Vestnik 1999 09 01

ESTNIK

Changing to meet the needs of fraternalists.

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

SPJST He-44aid

Official Publication of The Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas, Founded 1897 BROTHERHOOD

HUMANITY

BENEVOLENCE

Postmaster: Please Send Form 3579 to: SPJST Home Office, P. 0. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

VOLUME 87 NUMBER 33

September 1,1999

1SSN-07458800

Congratulations to our July 1999 SPJST Top Producers

Thanks to these and all of our active sales representatives for their part in building an even stronger SPIST. Keep up the good wprk

TATEWIDE TOP PRODUCERS

SUSAN KRABANEK Lc ige 17 Lb (District One nsurance en Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas

1

TOPS IN. DISTRICT

SUSAN SKRABANEK Lodge 17 New Tabor

FRANK PAJESTKA, JR. Lodge 80 Holland

ROBERT DOBECKA Lodge 6 Cottonwood

LEONARD JANSA, FIC Lodge 160 San Angelo

Top Applications Written

Top Applications Written

Top Applications Written

Top Applications Written

Top Insurance Written

Top Insurance Written

Top Insurance Written

Top Insurance Written

M L RED HOLEMAN Lodge 88 Houston

KAREL MATEJKA Lodge 40 El CampoHillje

WILLIAM SPARKS Lodge 97 Placedo

APRIL HAAG Lode 185 New Braunfels

Top Insurance Written

Top Applications Written

.

Tc Applications W tten

Top Applications Written

fittizOlg,„‘

Top Insurance Written

Top Insurance Written

Membership Dr !ve Awius ,' - December 31 6 See back page for details!

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2/VESTNIK-Wednesday, September 1, 1999

VEST

SPJST Herald

VESTNIK (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the fourth week of June and fourth week of August by VESTNIK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $20 per year, beginning July 1, for non-members. Members' fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by the Supreme Lodge SPJST, 520 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, FIC P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100 Home: 13851 St. Hwy. 53, Temple, TX 76501-3407 Office Phone: (254) 773-1575 Home Phone: (254) 985-0007 E-Mail: bvanicek@vvm.com

OFFICERS HOWARD LESHIKAR PRESIDENT Office Phone: (254) 773-1575 Home Phone: (254) 771-1359

LEONARD MIKESKA VICE PRESIDENT Office Phone: (254) 773-1575 Home Phone: (254) 778-3720

LANITA ANGLIN SECRETARY-TREASURER Office Phone: (254) 773-1575 Home Phone: (254) 985-2334

JERRY MIKULAS FINANCIAL SECRETARY Office Phone: (254) 773-1575 Home Phone: (254) 773-2950

SIDNEY KACIR LEGAL ADVISOR Office Phone: (254) 778-5228 P.O. Box 5119 Temple, Texas 76505

DIRECTORS DONNIE VICTORICK DISTRICT I Home Phone: (409) 272-3265 P.O. Box 85, Snook, TX 77878

FRANK INKOVSKY DISTRICT H Home Phone: (254) 773-4801 3514 Preston Oaks Dr., Temple, TX 76504

JOHNNIE IZAN DISTRICT III Home Phone: (254) 826-5882 11500 Heritage Pkway, West, TX 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: (361) 578-2687 1009 Northgate, Victoria, TX 77904

BOB BAYER DISTRICT VII Home Phone: (830) 216-7954 1100 Hospital Blvd., Floresville, Texas 78114 PUBLICATION COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - FLOYD KOSTELKA, ROUTE ONE, BOX 24-A, DIME BOX, TX 77853 - (409) 884-0112 DISTRICT II - LAVERNE CABLA, 10612 OSCAR SCHOOL ROAD, TEMPLE, TX 76501 - (254) 985-2354 DISTRICT III - BESSIE PETR, V. CHMN., 5406 MORNINGSIDE, DALLAS, TX 75206 - (214) 826-3557 DISTRICT IV - SHARON WAGGONER, 222 CRESTWOOD DRIVE, SAN ANGELO, TX 76903 - (915) 651-5884 DISTRICT V - LORENDA BALDWIN, 219 CR 47, ANGLETON, TX 77515 - (409) 922-1279 DISTRICT VI - HELEN KELNER, 911 AVE. K, ROSENBERG, TX 77471 - (281) 342-2624 DISTRICT VII - JAROLYN POPP, 850 NORTH VIEW, NEW BRAUNFELS, TX 78130 - (210) 6207025 BY-LAW COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - CLARENCE MATULA, BOX 533, 140 W. FANNING, LA GRANGE, TX 78945 - (409) 968-5987 DISTRICT II - RONNIE RIEGER, V. CHMN. 350 RIEGER ROAD, COUPLAND, TX 78615 - (512) 365-2000 DISTRICT III - KAY LYNN KOVAR, 3303 LAKE BARDWELL DRIVE, ENNIS, TX 75119 - (214) 875-5498 DISTRICT IV - BEVERLY TEPLICEK, SCTY., 817 FM 381, ROWENA, TX 76875 - (915) 442-4841 DISTRICT V - DOROTHY PFLUGHAUPT, 1243 CLOVIS RD, HOUSTON, TX 77008 - (713) 864-2163 DISTRICT VI - MICHAEL AHLSTROM, CHAIRMAN, 407 TAOS STREET, VICTORIA, TX 77904 (512) 578-3279

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DISTRICT VII - BETTIE HOUSE, 1721 CONTINENTAL DRIVE, PLEASANTON, TX 78064 (830) 281-8246 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISTRICT I - ERNEST WENTRCEK, 1530 BENNETT, BRYAN, TX 77802 - (409) 822-6397 DISTRICT II - FRANK PAJESTKA, JR., P.O. BOX 381, HOLLAND, TX 76534 - (817) 657-8176 DISTRICT III - MICHAEL GALLER, 526 KAREN, WACO, TX 76706 - (254) 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, 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 FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR BARBARA ROSENKRANZ, P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE, TX 76503 - (254) 773-1575 E-Mail: derose@stonemedia.com STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR MELANIE ZAVODNY, P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE, TX 76503 - (254) 773-1575 E-Mail: melaniez@vvm.com 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 - (254) 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, 1126 PRINCE STREET, HOUSTON, TX 77008 - (713) 836-1609 DISTRICT VI - MARCY DOROTIK, 12939 WHITTINGTON, APT. NO. 706A, HOUSTON, TX 77077 (281) 679-5567 DISTRICT VII - LIZ BIELEFELD, ROUTE TWO, BOX 154-B, FLORESVILLE, TX 78114 (83Q) 393-6037 LIBRARY, ARCHIVES, MUSEUM Dorothy Pechal, Museum Curator Office: (254) 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, NO. 7 Frank James, MPR BELTON, TX 76513 - (254) 780-1906 DISTRICTS 1 and 2 Gene McBride (800) 727-7578 (254) 780-1906 DISTRICTS 3 and 4 Jerry Kucera (254) 826-5425

DISTRICTS 5 and 6 Jim Wiest (361) 782-5597 Email: Jimatspjst@aol.com DISTRICT 7 Larry Wagner (830) 276-4414 or (830) 742-4463 (Home) Email: insagent@texas.net

CHANGES OF ADDRESS AND CORRESPONDENCE CONCERNING DELIVERY OF THE VESTNIK MUST BE SENT TO THE SUPREME LODGE, P.O. BOX 100, TEMPLE TX 76503. PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS AND ADVERTISING SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE VESTNIK, P.O. BOX 100, TEM-

PLE, TEXAS 76503.

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

HJR 4: e This Could Be Big! Legislative Bright Spot "If something new presents itself to you and you don't know enough about it to decide if it might help you achieve your goal, don't say no - find out more.

How do we find out more? By asking, doing, listening - by getting involved."

-- Peter McWilliams Anyone active in a lodge that owns a building or land knows that meeting the annual property tax obligation is a major challenge. It represents a heavy burden for lodges seeking to maintain facilities and still trying to contribute to the betterment of their community.

As you may recall, the 1999 intrafraternal effort to seek legislative relief from property taxes for local lodges fell short of its mark.

There will not be a statewide referendum vote in November seeking a constitutional amendment authorizing property tax exemptions for fraternal lodges. Regardless, thanks largely to to the efforts of State Representative Edmund Kuempel of Seguin and Senator Jeff Wentworth of San Antonio this past legislative session, the ballot will include a proposed Constitutional amendment that could pave the way for some of our lodges to qualify for property tax exemptions next year.

The wording on the November ballot proposition (HJR 4) will read: "The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to exempt property owned by institutions engaged primarily in public charitable functions from ad valorem taxation."

Whew! You may want to read that interpretation at least one more time before we continue ...

Note that paragraph two of the explanation makes reference to H.B. 1978.

This refers to House Bill 1978 which was passed by the 76th Legislature.

This bill, according to the Texas State Comptroller's Office, "expands the types of charitable functions that charitable organizations may perform to qualify for property tax exemption.

"Charitable organizations may qualify for an exemption by providing recreational or social activities and facilities designed to address the special needs of elderly persons or the handicapped.

"Subsection (1) allows a charitable organization . . . to engage in other activities that support or are related to its charitable functions."

All of this becomes effective January 1, 2000, contingent on the passage of H.J.R. 4 by voters at the November 2, 1999 election.

Granted, HB 1978 makes no specific references to fraternal benefit societies; however, in that some SPJST lodges cater a significant portion of their programming to members in the over-50 age group, passage of the referendum could be very beneficial.

House Bill 1978 was authored by State Representative Edmund Kuempel, who chairs the House Committee on State Recreational Resources which has jurisdiction over the regulation of various state recreational activities.

According to a source in Representative Kuempel's office, House Bill 1978, "clarifies the definitions of `support' to the elderly by allowing recreational and social activities in addition to an organization's purely charitable works.

"In order for a senior center to claim exemption under this bill, it must primarily provide charitable services but it may provide other services only if they support or are related to its charitable services."

"The amendment could pave the way for some of our lodges to qualify for property tax exemptions next year."

What Does It Mean?

The interpretation offered by Sands Stiefer of the Harris County Appraisal District is as follows: "This resolution amends the Texas Constitution to permit the exemption of property as defined by general law "This would thereby permit the enactment of HB 1978, which amends Sec. 11.18(d) and (d)(3), Tax Code, to provide that "support" for the elderly for exemption purposes includes providing recreational or social activities and facilities designed to address the special needs of the elderly.

"It also provides that such an organization need not engage exclusively in charitable functions as long as its other functions are "related to" its charitable activities.

"The requirement that an organization would have to engage in purely charitable functions is stricken from the Constitution. this bill will take effect upon voter approval, November 2, 1999."

What Next?

If Texas voters pass the constitutional amendment on November 2, will your local lodge qualify under the terms of the new legislation? That, of course, will largely depend on your lodge's fraternal program and the judgement rendered by your local Tax Appraisal District office. Your first step in this process will be to visit with your local Tax Appraisal District Office and request an Application for Charitable Organizations. You must file the completed form between January 1 and April (Continued on next page.)

Wednesday, September 1, 1999--VESTNIk/3

This Could Be Big! (Continued from page 2.)

30. If the chief appraiser grants the exemption, you will not need to reapply annually unless the chief appraiser requires you to do so, or if you want the exemption to apply to property not listed in the application.

There's More ...

Achieving legislative relief from the ad valorem tax is possible. Our odds for achieving success will improve dramatically with thoughtful planning, effective communication and diligent action. Knowledge is power. By staying informed on the issues, we can empower ourselves and change things for the better If you have any questions or observations about any of the material presented here, please call or drop a line. In the meantime, I'll continue researching the property tax issue and provide you with updates.

Passage of the constitutional amendment H.J.R 4 on November 2 could be (Editor's Note: Thanks to Flatonia City a real plus for our lodges in any future Council Member Kenneth Freytag, legquest to seek legislative relief from ad islative sources and regulatory agency valorem taxation. As previously stated, personnel who contributed information the requirement that an organization for the preceding report.) would have to engage in purely charitable functions would be stricken from the Constitution. Moreover, it states that a Referendum Vote qualifying organization need not engage Delegates to the 1960 SPJST exclusively in charitable functions as Convention in San Antonio authorized long as its other functions are "related a Pension and Retirement Fund to be to" its charitable activities. created for all salaried officers and With such wording in place, all that employees of the SPJST. By design, may be necessary, according to a source this employee benefit is designed for in Senator Steve Ogden's office, would the payment of a lifetime monthly benbe for fraternals to seek "enabling legislaefit commencing at normal (or early) tion" that would qualify them to receive retirement age. The annual funding an exemption under Section 11.18 of the costs for the plan are based on actuarial Property Tax Code. In layman's terms, it projections of expected long-term intermay not require Constitutional revision, est rates, salary increases, rates of merely an amendment to an existing employee termination and mortality. statute — which would certainly be much No individual accounts of the trust fund simpler to achieve. are maintained, but accrued benefits are maintained for each participant.

Please note that delegates to the 1996 SPJST Convention in Arlington will receive referendum ballots this week to vote on terminating the OFFICIAL FORMS ARE IN! SPJST's pension plan. The proposed While service provides its own alternative would be a 401(k) revenue reward, participating in the sharing plan. According to Finance National Make a Difference Day on October 23 could also Committee Chairman Dwayne Weise, mean cash dollars for your directors requested that the Finance adult lodge or youth club. For Committee review the retirement plan your official Make a Difference Day entry form, please conin order to reduce escalating costs. At tact State Youth Director the request of Mr. Weise, a copy of the Melanie Zavodny, State cover letter and referendum which will Fraternal Activities Coordinator Barbara Rosenkranz or be mailed to 1996 delegates appears to Vestnik Editor Brian Vanicek at the right of this column.

1 (800) 727-7578.

---S PJ ST—

RE: Retirement Plan

If the present retirement plan is terminated retirees and present employees will have several options.

1. They can elect to have the plan purchase a life time annuity that they cannot out live.

This would mean that if they are presently retired they would continue to receive the same amount from the life time annuity that they are presently receiving from the SPJST retirement plan.

If they are presently employed by SPJST they can elect to have an annuity purchased by the plan that will provide the annual benefit that they have earned based on the plan's benefit formula which is: number of credited years x 2.5% five year average salary = annual , benefits, payable at age 65 for life time with 10 years certain.

EXAMPLE years of credited service x 2.5% = 50% x $24,000. (average 5 year salary) = $ 12,000. Divided by 12 = $1,000 Monthly benefit payable at age 65.

2. Another option that retirees and present employees have is to elect a lump sum payment and to roll the proceeds from the terminated plan into an IRA (Individual Retirement Account) or other qualified plan.

An IRA account has no guarantee as to the amount that will be paid out. Several factors determine the pay out, such as type of investments, time of the investment and etc.

There is Internal Revenue Service penalties when early withdrawals are made from IRA account 3. The last option for retirees and employees would be to elect a lump sum payment without rolling the proceeds to an IRA. If this was done 20% withholding would be made for the Internal Revenue Service and an early withdrawal penalty may also apply. There may also be additional Income Taxes due at the end of the year on the lump sum payment made.

All retirees and active employees will receive complete informaI would tion on their options when they can make their elections. recommend that all retirees and all employees consult with a Financial Consultant or a Financial Planner before any option is selected.

Dwayne Weise 20

Make a Difference Day

GOT QUESTIONS? DEADLINE FOR MATERIAL TO BE

ACCEPTED FOR THE FOLLOW: SIG ISSUE IS WEDNESDAY. TO FAX "'OUR NEWS ITEMS, PLEASE SEND MESSAGES 0 1,254: 7 -7 -e -7447. SEND VESTNIK E-MAIL TO: 'En or SPJST@stoner edia.c

SPJST MORTGAGE INTEREST TES RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Home or Farm Mortgages: 6.50% for 1 to 7 years 7.00% for 8 to 15 years 7.25% for 16 to 20 years 7.50% for 21 to 30 years Mortgages on Qualified Owner-Operated Business Real Estate 8.25% for 10 years 8.50% for 11 to 15 years

INTEREST TES NNUITY (Certificates issued Prior to 4-1-93) 5.00% Annualized Effective 8-1-99 through 10-31-99

ANNUITY II (Certificates Issued 4-1-93 and After) 6.00% Annualized Effective 8-1-99 through 10-31-99

ROTH IRA 6.00% Annualized Effective 8-1-99 through 10-31-99

UNIVERSAL LIFE 6.75% Annualized Effective 8-1-99 through 10-31-99

September 1, 1999

REFERENDUM Dear Delegates: The Finance Committee met at the SPJST Home Office on June 19, 1999 as authorized by Article 25 of the by-laws and followed the same format as adopted by the 1996 Convention for a thorough study of the retirement plan in order to reduce escalating costs.

In response to the requirements of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) the following occurred which increased the cost of the current plan significantly: 1. Employees contributions to the pension plan were discontinued in 1995.

2. Beginning in 1995, 100% contributions to the plan for all employees were made by the Society.

Other amendments to the plan that have contributed to the rising cost of funding the plan are: Annual benefit increased from 1.75% to 2.00% in 1980 Factor increased from 2.00% to 2.50% in 1983 Unreduced early retirement requirements were lowered in 1983 Vesting requirements was lowered from 8 years to 5 years in 1989 The actuarial equivalent lump sum limit of $10,000.00 was moved in 1994. The Society contributions to the present plan rose considerably in the past five years.

1994 - $82,140 1995 - $120,703 1996 - $137,431 1997 - $169,467 1998 - $195,533 (additionally at $175,000 contribution was made in 1998 to offset potential liability in the event the plan should be terminated.

Like amounts were authorized for years 1999 and 2000.)

The Finance Committee is supporting a change in the plan and will be working with the Supreme Lodge on implementing a new retirement plan for the SPJST employees. Any recommendations or changes in the plan must meet with the IRS Regulations.

The Finance Committee reviewed the present SPJST Employee Defined Benefit Pension Plan, which has been in effect since 1961 and recommends the following changes: The proposed Retirement Plan for the SPJST employees would be a 401(k) Revenue sharing Plan.

(Continued on next page.)

4/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999

REFERENDUM (Continued from previous page.)

An employee would choose to designate a percent of their compensation and have that amount contributed to the plan on their behalf.

A formula will be provided to allow for some matching funds from the Society.

The committee has presented the Supreme Lodge with some guidelines to implement the plan. The members of the committee feel that implementing a 401(K) plan will save the Society a considerable amount of money and at the same time will be beneficial to the employees of the SPJST. Based on 1999 salaries, the estimated cost to the Society should not exceed $60,000 a year depending on the options selected.

As delegated to the Arlington Convention in 1996 you are asked to cast your ballot on the enclosed referendum.

The Ballots are to be mailed in the enclosed Ballot Envelope addressed to the SPJST Supreme Lodge and postmarked no later than October 1, 1999 to be counted.

Representative(s) of the Finance Committee will be present when the Ballots are opened and votes are counted by the certified public accountant.

FOR THE SPJST FINANCE COMMITTEE Dwayne Weise, Chairman Rita J. Vanek, Secretary Enclosures: Ballot and Envelope

men, women and children of all ages haue a need for the kinds of seruices that our SPJST can prouide. We haue a great uehicle for bringing people together and making their liues more secure. Your district's fall meeting is an excellent opportunity for yOU to have fun and learn more about matters of lodge and Society business. make plans now to attend yolk district's fell meeting.

1999 SPJST DISTRICT FALL MEETINGS

From the Vice President 'he SPJST Monthly Insurance Report

district Two District Five meets meets September 19 September 19 at at Lodge 24, Cyclone Lodge 196, Houston-West Dear District Two Members: This is reminder that the District Two Fall Meeting will be held on Sunday, September 19, 1999 at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone.

Through July 31, 1999

MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN AND ISSUED

Dist

Apps.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9

6 26 24 18 20 24 5 0

Totals:

Written

Issued

640,000.00 1,339,500.00 686,500.00 1,200,000.00 837,000.00 230,000.00 50,000.00 0

$ 252,000.00 474,500.00 307,000.00 515 000.00 850,000.00 600,000.00 240,000.00 92,000.00

$4,983,000.00

$3,330,500.00

$

123

YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN AND ISSUED

Dist 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Totals:

Apps.

Written

Issued

42 167 159 68 171 167 38 12

$

2,029,500.00 6,891,500.00 4,962,500.00 4,035,000.00 6,061,580.00 6,507,500.00 1,792,000.00 210,000.00

$1,114,500.00 4,871,500.00 3,510,500.00 2,205,000.00 3,993,180.00 5,162,500.00 1,235,000.00 185,000.00

824

$32,489,580.00

$22,277,180.00

Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC Vice President —SPJST-

Registration

1 p.m.

Youth Christmas Ornaments/ Adult Horseshoe Registration

1 p.m.

Adult Meeting

2 p.m.

Country Store

2:30 - 3 p.m.

Door Prizes/Contest Winners Announced 4:30 p.m.

Evening Meal (Fried Fish

Dinner with the Trimmings)

5 p.m.

(approximately)

(Cost is $2 per person) Tickets for the games will be sold this year at 10 tickets for $1 (no free tickets will be given). District Two will provide all the food items for the country store. District Two Officers ask that each family bring a cake for the country stores. The youth program will have their traditional silent auction to raise money for the youth. We will have a prize drawing for $25, $50 and $75. The cost for the prize drawing is 7 for $5 or 1 for $1.

Monetary donations will be accepted to help with costs of the fall meeting. Contact any of the District Officers if you or your lodge would like to donate.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the meeting.

Fraternally, Sharon E. Holman District Two Secretary —SPJST-

Hello all members and friends in the SPJST and in the state! I want to invite everyone to our fall fun day at Lodge 196, Houston-West in Cypress, Texas on September 19, 1999 starting at 11 a.m. with a short meeting and a covered lunch at noon. There will also be a social hour.

This will be a happy, fun day with a watermelon contest, bingo, horseshoes, kolaches, needle work, crafts and a Christmas ornament contest. So please make plans for this wonderful day. We may also play volleyball or baseball if we have enough players.

So bring your favorite covered dish and dessert. Let's all have a good day visiting and meeting our sisters and brothers in District Five and in the state.

District Five officers and host Lodge 196 officers held an agenda planning meeting on August 31 at Ryan's Steak House on Highway 290.

Please watch for this agenda in a future issue of the Vestnik.

Fraternally, Evelyn Mikeska.

District Five President —SPJST-

You get out of life what you put into it! Attend your district fall meeting.

October 17

District One Fall Meeting hosted by Lodge 17, New Tabor

October 10

District Six Fall Meeting at Victoria Electric Co-Op

October 24

District Three Fall Meeting hosted by Lodge 180, Burleson

November 7

Lodge 161, La Parita-Jourdanton hosts District Seven Fall Meeting at Longhorn Museum, Pleasanton

Wednesday, September 1, 1999--VESTNIK/5

Minutes of the July 13, 14 and 15, 1999 Regular Meetng of the Supreme Lodge SPJST Hei at the Home Office, Temple, Texas

mail a letter to those businesses listed in the Membership Directory to see if the business would be willing to offer SPJST members a discount. Motion carried unanimously.

The regular meeting of the Supreme Lodge SPJST was called to order by Chairman of the Board Vanek at 8:34 a.m. with the following Supreme Lodge members present:

CONVENTION — There was a discussion concerning the convention Booklet for the XXVIIIth SPJST Convention to be held in Temple. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Director Bayer for the Home Office to be responsible for the Convention Souvenir Booklet with the Secretary-Treasurer's Department being in charge. Voting in favor were President Leshikar, Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Victorick, Director Klinkovsky, Director Hanus, and Director Bayer.

Voting against were Director Krizan, Director Broz, and Director Vanek. Motion passed.

Howard L. Leshikar, President Leonard D. Mikeska, Vice-President Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Mikulas, Financial Secretary Sidney Kacir, Legal Advisor Donnie Victorick - District I Frank Klinkovsky n District II

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

The Supreme Lodge Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and observed a moment of silence in memory of the deceased members.

MINUTES — The minutes were reviewed page by page. The last sentence of the sixth paragraph should read, "Motion carried.". On page 260 under scholarships the first sentence should add "grandchildren" as the last word and under District VII the third sentence should have the word "minutes" removed.

Director Broz moved, seconded . by Director Hanus to approve the minutes with the corrections. Motion passed unanimously.

The Supreme Lodge went into executive session to review the minutes from the previous meeting.

AUDIT — The bank audit of stocks and bonds was completed July 12, 1999 by Director Klinkovsky, President Leshikar, Independent Auditor Henry L. S. Jezek and Secretary-Treasurer Anglin.

The following audit assignments were made: Automobile — Director Broz and Director Krizan

CEMETERY MARKER — President Leshikar presented a drawing of a cemetery marker for the Supreme Lodge to consider. This item was tabled to the next meeting.

Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Director Hanus for any profits from the Convention booklet to go to the SPJST Scholarship Fund. Motion passed unanimously.

Recess was taken from 3:10 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

RETIREMENT PLAN — There was a discussion as to whether or not any experts on retirement plans are available for the Wednesday's Supreme Lodge meeting with the chairman of the Finance Committee. There was a discussion concerning the difference of a defined benefit retirement plan and a defined contribution retirement plan.

AD VALOREM TAXES — President Leshikar presented the following suggestions to begin working on having the ad valorem tax for the local lodges passed in 2001: Start now making contact with public officials.

Locate two or three senators of each party, to co-sponsor this proposal. This needs to be done in the House of Representatives also.

President Leshikar moved, seconded by Secretary-Treasurer to go on record to pursue the exemption of the Ad Valorem taxes for the local lodges and to meet with other fraternals as to what percentage the other fraternals would be willing to pay, but no SPJST funds have been committed at this time. Motion carried unanimously.

Vouchers — Director Bayer, Director Klinkovsky, and Director Victorick Ledgers — Director Hanus and Director Vanek The officers are to be available to answer any questions that arise.

Recess was taken from 8:55 am. to 1:00 p.m. for the Director's Audit.

Kathy and Bobby Fritz were welcomed to the meeting. Vice-President Mikeska and Chairman Vanek presented Kathy Fritz a plaque and a monetary gift in recognition of her twenty years of service to the SPJST. She is the assistant to the Vice President.

AUDITS: STOCKS AND BONDS — Director Klinkovsky reported all of the stocks located in the bank were accounted for and independent auditor Henry L. S. Jezek, CPA, had audited the custody account and would make his report later during the meeting.

VOUCHERS — Director Bayer reported the vouchers were in order and no discrepancies were found.

AUTOMOBILE — Director Broz reported the same automobile logs were being used by all except for three vehicles. Director Krizan indicated that the logs were in better shape than in the past and reminded everyone the logs should include the mileage for everyday.

LEDGER — Director Harms reported the projections made by Financial Secretary were very close to the actual figures and complimented Financial Secretary Mikulas for doing a good job. The figures were found to be in order.

EMPLOYEES -- The suggestion box was opened and the suggestions were read to the Supreme Lodge Members. Each suggestion was discussed after its reading. Director Krizan moved, seconded by Director Broz to continue the suggestion box and encourage the employees to continue making suggestions.

Motion carried unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS: MEMBERSHIP CARD — President Leshikar presented three different types of cards that can be used for membership cards with the cost for each card and information on each type of card. These membership cards could be used for discount to the members. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Director Victorick to

There was a discussion as to the possibility on also working to have a bill passed by the Texas Legislative to lower the percentage of down payment on mortgage loans to 15% down. Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska to pursue with other fraternals about the possibility of working towards having the amount of down payment for mortgage loans lowered to 15% down. Motion carried unanimously.

TEMPLE COLLEGE — President Leshikar presented information from Temple College on possible seminars and workshops to be conducted by Temple College Uptown. There was a report on the meeting with Temple College representatives and the officers. More information will be presented at the next meeting concerning pursuing information on making contributions to Temple College Uptown.

LODGE INCENTIVE PROGRAM/LODGE REFUND — Information was brought to the Supreme Lodge on suggestions from a meeting held June 18, 1999, of the special committee. Input was requested from the directors who were not part of the committee. There was a lengthy discussion on ideas for possible changes in the local lodge incentive and local lodge refund program. The special committee is to present further information about changes in the two programs at the next Supreme Lodge meeting.

STATE FAC REPORT — State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Rosenkranz's report was reviewed.

Recess was taken from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.

There was a lengthy discussion concerning the amount of time spent traveling to cover the state by state field people. One solution may be to try spending the night in an area and visiting with members before a meeting, after the meeting, and then the next morning visiting with the local lodge officers.

STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR'S REPORT — State Youth Director Zavodny's report was reviewed. There were positive responses concerning the facility at the Peaceable Kingdom. There was a discussion about having special needs SPJST children attend a camp at the Peaceable Kingdom. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir to gather information to see if the SPJST can sponsor a three or four day camp for SPJST disabled youth. Motion passed unanimously.

MUSEUM REPORT — President Leshikar presented the museum report showing 338 people visiting the museum for the past three months and five were from outside of the United States.

6/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999 SALES — Applications written are up by 16% increase or 99 certificates and the insurance written is up by $6,279,580.00 over 1998 and up $57,163.70 unearned premiums over 1998. District V has had success this year and made large gains in the number of applications written over last year and District VI has already met their quota for 1999.

Vice President Mikeska reviewed the Progress Development Reports Notebook which will help the Insurance Department the Fraternal Department, the field personal, and Directors track contacts of lodges who do not have an active sales representative, have no active fraternal programs, and who did not send a delegate to the last convention.

LOCAL LODGE — Vice President Mikeska reported two of the new lodges will probably be chartered by the next Supreme Lodge meeting. Vice-President Mikeska moved, seconded by Director Broz to extend the expiration date to October 31, 1999 for organizing the new lodges in process except Lodge 208Graham to be withdrawn. Motion carried unanimously.

STATE FIELD MANAGER — State Field Manager McBride's report was reviewed including the results of mail outs in districts seeking new sales representatives.

MARKETING STRATEGY — Vice President Mikeska presented the market ing strategy of the SPJST, which is directed to increasing membership, increasing premium income, and assisting with improving fraternal activity. The foundation of the SPJST's marketing strategy is supported by recruiting new sales representative; by continuing to focus on training; and by servicing the members; by increasing sales numbers, premium income, and new members; by continuously monitoring our portfolio of products; by developing new lodges; and by fraternal products.

Recess was taken at 9:50 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. to have pictures for the calendars made.

NEW LODGE — Vice President Mikeska presented information on possibly organizing a local lodge in Laredo under a special contract. Director Krizan moved, seconded by President Leshikar to work out a six-month advance on actual sales commissions accrued for the prospective new sales representatives of the proposed Laredo lodge under the experimental contract with the approval of the officers and directors. Motion carried unanimously.

NEW PRODUCTS — Vice President Mikeska reported the Term 4 Life Plan will probably be marketed in the next few days and then the study will begin on Life Guard 10 with the accelerated living benefit rider.

SALES INCENTIVE — Vice president Mikeska reported on the July Sell-AThon with the contest dates July 1-31, 1999. The Win A Trip contest ends July 31, and there have been 30 recommenders. Vice President Mikeska presented the proposed Denim Round-Up contest for recommenders. Director Bayer moved, seconded by Director Klinkovsky to approve the Denim Round-up contest as presented. Motion carried.

Representatives from Pioneer Travel and the Grand Casino were welcomed to the meeting for a presentation on potential trips and benefits that might be sponsored by local lodges.

Recess was taken from 11:40 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

LICENSING — Vice President Mikeska reported the Model Fraternal Code bill passed the Texas Legislature and was signed by Governor Bush and is effective January 1, 2000. Even though the Model Fraternal Code has a grandfather clause and part-time clause for sales representatives, some sales representatives indica ed they want to be licensed. By common consent it was agreed to reimburse each of the first 25 sales representatives the cost of the testing fee after the sales representative has passed the licensing test and becomes licensed.

Buddie C. Ballard, Jr. of Everen Securities was welcomed to the meeting to discuss the pros and cons of a defined benefit retirement plan and a defined contribution retirement plan.

Recess was taken from 1:50 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.

Henry L. S. Jezek, SPA was welcomed to the meeting. Mr. Jezek reported that his review of the general ledger accounts equaled the bond/investment inventory.

Mr. Jezek explained the independent audit of the financial statements of the Society and that there were no changes to the 1998 annual statement. In response to questions by directors, Mr. Jezek indicated that the Society showed a consistent and steady growth indicating strength and success.

COMPUTER — Vice-President Mikeska reported the Term 4 Life will be the first automated policy issue product. He reported on the progress that has been made.

LODGE COMPLIANCE — Secretary Treasurer Anglin reported on the lodges that have not sent in a roster of their 1999 officers. It was decided to write these lodges and inform them they are in jeopardy of having their local lodge refund withheld if the information is not received.

Recess was taken from 3:05 p.m. to 3.15 p.m.

FINANCE COMMITTEE -- Herman. DeWayne Weise, Chairman; and Michael Galler of the Finance Committee were welcomed to the meeting.

Michael Galler presented recommendations from the Finance Committee concerning changing the SPJST's defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan (401K). Herman Weise explained the SPJST's contribution to the retirement plan had grown from $82,140.00 in 1984 to $174,500.00 in 1998. The ad hoc raises to the retirees had increased 69.8% since 1980.

Steven Stevens from A. G. Edwards was welcomed to the meeting to discuss retirement plan options.

Herman Weise presented recommendations for the current plan: Transfer from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan.

Freeze the current plan and continue to make retirement payments to those receiving retirement benefits and pay lump sum payments to others.

Freeze plans and keep intact forever.

There was a lengthy discussion concerning transferring from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan with a minimum contribution by the SPJST for the employees to be coupled with voluntary designated contributions from employees to be matched by the Society. Exact percentage and guidelines would be formulated by the Supreme Lodge upon delegate ratification of the recommendation from the Finance Committee.

Recess was taken at 6:25 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. to allow further review by both the Finance Committee and the Supreme Lodge.

LODGE COMPLIANCE — Secretary Treasurer Anglin reported on the lodges that had not provided copies of the 990/990T for 1998 to the Home Office.

VESTNIK — Financial Secretary Mikulas reported there are 10,202 subscribers to the Vestnik and seventy-three non-members have paid for their subscription to the Vestnik. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Legal Advisor Kacir to send a First Class letter to each Vestnik recipient and enclose a stamped self-addressed post card. The post card will need to be returned if the member wishes to continue to receive the Vestnik. Voting in favor were Vice President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Victorick, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer. Voting against was President Leshikar.

QUARTERLY STATEMENT — Financial Secretary Mikulas reviewed the quarterly statement line by line. This statement was for the first quarter and was submitted to the Texas Department of Insurance. Financial secretary Mikulas moved seconded by Director Bayer to ratify the statement. The motion passed unanimously.

BUDGET — Financial Secretary Mikulas reviewed the budget for 1999. The expenses for 1999 were 46% of the budgeted amount and the income budget for 1999 was 50% of the amount budgeted.

INCENTIVE PROGRAM — The incentive program was reviewed by Financial Secretary Mikulas. It was decided by common consent to reverse the names of "Century Award" and the "Super Achiever Award." The Super Achiever Award will be the top Award.

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE — Financial Secretary Mikulas reported the Texas Department of Insurance has notified us that they will be auditing years 1996, 1997, and 1998.

BANKRUPTCIES/FORECLOSURES — Legal Advisor Kacir reported on pending loans, foreclosures in process of workout and bankruptcies. By common consent it was agreed to seek a lift stay on a mortgage loan where the borrower went into bankruptcy in May 1995 and to proceed with foreclosure.

Legal Advisor Kacir reported on a title company that did not close a loan in accordance with SPJST closing instructions. There were two title companies and a title insurance company involved with this closing. Legal Advisor Kacir recommended that in the future SPJST not allow our borrowers to use this title company until they comply with our requests.

Legal Advisor Kacir reported on information from the Fraternal Benefit Council of the NFCA meeting.

Legal Advisor moved, seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin to reconsider the signs posted in the Home Office building prohibiting handguns. Motion carried unanimously.

Legal Advisor Kacir moved, seconded by Secretary-Treasurer Anglin that the sign prohibiting the handguns be removed from the Home Office building because those who want to bring a gun into the building would ignore the sign.

Motion carried unanimously.

EDITOR — Director Bayer moved, seconded by Director Victorick to accept Editor Vanicek's report. Motion carried unanimously.

Wednesday, September 1, 1999--VESTNIK/7

DISTRICT I -- Director Victorick reported on attending two sales representative classes, local lodge meeting, the District I YAD and doing four mortgage evaluations.

DISTRICT II — Director Klinkovsky reported on helping with the State Horseshoe Tournament, Lodge 47-Seaton's barbecue cook-off, and the Flag Day Ceremony at the Home Office. He also reported on local lodge meetings he attended; auditing the securities at the bank, and age 96 presentation and District II YAD. He complimented everyone involved in the Flag Day Ceremony and the Insurance Department for the good job on the Boiser City sales trip.

DISTRICT III — Director Krizan reported on his target lodges, He mentioned that Lodge 5-Pilot Point/Tioga continues to be successful in promoting SPJST in its community, recently held an outdoor meeting and picnic for its members, continues to formulate plans for building a new lodge home, and plans to participate in the Pilot Point Fall Gala Charity Event. Lodge 54-West recently held a special 50-year pin ceremony to honor its members, continues to be active, and is planning a special meeting to discuss a building addition to their lodge. Lodge 110Kaufman, Lodge 205-Terrell continues to try to reorganize their area. Lodge 205Terrell has the required membership to charter its own new lodge and has scheduled an organizational meeting in August. Lodge 195-Cleburne is still expressing a desire to reactivate and to take on new sales representatives according to State Field Representative Kucera. Lodge 35-Elk continues to make some progress in re-establishing itself and is planning a membership rally for this October. Lodge 178-Longview has continually requested assistance in reactivating itself and Director Krizan has promised to commit the entire Supreme Lodge to this effort.

In referring to the recent Vestnik issue listing all scholarship winners. Director Krizan again inquired as to which ones were designated as endowed or memorial recipients. By common consent, it was agreed that these would be presented in the Vestnik and the memorial recognition be given to the individuals so honored.

Director Krizan again inquired about the status of issuing smaller policies for other classes of insurance other than 20 year pay, about our game plan to reclaim our "A" rating with A.M. Best, and a report from the President and Vice President denoting what progress has been made in working with lodges who do not have a sales representatives, do not have a functioning fraternal program, and did not send a delegate to the last convention.

Recess was taken from 10:20 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.

DISTRICT IV — Director Broz reported he had visited all of his lodges this past quarter except Lodge 157-Lubbock. Lodge 85-Weinert and Lodge 90-Stamford have disbanded and their members transferred to Lodge 73-Seymour. He reported there was a good turn out at District IV YAD. DISTRICT V — Director Hanus reported that two local lodge presidents in District V have been in the hospital.

DISTRICT VII — Director Bayer reported District VII has a new. Treasurer and District Youth Counselor. District VII Audit Committee has requested the youth year be January to December the same as the district. He attended three insurance seminars, and Lodge 117-Robstown has a new sales representative; Lodge 107-Floresville banquet to honor 50-year members and new members where there was a large attendance. The District YAD had a fair attendance.

Director Bayer reported District VII has thirteen new sales representatives; an additional nine sales representatives to be trained; and three new lodges are in process. He complimented State Field Representative Larry Wagner on doing a good job.

DISTRICT VI — Director Vanek reported Lodge 97-Placedo is doing well, they meet quarterly and are number two in the state in signing up new members.

Lodge 41-Port Lavaca has two new sales representatives. Lodge 8-Weimar and Lodge 148-Blessing each has a new sales representative. He reported on local lodge meetings he had attended, three sales classes, the District VI youth camp and District VI sales quota banquet.

NEW BUSINESS: YOUTH— President Leshikar moved seconded by Vice President Mikeska to set youth allocation for the year 2000 at $58,000.00. Any amount remaining after camp can be placed in the District Youth fund held by the District Youth Counselor. Motion passed unanimously.

The Finance Committee recommended changing the District Youth report to January 1, to December 31. The audit of funds would be completed at the District Spring meeting. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Director Bayer to accept the Finance Committees recommendation. Motion carried unanimously.

BY-LAWS — President Leshikar reported SPJST Lodge 18 had questions concerning the collecting of local lodge dues. Legal Advisor Kacir ruled a local lodge couldn't collect back dues for voting. A local lodge can enforce a provision for dues to be paid for the last five years as a provision of renting the lodge hall at a reduced rate.

EMPLOYEES — President Leshikar moved, seconded by Financial Mikulas to sponsor a tour for Supreme Lodge members and their spouses and interested staff members to go to Marksville, Louisiana with the Supreme Lodge paying for any cost over $25.00 for a room. Voting in faCor were Financial Secretary Mikulas, Director Bayer, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Klinkovsky, Director Victorick, President Leshikar, Director Vanek, and Secretary-Treasurer Anglin.

Voting against were Director Krizan, and Legal Advisor Kacir. Abstaining was Vice President Mikeska.

Recess was taken from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

BARBECUE COOKOFF — President Leshikar reported SPJST Lodge 97Placed° will be having a District VI barbecue cook-off.

SCHOLARSHIP — There was a discussion concerning the endowed scholarship funds. President Leshikar moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska to set up a general scholarship endowment fund and to accept any amount of monies in this fund. Motion passed unanimously.

DELINQUENCIES — Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Director Victorick to accept the recommendation for the loans that are over ninety days past due. Motion carried unanimously.

MORTGAGE LOANS — Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented information on offering mortgage loan pre-approval for our members. The pre-approval would be good only six months. Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Director Krizan to approve the pre approval mortgage program. Motion carried unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer Anglin presented information on providing interim financing to SPJST members who would be using SPJST for the permanent mortgage financing. There would be no interim financing for speculative construction loans. Director Krizan moved, seconded by Director Hanus to approve mortgage loans for interim financing for a one-year pilot project. Voting in favor were Director Hanus, Director Broz, President Leshikar, Director Krizan, Director Vanek, Financial Secretary Mikulas, and Vice President Mikeska. Voting against were Director Bayer, Legal Advisor Kacir, Director Klinkovsky, Director Victorick, and Secretary-Treasurer Anglin. Motion passed.

INTEREST SENSITIVE PRODUCTS — Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Director Krizan for the rate of interest on Universal Life be set at 6.75% through October 31, 1999. Motion carried unanimously.

Secretary-Treasurer-Anglin moved seconded by Director Klinkovsky to set the interest rate for Annuity I at 5%; Annuity II at 6%; Roth IRA's at 6% and the Immediate Annuity at 6%. The interest rates would be good through October 31, 1999. Motion passed unanimously.

INVESTMENTS — Financial Secretary moved to ratify the investments for the period beginning April 1, 1999 through June 30, 1999. Motion passed unanimously.

MAIL POLL — Secretary-Treasurer Anglin moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska to ratify the mail poll authorizing the assigning of number 215 for a proposed lodge in Tahoka. Motion carried unanimously. Vice President Mikeska moved, seconded by Director Bayer to ratify the mail poll authorizing the SPJST Term 4 Life Product and to begin the marketing process. Motion passed unanimously.

INCOME AND EXPENSES — Financial Secretary Mikulas reported the total expense for the first six months of 1999 is up 1% over 1998 and the income has increased 7% during the same time period. Assets are up 17% over the same time period.

COMPUTER UPDATE — Financial Secretary Mikulas reported that since the April meeting, $49,643.00 of the $55,000.00 allocation for new computers has been spent. The IBM 9406-170 AS/400E is to be installed at the end of July.

IMAGING OF SPJST RECORDS — Financial Secretary Mikulas presented a price quote for hardware and software to provide SPJST with the imaging technology feature. Financial Secretary Mikulas moved, seconded by Vice President Mikeska to approve the purchase of hardware and software for imaging of SPJST records and the hiring of an additional employee if needed. Motion carried unanimously.

MARCH OF DIMES — Financial Secretary Mikulas presented a detailed report of expenses and income connected with the March of Dimes Fundraiser held April 8, 1999. There was a donation of $6,211.60 made to the March of Dimes.

EMPLOYEE — Vice President Mikeska introduced Janna McNeil, the new employee in the Insurance Department.

PROPERTY — Legal Advisor Kacir presented a proposal for the purchase of a lot and frame office building adjoining SPJST property. A discussion followed concerning whether or not the property would be needed for future plans.

Director Krizan moved, seconded by Director Hanus to make an offer of $55,000.00 for the property. Voting in favor were Vice President Mikeska,

8/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1,1999 Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, Director Broz, Director Hanus, and Director Vanek. Voting against were Director Bayer, Director Victorick, and President Leshikar.

Abstaining was Legal Advisor Kacir.

FINANCE COMMITTEE — Legal Advisor Kacir reviewed the recommendation for a referendum from the Finance Committee concerning the retirement plan. Director Bayer moved, seconded by Director Hanus to implement the recommendation of the Finance Committee. Voting in favor were Director Victorick, Director Klinkovsky, Director Krizan, Director Broz, Director Hanus, Director Vanek, and Director Bayer. The following abstained because of conflict of interest and potential conflict of interest: President Leshikar, Vice-President Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer Anglin, Financial Secretary Mikulas, and Legal Advisor Kacir. Motion passed.

DISTRICT I — Director Victorick reported he had no new business.

DISTRICT II — Director Klinkovsky stated he thought the meeting was very productive.

DISTRICT III — Director Krizan invited everyone to Lodge 6's Annual Picnic on July 18, 1999, the Westfest on Labor Day weekend; and the Lodge 66-Waco membership rally on July 18, 1999. Director Krizan expressed a need to be consistent and uniform on all communications from the Home Office involving our programs and write all words out without using abbreviations. He relayed a request from Sister Pat Fowler of Lod ge 25-Ennis regarding the status of monies spent for preservation of Czech Genealogy books in the library. By common consent it was agreed that President Leshikar would provide her with a detailed written update. Director Krizan expressed a need to give a positive appearance to the winners of SPJST scholarship programs. He inquired if the SPJST logo and letters SPJST are protected by a copyright or trademark.

DISTRICT IV — Director Broz invited everyone to the Czech Fest at Lodge 160-San Angelo. He inquired when the-SPJST History Book update would be completed and also what was the status of the result of research on director's grandchildren being awarded scholarships.

DISTRICT V — Director Hanus requested all the members continue to be active and supportive of the ad valorem tax exemption for local lodges. He also expressed his appreciation for the Flag Day article in the Vestizik.

Readers Write Miss SPJST Meribeth Novak writes from Prague Dear Readers, I have received many letters from friends in the U.S. asking me to explain my adventures in the Czech Republic.

In conserving time and energy and to reduce the size of the tall tales that will have preceded my arrival in Texas, I hope that the following paragraphs find your approval of my journey and answer all of your questions.

I arrived in Prague on January 18, 1999. Classes at the University of Economics, where I took six classes, including Czech, began in February. I also began working for the United States Embassy in February. In opposition to my original intentions of an internship with a legal manner, they offered my a job as a cook, but promised extraordinary benefits. They proved to be correct. I made and had dinner with the Ambassador, the former Vice President of Harvard, his wife and daughter, Suzanna. I met many military officials, learned how the Embassy and all of its fine intricacies work, met the heads of the departments, broke traditional female owned stereotypes and learned to cook for nine Marines.

Mixing Business and Pleasure DISTRICT VII — Director Bayer presented a request to use a saliva test instead of a urine test to verify non-smoker status on applications. Vice President Mikeska responded some hospitals are very slow on providing information and the only way to shorten the time would be to relax underwriting standards.

DISTRICT VI — Director Vanek complimented State Youth Director Zavodny on the job she is doing. He requested each director to make a report of the inactive and dormant lodges in the director's district. In response to a letter he received regarding omission of names denoting donations to the scholarship Penny Drive, he was assured that this matter would be corrected.

The next meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. on October 12, 1999. By common consent the meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m.

Lanita Anglin, Secretary-Treasurer —SPJST-

A NATIONAL DAY TO HELP OTHERS $2.6 MILLION in GRANTS and AWARDS AVAILABLE

Make A Difference Day

in

SPONSORED BY USA WEEKEND magazine. nerzhip with THE POINTS OF LIGHT FOUNDATION

Get Your Official Entry Form Now While service provides its own reward, participating in the National Make a Difference Day on October 23 could also mean cash dollars for your adult lodge or youth club. For your official Make a Difference Day entry form, please contact State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny, State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Barbara Rosenkranz or Vestnik Editor Brian Vanicek at 1 (800) 727-7578.

Soon after, I did begin working at a law firm, close enough to the Embassy to work at both places. Although I had taken Czech and German while in school, I was able to implement my acquired skills when I was asked to translate a 15-page legal article concerning the differences of securities in Czech and German law. It would later be presented to the American Chamber of Commerce and printed throughout legal journals in Prague.

While at the firm, I was also asked to attend and represent the firm at a Junior Chamber International meeting at the Austrian Embassy. Junior Chamber International combines the enthusiasm of young entrepreneurs and the experience of businessmen and women who own companies. Not only do they encourage their young members to assume leadership roles in the case of the death of owners who have no heir to will their business, but they also challenge laws restricting young business people from success. For example, goups of its students met with lawmakers and discuss why inefficient, restricting, outdated laws are still attempted to be enforced and create proposed laws to replace them. More times than not, the laws are changed—sometimes in the exact wording that the students submitted.

I attended the Infant Jesus of Prague Catholic Church where after only two weeks, I decided to join the choir. The Filipino ladies were eager to have me say the readings and help with luncheons after mass.

I found time to take Salsa and Meringue dance classes with some of the Marines as my dance partners. We had numerous dance practices in the kitchen while I cooked.

Also serving as an additional source

of income, I taught conversational and Business English to university students and entrepreneurs. All of my students had a firm grasp on the language, but wanted idiomatic help and/or instruction with grammar.

I traveled to Budapest in Hungary, Amsterdam in Holland, Krakow in Poland, Berlin, Cologne and Ahaus in Germany and numerous towns in the Czech Republic.

It was throughout all of this that I discovered what it means to be an American. There are advantages to being a citizen of the leading superpower of the world and traveling to a lesserdeveloped economy and newly emerging democracy wanting to imitate every part of your culture. The exemptions given to American citizens are unreal.

Numerous times, my passport was glanced at and accepted, while citizens of other countries, especially Rumania, had to practically unpack their luggage for the police to search. The Czech relationship with the Rumanian people was very interesting to observe. Racial tension exists on both sides. Many times, I felt as if I were in the United States, watching as an unbiased bystander, the tensions between blacks and whites earlier in American history.

Many people were curious as to my feelings concerning our President.

Bomb threats, NATO protests and riots took place during the Kosovo crisis while I was at work. I, however, for almost six months now, have conformed with other Czechs in riding mass transport, walking on cobblestone, fanaticizing about air conditioning and wishing that the tourists would just keep walking!

A Real Learning Experience Surviving on a Czech salary has been a learning experience in itself.

Fortunately, two guardian angels, disguised as my grandparents, Bessie and Emil Petr, visited for a week bearing gifts of America—instant iced tea, quality pantihose, shaving cream, Jolly Rancher candies, aspirin, new clothes and Benjamin Franklin. While my grandparents and I enjoyed the company of the tour group from the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute, I gave them the special "Meribeth" tour of Prague. Richard Urbis, who also performed for the Czech Cultural Center in Houston, performed six piano concerts in Prague playing the music of the Chicago-born Texan, Robert Dvorak.

A special thanks to Johanna Sulak, Vice President of Club C, the Czech Club at Texas A&M. She has been running the club since I have been here.

Throughout the last six months, we have been communicating via e-mail.

On October 28, 1999, Richard Urbis will perform at Texas A&M. You are all invited to attend.

I have one month left in magical Prague. I would be more than appreciative if the last month was half as wonderful and rich as the first six. I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the state upon my return.

Fraternally, Miss SPJST Meribeth Novak —SPJST-

Wednesday, September 1, 1999—VESTNIK/9

Lodge Letters Section Lodge 6, Cottonwood Grandparents' Day dinner set for September 12 Hi! Come on out to Lodge 6, Cottonwood, on Sunday, September 12th. It is Grandparents' Day and our Youth Club will be preparing and serving the meal after our meeting.

Our meeting starts at 2 p.m. with the the youth club meeting after our main meeting. Then we will all enjoy a good meal. The ladies may bring desserts.

We all look forward to having a good crow at both meetings, so you youth come on out and participate in the activities of the youth club.

Everyone is welcome!

Hope lots of you plan to attend and enjoy the Westfest over the Labor Day weekend in West, Texas. We've been busy preparing and getting things readweeks in advance. Our lodge participates in the Westfest Parade and also has a booth at the grounds during the three days. Lodge 6, Cottonwood booth sells sausage, sauerkraut and

Let's hear what your members and lodge are doing to make a positive difference in your community.

Send your news and photos to: SPJST Vestnik, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 FAX: (254) 774-7447

E-Mail: bvanicek@vvm.com or spjst.t©stonemedia.com Got a question? Call

1 (800) 727-

potato bars as well as sausage sandwiches and glasses of iced tea. There are also loaves of homemade bread for sale. The youth club sells kolaches and cookbooks out of our booth. It is a busy Labor Day weekend, but enjoyed by all.

See ya' at our next meeting, September 12 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally, Stella Perez —SPJST-

20, Granger members enjoy worry-free theme park excursion Lodge

Dear Readers, What a wonderful trip and adventure we had going to Fiesta Texas. We would like to say a great big thank you to District Two for providing us with this opportunity to go and a great big thank you to Patsy Koslovsky for putting it all together and making it possible for us.

Family Fun and Important SPJST Dates September 4-5 Westfest, West Texas September 11 Kolache Festival, Caldwell, Texas September 12 Lodge 38, Kovar Fund Raiser September 18 All Day Czech Heritage Day Celebration at Lodge 92, Fort Worth September 19 District Two Fall Meeting at Lodge 24, Cyclone September 19 Lodge 40 El Campo-Hillje Fund Raiser/Barbecue Dinner/Auction September 19 27th Annual Czech Fest at Lodge 84, Dallas September 19 District Five Fall Meeting hosted by Lodge 196, Houston-

West District One Fall Meeting hosted by Lodge 17, New Tabor District Six Barbecue Cook-Off in Victoria (Jaycee Hall) October 2 October 10 District Six Fall Meeting at Victoria Electric Co-Op October 12 Lodge 38, Kovar Fund Raiser October 12-14 Supreme Lodge Meeting

October 17

National Make a Difference Day District Three Fall Meeting hosted by Lodge 180, , Burleson Lodge 88, Houston Czech Day October 24 October 24 - 30 Texas Czech Heritage Week Czech Heritage Day at Lodge 24, Cyclone October 30 Fund Raiser at Lodge 79, Corpus Christi October 31 Lodge 161, La Parita-Jourdanton hosts District Seven Fall November 7 Meeting at Longhorn Museum, Pleasanton November 13 State Volleyball Tournament, Temple -SPJST-

Corning next week , • SPJST welcomes Lodge 206, Tri-County (Mexia) • Lydia Schernik of Lodge 29, Taylor Achieves the "Grand Age of 96" • Youth Achievement Day and Royalty Photo Essay by Dennis Hermis • District Three Youth Achievement Day • District Four Camp Report The following members and friends from SPJST Lodge 20, Granger attended: Fred and Josie Strmiska, Gilbert and Georgie Strmiska, Leslie and Ruby Loessin, Doris Bell, Kay and Darwin Karkoska, Ron, Sheila and Garrett Craven, Paula and son, Geoffrey Lancaster, Colby Miller and myself.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this trip. How great to be able to sit back, watch a movie and before we knew it, we were in San Antonio. We did not have to worry with parking or getting tickets etc. and the trip back home was just as quick and relaxing.

Something for Everybody There was something there for all age groups. There were numerous cultures represented, but there was no Czech culture representation. I know we have a lot of Czech organizations throughout the state of Texas. Maybe for the future, we all need to pool our ideas and suggestions as to how have more Czech representation at various theme parks. I know individually, no one organization can reach this goal, but together great things can be accomplished. There are new theme parks in the making and perhaps one day, we will have a Czech culture area for our young people to understand the history and music of the Czech people and for us older ones to enjoy and reminisce.

We are all looking forward to the next trip and we know there will be a lot more going the next time. Here is a suggestion for a future trip: the turning on of the Christmas lights on the River Walk in San Antonio.

Fraternally yours, Rita Marburger, Fraternal Activities Coordinator (Editor's Note: Three cheers for District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky, who organized the Fiesta Texas trip. My family also enjoyed the trip . . . It's the kind of thing that could eventually lead to a full-fledged SPJST travel program — and wouldn't that be nice!)

—SPJST-

October 23 October 24

24, Cyclone casino bus ready to roll says organizer Lodge

Dear Members and Friends, Response to our Grand Casino trip to Marksville, Louisiana set for Saturday, October 16 has been great.

We're all booked up. If you reserved a spot on the bus and haven't sent in your $15, please do so at your earliest

convenience as we have a waiting list of others who would like to go if you are unable to attend. Send money to me at 10612 Oscar School Road; Temple, Texas 76501.

The party bus will leave from Flag Hall at 6 a.m. and arrive in Marksville around 1 p.m. We'll get back home the next morning around 7 a.m. Drinks and snacks will be provided enroute and a complimentary $7 buffet voucher will be awaiting you at the casino.

If you have any questions prior to the trip, please give me a call at (254) 985-2354.

Fraternally, LaVerne Cabla Vice President and FAC —SPJST-

24, Cyclone readying for Czech Heritage Day event Lodge

August Meeting The August 9 meeting of Lodge 24, Cyclone was called to order by President Richard Greger. He led the members in the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence in memory of our departed members.

We extend sympathy to the family of Joe Louis Andel. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We also send greetings to Vlasta Marek and Sedonia Skrabanek who are now in the rest home.

We congratulate Craig and Lanora Schneider on the birth of a baby daughter, Dakota Lanora Schnieder.

Secretary Bernice Sebek read the minutes from the last meeting. They were approved as read. Secretary Sebek also read a thank you note from the SPJST Home Office for the donation to the SPJST Scholarship Fund.

The donation was given in memory of deceased members Clyde Coker, John L. Coufal, Milton W. Jasek, Lillie M. Junek, Edwin R. Marek, Felix Pagac, and Emil Svoboda. The families of John L. Coufal and Juanita Marek also sent thank-yous for the scholarship fund donation. Another thank-you note was received from District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky. She thanked the members who helped with the District Two Youth Achievement Day held at Lodge 24 in June.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator LaVerne Cabla informed the members of the party bus to Marksville, Louisiana, on Saturday, October 16.

Treasurer Brian Vanicek presented the lodge's financial report and a final report on the Texas Summer Gala

10NESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999 fundraiser held in July. Treasurer Vanicek also reported on the hall rentals and bar revenues.

Ticket Manager Bobby Hoelscher reported on July lodge dances.

Youth Leader Rosamond Baker stated that 12 youth club members participated in State Youth Achievement Day weekend at the Mayborn Center in Temple on August 7 and 8. First place winners were Andy Baker, Marshall Coots, Lisa Greger, Rena Greger, and Christina Kirby. Second place winners were Andy Baker, Marshall Coots, Christina Kirby, and Alyssa Hudler.

Third place winners were Randall Marek and Stephanie Vanicek. Wow! 11 trophies! Way to go, youth club! A BIG congratulations to you all.

Texas Summer Gala The Texas Summer Gala was a grand success. Not only was it fun, it raised approximately $6,000 for the lodge. As a result the lodge was able to complete payments on its loan and an major air conditioning expense incurred the previous year. The lodge expresses sincere thanks and appreciation to the community, Lodge 24 members, sister lodge members and local businesses for their generous support. A listing of silent auction donors will be presented in my next letter to the Vestnik.

Door prize winners were as follows: $2,000 Travel Certificate Buckholts State Bank $500 Travel Certificate Laura Carter-Maddux Horseshoe Casino Get-Away LaVerne Cabla Isle of Capri Get-Away Lee Ann Hoelscher $100 Dillard's Gift Certificate Edwin Marek $100 Tractor Supply Gift Certificate Ella Pomykal $100 Wal-Mart Gift Certificate Woodrow Marek

Lodge hosts District Two Meeting September 19 Members then discussed ideas for the District Two Fall Meeting, which will be hosted by Lodge 24, Cyclone.

Location options considered included Lions Park in Temple, Glaser Lake House in Buckholts, and the lodge hall. After brief discussion, the lodge hall was selected. Regarding the date, Saturday, September 18 and Sunday, September 19 were both acceptable to lodge members. It was finally decided to go with Sunday, September 19 as this is the date most lodges had already been planning around. Members attending the meeting are asked to bring desserts and game prizes.

Kathy Fritz that a $500 "good faith donation" to the Building Fund would be presented to Lodge 24, Cyclone on Wednesday, August 11, by Lodge 177, Academy during their regular meeting.

Sister Cabla expressed appreciation to the members of Lodge 177, Academy for their generous support on this project.

Enjoy Czech Heritage Day Flyers were then distributed to members for the upcoming Czech Heritage Day celebration on October 30. Statewide, Texans will be observing Czech Heritage Week, October 24 - 30.

Doors open at 3 p.m. for the event which will include an SPJST Museum display and polka mass at 5:30 p.m. with music by the Vrazels Polka Band.

Mass celebrant will be Rev. Walter Matus, with Deacon Bill Smetana assisting. The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Color Guard will also participate in the service. Men, women and boys and girls of all ages and denominations are invited to enjoy the presentation.

The Praha Brothers Polka Band will play for you from 3:30 until 5 p.m.

Sausage plates and hamburgers will be for sale. For your listening and dancing pleasure, the Vrazel's will be playing from 7 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

Tickets for the evening dance will be sold after the polka mass for $5 per person. Youngsters, age 13 and under, will be admitted free.

More details, including work assignments, will be presented at the September meeting.

August Celebrants Members attending the meeting and celebrating an August birthday were Joe Sebek, Willie Mae Vanicek and Milton Zavodny. Other birthday celebrants recognized were Pauline Psencik, Timothy Psencik, Samuel Vanicek and Stephanie Vanicek.

Happy Birthday! Hope you all had great ones.

Happy Anniversary to Brian and Joan Vanicek and to Buddy and Angie Griggs. Door prize winners were Rosamond Baker, Tammy Baker, Jerry Cabla, LaVeme Cabla, Richard Greger, Bernice Sebek, Joe Sebek, and Brian Vanicek. The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

The next meeting is Monday, September 13, 1999, at 7:30 p.m. at Flag Hall. A meal will precede the meeting at 7 p.m. I will see you there!

Fraternally yours, Melanie Zavodny, Reporter P.S. — My thanks to Sister Bernice Sebek for sharing her meeting notes with me due to my meeting absence.

—SPJST-

Building Fund Established Members also discussed the subject of painting the lodge hall later this year. After some discussion on the project, it was decided that a "pay as you go" plan would be pursued and that Treasurer Vanicek would establish a special "Building Fund" out of which to pay project expenses. Trustees were scheduled to meet the following Monday night to review competetive bids for the painting project.

Vice President LaVerne Cabla then announced that she had received notice from Lodge 177, Academy Secretary

Lodge 25, Ennis

entertained by youth magic show Lodge 25, Ennis meeting was held on August 12th at 8 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Johnnie Krajca. A moment of silence was held for Roger Peden. On the sick list are Joe Sramek, Wesley W. Honza and Emma Trojacek.

The July 8th minutes were read by Patricia Towlen. The Treasurer's report was given by Cathy Krajca.

Youth Leader Sandra Slovak reported that the youth will go bowling Sunday, August 15 at 1:30 p.m. At this time, she called on the youth present and they performed a magic show for the adult lodge. This was enjoyed by all.

The next youth meeting will be on September 19 at 2 p.m.

A financial report and a list of new members was given by Kay Lynn Kovar. Adam C. Cole and Reta Chandler were welcomed to the lodge.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Margaret Krajca announced the tarok tournament a Lodge 92, Fort Worth on August 15th, the selection of the Fraternalist of the Year and the annual Christmas party scheduled for December 5th. All reports were accepted as presented.

President Linda Trojacek gave the bar and the Polka Festival reports.

Vice President Jim Holahan reported on upcoming events and reported on some repairs that were needed. We would like to thank the Youth Leader Sandra Slovak and the youth, Jake Holland, Blake Ryan, Jerrod Ryan, Randy Trojacek and guest Donise Martinek for their time and talents in the magic show.

Also congratulations to Randy Trojacek and Jake Holland in placing second at State Youth Achievement Day in Temple on August 8th.

Our next meeting will be on September 9th at 8 p.m.

Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 28, East

Bernard set to meet September 12 Dear Members, As always, Labor Day is around the corner and it is time for the September monthly meeting. It will be held on the 12th at 2 p.m. in the meeting room at 106 Leveridge Street.

The agenda will be open to business needing immediate attention.

A fraternal hour buffet luncheon with is standard fare is scheduled after the business meeting.

August Meeting Report There was a quorum present when the meeting convened All reports were accepted when given. It was agreed to move the October monthly meeting to the third Sunday the 17th since the District Six Fall meeting is on the second Sunday the 10th and would have been our regular date.

The fraternal hour went well with enough luncheon for everyone.

To the faithful: Remember to mark both dates on your calendars (the 12th of September and 17th of October).

See you in September and this writer remains ...

Fraternally yours, Joseph D. Nezval, President —SPJST-

Involved.

Get Make a Positive Difference.

Lodge 32, Victoria donation helps "Stuff the Bus" Our regular meeting was held August 11,1999 at Victoria Electric Co-op starting at 7:30 p.m. with President Mike Ahlstrom opening the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence in memory of our departed members.

The minutes were read and taken by Kathy Ahlstrom due to the absence of Valeria Motal who had an operation.

The treasury report was given by Lois Elles. The lodge made a donation of $50 to "Stuff the Bus" for needy school children.

50-Year Pin Presentation Bessie Becker was honored on getting her 50-year pin with Adolf Motal making the presentation. Her husband, daughter and son in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Ballinger, her grandson and greatgrandson and sister, Lillie Schramek were present. Mrs. Becker enjoys quilting, playing dominoes and is active in several organizations.

Refreshments were served. Thank you to Kathy and Mike Ahlstrom for being in charge of getting all these goodies and Adolf Motal for getting the drinks. You all always do a good job for us. A get well card was sent to Theo Kocian who had eye survey and a get well card to Helen Kalmus and Valeria Motal.

I would like to thank everyone who visited me in the hospital when I had surgery and for all the lovely cards, flowers, gifts, food and especially for all your prayers. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

Sincerely, Valeria Motal Secretary/Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 35, Elk

encourages members to attend meeting on September 12 Dear Members, Please make plans to attend the lodge meeting on Sunday, September 12, 1999 at 3 p.m. This is a very important meeting concerning the future closing of Lodge 35. This meeting will inform members of the financial situation we are in.. All members are strongly urged to attend and show your support.

There will also be a dance open to the public from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Labor Day Sunday, September 5th.

This is the annual Pavelka Reunion Dance with music by Heartland.

Fraternally, Debra Kubitza, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 38, Kovar

hosts dinner/country auction fund raiser Dear Members of Lodge 38, Kovar, Once again, it's time for our annual dinner and country auction fund raiser.

Wednesday, September 1, 1999--VESTNIK/11 Make plans to join your friends and family at Lodge 38, Kovar on Sunday, September 12 as the lodge hosts its oldfashioned fried chicken and stew dinner. Your support will help support the presence of Lodge 38 in the community.

Dinner starts at 11:30 a.m.

This will be held on Sunday, September 12, 1999. We hope you can attend. A fried chicken and stew dinner will be served starting at 11:30 a.m.

Plates are $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12.

We would appreciate your donation of an item or items for the Country Auction. We would also appreciate your donation of two cakes—one for the Cake Walk and one for dessert.

We are looking forward to seeing you on Sunday, September 12, 1999.

Your contributions will support the presence of Lodge 38, Kovar in our community.

Thank you for your contributions and your support. For more information, please contact Johnnie Janak (512) 237-2432 or (512) 237-5228, or Gearldeen Faust (830) 839-4110.

Sincerely yours, Officers of SPJST Lodge 38, —SPJST-

(409) 541-5759, 543-9420, 543-2525, 542-5079 or 543-7362.

Everyone is invited to this worthy fraternal activity and fund raiser.

The next regular meeting will be on Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally yours, Karel Matejka Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST-

49, Rowena reports on August meeting Lodge 48, Beyersville Hello Members, hosts Progressive The meeting was called to order by "42" tournament President Sylvia Rollwitz with all officers present. Members stood for the October 23 Lodge

SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville will host a Progressive "42" Tournament on Saturday, October 23, 1999.

Registration fee is $10 and includes the noon meal, snacks and prizes.

Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. and we plan to begin playing at 9:15 a.m.

Fifteen games will be played with a time limit of 20 minutes per game.

The tournament should end around 4:30 p.m. We especially invite SPJST members but anyone is welcome. you do not need a partner as all players will draw numbers and be seated accordingly for the first round. The two winners will move to the next table and split up and play with the losers who remain at that table. There will be no head table, thus all winners will move.

SPJST Rules

40, El CampoHillje extends invite to September 19 barbecue benefit Lodge

The meeting opened at 2:30 p.m. on August 8, 1999 with 22 members present. I wish to explain my absence at the July meeting. It was because I was honored to have been selected as among the top 20 SPJST agents to win at three-days/two nights trip to Bossier City, Louisiana. I wish to personally thank Brother Leonard Mikeska, Vice President of the SPJST and sales manager for a well-organized excursion for SPJST's top salesmen. This has encouraged me to work even harder for success next year!

In September, my main concentration will be on fund raising to assist Lodge 40 Sister Jane Holub of El Campo, who has a large expense in medical bills due to her treatment for cancer.

Barbecue Benefit We appreciate the lodge membership for donating use of the Hillje SPJST hall for a Sunday, September 19, 1999 benefit. A barbecue dinner will be served from lla.m until 2 p.m. with tickets sold in advance for $6 per plate. The dinner will include delicious home cooking and baked items. There will be entertainment and music. And for your enjoyment, Rudy's El Campo Melody Playboys will play from 12 until 3 p.m. Also, a prize drawing and silent auction will be held.

Get Your Tickets Now Tickets are now on sale. Please call

to help us estimate food supply; however, late entries are still welcome.

To pre-register or for more information, please contact Bobby L. Wuensche at 2451 County Road 405, Taylor, Texas 76574-5421 or call (512) 365-3013.

—SPJST-

We will use the same rules that the SPJST uses. We ask that players please pre-register so we can determine the food needs; however, it is not a must to pre-register. To pre-register or for more information, please contact Bobby L. Wuensche at 2451 County Road 405, Taylor, Texas 76574-5421 or call (512) 365-3013.

Fraternally, Bobby L. Wuensche —SPJST-

48, Beyersville sponsors fifth annual Pokorny-Polanka tarok tournament Lodge

The Fifth Annual Pokorny-Polanka Tarok Tournament will be held on Saturday, December 4, 1999 at SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville, Texas.

Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and play begins at 9:00 a.m.

Registration fee is $15 per person and includes the noon meal, snacks and prizes. There will be six rounds of play. We have decided to add a new twist to the tournament this year.

Prizes will be awarded as usual to the top winners plus we will award ten cents a chip in increments of 10 chips.

Thus, if you have a score of 769 at the end of the day, you would have 160 chips to the good times ten cents; which would give you $16.

Playing rules are to be the same as SPJST. You can pass povinost, but if you go povinost, you cannot pay off.

You draw yourself you play it.

Please pre-register by December 1

Pledge of Allegiance and then a moment of silence was observed for all our departed members.

We would like to welcome our new members: William Walther, Robert Hovorak and Regan and Danielle Fisher.

50-Year Pin Presentation December 17 has been set for our 50-pin presentation, Everyday Heroes Awards, monthly game social and Christmas party. More discussion will take place at our November meeting.

I would like to remind all members that the monthly game social is held every third Friday of the month at 5 p.m.

After the meeting, we enjoyed some sandwiches and cake.

Fraternally, Nancy Schwertner Secretary —SPJST-

66, Waco reports on August meeting Lodge

The meeting, was called to order by President George Pauling at 2:40 p.m. at Linden Hall, Elm Mott, Texas on August 15, 1999. All officers were present with the exception of Vice President Mary Alice Langlotz. The youth presented the flag and led the Pledge of Allegiance and motto. There were 39 members present with one visitor, Frances Hilbers. Please come again.

Secretary Dana McAdams read the minutes of the July 18th meeting and they were approved as read. Sister Dana also read correspondence from Brother Leonard Mikeska of the Supreme Lodge concerning the membership drive.

Chairman of the Board Brother Johnny Gaidusek had Secretary of the Board Sister Bonnie Pruitt read the minutes of their August 4 meeting.

Chairman of the Cheer and Condolence Committee Sister Emma Ceska reported she sent sympathy cards to the family of Lee T. Reich, to Stacie Sebik on the death of her sister, Christine Retchek and also to Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sebik, Jr. and Holly Jo. Get well cards were sent to Elmer Brem and Larry Yates.

Chairman of the Entertainment Committee Sister Dorothy Gerlich, reported that her committee met on August 4. Today, they are having

sandwiches, pickles, chips and ice cream. The September 19 meeting will an anniversary meeting and fried chicken will be served. Members are asked to bring desserts. She thanked everyone for bringing sandwiches today.

Due to the absence of Sister Mary Alice Langlotz, President George Pauling gave the Fraternal Activities Coordinator report. At game night on August 9, there were 14 people present. The next game night is September 13. He also reported that the Fraternalist of the Year will need to be selected at our October meeting.

Resumes will have to be turned in by the 15th of December.

Sister Darlene Engelke reported that insurance classes have been scheduled.

All insurance sales people have to attend. The first class is scheduled for August 31 at Lodge 54 at 7 p.m.

Chairman of the Grievance Committee Brother Bennie Engelke reported that there were no grievances.

Chairman of the Auditing Committee Brother Johnny Gaidusek reported -all books have been audited and are in good order.

Brother Eugene Gerlich gave the Bookkeeper's report. He also thanked his wife, Sister Dorothy, for all the help she has given him during his illness.

Special Projects Manager Brother Michael Galler asked members present when they wished to have a Fall Arts and Craft Show. It was decided to have it on October 30.

Youth Club Report Youth Leader Sister Diana Engelke gave the youth club report. There were 20 youth and seven adults present today. On August 14, the youth had a car wash at Popeye's. She also reported the youth club room has no air conditioning and she asked if they could change the location of their meetings to the dining room. The youth will take bingo gifts to the Moody Nursing Home. She also thanked everyone for the donations for the District Three Camp this year. Today, the birthday cake was brought by Justin Engelke and the game by Candice McAdams.

Youth first prize winner was Katie Weeks and the second prize winner was Douglas Galler.

District Three YAD Winners Sister Diana gave the names of winners in the District Three Youth Achievement Day and the State Youth Achievement Day. District Three winners are:

FOODS Ages 6 to 8 3rd—Kylie Callaway Honorable Mention—Eric Wallace, Tanner Guidroz, Charles Trickett and Dakota Yates

Ages 12 to 14 Honorable Mention—Michael Tierce

Ages 15 to Senior 2nd—Alicia Neslony Honorable Mention—Sandra Trickett, Justin Engelke, Amanda Wallace

HANDICRAFT Ages 6 to 8 Honorable Mention Charles Trickett, Kylie Callaway, Eric Wallace, Tanner Guidroz

Ages 9 to 11 3rd—Kevin Galler

121VESTN1K—Wednesday, September 1, 1999 Ages 12 to 14 1st—Jodie McAdams Honorable Mention—Michael Tierce Ages 15 to Senior 2nd—Justin Engelke Honorable Mention—Sandra Trickett

GROUP TALENT Ages 15 to Senior 2nd—Amanda and Alicia Neslony 3rd—Sandra Trickett Honorable Mention Blues Brothers

HOBBY KITS Ages 6 to 8 3rd—Kylie Callaway Honorable Mention—Charles Trickett, Dakota Yates Ages 9 to 11 2nd—Kevin Galler Ages 12 to 14 3rd—Jodie McAdams Ages 15 to Senior 2nd—Justin Engelke

TOP DISTRICT THREE MERIT POINT WINNERS Junior—Douglas Galler Senior—Justin Engelke

SEWING Ages 6 to 8 lst—Dakota Yates Ages 9 to 11 2nd—Douglas Yates Ages 12 to 14 1st—Jodie McAdams Ages 15 to Senior 2nd Candice McAdams NEEDLECRAFT Ages 15 to Senior 1st Candice McAdams CONSTRUCTED ITEMS Ages 6 to 8 lst—Dakota Yates Ages 9 to 11 lst—Douglas Galler Ages 12 to 14 1st—Jodie McAdams Ages 15 to Senior 1st Candice McAdams 2nd—Sandra Trickett SCIENCE AND EDUCATION Ages 6 to 8 2nd—Charles Trickett Ages 9 to 11 Honorable Mention—Douglas Galler Ages 12 to 14 2nd—Michael Tierce Ages 15 to Senior 1st—Amanda Wallace 3rd—Sandra Trickett PICTORIAL ARTS Ages 6 to 8 1st—Kylie Callaway Honorable Mention—Eric Wallace Ages 9 to 11 3rd—Kevin Galler Ages 12 to 14 2nd—Amanda Neslony Ages 15 to Senior 1st—Justin Engelke 3rd—Alicia Neslony Honorable Mention Candice McAdams SCRAPBOOK 1st place POSTER 3rd place INDIVIDUAL TALENT Ages 6 to 8 1st Charles Trickett 3rd—Dakota Yates Ages 9 to 11 Honorable Mention—Kevin Galler, Douglas Galler Ages 15 to Senior 2nd—Sandra Trickett 3rd—Justin Engelke Honorable Mention Alicia Neslony

KING 2nd—Jodie McAdams DUKE 3rd—Dakota Yates QUEEN 3rd Candice McAdams Honorable Mention Alicia Neslony, Sandra Trickett The following are the State YAD winners: HANDICRAFT Ages 12 to 14 1st—Jodie McAdams SEWING Ages 12 to 14 2nd—Jodie McAdams CONSTRUCTED ITEMS Ages 9 to 11 2nd—Douglas Galler PICTORIAL ARTS Ages 15 to Senior 1 st—Justin Engelke SPECIAL CATEGORY Ages 9 to 11 3rd—Kevin Galler $1,000 MERIT SCHOLARSHIP WINNER Justin Engelke Sister Libbie Parma gave the Trust Fund report. She will give out awards to winners of the Youth Achievement Day at the September 19 meeting. All winners are to be present.

Sister Darlene Engelke gave names of candidates for membership. Milan Dujka wrote up Joseph Mynarcik.

Darlene Engelke wrote up Chrystal Martin. Also, a new member was written up by another salesman. She is Deborah Ann Andrle. All were accepted as members of Lodge 66.

Sister Dorothy Gerlich asked if the Christmas party could be catered this year so the Entertainment Committee could enjoy themselves also. It was agreed to do so.

The adult prize winner was Dorothy Veselka and the 50-50 winner was John Engelke.

Members celebrating August birthdays that were present were Dorothy Veselka, Johnny Gaidusek, Mary Lou Urbanek, Gladys Pustejovsky.

Next Meeting September 1 The next Board of Directors meeting and Entertainment Committee meeting will be on September 1. The next regular lodge meeting is on September 19.

The meeting adjourned at 4 p.m.

Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka Reporter —SPJST-

80, Holland donates to local organizations Lodge

Dear Members, President Harold Rohde called the meeting to order at 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 7, 1999.

The membership stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and a mo ment of silence for departed members.

The reading of the minutes by Secretary-Treasurer. Glen Latham were approved as read. All committee reports by Brother Latham showed they are all doing fine. Brother Latham read a letter from the Supreme Lodge on the Denim Round-Up Membership Drive for new memberships.

We also received a thank you from the American Retarded Citizens for our $200 donation to their organization.

Brother Latham also reported the following donations: $50 to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Temple; $50 to the Holland Baseball Team and $150 to the Holland Track Club. Our congratulations to the Holland Track Club, a new organization, as they traveled around the state to compete in AAU track and field events. Three members of the club competed at the National AAU meet in Cleveland, Ohio. Five hundred dollars went to the Moran Burns Scholarship fund for a graduating senior from Holland High School.

New members accepted into the lodge were Sarah Simons, Marisa Coats, Chad Pajestka and Chelsea Pajestka. Thank you for joining our lodge.

The new electrical breaker has been received and installed. That is good news.

Birthdays in August were Calvin and Doris Eckermann, Melissa Taisler and Pete Coker.

Door prize winners were Glen Latham, Victoria Pajestka, Dan Hendrix, Calvin Eckermann and Mary Ann Depew (attending her first meeting after joining our lodge the month before).

Our next meeting will be Saturday, September 4, 1999 at 4 p.m. with the Board of Directors meeting at 3:30 p.m.

Fraternally yours, Frank Pajestka, Jr., Reporter SPJST--

Lodge 84, Dallas extends cordial invitation to attend annual Czech Fest September 19 Dear Members and Friends, It is Czech Fest time on Sunday, September 19 at Lodge 84 in Dallas. You all come—it is going to be a great fun time for all. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. A delicious Czech dinner will be catered by Bessie Petr. Pork roast dumplings, sauerkraut, green beans, salad, rolls and dessert. The cost is $7 per adult and $3.50 for children, 12 and under.

There will be booths, games, prizes and dancing. As always, we hope you will support this once a year benefit.

Booths will be a pastry booth and the popular cake walk. Please donate pastry to this booth and also for dinner.

Sunday September 19

Activities begin at 11:30 a.m. with a delicious Czech dinner, followed by games, prizes and a dance with music by the Vanek Czech Band from 3 - 6 p.m.

The gift booth usually has home canned pickles, okra and dilled cabbage, also jelly and many other nice items. Any donation will be appreciated. The lodge teen club will run the country store. This is always a fun corner for all. Do donate canned goods, meat and cold drinks. There will be several other booths also.

The big prize drawing will have 28 prizes. We have mailed tickets to all our members. We are counting on your help in buying these. If you desire more tickets, please just call me.

There will be a free dance from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Music will be by the Vanek Czech Band. Don't miss this!

During this whole day, the bar will have lots of cold pivo (beer) and sodas.

John and Linda Jones will be happy to serve you.

We sure would like some volunteers to help us that day—even an hour or two would be appreciated.

Come join us for a fun-loving, fellowship day.

Fraternally, Evelyn Salac, Secretary —SPJST-

88, Houston reports on August lodge meeting Lodge

President Clara Broz opened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. and Louis Hanus, Betty Theiss and Gene Barcak presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes were read and approved, correspondence was read and eight new applicants were approved and one (1) transfer out Lodge 88. Names of 2 deceased members were read, Eddie Kopinitz and Ceclia Melia.

Report of Officers President Broz - advised members of the sales promotion titled "Denim Round-Up." President Broz commented on the improvement in sale of insurance this year vs. last year. She called an Executive Board meeting.

First Vice President Marie Stayton stated that Flag bearers for September will be the Youth Club. She then read a short verse by Doug Malice.

Secretary Treasurer Melanie Spies read the Consolidated Income Statement for July.

Wednesday, September 1, 1999—VESTNIK/13 Youth Leader Barbara Gonzales reported on the trip to Schlitterbahn as being great fun for 24 attendees.

Barbara reported on the winners at SPJST State Youth Achievement Day and introduced Matthew Boyce of Lodge 88, whose determination paid off at this year's YAD. Sergeant-at-Arms Johnny Broz read a delightful poem on "Check Out Lines."

Committee Reports Entertainment Committee Chair Betty Theiss reviewed the current dance schedule and invited everyone to come out on Saturday nights.

Audit Committee Chair Marcil Malek reported that the May and June books were found to be in order and motioned they be accepted. The motion was seconded by Louis Hanus and carried Board of Trustee: John Broz reported in Guenter Merkle's absence that the City Health Department had inspected the property and found a few areas that needed attention. A cleaning calendar will be set up to address problems and volunteers will be needed.

Blueroom: Carol Liebscher reported that the Blue Room Party was set for August 22, from 4 p.m. until to 9 p.m. with the Knights of Dixie playing.

Workers Party: The next party is scheduled for September 1999.

Social Night Chairman A J Stayton reported that bingo doing very well.

Men Club: A.J. Stayton reported that the next clean-up day would be on the third Wednesday and and that the Men's Club was sill collecting papers.

Birthday Club Sisters: Kathy Trefell reported that group pictures will be taken Wednesday at 1 p.m. She asked that all Birthday Club members attend.

Rules and Regulations: Gene Barcak reported that copies of the Rules and Regulations are available in the office and that any changes must be submitted by the October meeting.

Choral Club: Gene Barcak reported that practice will begin soon and that members will be notified of the practice schedule.

Benevolence Reporter Dorothy Pflughaupt reported that she met with State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Barbara Rosenkrantz to work out a simplified method of reporting Lodge 88's fraternal acts. She then gave the second quarter report: Events-359, Acts-7,256, and Hours- 13,461. She thanked everyone for reporting.

District Five Director Louis Hanus reported on the various business activities at the Home Office, including Museum attendance, Independent Audit, Cemetery Markers and establishing the employees 401K program.

He also reported standings of insurance written by District Five.

Louis then requested that for all future meetings, the American Flag is to be posted to the speaker's left, audience right and extended forward toths podium. This, meaning the Texas and Czech Flags posted to the speaker's right, the audience's left. This would change the flags from present placement.

This was put in the form of a motion and seconded. Discussion followed and vote was taken to change present procedures. Motioned failed. Linda Wehring motioned we re-post the flags, being as they were posted opposite our procedures, seconded by Don Spies.

Volunteers, Linda Wehring, Lori Pflughaupt and Don Spies re-posted the flags and led the members in the Pledge of Allegiance.

District Five First Vice-President Fred Buri invited everyone to the District Five Fall Meeting to be held September 19, 1999 at Lodge 196, Houston-West.

District Five Youth Counselor Marie Stayton reported that the youth had a good time at HEB camp. In addition to the camp activities, they took a field trip to the YO Ranch where they observed wildlife. She also invited everyone to the District Five fall meeting on September 19 at Lodge 196.

New Business Mary Louise Jamar requested members to donate various small items to the Lexington Rest Home as bingo prizes. Prizes can be brought to the office at Lodge 88.

Get well Wishes were sent to Carl Lindemann, Adell Kite and Pat Holemann.

Guide Helen Hegwood reported 111 members present. Helen led the members in singing "Happy Birthday" to 23 celebrants.

Beverage donors: Bill and Adela Hughes, Flo and Calvin Orsag, Sydney and Georgia Jurchak, Charles and Annabel Veit, Nat & Barbara Gonzales and Carol Liebscher in honor of her parents, Herman & Margaret Liebscher 57th anniversary.

Door Prizes: Clarice Kieth, Willie Mae Hermis, Kathy Trefell, Mary Roznovsky, and Mammie Lorenz.

Door Prizes donated Louis Hanus and were won by Adela Hughes, and one prize was donated to the Lexington Home. Two Astros Tickets were donated by Don Spies and won by Calvin Orsag, The next meeting will be on September 13 at 7:30 p.m.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.

Jo Ann Buri Recording Secretary —SPJST-

Lodge 88, Houston

reports on coming events, member travel Dear Members and Friends, Our dances for September are as follows: Friday, September 3 — Mavericks (Country Western) $6.00/each; Under 13 (with parents only) Hosts: Georgia and Cleburn Lincke; Co-hosts: Agnes and Tom Haney Saturday, September 4 — Tom Houston (Big Band) Dress Code $11.00/each Hosts: Annabelle and Charlie Viet; Co hosts: Benny Kosut and Frances Seeburg and Natalie Willgus

Saturday, September 11 — Gus

Lindemann (Big Band) Dress Code, $11.00/each; Hosts: Eileen and Al Leedy; Co-hosts: Lea and Charlie Hodek Saturday, September 18 — Manny Green (Big Band) Dress Code $11.00/each; Hosts: Estelle Hillman; Co-hosts: Adella and Bill Hughes and Jolene Cook Glenda and Ronney Jurchak celebrated their 25th wedding .anniversary on Saturday, August 14th with a party at Houston Brethren Church, hosted by Ronney's sister and brother-in-law, Vicki and Larry Zajicek. It was a very nice party. Then on Sunday they had a surprise luncheon for Georgie Jurchak, who celebrated her "197 birthday.

Esther Heinson and Delle Carlson, went to Germany, France and Switzerland for two weeks. Delle is a clarinetist in the Blasmusik Texas Band. They flew to Germany where they were met by other band members from Texas and five from out of state.

There were 27 band members and 13 non-members. Mr. Herbert Bilhartz of Medina, Texas is the band director.

A bus met them at the airport and the same driver was with them the entire time, taking them to band concerts and sightseeing. They stayed one night in the Holiday Inn in Kirkheim. After that they had host families who shared their homes with them.

It was a wonderful experience making friends and getting to know how other people live in other countries.

Their homes generally are of white stucco from three- to five-stories high with window boxes full of flowers.

Usually two families live in each home. They went to Heidelberg, took a train through one of the cities and drove along Lake Constance and the Meinau Flower Island. They visited Stockach, had a band concert and ate barbecue. The Haut Koenigsbourg Castle took a lot of energy to get through, but they made it.

They crossed the Rhine several times and went to the Rhinefalls. They went to the Albert Schweitzer museum in Gunsback, through several churches and Bassicillica, which were all very interesting. The cherry trees were full of cherries and the pear, peach and apple trees were full of small fruit.

Vineyards were everywhere. Sounds like they had a wonderful trip.

Georgie Jurchak's aunt, Emily Dujka, passed away on August 14th.

She was from Orchard, Texas and was buried on August 16th at Krasna, Texas.

Delores and Raymond Krampota's daughters will be visiting them next week. Linda Krampota is from Des Moines, Iowa and Sharon and Bill Feusilier and their two children, Jessica and Jacob, are from Eugene, Oregon.

On Sunday, August 15, Helen Hegwood and her family went to Praha, Texas to the Feast of the Assumption at St. Mary's Catholic Church. The church is about 144 years old. They had stew, fried chicken, sauerkraut, potatoes and all sorts of food. There were quite a few Lodge 88 members there King and Helen's niece from California, Heather Hegwood, was with them also.

The Astros actually won a game My husband, Calvin, and I went to the Astro's ballgame on Sunday, thanks to Melanie and Don Spies. Calvin won

the tickets at the lodge meeting.

Thanks, Melanie and Don. I read an article in the Vestnik by Barbara Svatek, in regard to the SPJST Rest Home No. 1 in Needville, Texas.

It really made me appreciate all the many volunteers who volunteer their time to these wonderful . people in rest homes.

Who Is It? She was born on July 4th, 1905, in Prague, Czech Republic and came to the United States with her parents and siblings in 1908. She graduated from Central High School, Houston, in 1924, in the same class as Walter Cronkite.

She attended A&M College of Texas, in Houston, majoring in journalism and principles of accounting. She joined Lodge 88 sixty-five years ago.

She has been a member of Central Presbyterian Church since 1934 and has been in the choir for 36 years. She was wed on August 20, 1977 at Central Presbyterian Church.

She was employed at Central Power & Light Company in Houston for 15 years as a bookkeeper, until they sold out to The Southland Corporation in 1947. She remained there for 22 years and took early retirement to care for her mother.

She took active parts in numerous drama productions at the lodge and accompanied many plays on the piano for over 60 years. She was active in the Houston Community Chorus for 10 years, and is now treasurer and registrar for the choral group. She serves on the Lodge 88 Memorial Fund Committee and has done so for over 30 years.

She served as auditor for one year, was on the Board of Directors for one year and has served on the Social Night Committee for 7 years and served as treasurer.

Who Is It? She is Naomi Kostom Spencer, whose brother is Tim Kostom of Houston and her sister is Ruth Kurz, who lives in El Paso with her husband, Frank, who are members of Lodge 88.

She has several nieces and nephews in Texas, Colorado and New York. Her nephew, Tom Moore of El Paso, was the man behind the "Archie" comic strip during the 1950's. Something interesting - she graduated from CENTRAL High School, attends CENTRAL Presbyterian Church, was employed by CENTRAL Power & Light Company and has an account in CENTRAL Bank — and Naomi, you have been a "CENTRAL" player at Lodge 88.

Gossip cheapens the one who gossips more than the one who is gossiped about.

Fraternally, Flo Orsag, Vice President (Editor's Note: I'm sure I'm not alone in saying I've really started looking forward to Flo's regular "Who Is It," segments. Thanks, Flo, for taking the time and effort to compile these little jewels.)

—SPJST-

In addition to providing affotdable insurance coverage to its members, the SPJST also offers a quality annuity program.

Please see page three for current • interest rates.

14/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999

Lodge 88, Houston Birthday Sisters report on August meeting Our meeting was called to order by President Kathy Trefell. We had 31 members present.

Secretary Ellen Miculka read the minutes of the July meeting. They were approved as read.

Treasurer Mary Quider read her report.

Mary Kosut, Sunshine Chairman, gave her report. She sent birthday cards to losa Lee Kostom, Evelyn Gutkowski, Delores Condon and Georgie Buchanan. She sent get well cards to Karl Lindemann and Adella Kite.

One of our sisters, Sylvia Melia, passed away. It was motioned and seconded that we send a donation to the Scholarship Fund in her memory.

Motion carried.

Dona Clooney has been in San Antonio for almost four weeks attending her sister who has been ill.

Larry Pflughaupt was at our meeting to take the Birthday Club's picture. We really had a nice turn out for this.

Our hostesses were Georgia Buchanan and Era Richards. You did a fine job ladies.

Cakes were furnished by Almeida Bravanec and Corrine Kessler the first Wednesday and Ellen Miculka and Mary Kosut the second Wednesday.

The hostesses made two cakes each for both Wednesdays.

Hostesses for September are Bessie Lero, Julie Kinnoman and Bess Witovec. They will each bake two cakes for both Wednesdays. It was motioned and seconded that we have both lunches catered by Country Kitchen Restaurant. Margie Anders volunteered to pick up the food on both Wednesdays.

Remember, the lodge workers' party is on September 12th from 3 to 8 p.m.

It was mentioned that we bring small bottles of lotion, shampoo, Qtips, soap or whatever you think the Lexington Nursing Home cane use, to the lodge office to be taken to the home

by Mary Louise Jamar, whose mother is in the nursing home.

Our birthday celebrants were Evelyn Gutkowski, Delores Condon, Georgia Buchanan, Edna Wehring and Josephine Pumilia.

Calcutta was won by Edna Wehring and Josephine Bishop. After prayer by Chaplain Helen Hegwood, we had a lunch of sandwiches and covered dishes furnished by the ladies.

Fraternally, Flo Orsag Vice President —SPJST-

92, Fort Worth Ladies' Circle reports on August meeting Lodge

The Ladies Circle of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth met for regular meeting on Tuesday, August 10, 1999 at the lodge hall with 43 members, five men and four guests present. President Jo Prochaska called the meeting to order

Fort Worth Ladies Circle Visits Museum

Recent visitors to the SPJST Museum in Temple included this nice group, representing the Fort Worth Ladies' Circle. The Museum, which is located at the SPJST Home Office, is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, except for weekends — and on weekends by special arrangement. with the Pledge of Allegiance and welcomed our guests, Debbie Farris, guest of Pauline Cox; Chelsey and Riley Orand, guest of their grandmother, Betty Lloyd; and Lauren Durham, guest of her grandmother, Martha Durham.

No minutes from the last meeting were available, but Secretary Betty Lindsay and sent her article regarding the Ladies Circle trip in July to the SPJST Museum in Temple. Martha Durham was acting secretary today as Betty Lindsay and Billie Jean Lewellan were away at the Twin Days Festival in Ohio. Well be anxiously awaiting their tales of adventure—the last time they went to the Twins Convention, one of them acquired an admirer and we want to know if anything else has transpired to continue a more lasting relationship!

Treasurer Evelyn Spacek gave us balances for June and July and noted that the treasury had been somewhat depleted because of the expense of the July bus trip.

Sunshine Chairman Spacek told us of cards being sent to Phyllis Cihacek, Victoria Murphy, Carl Zich and Aurora Maldino. Lillie McMillen had a short stay at the hospital but was at today's meeting.

Jo Prochaska, Hostess Chairman, thanked today hostesses, Inez Krivanek, Pauline Brownlee, Estelle Hurtik with Florence Greer pinch-hitting for Martha Durham who was busy taking the minutes. September hostesses will be Hermina and Phyllis Cihacek, Billye Starr and Linda Lewis.

Circle Sponsors Pastry Booth at Czech Heritage Day Old business brought up discussions and decisions regarding Czech Heritage Day on Saturday, September 18 at the lodge hall. Helen Kubala declined serving as pastry booth chairman. The latest news is that Elma Anderson is in charge of the pastry booth. Volunteers announced were Florence Greer, Mary Ann Kozel, Martha Boenisch, Nancy Paprskar, Helen Kubala, Pauline Brownlee and Bessie Ellsworth. A sheet requesting donations of pastries was signed by those wishing to bring kolaches, strudel, cakes, pies, cookies, cupcakes or brownies. Prices were set for the day of the Czech Heritage Day at 50

cents for kolaches, strudel, cakes and pies; 25 cents for cupcakes and brownies and ten cents or three for 25 cents on cookies. No strudel will be sold whole and no kolaches by the dozen will be sold as we want all to have a chance to taste the wonderful pastries of the old country. Please have your donations of pastry at the hall on Saturday, September 18 by 10 a.m. so that the servers can slice and prepare for the noon opening of the booth.

Mary Ann Gibson donated $25 toward the expense of the booth. Others are encouraged to bring pastry that day or donate cash if you wish. Of course, all are encouraged to wear their beautiful Czech costume.

A Full Day of Fun and Food The lodge is planning a full day of events starting at noon until midnight with barbecue, two Czech bands playing accordion music, Czech singers, dancers, parade of costumes, a prize drawing for some really great money prizes and much, much more. This is the big day at Lodge 92 and we welcome all our friends, near and far, to join us for a great Czech celebration.

See our ad and calendar for further details in the Vestnik.

Hall Manager Joyce Tesar announced the August 14 tarok tournament and the hat dance for August 15, the September 5th country/western dance featuring the Gary Lee Band playing from 3 to 7 p.m., admission $6, followed by Czech Heritage Day on Saturday, September 18, 1999 from noon to midnight.

July and August birthday honorees were serenaded: July—Frank Prochaska, Clara Marchioni, Charles Schneider, Claudia Koci, George Rippin, Billye Starr and Margaret Laymance and for August—Frances Laux, Carl Zich, Katy Hausey, Mary Ann Gibson, Albert Kubala, Martha Boenisch, Clara McEntire, Mike Paprskar, Jeane Holland and Linda Lewis. Happy, happy birthday to all!

Bragging rights went to Martha Durham upon her grandson, Paxton Davies, being selected SPJST State King on August 7th during the State Royalty competition in Temple. That a way to go, young Paxton. This will begin a year of reigning at several state-wide events supported by the

SPJST Supreme Lodge. Lodge 92 shares in your high honor and congratulates you.

Door prizes were won by Jo Prochaska, Phyllis Cihacek, Linda Lewis and Clara McEntire after which Odessa Sutherland read us a hilarious piece entitled, "A Whole Lot of Love on the Road."

Mary Ann Gibson gave the benediction and the meeting adjourned for lunch, fellowship and games until the next meeting on Tuesday, September 14, 1999 at the lodge hall at 10 a.m.

Thanks, Joe Kozel for that beautiful accordion music after lunch.

Respectfully submitted, Martha Durham —SPJST-

130, Dallas "alive and well," making plans for annual camp-out Lodge

Lodge 130 is alive and well!

On August l6th,we held our regular monthly meeting. Flag Bearer Bily Shinn led us with the presentation of the fag and the Pledge of Allegiance.

The minutes and treasurer's report were read and approved. Beseda Director announced that Beseda practice has contoured during the summer, despite the heat. The first performance for this fall was held in San Antonio on August 6, 7 and 8 at the annual Folklife Festival. The group was well-received, as they are very year. The costumes were beautiful admired by everyone.

The next scheduled performance is at the Westfest on Saturday, September 4th. Then, on September 11th, the group was invited to perform at the annual Caldwell Kolache Festival.

Let's hope it doesn't rain this year! To end the season a performance will be given at a Dallas hotel. So the group is still very active, but we do need more dancers. Anyone, young or old, who is interested in learning these authentic dances of our forefathers, please contact Martha Vrla, Beseda Director at (214) 826-2670 and she will be happy to include you in our practices.

Camp-Out November 19 - 21 Fraternal Activities Chairman Rose Ann Parma discussed the upcoming Lodge 130 camp-out to be held the weekend of November 19, 20 and 21 at beautiful Fort Parker State Park. We cordially invite all Lodge 130 members to this camp-out. It is a wonderful getaway weekend in the middle of the busy holiday season. The plans have already been made and the menu and activities are being finalized. I repeat, all Lodge 130 members are welcome, but we do ask that you notify Rose Ann at (972) 986-7650 before October 15 so you or your family can be included in the plans for housing, meals, etc.

A newsletter will be mailed giving all the information necessary. We have been holding the camp-out annually for over 20 years and those who have been coming will tell you that we really have a wonderful time.

President Keith Shinn discussed his desire for the members to present him a budget for the year 2000. These figures aren't to be brought to the next meeting.

Wednesday, September 1, 1999—VkSTNIK/15 A nominating committee was chosen to present the slate of officers for the coming term: Stanley Vrla, Chairman, Ken Vrla and Milton Vrla will serve on this committee.

With no other business to discuss the meting closed at 8:30.

Fraternally, Rose Ann Parma —SPJST-

139, Danbury awards scholarship to Liba Lostak Lodge

For various reasons there have been no reports of Danbury Lodge 139 meetings for several months. All of the meetings were held at E.J.'s Restaurant and general business was conducted.

Congratulations, Liba

133, San Antonio reports on July meeting Lodge

Lodge 133 held its regular meeting on Sunday, July 18th at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center located at 1630 Goliad Road in San Antonio.,

Lodge 133, San Antonio President Jarolyn Popp, left, presents Lucille Dlugosh with gift, acknowledging her as Fratemalist of the Year.

President Popp presented Lucille Dlugosh with a gift for having been selected as our Fratemalist of the Year.

Bradley Dietrich passed away in July. His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.

Members celebrating anniversaries are Don and Marie Netek, 56 years, Paul and Eileen Heath, 24 years and Charlie and Carol Kutil, 27 years.

BIRTHDAY CELEBANTS: Pictured, from left, are Mila Phelps, Annie Stryk and Trudy Pavliska.

Members celebrating birthdays are Trudy Pavliska, Annie Styrk, Robert Popp, III, Edward Mazac, Vicki Reese, Andrew Rohan, Kayla Mazac and Mila Phelps.

Attendance prize winners were Grace Rohan, Emil Rohan and Megan Schauffele. " Split the Pot" winners were Mary Popp and Emil Matula, Sr. Following the meeting,members enjoyed games and refreshments.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed games and refreshments.

Fraternally, Margaret Schauffele Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST-

At the May meeting, it was announced that Liba Lostak, daughter of Lonnie and Elouise Lostak, is the 1999 recipient of the Lodge 139 scholarship. Liba was active in many school activities. She was a regional semifinalist in tennis and also was on the volleyball team. Liba is attending Alvin Community College and plans to make Fine Arts her major.

Three birthdays were celebrated with a birthday cake and "Happy Birthday" was sung at the August 4 meeting. Another year older were Madison Dickerson, Vincent Hechler and Ora Faye Wilson. Also, congratulations were extended to Lonnie and Elouise Lostak who have had 28 happy years together.

Everyone enjoyed the dinner and social after the meeting.

Fraternally, Ora Faye Wilson, Reporter —SPJST-

1429-Houston reports on August meeting

Lodge 142, Houston "Summer Country Bash Dance" set for September 18 The members of Lodge 142, Houston cordially invite you to come out on Saturday, September 18 and join them at their first "Summer Country Bash Dance."

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. for the event which will include country music and oldies by Lone Star.

There will be no cover charge.

Lodge 142 is located at 5508 Nolda in Houston, Texas. The telephone number is (713) 862-6291.

—SPJST-

Lodge 142 invites you to join them for fun and good times on September 18.

Lodge

At 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 8, 1999, our Vice President Barbara Boyd called our monthly meeting to order, due to the absence of President Keith Kieschnick, who was in attendance of the baptism of his and Amy's baby daughter, Kaylee Tanner. Brother Tumis filled in as Vice President.

We had 22 members present who stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call of officers by Secretary Alice Jochen showed that absent were President Keith Kieschnick, Flag Bearer Chris Schleider, Board members, Robert Kieschnick, Amy Kieschnick and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marilyn Spivey.

The minutes from the previous meting were read by Secretary Alice Jochen. These were approved as read.

The bar is to be closed for the Labor Day weekend—Saturday, September 4, Sunday, September 5 and Monday, September 6.

All officers and committee reports were given.

Birthdays for August were Frank Tumis and Ruth Kieschnick.

Anniversaries were Elmo and Bernice Walther, August 20, 44 years.

Senior door prize went to Charles Whitechurch. The capsule prize of $60 went unclaimed due to the absence of Sabrina Birdwell and Gertrude Pavloski. Next month's drawing increases to $70. Come join us on September 12 and you could be the lucky winner.

Five dollar door prizes were awarded to Alice Jochen, Rosie Tumis, Nancy Cook and Nelson Jochen. Four

six pack prizes went to Henry Hermis, Ruth Kieschnick, Frank Tumis and Walter Rosilier.

The meeting adjourned at 3:15 p.m.

The next meeting is on Sunday, September 12,1999 at 2 p.m.

A delicious lunch of fried chicken and trimmings along with refreshments were served.

Fraternally submitted, Alice Jochen Secretary —SPJST-

151, Wharton presents schedules for September, December events Lodge

Dear Lodge Member, The lodge meeting will be held on Monday, the 13th of September in the meting room of Hinze-Bar-B-Que Catering, Wharton, Texas. The time for the meeting is 7 p.m. The agenda is as follows: • Memorial for the deceased members • Della Hansen, date of death December 15, 1999 • Refreshments will be furnished after the meeting. We will have a prize drawing and door prizes.

• Drawing for the birthday cake for members celebrating birthdays in July, August and September • Special guests and speakers, John and Hatte Drozd will give a pro gram on their trip to the Czech Republic.

• Carolyn and I have the SPJST cook

books for sale. The books make a nice shower, birthday or Christmas gift.

Plans have also been made alsofor the Christmas social on Monday, December 13, 1999, 6:30 p.m.

• Christmas social with catered meal and entertainment • Prize drawing and door prizes.

Drawing for the birthday cake for members celebrating birthdays in October, November and December Members wanting information on the SPJST insurance products, please contact the lodge salesmen, Charles Bucek (409) 335-6084, Frankie Vanek (409) 543-1890, Ray Pilgrim (409) 543-1890, or Gerald Macha (281) 3410320. There are good products and savings offered for all members.

Make plans to attend our lodge functions.

Fraternally, Rita J. Vanek Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Reporter and Charles Bucek, President —SPJST-

177, Academy contributes to sister lodge project at August meeting Lodge

President Bill Hutka called our August meeting to order at 7:40 p.m.

All officers were present at the meeting except Josie Mitchell. Bill welcomed Brian Vanicek and LaVerne Cabla from SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone, to our lodge meeting. Brian shared information with us on one of the goals at Lodge 24, which is to enhance the appearance of their lodge and reinforce their presence and effectiveness in the local community. On behalf of the members of Lodge 177, Academy, President Bill Hutka presented a $500 check to Brian and LaVerne for Lodge 24 which will be used to assist the members of their lodge in their efforts to attain their goals. We want to thank Brian and LaVerne for sharing their dreams with us for the growth of their lodge and also want to thank them for allowing SPJST Lodge 177, Academy, the opportunity to take an active part in making their dream come true.

Congratulations to our Sister Lodge 24! Keep up the good work and continue to make teamwork "work" for your lodge! We also shared ideas of possibly working together on many issues that face our local lodges by trying to come up with solutions that may benefit not only our two lodges, but others throughout the district and state.

Sunshine Committee Chairman Libbie Bartek, reported that she sent a sympathy card to Jackie and Otis Beck and get well card and potted plant to Ray Ybarra. Ray, we really miss you and Amalia at our meetings. Please get well soon and our prayers for your speedy recovery are with you.

The minutes were approved as presented.

Upcoming Activities Lodge Fraternal Activities Coordinator Barbara Rosenkranz gave her report stating that the lodge had

16/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999 good representation at State Royalty and Youth Achievement Days competitions from our youth. Congratulations, youth club! She spoke about Make a Difference Day scheduled for October 23 and solicited ideas for the event.

She reminded everyone of the State Volleyball Tournament to be held in November, ideas for a membership drive and the possibility of our lodge hosting a Skywarn class and a selfdefense class.

Under correspondence, we received thank you notes from the Temple HELP Center, Special Olympics and Lodge 177 Youth Club. Bill Hutka told members that several people outside of the SPJST have complimented our lodge for the donations we have made to these worthy organizations!

Helping others makes our lodge members feel good because it gives you a sense of not only accomplishment, but most important of all, caring and sharing.

All committee chairpersons presented their reports except our treasurer and bingo chairperson.

Youth Report Our youth club reported that at their last meeting which was held on Sunday, July 25, they had eight members and three adults present.

Treasurer reported an ending balance of $950.53. Our youth club will be having a fund raiser at the Bartlett Friendship Fest by selling sandwiches, chips, drinks and baked goods. The date has not been confirmed as of this report. All members are asked to donate baked items and help work during the day. Youth club members discussed the upcoming District Two Fall meeting and the Christmas Ornament contest to be held on Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m. The youth meeting adjourned at 2:20 p.m.

Membership Drive Discussed We had no new members for the month and in relationship to that, we discussed the new SPJST Denim Round-Up Membership Drive in which members can receive point certificates that can be applied to purchase denim caps, shirts, vests, jackets and insulated coolers.

We also discussed the possibility of our lodge sponsoring a bus trip to Marksville, Louisiana. Members said that they would like to book this as an overnight trip. A sign-up sheet was circulated to see how many members would be interested in attending the trip.

Our Audit Committee presented its report. Linda Johnson and Martha Garcia distributed a written copy of the report along with recommendations.

Linda reviewed the recommendations with the members. Bill thanked Linda and Martha for serving on the committee. He also mentioned Helen Bland who was not present at the meeting and served on the Audit Committee as well. The members approved the audit report.

It is wonderful to have Shirley McCrea, Board Secretary, back with us. Shirley reported that the trustees received a report and recommendations from the Audit Committee, which were taken into consideration. Trustees also voted that our lodge secretary be authorized to pick up the mail in a timely fashion. Due to the school year

fast approaching, trustees voted to postpone awarding a lodge scholarship this school year and may consider one for the following year.

In our effort to improve the outside appearance of the lodge, trustees authorized J.C. Johnson to obtain prices on replacing and or upgrading our sign. We decided that is the first thing members and guests see from the road and it desperately needs to be repaired. J.C. will report back at next month's meeting.

Our meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

See you next month.

Fraternally, Kathy Fritz Secretary/Reporter —SPJST-

179, Warrenton seeks future meeting location Lodge

Warrenton Lodge 179 met at the Carmine Lion's Club Building on August 12 at 7 p.m.

President Goehring led everyone in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Reports were given. Two of our active members were unable to attend. We wish them a speedy recovery.

District One Director Donnie and Mrs. Victorick attended the meeting.

We enjoyed having them. Director Victorick talked about the June 2000 SPJST Convention being in Temple Lodge 179 can send one person as a delegate.

President Goehring appointed a committee to check on a new location for future meetings. Orville Kunkel, Arnold Peters and Leroy Leviene will report on their findings at the next meeting.

Roast beef will be on the menu for the September 9 meeting at the Carmine Lion's Club in Carmine at 7 p.m.

Ora Lee Leviene, Reporter —SPJST-

180, Burleson to host District Three fall meeting October 24 Lodge

President John Hilcher opened the meeting with all members reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Rhonda Hurtik read the minutes of the July meeting which were approved as read.

All officers made their reports.

New members accepted were Penny Bryant. We welcome you to our lodge and hope you can come to our meetings.

Many thanks to Jimmy Wedell, Joe Hurtik, Jr. and John Hilcher for working in the hot sun and insufferable heat to install the electric lights to light up the sign outside. Special thanks to Jimmy Wedell for procuring the trench digger.

Many thanks to Johnna Hilcher, Carol Hilcher and Joey Babina for mowing the lawn.

On the sick list was Ella Hilcher; she was not feeling well.

There was a discussion about the District Three meeting which will be held here on Sunday, October 24, 1999. The final decision on the menu and all other things that need to be done will be discussed at the Entertainment Committee meeting.

We are excited about this as we haven't had this kind of meeting held here in several years.

Coming Events There will be a wedding rental on September 4 instead of a regular dance.

Cadillac Cowboys will play on September 11; MorrisCode will perform on September 18 and just right for the young people, Just Us is set to play on September 25.

Door prizes were won by Ernest Dueser and John Hilcher.

After adjournment, we retreated to a meal of fried chicken, side dishes and desserts.

Fraternally, Estelle Hurtik —SPJST-

189, BryanCollege Station outlines quarterly meeting agenda Lodge

The next quarterly meeting for SPJST Lodge 189 will be 2 p.m., Sunday, September 12th at the home of Al and Nina Quitta, 909 Ashburn Avenue, College Station. If you need directions, call 696-6665.

Agenda for the meeting will include finalizing plans for the December meeting and Christmas party, selecting the meeting places and designating refreshment sponsors for next year's meetings, electing officers for the year 2000 and also electing a delegate and an alternate delegate for the June 2000 Convention to be held in Temple.

We encourage all members to make an extra effort to attend this important meeting. I will guarantee you enjoyable fellowship and delicious refreshments.

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

196, HoustonWest changes lodge meeting date, plans New Year's Eve dance Lodge

Dear Members, The regular lodge meeting of Lodge 196, Houston-West has been changed to Tuesday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. Originally, the lodge meeting was set for September 19, however this is the date for the District Five Fall fun day with Lodge 196 as the host lodge.

This special meeting is a combined one and will include the regular lodge meeting agenda as well as local lodge planning for the District Five Fall fun day set for Sunday, September 19,

1999. Please attend—the more ideas and suggestions, the more successful this year's fun day can be! We appreciate everyone's input.

District Five Planning Meeting Plans for the District Five fun day will be discussed during an agendaplanning meeting. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 31 at 7:00 p.m. at Ryan's Steak house on Highway. 290. District Five officers and host Lodge 196, Houston-West local lodge officers will need to attend this meeting to help set the agenda for the September 19 fun day/meeting.

Hope to see all officers on August 31.

New Year's Eve Dance/Party Set Due to a scheduling change, Lodge 196 is set to host a New Year's Eve dance/celebration on Friday, December 31 to usher in the muchanticipated year 2000. The Country Knights will play from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The lodge will also be serving dinner. Admission will be $12.50 per person or $25 per couple by reservation. Be sure to mark your calendars and please join us for a good time.

More details later.

Fraternally, Robert Castillo Lodge 196 Secretary, District Five Assistant Youth Counselor —SPJST-

201, BleiblervilleNelsonville to honor members in December Lodge

Thirteen members attended the regular monthly Bleiblerville-Nelsonville SPJST Lodge 201 meeting Sunday, August 8, 1999.

The meeting was called to order by the President Mrs. Elaine Duron at 3 p.m. Secretary Mrs. Lillie Mae Shupak read the minutes of the previous meeting and were approved.

The lodge and the hall treasurer gave their reports. Books were checked by the committee and found in order.

On the sick list that we had knowledge of were Mrs. Celesta Balke, Helen Zettel, Florence Jurchak and Mr. Clarence Stepan. Wishes for a speedy recovery.

Congratulations to Lucas Ryan Shupak, graduate of Sealy High School on receiving an SPJST scholarship.

Lucas is a member of Lodge 201 and son of Susanna Shupak and Ronald Shupak. He plans to attend Blinn College then Texas A&M University and study to receive a mechanical or civil engineering degree.

Plans were made to honor the 50year SPJST Lodge 201 members in fall at the regular December meeting.

Next Meeting September 26 Our next regular meting will be September 26, 1999 at 3 p.m. A most cordial invitation to all members, new members and visitors.

Mrs. Celesta Balke Reporter —SPJST-

Wednesday, September 1, 1999—VESTNIK/17

Dallas Circle of Czech Women gather for August meeting Our meeting was called to order by Faye Wright who was acting president for our President Bertha Podhrasky who had major surgery. I am pleased to report that Bertha is improving. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Bertha. Hurry and get well. We miss you.

Evelyn Trojacek led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and we remained standing for a moment of silence in memory of Marie Svehlak, sister in-law of Mary Janousek; Mildred Baker, sister of Alice Roberts, Anne Zvolanek and Mary Sebestik; Helen Prevatil, sister in-law of Vlasta Jurcik and aunt of Joanne Maca; Frank Laznovsky, a relative of Alice Roberts, Mary Sebestik and Anne Zvolanek, Vicki and Jerry Kohn, Adell Vlk and Evelyn and John Trojacek; and Tillie Buffington, sister in-law of Ella Mae Provazek.

Faye welcomed 17 members and nine men guests.

The minutes of the June meeting read by Faye Wright were approved.

The treasury report read by Vicki Kohn was also approved.

Correspondence read by Secretary Evelyn Trojacek included a thank you card from Anne Zvolanek saying thanks for her birthday card; a letter from Jill Rotrekl advising us that Rose Kopecek has been moved to a nursing home in Grapevine. Her new address is Brook Hollow Nursing Home, 925 Mintors Chapel Rd., Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

Bertha Malik, Membership Secretary, reported that we have 79 paid up members.

Georgia Brozek, Sunshine Chairperson sent sympathy cards to Mary Sebestik, Alice Roberts, Georgia

Tupy, Libbie Wisnievski, Mary Janousek and Ella Mae Provazek. Get well cards were sent to Helen Parma, Rose Kopecek, Mary Janousek. The members signed get well cards for Bertha Podhrasky and a thinking-ofyou card to Rose Kopecek.

Announcements The next Czech-American Culture Society meeting is Monday, August 30 at SPJST Lodge 84. The committee is trying to work out the details of the Ethnic Day at the fair. The next meeting of Dallas Brno Sister City meeting is Wednesday, August 25 at Sokol at 7 p.m. The Fraternal Council meeting is set for Monday, September 13 at Ennis K.J.T. at 7:30 p.m. We are invited to the Sokol picnic on Labor Day, September 5 at Sokol. Sokol will furnish the hot dogs and hamburgers.

Please bring a side dish to go with the hot dogs and hamburgers, such as potato salad, baked beans, chips and dips.

You are invited to bring your cards, dominoes and games. Come join in the fun.

Esther Cunningham reported the Krouzek will be 65 years old in April 2000. We need to start planning for a festival to honor our past presidents and our ancestors who helped start the Krouzek. Esther also gave a report on the International Ethnic Culture Festival held at the Meyerson Symphony Hall on July 25, 1999.

There were 80 to 100 ethnic cultures present. The Brno Sister City had a table to represent the Czech Republic.

Esther and Bob Cunningham wore their kroj, Bertha Podhrasky had some of her crystal, dolls and tapes as well.

There was also lace from the Czech Republic. In addition, the Dallas Czech Concert Orchestra represented the Czech Republic's music.

Unfinished Business Our new membership books were brought to the meeting by Faye Wright

Universal Life.

Tailored to Meet Your. Needs.

Universal Life has been called many things: • A Computer-Age Plan •• A New Concept in Life Insurance • A Plan Custom-Designed for Each Insured • The Plan of the Future

It's all of these things -- and more. Here are some of the fea-

tures of SPJST's Universal Life contract, which we call our "SPJST Flexible Protector Plan": Step 1: You elect an amount of insurance and select Death Benefit Option A or B (as described below). You can also select the amount of premium you want to pay and make the initial payment.

Step 3: At the beginning of each month, a

Charge for, the life insurance protection is deducted from the cash 'value to pay the monthly life insurance protection costs.

Step 4: Interest at current rates is credited

Step 2: As each premium is received by SPJST, a small expense charge is deducted and the balance goes into your cash value account.

to the fund each month.

Coverage is Flexible. You have a choice of two death benefits, Option A or Option B: Option A: Level Death Benefit. The death benefit is made up of life insurance and the cash value.

Initially, this benefit is equaldo the face amount. However, current tax law states that there must always be a certain minimum proportion of life insurance in the certificate. Therefore, as

the cash value approaches the face amount, the death benefit increases automatically.

Option B : Increasing Death Benefit. The death benefit is equal to the face amount of life insurance protection plus the money in the cash value account.

and all members present received one.

They are really nice. A thank you goes to Bertha, Faye and Theresa for a good job.

For our fund raiser, we have been asked to help with a catered dinner, Sunday, August 8,1999 at Sokol for a 95 year young lady. A sheet was passed out and volunteers were asked to help with the preparation of the food Saturday and to help serve for the party.

News of Members Alice Roberts said thank you for the sympathy cards to her family. She also gave us Mary Sebestik's new address: Williamsburg Nursing Home, 941 Scotland, De Soto, Texas, 75115. Ella Mae Provazek said thank you for the sympathy and birthday cards. Bessie Petr also relayed a thank you for the birthday card.

The do vyhry gifts were drawn and passed out.

Faye Wright read the August birthdays and "Happy Birthday" was sung to the celebrants.

Hostesses were Carlyn Ondrusek, Lillie Hamusek and Bessie Petr.

Hostesses for September are Helen Parma, Ella Mae Provazek, Vlasta Jurcik and Carolyn Nemec.

Donations included lunch donations from Frank Noska and Liddie Pavelka and a memorial in memory of Helen Prevatil from Vlasta Jurcik.

We adjourned the meeting with a quotiation from the Krouzek's first President, Dolphie Stransky: "Mej to se vzdycky radi"—"Always love one another." We then enjoyed a delicious covered dish luncheon.

Don't forget our September meeting theme is "School Days." Bring any pictures or momentos from your own school days.

Our next meeting is September 2, 1999. See you then.

Evelyn Cechan Reporter —SPJST-

Sewing Circle views unique quilt at August meeting Ennis

The Circle met August 12, 199.

Twenty seven members were present.

Our guests were Jerry Kohn, Charles Kosarek, Jerry Koubek, Dorothy Holy and marie Vrla. Dorothy and Marie joined the Circle. New members are always welcome.

President Sadie Kubin called the meeting to order. After the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Sister Louise Vlacilek. We express our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family.

Secretary Vlasta Laznovsky read the minutes. Treasurer Lillie Kosarek gave th financial report. Both reports were approved as read. Sunshine Chairperson Eleanora Pelzel sent a get well card and money gift to sister Bertha Podhrasky and a potted plant to the family of sister Louise Vlacilek.

The family of Louise Vlacilek thanked the Circle for the plant. Sister Bertha Podhrasky is now in a room at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. She went through quite an ordeal. It is good to hear that she is recuperating real well. We wish

Reunions Upcoming Reunions Hannes Family The Hannes family reunion will be held on Sunday, September 12, 1999 at the American Legion Hall in

Giddings, Texas. Fried chicken will be provided. Each family is asked to bring a vegetable or dessert. Bring family photos and items for the country store.

Contact Dorothy Falke in Giddings.

Pavelka Family The 45th annual Pavelka reunion will be held Sunday, September 5, 1999 at the SPJST Hall in Elk, Texas beginning at 11 a.m. Lunch and supper will be served. Please bring enough food for your family and guests if you will be present for your family and guests if you will be present for meals. Games will be played as in the past and you are asked to please help provide game prizes. The dance, which is open to the public, will begin at 8 p.m. with music by Heartland.

This may be the last reunion held at Elk due to future closing of Lodge 35. Everyone, please make this reunion the best ever and attend with all your family, friends and guests.

Tallas-Manak Families The. Tallas-Manak reunion will be October 23, 1999 at the Taylor SPJST Hall in Taylor, Texas (FM 619 east of Taylor) beginning at 11 a.m. At 12:30 p.m., a fried chicken catered meal will be served at a cost of $4 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under (pay at the door).

For more information, please contact Cindy Tallas Buzan at 8921 Hachita Drive, Austin, Texas, 78749 or by phone (512) 301-0156 or e-mail gbuzan@swbell.net .

September 5 Leo, Mary and Anna Netek family - at Moravian Hall, 5601 Kostorhyz Road, Corpus Christi.

For more information, call Joan Black (361) 852-0656.

September 12 Family and friends of John and Helen Zalobny Trcalek of the New Tabor Community - at the Cooks Point Community Center east of Caldwell. For more information, call Georgia Sefcik Fritsche (409) 778-7052.

September 19 The Pesak—Merecka families - at the Blessing Catholic Church Hall. Contact Cindy Anderson (361) 782-2465 or Iola Rorex (361) 588-6873 for more information.

—SPJST-

are posed on a regular basis in the Vestnik as a courtesy to our members. To list your family event, please submit your listing at least one month prior to the event. Thank you!

Reunions

18/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999 her a speed recovery. Happy Birthday was sung to the August birthday day celebrants.

Friendship Quilt Displayed Sister Rosie Bednar asked if anyone would want to have a quilt quilted next year. A quilt was quilted for Sister Hattie Moucka. Sister Dorothy Prachyl brought an interesting quilt that was quilted by the Ennis Sewing Circle in 1959. It was a friendship quilt with names of members of the Circle who embroidered a block.. The quilt originally belonged to Sister Stacie Trojacek. A sympathy card was sent to the family of Sister Louise Vlacilek.

Donations Received Donations received were: in memo ry of Frank Laznovsky from Dorothy and Wesley Prachyl, Rose Mynarcik, Liddie Pavelka, Sadie Kubin, Rosie Bednar and Adell Vlk; in memory of Sister Louise Vlacilek from Adell Vlk, Vlasta Laznovsky, Libbie Elsik and Liddie Pavelka; and in memory of Mildred Baker by Adell Vlk, Agnes Dujka, Doris Foit and Libbie Elsik and Liddie Pavelka.

There was a quilt quilted by Sister Libbie Vrla. Ella Mae Faraizl donated a quilt to the Circle. That was nice of Ella Mae. Sister Liddie Pavelka brought lovely cards for us to sign for Sister Anne Zvolanek and Sister Mary Sebestik. A great niece of Sister Rosie Bednar, Jessica Getchell, spent some time in Russia doing mission work. There was no electricity so they had to use candles. There, is lots of radiation where they were. They had to stay only in the mission area. Sister Liddie Pavelka read a humorous dog story. Sister Georgia sent her regards. She hopes to be at our September meeting.

Our next meeting will be September 9, 1999. See you then.

Fort Worth

Friendship Club plansOctober rummage sale The meeting of the Friendship Club was held on Wednesday, August 4, 1999 with 42 members and six guests present.

Guests were Katie Martin, guest of Billy King; Sonya Cole, daughter of Geneva Hennessey; Tina Syrus, granddaughter of Bessie Brezina; Vickie Steinman, daughter of Rose Steinman; Appa Hargiss, granddaughter of Rosie; and Emily Mason, granddaughter of Jeanie Mason.

The meeting was called to order by President Jo Prochaska who made everyone feel most welcome. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Secretary Merle Kovar read the minutes from the previous meeting and Treasurer Lydia Alholm gave the Treasurer's report. Both were accepted as presented.

It was nice to have Louse Oujesky, Jeanie Mason and Geneva Hennessey off the sick list and back with us. You have been missed. Anna Johnson reported that Rosemary Gribble is still having leg problems. A nurse goes by her home each day to treat her.

Rosemary sends her greetings and says she misses everyone.

Sunshine Chairperson Linda Homer reported get well cards were sent to Jeanie Mason and to Carrie Milan who had surgery. A sympathy card was sent to Josephine Bugaj's family. A moment of silence was observed for Josephine Bugaj. Following discussion, it was voted to have masses said for. Josephine at St. Thomas and at St. Paul's Churches.

Annie Lesikar read a humorous poem, "Old Folks are Worth a Fortune," and Merle Kovar read an article out of the Star Telegram on Jesse James. The James Courtney mentioned in the article was Merle's uncle. Everyone enjoyed looking at the photograph book prepared

by Historian Anne Whitsell on various activities we have had. Annie does such a wonderful job and is a good photographer besides.

Continued dog story ...

Ms. Jurek takes the rescued animals to friendly vets or groomers and gets them fixed up, often at her own expense. She places them at no-kill shelters such as Operation Kindness October Rummage Sale Following discussion, it was decided in Carrollton, Texas or Lewisville the Club will have a rummage sale in Animal Rescue League or she farms October.

So, members, start gathering them out to friends. It is hard to see your junk, as it may be someone else's animals in a sad shape, but Ms. Jurek You will need to put a price on treasure. cannot bear it either, but she goes on. each item.

The veterinary technician, Molly The singing of "Happy Birthday" Malone and her colleague, Robert went out to Martha Boenisch, Geneva Harrison cannot bear it, but they go Hennessey, Linda Lewis and Pat on to work everyday. Not much hope McWilliams.

May all of you have many for a huge, hideous pit bull with its more.

Our meeting day just happened to face slashed with scars and both ears be Geneva's 84th birthday and her chewed off from fighting. Mr. daughter brought a huge, lovely, deliHarrison treated the dog so kindly cious cake for all to enjoy.

Thank you, that she gaze at him with frank adoraSonya.

It was , enjoyed by all. tion. It was a lottery ticket day for Door prizes were brought by Camille number 36 who sat contentedly while Bolcer, Nettie Naugle and Rose Romeo Ms. Jurek filled out the paperwork to with lucky winners being Linda Horner, carry it away to a new chance at life.

Nettie Naugle and Lillian Smith.

Last of all, as the finishing kindness, Camille also brought a lovely Christmas is the miracle that saved dog number pillow which we all put our names on a 36. Ms. Jurek gave it a name—Roxie. dollar bill and had a drawing with Anna We need more people like Ms. Jurek, Sustala being the lucky lady.

Annie Molly Malone and Robert Harrison.

Whitsell also donated the prize given for Thanks to everyone who works with the last game.

Thanks go out to all the animals and treats them so kindly.

Hope everyone who reads this story, Jadies for so generously bringing gifts which we all so enjoy. enjoyed it.

President Jo reminded Nettie Naugle, Alice T. Roberts Lucille Kret and Margie Kret that they Reporter are scheduled to be hostesses in —SPJST-

September. Jo further thanked everyone for so generously bringing so many food items for St. Thomas Food Pantry.

Alice Barnes said that 138 items were donated.

Member News Lillian Smith made three trips to the hospital recently. First, she was stung by a bee, then she stepped on a nail and then was stung by a yellow jacket.

Lillian, guess you had better start staying indoors full time.

Frank Prochaska also suffered a yellow jacket sting. I understand his face really was swollen. Missed you at the meeting, Frank. Hope to see you next time.

Rosie Steinman was honored on her 75th birthday by her daughter, Donna Rose and Jerry Parker with a family dinner party at their condo at the Texas Motor Speedway. Bet this was one time Rosie was being photographed instead of being the photographer.

Barbara and Dawn Konen, grandchildren of Nettie Naugle, visited their Aunt Judy and Uncle Joe Konen in New York recently. Of course, Nettie enjoyed hearing all about their experiences in the Big Apple.

In celebration of Jeanie Mason's birthday, her daughters, Billie Jo and Carolyn, took her to Bossier City along with Katherine Garrison for a little gambling. I hear that Jeanie was a big winner. You must tell us your secret to winning. Apparently, Jeanie keeps her bags packed as she has now gone on a trip to Branson, Missouri with daughter, Patti Gage to see some shows. We will want to hear all about your trip and what shows you saw.

Roy and Linda Alholm will celebrate their 53rd wedding anniversary by seeing the wonders of Alaska via land and the Celebrity Cruise Ship, the Mercury.

They will also ride the Deluxe McKinley Explorer and see glaciers by the dozen.

Their 11 days Ports of Call are Valdez,

Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. They will be gone during our September meeting so we won't be able to hear about their trip until October.

Mary Pavey sends greetings to everyone from Alabama. She is doing fine and still thinks of us on the first Wednesday of each month. We send you our best wishes, Mary!

Our August hostesses were Elsie Anders, Pauline Cox and Dorothy Crombie. They did an excellent job.

Following the meeting, grace was said, a most bountiful lunch was served and games were played. Anna Sustala really had a difficult time during the games. Seems she never wins, so this time about half way through the games, she decided to move to another table that already had several winners.

Wouldn't you know it? Her old table started winning. Anna, better luck next time.

The next meeting will be on September 1 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas Parish Hall. See you there.

Libbie Vrla, Reporter —SPJST-

Westphalia Volunteer Fire Department benefit September 11 The AAL Branch #10083 is trying to make a difference. Their "Helping Hands" project for this year is to raise money for the Westaphalia Volunteer Fire Department.

For your enjoyment, the AAL Members of Salem Lutheran Church, Terry' Chapel, will be serving a barbecue meal with all the trimmings at the Barclay Community Center on Saturday, September 11, 1999. Cost is $6 per plate and serving will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

—SPJST-

Pay Life.

It Isn't Just for Kids.

Lone

As its name suggests, the purchaser of an SPJST Lone Pay Life certificate makes only one premium payment, resulting in a paid-up certificate.

For years, it has been a favorite plan for parents and grandparents seeking to enroll their children and grandchildren in the SPJST. However, did you know that a Lone Pay Life certificate can be issued to individuals up to age 80?

As you would expect, at the older issue ages, it can be expensive; however, it could be just the thing for older members who want to buy additional permanent insurance. For example, a female at age 70 can purchase additional paid-up insurance at the rate of $570 per $1,000 of coverage with a minimum purchase of $5,000 coverage.

The Lone Pay Life certificate may also be of interest to anyone wishing to make a gift of life insurance to a college, church, charitable organization or individual.

For more information on the SPJST Lone Pay Life certificate or other financial products, please contact your local lodge sales representative.

Examples of the Lone Pay Life Plan in Action MALE INSURED'S LIFE INSURANCE LONE PAY CASH VALUE CASH VALUE CASH VALUE AGE PREMIUM IMMEDIATE 10 YEARS PROTECTION AGE 65 2 $10,000 $700 $450 $570 $5,060 10,000 30 1,810 1,320 2,020 5,060 50 10,000 3,650 3,020 4,330 5,065

Wednesday, September 1, 1999-VESTNIK/19

In Memoriam Expression of Sympathy We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, Texas, and on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed member, CECILE C. MELIA, who passed away Saturday, July 24, 1999. She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church and SPJST Lodge 88. She was 82 years of age.

She is survived by a loving family, daughter, Ellen Floyd of Houston, Texas; sons and daughter in-law, Eugene and Gay Melia of Willis, Texas; Stanley Melia, Austin, Texas; sister, Albina Redjen, Bellville, Texas; seven grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.

Rosary was held at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, July 27, 1999 at Heights Funeral Home. Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, 1999 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 4918 Cochran Street with Reverend Henry Walker officiating. Interment was at Resthaven Cemetery, Houston, Texas.

May our departed sister rest in peace.

Laura Warnasch Gladys Havemann Mary Roznovsky -SPJST-

Resolution of Sympathy We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, Texas, and on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed member, EDDIE KOPINITZ. He was born in Houston, Texas on August 2, 1912 to Martin Kopinitz and Margaret Gruller Kopinitz. He was their first American-born child; his older siblings having been born in Vienna, Austria. Eddie grew up on Malone Street near Memorial Drive before that area was a part of Houston, the city limits being at Shepherd Drive in those days. He met and married a Malone Street neighbor, Dora Anna Sauer Kopinitz and they enjoyed 63 years of happiness together.

Eddie was predeceased by his parents, Martin and Margaret Kopinitz, his wife, Dora Kopinitz; brothers, Martin, Siegmund and Franz Josef and by sisters, Mathilda Colder and Maria Kopinitz.

He is survived by his brother, Johnnie Kopinitz and wife, Rose; and brother, Gus Kopinitz of Brigham City, Utah; Margaret Kopinitz Perry and husband, Don Perry; his son, Dr. Edward A. Kopinitz; grandchildren, Mark Peg and Mike Perry and wife, Telisha; and great-grandson, Tristan Perry.

Funeral services were held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Woodlawn Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Kristine Franke Hill of Grace Lutheran Church officiated

with interment at Woodlawn Garden of Memories.

May our brother rest in peace.

Laura Warnasch Gladys Havemann Mary Roznovsky

-SPJST-

Resolution of Sympathy We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, Texas, and on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed member, FELIX HAROLD KAMINSKI, who passed away on May 3, 1999 at the age of 83. Felix was born on January 10, 1916 in Chappell Hill. He was a member of the Sons of Hermann, was a retired member of Local 213, Carpenters Union, member of SPJST Lodge • 88, Houston, Knights of Columbus, 4th degree, Our Lady of the Pines Assembly, Conroe, Texas Council 6456.

He is survived by his children, Dennis D. Kaminski and wife, Nancy, Harold E. Kaminski and wife, Jane, Darrell L. Kaminski; grandchildren, Nancy Kaminski, Aaron Kaminski, Jammie Lyn Kaminski; two great grandchildren; brothers Joe L. and Dennis Kaminski; sisters Clara Cowart, Rose Sikorski; several nieces and nephews.

Rosary was held at 8 p.m.

Wednesday, May 5, 1999 at Earthman.

Resthaven Chapel. Funeral Mass was at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 6, 1999 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, New Waverly, Texas with the Reverend Joseph K. Kalladan officiating. Rite of Committal was at Earthman Resthaven Cemetery, Houston, Texas. May our departed brother rest in peace.

Laura Warnasch Gladys Havemann Mary Roznovsky --SPJST--

Survivors include three grandchildren and their spouses, Kenneth and Moneica Koehn of Diana, Jim and Lisa Nitschke of Conroe and Elaine Nitschke of Houston; three greatgrandchildren and a spouse, Jason and Tina Koehn of Baytown, Kenieca Koehn of Diana and Kyle Nitschke of Conroe; one great-great-grandchild, Taylor Ray Koehn of Baytown; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mary (Mikes) Kaderka; husband, Anton Gajdusek; son, Rudolph Gajdusek; daughter and son in-law, Lillie and Wallace Nitschke; brother, Frank Kaderka; and sister, Annie Havran.

Respectfully submitted, Louis and Irene Polansky

-SPJST-

Resolution of Sympathy The officers and membership of Lodge 24, Cyclone, express their sincere sympathy of our departed lodge brother, JOE LOUIS ANDEL. Services for Joe Louis Andel, 85, of Leedale were held Saturday, August 1 at Sheffield Funeral Home in Rogers with the Reverend Al Newby officiating.

Burial was at Seaton Cemetery.

He died in a Temple hospital on Thursday, July 29, 1999.

Mr. Andel was born in Wharton County to Frank and Janie Parencia Andel. He married Ella Schneider in 1936. He lived in Seaton and Zabcikville areas from 1922 to 1965.

Mr. Andel was a farmer and carpenter and a member of Seaton Brethren Church, SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone and the Senior Citizens of Seaton. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1995 and a son, Calvin Andel.

Survivors are a son, Kenneth of Moffat; two sisters, Angeline Kelarek of Temple and Bertha Lathrop of Cleveland; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

May our departed brother rest in peace.

Fraternally, Richard Greger, President Bernice Sebek, Secretary

-SPJST-

Expression of Sympathy The officers, directors and members of Lodge 1, Fayetteville, wish to express their sympathy to the family of MARY GAJDUSEK. Funeral services for Mary Gajdusek, 102, of Fayetteville were held Wednesday, July 28, 1999 at 10 a.m. at St. John's Catholic Church in Fayetteville with burial following in the Fayetteville Catholic Cemetery.

The Reverend Monsignor Ben Mazurkiewicz officiated.

Mrs. Gajdusek died July 25 in Sealy.

Born March 18, 1897 in Schulenburg, she was the daughter of Frank and Mary (Mikes) Kaderka. She married Anton Gajdusek July 15, 1919 in Fayetteville. A homemaker, she was a member of St. John's Catholic Church in Fayetteville, Church Altar Society, SPJST and Do Your Duty Club.

Expression of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee, of Lodge 17, Novy Tabor, on behalf of our entire membership and the entire SPJST society, wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of our dearly departed lodge brother, DENNIS VAVRA, who passed away on Thursday evening, June 24, 1999 at Sherwood Health Care Facility in Bryan.

Brother Vavra was born January 7, 1937 in Burleson County to John B. and Frances Vavra. He was a former employee of International Furniture Company in Bryan. He was a member of Elizabeth Lutheran Church in Caldwell and Lodge 17, New Tabor SPJST. Brother Vavra was preceded in death by his father, John B. Vavra. Survivors

include his wife, Margaret Vavra; his mother, Frances Vavra; two sons and a daughter in-law, Dennis D. Vavra and Ben R. and Becky Vavra, all of Caldwell; a daughter and son in-law, Melinda and Brad Randle of Bryan; four grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

Funeral services for Brother Vavra were held at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 27, 1999 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Caldwell with Reverend William Gaskamp officiating.

Interment was in the New Tabor Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers were Glen Paul, Alvin Paul, Dennis Drgac, John Hoffman, Jerry Urbanovsky and Kverin Urbanovsky.

May our departed lodge brother rest in eternal peace and his memory live with us forever.

Fraternally submitted, Resolution Committee Ben Trcalek, Jr. Stanley Mrnustik Susan Skrabanek

-SPJST-

Expression of Sympathy The officers and members of Lodge 25, Ennis, express their sympathy to the family and friends of ROGER LEE PEDEN. Funeral services for Ret. Col. Roger Lee Peden were held at 10 a.m.

Wednesday in the Keever Chapel with Reverend Johnny Mansell officiating.

Interment was in Myrtle Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary with the following serving as pallbearers: Robert Stockton, Dane Williams, Joe David Holland, Monte Story, Ricky McElhaney and Buddy Markham. Honorary pallbearers were Mohamad Pishanidar, James Ferguson, Wesley Betik, Sylvester Garcia, Ricky Waldrop and Toby Mash. A military honor guard was furnished by Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene.

Peden, 60, died Sunday, August 1, 1999 at the Baylor Medical Center in Ennis.

He was born April 26, 1939 in De Kalb, Miss., the son of Edgar M. and Nanny G. Clark Peden. He was reared in De Kalb where he attended school.

He entered the U.S. Air Force where he served five tours in Vietnam as a fighter pilot. He retired as a colonel in 1981 after 21 years of service. He was then employed by the city of Ennis as the building inspector. In October 1993, he was married to Gloria Madison. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church in De Kalb, Miss. and SPJST Lodge 25.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria of Ennis; a son, Roger Lee Peden II of Ennis; his mother, Nan McKay of Ennis; four daughters, Nancy Lee Peden of De Kalb, Miss., Martha Lynn Moore of Murfreesboro, N.C., Janice Collis of Lancaster, Calif. and Sheila Watterschied of Carlsbad, N.M.; a sister, Mary Thompson of Ennis; and five grandchildren.

May he rest in eternal peace and his memory remain with us forever.

Respectfully submitted, Margaret Krajca -SPJST-

20/VESTNIK—Wednesday, September 1, 1999

Youth Letters Section

Let's hear what your members and youth club are doing to make a positive difference in your community.

Send your news and photos to:

Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth club raises money at picnic

I won a second place trophy in hobby kits at State Youth Achievement Day. Fraternally yours, Celia Dobecka (15) (8/18/99) —SPJST-

Dear Readers, We held our picnic July 18th. It was a large crowd. The youth club held the cake walk, fish pond and bingo. This is one of our projects to raise money.

All youth members worked.

I won a first place trophy in sewing and a third in hobby kits at State Youth Achievement Day. Fraternally yours, Christi Sparkman (8/18/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth club welcomes new members Dear Readers, We held our meeting Friday, August 6th. We have four new members, Brittany and Dakota Hykel, Alexandria Wolf and Anderia Crockett. We welcome them to our youth club.

Soon, we will be getting ready for Westfest.

Fraternally yours, Whitney Dobecka (8/18/99) —SPJST-

Vestnik, cio SPJST P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503

FAX: (254) 774-7447 E-Mail: bvanicek@vvm.com Got a question?

Call 1 (800) 727-7578

Lodge 9, Snook youth members visited by Czech radio host Dear Readers, The Snook SPJST Youth Club had their monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 4th at 6:30 p.m. We made flowers, had our meeting and listened to Mr. Ronnie Horcica talk to us about his radio program. It was very interesting and we made our own radio commercial. You can listen to it at 3:45 p.m. on KAGC 1510 AM on Sundays.

That was fun!

Then on August 7th and 8th, I attended State Royalty and YAD. I entered a sketch and special category.

It was fun.

On August 15, we went swimming at Adamson Lagoon. The water felt good since it was so hot.

Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, September 1 at 6:30 at the park.

Fraternally, Dwayne Macik (8/26/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth has great time at State Youth Lodge 9, Snook Achievement Day youth club I had a great time at State Youth fashions flowers Achievement Day. I got to see a lot of people I met at camp. Thank you, Shirley Romero for taking me.

Sincerely, Brooke Craig (8/24//99) —SPJST-

Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth club enters Westfest parade Dear Readers, We want to thank everyone that donated items for the bingo and to the cake walk for our picnic.

We will bake kolaches for Westfest Saturday, August 21st at 7 a.m.

Everyone needs to come and help. We will also have a float in the parade and work the booth.

Dear Readers, The Snook Youth Club had their monthly meeting on August 4. For our craft, we made flowers out of pipe cleaners and buttons. It was really neat.

Our meeting was well attended. We went over old and new business. Our new charities for the month of September are take donations to MDA telethon ($1 per member), bring magazines for school (two per member) and clean and water the rosebushes.

After the meeting, Ronnie Horcica came and talked to us about his Czech radio program. It was cool. We also got to be on the radio.

Our next meeting will be on September 1 at 6:30 at the park.

Fraternally, Candice Macik (8/26/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 17, New Tabor youth club sponsors booth at September 11 Kolache Festival The August meeting of SPJST Lodge 17, District One Youth Club was called to order at 3 p.m. by Crystal Wotipka., Vice President.

Lacy Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Youth Club Motto. Members remained standing for a moment of silent prayer.

The register was read. Present were 25 members, two guests and 14 adults.

Guests were Austin Rathjen and Robert Vychopen.

The minutes were read and approved. New member, Trevor Rathjen, was welcomed.

Mabrey Petty gave the treasurer's report.

This month's social was a trip to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels on August 3.

Youth Leader Susan Skrabanek reported that we did great on Youth Achievement Day and that our scrapbook got first place and our poster won second place. We had 12 first place winners and 10 second place winners.

There is a Grandparents' Day Banquet set for September 12. At the Kolache Fest on September 11, the youth club will sponsor a booth with items for sale.

Youth members enjoyed ice cream for refreshments which was served by the Wotipka family.

Door prizes were won by Chandler Malazzo, Jordan Hejl, Christina Skrabanek and Amy Philip.

The next youth club meeting is September 5 at 3 p.m. Bring a soda can filled with dirt.

The meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m.

Brandi Crnkovic —SPJST-

Lodge 18, Elgin youth announces officers Dear Vestnik Readers, Our officers are: President—Scott Hall Vice President—Christina Daughtery Treasurer—Crissy Bowen Secretary—Mary Flores Reporter—Charlie Anderson Sergeant-at-Arms—Michael Bowen Our meetings are the first Wednesday of every month.

We made between 90 and 100 Christmas trees and took to the rest home. They loved us for them.

We had an Easter egg hunt in Elgin and it was a huge success.

We had our May Fete and we had our first silent auction while the Polka Boys played after the May Fete. It raised a lot of money for our youth club.

We went to District Two Youth Achievement Day. We had a young lady who won second place. This is the first time in ten years Elgin has participated in YAD. The youth went off to camp and had a lot of fun.

The lodge held another silent auc-

tion for us and raised twice as much than the first time. The youth club appreciates what the lodge has done for us. We want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Greinert and Mr. and Mrs. Margin Marek for paying for the free dance which brought all the people.

Our last trip has been to Fiesta Texas in San Antonio. We had a lot of fun and since Mrs. Bowen hurt her leg,we had to push her in a wheelchair.

Till next time.

Charlie Anderson, Reporter (8/26/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 25, Ennis youth recaps recent activities Dear Readers, Our youth members have done so much since I last wrote. We enjoyed going to Camp Val Verde in July. Some of us attended State Youth Achievement Day. On August 15, we went bowling.

We entertained the adults at their lodge meeting with magic tricks. At our monthly youth meeting, we were given a topic and allowed five minutes to write a poem. We then read the poems.

We have so much fun.

Jerrod Ryan (10) (8/26/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 25, Ennis youth club plans September skating social Dear Readers, Our last meeting was August 12. We will go skating in September. Our youth leader announced that she will have a baby in March. My brother provided the door prize which was won by Randy.

I provided the refreshments. We had one guest at the meeting. After the meeting, we practiced our magic tricks.

Blake Ryan (9) (8/26/99) —SPJST-

The time is right to make new friends ..

Fraternalism and fraternal life insurance are both rooted in the principle that each of us has a responsibility to each other.

Going back to the days of the Roman Empire, there were societies organized to unify groups and provide financial aid in time of sickness and death. Even then, there was a keen awareness of the cruelties and hardships that death brings to families.

These early societies had another purpose. They recognized the need of human beings for companionship. For that reason, they provided a way for people to meet in friendly gatherings — where selfishness and prejudice were suppressed and the principles of brotherhood were nurtured, thereby establishing a better understanding among the members.

You belong, too! Consider attending your next lodge or district meeting.

Remember, "The time is right to make new friends."

Lzati 1999.21/VESTNiK

PODPORA LIDSKOST -- BRATRSTVI east Ceska 1:Jfedni organ Slovanske Podporujici Jednoty Statu Texas, zaloiene rok 1897 ROtNiK 87

eISLO 33

Learn Czech With Us 87th lesson. The verbs Wet, sedet, stilt.

Revision exercises.

Some phrases with the verbs kid / sedet / stat:

Nejdfive jsem nesouhlasil. Ale do druheho dne se mi to v hlav/ rozleelo a já nabidku Ojai.— At first I did not agree. But the following day it began to tell on my mind and I accepted the proposal. Takove tirodne pole nemideme nechat leUt ladem.— We cannot let such a fertile field lie fallow. Mlade vino musite nechat ule get. — You must let the wine ripen. Ten /lovek mi leif v laludku.— I am sick of that man. Deti sedely na bobku a hrdly si.— The children squatted and played. To je ten presnji vjrraz, ten sedi.— This is the right expression, it fits on it. Nestifj mi v cest/! Don't be in my way! Stali jsme frontu na listky.— We queued / waited in a line for tickets. Nesed' si na u g ich!— Listen better! Kdy2 to vgechno matka uvid/la, ztistala stat jako socha.— When mother saw all that, she was rooted to the ground.

Nerad stoji stranou studentskeho d/ni.— He doesn't like to keep clear of students' activity. Auta jela pomalu a nakonec zustala stat.— The cars went slowly and eventually they stopped.

Rozum mi nad tim zitstavd stdt,-What happened, it's beyond me. Na /i strand stojig?— With whom do you side? D/kuju yam. Rado se staio.— Thank you. Don't mention it. Vidycky se nakonec stane po jej:m.— Finally she always has her own way. Musim ho najit stdj co stitj.— I must find him at any cost. Koupfm to, at' to stoji co stoji.— I'll buy it, cost what it may. Ta v/c nestoji za nic.— The thing is no good. Dnes u od ran g nestojim za nic.— I am not quite up to the mark today.

1.zifi 1999 Read the numerals:

Mluvili jsme s 1 zahrani/nfm studentem. Pujdeme k 1 memu znamemu. Znarn v Praze 1 dobrou vinarnu. Do autobusu nastoupila Jena s 2 detmi. Od 3 do 4 hodin budu v knihovne. Pojedu na vjilet jen s 3 nebo 4 prateli. Na fotbale bylo jen kolem 2000 clivakii. Bude to stat asi 200 a/ 300 korun. Na prednagce bylo kolem 500 poslucha/O. Chlapec za/al chodit do gkoly v 6 letech. Videli jsme se naposiedy n/kdy pfed 12 lety. Letadlo pfistalo v Praze po 4 hodinach letu.

Ten slovnik obsahuje kolem 60,000 slov. Teplota v let/ dosahuje 29 a2 32 Musite mi to do 24 hodin vratit. Brzy oslavime 100. vfroti zalohnf Narodnfho divadla. Zemrel tragicky v 33. roce sveho 2ivota. Mdm

American Stroke Association.

A Division of American Heart Association

ast

It keeps more than memories alive.

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION MEMORIALS & TRIBU -800-AHA-USA1 This space provided as a public service ©1994 1997 American Heart Association

3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, fort Worth, Texas • (817) 624-1361

Saturday, September 18, 1999 Dinner serued from noon until 6 p.m.

Includes BBQ, Klobasa and Trimmings Adults: $6.50 Under 12: $4

Music from 2 - 6 p.m. by the Jodie Mikula Orchestra of Ennis Music from 8 p.m. - Midnight by Czech and Then Some Accordion Jam Session 11:00 a.m. - Noon

Alpine Dancers of Dallas

Memory Makers Czech Choir

Prizes, Building Fund Prize Drawing Hubenak's Hamburgers at 6 p.m.

Pastry Sales Booth by Ladies' Czech Circle Admission for All Day:

6:30 p.m.

Exhibition by SOKOL FW 7:00 p.m.

3

27th Annua

Czech Fest at Lodge 84, Daha 2625 Floyd Street • Dallas, Texas

Sunday September 19, 1999

SOhlt (12 3A0.11

WE

Rational Hall • SPJST Lodge 92, fort Worth

Opening Ceremony at 1:15 p.m.

Parade of Czech Costumes

nic nedtme. Tebe chci o n/co poprosit.

Ji nesmite zlobit. Tob/ jsem slfbil prinest knihu. Mlle se to porad nelibf.

Me se rad g ! neptejte. Jerm se tor:. mluvf.

JAN HOLUB

254-7784709 254-791-2857 itroysmpeaol.com

Czech Heritage Day

12:00 p.m.

listky do 21. fady. Budu na tebe /ekai mezi 8. a 9. hodinou. Vratim se do Prahy nekdy mezi 29. srpnem a 12. zaffm. Pfedstaveni skond kolem 22. hodiny. Z 9263 studentii fakulty je 67.!.5 divek.

Key to exercises from lesson 86: s nim, pro ni, k nim, u n/ho, o nf, bez nich, na ni, ho, od nich, ji, po nem, na neho, ji, s ni, s nami, vedle tebe, krome nas, pfed vami, po vas, na nds, ti, t/, na sebe, se mnou; komu, co, s kj,m, koho, kde/v Um, kam/ke komu, o kom, koho, co, kam/k /emu, na koho, /fm, u koho/kde, /eho, co t'im, od koho, s kjim, kde/v Um, po kom, kam/do /eho, po Um; Tebe mam pozdravovat. Jeho tady nenajdete. Tob/

7:30 p.m.

Adults $7 Under 17: $3

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Fabrygel Tours Jerry and Joeann Fabrygel

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Now Booking

2000 Cruise the Danube and Land Tour

May 2 for 15 Days Personalized Service English Speaking Guide Call for Info (409) 793-7170 (ABC Embroidery Office) or (409) 793-6855 after 6 p.m.

FAX: (409) 793-7171 (ABC Embroidery Office)

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Doors open at 11:30 a.m.

Pork Roast

Sauerkraut, Dumpiings Salad, Green Beans, Dinner Rolls, Coffee/Tea Desserts

Adults: $7 Children: $3.50

Booths • Games Prizes • Dancing Free Dance 3 - 6 p.m.

Music by the

Vanek Czech Band Cultural Events Calendar September 5-6 Westfest—The Westfest parade on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. marks the first appearance of the newly crowned SPJST Royalty Court. On both Saturday and Sunday, the Cultural Amphitheater will be offering a big selection of entertainment.

Featured bands on Saturday include Jodie Mikula, Vrazels, The Sound Connection, Dujka Brothers, Brave Combo and The Harvesters.

Featured bands on Sunday include The harvesters Czech & Then Some, Rave Combo, Vanek Czech Band, Jerry Haisler and Moravian Kats.

Friday night preview party features music by country artist The Kinleys.

For more information, please call (254) 826-5058 or on the Internet, visit www.westfest.com September 7 Wharton County Czech Heritage Society meeting in the fellowship hall of the First Christian Church at 7 p.m.

September 10 Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum hosts pre-festival party on Friday evening with food, fun and Czech fellowship.

September 18 Czech Heritage Day Celebration at SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth. Details forthcoming.

—SPJST-

22/VESTNIK--Wednesday, September 1, 1999

FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT

Czech Out the Fifteenth Annual

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.

KOLACHE FESTIVAL

LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at the St. Thomas Catholic Church CCD Building in Pilot Point.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD Friday, September 3-Social night, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 12-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Friday, September 17-Social night, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 25-Snapka family reunion

Saturday, September 11, 1998 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

On the Downtown Square Caldwell, Texas The Kolache Festival is a celebration of the revitalization of Czech heritage • . . a county that was basically a Czech settlement realized their precious identity was slipping away. New generations knew not the language, the music or the art of their ancestors. Not only do we grasp at the past, but we hurry to share the history . . . to bring into today's focus the beauty, talent, and delight of the Czech people.

Come to the Kolache Festival and learn the wonderful Czech philosophy See the technique of the stenciling, basket weaving, egg decorating, quilting, woodcraft, carving, sculpturing.

Dance to the polka, and sing the songs of the musician.

Taste the true ethnic food and lend your soul to the fulfillment of the Czech cultural heritage.

Schedule of Events South Stage Corner of Buck and Echols Vitam (Welcome) Opening Prayer-Reverend Henry Beseda Flag Ceremony • National Anthem "Texas Our Texas" "Kde Domov Muj" (Czech National Anthem) Local, State and National Dignitaries Crowning of Festival Royalty

9 a.m.

9:30 10:00 10:30 11:30 11:30 12:30 1 p.m.

2 p.m.

3 p.m.

4 p.m.

5 p.m.

6 to 10 p.m.

Original Kolache Festival Band Parade of Costumes Burleson County Czech Singers Kovanda's Czech Band Czech Heritage Singers and Dancers of Houston Kolache Eating Contest-Hughes-Doonan Texas Czech Beseda of Dallas Chris Rybak, Master Accordionist Kovanda's Czech Band Awards Ceremony Po.L.K. of A. Choral Group Fiddlin' Dink and the Country Boys Vrazel's Polka and The iujka Brothers

N rth Sta e Corner of Main an Fox Clem Kubacak, Emcee a.m.

11 a.m.

2 noon 1:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

The Polka Stars East ernard Singers Shiner Hobo and Polka Stars Shinerlobo Band Granger Polka Boys

East Stage First American Bank Fountain 10:30 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

Dance Hall Boys The Combinations

West Stage Beseda House (Corner of Fox and Harvey) 11 a.m. 'til

Donnie Suehs and Friends

Antique C. r Show Highway 36 South at Buffalo • ernadette Jochec and Keyboard

Many Quality Booths • Arts & Crafts Show .0 For additional information, please contact the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce at (409) 567-3218 or on the Internet at www.rtis.com/reglcaldwell.

For Texas Kolache Bake Show information, please call (409) 567-3255.

Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. For information regarding scheduling events at Lodge 6, please call George Straten at (254) 826-5863.

LODGE 9, SNOOK Local lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.; Youth Club meetings are at 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX Lodge meetings are the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

LODGE 14, WESLEY Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, July, September and December at 2:30 p.m.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. for the upcoming summer months. The dance club dances are the second Sunday of each month. For hall rental and dance information, call (254) 5934192 or (254) 593-0090.

I

LODGE 16, BILA HORA Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of August and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR Sunday, October 17-Distict One Fall meeting; details later.

Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Youth meetings are also on the first Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

LODGE 18, ELGIN Sunday,September 12-Central Texas Sounds, 3 to 7 p.m. Admission $6 per person.

Kitchen will be open.

Saturday, September 18-Wink Tyler, country and mixed music. 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Admission $5 per person.

Sunday, September 26-Czech Melody Masters (formerly the Dance Hall Boys), 3 to 7 p.m. Tickets $5 per person. Kitchen will be open.

Lodge meetings are the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise stated. For rentals and reservations, call Irene Helgren at (512) 281-4534. Band Bookings: Artie Monson at (512) 281-3711.

Lodge 18 is non-smoking.

LODGE 20, GRANGER Meetings are the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 21, ENGLE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 23, MORAVIA Lodge meetings are the Tuesday after the second Sunday of March, June and September at 7:30 p.m. and the first Sunday of December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE Sunday, September 19-District Two Fall meeting. Registration begins at 1 p.m., the meeting begins at 2 p.m. Catfish dinner with trimmings will be served at approximately 5 p.m. Meal tickets will be $2 per person. (See accompanying agenda in the Lodge Letters section.)

For your enjoyment, Flag Hall now offers pool and an assortment of arcade games.

Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. 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 Brian Vanicek at (254) 985-0007.

LODGE 25, ENNIS Saturday, September 4-Private rental Thursday, September 9-Lodge meeting, 8 p.m.

Saturday, September 11-Wedding September 19-Youth Club meeting, 2 p.m.

Saturday, September 25-Private rental Saturday, October 9-Wedding Thursday, October 14-Lodge meeting, 8 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 8 p.m. Youth Club meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Game room open every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. For rentals, reservations or more information, call Jim Holahan at (972) 875-5230 or contact the

hall at (972) 875-8381 and leave a message.

LODGE 26, SKIDMORE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD Sunday, September 12-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, October 17-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

(Date changed due to the District Six Fall meeting on October 10.)

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. in the meeting room on the ground floor of the SPJST Hall building at 106 Leveridge Street in East Bernard.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR Thursday, September 2-Introductory Square Dance lessons, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Friday, September 3-Country Classics Friday, September 10-Granger Polka Boys Friday, September 17-Rough Cull Friday, September 24-Grieger and Grieger Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 7 p.m with snacks served from 6:30 to 7 p.m. for interested members.

The youth club meets the same day at 5:30 p.m. Friday night dances are held downstairs from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Enjoy delicious hamburgers every Friday night from 6 to 9 p.m. Kitchen is open for Sunday dances and on-premises catering is available. For hall reservations, dance information or bookings, call (512) 352-9139, (512) 352-7442 (lodge hall), or Tommie Schiller (512) 365-5795 and leave message.

LODGE 30, TAITON Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA Lodge meetings are the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Victoria Electric Co-Op on Ben Jordan.

LODGE 35, ELK Sunday, September 5-Public dance: Annual Pavelka reunion dance with music by Heartland 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Sunday, September 12-Lodge meeting, 3 p.m. The future closing of the lodge will be discussed.

Sunday, October 10-RVOS Lodge 50 meeting, 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 10-Lodge meeting at 3 p.m.

A sandwich lunch will follow.

Sunday, November 4-SPJST Pavelka Cemetery meeting, 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 4-Lodge meeting, 3 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise noted. The hall is open for rent every day of the week. For rental information, call (254) 875-2156.

LODGE 36, WEST Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of March, June, September and December at 6:45 p.m.

LODGE 38, KOVAR Sunday, September 12-Dinner/Auction Fund Raiser: Fried chicken/stew served beginning at 11:30 a.m. $5/ adult, $3/child, 12 and under.

Also serving plates-to-go. Auction at 1 p.m.

For more information, contact Johnnie Janak (512) 237-2432 or (512) 237-5228 or Gearldeen Faust (830) 839-4110.

Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 39, zRYAN Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m. Lunch is at 12:30, followed by meeting and social. Meat is provided by the lodge at every meeting.

Members, please bring covered dish or dessert items.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE Sunday, September 12-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, September 19-Barbecue dinner benefit for Sister Jane Holub. Dinner served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prize drawing and a silent auction will also be held. Rudy's El Campo Melody Boys provide music from noon until 3 p.m. Meal tickets sold in advance for $6 per plate and can be purchased by calling (409) 541-5759, 543-9420, 543-2525, 543-5079 or 543-7362.

Lodge meetings are held the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall, located just off US 59 in Hillje (409) 6482317. Bingo is played on Monday nights at 7 p.m. Beginning July 12 and every second Monday thereafter, it will be a $100 bingo game night. License #17600539641. For hall bookings, please call (409) 543-7387 or (409) 541-5759.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA Lodge meetings are the fourth Monday of the month at the Six Mile Presbyterian Church on Royal Road at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, September 1, 1999-VESTNIK/23 LODGE 47, SEATON Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Seaton Star Hall is located five miles east of Temple, just off of Highway 53. All Saturday dances in 1999 will be from 7 p.m.. to 11 p.m. For information about hall bookings, please call Dorothy Pechal at (254) 985-2545 or (254) 985-2548 (the hall phone) on Saturday night.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE Saturday, October 23-Progressive "42' Tournament: Registration begins at 8:15 a.m., play begins at 9:15 a.m. Contact Bobby L. Wuensche (512) 365-3013.

Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

LODGE 49, ROWENA Friday, December 17-50-year pin presentation; details later.

Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of February, May, August and November at 7 p.m. Game socials are every third Friday night of each month at 5 p.m. at the Lodge Hall.

LODGE 51, ELLINGER Lodge meetings are the third Wednesday of March, June, September and December at 7 p.m.

LODGE 54, WEST Friday, September 10-Lodge meeting, 7 p.m. with food and fellowship after the meeting.

Lodge meetings are the first Friday in March, June and November and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. For information regarding hall rentals for weddings anniversaries, birthdays or reunions call (254) 826-5990 (night) or (254) 826-5343 (day).

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.

LODGE 65, CROSBY Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September and December at 1 p.m.

LODGE 66, WACO Sunday, Sep. 19-Lodge meeting, 2:30 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. Dances are from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight and cover is $5. Game nights (Taroky, dominos, etc.) are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Members, please bring snacks.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG Lodge meetings are the fourth Sunday of March, June, September and December at 3 p.m.

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 12 p.m.

LODGE 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 76, WICHITA FALLS Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September and December at 1 p.m.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI/SOKOL HALL Sunday, October 31 - Fund raiser; details later.

SPJST lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., unless notified otherwise. Hall location: 5502 Kostorhyz Road, Corpus Christi. Phone: (512) 8529042. Public invited.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND Saturday, September 4-Lodge meeting, 4 p.m. with the Board of Directors meeting at 3:30 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the first Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. Bingo every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP1-74615-1395-8; AL00061-9887-0.

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. A luncheon is served at noon and the meeting follows.

LODGE 84, DALLAS Wednesday, September 8-Charter Bus Trip to Bossier City: $20 per person in advance.

Depart Lodge 84 at 7 a.m. For required advance reservations, or information, call Wanda Petr at (214) 352-4397.

Sunday, September 19-27th Annual Czech Fest at Lodge 84: doors open at 11:30 a.m.; pork roast dinner served 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m adults $7, children $3.50 (12 and under), members are asked to bring desserts; booths, games and prizes; Free dance with music by the Vanek Czech Band, 3 to 6 p.m.

Monday, September 20-Lodge meeting, 7:30 p.m.

notify Rose Ann Parma at (972) 986-7650 before October 15 so you and your family can be included.

Lodge meetings are the , third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. For band bookings, call Cheri Petr at 352-4397 or Ben Jarma at 348-1514. For rentals, call Emil Petr at (214) 826-3557.

Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Youth Room of Lodge 84, 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas.

LODGE 87, TEMPLE Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For rental information, call Don Alford at (254) 939-7395.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON Friday, September 3-Mavericks, c/w. Under 13 only with parents. Tickets $6 each.

Saturday, September 4-Tom Houston, big band music; *dress code. Tickets $11 each.

Saturday, September 11-Gus Lindemann, big band music; *dress code. Tickets $11 each.

Saturday, September 18-Manny Green, big band music; *dress code. Admission $11 per person.

Friday, October 1-Country Kin, c/w, under 13 only with parents. Tickets $6 each.

Saturday, October 2-Vrazels, polka/variety.

Tickets $6 each.

Lodge meetings are the second Monday at 7:30 p.m. Youth club meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. All dances are 8:30 p.m. to midnight, unless otherwise noted. Bingo every Thursday evening; early bird special starts at 7:15 p.m. Regular games start at 7:45 p.m.

License No. 3-00-621-2077-41001. For reservations, call (713) 869-5767. *Dress code dances: evening attire, ladies and gentlemen.

LODGE 91, CROSBY Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, September and December at 2:30 p.m. or as otherwise specified.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH Sunday, September 5-Dance with music Gary Lee Country and Western Band, 3 to 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 18-All-day Czech Heritage Day Celebration: Help us celebrate our 89th year in Fort Worth. Dinner by Riscky, noon to 6 p.m. Music by two great bands, Jodie Mikula Orchestra, 2 p.m. and Czech and Then Some, 8 p.m. Invite your friends! More details later.

Sunday, October 3-Dance with music by Gary Lee Country and Western Band, 3 to 7 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., or as otherwise specified. Ballroom dancing every Friday night and New Year's Eve; 9 p.m. until 12 a.m. Sponsored by Zane Laurini's Stardust Ballroom. Call 1 (800) 332-9303.

Dress code enforced. For additional dance info., tune to KBEC 1390 AM at 9 a.m. and KNON 89.3 FM at 2 p.m. every Sunday. For a place to hold your large parties, call Joyce at (817) 624-1361.

Bookings for 1999 are going fast, so act now to get your preferred party date.

Family night/Tarok on the first and third Tuesday, 7 p.m. Youth Club meets on the second Sunday of each month. Ladies' Circle meets on second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.

LODGE 93,110BSON Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 207 South Park in Karnes City.

LODGE 94, WHEELOCK Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September and December at 1 p.m.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO Thursday, September 30-Meeting and Games Night at Victoria Electric Co-op Building, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 30-Youth Club meeting, same as above.

Sunday, October 10-District Six Fall Meeting, hosted by Lodge 97 at Victoria County Electric Co-op Building. (Many volunteers needed.

Contact Yvonne Garrett.)

Sunday, December 12-Christmas social; details to follow at a later date.

Lodge meetings are held in March, June, September and December.

LODGE 106, LA GRANGE Lodge meetings are the first Tuesday of each month at the Subway Sandwich Shop at 109 South Jefferson Street (south of the red light at the 71 and 77 cross road) in La Grange at 7:30 p.m.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall, unless otherwise noted.

LODGE 125, WESTHOFF Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 130, DALLAS Weekend of November 19 - 21-Lodge 130 Camp-out at Fort Parker State Park. Please

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road in San Antonio.

LODGE 135, ENNIS Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 139, DANBURY Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. June through August and 6:30 p.m. September through May. LODGE 141, SEALY Lodge meetings are held every second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle in Sealy.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON Sunday, Sept.-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, October 10-Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Cajun dance every second Saturday of each month with live music. Hall rentals for wedding or party, call (713) 862-6291 after 4 p.m.

LODGE 143, INEZ Lodge meetings are the third Friday of March, June, September and December at 6 p.m.

LODGE 151, WHARTON Monday, September 13- Meeting/ Memorial for 1998 deceased members: begins at 7 p.m. with catered meal, prize drawing and door prizes for members. Special guest and speaker will be present.

The quarterly lodge meetings will be held on the second Monday of June, September and December in the meeting room of Hinze BarB-Que Catering on Highway 59 in Wharton, Texas. The time for the meetings is 7 p.m.

LODGE 153, LA SALLE Lodge meetings are held quarterly in March, June, September and December at 6 p.m.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise stated.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN Lodge meetings are held quarterly on the third Sunday of the month at 2:30 p.m.

LODGE 156, BAYTOWN Lodge meetings are held monthly on the second Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. For more information, including location, please call (281) 427-8160.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, Sept. and Dec. at 3 p.m.

LODGE 161, LA PARITA-JOURDANTON Sunday, November 7-Hosting District Seven Family Fun Day at Longhorn Museum, east of Pleasanton on Highway 290.

Lodge meetings are held on the fourth Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at Jourdanton State Bank Community Room; except for March, June, September and December meetings which will be held at a restaurant at 4 p.m. for a meal and meeting.

LODGE 164, RIO HONDO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, September and December at 2:30 p.m.

LODGE 172, PASADENA Saturday, September 4-Kenny Wycoff Saturday, September 11-Country Delux Saturday, September 18-Randy Marshall Saturday, September 25-No dance Hall is located at 3609 Preston in Pasadena.

For information regarding hall rentals for birthday parties, wedding receptions, retirement parties, Christmas parties, etc., please call Vicki (281) 542-1774 or call the lodge hall (281) 487-3297. Starting January, 1999, Lodge 172 will be renting the hall on the last Saturday of each month. For reservations, call the lodge hall (281) 487-3297. Saturday night dances are held from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Executive members and Board of Trustees meet the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Regular lodge meetings are the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY Lodge meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Trustees' meeting are at 7 p.m. Youth Club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.

Bingo every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m.

Permit No. 1-74-2042239-0 Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the kitchen is open.

LODGE 178, LONGVIEW-KILGORE Lodge meetings are the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the VFW Post 4002, Longview.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Warrenton store; social hour and meal follows. The meat is furnished and members bring side dishes.

LODGE 180, BURLESON Sunday, October 24-Lodge hosts District Three Fall meeing; details later.

Lodge hall is located on I-35W, 1.5 miles south of Burleson. For hall rentals, call Estelle Hurtik at (817) 284-7218, Rhonda Hurtik at (214) 4352286, or John Hilcher at (817) 293-8166. Doors open for dances at 7:45 p.m.; dance 8:30 to 12:30 a.m. Children 10 and under free. Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Trustees' meetings are on the same dates at 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY Lodge meetings are the fourth Sunday of each month at 4 p.m.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON 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) 263-9031, (972) 262-8830 and (817) 457-2138.

LODGE 184, MOULTON Lodge meetings are the second Wednesday of March, June, September and December at 7 p.m.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of February, April, June, August, October and December.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each 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 187, ROUND ROCK Sunday, September 12-Youth and adult regular monthly meetings changed due to Labor Day weekend being the first Sunday. (Meeting times remain the same.)

Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. Youth meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. For information regarding building rentals, please call (512) 255-1554 or (512) 388 6335.

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

LODGE 189, BRYAN - COLLEGE STATION Sunday, September 12-Lodge Quarterly meeting at the home of Al and Nina Quitta, 909 Ashburn Avenue, College Station. If you need directions, call 696-6665.

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, Sept. and Dec. at 2 p.m.

LODGE 191, LUFKIN For lodge rentals, contact Frank Juarez at (409) 875-4676. For dance reservations, contact Marilyn Page (409) 632-1124.

Meetings are held at the lodge hall located at 1715 Hughes Street in Lufkin, Texas.

Regular dances on the third Saturday of every month. Reservations for tables at dances will be made on a first call basis.

LODGE 195, CLEBURNE Lodge meetings are the first Thursday of March, June, Sept. and Dec. at 7 p.m.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST Saturday, September 18-Bobby Jones Sunday, September 19-Hosting District Five Fall meeting. The day begins at 11 a.m. with a short meeting followed by a social hour and covered dish lunch at noon. Watch the Vestnik for agenda.

All dances open to the public. ($6 per person) Watch for our letters in the Vestnik: Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. For hall rentals for weddings, birthdays, dances and parties, call (281) 373-9482. Leave a message. The hall's address is 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress, Texas 77429.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 201, BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE Friday, September 26-Lodge meeting, 3 p.m.

Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. Contact Celesta Balke for hall rentals at (409) 830-0118.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. at the Jourdanton State Bank in in the Community Room.

-SPJST-

SPJST Proudly Introduces The June -July Consistency Club The Consistency Club recognizes those SPJST sales representatives who have written a minimum of two applications each month for two or more consecutive months.

ALBIN MACHU

FRANK PAJESTKA, JR.

ROBERT DOBECKA

BEN JARMA, FIC

DISTRICT II

DISTRICT II

DISTRICT III

DISTRICT III

Lodge 29 Taylor

Lodge 80 Holland

Lodge 6 Cottonwood

Lodge 84, Dallas

4 Consecutive Months

6 Consecutive Months

2Consecutive Months

LEONARD JANSA, FIC

VICTOR JANAK, SR.

EVELYN MIKESKA

SHELDON HOLUB

DISTRICT IV

DISTRICT V

DISTRICT IV

DISTRICT VI

Lodge 160 San Angelo

Lodge 88 Houston

Lodge 196 Houston-West

Lodge 40 El CampoHillje

4 Consecutive Months KAREL MATEJKA DISTRICT VI Lodge 40 El CampoHillje

Think about it. Is there someone you know who isn't a member who you would like to have in your lodge?

• Fill out the form below and send in today.

You will receive one denim certificate for each recommendation for which a certificate is issued.

Certificates may be redeemed for SPJST "Denim Round-Up" prizes which are listed periodically in the Vestnik.

Rules: Inform your lode sales representatives of people who want to join SPJST or want to increase their existing coverage.

You can also complete the attached coupon and drop in the mail to us.

Denim certificates will be mailed to you after the certificate is issued.

Sales representatives and their immediate families are encouraged to assist in the membership drive but are not eligible for prizes.

r

Denim Round-Up

Membership Drive • August 1 - December 31

I would like to introduce

for membership in SPJST.

Here is the information on the prospect:

Here is my information:

NAME

NAME

ADDRESS

ADDRESS

CITY/ZIP

CITY/ZIP

PHONE NO

PHONE NO

List a preferrered Sales Represetnative or leave blank.

LODGE/NO. Hand deliver to your sales representative or mail to SPJST Home Office ATTN: Insurance Department • P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503