Vestnik 2000 01 05

ta*keoW1,,ST "Joining Hands To Touch Lives-Fraternalism for the Family and Our Nation"

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

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

January 5, 2000

ISSN-07458800

VOLUME 88 NUMBER 1

Roth IRA allows for tax-deferred earnings on retirement investments corn the :p up. `emeage, 'ditor and I.,,nie 0:67ce Stafj

Officers Howard Leshika:Leonard D. Mikeska Lanita Anglin Jerry Mikulas Sidney Kacir Directors Donnie Victorick Frank Klinkovsky Johnnie Krizan Stanley Broz Louis Hanus Matt S. Vanek Bob Bayer Editor Brian Vanicek

Ed Mokry Corinne Mauldin Peggy Sue Pancake Ann Paruzinski Dorothy Pechal Gene Reveile Mike Reveile William Rollwitz Barbara Rosenkranz Susan Shofner Katherine Morris Smith Dorothy Stuchly Dorothy Tomasek Doris Tyroch Larry Wagner Jim Wiest Melanie Zavodny

Q. What is a Roth IRA? A. The Roth IRA is the op-posite of the traditional deductible Individual Retirement Account. With a traditional deductible IRA, you may deduct contributions (within limits and only if you satisfy certain requirements), but all withdrawals are fully taxable.

With a Roth IRA, you receive no up-front deduction for annual contributions. But, if you meet the tax law's rules, you may withdraw money from a Roth IRA tax free. In other

Home Office Staff Debbie Dohnalik Sandra Dubcak Daryl Entrop Susie Ernst Kathy Fritz Stephanie Herring Cynthia Hutka Diane Johnson Linda Johnson Jerry Kucera Donna Locke Trish Mathis Gene McBride Janna McNeil

SPJST Mortgage Interest Rates

Universal Life 6.75% for Annualized

Rates subject to change without notice

Effective 11-1-99 through 1-31-2000

Home or Farm Mortgages:

6.00% for Annualized

6.75% for 1 to 7 years 7.25% for 8 to 15 years 7.50% for 16 to 20 years 7.75% for 21 to 30 years

6.00% for Annualized

Qualified Owner-Operated Business Real Estate Mortgages 8.50% for 10 years 8.75% for 11 to 15 years

m I saving enough f r retirement?" is a question on the minds of ma y ziiese days.

Unfortunately, for many Lnd:vidals, the answer is, "No." To encourage people to put money aside for the future, the government offers tax benefits to retirement savers. In 1997, lawmakers added yet another tax-advantaged way to invest for a financially secure retirement— the Roth IRA. And with the advent of this new savings vehicle come many questions—and planning opportunities. In this article. answers questions about Roth IRAs and explain the potential advantages these accounts offer. Once you learn more about the Roth IRA, you may want to contact your local lodge sales representatives about enrolling in a program that is right for you.

Roth IRA Effective 11-1-99 through 1-31-2000

Annuity II Certificates issued 4-1-93 and after Effective 11-1-99 through 1-31-2000

Annuity I 5.00% for Annualized Certificates issued prior to 4-1-93 Effective 11-1-99 through 1-31-2000

(Editor's Note: This article is intended to provide authoritative information about the subject matter covered. It does not, however, constitute tax, accounting, or legal advice. Before applying anything in this article to your personal situation, you should consult with your tax advisor The information in this article may or may not be applicable to you and you should only act in the context of your specific circumstances.)

Roth IRA Inc°

Full contribution with AGI* up to:

or of . use.liold

Marrf.ed Filing Jointly

$95,000

$150,000 (joint)

The amount of $95,000- $150,000 the contribution $110,000 $160,000 phases out if (joint) AGI * is between: No contribution is alowed if AGI* $110,000 equals or exceeds:

$160,000 (joint)

*Refers to AGI with specified modifica ons

words, you'll owe no tax on the account's investment earnings.

Q. How much can be contributed to a Roth IRA each year?

A. Eligible individuals may contribute up to $2,000 a year (or the amount of annual compensation, if it is less that $2,000).

A married couple with joint earnings of at least $4,000 in a year many contribute as much as $2,000 to each of their Roth IRAs for that year, even if one of them does not earn income.

Q. May I contribute both to a deductible IRA and a Roth IRA in the same year?

A. If you are eligible to contribute to both types of IRAs, you may do so.

However, contributions to all of your personal IRAs for a tax year cannot exceed $2,000. So, if you contribute $1,000 to a deductible IRA for the year, you may only contribute $1,000 to a Roth IRA for that same year.

Q. Are there any age limits for contributing?

A. No. A Roth IRA contribution can be made by a person of any age, as long as he/she is otherwise eligible.

(Continued on page 3.)

2/VESTNIK-Wednesday, January 5, 2000

Please note that the Year 2000 SPJST Member Services Directory will be published in lieu of the January 19 edition of the Vestnik.

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

VESTNIK 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

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 KA CIR 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 KLINKOVSKY DISTRICT II Home Phone: (254) 773-4801 3514 Preston Oaks Dr., Temple, TX 76504

JOHNNIE KRIZAN 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, TEI4LE, TX 76501 - (254) 985-2354 DISTRICT III - BESSIE PETR, V. CHMN., 5406 MORNINGSIDE, DALLAS, TX 75206 - (214) 826-3557 DISTRICT IV - SHARON HOHMANN, 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) 620-7025 BYLAW 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., ROUTE ONE, BOX 40-A, 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

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 77 83 6 (409) 272-3440 DISTRICT II - ALBIN MACHU, V. CHMN., 2204 SMITH AVE., TAYLOR, TX 76574 - (512) 365-5489 DISTRICT HI - 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, 76503 - (254) 773-1575 E-Mail: TX 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 (830) 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 2 and 3 Jerry Kucera (254) 826-5425 DISTRICT 4 (Part Time) William (Billy) Rollwitz (915) 442-3038 or (915) 442-3141 (Home) DISTRICTS 5 and 6 Jim Wiest (361) 782-5597 Houston: (713) 249-9596 E-mail: Jimatspjst@aol.com DISTRICT 1 and 7 Larry Wagner (830) 276 4414 or (830) 742-4463 (Home) E-mail: 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, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76503.

New Millennium Holds Promise The Opportunity Is There Since the SPJST was founded in 1897, one of our major objectives has been to issue life insurance protection on fraternal members - without profit and at the lowest possible cost. To further this objective, the SPJST maintains a statewide sales force of more than 300 part-time sales representatives. Through referrals and their own initiative, they secure new members and provide life insurance service to our existing members.

Please work with them and allow the SPJST be your partner for financial growth in the new millennium.

By maintaining an up-to-date life insurance program, you can address four basic future needs for money: • Money for opportunities; • Money for emergencies; • Money for retirement; and • Money in the event of death.

Because individual needs vary greatly, SPJST offers many life insurance options. Please refer to page four of this week's Vestnik for a product summary.

Membership in the SPJST begins with the purchase of a life insurance certificate or annuity. It matures and achieves greater meaning through participation in local lodge activities.

You get a good feeling knowing that you have helped to make life better in your community. Moreover, your active participation in community service projects helps to raise an awareness of the SPJST and its purpose in the community. In so many ways, our organizational interests are best served when we sincerely look out for the best interests of our fellow man.

At its best, the Year 2000 represents a fresh start - the opportunity to start anew: To do our best work and to make a positive difference in the lives of our families, friends and in the communities where we work and play. In spite of the economic and social uncertainties of past decades, the SPJST survives and has grown. Indeed, the fraternal features that characterize several of our lodges have made them prominent players in the social and civic life of their cities and communities. Even at that - in terms of getting members involved - there's plenty of room for improvement. With approximately 40,000 members representing every walk of life, the SPJST has the dynamic potential to emerge as one of the state's - and indeed, one of the nation's - preeminent fraternal benefit societies in the 21st Century.

Let's make it happen. The opportunity is there.

By-Law Committee to Meet The By-Law Committee will meet on Saturday, January 8, 2000, at 9 a.m. at the Home Office in Temple.

Members interested in submitting bylaw changes or recommendations for consideration to the next convention should do so as early as possible.

Recommendation for changes to the bylaws must be signed and submitted to the secretary of the By-Law Committee not later than 60 days prior to the convention.

The By-Law Committee members are:

"At its best, the Year 2000 represents the opportunity to do our best work and make a positive difference."

District One Clarence Matula Box 533 La Grange, Texas 78945 District Two Ronnie Rieger Vice Chairman

350 Rieger Road Coupland, Texas 78615 District Three Kay Lynn Kovar 3303 Lake Bardwell Drive Ennis, Texas 75119 District Four Beverly Teplicek Secretary Route One, Box 40-A Rowena, Texas 76875 District Five Dorothy Pflughaupt 1243 Clovis Road Houston, Texas 77008 District Six Michael Ahlstrom Chairman 407 Taos Victoria, Texas 77904 District Seven Bettie House 1721 Continental Drive Pleasanton, Texas 78064 How Good Do We Have to Be? Life is not a trap set for us by God, so that He can condemn us for failing.

Life is not a spelling bee, where no matter how many words you have gotten right, if you make one mistake you are disqualified. Life is more like a baseball season, where even the best team loses one-third of its games and even the worst team has its days of brilliance. Our goal is not to go all year without ever losing a game. Our goal is to win more than we lose, and if we can do that consistently enough, then when the end comes, we will have won it all."

- Harold S. Kushner

-SPJST-

Wednesday, January 5, 2000—VESTNIKJ3

Roth IRA

lower income-tax bracket when you retire than you are (Continued from page 1.) now, a deductible IRA may result in a larger after-tax accumulation at retirement (with all other factors, such as Unlike with a traditional IRA, contriinvestment returns, being equal). butions to a Roth IRA may be made Where your tax bracket will be the even after age 70 1/2. same or higher, a Roth IRA may be the better choice. But, for many indiQ. How do I become eligible for viduals, there is no decision to make. a Roth IRA? For them, a fully deductible IRA conA. Generally speaking, eligibility tribution is simply not an option. depends on your adjusted gross Here's why: If you participate in a income (AGI) for a year and your tax retirement plan at work, your traditonal filing status, as shown above.

IRA contribution deduction is limited by your AGI. The AGI limits are Contrary to a traditional deductible much lower than those for Roth IRAs, IRA, the income limits apply whether even after the deductible IRA's limits or not you actively participate in an were increased by a 1997 tax law. For employer's retirement plan. So, if you 1999, the deduction phaseout ranges are single and participate in a plan at are $31,000 to $41,000 of AGI for sinwork, you may gle and head of still contribute a Factors Favorin g a Rollover household filers full $2,000 to a to a Rot h IRA and $51,000 to Roth IRA as long $61,000 for joint as your AGI does IN The amount in your existing IRA is filers. relatively small. not exceed Therefore, for $95,000 (and as • The majority of your existing IRA example, a married is made up of nondeductible long as you earn plan participant contributions at least $2,000 with 1999 joint during the year). le You have many years before AGI of $75,000 is retirement. not eligible to Q. How are • You anticipate that you will not need make a deductible distributions your IRA to live on in retirement and IRA contribution, want it to continue to build up tax free from a Roth since AGI exceeds as long as possible.

IRA treated for the $61,000 tax purposes?

III You have sufficient non-IRA funds deductible IRA to pay the taxes on the taxable A. Qualified disceiling for the year. rollover amount. tributions from a But that same perRoth IRA are free • Your retirement tax bracket will be the son may still consame as or higher than your current of federal income tribute a full bracket. taxes. To qualify, $2,000 to a Roth a distribution may IRA, since AGI is only be taken: below the $150,000 Roth IRA threshold.

• After you have had a Roth IRA for If you don't participate in a retirefive tax years (count the tax year of ment plan at work, but your spouse your first contribution as the first year) does, you also may be limited in makand ing deductible IRA contribution. In that case, however, the phaseout range • On or after the date you reach age 59 is the same as that for the Roth IRA 1/2, due to your death or disability, or (that is, $150,000 to $160,000 AGI). for qualified first-time homebuyer expenses. (Qualified distributions for Q. What if I already have an homebuying expenses can't total more IRA? May I switch it over to a that $10,000 in your lifetime. The Roth IRA? expenses can be for you or your A. Current IRA owners may convert spouse, or a child, grandchild, or or "roll over" amounts from existing ancestor of you or your spouse. Other deductible or nondeductible IRAs to a requirements apply.)

Roth IRA. Existing rollover IRAs also qualify. However, any taxable Any other Roth IRA distributions are amounts that your transfer from an taxable to the extent of the account existing IRA to a Roth IRA must be earnings. Unless an exception applies, included in your income for tax purthe 10% early distribution penalty tax poses. (No early distribution penalty will also be imposed on the taxable applies if the full taxable distribution is amount. For example, if an individual rolled over.) withdraws funds from a Roth IRA Again, limits apply. A rollover to a within five tax years from first con- Roth IRA is not allowed if your AGI tributing, the amount withdrawn (minus for the year exceeds $100,000 (without the amount of already-taxed contribu- counting the rolled over amount) or if tions) will be hit with income taxes and, you are a married individual filing a if applicable, the 10% penalty. separate return.

For 1998, a special rule allowed a Q. When must I stall taking dis- taxpayer who converted to a Roth IRA tributions from a Roth IRA? to "spread" the taxable income over A. The tax law's minimum distribu- four tax years. For rollovers taking tion rules for traditonal IRA owners place after 1998, however, all taxable over age 70 1/2 don't apply to Roth amounts must be included in income in IRAs. So, you can keep your money the tax year in which the rollover in a Roth IRA as long as you want. occurs. expect to be in a

Q. Which is better for me—a traditional deductible IRA or a Roth IRA?

Q. Then, is switching an existing IRA into a Roth IRA a good idea?

A. The answer depends on a number of factors. Very generally, if you

A. Rolling over an existing IRA offers

(Continued on page 4.)

SALES AND MARKETING

SPJST introduces new sales representatives The SPJST is pleased to introduce the addition of Tony Fenack, Jr. as a sales representative for

Lodge 219, El Paso. Tony and his wife, Ruth Eve, have one Tony Fenack child and two grandchildren.

His interests include horse racing and training. You may contact Tony at (915) 833-0215.

The SPJST is pleased to introduce the addition of Ruth Eve Fenack as a sales representative for Lodge 219, El Paso. Ruth Eve and her husband, Tony, reside in El Paso and have one child and two grandchildren. In her spare time, Ruth Eve enjoys horse rac-

ing and gardening. You may contact Ruth Eve at (915) 8330215.

In many cases, your local SPJST sales representative is someone you know and Ruth Fenack someone who knows about the many insurance options available to you. When you're ready to review your present coverage, please give your local lodge sales representative a call.

If you aren't sure who to call, please contact the SPJST Insurance Department at 1 (800) 727-7258 and they can put you in touch with a sales representative in your area.

—SPJST-

nsurance Department posts membership drive referral winners Julie Burtchell, Lodge 29, Taylor, recommended 25 plus prospective SPJST members in the 1999 Denim Round-up Membership Drive.

Helen Brown, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje,

Julie Burtchell

also recommended 25 plus prospective members.

Georgie Soukup, Lodge 6, Cottonwood, also referred 25 plus

Helen Brown

Georgie Soukup

prospective SPJST members.

For their efforts, each of these members was awarded $500 cash.

—SPJST-

State Youth Director presents update, outline of coming youth-oriented events Happy 2000, Members and Friends!

I hope the year 2000 is a great one for you and our SPJST Youth Clubs around the state.

Welcome, New Youth Leaders!

I welcome the following new youth leaders and assistants to the SPJST Youth Program: Lodge 9, Snook YL Marie Shelfer, AYL Sharon Kovar AYL Karen Gaas Lodge 29, Taylor YL Carol Green Lodge 47, Seaton YL Heidi Bartek AYL Amanda Greger Lodge 66, Waco YL Debbie Galler AYL Diana Engelke Lodge 92, Fort Worth AYL Teri Turner Lodge 97, Placedo YL Donna Vanek Lodge 180, Burleson YL Ann Sammet AYL Johnna Hilcher

Welcome, New SPJST Staff!

I also welcome the following new SPJST Staff: Assistant to the President Donna Locke; Underwriter Diane Johnson; and Stephanie Herring of the Financial Department.

Let's ear It for SPJST's Young People!

Two youth club 1999 graduates and one youth club 2000 graduate will hold positions in their local lodges in 2000. Tammy Baker will serve as Lodge 24, Cyclone Reporter; Justin Engelke (1996 State King) will serve as Lodge 66, Waco Trustee; and Jonathan Haag (1998 State King) will serve as Lodge 185, New Braunfels President. Best wishes to them. I hope to hear of other youth club graduates who are serving their local lodges.

Youth Club Officers Workshop and SPJST Fun Day January 22 The Youth Club Officers Workshop is Saturday, January 22 in the Providence Hospital Auditorium in Waco. The workshop begins with

(Continued on page 10.)

4/VESTNIK—Wednesday, January 5, 2000

Consideryour options: SST offers a ran e of life insurance plans Are you and your family

adequately covered? Unless you deal with life insurance regularly, it can be an intimidating and sometimes difficult subject to discuss. If you

Term 4 Life Plan. Combines elements of both term and whole life insurance. The plan offers level lifetime coverage to age 99 and premiums which start at less than half of a guaranteed whole life premium.

haven't purchased insurance in a while, you may be surprised at the many affordable life insurance options available through your local SPJST sales representative. The following listing provides a brief summary of the insurance options that are available:

Term to Age 65. Offers affordable term coverage with issue ages 16 through 44. Convertible to permanent insurance prior to age 65.

Universal Life. A flexible protection plan issued to ages 0 to 80 which offers both a guaranteed and current interest rate on the cash value accumulation.

Protector Plan. Designed as a reducing term insurance plan on two lives over a 20-, 25-, or 30year period. Pays off on the death of the first insured. Premiums are calculated on combination of two insureds ages. Can be used as a mortgage cancellation plan.

Mod-Term. A modern 10-year term product issued to ages 20-60, renewable to age 70 and convertible prior to age 65 with indeterminate premiums. Can be continued as an Annual Renewable Term certificate from age 70 to 95. Ask about original age enhancement option.

Mod-20. A modern 20-year term product issued to ages 20-50, renewable to age 70 and convertible to age 65 with indeterminate premiums. Can be continued as an Annual Renewable Term certificate from age 70 to 95.

Modified Premium Whole Life.

Targets children and issued up to age 24. Affordable term converts to permanent whole life at age 25.

Senior Life. A whole life product designed as a final expense certificate for ages 50 to 80. Eligibility determined by short medical questionnaire. Physical exam and blood test not required. Affordable and written with relaxed underwriting requirements.

Lone Pay Life. A whole life product available with just one premium. The certificate is then paid-up.

Issued to ages 0 through 70.

Adult and Juvenile Whole Life. A whole life product designed for both young and 'Mature applicants that offers affordable premiums and builds cash value.

Adult and Juvenile 20-Payment Life. A whole life product designed for both young and mature applicants with premiums payable for twenty years. Issued to ages 0 through 60.

Annual Renewable Term (ART).

A one year term product that automatically renews each year with applicable premiums. Issued to ages 16 through 65. Can be converted to permanent insurance prior to age 65. Term expires at age 70.

Twenty-, Twenty-five- and Thirty-Year-Decreasing Terms.

Offer affordable coverage with reducing (decreasing) death benefit applicable for selected period of time.

Annuities. Both qualified (IRA) and non-qualified are offered to SPJST members. Roth IRA's are also available to those who qualify.

Interest rates are posted every week in the SPJST's weekly newspaper, Vestnik.

Contact the SPJST Home Office or refer to the Vestnik for current rates.

For more information on the insurance options available to you, please contact your local lodge sales representative. If you're not sure who that is, call the SPJST Insurance Department at 1 (800) 727-7578 and they can put you in touch with a sales representative in your area.

In many cases, the insurance application process can be accomplished at your home in one meeting. Other times, it may take an additional visit since the sales representative may need to spend some time assessing the information you provide in the initial meeting before he or she can recommend the appropriate life insurance solution.

—SPJST-

SPJST RDHUITIES In addition to providing affordable insurance coverage to its members, the SPJST also offers a quality annuity program. Please see page one for current interest rates. for more information, please contact your local lodge sales representative or the SPJST Home Office at 1(800) 727-7578.

PENNIES SC+101ARSHIP FUI\ID DRIVE

An Endowed SPJST Scho arship Creates a Lasting Gift Have you wondered how you might best show your respect and appreciation for the life and inspiration of a loved one? Have you searched for a way to make your memorial expression really lasting and significant?

If so, we feel we can provide an answer and a really dynamic way for you to honor your loved one: for a truly living, lasting and significant expression, use an SPJST scholarship endowment. There are two ways of obtaining your goal: MIN

First, a one time gift of $10,000 or if you are not able to fund this amount at one time, it could be given in smaller denominations until $10,000 is reached. Whenever the goal is reached, SPJST will give an annual memorial scholarship in the name of the person you wish to honor. Since only the interest is used, your gift will be everlasting.

If you need more information, please call 1-800-727-7578.

—SPJSTEMI 111=11 MI MIMI MI IIIIE

100 Pennies Scholarship D ive Underway SPJST members and friends are encouraged to support the 19992000 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive. In sending in your donation, please be sure to include donor's name(s) in order that proper acknowledgement may be published in the Vestnik. Donations are tax-deductible and 100 percent of the amount that you contribute is used for scholarships to SPJST members. Mail your contribution to: 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive c/o SPJST, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Thank you for your kind support. Please contact State Fraternal Activities Coordinator Barbara Rosenkranz at 1 (800) 727-7578 for printed donation solicitation forms.

I. MI UM MI MI 1111111 =I INN M-= MI IIIIII

Guidelines for Giving 1. Donations made by lodges out of lodge funds, will be listed as a lodge donation.

2. Collected donations from a lodge meeting will be listed individually by lodge in alphabetical order.

Individuals submitting a donation will also be listed by lodge, alphabetically.

3. Gifts of $50 or more will be printed in bold.

4. Families or groups which desire names, listed under a particular last name or group name should indicate this on the donation form or letter, oth-

Roth IRA (Continued from page 3.) many current IRA owners a significant tax-planning opportunity.

But be aware that rolling over an existing IRA to a Roth IRA will not benefit everyone. And, even it you will benefit, caution is still warranted. Strict requirements apply to rollovers, and a wrong move could lead to a tax penalty.

Whether you should convert an existing IRA to a Roth IRA generally depends on

erwise, the names will be listed as individual donations by lodge, in alphabetical order.

Note: Please print donor's names clearly.

Thank you for your generous donations to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Because of your generosity, many young SPJST members have been able to attend college, who might not have been able to. We appreciate your continued support.

Fraternally, Barbara Rosenkranz State Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJSTyour personal situation, including your current and anticipated future tax rates and when you will need your retirement money.

Q. How do I find out more?

A. Talk to your local lodge sales representative or call the SPJST Home Office at 1 (800) 727-7578 moir and get the information you need to make the right choice regarding your IRA alternatives, including the new Roth IRA. Our retirement planning professionals will work with you to explore which option is best for you.

—SPJST-

Wednesday, January 5, 2000—VESTNIK/5

Lodge Letters Section

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

Send your news and photos to: Vestnik, SPJST P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 FAX: (254) 774-7447 E-Mail: bvanicek@vvm.com or info@spjst.com Got a question? Call 1 (800) 727-7578

F Family Fun and

mportant SPJST Dates January 8 By-Law Committee meets at SPJST Home Office January 31 Deer Antler Contest ends January 31 Camp Tee-Shirt and Motto Contest Deadline January 11-13 Supreme Lodge Meeting, SPJST Home Office February 15 Deadline for ad design and money for SPJST Convention Brochure Due to Home Office —SPJST--

Lodge 4, Hallettsville meets on January 9 at American Legion Attention Lodge 4 Members: Our next meeting will be Sunday, January 9, 2000 beginnin g. at 2 pm at the American Legion Tap Room. We will have installation of officers and refreshments will be served. Happy New Year and hope to see you there.

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 18, Elgin

reports on year-end activities, election Elgin Lodge 18 finished their year with the December meeting with a pot luck dinner and electing their 2000 year officers and committees.

President Andrew Greinert led the members in a prayer before the dinner and welcomed guest President Howard Leshikar and District Two Director Frank Klinkovsky from the Supreme Lodge.

After the dinner, the meeting was called by President Andrew Greinert with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer for all living, sick and departed members. November minutes were read by Secretary Agnes Eschberger and approved by members. Reports were made by all officers and committees. Trustee Jack Eschberger read the trustee minutes of the November meeting.

Members expressed their thank you to Alma Schmidt for donating the carpet and labor for the stage.

The 1999 audit will be done by Gladys Mogonye, Marvin Marek and Walter Bartosh.

Secretary Agnes Eschberger reported on the 2000 convention in June to be held in Temple. Lodge 18 has five delegates to send. Those voted on are Alex Roehlke, Agnes Rupp, Andrew

Greinert, Delores Greinert and Dollie Hajda. Alternates are Ben David, Jack Eschberger, Mildred David, Agnes Eschberger and Ruben Krieg.

Members are asked to help take down Christmas decorations on January 6 starting at 9 a.m.

Band booking chairperson Artie Monson asked members if they would enjoy a band from Czech Republic to come and entertain them on a Sunday afternoon sometime in the new year.

No action was taken until more details can be gotten on the date and time.

Correspondence was read by secretary Agnes Eschberger.

Under new business, elections were held for the year 200 with Irene Vrabel as chairperson: President Andrew Greinert Vice President/ Fraternal Activities Coordinator Dollie Hajda Secretary Agnes Eschberger Treasurer Marvin Marek Reporter Lazella Wuthrick Youth Leader Ruby Bowen Trustees Thomas Ries, Jack Eschberger, Walter Bartosh, Floyd Felfe and Johnnie Vrabel.

Grievance Committee Alex Roehlke, Irene Vrabel, Cybaline Felfe Entertainment Committee Jack Eschberger Thanks, Agnes

Members of Lodge 18 want to express their gratitude to Treasurer Agnes Rupp for her time she gave to the lodge in the years she served as treasurer. Many hours were spent in research which was -good for the lodge.

Complete account reports were heard by members each meeting. Agnes was a great asset to the lodge and a true friend to everyone. She will be dearly missed by members. Agnes and her husband, Alex, will be moving back to

Minnesota to be near their families, but will continue to be Lodge 18 members.

This is my last meeting report. I want to thank the members for letting me serve as a reporter. Being a fraternal activities coordinator takes lots of time each month. I also write a column entitled "Mayor's Desk" in our local paper which is weekly and lots of time is spent on informing taxpayers as work is done. It was a pleasure, but Lodge 18 has selected a very good reporter, Lazella Wuthrick.

As we are entering the new year, Lodge 18 members are all ready to do better and bigger things. Much has been accomplished with the new officers, trustees and the committees.

Lodge 18 is on its way to a big recovery and a very interesting year. The members are hard workers and more are needed.

Lodge 18 wishes everyone a wonderful year.

Dollie Hajda Reporter

Next Week theVestnik Lodge 6, Cottonwood Christmas Party Lodge 54, West Christmas Party Lodge 66, Waco Christmas Party Lodge 92, Fort Worth Christmas Party . and much more!

Lodge 24, Cyclone meets January 10 at Flag Hall

—SPJST-

Lodge 23, Moravia

receives picture, elects officers This is to inform the members who were unable to attend the meeting on December 5.

President Albert Olsovsky called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. after the reading of the minutes and the treasurer's report, the meeting was turned over to our District Six Director Matt Vanek who was present along with his wife. He presented the lodge with a gift which was an enlarged picture of three of our members and himself taken at a barbecue in Victoria. All were wearing white hats. Thank you again, Matt. Then he informed the members about several matters that are being proposed at the Home Office.

We are sorry that none of the members who received their fifty year membership pins were able to be present. We missed you.

The election of officers was held and everyone voted to keep the same officers for another year. Our financial secretary Eddie Vrana has been serving our lodge in that position for fifty years. Also a big thank you, Eddie After the meeting the drawing for the door prizes donated by the lodge and District Six Director Matt Vanek was held. The lucky winners were Rene Guenther, Mildred Blahuta, Dorothy Olsovsky, Elizabeth Holub, Eddie Vrana, Edith Kalina, Doraine Buck, Dot Vrana, Albert Olsovsky and Samantha Holub.

Then refreshments were served followed by a lunch which was enjoyed by all.

The picture presented the lodge by Matt Vanek can now be seen by as it is now on the wall among all the other pictures and awards. Since our lodge was one of the first 25 lodges when SPJST was organized in Texas in June 1897, we do have a few.

We encourage and welcome all the members to visit the lodge hall and attend the meetings.

Fraternally, Millie Berger —SPJST-

Dear Members and Friends, The final Lodge 24, Cyclone meeting of the Twentieth Century was December 13, 1999, at Flag Hall in Cyclone. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by President Richard Greger. Members stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and then observed a moment of silence in memory of our deceased and ill lodge and community members.

Members send sympathy to the family of Lonnie Moore who passed away recently.

We also send get-well wishes to LaVerne Cabla, William Kirby and Don Watts. Hope you all are doing a lot better.

Secretary Bernice Sebek read the minutes from the November meeting.

They were approved as read. She then read cards and letters from District Two Director Frank and Irma Klinkovsky, Bobby Hoelscher and the SPJST Home Office.

Peanut Clusters and More . .

Peanut Clusters

1 16-or 24-ounce chocolate almond bar 1 12-ounce package chocolate chips 1 16-ounce can salted cocktail peanuts Melt chocolate almond bar, add chocolate chips and peanuts. Drop with spoon on platter. Enjoy!

Submitted by, Raymond Posival Lodge 15, Buckholts —SPJST-(Editor's Note: Enjoy recipes?'

Please note that SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbooks are available through the SPJST Home Office_ Books are $11 each. To get yours, write: SPJST Anniversary Cookbook, clo SPJST Home Office, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. For lodge and youth club volume orders and discounts. please contact Daryl Entrop at the SPJST Home Office at 1 (800) 727-7578.)

6/ViSTNIK—Wednesday, January 5, 2000 Treasurer Brian presented the lodge's financial report. He also informed the members of upcoming hall rentals.

Youth Leader Rosamond Baker thanked the members for donating food to the youth club's food drive

project.

Members discussed the 2000 Texas Spring Gala which will be Saturday, April 1 at Flag Hall. Vrazel's Polka Band will play for dancing and listening. More details later.

Rosamond Baker was elected the

Lodge 66, Waco Presents Scenes from Christmas Party Part I • December 19, 1999 Michael Galler and Dorothy Veselka greet attendees to the Lodge 66, Waco Christmas party.

Attendees enjoy a delicious catered Christmas dinner, program and prize drawing. Thanks to Brother Alphons Urbanovsky who set the mood with music on his accordion.

74515W.,:y

Pictured, from left, enjoying the holiday festivities are: Mary Vrana, Cecil Veselka, Anna Veselka and Michael Veselka.

1999 Lodge 24 Fraternalist of the Year. Congratulations, Rosamond.

We appreciate you and all that you do for our lodge and the SPJST. The members wish to thank Bobby Hoelscher for his service and dedication to our lodge. Bobby is stepping down as Ticket Manager and as Lodge Trustee.

We send happy December anniversary wishes to Joe and Lorraine Haisler, Bobby and Alice Hoelscher and Wilbert and Margaret Mikeska.

Best wishes always.

Door prize winners were Joe Haisler, Lorraine Haisler, Barbara Macek, Wilbert Mikeska, Joe Sebek, Bernice Sebek, Brian Vanicek, and Louise Zavodny.

The first Lodge 24, Cyclone meeting of the new millennium will be Monday, January 10, 2000, at 7:30 p.m. A covered dish dinner will precede the meeting at 7 p.m. Please bring your favorite covered dish and/or dessert. All members and guests are invited to attend the meeting. Let's start the new year, the new century, the new millennium out with lots of people at the meeting. Hope to see you there.

Fraternally yours, Melanie Zavodny, Reporter SPJST-

28, Karel Jonas, East Bernard meets January 9 Dear Members: As stated in the previous letter, the first monthly meeting of the new century, year 2000 will be held on the 9th of January in the meeting room at 106 Leveridge Street at 2 p.m. The agenda will be open to business needing immeditate attention.

After the business meeting, the fraternal hour buffet luncheon with a regular fare will be served.

Incoming Lodge 66, Waco President John Engelke, center, welcomes District Three Director Johnnie Krizan, left, and David Nauert of Temple.

Gene Gerlich received acknowledgement as the Lodge 66 Fraternalist of the Year. Pictured here, with Brother Gerlich, are daughters, Donna Culliton, left, and Kay Weeks of Arlington and his wife, Dorothy Gerlich.

—SPJST-

31, Yoakum and Lodge 63, Sweet Home to vote Lodge

There will be a joint meeting between members of Lodge 31, Yoakum and Lodge 63, Sweet Home on Sunday, January 16, 2000 at 2 p.m. at the home of the President of Lodge 63, Mr. Donald Zabransky, Sweet Home, Texas. The meeting will be to vote on the acceptance of Lodge 31 and Lodge 63.

The name would be Lodge 63, Sweet Home.

Fraternally, Donald Zabransky, President —SPJST-

Lodge

Joining in the fun, from left, are: Charles Anglin, State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny, District Three Youth Counselor Bessie Petr, Supreme Lodge SecretaryTreasurer Lanita Anglin and Lodge 66, Waco President George Pauling.

We could use this type of turn-out every meeting.

Upon adjournment, everyone present expressed their best wishes to those present for the season as they departed their separate ways.

To the faithful: Mark your calendars on the second Sunday, the 9th of January—plan to attend and this writer remains ...

Fraternally yours, Joseph D. Nezval, President

Report on the Last Monthly Meeting of the 20th Century On the 12th of December, the monthly meeting convened early at 12 noon. After the Pledge of Allegiance, grace was given by Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Glenn Kaminsky and the meeitng recessed for the Christmas dinner.

The fare for the dinner was honey roasted ham with all the trimmings.

Beverages available were coffee and soda water. There were plenty of dessert items available including prize winning kolacky, cakes and pies.

Also, there were cookies.

The meeting re-convened at about 1:30 p.m. Some motions were made and passed to take care of urgent business.

Welcome Back, Jessica Close to the end of the meeting, young Sister Jessica Kelner became Santa's helper and handed out candy canes, goodie bags and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. This writer wishes to welcome back Jessica who was away in school and thank her for her help. We missed you!!

A larger than expected turn-out for the meeting made everything go well.

66, Waco members enjoy festive celebration Lodge

President George Pauling called a short meeting to order at the Lodge 66 Christmas party on Sunday, December 19 at Linden Hall, Elm Mott, Texas.

There were around 200 in attendance at the party. It was so good to see so many members present. Please come to our monthly meetings the third Sunday of each month. We need your attendance.

President Pauling acknowledged past presidents in attendance of Lodge 66. Two of the inactive presidents attending were Robert Pavelka and Henry Slovak. President Pauling also acknowledged our Fraternalist of the Year, Brother Eugene Gerlich. He also acknowledged the Supreme Lodge Officers in attendance—President Howard Leshikar and his wife, Mary, Secretary-Treasurer Lanita Anglin and her husband, Charles, Editor of Vestnik Brian Vanicek and his wife, Joan and their two children, State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny and her fiancee, David Nauert, District Three Youth Counselor Bessie Petr and her husband, Emil of Dallas and District Three Director Johnnie Krizan and his mother, Ruth of Cottonwood. We were certainly thrilled to have all of you celebrating with us.

We want to thank everyone who brought door prize gifts for the adults and children. We also want to thank Supreme Lodge officers for donating door prize gifts. The youth had a prize drawing for some very nice gifts. The youth also made all the name tags for the tables of the officers and committee members which were really cute. The youth also presented a skit and sang.

We thank the youth for all they do.

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus visited with the children and passed out candy

NI

A

Wednesday, January 5, 2000—VESTNIK/7 and treat bags made by the youth. The food was catered by Eddie Ray's Catering Service of Elm Mott and it was enjoyed by all.

Brother Leshikar installed all officers and committee members. They are as follows: President John Engelke Vice President Mary Alice Langlotz Secretary Dana McAdams Financial Secretary Darlene Engelke Reporter Dorothy Veselka Guide—Emma Ceska (absent due to illness) Youth Leader Debbie Galler Flag Bearers Jodie McAdams, Douglas Galler, Kevin Galler, Jamie Trickett and Amanda Neslony.

Board of Directors Johnny Gaidusek, Irene Mueller, Milan Dujka, John Engelke, George Pauling, Jamie Yates, Eugene Gerlich, Bonnie Pruitt, Paul Neslony, Mary Alice Langlotz and Justin Engelke.

Entertainment Committee Dorothy Gerlich, Dorothy Veselka, Louie Veselka, Janie Dujka, Libbie Parma, Tim Urbanek, Michael Galler and Polly Gaidusek.

We want to thank George Pauling for doing such a good job as president of Lodge 66 for the past two years. We also want to thank Diana Engelke for the very fine job she did as youth leader of Lodge 66 for the past few years. We all appreciated what you have done for Lodge 66 and others.

Please do not forget about the next meeting for the Board of Directors and Entertainment Committee on January 5 and our regular lodge meeting on January 16 at 2:30 p.m.

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to all.

Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 79, Corpus

Christi recaps 1999 lodge activities At our last meeting of this century, December 19, 1999, we elected our officers for 2000 and the delegates to the convention. Our secretary will go into more detail on the above.

Lodge 79 was very active during 1999 with a number of projects which helped the community. Some of our "biggies" were our awards dinner, Make a Difference Day, fund raiser for Texas Czech Heritage Culture Center and our Christmas party.

We fell down very badly on new members, so let us get on the ball and do much better in this category.

Our lodge wishes all SPJST members a belated Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

May Y2K bring you all good health.

Fraternally, Jerry Elzner, Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST-

Lodge 142, Houston

posts election results President Keith Kieschnick called our annual meeting to order on Sunday, December 12, 1999 at 2 p.m.. We had 42 members and one visitor present.

All stood for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Roll call of officers and Board of Trustees showed all were present.

The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved. All officers and committee reports were read. Under correspondence, a note was read that a donation was made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of our departed member, Joe Novak Sick Committee reports Jason Hermis had surgery as an out-patient and Millie Linhart had eye surgery.

Here's hoping they are well at this time.

Visitor recognized was Joe Braunagel.

Robert Kieschnick spoke regarding our Christmas party on December 4.

This was the nicest party we have had and he asked everyone to come again next year.

Election of officers for the year 2000 resulted in the same as year 1999: President Keith Kieschnick Vice President Barbara Boyd Secretary Alice Jochen Financial Secretary/Treasurer Nancy Cook Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marilyn Spivey Guide Frank Tumis Flag Bearer Chris Schleider Board of Trustees Rita Hermis, Robert Kieschnick, Amy Kieschnick and Chuck Whitechurch Senior door prize went to Eva Braunagel. The capsule prize of $10 went unclaimed due to the absence of Robin Gomez and Ermond Lueckemeyer. Next month the capsule goes to $20. The $5 door prizes were awarded to Dennis Hermis, John Tumis. Dorothy Tumis and Lawrence Schilhab. Six pack door prizes went to Henry Hermis, Elaine Hintzel, Robert Kieschnick and Emil Kutra.

Thanks to Henry and Rita Hermis for donations for additional door prizes. Each member and guests received two additional door prizes.

The meeting adjourned at 3:45 p.m.

A delicious lunch and refreshments were served. The next meeting will be Sunday, January 9, 2000 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally submitted, Alice Jochen, Secretary

the desserts that were served with the meal and with coffee after the meeting. Al Kutac furnished accordion music during the social. Thanks, Al, for your public address system and music.

Our prize drawing was held before the meeting and as usual we had some very nice prizes. Thanks to our District Director, Matt Vanek, for the items he donated. The members look forward to winning the SPJST items from the Home Office.

The birthday cake drawing for the months of October, November and December was held. The lucky winner of the cake was Jackie Pilgrim.

Her birthday was October 27. Martha Kutac was the lucky winner of the SPJST apron. Other birthday celebrants were: Cory Hooper, Howard Plengemeyer, Dorothy Kucera, Albert Chumchal, Hope Perez, Carrie Bucek, Alfred Sabrsula, Ruth Sabrsula, David Bucek, and Dora Lee Kopecky. We

wish all of you could have been a winner. Come back next year and try again.

President Charles Bucek called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silent prayer was held in memory of the deceased and sick from the lodge. President Bucek announced that we lost two members since the September meeting, Frankie Vanek and Louis Matsek.

Secretary/Treasurer Carolyn Bucek gave her reports. Our sales of the SPJST cookbook are doing very well.

We have more books if anyone needs a gift for a birthday or anniversary.

The financial report was approved.

Donations were made to the District Bar-B-Que cookoff $50; Czech Culture Center, $250 and for the District Meeting, $50.

We appreciate all of you for supporting our prize drawings. This is where these funds are being used.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Members Enjoy Thanksgiving Dinner November 21, 1999 Thanks to the chief cook, Sister Lera Nemecek, center, and Sister Margaret Majek, left, and Sister Susan Sacky for preparing the turkeys. Brother Joe Nemecek, who also provided valuable assistance, is not pictured.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi President Jerry Sijansky assists in dinner preparations. Among those joining in on the feast were thre visitors from the Czech Republic.

Jill Sijansky completes her "KP duty."

Thanks to all members who turned out to support the event.

—SPJST-

Lodge 151, Wharton

members and guests enjoy holiday social Members and guests enjoyed a social and Chicken Fried Steak dinner on Monday, December 13, 1999 at Hinze-Bar-B Que Catering, Wharton, Texas, at 6:30 p.m. We appreciate the members for taking the time to make

Lodge 79 Fraternalist of the Year Edna Voldan receives certificate of appreciation from Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jerry Elzner.

8/VESTNIK—Wednesday, January 5, 2000

Workaholic doing what she does best

By Novella Sommers

S he's known around town as a top-notch kolache maker.

It's not the only thing Adella Elzner is known for. Those who have seen her quietly working behind the scenes at church and for community groups say she is as dependable a volunteer as you'll find anywhere.

"You cannot find a more workaholic 82-year-old woman than she is," said her brother in-law, Jerry Elzner. "Morning until night she's gone, working, doing, visiting."

A member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, Elzner tends to the building's outdoor flowerbeds and indoor plants. She washes and polishes altar vessels, dusts and polishes the piano and organ, helps clean the sanctuary and performs many other duties.

"She's a mainstay of this church," said Father Bradley Barber. "She never has to be asked to do something. She's just always here busy."

Once she and eight or nine other women sewed for three days to make 40 stoles for priests to wear during a celebration. The daughter of a Czech immigant father and German mother, Elzner said she has kept in touch with her roots. She is active with local Czech heritage groups and has visited the Czech Republic six times.

She plans another visit this Christmas.

She is in charge of making dozens of kolaches—sweet buns with fruit filling that are a traditional Czech treat—for various church fundraisers and events.

Last year, when the city of Driscoll suffered flooding, Elzner rode in a Red Cross van distributing food to the victims. She also has helped staff the Salvation Army Mobile Canteen truck, which takes warm food and jackets to the city's poor and homeless during the winter.

"She fits in anywhere," Jerry Elzner said. "She does her thing in a quiet way. She lets her work speak for her."

The retired Flour Bluff Elementary teacher said she's seldom without something to do. Doing is, well, what she does.

"My reward is in doing what needs to be done," she said.

Elzner has been recognized as part of the ninth annual Caller-Times Jefferson Awards, which celebrate community .. volunteerism.

Nominations-are accepted throughout the year, and each month a community panel selects honorees to be featured in Saturday articles.

In April 2000, 10 Jefferson Award winners, selected from among the volunteers featured between February 13, 1999, and February 12, 2000, will receive medallions for their work in enriching their communities and the lives of their neighbors.

—SPJST-

(Editor's Note: The above article appeared in the November 6, 1999 Corpus Christi Caller-Times. Thanks to Brother Jerry Elzner of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi for sharing it with Vestnik readers.)

Old Business President Bucek asked for discussion on our meeting place and type of meals the members would be like to have. Several ideas were discussed and it was voted on to keep the meeting at Hinez's since this was a central location. The meals will be decided on at a later date.

Director Vanek gave a report on items of interest from the Home Office and the district sales.

Congratulations to our sales representative Joe Preisler. Brother Preisler was the winner of a watch given by the Home Office for insurance sales.

Brother Vanek encouraged the members to help the sales representatives by recommending SPJST insurance to their families and friends.

New Business The results of officer elections for 2000 and the election of delegates to the SPJST Convention followed.

Pauline Kalina, Landis Kopecky and David Bucek members of the nominating committee, presented the slate of officers for the year 2000:

President Charles Bucek

Vice President Madeline Shimek

Second Vice President David Bucek

Secretary/Treasurer Carolyn Bucek

Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Reporter

161, La F'aritaJourdanton announces meeting dates for 2000 Lodge

The January meeting of La ParitaJourdanton Lodge 161 will be January 9, 2000 at 4:30 p.m. at Jourdanton State Bank Community Room. The remaining meetings of the year will be the first Sunday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at Jourdanton State Bank Community Room except for March, June, September and December meetings which will be held at a restaurant at 4:30 p.m. for a meal and the meeting.

Cash door prize will be awarded to a lucky member present whose name is drawn at the meetings at the bank. You could be the lucky winner!

Fraternally, Bettie House, Secretary —SPJST-

177, Academy celebrates 1999 achievements Lodge

Our December meeting and Christmas party was held at Dynasty Restaurant in Temple. We were happy to have with us several visitors, Jerry Kucera State Field Representative and his lovely wife,

Thanks, Gordon!

Lodge 92, Fort Worth President Jo Prochaska presents 1999 Fraternalist of the Year award to Gordon Hubenak. The lodge expresses its thanks and appreciation to Brother Hubenak for his dedicated efforts.

Dorothy, along with Gary Johnson from the Cross Town Youth Network of Bell County. President Hutka called our meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. We were ready to party, so needless to say, Vice President Otis Beck moved that we dispense with the reading of the minutes and committee reports and Bill Hutka reminded all committee chairpersons to turn in their monthly reports so they can be incorporated in the minutes for the January meeting.

Chaplain

Lodge 97, Placedo Presents Scenes from Christmas Party

Ray Pilgrim

December 12, 1999

Rita Vanek

The above officers were voted to their office by the members of Lodge 151.

Delegates elected were Dora Lee Kopecky and Madeline Shimek.

Alternate delegates elected were Landis Kopecky and Charles Bucek.

Several new members were accepted to the lodge.

The yearly news letter will be prepared and mailed to all members in the very near future. The letter will give the dates and time of the quarterly meetings. If there is something special you would like to have at our meetings, please let the above elected officers know. We would like to hear from you members.

Thanks for your support by attending the meeting in 1999. We look forward to having you at the meetings in 2000.

Fraternally, Rita J. Vanek FAC/Reporter —SPJST-

160, San Angelo meets January 9 to elect officers

Lodge 97, Placedo President Yvonne Garrett and Sales Representative Charles Garret receive acknowledgement from State Field Representative Jim Wiest for achieving record-breaking sales in 1999.

Youth Leader Donna Vanek assists Santa Claus in distributing gifts from around the Christmas tree.

Lodge

Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its annual meeting January 9, 2000 at the Hall of St. Abmrose Catholic Church in Wall, Texas. A noon catered meal will be served. The business meeting to follow will include election of officers. All members are invited.

Cindy Martin, Secretary —SPJST-

Daylan Elliot, Matthew Bellanger and Stephen Elliot enjoy Christmas music as proud grandmother, Sylvia Bluhm, looks on.

Wednesday, January 5, 2000—VESTNIKJ9

Lodge 177, Academy Presents 2000 Leaders

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Attention Deer Hunters Whitetail Deer Only State of Texas Only

Deer Antler Contest For SPJST Members Only • Deadline January 31, 2000

TWO PRIZES AWARDED $50 - Widest Horns

(Will be measured at widest point. Measured outside to outside.)

$50 - For Most Points Requirements: Picture of deer with a verification from one of the following: Game Warden, Highway Patrol, Sheriff or any Public Official.

Name

Lodge

Address City Pictured above, from left, are the Lodge 177, Academy officers and trustees. They are, from left, front: Trustee Helen Bland, Secretary/Reporter Kathy Fritz and Treasurer Josie Mitchell. BACK: Trustee Clifford Cawthon, President Bill Hutka, Trustee J.C. Johnson and Vice President Otis Beck. Not pictured is Youth Leader Janet Lyon. Lodge officers and trustee were installed at the Christmas party held December 8, 1999 at Dynasty Restaurant in Temple.

On behalf of the members of SPJST Lodge 177, Academy, Trustee J.C. Johnson presents a check for $500 to Gary Johnson, representing the Cross Town Youth Network of Bell County. The organization offers after school and weekend activities for young people in Bell County, including a youth and teen club, mentor program and field trips with the guidance of volunteer civic leaders.

Bill then introduced Gary Johnson and J.C. Johnson made the formal presentation of a $500 check for the Cross Town Youth Network of Bell County.

Gary spoke briefly to us about the purpose of the organization and told us that our donation would be used assist with the Santa Savior Program which provides toys to needy boys and girls during the Christmas Season.

Officers, Trustees Installed Jerry Kucera, State Field Representative, then spoke to members about the need to increase lodge membership and how our lodge could achieve it through an increase in insurance sales. Everyone enjoyed Jerry's motivational presentation, as we all know, we need to work together if we want to grow and prosper. President Hutka then asked Jerry to install our lodge officers and trustees. Of course, we had to pose for a photo. Some of us like being in the picture and some of us do not. Now why did we take the picture after we ate? Oh, well ...

I am happy to report that everyone had a good time and this is the one time of the year when we can actually sit down and visit with each other while, of course, enjoying a delicious meal. And we were happy that by eating out, someone else has to do the dishes for a change. We really had a good turn-out of members at our Christmas party. Irene Johnson was able to attend and also Rosalie Weadock came to enjoy.

Zip

Day/Night Telephone Number e-mail Verification: Number of Points:

Width of Antlers

Ranch Where Killed:

Date Killed

Nearest Town:

Signed By:

Office or Title: Send Entries to: Deer Antler Contest • SPJST Home Office P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

SPJST 100th Anniversary Cookbooks are available through the SPJST Home Office. Books are $11 each.

To get yours, write: SPJST Anniversary Cookbook, c/o SPJST Home Office, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. For lodge and youth club volume orders and discounts, please contact Daryl Entrop at the SPJST Home Office at 1 (800) 727-7578.

Recalling 1999 Accomplishments Christmas is a time for us to reflect on what we have done in the past and what we hope to achieve in the future.

Maybe we didn't achieve all of the goals in 1999 that we planned early in the year, but one thing's for sure, our lodge can look back proudly at the last 12 months and remember all of the wonderful organizations and people that we've been able to assist. We think of Special Olympics, Mrs. B., Meals on Wheels, Santa Sharing Program, Hispanic Youth Organization, Czech Cultural Center, etc. We did good! Thanks to all Lodge 177, Academy members for putting forth that extra effort to help not only each other, but to reach out and help beyond the SPJST. After all, that's what makes us grow—by reaching beyond ...

See you next year ...

Kathy Fritz Secretary/Reporter —SPJST-

179, Warrenton ssts January 13 rr aeting Lodge

Warrenton Lodge 179 held their Christmas party on Thursday, December 9 at the Lions building in Carmine. A delicious ham and many

SPJST Statewide Charities benefit when you order Music from Prague, 200 Years of Czech Piano Music The Society has designated four groups The recording, which is available on as SPJST Statewide charities. They are as cassette or compact disc, features Brother follows: Urbis performing on the piano the works of • The Texas Czech several renowned Czech composers, Heritage and Cultural Center, including Smetana, Dussek, Inc.; Dvorak, Janacek, Vorisek and • The Czech Cultural and two original compositions by Community Center; Urbis. The tape or CD is • The Czech available through the Educational SPJST Home Office for Foundation of $10, including postage Texas; and and handling. Lodges • The Peaceable and youth clubs ordering Kingdom Retreat the tapes or CDs will be for Children. able to purchase them at Since 1998, the SPJST a reduced rate but will has focused its statewide fund need to make arrangeraising efforts to support the ments for their delivery. goals and objectives of these MUSIC FROM PRAGUE Cassette tapes and groups. In addition to raising 200 YEARS OF CZECH PIANO MUSIC CDs make excellent gifts an awareness of these orgaand are available for immediate delivery. For more informanizations, what they do and their plans for the future, we are also raising support funds tion, including volume purchases, please through the sale of a specially produced contact the Editor's Office at 1 (800) 727recording by Brother Richard Urbis of Lodge 7578.

—SPJST117, Robstown.

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10/VESTNIK—Wednesday, January 5, 2000 side dishes and desserts were enjoyed by those present. Everyone drew a number to receive their gift. Games were played.

Alfred Baack, Orville Kunkel, Arnold Peters and Lydia Peters were December birthday celebrants.

A regular meeting will be held on January 13, 2000 at 7 p.m. A taco soup and sandwich meal will follow.

Ora Lee Levien, Reporter —SPJST-

Lodge 186, Caldwell

installs officers Our regular monthly meeting was held on December 14 at 6:30 p.m.

After a short meeting, a memorial service for departed members was conducted by Brother Henry Beseda.

District One Director Donnie Victorick conducted the installation of officers for the coming year.

Following the installation of officers, the lodge Christmas party was held. Names were drawn for gifts provided by the lodge. A delicious meal was catered by Schoenemans's Catering of Caldwell.

Our next meeting will be held January 11, 2000 at 6:30 p.m.

Grace Moore, Reporter —SPJST-

Czech Cultural

Center Houston announces the Mary Karele Milligan Scholarships Three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to students of Czech descent who anticipate continued identification with the Czech community. A scholarship recipient may apply for grant renewal three additional years.

An applicant must be: • A full-time undergraduate degree candidate to an accredited four-year college or university; • Born of Czech parentage (at least one parent); • Able to identify and communicate with the Czech community; • Able to verify academic ability; • Able to demonstrate financial need; • U.S. citizen Applications may be obtained after December 1, 1999 by written request only to : Scholarships Coordinator Yvonne Sternes 3802 Browning Street Houston, Texas 77005 Applications must be returned by February 1, 2000. Awards will be announced at the March membership meting of the CCC and sent to the college or university upon verification of enrollment.

For any additional information, please contact Effie M. Rosene, Chairman of the Board at (713) 6866362.

Thank you for your special attention.

—SPJST-

In

Memoriam

Expression of Sympathy The officers and memebers of SPJST Lodge 1 at Fayetteville wish to express our sincere sympathy to the family of EVELYN HEINTSCHEL, age 69, and a member of Lodge 1, Fayetteville.

Services for Mrs. Heintschel of La Grange were held December 2, 1999 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Grange with Monsignor Harry Mazurkiewicz officating. Burial followed at Fayetteville City Cemetery.

Mrs. Heintschel died November 30, 1999 at Fayette Memorial Hospital in La Grange.

She was born November 27, 1930 in Faytteville, Texas the daughter of John and Sophie Prihoda Jasek. She was united in marriage with Warren L. Heintschel on October 24, 1950 at St. Mary's Church in Ellinger.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Altar Society and active in the American Cancer Society as director of services.

Mrs. Heintschel was preceded in death by her mother.

Survivors include her husband of 59 years; two daughters and son-in-laws, Betty and Jimmy Eickhoff of Brenham and Peggy and Ron Sulik of La Grange; two sons and a daughter-inlaw, Dale and Dorthy Heintschel and Glenn Heintschel and fiancee, Sherri Hult, all of Brenham; father, John Jasek of La Grange; and eight grandchildren, Joe and Jenny Eickhoff and Heidi, Charles, Scott and Seth Heintschel, all of Brenhan and Joshua and Hanna Sulik of La Grange.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic or to the American Cancer Society.

Submitted by, Irene Polansky —SPJST-

Picture book about

the Czech Republic offered for sale "Eva's Summer Vacation," with 18 double-page spread illustrations and text by Jan Machalek has recently been published in the United States.

This is a story about a little girl named Eva who travels from Prague to the countryside with her father to take part in her aunt's wedding. Her aunt makes her a folk costume for the occasion. The book is the author's visual memory of the years he lived in the Czech Republic, seen through a child's eyes.

One of the illustrations from this book has been selected into the 42nd Annual Exhibition and will be exhibited in the Society of Illustrators' Museum of American Illustration in New York. It will also appear in the Society's collection of the year's best illustrations, "Illustrators 42."

Jan Machalek is a native of Zlin in the Czech Republic and now lives and works in Montreal, Canada. He is the (Continued on page 13.)

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: SPJST Vestnik, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 FAX: (254) 774-7447 E-Mail: bvanicek@vvm.com Got a question?

Call 1 (800) 727-7578

Youth Director

SPJST Scholarship and Leadership Grant Applications due February 1 Scholarship and Leadership Grant applications and all paperwork are due at the SPJST Home Office on February 1.

(Continued from page 3.) registration at 10:30 a.m. and concludes at 2:30 p.m. The workshop will feature parliamentary procedure.

There is no charge for the workshop, and a pizza lunch will be served.

Please RSVP no later than Wednesday, January 19.

Following the workshop, at 3 p.m., everyone is invited to Doc and Laddy's Family Fun Center in Waco for an afternoon of fun. Doc and Laddy's features laser trek, miniature golf, arcade games, billiards, bowlingo, and a virtual reality roller coaster.

The cost for Doc and Laddy's will be $5 per SPJST youth member, which includes four games—laser trek, miniature golf, $5 arcade game card, and the virtual reality roller coaster.

Additional games will be $3 each.

RSVP and the $5 fee must be received no later than January 19. Call or EMail me for an official RSVP, or send the names of all workshop and fun day participants to: SPJST State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447 Attention Melanie E-Mail: melaniez@vvm.com I hope to see all youth clubs represented at the workshop and fun day.

January Vestnik Project and Contest Please note the January Vestnik Contest is due February 2. The contest is to make a Valentine greeting which will be sent to the residents at the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes in Taylor and Needville. Youth members can do a good deed while earning 20 points in the merit point system. The January Vestnik Project will be due February 12.

Send me your Tee-Shirt Design!

There's still time for youth members to enter the 2000 Camp Tee-Shirt Design Contest. The theme is "SPJST—The Next Millennium and Beyond." Call me or E-mail me for complete details and an official entry form. Contest deadline is January 31.

All participants receive 20 merit points and a certificate. Winners in four age categories will receive a $75 Wal-Mart gift card. The grand prize winner gets a $100 Wal-Mart gift card and his/her design on the 2000 camp tee-shirt.

Create an SPJST Motto!

The deadline for mottos in the 2000 SPJST Motto contest is also January 31. SPJST youth members ages six to high school senior are encouraged to send in an original, rhyming motto that contains 50 words or less. The subject of the motto is SPJST and SPJST Youth Clubs. Mottos will be judged on originality and creativity, grammar and appeal. The contest winner will receive a $500 savings bond. All participants will receive 20 merit points and a participation certificate.

Youth Club Membership Drive Lots of new members! That's the goal of the 2000 SPJST Youth Club Membership Drive. All new youth club members from October 15, 1999 to May 31, 2000 will qualify youth clubs for membership drive awards.

Awards will be presented at the 2000 State YAD in August. GO, YOUTH CLUBS! 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive The 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive continues through March 31. Youth club members who donate $2 or more

Call for Entries SPJST Mot to Contest SPJST youth members ages six to high school senior are encouraged to send in an original, rhyming motto that contains 50 words or less. The subject of the motto is SPJST and SPJST Youth Clubs. Mottos will be judged on originality and creativity, grammar and appeal. Mottos become the property of SPJST and will not be returned. Mottos may be handwritten or typed and must be received no later that January 31, 2000.

The contest winner will receive a $500 savings bond. All participants will receive 20 merit points and a participation certificate.

Mail entries by January 31, 2000 to:

SPJST State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 —SPJST-

Wednesday, January 5, 2000—VESTNIKJ11

Happy New Year.

When we returned, it was time for our covered dish super, which led into our program. It sure was good.

Thanks to everyone who helped out in any way. We couldn't have done it without ya'11.

Youth Club Presents Christmas Skits, Songs

Artwork by Stephanie Vanicek (7) Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club receive 20 merit points, and youth club members who donate $5 or more also receive a certificate. These scholarships make a big difference in our SPJST members' lives.

Youth Leaders Workshop in March Make plans to attend the Youth Leaders Workshop on Friday, March 10 to Sunday, March 12 at the beautiful Peaceable Kingdom in Youngsport (near Salado and Killeen). Can't get away for the entire weekend? Be there on Saturday for the exciting workshop presentations. Hope to see you there!

Best wishes to all for a great 2000!

Fraternally yours, Melanie Zavodny State Youth Director —SPJST-

9, Snook Youth Club gives toys, money Lodge

Dear Vestnik Readers, The Snook Youth Club had their monthly meeting on Sunday, December 5. We decorated the tree and hall for our Christmas program and covered dish supper.

We all brought toys for M.A.S.H., pennies for the scholarship fund and money for the Twin City Mission.

Mrs. Macik resigned her position as youth leader and we nominated Ms. Marie Shelfer as our new youth club leader with Ms. Sharon Kovar and Ms. Karen Gaas as our assistant leaders.

Our next meeting is January 5, 2000 at 6 p.m. at the Fire Station.

Fraternally, Jason Gaas (12/29/99) —SPJST-

9, Snook Youth Club donates toys to M.A.S.H. Lodge

Dear Readers, Our last meeting was December 5 at the SPJST hall. We also practiced for our Christmas program which was held that following evening. After the meeting, we took some toys to the M.A.S.H. organization which is something we like to do every year. It felt so g ood to know we were making a young person's Christmas merry.

Our program began at 5:30 p.m. It was a combination of all types of skits and songs. The young people worked really hard in performing it. We are proud of you all. After the program we had a drawing which gave away some pretty neat stuff.

After all of this took place, all the young people joined together on stage and sang "Jingle Bells." The second time we sung it, we were surprised by the one and only Santa Claus. It was fun to see the little ones eyes light up — as well as the eyes of us older ones, too.

Our next meeting will be held January 5 at 6:30.

Fraternally, Heather Slenk (11) (12/29/99) —SPJST-

9, Snook Youth Club members visit with Santa Lodge

Dear Readers, Our last meeting was held December 5. Afterwards, we went to M.A.S.H. Then we returned to have the Christmas program. It was fun.

Santa Claus came to visit us, too. That was my favorite part.

Fraternally, Hailey Slenk (12/29/99) —SPJST-

9, Snook Youth Club presents "grandparents" Christmas gift Lodge

Dear Readers, The Snook Youth Club had a Christmas program on Sunday, December 5 at the SPJST hall. I was in two skits. After the program, we gave our honorary grandparents a gift and drew for door prizes. Santa Claus then came and gave everyone a bag of fruit and candy. All of the kids sat on Santa's lap and got to tell him what they wanted for Christmas.

Fraternally, Kimberly Gaas (12/29/99) —SPJST-

9, Snook Yeuth Club members receive goodies from Santa Lodge

Dear Readers, Our last meeting was December 5, 1999. We talked about the Christmas program. We practiced and some people took toys to M.A.S.H. and then we

came back and had our Christmas program. After that, we sang "Jingle Bells" and guess who came? Santa Claus! It was fun. He asked us what we wanted and then gave us a bag of fruit and chocolate candy. I had a fun time. Our next meeting is January 5, 2000.

Fraternally, Holly Slenk, age 11 (12/29/99) —SPJST-

9, Snook Youth Club members practice for program Lodge

Dear Readers, The Snook Youth Club had their monthly meeting on Sunday, December 5 at 1:30 p.m. The meeting was well attended.

We went over old and new business.

After the meeting was over, we made Christmas ornaments and practiced for our program that we were going to have at around 5 p.m. After we practiced, we took toys to M.A.S.H. Then we had a covered dish supper. Our program then started. It turned out great! At the very end of the program, Santa came.

Our next meeting is on January 5 at 6 p.m.

Fraternally, Candice Macik (12/30/99) —SPJST-

39, Bryan Youth Club enjoys Christmas party Lodge

Dear Members and Readers, Lodge 39 Youth Club of Bryan, Texas held their December meeting on December 19, 1999. Arriving at the lodge, the Youth Club members proceeded to decorate the lodge for the festivities. After a delicious lunch, we held our meeting. Then, after the meeting, we opened our presents. The lodge donated presents to the regular members and we drew names at the last meeting to distribute others to our fellow members. When we were finished, the youth club members watched the adult members open their presents in white elephant fashion.

Sincerely, Lynde Roesler (12/30/99) —SPJST-

Call for Entries Year 2000 SPJST Camp Tee-Shirt Design Contest What Is It? Each year, the SPJST sponsors a tee-shirt design contest for youth members to create an artistic design for the summer camp teeshirts.

Who Can Enter?

SPJST youth members ages six to high school senior.

The Rules AP-Create a tee-shirt design relating, to the 2000 theme: "SPJST—The Next Millennium and Beyond" or Submit entry: Using a black pen or marker, draw your design on an official entry form available from SPJST youth leaders or the address below, or draw your design on an 8 1/2" by 11" sheet of plain, white paper.

NI-Entries must be original and created by the youth member.

4Ir Entries become the property of SPJST and will not be returned. air Entries should be simple in design and easy to reproduce on a tee-shirt. or Grand prize winner may not enter the contest for one year following winning. ir Entries must be received by January 31, 2000.

2000 Theme "SPJST—The Next Millennium and Beyond"

Judging Designs will be judged by a panel of art specialists. Judging is based on the design's overall appearance and appeal, creativity and originality and ability to reproduce on a teeshirt.

Prizes Grand prize—$100 Wal-Mart Gift Card and winning design on 2000 SPJST Camp Tee-shirts

Runner-up Prizes Ages 6 to 8 S75 Wal-Mart Gift Card

Ages 9 to 11 $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card

Ages 12 to 14 $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card

39, Bryan Youth Club member sends greetings Lodge

Lodge 39, Bryan held their Christmas meeting and party on December 19, 1999. We had lots of food and people. We exchange gifts and I got a Pokemon movie and cards from the lodge. Tiffany gave me a bingo game. It is a lot of fun. Have a great New Year, 2000.

Sincerely, Dylan Roesler (12/30/99) —SPJST-

Ages 15 to High School Senior $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card

Got Questions?

Call State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny at (800) 727-7578 or email melaniez@vvm.coin Mail entries by January 31, 2000 to:

SPJST State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

12/VESTNIK—Wednesday, January 5, 2000

JANUARY VESTNIK PROJECT FOR ALL AGES

Parliamentary Procedure

Lodge 97, Placedo Lodge 39, Bryan Youth Club members Youth Club member enjoying holidays exchange gifts

This correctly completed project earns 20 points in the SPJST Youth Clubs Merit Point System.

Parliamentary procedure (parlipro) is a desperately needed skill among today's young people. Parlipro is the basic principles of democracy which is the foundation for government and volunteer organizations.

Following proper procedures protects the rights of every member.

Parliamentary procedures are easily adapted to various types of meetings. The person who knows these skills will become a leader in any organization.

Everyone uses these skills but it is not called "parliamentary procedure".

Let's say five friends want to do somethin g Friday night. One friend wants to go to the movies and another wants to go roller skating. How would this be solved?

Wouldn't everyone take turns discussing what to do—going to the movies or roller skating? Finally someone might ask "how many want

to go to the movies?" Three raise their hands. The majority prevails, and they go to the movies.

Now let's look at the formal approach to this—what is used in an actual meeting.

One person is the leader or "president". All suggestions are made to the president for members to consider. The one making the suggestion puts it in the form of a motion.

The person states: "I move that we go to the movies."

Another person says "second." He wants to discuss going to the movies.

The president repeats the motion to the entire group. He places it before the group for discussion. Everyone takes turns speaking.

Then the president takes a vote.

How the members vote determines what they will do.

This is the basic format for all meetings and for parli-pro.

—SPJST-

After reading "Parliamentary Procedure" complete the sentences below.

1. The person who knows parliamentary procedure will become a in any organization.

2. The five friends want to do something Friday night. What two things do they want to do? (a) (b) 3. After voting, what do the friends do?

Dear Readers, Lodge 39, Bryan held their meeting December 19. We had a gift exchange and we played games along with the food we had to eat. We all had a blast.

The adults had a brown bag package that they gave everyone. My sister, Lynde, received a cd; I did,too. We all had a blast.

Sincerely, Brande Roesler —SPJST-

Dear Readers: I am enjoying my Christmas vacation. I like staying at home and playing with my new toys. My favorite toy is Green Army Men that I play on the computer because it is fun.

What is my favorite thing about Christmas? Presents and staying home from school and my babysitter, Ashley.

Fraternally, Dean Vanek (12/30/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 66, Waco

Youth Club spreads Christmas cheer with caroling On December 21, the youth went Christmas caroling and came back to the hall for eats and a Christmas party.

Charles Trickett led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We had 15 members and eight adults present. The youth had a Christmas gift exchange. At our January meeting, we will discuss a social together.

Fraternally, Justin Engelke Reporter (12/29/99) —SPJST-

Lodge 97, Placedo

Youth Club members enjoying skating Dear Readers: I wish everyone a happy new year.

We had a fun skating party in December and a fun Christmas party. I g ot candy and purple glitter shower get from Santa Claus. I loved to watch the Czech dancers, too.

What is my favorite thing about Christmas? Presents and parties. I wish it could last all year. Happy New Year!

Fraternally, Dana Vanek (12/30/99) —SPJST-

4. When the person in the example seconded the motion, he wanted to going to the movies.

BONUS For five extra points, when is the 2000 SPJST Youth Club Officers Workshop in Waco?

Name Lodge

Age Youth Leader Mail completed project by February 10 to: SPJST State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 —SPJST-

NUARY VESTNIK CONTEST., FOR ALLAGES • This correctly completed project earns 20 points in the SPJST Youth Clubs Merit Point System.

Share Your Heart Make a Valentine. All Valentines will be sent to the residents at the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home No. 1 in Taylor and S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home No. 2 in Needville. Put your name, your age and youth club on your Valentine.

Junior College offers Czech class Wharton County Junior College is now enrolling students for Czech classes to be held at 550 Julie Rivers Drive Sugar Land, Texas.

The focus of this course is on developing basic communication skills and attaining knowledge in grammatical expression, vocabulary, conversation, social etiquette and culture of Czech and Moravian lands.

The class is designed for those with very little or no Czech speaking skills.

You will also be exposed to the diversified Czech culture.

Learning the Czech language can benefit those traveling to this beautiful country or those needing to do business in the new Czech republic.

A textbook required. Calls and questions can be directed to Susan Harrison, Coordinator of Workforce Education, at (281) 243-8413.

—SPJST-

Age

Name Lodge

Wharton County

Youth Leader Mail completed project by February 2 to: SPJST State Youth Director Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 —SPJST-

Czech classes

offered at Austin Community College The spring class schedule 2000 at Austin Community College will include Czech I and II language class-

es. All classes are $75 each.

Registration is held at the ACC Highland Business Center (HBC), 4th floor between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday.

Conversational Czech I NORM 3036 Czech I Mondays, January 10 - March 6 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Room 223 Highland Business Center A class for students with little or no background in the language. This class introduces the foundation of the Czech language and basic expressions useful for everyday life and for traveling in the Czech Republic. Emphasis will be on vocabulary, pronunciation and basic grammatical structure. No prequisites. (21 hours) Textbook required.

Conversation Czech II NORM 3037 Czech II Mondays, March 27 - May 8, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Room 223 Highland Business Center A class for students who have completed a basic Czech language class and have some knowledge of the Czech language and want to improve their reading, speaking and listening skills. The course will focus on developing complete expressions. (21 hours) Textbook required.

For additional information, contact ACC at (512) 223-7724.

—SPJST-

5. Iedna 2000-13/VESTNiK

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Verios in the Present Tense. To be.

Nate rodina. Jsme velkd rodinaotec, matka, babieka, bratr Honza, sestra Marie a jd. Bydlime v Praze na Smichove. Otec je inZeOr a pracuje v zdvode Tatra. Matka proddvd v mlekdrne. Bratr je delnik v tovarne Tesla v Karlfne. Sestra ue1 na zdkladnf tkole. A jd studuju na univerzite.

Babiela je doma, je u stall. Rano prvni vstdvd Honza. Jeho tovdrna je daleko a prace zaeina u v test. Rychle snida a be.21 ria autobus. Pak vstdvd maminka, proto2e mlekdrna otevird take brzo rano. Otec, sestra a jd vstavdme poslednf. Spoleene snidame a jdeme na tramvaj. Otec jde petky, nenf to daleko. Doma zitstava jen babieka.

Uklizi, jde nakupovat a potom vaff.

VOCABULARY: rodina— family, otec— father, matka, maminkamother, babieka— grandmother, bratr— brother, Honza, m., from Jan— John, sestra— sister, bydlim— I live, stay, Smichov, Karlin-Praha's quarters, iraen5Tr— engineer, zdvodworks, plant, proddvdm— I sell, mlekdrna— milkshop, delnikworker, tovdrna— factory, ueim— I teach, zalladnf t kola— elementary school (na z. g .— at the e.s.), studujuI study, univerzita— university, already, rano, adv.— in the morning, prvnf— first, vstdvdm— I get up, daleko— far, prdce, f.— work, zaeindm— I begin, v test— at six, rychle— quickly, sniddm— I take breakfast, Mina— I run, na autobusfor (to catch) the bus, potom, pakthen, protoie— because, otevfram— I open, take— too, also, brzo— early, posledni— last, spoletne— together, jdu— I go, tramvaj, 1.— tram, streetcar, pegky— on foot, blizko— near, thstavam— I stay, jen— only, uklizim— I tidy up, nakup— shopping, vat fm— I cook, &lam— I work, pau— I write.

1. The verb to be in the indicative of the present tense: jsem—I am (id) (ty) jsi—you are (on, ona, ono) je—he, she, it is jsme—we are (my) (vy) jste—you are (oni, ony) jsou—they are In the negative form the verb takes negative previs ne-. nejsem, nejsl, nem', nejsme, nejste, nejsou.

The personal pronouns ji, ty, etc. are usually not used with the verbs (E.g. Bydlime v Praze. Studuju na univerzia.), unless they express stress or contrast (E.g. Ji pilu a ty vain. Jd rano nesniclam.). Ty as well as the verbal form jsi are used only when speaking to a close friend. Respect is expressed by using the plural form vy + jste in second person singular. The same rule applies to all verbs.

2. In the indicative of the present tense, Czech verbs use the following endings:

CZECH HERITAGE AND CULTURE -e jdu es jdeg -e jde -eme jdeme -ete jdete -ou jdou -fm vaHm

-s

van -ime varime -ite vaffte vaff

pfsu studuju pad studujel pfse studuje pileme studujeme pilete studujete pigou studujou -am delam -di Mal -a dela -ame (Mame -ate Mate -AO delajf JAN HOLUB

—SPJST-

It keeps more than memories alive.

picture Book (Continued from page 10.) creator of a variety of books and animated films which have appeared in the Czech Republic, Canada and United States.

Hardcover book measures 11 X 9 inches and sells for $15.95. Paperback book measures 8 X 6 inches and is priced at $5.95. A special offer of the paperback book (8 X 6 inches) in a box with a doll in traditional Czech folk costume costs $16.95.

If you are interested in this book, please visit your local bookstore or go to Amazon.com on the Internet. Any questions or comments may be mailed to jama@odyssee.net or faxed to (514) 341-1592.

—SPJST-

American Heart Associations.

Fighting Heart Disease and Stroke

Czech Educational

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The Czech Educational Foundation of Texas will hold its annual membership meeting on Saturday morning, January 15, 2000 at 10:30 a.m. on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station. The meeting will be held in Room 110 of the Koldus Building, which is located across the street from Rudder Tower, and includes a parking garage. The meeting will be followed by a featured speaker on a topic related to Czech studies in Texas.

Rudy and Henrietta Rtecka P.O. Box 28 • East Bernard, Texas 77435

!Hub liontmental millennium Tours 2000 ■

Oberammergau Passion Play Sokol Slet - Prague June 12 -July 3 Tour includes Round Trip Airfare out of Houston First Class and 5 Star Hotels • Private Motorcoach Two Meals Daily • Sightseeing Tours with English Speaking Guides Escorted by Rudy Klecka Price: $3,495 Per Person in Double • Book Now! $200 deposit per person will hold your seat.

Fall Foliage and Wine Tasting Tour Czech Republic/Poland/Vienna, Austria September 18 - October 1-14 days Tour includes Round Trip Air Houston and return.

First Class and 5 Star Hotels • Private Motorcoach • Two Meals daily Price: $2,298 per person in Double • Book now for this exciting tour! $200 deposit per person required • Escorted by Rudy Klecka Phone (409) 335-4456 • After 6 p.m. (409) 335-4471 1 (800) 854-6642

The CEFT is a non-profit, taxexempt foundation founded in 1954 to promote Czech studies at institutions of higher learning in Texas. The initial officers were Dr. John Skrivanek, Ph.D., Dr. Henry Maresh, M.D. and August Kacir.

The CEFT's two largest achievements in its forty-five year history has been the completion of fund drives to fully endow the Texas Chair in Czech studies at the University of Texas in 1992, and the CEI-T William Hiavinka Czech Fellowship at Texas A&M University in 1999. Both programs are (Continued on page 15.)

Cultural Events Calendar January 10 - March 6, Mondays Conversational Czech I language classes at Austin Community College. The cost of the class is $75. Registration is held at the ACC Highland Business Center (HBC), 4th floor between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday. For further information, contact ACC at (512) 223-7724.

January 15, 2000 Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CESAT) meeting—held at 10:30 a.m. on the campus of Texas A&M University in in College Station, Texas, Room 110 of the Koldus Building located across the street from Rudder Tower.

For further information, contact Marvin Marek, CEFT president, (281) 499-2249 or at 2802 Camelot, Missouri City, Texas, 77459-2623.

March 11, 2000 State Czech Heritage meeting—held at St. Andrews Parish Hall in Hillje, Texas and hosted by the Wharton Chapter. For more information, contact Ethel Kuzell Meek (409) 543-4463.

March 25 - April 13, 2000 The National Alliance of Czech Catholics in sponsoring a Pilgrimage for the Holy Year celebration. Contact Alden Smith (254) 582-5814 or Marvin Marek (281) 499-2249. For further information, please contact: Marvin J. Marek, Chairman TDNACC Pilgrimage Committee 2802 Camelot St. Missouri City, Texas 77459-2633 Phone: (281) 499-2249 Fax: (281) 403-9665 E-mail: marvin_marek@msn.com March 27 - May 8, Mondays Conversational Czech II language classes at Austin Community College.

The cost of the class is $75. Registration is held at the ACC Highland Business Center (HBC), 4th floor between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday. For further information, contact ACC at (512) 223-7724.

June 29 - July 25, 2000 Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Summer Study Program 2000—Depart June 29 and return July 25. For information, contact the US. Coordinator for . the Czechoslovak Foreign Institue, Thadious Polasek, Czech Study Tour, Route 4, Box 79, Schulenburg, Texas, 78956 or call after 7 p.m. CT (409) 562-2207.

—S PJ ST-

14/VESTNIK-Wednesday, January 5, 2000

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

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, January 7-Social night, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, January 21-Social night, 6:30 p.m.

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) 8265863.

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) 593-4192 or (254) 593-0090.

LODGE 16, BILA HORA Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of August and December at 2 p.m.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR 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 Saturday, January 8, 2000-Allen Tally and the Country Playboys, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Admission $5 per person.

Fabrygel Tours Jerry and Joeann Fabrygel 12909 Padon, Needville, Texas 77461

Celebrate 2000 in Europe *SPRJNG TOUR* BOOK NOW Have Only 22 Spaces

May 4 -18, 2000 Danube River Cruise Including Czech Republic, Slovak Republic and Poland

* SUMMER TOUR July 20 - Aug. 3, 2000 France, Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Rome, Italy English Speaking Guide

Call for Info (409) 793-4224 FAX: (409) 793-5706

Sunday, January 16-Limited Edition, polka, waltzes and mix music. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Admission $6 per person Sunday, January 23-Chris Rybak, mix music. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Admission $5 per person Saturday, February 5-King of Swing, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets $5 each.

Sunday, February 13-Valentine's Dance: music by Tommy Vanek, ballroom and mix music. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets $5 each.

Sunday, February 27-Central Texas Sounds Lodge meetings are the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise stated. During all Sunday dances, the kitchen will be open. For rentals and reservations, call Irene Heigren at (512) 281-4534; for band bookings, call 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 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 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 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 Friday, January 7-Country Classic 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 Reporters and Event Coordinators Post your upcoming fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is one week prior to the publication date of issue. Send your updates to: VESTNIK, SPJST Home Office, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX listings to: (254) 774-7447. EMail listings to: bvanicek@wm.com For classified advertising rates, please refer to the rate charts below or call the Editor at 1 (800) 727-7578 for more information. Thank you.

SPJST LODGE RATES For advertising SPJST lodge-related activities.

2 3/8" x 5" 4 7/8" x 5" 10" x 5"

$12.50 $25.00 $50.00

the Victoria Electric Co-Op on Ben Jordan.

LODGE 35, ELK 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 Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 39, BRYAN 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 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) 648-2317. Bingo is played on Monday nights at 7 p.m. Every second Monday is $100 game night. License #17600539641. For hall bookings, please call (409) 543-7387 or (409) 5415761, Rose Schipula.

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.

LODGE 47, SEATON Thursday, January 6-East Bell Water meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, January 7-Audit of all books, 7 p.m.

Saturday, January 8-Granger Polka Boys Saturday, January 15-Midwinter Tarok Tournament, 8 a.m. Dance at night with Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five Saturday, January 22-No dance Saturday, January 29-Andel-Vasek wedding. Dance - Vrazels' Polka Band 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 Louis Kohutek (254) 983-2261 or (254) 985-2548 (the hall phone) on Saturday night.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

LODGE 49, ROWENA Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of February, May, August and November at 7 p.m.

LODGE 51, ELLINGER Lodge meetings are the third Wednesday of March, June, September and December at 7 p.m.

LODGE 54, WEST Sunday, February 6-A fried and baked chicken dinner fund raiser beginning at 11 a.m. All proceeds will be used for the hall renovation project.

LODGE 30, TAITON Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m.

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 32, VICTORIA Lodge meetings are the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.

COMMERCIAL RATES Advertising not related to SPJST lodge events.

2 3/8" x 5" 4 7/8" x 5" 10" x 5"

$25.00 $50.00 $100.00

LODGE 65, CROSBY Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in March, June, September and December at 1 p.m.

LODGE 66, WACO 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 Dec. 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. 1-751052324-8. "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 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) 852-9042. Public invited.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND Lodge meetings are the first Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. Bingo every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP174615-1395-8; AL-00061-9887-0.

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 Saturday, January 15-Dance with music

by Czech and Then Some, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Admission $6 per person.

Monday, January 17-Lodge meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 19-Dance with music

by Fritz Hodde, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Admission $6 per person.

Sunday, February 20-Lodge meeting/Initiation of new members/Free dinner: Brief monthly meeting will begin at 3 p.m. followed immediately by initiation of new members and free spaghetti dinner.

Members are asked to bring desserts.

Wednesday, February 23-Bus trip to Bossier City: Depart Lodge 84 at 7 a.m. by chartered bus to Bossier City Casino and depart there at 6 p.m. for return to lodge. $20 per person; Advance reservations required. Contact Wanda Petr at (214) 3524397 for reservations or information.

Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. located at the hall, 2625 Floyd Street. 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 87, TEMPLE Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For rental information, call Bertha Capps at (254) 7784371 (Shop) or (254) 773-6164 (Home).

LODGE 88, HOUSTON Saturday, January 8-Manny Green, big band music. Admission $1 1 per person. *Dress code.

Saturday, January 15-Sammy Jensen, big band music. Tickets $11 each.

Wednesday, January 5, 2000-VESTNIK/15 *Dress code.

Saturday, January 22-Pat Veit, polka/variety. Tickets $6 each.

Saturday, January 29-No dance Saturday, February 5-Bobby Layne, big band music. Admission $12 per person. *Dress code.

Saturday, February 12-Valentine dance: Jack Melick-The Piano Man, big band music. Tickets $12 each. "Dress code.

Sunday, February 13-Lodge 88 anniversary; music by Donnie Wavra. Watch for details.

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. 3-00-6212077-41001. 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, January 16-Music by Sulak's of Ennis, p/w. 3 to 7 p.m.

Sunday, February 6-Dance with music by Gary Lee Country Western Band, 3 to 7 p.m.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON Sunday, January 9 - Regular monthly meeting at 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 The quarterly lodge meetings will be held on the second Monday of June, September and December in the meeting room of Hinze Bar-B-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 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.

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 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 93, HOBSON Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 207 South Park in Karnes City.

LODGE 161, LA PARITA-JOURDANTON Sunday, January 9 2000-Lodge meeting at the Jourdanton State Bank Community Room, 4:30 p.m.

LODGE 94, WHEELOCK Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September and December at 1 p.m.

Lodge meetings are held on the first Sunday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at the Jourdanton State Bank Community Room; except for March, June, September and December meetings which will be held at a restaurant at 4:30 p.m. for a meal and meeting.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO Thursday, March 9, 2000-Meeting at REA Building, Victoria, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 8- Meeting, at REA Building, Victoria, 6:30 p.m.

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 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 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 157, LUBBOCK Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, Sept. and Dec. at 3 p.m.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO Sunday, January 9, 2000-Annual meeting at the Hall of St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Wall, Texas. A noon catered meal will be served with business meeting/officer elections to follow.

LODGE 164, RIO HONDO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of March, June, September and December at 2:30 p.m.

LODGE 172, PASADENA 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) 5421774 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 Lions Club Building in Carmine at 201 Centennial Street.

LODGE 180, BURLESON 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) 435-2286, 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) 2628830 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. 1-7420733095-41002.

LODGE 187 ROUND ROCK Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. followed by a covered dish meal. Youth meetings are the first Sunday of at 3 p.m. For information regarding building rentals, please call (512) 255-1554 or (512) 255-3415.

LODGE 188, CENTERVILLE Sunday, 2 p.m.; Game times: 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 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) 6321124. 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 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 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.

LODGE 206, TRI-COUNTIES Lodge meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Lions Club in Mexia, 201 North Paris Street, Mexia, Texas.

-SPJST-

Foundation (Continued from page 13 )

now actively engaged in offering Czech studies. The chair is presently filled by visiting professor Craig Cravens who received his Ph.D. in Slavic languages and literatures from Princeton University. Dr. Cravens was earlier a visiting scholar at Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic, as well. The first holder of the fellowship is Daniela Kurechtova of Brno, Czech Republic. Daniela received a MA degree in English and American Studies from Masaryk University and is pursuing further study at Texas A&M University. She is presently teaching Czech language class at College Station. Both plan to attend the meeting and look forward to meeting more Texans of Czech ancestry.

Anyone interested in work of the CEP"' is invited to join the members in attending the annual membership meeting on January 15, 2000.

Further information may be obtained from Marvin Marek, the current CE1-1 president by calling (281) 499-2249; by writing 2802 Camelot, Missouri City, Texas, 77459-2623 or by e-mail: marvin_marek@msn.com

-SPJST-

Texas Czech Heritage

and Cultural Center selling calendars Historic photographs, a time line of Texas Czech history and the lives of 103 influential Texas Czechs are featured in the Year 2000 calendar of the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange. Available on December 6, 1999 from the Center, telephone 888785-4500 or (409) 968-9399, the millennium calendar includes vintage photos of the Texas Czechs, as well as more recent images of Texas Czech activities in the last decade. The glossy calendar also features Czech proverbs; holidays, days and months in Czech and English; and a comprehensive date book of Czech events throughout the state.

The calendars are $10 each, plus $1.50 for shipping and handling. For more information, contact Sandra Matthijetz at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, P.O. Box 6, La Grange, Texas, 78945 or telephone the Center 888-785-4500 or (409) 968-9399.

The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange will be an attractive, historical and cultural center dedicated to the heritage of Texas' one million Czechs. The Center will be built on 70 acres above the Colorado River off Highway 77 in La Grange. It will include a museum/library/archives, amphitheater, living history farm, living history Texas Czech village, interpretive nature trail and picnic area.

Originated by a coalition of Texas Czech organizations, the Center is a non-profit organization. A $17 million capital campaign to fund the Center is currently underway. To contribute to the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center or for more information about the project, please contact the Center's office (409) 968-9399.

Sara McDaniel ----SPJST-

Trust is earned over time, and success comes with the ability to grow and change over the years. The SPJST has a long history of providing quality life insurance products, annuities, home loans and fraternal activities to Texas families. We look forward to continuing our long history of service to you far into the new millennium.

SPJST The Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas Traditional Values in the New Millennium 126 Lodges Around the State Home Office: 520 North Main Street • Temple, Texas 76501 • 1(800) 727-7578 • info@spjst.com