Vestnik 2014 12 31

Volume 102 Number 51

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

ISSN —07458800

★ Brotherhood

December 31, 2014

SPJST Scholarship Applications Available September through January Applications and all required information must be submitted to the Home Office Fraternal Department and postmarked no later than January 31, 2015.

To receive a General Scholarship Application and/or *Leadership Grant Application, please call the SPJST Home Office Fraternal Department at (800) 727-7578 or download an application at www.spjst.org.

2014-2015 SPJST State Queen Denae Bronikowski of Lodge 88, Houston describes her role as State Queen during a live interview on Lone Star Internet Radio at the Conroe Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2014.

More on page 15.

Lodge 91, San Jacinto Remembers, Assists Furry Friends During Holidays

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Readers Write ......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 January Fraternal Updates .................4 Lodge Section......................................6 In Memoriam ......................................13

Lodge 91, San Jacinto volunteers braved the cold weather at Crosby Walmart on December 20, 2014, and collected pet food donations for area shelters and rescue groups. “One person drove up with a full truckload of food and litter,” Cynthia Wotipka Boland said. “It was awesome!”

Pictured are, left to right, Malba Smesny, Robert Smesny, and Will Locke. The next donation dates will be Saturday, February 14, 2015, and Friday, April 3 at Crosby Walmart. Any and all donations are appreciated, and the lodge is seeking to recruit a few more volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering or for more information about the project, please call Lodge 91 Secretary Vonda Smesny at (713) 870-7114.

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Youth Section ....................................15 January Youth Updates ....................15 Vestnik Project...................................16 Czech Culture ....................................19 Advertisements .................................21 Lodge Calendar .................................22

Page 12

Lodge 151 Wharton honors longtime members

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Lodge 48 Beyersville Youth Club presents Christmas program

Page 19

Lodge 133 San Antonio member: Christmas in Czech Republic

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Editor’s Note

ˇ ´ VESTNIK

Your prayers are appreciated.

SPJST HERALD

SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 (800) 727-7578 • (254) 773-1575 Fax: (254) 774-7447 www.spjst.org

VESTNIK EDITOR/ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0807 VESTNIK Fax: (254) 773-8087

email: m e l a n i e z @ v v m . c o m

SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 534-2902 • Home: (254) 985-0007 email: vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT CLIFTON COUFAL Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 931-5231 email: cliftonc@spjst.com

SECRETARY-TREASURER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC Office: (254) 773-1575 Mobile: (254) 721-4739 • Home: (254) 778-3720 email: leonardm@spjst.com

DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM P.O. Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878-0085 Home: (979) 272-3265 • Mobile: (979) 224-3125 email: dv.aggie@verizon.net DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, Texas 76574-2164 Home: (512) 365-1110 • Mobile: (512) 826-7371 email: jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Road • Waco, Texas 76705 (254) 799-4247 email: john.engelke@hotmail.com

DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BILLY ROLLWITZ, FIC, CFFM P.O. Box 195, Rowena, Texas 76875-0195 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 Rd, Houston, Texas 77008-6232 Home: (713) 864-2163 • email: lpflugh@aol.com DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR KAREN KASPAR, FIC, CFFM 8550 N. State Highway 71 El Campo, Texas 77437-9819 Home: (979) 543-2532 • Mobile: (979) 332-1616 email: k-kaspar@hotmail.com

DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR BOB J. BAYER, FIC 1100 Hospital Blvd, Floresville, Texas 78114-2912 Home: (830) 393-9073 email: blackbayer39@hotmail.com FRATERNAL FIELD MANAGERS DISTRICTS ONE/TWO/THREE Philip (Phil) McBee, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 647-1949 • Fax: (325) 784-7448 email: philipmcbee@aol.com DISTRICTS FOUR/SEVEN Bobby Davis, FICF, CFFM Mobile: (325) 450-3748 • Fax: (325) 657-2003 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICTS FIVE/SIX Delisle Doherty Mobile: (254) 239-9616 • Mobile: (832) 232-2049 email: delisled@spjst.com

FINANCIAL SECRETARY ROY VAJDAK (254) 773-1575 email: royv@spjst.com

STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR FRANK HORAK Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com STATE YOUTH DIRECTOR LYNETTE TALASEK Office: (254) 773-1575 • Mobile: (254) 931-0639 email: lynettet@spjst.com

DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Sharon Russell, 1292 CR 441, Dime Box, Texas 77853 • (979) 884-0807 - email: sharonrussell28@yahoo.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - (254) 9852396 - email: patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Kay Weeks, 4203 Treehaven Ct, Arlington, Texas 76016 • (817) 896-5277 - email: kgweeks@att.net District Four - Pam Lehmann, PO Box 637, Tahoka, Texas 79373-0637 - (806) 561-5105 - email: plehmann@poka.com District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023-6510 • (713) 649-6138 email: district5dyc@aol.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, El Campo, Texas 77437 • (979) 543-7120 - email: lbubela@warpspeed1.net District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 CR 430, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 • (210) 535-4916 - email: poohbear78064@hotmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, 77853 - (979) 884-1451 - email: Texas dimebox5@aol.com District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - (512) 365-2000 - (512) 848-2416/cell - email: RonnieR1056@yahoo.com District Three - Kay Lynn Kovar, 3303 West Lake Bardwell Drive, Ennis, Texas 75119 - (972) 875-6827 District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, Texas 76875 - (325) 442-4841 - email: bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Mildred Holeman, 4001 North Shepherd, Suite 112, Houston, Texas 77018 - (713) 683-0018 - email: mmholeman@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - (979) 244-4415; (979) 479-0056 cell District Seven - Bettie House, 1721 Continental Drive, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - (830) 281-8246 -email: bvhouse@att.net

FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 567-4264 District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 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 Highway 765, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - (325) 651-8550 District Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946-5118 - (979) 249-5940 District Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Court, East Bernard, Texas 77435 - (979) 335-4461 District Seven - Roy Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive, New Braunfels, Texas 78130-3438 - (830) 625-8262

INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - (979) 272-3440 District Two - Dolores Skrabanek, 13107 State Highway 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 Drive, 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 - (361) 874-4461 District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 CR 430, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - (210) 535-4916

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - (979) 540-8531 District Two - Tammy Whatley, 141 Meadow Park Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78626 - (512) 948-5339 District Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas, Texas 75206 - (214) 826-3557 District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Drive, 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 Avenue K, Rosenberg, Texas 77471 - (281) 342-2624 District Seven - Jarolyn Popp, 447 Shady Hollow, New Braunfels, Texas 78132 - (830) 964-5135 HUMAN RESOURCES DEBBIE KLINKOVSKY (254) 773-1575 • email: debbiek@spjst.com

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his week’s issue was scheduled to be the special memories Vestnik featuring wonderful stories that our members shared with us along with information about SPJST’s departments and benefits. However, sometimes, the best laid plans go astray . . . and that’s exactly what happened in this case.

David and I left the Home Office early on the morning of Sunday, December 14. We were so excited to be heading to Lodge 30, Taiton’s Christmas party and visiting with all of the members. We didn’t get very far down the road as just outside the community of Seaton (less than 10 miles east of Temple), we were involved in a head-on collision. A vehicle traveling in the opposite direction lost control, was swerving towards us, and crashed right into us.

It was a very traumatic experience.

Two angels immediately appeared out of nowhere—Carol LaCoure and Kyle Green. They stayed with me keeping me alert until paramedics and other personnel who could get me out of the vehicle arrived.

After numerous tests, many broken bones, surgery, six days and five nights of very good care at Scott & White Hospital in Temple, I am at home recovering and giving my body time to heal. I am also in a wheelchair and cannot walk on my healing feet.

I have always been the caretaker the one who just gets things done.

So to not be able to get up, to stand up, to go from one place to another . . . yeah — that’s just not me. This will certainly be a much bigger test for my strong, Czech woman self.

The last two weeks have been quite interesting for David and me and our family. Our lives literally

T

changed in a split second on that morning of December 14. Simple things that I took for granted - being able to sit up in bed without help, getting from one room to another, brushing my hair, walking, picking up my laptop - those are all goals for me now to work towards achieving.

For now, David will be taking care of me at our home. Each day is a new challenge - a challenge that we will accomplish together. I will be working from home while my body heals.

It’s been a month of firsts . . . my first and second ER visits, my first broken bones, my first hospital stay, my first wheelchair ride. Things though could certainly be a lot worse.

I am very, very lucky to still be here and to be able to write this column and continue to produce a Vestnik each week. And to think that the accident and hospital stay happened during a non-printing Vestnik week . . .

We sincerely thank you for the tremendous outpouring of prayers, love, concern, and support. The flowers and plants, gifts, food, cards, texts, and emails are so much appreciated and are getting us through this life-changing situation. Our lives are very blessed, and our hearts are happy. And, special thanks to Communication Specialist Katherine Morris for really stepping up and getting things done.

So back to the special memories Vestnik that should have been this week’s issue . . . due to the circumstances, I wouldn’t have been able to focus on it and give it the creativity that it deserves. So stayed tuned—it will be coming soon.

Best wishes for a new year filled with warmth, peace, and cherished memories!

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the last week of September and the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by 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 VĚSTNÍK c/o Financial Secretary Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

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Family Fun and Important Dates

Dec. 31 Dec. 31

SPJST Home Office Closed at 12 Noon New Year’s Eve Game Party/Social Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3) Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 18, Elgin (2) Pure Country Band Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 35, Elk (3) Nolan Pick Band Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 47, Seaton (2) Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 88, Houston (5) The Moonglow Orchestra Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 172, Pasadena (5) Caney Creek Outlaws Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance • Lodge 191, Lufkin (5) Glenn Lenderman and Friends Jan. 1 New Year’s Day • SPJST Home Office Closed Jan. 9 District One Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge 17, New Tabor Jan. 9-10 District Two Lock-in Wilson Recreation Center, Temple Jan. 10 State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3) Jan. 13 District Two Lodge Officer Workshop SPJST Home Office, Temple Jan. 16 Districts One/Six Lodge Officer Workshop Frank’s Restaurant, Schulenburg Jan. 20-22 Supreme Lodge Meeting • Home Office, Temple Jan. 24 District Five Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge 88, Houston Jan. 31 SPJST Awards Banquet Frank Mayborn Convention Center, Temple Jan. 31 SPJST Scholarship Paperwork Postmark Deadline Jan. 31 SPJST Camp Tee-Shirt Design Contest Deadline Feb. 7 State Tarok Tournament • Lodge 84, Dallas (3) Feb. 7 Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Bowling Tournament Fiesta Lanes, New Braunfels

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Visit www.spjst.org to sign up for an email subscription.

SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 11/01/2014 - 01/31/2015 SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Rates

Farm/commercial property rates are subject to change without notice. Call the SPJST Home Office (800) 7277578.

Farm/Commercial Property Rates

75% Owner Farm Property 4.75% for 1 to 30 years Commercial Property 6.00% for 1 to 10 years 6.25% for 11 to 15 years

Universal Life Universal Life 3 (plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 3.00%

Whole Life/ Universal Life 3 (plans 1223-1232 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) Credited Rate: 3.50%

Annuities Annuity 5 (plans 8032-8039 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 3.00%

Annuity New 5 Year (plans 8040-8041 with a 1.50% guaranteed rate) Credited Rate: 3.00%

The Reason for the Christmas Season

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Readers Write

By Annette Hanus Sebesta

Lodge 9 Snook

That night as the Star of Bethlehem shone, Telling to all, the Saviour was born, That night while angels told of His birth, The shadow of the cross, rested over the earth.

Then as the wise men journeyed to see, The King that was born for you and for me; The light of the Star that led their way, Formed the shadow of a cross for another day.

As the doctors and teachers in the synagogue of old, Studied the prophecy Isaiah foretold; It was being fulfilled before their eyes, Yet the wisdom of Jesus filled them with surprise.

Jesus lived and worked doing the will of God, The brief number of years this earth He trod; Many lives were touched

by God’s great might, In Him was the way, the truth, and the life.

Yet, He laid down His life for you and me, With a thorn crowned brow upon the tree; Now the shadow of the cross, that once was so dark, Would leave in this world forever its’ mark.

The mark, that Christ is the Saviour of men, In Him all can find cleansing from sin; In Him, the abundant life we can find, And rejoice in His love through eons of time!

—SPJST—

Member shares thoughts about SPJST Calendar

To whatever department decides on the calendar design each year: You’re doing a wonderful job, but I miss something that was changed years ago. The budget. We used it constantly when we were first married 40-plus years ago to get a handle on our income and expenses. It was good to see where all our money was going and to be able to reduce our unnecessary expenditures. Eventually raising five kids, that was an important lesson. Because it had our financial budget, we actually kept our calendar from year to year and used it as a diary of our activities for the year, too. I could see the budget being very useful for young couples today.

I like the various recipes on the reverse pages, but I always forget to try them. I don’t like the PR info, but I suppose some of it is actually necessary if the calendar is going to someone who isn’t already a member.

My husband’s family was active in Lodge 88, Houston, and I have Kubenas in my own family tree (SPJST founding members). We went to many a polka dance at Lodge 88 in our younger years, but there was no lodge in Midland at the time we lived there. We would drive an hour to the little farming community of St. Lawrence for their annual dance (with the kids camped out in the back of the Suburban). Even now, living in Central Texas, you can’t find a polka dance except around October and November. There’s no lodge in Fredericksburg despite there being a lot of Czech families—lots of Germans mainly, so Hermann Sons is popular here, but they don’t sponsor dances.

I have done a lot of genealogy work with the Czech Heritage Society (with the late Albert Blaha), but haven’t gotten to visit your museum yet. On my bucket list someday . . .

Now, it’s off my chest so my mission is accomplished, whether anyone listens or not.

Regards, Jackie Matusek Chude Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

From the Fraternal Department State FAC Shares January Fraternal Updates

Make Plans to Celebrate the Incentive Banquet on January 31 The SPJST Supreme Lodge takes pleasure in inviting all lodge leaders to attend the 2014 Incentive Awards Presentation and Banquet to be held on Saturday, January 31, 2015, at the Mayborn Convention Center in Temple. The event begins at 1 p.m. and is expected to conclude by 6:30 p.m. following a catered barbecue dinner.

The January 31 event will also represent the statewide unveiling of SPJST’s 2015 “Mardi Gras – Let the Good Times Roll!” Membership Drive.

The 2015 membership program includes incentives for sales agents, members, lodges, and youth clubs working to make a positive difference in the lives of SPJST members. At the time of this mailing, we were still awaiting confirmation of our guest speaker.

To facilitate your attendance, every lodge will have mileage paid for at least one vehicle. Lodges that will be receiving incentive awards will be authorized mileage for up to two vehicles.

Lodge presidents and secretaries: A letter mailed to you the first part of January informing you that your lodge received mileage for another extra vehicle. Award-winning sales agents will also receive notification from the Insurance Department.

In order to plan for the banquet portion of the awards ceremony, the Home Office is requesting a head count on or before January 23. Efforts of lodge secretaries to get this information in prior to the deadline will be greatly appreciated!

All lodges are entitled to send their 2014 and/or 2015 lodge officers to the banquet free of charge. Each officer is entitled to bring a guest. A reservation form is being sent to lodge secretaries.

If you have any questions with regards to this process, please feel free to call Executive Assistant to the President Sandra Dubcak (800) 727-7578. She will be handling the reservations for this awards banquet.

Happy New Year!

First and foremost, please know that Fraternalist of the Year honorees that did not turn in paperwork may still receive recognition at the Incentive Awards Presentation and Banquet on January 31. We will do our best to get

your biographical sketch into the event program, time permitting. The main thing is that we want to give recognition where recognition is due, and we would like to be able to present you with your medal during the awards ceremony. If you have any questions as it relates to the Fraternalist of the Year program or presentation, please give me a call (254) 534-0681.

I hope you had a Merry Christmas and wish you a healthy and Happy New Year! I really enjoyed the month of December having the chance to meet with many of you. Thank you for sharing the joy of the holiday season with me.

According to preliminary financial data, 2014 looks to have been a good year financially for SPJST. From a fraternal perspective, it was also a very good year. Even so, we have the power to make 2015 even better. We look forward to new experiences and helping lodges to identify clearly-defined goals that unite members and improve life within the community.

I will be setting time aside to visit with many of you in 2015. I will be scheduling and attending lodge meetings that I did not have a chance to visit in 2014. I will also be seeing you in your prospective districts during our planned officer workshops. You will find scheduled times in your district in this Fraternal Update letter.

Important Deadlines The following reports are due on the dates listed below.

Friday, January 2— New Officers’ Listing – address, phone listing, and email.

Friday, January 9— Fraternal Incentive Hours – Need to be recorded on www.fraternalsgive.org website.

Friday, February 13— Outgoing Officer Awards (Please note: The Outgoing Officer Award is meant for a seasoned fraternalist who is likely to be concluding his or her service as a lodge officer and not likely to hold another lodge officer position.)

Friday, May 15— 990 and 990-T to IRS and copy to Home Office

If all the information above is submitted on time, your lodge will be able to report it on the www.fraternalsgive.org website as a member activity for 2015. Please know if these reports are not submitted by the deadline, any incentive money your lodge has coming will be held until this information is received. If your lodge has not addressed these items, please make sure to do so as soon as possible. These programs benefit your lodge as well as your members. If you need assistance, please feel free to contact me.

SPJST Everyday Heroes If you would like to recognize the Everyday Heroes in your lodge, please give us a call to request a form.

SPJST Lifetime Achiever Award Lifetime Achiever Award requests will be due two weeks prior to your district spring meeting. With regards to the SPJST Lifetime Achiever Award, it is meant to recognize those individuals within the lodge who have devoted a lifetime of service to their lodge or Society.

Generally stated, that reflects an individual in his or her golden years who has contributed a minimum of 10 active years of devoted service.

In recent years, some very youthful individuals have been designated by their lodges to receive the honor. Even as the SPJST greatly appreciates the time and energy of its young members, please keep in mind the Lifetime Achiever Award is meant to celebrate the contributions of your lodge’s longtime and seasoned fraternalists.

Officer Elections All lodges should have elected officers in the months of November or December. Please take a moment to complete the paperwork sent to each lodge and return to the office of Secretary-Treasurer Leonard Mikeska. Information requested is the names, addresses, phone numbers, and emails of the officers for the coming year. Remember, this counts as one of your fraternal acts for the year if all paperwork is submitted on time. If this has already been done, thank you.

While lodges are electing new officers, this would also be an excellent time to update information in the back section of the Vestnik. If any information has changed, please contact Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny (800) 727-7578.

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Outgoing Officers Do not forget to honor your officers who have given their time and dedication to your lodge. Remember with regards to SPJST Outgoing Officer plaques, the idea — once again — is to honor lodge officials who may be near or at the end of their service tenure to the lodge. Generally stated, eligibility is based on being an outgoing lodge officer or trustee who has not been reelected for the upcoming years and does not plan to seek re-election. The plaques should be awarded at your local lodge meetings. All requests should be in the State Fraternal Activities Coordinators office by February 13.

Progressive 42 Domino Tournament The first SPJST State Tournament of 2015 will take place on Saturday, January 10. This will be the State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament hosted by Lodge 92, Fort Worth. If you love Progressive 42 and enjoy fellowship, come and play with your fellow SPJST brothers and sisters in a friendly game of dominoes. We would love to have you there!

Non-members will be permitted to participate in the Progressive 42 domino tournament. The registration fee for members and non-members will be $7. If anyone knows of someone (member or non-member) who would like to participate, please encourage them to submit an entry.

For additional details about the tournament, please find the registration form online at www.spjst.org under Fraternal Activities/State Tournaments and Fraternal Activities. All participants are encouraged to pre-register so we can notify the hosting lodge so they can figure out the amount of food to prepare for the noon meal.

Lodge Officer Workshop Lodge officer training workshops were discussed in the Fraternal Activities Coordinators’ meeting held on June 21, 2014. The decision was made to take these classes on the road to the districts. The Fraternal Department is also working on a training video that will be used for the class. If any lodge officers are interested or have thought about joining insurance sales, there will be a representative from the SPJST Insurance Department to discuses how you can become part of the team.

Below are the scheduled dates for your district. Please check the Vestnik for any date and time changes. Lodge officers, please check your calendar and make plans to attend one of the

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workshops. We ask all lodge officers attending the workshop to please RSVP with Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez by email or phone.

Tammy’s email address is tammym@spjst.com, and she can be reached at (800) 727-7578. Meal will be provided. Please note the change in the date for District Three’s Arlington workshop.

District One Friday, January 9 Lodge 17, New Tabor - 6 p.m.

Friday, January 16 Frank’s Restaurant, Schulenburg - 6 p.m.

District Two Tuesday, January 13 SPJST Home Office, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 21 Lodge 29, Taylor - 10 a.m.

District Three Tuesday, February 10 Lodge 6, Cottonwood - 6 p.m.

Saturday, March 14 Lodge 183, Arlington - 10 a.m.

District Four Saturday, March 28 Chinese Restaurant, Midland - 10 a.m.

Saturday, March 28 Golden Corral, Abilene - 5 p.m.

District Five Saturday, January 24 Lodge 88, Houston - 10:30 a.m.

District Six Friday, January 16 Frank’s Restaurant, Schulenburg - 6 p.m.

Tuesday, February 17 Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje - 6 p.m.

District Seven Saturday, February 28 Lodge 107, Floresville - 10 a.m.

100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive This year’s goal is to raise $20,000 in addition to the Supreme Lodge allocation. Through your generous donations, SPJST has been able to continue to provide scholarships to members who wish to further their education.

Since its inception in 1982, the Scholarship Program has presented SPJST scholars with near 1,700 scholarships valued at more than $1 million. That is a lot of pennies! Donations of any amount will be accepted and added to the general scholarship fund that is maintained by the Home Office. No amount is too small or too large. The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive continues through March 31.

SPJST Scholarship Application Deadline The deadline for submitting applications for the SPJST Scholarship is no later than postmarked Saturday, January 31. Any student (high school seniors and college undergraduates) who have not previously received a scholarship are eligible to apply. For an SPJST General Scholarship or Leadership Grant Application and complete guidelines, please call Executive Assistant to the President Sandra Dubcak in the SPJST Home Office (800) 727-7578 or (254) 773-1575 or visit www.spjst.org.

State Tarok Tournament The SPJST State Tarok Tournament will be held on February 7. Lodge 84, Dallas will host this event. All participants are encouraged to pre-register so we will have some idea as to how many players plan to participate. The registration fee for members and nonmembers will be $7. If anyone knows of someone (member or non-member) who would like to participate, please encourage them to submit an entry.

Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Bowling Tournament and Silent Auction We are a little bit more than a month away from the Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Bowling Tournament. Make your plans today to participate in the 11th Annual Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Bowling Tournament on Saturday, February 7 at Fiesta Lanes. The address is 1202 Huisache Avenue in New Braunfels, Texas (behind HEBWalnut Street). All proceeds raised from the bowling tournament are used for the Fraternal Alliance Of Texas scholarships. All lodges and/or members are encouraged to bring an item for the silent auction that will be held in conjunction with the bowling tournament to raise additional funds.

Teams again this year will consist of five members - any combination of men and women. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday with bowling starting at 12 noon. A handicap of 80 percent of 200 per game will be added to the total score following the completion of the third game. All teams are encouraged to pre-register by Friday, January 30.

Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Scholarship Graduating high school seniors or equivalent who have an active fraternal life insurance certificate in force for at least one year prior to January 1 of the year in which the scholarship is being

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

applied, and plan to enter college in the fall term following the announcement of their award, will be eligible to submit an application for the Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Scholarship.

Applications must be received by March 1. Late applications will not be accepted. Send completed applications and any attachments to: Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Scholarship Program P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, Texas 78297

For an application, please visit www.spjst.org and click on scholarship/grants, then scroll down to Fraternal Alliance Of Texas Scholarship to download the application.

Join Hands Day As your lodge makes plans for the coming year, we strongly encourage all lodges to mark Saturday, May 2 on your calendar and make plans to organize a local Join Hands Day service project with those lodges that a have youth club or maybe with another fraternal or community group. The idea is simple: Adults and youth working together with other organizations to make good things happen in your community.

Join Hands Day is a national event sponsored by America’s Fraternal Benefit Societies in partnership with The Points Light Foundation and the Volunteer Center National Network. It is a day when young people and adults connect as equal partners in planning an activity that fixes or improves a local problem and affirms the values of caring and working together.

The Home Office again will offer the $100 incentive to all lodges who register their project with the Home Office. You can do this by completing the Join Hands Day flier and returning it to the SPJST Home Office. This year, American Fraternal Alliance is asking that you not register your projects on their website prior to Join Hands Day.

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They are asking that you share stories of your projects, including and especially, photos on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fraternalalliance. We can help you with that if you have any question.

Our goal for 2015 is to see 50 or more lodges participate! What can your lodge do? Projects from previous years include baking for the needy, cemetery clean-up, highway beautification, assisting veterans and senior citizens programs, and conducting a variety of fix-up and refurbishing projects. You have plenty of time to decide what you want to do in 2015. The main thing is to make a commitment now. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or Tammy.

We are here to help if you need assistance. Please feel free to contact me at (254) 534-0681 or email frankh@spjst.com. You can also contact Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez by telephone - (800) 727- 7578 or (254) 773-1575 or email - tammym@spjst.com. Your District FAC is also available to assist you.

They are: District One FAC Kyle Skrabanek (979) 820-0531 District Two FAC Ruth Hanusch (254) 771-0193 District Three FAC Vicki Sims (214) 763-0341 District Four FAC Janeece Williams (806) 632-5239 District Five FAC Patricia Bruce (281) 890-4933 District Six FAC Helen Zabransky (361) 798-3347 District Seven FAC Glen Pruski (830) 469-6377 Fraternally submitted, Frank Horak State Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

SPJST Lodge Se ct ion

Lodge 6 Cottonwood announces 2015 officers

President Milton Peterson called the meeting to order on December 7, 2014, at 2:30 p.m. The youth led the SPJST motto and the Pledge of Allegiance. Sister Georgie Soukup reported 37 members present. Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting.

Sister Peggy Dobecka gave the treasurer’s report and the youth club report. The youth decorated the tree and the hall, went to Six Flags, and made goodie bags for the residents at Quality Care Nursing Home. The youth club had a raffle with the money made going for Toys for Tots.

Sister Evelyn Stuckly gave her FAC report. Brother Jerry Kucera reported one new member into the lodge. A get well card was sent to Lydia Dobecka. Sister Jeanette Beseda received a turkey and ham in honor of Brother Johnnie Krizan who is Lodge 6’s fraternalist of the year.

December birthdays were Pam Urbanovsky, Bobby Hykel, and Amber Halbert. Progressive door prize winner for $10 was Amber Halbert. The $2 winner was absent. Attendance winners and winners of items donated by the SPJST Home Office were Evelyn Muehlstein, Ray Perez, Bobby Dobecka, Lou Blahuta, Pam Urbanovsky, Dorothy Kucera, Pat Dieterich, Milton Peterson, Al Soukup, Irene Peterson, Peggy Dobecka, Kevin Berger, and Dorothy Dvorsky.

Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek gave a talk and installed the officers for the coming year. They are: President Milton Peterson First Vice President Ray Perez

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) 773-8087

Email: melaniez@vvm.com

Questions?

Call (800) 727-7578

Second Vice President Don Urbanovsky Secretary Barbara Hykel Treasurer/Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka Flag Bearer Georgie Soukup Reporter Dorothy Kucera Financial Secretary Jerry Kucera Assistant Youth Leader Pat Dieterich

Dates to remember are December 31 - New Year’s Eve party; January 4 - lodge meeting; and January 16 - social/trustee meeting.

The lodge provided a delicious meal for everyone. Santa visited, and fruit was given to all present.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 6 Cottonwood: no Jan. 2 social

Dear Members, Please note that we will not have a social on Friday, January 2, 2015.

Happy New Year to our members and friends from Lodge 6, Cottonwood!

Fraternally, Milton Peterson, President —SPJST—

Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard meets January 18

Dear Members, Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard will hold its next meeting on the third Sunday, the 18th of January at 12 noon in the Community Room of the East Bernard Branch Library, 746 Clubside Drive.

A standard agenda will be followed.

As to the fraternal hour luncheon, it’s still in the air and unknown.

More about the meeting to come after the first of the year. Št’astný Nový Rok!

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 35, Elk

The 2015 officers of Lodge 35, Elk are, left to right, Auditor Tammy Pavelka, President Randy Pavelka, Auditor Richard Brewer, Reporter Janie Brewer, Secretary Carla Pavelka, Treasurer Barbara Pavelka, Second Vice President Fred Kubitza, and First Vice President Gene Pavelka. Also pictured is District Three Director John Engelke, far right, who installed the officers.

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Lodge 38, Kovar members enjoy lunch

Dorothy Lastovica enjoyed lunch with granddaughter Elizabeth Holder for Thanksgiving. Elizabeth and Dorothy are members of Lodge 38, Kovar.

—Submitted by Dorothy Lastovica

To the faithful: Hope you make it through the holiday, see you on January 18, 2015, and this writer remains . ..

Ze bratrskym pozdravu Joseph D. Nezval, FIC Vice President —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco reports on December meeting

The meeting was called to order by President John Engelke on Tuesday, December 9, 2014, at 6 p.m. at LaVega High School with all officers present with the exception of Vice President Michael Galler. There were 11 members present.

Members stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance and motto.

Secretary Dana McAdams read the minutes of the November 17, 2014, meeting, and they were approved as read.

Sister Diana Engelke read a thank you note from Buddy Edwards of Caritas for the $100 donation made in November.

FAC Sister Diana Engelke read a letter from State FAC Frank Horak.

Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Cheer and Condolence Committee reported that she sent a get well card to Melanie Zavodny and a sympathy card to Kenneth and Lily Jane Popp on the death

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of her sister Agnes Zatopek.

Bookkeeper Sister Diana Engelke gave the bookkeeping report.

President Engelke reminded members of the SPJST Awards Banquet in Temple on January 31, 2015.

Donation for December of $100 will be made to the Salvation Army.

Thanks to Sister Diana Engelke for the cute Christmas reindeer she made for the members. You are so talented.

Next Meeting—January 12 The next Lodge 66 meeting will be held on Monday, January 12, 2015, at 6 p.m. at LaVega High School.

Door prize winner was Diana Engelke. One hundred percent winner was Dorothy Veselka.

The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 80, Holland supports Kids Helping Kids

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland was called to order by President Rita Spinn on December 6, 2014, at 4:05 p.m.

Membership stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for the departed members.

Officer absent was Joe Liles.

Motion was made by Coleman Benner and seconded by Dan Hendrix to accept the minutes of the November meeting. Motion carried.

Financial report was read by Frank Pajestka, Jr. Motion was made by Curtis Wolf and seconded by Vicki Slye to accept the financial report.

The financial report was approved by the board of directors prior to the meeting. Motion carried.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka, Jr. gave his report. Reminder that fraternalist of the year forms are due December 12.

Thank you notes were read from Holland Fire Department and the Tschoerner family.

Motion was made by Risa Pajestka and seconded by Coleman Benner to make a donation of $25 to the SPJST Memorial Scholarship Fund in memory of Dan Balusek, and a $25 donation to Lodge 80’s scholarship fund in memory of Edna Tyler. Motion carried.

Motion was made by Coleman Benner and seconded by Dan Hendrix to donate $50 to Kids Helping Kids at

First Baptist Church of Holland. Motion carried.

Motion was made by Dan Hendrix and seconded by Coleman Benner to purchase 20 four-pound hams to give as door prizes on December 18. Motion carried. Coleman and Virginia Benner will be making a donation of $50.

Youth Leader Connie Horak gave her report of upcoming events for the youth. A donation of $150 was given to First Baptist Church – Back Pack Program. On December 14, they will have lunch and shop for gifts for Kids Helping Kids.

Motion was made by Vicki Slye and seconded by Dan Hendrix to donate $100 to the Wolf girls for decorating the hall. Motion carried.

Salaries were updated.

Motion was made by Coleman Benner and seconded by Dan Hendrix to increase prices in the kitchen and bar, effective January 1, 2015. Motion carried.

Next Meeting—Sunday, January 4 Sunday, January 4 at 5 p.m. will be our January meeting with a meal and installation of officers. Board of director will meet at 4:30 p.m.

Motion was made by Dan Hendrix and seconded by Risa Pajestka to allow Holland FFA Ag Boys to have a bake sale. Motion carried.

Reminder that the SPJST Awards Banquet will be held in Temple, Texas, on January 31.

Happy Birthday, Allen!

Elizabeth, Matt, and Ethan Holder wish their uncle Allen Lastovica a big happy birthday. They are all members of Lodge 38, Kovar.

—Submitted by Dorothy Lastovica

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

The American Legion and SPJST Lodge 80, Holland lease agreement has been signed.

On the sick list is Edwin Balusek.

Birthdays in December are Carol Wolf, Frank Pajestka, Jr., Kole Weir, and Linda Hill.

Door prize winners were Danny Hendrix, Kole Weir, Frank Pajestka Jr., Regina Peevey, and Risa Pajestka.

The meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m. with a motion made by Dan Hendrix and seconded by Ann Weir.

Linda Hill Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 80, Holland meets January 4

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland will hold its January monthly meeting on Sunday, January 4, 2015, at the lodge hall beginning at 5 p.m. Board meeting will begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by the general meeting with installation of officers by Frank Horak. A meal will follow. Please mark your calendar about the change in date and time.

Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—

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Lodge 38, Kovar Member Celebrates 30 Years at NBT

Assistant Vice President and Loan Review Officer Ray Palla, left, celebrated his 30th anniversary with National Bank and Trust on Wednesday, October 22, 2014.

Pictured with Ray is President and CEO Kenny Zapalac. Ray is a member of Lodge 38, Kovar.

—Submitted by Dorothy Lastovica

Lodge 91 San Jacinto helps animals during Lodge 88, Houston holiday season seeks scholarship Lodge 91, San Jacinto held its applicants fourth quarterly meeting of 2014 comLodge 88, Houston is accepting scholarship applications for high school seniors who are members of Lodge 88 and who will be attending college or furthering their education through a vocational or technical school.

Applications may be obtained at Lodge 88 office or by calling the office (713) 869-5767. The application deadline is January 15, 2015. If you have questions, please contact the office or Mrs. Patricia Bruce, scholarship chairman, at (281) 890-4933.

—SPJST—

bined with a Christmas party on Saturday, December 6, 2014, at China-Ko in Crosby. All officers were present with the exception of Polly Lowden.

Also present were District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt, District Five Fraternal Field Manager Delisle Doherty, and approximately 20 members.

The meeting was called to order by President William Locke. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and there was a moment of silence for departed members. The minutes and treasurer’s report were given and approved.

Malba Smesny read the fraternal updates for upcoming events. She also informed members of the annual Paws Across Texas to be held on December 20 at the Crosby Wal-Mart (weather permitting).

Under new business, President Locke suggested that Lodge 91 volunteer its services to Churches United in Caring for Join Hands Day in May.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

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Lodge 48, Beyersville Members Say, “I Wish You A Merry Christmas!”

Lodge 48, Beyersville members say, “I wish you a Merry Christmas!”

Left to right are Gilbert Shiller, Jan Filla, Robert Leshikar, Juanette

He indicated that last year was a big success. Joann Vojacek suggested we organize a food basket next Christmas for CUIC. President Locke also suggested hosting an annual dinner for new members welcoming them into SPJST. Delisle Doherty spoke briefly about how SPJST agents are being trained to inform members of the numerous benefits of life insurance aside from death and burial. He also indicated that certificates are being reviewed in an effort to make all information current.

Director Pflughaupt spoke briefly about upcoming events and explained to members that the state regulators have requested a written policy on governance due June 1, 2016.

Chris Vojacek accepted the nomination of vice president. A motion was made and seconded, and members present voted to accept Mr. Vojacek as the new vice president of Lodge 91, San Jacinto. All other officer positions were accepted by acclamation. Officers are: President Will Locke Vice President Chris Vojacek Secretary Vonda Smesny FAC Malba Smesny Treasurer Marie Stasney

A total of $70 and 34 pounds in cat and dog food was collected at the party and given to Frankie Brewer to be delivered to A New Dawn Pet Adoption, a no-kill shelter in Deer Park, Texas.

Mark and Janet Stasney donated $50 to Paws Across Texas in memory of Doris Kilam-Stasney, deceased.

Mark and Janet are the son and daughter-in-law of Mrs. Stasney who had a passion for the well-being of all animals.

The meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m., and everyone enjoyed a delicious meal.

Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 133 San Antonio members enjoy Thanksgiving lunch

Lodge 133, San Antonio met Sunday, November 16, 2014. Members and visitors enjoyed a turkey lunch with all the trimmings. SecretaryTreasurer Vicki Reese and President Jarolyn Popp provided the dessert. A short meeting followed.

Vice President Kelsey Trinidad announced the couples celebrating October and November anniversaries. They included Ken and Vicki Reese - 34 years; Kelsey and Eric Trinidad - 7 years; Allan and Valerie Harari - 4 years; Cecil and Sophie Hull - 68 years; and Ed and Pat Keller - 33 years.

On Veterans Day, Jarolyn Popp and Valerien Harari hosted a Veterans Day celebration at Rodriguez Elementary in Seguin where they work. Members of Lodge 133, San Antonio worked together with the principal and staff to honor the teachers who were veterans.

In addition, parents and grandparents of students who were veterans were also invited. A short program was provided by special needs students. The veterans introduced themselves to the students and faculty during morning

Meiske, and Wayne Kelm.

assembly and told everyone how they served the United States in the milliary. Coffee and donuts were provided

by SPJST members for the veterans, their families, and the faculty and staff.

Every year, Lodge 133 donates to different charitable organizations. The members voted to make monetary donations to SCOOP, which provides transportation to senior citizens, The San Antonio Food Bank, and Good Shepherd Activity Center, which allows us to host our meetings for a nominal fee.

Members of Lodge 133 also donated school supplies to a local school to be used for students who could not afford school supplies.

Our next meeting will be December 21. A ham lunch will be served. Registration is at 12 noon. Lunch will be served promptly at 12:30 p.m. Please

Happy Birthday, Hayden!

—Submitted by Paula Kennedy

come and celebrate the Christmas season with us. Feel free to bring a family member or friend. We will have our Christmas party after a short meeting.

Santa hopes to make an appearance.

We hope to see you there. May you and your families have a very Merry Christmas.

Jarolyn Popp, President —SPJST—

Lodge 141, Sealy celebrates Christmas

Members of Lodge 141, Sealy gathered at Tony’s Restaurant in Sealy on Tuesday, December 9, 2014, for their annual Christmas get-together.

Present were John and Martha Simpson, Freda Jemela, Bennie and Bernice Stolarski, and District One Director Donnie and Janice Victorick.

Members enjoyed the meal and visiting with Donnie and Janice.

Next Meeting—February 10 The next meeting will be Tuesday, February 10 at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library. If any important issues come up in January, members will be contacted by telephone.

Fraternally, Bernice Stolarski Secretary/FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Happy Birthday, Hayden Stefek of Lodge 48, Beyersville!

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Lodge 151 Wharton members enjoy Christmas social

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting and Christmas social on Monday, December 8, 2014, at the Wharton Depot Museum. Before we had our social, we remembered F. Joe Preisler who passed away last week. He was a valuable and active member of Lodge 151, his church, and community. Joe will be greatly missed by Lodge 151.

Chaplain Ray Pilgrim gave the blessing before the meal. A catered meal of turkey, dressing, ham, and all the trimmings was served to 13 members and one guest at 6:30 p.m. Members furnished the desserts.

President Gerald Macha called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for the departed members. The roll was called, and all of the officers were present. SPJST District Six Director Karen Kaspar was our special guest.

The September minutes and treasurer’s report had been handed out to the members before the meeting.

After the minutes and treasurer’s report had been reviewed, Charles Bucek made a motion to accept the minutes and treasurer’s report. David Bucek seconded the motion. Motion passed.

President Gerald Macha read a thank you note for the donation we made to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of Julius R. Smolik, Stazie Horelica, Theodore J. Bordovsky, Walter L. Stavena, and Howard J. Plengemeyer.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator

Lodge 54, West welcomes new member

Lodge 54, West welcomes new member Blake Alan Maler, who was born October 14, 2014. His family includes parents David and Wendy Maler, brother David, sister Jenna, and grandmother Jean Maler. All are members of Lodge 54, West.

—SPJST—

Blake Alan Maler

Janie Bucek reported on the upcoming SPJST activities in the state. Next, she stated the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive will end on March 31, and the deadline for submitting applications for the SPJST Scholarship Program is Sunday, February 1. Last of all, she informed the members that two lodge officer training workshops will be held in District Six for all SPJST lodge officers. The first workshop is scheduled for Friday, January 16 at Frank’s Restaurant in Schulenburg. The second workshop will be held at the SPJST lodge hall in Hillje on Tuesday, February 17. Lodge offi-

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

cers need to attend one of these two meetings.

Charles Bucek gave the rest home report. He stated both S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home No. 1 and the Assisted Living Center in Taylor stay 100 percent full.

S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home No. 2, Needville has been 85 percent full for most of this year. He plans to attend a meeting for the new rest home in Taylor.

David Bucek gave the cemetery report. He reported two more lots have been sold in the S.P.J.S.T. Shiner Cemetery. Fifty more feet of sidewalks will be laid on both sides of the road in the cemetery.

District Six Director Karen Kaspar was congratulated for being elected Supreme Lodge Vice Chairman.

Under new business, Charles Bucek made a motion to donate $100 to the Wharton Depot Museum to expand the model train display. James Vasek seconded the motion. Motion passed.

District Six Director Karen Kaspar reported the SPJST Float with the Frozen theme won first place in the non-commercial category at the El Campo Christmas Parade. Next, she stated Lodge 151 officers need to make plans to attend one of the two District Six officer training workshops. Last of all, she informed us the District Six Spring Meeting will be hosted by Lodge 32, Victoria on March 15.

A motion was made and seconded to reelect the same officers for the 2015 year. The motion carried and our officers are: President Gerald Macha Vice President Charles Bucek Second Vice President Ray Pilgrim Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Janie Bucek Treasurer Carolyn Bucek

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Director Kaspar installed the reelected officers.

Birthday honorees for October, November, and December were David Bucek, Jackie Pilgrim, Alfred Sabrsula, Ruth Sabrsula, and Donna Vasek.

Each honoree received a gift from the lodge.

Names for door prizes were drawn.

Everyone received a door prize. Door prizes were furnished by Director Kaspar and Lodge 151.

President Macha adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m.

Fraternally, Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 187 Round Rock: Christmas party rocks!

Lodge 187, Round Rock’s December meeting started with honoring and recognizing David “Red” Oman for his 14 years of service as being our lodge president. We gave him a plaque, a couple of gift cards, and a card signed by all the members of the lodge. David “Red” Oman will be stepping down as president, but he will still be there to guide us and answer any questions as the transition takes place soon.

We were honored to have a couple of visitors. Linda Johnson brought her sister Rosalie. Rosalie brought a friend from California—Lonnie Knapp.

We had lots of fun doing our gift exchange and ended our meeting with a wonderful yummy fajita dinner with several awesome, homemade deserts.

Thank you all for bringing the

Lodge 66, Waco Shares Christmas Social Scenes

Lodge 66, Waco members enjoy a Christmas social together. LEFT PHOTO: John and Diana Engelke and Louie Veselka. CENTER PHOTO: Left to right

are Jane and Thomas Galler and Weldon Galler. RIGHT PHOTO: John Engelke visits with Mary Lou Urbanek, center, and Mary Hessell.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

pantry items that will go to our local food pantry.

Birthday for December is Brodie Volek on the 15th.

Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy

Editor’s Note: See Christmas party pictures on page 13.

—SPJST—

Lodge 191 Lufkin readies for New Year’s Eve

Wow! Can you believe another year is almost here. Please make plans to be at the New Year’s Eve Dance. Glenn Lenderman and Friends will be playing. Tickets are $20 each and will also be sold at the door. The time is 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. The food serving time is changing this year. Instead of having black-eyed peas and trimmings at midnight, they will be served during the dance. Just bring a dish that will go with peas, cornbread, cabbage, and ham. This way you do not have to stay so long to eat.

Happy New Year to each of you!

Fraternally, Pat Scogin, Reporter —SPJST—

Ennis Sewing Circle

I want to start off by saying we had a wonderful Christmas party on December 11, 2014, at the Sokol Club Room. Irene, Ann, and I arrived at 9 a.m. Ann decorated, and we cleaned tables and made coffee. The club room had a pretty tree up that we all enjoyed and lights around the room. It was really festive.

By 11 a.m., we had 24 members and three guests Joe Kostak, Jerry Zmolek and Leslie Mach, Kay Lynn Kovar’s dad. We hope he had a good time. You can come any time.

We all visited till 11 a.m. then played bingo. We paid 25 cents a card, and the winner got the pot. Our winners were Dorothy Kudrna, Mildred Adamcik, Ginny Svehlak, and Leslie Mach. Maggie Holy left to go pick up our chicken so I was watching her card. I am happy to say she won the last game.

At 12 noon, President Irene led us in grace, and we all enjoyed a delicious lunch of fried chicken and many wonderful dishes and desserts. Thank you to the set up crew and the clean up crew. I didn’t get your names, but I heard Joe Kostak was the dish washer and took out the trash. I hear that he even did some floor mopping. Thank you so much. We are always glad when you come to our meeting.

After lunch, President Irene called the meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of

silence was held for Mildred Krajca, one of our members; Cliff Robinson, my daughter-in-law’s father; and Emil Chmelor.

Ginny Svehlak read the minutes of our last meeting for Dolores Vrana as she was out of town. Treasurer Dorothy Bobalek gave her report.

Both were approved as read.

Ginny read a couple of funny stories. I didn’t get the name, but everyone had a good laugh.

Sunshine Lady Ann announced our December birthday celebrants - Geraldine Zhanel, Irene Prachyl, Vickie Kohn, Cathy Vanden Eykel, Agnes Dujka, Dolores Vrana, and Pat Fowler.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to Irene, who was the only one present.

Kitchen Committee said that we will be needing coffee and Sweet and Low. Ann volunteered to bring it next month.

Thank you went out to Kay Lynn for donating red forks, spoons, knives, cups, and plates.

Thank you went out to Ann for the pretty Christmas decorations, and she made little paper angels to put on each table. They were precious. I took two for my great-granddaughters.

I talked with Frances Vinkler that morning, and she sent everyone hello, Merry Christmas, and that she misses us all. We miss you, also.

Kay Lynn handed out papers with the meaning of Christingle in the Czech Republic. She also handed out an orange, a candle, little piece of red ribbon, and four toothpicks. The orange represents the world, the candle

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on top symbolizing Christ the light of the world; the red ribbon for the blood of Jesus; the four toothpicks around the orange for north, south, east, and west. This simple visual aid vividly represents the purpose behind Christ’s coming. It’s a beautiful story. I can’t write it all.

Libbie told of how she, Lil, and a group from Fort Worth came to Ennis one Tuesday for gym class when Joyce and Joe Ehrenberger were here from North Carolina. We truly enjoyed them. After the class and lunch, we went downtown Ennis and walked the streets looking at the Christmas window decorations. Sokol had decorated three windows in the Frank’s Town building in a Czech theme and had Czech music playing, which was really, really, pretty. The Ennis Daily News is having a contest in the paper.

I was pushing for everyone to vote for the Sokol windows. I hope they win.

Libbie also told that they all went out to the Myrtle Cemetery to see Sylvia and Larry Laznovsky’s tombstones. They said they were really pretty and nice and had that they were Sokols for life on it. I am anxious to go see it.

A donation was made to St. Joseph Cemetery in memory of Mildred Krajca, one of our longtime members.

President Irene asked for anyone to tell how many quilts they have made in the past. Ann Clagett said in 2014, she made 14, and before that - 12. I think she has pictures of all of them.

Dorothy Kudrna has made seven; Irene - eight; and Bessie Laznovsky

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers and Trustees P P P SPJST Lodge 88, Houston

LEFT PHOTO: The 2015 officers of Lodge 88, Houston are, seated, left to right, Guide Josephine Pflughaupt, Second Vice President/Bingo Chairperson JoAnn Buri, President Patricia Bruce, First Vice President Janice Jahns, and Recording Secretary Carol Stayton. Back: Sergeant-at-Arms Donnie Havemann, Entertainment Committee Chairman Vernell Foyt,

Youth Leader Barbara L. Gonzales, Parliamentarian Dorothy Pflughaupt, and Treasurer Larry W. Pflughaupt. RIGHT PHOTO: The 2015 Lodge 88, Houston Board of Trustees are, seated, left to right, Cindy Mlcak, Doris Bronikowski, Carolyn Beseda, Cindy Messina, and Nell Stautberg. Back: Kenneth Mlcak, Ashley Victorick, Kathy Green, and Fred Buri.

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said she would have to think about it.

President Irene will start her quilt workshop in January 2015. Anyone interested, please come. You are welcome.

All our officers have offered to keep their same positions so they were voted in by acclamation. President Irene did ask for volunteers for the kitchen committee. Five volunteered Maggie, Willy, Lavina, Ann, and Margaret. That way, if you can’t make a meeting, there will always be one or two attending. Thank you, ladies.

We were happy to have one of our shut-in members - Bessie Laznovsky attend the party, thanks to her son-inlaw Jerry Fuller. Bessie thanked all for her Christmas sack. I will deliver Frances Vinkler and Geraldine Zhanel their sacks. Ella Mae will deliver Vickie Kohn’s. New member Lavina Patman will deliver Eleanora Pelzel’s.

I didn’t get who will deliver the rest.

Thank you to Gay Williams, Henrietta Milan, and Libbie Vrla for donating items for the drawing. We had our friendship quilt drawing, and guess who won it? No, not me, but my sister Libbie did. She got so excited.

Joe Kostak was doing the drawing, and she said, “Joe, draw my name.”

Sure enough, he did. I was happy for her. I have won one in the past, and so has Lil. Now, we all three have won a quilt. We had so many other prize drawings, that I didn’t get any names.

I was so excited about Libbie winning, that I forgot to listen who won the other prizes. It was all fun, and so was

our gift exchange. I got a pretty, red skillet—something that I can use.

President Irene announced the next meeting will be January 8, 2015. We will have soup and sandwiches and dessert. I didn’t get the names of the three who are bringing soup. We will quilt for Dorothy Kudrna, have our meeting, she will have her workshop, and we will have the 50-50 dollar game. She thanked all for coming, Maggie for picking up the chicken, for the other food, buying chances, and bringing our gifts. A special thank you to Joe Kostak for taking our picture.

We were happy to see Mary Zabojnik. She is having all her children and grandchildren for Christmas. They will have a wonderful time, I know.

I am wishing all my special readers a very blessed Merry Christmas and healthy, Happy New Year. I love you all. Till next time . . .

Georgie Morales, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 133, San Antonio Shares Meeting Scenes

LEFT PHOTO: Jarolyn Popp, left, and Doris Moczygemba celebrated their birthdays during October and November. RIGHT PHOTO: Eric and Kelsey Trinidad pose with their children Aiden and Jade. Aiden is displaying the thank you card received from his school to the lodge for the school supply donations.

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Silent Night 1914

by Reverend Bob Uzzel Lodge 6, Cottonwood

Silent night, Holy night All is calm, all is bright Round yon virgin, mother and child Holy infant, tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, Holy night Son of God, love’s pure light Radiant beams from thy holy face With the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord at thy birth Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

Silent night, Holy night Shepherds quake, at the sight Glories stream from heaven above Heavenly, hosts sing Hallelujah.

Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born.

These are the lyrics to “Silent Night,” a popular Christmas carol which was composed in 1818 and was declared an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in March 2011. The song has been recorded by a large number of singers from every musical genre.

The song was first performed on Christmas Eve 1818 at Saint Nicholas Catholic Church in Oberndorf, a village on the Salzach River in Austria.

The Reverend Joseph Mohr, pastor of Saint Nicholas, had come to Oberndorf the year before. He had already written the lyrics of the German song “Stille Nacht” in 1816 at Mariapfarr, the hometown of his father in the Salzburg Lungau region. The melody was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber, schoolmaster and organist in the nearby village of Arnsdorf. Before

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Christmas Eve, Mohr brought the words to Gruber and asked him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for the church service. Both performed the carol during Midnight Mass.

In 1859, the Reverend John Freeman Young, pastor of Trinity Episcopal Church in New York City, published the English translation that is most frequently sung today. Since then, the carol has been translated into about 140 languages.

One of the most famous times when “Silent Night” was sung during the 1914 Christmas Truce, a series of widespread but unofficial ceasefires along the Western Front around Christmas 1914. In the week leading up to the holiday, German and British soldiers crossed trenches to exchange seasonal greetings and talk. In areas, men from both sides ventured into No Man’s Land on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to mingle and exchange food and souvenirs. There were joint burial ceremonies and prisoner swaps, while several meetings ended in carol-singing. Men played games of football with one another, giving one of the most enduring images of the truce. The Christmas truces were particularly significant due to the number of men involved and the level of their participation – even in very peaceful sectors, dozens of men openly congregating in daylight was remarkable – and are often seen as a symbolic moment of peace and humanity amidst one of the most violent events of human history.

Roughly 100,000 British and German troops were involved in the unofficial cessations of hostility along the Western Front. The Germans placed candles on their trenches and on Christmas trees, then continued the celebration by singing Christmas carols. The British responded by singing carols of their own. The two sides con-

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

tinued by shouting Christmas greetings to each other. In many sectors, the truce lasted through Christmas night, continuing until New Year’s Day in others.

British famer and author Henry Williamson, then a 19-year-old private in the London Rifle Brigade, wrote to his mother on December 26: “In my mouth is a pipe presented by the Princess Mary. In the pipe is German tobacco from a live German soldier from his own trench. Yesterday, the British and Germans met and shook hands in the ground between the trenches. Marvelous, isn’t it?”

In December 1915, there were explicit orders by the Allied commanders to forestall any repeat of the previous Christmas truce. Individual units were encouraged to mount raids and harass the enemy line, while communicating with the enemy was discouraged by artillery barrages along the front line throughout the day. The prohibition was not completely effective, however, and a small number of brief truces occurred.

The 1914 Christmas Truce inspired Silent Night: Opera in Two Acts by Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell. This work had its world premiere at the Ordway Theater in Saint Paul, Minnesota, on November 12, 2011; its East Coast premiere at the Philadelphia Academy of Music on February 8, 2013; its Southwest premiere at Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth on May 4, 2014; and its European premiere on October 24, 2014, at the Wexford Festival Opera in Ireland.

Campbell observed that people look at

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Lodge 151, Wharton Honors Longtime Members

These longtime members were unable to attend Lodge 151, Wharton’s December meeting to receive their 75-year membership pins. LEFT PHOTO: Robert Kallas receives his 75-year membership pin from Lodge 151 Secretary/FAC Janie Bucek at his home. Robert is a retired math teacher and school counselor. CENTER PHOTO: Joe Henry Urbanovsky from Wharton was presented his 75-year member-

war in a different way when they come to know their enemy as a person.

Such was the experience of many soldiers who joined in singing “Silent Night” during that Christmas Truce 100 years ago.

—SPJST—

P P P Presenting 2015 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

ship pin by Secretary/FAC Janie Bucek at his home.

Joe is a retired Wharton ISD band director, high school principal, and director of special education.

RIGHT PHOTO: Lydia Georgia Matusek was also presented her 75-year membership pin by Secretary/FAC Janie Bucek, not pictured, at Elmcroft of Wharton. Lydia is a retired nurse.

—Submitted by Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC

Christmas Eve 1914 By d.knape

All along the Western Front, brave young men were dying, across the miles of trenches dug, fierce motor shells were flying, and in the horrors that ensued too awful to describe, desperate men stuck to their guns clung to their very lives With fortitude these fighting men who aspired to be so bold, came to do a soldiers job inspired by stories told, but in the trenches it was clear as death and carnage spread, war was not a picture show nor half what they had read

The battle blazed with blood and gore air filled with poison gas, both sides obsessed with angry rage and savage bitterness, so many lives were taken bodies left out in the snow, for into the bloody no man’s land none had the guts to go

The 2015 officers of Lodge 151, Wharton are, second from left to right, Second Vice President Ray Pilgrim, Treasurer Carolyn Bucek, Secretary/FAC Janie Bucek, President Gerald Macha, and Vice President Charles Bucek. Also pictured is District Six Director Karen Kaspar, far left, who installed the officers.

Then suddenly on the 24th midst mud and ice and snow, the war came to an abrupt stop noteworthy to behold, it is recorded history

though at first hard to believe, both sides laid down their weapons and made peace on Christmas Eve

In foxholes up and down the line guns one by one went quiet, as a single note became a choir voices singing Silent Night, as emerging soldiers bravely met joined together in the wood, and sang in praise and harmony the one song all understood

How gentle then became the mood for on this Christmas Eve, men came to see the meaning of love given and received, hearts that once held hatred met each other face to face, how much in common was discerned once battle lines replaced

Then chocolates and cigarettes were traded by the men, it was as though for this one night there was a common trend, orders were discarded no one obeyed commands, and in their commonality they found each other friends

When the battlefield went silent how strange it came to be, that at last the lion and the lamb enjoyed a mutual peace, and found underneath their uniforms there were no enemies,

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

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when men shook hands instead of fists 1914, Christmas Eve Too many lives are sacrificed what a toll war always takes, have pity on the ones who died their dreams lie in its wake, and oh the lessons we deny so often we’re deceived, far better we were warriors for peace on Christmas Eve.

*On Christmas Eve, 1914 during World War I, this event actually happened. Soldiers, acting on their own, laid down their arms and came together for one day of peace, exchanging gifts and sharing the spirit of Christmas.

—SPJST—

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Lodge 187, Round Rock Shares Christmas Scenes

LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to David “Red” Oman who is receiving an outgoing officer award from Lodge 187 Vice President Linda Johnson. RIGHT PHOTO: Gift exchange party. BELOW LEFT PHOTO:

Some items for the food pantry. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Rosalie and Lonnie Knapp, and Wilford Fuchs.

—Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy

Typewriters By d.knape

Old time typewriters heavy and black, had hard-pressed keys that clickety clacked Typing was a chore in fact, pounding away could wrench a back

Upon return the bell would ring, words would emerge end in a ding

You Don’t Forget Love

And carbon paper was the thing, oh what a mess those blues would bring

By d.knape

Why do you remember the sweet mother asked, things from so long ago events from the past

With correction fluid errors were whiter, smudges were left typos got righter

Now things are clean computers so much lighter, still they can’t sing like old typewriters.

—SPJST—

© d.knape

In Memory of Milady Blaha Hejl

You were so little and much time has elapsed, I am really surprised you still remember all that

Mother it could be that time can be gleaned, the older we grow the more memories mean

The answer is easy to your question above, kindness is forever and you don't forget love.

—SPJST—

In Memoriam

© d.knape

Milady Henrietta Blaha Hejl, age 101, and a retired registered nurse, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2014, in Keene, Texas.

Milady’s funeral service was Saturday, November 29 at Laurel Land Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Worth with Milady Blaha Hejl Reverend James D. Hejl of the Taylor Brethren Church officiating. Burial was in Laurel Land

Cemetery.

Milady was born April 21, 1913, in a farm house near Old Dime Box, Texas. She was the first of 11 children born to William Blaha and Albina Hejtmančik Blaha whose parents were immigrants from Moravia in what is now the Czech Republic. Milady spoke only Czech until she started the first grade at age seven in the nearby Hranice School but said she didn’t remember having difficulty learning English. Until about 1950, Milady was a member of the Unity of the Czech-Moravian Brethren in Texas.

In 1932, Milady left farm life behind and enrolled in the Kings Daughters Hospital School of Nursing in Temple. Following nursing school graduation and post-graduate studies

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

at Vanderbilt University, she embarked on an intermittent public health nursing career that culminated with her retirement from the City of Fort Worth Health Department in 1973 after 17 years of service.

Milady resided in Fort Worth from 1947 until 2008 when she moved close to her daughter’s home in Cleburne. She and her husband Edmond were longtime active members of University United Methodist Church in Fort Worth.

Milady developed a strong interest in her Czech heritage that was fueled by her brother Albert J. Blaha, Sr., founder of the Czech Heritage Society of Texas (CHS); and by Edmond H. Hejl, who was her husband for more than 53 years and who was a noted genealogical researcher of Czech immigrants to Texas.

Following Edmond’s death in 1991, Milady was a trustee of the CHS for several years and afterwards served as its only Lifetime Honorary Trustee.

Milady was a longtime member of SPJST. Her Blaha grandparents were charter members of SPJST in 1897. In 1976, Milady became a charter member of SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson and served as its historian for several years.

Milady was preceded in death by her husband Edmond H. Hejl; brothers Albert J. Blaha, Sr., John S. Blaha, Daniel W. Blaha, and William E. Blaha; and sisters Hattie M. Schwierzke, Evelyn A. Wiederhold, Gladys M. Ricks, Flores Jean Blaha, and Grace Louise Blaha.

As the strong-willed but compassionate matriarch of a very large family, Milady’s passing marks the end of an era. She will long be remembered by her surviving relatives and friends.

Milady is survived by sons Charles M. (Mike) Hejl of Fort Worth and Robert A. (Bob) Hejl and wife Leah of Dallas; daughter Susan K. Hejl of Cleburne; grandsons Michael D. Hejl and wife Brigid of Hurst, Alan E. Hejl of Austin, and David Hejl and wife Jennifer of Houston; great-grandchildren Cory Hejl, Bryce Hejl, Nicholas Hejl, and Katherine Hejl; sister Dorothy Jean Davis and husband Waymond of Dime Box; sister-in-law Bethel Blaha of Dime Box; brother-in-law James L. Hejl of Little River-Academy; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial gifts may be made to University United Methodist Church, 2416 W. Berry Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76110 or to the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, P.O. Box 6, La Grange, Texas 78945.

—SPJST—

Expression of Sympathy

We, the members of the Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Jonáš, Lodge No. 28 East Bernard, Texas, on behalf of our membership, wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed brother LEOPOLD (LEO) PRIBYL. Leopold (Leo) Pribyl was born on November 15, 1933 in Victoria to Henry and Apolena Kasmir Pribyl. He attended Red Bluff School which was at that time located out of Ganado through the eighth grade then helped out on his parent’s farm.

He married Bernice Miller of El Campo on October 16, 1956 and Leo Pribyl began their married life in East Bernard. They were married for 58 years.

He served his community as a butcher for more than 60 years at many locations, including Sklars Grocery and Market, Zero Food Bank, Klecka’s Food Market, Luska Meat and Grocery, Vincek’s Smokehouse, and Wallis City Meat Market.

He was member of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard for 59 years.

Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved gardening, fishing, playing his accordion, and spending time with his family. He called all his great-grandsons “his little buckaroos’ and his only greatgranddaughter “his little buckaree”.

After a longtime battle with extended health problems, Leo was called to the Lord on December 7, 2014. He was a beloved husband, father, father in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife Bernice Miller Pribyl of East Bernard; son and daughter-in-law, Alan and Cindy Pribyl of East Bernard; son Glenn Pribyl of East Bernard; son Mark Pribyl and Michelle Sola from Angleton; grandchildren Dawn and Jason Stringer of White Oak, Catherine and Alex Keener of Sweeny, Christopher Pribyl of Huntsville, Timothy Pribyl of Angleton, and Eric Pribyl of East Bernard; great-grandchildren; Nathan and Ryan Stringer of White Oak and Hunter and Brelynn Keener of Sweeny; step-granddaughters Kimberly Grimes and Melissa Pellerin from California; step-great-

granddaughters Teagen and Maddisyn Grimes from Angleton; and many relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by parents Henry and Apolena Kasmir Pribyl; brother Edwin Pribyl and wife Ruby; sister Pauline Zak and husband Jerry; and sister Henrietta Williams and husband Johnny.

Funeral service was held at 10 a.m., Friday, December 12 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard. Visitation was on Thursday, December 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. with rosary at 7 p.m. also at Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Pallbearers were Daniel and Steven Krutilek, Anton Novak, Jr., Daniel Novak, Roy Kasmir, and Jerry Cook.

Honorary pallbearers were Alex Keener, Christopher, Timothy, and Eric Pribyl, Jason, Nathan, and Ryan Stringer, and Hunter and Brelynn Keener.

Donations may be made in Leo’s memory to Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard; or East Bernard EMS. Knesek Funeral Home in Wallis was in charge of arrangements.

Respectfully submitted by, Helen Ann Kelner Secretary —SPJST—

In Memory of Allen Bacak

Allen Emil Bacak, age 81 of El Campo, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2014. He was born on October 23, 1933, in El Campo to the late Emil and Bessie Bartosh Bacak.

He was a veteran of the US Army and a member of the Knights of Columbus No. 2490.

He was a member of SPJST Allen Bacak Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje.

He is survived by his wife Josephine Bacak of El Campo; nephews Doug and Alan Paul Trochta, Bradley Bacak, and Frank Bacak, Jr.; and nieces Kay Pilat and Kristie Choate.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Frank and James Bacak; and sister Georgia Trochta.

Visitation was at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 11 at Triska Funeral Home with rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral

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service was held at 10 p.m. on Friday at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church with Reverend Albert Yankey officiating. Burial with Military Honors under the auspices of American Legion Post 251 followed at Holy Cross Memorial Park.

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Philip School.

Triska Funeral Home, El Campo was in charge of arrangements.

Submitted by, Janet Marek Vlasta Bartos —SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy

We, the undersigned Resolution Committee of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, Texas, and on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family of our departed member, JUSTINE JANAK. Justine Janak, age 94, passed away on Wednesday, October 31, 2014. Visitation was held at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 7 with a rosary at 7 p.m.

Catholic mass was held the following day, Satur- Justine Janak day, November 8 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Houston at 10 a.m., Saturday, November 8. Interment was at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery following mass.

She was a member of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston.

Memorial donations can be made to the American Diabetes Foundation; or the charity of your choice.

May our departed sister rest in peace.

Resolution Committee Gladys Havemann Celestine Darilek Mamie Lorenz —SPJST—

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SPJST Youth

Section

The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to:

The final weeks of 2014 were filled with Christmas festivities and fun. It was a great chance to visit and — in so many cases — make new friends, too! Active involvement in SPJST can be a blast — and a real family affair, too! A big thank you — youth leaders and district youth counselors — for the tremendous job you do with our youth.

This year’s Temple Christmas Parade and SPJST Christmas Open House on December 1 were both wonderful successes! Due to the cool weather and clear skies, we had a huge crowd at this year’s Christmas Open House. Thanks to all of the members who turned out for these events! Both of the SPJST Floats were in the Temple parade. Melanie and David continue to do a first-class job incorporating new ideas for the floats.

Members of the SPJST State Royalty Court had to endure the cold while riding in the Corvettes. They did an exceptional job of representing SPJST. Later, at the Open House, Royalty Court members helped the children decorate Christmas sugar cookies. It was a great time for the youth and the young-at-heart. Thanks to Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members and Youth Leader Joyce Kraatz. They painted many masterpieces on the faces of the youngsters who attended the event.

I hope that everyone had a merry Christmas. I wish all of you a happy and prosperous new year!

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SPJST Vestnik Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: (254) 773-8087

Email: melaniez@vvm.com

Questions?

Call (800) 727-7578

This section is dedicated to the youth of SPJST. As part of its membership benefits, SPJST offers a statewide youth program. If you or someone you know is interested in learning about opportunities offered to young members of SPJST, please contact your local lodge, District Youth Counselor, State Youth Director at (800) 727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.

State Youth Director shares January updates

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

2015 Vestnik Projects Youth leaders, this year I will be putting an emphasis on raising awareness about our wonderful youth program. This year’s Vestnik projects have been pre-determined and are listed below. I hope that by providing you with the topics ahead of time you will be able to incorporate the project into your youth meetings. Each quarter will include a project covering a Czech heritage topic. I have also given suggestions on how to incorporate the project into your meeting.

Included in this packet for this month’s Vestnik project is an example of a “registration card.” The idea would be to have attending guests fill out the card and mark the boxes determining what type of information they would like to receive.

CHRISTMAS CHEER . . . SPJST State Royalty Court members participated in Temple Christmas Parade and SPJST Open House festivities on the night of December 1. Pictured, front, left to right, Santa Claus, State Duchess Cheyenne Parker of Lodge 88, Houston, and Mrs. Claus.

Back: State King Nikolas Faust of Lodge 9, Snook and State Queen Denae Bronikowski of Lodge 88, Houston.

2015 Vestnik Project List January – Re-Thinking Welcome Have youth members practice their handshake with one another working on good eye contact and a firm confident handshake. Allow members to designate a Membership Committee and plan a social or membership drive to practice their handshake and welcoming demeanor.

February – Sokol Celebrating 150 years Try inviting a Sokol representative or local gymnastics coach to your meeting. Maybe ask them to introduce some simple calisthenics to your youth group to try out.

State Queen Interviews on Lone Star Internet Radio

March – Camp/LIT Cover meetings and make sure everyone has enough meetings and/or where they can make them up. Start getting the youth pumped up about camp!

April – Youth Achievement Day Make sure everyone has a project and encourage a group or individual talent. Supply members with registration cards and talk about how to properly fill out the forms. Discuss the categories that have changes every year. Have a question-and-answer session so that everyone can be involved.

May – Svacina Not breakfast, lunch or dinner, but something in between. Plan a svacina – a type of potluck. Have youth bring their favorite treat and share with others.

June – First Aid Invite a paramedic or nurse to come and demonstrate some simple first aid techniques.

July – Independence Day Plan a July 4 party. Practice folding the American flag. Talk about flag etiquette.

2014-2015 SPJST State Queen Denae Bronikowski of Lodge 88, Houston was approached at the Conroe Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2014, for a live interview on Lone Star Internet Radio (www.irlonestar.com). Queen Denae did a great job describing SPJST and outlining her role as SPJST State Queen. She is pictured with District Five Duke Nathan Polly, also of Lodge 88.

August – Czech Puppets Make sock puppets or paper sack puppets and put on your very own puppet show.

September – Labor Day Invite parents or local professionals to talk about their jobs. Talk about why we celebrate Labor Day. Perhaps

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invite a grandparent to speak about their profession.

October – Eat Better – Eat Together Month October is eat better, eat together month. Have the youth get creative with healthy snacks. Eat better together as a youth group and encourage the youth to make their new creation to share with their families.

November – Krtek; The Mole – Czech Cartoon Show the youth a YouTube cartoon of Krtek. A coloring page will be included in the packet for the youth to color. The youth could have a discussion comparing American cartoons to Krtek.

December – St. Nicholas Day When children see St. Nicholas, they sing a song or recite a short poem.

Ask your youth to write down a poem or song for the December meeting.

2015 SPJST Camp Tee-Shirt Design Contest “We need your good ideas and creativity!” I challenge all youth club members to participate in the camp tee-shirt design contest. Remember the deadline is January 31. This year’s grand prize will be a $100 Visa gift card and your design on the 2015 camp tee-shirt. There will be first place winners out of the other three age groups, and the youth will receive a $75 Visa gift card. Youth leaders, please encourage all your youth mem-

bers to participate. All participants will receive two merit points and a participation certificate. We have many youth who are very creative and talented. This year’s theme is “SPJST Mardi Gras - 2014 Let The Good Times Roll.”

Youth Development Workshop This year’s Youth Development Workshop will be conducted by your district youth counselor. Please watch your email and the Vestnik for more information. You will be covering topics that pertain to youth achievement day projects where participation is lacking in each of the districts. Please be sure to encourage your youth members to participate.

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President’s Volunteer Service Award The SPJST Youth Program is sponsoring the President’s Volunteer Service Awards for all SPJST youth who are eligible to receive the awards. No youth may receive more than one President's Volunteer Service Awards during the preceding calendar year.

SPJST will recognize youth for volunteer service during January 1, 2014, through December 31, 2014. Volunteer Service Tracking Forms are available from the State Youth Director on the SPJST youth website page. You can also log your hours online. For information on logging hours online, please contact Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez at (254) 7731575. Forms must be returned, and all

Ja January nuary Vestnik Vestnik Project Project - “Be “B e O Our ur Guest!”

Guest!”

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Name______________________________________________________________________ Name___ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ __ __ ___ __ ___ __ ___ __ ___ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ __ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ __ ___ __ ___ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ _ Ag Age______________ e__ __ _ __ __ _ __ __ __ _ __ ___ L Lodge______________ o dge_ __ __ __ __ ___ __ ___ __ _ __

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llocal ocal paper paper and and through through online online social social media. media.

2. T Treat reat first first time time visitors visitors as as friends friends and and not strangers. strangers.

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6. L Learn earn people’s people’s names names and and remember remember them. them.

7. H Help elp vi visitors sitors find find a seat. seat.

Provide visitors 8. P rovide vi sitors with so you can can invite invite them them to to with a registration registration card card so future fut ure meetings meetings and and activities. activities.

Follow 9. F ollow up tthe he visit call to to thank thank them them for comcomom visit with with a note note or phone call iing ng aand nd inviting inviting them them to to come come back. back.

One good way way to to m ake to to make make people people feel feel accepted accepted is is to to form a One make Membership Committee.

Committee. First First step: step: Identify Identify the the most most friendly friendly and and Membership ougoi ng aamong mong the the group and and ask ask them them to to head head up the the committee! committee! ougoing

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thing going! going! You You yourself! You You have have a good thing Most 10. M ost importantly! importantly! Be yourself! people to to share share your youth youth club. club. have ha ve room for more more people

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hours logged online by February 28.

Youth Leaders Retreat Please mark your calenders and save the date. Youth Leaders Retreat will start on Saturday, March 21 at 10 a.m. at the SPJST Home Office. I would really like for all youth leaders to come and stay overnight with us and head home on Sunday, March 22.

All youth leaders and their assistants are encouraged to attend. A spouse/ guest is welcome to accompany you; if you are planning to bring a spouse/ guest, please let me know and I will work with you on making arrangements.

We’re going to cover a lot of ground on Saturday’s program, but I plan on doing my best to make it as educational, informative, and fun as I possibly can. Following the day time

agenda, we will enjoy a nice meal and a fun-filled evening. We are considering several exciting incentive plans for 2015 that I think you will all be pleased with. To take advantage of the incentives and really absorb what is happening, I highly suggest you make plans to attend. We will also be addressing any questions that you may have about the youth program.

100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Thanks to all of the young people and youth clubs who have contributed to this wonderful project. All young people who donate at least $2 will receive two merit points. All young people who donate at least $5 will also receive a certificate. May 31, 2015, is the deadline to receive credit.

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Mark Your Calendar: May 4 is Join Hands Day Our goal for 2015 is to have 50 or more lodges participate. What can your youth club do? Some of the great projects from past years included baking for the needy, cemetery clean-ups, highway beautification, assisting veterans and senior citizens programs and fundraiser for your local volunteer fire department.

You’ve still got plenty of time to decide what you want to do in 2015.

The main thing — at this point — is committing to doing something. The last few years we have seen a trend in Join Hands Day projects for youth clubs to help their mother lodges in fixing up their existing building. I would like to discourage this type of project. When coming up with ideas for your project, try to do something

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that will be noticed by the public. If you have any questions on this, please contact me.

Again, this year, the Home Office will offer a $100 incentive to local SPJST lodges to be used in developing and/or promoting its project. This incentive will be for lodges who partner with youth in their community. To receive the $100 incentive, lodges must register the event with the Home Office.

2015 Leaders-In-Training Retreat June 12 to 14 This year, we have a great LeadersIn-Training (LIT) Retreat lined up for our youth. Our retreat will be held at the SPJST Education and Nature Center at Cooper Farm. This year, our LIT Retreat will start on Friday, June 12 and end on Sunday, June 14. Mark

Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club Shares Christmas Activities

Dear Readers, Our youth met on Sunday, December 14, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. in the lodge kitchen. Brandon and Amanda decorated and set up for our Christmas party.

During the meeting, everyone enjoyed drinking hot chocolate and eating Christmas cookies. April, Allis, and Betty told stories about Czech traditions and St. Mikulas. Those who attended District Three Holiday in the Park re-

ported how much fun they had. Everyone then received a little stocking with a candy cane and gift card to Sonic.

After the meeting, we went to Ennis Care Center to sing Christmas carols and hand out homemade Christmas cards to the residents. April and Devin represented Mary and Joseph and the Christ Child while we sang “Silent Night.” “Oh Christmas Tree” was sung to the decorated trees of Zoe and

LEFT PHOTO: Samuel and Paige win the dollar door prize. PHOTO 2: “Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus” with Mrs. Vrla. PHOTO 3: Everyone shows off their little stockings. RIGHT PHOTO: Our nursing home en-

Amanda. Brandon, Pierce, Preston, and Samuel pranced to “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

The Knights of Columbus invited us to their holiday party so we all drove to the KC Hall and enjoyed making gingerbread houses, festive necklaces, and decorating foam Christmas trees. The biggest treat was when Santa came! We all got to sit on his lap and tell him what we wanted

for Christmas. He then gave everyone a gift. Thank you, Santa and KC! We all had a wonderful time.

Next Meeting—January 4 The next meeting will be held Sunday, January 4, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. at the hall. See you then!

Fraternally yours, Rita Holland, Youth Leader —SPJST—

tertainers. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Caroling down the hallway. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Making gingerbread houses at the KC party. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Santa hands out gifts to our youth at the KC party.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

District Five Duke rides “Frozen” float in Conroe

your calenders and save the date for a great time. I hope that all youth that finished their eighth grade year through graduating seniors will participate as LITs. I am looking forward to seeing you all there!

SPJST Rules of Conduct for Youth and Adults Please have your new youth members and parents who participate with the youth sign the Rules of Conduct form and return to the Youth Department. There is no need to have our members sign this form each year as done in previous years. Once the SPJST Youth Department has the Rules of Conduct in the office, we will mail a copy directly to the member’s parents to keep for their records. The original will be filed in the Youth Department. Thank you for your help!

Fraternally, Lynette Talasek State Youth Director —SPJST—

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Lodge 47, Seaton youth reports on memorial, Christmas party

Dear Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton had its memorial service on Sunday, December 14, 2014, to remember all of our members who have passed away this year.

We had Brandon Hoelscher play Christmas songs on his trumpet, and we had Hunter Bartek and five others play “Jingle Bells” with hand bells.

Sincerely, Chase Alexander —SPJST—

Dear Members, District Five Youth Club participated in the Conroe Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2014. State Queen Denae got to talk on the radio before the parade. We rode on the SPJST “Frozen” Float and won honorable mention. Everybody loved the float—especially Elsa and Olaf. My hand was tired after all the waving! We had a fun time.

Fraternally, Nathan G. Polly District Five Duke Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

Riding the SPJST Float in the Conroe Christmas Parade are District Five Duke Nathan Polly, right, with his brother Jered and dad Mark. BELOW: Hugs for Olaf!

Duke Nathan and State Queen Denae Bronikowski, both of Lodge 88, Houston.

Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club Presents Christmas Program

Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club’s Christmas program was Sunday, December 14, 2014.

The evening began with children writing letters to Santa and placing them in the mailbox for pickup.

The flag was up . . . as we waited for Santa!

After dinner, all the children gathered together as Youth Leader Jan Filla read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” And as she read, youth club members were dressed up as characters from the book and

brought fun animation throughout this beautifully read classic Christmas story.

After the program, Santa showed up to the children’s delight. Each child sat on Santa’s lap and spoke of their Christmas wishes while moms watched joyfully with a camera nearby. Each child was given a bag of treats and goodies, gleefully given by the youth club.

And as Santa sprang for his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle He took the children’s letters like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, before he drove out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

—SPJST—

Podpora

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BENEVOLENCE

ROČNÍK 102 CISLO 51

Christmas in the Czech Republic

Dear Melanie, These photos were from one teacher who was in charge of St. Mikulas Day in the elementary school in Mikulcice where I am teaching this year. I am in two of the photos, and the others are ninth graders as angels and devils.

They did a good job as they took some children out of the classroom and then brought them back.

The angels gave candy to all. The devils had chains and were talking horrible to the small students . . . it was funny in a way as many of the small students tried to hide from them.

This week we are talking about Christmas in the United States, UK, and Czech Republic.

We talk about the different ways in each country and the common things.

★

Lidskost

Česká

HUMANITY

Bratrství Wednesday, December 31, 2014

★

Část

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

The biggest difference is that here (in the Czech Republic), it is celebrated on the 24th with the typical carp and potato salad. After they eat this meal, which isn’t held until after the first star is in the sky between 6 and 6:30 p.m.

A bell is rung, telling that Baby Jesus left gifts. They open the gifts, sing some carols, cut an apple, and eat some sweets or dried fruit. Some will go to church for mass or other services.

On the 25th, they will visit the grandparents, aunts, uncles, families, and maybe good friends. They do this for maybe two days.

I usually have fish and salad on the 24th, then on the 25th, I put my duck or goose in the oven before going to Christmas Day Mass. I have stuffing and all the trimmings, dumplings, sauerkraut, gravy, spiced apples, corn, and baked squash. I have vanocka and plenty of cookies that my neighbors and friends give me. I do bake a few

cookies that my mom made and even some fudge.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy new year.

Veselé Vánoce a Šťastný zdravý nový rok!

Yours, John A. Kuba Podivin, Czech Republic Lodge 133, San Antonio —SPJST—

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BROTHERHOOD

31.prosinec.2014

•••

“Kluci v akci” a vánočka • • •

By Ivo Marek Choceň, Czech Republic

“Boys in Action” is a cooking program of Czech Television arising 10 years ago. Two young men cook in this program; they comment their cooking with gags and through the television, they practically show and rate to television spectators how to make sundry eats. Cookers names are Filip Sajler and Ondřej Slanina.

Filip Sajler (1979) is a cooker, MC, businessman in a branch of a gastronomy, and catering. He has practiced in top restaurants in the USA, Germany, and Czech Republic. He has an award of Cooking Olympic Game from Erfurt. He has cooked for VIP inland and abroad. He is a co-owner of the canteens’ firm (2000 boarders) and manages a cooking school. He is a chief-cooker of a Prague restaurant. He has performed on the TV program “Boys in Action” for 10 years.

Ondřej Slanina (1984) is a Bohemian cooker who has studied hotel branch and gastronomy of the hotel International. He is a member of the Prague culinary team and has practiced in a lot of big Prague restaurants. He gained the bronze medal of Cooking Olympic Game from Erfurt.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Butter Christmas Cake with raisins and almonds (TV show “Boys in Action” recipe)

Ingredients: 4 Tablespoons yeast (Note: it is a cake of yeast, i.e. life bakery yeast. It is not a powder.

40 g) 1/3 cup grit sugar (100 g) 1 cup milk (luke-warm, 250 ml) 4 cups plain flour (1/2 kg) 1 teaspoon salt 2 egg yolks 1/2 cup butter (125 g) Lemon zest 4 Tablespoons raisins (40 g) Plain flour for the board Grease for a baking plate (or use a baking paper) 1 egg for brushing the top 4 Tablespoons almonds (blanched and chopped, 40 g)

Process: Blend the flour with the salt. Add the yeast with the sugar; add a little of the luke-warm milk, mix with the flour; cover and let rise a leaven on a warm place. Mix the leaven into a bowl with the flour and salt, add remaining milk, egg yolks, melted (not hot) butter, lemon zest, and the washed raisins.

Work the tough dough out smooth until it does not stick to the bowl. Cover with a cloth and let the dough rise for three hours. Knead the dough two or three times during this time. Divide the risen dough into 9 pieces. Roll into 9 long, thin rolls.

The first (bottom) layer plat braiding: Lay 4 of the rolls parallel away from you, connecting the farthest ends; begin braiding as follows:

a) Lay 1st strand over 2nd strand, then under 3rd strand and then over 4th strand.

b) Repeat this pattern to the end of the four strands. c) Fasten the ends of the layer.

d) Place on the greased plate or the baking paper.

Braiding the second layer: Braid the second layer from three strands the same way as a plat from 3 strands of girls’ hair braids.

Braiding the third layer: Wound remaining 2 strands longitudinally and lay as a third layer on a top of the Christmas cake.

Brush the beaten egg over the entire braid. Pour the almonds on top. Place several skewers (toothpicks) into the braid to prevent it from sliding. Bake in a medium oven until golden brown.

Watch video: http://www.ceskatelevize.cz/porady/10084897100-kluci-v-akci/1137recepty/839-maslova-vanocka-s-rozink ami-mandlemi-sypana/ —SPJST—

Fort Bend CHS sets Jan. 30 soup tasting supper

Save the date—Friday, January 30, 2015, from 5 to 8 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, located at 13609 Highway 36 in Needville, Texas. It’s Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Society’s annual soup tasting supper. Featured soups will be sauerkraut, chicken noodle, vegetable beef, and potato. The supper includes salad, breadsticks, crackers, and tea/coffee. Czech pastries and desserts will be available.

Cost is $7 per person. Children ages six to 12 are $3. Under age six is free of charge. A prize drawing will be held at 7 p.m.

Glenn McDonald Lodge 81, Needville CHS Fort Bend County —SPJST—

CESAT meets February 14 in La Grange

CESAT, The Czech Ex-Students Association of Texas, will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, February 14, 2015, at 10 a.m. at the Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center in La Grange.

Email Jane Reynolds at janereyn@austin.rr.com to let her

Czech Cultural Calendar

Wednesday Evenings Czech Language Class (extemporaneous)—at S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home, No. 1, Taylor, 500 East Lake Drive, Taylor, Texas, 6 to approximately 8 p.m. Informal gathering for the purpose of listening to Czech, and reading and speaking Czech.

Second Sunday each Month Czech Language Class—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange, Texas, 1 to 4 p.m. Informal understanding of basic Czech terms, alphabet/conversational Czech, children’s literature, Czech song lyrics. Fee is $10 per person per class. Call or email to verify classes.

Pre-registration is suggested, but not required. Call toll free (888) 785-4500; (979) 968-9399; or email info@czechtexas.org.

First, Third Tuesdays each Month Tarok Lessons with Tarok Champion

Jimmie Coufal—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Temple, 7 p.m.: Designed for all skill levels, beginners to proficient. Come enjoy some inexpensive entertainment; it’s a great social game. Get off your Xbox and join us. Free and open to everyone. For information, call (254) 899-2935.

January 30, 2015 Fort Bend CHS Soup Tasting Supper—at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, 13609 Highway 36 in Needville, Texas, 5 to 8 p.m.: sauerkraut, chicken noodle, vegetable beef, and potato soups, salad, breadsticks, crackers, tea/coffee; Czech pastries/desserts available. Cost - $7 per person; children ages six to 12 - $3; under age six - free of charge; prize drawing held at 7 p.m. Submitted by Glenn McDonald, Lodge 81, Needville, CHS Fort Bend County —SPJST—

VӖSTNÍK

know if you are coming.

Light refreshments will be served.

Some of the topics of discussion at the meeting will be the expansion of the teaching of Czech in Texas and the digitizing of Texas Czech history.

—SPJST—

Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship now available

The Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship is a $500 scholarship granted by The Czech Heritage Society of Texas to a graduating Texas high school senior. The money is given to the recipient upon proof of registration in a four-year program of studies at a college or university.

The applicant must submit the following: 1. A copy of his or her high school transcript.

2. Two letters of recommendation.

One should be from a high school teacher attesting to the student’s academic promise. The other should be from an adult attesting to the student’s interest in Czech culture.

3. A 200-word autobiography (Times New Roman font, 14 point, one-inch margins on a separate sheet of paper.)

4. A 100-word statement explaining what he or she plans to study in college or university, and what he or she plans to do in terms of a career. Include the name of the college or university you plan to attend. (Times New Roman font, 14 point, one-inch margins on a separate sheet of paper)

5. A list briefly explaining up to 10 ways in which he or she has had contact with Czech culture or The Czech Heritage Society of Texas organization. The list should be in order of importance, with the first item as the most important. Even seemingly small things may be included, such as learning how to make kolaches or visiting Czech festivals. (Times New Roman font, 14 point, one-inch margins on a separate sheet of paper. A line should be skipped between each numbered item in the list.)

VӖSTNÍK

6. An original 300-word essay.

Topic may be either: “A Family Member Who Represents Czech Heritage” or “A Family Member Who Contributed to the Czech Heritage in the United States.” (Times New Roman font,14 point, one-inch margins on a separate sheet of paper.)

7. A cover sheet including the student’s name, address, phone number, and high school’s name, address and phone number. All items must be submitted together in one envelope postmarked no later than February 28, 2015, and sent to: The Czech Heritage Society of Texas Victor Peter Memorial Scholarship Pat Parma 3311 Carolina Way Richmond, Texas 77406-9680 —SPJST—

Prague Mayor gives out Christmas soup From PraguePost.com December 25, 2014

Prague, Dec 24 (ČTK) - Scores of Praguers and also foreign tourists queued for the fish soup given to them

by Prague Mayor Adriana Krnáčová (ANO), wearing a chef’s apron and hat, at the medieval Old Town Square at Christmas time today.

Krnáčová was aided by two city hall members and leader of the ANO movement, Finance Minister Andrej Babiš, a food and media mogul.

“I am used to this. In the past three years, I distributed 35,000 donuts,”

said Slovak-born Babiš, 60, the second richest man in the Czech Republic according to Forbes magazine.

Babiš said he wanted to distribute the donuts now, too, but as the square was leased by the operator of Christmas markets, he accepted Krnáčová’s invitation to give the soup instead.

“I like to mix with people, I always learn something interesting,” Babiš said.

Krnáčová said although this was a premiere for her, she had been preparing the soup all of her life as she had three grown-up children.

The passers-by agreed that the soup with soft roe, fish eggs, and a thickener was excellent.

One of them said he was at the Old Town Square for the fifth consecutive year.

“I have lived to see the fourth mayor already,” he added.

He said as the soup was still very good, he would queue for another one.

Read more: http://www.prague post.com/the-big-story/43486-mayorgives-out-christmas-soupfish?utm_content=dpenrice@verizon. n e t & u t m _ s o u rc e = Ve r t i c a l R esponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_te r m = re a d % 2 0 m o re & u t m _ c a m paign=PraguePost.com%20Newsletter%20-%20December%2025,%2020 14content#ixzz3MyRMbR4p —SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org

Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”

For membership: Merlene Bravenec (254) 778-7285

SS. Cyril & Methodius Hall • Granger, Texas • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ proudly welcomes ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Mollie B and Squeeze Box

Saturday, January 17, 2015 6 to 10 p.m.

For tickets, call (512) 859-2236 or email sscmhall@gmail.com Kitchen opens at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Mayor Adriana Krnáčová and Finance Minister Andrej Babiš give out soup.

Photo: ANO

From PraguePost.com December 24, 2014

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

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(254) 778-1824

COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501

• New Year’s Eve Dance •

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall 10842 State Hwy. 53 - Temple - Star Hall is five miles east of Temple on Highway 53 (Adams Avenue).

Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Hall/kitchen/bar open at 6 p.m.

BYOB Set-ups available. $10 per person • No reservation needed.

Cornbread and black-eyed peas served at midnight.

Seaton Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Lighted parking lot.

Call (254) 721-2887 for more information.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST 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 Wednesday at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: (254) 773-8087. Email to: melaniez@vvm.com. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 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 (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville.

Hall Rental Information: (979) 966-3795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the lodge hall. Potluck served after meeting. Youth Club Meetings: First Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, at 3 p.m. at American Legion Tap Room, 107 East Park Street, Hallettsville. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at American Legion Tap Room.

LODGE 5, PILOT POINT-TIOGA (3) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 2 p.m. at PointBank Community Center, 739 East Liberty Street, Pilot Point. For directions/meeting information, contact Brian Heitzman (940) 686-4429; or Dean Carender (903) 564-7359.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Wednesday, December 31—SPJST Lodge No. 6 New Year’s Eve party and game night. Everyone invited.

Friday, January 2—Social night cancelled Friday, January 16—Social night

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. The lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road. Hall Rental Information: (254) 799-8550; Hall Phone: (254) 2278759. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Hall, 503 Park Drive, Weimar.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: (979) 272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Hall: 425 CR 424, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: (979) 884-1451; Hall Phone: (979) 884-3211. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 5:30 p.m. at the hall. Please join us!

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 36, Buckholts. Directions: Hall is located on Highway 36, east of Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: (254) 593-2222.

Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Refreshments served after meeting, and door prizes awarded.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Highway 36 east onto FM

166. Proceed 2.1 miles; turn left on CR 225. Go one mile, veering to the right. Lodge building is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (979) 272-3440.

Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Pure Country Band, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. $10 per person.

Black-eyed peas, cornbread, sausage, coffee served after the dance. No reservations.

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility.

Hall Rental Information/Country/Western Band Bookings: David Meyer (512) 217-0162; Polka Band Bookings: Artie Monson (512) 281-3711; Hall phone: (512) 285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Joyce Bowen for information (512) 856-2481.

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Rita Marburger (512) 8592584. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of each month (unless it’s a holiday, then the meeting will be held on the second Monday), 7 p.m. at the hall.

A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Directions: Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. From Highway 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West four miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North. Go one mile; hall is on the right. Lodge Meetings: Tuesday after the second Sunday in March, June, and September, 7:30 p.m.; and the first Sunday of December, 3 p.m.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit at blinking light on Hwy 53 to FM 485; go one mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Mark or Brenda Maddux (254) 985-0002; Hall phone: (254) 985-2393. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 1901 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay on Hwy 287 East until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and go under the overpass at Interstate 45. Go approx.

3/4 mile on Hwy 34. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (972) 875-8381; Hall Phone: (972) 875-8381. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Note: Wednesday through Friday, December 24 to 26, SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Hall will be closed for the Christmas holidays. The hall will

be open for business on Saturday, December 27 at 3 p.m.

All Wednesday and Friday night dances have free admission. Second and fourth Wednesday of the month/music by Bobby Jay Five Band; Fridays, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Old-fashioned hamburgers served every Friday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the hall. Hall Rental Information: Hall /Rental Phone: (512) 352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. For youth club info, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod (512) 468-1347.

Music: First and third Wednesdays of the month, music by the Sam and Bobby Band.

LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Hall: 3502 North Laurent, Victoria. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 35, ELK (3) Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Nolan Pick Band

Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From IH-35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy. 84 East through Bellmead; go approx. 8 miles.

On the right side of Hwy. 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Turn right onto Elk Road; go approx. 1 mile; road will dead end - turn right; go approx. 1/2 mile.

Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka (254) 749-3326; Hall Phone: (254) 8639320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann (254) 715-0275.

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia.

Hall Rental Information: (512) 237-9099/day; (830) 839-4353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR; go 2 miles to Mumford Road and turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. The lodge hall is at the bend of the road (white building). Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.

Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. For information, call President Wade O’Shields (979) 218-3527; FAC Ronnie Roesler (979) 406-0158.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Directions: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia (979) 332-1614; Hall Phone: (979) 648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:15 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Presbyterian Church, Royal Road, Port Lavaca, Texas.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Wednesday December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Hall, kitchen, bar open at 6 p.m. BYOB set-ups available. Black-eyed peas and cornbread will be served. Tickets: $10 per person. For information, call (254) 760-7819.

Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy. 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is five miles east of Temple on Highway 53 (Adams Avenue). Star Hall is a nonsmoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Danny Stepan (254) 760-7819; Hall Phone: (254) 9852548. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112. Go about 1/2 mile. Turn right on FM 619. Go about three miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (512) 450-8310. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; except for the following months, the meeting time will be at 6:30 p.m. on May 12, June 9, July 14, and August 11 at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Note: Lodge 49, Rowena Youth Club meetings are held the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall in Rowena.

Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: (325) 442-4841. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 51, ELLINGER (1) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Ellinger Fire Department, West Main Street in Ellinger.

LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November; the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street, West, Texas.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. Call for meeting location.

LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Location, date, and time to be announced in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. Call (254) 799-4247 for more information.

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. Call for meeting location.

LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday in March and June at 1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls; second Sunday in September and December at 1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Hall Phone: (361) 854-8423. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east onto FM 2268; go 1/2 mile to hall on the right. Hall Phone: (254) 657-2485. Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 4 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m at Youth Leader Connie Horak’s home; call (254) 541-9165 for address. Board of Directors’ Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 3:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Thursday at 7 p.m.

Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Highway 36, Needville. Directions: Lodge building is located at the corner of Highway 36 and FM 361. Hall Rental Information: (979) 793-4313; email td_stavinoha@yahoo.com.

Hall Phone: (361) 793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.

Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Bradley Stavinoha (979) 739-2386.

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions: From IH-35 East in Dallas, take IH-20 East. From IH-20 East, take the IH-45 exit toward downtown Dallas. IH-45 runs into Hwy 75. From Hwy 75, take a right at Bryan Street exit. From Bryan Street, turn right on Cantreal Street and go until you come to Floyd Street; take a right on Floyd Street. Hall is the second building on the right. Hall Rental Information: (469) 951-7396. Hall Phone: (214) 823-0072.

Band Bookings: Cherri Petr (214) 352-4397.

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.

VӖSTNÍK

LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2) Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Directions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50th Street; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Terry Festa (254) 541-2285.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)

NOTE: Effective immediately, lodge meetings are now on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: The Moonglow Orchestra, big band. *Dress code. 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. $35 per person

All dances are held from 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Reservations suggested, but not required, unless otherwise noted. Reservations held only 30 minutes past start of dance. For reservations, call (713) 869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Highway 290—Take Mangum Dacoma exit; stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto 18th Street.

Go under freeway at third traffic light, turn on Beall Street. Hall Rental Information: Lodge Hall: (713) 869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; early bird special starts at 7 p.m. Regular games start at 7:30 p.m. License No. 17407503501.

LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5) Lodge Meetings: quarterly meetings—TBA in the Věstník. Contact Secretary Vonda Smesny (713) 870-7114.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth.

Directions: From Interstate 35 West in Fort Worth, take Interstate 30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North, and it becomes Jacksboro Highway (TX199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cutoff which is a right off of Jacksboro Highway.

The lodge also known as National Hall is on the right about 3/4 block down the road. (A Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner.) Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone (817) 624-1361. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Family Nights first and third Tuesdays. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday.

Dressy casual. 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.

Visit www.nationalhallspjst92.org.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Friday in March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Diana Redd (361) 649-4388 for meeting location.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West three miles to FM 1303; turn right and go two miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: (830) 393-7796.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of March, June, September, and December, 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard, Corpus Christi.

LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date/time/location, call Secretary Stanley (Martha) Vrla (214) 826-2670/email mvrla@sbcglobal.net; or Sales Agent John Vrla (214) 906-3385/email jvrla@cebridge.net.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio.

LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 2622 East Highway 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy. 287 East exit. Stay Hwy. 287 on until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy. 34. Hall is on the left.

Hall Rental Information: Larry Valek (214) 7947674. Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Please Note: Lodge meetings are now held on the second Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 Main Street, Danbury, Texas. For information, call (979) 922-1279; or (979) 922-1553.

Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 Main Street, Danbury. For information, call (979) 9221279; or (979) 922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy, Texas.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Annex Building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Note: May, July, and August meetings will be held on the third Sunday - same time, same location. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Annex Building, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). For information, contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick (713) 203-8712; or Secretary Alice Jochen (979) 743-3613.

LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton.

Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month following the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton.

LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street in Wharton.

LODGE 153, LA SALLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Mary Jane Sralla (361) 782-3374 for meeting location.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH20 West exit. Stay on IH-20 West until you come to 820; stay on 820 until you come to Jacksboro Highway and Azle Street exit. Take Azle Street exit; go to the traffic light. Turn left at the traffic light. Go to the second traffic light, then turn right onto Boat Club Road. Go approx. 2 1/2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone: (817) 237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of March, June, September, and December. Call Secretary Ginny Prasatik (512) 472-1721 for meeting time/location.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of every other month, 1 p.m. Call Secretary Cynthia Kristinek (806) 763-7245; cjkristinek@yahoo.com for meeting location.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of January, April, July, and October, 12 noon at Wall Volunteer Fire Department, Wall.

LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony.

LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, and December at Mobius Coffeehouse and Pizza Connection, 1120 South Market Street in Brenham. Meal, social, meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. The December meeting is at 12 noon on the first Sunday.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena.

Reservations/Hall Rental Information: Jo (713) 993-6878; Hall Phone: (713) 487-3297.

Country/western dances are held on the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., except when noted. Variety dances are held on the fourth Satur-

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

day of each month, 7 to 10 p.m., except when noted. Beer, soft drinks, and ice are available at the bar. (Do not bring them inside the hall.) Regular Lodge/Covered Dish Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, meal at 1 p.m. followed by meeting at 2 p.m. with the exception of November and December, as noted. Lodge Executive Board Meetings/Trustee Meetings and Workdays: First Monday of each month, (unless the first Monday is a holiday) at 2 p.m. Dances: Held the first Saturday of each month, unless otherwise noted. Variety Dances: Fourth Saturday of the month, unless noted.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Rental Information: (254) 982-4530. Hall Phone: (254) 982-4434. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall; Trustees meet at 4:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; kitchen is open.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at Carmine Lions Club Building, 201 Centennial Street, Carmine.

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Hall: 1150 South Burleson Boulevard, Burleson. Directions: IH-35 West, one-quarter mile south of Hidden Creek Parkway exit in Burleson.

Hall Rental Information: (817) 558-2400; (817) 295-3483; (817) 371-0255; (972) 268-0022; Hall Phone: (817) 295-9665. Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. at Central Library in Conroe. For more information, contact Barbara Williams-Rash (936) 2957778/email b.d.willrash@att.net; or Patsy McClellan (936) 520-6742; email pmcclellan@consolidated. net. Youth Club Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Conroe Public Library.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington.

Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North and stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Take a right on Mayfield; go down and take a left on Pleasant Valley Lane.

Hall Rental Information: Hall Phone: (817) 4658538; (214) 876-9029. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Last Friday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Game nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Hall: FM 532 West, Moulton. Directions: From Texas 95 in Moulton, take FM 532 West four miles. Lodge hall is located on the right. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Theresa Haag (830) 625-8262 for meeting date/time/location

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy. 36, Caldwell. Directions: Lodge building is just off Hwy. 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: (979) 5674264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall.

Social games: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Kitchen and bar open. License Permit No. 1-74-20733095-41002.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Hall Rental Information: (512) 255-1554; (512) 771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall followed by a covered dish meal. Board Meeting: 2 p.m.; entertainment, 2:30 p.m.

23

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C&J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan.

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Glenn Lenderman and Friends, 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. $20 per person. Black-eyed peas, cornbread, cabbage, and ham served during the dance.

Bring a dish.

Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: George Scogin (936) 875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Monday night before the third Friday night of the month, 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. Regular Dances: Third Friday night of each month, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Please continue to bring finger foods for the snack table.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Rental Information: (281) 351-1045; Hall Phone: (281) 373-9482. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, at 2 p.m. at the hall. Potluck meal served; lodge provides the meat.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall/Bruceville-Eddy Senior Center.

LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions: Hall is across the street from the post office in Bleiblerville. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m.) at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m.

(March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m.) at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton.

LODGE 204, STEPHENVILLE (3) Lodge Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, call Norman Kneschk (254) 386-3222; or email normkneschk@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Sandra Pierce (254) 485-5801 for meeting date, time, and location.

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. Call Secretary Mary Hatter (940) 322-8503; or any sales agent for meeting location.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: Every third Sunday of January, March, May, July, and September at 6 p.m. Contact Secretary Pam Lehmann (806) 561-5105 for location. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 5 p.m. Contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams (806) 990-3351 for location.

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 9 a.m. Call Secretary Edna Rivas (915) 7272048 for meeting location.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. Call for meeting location Secretary Tammy Copeland (325) 320-4089. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Deborah Stevens (325) 6601421 for meeting date/time/location.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: First Monday of each month at SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street, Temple. Meal at 6 p.m. followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact President James L. Lee, III (254) 289-6816. Youth Club Meetings: Call Youth Leader Trish Konkler for meeting date/time/location (254) 780-9012.

LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7) Lodge Meetings: Call President Chester Jenke (210) 413-3053 or Treasurer Colleen Jenke (210) 215-9494 for meeting date, location, and time.

—SPJST—

Life Insurance and More Home Office: 520 North Main Temple, Texas 76501 (800) 727-7578

info@spjst.org www.spjst.org

Wishing you Beautiful moments, Treasured memories, And all the blessings A heart can know!