laws of the succeeding Convention; eliminate conflicts in the by-laws; codify and rearrange the by-laws; and de-
dentials Committee Chair Rita Spinn (80) delivers a report as committee member Michael Galler (66) looks on. RIGHT PHOTO: Convention Order Committee, left to right, are Kyle Skrabanek (17), Elizabeth Holub (23), and Kerry Herrington (142).
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liberate and decide on all recommendations for amending the by-laws and, if necessary, prepare and present its own recommendations for changes to any articles. The Governance Committee will submit recommendations to the Vestnik enabling publishing 30 days prior to the Convention. Immediately following the Convention, the Governance Committee will arrange and compile the newlyadopted by-laws with all changes and amendments.
members. The Governance Committee Chair may call special meetings and shall call a special meeting upon written request of at least three Governance Committee members. Any meeting of SPJST at which written minutes are kept, except the Convention, may meet by telephone conference or other means of communication that allows all participants to simultaneously communicate with each other. All non-electronic meetings should be at the Home Office.
(b) Review all compensation and financial benefits of District Directors. Gather relevant information and recommendations regarding reasonable compensation for District Directors and present a proposal to the Convention. Any increase in compensation must be approved by the delegates of the Convention.
Section 28. Quorum and Voting. A majority of the Governance Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of Governance Committee business except that a smaller number may adjourn a meeting for lack of a quorum. The Committee shall act by a majority of Committee members present.
(c) Recommend to the Convention compensation of District Directors. The Committee’s recommendations shall be published in the Vestnik 30 days prior to the Convention.
ARTICLE VIII LODGE DELEGATE ELECTIONS
(d) Assist the President/CEO in the tabulation of votes during the election of the Convention Chair and Convention Vice Chair. (e) Assist the Convention Chair in the tabulation of votes of matters brought before the Convention. (f) Serve as the Grievance Committee at the Convention. Help resolve disputes at the Convention. Section 26. Committee Chair. The Governance Committee shall convene immediately following the Convention and elect a Committee Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary from its members. Section 27. Meetings. During the Convention year, the Governance Committee shall hold a minimum of two meetings, one at least six months and one immediately prior to the start of the Convention. The day and time shall be designated by the Governance Committee Chair after consultation with Governance Committee
Section 29. Election of Delegates. Delegates and substitute delegates shall be elected no later than January at the local lodge meeting that precedes the Convention for the term from one Convention to the next Convention. Section 30. Number of Delegates per Lodge. Every lodge has the right to elect delegates in accordance with its membership. (a) The number of delegates a lodge may send to the Convention shall be based on the following scale: (1) One delegate for lodges with 20 to 200 adult members; (2) One additional delegate for each additional 200 adult members. (b) Changes in Lodge Membership. If a lodge obtains enough new active members to qualify for an additional delegate to the Convention in the time
LEFT PHOTO: Thanks to the By-Law Committee for its work. Committee members were, left to right, Bill Orsak (9), Bridget Bohac (20), Mary Steinman (154), Joe Siptak (4), Dorothy Pflughaupt (88), Oscar Korus (107), and Beverly Teplicek (49). CENTER PHOTO: The Publication Committee delivers its report. Committee members were Floyd Kostelka (13),
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period between the annual meeting and 60 days before the Convention, then that lodge shall send the substitute delegate or delegates with the most votes. A lodge losing the required number of members between such time shall not lose the delegate or delegates. (c) New Lodges. A lodge chartered during the Convention year may elect its delegates and its substitutes any time before the convening of the Convention. A lodge chartered, merged, or reorganized less than three years preceding the election of its delegates may elect its delegates and substitutes from among those members having attended a majority of the regular meetings from the date of its charter, merger, or reorganization. Section 31. Votes. 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). Section 32. Substitute Delegates. Substitute delegates shall be elected according to the procedures for election of delegates. No more than 10 substitute delegates shall be elected per lodge. A substitute delegate shall attend the Convention if one of the elected delegates cannot attend. The substitute delegate or delegates shall be chosen to fill vacancies according to which substitute delegate received the most votes at the annual lodge meeting. Section 33. Delegate Election Requirements. (a) Qualifies as an adult member. (b) Is present during the election or is absent due to unavoidable circumstances.
Amber Bartek (47), Lynda Novak (84), Sharon Hohmann (160), Marjorie Treumer (30), and Trey Bielefeld (107). RIGHT PHOTO: Finance Committee members address the delegation. Committee members were Debbie Kostelka (13), Edwin Pechal (47), Michael Galler (66), H. Dewyan Weise (160), Ashley Victorick (88), Karen Kaspar (30), and Colleen Jenke (258).
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Monday, August 23, 2021 (c) Attended at least 50 percent of the regular meetings of the lodge during one year preceding the Convention year. Lodges meeting monthly, 50 percent is six meetings; lodges meeting bi-monthly, 50 percent is three meetings; and lodges meeting quarterly, 50 percent is two meetings. (When there is a conflict with the date of their local lodge meeting, Executive Committee members, district fraternal activities coordinators, on official business, may count as attending a regular meeting for this purpose. The state fraternal director, district youth counselors and their assistants, on official business, may count as attending youth club meetings. Notification must be given to the local lodge secretary prior to the event with written confirmation made by the party within two weeks following the event.) Newly transferred members’ attendance record of the previous lodge shall be accepted. (d) Is a citizen of the United States of America at the time of election. (e) Is not an officer or director of another fraternal life insurance society. (f) Any member who desires to serve as a delegate who is an underwriter of any insurance company or an agent (underwriter) of any other fraternal life insurance society may be elected but must first disclose this information to the local lodge members prior to the election.
Section 34. Term. Delegates and substitute delegates shall hold office until their successors are seated at the following Convention. The delegates and substitutes to the most recent regular Convention shall be the delegates and substitutes to any special Convention or for any ballot in lieu of a special Convention. If a delegate is not in the Convention by the second day, he/she will not be seated unless he/she has a good excuse as decided by the majority of the seated delegates, such as serious illness/emergency or death in immediate family. In the event of the merger of two or more lodges following the Convention, those delegates of each lodge shall be entitled to the same number of votes they had at the preceding Convention.
District One Delegates
VĚSTNÍK Section 35. Delegate Selection Procedure. (a) When a lodge is entitled to two or more delegates, the nomination and election of delegates is made by whatever procedure is deemed most convenient and expedient by the local lodge. If a nominating committee is used, nominations from the floor must be permitted. In the election process, a secret ballot may be used. Ballots designating more nominees than permitted are void and not counted. The nominees receiving the highest number of votes are elected. (b) The result of the election of delegates and substitutes shall be forwarded to the Chief Financial Officer within 30 days after the election. Failure to do so will nullify the lodge’s delegates. (c) The Chief Financial Officer forwards to the local lodge secretary the required forms in duplicate that must be completed by the secretary and signed by the president and secretary of the local lodge, to certify the election of the delegate and substitute(s). After completion, one form must immediately be forwarded to the Chief Financial Officer. The elected delegate must present the second form to the Credentials Committee, an ad hoc committee of the Board of Directors comprised of Convention delegates, during Convention registration. The credential form must contain: (1) A statement of the number of regular meetings held by the lodge the delegate is representing. (2) The number of regular meetings attended by the delegate in the year preceding the Convention. (3) The mileage from the delegate’s home to the Convention site and return. (d) Lodges failing to comply with all required lodge duties and obligations within 60 days prior to the Convention will lose their right to representation at the Convention.
(e) In the event of a delegate’s death, incapacity, or transfer to another lodge, he/she shall automatically be replaced by the first substitute of such lodge. ARTICLE IX BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Section 36. Composition of Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall be composed of the seven elected District Directors (one from each of the seven districts). The Board of Directors 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 by-laws. Section 37. Composition of Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall be composed of the Board of Directors (seven District Directors) and the Executive Officers (President/CEO, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Vice President of Communications, Chief Financial Officer, and Controller). Section 38. Conflicts of Interest. (a) No agent of any other competitive life insurance company, or any officer or director of any similar fraternal order is eligible for membership on the Executive Committee. (b) No Executive Committee member shall receive commission for the sale of property belonging to SPJST. No Executive Committee member can buy property from SPJST. No Executive Committee member shall be personally liable to SPJST or its members for monetary damages for any act or omission in the Executive Officer’s or District Director’s capacity as an Executive Officer or District Director except in the following instances: (1) For any breach of the Executive Officer’s or District Director’s duty of loyalty to SPJST or its members;
District Two Delegates
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(2) For any act or omission not in good faith or which involves intentional misconduct or knowing violation of the law; (3) For any transaction from which the Executive Officer or District Director received a benefit deemed improper by the Board of Directors, whether or not the benefit resulted from action taken within the scope of the Executive Officer’s or District Director’s position; (4) For any act or omission for which the liability of an Executive Officer or District Director is expressly provided for by statute or payment of a dividend. (c) No person can be an employee of the SPJST Home Office if he/she is related to any member of the Executive Committee within the third degree, as construed under Section 573 of the Government Code of the Texas Revised Civil Statutes. Section 39. Duties. The affairs of SPJST shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Directors between regular meetings of the Convention. The Board of Directors has the duty and authority to: (a) Provide leadership for all SPJST members and others. (b) Promote fraternalism between lodges. (c) Learn and promote Czech heritage and language and the history of SPJST. (d) Employ legal counsel on an as-needed basis. (e) Provide sufficient insurance coverage for the protection of SPJST. (f) Collaborate with Executive Officers and conduct a strategic planning process and develop an annual business plan with clearly defined qualitative and quantitative goals.
District Three Delegates
(g) Adopt formulas to determine the amount of refund to lodges based on premium income from members and other incentive factors after a review of the annual statement and consultation with the actuary. (h) Adopt such additional plans and tables of insurance including annuities and universal life products, which appear to be beneficial, according to fraternal insurance laws of the State of Texas. (i) Ratify compensation schedule and incentive programs for sales agents.
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(2) All official lodge records and papers shall be relinquished to the Board of Directors for examination. (3) The name and number of the local lodge will be dropped from the roster of the lodges. (4) The loss of representation at district meetings and other functions of SPJST. (5) The loss of representation at all youth functions on the district and state levels. (6) No new applications for membership will be accepted.
(j) Fill vacancies for the President/CEO. (k) Employ a certified public accountant, upon recommendation of the Chief Financial Officer, to prepare a detailed report concerning the condition of SPJST. (l) Prepare a report of its progress/accomplishments since the preceding Convention. Each Executive Officer must submit a report to be printed in the Vestnik at least 30 days prior to the Convention. The Board of Directors may submit one combined report, if they so agree. (m) Investigate all irregularities, disorders, and incompetence in office of the President/CEO or any District Director. Following a thorough investigation, including a hearing of such charges and 20 days advance notice to the accused, the Board of Directors may discharge the accused from his/her office by a two-thirds vote. (n) Suspend local lodges for not performing their local lodge duties and for irregularities deemed by the Board of Directors to be detrimental to SPJST. In the event of suspension, and until the suspension is lifted by the Board of Directors, one or more of the following shall be in effect: (1) The loss of representation at regular and special Conventions of SPJST.
(7) No transfers into the lodge will be accepted. (8) All meetings and activities normally carried on by such lodge will cease. (9) No local lodge dues will be collected. (o) Suspend or discharge local lodge officers and committees for irregularities in office detrimental to SPJST on charges filed by members of the local lodge or the Board of Directors, and after 20 days notice to the accused and due hearing thereon, by a vote of two-thirds of the Board of Directors. (p) Select and give discretionary authority to an investment manager on recommendation of the Chief Financial Officer and ratify the sale and purchase of bonds and stocks by a majority vote. (q) Ratify the operating budget of the Home Office. (r) Assign additional duties to the President/CEO as needed. (s) Review proposed agenda items and agenda for the Convention. The agenda will be constructed by the Executive Officers. All proposed agenda items
District Four Delegates
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Monday, August 23, 2021 must be submitted to the Executive Officers at least 60 days prior to the start of the Convention to be included in the Convention agenda. (t) Review resolutions submitted for consideration of the Convention and make recommendations to the Convention regarding such resolutions. Any proposed resolution must be submitted to the Executive Officers at least 30 days prior to the start of the Convention to be considered by the Convention. (u) Examine and pass upon the credentials of the delegates to the Convention. (v) Review the financial standing of the Society annually and ensure that a financial report is prepared and presented to the Convention. (w) Present a report at district meetings. (x) Participate in lodge and district events to inform the membership on matters pertaining to SPJST. (y) Ratify hiring and compensation of all Executive Officers.
Section 40. Chair of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall elect a chair and vice chair for a term of one year from among its seven elected District Directors. The chair shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and perform such other duties as may be designated by the Board of Directors. The vice chair will preside in the absence of the chair. Section 41. Regular Meetings. The Board of Directors shall meet quarterly during the third week or weekend in January, April, July, and October. In case of necessity, the President/CEO, in conference with the Chair of the Board of Directors, has the right to change the date of the meeting. Meetings are open to SPJST members except during executive sessions concerning personnel, disciplinary matters, litigation, or threatened litigation. Section 42. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the President/CEO
District Five Delegates
VĚSTNÍK or the Chair of the Board of Directors, in case of necessity. In the event that five members of the Board of Directors determine a necessity for a special meeting, and the President/CEO refuses to call such a meeting, the five members may, by written notice, call all members of the Board of Directors to such a special meeting and hold the meeting. Five members of the Board of Directors will constitute a quorum at special meetings. Section 43. Location. Meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at the Home Office, unless the President/CEO or the Board of Directors designate an alternative location. Section 44. Quorum and Voting. Five members of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum. The act of a majority of the members present at a meeting at which quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors, unless the act of a greater number is required by the Charter of Incorporation, by-laws, or applicable law. Section 45. Electronic Communication. The Executive Committee and any committee or sub-committee of the Board of Directors, or any other meeting of SPJST at which written minutes are kept, except the Convention, may meet by telephone conference, online, or other means of communication that allows all participants to simultaneously communicate with each other. Section 46. Action Without Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board of Directors or any committee or sub-committee of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting by written consent of all of its members then in service. A written consent under this provision shall have the same force and effect as a vote taken at a meeting.
(b) The minutes will include each item voted on at the meeting with a record of how each member of the Board of Directors voted on each issue. Matters concerning personnel, disciplinary matters, litigation, threatened litigation, and marketing plans will not be included. Section 48. Committee Establishment. The Board of Directors may appoint committees to have such authority as the Board of Directors may delegate. Each committee shall consist of three or more Executive Committee members. Additional committee members may be appointed by the Board of Directors. A majority of the members of each committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all committee business. Section 49. Audit Committee. The Audit Committee shall be responsible for the oversight of the auditors of the Society, the audit of financial statements of the Society, review of investment transactions and performance of the investment portfolio, operational procedures, and such other responsibilities designated to it from time to time. Section 50. Communications Committee. The Communications Committee shall be responsible for determining what material proposed to be included in the Vestnik may be harmful to and against the best interests of SPJST. Section 51. Vacancy. In the event of a vacancy by the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Vice President of Communications, Chief Financial Officer, or Controller, such vacancy will be filled by appointment by the President/CEO with ratification by the Board of Directors.
Section 47. Minutes. The Board of Directors will designate a Home Office staff member to record minutes of all transactions at all open Board of Directors’ meetings and special meetings. The Chief Financial Officer will maintain minutes and exhibits of the Board of Directors’ meetings and Investment Committee meetings. Written consent may be given electronically.
(a) In the event of a vacancy by the President/CEO, such vacancy will be filled by the Board of Directors.
(a) The minutes will be printed in the Vestnik within 30 days after each regular or special Board of Directors’ meeting.
(c) In the event of a vacancy by an Alternate District Director who succeeded the District Director, the District President shall call a meeting of the del-
(b) In the event of a vacancy by a District Director, the position shall be filled by the Alternate District Director.
District Six Delegates
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, August 23, 2021
egates of the previous regular Convention to a place centrally located for the purpose of electing a new District Director and Alternate District Director for the term to the next Convention. This election shall be carried out within 30 days. The results of the election shall be announced to the Executive Committee without delay.
(c) The President/CEO or District Director, upon termination of his/her tenure, must deliver to their successors all property belonging to SPJST.
Section 52. Removal of President/CEO or District Directors.
Section 53. Officer Requirements. To be an Executive Officer, an individual must meet the following requirements:
(a) The President/CEO may be removed “for cause” by a two-thirds affirmative vote of the Board of Directors at a meeting called for that purpose. A District Director may be removed from the Board of Directors “for cause” by a two-thirds affirmative vote of the Board of Directors at a meeting called for that purpose. The member of the Board of Directors whose status is at issue shall not be entitled to vote in the matter. “For cause,” for purposes of this section, shall include:
(a) Be a member of SPJST for at least one year preceding the appointment. Individuals who do not meet this one-year requirement may be hired; however, they shall not serve as an Executive Officer until they have been a member for one year.
(1) Inability or failure to perform the duties and responsibilities of an Executive Committee member; (2) Engaging in conduct unbecoming of an Executive Committee member; (3) Absence from two Board of Directors’ meetings during the course of a calendar year, without good cause;
ARTICLE X EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
(b) Be a citizen of the United States of America. (c) Must have at least $50,000 of SPJST life insurance or if uninsurable, then an SPJST annuity in at least the amount of $20,000. (d) Appreciate and promote the Czech language and culture and fluently speak the English language. (e) Any other requirements that the Board of Directors may prescribe that take into consideration the nature of the position and magnitude of the business and affairs of SPJST.
(4) Breaching a fiduciary duty owed to SPJST, its members, or beneficiaries;
(f) No Executive Officer can hold more than one office at a time, and no Executive Officer can receive more than one compensation at one time.
(5) Materially violating these by-laws, the Charter of Incorporation, or any code of ethics or conflict of interest policy adopted by SPJST; or
(g) No Executive Officer can receive commissions for services as a sales agent. The spouse of an Executive Officer can receive commissions for services as a sales agent at a reduced rate as determined by the commission structure for part-time agents.
(6) Ceasing to be a member of SPJST. (b) For the President/CEO, a determination of cause shall be made within the reasonable discretion of the Board of Directors. For a District Director, a determination of cause shall be made within the reasonable discretion of the Board of Directors, in consultation with the District President.
District Seven Delegates
(h) No Executive Officer may hold any position in the districts or lodges. Section 54. General Duties. (a) Coordinate and conduct workshops for the training of local lodge officers in the first quarter of each year.
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(b) Submit a quarterly report to the Board of Directors of all services performed prior to each board meeting. (c) Submit reports regularly to the Vestnik. Section 55. President/CEO. The President/CEO shall be appointed by the Board of Directors. The President/CEO shall serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Society, shall have general supervision and direction of the day-to-day business and affairs of the Society, and shall perform all duties incumbent to the position and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time. The President/CEO is the official head of SPJST and oversees all departments. The President/CEO is an ex officio member of all appointed committees within the Board of Directors. Subject to such rules and policies as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors, the President/CEO shall have authority to appoint and terminate such other officers, agents, and employees and to delegate authority to them with ratification of the Board of Directors upon appointment and/or termination of an Executive Officer. Section 56. Reasonable Compensation. Reasonable compensation of the President/CEO shall be determined by the Board of Directors. Reasonable compensation of all Executive Officers other than the President/CEO shall be recommended by the President/CEO and approved by the Board of Directors. In its determination of reasonable compensation, the Board of Directors or a committee delegated authority for officer compensation shall take into account, among others, the services rendered by the officer, the performance of the officer, the performance of the Society, market and industry standards, and compensation paid to officers of similarly situated fraternal benefit societies. ARTICLE XI SPJST ADVISORY COUNCIL Section 57. Convention delegates shall serve as members of the SPJST Advisory Council between conventions. SPJST Advisory Council members shall serve on a volunteer basis and meet annually each spring with the Executive Committee with the objective of keeping the SPJST Advisory Council members engaged and re-
President Vanicek and Flag Day Essay Winner Macy Narro (17).
Honorary Supreme Lodge members
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sponsive in matters relating to the growth and development of SPJST. ARTICLE XII DISTRICT DIRECTORS Section 58. District Director Qualifications. These qualifications shall reflect the complexity and magnitude of the business and affairs of SPJST and shall therefore include expertise in corporate governance, financial accounting, and insurance, among others. (a) District Directors are accountable to members and owe duties of loyalty and care to SPJST. District Directors’ performance should be evaluated through SPJST’s long-term performance, financial and otherwise. (b) District Directors must have high integrity and the appropriate competence to represent the interests of all members in achieving the long-term success of SPJST. Ideally, in order to facilitate engaged and informed oversight of SPJST and the performance of management, a subset of District Directors will have professional experiences directly related to SPJST. At the same time, however, it is important to recognize that some of the best ideas, insights, and contributions can come from District Directors whose professional experiences are not directly related to SPJST. (c) District Directors should be business savvy and member-oriented, and have a genuine passion for SPJST. (d) District Directors should have complementary and diverse skill sets, backgrounds, and experiences. (e) District Directors need to commit substantial time and energy to the role. Section 59. District Director Requirements. To be a District Director, an individual must meet the following requirements: (a) Be a citizen of the United States of America at the time of election.
VĚSTNÍK (b) Be an active member for at least one year prior to the time of election. (c) Have SPJST life insurance in force or, if uninsurable, have an SPJST annuity. (d) Meet the lodge attendance requirements for delegates. (e) Appreciate and promote the Czech language and culture and fluently speak the English language. (f) Attend the Convention or have an excuse for not being present that is acceptable by two-thirds of the delegates. (g) Be capable of assuming the responsibilities as outlined herein and as established by SPJST from time to time. (h) Reside within the respective district. (i) Candidates seeking election for one of the seven elected District Director positions must state their intention to seek election and submit information to the Vestnik regarding their qualifications for a District Director position in accordance with the procedures established and published by the Board of Directors at least 120 days prior to the Convention. The Board of Directors shall help identify and encourage well qualified candidates from each District to seek election as a District Director and Alternate District Director. The Board of Directors shall review candidate information and may gather additional background information and shall submit the slate of candidates and qualification information to an ad-hoc Credentials Committee comprised of Convention delegates who shall review and provide the slate of candidates and information regarding qualifications to the delegates at the Convention. Section 60. Term. The terms of the elected District Directors shall be for four years and commence upon the close of the Convention during which they are elected and terminate upon the close of the following Convention. No District Director can hold any position in the SPJST Home Office or district.
Section 61. General Duties. District Directors will: (a) Oversee the management and progress of SPJST. (b) Oversee the compliance of all by-laws and decisions of the Conventions and the Board of Directors. ARTICLE XIII VESTNIK – OFFICIAL PUBLICATION Section 62. Official Publication Vestnik. SPJST shall have an official publication. The name of the official publication shall be Vestnik. The Vestnik will be published twice monthly and in color. Section 63. Subscriptions. A Vestnik shall be sent to SPJST members as shown on the records of SPJST, except that if SPJST records show that two or more members have the same mailing address, an official publication mailed to one of them is deemed mailed to all of them at the same address unless a separate copy is requested. Names and addresses of members requesting the Vestnik must be furnished to the Home Office. Schools, colleges, and universities offering and instructing the Czech language for credit will receive the Vestnik free of charge upon request. ARTICLE XIV DISTRICTS Section 64. Composition. Districts are subordinate bodies under the jurisdiction of the Board of Directors. SPJST is divided into seven districts across the state of Texas in which lodges are located. The districts are composed of the following counties: (a) DISTRICT ONE: Austin, Bastrop (except Lodge 18), Brazos, Burleson, Caldwell, Cherokee, Fayette, Grimes, Houston, Lee, Leon, Madison, Panola, Robertson, Rusk, Trinity, Walker, and Washington. (b) DISTRICT TWO: Bell, Blanco, Burnet, Coryell, Falls, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Lampasas,
VĚSTNÍK Llano, McCulloch, Mason, Menard, Milam, San Saba, Travis, Williamson, Lodge 18, Elgin (located in Bastrop County), and Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy (located in McLennan County). (c) DISTRICT THREE: Anderson, Bosque, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Clay, Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Delta, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Fannin, Franklin, Freestone, Grayson, Gregg, Hamilton, Harrison, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hopkins, Hunt, Jack, Johnson, Kaufman, Lamar, Limestone, McLennan (except Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy), Marion, Montague, Morris, Navarro, Palo Pinto, Parker, Rains, Red River, Rockwall, Smith, Somervell, Tarrant, Titus, Upshur, Van Zandt, Wise, and Wood. (d) DISTRICT FOUR: Andrews, Archer, Armstrong, Bailey, Baylor, Borden, Brewster, Briscoe, Brown, Callahan, Carson, Castro, Childress, Cochran, Coke, Coleman, Collingsworth, Comanche, Concho, Cottle, Crane, Crockett, Crosby, Culberson, Dallam, Dawson, Deaf Smith, Dickens, Donley, Eastland, Ector, El Paso, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Gains, Garza, Glasscock, Gray, Hale, Hall, Hansford, Hardeman, Hartley, Haskell, Hemphill, Hockley, Howard, Hudspeth, Hutchinson, Irion, Jeff Davis, Jones, Kent, Kimble, King, Knox, Lamb, Lipscomb, Loving, Lubbock, Lynn, Martin, Midland, Mills, Mitchell, Moore, Motley, Nolan, Ochiltree, Oldham, Parmer, Potter, Pecos, Presidio, Randall, Reagan, Reeves, Roberts, Runnels, Schleicher, Scurry, Shackelford, Sherman, Sterling, Stephens, Stonewall, Sutton, Swisher, Taylor, Terrell, Terry, Throckmorton, Tom Green, Upton, Val Verde, Ward, Wheeler, Wichita, Wilbarger, Winkler, Yoakum, and Young. (e) DISTRICT FIVE: Angelina, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Tyler, and Waller. (f) DISTRICT SIX: Aransas, Calhoun, Colorado, DeWitt, Goliad, Gonzales, Jackson, Lavaca, Matagorda, Refugio, Victoria, and Wharton. (g) DISTRICT SEVEN: Atascosa, Bandera, Bee,
Monday, August 23, 2021 Bexar, Brooks, Cameron, Comal, Dimmit, Duval, Edwards, Frio, Guadalupe, Hays, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kenedy, Kinney, Kleberg, La Salle, Live Oak, Maverick, McMullen, Medina, Nueces, Real, San Patricio, Starr, Uvalde, Webb, Willacy, Wilson, Zapata, and Zavala. Section 65. District Meetings. Districts have the right to assemble for consultation, information, and administration within the limits of the by-laws of SPJST. (a) Members of every district must hold an annual business meeting each year, which may be combined with social and youth activities. (b) Every district formulates its own rules and regulations that must not conflict with the by-laws of SPJST. Any time a district desires to adopt a new activity program, which is not provided for in SPJST’s by-laws, it will present its proposal to the District Director, who in turn, will present it to the Board of Directors for approval. (c) All deliberations and minutes must be conducted in the English language. Section 66. District Officers. The following district officers shall be elected during the annual meeting: president; first vice president (to serve as fraternal activities coordinator for the district unless the district elects a fraternal activities coordinator as a separate position); second vice president (optional); secretary; treasurer; fraternal activities coordinator (optional); reporter (optional); district youth counselor; assistant youth counselor (where applicable); and flag bearer. Section 67. District Audit Committee. The district must elect or appoint an audit committee, consisting of three or more members. If appointed, the president appoints the majority of the committee, and the vice president appoints the minority. This is to be done in the annual meeting. The duties of the audit committee are to audit at least once a year the income and expense of the operation of the district and the district youth. This information will be reported to the district. Section 68. District Meeting Order of Business. (a) Convening of the meeting
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(b) Pledge of Allegiance (c) Welcome by host lodge president (d) Roll call of officers (e) Roll call of lodges (f) Recognition of guests (g) Reading of minutes (h) Tribute to departed members (i) Reading of 50- and 75-year and Age 96 members (j) Treasurer’s report (k) District Youth Counselor’s report (l) Governance Committee report (m) Executive Officer’s report (n) District Director’s report (o) Old business (p) New business (q) Audit committee report (r) Election of district officers (s) Selection of site, time, and date of annual meeting (t) Adjournment of the meeting ARTICLE XV LOCAL LODGES Section 69. Charter. Lodges and youth clubs are subordinate bodies under the jurisdiction of the Board of Directors. Individual local lodges must receive their charters from the Board of Directors. Lodges are largely self-governing organizations but shall comply with these by-laws, the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order,” Local Lodge Officers’ Handbook, and all other requirements adopted by the Board of Directors. A local lodge may, upon adoption of a proper resolution by its membership, incorporate for fraternal, benevolent, and charitable purposes and make contracts, purchases, mortgages, lease and hold real and personal property necessary to carry out its purposes under the Texas NonProfit Corporation Act. Section 70. Rules and Regulations. Lodges shall have the right to make and adopt rules and regulations in conformity with the Charter of Incorporation and by-laws of SPJST and not in conflict with any regulations or requirements of the Board of Directors. Such laws, alterations, or amendments are to take effect only upon the written consent of the Board of Directors. Every lodge
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is authorized, at its will, to grant sick benefits as often as it sees fit to do in accordance with its own rules and regulations. Section 71. Charter Withdrawal. The Board of Directors may withdraw the charter of any lodge in the event the Board of Directors determines that withdrawal is in the best interest of SPJST. The Board of Directors shall provide for the disposition of property of lodges that have been suspended or dissolved in a manner consistent with the purposes of lodges. Section 72. New Lodges. A newly established lodge is free to adopt any name with the approval of the Board of Directors. Prior to granting permission to designate a proposed lodge in an area, the Board of Directors shall review and consider the potential need for the area, and the proximity of existing lodges. (a) The application for permission to organize a new lodge must be forwarded to the Board of Directors on an appropriate form listing the names of not less than 20 respectable persons who were not members of SPJST at the time of application but who have applied for insurance and have been accepted as members in anticipation of forming a new lodge. (b) The Board of Directors will then send a representative to the new lodge for the purpose of organizing the lodge, electing officers, and giving basic lodge organizational instruction and general information about SPJST. (c) After a new lodge has sufficient members, other than transfers and juveniles, it must, after one year of its organization, be formally chartered in accordance with the wishes of the members and the ritual of the Board of Directors. (d) If 20 members cannot be secured immediately, a proposed lodge can be designated and members can be accumulated over a period of up to 365 days into the proposed lodge in process of being formed. The Board of Directors has the authority to extend this period. If a lodge is not organized within the period authorized, the Board of Directors will assign any members in the proposed lodge to another lodge of the member’s choice or to the nearest SPJST lodge.
VĚSTNÍK Section 73. Mergers. Two or more lodges wishing to merge or consolidate may do so if notice is given to the membership of both lodges in the Vestnik at least twice before the meeting at which consolidation is to be considered. Each member who has attained the age of 18 years will be mailed a written notice that a merger will be voted upon at such meeting. The merger can become effective only if a majority of the members present of each merging lodge vote in favor of the merger. Section 74. Lodge Meetings. Local lodges must conduct monthly meetings unless they have permission from the Board of Directors to meet every three months so as to remain in good standing and have authority to elect delegates to the Convention. Meetings are conducted on the day and hour specified by the regulations of the local lodge. (a) Presence of five members of a local lodge in good standing constitutes a quorum for valid transaction of all business of the local lodge, according to the by-laws and rules. (b) Discussions of political and religious matters of any kind are not allowed in lodge meetings. The president of the lodge is required to stop such discussions. (c) Each member has the right to attend meetings of other lodges; however, he/she does not have the right of deliberation, unless called upon by the president. (d) Officers and committees are installed in the regular meeting following the annual meeting or at a time deemed most expedient to the lodge. (e) All deliberations and minutes may will be conducted in the English language. Section 75. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting is to be held in November or December, or the first meeting thereafter. The election of nominated candidates is held during the annual meeting at which time every member has the right to vote for any other candidate on his/her ballot. Whenever a lodge deems it necessary, with the consent of two-thirds of the members present, it may nominate candidates for officers, delegates, and committees in the meeting preceding the annual meeting.
Section 76. Lodge Dues. Every local lodge determines its own local dues, if any, at annual meetings. Every lodge has the right to levy special dues and assessments, if any, on its members when the regular assessments and funds of the lodge are not sufficient to cover the sick benefits and other purely lodge purposes and requirements. These assessments also apply to social members. Members who have their certificates paid up in due course, according to the terms thereof and who wish to remain active members, must pay the local lodge dues and assessments, if any, as prescribed by the lodge to which they belong, payable annually. Dues are to be paid to the treasurer before or at the end of the regular business meeting. Section 77. Suspension of Membership. Members may be suspended from local lodge membership but will not lose their insurance benefit except for nonpayment of premiums or if it occurs within the contestable period of the benefit contract and is for material misrepresentation in the application for membership or insurance. Section 78. Lodge Officers. The following officers will be elected: president, vice president (to serve as fraternal activities coordinator for the lodge unless the lodge elects a fraternal activities coordinator as a separate position), second vice president (optional), secretary, treasurer, fraternal activities coordinator (optional), reporter (optional), and youth leader (optional). Lodges will also elect or appoint a flag bearer (optional), assistant youth leader(s) (optional), and parliamentarian (optional). (a) The offices of the local lodge president and secretary cannot be combined, but each other office may be combined with other offices. (b) Election of officers is by ballot whenever more than one candidate is nominated for the same office. A majority of votes decides. Officers are elected for one year or until their successors are elected. All officers elected take office on January 1, except lodges holding annual meetings in January, in which case such officers take office immediately following election. (c) All outgoing local lodge officers must turn over all records, reference material, booklets, etc.,
VĚSTNÍK and money to their successor in good order at the end of their term. Section 79. Board of Trustees. In case of necessity and if the size and volume of business warrants it, a lodge may elect a board of trustees. The board of trustees may consist of as many members as the lodge deems expedient. The board of trustees is responsible for all lodge property and gives a current account of that property to the members. Section 80. Candidate Eligibility. In nominating a candidate for local lodge office, only those members who attend the lodge functions and meetings on a regular basis should be elected. A lodge may require in its rules and regulations that a member must have attended a majority of the meetings for the year of the election in order to be elected as an officer. An exception to the attendance requirement exists where an office has not been filled prior to the election. A member on suspension, for whatever reason, will not be elected to a position of responsibility in the lodge. Any member of the local lodge who desires to serve as a lodge officer who is an underwriter of any insurance company or an agent (underwriter) of any other fraternal life insurance society may be elected but must first disclose this information prior to the election. Section 81. Dissolution. In the event of dissolution of a lodge, after the payment of all legally binding debts, the remaining assets and funds of the lodge, if any, shall never inure to the benefit of any member of the lodge and no funds or property of the lodge shall be distributed among or revert to any member. Nothing herein will prevent transferring such funds or property to another duly chartered SPJST local lodge, or from one duly chartered SPJST lodge merging with another duly chartered SPJST lodge. (a) No lodge can be dissolved as long as 20 members are still in favor of its further existence. (b) In case a lodge is dissolved, it is the duty of the last officers to deliver all books and papers belonging to the lodge to the Home Office. Section 82. Insurance. All lodges are encouraged to secure and maintain liability insurance in the minimum
Monday, August 23, 2021 amount of $300,000 and workers’ compensation insurance (if the lodge has any employees) and have the carrier/insurer furnish proof of such coverage to the Home Office. This also includes those lodges that do not own their lodge facility. ARTICLE XVI BENEFIT CERTIFICATES Section 83. Contract. The certificate of membership and insurance or annuity, together with any riders or endorsements attached to it, the application, the declaration of insurability (if any) signed by the applicant, the Charter of Incorporation, by-laws of SPJST, and Operations Manual and all amendments to them, constitute the entire contract when it is issued. Any subsequent changes, additions or amendments to the Charter of Incorporation or by-laws shall be binding upon the applicant member, certificate owner, beneficiaries and other persons affected, and shall govern and control in all respects, except that no changes shall destroy or diminish benefits promised in the certificate when it was issued. Section 84. Terms. Any person upon whose life a certificate is issued prior to attaining the age of 18 years shall be bound by the terms of the application and certificate and by all the laws and rules of SPJST to the same extent as though the age of 18 years had been attained at the time of application. Section 85. Beneficiaries. Benefit certificates may be made payable to such person or persons, entity, or interest as may be permitted under the rules and regulations of SPJST and applicable state laws. (a) In the event a named beneficiary predeceases the insured or is otherwise not legally entitled to receive the certificate proceeds, the certificate proceeds shall be paid per stirpes to the family members of the insured in the following succession, as applicable, (1) the surviving spouse; (2) children; (3) grandchildren; (4) parents; (5) brothers and sisters; (6) grandparents; and (7) estate of the deceased. (b) A beneficiary shall not have or acquire any claim against SPJST whatsoever until the insured dies unless otherwise provided by law.
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(c) If a member moves from his/her last known address and his/her absence cannot be accounted for, for a period of seven years, his/her beneficiary will be paid the proceeds accruing under the certificate (Section 133.001, Civic Practice and Remedies Code or its successor). Section 86. Reserves. If SPJST’s reserves for any class of SPJST’s benefit certificates becomes impaired, the Board of Directors may require the certificate holders to pay SPJST an equitable proportion of the deficiency as determined by the Board of Directors. The aggregate amount for the impaired reserves may not exceed the total amount required to comply with section 885.408 of the Texas Insurance Code. If such payment is not made, either: (a) it shall stand as indebtedness against the certificate and draw interest not to exceed the rate specified for certificate loans; or (b) in lieu of or in combination with, the owner may accept a proportionate reduction in benefits under the certificate. Section 87. Certificate Loans. The policies and procedures for certificate loans shall be governed by the terms of the insurance certificate contract and laws of the State of Texas. Certificate loans are administered in accordance with policies and procedures determined by the Board of Directors and fully in compliance with the certificate contract. Section 88. Assignments. No assignment of the certificate shall be binding upon SPJST until the original or copy is filed with SPJST at the Home Office and the Home Office shall have made written acknowledgment thereof. SPJST assumes no responsibility for the validity of any assignment and any claim hereunder by an assignee shall always be inferior to those of SPJST to secure any indebtedness against this certificate, whether such indebtedness shall be created before or after any assignment. Section 89. Change of Beneficiary. Any member desiring to change his/her beneficiary may do so. (a) The request for change of beneficiary must be completed by the member on a form in use by
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Monday, August 23, 2021 SPJST. Change of beneficiary forms must be filed with SPJST at the Home Office. A person whose designation as a beneficiary is revocable may not have or obtain a vested interest in the proceeds before the certificate pays out. (b) No beneficiary change shall take effect unless received by the Home Office during the lifetime of the insured. When it is received, any change shall take effect as of the date the request for beneficiary change was signed, as long as the request for change was mailed or actually delivered to the Home Office while the insured was alive. Such beneficiary change shall be null and void where SPJST has made a good faith payment of the proceeds or has taken other action before receiving the change.
VĚSTNÍK ARTICLE XIX INDEMNIFICATION Section 93. Indemnification. To the extent permitted by law, SPJST does hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless each member of the Executive Committee serving SPJST against liability for any claims or causes of action which may be made against any of the above stated individuals, of any kind or nature, for such acts or omissions which would arise in the performance of their duties. SPJST shall agree to pay any damages on behalf of any of the above stated individuals for which they may be held liable. SPJST shall agree to pay any and all expenses that may be incurred by any of the above stated individuals, including, but not limited to payment of reasonable attorney fees for defense of any claims or cause of action made whatsoever.
ARTICLE XVII ANNUITY CERTIFICATES
Section 94. Insurance. SPJST shall maintain insurance on each Executive Committee member against liability for acts or omissions in the performance of their duties as determined by the Board of Directors.
Section 90. Eligibility Requirements. SPJST members (life insurance certificate holders) are eligible and may purchase an annuity with a $100 minimum contribution.
ARTICLE XX FUNDS AND INVESTMENTS
Section 91. Exceptions. (a) Any individual under 70 years of age must apply for an SPJST life insurance certificate, but if rated above standard, the individual may become a member with the purchase of an annuity in an amount of $1,000 minimum. (b) Any individual under 70 years of age regardless of insurability may become a member with the purchase of an annuity in an amount of $5,000 minimum. (c) Any individual over 70 years of age regardless of insurability may become a member with the purchase of an annuity in an amount of $1,000 minimum. ARTICLE XVIII MORTGAGE LOANS Section 92. The Board of Directors sets policies and procedures on Mortgage Loans.
Section 95. There shall be established and maintained by dues and assessments collected from members and from all other income of the Society, a fund or funds for the payment of death and other benefits and for the accumulation of reserves on certificates as provided by law and/or the benefit certificates, and for the expense of management and extension of the Society. Section 96. The Board of Directors shall have supervision over the operations of the funds of the Society which shall be invested in accordance with the investment policies adopted by the Board of Directors and all applicable laws. ARTICLE XXI INTERPRETATION OF BY-LAWS Section 97. If any section of these by-laws should not be explicit, or in case of uncertainty or dispute as to its intent or meaning, the Board of Directors shall have the power to decide upon such situation; and its decision shall remain in force until such decision or section is duly amended.
ARTICLE XXII RULES OF PROCEDURE Section 98. If the Charter of Incorporation or by-laws of SPJST are silent as to any procedural aspect of any action or meeting hereunder, the procedures of the current latest edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order” shall control such procedure. ARTICLE XXIII WAIVER Section 99. No subordinate body, nor any of its subordinate officers or members, shall have the power or authority to waive any of the provisions of the by-laws of the Society. Such provisions shall be binding on the Society and every member and beneficiary of a member. ARTICLE XXIV AMENDMENTS Section 100. Repeal/Amend. These by-laws may be repealed or amended in whole or in part by a two-thirds majority vote at any regular or special Convention. Section 101. Between meetings of the Convention, the Board of Directors may by two-thirds vote of all members of the Board of Directors, amend these bylaws in any way necessary to clarify or give effect to Convention enactments, to remove or revise contradictions or ambiguities, or to make these bylaws conform to the laws of the State of Texas. All by-law changes shall be published in the Vestnik stating the reason for the change. Section 102. Effective Date. Amendments to these bylaws shall take effect upon their adoption, unless another time is specified, and shall be submitted to Texas Department of Insurance. All amendments to the Charter of Incorporation or by-laws of SPJST or a synopsis thereof shall be published in the Vestnik within the time required by the laws of the State of Texas. The Chief Financial Officer shall file with Texas Department of Insurance a certified copy of each amendment not later than the 90th day after the date of enactment of the amendment. A printed copy of the by-laws, as amended,
VĚSTNÍK that is certified by the Chief Financial Officer is prima facie evidence that the by-laws were legally adopted. Section 103. Power to Correct Typographical Errors. The Convention directs the Executive Officers to correct typographical errors that might appear in the foregoing by-laws and to renumber the articles, sections, subsections, and/or subparagraphs in codifying the same so as to place them in proper order but without changing the context, intent, and purpose thereof. Should any article, section, or part of these by-laws be held invalid for any reason whatsoever by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect the remainder or any part thereof. ARTICLE XXV RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES Section 104. The purpose of this article is to provide a method for fair resolution of disputes consistent with the fraternal nature of SPJST. Should a formal complaint be brought against any member(s), committee member(s), or officer(s), the provisions contained in this article shall be followed as these procedures have been structured to reflect the spirit of the disciplinary process as detailed in the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order.” (a) Local lodges of SPJST and their officers and members, as well as members of the Executive Committee, shall guide themselves according to all applicable laws and by-laws of SPJST; otherwise, they are subject to penalty for violation and nonobservance of them. Punishments that a lodge can impose generally fall under the headings of corrective actions, censure, suspension, or expulsion. Members may be suspended from membership for the following reasons, but will not lose their insurance benefit except for nonpayment of premiums and dues: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Members found to be guilty of immoral acts; Members convicted of felonious acts; Members derelict in their responsibilities; Members guilty of improper conduct and habitually failing to adhere to the by-laws, rules and regulations in the meeting; and 5. Members whose actions are considered injuto SPJST or its purposes.
Monday, August 23, 2021 (b) Formal disciplinary procedures should be regarded as a drastic step reserved for serious situations or those potentially so. In the event that a grievance cannot be resolved informally, SPJST provides an orderly, confidential, and progressive procedure to deal with any serious differences of opinion which cause a member to believe that they have been dealt with unjustly. (c) The grievance must be submitted in writing and signed by the person(s) making the charge. The grievance should be specific and should identify a desired outcome. Anonymous or unsigned grievances will not be considered. The grievance should be addressed to the lodge president — or if the lodge president is being cited — to the lodge vice president; and so on. Grievances dealing with matters on a district level or state level are to be directed directly to the Office of the President/CEO — or if the President/CEO is being cited — to the Chair of the Board of Directors. The procedural process is essentially the same as outlined throughout this section. (d) The lodge president shall appoint a Lodge Grievance Committee of at least three members who are not directly involved or named in the grievance. The lodge president shall serve as a nonvoting member of the Grievance Committee. In the event that the grievance involves the lodge president, the committee shall be appointed by the vice president or another lodge officer not cited or affected directly by the grievance. The Lodge Grievance Committee may be a standing committee of the lodge; otherwise, the Lodge Grievance Committee shall be designated at the next lodge meeting following the written filing of the grievance. (e) The Lodge Grievance Committee will be instructed to make a determination that the allegations cited against the member are well-founded. In the event that the allegations are determined wellfounded, the Lodge Grievance Committee shall address the matter, including any corrective actions which are deemed necessary, discretely with the member in question. (f) The severity of the action taken or recommended by a Lodge Grievance Committee should depend upon the nature and severity of the offense. Under most circumstances, it is recommended that upon first offense, that the Lodge Grievance Committee issue a discrete written warning to the accused, detailing the offense and the corrective action(s); moreover, SPJST seeks to ensure that a lodge doesn’t expel anyone from membership for reasons of race, religion, gender, or disability. (g) If the problem persists following this issuance of written warning — or if the individual cited protests the findings of the Lodge Grievance Committee — then the Lodge Grievance Committee may reconvene to reconsider the matter and — if deemed necessary — request that the accused
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member be brought before the general membership at a regularly scheduled lodge meeting for a hearing to: (1) consider evidence and determine innocence or guilt by a two-thirds vote of eligible voting members present; and (2) consider and vote upon disciplinary action(s) recommended by the Grievance Committee, subject to an affirmative vote by two-thirds of the voting members present. (h) In the event of a finding of guilt by the lodge, the cited member may appeal, in writing, to the Board of Directors. Such an appeal must be made within 15 days after receipt of notice of action by the Grievance Committee; likewise, the aggrieved member, if not satisfied with the Grievance Committee’s ruling or sentencing, may appeal to the Board of Directors in the same manner as the accused member. (i) The appeal will be added to the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Board of Directors. (j) The Board of Directors shall investigate thoroughly all facts pertinent to the ruling of the Grievance Committee. To facilitate in this process, the lodge Grievance Committee will furnish a transcript of all prior proceedings on the matter to the President/CEO. (k) The Board of Directors shall uphold, reject, and/or amend the ruling of the Grievance Committee, and this decision shall stand. (l) All grievance proceedings under the by-laws shall be held in executive session, and the name of the member under investigation shall not be disclosed in any public communication or to any person other than to persons whose testimony is necessary in connection with the initial proceedings and/or subsequent lodge intercession. All communications concerning disciplinary proceedings are to be marked “Confidential” and all disciplinary files are to be maintained in strict confidence. —SPJST—
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
From the Controller
SPJST Financial Statement as of June 30, 2021 From the Desk of SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle L. Doherty
It’s Your Life
Storm, Struggles, Battles, and Destiny Storms and struggles can have a definite positive result on us because as discombobulating as they are, life’s challenges can make us stronger to fulfill our destiny. But you can’t live in a fight mode; living that way is unhealthy and counterproductive. There’s a reason soldiers are given leave time for rest and relaxation. Fighting keeps you strong, but all of life is not about storms and battles. People who live in fight mode can die early from strokes and heart attacks because of constant stress on the body. There are times when you need to take off your armor and let your spirit be at peace. Develop habits that can release you from fight mode and give your mind and body much-needed break. Yoga, meditation, or a brisk walk are just a few ways you can take care of yourself and ensure that you will live to fight another day. In a professional boxing match, the two opponents fight for three-minute rounds. They then retreat to their prospective corners for 60 seconds of respite, encouragement, and strategizing. The fighter must take a quick break so he can get back up and fight again. In the corner, the fighter’s team is tending his wounds, nurturing him, telling him where he’s vulnerable, and affirming his strong points.
Can you imagine how truly brutal a professional boxing match would be if the two opponents fought for a full 36 minutes with no break in the competition? Prior to the mid-18th century, there were no rules for boxing, and many died in the ring. The first rules for boxing known as Broughton’s rules, were established by champion Broughton to protect fighters. He realized that rules were needed so that boxers could live to fight another day. Establish personal rules for taking care of yourself. There will be more storms to endure on the way to Destiny. There will be more battles to fight. After you have seen your way through a storm, take some time for yourself and your family. Take time to celebrate that the storm has passed without worrying about when the next one will come. That will come soon enough. Times of calm are times to appreciate the victory or soothe the wounds of defeat. Getting out of fight mode gives you time to plan and strategize taking your steps to the next level. It’s the time to thank God, your spouse, or your family for being your support system in the storm. It’s the time to be in touch with yourself and remind yourself that you are a human being and not a human doing. My door is always open; figuratively and literally. Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing —SPJST—
Dear Members, In accordance with the 2016 SPJST By-Laws, I am submitting a report of our Society which is extracted from the Annual Statement for the period ending June 30, 2021. This report gives you pertinent items of information concerning our Society. All items are entered as found in the Annual Statement which was filed with the
Texas Department of Insurance in August 2021. Please review this report in detail and should you have any questions, please contact me. Fraternally, Roy W. Vajdak Controller —SPJST—
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL CONDITION ASSETS Bonds.......................................................................................... $212,387,322 Stocks ......................................................................................... 3,457,567 Mortgage Loans.......................................................................... 15,951,467 Real Estate: Properties occupied by the Society ..................................... 1,952,057 Properties held for the production of income....................... 3,184,501 Certificate Loans......................................................................... 1,640,958 Cash ........................................................................................... 3,132,630 Other Assets ............................................................................... 3,465,290 TOTALS ............................................................................... $245,171,792 LIABILITIES AND RESERVES Certificate Reserves ................................................................... $219,439,780 Liability for Deposit-type Contracts ............................................ 6,643,372 Certificate Benefits Payable ....................................................... 1,446,268 Premiums Received In Advance ................................................ 70,511 Interest Maintenance Reserve …….................…..........……….. 1,641,456 Asset Valuation Reserve ……………………....…..........……….. 1,811,886 Other Accrued Liabilities ............................................................. 1,112,939 TOTALS .............................................................................. $232,166,212 Unassigned Funds......................................................................
13,005,580
TOTALS ............................................................................... $245,171,792 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS INCOME
6/30/21
Insurance and Annuity Premiums ..............................................
$ 8,075,838
Net Investment Income...............................................................
4,839,540
Amortization of Interest Maintenance Reserve ..........................
169,856
Commissions and Expense Allowance ......................................
64
Net Realized Capital Gains or (Losses) .....................................
(2,632)
Miscellaneous Income ................................................................
8,712
TOTALS ...............................................................................
$13,091,378
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, August 23, 2021
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DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME Life and Annuity Benefits ............................................................ Refunds to Members .................................................................. Additions to Reserves................................................................. Operating Expenses ...................................................................
$8,522,981 91 2,494,686 2,502,608
TOTALS ...............................................................................
13,520,366
NET INCOME.......................................................................
($428,988)
the 2022 tournaments (if scheduled, all tournaments will be held at the SPJST Home Office in Temple):
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN CERTIFICATE HOLDERS’ SURPLUS 6/30/21 Balance, Beginning..................................................................... Net Income.................................................................................. Change in Unrealized Capital Gains or (Losses) ....................... Change in Asset Valuation Reserve ........................................... Miscellaneous Changes..............................................................
$13,384,514 (428,988) 47,540 104,126 (101,612)
BALANCE, ENDING ..................................................................
$13,005,580
—SPJST—
From the SPJST State Fraternal Director State Fraternal Director shares September updates SPJST Meetings, Play It Safe As long as the coronavirus continues to spread and impact lives, please review the tips below and incorporate them in your face-to-face adult lodge meetings and youth club meetings. Precautions to consider include actions to prevent transmission between people, and where to hold the meeting and how it can be modified to make a safer environment. Meeting organizers are requested to provide all necessary supplies – masks, hand hygiene stations, hand sanitizer or soap and water, tissues, and distance markers. Meeting online or teleconferencing remains an option that should be considered or when precautions cannot be effectively implemented or adequately communicated. If you have any specific questions relating to setting up an online meeting, please know that you may contact Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny at melaniez@spjst.com for additional information.
visit www.spjst.org for details
Fraternal Focus Visits Fayette County in September Please make plans to join in on the next Fraternal Focus webcast coming Tuesday, September 21 at 7 p.m. SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny will devote the September webcast to profiling SPJST’s early years, including a visit to the Fayette County Courthouse in La Grange and the city of Fayetteville and a visit with members of SPJST Lodge 1, Fayetteville. To register for the webcast, visit: https://spjst.org/fraternal-focus/. SPJST Scholarship Applications Available Online November 1 The SPJST scholarship applications will be available online starting November 1. If you have a 2022 graduating high school senior in your lodge, please let them know they are eligible to apply for an SPJST scholarship. Also, full-time undergraduates who have not received an SPJST Scholarship may apply for the General Scholarship. 2021 State Tournaments Scheduled All SPJST state tournaments at this time have not been scheduled for 2022. We will be making a decision in October, and I will share the information in the Vestnik. Here is the tentative schedule of
Progressive 42 Dominoes Saturday, January 8, 2022 Tarok Tournament Saturday, February 5, 2022 Straight Dominoes Saturday, March 5, 2022 Regular 42 Dominoes Saturday, April 2, 2022 Something to Consider: Strategic Planning for Your Lodge SPJST recognizes the importance of fielding a fraternal program that is relevant and in touch with the lives of its members. Whereas some lodges are experiencing a resurgence in member participation, others have been less fortunate. There are reasons for this: While it is certainly possible for a lodge to experience a level of success without a plan, those lodges whose members have invested the time and resources into a mission and goals can look forward to achieving success at a much quicker pace. A great place to start is by conducting a simple — and fun — strategic planning session that helps to answer, “What is my lodge doing to make a positive difference for its members and for the community?” And with a little bit of advance notice, President/CEO Vanicek and I would love to lend a hand with the process. With just a little preparation, it is possible to conduct this three-step exercise in 60 to 90 minutes. In the end, the information that is collected can be useful in constructing a strategic plan for your lodge. It makes for a fast-paced and enjoyable program. Topics that don’t typically come up in your regular lodge meetings - the positives as well as the negatives will be addressed. Then we will talk about how to build on the positives and what we can do to eliminate the negatives. When we’re done, your lodge will
be well on its way to moving forward with a clearly defined mission statement. If you’d like to have us come in and work with your lodge, please give me or Brian a call, and we’ll set it up. SPJST Invites Members to Build Their Business Online SPJST invites business owners and service providers – large and small – to stand out online and promote their trades and services in the new SPJST Member Services Directory. The directory – first published in 1995 as a special edition of the Vestnik – is scheduled to go live in September. Reserve Your Listing Now That means now is the time for business owners to claim their space in the directory. It’s easy to do. Begin by going to the spjst.org website. Once you’ve arrived, look for the big kolache and click on “SPJST Member Services Directory.” That will take you to the “Get Started” form. On the “Get Started” form, you will input your business name, location, and select the categories that apply to your business listing. There is also a place to include your contact information and your business website – if that is applicable. This basic information will enable the SPJST Communications Department with all of the initial information that they will need to set up the directory framework. The old printed directory featured a wide range of more than 700 business and service listings – everything from accountants, attorneys, and artists to wedding cake designers, well drillers, and woodworkers. “We expect the online directory to be much larger,” says President/CEO Brian Vanicek. “It isn’t necessary that you’re the business owner. The directory will include members who work for larger companies, too. The rule of thumb is any member who is in a position to provide a business or service qualifies.” “And the listing doesn’t have to re-
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Monday, August 23, 2021
flect your primary occupation,” Vanicek adds. “We know that there are many SPJST members who have sideline businesses or services that they offer in their spare time. Hunting leases, fence building, beauty products and so on . . . ” In addition to the member business listings, the directory will also include local lodge contacts, including sales agents and information about the life insurance and annuity benefits available to SPJST members and prospective members. There will also be sections which introduce various aspects of the SPJST experience – including the SPJST Youth Program, Scholarship Program, and Camp Kubena. The online format will also enable business owners to make updates online as well as add additional member business and service listings. “Once the framework is up and before the directory goes online, I will send an email and link to our SPJST business and service providers — to manage their listings,” explains Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny. “It’s at that point that business owners and service providers will be able to provide detailed information about the products and services as well as a photograph that helps to communicate their business.” Users will be able to conduct searches on the basis of topics as well as location – like the zip code. What will really make SPJST’s online directory unique is that only SPJST members will have access to posting their businesses or services; however, the general public – by virtue of the Internet – will also have access. “More access means more potential business for our members,” says Vanicek. “Exactly!” says Zavodny. “We’ll be taking advantage of social media to promote the directory – to members, of course, as well as to non-members. “It’s all part of SPJST’s invigorated effort to make membership in SPJST a more engaging experience,” says Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty. “It underscores the great value SPJST places on building upon its existing relationships. We want to see our members do good. That’s the value proposition they receive in exchange for getting involved. We appreciate that and to show it, we’re going to provide every business that is listed in the directory with signage that will help to promote their business while it raises our profile.” “Every business listed in the directory
VĚSTNÍK will receive signage that will help to promote their business and help to build the SPJST member services network.” Depending on the nature of the business or service, the signage will come in two forms – as a window decal and as a plaque – each designating the business or service provider as a “Proud SPJST Member.” “By marketing your business or service as an SPJST member, I believe you’ll get the same kind of stimulus that you would if you were a member of your local chamber of commerce – which is also a good thing,” says Doherty, adding, “It reflects your community service orientation and makes you more desirable to customers. “And, certainly, it helps SPJST because it helps to reflect the superior character of our membership.” SPJST FAC Assistance We are here to help in you need assistance. Please feel free to call me or Tammy. Your District Fraternal Activities Coordinator (FAC) is also available to assist you. State Fraternal Director Frank Horak 254-773-1575, ext. 177 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez 254-773-1575, ext. 164 tammym@spjst.com District One FAC Kyle Skrabanek 979-820-0531 District Two FAC Ruth Hanusch 254-771-0193 District Three FAC Vicki Sims 214-763-0341 District Four FAC Janeece Williams 806-632-5239 District Five FAC Linda Bratina 832-647-9971 District Six FAC Helen Zabransky 361-798-3347 District Seven FAC Kathleen Polasek 830-570-5800 Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
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: SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo Questions? Call 800-727-7578
Lodge 6, Cottonwood reports on July meeting
Lodge 9, Snook congratulates State King, State Duke
President Milton Peterson called the Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting to order on Friday, July 30, 2021. Sister Peggy Dobecka led the Pledge of Allegiance and SPJST motto. A moment of silence was observed for the sick and deceased. Sister Irene Peterson reported 13 members present. Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting. Sister Peggy gave the treasurer’s and youth club’s reports. The youth did wonderfully with the raffle at the picnic. Sister Jeanette Beseda gave her fraternal activities coordinator’s report. The picnic turned out great. Thanks to everyone who attended. Sister Evelyn Stuckly was honored for 12 years of service to the lodge. Birthday for August was Kim Sieth. Attendance door prize winners were Dorothy Kucera, Milton Peterson, and Lou Blahuta.
The Wednesday, August 4, 2021, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7:16 p.m. David Kovar led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the July meeting were approved. Hall manager, FAC,
Happy 90th Birthday, Henrietta Veselka of Lodge 8, Weimar
Next Meeting—September 12 The next meeting will be Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m. Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 8, Weimar meets August 23 Lodge 8, Weimar will meet Monday, August 23, 2021, at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse in Schulenburg, Texas. We invite all members to come to our meeting. Dinner will be Dutch treat. Carolyn M. Tobola Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Congratulations to Henrietta Veselka of Lodge 8, Weimar! She celebrated her 90th birthday on July 19, 2021. She was honored with a special party recognizing this grand occasion. Sister Henrietta serves as president of Lodge 8. Happy birthday and best wishes for many more years of good health and happiness!
VĚSTNÍK treasurer, and statewide reports were presented. In the youth club meeting, members discussed State Youth Achievement Day (YAD). Congratulations to Lodge 9 youth Caleb See, who is the 2021-2022 SPJST State King, and Zane Lauderdale, who is the 2021-2022 SPJST State Duke! The youth will have a kolache baking and noodle making demonstration on Saturday, August 21 starting at 9 a.m. at Snook School cafeteria. They will also have the country store and prize drawing at the Firemen’s Barbecue on Sunday, August 22. They donated funds to Cops for Kids for Stuff the Bus, the 100 Pennies Scholarship and the Victorick memorial fund. Mrs. Lydia Faust gave a presentation on the origin of the SPJST hall. Under old business, the speaker system equipment is in and will be installed soon. We have received the SPJST signs for the hall. Under new business, we passed a motion to increase the hall rates for members and non-members and will update our hall agreement. The meeting was adjourned at 8:03 p.m. Next Meeting—September 1 The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 1 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Monday, August 23, 2021
Lodge 29, Taylor reports on August meeting Lodge 24, Cyclone discusses successful fundraiser On a muggy night among cornfields yielding from 80 to 150 bushels of corn per acre, Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, August 9, 2021. President Daniel Wilde called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance and had a silent prayer for our deceased members, the convention, and the Fikes family. Linda gave the financial report and had the results of the fundraiser from Saturday night, August 7. The results were fantastic, and the insurance on the hall will be paid. There were a lot of compliments on the hall’s new look. There was a discussion about the backwards auction. The bar and hall report were given by Brenda Maddux. The fundraiser meal will be on October 31. Jerry Haisler will play for the New Year’s Eve dance. A discussion was held about a $100,000 building for what return. On the sick list are Justin Everett and Anton Vrazel. Jonathan Maddux is celebrating his 24th birthday on August18. Cathy and Steve Bruggman will celebrate their 23rd anniversary. For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor held its regular meeting on Wednesday, August 11, 2021. Jesse Pospisil stepped in due to the absence of President Ronnie Rieger and Vice President Sharon Kaderka. Jesse called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. We had a moment of silence for our departed. The July minutes were read and approved. Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report. Linda Pospisil read a thank you note from Emil and Alice Kasper for the donation Lodge 29 made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of their daughter, Dawn. Linda also made a motion to donate $50 each to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of our departed members, Ila Mae Jansky and Louren Karkoska. Barbara Nygrin seconded, and the motion passed. Barbara Nygrin updated us on Joyce Patschke following her fall and breaking her pelvis. We wish her a fast recovery. Jesse discussed the upcoming barbecue cook-off and asked if anyone could contact sponsors for the event. We need help with various duties during the cook-off. We always need judges for the meat entries. Silent auction items are also needed. Jesse reminded members of the appreciation dinner in August and asked members to bring desserts for the meal. Members celebrating August birthdays include Katherine Merka, Kacie Leigh Tate, Kaden Kaderka, Greg
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Buzan, Adam Mehevec, Dylan Mehevec, Mark Pasemann, Emilie Meiller, Zane Meiller, Kaylie Dewbre, T.J. Hajda, Alisha Raesz, and Bailey Sumner. Cindy and Greg Buzan and Peggy and Kevin Dewbre celebrate wedding anniversaries this month. Door prizes were donated by Sarah Snyder and Scott Kaderka. Next month, Barbara Nygrin volunteered to bring them. Next Meeting—September 8 The next meeting will be Wednesday, September 8 at 6:30 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor readies for 20th annual barbecue cook-off Lodge 29, Taylor will host its 20th Annual Barbecue Cook-Off on Friday, September 24 and Saturday, September 25, 2021, at Taylor SPJST Hall, located at 5025 FM 619 in Taylor. Friday Night Dance Sterling Country will play for a free dance on Friday, September 24 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Old-fashioned hamburgers will also be available beginning at 6 p.m. Cook-Off Entries and Awards The entry fee for barbecue cookers is
Lodge 6, Cottonwood hosts Annual Picnic
Lodge 6, Cottonwood hosted its annual picnic on Sunday, July 18, 2021. LEFT and RIGHT PHOTOS: Scenes from the auction. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 6 Vice President Don Urbanovsky presents an appreciation
award to Evelyn Stuckly for 12 years of dedicated service to the lodge. Thank you, Sister Evelyn! —Submitted by Dorothy Kucera, Reporter
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 47, Seaton plans fall fundraiser; tickets available
Lodge 32, Victoria meets Sept. 9
$100 (chicken, pork ribs, and brisket). Other entry fees are $10 for jackpot pinto beans, $10 for jackpot cook’s choice, and $10 for jackpot pork butt. We are looking forward to awarding $4,000 in prize money at this year’s cookoff. Cash and trophies will be presented to first through 10th places in all meat categories (chicken, pork ribs, and brisket). Cash and unique trophies will be awarded for first, second, and third place master cook and best rig. Jackpot pinto beans, cook’s choice, and pork butt are 80 percent payback; cash prizes will be awarded for first through fifth places, and trophies will be awarded for first through 10th places. Judges Needed Anyone is welcome to judge on Saturday. Contact Jesse Pospisil at 512826-7371 or send an email to jlpospisil@yahoo.com. Silent Auction on Saturday The lodge will host a silent auction from 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. inside the hall with a variety of items on display. If you’d like to donate an item, please contact Jesse. Lodge 29, Taylor invites you to this fun weekend event! We hope to see you there! See the ad on page 45 of this week’s Vestnik for more information. Fraternally, Jesse Pospisil Barbecue Cook-Off Chair —SPJST—
Our July meeting was a great success! The venue was perfect and reserved for our lodge. We voted to give a $500 donation to Restoration House Ministries, which is a local non-profit to help women and their children. Lodge 32 President Mark Lester presented the check to Theresa Klacman, founder and director of Restoration Ministries. Needless to say, she was very surprised and grateful for the donation. Next Meeting—September 9 The next meeting will be Thursday, September 9 at 6:30 p.m. at The Grapevine, located at 110 Medical Drive, Suite 202. Stay out of the heat and stay safe! Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Dear Vestnik Readers, SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton met for its monthly meeting on Sunday, August 1, 2021. The meeting was called to order at 2 p.m. by President Edwin Pechal. Flags were presented along with the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance by youth club members Everhett and Camdon Bartek. Member Ruth Kohutek is on the sick list. It was great to see all officers and board members present for today’s meeting. The July minutes were approved as read by Secretary Koslovsky. Board Secretary Patsy also read the unofficial July board minutes. She read thank you notes from graduating seniors Koby Stone and Logan Erskine for their recognition at the June meeting and the scholarship from the lodge to further their education. Members unanimously voted “yes” on a motion made by James Skrabanek to donate to the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund for rebuilding the Moravian region of the Czech Republic which claimed the lives of several, injured hundreds, and damaged thousands of buildings, all caused by an extensive tornado in June with winds in the 140 to 180 mph range. Our prayers to the families who lost loved ones, those injured, and those who lost homes and buildings and their towns. May God be with each of you.
Outdoor Extravaganza Vice President Brandon Bartek stated tickets for the Saturday, September 18 Outdoor Extravaganza lodge’s fall fundraiser are available. Please contact any lodge officer or member for your tickets. Tickets are $50 per person which includes a ticket drawing for the top six prize drawing, a steak dinner, beverages, and snacks. Prizes will include: First Drawing - White tail deer hunt for one and non-hunting guest at Mustang Creek Ranch in Salado, Texas (mustangcreek.com) Second Drawing - Cruise for up to four people through Mega Travel-Temple. Valued at $2,000. (www.megatravels.com) Third Drawing - Three-person guided bay fishing trip with Backlash Fishing Charters in Corpus Christi, Texas. Valid from October to May and includes bait and tackle. (www.backlashcharters.com) Fourth Drawing - Three-person, onehalf day pheasant and one-half day quail guided combination hunt in Santa Anna, Texas, which is west of Brownwood. Guide and dog are included. (www.sahainc.com) Fifth Drawing - Four-person nighttime bowfishing trip with Slime Life Bowfishing Charters. Captain Seth Skinner will provide all gear needed for the trip. (slimelifebowfishing.com) Sixth Drawing - Spa package (details to be determined)
Lodge 25, Ennis Celebrates Members’ Birthdays
On the last Wednesday of each month, SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis celebrates everyone who has a birthday during the month. We all bring a dish and enjoy visiting with one another. We hope to see ya’ll next time! LEFT PHOTO: June birthdays! Pictured, left to right, are Marshall Allen, Rita Holland, Allis Droste, and
Irene Martinek. RIGHT PHOTO: July birthdays - Brad Jones, Doreen Martinek, Arthur Toth, Rosie Dlabaj, Rel Lipscomb, Charlie Jurik, Glen Wilson, Jeanette Zajic, Mike Riley, and Matthew Zajik. Happy birthday to all! —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter
VĚSTNÍK There will also be a silent auction, bucket prizes, games for the kids, and a drawing for all kids present at the time of the drawing and other activities. We hope you will make plans to attend. It will be a great time to enjoy friends, family, good food, and hopefully, you will be a winner in the drawings! Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Parliamentarian Ginger Ringwald reminded everyone of the Thursday night, August 26 meeting at Ratibor at 6 p.m. with guest speakers SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak discussing the lodge’s strategic planning. All members are invited to attend, and we hope to see you there. Treasurer Becky Zavodny gave the treasurer’s report for July which was accepted. Youth Leader Amber Bartek stated the youth club had 16 members present. She congratulated all youth who entered District Two Youth Achievement Day YAD). She congratulated District Two Queen Emma Regan and Duchess Sydney Bilbrey. Congratulations also to District Two King James Teague and Duke Collin Teague, both of Lodge 20, Granger. Amber thanked the 2020-2021 District Two/State King Koby Stone and Duke Everhett Bartek for representing District Two and the State during their reign. We are so proud of you all! Everhett was never a shy young man and wanted to make a short outgoing speech. Rather than a speech, he asked a ques-
Monday, August 23, 2021 tion: Here we go, “What do you call an American Bee?” He was so excited; he didn’t wait for any answers, which I am sure all present knew the answer (lol)! “A US Bee!” We are so proud and love our SPJST youth! Bar Manager Danny Stepan presented his report. Celebrating August birthdays are Tyson Bilbrey, Joyce Skrabanek, Sharla Pechal, Hunter Bartek, Ruth Hanusch, Brad Kraatz, Chase Alexander, Juanita Bartek, Amber Ryan, Ann Ranly, and Dorothy Novosad who turned 90 years young this year. We wish each of you a happy birthday with many more years of good health, fun, and happiness. Happy August anniversary to Amber and Brandon Bartek on 13 years of marriage. Congratulations and much happiness to you both! Door prizes donated by Ginger and Roy Ringwald were won by Brandon Bartek and Edwin Pechal. Lodge prizes were won by Roy Ringwald, Joyce Kraatz, and Travis Ordogne. With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Next Meeting—September 5 The next meeting will be held on the first Sunday in September, which will be September 5 at 2 p.m. Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston members pack 200-plus backpacks for needy kids
Lodge 32, Victoria gives to restoration house ministries Lodge 32, Victoria voted to make a $500 donation to Restoration House Ministries at the July meeting. Lodge 32 President Mark Lester presented the check to Theresa Klacman, founder and director of Restoration House Ministries. —Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter
Lodge 47, Seaton Outdoor Extravaganza Saturday, Sept. 21 Dear Věstník Readers, We are looking forward to seeing members, friends, and family at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall on Saturday, September 18, 2021, for the 16th Annual Outdoor Extravaganza fundraiser. Social hour will begin at 5 p.m. with the meal served at 6:30 p.m. The event is for the entire family; children are welcome. Tickets are $50 in advance ($60 at the door) and include a steak dinner, beverages (must be over 21 years of age), and snacks. Kids tickets (18 years and younger) are $20 each and includes a steak dinner and their own prize drawings. Tickets are available from any lodge member, or you may contact: Edwin Pechal • 254-721-2887 edwinpechal @yahoo.com Brandon Bartek • 254-624-4119 bbartek001@yahoo.com Activities include live and silent auctions, bucket drawings, games, and top prize drawings. Multiple guns will be given away including shotguns, pistols, rifles, and kids’ guns. Top prizes are:
Lodge 88, Houston members joined together to pack more than 200 backpacks to give to needy kids around town. Pokrok! —Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt
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First Drawing - White tail deer hunt for one and non-hunting guest at Mustang Creek Ranch in Salado, Texas (mustangcreek.com) Second Drawing - Cruise for up to four people through Mega Travel-Temple. Valued at $2,000. (www.megatravels.com) Third Drawing - Three-person guided
bay fishing trip with Backlash Fishing Charters in Corpus Christi, Texas. Valid from October to May and includes bait and tackle. (www.backlashcharters.com) Fourth Drawing - Three-person, onehalf day pheasant and one-half day quail guided combination hunt in Santa Anna, Texas, which is west of Brownwood. Guide and dog are included. (www.sahainc.com) Fifth Drawing - Four-person nighttime bowfishing trip with Slime Life Bowfishing Charters. Captain Seth Skinner will provide all gear needed for the trip. (slimelifebowfishing.com) Sixth Drawing - Spa package (details to be determined) Only 450 admission tickets will be sold for the six top prize drawings. So get yours fast! Contact Edwin, Brandon, or any lodge member for questions or to purchase tickets. Please join in the fun, and hopefully, walk away with a nice prize. You do not have to be present to win. See the advertisement on page 44 of this week’s Vestnik for more information. Sponsorships are also available. This is one of our biggest fundraisers, and your support is great appreciated! Please give me a call at 254-624-4119 if you have questions or need additional information. Fraternally, Brandon Bartek, Vice President —SPJST—
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Monday, August 23, 2021
Lodge 54, West meets Sept. 10
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 151, Wharton welcomes new members Lodge 151, Wharton proudly welcomes three new members! They are, left to right, Daniela Lopez, age 2; Miranda Lopez, age 4; and Damian Lopez, age 2. They are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel and Perla Lopez of Houston, Texas. Their sales agent is Carolina Covarrubia.
The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 10, 2021, at St. Joseph Hall. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. —1 John 4:16 Fraternally, Janice Kaluza, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 66, Waco meets August 23 The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 23 at 6 p.m. at St. Pauls Church. Pizza will be served. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland meets August 23 The bimonthly meeting of Lodge 80, Holland will be Monday, August 23, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at the lodge building. Agenda items will include financial statements, minutes, future activities, and convention highlights. Social time will follow the meeting. We hope all can attend. Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on August meeting The August 2021 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 15th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed ham and turkey sandwiches brought by the youth. Members brought desserts. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m.
Tripp Hargraves, Amber Jones, and Ruby Jones held the flag and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance which was recited by all the members. All officers answered roll call except Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha and Special Funds Chair Marion Morales. On our sick list are John Pavlock and Rosemary Pieper. We hope and pray you feel better soon. Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read the minutes and Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha’s report, and both were approved as read. President Vincent Newman read Special Funds Chair Marion Morales’ report, and it was also approved as read. Under old business, we decided to table Marion Morales’ idea from July’s meeting to install two double-locking doors for the back storeroom so renters can use the front storeroom refrigerator and storage for decorations, personal items, etc., until Marion is at the next meeting. Under new business, Assistant Youth Leader Karen Hargraves said that the youth will start scrapbooking so they can place all their activities in a scrapbook. She also mentioned that the youth will participate in the Needville citywide garage sale in September. She discussed new avenues with the youth club for outreach. Under other business, Jeanette Newman mentioned and handed out several referral cards sent by SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty.
Next Meeting—September 19 For our next meeting on Sunday, September 19, it is undecided what our main course will be. Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas expresses thanks to Yeager/Andreason families On behalf of Lodge 84, Dallas members, I would like to thank the Yeager/Andreason families for hosting our annual picnic at their lake home. The food you donated and prepared for us was great. We had a wonderful day, and the weather turned out to be good for us to just sit out under the shade trees, eat, visit, and watch the youth swim, kayak, zipline, fish, and play. Thanks to everyone for bringing your favorite sides and desserts. We all enjoyed the food and fellowship. Thanks again! Vicki Sims, Vice President/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 91, San Jacinto meets Sept. 11 Lodge 91, San Jacinto will meet for its third quarterly meeting on Saturday, September 11, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Baytown Seafood in Crosby. We hope to see you there! Thank you, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 157, lubbock sponsors hole at whitharral open golf tournament
Cooper and Will Kristinek with Josh Kristinek are pictured at the Whitharral Open Golf Tournament. Lodge 157, Lubbock sponsored a hole for the tournament. Cooper, Will, and Josh are all members of Lodge 157. —Submitted by Cyndy Kristinek, Secretary
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites members to plan for the future Greetings to our wonderful members! I hope that you are doing well! The future will be filled with challenges and opportunities for SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth. As a first step in chartering this exciting journey, you are cordially invited to attend and participate in a strategic planning meeting of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth on Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall, located at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road in Fort Worth. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been to a lodge meeting for years – or if ever. You are a valued member of SPJST and of this lodge, and that’s what counts. It would be our honor to have you in attendance. And please, feel free to extend this invitation to others in your household who are members. Please know that to save on postage, only one letter per household was mailed. The lodge will be serving a delicious catered barbecue dinner before we address the business at hand. SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek will lead us in a discussion about our lodge, where it’s been, where it stands, and where we want to be next year and the year after that.
Monday, August 23, 2021 Topics that don’t typically come up in regular lodge meetings will be addressed . . . the positives . . . the negatives . . . and everything in between. By the time we’re done, Lodge 92, Fort Worth will be on its way to moving forward with a clearly defined mission and goals. SPJST and our National Hall occupies a historic place within our community. It is our sincere desire to continue to bring people together and make a positive difference in Fort Worth and the surrounding area. To help us plan for the meal, please RSVP by email to Lodge President Mary Saladin at fwsinger70@gmail.com. You can also RSVP by telephone by calling me at 817-320-1743. I look forward to your reply and seeing you on Sunday, September 12! Fraternally, Mary Saladin, President —SPJST—
Lodge 92, Fort Worth plans September activities Lodge 92, Fort Worth met on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Vice President John Paprskar reported on a successful convention. Event Manager Jon Durham reminded
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Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy celebrates birthdays Happy birthday to James R. Hosch and Frances McBride! They both celebrated their special occasions at the Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy meeting in August and were honored with a cake. Congratulations and best wishes! —Submitted by Michael D. Hosch Secretary/Reporter
our members that we will have Czech Heritage Day on Saturday, September 18. Doors will open at 1 p.m., and music will be provided by the Jodie Mikula Orchestra from 4 to 8 p.m. Admission will be $10 for adults with12 and under free of charge with a paid adult ticket. A smoked pork dinner with all the trimmings will be $10 for adults and $6 for ages 12 and under. Sandwiches will be available for $6. A cakewalk will be held before the dance as well as during intermission. Congratulations to John Paprskar who, at the Paprskar Memorial Tarok Tournament on July 31, was presented a plaque for Top Player by the Texas Tarok Association. A plaque was also presented to Lodge 92.
Happy August birthdays to Charlie Durham, Jessica Munoz, and Charles Saladin! Next Meeting—September 12 The next meeting is Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m. Our guest speaker will be SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek. Fraternally, Mary Krivanek Saladin President —SPJST—
Lodge 219, El Paso Makes A Difference for Reynolds Home
Lodge 219, El Paso President Aracely Quiz and Reynolds Home Director Melanie Reynolds. The Reynolds Home is a shelter for battered homeless women and their kids. The Home can handle up to six families at a time. It has been around for more than 50 years. The house was donated by a local dentist, Dr. Reynolds, and his 12 sons and daughters have administered the facility ever since. The facility helps transition families from “Reynolds Home” into their own home, based on a three-pronged axis: financial stability, family cohesion, and wellness. Families learn how to
secure various sources of income and a permanent full-time job, to manage their time and budget to have quality time with their children. SPJST Lodge 219, El Paso has been donating canned food to Reynolds Home for the past four years. Every time Lodge 219 hosts an event for its members, lodge leaders ask the members for donations. We were able to gather over 200 cans at the recent lodge event. For more information about the home, visit www.reynoldshome.org or call 915-274-2598. —Francisco Viniegra, Sales Agent
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 141, Sealy welcomes new members Lodge 141, Sealy members held their Tuesday, August 10, 2021, meeting at the office of Integrity Insurance. President Rick Martinez called the meeting to order beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes of the last meeting were read by Secretary Bernice Stolarski and approved with one correction. Dora Martinez gave the treasurer’s report, which was also approved. Rick mentioned that he had attended a meeting with District One Director Donnie Victorick on the upcoming convention. Rick also mentioned that we had a new member, Raymond Calderon. Bernice made the motion, seconded by Dora, that we accept him into our lodge. Other items discussed were reserving the SPJST Float for the Austin County Fair Parade in October and the Wallis Chamber of Commerce Lighted Christmas Parade. An email will be sent to Melanie. Next Meeting—October 12 The next meeting will be Tuesday, October 12. Thank you, Bernice Stolarski Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Happy 63rd anniversary, lloyd and bettie house of Lodge 202, Jourdanton! Lodge 202, Jourdanton members Lloyd and Bettie House are celebrating 63 years of marriage on August 23, 2021. Lloyd is the former president and vice president of Lodge 202, and Bettie serves as secretary. Congratulations!
Lodge 151, Wharton meets Sept. 13 SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its quarterly meeting on Monday, September 13, 2021, at Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100 Sunset Street in Wharton. A light meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. If you plan to attend, please RSVP by Thursday, September 2 to Carolyn Bucek at 979-532-1910. A memorial service will be held after the meal for deceased 2019-2021 Lodge 151 members Paul Jerry Kopecky, Georgene Chumchal, Carolyn Ann King, Gary Louis Chumchal, Brenda Joyce Humberson, Edward Martinka, Sr., John Henry Kubosh, Mary Louis Matula, and Amelia Vera Sablatura. Family members are invited to attend the memorial service and light a candle in remembrance of their loved one. Members with birthdays in July, August, and September will be honored. We hope you can attend. Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
—Photo by Sandra Hoggard
★ ★ 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. Thereafter, until the week prior to the reunion date - as space permits - notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include your SPJST lodge number/name, and your contact phone number. Thank you.
Machu family The Machu family reunion will be held on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at the SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville, located at 10450 FM 619, Taylor, Texas. Since we were forced to cancel the re-
July Scenes from Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth
The July guests at the Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth became the new members at the August meeting which was held on August 10, 2021. They are, from left to right, Jeanne O’Connor, Delores York,
Judy Ackerman, and Judy Robinson. Welcome! RIGHT PHOTO: Celebrating an August birthday is Judy Ackerman. —Submitted by Lisa Ellsworth
union in 2020 because of the coronavirus, we are excitedly looking forward to seeing everyone this year as we honor the memory of our ancestors, Pavel and Rozina (Trlica) Machu, Martin and Anna (Zetak) Machu, and Josef and Rozina (Mazac) Machu who emigrated from Moravia in the late 1800s. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. with a noon buffet meal served around 12:30 p.m. We ask that each family bring a couple of dishes to complement the fried chicken and sausage, iced tea, coffee, water, and bread, which will be provided. Please bring a few desirable items for the silent and live auctions, which are held to raise funds for the reunion expenses as well as for the Machu Cemetery. Cash donations for the cemetery are most welcome. Also be sure to bring your albums, pictures, stories, and other memorabilia for other family members to enjoy. If possible, we would appreciate help with setting up, closing up, or assisting in the kitchen. Since addresses and email addresses change yearly, please help spread the word to other family members and to anyone who has ties to the Machu family. For questions or comments, or to volunteer, you may contact Milton Filla at 512-269-9730, Marie Ann Ripple at 512-365-6916, or Nancy Machu at 512971-4284 or nbmachu@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you and your family on September 26! Submitted by, Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, August 23, 2021
n io t c e S h t u o Y T S J SP
2021 SPJST Youth Clubs’ Second Quarterly Report April • May • June (Includes Reports Received by July 15, 2021
District One Lodge 9 17 186
Total Name Attendance Disbursement Snook 40 $80 New Tabor 63 $126 Caldwell 15 $30 District One Average Attendance - 39
District Two 20 47 48 187
Granger 17 Seaton 56 Beyersville 11 Round Rock 23 District Two Average Attendance - 36
$34 $112 $0* $46
District Three 6 25 84 154
Cottonwood 6 Ennis 19 Dallas 15 Fort Worth 24 District Three Average Attendance - 21
$0* $38 $30 $48
District Four 49 160 215
Rowena San Angelo South Plains
24 27 3
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$48 $54 $0*
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 Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo 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), State Fraternal Director at 800-727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.
State Fraternal Director shares September youth news District Youth Counselors Meet Greetings all! Since COVID-19 is on the rise again, the District Youth Counselors (DYCs) and I will meet online to discuss and select a theme for the 2022 youth year. We will be meeting at a later date to discuss any changes to the youth handbook, workshops, and Youth Achievement Day (YADs). As of today, the date for the DYC meeting has not been set. We will have more information
on Youth Leaders Workshop, Youth Development Workshops, Christmas Ornament Contest, and other activities for 2022. As soon as a theme is determined, I will send out the camp t-shirt design contest information to youth leaders and parents. Dates for 2022 Camp Sessions Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Camp Wednesday, June 22 to Sunday, June 26 Junior Camp Session One Wednesday, July 6 to Sunday, July 10
District Seven Youth Collect Glasses, Can Tabs
District Four Average Attendance - 18
District Five 81 88 142
Needville 26 Houston 21 Houston 7 District Five Average Attendance - 18
$52 $42 $0*
District Six 30 40
Taiton El Campo-Hillje
42 36
$84 $72
District Six Average Attendance - 26
District Seven 107 185 202
Floresville 18 New Braunfels 53 Jourdanton 12 District Seven Average Attendance - 28
$36 $106 $0*
State Second Quarter Average Attendance - 186 * Youth clubs with an average of less than five active members do not receive any funds during the quarter.
District Seven youth members collected several pairs of old glasses and several pounds of pull tabs at the District Seven Annual Meeting on July 25, 2021. The glasses and tabs will be donated to charities. —Submitted by April Howard, District Seven Youth Counselor
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Monday, August 23, 2021
Junior Camp Session Two Wednesday, July 13 to Sunday, July 17 SPJST Youth Meetings, Play It Safe As long as the coronavirus continues to spread and impact lives, please review the tips below and incorporate them in your face-to-face youth club meetings. Precautions to consider include actions to prevent transmission between people, where to hold the meeting, and how it can be modified to make a safer environment.
VĚSTNÍK Meeting organizers are requested to provide all necessary supplies – masks, hand hygiene stations, hand sanitizer or soap and water, tissues, and distance markers. Meeting online or teleconferencing remains an option that should be considered or when precautions cannot be effectively implemented or adequately communicated. If you have any specific questions relating to setting up an online meeting, please know that you may contact Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny at melaniez@spjst.com for additional information.
2021-2022 State Royalty Congratulations to our 2021-2022 SPJST State Royalty - King Caleb See and Duke Zane Lauderdale, both of Lodge 9, Snook, and Queen Megan Ohnheiser and Duchess Lily Howard, both of Lodge 185, New Braunfels! I am so proud of you and all your accomplishments at State YAD. King Caleb and Queen Megan, thank you for attending the 33rd SPJST Convention in Killeen on August 14. Their next state appearance will be at Westfest on Saturday, September 4. I am looking forward to being with them at Westfest.
SPJST Scholarship Applications Available Online November 1 SPJST scholarship applications will be available online starting November 1. If you have a 2022 graduating high school senior in your lodge, please let them know they are eligible to apply for an SPJST scholarship. Also, full-time undergraduates who have not received an SPJST Scholarship may apply for the General Scholarship. October is Czech Heritage Month You are encouraged to observe — and celebrate — Czech Heritage Month at
District Five Youth participate in Summer Camp, Youth Achievement Day Activities Dear District Five, Thank you for electing me to serve as your District Youth Counselor for another year. While the last year and a half has not been ideal, I think we have a lot to be proud of. District Five sent 25 campers to Camp Kubena in 2021. First year chaperones Kristen Jones (Lodge 81, Needville Youth Leader), Krystle Bender (81), and Lee Pflughaupt (88) showed what former youth club members can do with a bag of props and a couple hours to be cre-
ative and come up with a skit. So funny! The Leaders-in-Training (LITs) were all great this year, and our own Zachary Coleman (142) and Ryder Butera (142) did a terrific job helping out. District Five had their own cabins in 2021 which helped them get to know each other after a year and a half apart. My favorite memory of the girls’ group is sitting on the porch playing Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza while we were supposed to be resting. Ooops! Sorry District Three (and those in our own cabin)
for being so loud! Lodge 142, Houston gained some new members after camp. The first timers had so much fun they’re in the process of joining the youth club. We’ll officially welcome them soon. An online District Youth Achievement Day (YAD) comes with some challenges, but every youth who entered qualified for State YAD in at least one event. And four of the youth maxed out their categories with five entries. I see a bigger Youth Showcase coming up next
summer! psst . . . some were already planning in Temple what they’ll enter next year. That’s what it’s all about . . . “The starting point of all achievement is desire.” The youth leaders and I will meet this month to set the calendar for 2021-22, and I will share it at a monthly meeting. Fraternally, Ms. Melissa Brown District Five Youth Counselor —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK your October meeting. Since 1999, the month of October has annually been observed as Czech Heritage Month in Texas to commemorate the contributions of Texans of Czech ancestry. Vestnik Projects The September Vestnik Project will focus on District Four Youth Counselor Ryan Jansa. It will be included in the September 13 Vestnik. SPJST youth members and leaders will get to know Ryan when he was a youngster and what his interests were while growing up. Vestnik Projects are to be completed and submitted online. If you receive the Vestnik by USPS mail, you will need to scan the QR code to be directed to the online Vestnik Project. If you receive your Vestnik by email, click on the link under the QR code to direct you to the project. All 2021 Vestnik Projects will be accessible on the www.spjst.org webpage under the Youth Program tab. Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
Lodge 30, Taiton youth to celebrate Grandparents Day SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club met on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Taiton Community Center. The meeting was called to order by President Lauren Kresta. Vanessa Riha led the Pledge of Allegiance and motto. We welcomed new member Case Janssen. We discussed upcoming events. We talked about doing our annual Grandparents Day mass and breakfast on Sunday, September 12. Then Mrs. Bubela told us about our current bank charging because we are below their threshold. Simone made a motion to move our account to a different bank and Case seconded that motion. We voted that signers for the account would be Lisa Bubela and Kirby Lange. We had two birthdays for August - Simone on August 11 and Bethany on August 17. Lauren Kresta adjourned the meeting, and Grant Bubela seconded the motion.
Monday, August 23, 2021 Next Meeting—September 12 Our next meeting will be Sunday, September 12 after the Grandparents Day breakfast. Millie Garrett, age 8 —SPJST—
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Lodge 30, Taiton Welcomes New Youth Club Member
Lodge 30, Taiton youth visits with camp friends at State YAD We just had State Youth Achievement Day (YAD) on Saturday, July 31, 2021. I received second place on my science and education project and third in group talent. I had so much fun and was happy to see some of my camp friends. Bethany Baker, age 14 —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton youth excited about first grade Tomorrow, we’re going to Lions Junction. Lions Junction is a water park. Water parks are fun. We had fun this summer period. Summer is very, very, very fun. My favorite part is swimming. On Friday, we’re going to my MawMaw’s and PawPaw’s house. Then school is gonna start. I finally finished kindergarten, and now I’m going into first grade! I’m excited for first grade. I can’t wait to see all my friends. Fraternally, Andrew Ordogne, age 6 —SPJST—
CASE JANSSEN
Lodge 88, Houston youth: this camp year was the best!
Lodge 30, Taiton welcomes Case Janssen, age five, to the youth club. Case is the son of Stephanie (Fucik) and Kyle Janssen. —SPJST—
Hello! I had so much fun at camp this year that I can’t wait to go back! Even with the rain, this camp year was the best. My favorite activity was definitely the blob, and I always learn from Miss CarrieAnn’s dance class. The food was delicious, too. (Yay!) I want to say thank you to the Camp Kubena staff for keeping us safe, Mr. Frank for making camp happen, and my cabinmates from District Five for the laughs. See you next year! Love, Addison Brown, age 10 —SPJST—
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club hosts August meeting
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club members met on Wednesday, August 4, 2021. —Submitted by Kirby Bubela, Assistant Youth Leader
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
2021 SPJST Junior Camp i • camp kubena • ledbetter, Texas Districts Three, four, five, and seven • July 7 - 11, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, August 23, 2021
2021 SPJST Junior Camp i • camp kubena • ledbetter, Texas Districts Three, four, five, and seven • July 7 - 11, 2021
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
In Memoriam In Memory of Joseph Juran
In Memory of Robert Kadlubar
Joseph (Joe) Frank Juran passed away on Sunday, June 27, 2021. Graveside service was held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 3, 2021, at Oakwood Cemetery. Joe was born on September 17, 1936, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Joe L. and Anna Juran. He attended Fort Worth Technical High School class of 1954. He Joe Juran worked at Convair (now Lockheed) while going to Arlington State (now University of Texas at Arlington) then to TCU. He sold insurance then worked in the restaurant supply industry. Joe enjoyed country music and was an accomplished guitar player. He portrayed Glen Campbell in the Fort Worth Woman’s Club musical show. He was a member of Fort Worth Masonic Lodge, Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Parade Committee, Sports Car Club of America, and Fort Worth Wings Booster Club. He volunteered at Colonial Golf Tournament and officiated high school football games. He was a longtime member of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth. His family was among the founders of Lodge 92. He was preceded in death by his wife Glenda Juran; and parents Joe L. and Anna Juran. Joe is survived by his daughters Lisa Juran and Mary Kaye Juran; stepsons Stephen Bradley and Jeff Bradley; sister Mary Ann Gibson (Gordon); Sharon Judge; Glenn Gibson; granddaughters Krystal Bradley and Courtney Bradley; and great-grandson Bryson Wells. In memory of Joe, memorials can be made to National Hall - SPJST Lodge 92 at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Rd in Fort Worth, Texas 76114; phone 817-6241361. —SPJST—
Robert John Kadlubar was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend with a zest for life and laughter. Robert was born June 9, 1937, in Mount Calm, Texas, to parents Josef C. Kadlubar and Ana (Domesle) Kadlubar. Raised in West, he attended St. Robert Kadlubar Mary’s Catholic School and West High School. Robert left his hometown, joining the Texas Army National Guard and was stationed at Fort Hood, Fort Polk, and Fort Chaffee. He later earned his diploma from Southern College of Commerce in Fort Worth. Once back home, Robert met his wife Mary (Mokry) Kadlubar, and they were married on November 4, 1961, in Waco, where they started their family. Robert had a long career as an electrician after earning his journeyman electrician license, contributing many years to his profession. After working in Waco at General Tire and General Dynamics, he moved his family to Houston. There, he was proud to work for Southern Pacific Railroad and Brown & Root; and spent the last 10 years of his career at St. Luke’s Hospital in the Houston Medical Center. Robert was known and appreciated by his family for his ability to build, maintain, and repair endless home projects. In fact, he tirelessly oversaw the building of the Lake Conroe home he has lived in since retirement. A lifelong member of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood, Robert was proud of his Czech heritage, eventually realizing his dream of visiting the Czech Republic. He always looked forward to family gatherings for holidays, special occasions, and just to get together. He was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where he was active in St. Mary’s Men’s Club. Robert was well known for his sense of humor and always had a joke to
share. He and Mary enjoyed socializing with friends and family wherever they were. They loved traveling together, and Robert especially loved exploring small towns, attending church bazaars and Czech fests around central Texas. Listening to polka bands was a highlight of these trips. Ruidoso, New Mexico, became a favorite destination where Robert and Mary spent many summer trips playing golf, exploring, and visiting friends. In retirement, Robert became an avid golfer and pursued this passion for the rest of his life. He enjoyed playing at April Sound and other courses with his buddies and most recently, with Mary on Sunday afternoons. He was a member of the April Sound Men’s Club and loved being a part of the community. Robert passed away peacefully at age 84 at his home in Montgomery on Friday, August 6, following a three-month illness. He was under the care of Devotion Hospice and wonderful caregivers with At Your Side Home Care. Robert was surrounded by his loving family, Father Ed Kucera, and his compassionate nurse Angie during his final days. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Kadlubar; children Deborah (Scott) Loeffler of Houston, Donna Carnahan (best friend Angelo Ferrari) of Houston, R. and John (Rhonda) Kadlubar, Jr. of Montgomery; grandchildren Rachel Carnahan, Josef Carnahan, and Ryan Kadlubar; brothers Joe (Leona) Kadlubar of Elm Mott and Jerry Kadlubar of West; sister-in-law Hattie Kadlubar of Lake Charles, Louisiana; brothers-in-law George Mokry and Alvis (Christine) Mokry; and many nephews and nieces. Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Josef C. Kadlubar and Ana (Domesle) Kadlubar; brother Bernard Kadlubar; and sister-in-law Merline Kadlubar. Donations may be made to St. Mary’s Men’s Club or St. Mary’s Altar Society in Plantersville, Texas. Visitation was Tuesday, August 10 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Metcalf Funeral Directors in Conroe with the rosary at 6 p.m. A funeral mass was Wednesday, August 11 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Plantersville with interment immediately following at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge Hvezda Texasu, No. 47, Seaton, express our sincere sympathy to the family of our departed sister, RUTH HELEN KOHUTEK. Funeral service for Ruth Helen Kohutek, age 91, of the Oscar community, was held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at Seaton Brethren Church with Pastor Denise Mikeska officiating. Burial will be held private at a later date in Seaton Cemetery. Visitation was 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, AuRuth Kohutek gust 10 at Seaton Brethren Church. After an excruciating battle with vascular disease, she was called by her Lord and Savior on Thursday, August 5, 2021. Ruth overcame and/or endured many health issues. She always knew her time would come, and she wrote her own obituary a few years ago. She was born on April 19, 1930, to Rudolph and Millie Lesikar in Oscar where she lived nearly all her life. She first got her schooling in a country school by the name of Little Elm in the Oscar community. After that, she attended Temple High School and graduated in 1947 and then attended Nixon-Clay Business College in Austin. She returned to Temple and was one of the first employees of First Federal Savings and Loan when it was first organized as a secretary to the vice president. At this time, she married her love, Louis Kohutek, on August 19, 1950. After 10 years, she decided to be a stay-at-home mom to raise their two daughters. She later began working at King’s Daughters Hospital and Clinic where she worked 27 years. During the previous years, she was a Girl Scout leader and was involved in cancer drives. She had been a member of Seaton Brethren Church since childhood. She served as a Christian Sister’s president for a number of years, was a member of the choir, and served in many other positions. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton and served as ticket chair for many years and had served on the resolution committee.
VĚSTNÍK She had been an auxiliary volunteer at King’s Daughters Hospital for many years. Ruth loved to dance which she and her husband did for many, many years. Playing dominoes was a big past time for her with friends and having snacks to eat. She loved to cook and bake, and as her grandson would say, “she was always in the kitchen fixing something.” Outdoors was a place she loved to be feeding birds, squirrels, and anything else that came around. She loved flowers and always had many on her patio. Often did she wonder what the world would be like if God had not given the birds to sing for us and flowers to give us their colors and smells. Her large collection of ceramic birds were in every room in her home. She also collected and had a large volume of vinyl records and CDs consisting of gospel, country western, and others. Reading was also something she truly enjoyed and, of course, Starbucks. She loved her dog Yuppie. Her favorite Bible verse was “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; sister Georgia Navratil; and husband Louis Kohutek, who passed away June 26, 2017. Survivors are daughter Karen Beeler and husband Mike of Yukon, Oklahoma; daughter Donna McEntire and husband Larry of Oscar; and grandsons Ryan Guidry, Jared Guidry, and Travis Guidry, all of Oklahoma, and Russ Guidry and wife Korey; and greatgrandchildren Lainey, Stella, and Owen Guidry, all of Illinois. Please make any memorial offering to Seaton Brethren Church, 12561 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas 76501; or to Bell County Animal Shelter, 2509 South Loop 121, Belton, Texas 76513. May our departed sister rest in peace. Resolution Committee Ruth Hanusch Joyce Skrabanek —SPJST—
Monday, August 23, 2021
In Memory of Gertrude Krenek Gertrude Ann Mokry Krenek (G Ann) passed from this earthly life on Thursday, May 13, 2021. She was a devout Catholic, loved by many and will be greatly missed. She was born July 21, 1936, in Granger, Texas, to Frank Mokry and Annie Marek Mokry. Growing up on a Czech-speaking family farm with seven brothers, G Ann had to learn English quickly when she attended Sts. Cyril and Methodius parochial school in Granger. To further her education, she Gertrude Krenek moved to Taylor to attend St. Mary’s Catholic High School, living with various aunts and uncles while her brothers worked the farm with her parents. She was valedictorian of the Class of 1954 at St. Mary’s. While in school, she met the love of her life, Frank Charles Krenek, at a polka dance. They were married on October 9, 1954, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylor. They were proud of their Czech heritage and danced across Texas at many SPJST, Knights of Columbus, VFW, and American Legion halls. Her children have fond memories of sleeping on tables and chairs during the battle of the bands each Sunday at SPJST. Mother and Dad were the best dancers at any Czech wedding, and led many grand marches over the years. Mother was known as the “Tupperware Lady” for more than 53 years, traveling all over Texas, holding parties at homes, beauty salons, home economics classes, and more. Tupperware was often a family affair as the children helped package and deliver the merchandise and often helped her “friend find” which was cold-calling door-todoor. Yearly conventions across the United States would provide some of the rare out-of-state family vacations. While still selling Tupperware in the 90s, G Ann joined her brothers at DPS, working in Austin until retiring for good. G Ann was a lifelong member of KJZT and SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor, serving as an officer in these organizations over the years. G Ann and Frank traveled on their dream trip to the Czech
Republic with her close cousin, Rose Mueller, and her husband and was proud to be able to communicate with the locals in their native tongue. Mother loved meeting new people and was always interested in their personal history; where they were from, their heritage, and their family. Her memory was amazing, and we would always marvel at the details she remembered of everyone she met. She knew everyone’s birthdate and family tree and had nicknames for so many of her loved ones. One of her favorite things to do was have her family’s birthdays or anniversaries listed on the marquee at City National Bank as well as calling the local radio station KTAE/KXRT and playing a song in someone’s honor. Above all, G Ann was proud of her family. She is survived by her children Paula Marak (Eugene), Greg Krenek, Frank Krenek II (Nancy), Kathie Pfluger (David), Kristie Johnston (Scott), and Robin Krenek; grandchildren Misty Marak, Kristopher Johnston (Helen), Frank Charles Krenek III (Shannon), Adam Pfluger (Christa), Jennifer Barrett (Ryan), Erika Greer (Ty), Whitney Krenek, Dillon Pfluger (Rhegan Stroup), Kelsey Krenek, Tony Johnston, Wylie Duxstad, Eden Krenek, and Max Krenek; great-grandchildren Zoe Horne, Kenna Greer, Scarlett Horne, Lennon Pfluger, Rowan Barrett, Petyon Greer, and Daphne Barrett; an extended family of grandchildren, Shannon Roberson (Lance), Kenneth O’Meara (Kelsey), Katelyn Scolaro (Mark), Ellen Ash (Johann), and Monica Axtell (Luke); step-great-grandchildren Ashlyn Axtell, Ryder Axtell, Lane O’Meara, John O’Meara, and Henrietta Ash; brothers Bernard (Shirley), Andrew, Raymond (Nancy), and Al Mokry (Barbara); sister-in-law Lucy Mokry; brother-in-law Virgil Klaus; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Annie Mokry; husband Frank Charles Krenek; brothers Frank, Gilbert, and Alfred Mokry; sisters-in-law Mary Ann Mokry and Norma Lee Klaus; daughter-in-law Lauren Krenek; and in-laws Paul and Hermina Krenek. Visitation and rosary was from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 20 at The Gabriel’s Funeral Chapel and Crematory in Georgetown. Rosary was at 7 pm. Funeral mass was Friday, May 21 at 2:30 p.m. at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Granger with burial in St.
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Mary’s Cemetery in Taylor. The family wishes donations to be given in her honor to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or St. Mary’s School funds in Taylor. G Ann Krenek was a character, a strong-willed woman, devoted to Christ and always the last one to leave the party, wedding, or funeral. She led a life of connection with others. Her feistiness lives on in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed and appreciated for the strength and strong love she exhibited in life. —SPJST—
In Memory of Kenneth Vavra Kenneth Louis Vavra, 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Ennis, Texas, with his family by his side on Tuesday, August 3, 2021. He was born on October 9, 1933, and was preceded in death by his parents Louis Joe Vavra and Willie Mae Vavra, of Ennis; and brother Benny Ray Vavra of Grand Prairie. He is survived by his loving wife Theresa Marie Vavra, to whom he Kenneth Vavra was married to for 64 years; sons, daughters, and their spouses - Perry and Toya Vavra, Phillip Vavra, Laura Vavra, Paul Vavra, Pamela and Todd Oakley, and Petrina and Robert Glenn; grandchildren Catherine and Jason Hodgson, Matthew and Kristen Vavra, Jason and Hannah Vavra, Taylor and Marissa Vavra, Courtney and Josh Locke, Whitney and Josh Korensek, Lainey Vavra, Wesley Vavra, Shawna Oakley, Trevor Oakley, Autum Glenn, Maximus Glenn, and Samuel Glenn; 11 great-grandchildren; and brother David Vavra and family of Houston, Texas. Kenneth was best known as KV. KV was a dedicated family man. He, along with Theresa, loved having their family over for Sunday dinners and watching sports, namely the Cowboys, as he was a sports fanatic. He enjoyed golfing with his buddies from work and deep-sea fishing with his sons and brother David. He loved polka music and was a won-
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Monday, August 23, 2021
derful dancer. When he had the polka music playing, his hand would be extended for an impromptu dance. He enjoyed socializing and telling stories of his experiences while making you laugh with a twist to the story. His array of stories ranged from being sick from eating chocolate in a submarine to the infamous days of playing football for Rice University, and so many more in between. If you came for a visit, he would offer up a soda or a beer, but the beer was usually only somewhat cold. Theresa was the love of his life, and he was the
VĚSTNÍK love of hers. He was so proud of all his children, and in turn, they were just as proud of him. He attended Rice University. He was a member of the United States Army, where he served two years in Germany. His job as an electrical engineer took him to places such as Jordan and Italy. He was a member of KJT and SPJST. Lodge 25, Ennis Of all of his accomplishments, he would tell you that his family was the greatest. Betty Macalik, Secretary Lodge 25, Ennis —SPJST—
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Česká
Část
23.srpen.2021
Singular 1st person - mluvím - I speak 2nd person - mluvíš - you speak 3rd person - mluví - he, she, or it speaks Plural 1st person - mluvíme - we speak 2nd person - mluvíte - you speak 3rd person - mluví - they speak
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
mají hlad. Karel má rád maso a Helena má ráda sýr. Když oni mají žízeň, tak pijí mléko. Rádi se učíme česky. Babička mluví česky. Mám rád babičku. S S S Slovníček - Vocabulary
Read the following out loud. Get family or friends help with the pronunciation; do them together. Clip and save each lesson, and compile them into notebook míti hlad - to be hungry míti žíveň - to be thirsty míti rád nékoho - to like someone míti rad něco - to like something Kolik je hodin? - What time is it? S S S Čtení - Reading Kolik je hodin? Mám už hlad. Proč nemáme co jíst? Protože matka není doma. Karel a Helena též
2. Conjugation of the verbs of the second conjugation: that is, verbs that end in iti: Mluviti - to speak
BENEVOLENCE HUMANITY BROTHERHOOD
Lekce jedenáctá Lesson 11
1. The verb míti is used in Czech to form idioms. It was conjugated in the first lesson. To say one is hungry, the proper form of the verb míti plus hlad is used. To say one is thirsty, use míti plus žízeň. To say one likes someone, or something, míti plus rád is used. However, if the speaker is feminine, ráda is used and for the plural, use rádi or rády.
ROČNÍK 109 ČISLO 16
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´
Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech
Mluvnice - Grammar
hodina - hour proč - why protože - because mléko - milk sýr - cheese babička - grandmother česky - Czech (adv.) mluviti - to speak učiti se - to study píti - to drink kolik - How much? How many? něco - something tak - so jísti - to eat S S S
S S S 3. The verb učiti se to study, is a reflexive verb. Whenever it is conjugated, it must be followed by the reflexive pronoun se in all persons of the verb. Example: Učím se - I study; učíš se - you study, etc. S S S Homework 1. Memorize the expressions and the vocabulary. 2. Translate the reading exercise into English. 3. Conjugate the following verbs: bydliti - to live, dwell chváliti - to praise —SPJST—
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Early Czech Schools: TCGS’ August Book of the Month With the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year just around the corner, Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) has chosen Early Czech Schools as its August Book of the Month to coincide with that most important time of the year. Early Czech Schools was selected as the Texas State Genealogical Society’s first place winner at the statewide conference in 2014 from a number of entries in the Category VII Division: Books Published by Partner Society Members. This offering is a two volume, soft bound set containing 597 pages of stories, more than 600 photos, and over 2,900 surnames. The book is indexed for easy navigation. Features include early Czech educators in the Fatherland, early Texas educators in public as well as private schools in Texas, plus photos and articles about Czech Clubs at Texas A&M, The University of Texas, and The University of Houston. Included is a section on more than 100 Czech schools from the 1800s, which were built in numerous small towns and in the countryside where the families lived. This section contains so much more than a photo of the school and a class photo with many of the students identified. You will enjoy viewing various newspaper articles, documents, awards, and other types of special recognition that the students received. The last chapter contains articles about the individual students. The cost of the two volume set is $55 with free shipping and handling during the month of August, which is a $17 savings. Don’t delay. Send your check, payable to TCGS, in the amount of $55 for each set to Nancy Machu, 3337 Bianco Terrace, Round Rock, Texas 78665. Checks must be postmarked on or before August 31. For questions or to pay by credit card, please call Nancy at 512-971-4284. Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Czech Center Museum Houston offers vaccine, free museum visit on August 26 Visit the Czech Center Museum Houston on Thursday, August 26, 2021, between 8 a.m. and 12 noon to get your vaccine and enjoy a free museum visit! CCMH is located at 4920 San Jacinto in Houston. No photo ID is required at HCPH vaccine sites. Walk-ups are welcomed, but we strongly encourage everyone to register on the sign-up sheet to ensure vaccine doses are allocated accordingly. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses. Moderna can be provided to individuals 18-plus years of age. A second vaccine appointment will be established during initial contact. There is no charge for the vaccine or administration. The vaccine is free of charge. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines or possible concerns, visit the Harris County Public Health website. For more information about Czech Center Museum Houston, call 713-5282060 or visit czechcenter.org. —SPJST—
Monday, August 23, 2021
CCMH lecture set for August 26 on Bohemian lands, Czech migration Czechs, Germans, Austrians? Czech Center Museum Houston will host a complimentary lecture on Thursday, August 26, 2021, at 12 noon on the Bohemian lands in the 19th century and Czech migration to the United States. Czech Center Museum Houston is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston. The lecture discusses the hurdles Czechs and Slovaks were facing when migrating to the USA. What did it mean to be a Czech, Ger-
man, or Austrian in the 19th century? Who exactly lived in the Bohemian lands at this time? The population of today’s Czech Republic is a mixture of various ethnicities, languages, and denominations. Most individuals stayed within Central East Europe for their entire life, while some people traveled or migrated to other parts of Europe and North America prior to World War I. Thousands of migrants came to the United States from Central East Europe for social, political, and educational rea-
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sons. Amongst these were writer Karl Anton Postl (i.e. Charles Sealsfield), politicians Vojtěch Náprstek, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, Antonín Čermák, and composers Hans Balatka and Bohuslav Martinů. Of course, every Czech who migrated over left their distinct trace in their new homes and communities. Mgr. Ivan Puš, Ph.D. (*1987) is an Assistant Professor at the Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic. He graduated from this University with two Master of Arts degrees in history and German respectively (2014) and earned a Ph.D. in Czech history (2018). He has studied the Czech-German relationship in the 19th and 20th centuries for many
Czech Cultural Calendar Tuesday through Saturday Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private small group tour, contact the Museum: czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; or leave a message 254-899-2935. The Museum hosts Czech Films on the second Tuesdays of the month - at Beltonian Theatre, 219 East Central Avenue, Belton: Matinee at 3 p.m.; Night - 6 p.m. Free admission. Donations accepted online or through a donation box at the concession window. Imported Czech beer, wine available. Please note: There will be no matinée in August. Every First and Third Tuesday Evenings Tarok Parties—at Czech Heritage Museum, Temple, 119 West French. All ages and anyone interested are welcome. No admission or fee. Jimmie and Carolyn Coufal are award-winning tournament champions who not only teach beginners, but also help experienced players increase their skill. For information, call CHMGC 254-899-2935; find them on Facebook; or on the web at https://czechheritagemuseum.org. Monday through Saturday Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, Texas 77004-5719, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit revamped exhibits. Experience the culture, art, music, and stories of many Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty and democracy in America.
For info, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org. Through November 15 Exhibit: Texas-Czech Wedding Apparel and Tradition—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange: exhibit includes 10 dresses that have been donated by our members and are from weddings that occurred from 1883 to 1946; view fragile mementos; and leave with an understanding of Czech culture and traditions that are still alive today. September 10, 11 36th Annual Kolache Festival—on the square, downtown Caldwell, Texas “The Kolache Capital of Texas”: Friday, September 10—pre-festival Czech dinner 5:30 to 7 p.m.; dance 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Burleson County Expo Center sponsored by Burleson County CHM. Tickets pre-sold only at Burleson County CofC, 301 North Main Street, Caldwell. Call 979-567-0000. Saturday, September 11—Kolache Festival, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free of charge. Event includes opening prayer; flag ceremony; National Anthem; local, state, national dignitaries; Miss Kolache Festival Burleson County; crowning; patriotic salute to America in honor of Patriots Day; SPJST Youth Beseda Dancers and Beseda Alumni Dancers; State of Texas Kolache Bake Show; a block of kolache vendors on Main Street; Kraitchar House Museum; Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum; Czech lead crystal, china, porcelains; street rod and classic car show; Czech
Adventure Land; quilt show (Friday, Saturday); more than 200 arts/crafts vendors; more than 40 food vendors; all day shuttle bus; no pets allowed at the festival. Visit burlesoncountytx.com/kolachefestival. Submitted by Lillian Beasley, Lodge 17, New Tabor. September 19 Holy Trinity Church Bazaar, Corn Hill— held on the grounds of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 8626 FM 1105, Jarrell: Holy Mass - 10:30 a.m. BBQ and Corn Hill fried chicken dinner with all the trimmings - 11 a.m. in the parish activity center. Live auction - 1:30 p.m. Hamburgers - 2:30 p.m. Full day of family activities - polka music, kolache sale, homemade ice cream, children’s games, silent auction, cake walk, bingo, and prize drawing (held after live auction). For questions, email holytrinitycc@yahoo.com or call 512-863-3020. Visit www.holytrinityofcornhill.org. Submitted by Monica Snook, Admin Assistant, Holy Trinity of Corn Hill. October 17 Celebrating Heritage Day—at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stay tuned for more information. Event is presented by the American Czech Culture Societies and its member societies Sokol Dallas, SPJST, WFLA, KJT, KJZT, VH Czech School of Dallas, and RVOS. You may contact Bob Podhrasky at pod@att.net; Nina Marcussen at czechschoolofdallas@yahoo.com; or Lynda Novak at magiclady_46@hotmail.com for information. —SPJST—
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
Victoria Czech Heritage Festival . . . better than ever on Sept. 26
years. His interests lie in the studies of Cisleithanian law and the Czech (oslovak) exile. He has been accepted into the Fulbright Program and is an appointed Scholar-in-Residence at the University of Houston since January 2021. There, he teaches courses in the History Department on Jewish studies. For more information, call 713-5282060 or visit czechcenter.org. —SPJST—
Covid-19 put a squelch on many events in 2020, but the Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival is returning better than ever! The 2021 Victoria Czech Festival to be held Sunday, September 26 is returning for its 34th year with bigger and better events for the public to partake in. The festival and all its events will be held at the Victoria Community Center, 2905 East North Street in Victoria. Two events are new to this year’s festival plus a whole lot of new, fun and enlightening events for the entire family.
Kolache Festival September 11 in Caldwell Burleson County Chamber of Commerce’s 36th Annual Kolache Festival will be Saturday, September 11, 2021, in Caldwell, Texas. The festival will be downtown “on the square,” and Caldwell is known as “The Kolache Capital of Texas.” Admission is free of charge. The Kolache Festival is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Main Stage Polka Pavilion, 202 West Fox Street, in Caldwell. The Kolache Festival is a celebration of the revitalization of Czech heritage . . . a county that was basically a Czech settlement realized their precious identity was slipping away. New generations knew not the language, the music, or the art of their ancestors. Not only do we grasp at the past, but we hurry to share the history . . . to bring into today’s focus the beauty, talent, and delight of the Czech people. Come to the Kolache Festival and learn the wonderful Czech philosophy. Dance to the polka, and sing the songs of the musician. Taste the true ethnic food, and lend your soul to the fulfillment of the Czech cultural heritage. Festival events include State of Texas Kolache Bake Show; The Kolache Bake Shoppe featuring “Ceske Kolace” - a block of kolache vendors on Main Street; The Kraitchar House Museum; Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum; U.S. Texas Czech Flag Ceremony; “Kde Domov Muj” Czech National Anthem; Czechoslovakian Lead Crystal, China, and Porcelains; Creative Memories Guild Quilt Show; Street Rod and Classic Car Show at Davidson Creek Park from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Czech Adventure Land; quilt show (Friday and Saturday) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and arts and crafts who with more than 200 vendors and more than 40 food ven-
Natalie See is the 2019 Miss Kolache Festival. She is a member of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook.
dors. All day shuttle bus will run from Kraitchar House to Davidson Creek Park. No pets are allowed at the festival. For information about Kolache Bake Show guidelines or entries, contact Texas AgriLife Extension Service Office 100 W. Buck Street, Ste. 105 Caldwell, Texas 77836; call 979-567-2308; or email burleson-tx@ag.tamu.edu. The 2021 Bake Show Committee members are Ann Sebesta, Bruno Shimek, Lillian Beasley, and Viki Lenz. For more information about the festival, call 979-567-0000 or visit burlesoncountytx.com/kolachefestival. Submitted by, Lillian Beasley Lodge 17, New Tabor —SPJST—
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5Kolache Fun Run The first new event kicking off the festival is our 5Kolache Fun Run. Come join us for this 5Kolache Fun Run. You can run or walk this 5K race/fun run! The race will take place starting at the Community Center with registration at 8 a.m. with the race beginning at 8:30 a.m. Awards will be given to the first, second, and third place winners in 10-year age groups. T-shirts will be presented to the first 100 participants. A “kids fun run” is free of charge for under age of 15 (doesn’t include shirt). No need to register kids, just bring them along. Call 361-935-5823 for registration information. Czech Polka Mass The second new and major attraction to the festival this year is the addition of a Czech polka mass to the lineup. The polka mass originated in 1972 by Father George Balasko at Holy Rosary Church in Lowellville, Ohio, and has grown since, even being performed to Pope John Paul II in 1983 at the Vatican. Pope John Paul’s acceptance of the combination of the Czech-style music with the religious lyrics, led it to become popular throughout the United States. The Czech Heritage Polka Mass starts the festival off in the Community Center Annex open to the public with free admission from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Monsignor John C. Peters, pastor of Hallettsville Sacred Heart Church, St. Mary’s Church, Moravia Ascension Church, and St. John’s Church for 27 years will be celebrating the mass. John Dujka, noted polka band player, will
lead other musicians and the congregation in singing the reverent Holy Mass tunes. Come participate in this first polka mass celebrated in Victoria! Czech Bands Immediately after mass, the public attending the festival can step into the Community Center Dome as the festival kicks off with the Czechaholics alternating with the Red Ravens throughout the day from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. bringing lots of great music, dancing, and entertainment. Admission fee is $10 per person with youth under 15 years always free of charge. Beer and Food To whet your appetite, there will be plenty of five different draft beers available. Of course, the Czech stew and sausage noon meal is available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for only $10; as well as kolaches and then homemade chicken noodle soup and sausage wraps. Meet Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen New this year, too, will be personal visits and greetings from 2021 Czech Heritage Society Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen Madison Murphy of Abbott and Little Sister Rachel Alexander from Ennis. Both will attend, and Madison will even present one of the festival event programs. SPJST Czech Christmas Tree Ornament Contest Six festival event programs are scheduled for the public to attend, gain and share knowledge, and even win awards. From 11 a.m. to 12 noon is the SPJST Czech Christmas Tree Ornament Contest. Four age groups can compete including men and women groups age 17 years and up, youth ages 10 to 16, and youth ages nine and below. The contest is open to anyone. Bring your homemade Christmas tree ornament (no larger than 6 inches). Judging is at 12 noon with adult and youth awards of $25 or $15 at 1 p.m. Tarok Lessons This festival has sponsored the First Texas Tarok Tournament starting in 1984 and for the following 30 years and is now teaching the tarok card game to those interested from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Come learn the card game that our ancestors played.
VĚSTNÍK Czech Songs A first in many respects is the presentation of the new book Czech Songs In Texas, co-authored by Frances Barton. She will present information about this brand-new book on sale at our festival from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Ms. Barton, an accomplished accordion player with the Czech Melody Masters of Taylor/Austin, will also play several selections from the book. The book features 61 Texas Czech songs printed with Czech lyrics, English translation, musical notation - plus an essay analyzing each song. Written by Frances Barton of Austin, and John K. Novak of DeKalb, Illinois (formally from Fayette County, Texas), each essay explores the song’s European roots, its American evolution, and the meaning of its lyrics and lists notable performances and recordings. (Also see her in her booth.) Kolache Eating Contest A KJT Kolache Eating Contest is open to all in the same age groups and awards as listed previously for the Christmas tree ornament contest. Held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., contestants can see who wins eating the kolache the fastest. Adults must eat two kolaches. Accordion Classes And, for a first-time festival feature, youth and adults (8 years to 99-plus) can learn from the best - how to play the accordion! Chris Rybak of Hallettsville, who is known as the “Accordion Cowboy” and plays throughout the state and the world, will teach two classes - from 11 a.m. to 12 noon and from 3 to 4 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your kids and grandkids interested in Czech music and the accordion! Call 361-6492243 to schedule a time. Quilting and Czech Kroj Display Another first-time feature at the festival will be “Generations of Quilting and Czech Kroj Creation” from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Join 2021 Miss Texas CzechSlovak Queen Madison Murphy as she shares her love for the art of quilting that was inspired by her ancestors. She will demonstrate the process of quilting and display her handmade pieces. Madison will also have on display her kroje (Czech costumes) that she has designed and sewn, including her own authentic Bohemian kroj made with materials from the Czech Republic.
Monday, August 23, 2021 Plan to attend! With all the music, fun, fellowship, entertainment, and knowledge presented, the 2021 Victoria Czech Heritage Festival is truly better than ever, offering a lot of programs for youth and young-at-heart! Don’t miss it! Plan on attending! Submitted by, Joe Janak Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival —SPJST—
New book Czech Songs in Texas now available Czech Songs in Texas is a new book by Czech Texans Frances Barton and John K. Novak. It contains 61 songs that are still played and danced to by the Texas Czech community. They are beloved heirlooms ranging from ceremonial music with origins in Moravian wedding traditions to exuberant polkas celebrating the pleasures of life. For each song, the book provides music notation with Czech lyrics and English translation. An essay explores the song’s European roots, its American evolution, and the meaning of its lyrics and lists notable performances and recordings. In addition to the songs and essays, Frances Barton provides a chapter on the role of music in the Texas Czech ethnic community, and John K. Novak surveys Czech folk and popular music in its European home. The music, words, and part of the essay for the song “Louka zelená” are reprinted below with permission from the book’s publisher, University of Oklahoma Press. “Louka zelená” begins with a simple image, an uncut meadow where the flowers grow. Fairy tales, like folk songs, use this kind of straight-forward description. There are few details, and the reader, or listener, is invited into an unexplained world. On top of this spare image comes a pronouncement: if a boy wants a girl, he must go to her when the moon is shining. Our young boy does as he is told. He goes to his girl when the moon comes out and finds that she is waiting for him. The supernatural spell wanes, however, when she refuses his offer of kisses. Things come back to
earth when she tells him that he is too short, that when they are a couple they will have “time for that.” The words to the first verse were published in a Czech folk song collection in 1877. They were collected in the Proseč region of Bohemia, about 100 miles east of Prague, by members of Slavia, a literary society. Years later, in 1940, in Rosebud, Texas, the folklorist William Owens collected another version of the song. The version Owens found in Texas had been arranged by Louis Vitak and published in 1917 by Georgi and Vitak of Chicago. Texans usually sing the first two verses only, and many singers substitute the words in parentheses for the original Vitak text. Czech Songs in Texas can be ordered from the University of Oklahoma Press
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through its website: https://www.oupress.com/books/16488566/czechsongs-in-texas. It is also available in some book stores and online through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. (700 words, 1 image) Submitted by, Frances Barton frances.barton@gmail.com —SPJST—
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Monday, August 23, 2021
Czech immigrant presents Towers-9/11 Story Dear Friends of All Things Czech, Bohemian or American, In less than a month, we will be commemorating the tragic events of September 11, the infamous day that changed the world. We all remember exactly where we were that day, what we were doing, and how we heard or saw on television what was unfolding. Among us are also those who saw the attacks with their own eyes, who breathed the dusty air after the collapse of the World Trade Center Towers. One of those people, a member of our American Friends of the Czech Republic community, is a Czech-American architect and my friend Jiri Boudnik. A former political refugee who escaped from Communist Czechoslovakia on July 4, 1987 (that special date connected with the start of his freedom was not lost on him), with his mother and sister (he was just turning 17; his sister was 10). They spent two years in a refugee camp in Austria before arriving in the United States. While in Austria, they contacted the World Council of Churches who facilitated their sponsoring as new-coming immigrants to the United States by the Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees in Utica, New York. After almost two years, they finally arrived there in the spring of 1989 (unsuspecting the fall of the Berlin wall at the end of that year). They all learned English very fast and blended into the multiethnic American fabric where in the household Jiri and his sister spoke English and their mother was replying in Czech (I guess this rings a bell for many of you (by the way, he wrote an excellent book about this journey in Czech, called A zalévej
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VĚSTNÍK kytky-příběh uprchlíka, and as he told me, the English language version is coming out next year). Jiri was educated first as an artist at the Munson Williams Proctor School of Art in Utica, New York, and later transferred to The Cooper Union in Manhattan, where he received a degree as an architect. He got to like the city, its people, and mainly New York City skyscrapers (he worked on constructing many of them as a structural engineer and an architect). On September 11, 2001, Jiri witnessed the attacks on the World Trade Center and immediately that morning decided to go there and help. He arrived during the collapse of the second World Trade Center tower and continued working there for the following six months. As a form of PTSD therapy, he wrote a book Towers-9/11 Story about his experiences at Ground Zero, looking for survivors and clearing the debris. ABC News produced a feature about it, called Unsung Heroes - on the first anniversary in 2002. Video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk6 wiUBdo0o
Annual Homecoming
PICNIC Sunday, Sept. 12
Marak, Texas
SS Cyril and Methodius Church 7 miles northwest of Cameron on FM 2269
Mass at 10:15 a.m. Serving begins at 11 a.m. Plates served with all the trimmings Meal Tickets - $12 each Drive-Thru Line for Plates-to-Go Continuous serving while food lasts. Games 11:30 a.m. • Prize Drawing Horseshoe Tournament
Cash payout for 1st to 3rd places. Signup begins at 11 a.m. • Play starts at 1 p.m.
Praha Brothers - 12 noon to 3 p.m. Auction 2:30 p.m. inside the air-conditioned hall Entertainment for the entire family!
The reason I’m writing to you is that for the 20th anniversary, Jiri has also produced an audiobook version as well: https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/TOWERS_9_11_Story?i d=AQAAAEA8CxVLOM&hl=en_US &gl=US, narrated by Daniel Hauck (an American living with his Czech wife in Pilsen, Czech Republic). The audiobook format gave him the freedom to include not only the tattooed back of the FDNY fireman Tiernach Cassidy (as is on the cover of the book) but also the fireman’s real voice, when he narrates his own lines of his own character himself. Mr. Cassidy has saved 13 survivors out of the Towers’ debris on September 11. What Jiri Boudnik has created is an insider-view unprecedented document of what it was like there during the apocalyptic days and how the help of many, their friendships that came out of it, helped them cope with the psychological aftermath later. I am proud that my fellow Czech Jiri Boudnik - and his family came to America, found a safe harbor there, and that, by his actions after the terrorist attacks, he more than earned his place among the millions of immigrants (and !
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Czech immigrants) that have been shaping the wonderful Founding Fathers’ project, called The United States of America. Petr Kolar Former Czech Ambassador to the United States of America (2005-2010) Prague, Czech Republic —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
SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church
ANNUAL BAZAAR Sunday, September 5, 2021 SSCM Parish Hall • 500 West Davilla • Granger
Everyone is invited to 10 a.m. Mass • 100 North Brazos Street
Barbecue-by-the pound at the pit at 7 a.m.
Premade Take-Out Plates Only - $12
Barbecue and Sausage Dinner with Dressing and Trimmings Dine In begins at 11 a.m. All Premade Plates. (No child plates.) Drive -thru 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or until sold out. Kitchen will be open all day until 10 p.m.
Washers and Corn Hole Tourneys - $20 per team Sign up at 11 a.m. • Tourneys at 1 p.m. Games Begin at 12 Noon • Prize Bingo 1:30 to 4 p.m. Cake Walk, Ring Toss for Sodas, Toy Booth, Fish Pond
Live Auction Starting at 1:30 p.m.
Buddy Johnson, Auctioneer License TXS-6520
• Payment by check/cash only
Dance 7 to 11 p.m. - $10 per person
Music by Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six • BYOB is not permitted www.sscmchurch.org • 512-859-2223 • sscmchurch@gmail.com
VĚSTNÍK
TCGS announces publication of wedding album Set to make its formal debut at the September 25, 2021, Caldwell, Texas, “20th Anniversary Celebration: Upward to New Heights,” commemorating the founding of Texas Czech Genealogical Society, TCGS is offering its new publication, The Wedding Album, as its September “Item of the Month.” This publication would be a wonderful addition to a family’s keepsakes passed on to future generations. Containing 250 pages in an 8.5- by 11-inch, soft-bound book with 1,004 indexed surnames, The Wedding Album
Monday, August 23, 2021 contains 380 wedding articles submitted by 53 different individuals. Some articles have detailed text accompanying the photos, while others contain only a photograph with the couple’s name and date. Also included are four very special wedding articles: • “Wedding Traditions (of the 1940s and 1950s in North Texas)” by Carolyn and Henry Holub • “Tradition of the Wedding March” by Nori Najvar • “Wedding Photography” by Frank Kalbac • “Wedding Kolaches” by Jan Srubar This special TCGS September “Item of the Month” offer, featuring free ship-
ping and handling which is a savings of $10, will be available through September 30, 2021. To order The Wedding Album, mail a $32 check (per copy) payable to TCGS, c/o Nancy Machu, 3337 Bianco Terrace, Round Rock, Texas 78665. If you need more information or want to pay by credit card, you may contact Nancy at nbmachu@gmail.com or 512-971-4284 (please leave a mes-
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sage, and your call will be returned). A complete list of all TCGS publications can be found on the TCGS website https://txczgs.org under “Store.” Gladys Valchar TCGS Secretary Lodge 87, Temple —SPJST—
Historic National Hall SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth
CZECH HERITAGE DAY Saturday, September 18, 2021 1 to 8 p.m. Doors open at 1 p.m. Adult Admission: $10 • Ages 12 and under: Free
Like To Polka? POLKA?
HUNGRY?
Jodie Mikula Orchestra 4 to 8 p.m.
Traditional Czech Dinner Served 1 to 4 p.m.
The Jodie Mikula Orchestra will be playingyour favorites like “The Chicken Dance”. Come and dance on our beautiful dance floor. The Grand March begins at 4 p.m.
Adults: $10 Ages 12 and under: $6 Dinner includes pork loin, sauerkraut, green beans, and parsley potatoes.
Don’t miss out! Accordion players, heritage videos, and other activities from 1 to 4 p.m.
After 4 p.m. pork and sausage sandwiches will be available for $6 each.
Feeling Lucky? LUCKY? Ladies Circle Cake Walks Once again, the Ladies Circle will be “spinning the wheel” for lucky winners of delicious cakes and kolaches! Join us at
National Hall 3316 Roberts Cut-Off Road • Fort Worth, TX 76114 817-624-1361 • nationalhallfortworth.com
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Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Annual Fundraiser
Victoria county's 34 TH Annual CZech heritage FesTival
Sunday, September 26, 2021 Czech Heritage Polka Mass 9:30am • Free admission
Festival Admission $10 • Children under 15 ALWAYS FREE! Music By
The Czechaholics 10:30am-12:30pm & 2:30-4:30pm The Red Ravens 12:30-2:30pm & 4:30-6:30pm
Outdoor Extravaganza Saturday, September 18, 2021 Seaton Star Hall
10842 State Highway 53 • Temple • 5 Miles East of Temple
Social Hour - 5 p.m. • Meal - 6:30 p.m. Live and Silent Auctions • Bucket Drawings Games • Top Prize Drawings Donation: $50 per person in advance/at the door (Meal, beverages, and snacks provided.) Children of ticket holders can attend for $20 each and will be eligible for a separate prize drawing.
G G G Top Prizes G G G
ALL BEER ON TAP: SHINER BOCK, SHINER LIGHT BLONDE, COORS LIGHT, SHINER OCTOBERFEST & CZECH BEER PILSNER URQUELL. Czech Booths • Exhibits • Face Painting Arts & Crafts • Country Store • KJT Pastry Wheel • Silent Auction
Festival Events 5Kolache Fun Run Reg. 8am, Race/walk 8:30-9:30am. Call 361-935-5823 SPJST Czech Christmas Tree Ornament Contest 11 am – Noon Accordion Lessons 11am-Noon and 3-4 pm. Call 361-649-2243 "Czech Songs In Texas" Book Review and Music 1:30pm-2:30pm Tarok Card Game Lessons 1:30pm-3:30pm KJT Kolache Eating Contest 2:30-3:30pm Quilting And Czech Kroj Creation 3:30-4:30pm
Czech Stew & Sausage Lunch $10/plate 11am-1pm Kolaches, Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup and Sausage Wraps also available Sponsored by: Victoria County Czech Heritage Society | facebook.com/victoriaczechsociety
Info: www.VictoriaCzechs.org
Victoria Community Center | 2905 E. North, Victoria, Texas
• White Tail Deer Hunt for 1 and Non-Hunting Guest at Mustang Creek Ranch in Salado (www.mustangcreek.com) • Cruise for up to 4 people • Valued at $2,000 (www.megatravels.com) • 3-Person Guided Bay Fishing Trip with Backlash Fishing Charters in Corpus Christi Valid October to May. Includes bait and tackle. www.backlashcharters.com
• 3-Person 1/2 Day Pheasant, 1/2 Day Quail Guided Combination Hunt in Santa Anna Guide and dog included. www.sahainc.com
• 4-Person Nighttime Bowfishing Trip with Slime Life Bowfishing Charters Captain Seth Skinner will provide all gear for the trip. www.slimelifebowfising.com • Spa Package • Details to be determined.
Tickets or More Info:
Edwin Pechal 254-721-2887 email - edwinpechal@yahoo.com Brandon Bartek 254-624-4119 email - bbartek001@yahoo.com
Multiple guns to be given away - shotguns, pistols, rifles, kids’ guns
Only 450 admission tickets will be sold. get yours today!
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, August 23, 2021
SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor 20th Annual
BBQ COOK-OFF Friday-Saturday ★ September 24-25, 2021 ★ Taylor SPJST Hall, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, TX ★ Barbecue Cookers: $100 entry fee - Chicken, Pork Ribs, Brisket $10 fee for Jackpot Pinto Beans $10 fee for Jackpot Cook’s Choice $10 fee for Jackpot Pork Butt Cash & Trophies awarded for 1st through 10th places in all meat categories - Chicken, Pork Ribs, Brisket Cash & Unique Trophies awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Master Cook and “Best Rig” Jackpot Pinto Beans, Cook’s Choice & Pork Butt - 80% Payback Cash prizes awarded for 1st through 5th places Trophies awarded for 1st through 10th places
$4,000 Prize Mo ney
All are welcome to judge on Saturday! FREE Dance: Friday 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. - Sterling Country Old-fashioned hamburgers sold on Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Silent Auction on Saturday: 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Contact: Jesse Pospisil 512-826-7371/cell ★ 512-365-1110 ★ jlpospisil@yahoo.com
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46
Monday, August 23, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 12 noon, unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly 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 nonprofit 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: 979-9663795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Sunday, November 14—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, December 12—Christmas party in Vsetin 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) Sunday, September 5—Westfest Sunday, September 12—Meeting at 2 p.m. 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 254-717-0383 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) Monday, August 23—Lodge meeting Monday, November 22—Lodge meeting Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 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 hHwy 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: 979272-3440. 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, September 12—Czech Melody Masters, polka Sunday, September 19—Glen Collins and The Alibis, country Sunday, October 10—The Lost Cause, polka Sunday, November 14—Czechchoices, polka Sunday, November 21—Glen Collins and The Alibis, country Sunday, December 12—Christmas Dance: Red Ravens, polka Friday, December 31—News Year’s Eve: Glen Collins and The Alibis, country. $20 Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Polka and Country band bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person - unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18 . 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) 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. LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. All Friday dances: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. with free admission. Clay Raesz serves hamburgers each Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, August 27—Gabriel River Band Friday, September 3–The Other Band Wednesday, September 8–SPJST Lodge 29 members will hold their monthly meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. Covered dish meal served following the meeting. Friday, September 10–Texas Neon Ramblers Friday, September 17–Craig Howell Band Saturday, September 18–Taylor High School Class Reunion. All classes welcome to enjoy dancing at the Taylor SPJST Hall with music by Sterling Country Band beginning at 7 p.m. No admission charge. Friday, September 24–Sterling Country Band Saturday, September 25—20th Annual Taylor SPJST BBQ Cook-Off: Judges needed for bbq entries. Friday, October 1–Old Friends Friday, October 8–Second Hand Rose Wednesday, October 13–SPJST Lodge 29 members will hold their monthly meeting beginning at 6:30 pm. Covered dish meal served following the meeting. Friday, October 15–Texas Neon Ramblers Friday, October 22–Les and the Leftovers Friday, October 29–Dry Country 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. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. 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 979-5437120. 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) Saturday, August 28—Wedding 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 979-2183527; 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 Infor-
mation: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979648-2317. 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 361-5525170 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: 254985-2548. 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) Update: The new hall is complete. We are now taking bookings. 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 Bookings/Rentals: Call Kim Ogden 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth club meetings: Held prior to the adult meeting at 5:15 p.m. Call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226 for information. A notification will be sent to members if meeting times need to be changed. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. 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 325-6560029. 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) Lodge Meetings: 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.
VĚSTNÍK 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: 254-6572485. Bingo: Every Thursday, 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly. Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Board of Directors’ 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 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/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466. 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 Kristen Jones 936-5563248 or Assistant Youth Leader Krystle Bender 832-7921194. 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.
Monday, August 23, 2021 LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date, time, and location, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385 or email jvrla@cebridge.net. 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 830-964-5135. 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 979-922-1553.
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 254-773-2363.
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 88, HOUSTON (5) Saturday, August 28—Czechaholics, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, September 24—Fab5, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Friday, October 22—Texas Sundown, 8 to 12 a.m. Friday, November 13—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m.
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 713-5605377.
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 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 Zoom Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. To join, please email spjstyouthlodge88@yahoo.com for link. For information, contact 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 817-6241361. 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 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 979-618-1890. 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 817-731-2580. 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 325234-5879.
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 713-303-1471. 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 979-251-4150; 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 713-920-7172 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 100 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 254749-5732. 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: 682-8003485. 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 361-7723876 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 979-7778215. 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: 979-567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Yolanda Brinkman for information 979-5670637. 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.
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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 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) Quarterly business meetings are held in March, June, and September, and a social meeting in December. Location and dates will be announced in the Věstník. Contact President Henry Mayo for information 979-777-1426. 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. Lodge/Hall Information: George Scogin 936-875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Due to Covid-19, meetings are now held quarterly. LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Phone: 281373-9482; 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 713-5152835. 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 James R. Hosch 254-718-4798. 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 830281-8246. 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 940855-0882. 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—
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