Vestnik 1997 03 05

Changing to meet the needs of fraternalists.

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

ESTNI SPJST Herald Official Publication Of The Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas, Founded 1897

BENEVOLENCE

BROTHERHOOD

HUMANITY

Postmaster: Please Send Form 3579 to: SUPREME LODGE, SPJST, P. 0. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 ISSN-07458800 VOLUME 85 NUMBER 10

March 5, 1997

Annual workshop addresses lodge management basics For

our lodge system to achieve its full dynamic potential, local lodge officers must be effective in their respective roles. That was the message delivered to attendees to the 1997 Local Lodge Workshop held Saturday, February 22 at Lodge 24, Cyclone. To assist in-this process, Supreme Lodge officers and the Vestnik editor presented information to help lodge officers improve their performance.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop," said Marie Stayton, first vice president of Lodge 88, Houston and one of the nearly 350 members in attendance. "Of particular benefit were the break-out sessions that allowed for more one-on-one information from the presenters," she said.

In his opening presentation, Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar discussed the SPJST Bylaws and explained the important role fraternal activities play in the life of the SPJST. He summarized the activities of his department and concluded by pledging the full support and cooperation of the fraternal department in working with local lodges to develop their fraternal programming efforts.

Vice President Leonard Mikeska provided attendees with a summary of Insurance Department programs and what was being done in the sales area to build contact with current and prospec-

tive members. In his presentation, Supreme Lodge Financial Secretary Jerry Mikulas addressed the SPJST's financial status, including information on the Lodge Recognition and Incentive Program and information on the 1997 premium refund program for local lodges. Supreme Lodge SecretaryTreasurer Lanita Anglin followed, addressing the importance of lodges responding to Supreme Lodge requests for essential documentation.

Supreme Lodge Legal Advisor Sidney Kacir and his department coordinated the 1997 workshop. In conjunction with his presentation before the general assembly, attendees received copies of the newly revised Local Lodge Officer's Handbook.

Essentially, the handbook is a guide on how to be a lodge officer and get members involved. Lodge officers were encouraged to make use of the guide and channel any suggestions for improvement to Brother Kacir for subsequent updates.

Vestnik Editor Brian Vanicek concluded the general session, underscoring the importance of clear, effective communication and the importance of developing the channels of communication both inside and outside of the local lodge.

Individual break-out sessions followed.

Following the lunch break, President Leshikar recognized Sister Evelyn Gustafson of Lodge 18, Elgin as SPJST's

Sister Evelyn Gustafson, right, of Lodge 18, Elgin was recognized as SPJST's 1996 Fratemalist of the Year at the Local Lodge Workshop held February 22 at Lodge 24, Cyclone. Also pictured are Supreme lodge President Howard Leshikar and Sister Rita Vanek of Lodge 40, El Campo - Hillje, who assists in presenting Sister Gustafson with a corsage.

1996 Fraternalist of the Year. Sister her continued support to do good for the Gustafson expressed thanks to her lodge SPJST. members for their support and pledged —SPJST-

Family March 8 March 14 -16 March 16 March 29 April 6 April 13 April 26 April 27 April 27 June 6 - 8

Fun and Important SPJST Dates State 42 Tournament at Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Leaders Workshop, LaGrange District Two Spring Meeting at Lodge 18, Elgin SPJST Night with the San Antonio Spurs District Seven Spring Meeting at Lodge 79, Corpus Christi District One Spring Meeting at Lodge 9, Snook State Horseshoe Tournament at Lodge 17, New Tabor District. Four Spring Meeting in Lubbock District Three Spring Meeting at Lodge 92, Fort Worth LIT Workshop, LaGrange — SPJST —

Houston teen takes top honors in tee-shirt contest

by State Youth Director Joni Lange Congratulations to Karen Bender of Lodge 88, Houston for submitting the Grand Champion design in the 1997 SPJST Summer Camp Tee-Shirt Contest.

The top finishers in each division are as follows:

Ages 6 to 8 Cara Spanel-Weber (Lodge 20, Granger) Ages 9 to 11 Krystle Bender (Lodge 88, Houston) Ages 12 to 14 Trevor Scott (Lodge 4, Hallettsville) Ages 15 to 17 Karen Bender (Lodge 88, Houston)

Congratulations to our winners on a job well done. Our judge, Kevin Cushman, owner of Sports World in Temple, made his selections from 83 entries. Thanks to each of the youth club members listed below for their contribution to the success of this year's contest. Each participant will receive a recognition certificate and 20 points in the Merit Point System.

Lodge 4 Trevor Scott Elizabeth Vahalik Nicholas Vahalik Lodge 6 Celia Dobecka Traci Dobecka Whitney Dobecka Christi Sparkman (Continued on page 17.)

Winning Design Pictured, at right, is Karen Bender's teeshirt design as it will be reproduced on the 1997 SPJST summer camp tee-shirt contest. The design was selected from among 83 entries submitted by youth club members from around the state. Other top place finishers in the tee-shirt contest appear on page 17.

The Shining *of TEXAS Camp '97

2/VESTNIK-Wednesday, March 5, 1997

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

avers Address Lodge Issues 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-Mail: bvanicek@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 45 17 Sutton Ct., Bryan, TX 77802

FRANK KLINKOVSKY DISTRICT H Home Phone: (817) 773-4801 3514 Preston Oaks Dr., Temple, TX 76504

JOHNNIE KRIZAN DISTRICT III Home Phone: (817) 826-5882 Route Two, West, Texas 76691

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 COMMI I 1 EE 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) 9852354 DISTRICT III - BESSIE PETR, V. CHMN., 5406 MORNINGSIDE, DALLAS, TX 75206 - (214) 8263557 DISTRICT IV - SHARON WAGGONER, 222 CRESTWOOD DRIVE, SAN ANGELO, TX 76903 - (915) 651-5884 DISTRICT V - LORENDA BALDWIN, ROUTE 7, BOX 15, ALVIN, TX 77511 - (713) 585-4118 DISTRICT VI - HELEN KELNER, 911 AVE. K, ROSENBERG, TX 77471 - (281) 342-2624 DISTRICT VII - JAROLYN POPP, 850 NORTH VIEW, NEW BRAUNFELS, TX 78130 (281) 3422624 BY-LAW COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - DONNIE VICTORICK, P.O. BOX 85, SNOOK, TX 77878 - (409) 272-3265 DISTRICT II - RONNIE RIEGER, V. CHMN. 350 RIEGER ROAD, COUPLAND, TX 78615 - (512) 365-2000 DISTRICT III - KAY LYNN KOVAR, SCTY., 3303 LAKE BARDWELL DRIVE, ENNIS, TX 75119 (214) 875-5498 DISTRICT IV - BEVERLY TEPLICEK, ROUTE 1, BOX 40-A, ROWENA, TX 76875 (915) 442-4841 DISTRICT V - DOROTHY PFLUGHAUPT, 1243

CLOVIS RD, HOUSTON, TX 77008 DISTRICT VI - MICHAEL AHLSTROM, CHAIRMAN, 407 TAOS STREET, VICTORIA, TX 77904 (512) 578-3279 DISTRICT VII - BETTIE HOUSE, 1721 CONTINENTAL DRIVE, PLEASANTON, TX 78064 (210) 281-8246 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - ERNEST WENTRCEK, 1530 BENNETT, BRYAN, TX 77802 - (409) 822-4226 DISTRICT II - FRANK PAJESTKA, JR., PO BOX 381, HOLLAND, TX 76534 (817) 657-8176 DISTRICT III - MICHAEL GALLER, 526 KAREN, WACO, TX 76706 - (817) 662-4934 DISTRICT IV - HERMAN D. WEISE, CHMN. 6006 FM HWY. 765, SAN ANGELO, TX 76905 (915) 651-8550 DISTRICT V - JERRY PROCHAZKA, V. CHMN., 20507 RAMSEY ROAD, BOX 634, CROSBY, TX 77532 (713) 328-3004 DISTRICT VI - RITA VANEK, SCTY., P.O. BOX 901, EL CAMPO, TX 77437 - (409) 543-6220 DISTRICT VII - MONTA FOSTER, 4 BOB WHITE, SAN MARCOS, TX - 78666 (512) 3532948; (H); (512) 293-5624 (Ranch) INSURANCE COMMITTEE .

DISTRICT I - SUSAN SKRABANEK, SCTY. ROUTE 2, BOX 13, CALDWELL, TX 77836 (409) 272-3440 DISTRICT II - ALBIN MACHU, V. CHMN., 2204 SMITH AVE., TAYLOR, TX 76574 (512) 365-5489 DISTRICT III - BEN JARMA, CHMN., 9512 LEASIDE DR., DALLAS, TX 75238 - (214) 348-1514 DISTRICT IV - LEONARD JANSA, CHMN., 6617 PLAINVIEW DRIVE, SAN ANGELO, TX - 76905 (915) 651-8045.

DISTRICT V - EDNA WEHRING, 1831 CRYSTAL CT, HOUSTON, TX 77008 (713) 864-2815 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 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, APT. 1001, 1515 SANDY SPRINGS, HOUSTON, TX 77042 (713) 974-1757 DISTRICT VII - SUSAN BOHNENBERGER, P.O. BOX 1891, SEGUIN, TEXAS 78155 - (210) 3724955 LIBRARY, ARCHIVES, MUSEUM Dorothy Pechal, Museum Curator Office: (817) 773-1575, P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

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@popl .epoch.net DISTRICTS 3 and 4 Jerry Kucera (817) 826-5425 DISTRICT 5 Helen Hegwood (713) 864-0489 DISTRICTS 6 and 7 Jim Wiest (512) 303-3150

What's on Your Mind?

There's a professional entertainer out there who goes by the stage name "The Amazing Kreskin." Maybe you've seen him on late night television. He makes an act of reading other people's minds.

Everything from card tricks to telling you what you had for breakfast. How does he do it? A combination of intuition and trickery? Perhaps. Whatever the method, mindreading can be a lot of fun.

The fun stops, however, when we try to rely on mindreading as a substitute for clear communication between each other. At best, it leads to miscues and little misunderstandings. At its worst, it can thoroughly confound the communication process.

The basis for effective communication is to first establish a clear message. Your local lodge sales representative, for instance, is much more effective when he or she is thor oughly knowledgable about the many insurance products that the SPJST offers.

Hats off to the sales representatives who have been attending this season's series of training workshops held in various parts of the state.

As that principle applies to our local lodges, thanks to the many lodge officers and sales representatives who participated in the Local Lodge Workshop held Saturday, February 22 at Lodge 24, Cyclone. The basis for the workshop was to provide lodge officers with information that can make them more effective in their respective positions. How effective were we? That's difficult to say.

The overriding message that I hope everyone was able to take with them is that your SPJST Supreme Lodge officers and directors and editor want to work with you and your lodge and help you maximize your potential. For our communications to be as effective as possible, there must be a two-way give and take of information. Your feedback - as lodge

officers and as members - is essential for the SPJST to develop effective fraternal programming and to successfully administer its insurance program.

District Six Director and Supreme Lodge Chairman Matt Vanek applied the principles of effective goal setting in his presentation to workshop attendants. In addition to outlining the SPJST's broad organizational goals, Brother Vanek stated that one of the specific objectives of the Supreme Lodge in its centennial year would be to rejuvenate "at least two lodges in each district " and then to report back at next year's workshop on how effective we were at achieving this goal.

That's the kind of specific goal-setting that can work and make a difference in your local lodge and in the long-term growth of the SPJST. And, again, as was stated several times during the workshop, please feel free to contact your Supreme Lodge officers and directors when in need of assistance.

Finally, to the attendees who made suggestions for future topics of discussion in the Vestnik, thank you! In the coming weeks, you can expect to see articles addressing a range of lodge management and development issues, including attracting volunteers and goal setting; topics related to lodge insurance and liability and topics related to fundraising, publicity and sales.

"For our communications to be as effective as possible, there must be a twoway give and take of information."

VV Lodge Recognition and Incentive Banquet Congratulations to the 49 lodges and 45 sales representatives who were honored at the 1996 SPJST Lodge Recognition and Incentive Banquet held on Saturday, February 22 at Lodge 47, Seaton. Winners' photographs will appear in the March 12 and March 19 issues of the Vestnik.

-SPJST-

Okay, Which Picture Looks Better?

UNSOLICITED MATERIALS FOR PUBLICATION CANNOT BE RETURNED UNLESS SUFFICIENT POSTAGE IS ATTACHED, THIS INCLUDES PICTURES. THE EXPENSE OF PUBLISHING ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING PICTURES MUST BE BORNE BY THE SENDER. CHANGES OF ADDRESS AND CORRESPONDENCE CONCERNING DELIVERY OF THE VESTNIK MUST BE SENT TO THE SUPREME LODGE, BOX 100, TEMPLE, TX 76503. PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS AND ADVERTISING SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE VESTNIK, P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE TEXAS 76503.

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

Four attendees to the Communication Section of the Local Lodge Workshop participate in an exercise that illustrates how a few simple composition techniques can dramatically improve the quality of photos in the Vestnik. As the photo on the right shows, grouping individuals and getting in CLOSE makes for a more appealing presentation. Participants, from left, are: Patsy Koslovsky of Lodge 47, Seaton; Janet Lyon- of Lodge 177, Academy; Jerry Elzner of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi; and Lola Vavra of Lodge 17, New Tabor.

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VESTNIK/3

From the Secty. Treasurer's Office

By common consent, it was decided to have the independent audit firm do the bank audit for the July Board meeting.

The Board recessed at 9:00 a.m. until 1:30 p!in. to allow time for the audit.

Minutes of the January 28, 29, and 30, 1997 Regular Meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST Held at the Home Office, Temple, Texas The meeting was called to order by Chairman of the Board Cyrill Pokladnik at 8:30 a.m., with the following Supreme Lodge members present: Howard B. Leshikar, President Leonard D. Mikeska, Vice President Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Mikulas, Financial Secretary Sidney Kacir, Legal Advisor Andrew Vavra — I Frank Klinkovsky — II

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

Outgoing Director Cyrill Pokladnik was present for the audit and Editor Brian Vanicek was also present for the meeting. Director Kohutek was not present due to being hospitalized from an illness.

The first item of business was the election of Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board. The Chair was turned over to President Leshikar. Vice President Mikeska nominated Director Vanek as Chairman of the Board. Motion seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas. There being no other nominations, Director Vavra moved to elect Director Vanek by acclamation. Motion seconded by Director Hanus and carried unanimously.

Director Vavra nominated Director Broz for Vice Chairman of the Board. Motion seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas. There being no other nominations, Director Bayer moved to elect Director Broz by acclamation. Motion seconded by Director Hanus and carried unanimously.

Vice President Mikeska expressed the Board's appreciation to Director Pokladnik for all the time he donated to SPJST during his tenure on the Board.

The Chair was returned to Chairman of the Board Vanek. He expressed his appreciation for the confidence the Board has shown him. He hopes the Board can work together in harmony in the upcoming year. Director Broz expressed his appreciation for bestowing the honor of Vice Chairman of the Board on him.

Chairman Vanek welcomed the new directors to the Board and welcomed Editor Vanicek to the meeting.

The meeting was opened with the Board members saying the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

AUDIT ASSIGNMENTS - The following audit assignments were made: Bank audit of securities: President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, SecretaryTreasurer Anglin, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Pokladnik, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, and employee Daryl Entrop.

MINUTES - The minutes were discussed page by page. In reviewing the minutes, "Director Pokladnik moved to accept the offer of $95,000 and give the person who referred the buyer to SPJST a $1,000.00 finders fee," was to be added on page 147.

Motion by Director Bayer to accept the minutes with the corrections. Motion seconded by Director Vavra and carried unanimously.

Director Broz moved to accept the executive minutes as read. Motion seconded by Director Hanus and carried unanimously.

The Board went into executive session to consider a question about a youth award.

Director Pokladnik thanked the Board for the luncheon in his honor and the plaque.

Director Pokladnik reported all of the securities had been accounted for during the bank audit and the questions that had been asked were answered.

Recess was taken from 5:10 p.m. until 8:29 a.m.

Director Hanus reported the ledgers were found to be in good order. The phone expenses, office maintenance, legal expenses, and District Youth Councelors expenses were more while office supplies and the home office up keep was less.

Director Broz reported the vouchers were all in order.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas, to accept the audit report. Motion carried unanimously.

FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR'S REPORT - The fraternal services report is a major item. These were mailed to the lodges in January and should be returned to the home office. These records have to be sent to National Fraternal Congress by May 1, 1997.

The State Volleyball tournament was held on November 19, 1996, with twelve teams participating.

100 PENNIES SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE - The total funds received by January 3, 1997, was $8,873.43. There was discussion of a perpetual scholarship fund.

Donations to a perpetual scholarship fund cannot have any conditions placed on the monies. Financial Secretary Mikulas recommended the interest on perpetual funds to be the interest rate that SPJST earned on the net gain from operations. Legal Advisor Kacir recommended $25,000 be in a perpetual fund before scholarships can be given in someone's name. A letter from Cindy Kovar was read to the Supreme Lodge concerning a donation made by Newman Foundation.

President Leshikar moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska, to set up perpetual scholarship funds. The donations may be made over a period of time; for example, a member can commit $2,000.00 a year for 5 years. The SPJST will give scholarships in memorial or in donors' name when donations total $10,000 or more. The donors will have no control on how the scholarships are chosen and the interest will be based on the net earned on investments until such time as a better method is determined. The amount of the scholarship will be based on what the Supreme Lodge is awarding for scholarships. Motion carried unanimously.

FRATERNALIST OF THE YEAR - The applications for Fraternalist of the Year were considered. After secret ballot, Evelyn Gustafson, Lodge 18, was selected as Fraternalist of the Year. The runner ups were: Johnny Broz, Lodge 88; Cindy Kovar, Lodge 174; Kay Lynn Kovar, Lodge 25; and George Straten, Lodge 6.

Ledgers: Director Hanus and Director Vanek Vouchers: Director Vavra, Director Bayer, and Director Broz.

Financial Secretary Mikulas remained at the Home Office to answer any questions that might arise.

INTEREST RATES ANNUITY I

SPJST MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES

Recess was taken from 9:45 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Steve Spriggs from North American Mortgage Company was welcomed to the meeting. Mr. Spriggs explained to the Board some programs that might be of interest to the membership.

LODGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM - There was a lengthy discussion about adding a separate lodge incentive for members to take additional policies or increase their current policies. It was decided by common consent to postpone this item until later.

(Certificates Issued Prior to 4-1-93)

5.25% Annualized Effective 2-1-97 through 4-30-97

ANNUITY II (Certificates Issued 4-1-93

and After)

6.25% Annualized Effective 2-1-97 through 4-30-97

INTEREST RATE FOR UNIVERSAL LIFE 7.00% Annualized Effective 2-1-97 through 4-30-97

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

100TH ANNIVERSARY - President Leshikar move to reconsider the Tarok Tournament for the 100th Anniversary Celebration. Motion seconded by Director Klinkovsky. Motion carried unanimously.

President Leshikar moved to have a $25.00 fee for the 100th Anniversary Tarok Tournament. The grand prize would be $300.00 cash plus a SPJST jacket; second prize would be $200.00 plus a SPJST polo type shirt; third prize would be $150.00 plus a SPJST polo type shirt; fourth prize would be $100.00 plus a SPJST polo type shirt; fifth prize would be $100.00; sixth prize would be $75.00; seventh prize would be $50.00; and the eight prize would be $25.00. There will be a $5.00 high round for each table and the oldest and youngest player would receive an SPJST polo type shirt.

Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously. The tournament will be open to both members and non-members.

STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR'S REPORT - State Youth Director Lange's report was reviewed.

VESTNIK - Editor Vanicek reported the 1997 SPJST Member Service Directory will

4/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997 be published the week of February 19. Editor Vanicek presented a list of several public events that could possibly be used to showcase the SPJST to Texans.

Editor Vanicek presented the recommendation of linking to the Internet. The SPJST would use the existing equipment in the Editor's office and the cost for the link to the Internet would be $19.95 with the telephone bill costing about $30.00 a month.

President Leshikar moved, seconded by Director Klinkovsky, to link up with the Internet with one live Internet terminal connecting to the existing equipment in the Editor's Office. The SPJST Internet policy is "The Internet is to be used for business purposes only when the usage is on the company account, whether during business hours or otherwise. Employees have the responsibility not to communicate or access defamatory, harassing, obscene, discriminatory, or other similarly inappropriate messages or material on the Internet. Employees must not communicate any confidential or propitiatory information or misuse any copyright protected material by placing it or transmitting it on the Internet or printing, downloading, copying, or hyberlinking protected material without the prior permission of the copyright owner. No information on the Internet can be downloaded. All the information must be printed only." Motion carried unanimously.

President Leshikar moved to authorize Melanie Zavodny, communications assistant, to attend the National Fraternal Congress Association's Fraternal and Communication Mid-Winter Section in New Port Beach, California, on March 23, 24, and 25. Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 12 noon until 1:00 p.m.

CZECH HERITAGE INITIATIVE - After a discussion concerning the initiatives SPJST should take concerning organizations promoting Czech culture, it was decided that the Board should look at each request on an individual basis. President Leshikar moved that SPJST will support Czech heritage advertising in the Vestnik by donating an 1/8 page every quarter at no charge, provided it does not conflict with SPJST and there is space available in the Vestnik. Motion seconded by Director Vavra. Motion carried unanimously.

The audit committee for the July meeting, were announced: Ledgers: Director Krizan and Director Hanus.

Vouchers: Director Vavra, Director Klinkovsky, Director Broz, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer.

It was decided the audit would begin at 1:00 p.m., on Monday, July 7, 1997.

SALES - Vice President Mikeska presented a comparison of sales between 1995 and 1996. There were 91 less applications approved in 1996. This amounted to $7,876,281 less in insurance written but an increase of $114,455.19 more in first year premiums. There was a total of 1,487 applications approved in 1996. Financial Secretary Mikulas reported the net gain on operations will be down about $50,000 this year. Vice President Mikeska pointed out for the long term, to prevent the net gain operations from shrinking, the Society must increase both the volume of insurance sold and the amount of premiums received.

ERRORS AND OMISSIONS COVERAGE - Vice President Mikeska reported on his findings in placing Errors and Omissions coverage for the sales representatives. It was decided to postpone any action until the April Board meeting so that Legal Advisor Kacir could attend a meeting on insurance purchasing groups and report back to the Board.

ILLUSTRATION SOF'T'WARE -, The expected date of the final version of the Universal Life reprojection software is expected to be delivered about April 1, 1997.

NEW LODGES - Vice President Mikeska reported that currently Lodge 204, Stephenville; Lodge 205, Terrell; and Lodge 206, Mexia are in the process of being organized. The new by-laws allow a 180-day initial period to organize a new lodge.

Vice President Mikeska moved that the 180-day period for the above lodges begin on January 1, 1997, and continue to June 29, 1997. Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 5:45 p.m. until 8:04 a.m.

LIBRARY, ARCHIVES, AND MUSEUM - There were 101 visitors to the museum during November and December of 1996.

PRESS RELEASES - President Leshikar reported that there were almost 500 press releases about the SPJST across the state in 1996.

SCHOLARSHIPS - There were 239 applications mailed out in 1995 and 277 application requests mailed in 1996. The 100 Pennies Drive is short about $8,000 of the goal the President's Department set for awarding scholarships in 1997.

100TH ANNIVERSARY - President Leshikar reported the Czechoslovak Society of Arts and Sciences have requested the use of the room on the second floor of the Expo Center for their two day meeting so they may be part of the 100th Anniversary. The group would need the room for about three hours each day. Legal Advisor Kacir moved to authorize the use of the room at the Expo Center for the use of the Czechoslovak Society of Arts and Sciences at no charge. Motion seconded by Director Hanus. Motion carried unanimously.

Director Krizan reported that the District III Executive Officers would like to recommend the following activities for the 100th Anniversary celebration: Czech demonstrations such as making soap, grinding corn, etc.

NEW PRODUCTS - Vice President Mikeska presented information on a 20-year term plan and the possibility of a term policy to age 95. Legal Advisor Kacir authorized to tentatively approve the 20-year term policy subject to the final approval by mail poll when all information becomes available. Motion seconded by President Leshikar. Motion carried unanimously.

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE - There were 196 new members attributed to the 1996 membership drive. Vice President Mikeska presented the plan for the 1997 membership drive. A Centennial Club would be established in which members recommending 2 or more new members would receive a Centennial Pin which would be presented at the lodge meeting. The pin would be presented by the President of the local lodge and the sales representative. In addition to the pin, the recommending member would receive points which could be put toward the purchase of advertising/premium materials. A member recommending new members would receive five points for each new member written up which could be used towards redeeming an SPJST cookbook, mug, etc. The contest could run from February 1, 1997, through December 31, 1997.

There would be a grand prize for the top five recruiters. The top recruiter would receive $500.00, next recruiter $400.00, next recruiter $300.00, next recruiter $200.00, and the next recruiter $100.00. Motion by Vice President Mikeska, seconded by Director Bayer, to accept the membership drive as presented. Motion carried unanimously. Vice President Mikeska reported the goal of the Vice President's Department is to issue 1897 certificates to commemorate our founding year.

Have a children's area set up.

Youth Clubs be allowed to sell projects.

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR - A packet of applications for State Fraternal Activities Coordinator was given to each Supreme Lodge member. It was brought up that the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator is to be in the field at least ten days a month. President Leshikar moved to accept his recommendation of Barbara Wright-Rosenkranz for the position for State Fraternal Activities Coordinator. Motion seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Voting in favor were President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Vavra, Director Klinkovsky, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Broz.

Voting in opposition was Director Krizan. Motion carried. Director Vavra reminded the Board that there are seven individuals according to the "Employee's Handbook" who do not qualify for comp time.

Recess was taken from 3:10 p.m. until 3:25 p.m.

In response to a question, there was no objection to the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator being an SPJST sales representative.

DANCE CLASS - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin read a letter from President Clara Broz, Lodge 88, concerning the Youth Dance class. The information she provided showed the dance program was successful at Lodge 88. Following a discussion of the dance program, Vice President Mikeska moved to extend the pilot program until April 1998, for one lodge per district with a maximum of $1,500 being allocated to each district for the pilot program. A report must be submitted periodically to the home office concerning the success of the program. Motion seconded by Director Bayer. Motion carried unanimously.

BY-LAWS - There was a discussion on the changes in the by-laws which became effective January 1, 1997.

STAI'E FIELD MANGER'S REPORT - The State Field Manager's written report was taken up. Vice President Mikeska commented that due to State Field Manager McBride's many years of experience, an increasing number of technical questions and insurance conservation cases were being referred to him. This situation, which has evolved over the past few years, is cutting down on the State Field Manager's time in the field and it may be necessary to hire additiorial support staff. Vice President Mikeska asked if the Board had to approve this first and he was informed he should clear it with the Supreme Lodge Officers and follow procedure.

There will be a push to help sales representatives receive their FIC designation.

LODGE COMPLIANCE - There are thirty-six lodges which have not reported their 1997 officers to the home office. A second letter will be mailed about February 1, 1997, requesting this information.

990/990T's - The 990 and 990T's for the 1995 year have not been received from the following lodges: 30, 49, 114, 149, 157, 179, 184 and 188.

100TH ANNIVERSARY - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin reported approximately 1,100 cookbooks have been sold. There has been a request from a Youth Club to sale the cookbooks. Director Krizan moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska, to offer the cookbook at cost for group sales (only for youth clubs and local lodges). The cookbooks will have to be sold for $10.00. Motion carried unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin recommended any profits the home office receives from the sale of the cookbook be donated to the Ronald McDonald house in Temple. The mission of the Ronald McDonald house is to provide a home away from home for families with seriously ill children receiving medical treatment at local hospitals.

There are eleven Ronald McDonald houses in Texas. Director Vavra suggested dividing the proceeds among several of the different Ronald McDonald houses. SecretaryTreasurer Anglin moved to adopt the Ronald McDonald house in Temple for the profits from the 100th Anniversary Cookbook. Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir.

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VESTNIK/5 Voting in favor were President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer.

Voting in opposition was Director Vavra. Motion carried.

The Board went into executive session to discuss a youth award.

Recess was taken from 10:05 a.m. until 10:15 a.m.

LOCAL LODGES - The following is the guidelines for the procedure decided on for establishing a new lodge or to reactivate a dormant lodge: An initial meeting with the local lodge officers..

Send in a team consisting of the District Director, State Field Manager, State Field Representative, State Youth Director, and/or State Field Representatives to meet with city officials, local people and local lodge members.

Meeting with membership of local lodges and interested individual with Supreme Lodge Officers, Director, State Field Manager, State Fraternal Activities Coordinator, State Youth Director, and State Field Representatives. The members of this team should be strong enough to take each others place if necessary.

A chart would be placed on the wall in the mini board room to track the number of visits of each individual attending the lodge meeting and make a progress report for two years. This chart is to be kept by the State Fraternal Activities Coordinator.

The officers were authorized to spend whatever is reasonable and necessary for incidentals to organize or reactive lodges, provided there are receipts for these expenses.

Legal Advisor Kacir moved to offer the following bonuses to applicable people working with a lodge selected by the president and vice president after consultation with the director involved.

A $500.00 incentive award to the applicable State Field Representative and State Fraternal Activities Coordinator for converting a lodge from quarterly meetings to monthly meetings when the lodge qualifies for an incentive award (within 24 months). $500.00 incentive award to State Fraternal Activities Coordinator when a local lodge is moved from the dormant status to active status with monthly meetings. The incentive award being paid when the lodge qualifies for an incentive award (within 24 months). $500.00 grant to a local lodge at the time the decision is made for monthly meetings instead of quarterly meetings when the home office is notified of the decision.

Motion seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Motion carried unanimously.

There was a discussion concerning an incentive award to the State Youth Director, District Youth Counselors, and local youth leaders when new youth leaders are recruited for the organization of new youth clubs. Motion by Director Bayer, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir, to bring this up later in the meeting. Motion passed unanimously.

There was a discussion on changing the emphasis from premium refund to lodge program to an incentive-orientated program to lodges. Vice President Mikeska moved, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir, to shift the emphasis from a premium refund to first year premiums and communicate the information to the local lodges. The shift would take place in 1998 for the production in 1997 as this would be effective immediately.

The officers are to meet and work out the details of the incentive program. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was taken from 11:50 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

Director Bayer moved to bring the bonuses concerning local youth leaders, State Youth Director, and District Youth Counselors back on the floor. Motion seconded by Director Klinkovsky. Motion carried unanimously.

Director Krizan moved to pay the State Youth Director $20.00 per child and the local youth leader $5.00 a child when a new youth club is organized. The youth club has to be brand new and not in existence for two years. The bonus is paid for each child who attends at least seven meetings and is paid at the end of twelve months. There would be $100.00 available for the local youth club if needed. Motion seconded by President Leshikar. Motion carried unanimously.

SALES INCENTIVE PROGRAM - Vice President Mikeska recommended a sales incentive program. A sales representative would have to meet the number of applications and earned premium on one level before the sales representative would be eligible for the prize and be able to go to the next level. The earned premium does not include internal rollovers and annuities.

1. Sales Incentive Program Requires* 2 applications 4 applications 6 applications 8 applications 10 applications 12 applications 14 applications 16 applications

Earned Premiums* 3,000.00 5,000.00 7,500.00 10,000.00 20,000.00 30,000.00 40,000.00 50,000.00

Prize $200.00 $300.00 another $400.00 another $600.00 another $600.00 another $600.00 another $600.00 another $600.00 another

*Recommended attending at least 2 sales seminars.

2. Monthly State and District recognition - The pictures of state and district winners would be placed on the front page of the Vestnik. The state winners' pictures would be

larger than the district winners. There would be a $50.00 cash award for the top insurance written and also $50.00 for the most members written in each district.

3. Million Dollar producers will have a current 8 x 10 picture on display at the home office. This picture would be on display for one year. The million dollar pin will be redesigned to be more functional.

Motion by Vice President Mikeska, seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas, to accept the sales incentive program. Motion carried unanimously.

FIC COURSE - Vice President Mikeska moved to require a sales representative make a $35.00 deposit to enroll in the FIC course (3 sections) total. The deposit will be refunded upon completion of the FIC course. An incentive of $100.00 would be paid to each state field representative for each sales representative in the district that completes the FIC course. The State Field Representatives will be expected to assist with conducting area Fraternal Insurance Counsel classes. On completion of the FIC course, the sales representative will have his picture and an article published in the Vestnik along with recognition in their local home town newspaper. SPJST will pay the FIC dues for each year the sales representative has at least $2,000 in earned premiums. Motion seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas and carried unanimously.

25-YEAR PIN - There was a discussion on awarding 25-year pins. President Leshikar moved to award a 25-year pin to anyone who had been a member for 25 consecutive years. This pin could not be rewarded retroactive. Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

The officers are to meet and present suggestions for a state wide charity at the next meeting.

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE - Financial Secretary Mikulas announced that the 1996 annual statement is nearly complete. The Texas Department of Insurance auditors are currently conducting their audit. The independent auditors will begin their audit soon.

DIRECT BILL - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported all of the lodges have been placed on direct bill.

VESTNIK - As of December 31, 1996, the Vestnik subscription list amounted to 9,734 which was an increase of 209 over 1995. The present printing cost amounts to $1,075.00 per week and $1,690.00 per week in postage cost.

CALENDARS - There were 27,036 calendars mailed in 1996. The calendars were mailed later than usual this year. The mailing cost for the 1997 calendars amounted to $4,914.36, which amounted to $.18 per calendar.

BUDGET - Financial Secretary Mikulas went over the 1996 budget line by line. The income surpassed the budgeted amount by 7 percent and the expenses exceeded the budgeted amount by percent.

REFUND TO LODGES - Financial Secretary Mikulas moved that the refund to local lodges be set at $1.00 per paid-up certificate and $8.50 per premium-paying certificates, excluding annuities and also excluding lodges 85, 90, 114, 141, 8, 138, 57, and 171.

Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

PENDING LOANS - Legal Advisor Kacir discussed the pending mortgage loans.

LITIGATION/BANKRUPTCY/FORECLOSURE - Legal Advisor Kacir discussed the matter pertaining to litigation, bankruptcies, and foreclosures of members.

LOCAL LODGE OFFICERS' WORKSHOP - Legal Advisor Kacir presented the format for the Local Lodge Officers' Workshop to be held February 22, 1997, at Lodge 24 - Cyclone. By common consent, it was decided to invite the Fraternalist of the Year and the runner-ups to the Lodge Incentive Banquet. All of the past directors will be invited to attend the Local Lodge Officers' Workshop.

Legal Advisor Kacir expressed his desire to attend the Association of Fraternal Benefit Counselors meeting to be held in Florida. Vice President Mikeska moved, seconded

by Financial Secretary Mikulas, to authorize Legal Advisor Kacir to attend the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

MORTGAGE LOANS - Legal Advisor Kacir discussed a mortgage loan application.

He is having difficulty receiving the necessary paperwork from the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Association. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Director Vavra, to leave the committed rate of interest as is on this loan until the next Board meeting.

Motion carried unanimously.

Legal Advisor Kacir reminded the Board that until the Texas legislation changes the law, SPJST is still required to have 25 percent down on mortgage loans.

AGE 96 ENDOWMENTS - President Leshikar presented the list of fourteen members who will attain the age of 96 during the year of 1997.

President Leshikar requested a new personal computer for his department, as the one he currently has in his department is 12 years old. Legal Advisor Kacir requested a personal computer for his department, as this would be the first personal computer his department has had. Director Vavra moved to authorize the purchase of two personal computers and printers that meet the same specifications as the last personal computers and printers purchased. Financial Secretary Mikulas is to have three bids for the purchase. The officers are to select the best bid and inform the Board of the cost at the next meeting. Motion seconded by President Leshikar. Motion carried unanimously.

6/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997 LODGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM - Director Krizan moved to remove the wording from the incentive program that a new member has not had a certificate for the two previous years. Motion seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Motion carried unanimously. The theme for the 1997 incentive program will be called "Community Link."

Concerning the lodge incentive program, there was a discussion about recognizing existing members who increase their insurance coverage. A member can not surrender a certificate and then take out a new certificate. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas, to table this item and refer to the Supreme Lodge Officers for final determination of existing members to be ratified at the April Supreme Lodge meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

President Leshikar requested authorization to attend the Presidents' Club in April in Chicago. Motion by Legal Advisor Kacir, seconded by Director Klinkovsky, to authorize President Leshikar to attend. Motion carried unanimously.

NEW LODGES- Secretary-Treasurer Anglin reported that a mail poll had been mailed to the Supreme Lodge members requesting authorization to assign a number for a local lodge in Carrizo Springs and proceed with organizing a local lodge under applicable by-laws and rules. The number assigned to the Carrizo Springs lodge would be 207. Voting in favor of the mail poll were President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Vavra, Director Pokladnik, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer. Director Kohutek abstained. Vice President Mikeska moved to ratify the mail poll. Motion seconded by President Leshikar and carried unanimously.

EQUIPMENT - Vice President Mikeska requested the purchase of a multi-media projector that can project from a computer, projecting video, and television programming. He recommended purchasing an EIKILC 4300 Video Projector at a cost of $4,595.00. President Leshikar moved to authorize the purchase, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

UNIVERSAL LIFE REPROSALS - Vice President Mikeska reported that there will be a Universal Life reproposal demonstration during the April Board meeting.

Vice President Mikeska presented a request by Sales Representative Evelyn Mikeska to attend the NAFIC Convention in San Antonio. Director Krizan moved to authorize FICIs who are not employees authorization to attend the NAFIC provided the FIC has sold $1 million worth of products. The Society would reimburse the FIC for mileage, lodging and meals. Motion seconded by President Leshikar. Director Vavra abstained. Voting in favor were: President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer.

The NAFIC convention is to be held May 8, 9, and 10, 1997, in San Antonio at the Hilton Palaces Del Rio. Since the convention is in Texas, authorization was given to any Board member to attend and report their attendance at the following meeting.

DELINQUENCIES - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented 32 delinquent loans. Of these loans, six are on a workout plan; 14 loans are in bankruptcy/foreclosure or under a tax suit; and two loans have an acceptable deferral. Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved to establish a loss reserve for these loans in the amount of $22,000.00. Motion seconded by Financial Secretary Mikulas. Motion carried unanimously.

INTEREST SENSITIVE PRODUCTS - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented information on the yield the Society is making on assets allocated to the interest sensitive products. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Director Broz, to leave the interest rate of the Universal Life at 7 percent through April 30, 1997.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Director Vavra, for the interest rate on Annuity I to be 5 1/4 percent, Annuity II to be 6 1/4%, and Immediate Annuity rate to be 6 1/4 percent through April 30, 1997. Motion carried unanimously.

INVESTMENTS - There was a discussion concerning the investments made during the period of October 1, 1996, through December 31, 1996. Director Hanus moved, seconded by Director Bayer, to ratify the purchases. Motion carried unanimously.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST - The Supreme Lodge took up the matter of reporting conflict of interest, if any. The Society's procedure for reporting conflict of interest involves the signing of a statement after reviewing the adopted resolution on the Matter. Each Supreme Lodge member was given the opportunity to report conflict of interest and return the signed statement. No conflict was reported.

RESOLUTION Statement of Policy Concerning Conflict of Interest STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF BELL BE IT REMEMBERED that at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas (SPJST) held at its regular place of meeting at Temple, Texas, on the 19th day of January, 1996, at which meeting a quorum was present and voting, the following Resolution was adopted: RESOLVED: That the Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas (SPJST), a Fraternal Life Insurance Society (1) believes that the insurance business is affected with a public interest and is dependent upon public confidence, and (2) expects employees, officers and directors to conduct their personal financial interest and affairs so as to avoid placing such interest in conflict, direct or indirect, with those of the

Company and to avoid conduct which might impair their judgment with respect to the business of the Society.

The following are regarded as illustrative of thE principal situations where such conflict may be involved: Financial Interest Employees, officers, directors or members of their families having a material interest in any corporation or unincorporated enterprise which sells goods or services to, buys from, competes with the society in the sale of insurance, or borrows from the company and who are in a position to influence any decision by the Society with respect to such transactions.

Inside Information Employees, officers, or directors, directly or indirectly, using or divulging inside confidential information with respect to the Society for the purpose of securing personal profit or advantage for themselves or others or in a manner prejudicial to the interest of the Society.

Gratuities and Entertainment The receipts of loans, gifts, gratuities, entertainment and favors of more than nominal value by employees, officers, directors or members of their families, either directly or indirectly, that may influence any decision with respect to the Society.

While the above are illustrative of ways in which conflict may arise, the entire subject is so far reaching and the interrelationships possible within the insurance business so complex that the avoidance of conflict rests basically upon each individual's ethical standards, integrity and judgment. Annually, on or about the time of the January Board meeting, a request will be made of all directors, officers, and responsible employees to state in writing any activities which conflict with the policy. The statement will be as stated on the attached Exhibit "A.".

However, if any officer, director or responsible employee at any time believes he may be engaged in activities described, he should immediately report such activities to the President.

LODGE 189 - At the December meeting of Lodge 189, a check in the amount of $150.00 was presented to the home office. The lodge officers expressed their appreciation for the financial help the home office had extended to Lodge 189 twenty years ago. The lodge requested this money go to another lodge at the discretion of the Supreme Lodge.

HOME OFFICE - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented information concerning the American Disability Act. In order for the home office building to be in compliance, at least one restroom in the building has to meet ADA specifications. President Leshikar moved to make the ladies restroom in the museum area a uni-sex restroom that meets the ADA compliance. Motion seconded by Vice President Mikeska. Motion carried unanimously.

UNPAID CLAIMS - Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented four claims which the Society has been unable to find the heirs or the checks have not been cashed. The claims were: Date Name Amount of Claim 9-9-94 Briggs, Erica 24.00 $ 1-4-94 Urban, Matilda 240.60 7-26-94 Motl, Wilton L. 1,000.00 2-9-93 Janacek, Mary 231.38 Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved to transfer these funds to the scholarship fund in accordance with by-law 92 (f). Motion seconded by Vice President Mikeska. Motion carried unanimously.

GAIN IN ASSETS - Financial Secretary Mikulas presented the gain in assets for the past ten years. The total assets are in excess of $117 million dollars. The gain in assets are as follows: 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987

$ 5,788,032 5,051,456 6,353,509 9,945,561 12,696,140 6,973,017 6,161,757 5,223,393 5,308,591 6,822,231

For 1997 the income of the Society increased by 8 percent while expenses only increased by percent.

PAID-UP ADDITIONS - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported in 1996, $891,611 of permanent life insurance was purchased from the $457,000 of premium refund that would have been paid to certificate holders. Approximately 69 percent of the members eligible for premium refunds take paid-up additions.

BUDGET - Financial Secretary Mikulas presented the proposed budget for 1997.

The budget was discussed. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Director Hanus, to accept the 1997 budget as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

PREMIUM REFUND TO MEMBERS - A letter from Actuary John Agee concerning the premium refund to members was reviewed. Actuary Agee recommended to continue to pay the members at the rate of 3 percent, based on the mid-terminal reserve during the policy year just completed, on all permanent plans of insurance that

Wednesday, March 5, 1997-VESTNIK/7 have reached the end of their fifth policy year. This program does not include certificates written under the 1980 CSO Mortality Table. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved for the premium refund to members to remain in effect. Motion seconded by Vice President Mikeska. Motion carried unanimously.

INDEPENDENT AUDIT - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported the independent audit by Jaynes Reitmeier, Boyd and Therrell, P.C. should be completed by June 30, 1997. Sammy Paddy of the Texas Department of Insurance has begun auditing procedures of our Society from March 31, 1993, through December 31, 1995.

INCENTIVE PROGRAM - Financial Secretary Mikulas reported on the lodges which have met the requirements for the membership part of the incentive program.

The Board went into executive session to discuss the question of a youth award.

DISTRICT I - Director Vavra reported former Director Kohutek could not attend the meeting because he was in the hospital. Director Vavra inquired if it would be possible for the ex-directors to be given a monetory gain for their services. Director Krizan suggested an honorary title for the past Supreme Lodge members. Vice President Mikeska suggested setting a month when the Society can recognize past officers, directors, and leaders in the Society. After a lengthy discussion, Director Krizan moved that when the next referendum is mailed to the delegates, include a proposition to bestow an honorary title to all former members of the Supreme Lodge and encourage the districts and local lodges to also bestow honorary titles on their past leaders.

Motion seconded by Director Hanus. Motion carried unanimously.

DISTRICT II - Director Klinkovsky expressed his appreciation for the help the Board had furnished and also for approving the Tarok Tournament at the 100th Anniversary celebration.

DISTRICT III - Director Krizan invited everyone to attend the District III Spring meeting on April 27, 1997, at Lodge 92. The Czech Heritage Society will have a State Convention at Lodge 54 on April 19. Two charter lodges (Lodge 6 and Lodge 25) want to have celebrations for their 100th Anniversary. Everyone is invited to the February 9, 1997, meeting at Pilot Point.

DISTRICT IV - Director Broz welcomed the new directors to the Board. The SPJST cemetery in Seymour is interested in a donation. The cemetery will need to make a written request for funds. Director Broz invited everyone to a joint SPJST and RVOS social on February 8, 1997, in Wall. He also invited everyone to the District IV Spring meeting on April 27, 1997, in Lubbock.

DISTRICT V - Director Hanus reported he had installed the officers at Lodge 91, 196, 88, and 172. He invited everyone to District V meeting in March at Lodge 196.

Director Hanus welcomed the two new members.

Around th, Districts Lodge 18, Elgin Hosts District Two Spring Meeting March 16, 1997 Dear District Two Members, The District Two meeting will be held on Sunday, March 16, 1997, at Lodge 18, Elgin.

The agenda for the day is as follows: Registration 1 p.m.

District Two 1:30 p.m.

Youth Club Meeting Meeting Call to Order 2 p.m.

Adjournment 5 p.m.

Evening Meal The evening meal will be furnished and served by Lodge 18, Elgin and you need not bring anything for the meal.

The meal will cost $1 per person., Drinks will be furnished by District Two from 1 to 1:45 p.m. and at break time and following the adjournment. Donations will be accepted from individuals and lodges for the drinks. Door prizes will be given away following the adjournment.

We will be recognizing the 50-year, 75-year, and age 96 members and fraternalist of the year from the each lodge at this meeting so we encourage all to attend. Lodges interested in hosting the fall meeting in September should contact the District President.

Patsy Koslovsky will be having a Little Miss and Mister Program for chil-

"We will be recognizing the 50-year, 75-year, and age 96 members and fraternalists of the year from each lodge at this meeting so we encourage all to attend." dren ages five and under at this meeting.

If you would like your child to participate, contact Patsy prior to the meeting.

Watch for more news in the mail from Patsy and the youth section of the Vestnik this week.

We look forward to seeing all of you at the meeting.

Fraternally, Sharon Holman District Two Secretary

-SPJST-

DISTRICT VII - Director Bayer reported he had installed the officers at Lodge 202, 185, 107, and 31. He had helped the president of Lodge 79 present a check to the Salvation Army in Corpus Christi. The District VII Spurs night will be March 29. He reminded everyone since our logo for the 100th Anniversary is patented (copyrighted), the lodges should ask permission to use it and only lodges can use it.

President Leshikar moved to authorize State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Rozenkranz authorization to attend the Fraternal Communication section to be held in March in California. Motion seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion carried unanimously.

DISTRICT VI - Chairman Vanek attended meetings and socials at Lodge 23 and 97.

He installed the officers in Lodges 30 and 4. He requested a U.S. and Texas flag be placed in the Board room. He invited everyone to the District VI meeting in Hallettsville. He expressed his appreciation to the Board for electing him Chairman.

The next Board meeting will begin April 8, 1997, at 8:30 a.m.

SPRING

MEETING

Director Vavra moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:50 p.m. Motion seconded by Director Broz and carried unanimously.

Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer

-SPJST-

Anniversary Cookbook Update

100th

Because of your wonderful response, the SPJST's first printing of 3,000 copies of the SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbook has been exhausted.

The second printing will be available for delivery or pick-up from the SPJST Home Office in six to eight weeks.

Any profits generated from the sale of the book through the Home Office are being channeled to the Ronald McDonald House. The charity provides lodging and food assistance to families of children undergoing treatment at Scott and White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas. As a result of your cookbook purchases, gifts to the Ronald McDonald house have topped the $3,000 mark. Thank you for your response and for your continued support of the anniversary cookbook project.

To place your order or for information on cookbook fund raising projects for your lodge or youth club, call Daryl or Stephanie at 1 (800) 727 - 7578.

(Important Guideline: Lodges or youth clubs that sell the cookbook are required to charge $10 for the publication, Proceeds generated may be directed at the discretion of the lodge or youth club.)

District One Lodges Include Lodge 1, Fayetteville Lodge 9, Snook Lodge 13, Dime Box Lodge 14, Wesley • Lodge 17, New Tabor Lodge 21, Engle Lodge 38, Smithville Lodge 39, Bryan Lodge 51, Ellinger Lodge 57, Gonzales Lodge 67, Schulenburg Lodge 94, Wheelock Lodge 103, Flatonia Lodge 106, La Grange Lodge 141, Sealy Lodge 169, Brenham Lodge 179, Warrenton Lodge 186, Caldwell Lodge 188, Centerville Lodge 189, Bryan - College Station Lodge 201, Bleiblerville - Nelsonville

SUNDAY APRIL 13 Hosted by Lodge 9, Snook

SPRING MEETING ** District Two Lodges Include Lodge 15, Buckholts Lodge 18, Elgin Lodge 20, Granger Lodge 24, Cyclone Lodge 29, Taylor Lodge 47, Seaton Lodge 48, Beyersville Lodge 74, Lovelady Lodge 80, Holland Lodge 87, Temple Lodge 89, Rosebud Lodge 155, Austin Lodge 171,-Lockhart Lodge 174, Rockdale Lodge 177, Academy Lodge 182, Falls County Lodge 187, Round Rock Lodge 200, Bruceville - Eddy

SUNDAY MARCH 16 Hosted by Lodge 18, Elgin (See details above.)

8/VESTNIK-Wednesday, March 5, 1997

March 29 is SPJST Night with the ' San Antonio Spurs

DISTRICT

DISTRICT

SPRING MEETING ***

SPRING MEETING ***

District Four Lodges Include Lodge 49, Rowena Lodge 73, Seymour Lodge 76, Wichita Falls Lodge 90, Stamford Lodge 157, Lubbock Lodge 160, San Angelo

District Three Lodges Include Lodge 5, Tioga - Pilot Point Lodge 6, Cottonwood Lodge 25, Ennis Lodge 35, Elk Lodge 36, West Lodge 54, West Lodge 66, Waco Lodge 82, Ennis Lodge 84, Dallas Lodge 92, Fort Worth Lodge 101, Gainesville Lodge 110, Kaufman Lodge 130, Dallas Lodge 135, Ennis Lodge 154, Fort Worth Lodge 167, Penelope Lodge 178, Longview Lodge 180, Burleson Lodge 183, Arlington Lodge 195, Cleburne Lodge 204, Stephenville Lodge 205, Kaufman Lodge 206, Mexia

SUNDAY APRIL 27 Hosted by Lodge 157, Lubbock

Correction Lodge 160, San Angelo Please note the following telephone number correction for the Lodge 160, San Angelo lodge secretary listing in your 1997 SPJST Member Services Directory. Thank you!

SUNDAY APRIL 27 Hosted by Lodge 92, FortWorth

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Secretary Cindy Martin (915) 651-8788

TOURNAMENT ACTION THIS SATURDAY!

SPJST State "42" Domino Tournament Saturday March 8, 1997 at Lodge 29, Taylor Lodge hall is located one mile east of Taylor on FM 619 off Highway 95.

The entry fee is $7 and covers the noon meal and snacks. Registration is at 8 a.m.

Tournament play begins at 9 am.

To register, send your name, address, telephone number and lodge number to: SPJST c/o SFAC, Tournaments P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 or call 1 (800) 727-7578

SPJST Annuities

are an excellent way to accumulate a sum of money for retirement or some other purpose, For more information, including current interest rates, contact your local lodge sales representative or the SPJST Home Office at: 1 (800) 72 - SPJST,

DISTRICT SPRING MEETING ******* District Two Lodges Include Lodge 26, Skidmore Lodge 31, Yoakum Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Lodge 93, Hobson Lodge 107, Floresville Lodge 117, Robstown Lodge 133, San Antonio Lodge 137, Taft Lodge 161, La Parita -Jourdanton Lodge 164, Rio Hondo Lodge 185, New Braunfels

SUNDAY APRIL 6 Hosted by Lodge 79, Corpus Christi

OK, Friends! It's that time of year again. 1996 has been put to bed gracefully and 1997 is here (front and center!).

You say, "Front and center-what's that?" It's the Second Annual SPJST Night with the San Antonio Spurs. Wash your cars, shine your shoes and plan on being with us on Saturday, March 29, 1997, as the San Antonio Spurs with such exciting players as David Robinson, Avery Johnson and Sean Elliott take on John Stockton, Karl Malone and Jeff Hornacek of the Utah Jazz. Game time is 7:30 p.m., but you'll want to come early to watch the pre-game show and visit with your fraternal friends.

Discount tickets are $8 and may be obtained by sending $8 and a selfaddressed, stamped envelope to: Barry K. Koch P.O. Box 460268 San. Antonio, Texas 78246 or you may call Barry at (210) 979-0970.

A portion of every ticket will go to the SPJST Scholarship Fund. Remember, these seats are reserved and the best seats always go first. So don't delay-get yours today!

-SPJST-

Finance Committee Meets in Temple on March 22 SPJST

To comply with Article 25 (a) of the SPJST By-Laws, the Finance Committee will meet at the Home Office in Temple, Texas, on Saturday, March 22, 1997, at 9:30 a.m.

The delegates of the 1996 SPJST Convention in Arlington, Texas, passed Article 25 (a) of the SPJST By-Laws which states "The Finance Committee shall meet annually, to review all com-

From

pensation and financial benefits of the Supreme Lodge and Editor, to review the overall financial posture and report their findings to the Supreme Lodge and all standing committees."

Fraternally, Rita J. Vanek Finance Committee Secretary

-SPJST-

the President's Office

Lodge 15, Buckholts Hosts 13th Annual SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament They came from as far as Floresville and as near as Seaton to play in the SPJST State Straight Domino Tournament. The competition was hot but one lodge came away with a big smile, and two married partners from different lodges came away with even bigger smiles.

Congratulations to first place team winners Aleen Gaida of Lodge 18, Elgin and Dan Gaida of Lodge 20, Granger.

Lodge 17, New Tabor cleaned up, winning second-, third-, fourth- and fifthplaces. Congratulations to second place winners Donnie Paul and Gary Zwernemann, third place winners Donnie Suehs and Kenneth Paul, fourth place winners Glen Paul and Clarence Sefcik, and fifth place winners Randy and Linda Gaas, all of Lodge 17.

Many thanks to gracious host president Gladys Allison of Lodge 15, Buckholts and members for allowing the 13th Annual Straight Tournament to be

held in their lovely facility. The folks there made the day comfortable and kept the players well-fed.

Thanks to Bob Bayer, District Seven Director, for showing his competitive side by giving tourney play a good shot with his partner, Joe Pavliska. And special thanks to District Two Director Frank Klinkovsky who volunteered his time to see that the tournament kept running smoothly.

With a twinkle in their eyes and a spring in their steps, the tourney players parted company after a day of fraternal competition between friends, richer for the fellowship, and richer for being the good sports that they are: Submitted by, Barbara Rosenkranz State Fraternal Activities Coordinator (Editor's Note: Tournament photos appear on page 9.)

-SPJST-

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VESTNIK/9

Scenes from the SPJST Straight Domino Tournament Hosted by Lodge 15, Buckholts Pictured, at right, are First Place finishers Dan Gaida of Lodge 20, Granger and Aleen Gaida of Lodge 18, Elgin.

LEFT PHOTO: Second Place finishers, from left, were Gary Zwernemann and Donnie Paul of Lodge 17, New Tabor. RIGHT PHOTO: Third Place finishers were, from left, Don Suehs and Kenneth Paul of Lodge 17, New Tabor.

LEFT: Fourth Place finishers were, from left, Glen Pau/ and Clarence Sefcik of Lodge 17, New Tabor. RIGHT PHOTO: Fifth Place finishers were Linda Gaas and Randy Gaas of Lodge 17, New Tabor.

Nat

Pictured above are members of Lodge 17, New Tabor who won the team trophy for winning the most games in the 1997 SPJST Straight Domino Tournament. Players, from left, front, are:. Donnie Paul, Clarence Sefcik, Linda Gaas and Randy Gaas. BACK: Gary Zwememann, Donnie Suehs.

Glen Paul and Kenneth Paul.

Pictured above are members of Lodge 15, Buckholts who prepared the food and helped with the tournament.

Lodge Letters Section Lodge 4, Hallettsville Reports on February Meeting Dear Members, Our lodge held its monthly meeting on Sunday, February 9, 1997, at the Youth Center beginning at 2 p.m. President Joe Siptak opened the meeting followed by the pledge to the flag.

Secretary Margaret Smotek read the minutes to the last meeting which were approved. FAC Lillie Balusek and Treasurer Helen Zabransky reported.

Sunshine Chairman Elsie Mascheck gave a report on the February bingo for the residents at Stevens Convalescent Center. Members assisting were Mary Matula, Jo Ann Matula, Vickie Zak, Viola Holly, and Elsie Mascheck. She thanked the youth club for the cute valentine favors they made for the residents.

Also thanked were the following members who donated cakes that were served: Annette Novak, Lillie Balusek, Elsie Mascheck, and Patsy and Helen Zabransky. A get-well card was sent to Dorothy Nickelson.

If there is an opening in the Little League, the members voted to sponsor a t-ball or minor league team.

Our lodge is honored to have another member reach 96 years. She is Emma A. Holley. Also, our 50-year members will receive their pins at our Family Day in August. Our 50-year members for 1997 are: George W. Bucek, Jr., Adela Ermis, Harold Anthony Frank, Dorothy T. Henneke, Mary Elizabeth Jonietz, Joe Frank Konecny, Leroy Marvin Mikeska, Julius C. Technik, and Marvin L. Trojcak.

The District Six Spring Meeting, which our lodge is hosting on March 2 at St. Mary's Hall, was discussed and plans were made. The lodge will furnish the sandwiches and members are asked to bring cakes, pies, kolaches, etc. for the lunch.

Helen Zabransky gave a report on the Czech classes that will begin on Tuesday, February 11 at the Hallettsville Senior Citizens Center beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The response has been good. Adolf Motal will be the instructor.

The meeting adjourned followed by a valentine skit by the youth club. They then gave candy to all the members which was enjoyed.

A delicious lunch followed with President Siptak giving the meal prayer.

Members then enjoyed visiting and playing bingo.

Members present with a birthday in January, February, or March were Margaret Smotek, Holly Scott, Elizabeth Vahalik, Elizabeth Wagner, Elsie Mascheck, Ida Naubauer, Annette Novak, Joshua Siptak, Joe Balusek, and Joe Siptak. Winner of the birthday cake baked

by Viola Holly was Annette Novak.

Door prize winners were Joe Balusek and Adam Siptak.

Many thanks to my sister, Helen, for taking notes at the meeting since I arrived after the meeting.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, March 9 at the Youth Center at 2 p.m.

Lunch will be served as usual and door prizes will be given. See you there!

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 5, Tioga-Pilot Point Elects Officers Hip-Hip-Hooray! Hip-Hip-Hooray!

We're newly reorganized and on our way!

A meeting of Lodge 5, Tioga, Texas, was held at the Pilot Point Community Center on February 9, 1997, at 2 p.m.

The meeting was called to order by Mr. Leonard Mikeska, Supreme Lodge Vice President, standing in for Supreme Lodge President Howard Leshikar who was ill.

Mr. Mikeska lead the Pledge of Allegiance and then introduced the slate of officers present.

Mr. Gene McBride, State Field Manager, gave a short dissertation on "What is SPJST." Mr. Johnnie Krizan, District Director, spoke of his appreciation of being chosen the District Director. Mr. Krizan took the place of Mr. Sid Pokladnik, who is trying to retire. Mr. Pokladnik spoke briefly of his years in SPJST and spoke glowingly of Mr. Krizan, asking that we all give him our wholehearted support.

Mr. Jerry Kucera, District Field Representative, declined to speak.

Mr. Mikeska then introduced lodge sales representatives present: Sherrie (Kubala) Watkins and Jack and Dean Carender.

Mrs. Barbara Rosenkranz was also introduced as the new State Fraternal Activities Coordinator.

The meeting proceeded with the election of officers and a new name for the lodge. The new name will be known as Pilot Point-Tioga SPJST Lodge 5.

The new slate of officers are: President L.E. David Vice President Sherrie Watkins Secretary Raymond David Treasurer Rene Hudspeth Reporter Jack Carender Youth Leader Nala Chambers In all of these proceedings, we do not want to forget the faithful service of our outgoing officers: President Mr. J.J. Kubala Vice President Mrs. Edna Schroeder Secretary Mrs. Lorene Schroeder Treasurer Mr. Alvin -Schroeder These folks have kept Tioga Lodge 5 together for a long time. On behalf of the new officers and membership, we offer them our heartfelt thanks.

After the meeting was adjourned, we enjoyed a fine meal of sauerkraut and Sid Pokladnik's sausage with all the trimmings.

Door prizes of $25, $10, and $5 were drawn from members registered at the door. We then enjoyed a round of bingo with some very nice prizes given to the winners.

All in all, it was a very enjoyable afternoon of business and fun. We are looking forward to bigger and better things to start happening with Pilot Point-Tioga SPJST Lodge 5.

Our next meeting was set for the first Monday in March on March 3, 1997, at 7 p.m. at the Pilot Point Community Center.

Respectfully, Jack Carender Reporter —SPJST-

10/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Reports on February Meeting The monthly meeting of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood was called to order by Brother Robert Dobecka, president. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the youth club with 21 members present.

Sister Barbara Hykel, secretary, was unable to attend this meeting, so the minutes of last month's meeting were not read for approval. All other lodge officers were present and gave their necessary reports, which were all approved.

Sister Hattie Kaska of the Sunshine Committee sent get-well cards to Sister Dorothy Kucera and Annie Smajstrla and also to Brother Al and Sister Georgia Soukup and their grandson. She also sent sympathy cards to Sister Beverly Uptmor, Brother George Straten, Jr., Brother George Straten, Sr. family, and Brother Joe Kotch, Jr. Sorry that this report is just now getting in, but I took sick right after our meeting that day and am still trying to get back on my feet. I hope to make it to the workshop and banquet on February 22.

Our Lodge 6, Cottonwood received and accepted one new juvenile member, Jessa Emily Vochoska. Congratulations and welcome!

The Lodge 6, Cottonwood Youth Club will be selling cookbooks for $10 each.

So if you would like one of the SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbooks, please order one from our youth club. They would appreciate it very much.

Remember to mark your calendars!

The District Three meeting will be held on April 27 at Lodge 92, Fort Worth. Be there!

The youth club gave out hanging potpourri hearts to everyone present.

Thanks a bunch! They made them as one of their projects for Valentine's Day. Those in attendance with birthdays for February were Sister Hattie Kaska and Brother Bill Skerik. Happy Birthday to these two sweethearts and to all having a birthday this month.

Door prizes were drawn for $5, won

by Peggy Dobecka; progressive $10, won

by Cyril Svrcek (not present); and progressive $2, won by Doris Habryl (not present). Then, various door prizes were exchanged by the members present.

The meeting was then adjourned and an evening meal was enjoyed by everyone. Thanks to our chefs for this month, Sister Irene and Brother Robert Schiemenz, for a great meal.

Oh yes, thanks to Sister Hattie Kaska and Sister Stella Perez for their donation of kitchen utensils. I also noticed that thanks are in order to our youth club for their donation of dish towels.

Our next meeting will be March 23 which will be our Easter programs, along with the ten-year picture taking for the lodge. Make plans now to attend. The meeting will begin at 1 p.m. with hunts, activities and a meal afterwards.

Fraternally, Stella Perez, Reporter —SPJST-

the SPJST your first choice for all of your family's life insurance needs.

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Lodge 15, Bucld-tolts Reports on February Meeting Dear Members and Friends, Our meeting was called to order by President Gladys Allison.

We stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silent prayer for all of our deceased members.

All reports were approved as read.

On the sick list this month were Sidonia Svoboda, Kathleen Jurca, and Johnnie Balusek. Kathleen Jurca had surgery and I understand that she is home and doing great. Kathleen, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Klinkovsky were our special guests. Frank made a speech and installed the officers for 1997.

Thanks a lot and hope you both are feeling much better.

Our next meeting is March 9 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally, Louise Sakewitz Reporter

—SPJST-

17, New Tabor Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Dear Members, New Tabor Lodge 17 held its regular meeting with all officers present except Mica Sandner. Wilfred Hildebrand was appointed to serve for the day.

A resolution of sympathy was read for departed Brother Louis Dubcak. May he rest in eternal peace and his memory remain with us always.

We are planning a reception for our 75-year recipient Vlasta Schoeneman and several 50-year members. Watch for your invitation if you are one of them.

Our annual tarok tournament will be July 19. Registration is at 8 a.m. and play begins at 9 a.m.

The books were audited after the meeting.

Our next meeting was scheduled for March 2 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally, Lola Vavra Reporter

—SPJST-

18, Elgin Spring Polka Fest Sunday, March 9

Lodge 25, Ennis Installs 1997 Officers

L Pictured above are 1997 officers of Lodge 25, Ennis. They are, from left: Flag Bearer Johnnie Krajca, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Margaret Krajca, Youth Leader and Financial Secretary Kay Kovar, Treasurer Judy Hrabina, Secretary Pat Fowler, Vice President Jim Holahan and President Charlie Patak.

Lodge 24, Cyclone Expresses Thanks to Community Dear Members and Friends, Thanks to your participation and support, our first-ever "Be My Valentine Party" held February 14 at Flag Hall was a success! Approximately 300 adults and youngsters turned out for the party.

Thanks also to all of our active lodge members and standing committee chairmen who volunteered their services for the evening. The food was great and everybody seemed to have a lot of fun.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the following businesses who helped to underwrite the cost for the entertainment: Bartlett Auction, Green's Sausage House, Hoelscher Pest Control and Ray's Auto Supply. Entertainment, which included hit music from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s and karaoke was provided by Tommy D's of Temple. Likewise, we want express our appreication to Temple artist Barbara Wilson for the face painting. By the end of the evening, Barbara said she had painted at least a hundred faces — and that wasn't just youngsters! Donations collected for the face painting will be applied toward replacing the floor in the Youth Room.

Our next lodge meeting will be Monday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. There will be a covered dish social before the meeting at 7 p.m. Some exciting projects are planned for 1997 at Flag Hall and we'd love to get you involved.

Fraternally yours, Brian Vanicek, President

—SPJST-

Lodge

Lodge 18, Elgin's Spring Polka Fest is Sunday, March 9. The polka fest will feature Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, Leo Majek Orchestra, and the Vrazels Polka Band from 2 to 8 p.m. for listening and dancing.

Admission is $7 per person. The kitchen will open at 12:30 p.m. serving hamburgers, nachos, sweets, and maybe even some kolaches.

Everyone is invited to enjoy an afternoon of good music at the Spring Polka Fest at Lodge 18, Elgin.

Submitted by, Irene Vrabel Reporter

—SPJST-

25, Ennis Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Dear Members, The February 6 meeting came to order at 8 p.m. with President Charlie Patak presiding. The pledge was led was Johnnie Krajca. A moment of silence was observed for Brother Joe W. Vitovsky.

Secretary Pat Fowler read the minutes of the January meeting. Treasurer Judy Hrabina gave the treasurer's report. Both were approved.

FAC Margaret Krajca reported on the SPJST Lodge Recognition and Incentive Banquet that was set for February 22 at

SPJST Lodge 47 and the workshop at Lodge 24, Cyclone.

Janet Patak gave the Polka Festival report. This year's grand marshall will be Jerry Bartos. The Polka Festival will be Friday, May 30, Saturday, May 31, and Sunday, June 1. Lodge 25 will be the host lodge this year.

The youth club report was given by Kay Kovar.

We would like to congratulate Kay Lynn Kovar of our lodge for being selected as one of the 1996 Fratemalist of the Year Honorable Mentions.

The 100th Anniversary of the lodge was discussed. The planning committee, headed by Vice President Jim Holahan, meets on Tuesday nights at the hall at 7:30 p.m. We are having a souvenir program printed. If we miss you and you would like to have your listing in the souvenir program, contact the hall and we will get in touch with you. See more information in Lodge 25's calendar.

The next meeting will be March 13 at 8 p.m.

Margaret Krajca

—SPJST-

Lodge 25, Ennis to Celebrate 100 Years on May 3 SPJST

Lodge 25, Ennis was established June 28, 1897, as a charter lodge of SPJST and is proud to celebrate 100 years. The customs and heritage of our Czech forefathers have been kept alive through our traditions of benevolence, humanity and brotherhood.

Schedule of Events Lodge 25, Ennis will celebrate 100 years on Saturday, May 3, 1997. The activities include: 12-2 p.m.

Lunch with barbecue and all the trimmings.

Sandwiches will be served all day.

1 p.m.

Music by the Sulak Brothers Band 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

West Czech Dancers 6 p.m.

Evening Music by the Vrazel's and the Mikula's Souvenir Program Lodge 25 is printing a souvenir program. Ad sizes and prices are: 1/12 page—$20 1/8 page—$30

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VESTNIK/11 1/4 page—$50 1/2 page—$75 Full page—$125 Send your company or lodge name, contact person and telephone number, mailing address, city, state and zip with payment for your ad. Please sketch, type or print your ad information as you would like it to appear in the program. Double check your spelling and content.

For photographs, supply a black and white photo and include a $25 additional charge for processing. Put your name and address on the back of all photos and identify the people in the photo as well as describe the event so it can be printed in the program. If you wish to have your photo returned, please enclose a selfaddressed envelope.

For businesses, please provide camera ready art of your ad or logo. (A business card is acceptable.)

Ad deadline is March 10, 1997.

However, please send your ad as soon as possible.

Send this information with payment made payable to SPJST Lodge 25 to: Judy Hrabina P.O. Box 129 Ennis, Texas 75120 If we miss you and you would like to have your listing in the souvenir program, contact the hall and we will get in touch with you. See more information in Lodge 25's calendar.

—SPJST-

Lodge 25, Ennis

Youth Club Selling Cookbooks Attention All SPJST Lodge 25 Members.

The Lodge 25 youth are selling the SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbook.

Please support the youth by buying this wonderful cookbook. They make excellent Christmas gifts! The youth will sell them at Lodge 25's 100-Year Anniversary Celebration on May 3 and at the Polka Festival on May 30 to June 1 or please call me at 875-5498.

Fraternally, Kay Lynn Kovar Youth Leader —SPJST-

Lodge Karel Jonas,

No. 28, East Bernard to Meet March 9 Dear Members, With many events taking place the last part of February and the first part of March, Lodge Karel Jonas still will hold its monthly meeting on the regular scheduled day, the second Sunday of March, the 9th, at 2 p.m. in the ground floor meeting room at 106 Leveridge Street in the SPJST Hall building.

The agenda will follow the set order of business and will be open to business needing immediate attention. Also, there will be at least three special and important reports given which will have information that the membership needs to know.

A standard fare fraternal hour buffet luncheon is being planned.

February Meeting Report February's monthly meeting, on the

9th, became the first monthly meeting of 1997 due to very bad weather on the meeting date of the January meeting.

Even though this meeting day's weather was not the best, a quorum was present.

After all of the reports were approved as given, several motions were made and passed.

Acceptance of two new members was one of the motions. We wish to welcome Lane Sulak and Leonard Sulak to our lodge.

Presentation of 50-year pins took a couple motions to set things up. After the motions were voted on, it was noted that there were 17 members who have reached this plateau in their membership.

Of these, the youngest is 56 years old and the oldest being 83.

The date chosen to make these presentations was the May monthly meeting on the 4th, the first Sunday. This change was necessary due to Mother's Day falling on the scheduled second Sunday in May. With no further business needing immediate attention, the meeting turned to more pleasant and lighter items. This being the belated best wishes and happy 70th birthday to Brother George Keprta.

His birthday was the latter part of January and as mentioned earlier the January meeting was cancelled.

Young Sister Jessica Kelner gave out "goodie" packages with a baked treat and candy in observance of Valentine's Day. She then assisted in handing out the door prizes before the meeting adjourned.

Thank you, Sister Jessica.

To the faithful: Remember that this next Sunday, the 9th, is meeting day, see you there and this writer remains— Fraternally Yours, Joseph D. Nezval President —SPJST-

Lodge 29, Taylor

Reports on February Meeting SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor held its monthly meeting on Sunday, February 9 at 4 p.m.

The minutes, treasurer's report, and correspondence was read by Janet Kaiser.

Albin and Elaine Machu were given an appreciation award for sales and hard work for 1996.

In 1997, we will be honoring 25 50year members.

March 1 will be a work day at the hall starting at 8:30 a.m.

We voted to have our annual May Fete on the first Sunday in May. Any Lodge 29 girl between the ages of 16 and 22 wishing to run, please be at the next meeting.

Lydia Cuba transferred her membership from Lodge 48 to Lodge 29. New members are Mark Evans, David Bachmeyer, Laura Bachmeyer, Sara Bachmeyer, Ruby Schroeder, Melanie Leyendecker, Kiersten Leyendecker, Bradley Winstead, Kaiden Rodriquez, Bonnie Deaver, James White, Virginia Quebas, Linda Shugart, Dylan Stock, Garrett Stock, Trent Shumate, and Alvin Roznovak.

The next meeting will be March 9 at 4 p.m. Door prizes were won by Edmond Tate, Charles Wagner, Gertie Safarik, Donna Pasemann, and Otto Rieger.

Elaine Machu Reporter —SPJST-

you on all your accomplishments in your fraternal activities as well as in your community. We appreciate you. Thank you e again for your many, many accomplishments, all for the best interest of our hall, our lodge and our community.

We congratulate Sister Evelyn President Johnnie Janak called the Gustafson of Lodge 18, Elgin, the 1996 January and February meetings to order SPJST State Fraternalist of the Year. Best and lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance to wishes to you in the National Fraternalist the flag. We remained standing for a competition. moment of silent prayer for Marie Trlica Entertainment Committee Chairman whom we lost in January and for Jettie Lucille Cervenka reported on their meetFendley who passed away in February.

In our January 22 meeting, we elected ing. There was a brief discussion on the plans for the Youth Achievement Day at our 1997 officers and they are: Lodge 66 on June 29, 1997. Members President Johnnie Janek are requested to bring snacks for the Vice President Edwin Zimmerhanzel March meeting.

Secretary Joe Sulak FAC Mary Alice Langlotz reported 23 Treasurer/Reporter Jerry Faust adults and four youth members attended Auditor Leon Kalina the February game night. Dana Auditor Alfred Hellinger McAdams won the door prize. Mary.

These members have served in the past Alice encouraged everyone to attend the next game night on March 10. It's a lot years, and you can be assured they will continue to serve you well. It is impor- of fun! Come out and join us. There tant that you support and help them dur- were three representatives from Lodge 66 at the State Tarok Tournament. The State ing the coming year. Please come to the 42 Domino Tournament will be March 8 meetings, held on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 38, at Lodge 29, Taylor, and the State Horseshoe Tournament will be April 26 Kovar.

It was discussed in the January meet- at Lodge 17, New Tabor, Mary Alice reported. ing that 1996 was a very successful year.

The Cheer and Condolence President Johnnie Janak reported in Committee reported sympathy cards were our February 17 meeting that he and Joe sent to Mrs. Olin Monthie and family on Sulak will be attending a workshop held the death of their mother, Sister Marie on February 22 in Cyclone and later on Drews Brady, and to Mr. and Mrs. Frank that afternoon at Seaton, our lodge was to Parma on the death of her cousin, Sister receive a $200 incentive award.

In both meetings, the minutes were Tillie Bily.

President John Engelke thanked the read by Secretary Joe Sulak. They were sales representatives for theii good job in approved as read. The treasurer's report getting the Gold Award for Lodge 66. A was given by Jerry Faust. plaque and a check in the amount of It was announced in the February $1,056.09 will be presented at the Lodge meeting that ten members will receive Recognition and Incentive Banquet at their 50-year pins. They are: Julie E. Flores, Edward Hajdik, Leslie Darvin Lodge 47, Seaton on February 22. Lodge Hurta, Frances Janecek, Stanley F. 66 lacked only three members to be eligiKubicek, 'Victoria V. Matocha, Ruth Ann ble for the Platinum Award.

Youth Leader Diana Engelke reported Meduna, Della Mae Otahal, Della Nora R.D. Easter was accepted as a new memPittman, and Genevieve Young. ber today in the youth club. Makala Fraternally Yours, Yates was a visitor. There were 15 youth Jerry Faust and five adults present. The youth visited —SPJSTthe Moody Nursing Home and delivered valentine cookies and bingo prizes. Also, on February 23, they will make Easter decorations for them.

The youth club will sell the SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbook for $10.

After money is collected, they will donate $25 to the Temple Ronald McDonald House. Plans are to order candy for another fund raiser. An Easter egg hunt is There were 31 members and 15 youth planned after the adult meeting on March in attendance at our regular meeting on February 16. The youth club members 16. The birthday cake was donated by presented the flags and led the Pledge of Alicia Neslony, and D.J. Yates donated the game. The prize for first place was Allegiance and the SPJST Motto.

A resolution of sympathy was read by won by Kevin Galler and second place by Darlene Engelke and a moment of silence Whitney Dennis. Many thanks to the was observed in the memory of Sister youth for the valentine treats, a lovely Marie Drews Brady. We wish to express decorated basket filled with candy hearts our most sincere sympathy to all the fam- presented to each member by the youth club. ily.

There was a lengthy discussion perNew members accepted at this meettaining to the hall operations and activiing were Dianalynn Barber, Kimberly J. Scott, Robert Glaesmann, Jr., and Gladys ties. Many good suggestions and ideas Yates (additional policy). We welcome were presented by the members to be diseach of you and do hope you will soon cussed further at a meeting of the Board make plans to join in our activities and of Directors.

Congratulations to Mary Alice meetings.

Langlotz who was elected as outstanding Congratulations to Mary Jane Chudej, Baylor University Staff Employee of Lucille Drury, Rose Lillian Krupala, Tim 1996, the highest honor to be awarded.

L. Urbanek and Elnora Mary Volcik, all She was honored and received a beautiful 50-year pin recipients. They will be honpin/pendant with two diamonds, a lovely ored at our regular meeting in May. Congratulations, John. What an honor plaque and a check at a recent ceremony held at Baylor. that our Lodge 66 Fraternalist, Brother The door prize winner was Ben John Engelke, President, has been recommended for the 1996 SPJST State Pustejovsky. The 50-50 club winner was Fraternalist of the Year. John, we applaud Bonnie Pruitt. February birthday cele-

Lodge 38, Kovar

Reports on Recent Meetings

Lodge 66, Waco

Reports on February Meeting

12/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997 brants present were Bennie Engelke (81 today), Lucille Cervenka and Makala Yates. Everyone joined in singing the "Happy Birthday" song as they were presented a beautiful birthday cake, donated by youth club member Alicia Neslony.

Our next regular meeting will be held on March 16 at 2:30 p.m. at Linden Hall and members are requested to bring snacks. Please make plans to attend.

Fraternally, Emma Ceska, President —SPJST--

Lodge 80, Holland Reports on February Meeting Dear Members and Friends, President Harold Rohde called the meeting of Lodge 80 to order at 4 p.fri. on February 1, 1997.

All stood for a moment of silence for departed members and the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

Secretary-Treasurer Glen Latham stated all officers were present. The reading of the minutes from the January meeting followed and they were approved as read.

Brother Latham stated that the Home Office had informed him that Lodge 80 would receive a Platinum Award at the upcoming Incentive Banquet. He also congratulated Ann Ivicic as the top recruiter for Lodge 80 during the Olympics 96 drive sponsored by the SPJST Home Office.

New members accepted into the lodge were Brad Weir, Raylan Cox, Kayci Cox, Mary Richter, Marinda Vere, Cindy Smith, Amelia Anderson, and Ralph Snyder. We look forward to seeing you at our functions throughout the years.

Brother Latham gave all the committee reports with all doing very well. He and Brother G.L. (Pee Wee) Brisbin felt this was one of the best months in the kitchen. Brother Brisbin thanked all those that work on game nights.

Arts, Crafts and Garage Sale set for March 15 President Rohde reminded everyone that March 15, 1997, will be our annual arts, crafts, and garage sale. The hall will open at 7:30 a.m. If you need a booth, contact Brother Rohde at (817) 657-2781.

We will also have that good of Holland barbecue on sale at the pit starting at 10 a.m. We will conclude the day with a special game night beginning at 7 p.m.

So, come out and have a wonderful day at Holland SPJST. Jimmy Parkhill was reported as not feeling well. Hope you are up and around by now!

Door prize winners were Glen Latham, Harold Rohde, Coleman Benner, Calvin Eckermann, and G.L. Brisbin.

Birthdays in February were Estelle Coker, Ruby Klotz, and Rick Benner.

Dean Brisbin moved for adjournment, seconded by Ann Latham.

In January, Harold Rohde called the meeting to order in the usual manner.

The minutes and committee reports were read by Glenn Latham.

Correspondence was a thank-you from the Logan Wendler family for the scholarship donation; from Willie and Adeline Kohutek for the turkeys and years of fellowship; and from the Peggy Corner of B&W for our continued support.

Frank Pajestka, Jr. reported from the Board of Directors on the leasing of the hall and recommended changes. The

membership voted for the changes effective January, 1997.

The change of meeting time was also discussed and Joe Surnbera moved, seconded by Vicki Benner, that we have our lodge meetings on the first Saturday of the month at 4 p.m. Motion carried.

The arts, crafts, and garage sale was scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 1997, with more details at the lodge meeting.

Door prize winners were Coleman Benner, Carl Klotz, Harold Rohde, Florine Rohde, and Frank Pajestka, Sr. The meeting wa's adjourned for a onehour social.

Fraternally yours, Frank Pajestka, Jr., Reporter

--SPJST-

87, Temple to Meet Tuesday, March 11 Lodge

New energy is flowing through our lodge with the new year. Despite a cold rain which seemed very distant from May flowers and made our parking places seem distant from the lodge, attendance was even higher than our previous meeting. Bertha Capps and the other contributors received a well-deserved round of applause for a veritable valentine feast, including door prizes of both the edible and nonedible variety and sweet goodies for the children.

Children were, indeed, the centerpiece of the meeting, since Joni Lange, State Youth Director, was our distinguished guest and gave an exciting presentation to help us increase the involvement of our lodge's youth. We are hoping to continue the already rising attendance by our youngest members. Many thanks are due to our members of all ages for their patience and assistance with my own toddler daughter. I hope I am able to convince her that I can present the minutes without her voluble assistance before the next meeting! Tyler and Brittany Angelo were particularly helpful and should have received more appreciation from me at the time.

Director Lange deserved extra appreciation as well, since she stayed on after the meeting to help individuals plan our own parts in youth recruitment. This was not only after she presented the information we requested, but also after she patiently waited through our regular meeting. The rest of us were already energized prior to her presentation, since we approved a change in our meeting day from the second Wednesday to the second Tuesday of each month. We had been discussing ways to increase involvement and many people knew of others, including youth, who had standing Wednesday night commitments. We hope to see some new faces in March!

Back in February, however, we even had some mystery and excitement in our usual routine presentations. An important piece of correspondence disappeared, including the premium refund for 1996 .(of which our sales representatives can be very proud). Luckily, it resurfaced in President Alford's notes the following day. Thus, through him, the check was transferred from our secretary to our treasurer. We can only speculate that the presidential and secretarial correspondence was jumbled during the reading of the minutes, so that this transfer took place more subtly than usual. We plan to request that such checks be sent directly to the treasurer in the future, so that we

may avoid a repeat occurrence.

Otherwise, we will need to recruit more Nancy Drew and Sherlock Holmes afficionados!

In the meantime, all our officers were able to attend the February workshop in Cyclone. We hope to be able to institute some of the innovations suggested and to better promote the fraternal activities of the SPJST. I was unfortunately unable to get to the Awards Banquet which followed in Seaton, but I look forward to hearing about it next month.

March continues to approach like a lion and we eagerly await a St. Patrick's Day inspired meeting, for which. Brother John Ferguson is coordinating refreshments. It will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11. Come join us on our new meeting day!

Fraternally, Lauren B. Kacir

SPJST-

87, Temple Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Lodge 87 held its monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 12. We had 18 adults and five youth present for this "Valentines" meeting. This night was a particular chilly and very wet night. The company inside the lodge hall made the evening very enjoyable despite the dreary conditions. A special welcome was extended to State Youth Director Joni Lange.

Before the business of the lodge was conducted, a Valentine's meal of pizza, salad and delicious desserts was enjoyed by everyone present. Like in most households, all the pizza was gobbled up. A special thanks to Mazzio's Pizza for offering a discount on the purchase of the pizzas Also, an extra special thanks to Mrs. Bertha Capps and Mrs. Joan Worthington for rounding up that delicious meal for us. Thanks to the members that brought the mouth-watering holiday cakes and desserts as well.

After the pledge and moment of silence for deceased members, the reports and business of the lodge was conducted

by President Don Alford. Of particular note, the membership was informed of a 50-year member that is to be honored this year, Vlasta Valchar. Congratulations, Mrs. Valchar, on reaching that enviable position! The lodge was also informed about the premium refund check that was received from the Supreme Lodge. As a reminder, members, our actions within our lodge can help boost that check higher and higher each year. The main item of business concerned the discussion of changing the regularly scheduled meeting days from the second Wednesday to the second Tuesday of each month. It was held that the change would allow more members, and prospective members, to attend meetings without having conflicts with Wednesday church activities. After a brief discussion and vote, the motion passed to accept that change. Beginning March 11, the lodge will begin meeting on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. There was also discussion about the upcoming workshop and banquet.

Once the lodge's business was han-

r

Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Party Set for April 6 Reservations will start on March 11 for the first Blue Room Party on April 6. Social starts at 4 p.m. and a dinner of chicken fried steak and all the trimmings will be served at 5:15 p.m.

Music will be provided by the

Moonriders until 9 p.m. The cost is $12.50 per person. We will once again have a prize drawing. Anyone wishing to donate beverage baskets, cokes, beer, wine, or anything else, please contact Dorothy Pflughaupt at (713) 864-2163

Blue Room Party Advance Reservation Application Send requests to: SPJST Lodge 88 Blue Room Party 1435 Beall Street • Houston, Texas 77008 Name Address City

State

Zip

Phone

Party Date Table Request No. of People April 6. 1997 First Choice $12.50 per person Second Choice If no specific table is requested, we will assign you by availability and size of party.

Date Sent to Lodge Amount Sent $ Please check one: ❑ Will Pick Up Tickets ❑ Please Mail

Reservations Open March 11 Please Pay By March 27 This application only expresses your interest in attending these functions and what your preferences are as to table assignments and number of individuals in your party. These applications will be held until the beginning day, March 11, of ticket sales for the Blue Room Party. Reservations will not be confirmed until tickets are purchased, All money must be paid ten working days prior to the date of the Blue Room Party or by the date above.

If you wish to have your tickets mailed, it would be appreciated if you would please send a self-addressed stamped envelope with your check attached to the form. Tickets can be picked up in the office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m .Monday through Friday, or on Thursday and some Saturday evenings in the Blue Room. For special ticket pick up arrangements, please contact the office at (713) 869-5767or a committee member.

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VkSTNIK/13 died, President Alford recognized State Youth Director Joni Lange. Joni took the opportunity to discuss many of the different youth programs available. She offered her assistance in helping to form a youth club at Lodge 87. After her introductory words, she fielded numerous questions from several members regarding things such as camp and the "points system". This may be the beginning of good things to come for Lodge 87's youth. Thanks again, Joni, for taking the time to visit with us.

The meeting was rounded out with door prizes being drawn and well wishes until we meet again.

Respectfully submitted, Keith D. Gatewood, Reporter —SPJST-

88, Houston Presents February Meeting Minutes

Lodge

President Clara Broz opened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. and Kathy Trefell, Margie Anders, and Donna Clooney presented the colors and led the . Pledge of Allegiance.

President Broz interrupted the meeting to announce we received word that our former FAC Homer Alexander passed away. She asked for a moment of silence in his honor.

Ten new applicants were voted into membership.

Officers' Reports President Broz reported Anniversary Day was a big success. The Executive Board meeting was set for February 18, 1997, at 7 p.m. First Vice President Marie Stayton asked the Men's Club to carry the flags in March. SecretaryTreasurer Melanie Spies read the Consolidated Income Statement for January. FAC Larry Pflughaupt reflected on his last meeting with Homer Alexander and how Homer was a true fraternalist. AARP Defensive Driving classes are set for February 20 and 21 and April 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The cost is $8. If anyone has a charity they wish donations to be made, please give Larry the name. Youth Leader Barbara L. Gonzales reported the youth had a lock-in which proved to be very successful. Barbara thanked everyone who donated for the silent auction and raffle on Anniversary Day and reported plans to attend the rodeo.

Committee Reports Entertainment Chairman Ben Hogan reported a record-breaking attendance at the Vrazels and intends to continue in this manner. He announced a revision to the discount program. Effective immediately, members will be given a $2 discount at the Saturday night dances until the end of March.

Willie Wehring of the Board of Trustees named board members and positions to be held for the year. The Workers Party is set for March 16, 1997, and the list of workers needs to be at the office by February 21. The board approved the adjustment of rental prices and contract charges, three mats for the bar, and an alarm for the coolers. A bid for repairs to the rest rooms was read outlining all the repairs and replacements. Wheel chair accessibility was not included.

President Broz presented repairs to the membership. A motion by Johnny Broz, seconded by Sidney Jurchak, to accept

bids and proceed with construction passed.

Bar Chairman Lynn Pflughaupt thanked everyone for' helping on Anniversary Day. Dorothy Pflughaupt of the Blue Room said thanks for supporting the Blue Room on Anniversary Day. She reminded members the Blue Room party was April 6, 1997, and to pick up a Blue Room newsletter.

Jeanette Bender of the Kitchen thanked all who worked in the kitchen on Anniversary Day. Kathy Trefell of the Birthday Club thanked all who helped with Anniversary Day. The Birthday Sisters furnished pastry to the Annie Vala family. Tom Marsh of the Men's Club reminded members of the paper drive and Fiesta sales ticket collection. He asked Treasurer Johnny Kosut to come forward. He presented President Broz with a donation from Fiesta. Gene Barcak of the Choral Club reported a scheduled performance at the University Nursing Home on March 3.

Edna Wehring of the Dance Class reported the Home Office has agreed to sponsor the dance class another year from February, 1997, to February, 1998.

Thanks to all the directors for approving this and especially Louis Hanus, our District Five Director, for his support.

Benevolence Reporter Mary Kosut reported 580 hours of work done for the lodge without compensation in January; 100 hours were spent doing charity work when the need arose; and 600 hours spent doing charity work on a regular basis.

Mary instructed the new committee leaders on keeping track of hours.

Louis Hanus, District Five Director, reported the dance class approved by the directors allows only one class per district and other lodges are invited to participate at Lodge 88.

Evelyn Mikeska, District Five President, stated that the District Five Spring Meeting was set for March 2, 1997, at Lodge 196, Cypress. Lunch and the social are from 12 to 1:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 1:30 p.m.

Members are asked to bring pastry which will be served for lunch and the auction benefitting the youth clubs. The election of officers, door prizes and lots of fellowships were scheduled for the day.

Youth leaders will be in charge of pastry.

DYC Marie Stayton reported youth clubs participating will share auction proceeds.

A district youth trip is planned for April 26, 1997, to Huntsville.

Sick members include Margaret Spahr, Deloras Condon, King Hegwood, Albert Ziludek, Nat Gonzales, Annie Kendziora, Bill Kenjura, Harley Cox, Kitty Knapick, Estelle Hillman, Steve Kelly, Bob Martinek, and Miroslav Bily.

New business included Larry Pflughaupt reviewing hotel accommodations for the 100th Anniversary on July 12 and 13 in Belton.

Vernon Hegwood motioned, seconded

by Mary Kosut, to resend the motion during the December, 1996, meeting of closing the pool. In order to bring this subject up, the membership needed to vote to discuss. A motion by Marie Stayton, seconded by Johnny Kosut, was made to vote by secret ballot. The vote passed.

The motion not to open discussion passed. A motion by Josephine Pflughaupt to destroy ballots, seconded

by Jeanette Bender, passed.

Johnny Broz motioned the pool be demolished in the near future, and leave the bath house, seconded by Paul Pflughaupt. Discussion followed. The motion passed.

Vincent Hegwood motioned we aver-

age the losses from the pool for the past four years and allocate into the fund dedicated to the youth club at Lodge 88, starting in 1998. The motion was seconded

by Helen Hegwood. The motion failed.

Helen Hegwood, State Field Representative, reported January top sales in District Five was Edna Wehring for number of application and January top sales in District Five was Marian Kadlecek for insurance written.

Guide Helen Hegwood thanked Bessie Dewer for handling the registration book in January. There were 133 members present. Helen led the members in singing "Happy Birthday" wishes to 27 celebrants.

Beverage donors were Steve and Estelle Kelly, Fred and Jo Ann Buri, Edwin and Agnes Gerlick, and Bennie and Stacie Kocich.

Door prizes went to Lillie Spies, Ed Miculka, Annabell Vite, Rudy Darilek, and Margie Anders.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.

Jo Ann Buri Recording Secretary —SPJST--

Lodge 88, Houston Reports Hours of Volunteer Work Members of Lodge 88, Houston donated hours of volunteer work for the lodge and hours of charity work for the community in 1996.

In 1996, members of Lodge 88 again spent many hours doing volunteer work to keep our lodge running smoothly and looking nice. The work consisted of office work, keeping records, conducting meetings, giving parties, helping the youth, cooking, maintaining the grounds and the buildings, and providing singing and music.

The following is a list of the committees and the reporters.

Committee

Reporter

Hours

Guide Helen Hegwood 12 Resolution Laura Wamasch 19 Telephone Elsie Roznovsky 19 Rules and Eugene Barcak 28 Regulations Sergeant-at-Arms Frank Tilich 72 Kitchen Fred Buri 260 Audit Committee Marceil Malak 75 Czech Concert Orchestra Jim Rohde 810 Josephine Pflughaupt Scholarship 16 Memorial Fund Naomi Spencer 52 Lawn Care Don Spies 15 Sales Representatives Helen Hegwood 34 Czech Class at Spring Branch Community Center Karel Sicner 180 French Class at Spring Branch and Bear Creek Community Center and work at Museum of Natural Science Rose Sicner 100 Maintenance of Gazebo, Buildings, Plants and Trees Louis Hanus 138 Decorating Committee Johnny Broz 89 Gold Award Party Clara Broz 178 Bar Lynn Pflughaupt 613 Popcorn King Hegwood 321 Board Dorothy Pflughaupt and Willie Wehring 1,040 Benevolence

Reporter Mary A. Kosut Birthday Sisters Mary A. Kosut Naomi Spencer Choral Group Tom Marsh Men's Club Czech Class at Lodge Bill Souchek Entertainment Donna Merkle Willie Wehring Social Night Blue Room Party Dorothy Pflughaupt Special Work for Johnny Broz Czech Day Kitchen Work Jeanette Bender, for Czech Day Edna Wehring, and Splash Day and Johnny Broz Total Hours:

253 1,890 2,021 3,006 1,828 3,511 4,693 72 34

144 21,557

In 1996, members of Lodge 88 worked 21,557 hours for the lodge without compensation.

In 1996, members of Lodge 88 spent many hours doing charity work. Those that did acts of kindness as the need arose are as follows: Margie and Ernest Anders, Mary and Johnny Kosut, Georgie and Sidney Jurchak, Kathy Trefell, Margaret Sphar, Willie Mae and Jerry Ermis, Josephine and Walter Koeppner, Delores Condon, Helen Hegwood, A.J. Stayton, Calvin and Florence Orsag, Josephine Buri, Mary Krippner, John Ordener, Agnes and Tom Haney, Jo Ann and Fred Buri, Johnny Broz, Evelyn Mikolas, Gary Eskelson, Tom Marsh, Bennie Kocich, John Ordener, Josephine and Leander Pflughaupt, Lynn and Lori Pflughaupt, Lillian Finn, Gary Kosut, Lillie Spies, Della Mitch, Albert and Evelyn Zajicek, Mary and A.V. Roznovsky, Elsie and Louis Roznovsky, Louis Hanus, Rose and Karel Sicner, Lowrina Lindemann, Stacy and Bennie Kocich, Dorothy Pflughaupt, Tom and Lydia Marsh, John Vasula, Norman and Rosemary East, Robert Arnold and Margrett, Lad Bily, Miroslav and Alice Bily, Ann and John Lacina, Hilbert Pechacek, and Pauline Traylor.

The above members visited patients at hospitals and nursing homes, attended funerals, prepared and delivered food to dinners after funerals, served as pallbearers, delivered eulogies, and helped patients and neighbors in any way needed. They donated clothing to the needy, worked at church and school functions, sung at meetings, donated funds and toys to children at Christmas, and helped in any way needed all year long.

In 1996, the above members worked 2,552 hours.

Some of our members do charity work out in the community on a regular basis all year long, week after week. The following are the names of members who worked on a regular basis in 1996.

Rita and Homer Alexander, Margie and Ernest Anders, Georgie Buchanan, Tom Marsh, Ellen and Ed Miculka, Mildred and Billy Jack Holeman, Margrett and Bob Arnold, King.

Hegwood, Inez Jeans, Lil Holly, Virginia Hole, Agnes Cheyney, Lillie Spies, Marilyn Jaksch, Helen and Bill Kenjura, Naomi Spencer, Annie Kendziora, Georgie and Sidney Jurchak, Doris and Louis Darilek, Josephine Koeppner, Rosalie Lobpries, Margaret Spahr, Mary Angel Kosut, Mary Krippner, Tony Vindett, Evelyn Gutkowski, Florence Orsag, and Corrine Kessler.

In 1996, the above members who do charity work on a regular basis out in the community worked 6,813 hours.

So that in 1996, members of Lodge 88 spent 9,365 hours doing charity work.

Fraternally, Mary Angel Kosut Benevolence Reporter —SPJST-

14/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997

Lodge 88, Houston Birthday Sisters Report on February Meeting The meeting was called to order by President Kathy Trefell. We have a new member, Era Richards. Welcome, Era. The roll was called by Secretary Dona Clooney and the minutes of the January meeting were read and approved.

Our treasurer Ellen Miculka gave her report. We made $117 on cakes auctioned at the lodge anniversary.

Margaret Spahr has been in the hospital but is at home now. We understand that Delores Condon is also ill. Hope you two ladies are much better by now. King Hegwood, who has had heart surgery, is much better.

President Kathy Trefell read the bylaws which are being rewritten by the ByLaw Committee. They will be read again, with corrections made, at the March meeting.

Ladies, we are going to lunch at Steak Country Buffet on I-10 on March 19.

Don't forget. It will be a nice day.

Our February birthday celebrants were Josephine Bishop, Ann Hoffman and Bess Witovec.

Our cooks for February were Edna Wehring, Doris Knapick, Stacy Kocich, and Ellen Miculka. Willie Wehring and Ed Miculka helped the ladies in the kitchen by washing pots and pans, etc. It was greatly appreciated, guys.

Cooks for March are Margie Anders, Evelyn Gutkowski, Alice Bily and Edna Froehlich.

Calcutta was won by Kathy Trefell and Josephine Buri.

After prayer, the meeting was adjourned.

Fraternally, Flo Orsag, Vice President —SPJST-

88, Houston Reports on Activities

Bobby Dobesh brought some nice memories of my youth leader days in the 60s, for he was great in his cooperation and willingness to help. (3) It was nice to see Ethel Reed and Erwin Wind who enjoyed the dinner and dancing. (4) The Choral Club's beautiful songs entertained during the noon. hour. (5) Lillie Spies had charge of the pastries. (6) Carol Liebscher and Dorothy Pflughaupt helped with the Blue Room Raffle. (7) It was great to see Jimmie and Lucy Brosch enjoying the day.

Helen Hegwood, announced our leaders in insurance selling: Edna Wehring and Miriam Kadlecek. Congratulations!

Nat Gonzales is recuperating at home.

He and Barbara are mighty proud grandparents of a precious baby, girl, Allyson Marie. The lucky parents are Michelle and Jerry Wockenfuss. Congratulations!

On January 31, Youth Leader Barbara Gonzales and the youth had a lock-in all night at the lodge. It was quite a group and they had a great time!

On February 1, Karen Bender was elected Region Five president of the "Business Professionals of America."

She also qualified for "Prepared Speaking" and will be competing at Dallas on March 6, 7 and 8 against others throughout the state. Karen, daughter of Jeanette and E.J. Bender, is a junior at Stafford High School.

At the lodge meeting, there were so many names given of members ill or recuperating that I have decided to not give the names as I might omit some. We all wish each of you a quick recovery and hope to see you soon at the lodge.

There are some mighty good orchestras in March: Johnny Kaye (Big Band from Illinois) on March 1, Texas Brew (Country/Western) on March 7, Jack Melick (Piano Man and Big Band) on March 8, Don Peachey (Polka Band from Wisconsin) on March 15, Donnie Wavra (Ballroom and Variety) on March 22, and Odis Claxton (Big Band Music) on March 29.

Tillie Helmcamp —SPJST-

Lodge

The lodge was again saddened by the loss of two great members. Annie Vala worked so hard for many years as did her husband, the late Emil Vala. As long as Annie was able to, we had the lodge Saturday night breakfasts; she also worked on all special Sunday celebrations. She is survived by daughters Helen Pavlas, Mildred Kucera, Margaret Kucera and Frances Vala and other relatives.

Homer Alexander, who was our Fraternal Activities Coordinator for 11 years, will also be missed very much. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force, received the Bronze Star and was very active in charitable organizations (especially those for abused children) and church organizations. He is survived by his wife, Rita Alexander, sons James, Dennis and Larry Alexander, and other relatives.

Miroslav Bily had a cataract and implant surgery and is doing fine. He was the only brother surviving Lad Bily and Rosie Mikeska was the only sister.

The Anniversary Celebration was nice and kept President Clara Broz busy. ,A few comments about the day: (1) It was good to see Evelyn Antrich who has lived through some sad times after losing her husband Milert Antrich. (2) Seeing

92, Fort Worth to Honor 50-Year Members Lodge

Dear Members and Friends, I hope that some of you members who belong to our lodge will come to the March 9 meeting. That is the day that you and some of the other members will be receiving your 50-year pins. These are very nice and you should be proud to wear them. The meeting will begin at 2 p.m. and you will be presented with the pins during the meeting. There is always a very nice meal with lots of delicious pastries.

This week the annual workshop and incentive banquet will be held. The Fraternalist of the Year will be announced at the workshop and all fraternalists present will be recognized. There will be lots more written on this in future Vestniks so be sure to read the Vestnik and see how the SPJST is progressing. All sales representatives should be congratulated for making our SPJST one of the largest insurance associations in Texas.

I hope all members who are not now well will be a lot better and be able to get outdoors to get the flower beds and gardens ready. I am sure we will all enjoy seeing and greeting each other in a few days so I do hope the weather does cooperate.

I enjoy reading all the write-ups from

other lodges and am glad to see that all are working together. Till my next letter— keep on smiling and attend all your lodge activities. Do not forget about the Don Peachy band from Wisc.Onsin that will play in Fort Worth, Lodge 92, on Sunday evening, March 16 from 3 to 7 p.m.

P.S. Recently, our five-year-old grandson, Ryan, was riding with his father when they spotted an old bleached turtle shell. "Please stop the truck, Dad. I want that turtle," he said. His dad explained that there was no longer a turtle inside the shell. After thinking about it for a minute, Ryan then asked, "Do you mean there's a naked turtle walking around here someplace?"

Fraternally, Carl W. Zich, Reporter —SPJST-

92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Dear District Two Members, The Ladies Circle of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth met for their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 1997, at the lodge hall with 44 members, two new members, and seven men present.

President Florence Greer called the meeting to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and welcomed Nell and Emory Davenport as our two new members.

Aurora Maldino substituted as the installing officer for Flora Koci, who had fallen and bruised her legs, and was unable to attend. Thank you, Aurora, for doing such a nice installation of President Florence Greer, Vice President Helen Kubala, Secretary/Reporter Martha Durham, Treasurer/Sunshine Chairman Evelyn Spacek, and Hostess Chairman Jo Prochaska. President Greer presented past Vice President Clara Cohen with an outgoing gift and thanked her for all the help she had given during her term of office. Gifts of appreciation were also presented by President Greer to all the new officers, the installing officer, and to the hall manager.

Minutes from the December 10 meeting were read and approved. There were no minutes for January as the meeting was cancelled because of bad weather. A thank-you note from Julia Dueser was read, appreciating the Circle's gift card during her illness. Treasurer Evelyn Spacek gave her report and then reported that get-well cards had been sent to Clara Cohen, EstaBelle Hubenak, Joe Juran, Raymond Hubenak, and Vivian Steffgen.

Sympathy cards were sent to Natalie Maly on the death of her sister, and to the family of our member Millie Wruble.

Jo Prochaska, hostess chairman, announced today's hostesses: Liz Howard, Victoria Murphy, Helen Kubala with assistance from Evelyn Spacek.

March hostesses will be Aurora Maldino, Clara Marchioni, and Mary Windham, who were previously announced as hostesses for January but because of the cancelled meeting were not able to serve.

Manager Joyce Tesar announced the dance schedule (see Vestnik calendar for details). Joyce was generous to give a lovely afghan to the Circle for a raffle.

The raffle netted $32 to the Circle and the lucky winner was Pauline Morbitzer, who gave the afghan to her mother,-Rose

Zalesak, to use to cover her knees while in the wheelchair. Thank you, Joyce, for the very nice gesture of friendship. We are all appreciative of your generosity now and all during the year.

A signature puppy dog was passed for all members to sign to give to EstaBelle Hubenak, who was back in the hospital.

Get well quick, EstaBelle.

"Happy Birthday" was sung to our January and February honorees. Thanks to the many members who donated door prizes, won by Justine Chaloupka, Rose Nieswadomy, Lee Polenta, Kitty Rippin, Pauline Morbitzer, Victoria Murphy, Betty Lindsay, Elizabeth Gregory, Tuna Meislohn, Ruby Robbins, Louise Oujesky, Rose Jaworski, and Frances Laux. If you did not win a door prize, Inez Krivanek and her daughter, Brenda Lackey, made sure you went home with something: free samples of perfume and cologne. And thanks to Betty Loyd, a basketful of Valentine candies was on the officers' table so that all could help themselves to the sweet offerings.

A beautiful blessing, led by Clara Marchioni to the tune of "Edelweiss" was sung: Bless our friends, bless our food Come, 0 Lord, and sit with us.

May our talk glow with peace, Bring your love to surround us.

Friendship and peace, may it bloom And grow, bloom and grow forever.

Bless our friends, bless our food, Bless our dear land forever.

Clara Marchioni and Aurora Maldino ended our meeting with two cheerful readings entitled "Collector's Items" and "Seniors are the Nation's Leading Carriers of Aids."

Treasurer Evelyn Spacek reminds us that $3 dues are now payable. This entitles each member to one roster which will be available at the March meeting—so mail your dues, if not paid already, to Evelyn at 6636 Fair Meadows, Watauga, Texas 76148, and your name, address, phone number and birthdate will be listed.

We'll see you at the next meeting on Tuesday, March 11, 1997, at 10 a.m. at the lodge hall!

Respectfully submitted, Martha Durham, Reporter —SPJST-

139, Danbury Reports on December Meeting

Lodge

E.J.'s Restaurant was the scene of the December 5 meeting of Lodge 139, Danbury.

This year, our lodge extends congratulations to four members who will become 50-year SPJST members: Nancy Jane Francis, Clarence Bordovsky, Sylvia McClellen, and Lydia Rice. They will be honored at a later date.

A barbecue dinner for all Lodge 139 members is planned for April. The date will be announced after scheduling is coordinated with the caterers and hall availability. Members will receive invitations and reservations will be requested.

Members voted to purchase advertising space on the fence surrounding the Danbury Little League Ball Park.

After business was concluded and the meeting adjourned, dinner was served and was followed by a social hour.

Fraternally yours, Faye Wilson, Reporter —SPJST-

Wednesday, March 5, 1997—VESTNIK/15

Lodge 142, Houston Reports on.

February Meeting On Sunday, February 9, 1997, at 2 p.m., our meeting was called to order by President Keith Kieschnick.

We had 31 members and one guest who stood to recite the pledge to our flag and remained standing for a moment of silence in memory of our departed Brother Charlie Havran. May he rest in peace.

The roll call of officers showed all were present, except Youth Leader Elizabeth Hermis and Flag Bearer Michael Schleider.

The minutes were read and accepted without corrections.

Under correspondence, 50-year members were read: Doris Mae Korenek, Debra Fay Krustchinsky, David Daniel Kunetka, Annie Novak, and Deloris Schulte. The 50-year pins will be sent to these members from our Supreme Lodge.

Congratulations to our 50-year members.

The financial secretary/treasurer's report was given by Sister Rosie Minis.

The board of trustees and bar reports were given by Nancy Cook.

Our lodge will have a fish fry on May 3.

We hope to see many of you for this occasion. More information is forthcoming.

The sick committee reports Henry Hermis and Viola Doskicil were in the hospital. Here's wishing you both the best of health from now on.

All committee reports were read.

The anniversary for February is for Mr. and Mrs. Doskicil (59 years).

Congratulations!

The capsule prize for $60 went unclaimed due to the absence of Harlan J. Jochen and Marvin J. Wishkoski. Next month's prize on March 9, 1997, is $70.

Come to our meeting. You could be a winner.

Four $5 door prizes went to H.R. Hermis, Lorraine Motl, Martin Kieschnick, and Lillian Schmidt. Four six-pack door prizes went to Mike Schleider, Joe Gambil, Dorothy Tumis, and Amy McLelland. Valentine candy hearts, donated by the youth club, went to Lorraine Mott and Amy McLelland.

The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m.

Refreshments and lunch were served.

The next meeting is March 9, 1997, at 2 p.m.

Alice Jochen, Secretary —SPJST-

179, Warrenton Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Lodge 179 held its regular meeting on Thursday, February 13 at the Warrenton Store.

We were reminded of the Officers' Workshop at Lodge 24, Cyclone and the Incentive Banquet at Lodge 47, Seaton.

It was held on February 22 but none of our officers attended.

Five members present, at our meeting that had birthdays in February were Joan Goehring, Lloyd Goehring, Milton Vasek, Clark Flinn, and Ora Lee Levien.

Games and refreshments will start our March 13 meeting at 7 p.m. Following the business meeting, a fried fish meal will be served.

Ora Lee Levien, Reporter —SPJST-

180, Burleson Reports on February Meeting

Lodge

Lodge 180, Burleson held their meeting on February 4 with President Louis Grochaske calling the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. with all officers present.

We wish to extend our sympathy to Carol and John Hilcher. Carol's grandmother, Pauline Harvey, 84 years of age, passed away January 28. May she rest in peace.

Estell Hurtik's visitor, Robert Orsag from Czechoslovakia, is having a great time here and enjoys the country/western dances at the lodge every Saturday nights. We have been having nice crowds lately, so come join the crowd and have a good time. Doors open at 7:45 p.m.

On March 9, we will have our Fellowship Sunday starting at 2 p.m. So come join us in games or whatever and always something to eat. We always have a good time with lots of talking. It is a good time for the elderly people to come out.

Our next meeting will be March 4 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for the meeting and then have a lovely meal and lots of fellowship. You might win the door prize if you can beat John Hilcher out of his!

John and Estell Hurtik won the door prizes.

Julia Dueser Reporter —SPJST-

189, Bryan-College Station to Meet March 9 Lodge

The regular quarterly meeting of Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 9 in the board room of First Federal Savings Bank, 2900 Texas Avenue in Bryan, Texas.

President Scasta will be outlining his program plans for the year. Since Lodge 189 was organized in July, 1977, plans will be discussed for a membership dinner to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the lodge. The officers need membership input on this. A special invitation to Charter Members and past Lodge 189 officers. Your thoughts and recommendations are needed.

Larry Wentrcek will discuss plans for the Second Annual Lodge 189 Golf Tournament.

Funds will be allocated for contributions to the Brazos County Youth Live Stock Show participants.

All members are encouraged to attend the quarterly meetings to express their interest and concerns in lodge activities and also to enjoy the fellowship with friends and neighbors.

Past President Fred Blazek is serving as the refreshment chairman for this meeting and promised to serve homemade kolaches baked by Ms. Chris Wymola, one of the best kolaches bakers in Brazos County. Don't miss this. See you at the meeting.

Fraternally, Ernest A. Wentrcek Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST-

Lodge 196, Houston-West Sets March Activities Howdy from Lodge 196!

Just a short note to let you know what will be happening for the next few weeks at our lodge.

In March, we will have country/western bands on March 8 and 22. Bring your friends and let's have lots of fun!

Our monthly meeting will be moved to March 23. This month, we will have an Easter egg hunt for kids of all ages.

The meeting will start at 2 p.m. There will be hamburgers. Ya'll bring the extras (buns, desserts, chips, etc.)! We will have a short meeting also that day.

Fraternally, Mike Moore, Secretary —SPJST-

201, BleiblervilleNelsonville Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville held their regular meeting on Sunday, February 9, 1997, with 13 members and one visitor in attendance.

President Elaine Duron called the meeting to order at 3 p.m.

Secretary Lillie Mae Shupak read the minutes of the previous meeting which were approved. All officers were in attendance. The secretary read all correspondence. The treasurer of the lodge and the hall gave their reports.

Books were checked by the committee and found in order.

It was voted to have the 50-year pins for this year's 50-year members mailed to the members from the Supreme Lodge.

Then around a later month, the local lodge will have a reception and recognition for all 50-year members.

Laura Mae Slacik will again send the resolutions of respect to the Vestnik.

Under old business, the roof on the hall was discussed. The committee will contact various roof contractors on costs.

Those reported on the sick list included Herbert Schovajsa, Mary Ann King, Elsie Eben, Jessie Macat, and Kermit Kalines.

The next meeting is March 9, 1997, at 3 p.m. Cordial invitation to all members and visitors to attend the meeting.

Celesta Balke, Reporter —SPJST-

202, Jourdanton Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Our lodge met Sunday, February 9, 1997, at the Civic Center in Jourdanton, Texas. President Bill Rickrim called the meeting to order and the pledge to the flag was said. All officers and eight members were present.

Secretary Dora Quillian read the min: utes of the previous meeting. Isabel Ventrecek gave the treasurer's report and

Billy Rollwitz Named Treasurer of S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home Board At a special called meeting of the Board of Directors of the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes, Inc. on February 8 in Taylor, Billy Rollwitz of Rowena was A; elected to serve Billy Rollwitz as treasurer.

This office was previously held by Ervin Holy of Hallettsville who passed away on January 13. Billy represents District Four of the SPJST and has served on the board for four years. He is a member of SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rowena, Knights of Columbus, Post Commander of American Legion Post 8 in Ballinger and is a sales representative for SPJST life insurance.

Other members of the board are President Dan Balusek of Cameron, Vice President Eugene Hrncir of Corpus Christi, Secretary Lonnie Lostak of Danbury, Georgie Pauling of Waco, and Donnie Victorick of Snook.

The two S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes are in Taylor and Needville.

—SPJST-

Ir

turned the books over to the new treasurer, Patsy Tymrak.

Patsy Tymrak suggested that our lodge take part in an upcoming charity auction.

She will get information on this project and report on it at the next meeting.

Patsy Tymrak made a motion that our lodge purchase a commemorative brick in the new Jourdanton Library which will be built soon. The brick will state the year that SPJST came to this area. The motion passed.

There was a general discussion about our lodge having a booth at the Jourdanton Days festival in May. Patsy Tymrak volunteered to make the arrangements and will have a schedule at our meeting on May 4.

Fraternal Service Reports were turned in by five members. These members reported 158 acts of service with 255 hours of service.

The meeting was adjourned and everyone enjoyed social time.

Fraternally, Mary Ann Barta —SPJST-

Christi Circle of Women Reports on February Meeting Corpus

Twenty-eight regular members and Honorary Member Jerry Elzner met February 6 for the monthly meeting of the Corpus Christi Circle of Women.

Shiney red heart stickers decorated the white tablecloths, thanks to Norma Baker.

Valentine plates with valentine candy on each table added to the festive look, cour-

16/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997 tesy of yours truly.

We missed the regular members not present and signed get-well cards to be sent to Velma Malchar and Georgia Ann Kubala. Velma sent greetings and thanks to all who visited, called, etc. She hopes to rejoin us soon. Georgia Ann was in Spohn Hospital hoping to go home and was finally released the following day after a week's stay. We hope to see them both in March.

Carrie Veselka had jury duty so she missed out on the delicious food and great desserts, not to mention the fun and games.

Helen Pavelka invited us all to the Czech Heritage Festival to be held February 22 at Memorial Coliseum She promised lots of Czech music and Czech food, including kolace, at the all-day event.

Betty Jurica told of her trip to Cincinnati to visit granddaughter Frances Faye Carroll and family. Della Elzner announced the birth of her first greatgrandson, Connar Frizzell. Congratulations, Della.

Lillie Hayek brought coffee mate for the coffee drinkers and Pauline Novosad brought two bags of chocolate valentine hearts. A drawing of numbers had been planned for after our regular door prize drawings with valentine chocolate hearts for prizes, so her donation was added to the prizes and everyone registered ended up with chocolate valentines. It couldn't have worked out better if we had planned it that way!

"Happy Birthday" was sung to Albertina Oakes, Annie Regnaund, Clara Valla and Dorothy McCoy, who was absent. Tradition has it that birthday girls and guests go first for our buffet and hostesses are last. It works beautifully, with no one being first nor last all the time.

A birthday card was signed for Frank Sijansky who will be 83 on February 22.

Frank is a lifelong friend to many of us.

The Krouzek members wish him a very happy birthday and many more.

The next meeting is March 6 at 10:30 a.m. Come early to visit before the business meeting.

Fraternally yours, Anna Marie Moss —SPJST-

Circle of Czech Women Reports on February Meeting Dallas

Our meeting was called to order by President Bertha Podhrasky. Faye Wright led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and we remained standing for a moment of silence in memory of our member Agnes Jones; William Meyer, nephew of Theresa Carper; and Albert Sebesta, cousin of Esther Cunningham.

Bertha welcomed 21 members, six men guests, and one visitor, Eileen Jakubowski, who became our new memaye Wright read the correspondence -:velyn Trojacek who was recovering -1 foot surgery. Correspondence uded a thank-you note from ,nwest Medical Center for the donals for the Czech Doctors Assistafice J; thank-you from Vicki and Jerry Kohn and Bertha and Julius Podhrasky for their 50th anniversary card and money gift; a special thank-you from Bessie and Gilbert Kalich for their 50th anniversary

card and money gift; a card and donation from Lydia Alholm; a thinking-of-you card from Rose Kopecek; a holiday card from Liddie Pavelka; a holiday card and donation in memory of her mother Mary Nesuda from Ella Natchigal; and a letter in Czech was read by Bertha from the ladies from Brno who made the kroj for our doll.

Bertha Malik, membership chair women, is collecting the dues for 1997.

Georgia 13rozek of the Sunshine Committee sent a get-well card to Joyce Ehrenberger; a sympathy card to Agnes Jones family; thinking-of-you card to Vicki Kohn; and a get-well card to Rose Kopecek. The members signed cards for Calvin and Mildred Cervenka and Evelyn Trojacek.

Alice Roberts reported that Anne Zvolanek was not feeling good. Hope she is better soon. She also reported Mary Sebestik is doing better and Rose Kopecek is improving from her fall.

Donations were a memorial for Agnes Jones from Libbie Elsik and Faye and Bill Wright and a donation from Lydia Alholm.

Vicki Kohn sent 501h anniversary cards and money gifts to Adel! and Joe Vlk, Marie and Bill Lattner, Roy and Lydia Alholm, Bessie and Gilbert Kahan, Jerry and Vicki Kohn, and Bertha and Julius Podhrasky. Congratulations to all of the couples.

Announcements Czech Culture Society has a new organization, McLennan-Hill Historic Society. They are working on the Czech Day at the Fair for 1997. The next meeting is March 31, 1997, at Sokol.

Under old business, Bertha asked if we would like to cater a rental for our moneymaker this year A motion was made and seconded that we cater the rental for our moneymaker. The rental will be June 7, 1997, at Sokol. David Podhrasky will barbecue the brisket and we will prepare the salad, vegetables and kolaches, and serve the meal. This will be discussed in the March meeting.

Bertha said she viewed the movie "Kolya." It is in Czech with English subtitles. It was also nominated for an Oscar for the best foreign film. The movies will open February 21, 1997, at the Inwood Theatre at 5458 West Lovers Lane. You may call (214) 445-5327 or (214) 3526040 to find the time.

Theresa Carper brought the door prize in November. The prize was won by Evelyn Trojacek, who brought the prize for February. Esther Cunningham won

the prize and she will bring the prize for March.

Hostesses were Helen Koubek, Faye Wright and Alice Roberts.

Hostesses for March are Georgia 13rozek, Adell Vlk and Libbie Elsik.

"Happy Birthday" was sung to January and February celebrants.

Thanks to Alice Roberts for the flowers, valentine cards and the candy for the tables.

Also, thanks to Faye Wright and Alice Roberts who wrote the letters for the Vestnik while I was recovering from surgery.

Our next meeting is March 6, 1997.

Hope to see you then.

Evelyn Cechan, Reporter SPJST-

Sewing Circe Reports on February Meeting

Ennis

The Ennis Sewing Circle met on February 13, 1997. Our attendance was very low, only 14 members and three guests. Our guests were Charles Kosarek, Julius Podhrasky, and Jerry Koubek.

The rains came and caused tremendous flooding. More rains are forecast for today. On Interstate 20, the fog was so thick the day I drove to our February meeting, I could hardly see the autos ahead of me. Sister Libbie Elsik was my passenger. It was interesting to see so few automobiles and no trucks on Highway 45 South. People were wise to stay home.

President Sadie Kubin called the meeting to order. After the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Rose Patek, niece of Sister Sadie Kubin and Mary Hejny, sister-in-law of Sister Stacie Hejny.

Sincere sympathy is expressed to the bereaved families.

Assistant Secretary Vlasta Laznovsky read the minutes. She also took the minutes in the absence of Secretary Linda Trojacek. Our new treasurer Lillie Kosarek gave the treasurer's report. Both reports were approved as read.

"Happy Birthday" was sung to the February birthday celebrants.

The quilt was quilted for Rosie Bednar. Sister Rosie donated a quilt top, which is greatly appreciated. The door prize, was furnished by Sister Bertha

Texas Polka Music Awards and Festival Set for This Saturday and Sunday The Seventh Annual Texas Polka Music Awards and Festival is Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9, 1997, at the Civic Center in El Campo, Texas.

The festival will feature the music of the Central Texas Sounds from Fayetteville, The Sound Connection from Houston, Bobby Jones Czech Band from Wharton, The Dujka, Brothers from Tavener, Pat Veit Orchestra from Victoria, and Gill Baca Orchestra from Fayetteville.

A great variety of food booths and beverages will be available. Cultural displays will also be set up.

Admission is $8 per person on Saturday, March 8. (Children under 12 are admitted free.) Doors open at 10 a.m. and dancing is from 11 a.m. until midnight. The jam session begins at 1

p.m. and continues all day.

On Sunday, March 9, admission is $6 per person. (Children under 12 are admitted free.) Doors open at 9 a.m.

The polka mass is at 9:30 a.m. with Rev. Joseph Hybner, Po.L.K. of A. Choral Group, and 4th Degree Knights.

The music awards are at 12 noon.

Dancing is from 1 to 8 p.m. An allafternoon jam session is also planned.

For more information, advance tickets, lodging, and R.V. parking, call the El Campo Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture at (409) 543-2713 or send a SASE to T.P.M.A., P.O. Box 800183, Houston, Texas 77280.

The Civic Center is located 54 miles, southwest of Houston, off Highway 59 on Highway 71.

SPJST-

Podhrasky. The lucky winner was Sister Georgia Tupy.

Sister Libbie Wisniewski had surgery on her big toe on the day of our meeting.

We wish her a speedy recovery. Sister Georgia Tupy took over the kitchen duty for Libbie with the help of several sisters, Thanks to each one who helped. Libbie is doing fine.

Congratulations! Sister Bertha and Julius Podhraskv celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Sister Vickie and Jerry Kohn are the proud grandparents of a granddaughter, LeAnn Renee Wilson. Proud parents are Sharon and Bobby Wilson.

Since this letter is not very long, I will write about a dog again. You must know by now that I love those critters (dogs).

Sister Libbie Wisniewski has a new companion, a dog, that is. She named him Lucky, an appropriate name for a homeless dog that found a nice, shelter at Libbie's home. Lucky is a large, white, pretty dog.

Our next meeting will be March 13,_ 1997. See you then!

Alice T. Roberts, Reporter --SPJST--

Worth Friendship Club Reports on February Meeting Fort

ear Members and Friends, Our meeting was called to order by our president Jo Prochaska and she welcomed our 36 members, guest Frances Matthews and Alice Barnes, our new member.

She extended a special thank-you to Joe Kozel who makes our entry so special.

The minutes read by our Secretary Merel Kovar were approved as read and the treasurer's report by Lydia Alholm was also approved. She reported Mollie Walker had her 103rd birthday and was sent our good wishes. She has been on the sick list for awhile.

A thank-you was read from Father Sal for his Christmas gift and Louise Oujesky for our good wishes while she was ill.

We will have a bake sale at our March 5 meeting.

Our congratulations went to Harold Balwin whose son Marvin is an outstanding citizen in Grapevine.

Matthew Alholm, son of Tony and Kathy Alholm and grandson of Roy and Lydia Alholm, graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

I reported Maria Frill sent her best wishes to all. She plans on being back in Fort Worth in May. Our sympathy was extended to Tammy Dillard on the loss of her sister, Ruby Banks. May she rest in peace.

Since we did not have a January meeting, we did remember these members for their birthdays: Frank Kovar, Margie Kret and Linda Rangel, and our February members: Roy Alholm, Billye King, Mary Ann Kozel, Rosemary Gribble for her 91st, and Rose Nieswidomy. May you all have many more.

Our hostesses will be Camille Balcer, Rose Niesvidomy and Geneva Hennessey.

The meeting adjourned with a delicious lunch, fellowship and games.

So until—keep smiling!

Fraternally, Mary Pavey SPJST-

Wednesday, March 5, 1996—VESTNIK/17

Youth Letters Section Tee-Shirt Contest (Continued from page 1.)

Lodge 9 John Anderson Lindsay Anderson Amy Gaas Kimberly Gaas Jason Gaas Jess Junek Candice Macik Dwayne Macik Lucas Schoppe Travis Schoppe Lodge 13 Emily Jatzlau Dawn Rackel Jay Roberts Lodge 17 Jill Jurena Vicki Morehead Vince Morehead Mabrey Petty Kyle Skrabanek Lodge 20 Cara Spanel-Weber Laura Spanel-Weber Lodge 24 Jennifer Ashcraft Andy Baker Jimmy Baker Tammy Baker Adam Freeman Michele Rockey Stacy Rockey Ashley Veselka Lodge 28 Jessica Kelner Lodge 29 Tracy Betek Jennifer Green Kendra Zak Lodge 30 Kenna Bubela Kirby Bubela Brent Gold Travis Krpec Paul Schoelman Camille Staff Mandy Staff Trey Staff

Lodge 84 J.J. Novak Jamie Lyn Novak Jarod Olds Marchele Olds Lodge 88 Karen Bender Kristen Bender Krystle Bender Lodge 92 James Linderman Lodge 160 Chase Bubenik Jessica Bubenik Chase Dierschke Tracey Dierschke Alissa Hartman Cara Jansa Clay Jansa Wade Martin Austin Miller Becky Schwertner Lodge 172 Kathy Moseley Marci Moseley Lodge 177 Jessica Lyon Jordan Lyon Courtney Wagner Sara Wagner Lodge 185 Stacey Branham Sara Jarozewski Derek Koehler Lodge 196 Jason Castillo Kyle Castillo Sharon Moore Once again, thank you for your support and valuable contribution to the SPJST Youth Program.

Fraternally, Joni Lange, State Youth Director SPJST-

6 - 8 Age Group Winner Cara Spanel - Weber Lodge 20, Granger

She h i n3 Star Af TeXas 9 - 11 Age Group Winner Krystle Bender Lodge 88, Houston

Kepka Belton From the book Czechoslovak Culture, compiled by Pat Martin One of twelve American folk artists who were honored in 1988 by the National Endowment for the Arts, Kepka Belton, a schoolteacher of art, received a one-time award given to a folk artist nominated by peers. She is known as "the egg lady."

Kepka Belton is a fourth-generation American with roots tracing back to a small town north of Prague, Czechoslovakia. She was born in Wilson, Kansas, often called the Czech capital of Kansas. At an early age she learned from her grandmother the craft of kraslice, the Czech art of decorating eggs with wax and dyes.

Kepka has participated in the Kansas Folk Arts apprenticeship program and has exhibited throughout the Midwest and at the Festival of American Folklife at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Her work has been

12 - 14 Age Group Winner Trevor Scott Lodge 4, Hallettsville

reviewed in Les Editions de la Revue Moderne, Paris, France. She belongs to the Czechoslovak Society of Arts and Sciences.

Kepka Belton is a graduate of Emporia State University at Emporia, Kansas, and Fort Hays State University at Hays, Kansas, and studied art at the Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas City, Missouri.

In addition to her hand-painted Easter eggs and the methods she has painstakingly developed for hardening the shell before it is painted, Kepka is a creator of tree-branch dolls, a lost Czech doll-making technique.

In 1982, Kepka and the Wilson, Kansas Czechs decorated the Statehouse Christmas tree at Topeka with beautiful handmade traditional Czech decorations of wheat, paper, decorated cookies, foilcovered nuts, and fruit.

Vestnik Project Questions for March Answer the following questions by filling in the blank.

1. Kepka Belton is a schoolteacher of what?

2. Where was Kepka Belton born?

3. What craft does Kepka Belton practice?

4. What two universities did Kepka Belton graduate from?

5. Kepka Belton is the creator of what kind of dolls?

6. What year was Kepka Belton honored by the National Endowment for the Arts?

—SPJST-

Age

Name Lodge No.

Youth Leader

District Two Youth Leaders to Meet March 8

Lodge 47 Janet Baca Rachel Baca Crystal Bartek Lisa Greger Mark Greger Lodge 66 Justin Engelke Michael Tierce

From the State Youth Director

Dear Members, District Two youth leaders and assistants will meet March 8 for our annual district training. Youth and parents, your ideas, suggestions, and comments are always welcome. We appreciate your input. Please contact your youth leader or myself.

The District Two ice skating party was held Saturday, February 15. We had a great turnout with 123 skaters and 50 onlookers. Thank you to all of you who came out. I hope you had a great time.

The District Two Spring Meeting will be held on Sunday, March 16 in Elgin.

The election of youth club officers will be held at 1:30 p.m. We will join the adult meeting at 2 p.m. Immediately following the adult meeting, youth members will be served first so we may complete our youth club meeting. We will be voting on our district trip to be held in early fall. We will also vote on our February social—roller skating or ice skating.

Please make plans to attend this meeting.

We need your votes.

We are very excited about this year's "Parade of Little Mr./Miss SPJST" to be

held at the spring meeting. If you know of a child between the ages of three and five who would like to participate, please call me.

I look forward to seeing you all on March 16 in Elgin.

Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Youth Counselor

—SPJST-

Two Parade of Little Mr./Miss SPJST District

Dear SPJST Member, On Sunday, March 16, SPJST District Two will hold their annual Spring Meeting. Lodge 18, Elgin will host this event. Registration will be at 1:30 p.m., and the meeting begins at 2 p.m.

This year's highlight will be a "Parade of Little Mr./Miss SPJST" for children ages three to five years. We would love to have your child participate in this event. The parade will be held immediately following the afternoon break.

Each Little Mr./Miss will parade across the stage and be introduced. Parents and grandparents will also be recognized.

18/VESTN1K-Wednesday, March 5, 1997 Vestnik Contest for March - Ages 9-11

Vestnik Contest for March - Ages 6-8

Connect the Dots

Egg Decorating Find the decorating directions that match each egg's letter. Draw the designs for each egg and then color.

Connect the following dots to make the secret picture.

1. From A9 to 09.

2. From C9 to C4.

3. From Al to A3.

4. From A3 to B4.

5. From B4 to D4.

6. From D4 to E3.

7. From E3 to El. 8. From El to D2.

9. From D2 to Cl. 10. From Cl to B2.

11. From B2 to Al. 12. From K9 to K5.

13. From K5 to L3.

14. From L3 to N2.

15. From N2 to M4.

16. From M4 to

17. From 16 to H8.

18. From H8 to J7.

19. From J7 to K5.

20. From K5 to 14.

21. From 14 to H2.

22. From H2 to .13.

23. From .13 to L7.

24. From L7 to N8.

25. From N8 to M6.

26. From M6 to

A) small dots B)stripes C) small triangles D) dots and stars E)small flowers F)zig-zag lines G) curvy lines

Age

Name

Mail Completed Contests to: Joni Lange State Youth Director-SPJST P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

Mail Completed Contests to Joni Lange State Youth Director-SPJST P.O. ` Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 INN NM

MN NM MO ON

IMMI

Each child will receive a banner and a small token of our appreciation for participating. Children are requested to wear Sunday attire.

The youth of District Two are a very important asset to the SPJST. The SPJST

r

youth program is for children ages six to senior. We hope this event will be the first of many memorable events your child will experience as an active member of the SPJST. Please call me if you have any questions, or if I can help in any way:

District Two Parade of Little Mr./Miss SPJST

Lodge 9, Snook

Please reply by March 12, 1997.

Parents' Name(s) Sisters, Brothers ages

Grandparents' Names Child's name for Grandparents

L

Granny Ruth Kovar brought us sodas.

After the meeting, we played "duck, duck goose" and drank sodas. Then, we all sang "Happy Birthday" to Mr. James Schoeneman.

Our next meeting will be March 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally, Candice Macik (2/13/97)

-SPJST-

764 South St. Joseph Street • Burlington, Texas 76519

Child's Name

Patsy Koslovslcy District Two Youth Counselor 764 South St. Joseph Street Burlington, Texas 76519 (817) 985-2396 Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Two Youth Counselor

-SPJST-

Please complete the form below and return to Patsy Koslovsky, District Two Youth Counselor

Pets/Names

Youth Leader

Lodge No.

Youth Leader

Lodge No.

Age

Name

Age

Youth Club Reports on February Meeting Dear Readers, The Snook Youth Club had their monthly meeting on February 6. The meeting was well-attended. Thanks to Leslie and R.J. for bringing the Valentine's Day cards made. They turned out really cute.

Mrs. Georgia Kovar talked to us about what the money is used for that is made.

Thanks, Mrs. Kovar.

Then, we talked about the valentine's dance that was set for February 14. Next,

Lodge 9, Snook

Youth Club Reports on Meeting Activities Dear Readers, The Snook SPJST Youth Club had their monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 6. We made valentine cards.

Then, we had our meeting and Mrs. Georgia Kovar talked to us about the annual Snook Fest. Then, Travis and Lucas showed us how to play "duck, duck, goose". Granny Ruth Kovar brought us sodas.

Wednesday, March 5, 1996—VESTNIK/19

Vestnik Contest for March -- Ages 15-17

Vestnik Contest for March — Ages 12-14

Parading Through Analogies

By the end of the 1850s, a St. Patrick's Day parade was held every year in cities across the United States. So hop on the float and parade on through this page of analogies! Read each sentence. Figure out the relationship of the boldface pair of words and then apply it to find the analogy of the italicized word.

May the luck of the Irish be with you!

You've probably used Venn diagrams before, but have you ever used them in math? The use of diagrams is a great way to solve problems. Use what you know about these joining circles to help figure out the problems below. Be sure to fill each region of the circles with the correct number.

1)

real

sample: Pixie is to imaginary as mouse is to

2. Irish is to Ireland as Italian is to

1. Shamrock is to St. Patrick's Day as heart is to

n This

3. Folktales are to reading as meals are to

Students from Ms. Hubal's ;lass were surveyed to see who believes in leprechauns, Santa Claus. or both. Of the 30 students polled. 12 believe in Santa Claus, 24 believe in leprechauns. and 6 believe in both.

How many students believe in Santa Claus only? How many students believe in leprechauns only?

2)

leprechauns

Santa Claus

was born?

O Ail

0

6. Biographies are to

7. Potatoes are to

'

5. Shillelagh is to wood as chalkboard is to

as legends are to fiction.

as apples are to tree.

••

10 3)

a Cs

0 0

0

a

C 10: Gaelic is to Ireland as Spanish is to

9. Jig is to rig as

11. March is to as December is to Christmas.

Is to ram.

14. Dublin is to Ireland as

15. Gold is to metal as oak is to

is to United States.

13. St. Patrick is to St Patrick's Day as Pilgrims are to

Age

Lodge No.

Youth Leader

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the SPJST Hall.

Fraternally, Dwayne Macik (2/13/97)

—SPJST-

Lodge 9, Snook

Youth Club Reports on Activities Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 9 had their monthly meeting on February 5 at the Snook Fire Station.

Georgia Kovar was our speaker. She talked to us about "Snook Fest". Our new charities and community services are to plant rose bushes around the flag pole at the SPJST hall and donate money to the animal shelter. Everyone was reminded of District One Youth Achievement Day on July 6 and camp on July 25 to 28.

Our next meeting is March 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally, Amy Gaas (2/10/97) —SPJST--

Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Sets Easter Egg Hunt Dear Readers, Our last meeting was February 5. We brought cookies and made valentine cookie bags to give to the elderly in our area.

Next month at our meeting on March 5, we will have an Easter egg hunt.

Sincerely, Kimberly Gaas (2/11/97) SPJST-

Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Reports on Meeting Speaker Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 9 had their monthly meeting on February 6, 1997. Georgia Kovar talked to us about the Snook Fest Committee and what new changes are in store for the

4:EI);))

a

0 (;)

refreshments

4)

One hundred forty-four Americans were asked how they celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The results of the survey are as follows: 68 attend parades; 79 wear green; 53 attend a religious ceremony; 13 attend a religious ceremony and wear green; 9 attend a religious ceremony and parades; 26 attend parades and wear green; 4 do all three of these things.

How many people only wear green? How many people only attend parades? How many people only attend religious ceremonies? parades

wear green

religious ceremony

Name

Age

Lodge No.

Mail Completed Contests to: Joni Lange State Youth Director---SPJST P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

SOWS%

equipment

0 a

Name

0 A 4.' ''' .4(

ep

OF

f3

(i

Murphy Middle School's softball team asked for support from local businesses at the beginning of the season. Seventeen businesses responded with the following: two donated uniforms only; four donated uniforms and equipment three donated uniforms and refreshments; two donated equipment and refreshments; five donated equipment only; no one donated only refreshments; one donated all three.

How many companies donated equipment?

How many companies donated refreshments?

How many companies donated uniforms?

3

O

4VN ''',

gh famous for

toi ,

aI

0 0

Leslie O'Connor, a fifth-grade Student polled 77 fourth graders to find out what each knew about the life of St. Patrick. Forty-three students knew where he was born; 51 knew what he was famous for 42 knew what his job was; 15 knew where he was born and what he was famous for 10 knew where he was born and what his job was; 12 knew what he was famous for and what his job was; 11 knew all three facts about St. Patrick How many students knew only what he was famous for? How many students knewonly his Job? How many students knew only where he

Youth Leader Mail Completed Contests to: Joni Lange State Youth Director—SPJST P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

City Park. Our new charities are planting rose bushes at the hall and making a donation to the animal shelter. We are also planning a valentine dance. Thanks to Granny Kovar for sodas after the meeting.

Fraternally, Jason Gaas (2/11/97)

—SPJST-

Lodge 9, Snook

Youth Club to Meet March 5 Dear Readers, Our youth club held its monthly meeting on February 6, 1997. We made valentine cards for the veterans and the elderly in our community. We also made valentine bags filled with cookies for the elderly. Georgia Kovar spoke to us about the Snook Fest and what the money made is used for. We discussed camp and YAD and hope everyone is making plans.

Thanks to Mrs. Ruth Kovar for the drinks. They were enjoyed by all.

See everyone at our next meeting on March 5. Have a great February.

Fraternally, Lucas Schoppe (7) (2/17/97)

—SPJST-

Lodge 9, Snook

Youth Club Reports on Charity Projects Dear Readers, Our youth club held its monthly meeting on February 6, 1997, and was very wellattended. We discussed upcoming events including camp and YAD. We made valentine cards for our crafts and sent them to veterans. For our charities, we made valentine bags with cookies for the elderly in our community and donated $1 to the St. Claire Monastery. Our valentine's dance has been postponed due to the cold weather.

See everyone at our next meeting on March 5. Have a great month.

Fraternally, Travis Schoppe (9) (2/17/97) —SPJST-

20/VESTNIK-Wednesday, March 5, 1997

Lodge 13, Dime Box Youth Club Schedules Outing Dear Readers, Sunday, February 23, our lodge is going to Austin. We plan to go to North Cross Mall to go ice skating Those who do not want to skate can go to a movie. I plan to go to the movie.

Fraternally, Delia Wiederhold (2/19/97) (Editor's Note: Letter delayed due to last week's publication of the 1997 SPJST Member Services Directory.)

-SPJST-

13, Dime Box Youth Club Plans Skating Party

meeting at the Taiton Community Center. We made valentines and then delivered them at the Garden Villa Nursing Home in El Campo after the meeting. We visited all the residents at the nursing home.

We got to see Mrs. Lottie Krutilek who was Taiton Youth Club's first youth leader. We all took a picture with her.

We also played a game at our meeting.

Thank you to Travis Krpec and Mrs. Debbie Kspec for supplying all the nice game gifts. My brothers and I were on the refreshment committee. We had valentine cookies, valentine candy, and red punch.

See everyone at the next meeting.

Fraternally, Kyle Kaspar (11) (2/09/97)

-SPJST-

Lodge

Dear Readers, On February 23, the Dime Box youth group from Lodge 13 is going ice skating at North Cross Mall in Austin. I am looking forward to going. We will leave at 12 p.m.

I am sure we will all have a great time.

Sincerely, Lindsey Wiederhold (2/19/97) (Editor's Note: Letter delayed due to last week's publication of the 1997 SPJST Member Services Directory.)

66, Waco Youth Club Plans Easter Egg Hunt Lodge

I hope everyone enjoyed Valentine's Day. A reminder that we will have an Easter egg hunt at our next meeting on March 16, 1997. Be sure to bring one bag of candy and a basket to hunt with.

Fraternally, Justin Engelke (15) (2/24/97) SPJST--

1997 Youth Leaders Workshop at Camp Lone Star in LaGrange, Texas March 14 -16 The 1997 Youth Leader's Workshop is Friday, March 14 through Sunday, March 16 at Camp Lone Star in LaGrange, Texas.

Friday 7- 7:30 p.m.

8 - 9 p.m.

Registration Get Acquainted Games Mike Spitler Break/Snack Beseda Instruction Free Time

9- 9:30 p.m.

10 p.m. - ?

Saturday 7:45 -7:55 a.m.

8 - 8:45 a.m.

8:50 - 9:50 a.m.

10- 12 p.m.

12 - 1:25 p.m.

1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

2:30 - 2:40 p.m.

2:45 - 3:45 p.m.

-SPJST-

13, Dime Box Youth Club Plans Activities

Lodge

Dear Readers, We are going to have our February meeting. After the meeting, we are going ice skating in Austin. We invited the 4-H to go with us.

Sincerely, Jay Roberts (13) (2/21/97)

-SPJST-

25, Ennis Youth Club to Meet March 9 Lodge

Attention SPJST Lodge 25 Youth (Ages 0 to 99): There will be a meeting of the Lodge 25 Youth at 2 p.m. on the second Sunday in March-March 9.

After the youth sign in and a short meeting, there will be an Easter egg hunt.

Anyone wishing to participate is asked to bring a basket.

I hope to see you there.

Kay Lynn Kovar, Youth Leader

-SPJST-

30, Taiton Youth Club Reports on February Meeting Lodge

Dear Vestnik Readers, On Sunday, February 9, the Taiton SPJST Youth Club met for their monthly

Lodge 107, Floresville Youth Club Reports on February Meeting Dear Readers, The February meeting of Lodge 107 was called to order on February 9, 1997, at 2 p.m. by Vice President Nicholas Morrisey. Kevin Bayer led the pledge.

We had nine members and four guests, Skylar Casper, Ashley Mochigimba, Christa Dipple, and Travis. We had a special guest from Temple, Joni Lange.

Kevin B. gave the treasurer's report.

The orders for our fund raiser were due.

Nicholas adjourned the meeting at 2:30 p.m. After the meeting, everyone enjoyed valentine cake and punch while we did our points.

Our next meeting will be March 9, 1997.

Sincerely, Kara Morrisey (2/24/97)

-SPJST-

177, Academy Youth Club Sets Easter Hunt

Lodge

Make plans now to attend our first annual Easter egg hunt. We will beholding the hunt on Sunday, March 9, immediately following our monthly meeting and craft session. For those participating, please bring your basket and a dozen eggs or a bag of wrapped candy. Prizes will be awarded. Hope to see everyone there. It should be an eggs-citing time!

Janet Lyon Youth Leader -SPJST-

3:45 - 4:15 p.m.

4:20 - 5:20 p.m.

5:25 - 5:30 p.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

7 p.m. - ?

Sunday 7:50 - 7:55 a.m.

8 - 8:40 a.m.

8:45 - 10 a.m.

10 a.m.

Flag/Friendship Ceremony Breakfast "Ideas and More Ideas!"

Gregg Catalano (Bring two of your hottest ideas to share!)

"Thumbs Up!" Penny Reeves-Golf Lunch Free Time Craft Exchange Youth Rule Book Game Break Group I: Mike Spitler "Teaching GamesWhere Do I Begin?"

Group II: Gregg Catalano "Speaking More Positively With Children" Break Group II: Mike Spiller "Teaching GamesWhere Do I Begin?"

Group I: Gregg Catalano "Speaking More Positively With Children" Flag Ceremony Free Time Dress for Banquet Banquet (Please wear your Czech Costume) YL Awards Ceremony Czech Costume Contest Czech Fest Free Time Flag Ceremony Breakfast Craft Pack Depart for Home

A Little About Our Guest Presenters Ideas and More Ideas Gregg Catalano Come with extra paper as you will need to take good notes. This session offers you a unique opportunity to share ideas, games, and network with other youth leaders across the state. Each idea offered will be matched by the Physician of Phun himself; thus, guaranteeing everyone a full bag of new ideas to take home with you.

Thumbs Up Penny Reeves-Golf Explore personal power, passion, purpose, and perspective. "Thumbs Up" uses group interaction and thought-provoking techniques to help keep you moving forward.

Teaching Games-Where Do I Begin?

Mike Spiller For over 20 years, Mike has listened to youth and adult leaders, researched, collected, and played thousands of unique games. During this session you will learn new games as you concentrate on the fundamental skills necessary for optimum success.

Speaking More Positively With Children Gregg Catalano You never know when a smile, pat on the back, or a few sincere words can have a life-long impact on a child. Gregg's highly motivational presentation will challenge you to look at your present style of interacting with children, and offer you the tools and information to become more positive in your relationship with children.

-SPJST-

What

to Bring

• Craft suitable for a youth club meeting • A performance for the talent show (individual or group) (optional) • Czech costume (optional) • Personal articles • A good attitude • An open mind

1997 District Summer Camp Dates District One District Two District Three District Four District Five District Six District Seven

July 25-28, Val Verde July 14-20, Val Verde July 21-24, Val Verde July 18-20, Lone Star July 17-20, H.E. Butt June 20-22, Lone Star July 18-20, Lone Star

District Youth Achievement Day Dates District One District Two District Three District Four District Five District Six District Seven

July 6, 1997 at Lodge 186, Caldwell (Lodge 9, Snook hosting) June 22, 1997 at Lodge 47, Seaton June 29, 1997 at Lodge 66, Waco June 28, 1997 at Lodge 160, San Angelo June 29, 1997 at Lodge 196, Houston-West July 20, 1997 at Lodge 30, Talton June 29, 1997 Location Undecided

5.bi-ezna 1997-21/VESTNIK

PODPORA LID SKOST BRATRSTVI Ceska

east

tfedni. organ Slovanske Podporujici Jednoty Statu Texas, zaloiene rok 1897 5.1itezna 1997

ROtNIK 85 tISLO 10

tehdy u Karla Vacka bezpeen g a spolehliva; byla jet podeprena stejne spolehlivou znalostf nastroja, jejich zvukovych moinostf a rejstrfkft i jejich techniky. Navfc tu byla i Thadvacetina Last prirozena melodicka invence, jejfi Vypujeil si od kolegfi prvnf plody se projevily jii ye pochodove lualcy a z hlasit si Vysokem Veself. Nenf tedy divu, rekonstruoval jeho podobu. Tady se takto vybaveny hudebnik pou gtel i bylo g, tady c, tady zase c, znovu g, do komponovinf, byt mu k tomu dole v base e obyeejny C dur zatftn chybely jakekoliv teoreticke akord, jaky zazdva v tolika znalosti harmonie. Nejprirozenejgf pochodech. Ale prave na tomto mfste formou byl ov g em pochod dennf znel prece jen nejak jinak. Proe? chleb vojenske hudby. Jeho Harmonium, ktere nedavno pfedtfm standardnf forma byla Vackovi zcela slavnostne dovezli do mfstnfho salu, jasna a stejne odposlouchanou mel i pfineslo alespon zalcladnf zjigtenf: fadu obvyklych typit harmonickych vypustf-li se z C dur akordu vgechna plank odvfjejfcfch se v tizkem e a tento On se umfstf jen do basu, spojenf se stejne obvyklou dosahne se prave tohoto zvlagtnfho pochodovou melodikou. zvuku. Ale definitivne mu to objasnil Po kraovani g mfstnf pan u6tel, Rusfn, za nftni --SPJST-se Vacek vypravil se svymi problemy a zfskal tak alespoli nejzakladnejgf tivod do harmonie. Na ueitelovo doporuenf si dal Vacek poslat od rodi6Ct take prvnf ueebnici znamou knihu J. Foerstra -- a z gal se jf pomalu prokousavat. Sam, s obtfiemi, jen s obasnou pomocf rusfnskeho ueitele. Tady teprve usly gel poprve o pfevratech akordit, o sextakordu s tercif v base, ktery prave tfm znf tak odli g ne, o zakladnfch harmonickych funkcfch. A to bylo v dobe, kdy eetar Vacek ui za sebou praktickou instrumentaci hezke fadky pochoda, psanych sice bez nejmen g f potuchy o harmonii, ale presto znejfcfch tak, jako by je „posadil" nekdo, kdo ma nastroje dechove hudby v malau.

Vackftv prfstup k hudb y byl priznaeny pro nejraznej g f typy lidoveho muzidfrovanf nejen v nal Lekce osmi—Eighth Lesson kulturnf oblasti. Lidovy hudebnfk se zmociliuje hudby nejaktivnejgfm Read the following exercises and zpilsobem: tfm, g e ji zane sate words out LOUD with your parents or vytvaret. Postupuje metodou pokusu friends. a omylu, ueitelem je mu jen vlastnf tteni—Reading sluch a konfrontace dosgenych Nage gkola—Our school vysledkit se zvyklostmi hudebnfho To je nage gkola. A toto je nage prostredf, ktere ho obklopuje. tfida. Tam je ueitel. Zde jsou studenti.

Teoreticke zalconitosti se pritom Jan je student. On ma pero a knihu. „objevujf" jen nahodne, jako new, Co je na stole? To je moje tuna. co z praxe vyplyva a v praxi se Ueitel 'ma kfidu a pi ge na tabuli tuto osveduje. Takovou metodou se pohadku. zmocnovali hudby eernoai, objevujfcf Byl jeden domeeek. jazz, stejne jako cikani, vytvarejfcf V tom domeeku stoleeek, vlastnf hudebnf tradici. Je to postup na stoleeku mistieka, nesmfrne pracny a klade velice na mistiece vodina, naroky na eas. To, co by zkugeny v to vodiece rybieka. ueitel vysvedil za nekolik minut, zde "Kde je ta ryba?" vyiaduje tydny nebo mesfce vlastnfho Kona ji snedla.

"Kde je ta koeka?" objevovanf. Zato jsou ov g em znalosti V lese zabehla. zfskand touto metodou usazeny "Kde jsou ty lesy?" hloubeji a bezpe6neji, co g je vyhodne Na prach shofely. zejmena pro takove hudebnf kultury, "Kde je ten prach?" ktere se pohybujf v ramci peva Voda ho vzala. stanovenych pravidel a nestavejrse "Kde je ta voda?" prfznive k jejich prekraeovanf nebo porugovanf.

Voli ji vypili.

Sluchova orientace po viitych "Kde jsou ti voli?" zvyklostech dechove hudby byla Pani je snedli.

Karel Vacek Lubomir Doriiika

Ueme se eesky Let Us Study Czech!

"Kde jsou ti Na hfbitove pochovini. *** nage— our, ours tfida— class, or classroom maso— meat mislo— butter student— student tabule (F)— blackboard pole (N)— field kogile (F)— shirt moje— my still— table ueitel— teacher kniha— book ryba— fish Jan— John voda— water novjr, a, é— new star*, á, .6— old malt', a, é— little velkjr, A, e— big kfida— chalk zde, tu— here na stole— on the table na tabuli— on the blackboard pohadka— fairy tale dobrjr , a, é— good zljr, a, é— bad, wicked eernjr, a, é— black bilk, a, é-7 white

Mluvnice— Grammar 1. In Czech the adjective must agree in gender form with the noun that it modifies. Example: malt still, (small table), maid kniha, (small book), male okno, (small window.) In the vocabulary there are adjectives given showing the three gender endings jr, a, and é.

2. In the reading exercise the feminine nouns kfida, pohadka, and kniha, are spelled wan the ending u.

This is because in Czech when a noun is used in some function other than the subject or predicate nominative it must be put into a case. The aforementioned feminine nouns are in the accusative case functioning as direct objects answering the question "what?" The feminine nouns ending in `a' change this ending to `If when used as direct objects. *** Homework 1. Select suitable adjectives for the nouns given in the vocabulary.

Remember that the nouns are either masculine, feminine or neuter, depending on their endings, and the adjectives must agree with the nouns in gender ending.

2. Translate the reading exercise into English.

3. Memorize the vocabulary.

4. Translate into Czech: I have a book.

This is a pencil.

What is on the table?

That is our new school.

(What new words do you see above?

Find out their meaning.)

—SPJST-

Learn Czech With Us 7th Lesson.

Prepositions with the Accusative Case Dopis. Semestr konei a studenti maji kratke prazdniny. Mtij kamarad Karel Novak proto neni v Praze v koleji, ale doma v Britt. Dnes mu pigi dopis.

Nejdfive kupuji v papimictvi dopisni papir a °balky. Doma potom beru jeden dopisni papir a zadinam: Milk Katie, ... Pigi mu, co celjr den delam, 2e chodim na dlouhe prochazky a veeer na hezke koncerty nebo na zajimave filmy. Nakonec beru obilku a pigi na ni adresti: Valenjr pan Karel Novak Habrova 22 602 00 Brno 2 Davam dopis dovnitf a jdu na pogtu.

Na pate kupuji jednu gedesatihalefovou znamku, davam ji na dopis a ten hazim do schranky.

VOCABULARY: dopis-letter, semestr-school term, konei-it ends, kratkjr-short, prazdniny, pl.-vacations, kamarad-friend, proto-therefore, kolej, f.-hostel, dorm, alebut, dnestoday, mu- (to) him, nejdfive-first (of all), kupuji- I buy, papirnictvistationer's, dopisni papir-notepaper, obilka-envelope, beru-I take, zatinamI begin, milk-dear, beloved, Katieaddressing form of Karel, ie-that, chodim-I (often) go, prochazka-walk, koncert-concert, zajimavjr-interesting, nakonec-in the end, na ni-on it, adresaaddress, divam-I give, put, dovnitf-(motion) inside.

1. The preposition na can be combined both with the accusative and the locative cases. With the locative it answers the question Kde je? (Where is, where can be found?) With the accusative Kam jde? (Where is he going, what place is he moving to?).

Compare: accusative locative Kam divam Kde je Divam knihu Kniha je na na stole. knihu? kniha?

Slovo je na Pigu slovo na papife. papir.

Jedu na Bydlim na Stnichov.

Smichove.

Jdu na Studuji na universitu. universite.

2. With some words the preposition na replaces the preposition v in the meaning "in", e.g. na po gte, na nadrati, na namesti, na universite, and some names of places na Morave, na Smichove.

3. Preposition na can also express purpose: Jdu na nakup. I go shopping.

Jdu na koncert. I go to a concert.

Jdu na pivo. I go (somewhere) to drink beer.

Jdu na pfednagku. I go to a lecture.

Jdu na tramvaj. I go (somewhere) to take a tram.

4. Preposition pro with the accusative has the meaning for, (or to bring, to fetch): Ty cigarety nejsou pro otce. Jdu pro mleko. Jdu pro doktora Novika.

JAN HOLUB

22/VESTNIK—Wednesday, March 5, 1997

CZECH NEWS AND CULTURE

Tarrant County Junior College offers Czech course

SPJST CALENDAR

A six-week course is again being offered at the Tarrant County Junior College, 4801 Marine Creek Parkway. The phone number is (817) 515-7785. The course begins April 1 at 7 p.m. The course will be on Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. The price is $57. Come join us! Nazdar

FOR SPJST LODGES ONLY

— Francis J. Kovar

Czech Heritage Society arraning studies program The Czech Heritage Society of Texas, in cooperation with the Wallachian Museum in Roznov pod Radhostem, is arranging a Studies Program scheduled for June 17, 1997, to July 8, 1997. Some subjects for study will be history, language, cooking, gingerbread and Christmas ornament making, singing and dancing. Other subjects may be added as the schedule is finalized. There will be the possibility of genealogy research, historical tours, and an evening in a typical Czech home. Participants in this program will return and share what they have learned at Czech Heritage Society meetings and with the community especially in conjunction with Czech Heritage Week. This will be a good opportunity for educators to study Czech customs and traditions and bring new knowledge of the Czech culture to their students.

Persons interested in attending this program should send their name and address to: Anna Krpec, 4810 Spellman, Houston, Texas 77035.

— Tria Molberg

CHS State Meeting April 19 in West The Czech Heritage Society will hold the Spring State Meeting on April 19, 1997, in West, Texas. The McLennan-Hill Chapter will host the meeting at Lone Star Hall.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. Entertainment by the West Czech Folk Dancers begins at 10:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m. The business meeting starts at 1 p.m.

Willie Vochoska, a native of West, Texas, will present a program on authentic wood carving at 11:45 a.m. Mr. Vochoska is an accomplished wood carver specializing in the carving and finishing of birds. He won the world championship with his carving of a "scissor tail" bird in Maryland in 1993. This championship carving as well as other works will be on display. Additional wood carving awards were earned in 1992 and 1993 in New Orleans. Mr. Vochoska began his wood carving hobby in 1991.

Exhibits, books and genealogy information sharing will be available. If your chapter would like to have a display space, two weeks notification prior to the meeting is requested. Project vendors may reserve space at $25 per table with two weeks advance notice. Contact Nita Gerik at (817) 826-5106 to reserve your space.

Please let the McLennan-Hill Chapter President Alfred Gerik know how many from your Chapter plan to attend this meeting. Guests are welcome at all Czech Heritage Society meetings. Mr. Gerik may be contacted at 600 North Marable in West, Texas 76691, phone (817) 826-5106.

Members who will be traveling IH-35, take exit 353 (17 miles north of Waco).

Turn east on FM 2114 (Oak Street) and left on Davis Street (fourth street east of IH35). Lone Star Hall is ten blocks on the left.

—Trio Molberg

Czech Texan Exhibit renovation planned The Czech Heritage Society of Texas and the Czech Community Advisory Committee have pledged their support to raise funds for the renovation of the Czech Texan exhibit at the Institute of Texan Cultures. The revised exhibit will feature work, family life, music, and dance. Its goal is to present the history and contributions of the Czechs to Texas in a fresh, exciting format. This exhibit will bring the story of the Czech Texans to life for the more than 350,000 people who visit the Institute every year.

Approximately $20,000 is needed for the first phase of this project. Additional funds will be needed for an interactive video exhibit component. The Institute plans to match cash donations by providing the labor and expertise to research, design, and build this exhibit. To support the Czech exhibit project, please mail your check, payable to "Institute of Texan Cultures Czech Project," to: The Institute of Texan Cultures, 801 South Bowie Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205-3296.

Celebrate Rites of Spring Czech SpringFest '97 Muziky, Muziky (Music, Music) is in the air for the 1997 Czech SpringFest in Houston on March 23 (Palm Sunday) from 12 noon until 5 p.m. at St. Christopher's Parish Hall on 8150 Park Place Boulevard.

This year there will be more food, more music, and more Easter Egg (kraslice) decorating. Guests will have the rare opportunity to dine on a feast of Czech specialities such as a Sunday dinner of roast pork, zeli, and green beans and all the trimmings, until 2 p.m.

Throughout the afternoon, bowls of delicious Czech/Moravian Kyselice soup and good Czech country sausage will be available. Following the meal, a whole evening's array of varied activities and exhibits for all ages and interests will be presented: traditional spring customs from the Czech countryside include Moravian- and Wendish-style egg-decorating demonstrations and slide presentation; gingerbread decorating; and Moravian folk dance demonstrations with Donna and Guenther Merkle; sing-alongs featuring Karel Matejka's Old Prague-style accordion music, Kovanda's Authentic Czech Band from Fayetteville will perform from 1 to 4 p.m.; a silent auction on many lovely items will be going on and final bids will be announced at 4 p.m.

This gala event is sponsored by the Czech Heritage Society of Harris County and the Czech Cultural and Community Center. As last year, entrance to this event is free to all who love to celebrate the Rites of Spring. Meal tickets will only cost $5.50 for adults and $3.50 for children under 12 if purchased in advance. Meal tickets will be $1 higher at the door.

For advance tickets or further information, contact Lillian Pivonka at 861-7403, Tennie Walla at 447-1715, Bernard Pivonka at 869-3449, or Lillian Young at 921-5026.

— Lillian Pivonka —SPJST-

LODGE NO. 6 COTTONWOOD

Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.; Youth Club meetings are at 6:30 p.m

Saturday, March 22—Wedding Sunday, March 23—Lodge 6 Meeting at 1 p.m.; Lodge 6, Inc. Annual Meeting; 10-year picture of all members will be taken with egg hunt and dinner Sunday, March 30—Marek's Annual Family Day For information regarding scheduling events at Lodge 6, please call George Straten at (817) 826-5863.

***

* *

LODGE NO. 9, SNOOK Local lodge meetings are held on the first

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TELECOMMUNICATIONS • No Inventories • No Deliveries • No Collections

Local lodge meetings are held the third Sunday of each month at 6 p.m. ** *

LODGE NO. 15, BUCKHOLTS Local lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The dance club dances are the second Sunday of

The following rates apply for classified advertising in the Vestnik.

• No Quotas • No Employees • No Customer Risk

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

Be Your Own Boss and Work Your Own Hours Let Earl and Helen Ehlers teach you how!

SPJST LODGE RATES

For advertising SPJST lodge-related activities $12.50 2 3/8" x 5" $25.00 4 7/8" x 5" $50.00 10" x 5"

FREE SEMINAR SATURDAY, MARCH 8 12.4RM. AT SPJST LODGE 66 LINDEN HALL IN ELM MOTT, TEXAS

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.

To fax your advertisement, dial (817) 774-7447

No Admission Charge (713) 495-6395

Grand Tour of Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic $2,295 per person

Klub Kontinental Presents Our 1997 Tours

"Why not join us?"

—

(Based on double-occupancy) • Scheduled transatlantic flights from Austin, Houston or Dallas, • Services of a professional tour director.

• Hotel with private bath or shower; hotel taxes; porterage some tips; and service charges, • 13 continental breakfasts; at least six dinners, • Touring by private, first-class motorcoach, • Cities visited: Munich, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, Graz, Vienna, Salzburg, Brno, Vsetin, Prague (2 1 /2 days in Moravia to visit friends and relatives in the Vsetin area), • Two nights in Germany; Seven nights in Austria; Five nights in the Czech Republic • Sightseeing with local guides: Vienna, Salzburg and Prague • Scenic highlights: Tyrolean Alps, Grossglockner Pass, Carinthian Lake District, Danube scenic drive, The Old Town Square in Prague, Prague Castle and more!

Rudy and Henrietta Klecka

TOUR I Our tour will travel into Munich, GarmischlPartenkirchen Germany, Salsbury, Budapest and the Czech Republic.

June 4 - June 23, 1997 (20 Days) pr7.rr motorcoach, hotel, Includes: Air$f3,ar5e9, 5private two meals daily and city tours.

Escorted by: Rudy Klecka

TOUR II Our tour will travel into the Czech Republic, Poland, and Budapest.

June 11 - June 23, 1997 (12 days)

$2,395 per person.

This is especially for those who would like to tour only these countries.

Includes: Air fare, private motorcoach, hotels, two meals daily, and city tours.

Escorted by: Rudy Klecka

TOUR III Fall Wine-Tasting Tour in-

cludes Prague; Moravia; Krakow, Poland; and Budapest, Hungary.

September 19 - October 2, 1997 (14 days) otno.rcoach, hotels, Includes: Air $fa2;e3,9p5r1i7artelaemrs° two meals daily and city tours.

Escorted by: Rudy Klecka

For more details, please call:

LUBA'S TRAVEL, INC.

Klub Kontinental P.O. Box 28 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 - 0028 (409) 335 - 4456 or Residence: (409)335 - 4471 Fax: (409) 335 - 4390

LODGE NO. 13 DIME BOX

103 W. 5th Street

I

Taylor Texas

Business: (512) 352-8595 Fax: (512) 352-8598

Wednesday, March 5, 1996—VESTNIK/23 each month. For hall rental and dance information, call Audrey McCall at (817) 5930090. ***

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 Sunday, March 9—Spring Polka Fest with Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six, Leo Majek Orchestra, and The Vrazels Polka Band, 2-8 p.m. ($7 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

Saturday, March 15—Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six Monday, March 17—Private Party Saturday, March 22—Still Country Sunday, March 23—Battle Dance with Jerry Haisler and Melody Five and Kaluza Polka Band of West from 2 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 29—No Dance before Easter Sunday, March 30—Happy Easter from Lodge 47 Officers and Membership 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 Dorothy Pechal at (817) 985-2545 or (817) 985-2548 (the hall phone) on Saturday night.

Monday, March 11 — Lodge social at 7 p.m., followed by meeting at 7:30 p.m. Ya'll come!

Saturday, March 15 — Joe and Bernice Sebek 50th Wedding Anniversary; Public Dance with music by the Vrazels 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 Bobby Hoelscher at (817) 985-2537. ***

LODGE NO. 25, ENNIS Saturday, March 8—Wedding Thursday, March 13—Lodge Meeting, 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 15—Wedding Saturday, March 22—Ennis High Band Banquet Saturday, May 3-100th Anniversary of Lodge 25; Barbecue dinner with all the trimmings at 12 p.m.; Music by Sulak Brothers Band at 1 p.m.; West Czech Dancers at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Evening music with the Vrazel's and Mikula's at 6 p.m. More details later.

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 (972) 875-5230 or the hall at (972) 875-8381 and leave a message. ***

LODGE NO. 29, TAYLOR Friday, March 7—Brian Davenport, 8-12 (Downstairs) Saturday, March 8—State 42 Tournament (Upstairs) Enjoy delicious hamburgers every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Adult lodge meetings are 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 information, call the hall at (512) 352-9139. ***

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. 49, ROWENA

***

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. 92, FORT WORTH

***

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

LODGE NO. 107, FLORESVILLE

Saturday, March 8—Cherokee Rose Friday, March 21—Cherokee Rose Saturday, March 22—Rampage Saturday, March 29—Closed Easter Dances are from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight and cover is $5. Game nights (Taroky, dominoes, etc.) are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Members, please bring snacks. ***

***

LODGE NO. 74, LOVELADY Lodge business meetings are held quarterly 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.

Permit No. 1-75-1052324-8. "Donna's Kitchen" will be open. ***

LODGE NO. 79, CORPUS CHRISTI/SOKOL HALL Hall location: 5502 Kostorhyz Road, Corpus Christi. Phone: (512) 852-9042. Public invited. SPJST lodge meetings are held at 2 p.m. on the third Sunday of every month, unless notified otherwise. ***

LODGE NO. 80, HOLLAND Saturday, March 15—Annual Arts and Crafts, Garage Sale, Bake Sale, and Barbecue; hall opens at 7:30 a.m.; good ol' Holland barbecue on sale at the pit starting at 10 a.m.; special game night begins at 7 p.m. Contact Mr. Rohde at (817) 657-2781 for booth space or more information.

Monday, March 24—American Legion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 28—Wedding Reception Game night every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP1-74615-1395-8; AL-00061-9887-0. ***

***

LODGE NO. 84, DALLAS Saturday, March 15—Dance with music by Henry Rejcek Polka Band, 8:30-12:30 ($6 per person)

***

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 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. 180, BURLESON Saturday, March 8—Texas Fever Saturday, March 15 Cross Fire Saturday, March 22—Road House Saturday, March 29—No Dance: Easter 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.

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, (972) 2639031, (972) 262-8830 and (817) 457-2138.

***

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) 9397395.

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, March 7 — People's Choice Saturday, March 8 — Frontier Sunday, March 9— People's Choice (7-11) Friday, March 14 — Debonaires Saturday, March 15 — Chad Hudson Private party room available. For more information, call 255-1554 Wednesdays from 7 to 11 a.m.

***

***

LODGE NO. 142, HOUSTON

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.

Sunday, March 9—Lodge Meeting at 2 p.m.

Saturday, May 3—Fish Fry (more information later)

***

Hall rentals for wedding or party, call (713) 862-6291 after 4 p.m. ***

LODGE NO. 154, FORT WORTH Monthly lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise stated. ***

LODGE NO. 161, LA PARITA Sunday, March 9—Meeting at the Jourdanton Civic Center at 11:45 a.m. RSVP to Tillie Koch

by March 4 to reserve your lunch plate. Call (210) 569-5627. ***

LODGE NO. 172, PASADENA Saturday, March 8 Southern Breeze (C/W) Saturday, March 15—Sundance (C/W) Saturday, March 22—Miles of Texas (C/W) Saturday, March 29—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 (218) 487-3297.

LODGE NO. 177, ACADEMY 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. 47, SEATON Saturday, March 8—Jerry Haisler and Melody Five Sunday, March 9—Lodge and Youth Club Meetings at 2 p.m.

Monday, March 10—Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m. (one week early due to booking)

Lodge 107 monthly meetings are the second Sunday of every month at 4 p.m. at the lodge hall, unless otherwise noted.

***

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

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

LODGE NO. 179, WARRENTON

***

LODGE NO. 39, BRYAN

LODGE NO. 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE

Lodge meets on the first Thursday of each month at the VFW Post, 4002, Longview.

***

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. For hall rentals, call Joyce at (817) 624-1361 for a place to have your private party.

LODGE NO. 81, NEEDVILLE

***

Sunday, March 16—Polka/Waltz music by Don Peachy of Burnet, Wisconsin, 3-7 p.m. ($7 per person) Sunday, April 6—Country/Western Dance, 3 to 6 p.m. ($5 per person)

LODGE NO. 54, WEST Friday, March 7—First quarterly meeting at 7 p.m. Come out and participate in the business meeting and enjoy an interesting speaker, food and fellowship.

LODGE NO. 178 LONGVIEW- KILGORE

***

***

***

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.

Friday, March 7—Texas Brew, country/western; no one under 16 admitted ($5 per person) Saturday, March 8—Jack Melick "The Piano Man," Big Band Music; dress code ($10 per person) Saturday, March 15—Don Peady Polka Band from Wisconsin, polka and variety ($6 per person) Saturday, March 22—Donnie Wavra, ballroom and variety ($6 per person) Saturday, March 29—Odis Claxton (first time at Chandelier Ballroom), big band music; dress code ($10 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. 24, CYCLONE

LODGE NO. 88, HOUSTON

Saturday, March 8—Back Roads Saturday, March 15—Sante Fe Saturday, March 22—Runnin' on Empty Saturday, March 29—Fire Creek 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 2 p.m. Bingo every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the kitchen is open.

LODGE NO. 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION Sunday, March 9—Quarterly Meeting at 2 p.m. in Board Room of First Federal Savings Bank, 2900 Texas Avenue in Bryan. Plans will be discussed for a membership dinner to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the lodge. The officers need membership input on this. A special invitation to charter members and past Lodge 189 officers.

Your thoughts and recommendations are needed. ***

LODGE NO. 191, LUFKIN For dance reservations, call Linda Hancock at 867-4016. To reserve the building for a special occasion, contact Helen Boyd at 6322849. ***

LODGE NO. 196, HOUSTON-WEST Saturday, March 8—Tracy Lee (country/western, country classic, light rock and roll) Saturday, March 22—Bill Ledbetter Orchestra (big band) Sunday, March 23—Short meeting followed

by Easter egg hunt and charcoal hamburgers.

Bring something to go with hamburgers and one dozen decorated eggs.

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.

—SPJST-

Centennial Membership Drive DATES: March 1 -December 31 1997

3 Ways To Win!

TOP FIVE RECRUITERS recommending the most new members will receive the following cash prizes:

1.Become a top recruiter.

2.Receive a Centennial Club pin for recommending two new members.

3.Earn SPJST "Gold Dollars" that you can redeem for membership award items.

• First Place — $500:00 • Second Place — $400.00 • Third Place — $300.00 • Fourth Place — $200.00 • Fifth Place — $100.00 *

Reports will be published monthly in the Vestnik, showing cumulative totals, so you can track your status in the membership drive.

*

Cash prizes will be awarded January 31, 1998.

CENTENNIAL CLUB * SPJST members recommending at least two (2) new members will receive a commemorative "Centennial Club" lapel pin and become an exclusive member in the SPJST "Centennial Club."

L

* As a member of this elite group of people, you will receive another benefit.

A five SPJST "Gold Dollar" Certificate will be given to each Centennial Club member who recommends a new member into the SPJST. These certificates can be redeemed for 100th Anniversary items listed below.

SPJST CENTENNIAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE AWARD ITEMS 60 Gold Dollars

20 Gold Dollars

will win:

15 Gold Dollars 25 Gold Dollars will win:

5 Gold Dollars will win: Road Warrior Insulated Mug 100th Anniversary Insulated Mug SPJST Teddy Bear • SPJST Cap/Pen • Lapel Pin Western Buckle • Tie Tack/Pen • Ladies Locket

will win:

SPJST 100th Anniversary Dominoes SPJST Windbreaker Jacket (Unlined)

SPJST Polo Shirt

win:

SPJST Umbrella • SPJST Cookbook

SPJST Lantern SPJST Lined Jackets

SPJST 16-inch Diameter Wall Clock

1

• Any SPJST member, 18 years or older, can participate and assist our sales representatives in get-

Information and Rules • Furnish names of relatives, friends, neighbors and co-workers who are NOT members of SPJST. We encourage you to tell them that you are recommending them for membership in your lodge and

ting new members.

• Supreme Lodge Officers, Directors, Home Office Employees, Sales Representatives and their immediate families are encouraged to recruit new members but are not eligible for prizes.

the valuable benefits SPJST has to offer.

• Complete an SPJST Centennial Membership Drive coupon and return to the SPJST Home Office, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 or to a local lodge sales representative. (Sales Representatives will have extra forms available).

Here's Your Coupon to Participate in the Centennial Membership Drive

10 Gold Dollars will

will win:

r COUPON

CELEBRATE.WITH US

SPJST Centennial Membership Drive

COUPON for membership in the SPJST.

I would like to introduce

(Name of Prospect)

SPJST members are encouraged to be a part

my information:

Here is the information on the prospect:

Here is

Name

Name

Address

Address

City/ZIP

City/ZIP

Telephone No.

Telephone No.

You may list a preferred sales representative to make the contact

Lodge No.

of the SPJST Centennial Membership Drive.

"Recruiters" become eligible for a variety of prizes. Your coupon for recommending new members appears at right.

or leave blank

Hand to lodge sales representative or mail to: SPJST Home Office Attn: Insurance Department

Preferred Sales Representative L

P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503