Vestnik 2016.12.14

Volume 104 Number 49

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ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T Benevolence

Christmas

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

ISSN —07458800

★ Brotherhood

he winning 2016 SPJST Youth Christmas Tree ornaments are located on the Christmas tree in the SPJST Home Office Lobby throughout the Christmas season. District ornament contests were held statewide in the fall to select first place winners in four age categories. Congratulations to this year’s contest winners:

Greetings!

District Four

Tristan Turner Lodge 157, Lubbock Elizabeth Kristinek Lodge 157, Lubbock Addee Williams Lodge 215, South Plains

District One

District Five

Addison Holcomb Lodge 17, New Tabor Ciara Coker Lodge 186, Caldwell Marina Brinkman Lodge 186, Caldwell Sydney Faust Lodge 9, Snook

Megan Pflughaupt Lodge 88, Houston Keith Wockenfuss Lodge 88, Houston Zoe Saxton Lodge 142, Houston

District Six

District Two

Brooke Bacak Lodge 30, Taiton Grant Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton Trianna Manzano Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Luke McCarthy Lodge 187, Round Rock Sterling Marshall Lodge 20, Granger Brandon Girod Lodge 29, Taylor Chase Alexander Lodge 47, Seaton

District Seven

District Three

Marcus Rebecek Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Haleigh Singleton Lodge 107, Floresville Ciara Popham Lodge 202, Jourdanton Kelly House Lodge 202, Jourdanton

Aubrey Roberts Lodge 25, Ennis Megan Ruzicka Lodge 84, Dallas Dakota Holder Lodge 6, Cottonwood Clark Jones Lodge 154, Fort Worth

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Readers Write ......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Interest Rates ......................................3 Vestnik Holiday Deadlines..................3 Perkspot ...............................................3 Lodge Section......................................7

December 14, 2016

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

Czech Christmas ...............................17 In Memoriam ......................................21 Youth Section ....................................22 Czech Culture ....................................27 Advertisements ............................28-29 Lodge Calendar .................................30

Page 9

Lodge 28 East Bernard member celebrates 95th birthday

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Page 13

Lodge 151 Wharton youth cast in Broadway touring musical

Page 26

Lodge 186 Caldwell youth receives new arm

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

VĚSTNÍK

ˇ ´ VESTNIK 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: vestnik@spjst.org

SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC Office: 254-773-1575 Mobile: 254-534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com

VICE PRESIDENT HIRAM DIXON, FICF, LUTCF, CFFM Office: 254-773-1575 Mobile: 254-231-7722 email: hiramd@spjst.com

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC Office: 254-773-1575 Mobile: 254-721-4739 • Home: 254-778-3720 email: leonardm@spjst.com

DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING/ INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES ROY VAJDAK Office: 254-773-1575 email: royv@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.aggie71@gmail.com 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 76705-5330 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@gmail.com

DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehman Road, Needville, Texas 77461 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 email: spjst@earthlink.net 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 4188 FM 1303, Floresville, Texas 78114-6092 Home: 830-393-2872 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: 832-232-2049 email: delisled@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 sharon_russell28@yahoo.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - 254-985-2396 patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Kay Weeks, 4203 Treehaven Ct, Arlington, Texas 76016 • 817-896-5277 - kgweeks@att.net District Four - Pam Lehmann, PO Box 637, Tahoka, Texas 79373-0637 - 806-561-5105 - plehmann@poka.com District Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 Pineway Blvd., Houston, Texas 77023-6510 - 713-649-6138 district5dyc@aol.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, El Campo, Texas 77437 - 979-543-7120 lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - Lian Pruski, 418 West Hunt Street Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 830-480-2737 lianpruski@gmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - 979-884-1451 - dimebox5@aol.com District Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland, Texas 78615 - 512-365-2000 - 512-848-2416/cell - 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 - bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, 1243 Clovis Road, Houston, Texas 77008 713-859-8976 dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas 77414 - 979-244-4415; 979-479-0056 cell District Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Road, Poteet, Texas 78065 - 830-391-4169 - oscarkorus@gmail.com FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - 979-567-4264 - jtcannon60@hotmail.com District Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - 254-985-2282 Edwin_Pechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas 76706 - 254-662-4934 - mgaller@brazoselectric.com District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM Highway 765, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-651-8550 - hdweise@zipnet.us District Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946-5118 - 979-249-5940 marceil@cvctx.com District Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Court, East Bernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4461 - gkamink@live.com District Seven - James House, 146 Deer Run, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 830-570-7750 - james.houseconstruction146@gmail.com

INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, Texas 77836 - 979-272-3440 District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. Joseph Road, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - 254-985-2396 patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Robert Sill, 400 Westview Terrace, Arlington, Texas 76013 District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plainview Drive, San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-234-8117 District Five - Mark Childres, 14011 Laskey Manor Court, Cypress, Texas 77429 - 832-496-6646 mark@childresinsurancegroup.com District Six - Elizabeth Holub, 4624 Freyburg Hall Road, Schulenburg, Texas 78956 - 979-561-8640 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 Cannon, 305 Bluehaw Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78628-6367 - 512-948-5339 - tcannon4715@yahoo.com District Three - Lynda Novak, 7153 Cornelia Ln, Dallas, Texas 75214 - 972-948-4456 District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Drive, San Angelo, Texas 76903 - 325-651-5884 District Five - Vonda Smesny, 2607 Wolcik Road, Crosby, Texas 77532 - 281-627-1375 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

Merry Christmas from Vestnik Editor Melanie and David

Merry Christmas,

dear Vestnik readers! I wish you and yours a beautiful season filled with family and magical moments. It gives me great joy to share this story written by Carol Laycock that reminds me of SPJST’s lodges, youth clubs, and members who are “Santa’s Team” throughout the year.

My grandma taught me everything about Christmas. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: “There is no Santa Claus,” jeered my sister.

“Even dummies know that!”

My grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been. I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me.

I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her world-famous cinnamon buns.

Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me.

“No Santa Claus!” she snorted. “Ridiculous! Don’t believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad. Now, put on your coat, and let’s go.”

“Go? Go where, Grandma?” I asked. I hadn’t even finished my second cinnamon bun.

“Where” turned out to be Kerby’s General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me 10 dollars. That was a bundle in those days.

“Take this money,” she said, “and buy something for someone who needs it. I’ll wait for you in the car.” Then she turned and walked out of Kerby’s.

I was only eight years old. I’d often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of peo-

ple scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that 10-dollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at school, the people who went to my church.

I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobbie Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock’s gradetwo class. Bobbie Decker didn’t have a coat.

I knew that because he never went out for recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough; but all we kids knew that Bobbie Decker didn’t have a cough, and he didn’t have a coat.

I fingered the 10-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobbie Decker a coat. I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it. It looked real warm, and he would like that. I didn’t see a price tag, but 10 dollars ought to buy anything. I put the coat and my 10-dollar bill on the counter and pushed them toward the lady behind it.

She looked at the coat, the money, and me. “Is this a Christmas present for someone?” she asked kindly. “Yes,” I replied shyly. “It’s . . . for Bobbie. He’s in my class, and he doesn’t have a coat.” The nice lady smiled at me. I didn’t get any change, but she put the coat in a bag and wished me a Merry Christmas.

That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat in Christmas paper and ribbons, and write, “To Bobbie, From Santa Claus” on it . . . Grandma said that Santa always insisted on secrecy.

Then she drove me over to Bobbie Decker’s house, explaining as we went that I was now and forever officially one of Santa’s helpers. Grandma parked down the street from Bobbie’s house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.

Suddenly, Grandma gave me a nudge.

“All right, Santa Claus,” she whispered, “get going.”

I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his doorbell twice and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobbie. He looked down, looked around, picked up his present, took it inside and closed the door.

Forty years haven’t dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering, beside my grandma, in Bobbie Decker’s bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: Ridiculous!

Santa was alive and well . . . and we were on his team!

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the third 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 14, 2016

VĚSTNÍK

Family Fun 4 and Important Dates

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Dec. 14

Dec. 16 Dec. 16 Dec. 17

Dec. 18 Dec. 18

Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20

Dec. 21 Dec. 22 Dec. 23 Dec. 25 Dec. 26 Dec. 26 Dec. 31

Dec. 31

Dec. 31

Dec. 31

Dec. 31

Dec. 31

Lodge 177, Academy Christmas Party Dynasty Restaurant, Temple (2) Lodge 92, Fort Worth Children’s Christmas Party (3) Lodge 191, Lufkin Christmas Dance (5) SPJST Float: Wallis Christmas Parade Hosted by Lodge 141, Sealy (1) Lodge 81, Needville Christmas Meal (5) Lodge 133, San Antonio Christmas Lunch/Party Good Shepherd Activity Center (7) Lodge 183, Arlington Christmas Party (3) Early Vestnik Deadline for December 28 Vestnik District Seven San Antonio Riverboat Christmas Light Cruise (7) No Vestnik Printed Lodge 25, Ennis Strudel Bake Sale Pickup (3) SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Merry Christmas!

SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Early Vestnik Deadline for January 4 Vestnik New Year’s Eve: Lodge 18, Elgin Jim Sims Trio (2) New Year’s Eve: Lodge 35, Elk Nolan Pick Band (3) New Year’s Eve: Lodge 47, Seaton Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five (2) New Year’s Eve: Lodge 88, Houston Moonglow Orchestra (5) New Year’s Eve: Lodge 92, Fort Worth Tommy Alverson (3) New Year’s Eve: Lodge 191, Lufkin Glenn Lenderman and Friends (5)

• • • IMPORTANT NOTICE • • • No December 21, 2016 Vestnik will be printed.

• • •

Deadline for December 28 Vestnik is Monday, December 19 at 12 noon • • •

Deadline for January 4 Vestnik is Monday, December 26 at 12 noon

SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 11/01/2016 - 01/31/2017 SPJST Farm/ Commercial Property Information Call the SPJST Home Office 800-727-7578 for information.

75% Farm Loans for 5 to 30 Years

Commercial Property Loans for 1 to 10 Years and 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%

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Readers Write

Member enjoys calendar

I just wanted to let you all know how much I enjoy my SPJST calendar and would really miss it if it were not printed.

I use it for all my family events and appointments. It is my main calendar.

Patricia Blazek Langham Lodge 17, New Tabor —SPJST—

Caldwell church invites all to Dec. 18 program

Caldwell Brethren Church invites you and your family to the 2016 Christmas program: “Following the Light!” at 401 South Main Street in Caldwell on Sunday, December 18, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. The program will feature a play and specials by our adult and children choirs. We hope that you will attend.

Lynette Urbanovsky —SPJST—

Members appreciate SPJST calendar

Dear Melanie, Good afternoon. I was going to let you know that we really enjoy the SPJST calendars and have been using them for years. We recently received our new 2017 one in the mail. They would be missed greatly if y’all decided to discontinue them.

Also, I wanted to compliment you on the new floats. We got a chance to check them out on Tuesday. Y’all did a great job, as always! Zootopia and Trolls. :-) Hope you have a great day, and a Merry up and coming Christmas and New Year!

Sincerely, The Ordogne Family, Christopher, Emily, Travis and Andrew Lodge 13, Dime Box —SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

VĚSTNÍK

Temple Christmas Parade and SPJST Home Office Christmas Open House

The Temple Christmas Parade and SPJST Home Office Christmas Open House were moved to Tuesday evening, December 6 due to rain on Monday evening.

Representing SPJST in the Temple Christmas Parade are 2016-2017 State Queen Amanda Hoggard of Lodge 202, Jourdanton and State King Colby See of Lodge 9, Snook. Supreme Lodge Chairman/District One Director Donnie Victorick drives them in a 2015 Corvette. PHOTO 2: Fred Paul drives State Duchess Rileigh Kitchen of Lodge 185, New Braunfels and State Duke J.Beaux Hruska of

Tuesday December 6 2016

Lodge 9, Snook in a 1972 Corvette. PHOTO 3: James Lee, III drives District Two Queen Zoe Talasek and District Two King Hunter Bartek, both of Lodge 47, Seaton in a 2006 Corvette. RIGHT PHOTO: District Two Duke Jackson Erskine and District Two Duchess Madison Roantes, both of Lodge 47, Seaton, are driven in a 2001 Corvette by District Two Director Jesse Pospisil. BELOW: Members ride the two SPJST floats in the parade. The floats received third and seventh place awards in the parade.

VĚSTNÍK

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Scenes from District Seven Fall Fun Day Sunday, November 13, 2016 • Lodge 107, Floresville

LEFT PHOTO: Preparing the meal are, left to right, Glen Pruski, Roxy Bertrand, and Oscar Korus, all of Lodge 107, Floresville. CENTER PHOTO: Dominoes! From left are Mark Rebecek (79), Sandra Hoggard (202), Roy Haag (185), Donnie Howard (185), District Seven Director Bob

Bayer (107), Chester Jenke (258), Melvin Strey (107), and Polly Bayer (107). RIGHT PHOTO: Discussing traditional Czech Christmas customs are, left to right, Katherine Marek (202), Georgia Marek (202), and Henrietta Lowak (258).

TOP LEFT PHOTO: State Youth Director Lynette Talasek, left, and Frankie Campbell (107).

TOP CENTER PHOTO: Fraternal Field Manager Bobby Davis, left, visits with Mike and Corina Rodriguez (107). TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Bunco time! LEFT PHOTO: Megan Ohnheiser (185) and SPJST President Brian Vanicek display an item from the Czech Heritage Museum. RIGHT PHOTO: Domino time! BELOW LEFT PHOTO: State FAC Frank Horak and Wendy Pruski (107).

BELOW PHOTOS: Youth gather for a fun day. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Frankie Campbell (107) displays an historic SPJST badge with SPJST President Brian Vanicek. INSET: Bettie and Lloyd House (202).

VĚSTNÍK

SPJST Lodge Section The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. the Wednesday before the publication date. Send your news and photos directly to: Questions? Call 800-727-7578

Lodge 25, Ennis: order your strudel for Christmas

Dear Readers, Our kitchen crew is working hard getting ready for our annual Christmas apple strudel bake sale. Every strudel is filled with juicy apples, Texas pecans, sweet coconut, golden raisins, and so much more. Then it’s rolled up with loving care . . . just like mom used to make.

Special orders? No problem! Simply let us know which ingredient you don’t want in your strudel, and we will make it your way.

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

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

You can order your strudel ready to bake at home, or, we will bake it for you.

Either way, you don’t want to miss out on these delicious treats. Place your order by calling Margaret 972-878-6149 or Betty 972-878-7719 Dobrou chut’!

Margaret Krajca Reporter —SPJST—

Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Becomes Endowed

Lodge 29, Taylor hosts annual Christmas party

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 29, Taylor held its meeting/ Christmas party on Sunday, December 4, 2016. President Ronnie Rieger opened the meeting and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ronnie asked for a few moments of silence to honor our departed veterans and those presently serving our country. Officer roll call showed all officers present. The November minutes were read and approved.

Tammy Cannon did not have a treasurer’s report. Sharon Kaderka reminded us about the Christmas Open House in Temple. She read what it means to celebrate a traditional Czech Christmas and some old holiday customs and traditions. Sharon read a thank you letter from ALS Association for our donation. We were glad to have Ronnie at the meeting after having major back surgery two weeks ago.

Tammy gave the youth report for Cristy as she was with the youth having their meeting. A few of our youth club families were able to help with the Williamson County Aggie Moms turkey dinner fundraiser. The youth club will adopt four needy families which includes 12 kids. The youth are excited to welcome new member Kileigh Weise to the youth club.

Jesse Pospisil presented John Perkins with his Christmas bonus and thanked him for all of his work at the hall. John serves as Taylor SPJST Hall Manager.

Jesse also presented Tina Pitts a Christmas bonus. Tina is responsible for our upstairs rentals and bar area. The property committee is completing work on

SPJST supports West Historian Dancers

District Three Director John Engelke, right, presents a $600 donation from his director’s discretionary fund to West Historian Dancers at West High School. Dance Coordinator Aaron Wernet accepts the donation.

the Dutch door that they installed in the upstairs bar area.

Ronnie welcomed SPJST Vice President Hiram Dixon to our meeting and had him say a few words on the status of the SPJST insurance sales this year.

Hiram also praised Albin Machu for his sales efforts for SPJST and told us of the cruise Albin won for all of his hard work. Ronnie also welcomed Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride and wife Frances to our meeting.

SPJST supports Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Society

District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, center, presents checks from Lodge 155, Austin, his director’s discretionary funds, and himself to SPJST President Brian Vanicek, right, for the Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Scholarship. Assisting with the presentation is Frankie’s son Frank Klinkovsky, Jr. These checks bring the total amount raised i the scholarship fund to $20,000, making it an endowed SPJST scholarship.

Brother Klinkovsky’s legacy will be forever remembered each year during a scholarship presentation to a recipient.

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District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha, right, presents a check from his discretionary funds to Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Society President Leon Anhaiser at the Christmas party on December 4, 2016.

The funds were used for printing Fort Bend CHS raffle tickets. Thanks to Fort Bend CHS for featuring SPJST’s logo and information on the back of the tickets.

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Teen Earns Rank of Eagle Scout

Devin Sembera of West Boy Scout Troop 494 has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was recognized at a Court of Honor ceremony on December 2, 2016. Devin’s Eagle Scout project was to build a new sign for West City Hall and Police Department. The West High School junior is the son of Dale and Kathy Sembera. His grandparents are Herbert and Edith Brem and the late Lawrence and Doris Sembera. He is a member of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood. Devin would like to thank SPJST, District Three Director John Engelke, Lodge 6, Cottonwood, Lodge 66, Waco, and everyone else that contributed to the success of his project.

Albin signed up new member Melanie Bush. Lyn Rieger made a motion to accept the new member, and Leonard Kaderka seconded. The motion passed.

Ronnie asked the members to start thinking about items for our March 4, 2017, auction fundraiser.

Members celebrating birthdays in December include Jesse Pospisil, Ila Mae Jansky, Catherine Pasemann, Meredith Tate, Edwina Jezisek, William Falk, Gary Johle, and Shelly Wiegand.

Leonard and Sharon Kaderka will celebrate their wedding anniversary on De-

cember 5.

Door prizes were furnished by Jesse and Linda Pospisil and Hiram Dixon. In January, Barbara Nygrin and Frankie and Mary Jane Pustejovsky will bring door prizes.

Next Meeting—January 11 The next meeting will be on Wednesday, January 11, 2017, at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting was then adjourned.

Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve dance Saturday, Dec. 31

Lodge 47, Seaton welcomes Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five for its New Year’s Eve Dance on Saturday, December 31, 2016, at Seaton Star Hall. The hall opens at 6 p.m., and the dance is from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The band will play mixed music for everyone. Star Hall is located at 10842 State Highway 53, which is six miles east of Temple.

The kitchen will be open, and cornbread and black-eyed peas will be served at midnight. BYOB; set-ups will be available.

Everyone is invited to ring in the New Year at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton!

Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Admission is $10 per person.

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 29, Taylor welcomes new member

Lodge 29, Taylor welcomes new member Ava Marie Brinkmeyer. She is the daughter of Rex and Julie Brinkmeyer, granddaughter of Brian and Camille Brinkmeyer, and great-granddaughter of James Brinkmeyer, all of Lodge 29. Ava’s sales agent is Albin Machu.

—SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco meets December 19

The next meeting of Lodge 66, Waco will be held at Heitmiller’s on Monday, December 19 at 6 p.m.

We hope to see you there!

Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 79 Corpus Christi honors Veterans at November meeting

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated an early Thanksgiving with a meal of turkey, dressing, and a belated Veterans

Ava Marie Brinkmeyer

Day on November 20, 2016. The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek. Guest youth Bailey LaCour led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

All officers were present with 32 members and guests in attendance.

Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the October minutes, and they were approved. Treasurer Frank Sacky gave the October financial report, and it was approved.

FAC report was given by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky. He thanked all veterans for their service. He stated our

Members, Friends Enjoy Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six at Lodge 18, Elgin

Ernest and Lois Maschmeyer from Austin brought their family and friends to celebrate their 70th anniversary on Sunday, November 13, 2016, at SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin when Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six Band was playing.

It was great to see you having so much fun. We

hope to see you again at the SPJST hall. Gary and Margaret Brewer from Austin and their friends were at Lodge 18 to celebrate their 52nd anniversary. It’s so easy to bring a group to our hall and have a great time. We encourage families to bring their children; but, for

their safety and the safety of the dancers, please watch so they don’t run and play on the dance floor during dance numbers. They are welcome during the breaks and before the dance to have fun on the dance floor.

—Irene Vrabel, Reporter

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 18, Elgin Shares Country Christmas Dance Scenes

Lodge 18, Elgin hosted Glen Collins for a Country Christmas Dance on Sunday, December 4, 2016.

—Submitted by David Meyer, President

lodge will be electing 2017 officers at the December meeting. If anyone would like to run for an office, please contact one of our current officers. The Czech display is still at the La Retama Library, and he encouraged all to go and see this display. In January, they will be serving Czech food.

Under unfinished business, Secretary Virginia Rebecek talked about the District Seven Fall Fun Day in Floresville.

President Mark Rebecek, Secretary Virginia Rebeck, Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky and Jill Sijansky, and youth member Marcus Rebecek attended.

Youth member Marcus Rebecek entered the Christmas ornament contest and won first place in his age group. The ornament will hang on the Christmas tree at the Home Office in Temple. It was also decided that Lodge 79, Corpus Christi will host the District Seven Spring Meeting on March 19, 2017.

Thanks, Veterans!

Under new business, Judy Majek made a motion that our monthly donation will go to the Caller-Times Christmas Appeal. The motion was approved.

President Mark Rebecek thanked all veterans who attended our meeting for their service. He presented each Veteran with a car license plate bracket representing the veteran’s branch of service.

He asked each veteran to give a talk about their time in the military. Veterans were Frank Sacky - Army, Jerry Sijansky - Army, Larry Elzner - retired Navy, and Mark Rebecek - Army. President Rebecek showed a video about SSgt Roy Benavides receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor for his bravery in Viet Nam. Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth club report. She had nine members and guests in attendance. They made turkey decorations and started

Christmas tree ornaments. She asked members to bring items for the soldiers.

The youth will make boxes to send to them for Christmas. Bring the items to the next meeting.

Birthdays for November were Brandon Rew on the 2nd, Becky Urbanovsky on the 8th, and Leona Grant and Jerry

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Sijansky on the 27th. “Happy Birthday” was sung to these members.

Wedding anniversaries for November were Jerry and Jill Sijansky on the 22nd - 48 years and Mark and Virginia Rebecek on the 27th - 51 years. Congratulations to all!

Twenty-five dollar prizes were won

by Rob Marek and Marcus Rebecek. (I failed to put in the $25 dollar winners from our October meeting, and they were Gerilyn Donnell and Ruth Marek).

Next Meeting—December 18 Our next meeting will be Sunday, December 18 with the lodge furnishing roast beef. Members are asked to bring side dishes. Remember the election of officers, so come and put your vote in.

The meeting then adjourned.

Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek Secretary —SPJST—

Lillie Talafuse Celebrates 95th Birthday

Four Generations of SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Members Lillie Talafuse, center, is pictured with son Joe Talafuse, Jr. and daughter Cathy Talafuse Mitchell. Lillie is a member of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard, and she celebrated her 95th birthday in October.

SPJST proudly salutes this four generation Delancey family! Pictured are, from left to right, great-grandfather Cecil Delancey, grandfather Richard Lee Delancey, Sr., father Richard Lee Delancey, Jr. holding new member Caden Lee Delancey who is one year old. They are all members of Lodge 29, Taylor. Their sales agent is Albin Machu.

On October 11, 2016, Ludmila (Lillie) Elizabeth Lepik Talafuse celebrated her 95th birthday! She was born in 1921 in Lavaca County, Texas, near the town of Moravia, to Jaromir Lepik and Alzbeta Orsak Lepik, the third of four children. She became a member of SPJST on October 13, 1937. She is a 79-year member of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard.

Lillie grew up in the Boone’s Bend area of Wharton County and married Josef Peter Talafuse on June 4, 1946. Joe and Lillie initially made their home in East Bernard, where their two daughters, Diana and Cathy, were born. In

1954, they moved their family to Victoria, and a year later, the last of their three children, Joe, Jr., was born.

In Victoria, they owned and operated their own radio and television business.

Joe had worked in radio communications in the Army Air Corp during World War II and carried his learned skills into civilian life.

In 1997, the retired Joe and Lillie moved back to East Bernard to be closer to their son and his family. Joe, Sr. passed away in 2004. Lillie now resides in Cambridge Square Assisted Living in Rosenberg.

—SPJST—

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 80, Holland elects 2017 officers

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland was called to order by President Rita Spinn on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at 4 pm.

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

Officers absent were Joe W. Liles and Connie Horak, who was excused to attend the girls’ volleyball playoff game.

Curtis Wolf and Helen Pajestka were absent from the board of directors. Sales agents absent were Vicki Slye.

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

Motion carried.

Financial report was read by Frank Pajestka, Jr. Motion was made by Silveria Tschoerner, seconded by Dan Hendrix to accept the financial report. The financial report was approved by the board of directors prior to the meeting.

Motion carried.

Youth club report was read by Rita Spinn. Youth club members are waiting to receive the names from First Baptist Church so they can buy gifts.

FAC Frank Pajestka, Jr. reported that turkey bingo will be November 17. The board approved giving turkeys and fruit bought from Holland FFA. St. Stevens Church will borrow bingo cards on November 13.

We also need to start thinking of Lodge 80’s fraternalist of the year.

Thank you notes were read from North Belton Theatre.

Larry Kropp has checked and lit all heaters at the lodge.

The following motions were approved by the membership:

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Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Elles celebrate 60 years

Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Elles celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on November 20, 2016. Franklin D. Elles and Lois Jean Kalich were married on November 17, 1956, at First English Lutheran Church in Victoria, Texas.

Except for two years that were spent in Germany while Franklin was serving in the United States Army, they have lived their entire lives in Victoria. Their children Darla (and Mark) Buccigrossi and Allison Elles and Daryl (and Aimee)

Motion was made by Risa Pajestka, seconded by Dan Hendrix, to accept the bid for pest control from Budget Exterminators at $75 for three months.

Motion was made by Silveria Tschoerner, seconded by Risa Pajestka, to accept the lease with American Legion for 2017.

Motion was made by Coleman Benner, seconded by Risa Pajestka, to make a donation to the City of Holland Christmas Party of five $20 gift cards for a total of $100.

Motion was made by Dan Hendrix, seconded by Barbara Taisler-Hill, to donate $300 to Carol Wolf and her sisters

Elles - and their grandchildren Kayla and Ryan Elles and Simona and Sara Buccigrossi honored them on November 20 with a noon meal. Everyone enjoyed hearing about memories and seeing photos from the past. Guests included Lois’ sisters, Nyle Leshikar and Iris Hegemier, and their greatnephew, Chris Leshikar.

Lois and Franklin, their children, and grandchildren are all members of Lodge 32, Victoria.

—SPJST—

to help decorate the lodge for Christmas.

Motion was made by Monica McDougall, seconded by Risa Pajestka to dissolve the scholarship checking account and donate $1,000 to the youth club and $838 to the special account.

Lodge 80 breakfast/brunch Christmas party will be held December 3 from 9 to 11 a.m. Menu will be sausage, ham, eggs. Santa will attend and hand out candy canes with $1 attached.

Repairs need to be made to the kitchen faucet, and the wall and commode on the stage needs to be repaired.

Fraternalist of the year will be announced at the District Two meeting.

Repaving the parking lot was tabled.

Officers for 2017 were elected. All officers were reelected by acclamation in separate motions. They are: President Rita Spinn Vice President Joe W. Liles Secretary/Reporter Linda Hill Treasurer/FAC Frank Pajestka Jr. Youth Leader Connie Horak

All board of directors were reelected by acclamation in one motion. They are: Bar Chairman/Board of Director Silveria Tschoerner Bingo Chairman/Board of Director Ann Weir Board of Directors Curtis Wolf, Helen Pajestka Danny Hendrix, Barbara Taisler-Hill Coleman Benner

The new slate of officers and board members will become effective on January 1, 2017.

Get well wishes go to Regina Peevey and Helen Pajestka.

Birthdays in November are Dan Hendrix, Helen Pajestka, Vicki Slye, and Jacob Horak.

Door prize winners were Barbara Taisler-Hill, Coleman Benner, Silveria Tschoerner, Frank Pajestka, Jr., and Risa Pajestka.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Members Celebrate Special Days

Lodge 66, Waco gives $2,500 to S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi recognized its members on their November anniversaries and birthdays. LEFT PHOTO: Anniversaries were, left to right, Jerry and Jill Sijansky who celebrated 48 years on November 22 and Virginia and Mark Rebecek, who celebrated

51 years on November 27. Congratulations! RIGHT PHOTO: Happy November birthdays to, left to right, Jerry Sijansky on the 27th, Becky Urbanovsky on the 8th, Leona Grant on the 27th, and Brandon Rew on the 2nd.

Lodge 66, Waco is proud to announce a $2,500 donation to the S.P.J.S.T. Nursing Homes Group for the Christmas season. Pictured are Lodge 66 President John Engelke, left, and Woody Richards, S.P.J.S.T. Nursing Home CEO.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Seasonings from Fat Boys Bar-B-Q, who won second place in the World Barbecue Cookoff in Kansas City were awarded to Frank Pajestka, Sr., Monica McDougall, and J.D. (Pete) Coker.

Meeting adjourned at 4:40 p.m. with a motion made by Risa Pajestka, seconded by Silveria Tschoerner.

Linda Hill Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston New Year’s Eve dance Saturday, Dec. 31

On Saturday, December 31, we will have a New Year’s Eve dance featuring The Moonglow Orchestra from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. There will be a balloon drop and a champagne toast at midnight with breakfast to follow. Tickets are $35 per person and are for sale now. See the advertisement on page 29 for more information.

Mollie B—Sunday, January 15, 2017 Mollie B will be at Lodge 88 on Sunday, January 15, 2017, from 2 to 6 p.m.

Tickets are $15 per person and went on sale November 1. Please call Vernell at 713-861-0223 to make reservations. All tickets must be paid for in advance.

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Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Honors Veterans

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi recognized Veterans for their military service at the November meeting. LEFT PHOTO: President Mark Rebecek, left, presents a U.S. Army Veterans license plate frame to Jerry Sijansky. PHOTO 2: President Rebecek, right, presents Frank Sacky with a U.S. Army Veteran license

Please mail a check or money order payable to: SPJST Lodge 88 Attention: Mollie B 1435 Beall Street Houston, Texas 77008

Please include a note with your table number and your contact phone number.

A light lunch will be available before and during the show for an additional cost.

—SPJST—

plate frame. PHOTO 3: President Rebecek, left, presents Larry Elzner recognizes Larry Elzner with a U.S. Navy Retired license plate frame. RIGHT PHOTO: Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky, left, presents Mark Rebecek a U.S. Army Veteran license plate frame.

Lodge 92, Fort Worth sets holiday activities

Dear Members, Come on out to National Hall - SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth! We invite you to mark these upcoming activities on your calendar and plan to visit. National Hall is located at 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road in Fort Worth.

Wednesday, December 14—Sportsmen’s Club, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. A monthly meeting of hunting and fishing enthusiasts with speakers and prize drawings. Admission is free of charge

and is open to the public.

Friday, December 16—Children’s Christmas party at 6 p.m. Please bring some cookies or a dessert to share. We will have punch to go with the cookies then Santa will come to hand out the gifts. One gift per child, please. For more information, call our Lodge 92 Youth Leader Jolie Mozingo at 817791-4570.

Sunday, December 18—Metro dance, 7 to 10 p.m.

Tuesday, December 27—Game night at Lodge 92 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance with Berry Barry Band, 7:15 to 9:15 p.m. and Tommy

Scenes from Lodge 88, Houston Christmas Party

Lodge 84, Dallas hosts Fraternal Council meeting

The Dallas Fraternal Council held its meeting and Christmas party on Tuesday, December 6, 2016, at Lodge 84, Dallas. Officers were elected and voted in by acclamation. The next meeting is February 7, 2017.

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right, Allison, Jerry, and Keith Wockenfuss and Patty Ondras enjoy the Christmas meal. CENTER PHOTO: Honorary District Five Director Larry W. Pflughaupt adds the finishing touches to six pans of delicious, homemade lasagna. RIGHT PHOTO: 2014 State Queen Denae Bronikowski with parents Robert and Doris and Stella Bronikowski.

BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Kenneth and Cindy Mlcak, left, and Jeanne and Larry Netardus. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Ashley Victorick, left, with Melissa, Addison, and Allen Brown. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Santa visits with Dorothy and Honorary Director Pflughaupt.

—Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Alverson Band from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door or online at www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Admission includes champagne, blackeyed peas, and cornbread at midnight.

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Lodge 142, Houston Recognizes Veterans

Upcoming event and rental information is available from Jon Durham, Event Manager at 817-624-1361.

Angela Paprskar Casteel President —SPJST—

Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites all youth to Christmas party Friday, Dec. 16

SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites all youth to enjoy and celebrate the Christmas season at the children’s Christmas party on Friday, December 16, 2016, at National Hall, located at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road in Fort Worth, Texas 76114. We send a special invitation to youth from Lodges 154, Fort Worth and 180, Burleson.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The youth Christmas program will be followed by our very special guest — Santa Claus, who will hand out goodie bags.

Parents, if you would like, bring a gift to place under the tree for Santa to hand out for your child. Please clearly mark

Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosts Barry Berry, Tommy Alverson bands on New Year’s Eve

Lodge 142, Houston honored its veterans at the November 20, 2016, meeting. Veterans are, left to right, Steve Roznovsky, U.S. Army; Emil Kutra, U.S. Army; Gus Molnoskey, U.S. Army; Jack Manchack, U.S. Air Force; and Jack Dowling, U.S. Navy. Lodge 142 honors you and appreciates your service.

—Submitted by Pat Schleider, FAC

the gift with your child’s name.

Please bring cookies or a dessert to share. We will have punch to go with the cookies and desserts.

For more information, call Lodge 92 Youth Leader Jolie Mozingo at 817791-4570.

We look forward to seeing you and your family! We especially encourage youth from Lodges 154, Fort Worth and

180, Burleson to come on out and enjoy the party. Merry Christmas!

Fraternally, Jolie Mozingo, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Looking for something to do on New Year’s Eve? Why not plan to spend the evening with your friends at SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth! Historic National Hall presents a New Year’s Eve Celebration starring Tommy Alverson!

Join us for a night of food, fun, and great Texas music on Saturday, December 31, 2016. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. A delicious barbecue dinner will be served until 9 p.m. The Barry Berry Band will perform from 7:15 to 9:15 p.m. followed by the great Tommy Alverson from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Champagne, black-eyed peas, and cornbread will be served at midnight.

Tickets are $40 in advance and available at www.nationalhallfortworth.com.

Admission is $50 at the door.

A fun celebration is planned to ring in the new 2017 year—come join us!

Fraternally, Lodge 92, Fort Worth —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston hosts Blue Room Christmas Party

Saturday, December 3, 2016 • Lodge 88, Houston • Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Lodge 133 San Antonio Christmas luncheon Sunday, Dec. 18

Lodge 133, San Antonio will hold its Christmas luncheon on Sunday, December 18, 2016, at 12:30 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Activity Center. A ham dinner will be served. Please come and enjoy visiting with your friends as we celebrate the holiday season. A games party will follow.

Jarolyn Popp, President —SPJST—

Lodge 151, Wharton Member Cast in Broadway Touring Musical

Lodge 142, Houston: scholarship apps available

Attention all high school seniors and college undergraduates: Applications for the SPJST Lodge 142, Stefanik College Scholarship are now available. The deadline for required information to be received is February 1, 2017. For information or an application, please call Lodge 142 Treasurer Mary Ann Kieschnick at 713-862-5512 or email makieschnick@comcast.net.

Fraternally, Mary Ann Kieschnick Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 151, Wharton member Danielle Guilbot has been cast as CindyLou Who in the tourBroadway ing musical, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

The Musical!

This is the 10 year-old’s first major touring role.

Danielle spent two weeks in New York rehearsing for her role. Performances will be held in Midland, Michigan; New Orleans, Louisiana; Durham, North Carolina; Cleveland, Ohio and Washington,

D. C. More information on the production is available at GrinchMusical.com.

Danielle was a finalist in the 2016 Hal Leonard Vocal Competition. She has had roles in several regional productions.

Danielle is the daughter of Mary Bucek and Curtis Guilbot from Austin, Texas. She is the granddaughter of David and Janie Bucek from Wharton, Texas. David and Janie are both active members of Lodge 151.

—SPJST—

Lodges 92 and 154, Fort Worth host SPJST Floats in Parade of Lights

Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosted the “Happy Howlidays from SPJST! Christmas in Zootopia” float, top left photo, and Lodge 154, Fort Worth hosted the “TROLL-a-la-la-la. Peace.

Love. Joy. Merry Christmas from SPJST!” float, top right photo, in the Fort Worth Parade of Lights on Sunday, November 20, 2016, in downtown Fort Worth. The Trolls’ float received the prestigious Director’s Choice Award. LEFT PHOTO: From left are Angel and Lori Pace and Mary Steinman, all of Lodge 154, Fort Worth, and Pam Durham of Lodge 92, Fort Worth. RIGHT PHOTO: Float driver Jason Koliha, wife Amanda, and children Emma and Caden await the parade.

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 155, Austin reports on Christmas party

Lodge 155, Austin had its party, meeting, and election of officers at PoKe-Jo’s on Saturday, December 3, 2016.

Officers are:

O O O Presenting 2017 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 155, Austin

President Albert Klinkovsky Vice President Ashley Tullos Secretary Virginia Thomas Treasurer/Reporter Jean Motl

Visitors were District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda and State Youth Director Lynette Talasek and daughter Zoe. Members attending were Virginia Thomas, Richard Johnson, Albert and Clara Klinkovsky, Ashley Tullos, Joe and Jean Motl, Marianna Wood, and Henry Granado. Thanks to Director Jesse for the door prizes.

Submitted by, Jean Motl, Treasurer/Reporter —SPJST—

The 2017 officers of Lodge 155, Austin, are, left to right, Secretary Virginia Thomas, President Albert Klinkovsky, Treasurer/Reporter Jean Motl, and Vice President Ashley Tullos.

—Submitted by Jean Motl, Treasurer/Reporter

Lodge 180, Burleson hosts exciting Christmas party

What an exciting day we had at our annual Christmas party on Saturday, December 3, 2016, at Sammy’s Pizza and Pasta Restaurant in Burleson. Even the rainy, cold weather could not keep our

Lodge 155, Austin Celebrates Christmas

Lodge 155, Austin had its party, meeting, and election of officers at PoK-e-Jo’s. Visitors were District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda and State Youth Director Lynette Talasek and daughter Zoe. Members attending were Virginia Thomas, Richard Johnson, Albert and Clara Klinkovsky, Ashley Tullos, Joe and Jean Motl, Marianna Wood, and Henry Granado.

—Submitted by Jean Motl, Treasurer/Reporter

guests from attending to help with our celebration.

We had guests from SPJST Home Office, Children’s Advocacy, and Harvest House as well as our members and their guests. What a great turnout which was enjoyed by all. Some of our members were not able to make it due to illness and the weather, and they were sorely missed.

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Our party started with mingle and greet where people had the opportunity to acquaint themselves with others who were attending - some to meet for the first time and others to renew acquaintances.

I reminded each person to notice the gold colored decorations that were on each table and that those golden decorations represented that the year 2017 was going to be a “golden year for Lodge 180.”

Our party continued with the introductions of Supreme Lodge Vice President Hiram Dixon; District Three Director John Engelke and wife Diana; and Fraternal Field Manager Philip McBee. Other guests were then introduced— Tammy King, director Children’s Advocacy Center of Cleburne and husband Adam King and daughter; Kevin Sellers, director of development, Children’s Advocacy Center; and Jennifer Woods, director of Harvest House.

Lodge 180 officers and their guests were also recognized. Officers are: President Nancy Kelly First Vice President Joe Hurtik Second Vice President Ernest Kelly Treasurer Rhonda Hurtik Secretary Carmon Babina Sunshine Committee Verna Mason

Other members and guests were

In front is Jacob Jurica. Second row, from left, youth Jordan Woodall, Treasurer/Assistant Youth Leader April Howard, youth Jody Jurica, and Secretary-elect Jenni Jurica. BACK: President Donnie Howard, Vice President/Assistant Youth Leader Sherry McDonald, and Jason Jurica.

Lodge 185, New Braunfels adults, youth raise money, awareness for spina bifida at Jingle for a Cause

Lodge 185, New Braunfels adult and youth club members participated in the Jingle for a Cause Jingle Bell Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, December 3, 2016, to raise money and awareness for spina bifida. Lodge 185 Youth Club member Jacob Jurica, front, was an honoree at the event.

The Hill Country Angels conducts the walk/run and highlights a different disease each year. This was the third annual Jingle for a Cause. For more information or to donate, visit www.hillcountryangels.org.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Sandy Almonte, son Logan, and Sandy’s goddaughter Kassandra Vaness; Joe Babina, son Joey Babina, and grandson Nicholas Babina; Colin Hurtik and Graciela Medina; Liana Scott; and Nicole and Hector Seise.

Following the recognition of all, contributions were given to Supreme Lodge Vice President Hiram Dixon to be utilized in the Czech Heritage Museum and 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund.

Each of these contributions were for $3,000.

A contribution was then presented to Tammy King, director of Children’s Advocacy Center, Cleburne and Kevin Sellers, director of Development Children’s Advocacy Center, Cleburne in the amount of $3,000.

An additional contribution was given to Jennifer Woods, director of Harvest House, Burleson in the amount of $3,000.

Lodge 180 was honored to have been able to make these funds available to these four entities to help in promoting the various needs and assistance that they represent.

Following the presentations, I was honored to receive recognition for being able to promote our insurance plans to our newest members.

Lodge 180 officers were installed for 2017 with Hiram Dixon and John Engelke acting as installing officers. This was great as each member and guest had an opportunity to see the goals and talks that we as officers agree to perform to the best of our ability.

While all of this was happening, guests were enjoying appetizers and beverages while waiting for their dinners to be prepared. I heard compliments on the appetizers, and I think that

Lodge 187, Round Rock members learn about scarecrow dolls

it was a tie for the best one - the garlic bread and cheese with the marinara sauce or the garlic/butter mushrooms.

Christmas gifts were given randomly to all in attendance with some levity as they had been wrapped way in advance

by Rhonda and myself. Some of the gifts that were feminine were received by men and vice versa. I explained that they had the responsibility to exchange or swap as the need arose.

Blessings were petitioned by Hiram Dixon for our lodge, military, government, needs, and safe travels of all.

Hiram had a beautiful prayer for all and our response was a resounding “Amen.”

Each person in attendance had the choice of their meal, and I do not believe that anyone left hungry or dry.

Let me say a special thanks to Diana Engelke for all of the pictures that she took for us at the party. What a great job she did for us!

Jennave Fuchs tells Lodge 187, Round Rock members the story about scarecrow dolls. Mathieu McCarthy, right, was in front to hear it all. Also pictured are Linda Mendoza , Linda Johnson, and Wilford Fuchs.

We were able to have our party in record time and accomplish all that we had on the agenda, which was very good as we were having rainy, cold weather and many had a long journey home. As guests were departing, each took with them a golden bag filled with goodies.

The golden bag was a reminder of the golden year for Lodge 180 in the next year of 2017.

Fraternally yours, Nancy S. Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—

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Lodge 180, Burleson shares birthday wishes

Lodge 180, Burleson wishes to say “Happy Birthday” to all of our Christmas babies! They are Katie Doutlick, Johnna Hilcher, Felicia Hurtik, Joseph Janecka, Suzanne Janecka, Gerald Krafka, Cynthia Milburn, Julius Psencik, Robert Psencik, Alice Sanders, Marilyn Seely, Kasie Smajstrla, Frances Wheat, and Gene Wheat. May you each have a great birthday!

Fraternally, Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 180, Burleson shares Christmas greetings

Lodge 180, Burleson wishes each of our fellow lodges and all of your members a merry Christmas and a happy New Year for 2017. May each of you have faith, love, health, and prosperity in your lives with many blessings thrown in for good measure.

Fraternally, Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 185, New Braunfels collects, donates food to Spirt of Sharing

SPJST supports Bruceville-Eddy’s Taylor Senior Center

District Two Director Jesse Pospisil right, presents a check from his discretionary funds to Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy President Allen Trigg, Sr. for Taylor Senior Center in Eddy.

The funds will support the building and various programs for seniors in the area.

Lodge 185, New Braunfels and Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club participated in a Make A Difference Day project. A total of 110 pounds of food was collected and donated to the New Braunfels Spirit of Sharing Food Bank. As always, the food bank was grateful for the donations.

—Submitted by Theresa Haag, Youth Leader

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 183 Arlington Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 18

Dear Members, You are cordially invited to Lodge 183, Arlington’s Christmas party on Sunday, December 18, 2016! Guests who are interested in SPJST membership are also welcome to attend! The party will be held at the lodge hall, located at 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane in Arlington.

The party starts at 5 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Meat and dessert will be provided. Please bring a side dish.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in the Chinese gift exchange.

Adults are asked to bring a $15 gift for a male or a female.

If you would like your child to receive a gift from Santa, please bring a

wrapped gift.

Please RSVP by Monday, December 12 to 817-465-8538.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, December 18!

Fraternally, Kay Weeks FAC/Assistant Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 187 Round Rock reports on November meeting

We started by welcoming all our visitors—Dennis McCarthy, Linda Mendoza, Bruce Hicks, Rosalie Henry, and James Lee, III. We discussed nominations for fraternalist of the year, nominees of officers,

end of the year forms, and 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive.

We honored veterans who were present - Greg McCarthy, Dennis McCarthy, Wilford Fuchs, and Eldon Lange. Thank you for your service.

We discussed upcoming events including the open house in Temple.

Mr. James Lee, III discussed the SPJST Foundation and all that it includes . . . wow!

Jennave Fuchs did a wonderful entertainment piece about Veterans Day, and she told us a story about the scarecrow dolls that her daughter Pam Fuchs loves.

We wish more people were at the meetings to hear these great stories.

November birthday celebrants were Linda Johnson on the 22nd, Ashley Smith on the 15th, Eldon Lange on the 20th, Kember Meyer and Kadnce Meyer on the 4th, Lana Michalski on the 25th, Cale Rohlack on the 5th, and Deandra Barron Roman on the 18th.

The next meeting will be on Decem-

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ber 11 at 2 p.m. We will have our traditional fajitas dinner, and all will be sent a reminder of what to bring. We will also have our white elephant gift exchange.

All gifts should be from $10 to $15 and gender neutral. If you want to join in the fun, please bring a gift for each person participating. Don’t forget to bring a gift for any little ones that you may bring so that they can join in on the fun, too. We hope to see all soon!

Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 191, Lufkin to host New Year’s Eve dance

Christmas? Already? Here it is December; where did the rest of the year go? I hope you are ready for Christmas

SPJST District Six Selected as Grand Marshal in 30th El Campo Christmas Parade

Members of Lodges 30, Taiton and 40, El Campo-Hillje ride the SPJST Float in the 30th Annual El Campo Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 1, 2016. The District Six entry was the grand marshal in the parade.

RIGHT PHOTO: District Six Director Karen Kaspar, far left, visits with representatives and family members riding the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center’s lighted float in the El Campo Christmas Parade.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Lodge 180, Burleson Presents $3,000 donations to Children’s Advocacy, Harvest House, SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund, Czech Heritage Museum

Lodge 180, Burleson presented $3,000 donations to four organizations at the lodge’s Christmas party on December 3, 2016. LEFT PHOTO: Children’s Advocacy (Cleburne) - Director of Development Kevin Sellers and Director of Advocacy (Cleburne) Tammy King, second from right, accept the donation from Lodge 180 Treasurer Rhonda Hurtik, second from left, and Lodge 180 President Nancy Kelly. CENTER PHOTO: Director of Har-

because it is right upon us. SPJST Lodge 191 wishes you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

November’s dance featured Glenn Lenderman and Friends with George Scogin on the saxophone and Chris Powell on drums. Glenn always does such a good job of playing for the lodge dances. Thanks to everyone who brought food for the food table. We always have good food. Velma Walker was the winner of the 50-50 drawing.

Maxey Kirkley was one of the winners of the free dance tickets to any dance but New Year’s Eve. I did not get the name of the other winner. Congratulations to these winners!

December 16 is the Christmas dance for the lodge with Nathan Ham and the Country Boys. The theme is “Tis the Season.” The dance is from 7 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $6 for members and $8 for guests. Please bring an unwrapped toy to be given to the Salvation Army for the underprivileged children in Lufkin. It does not have to cost too much to see the sparkle in little children’s eyes at Christmas. If we could all get as excited about things today as we did when we were children, this world would be a better place.

Please continue to be in prayer for Woody Gann, Tucker Weems, and Crickett Linderman and their families.

New Year’s Eve Dance Glenn Lenderman and Friends will be playing for the New Year’s Eve dance. If you would like to reserve a table, please call George Scogin at 936875-2867 or email GeorgePat@consolidated.net. Tickets are $15 each, and you can purchase them at the door. The time

for the New Year’s Eve dance is 8 p.m. to midnight.

Please bring a covered dish or finger food for the food table.

Pat Scogin, Reporter —SPJST—

How to Celebrate a

Czech Christmas!

Some Traditions Have Changed While Others Have Stayed the Same

vest House (Burleson) Jennifer Woods, center, accepts a $3,000 check from Treasurer Hurtik, left, and President Kelly. RIGHT PHOTO: SPJST Vice President Hiram Dixon receives a $3,000 for the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund and a $3,000 check for the Czech Heritage Museum from Treasurer Hurtik, left, and President Kelly.

—Submitted by Nancy Kelly, President means to celebrate a traditional Czech Christmas.

It was once the custom for Czechs to fast for the whole day on Christmas Eve, for only those who did not eat until Christmas Eve dinner would be able to see the golden pig — a symbol of prosperity — on the wall that evening. That morning the Christmas tree would have been decorated mostly with red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, and other sweets, and on the tip of the tree the star of Bethlehem was set.

It was also customary for the tree to be mostly decorated by the children, because the mother had too

many other things to do. Also, candles were fastened to the tree branches, to be lit in the evening and give Christmas Eve an even greater sense of magic.

The whole family would be finishing up their final preparations before the Christmas feasts, which were just beginning on Christmas Eve at nightfall.

Holiday Customs and Traditions J

No lights should be lit in the house before the first star comes out. After it does, dinner is served.

O O O Presenting 2017 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson

A Traditional Czech Christmas

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zechs begin preparing for Christmas early — usually, by the middle of November. It’s at that time that the shops begin luring people in with their window displays. Mailbox flyers and commercials on all the television stations help to further the pre-Christmas madness. Not only are the shops full of people buying gifts for their relatives, but also people buying ingredients for making sweets at home . . . but more about that later.

Let’s begin by taking a step back in time and look at what it

The 2017 officers of Lodge 180, Burleson are, second from left to right, First Vice President Joe Hurtik, Treasurer Rhonda Hurtik, Secretary Carmon Babina, Second Vice President Ernest Kelly, and President Nancy Kelly. Pictured with them are District Three Director John Engelke, far left, and Supreme Lodge Vice President Hiram Dixon, far right.

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The table should be set for an even number of guests. An odd number brings bad luck or death.

An extra plate can be used to even out the number of guests. An extra plate should also be prepared in case an unexpected guest or a person in need comes by the house at dinner time.

The legs of the table can be tied with a rope to protect the house from thieves and burglars in the coming year.

No one should sit with their back to the door.

Christmas dinner should consist of nine courses including soup, bread with honey, carp, potato salad, fruit (dried, fresh or canned), dessert (apple strudel or vánočka - Christmas bread), and other foods.

No alcohol should be served on

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Christmas Eve. No one should ever get up from the Christmas table before dinner is finished. Doing so brings bad luck and death in the family.

Everyone should finish their dinner and leave nothing on the plate.

The first person to leave the table after dinner will be the first one to die in the coming year. That is why everyone should get up from the table at the same time.

Any leftovers from dinner (crumbs, fishbones, etc.) should be buried around the trees to ensure they will bear lots of fruit.

All household animals should be fed after dinner so that no one goes hungry on Christmas Eve.

The Power of Foods and Plants

Certain plants, spices and foods

are said to have special qualities and have been an important part of Czech Christmas celebrations throughout history. Here are some of them:

Garlic An essential part of Christmas that should not be missing at any Christmas dinner. It is believed to provide strength and protection. A bowl of garlic can be placed under the dinner table.

Honey Honey is believed to guard against evil. A pot of honey can be placed on the dinner table.

Mushrooms Mushrooms give health and strength. A traditional meal called kuba, prepared from dried mushrooms, barley, garlic, onions, and

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spices, used to be served as the main meal in the past. Mushroom soup can be served before dinner.

Sheaf of Grain A bundle of grain dipped in holy water can be used to sprinkle the house to prevent it from burning down in the next year.

Poppyseed, Peas, Wheat, Barley If given to the hens on Christmas Eve, lots of eggs will be laid in the coming year.

Vánočka (Christmas Bread) Feeding a piece of vánočka to the cows on Christmas Eve will ensure that there will be lots of milk all year.

Putting a few vánočka crumbs in front of the bee hive will make sure that the bees will produce enough honey next year. Throwing a piece of vánočka

Lodge 180, Burleson Shares Christmas Party Scenes

LEFT PHOTO: Logan Almonte helps Lodge 180, Burleson President Nancy Kelly distribute the gifts. Logan is a new youth member of the lodge. PHOTO 2: SPJST Vice President Hiram Dixon presents Lodge 180 Sales Agent Nancy Kelly an award for enrolling new members.

PHOTO 3: SPJST representatives, from left, are Fraternal Field Man-

ager Philip McBee, Vice President Hiram Dixon, and District Three Director John Engelke. RIGHT PHOTO: Families also gathered to take photos. Pictured are, Second Vice President Ernest Kelly, right, President Nancy Kelly, second from left, with daughter Nicole and husband Hector Seise.

LEFT PHOTO: Babina family - Joe, Lodge 180 Secretary Carmon, son Joey, and grandson Nicholas. PHOTO 2: Hurtik family - Colin Hurtik, Graciela Medina, Lodge 180 Treasurer Rhonda, and First Vice President Joe

Hurtik. PHOTO 3: Verna Mason’s family - daughter Liana Scott, Verna, daughter Sandy Almonte, and grandson Logan Almonte. RIGHT PHOTO: Family picture - Sandy Almonte and goddaughter Kassandra Vaness.

LEFT PHOTOS: Attendees enjoy the Christmas party. RIGHT PHOTO: Thanks to Diana Engelke, Lodge 180, Burleson’s adopted photographer! Diana is a

fantastic person, and she is so willing to step up and help anywhere she is needed. She was a fantastic complement to our party.

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into the well will ensure good quality of the water.

Apple If the goats are given apples on Christmas Eve, their milk will be sweet.

Happy 75th Birthday, Robert Castillo of Lodge 196, Houston-West

Foretelling the Future

The Cutting of the Apple After Christmas dinner, every person present at the table cuts an apple in half (crosswise, from the stem down). Both halves are shown to everyone around the table. If the core is shaped as a star, it means that everyone will get together next year in happiness and health. A four-pointed cross is a bad omen and means that someone at the table will fall ill or die within a year.

Foretelling Marriage

There are lots of Christmas customs that help young girls in the family find out if they will get married in the year to come.

Cherry Tree Twigs (Barborky) On December 4, St. Barbora’s Day, an unmarried girl is supposed to cut a twig off of a cherry tree and put it in water. If the twig blooms by Christmas Eve, the girl will marry within a year.

The Throwing of the Shoe An unmarried girl is supposed to throw a shoe over her shoulder and towards the door. If the shoe lands with the toe pointing towards the door, the girl will marry within a year.

The Shaking of the Elder Tree An unmarried girl is supposed to shake an elder tree and if a dog barks, she will marry a man who lives in the direction from which the dog bark came.

Money and Wealth

Although Czech Christmas has

- Christ the Lord was Born from the 15th century, Nesem Vám Noviny Bringing Good News to You from the end of the 19th century or Ticha Noc - Silent Night. Though Austrian by origin, this last song was soon adopted here.

Czech Christmas Today

The foretelling of the future and predicting the well-being of the family in the coming year is connected with many popular Christmas customs some of which are still practiced today.

The Floating of Walnut Shells Little boats are made out of empty walnut shells and each family member places a little burning candle into a shell. Everyone's shells are then floated on a bowl of water. If the shell makes it across the bowl, its owner will live a long and healthy life. A shell that sinks brings bad luck to its owner.

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Robert Castillo of Lodge 196, Houston-West celebrated his 75th birthday on September 17, 2016. His family hosted a party to celebrate this special milestone. Pictured with Robert are sons Jason, left, and Kyle and wife Pat. Robert and Pat are retired and reside in Brenham, Texas.

Jason is a warehouse supervisor at Gulf Rice. Kyle is a graduate of Texas A&M with a degree in criminal justice. He is currently employed with the Bradbury group. Robert served as president and youth leader at Lodge 196 and as Assistant District Five Youth Counselor for several years in the 1990s and early 2000s. He sends a hello to all of his SPJST friends around the state. Best wishes to Robert and his family!

traditionally been focused on spirituality and family rather than on material possessions, there are a few customs relating to money and wealth.

Fish Scales Fish scales should be placed under Christmas dinner plates or under the tablecloth to bring wealth to the house. Carrying a fish scale in a wallet all year will ensure that money will not run out.

Midnight Mass

Christmas Eve ended with Midnight Mass, which was held in every church. In some regions, Christmas plays were also part of the Mass, which was followed in any case with carolling.

On Christmas Eve and God's Feast — December 25 — people wouldn’t play cards, go to the pub or visit relatives.

This had to wait until St. Stephen’s Day, December 26, when the dancing parties and the period of merry-making and carolling began.

Carols and Carolling

Carolling is an old Czech custom, where carollers go from house to house in a group, singing songs and collecting presents in each house.

The main period of carolling runs from Christmas Eve to the Day of the

Three Kings, thus from December 24 to January 6. Most often, people went carolling on Christmas Eve, St. Stephen’s Day (December 26), and on New Year’s. Another period of carolling was during the Easter holidays.

Through their carols the people wished for prosperity in the future, and this wish for success in agriculture and in their personal life (love and health) had a deeper meaning than the later New Year's good wishes. For this reason, carollers were warmly welcomed into homes and their carols were of good tidings and delivered with a merry feeling.

Carollers would often go dressed in costumes and carolling would take on a racier nature.

The medieval Church frowned on carollers for the spectacle that they would sometimes make of themselves, including masquerading themselves as animals!

Consequently, the Church ended up forbidding people’s carolling and began introducing priests to the carolling trips. Through this the Church hoped to replace the old carolling, and so in the 14th century popular carolling was replaced by Church Christmas songs about the birth of Christ, first in Latin, later in the national tongues.

The best known of the czech carols today are Narodil se Kristus Pán

Preparations for the Christmas holidays mostly get underway for Czechs with a good house-cleaning.

The whole house is cleaned from top to bottom: the carpets are washed, the furniture polished, and everywhere vacuumed, even under the beds and cupboards. In recent times, Czechs have begun placing other objects that symbolize Christmas in these nice, clean windows — lit Christmas stars bought in the shops or artificial wreaths.

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

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

Christmas Sweets

From the beginning of December, the attractive aromas of Christmas confectionery begin emanating from Czech kitchens. Even if more and more Czechs lack the courage to bake a vanocka Christmas loaf, baking Christmas sweets at home remains a Czech speciality.

The more types of sweets on the table during Christmas, the better. The custom was that the children would help their mothers. The custom was also that the children, along with their fathers, would steal the sweets before Christmas from the box where their mothers had put them for safe-keeping. Another rule was also that housewives and grandmothers would bake even more kinds of sweets to get a headstart on them. The results of all these actions can be seen in extra weight around the middle after the holidays . . .

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

Shopping

Neither the house-cleaning nor the

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cooking compares with the suffering endured in all the lines in the department stores and other shops. People from the countryside come into larger cities or Prague, along with people from the larger cities and towns. The most common spot for Christmas shopping is still the Prague department stores Kotva, Bila Labut and Tesco.

Mikulas

In the midst of these holiday preparations, the parents of small children have the holiday of Mikulas (St. Nicholas Day) to look forward to.

It’s celebrated on the eve of the day in his honor, thus on the fifth of December, and one of the only one of the old Czech advent holidays that is still being celebrated. Every year on this night, the streets are filled with devils rattling chains, St. Nicholases with white cotton beards, long white robes and bishop’s staves, and angels with paper wings, coming to see small children to give them a scare before giving

them sweets, and then drinking a toast with their parents. Advent also brings with it advent concerts, which are often connected with collections for a charitable cause.

Christmas Wishes

During the holiday season, Czechs think of all their friends and relatives and send their Christmas greetings to them. The design of these Christmas cards varies every year, but among them are always cards featuring the Czech artist Josef Lada. These are typical Czech Christmas greetings and people send plenty of them, even with the Czech Post continually raising its prices. The Czech Post does think of its customers, however, and tries to soften the blow by issuing brand new postage stamps every year at Christmas with holiday motifs.

The Christmas Tree

The closer Christmas gets, the more everyone realizes what they still haven’t gotten done: Mailing Christ-

mas cards, buying that gift for Auntie, making those special rum balls and picking out the Christmas tree. Christmas trees can be bought in most town squares and other open spaces, and every year they get more expensive.

The most expensive are fir trees, followed by pine and then spruce trees.

The newest trend is the artificial Christmas tree. Most Czech families keep their trees out on the balcony, where it remains until Christmas Eve.

The Christmas Carp and Other Preparations

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

Carp is only a recent addition to the

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Czech table, and according to studies, is part of Christmas Eve dinner in three quarters of Czech households, while the remainder prefer fried fish or filets.

The carp-sellers are a common sight on the streets in the wintry weather prior to Christmas, pulling carp out of the tanks of icy water, and even killing and gutting them there if the customer desires. Some people take them home, however, and put them in the bathtub. There are two things to remember concerning the keeping of the Christmas carp in the bathtub: 1) Don’t feed it! (so it doesn't have full intestines when Dad guts it after killing it), and 2) Don’t give it a name under any circumstances! This is so that the kids or their parents won’t feel sorry for it and run out on Christmas Eve to return it to the Vltava River!

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

And of course this can only mean office parties to celebrate the upcoming

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Nursing and Rehabilitation in Hillje opens new Medicare Wing

Thursday, November 10, 2016, was a big day for the folks at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Nursing and Rehabilitation in Hillje, Texas. They had the ribbon cutting for the new Medicare wing that will help serve the community by offering excellent phys-

ical, occupational, and speech therapy options. S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center board of directors and different agencies from the El Campo area joined in to help celebrate the exciting occasion. Congratulations, S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living in Hillje!

Pictured are, left to right, Eloise and Lonnie Lostak of Lodge 139, Danbury; Charles Bucek of Lodge 151, Wharton; Donnie Victorick of Lodge 9, Snook; and Howard and Nancy Leshikar of Lodge 48, Beyersville.

Thank you to everyone who attended the ribbon cutting celebration. It

was a great event. Thank you to our board members who made a special trip to Hillje for this occasion and to everyone who took time away from their jobs to be a part of our special day. We look forward to serving the community in new and exciting ways!

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

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

The Christmas television schedule is more or less the same every year. Fairy tales - old ones such as Pysna princezna (The Proud Princess), Princezna se zlatou hvezdou na cele (The Princess with the Golden Star on her Brow), Obusku z pytle ven (Take the Club from the Sack), and then the newer ones like Silene smutna princezna (The Terribly Sad Princess), or Tri orisky pro Popelku (Three Nuts for Cinderella).

There’s also no shortage of old Czech and foreign comedies, such as the film Babicka (Grandmother) or the musicals My Fair Lady and Mary

Poppins. One Christmas hit is missing from the schedule, however, the Soviet fairy tale Mrazik (Frost), which will be engraved in the hearts of the children of the 1970’s and 80’s and their parents forever.

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

Recently the preferred decorations have become natural ornaments — red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, straw or wooden figures and classical candles.

In Memory of Leroy Psencik

guson (Hal), Jessica Park, and Melissa Psencik; and great-grandchildren Addison Ferguson and Rylee Ferguson. When he married Anne, Leroy happily acquired a loving extended family: sister-in-law Ruth Williams McCullagh (Jack); brother-inlaw Paul Williams; sister-in-law Maggie Williams Warpenburg (Mike); and exceptionally close nieces Signe McCullagh Wasserman (Ric) and Bonnie McCullagh; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

As a young boy, Leroy was baptized and confirmed in the Czech Moravian Church, but joined the Methodist Church while living in Victoria. Having converted to Catholicism on Easter 2005, he was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Austin at the time of his death.

He grew up on a farm in Cyclone, located about 15 miles east of Temple. Leroy decided fairly early to emulate a favorite high school teacher rather than become a

Leroy Floyd Psencik was born July 8, 1935, in Cyclone, Texas, to Frank Henry Psencik and Lillie Anna Wentrcek Psencik. He died Friday, November 25, 2016, in Austin from Parkinson’s Dementia with his beloved wife Anne by his side.

In addition to his wife, Leroy is sur- Leroy Psencik vived by children from a previous marriage Terry Psencik Park of Gurnee, Illinois, and Cary (Rosy) Psencik of Georgetown; grandchildren Joshua Park, Erin Psencik Lyckman, Sara Psencik Fer-

Christmas Day

In the Czech Republic, just as here, December 25 is an official national holiday. Everyone gets to sleep in! It is also customary at this time of the year to publicly forgive those you have quarreled with during the year.

Traditionally the main meal at noon on Christmas Day would be: a giblet soup with homemade noodles, a roast goose with bread dumplings and sauerkraut. After this huge meal, they eat fresh kolaches, fruits, nuts and

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

lifelong farmer. After graduating from Rogers High School, he, therefore, pursued an Associate in Arts degree from Temple Junior College in Temple. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University in College Station. His Master of Education was from Southwest Texas State College (now Texas State University) in San Marcos, Texas. And, finally, a Doctor of Philosophy degree was conferred on him by Texas A&M University in College Station.

Leroy had a distinguished career in education which spanned 40 years and covered grades pre-K through high school for the entire state of Texas. He taught high school social studies in Victoria for eight years and was named department head after just three years of teaching. He had a 27-year tenure at the Texas Education Agency (TEA), serving nine years as social studies consultant and another 18 years as director of the division of curriculum development. After retiring from TEA, he worked in the Human Resources Division of the Round Rock Independent School District for five years, where he was responsible for recruiting teachers for the district.

Leroy was honorably discharged from the Texas National Guard after serving for nine years when he began pursuing his Master of Education degree at Southwest Texas State College.

Anyone who knew Leroy knew of his love of God, family, friends, and country.

He was proud of any and all accomplishments achieved by family members. And he clearly loved this country. Over the course of their marriage, Leroy and Anne traveled to over 300 of the 400 national park sites; he was a true reservoir of knowledge when it came to American presidents. Leroy and Anne truly enjoyed their road trips and visited almost every presidential birthplace, home, library, and gravesite.

Leroy was a member of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Clarence Psencik; siblings who died in infancy - Lorine Psencik, Leslie Psencik, and Laverne Psencik; and grandson-in-law Shane Lyckman.

Honorary pallbearers were George Bedrich, Wayne Cobb, Leroy Innmon, William Kelm, Larry Perry, John Sommer, Elvin Tyrone, and Ronny Wimberly.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice in Leroy’s memory.

Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 1 at CookWalden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville. Funeral service was at 1 p.m.

Friday, December 2 at the Mausoleum Chapel of Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery. He was laid to rest at CookWalden/Capital Parks Cemetery.

Please visit Leroy's memorial at www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Ernest W. Nors

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Ernest W. Nors, age 81, of West, Texas, passed away late Monday evening, October 3, 2016, at Providence Health Center in Waco.

A rosary was recited at 6 p.m. Thursday, October 6 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel followed by visitation until 8 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial was at 11 a.m.

Friday, October 7 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption with Reverend Paul Hudson and Reverend Ed Karasek as celebrants, assisted by Deacon Ronnie Sykora. Burial fol- Ernest W. Nors lowed at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Ernest was born September 29, 1935, in Aquilla, the son of Henry and Antonia (Hejl) Nors. He attended the old Alligator School near West and graduated from Aquilla High School in 1953. On May 27, 1961, he was united in marriage to JoAnn Mach in Tours. Ernest worked for General Dynamics in Arlington, was a co-owner of JoAnn’s Bridal Shop in West for many years, and was a master carpenter. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption, where he served as an usher. Ernest was also a member of SPJST Lodge 54, West and KJT Society No. 31.

Ernest enjoyed deer hunting and listening to polka music. He especially loved spending time with his family.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Joe Nors, Henry Nors, Jr., and Emil Nors; and sisters Josephine Nors, Mary Soukup, and Rose Kolar.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 55 years, JoAnn Nors of West; daughters Deborah Sulak and husband Richard of West and Mary Eastland and fiancé Lawrence Frazier of Waco; brother Bill Nors and wife Tillie; sisters Henrietta Chudej, Marcella Kaska, Evelyn Pratka and husband Dan, and Lillian Kissinger and husband Harold; sister-in-law Donna Nors; granddaughters Allison Sulak, Ashley Sulak, and Kendall Eastland; greatgrandchildren Cassidy Westbrook and Cason Sulak; family friend Zdenek Hurtick; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Active pallbearers were Steve Nors, Andrew Jackson, T.C. Nors, Gary Nors, Jerry Chudej, Jeff Mach, Jeff Nors, and Joey Nors. Honorary pallbearers were the 9 a.m. Sunday ushers.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.

Share your thoughts and memories of Ernest in a memorial guest book found at www.aderholdfuneralhome.com.

Aderhold Funeral Home in West was in charge of arrangements.

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

Email: vestnik@spjst.org 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.

District Seven youth plan San Antonio Riverboat Christmas Light Cruise Tuesday, Dec. 20

District Seven invites youth to the San Antonio Riverboat Christmas Light Cruise on Tuesday, December 20, 2016,

at 889 East Market Street in San Antonio, Texas 78205 We will meet on the river side of the Marriott at 6:45 p.m. The boat leaves at 7 p.m. sharp. If you are not there by 7 p.m., the boat will leave without you. It is an hour long boat ride so make sure to bring a jacket and maybe a light blanket since it will be December and kind of chilly. On Tuesdays in San Antonio, parking is free of charge in select parking

garages. I suggest parking in the Convention Center Garage (850 East Commerce) as that will be the closest to where we need to be for the boat ride.

There are other parking garages closer to where we will be going, but there is a parking fee that you will have to pay.

After the boat ride, we will be heading over to Starbucks to grab a nice, warm hot chocolate. We will be doing a white elephant gift exchange. If you would like to participate in the gift exchange, please bring a small ($5 to $10) gift.

If you have any questions, please call either Lian 830-480-2737 or Regina 830570-2046.

Fraternally, Lian Pruski District Seven Youth Counselor —SPJST—

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Lodge 47, Seaton youth share December activities

Ready to Ride the Floats I cannot wait until we ride on the floats in the parades. It sounds fun!

Ariana Federle, age 11 eeeee

Happy Birthday, Brayden!

I am a birthday king. I like chicken. I saw a pig. My grandma is old. Tyson likes brownies. My birthday is on Tuesday, December 6. Tyson is a Texan.

Brayden will take over the world.

Brayden Gilliam, age 700,900 P.S. My real age is 7!

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Great-Grandma’s 90th Birthday On a Saturday, I went to El Campo to go visit my great-grandma for her birthday. We had her party at a church. The food was awesome, but I was glad to see her turn 90 years old.

Erin Perry, age 14 eeeee

District Six Youth Deliver Flowers, Cards, Good Cheer to S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living

District Six Youth visited S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Hillje, Texas, on Sunday, November 13, 2016. The youth made cards and flower arrangements and decorated small candy-filled pots. They then shared their gifts and visited with the residents of the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center. LEFT PHOTO: Youth from Lodges 30, Taiton and 40, El Campo-

Hillje display the beautiful flower arrangements before they delivered them to the residents. TOP CENTER PHOTO: Youth and adults work together to arrange flowers. BELOW LEFT CENTER PHOTO: Floral designer and District Six Youth Counselor Lisa Bubela, who owns Flowers Etc. & Gifts Inc. in El Campo, instructs youth on proper floral techniques.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Remembering Nana Today is my Nana’s birthday. She passed away last year. She died from cancer. She was 64 when she passed away. Her birthday, which is today, is December 4, 1950. I love my Nana.

Kimora Love Davis, age 9

District Seven Youth to cruise San Antonio Riverwalk

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Christmas Party After the December meeting, we had our Christmas party. It was fun.

Morgan Porubsky, age 12 eeeee

Temple Christmas Parade I am excited about the Temple Christmas parade on Tuesday, December 6. I really like riding on the floats in the parade and waving at everyone. After the parade, I like going to the Home Office for snacks and seeing Santa.

Tyson Bilbrey, age 9 eeeee

State Duchess enjoys Temple Christmas Parade, SP JS T Open House

District Seven invites youth to the San Antonio Riverboat Christmas Light Cruise on Tuesday, December 20. For more information, see the letter on page 22 or contact District Seven Youth Counselor Lian Pruski at 830-480-2737.

Parades and Beseda I will ride on the SPJST float in Temple and in Rogers. It will be fun. I will dance beseda in Rogers after the parade.

Merry Christmas!

Rebecca Federle, age 6 eeeee

SPJST is Cool!

I love to do everything with SPJST. It is so cool.

Lydia Federle, age 9 eeeee

Thank You, PFG! On Saturday, December 3, 2016, my dad’s work - PFG - took us to the movies so thank you to PFG! Seth Martinez, age 10 —SPJST—

2016-2017 SPJST State Duchess Rileigh Kitchen of Lodge 185, New Braunfels and Dottie the Dalmatian at the SPJST Home Office Christmas Open House.

Hello, Readers!

On Tuesday, December 6, 2016, it was the Christmas open house at the SPJST Home Office. There were a lot of people and this beautiful Dalmatian.

It was cold during the parade, but still fun. Everyone, try to go next year!

Rileigh Kitchen 2016-2017 State Dutchess —SPJST—

Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites all youth to Christmas party Friday, Dec. 16

SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites all youth to enjoy and celebrate the Christmas season at the children’s Christmas party on Friday, December 16, 2016, at National Hall, located at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road in Fort Worth, Texas 76114. We send a special invitation to youth from Lodges 154, Fort Worth and 180, Burleson.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The youth Christmas program will be followed by

our very special guest — Santa Claus, who will hand out goodie bags.

Parents, if you would like, bring a gift to place under the tree for Santa to hand out for your child. Please clearly mark the gift with your child’s name.

Please bring cookies or a dessert to share. We will have punch to go with the cookies and desserts.

For more information, call Lodge 92 Youth Leader Jolie Mozingo at 817791-4570.

We look forward to seeing you and your family! We especially encourage youth from Lodges 154, Fort Worth and 180, Burleson to come on out and enjoy the party. Merry Christmas!

Fraternally, Jolie Mozingo, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club meets January 8

23

Dear Members, We will have our next youth club meeting on Sunday, January 8, 2017, due to New Year’s Day. It will be at 2 p.m. in the youth room. I hope everyone has a good Christmas!

Fraternally, Keith Wockenfuss Vice President —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth reports on Christmas party

Dear Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton will be having its Christmas party on Sunday, December 11 that everyone should come and be a part of. We had our youth club party on Sunday, December 4 where we had our youth club meeting and a gift exchange. We wish to see you at our Christmas party, and we wish you a merry Christmas.

Sincerely, Chase Alexander —SPJST—

Lodge 17 youth serves as CHS Drum Major

Dear Readers, I have really enjoyed being drum major this year for the Caldwell High School Marching Band. Friday nights have been awesome! My junior year is flying by!

—Submitted by Dillon Narro —SPJST—

TOP LEFT PHOTO: Dillon leads the marching band.

TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Dillon, right, with cousin Tabor Dowell, both of Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club.

LEFT PHOTO: Dillon conducting the band.

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Lodge 49, Rowena youth share activities

Ag Mechanics Project I am happy to start my ag mechanics project. I plan to make a 20-foot flatbed trailer.

Sutton Schwertner eeeee

Bingo at Christmas Party We had a Christmas party. It was fun.

We played bingo, and I won. It was fun.

Hunter Wood eeeee

Elfy I like my cousins. We stay at each other’s houses. Elfy came to our house.

I like looking for her.

Cotton Wood eeeee

Christmas Displays My cousins got to come to my house to play. Then we went to the Santa Fe Train Depot for the Christmas displays.

I love this time of year.

Brody Schwertner

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Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Shares “All Saints Day” Project

eeeee

Andy the Lamb Our lamb Andy got fatter. Grace broke my bike. The boys came to my church. The boys are doing a play.

Bella Schwertner —SPJST— Play Practice Today, we went to church, and we had to practice for a play, and my cousins got to come, and my sister is a real pain in the neck. Her name is Bella!

Grace Schwertner eeeee

Dear Vestnik Readers, My eighth grade class at St. Philips did a saint project for “All Saints Day.” The saint I chose was St. Barbara, the patron saint of firefighters, artillery men, and anyone of sudden death. Her feast day was Sunday, December 4. I dressed up as my chosen saint and had to draw a mural of it. My class then did a parade around the student body and said a few words on stage.

Sincerely, LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 30, Brittany Baker Taiton youth Brittany Baker —SPJST— dressed as St. Barbara.

Christmas Party Today, we are having a Christmas party, and it is fun.

Tanner Wood —SPJST—

Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club Adopts Needy Families for Christmas

For the last several years, SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club has adopted needy families from the Taylor community. During the year, we fundraise so we can purchase gifts for several families. This year, we adopted four families which includes seven girls and five boys. We try to buy a jacket, shirt, pants, and toy/activity of their interest for each child. Depending on what great bargains we can find, sometimes the budget allows for shoes and other items. Additionally, each family receives a $100 gift card to Walmart in

hopes they’ll use the money towards food and essential items we did not provide. We also include a 2017 SPJST calendar so they can learn a little about our wonderful fraternal organization.

On Sunday, December 4, 2016, our youth club got together a few hours before the meeting time so we could wrap all of the presents. The kids really enjoy seeing what gifts were purchased, and they have a fun time wrapping them.

Afterwards, we bundle each family’s gifts together

in a large bag for easier delivery. A few of our Taylorarea families will be delivering the gifts.

I hope that this act of kindness will stick with our youth once they become adults. The recipients are so grateful and appreciative of our help, and many will say that without our help, the kids would not have any gifts to open.

Fraternally, Cristy Girod, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Lodge 185 New Braunfels youth takes Fluffy home

Hi, Everyone! This is Fluffy, our class pet. She came home with me for the weekend. She got dressed up, played with me, and we went to church on Sunday. It was fun!

Madeline Kitchen —SPJST—

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Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Youth Craft Thanksgiving Turkeys

Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth enjoys Artrageous with SPJST friends

Dear Věstník, On October 22, 2016, my youth club and I went to Artrageous, an art studio focused on activities for all ages, and made a Christmas wreath in the shape of Santa’s face.

My favorite part of the day - even though the craft was fun - had to be spending time with my SPJST friends.

With a hectic schedule, I don’t get much time for that any more so I like to cherish every moment I can.

Kelly House —SPJST—

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Youth Club members participate in a Thanksgiving craft at the November 20, 2016, meeting.

Lodge 202, Jourdanton youth ready for football playoffs Dear Věstník, I’ve played football since I was four years old. Now, I am 11 years old; so I have played for seven years.

I’ve played for the Brush Country Rattlers. Now, I play for Atascosa Aggies.

We have won six games and lost two games.

We are in the playoffs this year. We go against Killeen Cowboys. Wish us luck.

Diego Valdez, age 11 —SPJST—

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club Visits S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Hillje

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club members joined with youth from District Six to make and deliver cards and flower arrangements to residents at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Hillje on Sunday, November 13, 2016.

LEFT and RIGHT PHOTO: Youth display their floral arrangements. CEN-

TER PHOTO: District Six Director Karen Kaspar, left, and Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Leader Lisa Bubela, right, enjoy a special treat - visiting with Mrs. Prihoda, the daughter of Mrs. Lottie Krutilek who was a past Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Leader.

26

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club Prepares Tray Favors for Scottish Rite Patients

Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club created tray favors on Sunday, November 20, 2016, for Scottish Rite hospital patients. They were made to brighten the patients’ days who are staying in the hospital during the holidays.

LEFT PHOTO: Youth and adults work on the tray favors. CENTER

Lodge 202 Jourdanton youth studies for CNA certification

Dear Věstník, I’ve recently been involved in the CNA program with my high school - Pleasanton High School.

I am soon going to the nursing home to get my clinical hours.

I’m very excited to become a certified nursing assistant!

Thank you, Samara Jlynn Valdez, age 16 —SPJST—

PHOTO: Youth club members, left to right, Kalyne Tucker, Kendall Tucker, Megan Ruzicka, Ryan Ruzicka, and Joshua Tucker take a break for refreshments. RIGHT PHOTO: The finished tray favors.

—Submitted by Ryan and Megan Ruzicka

Lodge 186, Caldwell Youth Trinidad Garcia Receives New Arm

SPJST Lodge 186, Caldwell youth Trinidad Garcia is an active young man. He enjoys sports - especially soccer, and he keeps busy with school. And, he has done everything with one arm . . . until now.

“It’s called amniotic band syndrome,” said Trinidad’s mother, Erica Garcia, who is also a member of Lodge 186, Caldwell. Amniotic band syndrome can cause a number of different birth defects depending on which body part(s) is affected. Trinidad was born without the lower part of his right arm.

The condition has made what are usually simple tasks for many people more difficult for Trinidad.

But now things are different. About a week ago, Trinidad received a prosthetic arm.

“I thought it was awesome,” said Trinidad.

Caldwell Middle School Librarian Michelle Chmelar built the device using a 3-D printer that was donated to the school’s library.

“It’s surreal. I totally did not imagine doing something like this in my future,” the librarian said.

“It’s a blessing to be able to do this.”

It’s a blessing that will further help Trinidad reach his goal.

“I want to be a motorcycle builder,” he said.

The new device is also something his mom feels is priceless.

“It warms my heart, and I tell him that all the time,” Garcia said. “I know it’s going to take practice, and I tell him this all the time. My heart’s really warm from him being able to experience this.”

Chmelar says the prosthetic arm was a team effort with other employees in the district and she’s working on a second-phase prosthetic for Trinidad that will be finished soon.

“Trini is an amazing young man with an awesome family who supports him,” SPJST Sales Agent Susan Skrabanek said. “This is the most amazing thing! Our God is so good. A big shout out to Caldwell ISD for making this happen!”

Photos sources: Caldwell Elementary and Caldwell Middle School Facebook pages. Article source: http://www.kagstv.com/news/ local/school-librarian-builds-prosthetic-arm-forcaldwell-first-grader/352681724 —SPJST—

Podpora

VĚSTNÍK

BENEVOLENCE

ROČNÍK 104 CISLO 49

Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech Lekce dvacet čtyři Lesson 24

Review of Lessons 21, 22, 23

Read the following out loud. Get your parents, grandparents, relatives, or friends to help you with the pronunciation. Clip and save each lesson and compile into a notebook.

Before we take up numerals and continue with the other parts of speech, it would be good to look back over the last three lessons and review them by listing a rather lengthy vocabulary. Note the assignment after the vocabulary.

★

Lidskost

Česká

HUMANITY

Bratrství Wednesday, December 14, 2016

★

Část

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Vocabulary

člověk – person dítě – child pták – bird růže – rose vítr – wind zima – winter léto – summer jaro – spring podzim – fall stávka – strike (from work) uhlí – coal vlna – wave láska – love přání – desire píle – industriousness spravedlnost – justice, honesty bohatství – wealth práce – work boj – battle pád – falling zdraví – health nemoc – illness smrt – death

The Taylor Czech Chorus is a non-profit organization with the purpose and goals of promoting and preserving Czech culture and heritage.

Singers include Darwin Machu and Angeline Malicoat, both of SPJST Lodge 20, Granger; Carolyn Hickman, Lillian Kaspar, Edith Remmel, Henry E. Ripple, Jr. (who is also the sound and technical engineer), Marie Ann Ripple, Mary Ann Stauffer, and Monica Stojanik, all of SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor; June Kubala of SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville; and Edward Bucanek, Carl Goericke, Loretta Goericke, Beatrice Janecka, Emil Kaderka, Trudie Kincl, Gary Krupala, Adele Rosipal, Eileen Rosipal, Herb Rosipal, Katherine Merka, Ronnie Simek, Sarah Vitek, Vlasta Vitek, Shirley Werchan, and Betty Zimmerhanzel. Musicians are Lodge 29, Taylor member Diane Volek, Director (keyboard), Nolin Werchan (accordion), Buster Pavlicek (accordion), Sid Krhovjak (rhythm guitar), Bernard Tupa (trumpet), and Jim Palla (bass guitar). See their advertisement on page 28 with information about the two-CD Christmas special package with Czech Sounds of Christmas, song booklet, and Songs of Our Heritage.

27

BROTHERHOOD

14.prosinec.2016

mír – peace spánek – sleep Alpy – Alps (mts.)

Američan – (an) American Čech – (a) Czech životný – animate neživotný – inanimate ženský rod – feminine gender střední rod – neuter gender předseda – chairman strop – ceiling hrad – castle mládež – youth čest – honor kuře – chicken nádraží – train station umění – talent (ability) všechen cukr – all the sugar všechna káva – all the coffee všechno pivo – all the beer oni – they ony – they (fem.)

jejich – their onen – that one kdokoli – anybody cokoli – anything samý kvét – all flowers sami cizinci – only foreigners pýcha – pride hrdinný – heroic viditelný – visible pracující – (hard) working zdejší – local mořský – of the ocean velcí vojáci – big soldiers drází přátelé – dear friends krásní psi – beautiful dogs nemocen – sick, ill schopen – capable št’asten – happy svoboden – single Janův klobouk – John’s hat matčiné srdce – (a) mother’s heart vstupné – admission (price)

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

Through February 2017 Texas Czechs: Rooted in Tradition Exhibition—at the La Retama Central Library, Corpus Christi: Features contemporary Texas Czech cultural traditions in photos, text, objects, film. For Library location/hours, visit www.cclibraries.com; or call 361-826-7055. Also visit www.polkaworks.org; or call 512- 448-4536. Submitted by Dawn Orsak, Lodge 187, Round Rock.

Czech Cultural Calendar

Second Sundays Czech Language Class—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange, 1 to 4 p.m. Fee is $10 per person per class. Call or email to verify classes. Pre-registration preferred.

For information, call 888-785-4500; 979968-9399; or email info@czechtexas.org.

First/Third Tuesdays Tarok Lessons with Tarok Champion Jimmie Coufal—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Temple, 7 p.m.: All skill levels; beginners always welcome! Free and open to everyone. For information, call 254-8992935; or email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com.

January 28 Texas Czech Genealogical Society Annual Meeting—at Caldwell Civic and Visitor Center, 103 Presidential Corridor (Highway 21), Caldwell. Visit www.txczgs.org. Watch for details.

January 28 Texas Czech Genealogical Society Czech Wedding Album submission deadline. Visit www.txczgs.org.

February 1 Texas Czech Genealogical Society Spring Česke Stopy issue submission deadline. Theme - Texas Czech cemeteries. Visit www.txczgs.org.

28

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Refer to the last three lessons, and you will find all of these words and expressions. Notice how they were used. They are listed here in the order they appear in Lessons 21, 22, and 23. * * * * *

Assignment

Write some sentences using all of the above listed words and terms. Compose your work with some other member of the family then read out loud.

—SPJST—

Vizovické Pečivo: Dough Ornaments

Christmas is a wonderful time. There are several Czech folk crafts creating beautiful, handmade, traditional ornaments for Christmas tree.

Since the 16th century, Czechs have practiced the art of dough ornaments - vizovické pečivo. These ornaments serve as a reminder of life’s beauty. Historically, they were made and given as gifts to children or used to decorate. Each generation passed the tradition on to the next, and it

still thrives today. Although the ornaments can be made in any shape, some have special meanings:

Dove - family peace and love Fish - quietness, silence Frog - protect clear waters Hedgehog - chase away sickness Rooster - manliness Sun - life Baby - happiness Swan - love Hare - strength Squirrel - good homemaker Crawfish - protect against misfortune

Dough 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup vinegar 1 egg yolk whole spices or liquid color food dye (optional)

Place flour, water, and vinegar in a bowl and stir with a spoon. The dough will be dry. Place dough on the counter and add a tablespoon of water as you knead it to make it more flexible. Once this is complete, form a ball and place it in a plastic bag for an hour to increase its elasticity. To make dough of different colors, mix some of the dough with whole spices or liquid color food dyes.

Afterward, creation can begin. Pinch

a small piece of dough off the ball and work on one ornament at a time. Keep the remaining dough in the bag so that it remains moist as you work. You may use wax paper to roll or sculpt the ornament on.

Useful tools - craft knife, manicure scissors, pen, cookie cutters, small screw driver, small brush, drinking straw, toothpick, and rolling pin. There are various techniques to try as you make ornaments.

Cookie Cutter Shape Roll the dough on wax paper using a rolling pin to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Use cookie cutters to cut out the shapes you desire. With the cookie cutter still

VĚSTNÍK

pressed in, use various tools to press designs around the edges or experiment with your own patterns. You may also add small pieces of additional dough by wetting the area between pieces. When complete, cut a hole through the ornament at the top using a straw.

Make Your Own Shape

Texas Gravestone Conservation

• Cleaning Re-setting unlevel, leaning, and fallen gravestones • Reassembly of broken headstones • National Park Service-approved methods • Conserving single stones or many • Member AIC and AGS • TAMU ’89, ’91 • 50-year SPJST member

Visit my website for more information, photographs, specifics, and links.

Lowell Herzog, Conservator Brenham, Texas 979-836-7715

herzogtamu89@gmail.com www.texasgravestoneconservation.com

VĚSTNÍK

You can create your own shapes on card stock and cut them out. Use a craft knife to trace along the edge of the card stock when it is placed on the dough.

Sculpt Similar to working with clay as a child, you can build a small ornament in three dimensions or combine shapes to create something new. A wreath, for example, can be made by weaving two or three small strings of dough together and forming a circle or heart. Be sure to keep these items wet so they can form a secure seal in the final piece.

Final Step When your creations are complete, place them on a baking sheet to air dry

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until they are hard. Remove the wax paper.

When completely dry, mix one egg yolk and 1 tablespoon water and brush each ornament evenly. Return the ornaments to the baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 280 degrees and bake for 20 minutes or until the pieces turn gold/golden.

At this point, your ornaments are complete. You may lace the hole with string or ribbon so that the ornaments can hang. They are not edible.

Sources: http://www.wflains.org www.littlebitofczech.com

—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

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

29

NEW YEAR'S EVE DANCE Featuring:

Brandon Hodde with All Around Czechs

S.S. Cyril & Methodius Hall 0 Granger, Texas

Saturday Dec. 31, 2016 0 8 p.m. to 12 Midnight

Admission $10 Kitchen opens at 7 p.m.

Serving Hamburgers-plus

We accept reservations!

Call 512-859-2236

30

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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: vestnik@spjst.org.

Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for nonprofit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Directions: Lodge building is located on Highway 159 East, three blocks from the town square. 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. For information, contact Youth Leader Ronnie Pflughaupt 979249-6702; rpflughaupt@hotmail.com.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Note: Lodge meetings are held at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville, the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville.

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) Saturday, December 17—Brennan family Christmas party

Note: The bridge on the road to the hall is out, but good news! There is a detour to the hall. Directions: Take Farm Road 2114 East for 5 miles. Turn right on Adair Road and immediately veer right onto Marek Road. Marek Road runs into Czech Hall Road.

Turn right onto Czech Hall Road. The hall is on the left about 1/2 mile.

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West.

Note: The bridge on the road to the hall is out; but there is a detour to the hall. Directions: Take Farm Road 2114 East for 5 miles. Turn right on Adair Road and immediately veer right onto Marek Road. Marek Road runs into Czech Hall Road. Turn right onto Czech Hall Road. Hall on the left about 1/2 mile down. Hall Rental Information: 254-799-8550; Hall Phone:s 254-227-8759. 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. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-799-8550; or dataped@sbcglobal.net

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg.

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 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: 1081 County Road 425, 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: 979-884-1451. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Note: Beginning in November, meetings will begin at 4 p.m.

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, 4 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) Saturday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Jim Sims Trio, country western. 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. $10/person. Black-eye peas, cornbread, sausage, and coffee served after the dance. No reservations.

Sunday, January 8, 2017—Chris Rybak - Accordion Cowboy, polka/waltz. 3 to 7 p.m. $8 per person.

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rentals/Band Bookings: David Meyer 512-217-0162. Hall phone: 512-2853100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Note: Lodge 20, Granger meets on the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. Light meal served prior to the meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club continues to meet on the second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the lodge hall.

Lodge Hall: 114 West Davila, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the lodge 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 lodge 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) Saturday, December 31—Rogers Project Celebration

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) Saturday, December 17—Dining room rental Sunday, December 18—Dining room rental Friday, December 23—Strudel Bake Sale Pick up, 2 to 6 p.m. Order strudels by calling Margaret 972-8786149 or Betty 972-878-7719.

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: 972-8758381. 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 (unless otherwise noted), at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard. For information, contact Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Note: SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Hall will be closed Saturday and Sunday, December 24 and 25 for Christmas holidays. The Hall will be re-open for business on Wednesday, December 28 at 3 p.m.

• All Wednesday/Friday night dances - Free admission • Old-fashioned hamburgers - Fridays, 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, December 16—Old Friends, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 21—Taylor Made Band with guest musician Fritz Hodde, 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday, December 23—Second Hand Rose, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Friday, December 30—Sterling Country, 7:30 to 11:30 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: 512-352-9139; Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For information, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod 512-468-1347. Music: First and third Wednesday each month, live music, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday night dance, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

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) Saturday, December 17—Midnight Mustangs Saturday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: 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 254-7493326; Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agents: James (Dude) Mann 254-7150275 and Gene E. Pavelka 254-749-3326.

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-8394353/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.

VĚSTNÍK

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, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 11:30 a.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.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Highway 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: Michelle Porubsky 254-493-8020; Hall Phone: 254-985-2548.

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. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Note: Adult lodge meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the hall, 10450 FM 619, Taylor.

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: 512-739-9324. 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 Monday, May 11; Monday, June 15; Monday, July 13; and Monday, August 10 at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) 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 in West.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. For meeting location, call 361-594-8429

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

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Third or fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December (Christmas) at Frank’s Restaurant in Schulenburg at 2 p.m. Call Ernest Kutac to confirm meeting date 979-561-7190.

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For meeting location, call Alice Orsak 940-889-2391.

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 254-5419165 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.

VĚSTNÍK

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Highway 36, Needville. Directions: Lodge building is located at the corner of Highway 36 and FM 361. Booking/Management: Seth Sacra 979-793-7411; 713-588-0535; or email seth@needvilleinsurance.com. 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 IH20 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: Contact Kelly Tucker 469-951-7396. Hall Phone: 214-8230072. Band Bookings: Cherri Petr 214-352-4397.

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Held one hour before the adult lodge meeting at the lodge hall unless otherwise noted. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456.

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: Karin Bryant 254-947-3100 or Judith Little 254-913-8568. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Saturday, December 17—private party Saturday, December 24—Merry Christmas!

Saturday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: The Moonglow Orchestra, big band. 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. *Dress Code. $35. See ad on page 29.

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: First 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 713-8707114.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Friday, December 16—Children's Christmas party at 6 p.m. Please bring some cookies or a dessert to share, and one (only) wrapped gift for each of your children. We will have punch to go with the cookies then Santa will come to hand out the gifts. For information, call Lodge 92 Youth Leader Jolie Mozingo, 817-7914570.

Sunday, December 18—Metro dance, 7 to 10 p.m.

Tuesday, December 27—Game night at Lodge 92, 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 31—New Year's Eve Dance: Berry Barry Band, 7:15 to 9:15 p.m.; Tommy Alverson Band 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets - $40 in advance; $50 at the door; or on-line at www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Admission includes champagne, black-eyed peas, and cornbread at midnight. See ad on page 29.

Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth 76114. 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 2 or 3 blocks down the road. (A Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner.) Hall Event/Rental Information: For hall rentals and upcoming events information, call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfort-worth.com. 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. Game Nights: Second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Friday in March, June, September, and December, 6 p.m. For meeting location, call Secretary Bernadette Bellanger 361-5798331/ Bbbellanger2011@hotmail.com.

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, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385; or via 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 214-794-7674. Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at the Sokol hall.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 Main Street, Danbury. For information, call 979-922-1279; 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.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month - unless otherwise noted - at 2 p.m.; meal served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. Youth Club Meetings: Same time/location as adult lodge meetings. For information call, Youth Leader Catherine Manchack 832-443-0469; or contact Lodge 142, Houston President Keith Kieschnick 832-627-2842; 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, Wharton.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-20 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. Contact 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.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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 at 6:30 p.m. at Texas Seafood and Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham. (December meeting/social information will be announced at a later date.) Lodge Information: Call Stephen or Lenora Bliznak 979-251-4150 or 979-2778845. Insurance Information: Contact Nello Strickland 979-836-2609.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Reservations/Hall Rental Information: Jo 713-628-3007; Hall Phone: 713-487-3297. Country/western dances held the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., except when noted. Variety dances are held the fourth Saturday 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: Second Monday of each month, (unless the second 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) Note: Beginning in September, Board of Trustees meet at 5 p.m.; lodge meeting follows at 5:30 p.m.

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 at the hall: Board of Trustees meet at 5 p.m.; lodge meeting follows at 5:30 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) Note: Lodge 180 Meetings are the first Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S. W. Wilshire, Burleson, 6 p.m. For information, call 817-9052097 or 972-268-0022.

Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S. W. Wilshire, Burleson at 6 p.m. For lodge information, call 817-905-2097 or 972-2680022.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5) Lodge Meetings: Lodge meeting location/time will be announced in the Vestnik. For further information, contact President Barbara Williams-Rash 936-2957778; email b.d.willrash@att.net; Vice President Chuck Toney 281-362-9062; email cdtiii@toney.us; or Treasurer Patsy McClelland 936-788-5714; or email pmcclelland@consolidated.

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

Youth Club Meetings: Same time and place as adult lodge meeting.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Note: Lodge monthly meeting and family night are held together - on the third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall.

Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington.

Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH20 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: 817-465-8538; 214-8769029. Lodge Meetings and Family Night: Third Sunday of each month at 4 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.

31

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: 979-567-4264.

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; 512771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 to 3 p.m. at the hall followed by entertainment and potluck meal.

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

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) 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 to 10 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 281-351-1045 or email Information: spjstlodge196@gmail.com; Hall Phone: 281-3739482. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, at 1 p.m. at the hall; covered dish meal will be served - unless otherwise noted.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Note: Beginning in January, 2017, lodge meetings will be held at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street in Eddy.

Meetings will continue to be held the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street, Eddy. For information, contact President Allen Trigg, Sr. 254-6245152.

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 at 1:15 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.

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: Second Saturday of January, March, May, July, and September at 6:30 p.m. at Tahoka Housing Authority (small room - 1400 Ave K).

For any questions, call Secretary Pam Lehmann 806535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: For location/time, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-9903351.

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 Secretary Jerry Macek 325-672-0577 or 325-721-5127 for meeting location.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street, Temple, 12 noon. For information, contact President James L. Lee, III 254-289-6816.

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

—SPJST—

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