Vestnik 2006 12 20

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T

Volume 94 Number 50

Benevolence

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H E R A L D

Humanity

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Brotherhood

December 20, 2006

ISSN —07458800

Christmas Season Brings Smiles Riding the SPJST Float in the Temple Christmas parade on December 4 are 2006-2007 State Queen Raychel Clark and State Duchess Madeline Clark, both of Lodge 25, Ennis, and State King Ryan Edwards and State Duke Zachary McManus, both of Lodge 84, Dallas.

LEFT PHOTO: District Three Youth Counselor Bessie Petr visits with Santa at the post-parade party near the SPJST Home Office following the Temple Christmas parade. RIGHT PHOTO: Raggedy Andy (Kristi Davis of Lodge 80, Holland), Cowgirl (Faith Koliha of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point) and Raggedy Ann (Lisa Greger of Lodge 246) entertain the crowd in the parade procession.

District Two Beseda Dancers keep warm on their float in the Temple Christmas parade.

May all your dreams come true in this season of miracles.

For helping us to realize our dreams, we are deeply grateful.

Merry Christmas.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

VĚSTNÍK

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Merry Christmas

SPJST HERALD

SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 (800) 727-7578 • (254) 773-1575 Fax: (254) 774-7447 www.spjst.com VESTNIK EDITOR AND DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 534-0807 email: m e l a n i e z @ v v m . c o m PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 985-0007 Mobile: (254) 534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT GENE McBRIDE, FICF, CFFM Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 771-3837 Mobile: (254) 534-1450 email: genemc@spjst.com SECRETARY-TREASURER LANITA ANGLIN, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 985-2334 email: lanitaa@spjst.com FINANCIAL SECRETARY JERRY MIKULAS Office: (254) 773-1575 Home: (254) 773-2950 email: jerrymik@spjst.com LEGAL ADVISOR DREW POPELKA P.O. Box 1706, Temple, TX 76503 Office: (254) 742-0724 email: spjst-legal@sbcglobal.net DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CHAIRMAN P.O. Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878 Home: (979) 272-3265 • Mobile: (979) 224-3125 email: dv.aggie@verizon.net DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR BOBBY WUENSCHE 2451 CR 405, Taylor, Texas 76574-5421 Home: (512) 365-3013 DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR JOHNNIE R. KRIZAN 11500 Heritage Pkway, West, Texas 76691 Home: (254) 826-5882 DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BILLY ROLLWITZ, FIC P.O. Box 195, Rowena, Texas 76875 Home: (325) 442-3141 • Mobile: (325) 277-5362 Office: (325) 442-3038 email: brollwitz@verizon.net DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR LARRY W. PFLUGHAUPT, FIC 1243 Clovis Road, Houston, Texas 77008 Home: (713) 864-2163 DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR MICHAEL K. AHLSTROM, FIC, VICE CHAIRMAN 407 Taos Street, Victoria, Texas 77904 Home: (361) 578-3279 • Mobile: (361) 676-3279 email: ahlstrom@cox-internet.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR BOB J. BAYER, FIC 1100 Hospital Blvd., Floresville, Texas 78114 Home: (830) 393-9073 BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-1451 District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - (512) 365-2000 District Three - Al Kercho, 2444 Stonegate Dr. North, Bedford, Texas 76021 - (817) 282-5065 District Four - Beverly Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, Texas 76875 - (325) 442-4841 District Five - Mildred Holeman, 1006 Chantilly Lane, Houston, Texas 77018 - (713) 683-0018 District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - (979) 244-4415 District Seven - Bettie House, 1721 Continental Drive, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - (830) 281-8246 FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Stanley Mrnustik, 202 N. Shaw St., Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 567-4386 District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Hwy. 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - (254) 985-2282 District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas 76706 - (254) 662-4934 District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM Hwy. 765, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - (325) 651-8550

District Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946-5118 - (979) 249-5940 District Six - Rita Vanek, P.O. Box 901, El Campo, Texas 77437 - (979) 543-6220 District Seven - Roy Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive, New Braunfels, Texas 78130-3438 - (830) 625-8262 INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 F.M. 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Dolores Skrabanek, 13107 State Hwy. 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - (254) 985-2344 District Three - Daniel Roznovsky, 2513 Custer Court, Irving, Texas 75062 - (972) 252-6763 District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plainview Dr., San Angelo, Texas 76905 - (325) 234-8117 District Five - Helen Hegwood, 6702 Lindy Ann Lane, Houston, Texas 77008 - (713) 864-0489 District Six - Jerome Hlavaty, P.O. Box 174 Lolita, Texas 77971 - (512) 874-4461 District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 578 FM 1347, Stockdale, Texas 78160 - (830) 745-2702 PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 884-0112 District Two - Tammy Whatley, 187 Tanner Circle, Georgetown, Texas 78628 - (512) 864-9183 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Dr., San Angelo, Texas 76903 - (325) 651-5884 District Five - Lorenda Baldwin, 219 CR 47, Angleton, Texas 77515 - (979) 922-1279 District Six - Helen Kelner, 911 Ave. K, Rosenberg, Texas 77471 - (281) 342-2624 District Seven - Jarolyn Popp, 447 Shady Hollow, New Braunfels, Texas 78132 - (830) 964-5135 STATE TRAINING COORDINATOR JIM WIEST, FIC, CFFM Mobile: (254) 541-5555 email: spjst@hotmail.com STATE FIELD REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT ONE Bill Orsak, CFFM Mobile: (979) 324-0056 Home: (979) 272-8902 • Fax: (979) 272-8902 DISTRICT TWO Zachary Kramer Mobile: (254) 541-5820 email: zacharyjkramer@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE Philip McBee, FICF, CFFM (325) 784-9800 • Mobile: (325) 647-1949 email: pmcbee777@aol.com DISTRICT FOUR Charles Lindley, CFFM (432) 349-6759 email: kacha2u@hotmail.com DISTRICT FIVE Edward J. Jelinek, CFFM (979) 549-0452 • Fax: (979) 549-0465 email: spjst5@aol.com DISTRICT SIX Karen Kaspar, FIC, CFFM Mobile: (979) 332-1616 • Home: (979) 543-2532 email: k-kaspar@hotmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN Hector Garcia, FIC Mobile: (361) 548-5702 • Home: (361) 749-1032 STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR CHESTER JENKE, SR., FICF Home: (830) 303-4316 (210) 413-3053 email: cejenke@wmconnect.com STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR JOHN HOELSCHER Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0681 email: johnh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Street, Burlington, Texas 76519 (254) 985-2396 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Janice Stevens, P.O. Box 613, Hawley, Texas 79525 (325) 537-9224 District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023 - (713) 649-6138 District Six - Marcy Dorotik, 2500 Old Farm Road, Apt. 833, Houston, Texas 77063 - (713) 907-1630 District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 578 FM 1347, Stockdale, Texas 78160 - (830) 745-2702 - email: wap6564@felpsis.net SPJST LIBRARY, ARCHIVES AND MUSEUM (LAM) Curator Dorothy Pechal (254) 773-1575 Administrator Sandi Wicker (254) 899-2935

the heart and spirit of Bells are ringing, as if to say— SPJST. May God bless “Have a merry holiday!” you and your family durStockings are hung ing the holiday season and with hopes and wishes in the new year. We look While Mom prepares forward to serving you in her special dishes; 2007!

The tree is trimmed, —SPJST— the lights are strung— And the mistletoe’s been hung!

The gifts are wrapped and are under the tree, Awaiting the festivity.

And now all that there is left to do, is give our best wishes to all of you.

Merry Christmas!

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season.

Thanks for your friendship throughout Merry Christmas from the year. You Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny — our memand husband David Nauert bers — are Liberty, Miley, and Priscilla

Please Note: No Vestnik published Wednesday, December 27.

Thanks!

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of August and the last week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 765030100. Subscription rates are $25 per year, beginning August 1, 2005, for nonmembers. 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. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Vestnik do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VESTNIK c/o Supreme Lodge Financial Secretary Jerry Mikulas, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

VĚSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Welcome, Baby Abigail!

Congratulations to State Youth Director John Hoelscher and wife Lisa who are the proud parents of new daughter Abigail Elizabeth Hoelscher, born November 27, 2006.

Abigail weighed nine pounds, 12 ounces. She is the grandson of Bobby and Alice Hoelscher of Red Ranger and James and Donna Boots of Houston.

—SPJST—

SPJST INTEREST RATES SPJST Mortgage Interest Rates Mortgage rates are subject to change without notice. Call the SPJST Home Office (800) 727-7578.

Commercial Property

6.75% for 1 to 10 years 7.00% for 11 to 15 years

Universal Life Home or Farm Mortgages Universal Life I 75% Owner 5.75% for Annualized*

Annuity III 5.00% for Annualized* Annuity IV 5.00% for Annualized* * Rates effective 10/31/06 through 1/31/07.

Residence Property

5.25% for 1 to 15 years 5.75% for 16 to 20 years 6.25% for 21 to 30 years Farm Property

5.75% for 1 to 10 years 6.25% for 11 to 20 years

Original Kolache Candles

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85% Owner Residence Property

7.25% for 1 to 30 years

Universal Life II 5.75% for Annualized* Annuities Annuity I 5.00% for Annualized* Annuity II 5.00% for Annualized*

Five-Year Annuity When purchased, current interest rates are guaranteed for 5 years.

Band 1—$10,000 to $24,999 Current Rate: 3.95% Band 2—$25,000 to $49,999 Current Rate: 4.10% Band 3—$50,000 and up Current Rate: 4.20%

11 Scented “Flavors” Available Apple • Apricot • Blackberry Blueberry • Cherry • Lemon Peach • Pineapple Poppy Seed (Vanilla Scent) Raspberry • Strawberry Burn time for each candle is about 6.5 hours. The pan is cool to the touch with the candles burning on it. $20.00/set of three.

Shipping is $5.00 per set.

First Set $20.00 - Specify 3 Candle Scents: ________________ • ________________ • ________________ Second Set $20.00 - Specify 3 Candle Scents: ________________ • ________________ • ________________ Third Set $20.00 - Specify 3 Candle Scents: ________________ • ________________ • ________________ Name ______________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ Phone (_______) ____________________________________ Email_______________________________________________ No. of sets ordered: ................ ____ x $20.00 Shipping for each set: ............. ____ x $ 5.00

$____________ $____________

TOTAL ENCLOSED:

$____________

Please make checks/money orders payable to: SPJST LAM • P. O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 For more information, call LAM Administrator Sandi Wicker (254) 899-2935

Makes a great gift! Order today!

Family Fun and Important Dates Please Note: No Vestnik December 27 December 22 December 22 December 23 December 25 December 29 December 31 December 31

SPJST Home Office Closes at 12 Noon Lodge 89, Rosebud Youth Club Christmas Social (2) Lodge 88, Houston Christmas Dance (5) SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas SPJST Home Office Closes at 12 Noon Lodge 6, Cottonwoood New Year’s Eve Party (3) Lodge 18, Elgin New Year’s Eve Dance: Vrazels Band (2) December 31 Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve Dance: South Bound featuring Justin Cole Psencik (2) December 31 Lodge 25, Ennis New Year’s Eve Dance: Jak Se Do and Ennis Czech Boys (3) December 31 Lodge 29, Taylor New Year’s Eve: Bobby Jay Five Band - no admission charge (2) December 31 Lodge 35, Elk New Year’s Eve Dance: Heart of Texas Road Gang (3) December 31 Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler and Melody Five (2) December 31 Lodge 88, Houston New Year’s Eve Dance: Gary Henneke (5) December 31 Lodge 92, Fort Worth New Year’s Eve Dance: Charlie Patteson (3) December 31 Lodge 172, Pasadena New Year’s Eve Dance: Texas Roadrunners (5) December 31 Lodge 191, Lufkin New Year’s Eve Dance: Glenn Lendermann (5) January 1 SPJST Home Office Closed • New Year’s Day January 20 Lodge 47, Seaton hosts Tarok Tournament January 31 Deer Antler Contest Ends February 11 Lodge 24, Cyclone Mardi Gras Festival Fund-Raiser (2) February 18 Lodge 92, Fort Worth Valentine Dance (3) Number in ( ) denotes district —SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Lo dge L e t t e rs Se c t ion

VĚSTNÍK

The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to: SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447 Email: melaniez@vvm.com Questions?

Call (800) 727-7578

Lodge 5 Lodge 26 Pilot Point-Tioga Skidmore elects reports on 2007 officers November meeting On December 2, 2006, Lodge 26, Our regular monthly meeting for Lodge 5, Pilot Point-Tioga was held Saturday, November 4, 2006, at Angie Heitzman’s house. The meeting was called to order at 2:30 p.m.

by President Brian Heitzman. Dean Carender read the minutes from the last meeting, and these were approved as read.

The treasurer’s report by Virginia Pelzel gave no transactions for the month, and the report was approved as read.

Since there was no new business to discuss, this was a short meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 3:15 p.m.

Respectfully, Ms. Dean Carender Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 15, Buckholts Installs 2007 Officers

Skidmore held its Christmas party and meeting in Beeville at Shorty’s Place. The meeting was called to order by President Mary Denkler.

Then, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence for all deceased members was observed.

There were 14 members and four guests attending. The honored guests were District Seven Director Bob Bayer and wife Polly and State FAC Chester Jenke and wife Colleen.

Everyone in attendance enjoyed a delicious meal before the meeting.

The minutes of the last meeting and the treasurer’s report were given.

Mr. Jenke then gave a short talk. He had obtained information about a local resident named Victor Veroda.

In 1953, Mr. Veroda presented the SPJST Home Office with a handmade gavel of local mesquite wood.

Mr. Veroda was married to Mary Sugarek Duge who was a lifelong

District Two Director Bobby Wuensche, far left, installs the 2007 Lodge 15, Buckholts officers. They are, left to right, Secretary Dorothy Tomascik, Treasurer Sandy Fischer, Vice President Glenn Fischer, Second Vice President Derrick Ruziska, and President Doug Williams.

resident of the Skidmore area.

Director Bob Bayer took the floor next and told of the new insurance products SPJST is offering. He also spoke about how the museum is short of its goal of obtaining funds to renovate the building that is going to house the museum.

The election of officers was next on the agenda. A motion was passed to keep the same officers. Elected were:

attended. They were a gift from her grandmother, Pat Thompson. Mr. Jenke handed out SPJST pens, and in a drawing, door prizes were awarded

by Mr. Bayer to Robert Sugarek, Grace Smith, Ruby and Frank Jancha, Annie Hanus, and Pat Thompson.

Fraternally Edwin Wallek, Jr. Vice President —SPJST—

President Mary Denkeler Vice President Edwin Wallek, Jr. Secretary Pat Thompson Treasurer Ruby Jancha Chy Rose Thompson, age four, handed out tree ornaments to all who

SPJST Float Wins Best Overall Award in El Campo Christmas Parade

LEFT PHOTO: Pictured on the SPJST Float in the El Campo Christmas parade are, left to right, Jessica Fucik, 2006-2007 District Six Duchess Allison Fucik, Queen Stephanie Fucik, Duke Donovan Krpec, and King Travis Krpec, all of Lodge 30, Taiton. CENTER PHOTO: Showing their SPJST support at the parade are, left to right,

David and Nancy Fucik, Debbie Krpec, District Six State Field Representative Karen Kaspar, and District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom. RIGHT PHOTO: Following the parade, the group proudly displays the first place award and the grand marshal’s award for the best overall entry in the parade.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Lodge 26, Skidmore Announces 2007 Officers

State FAC Chester Jenke, far left, and District Seven Director Bob Bayer, far right, install the 2007 Lodge 26, Skidmore officers. They are, left to right, Treasurer Ruby Jancha, Secretary Patricia Thompson, Chy Rose Thompson, Vice President Edwin Wallek, Jr., and President Mary Denkeler.

Lodge 47, Seaton sets New Year’s Eve dance Dear Brothers and Sisters, The board meeting was held with Chairman David Pechal in charge.

The year of 2006 is drawing near with the old year in December 31.

The New Year’s Eve dance will be held with Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five providing music from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. Doors open at 5 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. We will be serving black-eyed peas and coffee at midnight.

Come celebrate and welcome the new year! We hope it will be good with some much-needed rain.

Fraternally, Dorothy Pechal, Reporter —SPJST—

which includes the noon meal and snacks. Prizes will be awarded.

Please pre-register by January 10 by sending your entry fee along with your name, address, city, state, zip, phone number, and lodge number (if applicable) to: Amanda Greger 14049 Red Bird Trail Belton, Texas 76513

Lodge 84, Dallas sets January 16 Fellowship Day Dear Readers, Another successful Fellowship Day was held on October 17, 2006.

We enjoyed the company of all who attended. Some live close by, and others traveled from afar.

A big thank you to Adolph Provazek and Laddie Gajdica for entertaining all of us with their accordion music.

Laddie Gajdica did an excellent job calling bingo. Bessie Tydlaska, Lillie Maxcy Jones, and Martha Mahdak Frnka were assistants this time. Thanks to all of you for your help.

We had extra guests this month invited by Fay Rejcek. Her guests were residents from the Summerville Retirement Facility at Lakeland Hills. They all seemed to enjoy eating, socializing, and playing bingo.

Please note: due to the holidays, our next Fellowship Day will be Tuesday, January 16, 2007, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come join in the fun of socializing, eating good food, playing games, and playing bingo.

Fraternally, Lillie Maxcy Jones Martha Mahdak Frnka —SPJST—

For more information, contact Amanda Greger (254) 780-9364 or email nannerwoud@aol.com.

Lodge 47, Seaton looks forward to seeing you at the 2007 tournament on January 20.

—SPJST—

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Lodge 200 Bruceville-Eddy celebrates Christmas SPJST Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy’s Christmas party was held on December 6, 2006. It was one of the most festive parties we have had in many years. We were pleased to have more members present than we have seen in a long time. There was plenty of good food and fellowship, and it was really enjoyed by all.

We were pleased to have several special guests in attendance. We were pleased that District Two Director Bobby Wuensche came out. It was nice to have State Youth Director John Hoelscher visit with us. Of course, it is always a pleasure to have our members, Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride and wife Frances join us in our festivities.

We put the party time on hold for a brief period to conduct a few items of business which included the reading and approval of minutes and treasurer’s report by Secretary-Treasurer Nancy Deviney.

Vice President/FAC Dan Ferguson reported on upcoming activities.

President Allen Trig introduced Director Wuensche who presented service plaques to past SecretaryTreasurer Linda Roming and past Youth Leader Monica Ferguson. Both past officers were recognized for their outstanding service to our lodge.

Director Wuensche also reported on recent happenings at the SPJST Home Office.

SYD John Hoelscher gave an informal report to us and offered encour-

SPJST Honors Longtime Lodge 47, Seaton Sales Agent Willie E. Kohutek

Lodge 47, Seaton hosts annual tarok tournament Lodge 47, Seaton invites you to come join in on all the fun at the Annual Tarok Tournament at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall on Saturday, January 20, 2007.

Registration is from 8 to 8:45 a.m.

The starting table will be drawn by the players prior to the tournament start.

Play begins at 9 a.m.

The entry fee is $20 per person,

LEFT PHOTO: Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, left, and District Two State Field Representative Zachary Kramer, right, present a plaque to longtime Lodge 47, Seaton Sales Agent Willie E. Kohutek. Brother Willie served the SPJST for

37 years as a sales agent. He is also the Honorary District Two Director having served from 1985 to 1996 as District Two Director. Thanks, Willie, for your dedication. RIGHT PHOTO: Willie with his wife, Adeline, who are both active members of Lodge 47.

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Lodge 48, Beyersville: Christmas Celebration Scenes Friday, December 8, 2006 • Lodge 48, Beyersville Hall

order that Supreme Lodge Vice President McBride could conduct the installation of officers.

Next Meeting—January 3 Everyone was reminded that the next meeting date will be Wednesday, January 3, 2007, at Taylor Hall in Bruceville-Eddy.

We wish everyone reading this report a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC Reporter —SPJST—

Fort Worth Friendship Club

agement and assistance in getting an active youth program started up. He also cordially invited all to attend to upcoming the SPJST open house at the Temple Cultural Activities Center.

Supreme Lodge Vice President McBride informed us of matters at the Home Office especially focusing on

the outstanding sales production the SPJST has enjoyed this year.

The election of officers was held.

The following were elected to serve in 2007:

President Allen Trigg First Vice President/FAC Dan Ferguson Second Vice President Ted Tatum Secretary-Treasurer Nancy Deviney Reporter Leonard Mikeska The meeting was adjourned in

The Friendship Club met on Wednesday, December 6, 2006, for our Christmas social at the St. Thomas Parish Hall. A total of 38 members and three guests—Helen Skrasek, Debbie Skrasek, and Tom Konen, Nettie Naugle’s son-in-law— were present. Helen and Debbie joined the Club. Welcome, we’re so glad to have you.

President Alice Barnes was late in getting to the meeting due to attending a funeral so Vice President Rosie Steinman called the meeting to order, welcomed everyone, and read a poem entitled “Friendship” which she wrote. It was very good. I guess

Lodge 67, Schulenburg: Santa Social Fun Wednesday, December 6, 2006 • Schulenburg Community Center

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Rosie is a poet in addition to being a photographer. When Alice came, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.

Treasurer Mary Ann Kozel gave the financial report which was accepted as presented. The minutes of the previous meeting were dispensed with.

It was nice to have Pat McWilliams, Elizabeth Creamer, and Gerrie Kortokray back with us— you’ve been missed.

Sunshine Person Willie Mae Becan was ill and asked me to make her report. A sympathy card was sent to Elizabeth Creamer on the death of her husband and get well cards were sent to Dottie Herek and Bessie Brezina. Bessie is home now. A thank you note was read from Lucille Kret thanking the Club for all the calls and cards she received during her recent hospital stay. It was also reported that Roy Alholm is doing fine; Lydia will be having knee surgery on January 30, and they moved across the hall at the Wellington. In Lydia’s cleaning house to move, she gave me this large can of coffee to donate to the Club. Thanks, Lydia and Roy. Willie Mae also wanted me to acknowledge all the November Santas—Rose Cuba, Linda Horner, Tracy Horn, Betty Landsfeld, Lois Smith, Harold Balvin, and Kathy Ormsbee with Lois Smith as auditor.

These ladies collected a monetary contribution for Alice Barnes in appreciation of her services as president and for the great job she is doing. Willie Mae put all this cash into a net bag and into a beautiful huge Christmas box with a huge bow

Lodge 180, Burleson Members Brave the Cold for Float Fun

Riding the SPJST Float and waving to all at the Cleburne Christmas parade are, left to right, Preston Cox, Rhonda Hurtik, Carole Slavik, and Emilia Ortiz. Lodge 180, Burleson hosted the float at the parade on Friday, December 1. The float received the Best Illuminated award.

on top. Talk about a bag of cash . . . now this was a bag of cash! Get well cards were signed by everyone for Willie Mae Becan and Camille Bolcer who were ill and could not be with us.

The singing of “Happy Birthday” went out to December celebrants— Mary Albert, Camille Bolcer, Joe Kozel, Lucille Kret, Frances Matthews, Agnes Reznicek, Rose Romeo, Lillian Smith, Ann Sustala, and Rita Thomas. It was also learned that our guests, and now new members, Helen Skrasek and Debbie Skrasek, have December birthdays.

Happy birthday to all of you, and

Lodge 73, Seymour Presents 2007 Officers

District Four Director Billy Rollwitz, far right, installed the 2007 Lodge 73, Seymour officers. They are, left to right, Peggy Blankenship, Alice Orsak, Ed Blankenship, and Chelsi Orsak.

may you all have many more!

Door prizes were brought by Elizabeth Creamer, Linda Horner (two) and Mary Ann and Joe Kozel (two) with lucky winners—Elsie Anders, Faith Lindeau, Pat McWilliams, Kathy Ormsbee, and Rita Thomas.

Alice reported the floor in the parish hall would be under construction at the time of our February meeting so she made arrangements for our February meeting to be held at the SPJST Lodge 92 Hall.

In the absence of Annie Whitsell,

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it was announced that we would have a little gift exchange in January.

Hostesses for January will be Willie Mae Becan, Rose Cuba, Dotty Herek, Kitty Rippin, and Mary Windham. In the event of bad weather, no meeting will be held.

Helen Skrasek made a monetary donation to the Club in memory of her husband, Joe, who also had a December birthday. She further requested this money to be used to purchase stamps for the Sunshine Person to use. Thanks, Helen, how thoughtful of you!

Our December hostesses—Kathy Ormsbee and Rose Ann Spann along with helpers of Betty and Stanley Krenek—did a beautiful job. The food table and all tables were decorated with Christmas greenery and Santas. The Santas were later given away as door prizes. Grace was led

by Mary Ann Kozel, and a wonderful luncheon of ham, chicken, and all the side dishes was enjoyed by all.

Following lunch, everyone enjoyed the Christmas gift exchange with Santas Joe Kozel, Stanley Krenek, and Earl Godfrey delivering gifts to everyone. And, then Santas Joe and Stanley came in with bags of cookies and candy canes for everyone who was nice all year. I believe everyone got a bag of goodies. It was a fun party! Thanks from all of us to all of you who worked so hard.

News I just returned tonight from attending a party for Rome Milan’s art students at the Milan Gallery. Our

Lodge 92 Fort Worth member celebrates 90th birthday Victoria (Kratky) Murphy celebrated her 90th birthday on November 19, 2006, with a banquet dinner at the Los Va q u e r o s Restaurant in Fort Worth.

Over 100 family, friends, and neighbors enjoyed the celebrating— some coming as far as Germany, Oklahoma and cities around Texas.

Victoria and her late husband,

John Murphy, Sr., were very active members of Lodge 92, Fort W o r t h .

Beginning as far back as the late 1930s, they were one of the managers of Lodge 92.

Victoria and her family would like to thank everyone for all their good wishes and for all the sweet words of love and admiration for her.

—SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

member, Anna Marie Moncrief, has been taking lessons, and we were all pleased to see her works. She is very good. It was a fun party, and it was fun to visit with some of the other students.

Lydia Alholm and I enjoyed attending the Dallas Circle of Czech Women’s Christmas luncheon.

Bessie’s food is always wonderful, and it was nice to see and visit with old friends.

If you haven’t visited the Ice Exhibit at the Gaylord Texan Hotel in Grapevine, you should do so. I believe the exhibit will be there until early in January, 2007. My nephew J.D. Kosarek and family from Waco invited my sister Lil and I to go with them on Friday after Thanksgiving, and it was great. It was nine degrees inside. They do provide you with a parka, but be sure to take your gloves. It was great, and the ice sculptures were beautiful.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! The next meeting will be January 3 provided the weather is all right. Don’t forget your little gift for the exchange and luncheon dish.

So until, keep smiling!

Libbie Vrla, Reporter —SPJST—

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SPJST Float in Burleson Christmas Parade

LEFT PHOTO: Faith Koliha prepares one of the horses on the float for the parade. RIGHT PHOTO: Thanks to Float Driver Jason Koliha and wife Faith for their assistance with several of

this year’s Christmas parades around the state. They are members of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point, and Faith is employed in the Insurance Department at the SPJST Home Office.

Getting Ready for Christmas Czech-Style

done your Christmas shopping yet?” get even the most stubborn Christmashaters into the shops. Not only are the shops full of people buying gifts for their relatives, but also people buying ingredients for making sweets at home. After all, nothing can make the atmosphere at home cozier than a big bowl of calorie-filled sweets on the table.

Czechs begin preparing for Christmas early, preferably by the middle of November, at which time they already have money saved that they want to spend on Christmas.

This is when the shops begin luring people in with their window displays, mailbox flyers, and commercials on all the television stations to help further the pre-Christmas madness.

And then, questions like “Have you

Lodge 169, Brenham Presents 2007 Officers

State FAC Chester Jenke, far right, installs the 2007 Lodge 169, Brenham officers. They are, left to right, Reporter Leroy Kamas, Vice President Stephen Bliznak, President/FAC Annette Bilski, and Secretary/Treasurer Glenda Weyand.

Preparations for Christmas Preparations for the Christmas holidays mostly get underway for Czechs with a good house-cleaning. The whole apartment or house is cleaned

from top to bottom: the carpets are washed, the furniture polished, and everywhere vacuumed, even under the beds and cupboards. In the November or December cold, you can see housewives (yes, mostly women) leaning out their windows, giving them their annual pre-Christmas cleaning.

In recent times, Czechs have begun placing other objects that symbolize Christmas in these nice, clean windows — lit Christmas stars bought in the shops or artificial wreaths. In their Christmas decorations, at least, the Czechs are getting closer to European union . . .

After cleaning their home completely, people begin slowly bringing in supplies and gifts for Christmas.

They hide the gifts in their cupboards and other hiding places, so their family members don’t accidentally find them and ruin the surprise on Christmas Eve. This is when parents ask their children to write a letter to Jezisek (Baby Jesus), to tell Him everything they want to find under the tree on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Sweets From the beginning of December, the attractive aromas of Christmas confectionery begin emanating from Czech kitchens. Even if more and more Czech housewives lack the courage to bake a vanocka Christmas loaf, baking Christmas sweets at home remains a Czech speciality. The more types of sweets on the table during Christmas, the better. The custom was that the children would help their mothers, who often weren’t looking

Lodge 177, Academy Installs 2007 Officers

Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, far right, installed the 2007 Lodge 177, Academy officers and trustees. They are, left to right, Secretary/Reporter Jo Ann Hutka, Treasurer Josie Mitchell, Trustee Shirley McCrea, Trustee Christina Beck, Trustee Helen Bland, Trustee Chairman Bill Hutka, Trustee Bernice Hutka, Vice President Kathy Fritz, Trustee Louis Driska, and President Otis Beck.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

forward to the baking and considered it a necessary evil and an inseparable part of the holidays. The custom was also that the children, along with their fathers, would steal the sweets before Christmas from the box where their mothers had put them for safe-keeping. Another rule was also that housewives and grandmothers would bake even more kinds of sweets to get a headstart on them.

The results of all these actions can be seen in extra weight around the middle after the holidays . . .

Towards the end of November, Christmas markets begin to appear in the squares in towns, filling them with smells of pine, from all the large Christmas trees erected there, and constantly reminding passers-by that Christmas is near.

Holiday Shopping Neither the house-cleaning nor the cooking compares with the suffering endured in all the lines and queues in the department stores and other shops.

People from the countryside come into larger cities or Prague, along with people from the larger cities and towns. The most common spot for

Christmas shopping is still the Prague department stores—Kotva, Bila Labut and Maj (once K-Mart, now Tesco, but for many residents of Prague, as well as the Czech Republic, it’s still Maj).

Everyone is affected by the preChristmas madness, although this only partly excuses how rude and unfriendly they are to each other in the shops. This nerve-wracking atmosphere is only worsened by the behavior of the shop clerks, who only grudgingly acknowledge customers, and that’s not just during Christmas.

There are people, on the other hand, who love this Christmas chaos.

They’re called pickpockets, and thanks to the carelessness of dazed shoppers, they’re out helping themselves to the gifts in other people’s pockets and bags long before Christmas Eve. So be careful.

Waiting for Mikulas!

In the midst of these holiday preparations, the parents of small children have the holiday of Mikulas (St. Nicholas Day) to look forward to. It’s celebrated on the eve of the day in his honor, thus on the fifth of December,

and is the only one of the old Czech advent holidays to still be celebrated.

So every year on this night, the streets are filled with devils rattling chains, St. Nicholases with white cotton beards, long white robes and bishop’s staves, and angels with paper wings, coming to see small children to give them a scare before giving them sweets, and then drinking a toast with their parents. Advent also brings with it advent concerts, which are often connected with collections for a charitable cause.

Christmas Cards In this pre-Christmas hustle and bustle, Czechs still think of all their friends and relatives, and remember to send out their Christmas greetings to them. The design of these Christmas cards varies every year, but among them are always cards featuring the Czech artist Josef Lada. These are typical Czech Christmas greetings and people send plenty of them, even with the Czech postal service continually raising its prices. The Czech Post does think of its customers, however, and tries to soften the blow by issuing brand new postage stamps every year

9

at Christmas with holiday motifs.

This is another nice Czech custom — new stamps with Christmas motifs.

The Christmas Tree The closer Christmas gets, the more everyone realizes what they still haven’t gotten done.

Mailing Christmas cards, buying that gift for Auntie, making those special rum balls, picking out a Christmas tree — yet another event in the pre-Christmas obstacle course! Christmas trees can be bought in most town squares and other open spaces, and every year they get more expensive. Inflation, of course, and it becomes so much more obvious around Christmas, when you see something which you clearly remember being much cheaper last year!

Various qualities of trees are sold, but suffice it to say that the better the quality, the thicker the tree. The most expensive are fir trees followed by pine and then spruce trees, and then the person selling the trees determines the price by its height. The newest trend is the artificial Christmas tree, which won’t start dropping needles around New Year’s, but is hardly in

Scenes from Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Christmas Party Wednesday, December 6, 2006 • Taylor Hall in Bruceville-Eddy

LEFT PHOTO: Doug Roming and James Hosch visit at the party. PHOTO 2: Jane Miracle brings in a delicious baked good for the meal. PHOTO

3: Officers and members discuss business prior to the party. RIGHT PHOTO: Officers prepare for the meeting.

LEFT PHOTO: District Two Director Bobby Wuensche presents outgoing officer plaques to Monica Ferguson, center, and Linda Roming. Monica served as youth leader, and Linda served as secretary-treasurer. CENTER PHOTO: The 2007 Lodge 200 officers are, left to right, Reporter Leonard Mikeska, Secretary-Treasurer

Nancy Deviney, Second Vice President Ted Tatum, First Vice President/FAC Dan Ferguson, and President Allen Trigg. Also pictured is District Two Director Bobby Wuensche, far right, who installed the officers. RIGHT PHOTO: Members socialize at the party.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

the spirit of “true” Christmas.

Most Czech families keep their trees out on the balcony, where it remains until Christmas Eve. Once the house is clean, the sweets all baked, the gifts bought, the Christmas cards sent out and the Christmas tree out on the balcony, it’s time to arrange Christmas visits with friends and relatives, to organize the Christmas decorations, to prepare for the Christmas party at work, to get all the right ingredients for the potato salad and buy the Christmas carp.

The Christmas Carp Carp is only a recent addition to the Czech table, and according to studies, is part of Christmas Eve dinner in three quarters of Czech households, while the remainder prefer “normal” fried fish or filets.

The carp-sellers are a common sight on the streets in the wintry weather prior to Christmas, pulling carp out of the tanks of icy water, and even killing and gutting them there if the customer desires. Some people take them home, however, and put them in the bathtub. There are two things to remember concerning the keeping of the Christmas carp in the bathtub: (1) Don’t feed it! (so it does-

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n’t have full intestines when Dad guts it after killing it), and (2) Don’t give it a name under any circumstances! (so that the kids or their parents won’t feel sorry for it and run out on Christmas Eve to return it to the Vltava or one of the other polluted Czech rivers).

Christmas Eve And then comes the last day of work before the Christmas holidays!

And of course this can only mean office parties to celebrate the upcoming escape from work. If you manage to get through this Christmas tradition unscathed, you can jump out of bed on the morning of Christmas Eve and begin to savor the atmosphere of the holidays with those near and dear.

The most important day of the Czech Christmas celebration, the 24th of December is naturally as idyllic for adults as it is for children, who have a day full of traditional Christmas fare to enjoy.

The Christmas television schedule is more or less the same every year.

Fairy tales—old ones such as Pysna princezna—The Proud Princess; Princezna se zlatou hvezdou na cele—The Princess with the Golden Star on her Brow; Obusku z pytle

ven—Take the Club from the Sack, and the newer ones like Silene smutna princezna—The Terribly Sad Princess; or Tri orisky pro Popelku— Three Nuts for Cinderella.

There’s also no shortage of old Czech and foreign comedies, such as the film Babicka—Grandmother; or the musicals, “My Fair Lady” and “Mary Poppins.” One Christmas hit is missing from the schedule, however, the Soviet fairy tale, Mrazik—Frost, which will be engraved in the hearts of the children of the 1970s and 80s and their parents forever.

In the afternoon, the Christmas tree is decorated, with whatever ornaments are in fashion at the moment.

While in the 1980s the popular decorations were glass ornaments of various shapes and sizes, artificial colored candles, and chocolate figures from work, which adults received free from the socialized firms as a Christmas “bonus” from the state, recently the preferred decorations have become natural ornaments—red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, straw or wooden figures and classical candles.

Naturally, it depends on the family what they hang on their tree.

People should wait until evening on the 24th to eat any meat, and must

be satisfied with the traditional Czech lunch of lentil soup and cucumber, in order to see the golden pig on the wall symbolizing prosperity. Meanwhile, mothers are busy preparing the Christmas Eve feast—potato salad, wrapped carp cutlets—cook fish soup, and some even bake a vanocka.

The parents see to the presents, and if they haven’t wrapped them all, then this is the time to take care of that.

And they can’t forget to hide them somewhere, preferably somewhere locked, so nobody ruins their Christmas surprise.

The Christmas Eve dinner is usually attended by the whole family, including Grandma and Grandpa, as being alone during Christmas is considered one the most painful things

Lodge 240, Bay City Members Ride Float in Parade

LEFT PHOTO: Pictured on the SPJST Float in the Bay City parade are, left to right, Christina Sharp, Christy Basquez, Brittany Basquez, Keke Benavides, Sarah Siptak, Victoria Sharp, Briana Rodriguez, and Charles Sharp. RIGHT PHOTO: Thanks to the District Six and Lodge 240 adults

who attended the parade. Pictured are, left to right, Arthur Davila, Stella Basquez, Sylvia Garza, Robert Basquez, Melody Garza, District Six State Field Representative Karen Kaspar, Kathy Ahlstrom, District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom, and Mario Rodriguez.

LEFT PHOTO: Awaiting the parade on the float are, left to right, John Romero, Natalie Garza, Victoria Sharp (in front), and Christian Rodriguez.

RIGHT PHOTO: District Six Director Mike Ahlstrom gets into the holiday spirit with a set of deer antlers. Looking on are SFR Karen Kaspar, left, and Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny.

SPJST Scholarship Applications— Call Today!

Graduating high school seniors and college undergraduates who have been SPJST members for one or more years are encouraged to apply for an SPJST Scholarship.

Established in 1982, the SPJST Scholarship Program is funded by an allocation of the SPJST Supreme Lodge and through community contributions by SPJST members. Accordingly, the more funds available, the more scholarships awarded. In 2006, the SPJST awarded a total of 64 scholarships for $64,500 through its scholarship program.

For an SPJST General Scholarship Application and complete guidelines, call the SPJST Home Office (800) 727-7578 or (254) 773-1575 or visit www.spjst.com.

—SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

there is.

People are trying to be considerate to each other, but sometimes it happens that all the built-up stress from the pre-Christmas preparations boils over right on Christmas Eve and family members begin to argue over trifles, like burnt food or a missing gift. Comments like “this is the worst Christmas ever” and “I hate Christmas” may be heard, as always. But Christmas is such a big holiday that people compromise in the end and sit down at the Christmas table together.

Now the Christmas feasting starts. That time we all know well, when the resolution not to eat so much gives way before the plenty of the Christmas table, and we end up overeating just like the year before.

With the Czech Christmas menu, however, there lurks the added danger of getting a carp bone stuck in your throat. No one wants to be one of those unfortunates who spend their Christmas Eve in the emergency room, as people do every year.

After dinner, the family leaves the room where the Christmas tree is, so that Baby Jesus can come and leave the presents under the tree . . .

And then it’s the moment everyone, big and small, has been waiting for: unwrapping the presents!

Everyone has a good time, or if anyone doesn’t at least they pretend

to in order not to ruin it for the others. After everyone has gotten what they desire most, the whole family snuggles down in front of the television for the Christmas programs.

Before midnight, some people tear themselves away from the television screen and go to church for Christmas Mass.

This service attracts many people who never go to church during the rest of the year.

In a lot of churches, Ryba’s Czech Christmas Mass is an integral part of the ceremony.

Christmas Day After Christmas Eve come two more holy days of celebration. On St. Stephen’s Day, the 25th of December, people largely pay each other visits, and of course feast, watch television, go on walks, or just get some welldeserved rest after the strain of all their Christmas preparations. Then they can slowly start to look forward to next Christmas, as they say: “Next year, I won’t overeat so much. I promise.”

From Radio Prague.

—SPJST—

From the Heart My Dearest Hector, From the bottom of my heart, I want to wish you Merry Christmas.

This month, as we celebrate our second wedding anniversary, I want you to know how very dear you are to my heart.

This year has been a tremendous blessing as we journ e y e d together to overcome those great trials that we conquered.

You have shown the strong heart you have in God and the outstanding trust in His Word. You have taught me many things this year, and I am so thankful that you are in my life.

I stand completely behind you

when you tell me everyday that this coming year is going to be our greatest yet! I can’t wait to experience it with you!

Hector, I pray the ever God’s love on you, and may it shine so brightly through your actions and dedication to helping others as you have helped me. Never forget you are the best at what you do!

You truly are a Godsend. I love you and so does Baby Jessy.

Your Greatest Fan, Patricia Garcia Lodge 247, San Marcos —SPJST—

Sesame Workshop expands military families initiative With more than 700,000 children of military families under the age of five separated from their mother or father this holiday season, Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has responded with a program geared to address the challenges military families face with deployment. The half-hour television special, entitled When Parents are Deployed, will be hosted by Academy Award ® winning actor Cuba Gooding, Jr., premiering Wednesday, December 27 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on PBS (check local listings).

Sesame Workshop recently

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launched a partnership with WalMart Stores, Inc, with additional support from The New York State Office of Mental Health (NYSOMH) and Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC), to create an educational outreach program titled, Talk, Listen, Connect: Helping Families During Military Deployment. The program was created to assist the children of the military cope with the enormous separation anxiety they face when a parent is called to duty. A total of 385,000 Talk, Listen, Connect kits will be distributed. The entire kit is also available on-line at www.sesameworkshop.org/tlc. The website also provides a music clip of the song “Proud” sung by Elmo and his dad. This clip can be sent electronically to a loved one accompanied by a special text message.

Continued on page 14.

Please Help Us Meet The Challenge!

The SPJST Library, Archives and Museum has been offered a $200,000 challenge grant to help with the renovation of the Hanus Building to house the Czech Heritage Museum.

To receive this grant, the LAM must raise another $400,000 in donations or pledges by December 31, 2006.

Name ______________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________ $100,000 $ 50,000 $ 20,000 $ 10,000 $ 5,000

Diamond Benefactor Platinum Benefactor Gold Benefactor Silver Benefactor Bronze Benefactor

$ $ $ $ $

2,500 1,000 500 250 100

President’s Club Founder Patron Donor Friend

Amount enclosed: $___________________________________ Amount of pledge: $___________________________________ To be paid: ______ Semiannually ______ Annually ______ Two years Please make checks payable to: SPJST LAM P. O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 For more information, call LAM Administrator Sandi Wicker (254) 899-2935

Yes, I would like to help meet the challenge!

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

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Members Participate in Temple Christmas Parade Monday, December 4, 2006 • Temple, Texas

LEFT PHOTO: District Two Director Bobby Wuensche drives District Two Queen Amber Penn of Lodge 24, Cyclone and King Kyle Vanecek of Lodge 29, Taylor in a Corvette. CENTER PHOTO: District Two Beseda Dancers

ride on the candy cane float. RIGHT PHOTO: Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride drives District Two Duke Collin Vanecek of Lodge 48, Beyersville and Duchess Macey Malcik of Lodge 24 in a Corvette.

LEFT PHOTO: Alyssa and Haley Popelka, both of Lodge 47, Seaton, ride the SPJST Float. CENTER PHOTO: Thanks to the walkers who accompanied the float down the parade route. RIGHT PHOTO: Float

Designer David Nauert and Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny proudly display the first place banner. The float’s theme was “All I Want for Christmas is . . .” and featured toys and almost 5,000 lights.

LEFT PHOTO: Ruth Ann Wuensche and granddaughter Amy, both of Lodge 48, Beyersville. PHOTO 2: Jacqui Wiest of Lodge 80, Holland, left, and Amanda Entrop of Lodge 47, Seaton ride the float. PHOTO 3:

All smiles: Haigon Shine, left, of Lodge 80, Holland and David Nauert of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point. RIGHT PHOTO: Victoria Smith of Lodge 47, Seaton by one of the rotating ballerina Barbies on the float.

LEFT PHOTO: Suzy Wiest of Lodge 80, Holland and Mickey Mouse wave in the parade. PHOTO 2: Colton Regan of Lodge 47, Seaton rides the pony on the float. PHOTO 3: Left to right are Joyce Kraatz,

Patricia Hoelscher, and Tammy Pechal, all of Lodge 47. RIGHT PHOTO: Home Office Claims Specialist Dorothy Tomasek of Lodge 47 and Minnie Mouse wave to everyone along the parade route.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

13

Members Enjoy Refreshments

by SPJST Home Office at Post Temple Parade Party

LEFT PHOTO: State FAC Chester Jenke, left, visits with Supreme Lodge Chairman/District One Director Donnie Victorick and wife Janice near the Home Office after the Temple parade. CENTER PHOTO: “Dear

Santa, All I want for Christmas is 4,000 apps! Your friend, Gene.” RIGHT PHOTO: Home Office Underwriter Margaret Rivera, husband Rick, and daughters Lauren and Rosa, all of Lodge 80, Holland, talk to Santa.

LEFT PHOTO: District Three Youth Counselor Bessie Petr, left, and Home Office Customer Service Representative Susan Shofner of Lodge 246. CENTER PHOTO: Jacqui and Suzy Wiest enjoy a moment with Santa. Special

thanks to State Training Coordinator Jim Wiest for his help getting Santa there. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point officers by the float. Left to right, Lisa Greger, Ginger Greger, Charlie Herendon, and David Nauert.

LEFT PHOTO: Nacho time for Bailey Fulton of Lodge 47, Seaton. CENTER PHOTO: Amanda Entrop of Lodge 47, left, and Shelby Loeffler sip

hot chocolate with Santa. RIGHT PHOTO: Kristi Davis of Lodge 80, Holland and David Nicholson of Lodge 47, Seaton.

LEFT PHOTO: Colleen Jenke, left, Communications Assistant Katherine Morris Smith, back, and Kristi Davis. CENTER PHOTO:

Lodge 47, Seaton youth visit with Santa. RIGHT PHOTO: Melissa Cannon of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point with Santa.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Military Families Continued from page 11.

While interviewing the military families who were included in Talk, Listen, Connect, Sesame Workshop producers were continually impressed by the families’ selflessness and sense of duty. Out of this admiration and respect came the idea to make their stories available for all Americans to see.

With funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), Sesame Workshop created When Parents Are Deployed, geared to military parents and caregivers.

When Parents Are Deployed reveals candid and intimate moments with the parents, caregivers and children impacted by deployment. They express how they are coping with the daily stress and fears associated with having a parent depart for military duty, and how families deal with that member when they return home after serving their country. As the holidays can be a very difficult time for military families, Sesame Workshop saw this special as way to illustrate how this group of Americans is managing during times of extended separation.

“The overwhelming response that we received to the Talk, Listen Connect outreach program confirmed

to us that we were indeed fulfilling an unmet need for the youngest members of our military families,” said Sesame Workshop President and CEO Gary E. Knell. “We also felt that it was important to reach as many adult caregivers as possible with this valuable information. We are grateful to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for acknowledging our goals with their generous funding of the television special When Parents Are Deployed.

“Military families give so much to community and country,” said Patricia Harrison, CPB President and CEO. “The demands of military life can be especially hard on children who are separated from their Mom and Dad during the holiday season.

CPB is proud to help our troops and their families through our support of “When Parents Are Deployed.”

“When Parents Are Deployed” was made possible by CPB and portions of the special were contributed

by Wal-Mart as part of their support of Talk, Listen, Connect.

Sesame Workshop is a nonprofit educational organization making a meaningful difference in children’s lives around the world. Founded in 1968, the Workshop changed television forever with the legendary Sesame Street. Today, the Workshop continues to innovate on behalf of children in 120 countries, using its

VĚSTNÍK proprietary research methodology to ensure its programs and products are engaging and enriching. Sesame Workshop is behind award-winning programs like Dragon Tales, Sagwa, The Chinese Siamese Cat, Pinky Dinky Doo and ground breaking multimedia productions in South Africa, Egypt and Russia. As a nonprofit, Sesame Workshop puts the proceeds it receives from sales of Sesame Street, Dragon Tales, Sagwa and Pinky Dinky Doo products right back into its educational projects for children around the world. Find the Workshop online at www.sesameworkshop.org.

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a private, nonprofit corporation created by Congress in 1967, is the steward of the federal government's investment in public broadcasting. It helps support the operations of more than 1000 locally owned and operated public television and radio stations nationwide, and is the largest single source of funding for research, technology, and program development for public radio, television, and related on-line services.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. operates Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and Sam’s Club locations in the United States.

The company also operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China,

Costa Rica, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The company's securities are listed on the New York and Pacific stock exchanges under the symbol WMT. More information about Wal-Mart can be found by visiting www.walmartfacts.com. More information about the Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club Foundation or other military projects can be found at www.walmartfacts.com or www.walmartfoundation.org.

PBS, is a non–profit media enterprise owned and operated by the nation's 348 public television stations. A trusted community resource, PBS uses the power of noncommercial television, the Internet and other media to enrich the lives of all Americans through quality programs and education services that inform inspire and delight. Available to 99 percent of American homes with televisions and to an increasing number of digital multimedia households, PBS serves nearly 90 million people each week. More information can be found at www.pbs.org.

Editor’s Note: Thanks to Pam Sedita-Capps of Lodge 87, Temple for sharing this information with the Vestnik.

—SPJST—

Lodge 251, Pearsall Members Participate in Christmas Parade

LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 251 youth pose with Santa at the SPJST Float.

Left to right are Justine Delgado, Esmeralda Martinez, Roque Araiza, Omar Araiza, Shunieka Lopes, and Adrian Araiza. CENTER PHOTO:

Samantha Bernal, Savannah Morales, and Jennifer Martinez ride the float. RIGHT PHOTO: Enjoying the parade are Justine Delgado, Esmeralda Martinez, and Shunieka Lopes.

LEFT PHOTO: Serena Trevino and Noe Trevino ride the float. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 251 President Elsa Martinez, left, and Lydia Trevino. RIGHT PHOTO: The float received the first place award.

Accepting the plaque are, left to right, front, Esmeralda Martinez and Justine Delgado. Back: Samantha Bernal, Elsa Martinez, and Jennifer Martinez.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Vestnik Traditional Czech Christmas Tree Decoration Contest

Thanks to all Participants!

April Dvorak Lodge 25, Ennis

Brooke Hoelscher Lodge 47, Seaton

Chelsea Reed Lodge 183, Arlington

Joy McClellan Lodge 84, Dallas

Congratulations, Winners!

Some winning designs are pictured. Other winners are: Carolyn Hubenak - Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje • Tommy Weeks - Lodge 183, Arlington Martha Vacek - Lodge 148, El Maton • Sydney Milan - Lodge 154, Fort Worth Sheila Horak - Lodge 13, Dime Box Winners will receive Christmas ornaments from the Czech Republic.

Lewis Sodek Lodge 47, Seaton

Angelina Ringwald Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point

Melinda McClellan Lodge 84, Dallas

Brandon Hoelscher Lodge 47, Seaton

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Wednesday, December 20, 2006

In Memoriam In Memory of John M. Anderson Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.

John Anderson’s wide-ranging earthly journey of 77 years came to an end on Saturday, December 9, 2006. John was born October 16, 1929, in his grandparents’ farm house in the E m h o u s e C o m m u n i t y, Navarro County, Texas, to Sheely and Naomi A n d e r s o n . John Anderson Growing up during the depression years, John developed a commitment to faith, family, friends, and country.

John is survived by his greatest joy, Helen, his wife of 53 years; daughters Deborah and Dyann; granddaughter Catherine; sons-inlaw Arturo and Don; sister-in-law Jean Anderson; and nephew Andy Anderson.

His grandson Austin preceded him in death.

John attended Wells High School, Pineywoods Business School, University of Houston, Stephen F. Austin University, University of Texas at Dallas, and University of Louisville. He served in the Navy from 1947 to 1952. Prior to retiring to Lufkin in 1980, John served in numerous management positions with Brown and Williamson Tobacco Corporation. During these years, John and Helen made many friends in Beaumont, Albuquerque, Louisville, New Orleans, Houston, and Dallas. Retirement years were some of his busiest. He was a bank director for several years, as well as an active member of the Square Dance Club, Polka Dot Club, VFW, and East Texas Cloggers. He was the charter President of SPJST Lodge 191, Lufkin, continuing as an active and regular member and sales agent.

In 2004, John received national recognition when he was awarded the SPJST Fraternal Insurance Counsellor Award.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the SPJST Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 3113, Lufkin, Texas 75903.

The family welcomed friends and loved ones for visitation from 6 to 9

p.m. Tuesday evening, December 12 at the Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home in Lufkin. A graveside service was held Wednesday, December 13 at 1 p.m. in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.

—SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy On behalf of Lodge 54, West officers and members, the Resolution Committee wishes to express its sincere sympathy to the surviving family of JOSEPH J. (JOE) HUTYRA, age 74 of Bellmead who passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2006, at his residence.

Rosary was recited at noon on November 16 followed by mass of Christian burial at St. Mary’s Church of the Assumption in West with the Reverend Tim Joseph Hutyra Vaverek and Reverend Ed Karasek as concelebrants. Military graveside rites conducted by West VFW Post 4819 followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery in West.

Mr. Hutyra was born November 29, 1931, in Hill County near Abbott to Louis and Christine Cepak Hutyra.

He attended school in Abbott. He was retired from General Tire and Rubber Company after 32 years of service.

Mr. Hutyra was a retired Sergeant in the United States Army having served in the Korean War. He was a member of VFW Post 4819 of West and the American Legion BoydSykora-Karlik Post 478 of West, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellmead, SPJST Lodge 54, West, and KJT Lodge 107 of Abbott. He married Doris Petter on January 26, 1957, in Penelope.

Mr. Hutyra is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ernest and George Hutyra; sister Irene McGee; and an infant daughter Linda Hutyra who died in 1960.

He is survived by his wife Doris of Bellmead; son Gary Joe Hutyra of Bellmead; daughter Judy Elaine Merritt and fiance Paul Bohannon of

VĚSTNÍK Waco; sisters, Carolyn Gerik and Helen Schutza, both of West; grandchildren Chad Hutyra, Emily Green, Kali Hutyra, Kandra Merritt, D.J. Merritt, and Corydon Hutyra Merritt; and great-grandchildren Nolan Hutyra and Madaline Green.

Active pallbearers were Scooter Zucha, Julius Zucha, Tommy Gerik, Mike McGee, Craig Pustejovsky, and Boobock Petter. Honorary pallbearers were members of VFW Post 4819 of West. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, November 15 at Kotch Funeral Home.

The family has requested that memorials be made to Hillcrest Hospice; or to a charity of your choice.

May he rest in peace.

Resolution Committee Maxine Sefcik Jan Vaculik Marcela Vaculik —SPJST—

In Memory of Milady Hyvl Funeral services for Milady Katherine Hyvl were held at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2006, in the chapel of the Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville. A service was also held at 3 p.m. on Friday, November 10 at the New Tabor Brethren Church.

Burial followed in the New Tabor Church Cemetery.

Mrs. Hyvl died Tuesday, November 7, 2006. She was born March 24, 1924, in Burleson County.

She was a member of the New Tabor Brethren Church, the New Tabor Brethren Church Christian Sisters, and SPJST Lodge 9, Snook.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie Hyvl; and daughter, Evelyn Hyvl.

Survivors include sons, Marvin Hyvl and wife Sara, Raymond Hyvl, James Hyvl and wife Carolyn, and Alton Hyvl and wife Naomi; sisters, Annie Johnson and Lydia Bolton; special niece Ramona Hyvl and sons; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made online at www.shmfh.com.

Funeral arrangements were by Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville.

May our departed sister rest in peace.

Resolution Committee Ann Schoeneman Maude Jakubik —SPJST—

In Memory of Robert Kieschnick Robert Kieschnick, 62, passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2006. Mr. Kieschnick was a lifelong member of Messiah Lutheran Church; a member of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston; and he was retired after 36 years of service with Hahn and Clay.

He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert Kieschnick.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 40 years, Mary Ann; mother, Alene Kieschnick; sons, Curtis and wife Connie, Keith and wife Amy; grandchildren, Chasity, Kaylee, Karley, Dylan, and Paige; brother, Donald and wife Grace; nephew, Byron and wife Andrea and their daughter Trinity; and numerous other relatives and friends.

The family received friends at Pat H. Foley from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 14 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Houston with Pastor Richard Schuller officiating. Interment followed at Trinity Klein Lutheran Cemetery.

—SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek No. 4, Hallettsville, Texas, on behalf of our entire membership wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed lodge sister, BENITA MARIE PAVLU, of Hallettsville, who passed away on Monday, November 27, 2006, at the

VĚSTNÍK age of 91 years. She was born on January 11, 1915, in Shiner to O.S.T. and Annie Janisch Meyer. On June 14, 1937, she married Joseph Frank Pavlu at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville.

Benita was a member of Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, State President of the Board of KJZT for 29 years and Chairman of the Board of KJZT for six years. She was also a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters of America.

Several nieces and nephews survive her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Frank Pavlu on April 30, 2002; her parents; and an infant son, Joseph Dean Pavlu.

Visitation began at noon Wednesday, November 29 at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville.

Rosary was recited at 7 p.m.

Wednesday at Kubena Funeral Home and at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, November 30 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville.

Services were held at 10 a.m.

Thursday, November 30 at Sacred Heart Church.

Bishop David Fellhauer and Reverend John Peters officiated. Burial followed in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. Pallbearers were Knights of the Holy Sepulcher.

Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Sacred Heart School.

May our departed sister rest in eternal peace.

Resolution Committee Gayenell Chudej Victoria Zak Kathryn Woytek —SPJST—

Wednesday, December 20, 2006 High School in 1941 and was a member of the Class of ‘41’s reunion committee since 1991.

Katherine married Alton L. Wokaty on April 22, 1950. He died January 15, 1999.

Her working career included Slavik & Slavik, CPA and three freight lines as a rate clerk. She had served as Secretary/Treasurer of Victoria County REACT; financial secretary for SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria; President of SPJST District Six; State Publicity Chairman and Reporter of the Czech Heritage Society of Texas; and was a charter member and reporter of the Victoria County Czech Heritage Society.

Katherine had also served as chairman of the Lesikar–Shiller Reunion for two years; was responsible for erecting historical markers in the New Ulm Cemetery in Austin County and in the Shillerville Cemetery in Victoria County; and was president of the Shillerville Cemetery Association for 10 years. She wrote and published the book “The Shillerville Story, the Czech Community of Victoria County,” a concise history of 21 families who were friends and neighbors of her great-grandfather, Josef H. Shiller. She was working on a second book, “Frantisek Silar, Historian & Poet” at the time of her death.

She is survived by son David Glenn Wokaty and many cousins.

A memorial service was officiated

by Deacon Dick Wearden at Grace Funeral Home on December 1. A private burial will take place on a later date at Shillerville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Victoria Czech Heritage Society Museum Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1145, Victoria, Texas 77902.

—SPJST—

Youth Letters Section

17

The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to: SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 774-7447 Email: melaniez@vvm.com Questions?

Call (800) 727-7578

Lodge 24, Cyclone Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club youth enjoys meets at lock-in district lock-in Dear Readers, Our November youth club meeting of Lodge 24, Cyclone Youth Club was held November 11, 2006, at the Wilson Recreation Center in Temple, with the District Two Lock-In. We had a short meeting, and most of the members stayed at the lock-in where they enjoyed games such as foosball, pool, and basketball. Some stayed up all night! Thanks, Patsy, and all your helpers for the snacks, drinks, and fun!

Fraternally, Sam Vanicek, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Welcomes New Youth Club Members

Dear Readers, I attended the District Two Lock-In on November 11, 2006, at the Wilson Recreation Center. I brought a few of my cousins along who were visiting, and we had a lot of fun playing foosball together in the game room. We also enjoyed snacks, furnished by District Two, like cupcakes and chips.

My cousins and I didn’t stay the whole night, but we still had a great time at this fun annual youth event!

Fraternally yours, Stephanie Vanicek, President —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone Welcomes New Youth Club Member

In Memory of Katherine Wokaty Katherine Mary Whittington Wokaty died November 21, 2006, in Victoria at the age of 82.

She was born October 13, 1924, in San Antonio to the late Archie L. and Annie Hosek Whittington.

Katherine and her Katherine Wokaty mother moved to Victoria when she was less than five months old. Her mother, known as “Mrs. Annie”, was a member of one of Victoria’s earliest Czech families.

She graduated from Patti Welder

TY STOCK MORGAN, DEREK, RAIVEN AND MARISSA JACKSON Lodge 6, Cottonwood welcomes Morgan, Derek, Raiven, and Marissa Jackson to the youth club. Their grandmother, Mary Karlik, introduced them to SPJST. The sales agent is Lydia Dobecka.

—SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone welcomes Ty Stock, age five, to the youth club. He is the son of Misty and Jason Stock. Ty loves sports and the outdoors. He attends Westphalia ISD where he is in kindergarten.

Ty played summer tee-ball in Rosebud and will play basketball with Ralph Wilson Youth Club at the beginning of 2007.

—SPJST—

18

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club reports on December meeting The December 10, 2006, meeting of SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club was held at the Taiton Community Center at 11 a.m. in conjunction with the Christmas social.

The meeting was called to order by President Jarrett Dluhos.

Ryan Drapela led the Pledge of Allegiance, SPJST Motto, and prayer.

The roll of officers and members was called by Secretary Danielle Zalman.

District Six Youth Counselor Marcy Dorotik and SPJST Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek were introduced as guests at the meeting.

Secretary Danielle Zalman read the November meeting minutes. The minutes were approved as read. A thank you note from the Yates family was read by President Dluhos. The note thanked the club for everything that it has done. Treasurer Kenna Bubela gave the treasurer’s report.

The dues report was given by Assistant Treasurer Steven Drapela.

Under old business, members were reminded that funds for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive will be collected by our lodge in January, 2007. Thank yous were given to all who helped with the highway cleanup project and bluebonnet seed planting. The SPJST Christmas open house will be held on Sunday, December 17 at the Azalee Marshall Cultural Center. A thank you was given to the youth club by the Pfeil family for the table centerpieces that were donated to the Citywide Thanksgiving Dinner.

Under new business, members

VĚSTNÍK Attention SPJST Members in Kindergarten to High School Senior!

Put your creativity to work and enter the

2007 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 tee-shirts.

Who can enter?

SPJST youth members in kindergarten to high school senior.

2007 Theme

“SPJST - Rockin ‘07”

Awards

The Rules

Create a tee-shirt design relating to the 2007 theme: “SPJST— Rockin ‘07” Submit entry, using only a black pen or a black marker, on an official entry form (available from SPJST Youth Leaders or the State Youth Director) or draw your design on an 8 1/2” by 11” sheet of plain, white paper. Designs drawn with anything other than a black pen or black marker or designs that are colored will be disqualified.

Entries must be freehand originals created by the youth member.

Grand Prize $100 Wal-Mart Gift Card and winning design on the 2007 SPJST Camp Tee Shirts

Entries become the property of SPJST and will not be returned.

Runner-Up Prizes Ages K to 8 $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card Ages 9 to 11 $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card Ages 12 to 14 $75 Wal-Mart Gift Card Ages 15 to High School Senior $75 Wal-mart Gift Card

Entries should be simple in design and easy to reproduce on a tee-shirt.

Grand prize winner may not enter the contest for one year following winning.

Entry Deadline

Entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2007.

Participation Awards All participants will receive a participation certificate and 20 merit points

Got Questions Need an Entry Form?

Judging

Designs will be judged by a panel of art specialists from the SPJST. Judging is based on the design’s overall appearance and appeal, creativity and originality, and ability to reproduce on a tee-shirt.

Contact the Office of the State Youth Director at (800) 7277578, or (254) 773-1575 or via email johnh@spjst.com

Good Luck!

Entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2007.

Mail entries to:

SPJST Camp Tee-Shirt Design Contest c/o SPJST Home Office P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 were reminded that the camp tee-shirt forms are due on January 31. DYC Marcy Dorotik encouraged all members to enter the contest. She also reported on the new camp that the district will be attending this summer on the weekend of June 22 to 24, 2007.

She showed pictures of the camp and explained the amenities. LIT camp will be at the Hamman Ranch in Bandera the first weekend of June.

State YAD this coming year will be held in Killeen instead of Temple.

Jessica Fucik was the December birthday celebrant. Instead of poems, the youth club members sang Christmas carols. Door prizes were exchanged.

Next Meeting—January 7 The next meeting will be held on January 7, 2007, at the Taiton

Lodge 25, Ennis youth give to children’s home Dear Readers, I hope you had a great year. I know I did.

A while back, my sister Hanna and I took a lot of clothes that we didn’t want or that didn’t fit us anymore to the Children’s Medina Home Collection Box. We try to go through our stuff at least twice a year to help out those in need. I like doing that; it makes me feel good. I hope it helps out the people who receive the items.

Today, we had our Christmas party at the hall. It was a lot of fun. We ate snacks and played games. Rita told us stories about Christmas tradition and Svaty Mikulas (Czech Santa). But before we went to the hall, we all met at the nursing home and sang Christmas carols and handed out Christmas trees and angels that we handmade. The people there loved it. I think some followed us through the hall and told us to come back and see them. That was a lot of fun, too.

Everyone, have a great Christmas and a safe New Year.

Hayley Slovak, age 6 —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Celebrates Christmas Sunday, December 10, 2006 • Seaton Star Hall

LEFT PHOTO: District Two Beseda Dancers and Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members join in singing Christmas songs before Santa Claus visits.

RIGHT PHOTO: Youth members share their Christmas wishes with Santa at the Lodge 47 Christmas party.

Hanna and Hayley Slovak give to Medina’s Children Home.

VĚSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Community Center at 2 p.m. The craft will be a winter picture. The charity will be clothing or used bedding for the Blessing Cup. After the meeting was adjourned, the members opened their Christmas gifts.

Fraternally, Stephanie Fucik, 15 Reporter —SPJST—

19

Christmas Scramble

Lodge 89, Rosebud Youth Club meets December 22 Dear Lodge 89, Rosebud Youth Club, Our next meeting will be on Friday, December 22. We will be going to the movies in Temple, then we will eat pizza. This will also be our Christmas party.

Fraternally yours, Mandy Baker, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 107, Floresville Youth Club Plays Miniature Golf Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 107, Floresville Youth Club held its youth outing on Sunday, November 19, 2006, at Green Acres.

It is a cool place, and I would recommend visiting this park. Inside, there

are a lot of video games, a snack bar, and party rooms. Outside, there are two miniature golf courses, water bumper boats, water balloon fights, and a trampoline “thing.”

My family and I played video

games while we waited for the rest of the group to arrive. Once everyone arrived, it was off to play miniature golf. It looked so easy until it was my turn. This was my first time to play miniature golf, but I had a blast. I

hope we can go back to Green Acres in the spring and check out the other rides.

Fraternally, Ryan Henke, age 6 —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Josh, Steven, and Lian on the miniature golf course. CENTER PHOTO: Jolene, Connie Jo, and Ciera play

a round of miniature golf. RIGHT PHOTO: Travis tries for a hole-inone as Connie Jo and Jolene show their support.

LEFT PHOTO: David aims for a hole-in-one. CENTER PHOTO: Doug, Brooke, and Ryan enjoy a round of miniature golf. RIGHT PHOTO:

Having fun in the sun and playing golf are, left to right, Roxanne, Oscar, Stacey, Hope, and Brandon.

20

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

VĚSTNÍK

Podpora

BENEVOLENCE

#

Lidskost HUMANITY

Česká

#

Bratrstvi BROTHERHOOD

Část

Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas

ROCNIK 94 CISLO 50

Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech Lekce jedenatřicátá Lesson 31 Pokračovaní.

Continued from Czech Lesson 30 Spelling and Punctuation In today’s lesson, we are repeating part of a previous lesson relating to correct Czech spelling and punctuation. The items touched on concern some of the most often-made mistakes by some of our Czech correspondents. Therefore, we feel it bears repeating.

Zde opakujeme lekce z minulého čísla týkajc se dělení vět a pravopisu.

Týká se to chyb, které se nejčastěji dělají českými dopisovateli. Proto, věříme, že to stojí za opakování.

* * * * * Use of Capital Letters There is a difference in the usage of capital letters in Czech and English. Capitals are not used for emphasis or for news headlines in Czech.

On the whole, the use of capital letters is rather restricted in Czech.

Uředni orgán SPJST # Založené rok 1897

Example: Karel Dvořák, Wilsonovo nádraží, Dunaj, Angličan, Čechy, Smetanová opera, “Prodaná nevešta”, etc., and Naše římsko-katolická církev; Veliká slovanská podpurna jednota.

* * * * *

Here are other important points in spelling:

Vy, Vám, Váš Ty, Tvůj, Tobě

Pronouns and possessive adjectives of the polite/formal usage are capitalized as are those of the familiar/informal usage:

The latter are always in caps. The polite form is capitalized only when referring to one person. If you are referring to a group (plural), then the pronouns are not capitalized.

Texa-Slovakia

By David Knape of Lodge 187, Round Rock A new land called from over the sea they had to escape the old tyranny They sailed in small ships in seas rough and deep to land in Texas, give thanks, and weep Giving up all they owned to forge a new way build a better tomorrow and start a new day From Cat Spring to Praha from east to West From Fayetteville to Flatonia they came with a zest The sons of Slavs a resolute race they made the prairie produce a beautiful place

Example: Yesterday was Wednesday, July 14, 1968.

Včera byla středa 14. července 1968.

they settled on scrubland the hard blackland clay and worked daylight to dark to make it pay

Consequently, days of the week and month are not capitalized. Note also that a simple period is used after the date.

Proper nouns, that is, names of persons, places, things, nations, etc. (but not religious bodies or organizations), titles of books, films, etc. take capitals.

They harnessed their mules and tilled the tough soil grew cotton and corn then cattle and oil They cleared the green Cedars and the pesky Mesquite built tight “bobwire” fences plowed rows nice and neat

20.prosinec 2006

And now . . .

These Slavics still serve you pork sausage and bread “Homemade” is the best it’s frequently said and Kolaches and coffee make a delicious dessert you’ll loosen your belt unbutton your shirt and rather than beans with rice and tamales they’ll bring you a plate of hot kobzale They pride themseles on work and land they’ll wish you godspeed with a “S’panem bohem” They love their big families and their toe-tappin’ songs and if you can’t polka you just won’t last long They sing, they waltz, they drink Shiner beer with a “Jak se mas” you’re all welcome here You can hear their loud laughing from down at the hall it’s those crazy “Bohemians” just havin’ a ball And when the accordian fades and the sausage is gone TexaSlovakians remain there’s still more to come!

—SPJST—

A common error is made when the formal Vy, Vám, Váš are used with a plural verb, although only one person is being addressed. Do not use a plural verb unless you are speaking to more than one person.

Example - Wrong: Vy (one person) jste včera jeli do města.

* * * * *

Czec h Cultural Calendar Each Tuesday Evening Czech Language Class (extemporaneous)—at S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home, No. 1, Taylor, 500 East Lake Drive in Taylor, 6:30 to approximately 8:30 p.m. Informal gathering for the purpose of listening to Czech, and reading and speaking Czech.

January 27, 2007 Texas Czech Genealogical Society Annual Membership Meeting/Luncheon. For details on any TCGS event or project, please contact Charlene Hurta, 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515; (979) 849-0348; or email fhurta@brazosport.edu.

February 28 Scholarship Application Deadline for the Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship. Send your application to The Czech Heritage Society of Texas, Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship, 4117 Willowbend, Houston, Texas 77025. For more information, contact CHS Trustee Patricia Parma, 3311 Carolina Way, Richmond, Texas 77469; or via phone (281) 342-4898.

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

The pronoun já is not capitalized: neither do we capitalize adjectives and adverbs indicating nationality.

However, this is done in English.

TCHCC 2007 calendars available

Example: Mám českou ženu.–I have a Czech wife.

Mluvíme česky.–We speak Czech.

* * * * * Punctuation marks are the same in Czech as in English: (See also Czech Lesson 5.)

One of the vintage photos in the 2007 Texas Czech Hertiage and Cultural Center calendar is Josef Cervenka on a 1918 Avary tractor.

The photo was taken near Fayetteville in 1919. (Photo courtesy of L. R. Cervenka)

tečka (.) vykřičník (!) čárka (,) uvozovací středník (;) znaménka (“ ”) dvojtečka (:) závorky ( ) pomlčka (—) rozdělovací otazník (?) znaménko (-)

not inverted, and are inverted at the end of the quotation. In the United States, standard English quotation marks (“ ”) are used.

One big difference in English and Czech punctuation has to do with the use of commas. Commas are used before and after a relative clause: Example: Ztratil jsem knihu, kterou mí dál.

— before and after a noun clause: Je dobře, že tomu rozumíš

The 2007 Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center calendars are available for purchase and make great gifts that last all year long. Featuring old farm equipment and farming scenes throughout, the calendars offer another collection of vintage photographs depicting the lifestyle of Texas Czechs. You will find recipes, Czech proverbs, and phrases. Also included are the dates of festivals, events and meetings in the Czech communities around the state. Those who collect the annual calendars for their keepsake memorabilia are sure to enjoy yet another unique and historical calendar.

For ordering information, call tollfree (888) 785-4500 or email czech@cvtv.net.

—SPJST—

Example: Otec řekl synovi: “Pracuj a uč se!”

clause:

* * * * *

Všechen cukr. všechna káva.

— before and after an adverbial clause: Jakmile mě uviděl, šel pryč.

—SPJST—

CUBA & CUBA, P.L.C. Attorneys & Counselors at Law • •

* * * * * Finally, quotation marks are always preceded by a colon. In Czech, the first quotation marks are on the line,

• • •

ESTATE PLANNING • WILLS • TRUSTS • PROBATE REAL ESTATE • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • FARM AND RANCH • MORTGAGES • LAND USE • EMINENT DOMAIN CONTRACTS • LEASES • FRANCHISES • BUSINESS SALES AND ACQUISITIONS CORPORATION • PARTNERSHIP • LLC INSURANCE CLAIMS • TRIAL • MEDIATION

(254) 778-1824 BENJAMIN J. CUBA COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501

— before and after an adjective Associated with the

Texas Czech Heritage Cultural Center La Grange, Texas

2007 Fund-Raiser • Sunday, April 1

Bobby Jones Czech Band Jodie Mikula Orchestra Music and Dancing 1 to 7 p.m. in Roundup Hall Fayette County Fairgrounds in La Grange Highway 77 North Split-the-Pot • Door Prizes Hamburgers available.

Silent auction 1 to 6 p.m.

Limited live auction 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Admission donation $10 per person Live auction items accepted til March 31 Silent auction items acceoted that day.

Bar will be open.

For information, call: Glen Chervenka (979) 255-5006 Herb Schneider (281) 807-3244 Mark Hermes (361) 772-4619

21

New Year’s Eve Dance Sunday, December 31, 2006

New Year’s Eve Dance Sunday, December 31, 2006

SPJST Lodge 47

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis

Seaton Star Hall

1901 East Highway 34 • Ennis, Texas

5 miles east of Temple on Highway 53

Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five 8 p.m. to 12 midnight Doors open at 5 p.m.

Admission: $10 per person Black-Eyed Peas and Coffee Served at Midnight

8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

Music by the Jak Se Do Band and Ennis Czech Boys Band Admission: $10 per person Kitchen will be open Black-Eyed Peas and Corn Bread at Midnight

22

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Fraternal Activities and Entertainment 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 directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX listings to: (254) 774-7447. Email listings to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $3 per column inch for lodge ads and $10 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at (800) 727-7578 or email melaniez@vvm.com.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Monday of February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. followed by a potluck meal. The Christmas party is on the first Sunday of December. The youth club meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

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

LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA Lodge meetings are held the first Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at the PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty Street, Pilot Point, Texas 76258. The Community Center is on the same parking lot as PointBank. For directions or information about meetings, Ms. Angie Heitzman (940) 437-5561; or Jack and Dean Carender (903) 564-7359.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. For information regarding scheduling events at Lodge 6, call George Straten (254) 826-5863.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR Lodge meetings are the fourth Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Weimar.

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 13, Dime Box adult meetings are the second Sunday of the month at 5 p.m. Youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 1 p.m.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Refreshments served after meeting. Club dances are the second Sunday of each month. For hall rental information, call (254) 593-2222.

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 Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Vrazels, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. $10 p/p.

Black-eyed peas, corn bread, sausage and coffee served after the dance. No reservations.

Lodge hall is located at 702 Highway 95 North, Elgin. Adult lodge meetings are the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.; youth club meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. unless otherwise stated. For all Lodge 18, Elgin hall rentals, please call Irene Helgren (512) 281-4534. For band bookings, call Artie Monson (512) 281-3711. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility.

LODGE 20, GRANGER Meetings are the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited.

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 Saturday, December 23—Private Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: South Bound featuring Justin Cole Psencik Adult lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.; dinner/social begins at 6:30 p.m. Youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Flag Hall is located 10 miles east of Temple, off Highway 53. For more information regarding hall bookings/rentals, please call Hall Manager Wilbert Mikeska (254) 985-2484.

LODGE 25, ENNIS Saturday, December 23—Dining room rental Sunday, December 24—Dining room rental Monday, December 25—Dining room rental Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Jak Se Do and Ennis Czech Boys, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. See advertisement on page 21 for more information.

Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Game room open every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. For rentals, reservations, or more information, call the hall (972) 875-8381 and leave a message.

LODGE 26, SKIDMORE Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD The remaining regular lodge meetings in 2006 will be held at 1 p.m. with the exception of those meetings that are special—times will be announced on those. Meetings are held at the Wharton County Library, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR Friday, December 22—Edward Kopecky’s Czech Band Wednesday, December 27—Bobby Jay Five Band Friday, December 29—Earl Beatty Band Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Bobby Jay Five Band. No admission charge.

Monthly meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Music on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays begins at 7:30 p.m. Free admission. On Fridays, delicious old-fashioned hamburgers are served.

For rental information, call the lodge hall (512) 352-9139. The hall is located at 5025 FM 619.

VĚSTNÍK North Laurent in Victoria at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact Franklin or Lois Elles (361) 575-6712. The youth club meets the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Henrietta Yates (361) 578-5543.

LODGE 35, ELK Saturday, December 23—Shane Howard Band Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Heart of Texas Road Gang Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m., unless otherwise noted. To hall: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take the Highway 84 East exit. Stay on Highway 84 East through Bellmead and go approximately 8 miles.

On the right side of Highway 84 will be a sign saying “Elk”. Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road and go approximately one mile and the road will dead end. Take a right at the dead end and go approximately 1/2 mile. Lodge 35 is on the left side of the road. The hall is open for rent every day of the week. For rental information, call (254) 875-2156.

LODGE 51, ELLINGER Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at the Ellinger Fire Department.

LODGE 54, WEST Lodge meetings are the first Friday in March, June, and November and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. For information regarding hall rentals for weddings anniversaries, birthdays or reunions call (254) 826-5990 (night); or (254) 826-5343 (day).

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

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

LODGE 66, WACO Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. Youth club meetings at 2 p.m.

LODGE 38, KOVAR Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG Lodge meetings are the fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 3 p.m.

LODGE 39, BRYAN Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month starting at 1 p.m. Lunch is served at 12:30 p.m. followed by the adult and youth club meetings at 1 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items are provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Also, visitors are always welcome.

For information, call President Wade O’Shields (979) 778-1450. For information on lodge activities, call FAC Dianna Everett (979) 693-5287. Any questions or assistance with insurance certificates, call Secretary Lillie Matejka O’Shields (979) 778-1450. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Binnie Roesler (979) 272-1216.

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 12 p.m.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE Monday, December 25—No bingo

LODGE 80, HOLLAND Lodge meetings are the first Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. Youth club meetings are the first Saturday of the month at 3 p.m. Board of directors meetings are the first Saturday of the month at 3:30 p.m. Bingo every Thursday at 7 p.m. Permit No. SP1-74615-1395-8; AL-000619887-0. For hall rentals, call Linda Hill (254) 657-2295; or the lodge hall (254) 657-2485.

Lodge meetings are held the second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Youth club meets the same day at 1:15 p.m. at the lodge hall, located just off US 59 South in Hillje. Members and guests are welcome. Bingo is played on Monday nights at 7 p.m. Every week - $650 jackpot! Every second Monday is $100 game night. License #17600539641. For hall bookings, please call Rental Chairman Tria Svatek (979) 543-3044; or (979) 648-2317/lodge hall.

LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of March and June; and on the second Sunday of September, and December at 1 p.m.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI SPJST lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month, unless otherwise notified. Meal served at 1 p.m. and the meeting follows.

Visitors welcome. Hall location: 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Hall phone (361) 8548423.

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. Luncheon served at noon, and the meeting follows.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA Lodge meetings are held quarterly on the fourth Monday of January, April, July, and October at the Six Mile Presbyterian Church on Royal Road, 7 p.m.

LODGE 84, DALLAS Tuesday, January 16, 2007—Fellowship Day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

LODGE 47, SEATON Saturday, December 23—Open Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five, 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. See advertisement on page 21 for more information.

Fellowship Day is held the third Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the lodge hall.

Lodge meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the hall - 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. For band bookings, call Cherri Petr (214) 352-4397; or Ben Jarma (214) 3481514. For rentals, call Bessie Petr (214) 8263557.

Seaton Star Hall is located five miles east of Temple on Highway 53. Lodge meetings are the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Saturday night dance time is from 7 to 11 p.m. Hall opens at 6 p.m. Hall phone (254) 985-2548. For rentals, please contact Edwin Pechal (254) 9852282; or (254) 984-2255. Star Hall is a nonsmoking facility.

LODGE 87, TEMPLE Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For rental information, call Bertha Capps (254) 778-4371/shop; or (254) 773-6164 /home.

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

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. Lodge 48, Beyersville holds ladies Bunco night on the second Tuesday of each month. A light meal is served at 6:30 p.m. followed by Bunco games then wrapping up with the distribution of prizes, and eating desserts.

Hall is located at 10450 FM 619 - four miles southeast of Taylor. For hall rentals, please call Bonnie Wolf (512) 365-3733.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA Lodge meetings are held at on the second Thursday of each month in its building at 3502

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

LODGE 88, HOUSTON Saturday, December 23—Christmas Dance: Mark Halata and Texavia, polka/variety. $7 per person Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Gary Henneke (formerly Gus Lindemann), big band music. *Dress Code.

8:30 p.m. to midnight.

Lodge meetings are the second Monday at 7:30 p.m. Youth club meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., unless otherwise notified.

All dances are 8:30 p.m. to midnight, unless otherwise noted. *Dress code dances: evening attire, ladies, and gentlemen. Bingo every Thursday evening; early bird special starts at

VĚSTNÍK 7:15 p.m. Regular games start at 7:45 p.m.

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

LODGE 89, ROSEBUD Lodge meetings are the third Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. Youth meetings are also on the third Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. unless otherwise announced.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006 LODGE 139, DANBURY Lodge meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Danbury City Hall. For information, call (979) 922-1279 or (979) 9221553.

LODGE 141, SEALY Please Note: Meetings in 2007 will continue at Gordon Memorial Library.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY Lodge meetings will start at 7 p.m., and trustees’ meetings will start at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Youth club meeting dates are held the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Bingo every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Permit No. 174-18-083907.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the kitchen is open.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON Lodge meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Lions Club Building in Carmine, 201 Centennial Street.

LODGE 91, CROSBY Lodge meetings are quarterly. March and June meetings will be on the second Saturday of the month at the Crosby Community Center at 11 a.m. or as otherwise specified. September and December meetings will be held at a restaurant.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON 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 weddings or parties, call (713) 8626291 after 4 p.m.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH Friday, December 22—Christmas Dance: Ron Martin Orchestra Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Charlie Patteson. Advance tickets are on sale now. Call Joyce (817) 624-1361.

Sunday, January 7—Randy and the 92nd Roadhouse Band, C/W. 3 to 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 18—Valentine Dance: Mikula’s of Ennis, 3 to 6 p.m.

LODGE 143, INEZ Lodge meetings are the third Friday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m.

LODGE 180, BURLESON Lodge hall is located on I-35W, 1.5 miles south of Renfro Street in Burleson. Lodge meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. For hall rentals, call (972) 435-2286; (817) 558-2400; or (817) 295-3483.

LODGE 148, EL MATON Monthly lodge meeting is the last Sunday of the month at the Blessing Volunteer Fire Department. Meeting starts at 2 p.m.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY Lodge meetings are held the fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. fourth Sunday of each month at Treat Repair in Chilton.

LODGE 151, WHARTON The quarterly lodge meetings will be held on the second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 7 p.m., in the meeting room of Hinze’s Bar-B-Que Catering, Highway 59, Wharton, Texas.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506.

For information regarding hall rentals—weddings, anniversaries, birthdays—call (817) 4658538; or (972) 263-9031.

Lodge 92 membership meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., or as otherwise specified. The youth club meets on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Family Night— first and third Tuesdays. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month.

Country/western dancing on the first Sunday and polka/waltz dancing as announced. Big band sound ballroom dancing on Friday nights 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Dress code required for ballroom dances. Listen to KNON 89.3 FM on Sunday at 2 p.m. for up-to-date announcements. Tune in to KAAM 770 AM for some easy listening music. To reserve for large parties celebrating weddings, anniversaries, or other special events, call early (817) 624-1361/ Joyce.

SPJST Lodge 92/National Hall is located at 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76114. Visit www.nationalhallspjst92.org.

LODGE 93, HOBSON Lodge meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at Polak’s between Karnes City and Kenedy. Contact E.R. Prasek for information (830) 780-2191.

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

LODGE 97, PLACEDO Adult lodge meetings are held in March, June, September, and December. Youth club meetings are the first Sunday of every month at Casa Ole in Victoria Mall at 3 p.m., excluding months where they are quarterly adult lodge meetings.

To verify the meeting, call Youth Leader Donna Vanek (361) 573-6771.

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, 7:30 p.m.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 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, 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, 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 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 Sundays.

Contact Secretary Ginny Prasatik (512) 4721721 for meeting location, date, and time.

LODGE 156, BAYTOWN Lodge meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, call (281) 422-9611; or (281) 5731612.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK Lodge meetings are held on the second Sunday of every other month at 1 p.m.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO Lodge meetings are the second Sunday in April, July, October, and January at 2 p.m.

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

LODGE 169, BRENHAM Lodge meetings are held the fourth Tuesday in February, April, June, August, and October at 7 p.m. The first Sunday of December will be the Christmas dinner and officer elections. The meetings will be held at Bilski’s Camphouse, 2577 Old Chappell Hill Road, Brenham, Texas.

For information, contact President Annette Bilski (979) 830-3930; Vice President/FAC Johnnie Haak (979) 826-2028; Secretary Steven Bliznak (979) 836-9875; Treasurer/Financial Secretary Glenda Weyand (979) 451-3231; or Reporter Leroy Kamas (979) 836-8179.

LODGE 172, PASADENA Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Texas Roadrunners Lodge hall is located at 3609 Preston.

Executive board and trustees meet on the first Monday of each month at 12 noon. Regular lodge meeting is held on the fourth Sunday of each month at 2 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

Dances are held on the first Saturday of the month. Dance hours: 8 p.m. to 12 midnight.

Admission is $6 per person. The hall is available for rentals the rest of the month. For information regarding hall rentals for birthdays, retirement parties, Christmas parties, wedding receptions, etc, call Vicki (281) 542-1774. For dance reservations, call Karen (713) 946-4576.

Lodge phone: (281) 487-3297. Lodge 172 is a non-smoking facility.

LODGE 184, MOULTON Lodge monthly meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS Lodge meetings are the third Thursday of February, April, June, August, October, and December.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL Youth club meetings are on the first Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the lodge hall unless otherwise announced. Lodge meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Social games are at 7:30 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Kitchen and bar open. License Permit No. 1-74-2073309541002 LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK Lodge meeting and program are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. followed by a covered dish meal. Board meeting, 2 p.m.; entertainment, 2:30 p.m. Domino players meet the second Tuesday of each month 1 to 4 p.m.

For information regarding building rentals, call (512) 255-1554 or (512) 771-4948.

LODGE 189 BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION Lodge meetings will be held on the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. Unless otherwise notified, lodge meetings are held in Charles Munday’s office, 2403 Cavitt, Bryan, Texas (behind the Bryan Kroger’s).

LODGE 191, LUFKIN Business meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m., at the lodge hall located at 197 Hughes Road. Regular dances are on the third Saturday night of each month from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. For lodge rentals, call Helen Boyd (936) 632-2849. For dance reservations, call Marilynn Page (936) 632-1124.

LODGE 195, CLEBURNE Lodge meetings are the first Thursday of March, June, September, and December, 7 p.m.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month and begin with a potluck meal served at 2 p.m. Lodge provides the meat. Youth club meetings are held at 1 p.m. on the second Sunday. Activities are planned for ages kindergarten through high school senior. Hall address: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress, Texas, 77429 — off Highway 290 West at Skinner. The hall is available to rent for meetings, weddings, retirements, reunions, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, or any other event. Call Alma

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Schulz (281) 351-1045 or (281) 373-9482 for information, rentals, or reservations.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY Lodge meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE Lodge meetings are the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. For hall rentals, contact James Balke (979) 830-0796; or (979) 830-0118.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON Lodge 202, Jourdanton meetings are the first Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m., at the Jourdanton Community Center except the meal/meetings in March, June, September, December which will be at 1 p.m. The youth club meets the same day.

LODGE 204, STEPHENVILLE Lodge meetings are the third Sunday of the month, 3 p.m. at the Koffee Kup Restaurant in Hico, Texas. Members are urged to attend, and anyone belonging to other lodges in driving distance are welcome. Bring a guest, and maybe we can make a member out of him/her.

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

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS Meetings are held every third Saturday of January, March, May, July, and September at the Senior Citizens Building in Tahoka, 6 p.m.

Youth club meets at the same time.

LODGE 223, PALACIOS Lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at the Palacios Eagles Lodge at 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 229, ABILENE Lodge meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at 317 North Willis, Suite 6, in Abilene. For information, contact (325) 676-5510.

LODGE 230, MIDLAND For lodge meeting information, contact Reporter Gladys Qualls (432) 934-7927.

LODGE 239, HONDO Lodge meetings are held every third Friday of the month, 7 p.m. at the Community Center on 18th Street. For information, contact President Sean Young (830) 426-1531.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT Lodge and youth club meetings are the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Lone Star Banquet Hall, located at 1695 Morgan’s Point Road, Belton, Texas 76513. For information, call FAC David Nauert (254) 534-0809 or Youth Leader Bob Hagen (254) 780-3150.

LODGE 247, SAN MARCOS Lodge meetings are held the first Sunday of each month for October, November, and December at 3 p.m. For location directions, call your agent or Art Lopez, Sr. (512) 787-3384; or Patricia Garcia (512) 787-5449.

LODGE 251, PEARSALL Lodge 251 adult and youth club meetings are the second Saturday of each month, unless otherwise posted.

LODGE 258, SEGUIN Meetings are held the fourth Sunday of each month. Meetings in May and November are held the third Sunday. Meetings begin at 3 p.m. with a social followed by the meeting at 4 p.m.

Dinner is served after the meeting. The youth club meetings are on the same dates and begin at 3:15 p.m. Meetings are held at the Alumni Student Center, Conference Rooms A and B, on the Texas Lutheran Campus. Meetings in May and September will be in Starke Park in Seguin.

Contact President Chester Jenke, Sr. or Treasurer Colleen Jenke for more information (830) 303-4316.

—SPJST—

Donnie Victorick Bobby Wuensche Johnnie Krizan Billy Rollwitz Larry W. Pflughaupt Michael Ahlstrom Robert (Bob) Bayer

Wherever you spend your holiday, may it leave you joyous and filled with laughter!

We truly appreciate your visiting us this past year.

Merry Christmas to all our good friends and members from the SPJST Supreme Lodge, Vestnik Editor, and Home Office Staff.

Brian Vanicek Peggy Sue Chastain Sandra Dubcak Douglas Galler Ruth Hanusch John Hoelscher Chester Jenke Tammy Martinez Dorothy Pechal Gene McBride Karen Franklin Kathy Fritz Cynthia Hutka Faith Koliha Doni Powell Susan Shofner Doris Tyroch Jim Wiest Donica Zabcik Bill Orsak Zachary Kramer Philip McBee Charles Lindley Eddie Jelinek Karen Kaspar Hector Garcia Lanita Anglin Peggy Brewer Margaret Campbell Janie Coakley Rudy Constancio Laurie Cook Ann Paruzinski Marissa Salinas Margaret Santana Dorothy Tomasek Jerry Mikulas Lori Coots Debbie Dohnalik Linda Johnson Lisa Kirby Sue Moore Dorothy Stuchly Drew Popelka Debbie Klinkovsky Melanie Zavodny Lisa Greger Katherine Morris Smith