Vestnik 1996 12 18

Changing to meet the needs of fraternalists.

"Joining Hands To Touch Lives-Fraternalism for the Family and Our Nation'

SPJST HLra.d Official Publication Of The Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas, Founded 1897 HUMANITY

BENEVOLENCE

BROTHERHOOD

Postmaster: Please Send Form 3579 to: SUPREME LODGE, SPJST, P. 0 Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 December 18, 1996 ISSN-07458800 VOLUME 84 NUMBER 49

Directo S Andrew Vavra Willie E. Kohutek Sid Pokladnik Stanley Broz Louis Hanus Matt S. Vanek Bob Bayer

EA Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All of Our Members, Friends and Families from your SPJST Supreme Lodge Directors, Officers, Personnel and Editor

Officers Howard Leshikar Leonard D. Mikeska Lanita Anglin Jerry Mikulas Sidney Kacir

Personnel Time fo,

"-Jung

Pictured, at right, are members of the 1996 SPJST Royalty Court gathered around the Youth Christmas Tree on display at the SPJST Museum in Temple.

The tree is decorated with ornaments created by SPJST Youth Club members.

Every fall, in conjunction with the fall district meetings, youth club members cornpete in an ornament contest. Ornament artists are recognized on page seven.

Royalty Court members, from left, are: Queen Karen Bender of Lodge 88, Houston; King Justin Engelke of Lodge 66, Waco; Duke Douglas Galler of Lodge 66, Waco; and Duchess Krystle Bender of Lodge 88, Houston. The group was in town for Temple's Annual Christmas Parade and SPJST Open House on Monday, December 2.

and fe Young at Heart In December, SPJST lodges all over the state celebrated the warmth of the Holiday Season. Again, as in past years, Santa made an appearance at the SPJST Open House. Pictured, from left, are Edwin Vasicek of Lodge 47, Seaton, Santa Claus, Lydia and Robert Dobecka, Sr. of Lodge 6, Cottonwood. Members from all over came out to enjoy the evening event which coincided with the Temple Christmas Parade.

it

4

Cynthia Bravenec Debbie Dohnalik Daryl Entrop Susie Ernst Kathy Fritz Keith Gatewood Ruth Hanusch Helen Hegwood Stephanie Herring Jerry Kucera Linda Johnson Lisa Kirby Frank Klinkovsky Barbara Kovacevich Joni Lange Gene McBride Ed Mokry Peggy Sue Pancake Ann Paruzinski Dorothy Pechal Gene Reveile Mike Reveile Barbara Rosenkranz Dorothy Stuchly Dorothy Tomasek Debra Trigg Doris Tyroch Jim Wiest Julie Wiseman Melanie Zavodny

Editor Brian Vanicek

2/VESTNIK-Wednesday, December 18, 1996

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

Tis' the Season to be Fraternal

VEST NI VESTNIK (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the second week of June and third week of August by VESTNIK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $20 per year, beginning July 1, non-members only. Members fee is paid as part of the insurance fee collected by the Supreme Lodge SPJST, 512 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VESTNIK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

EDITOR: BRIAN VANICEK P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100 Home: 13851 St. Hwy. 53, Temple, TX 76501-3407 Office Phone: (817) 773-1575 Home Phone: (817) 985-0007 E-Mai I : bvaniceker vvm.com

OFFICERS HOWARD LESHIKAR PRESIDENT Office Phone: (817) 773-1575 Home Phone: (817) 771-1359

LEONARD MIKESKA VICE PRESIDENT Office Phone: (817) 773-1575 Home Phone: (817) 778-3720

LANITA ANGLIN SECRETARY-TREASURER Office Phone: (817) 773-1575 Home Phone: (817) 985-2334

JERRY MIKULAS FINANCIAL SECRETARY Office Phone: (817) 773-1575 Home Phone: (817) 773-2950

SIDNEY KACIR LEGAL ADVISOR Office Phone: (817) 778-5228 P.O. Box 5119 Temple, Texas 76505

DIRECTORS ANDREW VAVRA DISTRICT I Home Phone: (409) 774-7519 4517 Sutton Ct., Bryan, TX 77802

WILLIE E. KOHUTEK DISTRICT II Home Phone: (817) 593-4115 Rt. 2, Box 320, Buckholts, TX 76518

CYRILL (SID) POKLADNIK DISTRICT III Office Phone: (214) 741-1874 2924 Elm St., Dallas, TX 75226 Home Phone: (214) 686-8604 Home: 3924 Barnes Bridge Rd. Dallas, TX 75228

STANLEY BROZ DISTRICT IV Home Phone: (915) 442-3271 P.O. Box 33, Lowake, TX 76855

LOUIS HANUS DISTRICT V Home Phone: (713) 686-6160 4006 Ascot Ln., Houston, TX 77092

MATT S. VANEK DISTRICT VI Home Phone: (512) 578-2687 1009 Northgate, Victoria, TX 77904

BOB BAYER DISTRICT VII Home Phone: (210) 216-7954 Route Four, Box 166, Floresville, Texas 78114

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE .

DISTRICT I - FLOYD KOSTELKA, ROUTE ONE, BOX 24-A, DIME BOX, TX 77853 (409) 884-0112 DISTRICT II - LAVERNE CABLA, 10612 OSCAR SCHOOL ROAD, TEMPLE, TX 76501 (817) 985-2354 DISTRICT HI - BESSIE PETR, V. CHMN., 5406 MORNINGSIDE, DALLAS, TX 75206 - (214) 8263557 DISTRICT IV - ANGELINE KRISTINEK, CHMN., ROUTE 7, BOX 834, LUBBOCK, TX 7940t - (806) 763-0047 DISTRICT V - LORENDA BALDWIN, ROUTE 7, BOX 15, ALVIN, TX 77511 - (713) 585-4118 DISTRICT VI - HELEN KELNER, 911 AVE. K, ROSENBERG, TX 77471 - (713) 342-2624 DISTRICT VII - BETTY JURICA, ROUTE 2, BOX 899. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78410 - (512) 2659018

BY-LAW COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - DONNIE VICTORICK, P.O. BOX 85, SNOOK, TX 77878 - (409) 272-3265 DISTRICT II - RONNIE RIEGER, 350 RIEGER ROAD, COUPLAND, TX 78615 - (512) 365-2000 DISTRICT III - JOHNNIE KRIZAN, SCTY., ROUTE 2. WEST, TX, 76691 - (817) 826-5882 DISTRICT IV - BEVERLY TEPLICEK, ROUTE 1, BOX 40-A, ROWENA, TX 76875 (915) 442-4841

DISTRICT V - MILDRED HOLEMAN, CHMN., 1006 CHANTILLY LN., HOUSTON, TX 77018 (713) 683-0018 DISTRICT VI - MICHAEL AHLSTROM, VICE CHAIRMAN, 407 TAOS STREET, VICTORIA, TX 77904 (512) 578-3279 DISTRICT VII - DOMINIC F. NETEK, SR., 3907 SKYLARK, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78210 - (512) 532-3916

FINANCE COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - ERNEST WENTRCEK, V. CHMN., 1530 BENNETT, BRYAN, TX 77802 - (409) 8224226 DISTRICT II - ARLEEN MAYEUX, 11107 PROSPECT HILL RD, GLENDALE, MD 20769 DISTRICT III - MICHAEL GALLER, 526 KAREN, WACO, TX 76706 - (817) 662-4934 DISTRICT IV - HERMAN D. WEISE, 6006 FM HWY. 765, SAN ANGELO, TX 76905 - (915) 653-9890 DISTRICT V - ALVIN J. SEFCIK,.1409 AUSTIN, LaMARQUE, TX 77568 - (409) 935-3919 DISTRICT VI - RITA VANEK, SCTY., P.O. BOX 901, EL CAMPO, TX 77437 - (409) 543-6220 DISTRICT VII - MONTA FOSTER, CHMN., 4 BOB WHITE, SAN MARCOS, TX - 78666 (512) 353-2948; (H); (512) 293-5624 (Ranch)

INSURANCE COMMI FILE DISTRICT I - SUSAN SKRABANEK, ROUTE 2, BOX 13, CALDWELL, TX 77836 - (409) 272-3440 DISTRICT H - LADIS NAVRATIL, 1 E. YOUNG, TEMPLE, TX 76501 - (817) 773-4644 DISTRICT III - BEN JARMA, CHMN., 9512 LEASIDE DR., DALLAS, TX 75238 - (214) 348-1514 DISTRICT IV - LEONARD JANSA, V. CHMN., 6617 PLAINVIEW DRIVE, SAN ANGELO. TX 76905 (915) 651-8045.

DISTRICT V - HELEN HEG WOOD, SECTY., 6702 LINDY ANN LN., HOUSTON, TX 77008 (713) 864-0489 DISTRICT VI - JEROME J. HLAVATY, BOX 174, LOLITA, TX 77971 - (512) 874-4461 DISTRICT VII - POLLY BAYER, ROUTE 4, BOX 166, FLORESVILLE TX 78114 - (210) 216-7954

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR FRANK KLINKOVSKY, P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE, TX 76503 - (817) 773-1575

STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR JONI LANGE. P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE, TX 76503 - (817) 773-1575

DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS DISTRICT I - SUSAN SKRABANEK, RT. 2, BOX 13, CALDWELL, TX 77836 - (409) 272-3440 DISTRICT II - PATSY KOSLOVSKY, 764 S. ST. JOSEPH STREET, BURLINGTON, TEXAS 76519 - (817) 985-2396 DISTRICT III - BESSIE PETR, 5406 MORNINGSIDE, DALLAS, TX 75206- (214) 826-3557 DISTRICT IV - SANDRA JANSA, 6617 PLAINVIEW. SAN ANGELO, TX 76904 - (915)651-8045 DISTRICT V - MARIE STAYTON, 721 REDAN, HOUSTON< TX 77009 - (713) 864-8658 DISTRICT VI - MARCY DOROTIK, 1201-D VERDE ST., BRYAN, TX 77802 - (409) 775-3428 DISTRICT VII - SUSAN BOHNENBERGER, P.O. BOX 1891, SEGUIN, TEXAS 78155 - (210) 372-4955

LIBRARY, ARCHIVES, MUSEUM Dorothy Pechal, Museum Curator Office: (817) 773-1575, P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76502

Sales Representatives Assistance Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1-800-72-SPJST After Office Hours and/or Weekends, call

STATE FIELD MANAGER GENE McBRIDE, P.O. BOX 366, EDDY, TX 76574 - (817)859-5855

DISTRICTS 1 and 2 Keith Gatewood (817) 933-7734 keithg@pop I .epoch.net

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DISTRICT 5 Helen Hegwood (713) 864-0489

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DEADLINE FOR MATERIAL TO BE ACCEPTED FOR THE FOLLOWING ISSUE IS WEDNESDAY. TO FAX YOUR NEWS ITEMS. PLEASE SEND MESSAGES TO (817) 774-7447.

Just like all other people we had to Something to Believe In "At Christmas 1 do my thinking about the deal with this gigantic change in our coming year, and I watch the old one go. I environment and had to find a solution always feel a little sad, recalling past loss- to the problem.

Today we make some of the gifts es and failures, but then I think of what we celebrate at Christmas, a birth and a new ourselves but we get support from our beginning, and I am comforted. I can friends and relatives all over the world almost feel hope in the air and see it to finish up the rest of them.

We are capable of doing things that sparkle in the lighted trees. As I step back into my warm little house, I don't feel so normal people can't do but there is cross. I have another chance. Next year always a lot of wishes from kids that simply can not be fulfilled ... maybe I will do better" You can send me your list of wishes -Susan Allen Toth Something we hear a lot about during the Holidays is "Christmas spirit."

It's about caring. It's about giving. And, it's about believing in the good of mankind. Sounds a little like fraternalism, doesn't it? A couple of days ago, I ran across an interview on the Internet with one of the Holiday Season's all time fraternalists, Santa Claus. A portion of that interview is reprinted below.

Thanks to its anonymous source and to you for helping to keep the spirit of Christmas alive May the hope and joy of the Holiday Season be with you now and through the New Year.

and I will see what I can do about it.

Seasons Greetings from Our Family to Yours

Do you have relatives?

Oh yes, I have a lot of relatives.

They are now located all over the world. They are very important to us and we love them a lot.

Our relatives are our greatest supporters and we couldn't do all the things before Christmas if they wouldn't be helping us. Do you know

Brian, Joanie, Stephanie and Samuel Vanicek

A Talk With Santa (Condensed) How old are you?

A long time ago I stopped counting the years that measure my age. I am very, very old. I am more than a hundred years old. I have been around since your mother was a little child. I was also around when your grandma was a child.

I will be around when your child will be born and I will try to make your child happy on Christmas just like I want to do everything I can to make you happy this Christmas.

My life is dedicated to make all the children in this world happy on Christmas. Each child who loves to have me around has made my life complete. For every child that I can make

about Santa Claus's uncles or aunts in neighboryour hood?

There is at least one!

Where exactly do you live?

I live in a mountain near Reykjavik, the largest city in Iceland, in fact the only city in Iceland. The mountain is called Esja. Our exact location in this mountain is kept very private. Think about all the people that would be interested in visiting us. We wouldn't have any time to make the presents and make Christmas arrangements if all those people came visiting us.

We like it this way and we are sure that people want us to be mysterious a little bit longer ...

happy for only a few seconds on Christmas I will live longer.

If you like having me around on Christmas, care about me and enjoy my existence, then you are giving me more years to live. Now you know my Top Secret!

Can you now understand why I am so old?

Do you make all the presents?

In the old days we made all the presents. When the world started to change in the beginning of this century we got into trouble making all the toys and gifts kids were asking us to give them.

Santa Claus can be reached online at http://www.icemall.com/christmas secrets.html Or, you can send e-Mail to Santa at santa@icemall.com Of course, you don't need a computer to contact Santa. Cards and letters may directed to: Santa Claus, Brautarholt 26; 101, Reykjavik, Iceland Fax: 354-511-6061 -SPJST-

Wednesday, December 18,

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at you'll get

That's

Anniversary Cookbook. The book has

been shipped to the printer and the first

Howard B. Leshikar, President Leonard D. Mikeska, Vice President Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Mikulas, Financial Secretary Sidney Kacir, Legal Advisor Andrew Vavra — I Willie E. Kohutek — II

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of January. Orders are now being accepted for the cookbook. Price, including postage and handling is $10.

The cookbook also makes a great gift idea! On gift orders, notification will be

O O

sent to the intended recipient, informing

Cyrill Pokladnik — III, Chairman of the Board Stanley Broz — IV Louis Hanus -- V Matt S. Vanek VI, Vice Chairman of the Board Robert Bayer — VII

RECOGNITION OF EMPLOYEES - Debbie Dohnalik and Linda Johnson were invited into the Board meeting and were recognized for twenty years of service to the Society. Each was presented a plaque by Financial Secretary Mikulas, a corsage

by Chairman Pokladnik, and a token of the Society's appreciation by President Leshikar for their years of service.

them that they will be receiving a copy.

1

Minutes of the November 6 and 7, 1996 Regular Meeting of the Supremer Lodge SPJST Held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas The regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST was called to order by Chairman of the Board Pokladnik at 8:40 a.m. with all members of the Supreme Lodge present. Those present were:

when you order the SPJST 100th

shipment is expected around the middle

1996—VESTNIK/3

To ensure that they get their card before Christmas, gift orders must be in to the Home Office on or before December 16.

Director Hanus and President Leshikar presented a picture of Lodge 88 dance class to the Board. This class was the pilot program set up by the Board.

In the case of gift orders, please be sure to include the complete name and address of the party who is to receive

Chairman Pokladnik welcomed Editor Vanicek to the meeting.

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the cookbook. Full payment for the

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number of cookbooks requested must also accompany your order. Orders will

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not be accepted without full payment.

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MINUTES - There was a review of the Minutes page by page.

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Home Office Posts Holiday Schedule Please note that the Home Office will he closed for the Christmas holidays from Tuesday, December 24 through Thursday, December 26. They will reopen at 8 a.m. on Friday, December 27. The Home Office will also be closing at noon on New Year's Eve, and will reopen for business at 8 a.m., Thursday, January 2, 1997.

Family Fun and !Alpo tant SPJST Dates Decemher 18 December 18 December 20 December 31

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Christmas Social Lodge 172, Pasadena Christmas Party Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas Party Deadline to apply for 1997 SPJST scholarships

December 31 Check calendar listings on page 15 f r New Year's Eve celebrations being held at S JST lodges ar und the st te.

February 22

Local Lodge Officers Workshop at Lodge 24, Cyclone Lodge Recognition and Incentive Banquet to follow at Lodge 47, Seaton — SPJST

—

INTEREST TES ANNUITY I

SPJST MORTGAGE INTEREST TES

(Certificates Issued Prior to 4-1-93)

5.25% Annualized Effective 11-1-96 through 1-31-97

ANNUITY II (Certificates Issued 4-1-93 and After)

6.25% Annualized Effective 11-1-96 through 1-31-97

INTEREST RATE FOR UNIVERSAL LIFE 7.00% Annualized Effective 11-1-96 through 1-31-97

RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Home or Farm Mortgages: 7.00% for 1 to 7 years 7.50% for 8 to 15 years 7.75% for 16 to 20 years Mortgages on Qualified Owner-Operated Business Real Estate 8.75% for 10 years 9.00 % for 11 to 15 years

Director Broz moved to accept the minutes, seconded by Director Hanus. Motion carried unanimously.

SCHOLARSHIPS - There was a lengthy discussion on a mail poll authorized by the officers to the directors about the scholarship program. To keep the Society from having difficulties in the future the officers recommended two separate scholarship funds. The general scholarship fund is one where SPJST will fund $15,000, and accept tax exempt contributions from individuals. In the SPJST leadership grant, SPJST would fund $10,000 for two grants for royalty, seven district grants and eleven active youth member grants. The SPJST leadership grant would not accept any outside funds. Vice President Mikeska reminded the Board that when setting up a scholarship program the Society can specify certain areas such as SPJST membership, but if the program goes on to specific active members then the tax exemption to donors could be lost.

Financial Secretary Mikulas expressed a concern over what institution would select the recipients based on a 40%, 30% and 30% qualifications. He also questioned whether or not the mail poll follows Robert's Rules of Order. Legal Advisor Kacir advised that the scholarship program would need to be brought to the floor for reconsidering of the program.

Recess

was

taken from 10:00 a.m. to 10:35 a.m. for pictures for the calendar.

Chairman Pokladnik welcomed incoming Directors Johnnie Krizan and Frank Klinkovsky.

Because of new information received by the home office after the mail poll was sent out, President Leshikar reported he had contacted all the directors concerning the mail poll on the scholarship fund to provide them with additional information concerning funding. Director Hanus and Director Vavra requested that the Board see the mail poll. There was a question about whether on not the mail poll was legal since one director had verbally changed his vote and had not signed anything.

Director Vavra questioned why the DYC knew about the changes before the Board did. President Leshikar explained that the officers had asked him to discuss these changes with the DYC's since they were meeting at the home office.

Director Vanek explained he changed his vote based on a business decision after talking to President Leshikar and Vice President Mikeska.

Vice President Mikeska explained we have a potential donor which we could lose if changes are not made to the scholarship program. We can see the validity of the members concern about active members. The SPJST leadership grant would he for the active members who do not receive a scholarship through the general scholarship fund.

Legal Advisor Kacir moved that the mail poll be ratified to both propositions (one proposition to reconsider the scholarship program and one proposition to set up two different programs). Motion seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Voting in favor were President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, and Director Vanek. Voting against were Director Hanus, Director Broz, Director Kohutek, Director Vavra, Director Bayer, and Director Pokladnik. Motion failed.

It was agreed by common consent that in the future no one would make telephone calls to try and persuade people to change their vote.

VESTNIK - Chairman Pokladnik welcomed Norma Cavanaugh representing the

4/VESTNIKâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Wednesday, December 18, 1996 Publication Committee, David Kolar of Hill County Press, and Tim Flacher of CenTex Press to the meeting. The bids for publishing the Vestnik for the next four years were opened and Hill County Press, Inc. had the low bid. Editor Vanicek and the Publication Committee representative both recommended Hill County Press to publish the Vestnik. Director Bayer moved to accept Hill County Press as low bidder to publish the Vestnik for the next four years. Motion seconded by Director Vavra and carried unanimously.

Recess was taken at 11:48 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. The Board would reconvene at Stone Media for a presentation.

The Board reconvened at 1:00 p.m. at Stone Media for a presentation on the Internet.

INTERNET - Editor Vanicek welcomed the Board members to Stone Media. The officers of Stone Media were introduced to the Board members. Employees Keith Gatewood, Barbara Wright-Rosenkranz, Kathy Fritz, and Daryl Entrap presented different areas in which the Internet could he a valuable asset to the SPJST. The cost would he $1,500 to $2,000 for a personal computer; $250 to $500 for the design of a SPJST Internet site; $225 for a telephone line to be installed and charges of $49.95 per month per work station for telephone access to the Internet.

Editor Vanicek recommended the Supreme Lodge invest the necessary funding to support the installation, development and maintenance of an Internet workstation within the confines of the SPJST Home Office Building.

Recess was taken from 2:15 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. to allow Board members to return to the Home Office.

SCHOLARSHIPS - Financial Secretary Mikulas explained that the officers had met and expressed concern over the changes in the past to the Scholarship Fund Program. The officers agreed that President Leshikar should discuss the two proposed scholarship programs with the DYC's since they were going to meet and also to contact the people of Lodge 66 with the proposed changes.

Director Vanek reported he is in favor of the proposed scholarship changes and after the changes had been explained he changed his vote to being in favor of changes.

Director Hanus stands on his vote of being in favor of the changes. Director Vavra asked to see all of the mail poll ballots and was given five of the mail poll with the remainder of the envelopes being empty. When informed there were only five there, President Leshikar went back and found the rest in another drawer. President Leshikar reported the mail poll was seven to five.

Director Kohutek moved, seconded by Director Bayer, for all mail polls to go through the Secretary-Treasurer in the future. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Vice President Mikeska, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir, to ratify the mail poll that set up a general scholarship program and an SPJST leadership grant.

Motion carried unanimously.

which funds may be deposited. Vice President Mikeska suggested researching the possibility of setting up a non-profit corporation into which interested individuals could make tax deductible donations. It was decided by common consent for the officers to bring to the Board a program t6 be implemented in the future to accept tax deductible donations.

LODGE REORGANIZATION - President Leshikar presented the following information on local lodges: 45% of lodges have never won an Incentive program.

13% of lodges win an Incentive program one year, but then not the next year.

33% of all SPJST Lodges in the past three years have not sold any new insurance 25% of all SPJST Lodges in the past three years have not turned in a Fraternal Services report.

Lodges which are most successful in the Incentive Program have one of the following: 1) 67% of the lodge incentive winners in the past three years had lodge buildings 2) 75% of the lodge incentive winners in the past three years had monthly meetings 3) 25% of the lodge incentive winners in the past three years had Youth Clubs.

Vice President Mikeska responded that the Board is looking at symptoms and not causes. We need people to work hand in hand with lodges from conception and continue working with the lodges after being chartered. Director Vanek recommended hiring an employee to work only with the dormant lodges. Legal Advisor Kacir stated that reactivating dormant lodges is of time urgency and existing personnel as well as a specific employee is needed to work hand in hand with the lodges. Legal Advisor Kacir continued by stating that the State FAC, State Field Representatives, State Youth Activity Director and the communication assistant, need to he out working with the lodges more. It was decided to present a tentative plan for reactivating dormant lodges for the Board at the January meeting.

FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR - There was a lengthy discussion concerning the job description of the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator.

Director Bayer moved to accept the job description of the State FAC, as recommended by the president with the addition that the SFAC will be in the field at least ten days and five nights each month and give reports on specific accomplishments to the Board each quarter. Motion seconded by Director Vavra and carried unanimously.

President Leshikar reported that for a cost of $600, SPJST can purchase the rights to the logo which is to be used for the 100th Anniversary celebration. Director Bayer moved, seconded by Director Hanus to purchase the rights to the logo. Motion carried unanimously.

YOUTH DEPARTMENT - The district youth funds that were audited in the spring at the District meeting, were reviewed by the Board. The audited records did not include the spring district meeting allocations. Financial Secretary Mikulas verified that all the districts had reimbursed the home office for the state lock-in.

Recess was taken from 3:25 p.m. to 3:35 p.m.

Recess was taken from 10:02 a.m. until 10:20 a.m.

100TH YEAR CELEBRATION - The country singer, Holly Dunn, has been contacted to perform at the 100th Year Celebration and will perform at a cost of $15,000, if the SPJST was the only performance in Texas, or for $10,000, if she has another singing engagement at the same time. The SPJST will have to provide lighting, sound system, and security. President Leshikar moved to have a contract signed

by Holly Dunn for the $10,000 cost. Motion seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin and carried unanimously.

The entertainment groups already hired are the Harry Zarnak Band, Jerry Haisler Band, the Vrazel's, the Debonnaires, and the West Dancers.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin reported the cost of the 100th Anniversary Cookbook would be $10.00. This price would include postage, sales tax and a donation to a charity. She announced Justin Engelke's design for the cover had been selected and the prize would be presented at the next Lodge 66 meeting. There have been over 1300 recipes received. Since the cookbook can only have 1200, the number of recipes from any one individual had to be limited to five.

The Board went into executive session to discuss an employee situation.

STATE FAC - The State FAC's report was reviewed. There has been about $1,800 received this year from the 100 Pennies Drive. Twenty-two lodges have submitted a nominee for "Fraternalist of the Year."

Recess was taken from 5:40 p.m. until 8:00 a.m.

CHARITABLE TRUSTS - President Leshikar reported on a meeting among the officers and Attorney Baird concerning charitable trusts. The decision was for the officers to do further research and decide on some long range plans for SPJST. It was suggested to set up a foundation to accept any gifts the SPJST should receive. It was pointed out that the foundation is audited every year by the IRS. The scholarship program was fully discussed and researched and it was decided that at this time no changes can be made to it.

Vice President Mikeska reported he had recently visited a foundation that accepted gifts. He pointed out that SPJST only has the scholarship fund into which tax deductible funds can be donated. Most foundations have a variety of programs into

STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR - The report of the State Youth Director was considered. The State Youth Director and District Youth Counselors recommended changes to the Youth Rule book. President Leshikar moved to accept the recommended changes to page 26 under "SPJST Youth Achievement award"; page 29 add #10 page 9 (k) changes to read. "The DYC is responsible for the publicity of district events, including YAD and camp, to be published in the Vestnik; and page 40 #8 changed to read,"It is suggested to strive to have one (1) adult leader to every five (5) campers, but not more than seven (7) campers to every one (1) adult." Motion seconded by Director Hanus and carried unanimously.

The District Youth Counselors requested the Supreme Lodge to fund the state youth lock-in. After a lengthy discussion, Director Vavra moved for the Supreme Lodge to pay up to $500 wherever the lock-in is held with the districts paying the remainder of the amount spent. Motion seconded by Director Kohutek. Voting against were: President Leshikar. Motion passed.

Legal Advisor Kacir moved to reconsider making a donation to the National Fraternal Congress for Habitat for Humanities. Motion seconded by Director Broz and carried unanimously. Legal Advisor Kacir moved, seconded by Director Broz to make a $100 donation to the NFCA to be used towards Habitat for Humanities.

Motion carried unanimously.

SALES - Vice President Mikeska presented figures comparing the applications received, insurance written, insurance issued and earned premiums for 9-30-95 to the figures of 9-30-96. Vice President Mikeska expressed his concern that there has been a loss of 204 certificates due to surrenders, expirations and death claims during the first ten months of 1996 as compared to the first ten months of 1995.

ERRORS AND OMISSION COVERAGE - The original policy was not as good as the officers would like. The coverage leaves a lot of exposure and adds substantial expenses to our operation. It was decided to have the officers check on a purchasing group to purchase the E & 0 coverage.

PAYROLL DEDUCTION PROGRAM - Vice President Mikeska invited the Board members to attend the Payroll Deduction Class being held at the home office following the Board meeting. Field Representative Gatewood will be the primary instructor of this class.

Wednesday, December 18, 1996â&#x20AC;&#x201D;VESTNIK/5 ILLUSTRATION SOFTWARE - Vice President Mikeska reported development of the Universal Life proposal and reproposals software should be ready before the end of the year. The notebook computers the field representatives are currently using will have to be upgraded at a charge of approximately $100 per computer to be able to run new illustration programs. Vice President Mikeska requested permission to purchase a notebook computer with a color screen and active matrix. The cost would be $3,672.00 for the computer. There is not a need to purchase a printer since the current printers will be utilized. Motion by Director Hanus to purchase the one notebook computer and have the other notebook computers upgraded. Motion seconded by Director Broz and carried unanimously.

TEXAS FRATERNAL CONGRESS - All of the bills from the Texas Fraternal Congress have not been submitted. As soon as records become available, Financial Secretary Mikulas will provide these figures to the Board members.

NEW LODGES - Vice President Mikeska reported that Lodge 204 - Stephenville has 6 juvenile members and 15 adult members; Lodge 205-Terrell has 9 adult members; and Lodge 206-Mexia has 3 juvenile members and 2 adult members.

CZECH EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION OF TEXAS - President Leshikar read a letter from Clinton Mahann, Chairman of the Board of Directors for CEFT, expressing their thanks for the SPJST's continuing support. Vice President Mikeska moved, seconded by President Leshikar for the letter from Mr. Mahann to be published in the Vestnik. Motion carried unanimously.

NEW PRODUCTS - Vice President Mikeska reported that currently the whole life rates are under review for possible reductions. A letter from Actuary John Agee was reviewed. Actuary Agee recommended the cost of insurance charges for the current issues of Universal Life certificates be reduced to the level of the original issues.

After a lengthy discussion, Vice President Mikeska moved to accept the recommendations from Actuary John Agee to change the cost of insurance charges to be effective 12-1-96. Motion seconded by Director Hanus and carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 11:40 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE - Vice President Mikeska reported that Lodge 160 had won a clock in the first drawing and Lodge 32 had won the clock in the second drawing of the membership drive contest. It was decided in the future membership drives need to run for longer periods of time.

SALES INCENTIVE PROGRAM - Vice President Mikeska presented a proposed incentive program for 1997 consisting of three different levels. There were some suggestions for other possible incentive programs. After much discussion, Legal Advisor Kacir moved to create a committee composed of the officers and two directors, which will be appointed by the Chairman of the Board, to decided on a sales incentive program for 1997 and report back to the Board in January. Motion seconded by Director Broz and carried unanimously. Director Vanek and Director Bayer, who were appointed to this committee, will he reimbursed for mileage, meals, and lodging.

100TH ANNIVERSARY - Vice President Mikeska showed samples of different items which could be sold or given away as souvenirs for the SPJST 100th Anniversary Celebration. Director Vavra moved, seconded by Director Flanus to order 1,000 of the 15 ounce Ironstone El Grande mugs with the SPJST 100th Anniversary emblem on them. Motion passed unanimously. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved to purchase 5,000 of the $.58 pens if the quality is the same as the $.88 pens; otherwise, purchase 5,000 of the $.88 pens. Motion seconded by Director Kohutek and carried unanimously. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, to have collared shirts and embroidered messages and a quality equivalent to the Sahara shirt available at a cost of approximately $20.00.

These shirts would he available for pre-sale through the Vestnik with a color picture of the shirt in the Vestnik. Motion carried unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved to purchase 5,000 lead pencils at a cost not to exceed $.26 each. Motion seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas and carried unanimously. Fans are available at a cost of $.51 each. Director Hanus moved, seconded by Director Vavra to not purchase any fans. Motion carried unanimously.

STATE FIELD MANAGER - State Field Manager McBride's report was reviewed. He reported 44 leads have been received from the participants at the Golf Tournament hosted by Lodge 189 held in Hilltop Lakes.

Financial Secretary Mikulas requested to be relieved of being in charge of the officers workshop in February of 1997. By common consent, it agreed for Legal Advisor Kacir to be in charge of the officers workshop.

LEGISLATIVE, BANKRUPTCIES, AND TAX SUITS - Legal Advisor Kacir reported on litigation threatened tax suits, and foreclosures.

President Leshikar invited the Board members to open house at the home office on the first Monday of December. The SPJST King and Queen and Santa Clause will be present.

The Board went into executive session to discuss salaries.

STATE FRATERNAL COORDINATOR - There was a lengthy discussion concerning the salary of the FAC based on the new job description. The State FAC position is not entitled to comp time. Legal Advisor Kacir recommended the salary for the state FAC to be between $22,000 and $26,000 annually plus incentive bonus, if any, depending on qualifications with the approval of the Supreme Lodge body.

Motion seconded by Director Broz. Motion carried unanimously.

SALES REPRESENTATIVE - Vice President Mikeska reported to the Board, as requested, about the Vice President and Presidentis accomplishments while working with lodges that need sales representatives and for the president working with lodges not having functioning fraternal programs or did not send a delegate to the last convention.

Vice President Mikeska reported 20 new sales representatives have been trained; 44 sales leads have been generated by the SPJST golf tournament, mail outs on Senior Life product was completed; two lodges have approved the payroll deduction program; field representatives are working with lodges in Gainesville, Wichita Falls, Lubbock, and Tioga/Pilot Point; and the Czech Festival in Rosenberg presented a number of leads.

NEW BORN BENEFIT - Families are important to the SPJST and we want to communicate this value to our membership. Vice President Mikeska reported that for a limited time period, when a baby is horn and both parents are members of the SPJST up on notification, the Vice President's Department will have a SPJST baby blanket delivered as a free gift and delivered by a sales representative. Vice President Mikeska moved, seconded by Director Broz to ratify the program of providing baby blankets to newborns when both parents are SPJST members. Motion carried unanimously.

FFMA/NAFIC - The National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors is holding a national meeting in San Antonio, May 8-10, 1997. Vice President Mikeska moved for authorization for the cost of a booth at the meeting and the authorization to send staff to the booth. Motion seconded by-Director Vavra and carried unanimously.

Vice President Mikeska reported SPJST was in line for a Fraternal Field Managers Association Directors' slot. This would be for a commitment of one year. Gene McBride was recommended for this position, since that titne it was learned one meeting will be held in Florida. Director Hanus moved te' give authority to Vice President Mikeska to send State Field Manager McBride to Florida. Seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 2:10 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

The minutes of the officers' meetings were ratified on motion by Vice President Mikeska seconded by Director Kohutek. Carried unanimously.

LODGE COMPLIANCE - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin reported on the listing for 1996 local lodge officers that have not been received from lodges 8, 65, 149, 151, 154, 167, 181 and 186. The requests for the local lodge officers for 1997 will be mailed to the lodge secretaries during November.

Copies of the IRS forms 990 and 990-T for 1996 have not been received from lodges 24, 30, 47, 49, 114, 149, 157, 179, 184, 188 and 191.

DIRECT BILL - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported Lodges 6, 16, 20, 41, 82, 101, 110, 154, 157, and 174 are still on group bill. The lodges have been informed the SPJST Convention approved that all group bill lodges he converted to direct bill effective 1-1-97. Notification has been received from Lodges 6, 16, 20, and 154 that they wish to be converted.

INCENTIVE PROGRAM - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported one lodge has reached the platinum level, three lodges have reached the gold level, four lodges have reached the silver level, nine lodges have received the bronze level, five lodges have received the honorable mention level and fourteen have received the first step level.

ANNUITIES - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported there are 1,581 certificates in Annuity I for a total value of $24,013,500.00. There are 951 certificates in Annuity II with a total value of 17,719,093.26.

COMMISSIONS - There was a lengthy discussion concerning commissions of the Universal Life certificates. Legal Advisor Kacir moved to pay 5% commission on premiums above the maximum Universal Life premium, but no commission would be paid on dump-ins over $10,000 above maximum premiums to be effective January 1, 1997. Voting in favor was: President Leshikar, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Vavra, Director Kohutek, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer. Voting against Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas and Director Pokladnik. Motion passed.

REO 193 - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented an offer for the property in Weatherford, Texas for $95,000, as is, with financing through another lending institution. Director Pokladnik moved to accept the offer of $95,000. Motion seconded

by Director Vavra and carried unanimously.

DELINQUENCIES - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented 23 loans delinquent over a three month period. Vice President Mikeska moved to accept SecretaryTreasurer Anglin's recommendations, seconded by Director Broz. Motion carried unanimously.

The town of Centerville has contacted Director Vavra, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, and President Leshikar about possibly refinancing the purchase of Lodge 188. The town would pay regular commercial rates and make a 20% down payment. Director Hanus moved, seconded by Director Kohutek to finance the purchase of Lodge 188's building by the town of Centerville. Motion carried unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved to accept a loss reserve of $22,000 on mortgage loans, seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas. Motion carried unanimously.

6/VkSTNIK—Wednesday, December 18, 1996 INTEREST SENSITIVE PRODUCTS - The interest rates for the interest sensitive products were set through January 31, 1997. The interest rate for Universal Life is 7%, Annuity I is 5.25% and Annuity II and Immediate Annuities is 6.25%.

INVESTMENTS - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented the real estate loans closed during July, August, and September and the securities purchased and sold during this period. Director Bayer moved to ratify the investments, seconded by Director Hanus. Motion carried unanimously.

MORTGAGE LOANS - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin reported that there has been members requesting the home office to accept applications for over $100,000. The position the Secretary-Treasurer's department is taking is that no applications will he accepted before December 20, 1996 and no processing of these applications will begin before January 1, 1997. Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented a schedule of new application fees. The fees will he about $125.00 per loan lower than current fees. These fees will be monitored for the next six months and then reviewed at that time. Vice President Mikeska moved to accept the new schedule of mortgage loan application fees, seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Motion carried unanimously.

E P EQUIPMENT - Secretary-TreasUrer Anglin reported one of the personal computers in the Secretary-Treasurer's department needs to be 1-27)laced, as it was originally purchased in 1981, and one of the CRT's has become u rtrt:Ii:'-,1e. The service representative reported the PC and CRT cannot be repaired to expect them to quit working at anytime. Vice President Mikeska reported his department needed two additional PC's that would be capable of running the new illustration packages.

Ihirector Broz moved to authorize the purchase of four IBM personal computers with a 14 inch monitor and four Lexmark printers at a cost of approximately $14,000. Motion seconded by Director ayer. Motion carried unanimously.

INVESTMENT POLICY - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin requested to change the Investment Policy to include a section on Convertible Bonds. Convertible bonds gives the flexibility of being in the equity market with the stability of being in the bond market. The new wording would read: "Convertible bonds - the total invested in convertible bonds is not to exceed 4% of the assets at time of purchase. The rating of these bonds must be bb or better by standards and Poor's or Moody's bond rating services. The Supreme Lodge officers are to make the Convertible Bond discussions. Director Hanus moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska to approve the changes in the investment policy. Motion carried unanimously.

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL STATEMENT - Financial Secretary Mikulas reviewed the financial statement as of 9-30-96. The statement was gone over line

Current Activity of Receipts and Disbursements for the Month of November, 1996 Certificate Loans Mortgage Loans Certificate of Deposit Furniture and Office Equipment EDP Equipment Hardware Annuities Flex Annuities Withdrawal Bonus Death Claims Matured Endowments Premium Refund Surrender Value Bond Expense RMO Taxes State Exam Actuary Advertising Appraisal Expense Commissions Contributions District Youth Counselors Society Automobile Expense Fraternal Activities Hospitalization Legal Service Expense Medical Exams Non-Medical Exams Museum Operating Expense Office Maintenance Office Rent Expense Vestnik Vestnik Postage Organizational Expense Postage Salaries Office Supplies Supreme Lodge Meeting Tax: FICA, TEC and FUTA Telephone Travel—Officers and Directors Travel—Editor Travel—State Field Manager/SFR

$

DEBITS 18,075.18

CREDITS 16,556.87

53,705.90 1,371.55 15,423.00 5,995.91 168,563.74 48.68 347,502.72 7,481.00 57,823.60 45,543.47 529.01 3,975.75 632.67 9,118.00 2,504.67 4,924.29 26,527.55 1,439.98 693.90 2,026.53 5,767.57 9,605.57 196.00 3,683.04 953.74 83.45 3,315.26 6,000.00

BUDGET - Financial Secretary Mikulas submitted an itemized listing of all income and expenses for the first nine months of 1996.

DISCOUNTS - According to Article 33(14), the Supreme Lodge is to determine the discounts of class "A" and"B" certificates for 1997. Previous discounts allowed a 25 % reduction of premiums of certificates in classes "A" and "B" whose certificates were in force 35 years or more and who have attained the age of 70 years and an additional 25% reduction when they attained the age of 75 years. Director Pokladnik moved to continue the discounts to those members who have certificates in classes "A" and"B." Motion seconded by Director Broz. Motion carried unanimously.

Financial Secretary Mikulas reported the books of our Society will be closed effective December 30, 1996, at 12:01 p.m.

REFUND TO LODGES - Financial Secretary Mikulas reminded Board members that the refund to lodge formula for 1995 was computed by the number of certifi: cates of each lodge at a rate of $1.00 per paid up certificate and $8.50 per premium paying certificate less annuities. If this formula is passed for 1996, the total refund will amount to approximately $173,000. Complete details will be available at the January meeting.

OFFICE EQUIPMENT - The detachers purchased in 1980 needs to be replaced or reconditioned. Financial Secretary Mikulas recommended the purchasing of a new detacher. Director Hanus moved to authorized the purchase of the detacher, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion passed unanimously.

HUMAN RESOURCES - Financial Secretary Mikulas requested input from the Board as to exactly what the position detailed. These duties will be discussed at the January Supreme Lodge meeting.

LOCAL LODGE OFFICERS' WORKSHOP - Legal Advisor Kacir moved to authorize funds for the workshop in February to be equal to the funds authorized and spent in the past. Seconded by Vice President Mikeska. Motion passed unanimously.

EMPLOYEES - The officers recommended $300.00 worth of certificates from Wal-Mart for each full time employee and $150.00 worth of gift certificates to part time employees. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Legal Advisor

Research & Development Youth Activities Office Rent Home Account Expense SPJST Scholarship Annuities Dividends Mortgage Loan Expense REO Taxes, Ins. Dist. Fraternal Activities Coordinators Outside Legal Service Expense SPJST Cookbook Project Annuity Withdrawal Expense UL Withdrawal Expense Bond Interest Certificate Loan Interest Certificate of Deposit Interest Mortgage Loan Interest Premiums Reinsurance Refund Royalties and Minerals Prem. Income-Paid-Up Additions Application Fee

31,717.94 9,789.39 6,000.00 3,955.99 262.37 202,502.66 2,997.23 349.56 2,102.88 152.80 3,199.84 191.24 188.86 748.85 130,149.00 8,391.91 2,844.48 143,821.05 245,615.55 122,919.00 1,794.41 38,141.12 6,140.00 $958,052.35

95.80 5,000.00 2,714.27 488.00 81,500.58 4,005.09 1,659.79 5,684.61 639.06 566.37 76.61 746.60

by line. The total income has increased by 8% and total expenses have increased by 5% compared to the same time period of 19,95.

Cash Balance 10-31-96 Credits Debits

$ 387,505.36 929,169.16+ 958,052.35-

Cash Balance 11-30-96

$ 358,622.17

Assets: Cash Bonds Mortgage Loans Certificate Loans Stock Certificate of Deposit Home Office Building Real Estate Owned EDP Equipment Furniture and Office Equipment

$ 358,622.17 84,608,087.43 26,964,581.56 1,859,644.90 1,496,547.81 434,014.81 756,755.80 97,327.01 108,790.06 242,086.65

Total Assets

$116,926,458.20 Fraternally, Jerry Mikulas, Financial Secretary —SPJST-

$929,169.16

Wednesday, December 18, 1996-VESTNIKJ7

Kacir to authorize $300 gift certificates for full time employees; half that amount to part time employees; and a turkey for Thanksgiving and ham for Christmas for the officers, editor, directors and incoming directors. Motion passed unanimously.

Chairman Pokladnik expressed his appreciation to the incoming directors for attending the Supreme Lodge meeting. Both incoming directors expressed their thanks for being invited.

DISTRICT I - Director Vavra reported that there were about 100 people at District I Fun Day. He extended an invitation to the Supreme Lodge members to attend the note burning of Lodge 186 on December 8, 1996. He reported he will be moving to Bryan, Texas during the month of November. He also expressed his best to Director Pokladnik and Director Kohutek in the future.

DISTRICT II - Director Kohutek reported on the District II fall meeting. He thanked everyone on the Board for their cooperation and expressed his enjoyment for serving on the Board. He welcomed the incoming directors to the Board.

DISTRICT IV - Director Broz welcomed the two incoming directors and reported he had enjoyed working with the two directors who are retiring. He stated that the Czech Fest held in Rowena was a success and he thanked SFAC Klinkovsky for attending. He is working with sales people in the Lubbock and Wichita Falls area.

DISTRICT V - Director Hanus welcomed the incoming directors and expressed that he will miss the two retiring directors. He reported on rentals at Lodge 88 and a battle dance held at Lodge 196.

DISTRICT VI - Director Vanek reported the District VI Fun Day was real nice and about 125 people attended. He welcomed the two incoming directors. He enjoyed working with Directors Kohutek and Chairman of the Board Pokladnik and will miss both of them.

DISTRICT VII - Director Bayer welcomed the new directors to the Board and expressed that he will miss the wisdom and experience of the outgoing directors.

He requested the President, State FAC, and Vice President circulate their newsletters to the officers and directors. He enjoyed the NFCA and gave a report on the meetings he attended at the NFCA. DISTRICT III - Director Pokladnik expressed his appreciation for being allowed to attend the NFCA and TFC. He met wonderful people and received a lot of good ideas. The District III meeting was held at Lodge 154. He stated that he is proud of the young people who are district officers"and that we need to get our young people involved.

The meeting dates for Board meetings in 1997 are January 14, 15, and 16; April 8 and 9; July 22, 23, and 24 and October 14 and 15. The meeting will start at 8:30 a.m. on the first day.

The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m. by common consent.

Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer

-SPJSTChristmas

Ornament Contest Winners

DISTRICT ONE Brandi Crnkovic (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 17, New Tabor Dwayne Macik (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 9, Snook Lindsey Wiederhold (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 13, Dime Box Lamanda Kostelka (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 13. Dime Box

DISTRICT TWO Jimmy Baker (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 24, Cyclone Kendra Zak (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 29, Taylor Lesleigh Harmon (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 177, Academy Tammy Baker (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 24, Cyclone

DISTRICT THREE Tracy Dobecka (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 6, Cottonwood Christi Sparkman (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 6, Cottonwood J.J. Novak (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 84, Dallas

DISTRICT FOUR Rachel Schwartz (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 160, San Angelo Jana Wilde (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 160, San Angelo

Cara Jansa (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 160, San Angelo Jennifer Block (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 160, San Angelo

DISTRICT FIVE Kyle Castillo (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 196, Houston-West Ryan Stasny (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 196, Houston-West Kimberly Joseph (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 88, Houston Karen Bander (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 88, Houston

Lodge

Letters Section

Lodge 25, Ennis o Host 1997 National Polka Festival The National Polka Festival held each year in Ennis, Texas, will have a new date for 1997. The Festival will be held May 30-June 1, 1997, beginning Friday night with the pre-festival party held at the SPJST lodge featuring the Czech sounds of The Harvesters. A large crowd is expected to attend this year's festival offering music from 12 different

41, Please support the 1996 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.

See page 8 for details.

Thank you!

Something in Common Sister Annie Martinek, 89, and little Raychel Clark, 5. have lot in common. Both were born on Sunday afternoon, July 14 - 84 years apart. Sister Martinek is also Raychel's great-grandmother. Both Annie and Raychel are members of Lodge 25, Ennis.

Lodge 5, Tioga Hosts Special Meeting A special presentation was held at the Point Bank meeting room in Pilot Point, Texas, on Sunday, November 17, 1996, at 2 p.m. We are excited about the fact that 60 people were present for the meeting.

Among those present were the officers of Lodge 5, Tioga: President J.J. Kubala, Vice President Edna Schroeder, Secretary Lorene Schroeder, and Treasurer Alvin J. Schroeder.

An exciting presentation was made

by Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar, Vice President Leonard

Mikeska, District Three Director Sid Pokladnik, District Three DirectorElect Johnnie Krizan and Sherrie Kubala Watkins, sales representative.

A reorganizational meeting has been set for January 19, 1997, at 2 p.m. at the Point Bank meeting room.

Everyone is excited about the SPJST becoming involved in the Pilot Pointilloga Community.

Gene McBride State Field Manager -SPJST-

LODGE 5, TIOGA OFFICERS: Pictured, from left, front, are: Secretary Lorene Schroeder and Treasurer Alvin J. Schroeder.

BACK: President J.J. Kubala and District Three Director Sid Pokladnik.

Vice President Edna Schroeder is not pictured.

DISTRICT SIX Travis Krpec (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 30, Taiton Joshua Siptak (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 4, Hallettsville Crystal Roye (ages 12 to 14) Lodge 30, Taiton James Svetlik (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 4, Hallettsville

DISTRICT SEVEN Ashley Anderson (ages 6 to 8) Lodge 107, Floresville Whitney Bohnenberger (ages 9 to 11) Lodge 185, New Braunfels Stacey Branham (ages 15 to 17) Lodge 185, New Braunfels

-SPJST-

Pictured above are some of the sixty people who attended the special presentation.

8/VESTNIK—Wednesday, December 18, 1996 bands with a variety of styles. This year's festival will include the northern style of Becky and the Ivanhoe Dutchmen from Iowa as well as 11 bands from throughout Texas.

The National Polka Festival in Ennis is traditionally one of the largest Czech festivals in the United States. It features a Saturday morning parade through downtown, street-dancing, costume contests, klobase-eating contests, arts and crafts, rides for the kids and of course, an assortment of Czech music, dancing and food at Ennis' four large, air-conditioned fraternal halls. One daily admission will gain entry to all of the festival activities and you won't be disappointed. For more information on this year's festival or lodging, call (972) 878-2626 or (972) 878-4748.

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis will be the host lodge for the 31st Annual Festival.

—SPJST-

47, Seaton to Vote on Rules and Regulations Article Lodge

Dear Brothers and Sisters, On the first Sunday, January 5 at the regular meeting which is also the installation of the lodge officers for 1997, we will vote on an article which was adopted in October. It is the one on the five member service award committee who had to keep with the volunteer hours lodge members did: serving on committees, at the picnic, at workdays, in the kitchen or bar and other activities without a salary or other compensation. The committee said this was a hard decision for them and they recommend that the committee should be abolished. We have to vote and it must pass by two-thirds majority.

The time for the meeting is Sunday, January 5, 1997, at 2 p.m. Start the New Year by attending the first lodge meeting in 1997 and then make as many as possible for the rest of the year.

Have a merry Christmas and the best of everything in 1997, especially health and happiness to all readers of the Vestnik.

Fraternally, Dorothy Pechal

Kosut as to how nice a job Dona is doing as secretary.

The treasurer's report was given by Lowrina Lindemann. It was approved as I also want to mention something nice read. that the members did. They made Tim A motion was made and seconded that Kostom Honorary Board Member and we have our January meetings on the secAdvisor of the Board of Trusttees. Tim , ond and third Wednesdays since the first received a well-deserved standing ovaWednesday falls on January 1. Our meettion for he has done much more than ings will be on January 8 and 15, this being on the board. Besides being on the January only, with our cooks being Helen board, he was president several times, Hegwood, Dona Clooney, Estelle Kelly and it is he who kept the Hlahol Dramatic and Ho Orsag.

Club and the Choral Club going!

Our Sunshine Chairman, Mary Kosut, Professor William Souchek, who gave her report as to whom she sent birthtaught Czech at our lodge for 34 years, day, get-well, and sympathy cards. just finished his last class, for he is retirDella Miksch is ill, as is Sylvia Melia ing. He received a standing ovation for and Betty Kulhanek. Hope you are better his many years of teaching. Our best soon. Adela Kite's sister passed away. wishes go to him and his lovely wife, We are so sorry to hear this, Adela.

Alice.

The Men's Club and Birthday Club It is sad how many loyal members we served lunch to the families of Emil Bily have lost recently: Brothers Franklin and Gus Gerlich. We appreciate all the Bravenec, Gus Gerlich, and Emil Bily. covered dishes, cakes, etc. which you My heartfelt sympathy goes to their familadies brought. I heard several comments lies. after the lunch as to how appreciative the I hope you have made your reservafamilies were for the luncheon. Dona tions for the New Year's Eve Dance with Clooney, Edna Wehring and Flo Orsag popular Gus Lindemann Orchestra. served as did Lydia Maresh. There were Other dances for December are Manny also lots of men there from the Men's Green Christmas Dance (big band music) Club to help. on December 21 and Texas Dutchmen Lillian Finn is having a birthday party (polka and variety) on December 28. on December 22. She has asked the It was very good news that Bernice Birthday Club Sisters to attend. It will be Wahlberg is better and I hope you keep at the American Legion Hall in San Leon that up, Bernice. We miss you! Get well from 2 to 6 p.m. I'm sure she will be wishes also go to members ill or recuperglad to see some Birthday Club Sisters ating: Era Richards, Billie Jack there. Lillian will be 85. Isn't that great!

Holeman, and Bennie Kocich.

Our president mentioned that we can Happy New Year to all you members pick up books at Kroger entitled "Senior everywhere!

Guidance" which has all kinds of inforTillie Helmcamp mation in it. Pick up one, if possible.

• —SPJSTWe elected officers for 1997. All officers were reelected, with the exception of Lowrina Lindemann who resigned as treasurer. They are President Kathy Lodge 88, Houston Trefell, Secretary Dona Clooney and Vice President Flo Orsag. Ellen Miculka was Birthday Sisters elected as our new treasurer. Bessie Dewer remains our ticket chairman and Report on Mary Kosut is our Sunshine Chairman.

We now have 42 members in our club.

December Meeting A motion was made that we each pick a The meeting was called to order by month next year to cook. If you cannot cook, you are to get someone to take your President Kathy Trefell.

Our secretary, Dona Clooney, called place. It was decided that we will take the roll and read the minutes of the this up in our January meeting.

Margaret Spahr and Evelyn Mikolas November meeting. They were approved as read. A comment was made by Mary won calcutta.

Larry Pflughaupt Guide Helen Hegwood Sergeant-at-Arms Frank Tillich

Lodge 66, Waco Member Tyler Waine Whiteside Wins Junior Dragster's Race Seven-year-old Tyler Waine Whiteside won first place with his Junior Dragster at the "19 Dragstrip" in Albany, Georgia.

His grandparents, Johnnie and Polly Gaidusek, Sr., and uncle and aunt Mike and Barbara McCahan, visited him during the Thanksgiving holidays while in Georgia. They got to see him race the junior dragster.

He is the son of Margaret and David Whiteside. He has a brother, Christopher John Whiteside of Albany, Georgia. His grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. John Whiteside of McGregor and Mr. and Mrs. Johnnie J. Gaidusek, Sr. of Waco, and greatgrandmother and great-grandfather Nicolas Hromadka of Waco.

Tyler received a trophy and $25.

He is a 100 percent SPJST member.

—SPJST-

Tyler Waine Whiteside

—SPJST-

Your Gift of $1 or More Will Help Enable Many of Our Younger Members Achieve a Higher Education 88, Houston Reports on Activities Lodge

SPJST members are encouraged to support the 1996 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive. The progress of the drive will be posted at regular intervals in the Vestnik. The names of all donors will also be published. Contributors of $50 or more will have their names panted in bold text. Amounts donated will not be included. Send your contributions to: SPJST Scholarship Fund c/o 100 Pennies Drive * P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

Here I am again writing letters to the Vestnik! Kathy Trefell, who is president of the Birthday Club and is involved in another great organization, decided not to run for Second Vice President. She has worked hard and she received a big hand of applause which also included husband Mike, who is a loyal member, always willing to help. Thank you, Lillie Spies, for nominating me. Lillie has been a very active member for many years.

Lodge 88 had its annual meeting on Sunday, December 8. I know our capable Secretary Jo Ann Buri will tell about it. I just want to name the officers who were elected: President Clara Broz First Vice President Marie Staton Second Vice President Tillie Helmcamp Recording Secretary Jo Ann Buri Secretary/Treasurer Melanie Spies Fraternal Activities Coordinator

You can make a difference by donating to the SPJST Schoiarship Fund

Enclosed is my (our) contribution to the SPJST Scholarship Fund.

Amount of donation enclosed $ Lodge No. List names here, or add separate sheet of paper

I Thank You for Your Contribution!

I

Phone No. ( Donations Tax Deductible

Wednesday, December 18, 1996—VESTNIK/9 Our birthday celebrants were Estelle Kelly and Lillian Finn.

Helen Hegwood led us in prayer before lunch and our meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m.

Fraternally, Flo Orsag —SPJST-

92, Fort Worth Reports on Lodge Activities

Lodge

Dear Members and Friends, It looks as though old Santa will need a wagon or a truck to deliver gifts to the young children as the weather has been really nice and warm. No one can tell what might happen in a few days.

However, we need cold weather to help get rid of some insects that destroy crops and fruit. The stores and malls are busy selling all types of things so I am sure it

helps prosperity.

Our lodge had the adult Christmas party for members and friends on December 8. We had a country/western band playing for the dance. But this was some disappointment as not many members came. We hope that the members that did not come had a good excuse for missing this party as this was for all members. The dance committee was in charge of this entertainment. They had lots of different cold cuts, cheese, cheese dip, potato chips, and other things that were tasty. In charge of this were Frank and Josephine (Jo) Prochaska, Kenneth and Mary Ann Krivanek, and a few volunteers. All of this was very good. The food was on the counter to help yourself.

This was the day for the officers of the lodge to be installed so it was a pleasure to have the District Three Sales Representative Brother Jerry Kucera install the officers and all committess. I wrote in my past letter who the officers are so I will not repeat them but only the committees appointed since the November meeting. Helen Kubla was

Sheryl Macha and Todd Norman Exchange Wedding Vows Somer, Richard Morrow, John Turner, In a nuptial ceremony in St. Scott Schimkowitsch and Daniel Cohn.

Michael's Catholic Church in Needville Usher duties were performed by Gary dedicated to the memory of their grandBoyer and Joel Caldwell. parents, Sheryl Danette Macha and The reception honoring Mr. and Mrs. Todd Allen Norman pledged wedding Norman took place at the Knights of vows and exchanged rings. The service Columbus Hall in Needville. In the house was held at 2 p.m. on October 5 with the Rev. James Ramsey, pastor of the -party were Shirley Filla, Jeanne Garidel, Sandy Grigar, Jerry Kaye Hodge, Maria church, as celebrant.

Jacobson, Laurie Kaluza, Ruth Lector was John Stransky and Kendziora, Len greeters were Knox, Mary Ann and Elizabeth Matula, Terry Miles, Christy Stransky.

Sharon Mosier, Pam Lynn Sury Kathy Purdy, played a program of Stewart, Dona wedding music and Stransky, Tommy accompanied herSulak, Shelly Sullself and Tuta ivan, Glenn Vecera, Hightower as they Paula Vecera, Brian sang. Numbers Vogler, and Kay included "Wind Vogler.

My Beneath Following a wedWings," "The ding dinner, Rose," "Love Will Southern Impact Keep Us Alive," played for the and "The Wedding dance. Mr. and Song."

Mrs. Jilji Riha led The bride is the the grand march. daughter of Mr. and The couple's first Mrs. Adolph dance was to Macha of Needville Mr. and Mrs. Todd Norman "When You Say and the grandNothing At All." daughter of Selma The Normans honeymooned on a Bednarek, the late Ted Bednarek and Carribean cruise to Barbados, the late Mr. and Mrs. Anton Macha.

Martinique, St. Martin, Antigua, and St. Parents of the groom are Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and are now at home in Richard Norman of Sugar Land. He is Rosenberg. the grandson of Sara Heath and the late The bride is a 1988 graduate of Maurice Heath and Mr. and Mrs. M.A. Needville High School and a 1992 "Mack" Norman. graduate of Sam Houston State The bride was escorted to the altar University. She is employed with the by her father. She chose bridal white Texas Department of Protective and and royal purple with mixed seasonal Regulatory Services with Fort Bend flowers for her wedding color theme.

County Children's Protective Services.

The matron of honor was Karen Anderson and bridesmaids were Debbie The groom is a 1989 graduate of Clements High School and a 1993 Zapalac; Meggan Norman, sister of the graduate of Stephen F. Austin State groom; and Lanea Knox, Melanie University. He is employed with Sulak and Gina Krupa, cousins of the Houston Cellular in the engineering bride. Junior attendant was Miranda department as an auditor.

Wiles, cousin of the bride.

The bride is a member of Lodge 81, Katie Lovel, cousin of the bride, wad Needville. Her father, Adolph Macha, the flower girl and ring bearer was Zachary Sullivan, nephew of the bride. is the lodge president and her mother, Delores Macha, is the lodge reporter.

Derek Herring served the groom as —SPJSTbest man and groomsmen were Mark

left off the dance committee in my last letter so I will correct the dance committee: Josephine (Jo) Prochaska is the chairman and Helen Kubala is the cochairman; members are Joyce Tesar, James Greer, and Martha Durham. The resolution committee members are Rose Jaworski, Victoria Murphy, Monalee Hattendorf. The guide is Holly Hubenak.

The sunshine committee is Josephine Prochaska.

Brother Jerry Kucera, we thank you for installing the officers and we thank Dorothy taking the pictures. Lodge 92 always enjoys having SPJST officials visit us.

It was a surprise to see our new sales representative Sherri Watkins write several policies. Good work, Sherri, and keep it up. Also all our sales representatives need to be thanked for all the new members they get.

It was great to hear one of our newest tarok players won fourth place in Taylor on December 7. He is Brother Herman Hanzlicek. Good playing, Herman, keep it up and try to win a trophy for our lodge in the state's tournament.

The lodge is proud of all the tarok players and all the other games that are played at our lodge. I have not wrote much about the game nights that are held each first and third Tuesdays starting at 7 p.m.

I will send pictures of the elected officers and all committees in a future letter.

So, to the Editor Brian Vanicek and family, the newly-elected District Director Johnny Krizan, the Supreme Lodge Officers and all the SPJST members all over the state, my family and I and members of our lodge wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year. May God bless everyone.

Thought for the day. A true friend is someone who is there for you and when he'd rather by anywhere else.

Fraternally yours, Carl W. Zich, Reporter SPJST-

92, Fort. Worth Reports on Activities Lodge

Dear Members and Friends, I hope all of you saw Martha Durham's letter in the Vestnik on December 2, 1996. It explained our December lodge activities.

December 4 was the date of the annual Metroplex Country Music Association that is held at our lodge every year. They have the best singers and bands that play.

This organization collects Toys for Tots for disadvantaged and deserving children in our area. Many organizations donate food and pastries for this program, and the dance is free to the public that brings a new toy. Our lodge, as a fraternal act, donates the use of the lodge. This is the fourth year and they have asked to be able to continue for 1997. The lodge is proud to have this wonderful organization to have this program at Lodge 92. Harold and Norma Tincher organized this with Rick Charles. Rick was unable to be here this year due to the forthcoming of their first child.

It is sad that illness is at this time of year, but Brother Joe Juran fell and is in the hospital. His knee is also a problem.

Joe is one of our oldest members.

Brother James Powlny is also in the hospital. We hope he gets better soon.

Brother Bill Adami is still not too well

after treatments for cancer, so Bill we want you to get-well soon and be at our meetings and dances also. Sister Louise Oujesky had a light stroke or a mild heart attack. Brother Mike Paprskar and Charlie Paprskar are not too well but are getting better.

It is nice to read the Vestnik and see so many lodges doing something for their members. This is what fraternal is all about. This way members do at least get together a few times a year. If I do not get another letter before Christmas I want to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. Let's all keep our SPJST lodges fraternal as this way we may be exempt from some taxes.

P.S. After several years of marriage, Bob and I were separated when he had to go overseas. In his first letter from afar, he wrote. "I miss you like my right arm." I was deeply touched until I remembered that he was left-handed.

Fraternally yours, Carl W. Zich, Reporter —SPJST-

139, Danbury Reports on Christmas Dinner

Lodge

The Lodge 139 Christmas dinner was held at the Home Town Restaurant on December 4. Before the dinner was served, Lonnie and Eloise Lostak were serenaded with singing "Happy Birthday" as both have their birthdays in December. Also serenaded were Henry and Mary Catherine Novak with "Happy Anniversary" as their anniversary also falls this month. The gaiety, good food, and socializing was enjoyed by all present.

Earlier, the lodge members met for a regular meeting to elect officers for 1997 and to give reports. All 1997 officers were reelected to their respective positions.

President Lonnie Lostak announced the Needville Nursing Home is now filled to capacity.

Secretary Lorenda Baldwin reported she and Rhenda Baldwin have delivered 27 of the Christmas turkeys which the lodge gives to those members who are 70 years of age or older. The remaining 14 members will receive their turkeys or checks in time for Christmas. Those receiving checks live at too great a distance to make home delivery feasible.

The recipients look forward to a visit with the deliverers almost as much as to receiving the turkeys.

The meeting was adjourned and members preceded to the dinner.

The holidays are fast approaching and are a good time for keeping in touch with those we see or hear from all too infrequently. So in that vein, Lodge 139 wishes all of you a holiday season filled with warmth, joy and many happy memories and good health in 1997.

Fraternally, Faye Wilson, Reporter

—SPJST-

It's a Fact!

SPJST is rated A • (Excellent) by the A.M. Best Company.

This rating reflects the Best Company's opinion of our financial strength and operating performance.

10/VESTNIK—Wednesday, December 18, 1996

Lodge 154, Fort Worth Reports on December Meeting Dear Members and Friends, Our meeting Sunday was called to order by our president Brother Jerry Milan. He led us to the Pledge of Allegiance and we remained standing for a moment of silence in memory of our deceased brothers, Alfred J. Janca, II and Johnnie L. White. May they rest in peace.

Reports were read and approved.

Sister Henrietta Milan reported on her two trips to Chicago when she attended her 40th year high school reunion. She was joined with her two sisters, Raydeen Naughton and Annette Schabowski, and drove to Akron, Ohio, to watch her niece Tysen Naughton play volleyball. Tysen is one of the top team players, playing for Ohio University. Henrietta then drove through a snow storm in Cleveland, Ohio.

If you get a chance to see the decorated ornaments at Nieman Marcus, look for the one painted by Sister Henrietta that is on display. After the auction, the proceeds will go to the "Warm Place."

Many prominent names helped for the cause.

Get-well wishes go out to Henrietta's dad, Brother Henry Banfi, who had surgery. All of her family are our lodge members.

Well, it's that time of year for the election of officers. A motion was made to name the same officers by acclamation and it passed. They are: President Jerry Milan Vice President Rose Steinman Secretary Mary Renfro Treasurer Anna Johnson Youth Leader Mary Hargis Assistant Youth Leader Julie Pritchard Reporter Mary Pavey Good luck to you all.

Our next meeting will be January 12, 1997, at 3 p.m.

We all left to go to the Milan Gallery to hear Charles Duke and his 35 carolers.

It was a beautiful program.

We hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

So until—keep smiling.

Fraternally, Mary Pavey —SPJST-

177, Academy Reports on December Social

Lodge

On Sunday, December 8, members of SPJST Lodge 177, Academy met at Dynasty Chinese Restaurant.

President Louis Driska called the meeting to order. All members stood and recited the pledge and remained standing for a moment of silence in memory of our departed members.

Joanne Hutka, FAC, recognized December birthdays and anniversaries.

She then welcomed Gene McBride, State Field Manager, and his wife, Franc'es.

Gene McBride installed the new officers for 1997.

Notice to Members Beginning in January, 1997, the lodge

Lodge 177, Academy Presents 1997 Lodge Officers

1997 LODGE 177, ACADEMY OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES: Pictured, from left, front, are: Trustee Alex Garcia, Secretary Kathy Fritz, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Joann Hutka and Treasurer/Trustee Josie Tomastik. BACK: Trustee J.C. Johnson, Reporter/Trustee Ann Mason, Trustee Louis Driska, Youth Leader Janet Lyon, Vice President Otis Beck, President Bill Hutka and Installing Officer State Field Manager Gene McBride. meetings will be held the second Wednesday of each month. The trustee meeting will be at 7 p.m. and the regular business meeting will be at 7:30 p.m.

Wishing everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Linda Johnson, Reporter —SPJST-

200, Bruceville-Eddy Reports on December Meeting Lodge

The December meeting for Lodge 200 was held in the old fire station at Eddy beginning at 7 p.m. President Bob Miracle opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The minutes of the previous meeting were read by Linda Roming and they were approved as read.

Bob announced under old business that Lodge 200 had two teams in this year's state volleyball tournament. We did not win; however, we had a great time. Bob also read a letter from the Home Office thanking Lodge 200 for hosting the tournament.

Under new business Bob thanked everyone for coming out and reminded us all that we meet the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the BrucevilleEddy City Hall.

Election of new officers was the next order of business and our new officers are as follows: President Gene McBride Vice President Harvey LaFlamme Secretary/Treasurer Linda Roming Financial Secretary/Reporter Ginger Roming Youth Leader Amy Cortasie Assistant Youth Leader Patsy Browder Historian Mary Soudelier Keith Gatewood from the Home Office attended and installed the officers.

The meeting was adjourned to the Christmas social.

Lodge 200 would like to at this time extend a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year with our best wishes for a successful tour to Seaman Allen LaFlamme.

Allen is the 20-year-old son of Harvey LaFlamtne. Allen is currently on duty on the destroyer USS John Young. They are on deployment in the Middle East Force role in the Arabian Gulf.

Earl J. Soudelier Reporter —SPJST-

202, Jourdanton Reports on November Meeting

Lodge

On November 10, 1996, Lodge 202, Jourdanton held its quarterly meeting at the Stage Stop Restaurant in Pleasanton.

Vice President Mary Ann Barta welcomed the members and guests.

Brother Glen Pruski said the table prayer and a delicious turkey dinner was enjoyed by 19 members and five guests.

Following the meal, Vice President Mary Ann Barta called the meeting to order. President Melba Novasad was absent due to knee surgery. The Pledge of Allegiance was said by all The minutes of the last meeting were read by Secretary Dora Quillian and Treasurer Isabel Ventrcek gave a financial report.

Vice President Mary Ann Barta presented Cecilia Huble with her 50-year pin.

Brother Bob Bayer, District Seven Director, was asked to speak. He talked about the Fall Fun Day which was hosted

by Lodge 161 on November 3. Several of our members had gone and everyone had a good time. He reminded us to mark our calendars for the 100th anniversary celebration in Belton in July, 1997.

He commented on the volleyball and 42 tournaments going on at this time.

Brother Glen Pruski encouraged everyone to turn in their FAC reports at the end of the year.

New business was the election of officers. Those elected were: President William (Bill) Rickrim Vice President Mary Ann Barta Secretary Dora Quillian Treasurer Patsy Tymrak Brother Bob Bayer installed the new officers and pictures were taken.

Door prizes were awarded and the meeting was adjourned.

The next meeting will be February 9, 1997, at the Civic Center in Jourdanton.

Fraternally, Mary Ann Barta

—SPJST-

Christi Circle of Women Reports on December Meeting Corpus

Our Deczmber 5 meeting was attended by 34 members, including Honorary Member Jerry Elzner and six guests.

After singing "My Country Tis of Thee" and "Jingle Bells," the following members were recognized: Lottie Elzner Ramey from California, Agnes Elzner Burge from Kerrville, Evelyn Hruska Lovelace from Kingsville, and Annie Regmund of Corpus Christi, and guest Dorothy Mokry Klapuch from Gonzales.

We were very happy to see them at our meeting once more and wish they could come more often.

Dorothy McCoy made the centerpieces which decorated each table. The room looked very festive with the Christmas decorations she and her helpers arranged. We appreciate their efforts. One table was loaded with desserts many members brought. We had everything from pies and cakes to strudel and candy. Our thanks to all the volunteers who decorated and baked for our enjoyment.

Other guests arriving in time for the luncheon included Loraine Oakes, Opal Murgatroyd, Tommie Koehn, Della Malchar, and Bill Marek.

Jerry Elzner brought pictures of our previous meeting showing the many items we collected for the Women's Shelter. We received a nice card from them expressing their appreciation.

We also received an appeal from the Caller-Times for their "People Helping People" drive. A collection was made from individuals and a $50 donation was voted to add to it. Last year, we sent them $100. This is a worthy cause and our group's name will appear in the paper.

Mary Ann Elzner thanked us for the donations she received last month in support of her walk for Alzheimer's. She told us of her participation in the six-mile walk along the sea wall. It was quite an accomplishment and we congratulate Mary Ann. Congratulations also go to Edna Elsa Butterfield Voldan on her receipt of a certificate from the Daughters of the Republic of Texas declaring her a daughter by direct lineal descent from James Lee. A niece was responsible for tracing the family's roots.

When I announced the birth of Miranda LeeAnn Castro on December 1, I also received congratulations for becoming a great-grandmother once more. She arrived about 8:30 a.m.

Sunday while I was cleaning up at Sokol Hall. I drove to the hospital from there not knowing she had arrived and was pleasantly surprised to find her in the room with her mom and dad and both grandmas. She will soon become a fifth generation SPJST member and someday perhaps a Sokol member as well.

"Happy Birthday" was sung to Milly Elzner, Leona Matula, Carrie Veselka, Diane McRae, and Lillian Coville before adjourning the meeting to enjoy the lunch. Della Elzner gave the blessing.

Our first meeting in 1997 will be held January 9, the second Thursday instead of the first. Several members will he travelling and we can all use an extra week to get over the holidays.

Fourteen door prizes were given out in addition to three of the Christmas centerpieces Dorothy McCoy brought. Thanks to her and all the other ladies, especially those who traveled the farthest and brought gifts, too: Lottie Ramey, a necklace from Colorado she had mailed to us before knowing she could come, plus a compact she brought from San Francisco; Agnes Burge, a bottle of Becherovka from the Czech Republic; Dorothy Klapuch, a Christmas cactus; and Evelyn Lovelace, a beautiful rubber plant.

Christmas was certainly in the air.

Wednesday, December 18, 1996—VESTNIK/11 It was great seeing old friends once more. Our Krouzek gives us that opportunity, and for that I am truly grateful.

We want to wish all the Vestnik readers a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Fraternally yours, Anna Marie Moss SPJST-

Rest Home, No. 2 Reports on November Activities S.P.J.S.T.

Elizabeth Zela and Iola Pekar are the new residents to join S.P.J.S.T. No. 2 in Needville, Texas, in November.

Welcome back from the hospital to Pauline Fishbeck, Bobbie Westerfield, Mary Spezia, and Esther Brinkmeyer.

Edna Curbello is in the hospital. We wish her a speedy recovery.

We regret the death of Justin Miller.

Justin will be missed by our staff and residents.

Watermelons were donated by Catherine Uherek; turkeys were donated

by E.S. Tielke children; turkey and strudel were donated by Pat Alexander; and a cash donation was received from Lodge 28. These donations were greatly appreciated.

Every Monday morning, Olie Eixmann, Ruby Lee Oberhoff, LaVerne Tielke, Ervin Kroll, Willie Mae Tielke,

Viola Fuchs, Alice Bergen, Clara Narramore, Bernice Tielke, Mildred Novak, Charles Euton, and John McCormick came to have sing-a-long.

Every Tuesday morning, Frank Ramos comes to have Bible Study. In the afternoon, Annie Stavinoha, Ida Gasch, and Tmi Kramer come to help with bingo.

Every Thursday morning, Father Ramsey, Milton Legendre, Rosie Kovar, and Annie Stavinoha with St. Michael's Catholic Church come to have Mass. In the afternoon, the Presbyterian, Catholic, Methodist, Immanuel and Damon Baptist ladies take turns coming to have crafts.

Every Friday afternoon, Mildred Novak comes to help roll hair.

Every Sunday morning, Rosie Kovar and Annie Stavinoha come to have rosary.

On Wednesday morning, November 6, Bob Morgan came to have church services and on Wednesday morning, November 13, Rev. Dan Walker came to have church services.

Ed Pisklak provided music on the accordion on Monday afternoon, November 18. On Wednesday morning, November 20, Peggy and Patti came to sing. Thanks to Harold Heidemann for setting up the equipment.

On Wednesday morning, November 20, Rev. Kuebler came to have church services. Larry Ognoskie, George Lolley, and Fritz Koehne provided music on the accordion and singing Tuesday evening, November 26. Lisa Gaul came to have church services on Wednesday morning, November 27.

In Memoriam Expression of Sympathy The officers and members of Lodge 25, Ennis wish to express their deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, SOPHIA M. HOLEY, age 78 of Ennis, who passed away on September 19, 1996.

May she rest in eternal peace with Christ.

Resolution Committee, Margaret Krajca Lodge 25 —SPJSTThe Birthday party which was held Friday, November 29 included Louis Vacek entertaining on the accordion and piano. A Flower and Gift Shop provided the corsages. Cake, punch, ice cream, and coffee were served to all. The afternoon was enjoyed by all.

The residents enjoyed all the activities during November.

Thanks to all denominations of churches and to all the volunteers that do services in the home for the residents.

Barbara Svatek, S.A.D. —SPJST-

Expression

of Sympathy The officers and members of Lodge 133 would like to express our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of

BROTHER AUGUST BLANAR, who passed away on November 27, 1996.

Brother Blanar was born on October 6, 1903, in Yoakum, Texas. He worked for the Missouri Pacific Railroad and retired as a supervisor in 1965. Brother Blanar and his wife, Mary, were SPJST members for many years.

He is survived by his son, Reuben lanar; his daughter-in-law, Dolly; his daughter, Marian Ballard; his son-inlaw, Kenneth; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His wife, Mary lanar, preceded him in death in 1994. rother p lanar has been laid to rest at San Jose Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requested that a donation be made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund.

May he rest in peace eternally with our Lord.

Jarolyn Popp, President William Pavliska, Vice President Margaret Schauffele Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST-

SUPREME LODGE SPJST Temple, Texas DEATH CLAIMS PAID IN NOVEMBER, 1996 12/09/96 DEATH CLAIM

NAME

20994 20995 20996 20997 20998 20999 21000 21001 21002 21003 21004 21005 21006 21007 21008 21009 21010 21011 21012 21013 21014 21015 21016 21017 21018 21019 21020 21021

LODGE

LOCATION

Joe E. Huser Joe Eric Jez Chas A. Culak Dolfena R. Krahulik Lewis Brinlee Louise Jones Randall Gene Payne Elo L. Hillman Jessie W Reed Allene M. Leschber Theresa R. Wright Walter L. Williamson Eugene A. Kasberg Victor Joe Smoldas Joe Jerry Dana Sybil M. Harrison John Harry Dorotik Johnnie A. Surovik

20 87 88 47 172 88 180

Agnes 7'. Wolfe Raymond E. Lenart Stewart W. Oswald Alvin E. Rundberg Marvin J. Hlavaty Anna Hlavaty Franklin D. Bravenec Paul Zimmerhanzel Robert C. Saunders Justine Schneider

88 6 66 29 172 172 88 29 88 196

Granger Temple Houston Seaton Pasadena Houston Burleson Fayetteville Burleson Round Rock West Lufkin Rowena Crockett Dallas Ennis Taiton Bleiblerville/ Nelsonville Houston Cottonwood Waco Taylor Pasadena Pasadena Houston Taylor Houston Houston-West

1 180 187 54 191 49 74 84 25 30 201

DATE OF ADMISSION

DATE OF DEATH

AGE

CERTIF. NO.

7/24/37 10/12/70 9/09/36 9/17/41 4/16/80 5/27/37 4/27/78 7/14/29 5/19/54 8/02/89 2/06/75 4/01/85 1108174 2/04/75 12/10/40 3/09/70 12/19/50 9107134

10/15/96 10/05/96 6/20/96 10/23/96 8131196 8/25/96 10/06/96 7/25/96 10/10/96 10/13/95 8121196 9/29/96 10/06/96 10/28/96 10/18/96 9/30/96 10/24/96 11/10196

75 32 87 79 82 74 40 82 77 73 42 66 71 63 71 74 87 81

603947 49100 603084 606243 81464 603885 75181 600924 703322 2023053 63253 93452 59738 63230 605899 47089 610865 300116

1111167 1122169 8121178 6/04/46 12121144 12121144 3/17/42 8/21/41 7/14/66 4123165

10120196 10/28/96 10101196 10/17/96 8101196 9/25/96 10/29/96 11103196 10127196 10/23/96

88 72 34 83 64 91 81 71 75 68

37779 43810 76323 608647 607755 607751 606502 606209 36128 32579

To the Bereaved Survivprs o Our Deceased Brothers and Sisters, the Supreme Lodge SPJST Expresses Its Heartfelt Sympathy.

Fraternally,

Lanita Anglin Secretary-Treasurer

12/VESTNIK—Wednesday, December 18, 1996

Youth Letters Section A

District Five Members Participate in Thanksgiving Parade

24, Cyclone Youth Club Says "Happy Holidays"

Dear Members and Readers, Thanksgiving Day, November 28, was not only a day for eating turkey and the trimmings and watching football, but also the annual Bank United Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade was held in downtown Houston, Texas, and was televised live on CBS television nationwide.

We had several members of District Five participate in the parade. Sharon Joseph, the Lodge 88 dance instructor, teaches dance at Scroggins Elementary, and her fourth and fifth graders, the Scroggins Toe Tappers, performed a tap dance.

The Foley's All-Star Band consists of 250 members from across the state of Texas. John Bud of Lodge 142, a senior at Memorial High School, was a quads player in the percussion section. This is his second appearance in the parade.

Karen Bender of Lodge 88, a junior at Stafford High School and a clarinet player, made her first appearance in this parade. To perform in the Foley's AllStar Band you must first be recommended by your band director.

Hats off to these three individuals for a job well done.

Fraternally, Jeanette Bender, Assistant DYC

Dear Members and Friends, We wish you the merriest of Christmases and the best of everything in the new year. May the season be filled with joy, love, family and friends. Happy Holidays to everyone.

Fraternally, Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club SPJST-

—SPJST-

6, Cottonwood Youth Club to Visit Rest Home

Lodge

Dear Readers, We made gifts for the rest home. We will be taking them to the rest home on December 15, 1996.

We wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Fraternally, Traci Dobeck'a (8) (12/09/96) —SPJST--

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Youth Club Reports on Activities Dear Readers, The youth presented their Christmas program at the Christmas party on December 1. After the program, Santa came by for a visit. Everyone enjoyed the good meal that the lodge served.

Ne took cakes to the rest home in No-.-tether and December. The youth wil' 2 taking their Christmas gifts to the re. _a-- at the rest home on Sunday, ..- 15.

De ub has three new members. e Ricky Soukup, Jake Williams, T.1 Williams. ant ant to wish everyone a merry as and a happy new year.

Chi Fraternally, Peggy Dobecka Assistant Youth Leader

—SPJST-

Lodge

Dear SPJST Readers, The skies were dark and even though it was a cool evening, our hearts were warm with joy as the SPJST State Royalty made our fourth state appearance. The SPJST State King Justin Engelke, State Duke Douglas Galler, State Duchess Krystle Bender and I were in the Temple Christmas Parade on Monday, December 2. The parade was in the evening and all the floats were so pretty decorated in Christmas lights.

We rode in a horse-drawn carriage. Our driver, Milo Johnson, and the horses, Mollie and Maggie, kept a steady step to the Christmas music.

After the parade, the Home Office held a Christmas celebration.

Justin and I greeted the visitors and took the youth to see Santa.

Krystle and Douglas passed out Christmas bags to everyone. We even found time to visit with Santa.

I also enjoyed visiting with the youth members who live in the Temple area.

I'd like to send a special thank you to Howard, Joni, Brian, Dorothy, Frank and the entire Home Office staff for their hospitality.

My family enjoyed visiting with all of you. The Youth Christmas Tree and the office was so festive. It made you feel very welcome.

During this joyous time of year from our house to yours, I along with my. parents, E.J. and Jeanette, and my sisters, Kristen and Krystle, we extend to each of you a Vesele Vanoce a stasny novy rok.

Fraternally, Karen Bender SPJST State Queen

25, Ennis Youth Member Enjoys Activities Lodge

Dear SPJST Lodge 25, Thank you for giving me $5 to go to the Halloween Carnival. I had a very fun time. I also enjoyed visiting with Santa at our Christmas party.

Your Friend, Stacy Lynn Mach (12/13/96) SPJST-

39, Bryan Youth Club Reports On Meeting Activities Lodge

Dear Readers, Lodge 39, Bryan held their meeting on November 17, 1996. We made turkeys from pine cones. After a lunch of turkey and dressing, we had the meeting. We decided to collect money for some summer activities.

Sincerely, Brande Roesler (12/13/96) —SPJST-

Lodge 39, Bryan Youth Club Reports on November Meeting The November 17, 1996, meeting of Lodge 39 Youth Club was called to order at 2:17 p.m. by President Chad Everett.

Secretary Lynde Roesler led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and members remained standing for a moment of silent prayer. The register was read. There were four members present and two adults. Guests introduced were Dylan Roesler.

Fund raising plans for this month are a can and every time we come, we are to put a quarter in the can.

Our youth leader Binnie Roesler reported about the Christmas Party and how to bring gifts. Then we could bring old games.

Youth members enjoyed having lunch.

Refreshments were served by the lodge

Queen's Notebook

SPJST-

members. The after-meeting activities were decorating and making turkeys.

The next youth club meeting will he December 15 at Lodge 39.

The meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.

(12/13/96)

—SPJST-

88, Houston Youth Club Reports on November Meeting Lodge

Dear Readers, The Lodge 88 Youth Club meeting was held on Wednesday, November 20 with Holly Hubbard, President, calling the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

We discussed the success the youth club had with our ring toss booth, homemade ice cream booth and silent auction we had at Czech Day. We made over $350.

We also talked about the Halloween party which was held the day before Czech Day. We had youth attend from all the youth clubs in our district.

Lisa Farquhar is to advise us of the day we will be going to visit at the Heights Tower. This is a seniors resi-

SF ,,ST

dence in the Heights where her grandmother lives.

Our Christmas program is Tuesday, December 3 at 7 p.m. We have several youth members with individual talents and the three dance classes will also be performing.

Mrs. Bender invited everyone to attend the Lights in the Heights tour on Saturday, December 14. We will meet at the lodge at 6 p.m. After viewing the lights we will come back to the lodge for cookies and wassel.

We will be collecting clothes and food for the needy. At our youth club Christmas party, we will each bring $5 for a needy family, instead of exchanging gifts.

Mrs. Linney reminded us of the t-shirt contest which ends January 31 and the following upcoming dates in 1997: Easter Party—March 22 Halloween Party—October 18 Christmas Program—December 2 Because of some of our members studying for finals at school, we voted to have our next meeting and our Christmas party on Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.

Alex Graska will provide the refreshments. Hope you all can come.

Merry Christmas!

Fraternally, Kristen Bender Reporter

—SPJST-

Scholarship Program Basics

Who: Qualified SPJST members who

Where: For information, call the SPJST

have been a member for one year or more.

Home Office at 1-800-72-SPJST or write to: P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503.

Attention: Scholarship Applications.

What: $500 scholarships ($47,500 raised in 1995-95 scholarships were awarded).

Why: To uphold and promote quality

When: Accepting a p plications through

The goal for the year How Many: of 1997 is to award 100 scholarships.

December 31, 1996.

education for SPJST Members.

18.prosinec 1996/VESTNiK/13

PODPORA LIDSKOST BRATRSTVI east Ceska UIedni organ Slovanske Podporujicf Jednoty Statu Texas, zaloiene rok 1897

18.prosinec 1996

ROtNiK 84 ttSLO 49

Oddil Dopisovatelii Rid tislo 47, Seaton Mile sestry a bratrit, Ptedseda Calvin Skrabanek zahajil nagi schitzi 3.prosince ve d ye hodiny odpoledne.

Povstanfm jsme vzdali Best nate vlajce. Nosiei byly Jessica Kirby a Rebecca Greger. Po slibu vernosti vlajce, jsme meli tichou vzpominku za Bratr Albert Wychopen a Bratr Henry Skala, Sr. Na listku nemocnych byl Adolf Vacha, Vlasta Hru gka, Pauline Lawrence, a Ed Mihatsch.

Tajemnice Delores gkrabanek pteeetla protokol z minule schuze a byl pifjat, tak, jak byl napsan. Edwin Vag feek podal zpravu za dozotcf vybor a byly dobrd.

Ginger Greger, vedoucf mladde, podala zpravu, 2e meta 24 elenu a 6 dospelych.

"Audit" bude 7.ledna 1997, ve sedum hodin veeer.

Meli jsme take volby. Tito utednici byli zvoleni: Na vyboru byli zvoleni Woodrow Marek a Edwin Marek.

Vyeepnf (bar) - Helen Janfeek.

Na uklid a efsteni sfni - Henry Janfeek.

Lfstky (tickets) a pohogted (entertainment) - Dorothy Pechal.

Vyroef shatku budou slavit Gladys a Woodrow Marek a Dorothy Pechal.

Losovani vyhralf Ginger Greger, Ella Pomykal, Walter Pomykal, Ruth Hanusch, Eugene Hejl, Frank Jandeek, Calvin gkrabanek, Judy Pechal a Ann Hejl.

Riga schime bude nedeli, 6.1edna 1997 ye dye hodiny odpoledne.

Mejte se radi, Emily Mikeska Stuteville --SPJST--

K vfroZi 125 let Sokola Pferov.

Baser' Miroslava Kozika: By li jsme a budem.

Osmidflny elanek, etvrta &1st.

Sepsal John J. Karas z Houstonu.

M se budou psgt d6jMy sokolstva na Morave, staneme s taasem a tictou nad spoustou jm6n nynf jii zapadlych a zapomenutych. Co energie, co shy a nezi§tne price je v nich utajeno, co Lasky k narodnfmu celku a k podpore moraysktho e§stvf, co skromnosti a obetavosti se v nich skryva, vzdaleno slavy, uznapf a docenenf. a mesto Pterov, mesto Komenskdho, Zerotfnovo a Blahoslavovo je zde svym ptfnosem na ptednfm mIste mezi morayskymi mesty." Vgak take Prerov na rozdfl

od eetnych jinych mest, ovladanych Nemci (Hranice Prostejov, Vygkov, Krometfl, Uherskd Hradi gte atd.) si udrIel eeskou spravu a byl znam svym vlastenectvfm. Odebfranfm eeskYch easopisfi a eetbou knih, zdarnym tisilfm o rozvoj eeskdho g kolstvf (gymnasium), rozvojem iivnostf a temesel, organisacf peneinictvf vgfm Pterov svou dobrou povest jen upevnoval. V tomto uvedomeldm meste jii delgf dobu ilia my glenka zaloiiti telocvienou jednotu „Sokol," myglenka, jei se uskuteenila v roce 1871. V td dobe jii halo svetlo Tyrgovych idejf na mora yskd pilde v Brne (1862) ve Valagskdm Mezitlef (1864), v Krometai (1865), ve Velkdm Meziffef s poboekou v KtiIanove (1868), v Prostejove, Slavkove, Olomouci a 2adru (1869) ve Vygkove, v Ti gnove, v PrfkazIch, v Olegnici a v Novdm Meste (1870).

Ve stejnem roce s Pterovem se rodf Sokol ve Vel. Bysttici, v Ttebfei, v Kralove Poli, Morkovicich, v Novem Rousfnove, v Kyjove a v Hodonfne.

Zasluhou pokrokovdho vlastence Fr. 8tepky se se glo nekolik uvedomelych Pterovanu k realizaci myglenky zaloiit „ Sokol."

Vypracovany stanovy a na vacnd hromade 4.kvetna 1871 byl zvolen za starostu bratr Fr. gtepka a za jeho namestka Josef Vftez. tlenovd vyboru byli J. Skoda, C. ernoch, Jan Gayer a j. Pterovsky venkov projevil svou zralost a pokrokovost ptfhlagkami rolnictva z Mogtenice, Dobreic, Lovegic, Bochote a ze Stare

Vsi. Pet let slibneho rozvoje bylo pterugeno rozpusienfm jednoty v roce 1877. Rok piedtfm se tota eteastnila jednota vftanf olomouckdho arcibiskupa gpalfrem cviefcfho elenstva s kordy, cot tak rozeflilo tehdejg tho velitele mfstnf vojenske posadky, ie jednotu obialoval u c.k. hejtmana pro preein proti vetejnd bezpeenosti. Nesvornost, tevnivost a nevralivost mezi eleny jednoty a eleny tvotfcfho se hasieskdho sboru a spory, stanosti a rcizna uclinf na jednotu u okresnfho hejtmanstvf v ICrom6tai jen utvrdila ptfsnot tohoto titadu, ktery pterovskou jednotu rozpustil.

Koteny Sokolskd my glenky vgak tkvely hluboku a tak titednf zasah neznamenal konec. Natadf a jmenf opatrovala pterovskemu Sokolu Telocvien g jednota Krometa zatfm co pterov gtf Sokoli vypracovali nove stanovy. Nakonec byla pterovska Jednota 9.eervna 1878 opet potvrzena a navazala na pteru genou einnost, tieinne v tom podporovana praiskym Sokolem. Po vytegenf dalgfch probldnit a znovu upravenych stanov mel koneene Sokol Pterov v kvetnu 1889 sve jmdno schvalen a bylo mu mistodrIitelstvfm povoleno stati se

tadnym elenem Sokolske iupne jednoty moraysk6. Telocvieny ruch i vzdelavacf einnost se tea v jednoty utegene vzmahala.

A tak jii v roce 1887 byl elenstvu podavan navrh na stavbu vlastnf telocvieny kdyi mesto Pterov darovalo jednot y pozemek „na Marku." K realisaci snah o vlastnf sttechu velmi ptispelo „Dru2stvo pro vystavenf telocvieny." Leta obetavosti, prace, podnikavosti a getrnosti byla konmovana krasnym vysledkem. V bteznu 1896 byl poloten zakladnf kamen a v srpnu 1897 byla sokolovna slavnostne otevtena.

Ktivka dal g fho rozvoje nezadr2itelne stoupala. V soueinnosti s jinymi spolky Sokol Pterov formoval spoleeensky i osvetovy /ivot v Pterove svymi vetejnymi vstoupenfmi, tleastf na okrskovych cvieenfch, na 2upnfch zavodech a na sletech doma a v cizine.

Za 17 let pozdeji vgak vypukla

Prvnf svetova valka jeI udelala Sokolu earn pies rozpoeet, ponevadi mobilizacf a nastupem vetginy cvieencit do vojenske sluny byla einnost Sokola v Pterove opine ochromena. Jaky duch ovladl mysl pterovskych sokolit je videt z toho, ie brzy po rozpoutanf valeend litice doglo na zaklade udanf k zatykanf a veznenf prfslu gnIkft jednoty pro rozg itovanf antimilitaristickych letaka a pro pfechovavanf opisit ruskych manifestii. Ze zateenYch, bratr Slavomfr Kratochvil, vyborny sokolsky pracovnik, vedoucf „Sokolske hlfdky," v redakci pterovskeho „Obzoru," byl odsouzen k smrti a 23.listopadu 1914 zasttelen v Mora yskd Ostrave. Ohlas teto prvnf krvave obeli rakouske vojenske justice byl veliky, Sam T.G. Masaryk, ktery je gte neodegel za hranice, napsal ,,....popravy Kratochvilova (23.listopadu 1914) mne ptimo jii vyhanela, ale piece jsem se doekal jegte popravy

HISTORY AND CULTURE

Ethnic Identity Among the Czechs and Moravians of Texas

by Kevin Hannan

Reproduced and Edited from the Journal of American Ethnic History PART NINE Ethnic Identity Redefined

he previous discussion describes a community whose mother-tongue was not English.

This community's definition of its own identity shifted as English came to predominate in an increasing number of environments. The concept of Moravian identity described above has not survived intact the switch to English. While speaking their native language, immigrants distinguished between Czech and Moravian culture, spoken language, history. Yet the various distinctions implied in the names Czech and Moravian, all of which were clearly expressed in the immigrants' native speech, have not largely faded from consciousness as English has become the standard language of communication.

Most descendants of Czech and Moravian immigrants in Texas today define their identity in the language of the majority population and in the historical and cultural constructs of that language.

Such a shift in ethnic identification illustrates an application of the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which explains the lexicon and cultural view of a speech community according to the constraints of its language. As the descendants of Moravian immigrants have switched to English as their first, and more often than not today, their only language, the concepts expressed in their ancestors' language no longer can be clearly articulated. Those whose mother-tongue is English have

been forced to define their ethnicity according to the concepts and terminology of English.

A somewhat similar case of the redefinition of ethnicity is noted in northwestern Ontario, where Ukrainians are the most numerous representatives of what non-East Europeans see as a common East European identity. Non-East Europeans here believe that all East Europeans share a common "Ukrainian" culture and identity. Thus, Polish, Romanian, Russian, and Yugoslav immigrants and their descendants are all designated "Ukes." This definition of ethnicity is even accepted by some local citizens of non-Ukranian, East European descent, at least in their dealings with non-East Europeans.

Bilingual individuals in Texas today typically define their identity and language in different ways, depending upon which language they use. One still often hears Ja su Moravec (I am a [male] Moravian). Yet the same individual, more likely than not, will explain in English that his identity and language are Czech. Fewer individuals describe their identity in English as Bohemian or Moravian. Monolingual English-speakers, whatever the region of origin of their immigrant ancestors, typically define their identity as Czech.

(The author, Kevin Hannan is a member of Lodge 29, Taylor.)

NEXT WEEK: A Texas Community —SPJST-

14/VESTNIIK-18.prosinec 1996

Matejkovy (15.prosince teho2 roku).

V kvetnu 1917 Masaryk rekl na tot terra v Petrohrade toto: „To bylo strag ne memento pro nas vudce. Po vgem torn 112 nebylo mo2ne vahat."

Jegte vyrazneji zhodnocuje president Osvoboditel hrdinnou smrt Slavka Kratochvila v dopise, zaslanem redakci prerovskdho „Obzoru" v lednu 1919 k prevezenf ostatku Krato chvilovych z Ostravy do Prerova: „Poprava Kratochvilova ueinila na mne veliky dojem. Byl jsem hned po vypuknutf valky dobre informovan o protieeskd nalade v rozhodujfcfch kruzfch vojenskych; odsouzenf Kratochvilovo bylo mi dukazem, Vfdefi nadobro trha svazky s nami a povoluje tipine nasilnicke politice militaristickeho pangermanismu.

Proto smrt Kratochvilova stala se mi jednfm z hlavnfch duvodu pro me definitivni protirakouske rozhodnutf."

V osobe Kratochvilove, v jehoI opravdovosti a primosti je zrejmysokolsky buch, bylo souzeno a odsouzeno vlastne sokolstvo. Vgak take prerov ga sokol gtf prfslugnici i s ostatnf pierovskou verejnostf nemeli od to doby pokoje. Ustaviene prohlfdky, hlfdanf a sledovanf podeztelych, vyslychavanf jich, bylo na dennfm poradku. Presto v g ak i v techto napjatych chvflfch telocviena einnost dpIne neodurniela. Zatfm valka pomalu spela ke konci a jeji vysledek se menu' v jistotu: Muj drahy eesky narod neskona!

On vgecky hrtlzy slavne, slavne prekond!

Prevrat zastihi prerovskou jednotu dobre pripravenou. Sokolove se ihned ujali bezpeenostnf sluny ye meste a na nadra g, jimi projfidelo mno1stvf transportii claw vojska a udrzeli skvele poradek v chaosu prevratovych dnf.

Tace vykoupend svoboda poskytla zaslotflene -sokolstvu novou prfleiitost k v gestrannemu vyvoji.

Ani ve svobodne republice neztratila sokolska idea nic na sve aktuainosti a svem poslanf. V budovatelske

Ring in the New Year!

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

I

horeece, v dobe pine vrenf a myglenkove zmeti, v dobe, v krystalisovala nova nage statnf forma, stab° sokolstvo dale jako pevna zakladna prospechu celeho naroda, jako spolehlivy zaji gtovatel nagf svobody, jako roz gafny a dalekozraky hospodar, pripravujicf nas predvfdane na nove take chvfle, kupfcf se postupne v mracfch nenavistne a mstive touhy nagich nepratel vnitrnIch i vnejgfch.

Osvobozenfm uvolnilo se girokd feNgte novemu rozkvetu sokolskeho iivota i v prerovskd jednote.

Sokolovna zaefna nedostaeovati prflivu cviefcfch i pies prfstavby a vetgf tipravy. Dochazi k vybudovanf letnfho stadionu na druhern bfehu Beevy proti sokolvne, na pozemcfch, zvanych na „Brabantsku" a ziskanych jednak koupi od mesta, jednak i darem. Sotva byl stadion dostaven, zaealo se uvaiovat o mo/nosti postavit zde take novou, velkou, modernf sokolovnu. A tak roku 1926 byla vypsana tispegna soutei navrhii na tuto stavbu.

Rozsahly stadion na Brabantsku podporoval zvy genf zdatnosti cviefcfch, umonoval eastej gf verejna vystoupenf, mistnf i vet gf krajske slety a rovne1 lep g f prfpravu i vetgfho mnoistvi cvieencu pro slety pralske i v cizine.

Pokraeovanf v pri gtfm Vestniku.

$12.50 2 3/8" x 5" $25.00 4 7/8" x 5" $50.00 10" x 5" COMMERCIAL RATES Applies to all advertising not related to promoting SPJST lodge events $25.00 2 3/8" x 5" $50.00 4 7/8" x 5" $100.00 10" x 5" For more information, contact the editor at (817) 773-1575.

Includes dancing, party favors,

LODGE NO. 9, SNOOK Local lodge meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.;

reservations, call: The SPJST: 875-8381, Jim Holahan: 875-5230 or Kenneth Honza: 875-8359

***

LODGE NO. 13, DIME BOX Local lodge meetings are held the third Sunday of each month at 6 p.m. **A,

LODGE NO. 15, BUCKHOLTS Local lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. The dance club dances are the second Sunday of each month. For hall rental and dance information, call Audrey McCall at (817) 593-0090.

We wish all of our members and friends

`Happy Holidays.

May you be blessed with good health, happiness and prosperity throughout the New Year!

Cyrill (Sid) and Justine Pokladnik ■ILL

CASH & CARRY Sale runs November 30 through December 31,19%.

Shop early for Christmas savings BOHEMIAN GARNET JEWELRY Rings, Bracelets, Necklaces, Pendants, Crosses, Hearts, Etc.

BOHEMIAN CRYSTAL Priced from $20.00 to $1,000.00.

BLUE ONION CHINA 8- or 12-piece place setting including extra pieces.

COSTUME DOLLS Made in the Czech Republic; priced from $35 to $65.

• Hand-Decorated Eggs • Christmas Tree Ornaments • Crystal Beads • Hand-Made Lace Scarfs • Czech Music and Learning Czech Cassette Tapes

Will Ship! Call: (409) 335 - 4456 or 1(800) 854 - 6642 or FAX: (409) 335 - 4390

and at midnight, black-eyed peas and cornbread

Youth Club meetings are at 6:30 p.m

SEASON'S GREETINGS ETINGS

cka's Che-k mas ore-VT:de le!

20% OFF

$10.00 PER PERSON

For information regarding scheduling events at Lodge 6, please call George Straten at (817) 826-5863.

Please note that it costs nothing for your lodge to post events on the calendar page.

SPJST LODGE RATES For advertising SPJST lodge-related activities

Ennis, Texas

FROM 8:30 - ?

LODGE NO. 6, COTTONWOOD Friday, December 20—Private Party Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance with Billy Uptmor and the Maker Sunday, January 5—Lodge 6 Meeting, 2 p.m.

classified advertising in the Vestnik.

ENTIRE STOCK

THE SULAK BROTHERS

FOR SPJST LODGES ONLY

--SPJST-The following rates apply for

at the SPJST Lodge No. 25,

Dance to your favorite tunes by

SPJST CALENDAR

Inquire about our 1997 June and Fall tours into the Czech Republic.

Your business is appreciated!

Happy Holidays! Rudy and Henrietta Klecka Members of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard

Lodge 84, Dallas 2625 Floyd Street • Dallas, Texas

Tuesday, December 31 New Year's Eve Dance the Vrazel Polka Band Music by

8 p.m. -1 a.m.

Kitchen open all evening with black-eyed peas at midnight!

Tickets purchased in advance: $10 Adult • $3 Teen

($12 and $4 at the Door) Seating is limited, so buy your tickets now!

For tickets, call Evelyn Salac at (214) 352-5295 or Wanda Petr at (214) 352-4397.

Wednesday, December 18, 1996—VESTNIK/15 LODGE NO. 17, NEW TABOR Local lodge meetings are held on the first Sunday of every month at 2 p.m. Youth meetings are also on the first Sunday of every month at 3 p.m. ***

LODGE NO. 18, ELGIN Saturday, December 21—King of Swing, 8-12 ($5 per person) Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Harry Czarnek, 8-12; Black-eyed peas and corn bread served after the dance ($10 per person) Saturday, January 11—Allen Tally and the Country Playboys, 8:30-12:30 ($5 per person) Sunday, January 12—Central Texas Sounds, 3-7 ($6 per person) For rentals and reservations, call Irene Helgren at (512) 281-4534. Band Bookings: Artie Monson at (512) 281-3711 or (409) 2635260. Lodge meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise stated. ***

LODGE NO. 24, CYCLONE Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Jed Durbin; $10 per person; For reservations, call Rosamond Baker at 985-2457.

Flag Hall is located 10 miles east of Temple, off Highway 53. For more information regarding hall bookings or to reserve Flag Hall, please contact Louise Zavodny at (817) 985-2556. ***

LODGE NO. 25, ENNIS Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance with Sulak Polka Band; 8:30-?; $10 per person includes dancing, party favors and at midnight, black-eyed peas and cornbread. For reservations, call SPJST Lodge 25 at 875-8381, Jim Holahan at 875-5230, or Kenneth Honza at 8758359.

Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance with Moravian Kats (no reservations); doors open at 6 p.m.

Saturday, January 4—Vrazel's Sunday, January 5—Lodge Meeting, 2 p.m.

Monday, January 7—Audit Meeting, 7 p.m.

Thursday, January 9—East Bell County Water Supply Meeting Saturday, January 11—Tarok Tournament; Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five Seaton Star Hall is located five miles east of Temple, just off of Highway 53. All Saturday dances are from 8 p.m. - 12 a.m. For information about hall bookings, please call Calvin Skrabanek at (817) 985-2344, weekdays, or (817) 985-2548 (the hall phone) on Saturday night. ***

LODGE NO. 49, ROWENA Friday, December 20—Lodge Christmas Party and Game Social, 5 p.m.

Monday, December 30—Runnels County 4-H Club Christmas Party, 6-10:30 p.m.

Game socials are every third Friday night of each month at the Lodge Hall. Lodge quarterly meetings are the first Wednesday night at 7 p.m. of February, May, August and November at the Lodge Hall. ***

LODGE NO. 54, WEST For information regarding hall rentals for weddings anniversaries, birthdays or reunions call (817) 826-5990 (night) or (817) 826-5343 (day). ***

LODGE NO. 66, WACO Saturday, December 21—Billy Uptmor and the Makers Friday, December 27—Cherokee Rose Saturday, December 28—Cherokee Rose Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Rampage Game nights (Taroky, dominoes, etc.) are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Members, please bring snacks.

Game room open every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. Monthly meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 8 p.m. For rentals, reservations or more information, call Bar Manager Kenneth Honza at (972) *** 875-8359, Vice President Jim Holahan at 74, LOVELADY LODGE NO. (972) 875-5230 or the hall at (972) 875-8381 • Lodge business meetings are held quarterly and leave a message. on the first Sunday of January, April, July *** and October at 5:30 p.m. Game nights are every Monday and Saturday from 7-10 p.m.

LODGE NO. 29, TAYLOR Permit No. 1-75-1052324-8. "Donna's Friday, December 20—Smoke Screen; Kitchen" will be open.

Country/Western/Rock (downstairs) *** Saturday, December 21—Appreciation Christmas Party for the public with Granger LODGE NO. 79, Polka Boys (downstairs) CORPUS CHRISTI/SOKOL HALL Sunday, December 22—Private Party Hall location: 5502 Kostorhyz Road, Corpus Saturday, December 28—Country + Band Christi. Phone: (512) 852-9042. Public invit(C/W), 8:30-12:30 (downstairs) ed. SPJST lodge meetings are held at 2 p.m.

Saturday, December 31 — Jeff and Regina's on the third Sunday of every month, unless Nameless Band; C&W/Polka/Waltz; 8:30 notified otherwise.

12:30 p.m. For reservations, call (512) 3655489 or (512) 352-9139 *** Sunday, January 5—Battle Dance, upstairs, 2LODGE NO. 80, HOLLAND 7 p.m.; Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six Plus Saturday, January 4—Supergames, 7 p.m.

Two and Granger Polka Boys ($6 per person) Sunday, January 5—SPJST Meeting, 2 p.m.

Monday, January 27—American Legion, 7 p.m.

Enjoy delicious hamburgers every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., sponsored by Lodge 29 Youth Club parents. Adult lodge meetings are Game night every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP1-74615-1395-8; AL-00061-9887-0. every second Sunday of the month at 4 p.m. *** The Youth Club meets the same day at 5:30 p.m. On premises catering available. For LODGE NO. 81, NEEDVILLE information, call the hall at (512) 352-9139.

Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each *** month. There is a luncheon at noon, followed by the business meeting at 1 p.m.

LODGE NO. 32, VICTORIA Wednesday, January 8—Monthly Meeting at VCEC Building, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 9—Polka-Waltz Fest at Inez Hall ***

LODGE NO. 35, ELK Lodge No. 35, Elk features dancing every Saturday from 8:30-12:30. Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of the month, unless otherwise noted. For rental information, call (817) 875-2156. *** LODGE NO. 39, BRYAN Lodge meetings are held every third Sunday of each month. Lunch is at 12:30, followed by meeting and social. Meat is provided by the lodge at every meeting. Members, please bring covered dish or dessert items. ***

LODGE NO. 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE Wednesday, December 18 — Christmas Social at the SPJST Hall in Hillje. Starts at 6:30 p.m.

A catered meal will be served.

Games every Monday night at 7:30 p.m.;-.1 Games License No. 1-76-0053964-1. ***

LODGE NO. 47, SEATON Saturday, December 21—No Dance Saturday, December 28—No Dance

***

LODGE NO. 84, DALLAS Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance, music by the Vrazel Polka Band, 8-1.

Kitchen open all evening with blackeyed peas at midnight! Tickets purchased in advance: $10 adult, $3 teen ($12 and $4 at the door). Seating is limited, so buy your tickets now! For tickets, call Evelyn Salac at (214) 352-5295 or Wanda Petr at (214) 352-4397.

For band bookings, call Cheri Petr at 3524397 or Ben Jarma at 348-1514. For rentals, call Emil Petr at (214) 826-3557. ***

LODGE NO. 87, TEMPLE Lodge meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. For rental information, call Don Alford at (817) 939-7395.

Country/Western; No one under 16 admitted ($5 per person) Saturday, January 4—Terry Cavanaugh (First time at Chandelier Ballroom); no "standing" reservations; Ballroom, Polka and International ($6 per person) Saturday, January 11—Knights of Dixie; Ballroom and Variety ($6 per person) Games every Thursday; Early Bird Special at 7:15 p.m.; Regular Games at 7:45 p.m.

License No. 3-00-621-2077-41001. For reservations, call (713) 869-5767. ***

LODGE NO. 92, FORT WORTH Sunday, December 22—Country/Western Music

by Make Mine Country, 3-7 p.m.

Sunday, December 29—Country/Western Music

by Jerry Pierce, 3-7 p.m.

The Stardust Ballroom presents ballroom dancing every Friday, 9-12:30; DRESS CODE; 624-1361. Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., or as otherwise specified. Game nights are on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Ladies Circle meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. ***

LODGE NO. 107, FLORESVILLE Lodge 107 monthly meetings are the second Sunday of every month at 4 p.m. at the lodge hall, unless otherwise noted. ***

LODGE NO. 130, DALLAS Lodge 130 monthly meetings will be held on the third Monday of the month in the Youth Room of Lodge 84, 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. ***

LODGE NO. 133, SAN ANTONIO Monthly meetings will be held on the third Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road in San Antonio. ***

LODGE NO. 142, HOUSTON Hall rentals for wedding or party, call (713) 862-6291 after 4 p.m.

Plans now to ring in the new year at an SPJST lodge hall near you . . . Check the calendar for listings in your area .

LODGE NO. 183, MID-CITIES Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. and every Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. For information regarding hall rentals (weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, etc.) please call (817) 465-8538, (817) 460-8056, or (817) 468-4611. ***

LODGE NO. 186, CALDWELL Lodge meetings are on the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.; Social games are at 7:30 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Kitchen and bar open.

License Permit No. 1-74-20733095-41002. ***

LODGE NO. 187, ROUND ROCK Friday, December 20—Paulene Reese Saturday, December 21—Peoples Choice Friday, December 27—Frontier Saturday, December 28—Lonesome Dove Sunday, December 29—Peoples Choice Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Paulene Reese Friday, January 3—Gun and Knife Show Saturday, January 4—Gun and Knife Show Friday, January 10—Peoples Choice Saturday, January 11—Frontier Private party room available. For more information, call 255-1554 Wednesdays from 7 to II a.m.

***

LODGE NO. 154, FORT WORTH Tuesday, December 31 — New Year's Eve Dance with music by David Boyd and the Country Junction

LODGE NO. 188, CENTERVILLE Game times: Sunday, 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 7 p.m.; lodge monthly meetings on the first Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Games License No. 1-74-1960208-5. ***

Monthly lodge meetings are the second Sunday 'of each month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise stated. **.

LODGE NO. 172, PASADENA Saturday, December 21—Southern Breeze Band (C/W) Saturday, December 28—No Dance Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Texas Brew (C/W) Executive members and Board of Trustees meet every second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. Regular lodge meetings are on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

For reservations, call (713) 487-3297. ***

LODGE NO. 177, ACADEMY Saturday, December 21—Santa Fe Saturday, December 28—Big Sky Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Durango Lodge meetings are the second Wednesday of each month. Trustees' meeting start at 7 p.m. The business meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.

Youth Club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. .** LODGE NO. 178, LONGVIEW- KILGORE Lodge meets on the first Thursday of each month at the VFW Post, 4002, Longview. ***

LODGE NO. 179, WARRENTON Lodge meets second Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Warrenton store; social hour and meal follows. The meat is furnished and members bring side dishes.

LODGE NO. 191, LUFKIN Wednesday, December 18—East Texas Cloggers Friday, December 20—Pine Squares Saturday, December 21—Christmas Dance with music by 5th Wheel, 8 p.m. Bring finger foods!

Tuesday, December 24—Private Party ristmas!

Wednesday, December 25—Merry Saturday, December 28—Private Party Year's Eve Tuesday, December 31—New Dance with music b y Glen Lenderman; $25 per couple. Members'bring finger foods. Ham, black-eyed peas, coleslaw and cornbread provided at midnight!

For dance reservations, call Linda Hancock at 867-4016. To reserve the building for a special occasion, contact Helen Boyd at 632-2849.

LODGE NO. 196, HOUSTON-WEST Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance with music by Bobby Jones; 8-12; Cornbread, sauerkraut, sausage, and black-eyed peas to be served at midnight. New Year's Eve tickets are on sale now. They can be purchased in advance for $12.50 each or $25 per couple.

Watch for our letters in the Vestnik. Regular meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m; For hall rentals for weddings, birthdays, dances and parties, call (713) 373-9482.

Leave a message. The hall's address is 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress, Texas 77429. ***

LODGE NO. 201, NELSONVILLE - BLEIBLERVILLE Regular monthly lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

***

***

LODGE NO. 180, BURLESON

LODGE NO. 88, HOUSTON Saturday, December 28—Texas Dutchmen; Polka and Variety ($6 per person) Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance with Gus Lindemann; Ballroom and Variety; Dress Code; 9 p.m. to I a.m.; Reservations starting November I. Must be paid

by December 11.

Friday, January 3—Texas Brew;

Saturday, December 21—Cross Fire Saturday, December 28—Road House Band Tuesday, December 31—New Year's Eve with Road House Band All Saturday night dances are from 8:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Lodge membership monthly meetings are the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Trustees' meetings are on the same dates at 6:30 p.m.

Post your upcoming lodge events here on the calendar. These are free listings.

—SPJST-

A Million Thanks Well actually,

Two Million One Hundred and Seventy Nine Thousand Thanks!

In 1995, SPJST lodges reported giving $2,179,000 back to their communities by the way of fraternal acts, lodge events and charitable contributions! That averages out to $311,000 per

SPJST District and approximately $28,000 per community. You are having a Texas Size Impact on your local communities by supporting your lodge and by being active lodge members!

How TO BE SOMEBODY From the

Creed for Optimists by Christian D. Larsen

Be strong so that nothing can disturb your min Talk health, nappiness, and prosperity to every person you meet, Make all your friends feel there is sometning special in tnems Look at the sunny side of everything.

Think only of the best, work only for the best, and expect only the Pest.

Be as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

Forget tne mistakes of he past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

Give everyone a smiles Spend so much time im proving yourself that you have no time left to criticize others, Be too big for worry and too noble for anger.

To show our appreciation of your efforts during this giving season, the Supreme Lodge and Home Office employees signed below have made a donation to the SPJST Scholarship Fund.

Howard, Mary, Ryan and Cody Leshikar Leonard D. and Dorothy Mikeska Lanita, Charles, Carlita and Brian Anglin Jerry, Betty and Chad Mikulas Sidney and Dorothy Kacir Willie E. and Adeline Kohutek Cyril! (Sid) and Justine Pokladnik Stanley and Martha Broz Louis and Oleta Hanus Matt S. and Henrietta Vanek and Family Robert and Polly Bayer and Family

Cynthia D. Bravenec Debbie, Tony, Adam and Travis Dohnalik Daryl Entrop Susie and David Ernst and Family Kathy, Bob, Christy and Jennifer Fritz Keith D. Gatewood Ruth and Lee Hanusch Helen and King Hegwood Stephanie, Cory, Macy and Coby Herring Debra L. Trigg Linda and JO, Johnson

Lisa, William and Christina Kirby Frank and Irma Klinkovsky Barbara, Ubo, and Kyle Kovacevich Jerry and Dorothy Kucera and Family Joni, Kenny, Leslie and Stacy Lange Gene and Frances McBride Ed and Ann Mokry Ann Paruzinski Peggy Sue Pancake, Stacy and Michelle Rockey Dorothy Pechal and Family

Gene Reveile Mike and Nora Reveile Dorothy Stuchly Dorothy and Charlie Tomasek and Family Doris Tyroch Jim and Suzy Wiest Julie, David and Sallie Jo Wiseman Barbara Rosenkranz and Family Melanie Zavodny Brian, Joanie, Stephanie and Samuel Vanicek

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.