vestnik 2016 02 10

Important Dates...................................3Interest Rates ......................................3Convention 2016 Information.............8Lodge Section....................................17In Memoriam ......................................23Death Claims ................................23-24

Youth Section ....................................27State Food Drive................................28Czech Culture ....................................30Advertisements .................................32Lodge Calendar .................................38Insure Your Love ...............................40

DistrictFACs, Presidentsmeet in Temple

7

State Representa-tive Whitevisits Lodge 80HollandPage 20

DistrictYouth Counselorsmeet in Temple

Page 27

N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N Inside Th is Week’s VestnikInside Th is Week’s Vestnik N N N N N N N NN N N N N N N N

ˇ ´VESTNIKS P J S T H E R A L DS P J S T H E R A L D

Volume 104 Number 6 Benevolence ★ Humanity ★ Brotherhood February 10, 2016ISSN —07458800

A Golden Valentine AnniversaryDorothy Stuchly Achieves

50 Years of Service

It’s an ordinary Thursday night at Lodge 88, Houston! What a crowd! Last week’s bingo included 696 players. Congratulations to Lodge 88 for con-tinuing to host a spectacular event each week that is filled with good times.

Congratulations to SPJST Accounting AssistantDorothy Stuchly, center, who celebrated 50 yearsof service to the Home Office. She is pictured withhusband Ray, left, and twin sister Doris Tyroch ata reception held January 20 at the Home Office inTemple. Dorothy began her employment on Feb-ruary 14, 1966.

An anniversary is a specialoccasion especially when it oc-curs on Valentine’s Day. And,it’s rare when it’s a golden an-niversary . . . especially when itrelates to working at the samecompany for the past 50 yearswhen the average tenure lengthfor U.S. employees is around4.6 years. SPJST AccountingAssistant Dorothy Stuchly sur-passed that average number -almost 11 times!

On January 20, 2016,SPJST honored DorothyStuchly for 50 years of servicewith a luncheon at the SPJSTHome Office. Sister Stuchly ofLodge 47, Seaton received her50-year plaque from SupremeLodge Chairman Donnie Vic-torick, Supreme Lodge Presi-dent Brian Vanicek, and hersupervisor, Financial Secretary

Roy Vajdak. The luncheon wasattended by Dorothy’s husbandRay, sister Doris Tyroch,Home Office staff, SupremeLodge members, former Exec-utive Assistant to the FinancialSecretary Linda Johnson, andHonorary Financial SecretaryJerry Mikulas and wife Betty.

Sister Stuchly signed on towork with SPJST on February14, 1966, when the Home Of-fice was located in The Profes-sional Building in downtownTemple.

Dorothy vividly recalls howher legacy at the SPJST HomeOffice began when then-Fi-nancial Secretary Ben Zabcikstopped by the Tyroch family’shome to see if Dorothy or hertwin sister Doris was interested

Happy Valentine’s Dayfrom the Vestnik!

§ § §

Special greetingsfill many pages

of this week’s issue.Pages 5 to 7, 13 to 16

25 to 26, 34 to 37Continued on Page 21.

2 Wednesday, February 10, 2016 VĚSTNÍK

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published weekly except the third week of Octoberand the fourth week of December by VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Mem-bers’fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 NorthMain, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and addi-tional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vitalaspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions.The views expressed by writers in the Vestnik do not necessarily represent theviews of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence in-tended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/oFinancial Secretary Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

ˇ ´VESTNIKS P J S T H E R A L D

SPJST HOME OFFICEPO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575Fax: 254-774-7447

www.spjst.orgVESTNIK EDITOR/

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONMELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC

Office: 254-773-1575 • Mobile: 254-534-0807VESTNIK Fax: 254-773-8087

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

SUPREME LODGEPRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC

Office: 254-773-1575Mobile: 254-534-2902 • Home: 254-985-0007

email: [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENTCLIFTON COUFAL

Office: 254-773-1575 Mobile: 254-931-5231


SECRETARY-TREASURER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC

Office: 254-773-1575Mobile: 254-721-4739 • Home: 254-778-3720


DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMANDONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM

P.O. Box 85, Snook, Texas 77878-0085Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125


DISTRICT TWO DIRECTORJESSE POSPISIL

4710 FM 1331, Taylor, Texas 76574-2164Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371


DISTRICT THREE DIRECTORJOHN ENGELKE

6475 Gholson Road • Waco, Texas 76705-5330254-799-4247


DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTORBILLY ROLLWITZ, FIC, CFFM

P.O. Box 195, Rowena, Texas 76875-0195Home: 325-442-3141 • Mobile: 325-277-5362

Office: 325-442-3038 • email: [email protected]

DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTORLARRY W. PFLUGHAUPT, FIC

1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, Texas 77008-6232Home: (713) 864-2163 • email: [email protected]

DISTRICT SIX DIRECTORKAREN KASPAR, FIC, CFFM

8550 N. State Highway 71El Campo, Texas 77437-9819

Home: 979-543-2532 • Mobile: 979-332-1616email: [email protected]

DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTORBOB J. BAYER, FIC

1100 Hospital Blvd, Floresville, Texas 78114-2912Home: 830-393-9073


FRATERNAL FIELD MANAGERSDISTRICTS ONE/TWO/THREE

Philip (Phil) McBee, FICF, CFFMMobile: 325-647-1949 • Fax: 325-784-7448

email: [email protected] FOUR/SEVENBobby Davis, FICF, CFFM

Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003email: [email protected]

DISTRICTS FIVE/SIXDelisle Doherty

Mobile: 254-239-9616 • Mobile: 832-232-2049email: [email protected]

FINANCIAL SECRETARY ROY VAJDAK254-773-1575


STATE FRATERNAL ACTIVITIES COORDINATORFRANK HORAK

Office: 254-773-1575 • Mobile: 254-534-0681email: [email protected]

STATE YOUTH DIRECTORLYNETTE TALASEK

Office: 254-773-1575 • Mobile: 254-931-0639 email: [email protected]

DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORSDistrict One - Sharon Russell, 1292 CR 441, Dime Box,Texas 77853 • 979-884-0807 - [email protected] Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S. St. JosephRoad, Burlington, Texas 76519-3108 - 254-985-2396 [email protected] Three - Kay Weeks, 4203 Treehaven Ct, Arling-ton, Texas 76016 • 817-896-5277 - [email protected] Four - Pam Lehmann, PO Box 637, Tahoka, Texas79373-0637 - 806-561-5105 - [email protected] Five - Barbara Linney-Gonzales - 6043 PinewayBlvd., Houston, Texas 77023-6510 - 713-649-6138 - [email protected] Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide Street, ElCampo, Texas 77437 - 979-543-7120 [email protected] Seven - Theresa Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive -New Braunfels, Texas 78130 - 830-625-8262 [email protected]

BY-LAW COMMITTEEDistrict One - Richard Ford, 2392 CR 424, Dime Box,Texas 77853 - 979-884-1451 - [email protected] Two - Ronnie Rieger, 350 Rieger Road, Coupland,Texas 78615 - 512-365-2000 - 512-848-2416/cell - [email protected] Three - Kay Lynn Kovar, 3303 West Lake BardwellDrive, Ennis, Texas 75119 - 972-875-6827District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena,Texas 76875 - 325-442-4841 - [email protected] Five - Mildred Holeman, 4001 North Shepherd,Suite 112, Houston, Texas 77018 - 713-683-0018 - [email protected] Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell, Bay City, Texas77414 - 979-244-4415; 979-479-0056 cellDistrict Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Road, Poteet,Texas 78065 - 830-391-4169 - [email protected]

FINANCE COMMITTEEDistrict One - Thomas Cannon, P.O. Box 372, Caldwell,Texas 77836 - 979-567-4264 - [email protected] Two - Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53,Temple, Texas 76501 - 254-985-2282 [email protected] Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen, Waco, Texas76706 - 254-662-4934 - [email protected] Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM Highway 765,San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-651-8550 - [email protected] Five - Marceil Malak, 7444 Meiners Road, Ledbet-ter, Texas 78946-5118 - 979-249-5940 - [email protected] Six - Glenn Kaminsky, 902 River Oaks Court, EastBernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4461 - [email protected] Seven - Roy Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Drive, NewBraunfels, Texas 78130-3438 - 830-625-8262 [email protected]

INSURANCE COMMITTEEDistrict One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Cald-well, Texas 77836 - 979-272-3440District Two - Dolores Skrabanek, 13107 State High-way 53, Temple, Texas 76501 - 254-985-2344District Three - District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plainview Drive,San Angelo, Texas 76905 - 325-234-8117District Five - Helen Hegwood, 6702 Lindy Ann Lane,Houston, Texas 77008 - 713-864-0489District Six - Charles Bucek, P.O. Box 147, EastBernard, Texas 77435 - 979-335-4118District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 CR 430, Pleasan-ton, Texas 78064 - 210-535-4916

PUBLICATION COMMITTEEDistrict One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box,Texas 77853 - 979-540-8531District Two - Tammy Cannon, 141 Meadow Park Drive,Georgetown, Texas 78626 - 512-948-5339 - [email protected] Three - Bessie Petr, 5406 Morningside, Dallas,Texas 75206 - 214-826-3557District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Drive,San Angelo, Texas 76903 - 325-651-5884District Five - Lorenda Baldwin, 219 CR 47, Angleton,Texas 77515 - 979-922-1279District Six - Helen Kelner, 911 Avenue K, Rosenberg,Texas 77471 - 281-342-2624District Seven - Jarolyn Popp, 447 Shady Hollow, NewBraunfels, Texas 78132 - 830-964-5135

HUMAN RESOURCES DEBBIE KLINKOVSKY254-773-1575 • email: [email protected]

Thanks to everyone who submit-ted valentine greetings for thisweek’s Vestnik. I love putting thevalentine issue together and seeingall of the love that is out there! It’s soheartwarming. We have almost 300special messages that are spreadthroughout the issue. Along with thegreetings, generous donors con-tributed $266 that we are forwardingto the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholar-ship Fund Drive. Thank you!

Special Awards Banquet VestnikComing February 24

Congratulations to all lodges,sales agents, youth clubs, and mem-bers who received awards at the an-nual SPJST Awards Banquet heldJanuary 30 at the Frank W. MaybornConvention Center in Temple. Spe-

cial congratulations to Kathleen Po-lasek of Lodge 202, Jourdanton whowas recognized as the 2015 StateFraternalist of the Year.

The February 24 Vestnik will fea-ture all of the 2015 incentive pro-gram winners and everyone who washonored at the banquet. This will beprinted in lieu of a regular Vestnikissue.

Fraternal Bowling TournamentThis Saturday

The Fraternal Alliance of Texas ishosting a bowling tournament thisSaturday, February 13 in NewBraunfels. Details are on page 4 ofthis week’s Vestnik. It will be a greatday to enjoy bowling and fraternalfun and friends.

—SPJST—

Editor’s Note

Šťastný Valentýna

Happy Valentine’s Day - Šťastný Valentýna - from the Vestnik/Com-munication Department! Left to right are Communication AssistantJerry Pechal, Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Za-vodny, Graphic Design/Communication Specialist Brooke Hoelscher,and Communication Executive Assistant Katherine Morris. We are pic-tured at the SPJST Awards Banquet held Saturday, January 30 at theFrank W. Mayborn Convention Center in Temple. A complete banquetsummary will be printed in lieu of the February 24 Vestnik.

§ §

§§

VĚSTNÍK Wednesday, February 10, 2016 3

Readers Write

Seaton Brethren Churchto host annual sausagesupper at Star Hall

Seaton Brethren Church’s annualsausage supper fundraiser is Saturday,February 20, 2016, beginning at 4pmuntil the sausage is gone. The menuconsists of homemade pork sausage,sauerkraut, new potatoes, seasonedgreen beans, bread, homemadedesserts, and tea or coffee. Dine in ordrive-thru plates will be available for$9 each. The location of the supperwill be at SPJST Lodge 47, SeatonStar Hall, 10842 State Highway 53,Temple (Seaton). There will also be abake sale consisting of kolaches, pies,cakes, strudels, and other baked goodsalong with a prize drawing and a silentauction. Proceeds will benefit thechurch building improvement fund.The public is invited.

Fraternally,Dolores SkrabanekLodge 47, Seaton

—SPJST—

Member shares note of thanksMelanie,

We received our Vestnik yesterday(Wednesday) in Arlington, Texas. Welook forward to reviewing it. The pho-tos and stories you publish alwaysbring back fond memories of so many.

Thank you for publishing my sis-ter’s (Jack and Ann Shenkir Thomp-son) 60th wedding anniversaryannouncement. It brought back somany wonderful memories to ourfamily.

I appreciate the amazing work youdo for SPJST. May God continue tobless you and your family.

Ruth Shenkir KeithLodge 47, Seaton

—SPJST—

Member helps identifyphoto from Treasured Memories Vestnik

On the photo of Lodge 25, Ennis’bus trip in 1964, pictured on page 16of the January 27, 2016, Vestnik, hereare more identifications:

Kneeling, left to right, third boy isGary Kudrna.

Little girl on the ground, fourthfrom right is Karen Kudrna.

Next to her, third from right isGlenn Kudrna.

They are all children of G. Louisand Dorothy Kudrna.

The baby G. Louis is holding is sonChris Kudrna.

Fifth boy from left in middle row isMike Kudrna.

Fourth boy kneeling from right isGreg Kudrna.

They are sons of Frances and JoeKudrna.

I think the lady in the middle row,second from right, is Helen Vrla.

Hope this helps. I will let you knowif I recognize anybody else.

Dorothy KudrnaLodge 25, Ennis

—SPJST—

Reader expressesthanksDear Melanie,

Thank you for printing my dad’s(Robert Kofnovec) obituary with hisphotograph in the Věstník. I like thatyou added his lodge number and loca-tion. He would have liked the place-ment: next to Mr. Surovic, also 90years old and an Army vet.

Linda Kofnovec—SPJST—

Member helps identify photo from Treasured Memories VestnikDear Ms. Zavodny,

I am writing you in response to thepicture in the Vestnik originally pub-lished January 6, 2016, and then againon January 27, 2016. I have beenmeaning to get this out to you but pro-crastinated until I saw the names ofthe youth club members from Lodge25, Ennis.

I am a member of Lodge Jaro No.130, Dallas, and I am in the picturealong with my mother, Helen J. Vrla,youth leader and my brother, DannyE. Vrla. I will identify some of theLodge 130 Youth Club members thatI can recognize.

The back row, first on the left isDavid Podhrasky, third from left, nextto James Strunc, is Joe Prevratil.Going on to the right in back with apurse strap on her right shoulder is

SPJST INTEREST RATES . . . 02/01/2016 - 04/30/2016

Farm/commercial property rates aresubject to change without notice. Callthe SPJST Home Office 800-727-7578.

Farm/Commercial Property Rates75% Owner Farm Property4.75% for 1 to 30 yearsCommercial Property6.00% for 1 to 10 years6.25% for 11 to 15 years

SPJST Farm/Commercial

Property Rates

Universal Life AnnuitiesAnnuity 5 (plans 8032-8039 witha 1.50% guaranteed rate)Credited Rate: 3.00%

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

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

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

Family Fun and Important Dates

Feb. 13 Fraternal Alliance of Texas Bowling TournamentFiesta Lanes, New Braunfels

Feb. 13 Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club Valentine Dance (2)Feb. 13 Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club

Heritage Assisted Living, Tomball (5)Feb. 15 Presidents’ Day • SPJST Home Office ClosedFeb. 18 Lodge 101, Gainesville Reorganizational Meeting

Neu Ranch House, Gainesville (3)Feb. 20 District Two Skating Party

Wheel’s Family Skating Center (2)Feb. 20 District Three Delegates’ Meeting

Lodge 183, ArlingtonFeb. 24 Special Vestnik: An SPJST SaluteFeb. 27 Standing Committee Pre-Convention ForumFeb. 27 Lodge 25, Ennis Fundraiser (3)Feb. 27 Frank Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial Tarok Tournament (2)

Lodge 47, SeatonMarch 5 State Straight Domino Tournament

SPJST Home Office, TempleMarch 6 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter Party (3)March 6 Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter Party (5)March 13 Daylight Saving Time BeginsMarch 13 Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club Easter Egg Hunt (2)March 19 Youth Leaders Workshop • TempleMarch 19 Lodge 88, Houston Easter Party (5)March 25 Good Friday • SPJST Home Office ClosedMarch 31 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends


Jane Novak. Then, going back to lefton the second row after Frances Jo isBarbara Sneed. (Barbara is now Bar-bara Nesuda, married to David, who isDorothy Kudrna’s - of Ennis -brother.) I think next to Barbara isKaren Mikulec, and the boy in the sec-ond row, I believe, is Mike Kudrna.Then, me, Kathy Vrla, now Pottkotter.The boy in the glasses is Eddie Oates.And then on the far right, second tolast in that row is my mother, youthleader of Lodge 130, Helen J. Vrla,and then right of her on the end isEddie’s mother, youth leader of Lodge130, Helen Oates. On the far right, theboy on the end in a plaid/checkeredshirt is my brother, Danny E. Vrla,then, go left on that bottom row, thegirl on her knees with a headband andarm up with hand on her head is Anne

Oates, daughter of Helen Oates. Theboy on the very end of the bottom rowin a checkered shirt, I think is mycousin, Daryl Parma.

I believe this was in the mid-60s,and Nick Morris used to be a memberof our Lodge 130 - even president be-fore he moved on to West, and thenTemple. I recognize some of the othersbut cannot remember their names.

I do enjoy reading the Vestnik justto keep up with what’s going on.

Thank you for publishing this pic-ture as it brought back some wonder-ful memories growing up.

Thank you and kind regards,Kathy PottkotterKathy [email protected]

—SPJST—

Fraternal Bowling Tournament:February 13 in New Braunfels

Attention All Texas FraternalBowlers and Fans!

Make plans now to be in NewBraunfels, Texas, on Saturday Febru-ary 13, 2016, and join in the fun andexcitement of the 12thAnnual Fraternal Al-liance Of Texas Bowl-ing Tournament. Thetournament begins at12 noon at FiestaLanes, located at 1202Huisache Avenue (be-hind HEB off I-35) inNew Braunfels.

Come on out tobowl or to cheer onyour society’s bowlersas they compete for the coveted GoldenFraternal Cup!

Make it a date! Special Valentine’sDay auction items and door prizes willbe awarded!

The entry fee is $10 per person.Entry fees will pay for bowling andawards. Please make sure that yourregistration materials are received byJanuary 29. Mail your name, address,lodge, and fraternal you are bowlingfor (SPJST) along with the entry fee to:

FAOT Bowling Tournament c/o Frank Horak

PO Box 100Temple, Texas 76503

Make checks payable to FAOT (Fra-ternal Alliance of Texas).

No outside food or drinks, please.Great in-house dining. No alcohol isallowed.

Tournament Guidelines1. Must be a member, at least 16 years

of age, in good standing of one of thefraternal organizations participating inthe Fraternal Alliance of Texas. Chal-lenge is open to bowlers and non-bowlers.2. Teams will consist of five mem-

bers—any combination of men andwomen. Although teams are encour-

aged, individual entries will be ac-cepted. You do not have to have a fullteam to enter the tournament. Lodgesare encouraged to enter multiple teams.

3. Winning organization will be de-termined by pin fall.The total pin fall foreach organization willbe divided by the totalnumber of participantsfor that organization todetermine an averagefor the three gamesbowled. The organiza-tion with the highestaverage will be de-clared the winner.

4. Each participant must bowl threegames.

5. If a participant is a member ofmore than one fraternal society, he/shemust decide which organization thathe/she is bowling for before bowling.

6. Awards will be presented to the topthree males and top three females forhigh series and high game.

7. Cost will be $10 per person, or $50for a team of five bowlers.

8. Registration is from 10:30 to 11:30a.m. with the tournament beginning at12 noon.

9. Walk-ins will be accepted from10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the day of thetournament, provided lanes are avail-able.

10. Teams will be assigned lanes atcheck-in table on the day of the tour-nament.

11. Any questions about the tourna-ment should be directed to TournamentCoordinator Frank Horak 254-534-0681 or email [email protected].

—SPJST—

State Straight Domino Tournament

State StraightDomino TourneyMarch 5

The 2016 SPJST State StraightDomino Tournament is Saturday,March 5, 2016, at the SPJST Home Of-fice, located at 520 North Main Streetin Temple, Texas.

Check-in is from 8 to 8:45 a.m. withplay beginning at 9 a.m. The tourna-ment is open to the public, ages 16 andabove. The tournament will be a two-

person format. If you do not have apartner, one will be assigned, if avail-able. Registration fee is $10 per playerwhich includes snacks and lunch.Prizes will be awarded.

Please register by Monday, Febru-ary 29 by calling 800-727-7578 or254-773-1575 or sending an email [email protected]

For more information, contact StateFraternal Activities Coordinator FrankHorak at 254-534-0681.

—SPJST—


§ § § § § § §

To: Amber and Ty RyanHappy Valentine’s Day to y’all.

We are so excited to see what God has planned this year for y’all.Love from: Mom and Dad -

Tammy and David

§ § § § § § §

To: Ashley and EricHappy Valentine’s Day

to a sweet and special couple. We love you!

From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Brandon and KatieHappy Valentine’s Day! We love you.

Be sweet and don’t eat too much candy.Love you.

From: Grandma and Grandpa

§ § § § § § §

To: Chancey and ShelbySending hugs and kisses

to both of you on Valentine’s Day. We are so blessed to have both of you

as our grandchildren. We love you.From: Grandpa and MiMi Dohnalik

§ § § § § § §

To: Cindy, Paul, Melody Jordan, Allison, and Poke

True friends are hard to find, but we have found true friends

with you. So on this day of love, my friends, let us wish

a Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you.From: Sims, Petr, and Tucker Families

§ § § § § § §

To: Dorothy StuchlyHappy Valentine’s Day.

February 14marks 50 years with SPJST.

From: Doris

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Emma and Vaughn HanuschYou are my valentine every day!

Love you so very much. Happy Valentine’s Day

to Mommy and Daddy, too!From: Great-Grandma Ruth

§ § § § § § §

To: Fred and Irene, Milton and MarthaHappy Valentine’s Day

to our wonderful parents. Thanks for years of love,

support, and guidance. We love you.From: Freddie and Debbie

§ § § § § § §

To: Gayenell and Alton ChudejHappy Valentine’s Day, Mom and Dad.

We love you very much.From: Janell and Charles

§ § § § § § §

To: Jason, Kendall, Josh, and KalyneThe sweetest grandchildren

in the world. Happy Valentine’s Day!Love from: Granny and Papa

§ § § § § § §

To: Jeanette BesedaI love those random memories

that make me smile no matter what is going on,

and I have lots of wonderful memorieswith you. Be my valentine.

From: Vicki Anderson

§ § § § § § §

To: Aunt Jerelene LenartA rose is a true love measure.

You’re one of a kind.You are a treasure.

Happy Valentine’s Day!Love always from:

Vicki Anderson

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Jason, Kendall, Josh, and KalyneEven in a fairy-tale

where every dream comes true, I could never find a family

as sweet as you. Happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Teta Cherri

§ § § § § § §

To: Leon JohnYou will always be my valentine . . .

12 years in heaven.From: Your Betty Jean

§ § § § § § §

To: Leslie, Meribeth, and CherriVery special people are born on this day

the world celebrates love. Hope you enjoy your special day.

Happy Valentine Birthday.Love from: The CM Gang

§ § § § § § §

To: Marley, Scarlet, and Lil’ CraigMarley - You make my heart fill

with joy watching you grow every day.Scarlet and Lil’ Craig -

Grandma loves you more than a few words can express.

Happy Valentine’s Day!Love from: Blanche(Mom and Grandma)

§ § § § § § §

To: Mary Krupka SchneiderŠt’astneho Valentýnal!

Love from: Reagan Krupka

§ § § § § § §

To: Matt, Elizabeth, and EthanMy Grandchildren

Grany loves each one of you and wants to wish you

a Happy Valentine’s Day!Love from: Grany Dorothy Lastovica

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mason PierceI love you! Please be my valentine!

Happy Valentine’s Day to Mommy, too!From: G-Grandma Ruth§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie and DavidSpecial valentine wishes for an adorable couple.

Love you both to the moon and back.From: Debbie and Freddie§ § § § § § §

To: Patti RosalesWishing you lots of joy

this Valentine’s Day. It’s our family who teaches us

how to love, and I have had the best teacher.

I love you.From: Vicki Anderson

§ § § § § § §

To: RandyBrother, I must admit

when it comes to being a great valentine, you are definitely it!

From: Cherri, Vicki, and Gene§ § § § § § §

To: Randy, Vicki, Gene, Kelly, DarrinRusty, and Leslie

Happy Valentine’s Day to each of you.Love from: Teta Cherri § § § § § § §

To: RuzRoses are red; violets are blue,After 60 years, I still love you.

From: Pooh Bear§ § § § § § §

To: ScottLove your kind heart, gentle nature,

and artistic spirit.From: Aunt Deb

§ § § § § § §

Happy Valentine’s Day!


§ § § § § § §

To: Mike, Mia, and Madox CozartHappy Valentine’s Day

to my three great-grandchildren. I love you very much,

and I miss you so much. Happy Valentine’s Day

to Mommy and Daddy, too!From: Great-Grandma Ruth

§ § § § § § §

To: Sharon and Walmar HohmannLoving and caring are two words

that perfectly describe you. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Cindy, Roy, Drake, and Layten

§ § § § § § §

To: Gamma and Grandpa SuehsHappy Valentine’s Day to you!

Thanks for being the best grandparentsin the whole world,

and thanks for all you do for us. We love you!

From: Dillon, Macy, and Madelynn

§ § § § § § §

To: Grandma and Grandpa MajekThanks for all your caring ways.

You are a blessing to us all. Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you.

From: Carlos, Christy, David, and Emily

§ § § § § § §

To: Diane DossettHappy Valentine’s Day!

We love you.From: Johnny and Grace Franklin

§ § § § § § §

To: nreLooking forward to many fun days

in the camper and on the water. Luv ya, Precious.

From: br

§ § § § § § §

To: Michael and Kay MajekJerry and Sue Majek

Wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day!Love you all.From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

To: Hannah and HunterHappy Valentine’s Day!

From: Madison and Carson

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: KimI cherish the amazing moments

we’ve shared so far but the best is yet to come!

Happy Valentine’s Day.All my love.From: Vince

§ § § § § § §

To: Dillon, Macy, and Madelynn,The sweetest great-nephew

and great-nieces. Looking forward

to more good times together. Love you all.

Love from: Aunt Carol

§ § § § § § §

To: Nathan PollyYou are extra special to us! Hope your Valentine’s Day is extra sweet! We love you!

From: Mamaw and Papaw Migl

§ § § § § § §

To: Colton BrezinaHappy Valentine’s Day!

We love you!From: Nana and Bubba

§ § § § § § §

To: Sharon Russell Holly Narro, and Lindy Beasley

The Three Musketeers! Thank you all for being such

a united force in leading District One. I hope the three of you

have a wonderful Valentine’s Day. From: Lynette Talasek

§ § § § § § §

To: BrandonHappy Valentine’s Day! Gig ‘em!

From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Luke, Zachary, and BrandonHappy Valentine’s Day!

From: Aunt Judy

§ § § § § § §

To: Lian and Colt PruskiHappy Valentine’s Day!You make my life so fun

and full of love.Love you two so much.From: Mom and Nana

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Momma TAlways and forever you will be mine.

I love you!From: Beau

§ § § § § § §

To: Dillon NarroHappy Valentine’s Day

to the best grandson ever.Keep up the good work at school and in SPJST.

So proud of you. Love you.From: Gamma and Grandpa

§ § § § § § §

To: TessaHave a lot of fun

this Valentine’s Day! We love you!From: Nana and Popo

§ § § § § § §

To: Uncle Barry, Aunt Kerri Uncle Gary, Aunt Sharon

You hold a special place in my heart.Happy Valentine’s Day.

From: Brandon and Katie§ § § § § § §

To: Laura and David PoldrackHappy Valentine’s Day,

Mommy and Daddy. Love you so much

and thanks for giving me so much love.From: Tatiana Grace-Lynn Poldrack

§ § § § § § §

To: Melissa and Steven ZahnKristi and Darren HavemannNanda and Darrell Havemann

Roses are red.Violets are blue.

You are the sweetest children.We love you!

From: Mom and Dad§ § § § § § §

To: My Best FriendI want to wish my best friend,

my husband, a Happy Valentine’s Day.You are loved more than you know,and know that I love you for always

being there for me.Love from: Diana

§ § § § § § §

To: GeneWith all the things you do

and all the dreams you make come true,I am lucky to have a valentine like you.

Love from: Vicki§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Tabor, Maylee, Millison and ThatcherHappy Valentine’s Day

to my sweet babies! You all have my whole heart and are my reason for living!

I love you all more than you will ever know!

From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

To: Mom and DadI could never thank you enough

for how far you’ve got me through this life. I’m so blessed

to have such loving parents. Have a very happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Brooke

§ § § § § § §

To: Delores MachaLodge 81, Needville

Happy Valentine’s Day!We love you so very much

and send all of our love to youtoday and everyday :)

From: Lindsay and Sarah NormanYour Granddaughters

§ § § § § § §

To: Betty, Susie and Donna, To the best sisters.

You all have always been there for me,and I thank you very much.

Have a happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Carol

§ § § § § § §

To: Vestnik ReadersHello! It is your State Duchess

Makayla Newsom wishing you all

a happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Makayla Newsom

Your State Duchess

§ § § § § § §

To: Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth ClubHappy Valentine’s Day to the best youth club!

We love being your leaders!From: Holly, Mabrey, and Susan

§ § § § § § §

To: Patsy and CristyThank you, ladies,

for all the love you share with me.From: Amber

§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § §§ § §

To: Colin and Keelie HolubHappy Valentine’s Day

to our two sweet grandbabies.

All our hugs and kisses.From: Awema and Paw Paw

§ § § § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § §

§ § §

To: JaniceHappy Valentine’s Day

to the love of my lifeFrom: Freddie

§ § §

§ § § § §

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §To: Vallie and Leon

Our ParentsYou are both special in every way,

Encouraging us more and more each passing day.You both are the reason why we are so strong,

With you two at the helm not a thing could go wrong.

You’ve both helped us through many trials and tribulations,

You’ve made things better in every situation.Thank you both for always being there,

And showing us that you truly care.Words could never explain

how we feel about you,But I hope you know

that we truly love you two!Love you always.

From: Elaine and Theresa§ § § § § § §

To: Sisters - Raydeen, Annette, Tina, and HenriettaHappy Valentine’s Day!From: A.B. Schabowski

To: Angel PaceYou are my valentine

that I love as if you were mine.Stay strong to yourself

and make good decisions in life.From: Aunt Mary

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § To: Mckenzie Burcie

My very special valentine!I am so happy God made you

part of my family.I love you!

From: Grandma Mary§ § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: The Pflughaupt Group

Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you.From: Nana and Grandpa§ § § § § § §

§

MeganLee

MonicaEvan§

§Anthony

LindaAubrey

KaraKarl

Nichole§

§

CrystalPaul

BaileyCamryn

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§

§ § §§ § §

§Happy

Valentine’s Day!


From the Districts

District Threedelegates set Feb. 20 meeting

The second District Three dele-gates’ meeting will be Saturday, Feb-ruary 20, 2016, from 1 to 3 p.m. atLodge 183, Arlington.

Please read, study, and review yourby-laws and the SPJST Special Struc-ture Committee’s proposed by-law

recommendations that were printed inthe September 9, 2015, Vestnik. Bringany questions and concerns to themeeting so we can discuss them.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood has volun-teered for the third meeting in March.A date will be announced soon.

Fraternally,Kay Lynn KovarBy-Law CommitteeDistrict Three Representative

—SPJST—

Finance Committee sets request deadline

Any request for donations or finan-cial assistance that requires FinanceCommittee review must be in thehands of the Finance Committee, in

writing, before April 13, 2016, whichis 60 days before the Convention, or itcannot be considered.

Please send your request to Chair-man Dewyan Weise. See contact infor-mation in the Vestnik on page 2.

Fraternally,Marceil Malak, SecretaryFinance Committee

—SPJST—

From the By-Law Committee

By-Law Committeereadies for 2016 ConventionDear Members,

The 2016 Convention begins onMonday, June 13 at Killeen Civic andConference Center.

According to the By-Laws ofSPJST from the 2012 Convention,under “Convention” on page 6, “any-one seeking a Supreme Lodge officemust announce candidacy at least 120days prior to convention.” Candidatesare asked to submit their announce-ments to the Vestnik and to By-LawCommittee Secretary BeverlyTeplicek. Announcements can beemailed or mailed. Mailed announce-ments must be postmarked no laterthan February 13, 2016.

Under “Supreme Lodge” on page 4,a screening process will be established“for the purpose of reviewing all qual-ifications of submitted candidates forSupreme Lodge Officers, Editor/Di-rector of Communication, and sevendirectors. The screening committee hasthe right to gather additional back-ground information, submit the slate ofqualified candidates to the delegates 90days prior to convention, and shallhave the discretion to consult with per-sonnel with legal and human resource

expertise to assure compliance withcurrent labor laws. The By-Law Com-mittee will be the screening commit-tee.”

Saturday, February 13(120 Days Prior to Convention)Candidacy for Supreme Lodge

President, Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer, Vestnik Editor/

Director of Communication, and seven district director positions

must be announced. Submit to Vestnik Editor

Melanie Zavodnyand to By-Law Committee Secretary

Beverly Teplicek.Sunday, March 13

(90 Days Prior to Convention)By-Law Committee submits slate of qualified candidates

to delegates through the Vestnik.

Wednesday, April 13(60 Days Prior to Convention)Deadline for recommendations

for changes to the By-Laws. Recommendations must be signed

and submitted to any member of the By-Law Committee

listed on page 2 of each Vestnik.

Fraternally,Ronnie Rieger, ChairmanBy-Law Committee

—SPJST—

From the Finance Committee

Advertising openfor conventionsouvenir bookDear Members and Friends,

The 32nd SPJST Convention will beheld June 13 to 15, 2016, at KilleenCivic and Conference Center inKilleen, Texas. Plans include publish-ing a souvenir program book, and youare cordially invited to place an adver-tisement in the book.

The Official Convention SouvenirProgram Book will be distributed toapproximately 300 delegates and visi-tors at the convention. All advertiserswill receive a complimentary book.Prices for advertisements in the Offi-cial Convention Souvenir ProgramBook are:

Full Page Ad — $100Half Page Ad — $60

Quarter Page Ad — $35Eighth Page Ad — $20In Memoriam — $10

(photo can be included)Well Wish Greeting — $5

(one line of text)All advertisements will be printed in

full color. The SPJST Vestnik/Commu-nication Department is available to as-sist with ad design. Please include thetext for the ad and photos or clip art im-

ages. Digital images saved in TIFF,EPS, JPEG, or PDF files will workbest. Digital-ready advertisementsshould be saved as PDF files. All text,photographs, or digital files must be re-ceived with payment by April 4, 2016.Please mail or email to:

SPJST Vestnik Editor/Director ofCommunication Melanie Zavodny

PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas76503-0100


If you wish to place an advertise-ment in the book, please mail or emailyour information as soon as possible.Checks made payable to SPJST can bemailed to the address above and mustaccompany advertisement informationby April 4. All proceeds from adver-tisement sales will go to Czech Her-itage Museum and Genealogy Centerand SPJST Education and Nature Cen-ter. We look forward to hearing fromyou.

For questions or additional informa-tion, please contact the SPJST Vest-nik/Communication Department at800-727-7578 or [email protected].

Fraternally,Melanie ZavodnyVestnik Editor/Director of Communication

—SPJST—

2016 Convention Program Book

P P Announced Candidates P PSupreme Lodge President

Brian Vanicek (i)

Supreme Lodge Vice PresidentDelisle Doherty

Clifton Coufal (i)David Pechal

Supreme Lodge Secretary-TreasurerLeonard Mikeska (i)

Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication

Melanie Zavodny (i)

District One DirectorDonnie Victorick (i)

District Two DirectorJesse Pospisil (i)

District Three DirectorJohn Engelke (i)

District Four DirectorBilly Rollwitz (i)

District Five DirectorBradley Stavinoha

Don Fruin

District Six DirectorKaren Kaspar (i)

District Seven DirectorBob Bayer (i)

Donnie Howard


Dear Brothers and Sisters,Thank you for your kind support

and for having allowed me to serveyou as Supreme Lodge President. I’veenjoyed working with you, SPJSTHome Office staff, and my fellow of-ficers and directors in redefining theSociety’s presence and stature as aproactive, member-oriented fraternalbenefit society. In 2016, SPJST re-mains financially strong and frater-nally vital with many aspects of ourfraternal program having achieved na-tional acclaim for excellence. Withyour support and vote of confidence, itwould be my great honor to onceagain serve you as President and con-tinue to advance the high ideals of fra-ternalism.

SPJST remains a time-honored in-stitution constructed on the idea of ad-dressing human needs. As noted inour SPJST’s vision statement, “Ourvision is to provide a wholesome fam-ily environment; to encourage cher-ished Czech traditions; and to providehigh-quality, competitive life insur-ance for our members.” The key toachieving a strong SPJST for futuregenerations is that we build on thatsolid foundation and remain relevantin the lives of our members.

SPJST’s accomplishments in recentyears are well-documented in the an-nual financial statements of the Soci-ety and in the pages of our Vestnik.Additionally, many silent improve-ments have been made to our back of-fice operations, enabling SPJST toimprove upon and — in some cases— correct internal operating proce-dures. SPJST’s Investment PolicyStatement and Enterprise Risk Man-agement procedures implemented inrecent years put the Society ahead ofthe curve in terms of its ability to an-ticipate and head off a multitude of in-vestment and operational risks. Evenwith the significant progress that hasbeen made, SPJST department headsand staff remain vigilant on all frontsand continue to work together to en-sure that our fraternal order remains arelevant force for good in the lives ofour members and in the communitiesthat we serve.

I will continue to leverage my 33years of fraternal and banking experi-ence in partnering with my fellow of-ficers, directors, and lodge leaders tomake a positive difference. I currentlyserve as President of the Fraternal Al-liance of Texas and am the past Presi-dent of the American Fraternal

Alliance State Fraternal Alliances Sec-tion. I received my bachelor’s degreein journalism from the University ofTexas in 1983 and my General LinesInsurance License in 2000. Thanks tothe foresight of my parents, I havebeen an SPJST member for 56 yearsand am past President of SPJSTLodge 24, Cyclone.

From a membership and insurancegrowth perspective, I believe that ourbrightest future resides in our abilityto grow organically — out of our ex-isting lodge structure — and throughthe implementation of a thoughtfulprogram of servicing the insuranceneeds of our devoted base of mem-bers, their immediate as well as ex-tended families, and friends. This is anidea which has taken root; however,more needs to be done in this area,specifically, in identifying qualifiednew sales agents and then providingthem with the necessary tools — train-ing and continuing education — nec-essary to keep them at the top of theirgame. Thank you to those SPJST salesagents who have worked diligently inrecent years to put solid new businesson the books.

On the fraternal front, SPJST takesits fraternal commitments seriously.What a gratifying experience it hasbeen for me to lend oversight and sup-port to SPJST and its fraternal mis-sions in lodges and locales throughoutour great state, including SPJST’smulti-faceted youth program. My sin-cere thanks to the many of you whohave contributed to the writing of thissuccess story. There is always some-thing positive and uplifting takingplace or about to happen! On March11, for instance, the dedication theFort Hood November 5th, 2009 Me-

Brian Vanicek announces candidacy for President

morial — a project spearheaded bySPJST — will take place in Killeen.Later this spring, watch for the fledg-ling SPJST Foundation to emerge andbegin its work in earnest to adminis-ter to the support and development ofthe Czech Heritage Museum and Ge-nealogical Center in Temple and theSPJST Education and Nature Centerat Cooper Farm in Ledbetter.

Democratic principles empowerSPJST members on the lodge, district,and state levels and allow them to par-ticipate in the decision-makingprocesses of the Society. Therein re-sides the foundation of our diverse anddynamic Society. As that relates to therecommendations of the SPJST Spe-cial Structure Committee which ap-peared in the September 9, 2015,Vestnik, I favor the document’s keycomponents, including provisions thatcontinue to provide for the statewideelection of the Supreme Lodge Presi-dent and the Editor/Director of Com-munication. Those are importantprovisions. Additionally, delegateswould continue to vote to elect theirdistrict directors as well as deliberateand vote upon changes and/or amend-ments to the by-laws.

On a related note, I can see themerit of establishing an SPJST Oper-

ations Manual — apart from the by-laws. In addition to providing for adetailed summary of each departmenthead’s responsibilities and obligations,the great practicality of the operationsmanual resides in that it would desig-nate the Supreme Lodge with the re-sponsibility of updating the manual asnecessary and to remain compliancewith all applicable state and federalguidelines as they arise. The life in-surance industry is a heavily regulatedbusiness, and it remains in the best in-terest of the SPJST to comply withany and all state and federal statutes.

My past 12 years as President andthe preceding 12 years as Vestnik Ed-itor/Director of Communication havebeen a labor of love. Throughout mostof my adult life, advancing the inter-ests of SPJST has been my passionand my life’s vocation. As a result,my family has been blessed with alifetime of fraternal experiences andpersonal relationships as near and dearas any blood kin. For that, we aregrateful.

Thank you for your continued sup-port and for your commitment to thehigh ideals of fraternalism!

Fraternally,Brian Vanicek, FIC

—SPJST—

2016 Important Dates to RememberSaturday, February 13

120 Days Prior to ConventionCandidacy for Supreme Lodge President, Vice President,

Secretary-Treasurer, Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication, and seven district director positions must be announced.

Sunday, March 1390 Days Prior to Convention

By-Law Committee submits slate of qualified candidates to delegates through the Vestnik.

Monday, April 4Deadline for Convention Souvenir Program Book

Advertisement Information and PaymentWednesday, April 13

60 Days Prior to ConventionDeadline for recommendations for changes to the By-Laws. Recommendations

must be signed and submitted to any member of the By-Law Committee.Thursday, April 28

Deadline for Pre-Convention Vestnik

Wednesday, May 11Pre-Convention Vestnik published containing By-Law and Finance Committee recommendations, pre-convention reports, and other convention information.

Sunday, June 1232nd SPJST Convention Registration/Howdy Party

Killeen Civic and Conference CenterMonday, June 13

32nd SPJST Convention Convenes • Killeen Civic and Conference Center


Dear Brothers and Sisters,I, David C. Pechal, am pleased to

announce my candidacy for the posi-tion of Vice President of SPJSTSupreme Lodge. I am a lifelong mem-ber of Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall inDistrict Two. SPJST is very dear to myheart, and my experience in SPJSTproves my love for the SPJST organi-zation. I grew up living next door toLodge 47 and live within 10 miles ofthe Home Office in Temple, Texas. Ihave been married for 26 years to mywife Tammy, and we have been blessedwith two children, son Jerry anddaughter Amber and son-in-law TyRyan.

I believe in the core values of frater-nalism and commitment and knowthey go hand in hand to make a suc-cessful organization.

My experience and duties in thelocal lodge includes:

• Former Vice President• Current and active sales agent• Delegate for Conventions in 2008,2012, and 2016• Elected auditor• Planning and Improvement Com-mittee• Maintenance Committee - Chair-man• Fundraising Committee - Chairman(one night raises 18 to 20 percent of thehall’s net income for the year)• Scholarship Committee• Former Bar Manager• Former Treasurer• Lifetime Achiever Award• Lodge Fraternalist of the YearAward• Created Facebook page• Attend monthly lodge meetings• Help with kitchen, picnics, andcookoffs• Highly involved, (co-leader) in thedevelopment of the new pavilion, plan-ning, and construction• Organized local fishing trip for Get-away in Corpus – now a statewideevent• Active Adult Lodge Member• Youth club member between theages of 6 and 17; served as reporter andsergeant-at-arms; only missed twomeetings

As an active member, I meet and ex-ceed all requirements of Article 26 (a),to be an elected officer of the SupremeLodge, which reads as follow:

(a) Be an active member of this Soci-ety for at least five consecutive yearsprior to this election.

• Active Lifelong Member

(b) Shall continue their active mem-bership during the tenure of their of-fice.

• I will continue supporting my locallodge and all lodges in the state.

(c) Is present at the convention or hasan excuse acceptable by two-thirds ofthe delegates for not being present

• I have served in the past two con-ventions, 2008 and 2012, as a delegate,and I have been elected as a delegatefor the 2016 Convention.

(d) Have knowledge of both the Czechand English languages.

• I may not speak fluent Czech; how-ever, I appreciate, honor, and cherishthe language. I actually understandmore than I speak.

(e) Is a citizen of the United States ofAmerica at the time of election.

• I was born in Temple, Texas, onSeptember 30, 1965.

(f) Must have at least $50,000.00 ofinsurance or if uninsurable, then an an-nuity in at least the amount of $20,000.Such insurance or annuity to be withSPJST. • Yes, I have my original certificate,purchased at birth by my parents and

David C. Pechal announces candidacy for Vice President

an additional certificate that I pur-chased in August 2014.

In addition, my involvement and ac-tive membership meets the followingguidelines: SPJST By-Laws from the31st Convention in 2012 under Defini-tion and Observing By-Laws:Article 1(g) The word “premium” shall meanthe payments made to the SupremeLodge on the insurance in force.(h) The word “dues” or “assessment”shall mean money collected by thelocal lodge for the administration ofits affairs.(i) The word “active” shall mean amember who is still paying premiums,dues and assessments, if any. Local Lodges Article 43(c) Members who have their certifi-cates paid up in due course, accordingto the terms thereof and who wish toremain active members, must pay thelocal lodge dues and assessments if anyas prescribed by the lodge to whichthey belong, payable annually.

Being active in SPJST is a familytradition for my family. My wife,Tammy, was a former youth leader andboard member in our lodge. Ourdaughter, Amber, was an active youthclub member where she held many of-ficer positions. She attended districtcamps and was first runner-up for StateQueen in 2004. Our son, Jerry, was anactive youth member where he alsoheld many officer positions. He at-tended annual district camps andserved as 2012-2013 State King. Myfather, Jerry, was a past lodge presi-dent. My mother, Dorothy, was re-porter for the lodge and past curator ofthe Czech Heritage Museum. Mybrother, Edwin, is current president ofour local lodge and serves in many val-ued roles as a lodge leader. My sister,Joyce, is the current youth leader. I sup-port and am proud of my family’s tra-dition and involvement in our lodgeand SPJST. This serves only as athumbnail print of how truly involvedand supportive we are.

We, as a fraternal organization, needto stay on track with the plans that ourfounders in 1897 planned for us; that isto be fraternal. This is what sets us,SPJST, as being the best fraternal or-ganization in this great state of Texas.We must continue to have strong workethics while maintaining our fraternalvalues. Corporate America is not the

direction the SPJST organization needsto follow.

One of my favorite quotes is, “Agoal without a plan is just a wish.” –Unknown.

Below are several key points andmy plan for achieving these goals.Goal—To enhance the Gold Star Award Plan—The lodges that reach and meetall requirements of Gold Star will beawarded a reasonable financial incen-tive. As we all know, it takes money tooperate our lodges. By offering this fi-nancial incentive, lodge involvementand membership participation will beincreased. Goal—Enhance communication withfield managers, directors of theSupreme Lodge, sales agents, and locallodges. Plan—Implement weekly calls and re-porting of sales, as well as any otherconcerns pertaining to the InsuranceDepartment. I plan to improve com-munication by sending all local lodgesa monthly sales report with goals andcharts for their lodge. I plan to also cre-ate a tracking system for all agents tohelp them with their sales goals. Goal—Increase new sales agents.Plan—Prepare and present informationto all lodges. This will give the neces-sary education and provide the neededtools to empower qualified, profes-sional sales agents from within the cur-rent society. Goal—Rework the current applicationprocess.Plan—Develop a consolidated applica-tion process and then educate all agentsthroughout the state on an improvedsystem. This training will also includesales techniques with ongoing profes-sional development training.

In closing, I would like to include aquote from my son Jerry’s State Kingwinning speech, “I believe we shouldstand together on the foundation thatour ancestors set for us, and standstrong in our heritage.” I remain opti-mistic and will work tirelessly to main-tain our traditional values and highstandards.

Thank you for your time and yourconsideration by voting for me asSPJST Vice President.

Fraternally yours, David C. Pechal

—SPJST—


Dear Members,It has been 103 years since Brother

Frank Fabian edited the very first Věst-ník on September 1, 1912. The firstparagraph of that issue starts out with(translated from Czech): “A word tothe brothers and sisters of SPJST. Toyou, our beloved SPJST membership,I bring you the first issue of the Věst-ník, a new organ (newspaper) support-ing the Slovanské Podporující JednotyStátu Texas, as approved by the dele-gates at the Sixth Convention. Andwith this, I intend to do to the best ofmy knowledge and power. We weregiven all the details of this task and in-tend to follow in the direction like itwas intended.”

Today—more than 5,150 Věstníkslater, we continue with those same in-tentions of promoting effective andregular communication among all partsof our fraternal organization.

What an amazing feeling it musthave been then - just as it is now - towrite, capture, define, and preserveSPJST’s proud history through thepages of the Věstník filled week afterweek with rich heritage, fraternal spirit,and cherished traditions.

With excitement and passion forSPJST, I proudly announce my candi-dacy for Věstník Editor/Director ofCommunication. I very much look for-ward to continuing to serve as yourVěstník Editor/Director of Communica-tion. If reelected, the Věstník and pro-moting SPJST will continue to be mytop priorities. I will continue to workwith the Supreme Lodge, Home OfficeStaff, and our members. The Věstník isthe tool that bonds all of our membersin all departments at all levels through-out SPJST. It is the voice of the mem-bership and the entire organization.

My first experience with the Věstníkwas serving as a youth club reporterwhen I was about nine years old. Eachmonth, I wrote letters to the late VěstníkEditor Rudy Sefcik. Rudy and his wifeMaxine’s encouragement combinedwith seeing my letters and photos inprint, inspired me to develop an interestin writing and photography.

From 1994 to 1998, I worked asCommunication Assistant in the VěstníkDepartment assisting then-Věstník Edi-tor Brian Vanicek with the Věstník eachweek. From 1998 to 2004, I served asState Youth Director. One of my proud-est accomplishments as State Youth Di-rector was increasing the program from

26 active youth clubs in 1999 to 53 ac-tive youth clubs by 2004 while triplingyouth club membership and participa-tion.

In 2004, I was elected Věstník Edi-tor/Director of Communication by del-egates at the 29th SPJST Convention. Iwas reelected in 2008 and 2012. De-signing and editing the Věstník eachweek are highlights of the Věstník Edi-tor/Director of Communication posi-tion. Other tasks include designing andmaintaining SPJST’s website and socialmedia sites, marketing brochures andmaterials, promotional flyers for lodgesand youth clubs, SPJST’s annual calen-dar, and the Convention Souvenir Book.Other publications include MemberServices Directory, Youth/SummerSpectaculars, Treasured Memories,Youth Program Salute, Insurance andAnnuity Extra, and various special fea-tures inside the pages of the Věstník. Tosalute SPJST’s 115th anniversary andthe Věstník’s 100th anniversary, a 700-page cookbook was compiled, de-signed, and edited by theVěstník/Communication Department.All proceeds from cookbook sales ben-efited the Czech Heritage Museum andSPJST Education and Nature Center.The Věstník/Communication Depart-ment also coordinates the annual SPJSTCar Show in the spring that attractsmore than 200 show cars and hundredsof spectators. This promotional eventand Czech Heritage Celebration is alsoa fundraiser for the Czech Heritage Mu-seum and SPJST Education and NatureCenter. Additional accomplishmentswill be outlined in the Publication Com-mittee’s pre-convention report that will

Melanie Zavodny announces candidacy for Věstník Editor/Director of CommunicationIt is with enthusiasm that I announce

my candidacy for Secretary-Treasurerof the Supreme Lodge. Your support toreelect me to this position will begreatly appreciated. When I asked foryour support four years ago, I dis-cussed the challenge of continuing ourturnaround to profitability and recov-ery of surplus. We have continued toenjoy extraordinary success by addingan average of near $1 million per yearto surplus over the past seven and one-half years since I returned to manageour investments in 2008.

The past four years have been a sea-son of change not only dealing with in-vestment management but in otherareas as well. Many changes havebeen implemented to improve our tech-nology and to enable us to better re-spond to our rapidly changingenvironment.

One major new change was the de-velopment and implementation of anEnterprise Risk Management (ERM)policy. Regulators, rating agencies,and auditors now expect an insurancecompany to have an effective ERMpolicy. I do appreciate the Board giv-ing me the responsibility of Chief RiskOfficer (CRO) to continue integratingour ERM policy into our operation tohelp us manage operational, under-writing and investment risk. Our pri-mary ERM Committee and the threesubcommittees are now fully func-tional to help us determine areas ofchallenge that must be mitigated.

I do want to review a brief historyof my service with the SPJST. Afterserving eight elected terms on theSupreme Lodge (32 years), I retired in2000 and remained active in the lead-ership of my local lodge. During thistime, I finished my college degree andpursued a career as a group benefitsconsultant with a national marketingorganization. A few months prior tothe 2008 convention, I responded to re-quests to seek election to the positionof secretary-treasurer. Since that time,the SPJST portfolio of investments hasbeen repositioned to match the cashflow needs and quality needed by aninsurance company. We are back ontrack and have increased our surplusfrom near $13 million to near $20 mil-lion.

A few highlights of my qualifica-tions include a bachelor of science de-gree, an FIC designation, a TexasInsurance license, past president of the

Texas Association of Fraternal Insur-ance Counselors, past president of theTexas Fraternal Congress, and ChiefRisk Officer of SPJST. I have near 40years of experience managing insur-ance company investments and assets,mortgage loan administration and pol-icy servicing. Additionally, I have wellover 40 years of experience in corpo-rate administration and various aspectsof life insurance company manage-ment.

I love the SPJST and feel that I havethe qualifications and experience tomeet the challenges that face us. Someof those challenges are declining mem-bership, the need to increase our pre-mium income and continued efforts toimprove our technology. I want to be apart of the management team that willmeet these challenges and others.

On a more personal note, my wife,Dorothy and I have enjoyed travelingthe state and meeting many of you overthe years. Her support has been vitalto me in serving you. We would wel-come the opportunity to continue serv-ing you the next four years.

I would be remiss if I did not com-ment on the outstanding managementteam now in place. I have served on theSupreme Lodge some 40 years and amin a position to say that we have a qual-ity team in place, both officers and di-rectors. I have nothing but the highestregards for officers Brian, Clifton, andRoy and Melanie, our editor/director ofcommunication.

Your consideration and support toreelect me will be appreciated.

Fraternally,Leonard Mikeska

—SPJST—

Leonard Mikeska announces candidacy for Secretary-Treasurer


Dear Members and Delegates of District Six,

With appreciation for our SPJST or-ganization and all membership, I an-nounce my candidacy for reelection forDistrict Six Director. It has been anhonor and sincere pleasure to serve youall as your representative in this capac-ity and for our SPJST society duringthe past three and one-half years.Thank you for your support and confi-dence in me.

As a member of Lodge 30, Taiton,our SPJST society is an extremely im-portant part of my life. Joining thisgreat fraternal organization in 1966, Ifelt that special excitement and pridethat fellow SPJST members have as Irecently saw my name listed in the Jan-uary 27 issue of the Vestnik as a 50-yearSPJST member!

As most of you know, I grew up inthe SPJST youth club environment.Special memories include winning firstplace in junior group talent at StateYAD singing “Corn Cockle Polka.”There were many years of youth clubactivities, summer camps, and youthachievement days.

I continued service to the SPJSTYouth Program through the years byserving as assistant youth leader andyouth leader for Lodge 30 and also As-sistant District Six Youth Counselorand then District Six Youth Counselor.In our adult lodge, I served as presidentand vice president.

I feel blessed to be living the exam-

ple of what SPJST’s youth programteaches—to learn about SPJST andserve the society as an adult.

My leadership in SPJST transi-tioned in 1998 as I became a salesagent for SPJST. Then, a couple yearslater in December 2000, my leadershipwas taken a step further upon my em-ployment as a State Field Representa-tive. Throughout the District Six area,from 2001 through 2012, I assistedagents and members and carried out In-surance Department sales programsand initiatives. During a number ofthose years, I also assisted with Dis-tricts Five and Seven managing ap-proximately 250 agents.

I believe I achieved success throughmy 12 years as State Field Representa-

Karen Kaspar announces candidacy for District Six Director

be published in May.To recognize the Věstník’s 100th an-

niversary in 2012 and to preserveSPJST’s history, the Věstník/Communi-cation Department partnered with TexasCzech Genealogical Society (TCGS) toscan all available past Věstníks since1912. Through another partnership withthe University of North Texas, thearchived Věstníks have been digitallystored in a permanent, searchable onlinedatabase - the Portal to Texas History -for all to access for historical and ge-nealogical research. The archived Věst-níks can be viewed through theSPJST.org website.

My husband David Nauert and Ihave enjoyed designing and maintain-ing SPJST’s two floats and preparingthem for about 30 parades each yearwhere they promote SPJST, its fraternalprograms, life insurance products,lodges, and youth clubs throughout thestate.

I am a third-generation and lifelongSPJST member. I participated in allyouth club activities and received firstrunner-up State Queen and first runner-up Miss SPJST. I served as president ofthe Texas Fraternal Congress Youth Sec-tion and youth leader and reporter in mylocal SPJST lodge. I also representedthe state as Miss Texas Czech and re-ceived first runner-up in the Miss CzechSlovak US pageant.

In 2010, I was honored with the pres-tigious Marcia D. Heywood MemorialFraternal Communications Award fromthe American Fraternal Alliance. I cur-rently serve on the advisory council ofthe American Fraternal Alliance Frater-nal and Communications Section andparticipate in annual and mid-year meet-ings and workshops that present oppor-tunities for learning and networkingwith fraternal industry leaders, editors,and communicators. The Věstník holdsthe distinction of being the only weekly

newspaper among all fraternals cur-rently operating in the United Statesand Canada. That feat is certainly ad-mired among sister fraternals.

In our spare time, David and I enjoyhelping our local lodges. I serve as sec-retary/reporter for Lodge 246, Morgan’sPoint. We also founded, organized, andchartered Heart of Texas Corvette Clubin 2012, and I served as the club’s firstpresident. I also volunteer on the City ofTemple Christmas Parade Committeeand was recently honored as the TempleParks and Recreation Department Spe-cial Events Volunteer of the Year. We arealso members of TCGS.

I graduated with honors from RogersHigh School, Temple College, andSouthern Career Institute. I have com-pleted communications, journalism, andbusiness courses through the Universityof Texas and University of Alabama. Ialso have a General Lines Insurance Li-cense and am a Fraternal Insurance

Counselor (FIC).Democracy is an important part of

SPJST on all levels - local lodge, dis-trict, and state. Our members are mostimportant, and it is their voices that haveguided our Society for 119 years. As afraternal organization, we are veryunique - and our members have contin-uously been involved in the aspects ofSPJST - especially as it relates to theVěstník. I support the Special StructureCommittee’s recommendation of con-tinuing to elect the Supreme LodgePresident and Věstník Editor/Director ofCommunication. This is very importantin order for our membership to preserveits voice in SPJST.

God bless SPJST and our membership.I will greatly appreciate your continuedsupport and confidence in me as VěstníkEditor/Director of Communication.

Fraternally yours,Melanie Zavodny, FIC

—SPJST—

tive for our society and have taken thatadditional experience and have ex-panded upon it these past three and one-half years as District Six Director.

Serving you as District Six Directorhas been very rewarding. I have workedhard to be diligent in using my experi-ence and knowledge along with beingopen-minded to hearing all informationat hand towards making my decisionsfor the best interest of SPJST. I havetruly enjoyed you all over the DistrictSix area through lodge meetings, mem-bership drives, socials, fundraisers,member honorees, sales agent meetings,float appearances, youth activities, dis-trict meetings, and our District SixCemetery Organization. It is very ful-filling to see the fraternal atmosphere ofSPJST throughout our district and all ofSPJST.

I have attended the national annualmeetings of the American Fraternal Al-liance in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Theseannual meetings have seminars andprograms that give us additional andnecessary board development avenuesthrough educational opportunities andresponsibilities. We have learnedthrough this the importance to mod-ernizing governance structures andbeing able to manage compliance re-quirements in our society.

I have served on the audit commit-tee of the SPJST Supreme Lodge in2013, 2014, and 2015. I am presentlyserving as chairman for 2016. I wasvoted in by my fellow board membersas Supreme Lodge Vice Chairman for2015 and again for 2016.

I am a member of the WhartonCounty Czech Heritage Society,TCGS, Catholic Daughters, KJZT, and

the Taiton Community Center. I ampresident of St. John’s Altar Society, aEucharistic minister, and CCD teacherat St. John’s Catholic Church in theTaiton parish. I represented SPJST onthe Texas Association of Fraternal In-surance Counsellors board and servedas president in 2013.

My husband Leroy and I recentlycelebrated our 40th wedding anniver-sary and reside in Taiton, Texas. Ourchildren and grandchildren are SPJSTmembers.

Our SPJST organization is quite ex-traordinary! We must continue to shareour life insurance, fraternal areas, andyouth programs with everyone. Wemust always cherish and promote ourCzech heritage and treasured begin-nings; but we must also move forwardand embrace change for the best of oursociety.

Please know your Supreme Lodgeis dedicated to doing the best for all ofSPJST. I will strive to make a differ-ence for the good of our society andcontinue to work hard to assist in lead-ing SPJST through the future.

I believe SPJST is moving forwardtogether to meet the challenges and op-portunities and fulfill its responsibili-ties to continue on as the best fraternalinsurance society.

If you have any questions or if youwish to contact me, please call me 979-332-1616 or email [email protected]. I will appreciate your supportand vote at this year’s convention.

Fraternally, Karen Kaspar, FIC, CFFMDistrict Six Director

—SPJST—


§ § § § § § §

To: Cheyenne ParkerMy Precious Daughter

Happy Valentine’s Day, pretty girl.You are the most amazing little girl

in everything you do. You give it your all, and no matter whatlife throws at you, you roll with it . . .

without skipping a beat.You deserve the best Valentine’s Day

because you have a heart of gold.Mommy loves you to the moon

and back and always will.You’re my best friend . . .

you’re my daughter.From: Mommy

§ § § § § § §

To: Douglas and Becky UrbanekHappy Valentine’s Day,

Mamaw and Papaw. Love you so much,

and thank you for all you have given me.

From: Tatiana Grace-Lynn Poldrack§ § § § § § §

To: GrannyHappy Valentine’s Day!

Love from: Tyler§ § § § § § §

To: KarenMy heart still beats only for you!

Happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Eddie

§ § § § § § §

To: Newell and Georgia Ann RamboAunt Judy Majek

Uncle Bert Regmond Aunt Leona Grant

Uncle Sonny and Aunt Elizabeth PetersHappy Valentine’s Day!

Hugs and kisses!From: Tammy, Paige

and Brooke Williamson§ § § § § § §

To: Grandpa and Grandma MeierRose are Red

Violets are BlueYour home is blessed, Because of your Love.

From: Brandon and Katie§ § § § § § §

To: Mama and DaddyThanks for everything you do for me.

Happy Valentine’s Day!Love from: Cynthia

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: BrianHappy Valentine’s Day, Sweetie!

To my wonderful husband of 26 yearsand my sweetheart for 30 years.

I love you!From: Brenda

§ § § § § § §

To: Adeline KohutekGreat-Nannie

Happy Valentine’s Day.We love you.

From: John, Kresta, Johnny, and Grace Franklin

§ § § § § § §

To: Holly and RalphWe love you both so much.

Holly, we are so proud of what you do for SPJST. Happy Valentine’s Day!


To: Holly, Ralph, Mindy, Michael,Kyle, Lacy, Brian,

Lindsey, Matt, and LoganThe best nieces and nephews

an aunt could ask for. We have had many good times together.

Have a very special Valentine’s Day.Love you all.

Love from: Aunt Carol§ § § § § § §

To: My Loving Grandma Elsie ZaleskyI love you, Grandma, and forever will.You have taught me to be strong-willed

and to not give up no matter what. A person like you deserves nothing

but the best. I love you and Happy Valentine’s Day, Grandma.

From: Natalie ZaleskyYour Granddaughter

§ § § § § § §

To: Kelly, Darrin, Rusty, and LeslieHope your day is filled

with reminders of how much you’re loved.

Happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Mom and Dad§ § § § § § §

To: Margaret and LeroyMom and Dad,

Thanks for all you do,Valentine’s Day and every day -

We are grateful for you!XOXOXO

From: Darlene and Marlene§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Emma,Happy Valentine’s Day!

Love you bunches and bunches!Nana and Popo

§ § § § § § §

To: Karen CarrWishing my favorite manager

(yes, favorite!) a very special Valentine’s Day.

You deserve this very special wish just because . . . you always know

how to make me and all your staff smileand have fun . . . and we stay

super motivated and productive because of your management style.

Love you for being the manager you are! From: Carol Lanier

§ § § § § § §

To: Louie and Dorothy VeselkaWe want to wish you both

a Happy Valentine’sto two great parents

and great-grandparents.Love from:

Diana, John, Mira, Justin, and Misha§ § § § § § §

To: Calleigh MoralesHappy Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart.

I love you to the moon and back!From: Adam Martinek

§ § § § § § §

To: Cooper Adam and Olivia FarmerI love my sweet great-grandchildren.

Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Nanny Hegwood§ § § § § § §

To: Kay Weeks and CarrieAnn JonesThe two of you

have such imaginative minds. I can’t wait to see what else

you have in store for us! Thank you both for your continued

efforts in District Three, and I hope you have a wonderful

Valentine’s Day.“Imagination is everything.

It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.”

—Albert EinsteinFrom: Lynette Talasek

§ § § § § § §

To: Nana and PapaHappy Valentine’s Day! We love you very much!From: Payton, Makenna,

Kayley and Jase§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mamaw and Papaw UrbanekHi, Grandma and Grandpa!

Happy Valentine’s Day. Hope you have

a wonderful Valentine’s Day.From: Makayla Newsom§ § § § § § §

To: Carlos and ChristySean and MelissaChris and Tracey

Adrian and CherylCharles and LiannLenny and CindyHope you all have

a great Valentine’s DayFrom: Grandma Judy Majek

§ § § § § § §

To: Macy NarroHappy Valentine’s Day

to our oldest granddaughter. We are so proud of all you do

in school and with SPJST.We love you!

From: Gamma and Grandpa§ § § § § § §

To: Mindy and MichaelHappy Valentine’s Day to you both.

We love you so much.From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Madelynn BammelHappy 1st Valentine’s Day.

We are so happy you blessed us this year as our third grandchild.

We love you so much.From: Gamma and Grandpa

§ § § § § § §

To: Jered PollyQ: What did the stamp say to the envelope?A: I’m stuck on you!

Happy Valentine’s Day!We love you, Jered! <3

From: Mom & Dad§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie JoAs my daughter, as my friend, You are loved on Valentine’s

and every day!From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

To: B.R.Happy Valentine’s Day, Babe!

From: NRE§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § § §To: George L. Moreno

Gone, yet not forgotten . . .Your spirit lives within me,

forever in my heart.Happy Valentine’s Day.

Love you.From: Dora, Your Wife

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § §§ §

To: Larry HargissYou will always be

my love and in my heart.

Words cannot tell you how much I love you.

From: Mary§ § § § §

§ §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mom (Gladys Hejl)Happy Valentine’s Day to a great mom.

Love you very much.From: Betty

§ § § § § § §

To: Barbara Linney Gonzales and Michelle Wockenfuss

“The harder you work. The luckier you get.”

- Gary PlayerThis sums the two of you up precisely!

Thank you both for your continued efforts and hard work in District Five,

and I hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day.

From: Lynette Talasek§ § § § § § §

To: Rachel, Remy, and Roan ManakWe love you!

From: Grandpapa and Grandmama§ § § § § § §

To: Catherine CaseyHappy Valentine’s Day

to our sweet granddaughter who is growing up

to be a special young lady. We love you!

From: Nana and Pawpaw§ § § § § § §

To: Momma (Gladys Hejl)You are the reason why I am the personI am today. Thank you for all you do.

From: Susie§ § § § § § §

To: TylerTo a very special grandson.

We are so very proud of all your accomplishments.Love from: Granny and Brad

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Tammy CopelandMy Dearest Daughter

Thank you so much for all your helpand taking care of me

after I came home from my surgery. I love you so much.

From: Mom (Janice Stevens)§ § § § § § §

To: My Husband Elvie HudsonHappy Valentine’s Day, Babe.

Thank you for all the years we’ve been together.

Love you to the moon and back.From: Suzie Hudson

Your Wife§ § § § § § §

To: Kaylee and KarleyBe my Valentines. I love you both.Love from: Grandma Mary Ann

§ § § § § § §

To: My Grandson Matthew HolmesHappy Valentine’s Day, Matt. Hope you have a good one.

You’re a bundle of joy. Love you so much. XXX OOO

Love from: Grandma Suzie Hudson§ § § § § § §

To: Justin and MishaHappy Valentine’s Day

to our son and daughter-in-law.You are the greatest

and so proud of you both.Love from:

Mom and Dad§ § § § § § §

To: Betty SmithHappy Valentine’s Day

to my wonderful mother. We love you and hope you

will have a sweet day!From: Susan and Family§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Lucas and AveryBe my valentines.

You are the sunshine in my heart! Love you forever.Love from: Gigi

§ § § § § § §

To: PaetynYou are the most best sister

ever in the world.From: Bailee Beckendorf§ § § § § § §

To: SPJST Fraternal DepartmentI love our fellowship

and the way we work together. Happy Valentine’s Day.

From: Ruth§ § § § § § §

To: AmberHappy Valentine’s Day!

We love you with all of our hearts.From: Brandon, Hunter, Dannikka,

Camdon, and Everhett§ § § § § § §

To: Brayden MozingoLodge 92, Fort Worth

Hugs and kisses to our precious grandboy.

You bring us smiles and laughs and sweet hugs.

You are “da bomb”Gma Joy proclaims!

From: John and Joy PaprskarProud Grandparents

§ § § § § § §

To: Joe and Jean MotlHappy Valentine’s Day, Memaw and Pawpaw!

Sending lots of love and hugs!From: Ashley Tullos

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mom and DadHappy Valentine’s Day

to a very loving and special coupleYou both are a shining example

of a beautiful marriage - 62 years. Congratulations!

We love you both.Love from: Melanie and David

§ § § § § § §

To: Mike, Brandon, and Hailey GirodI love you all so much. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Cristy Girod§ § § § § § §

To: Josh StevensHappy Valentine’s Day, Josh.

I love you so much.From: Niece Janice Stevens

§ § § § § § §

To: Memaw and PapaHappy Valentine’s Day. I love you.

You are the best ever. I hope that you go to heaven one day,

then I will come, too, with you.From: Paetyn

§ § § § § § §

To: David PechalHappy Valentine’s Day to my husband

whom I love dearly! You mean the world to me.

From: Tammy Pechal§ § § § § § §

To: Cristy and AmberThanks for all the loving,

caring, and fun friends you are! This Valentine’s and every day,

I am grateful for you!Love ya, ladies!

From: Patsy§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § § §

To: LindaTe Amo

From: Jesse

§ § § § § § §

To: My DaddyHappy Valentine’s Day

to the best daddy in the World!I love you.

From: Colton

§ § § § § § §

To: Patsy Koslovsky Amber Bartek, and Christi GirodThe three of you are like a tree where your thoughts are roots;

words are leaves; and your actions are the fruit.

The fruit of your labor is sweet success!Thank you all for your continued efforts

in District Two, and I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine’s Day.

From: Lynette Talasek

§ § § § § § §

To: Martha Mahdak "Mamaw"Happy Valentine’s Day!

We love you!From: Your Children

Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren

§ § § § § § §

To: GlennHappy Valentine’s Day!From: Sassy and Kitty

§ § § § § § §

To: Kaitlyn, Hailey Brandon, and CollinThank you for being

the greatest grandkids a man could ask for!

Love y’all!From: Grumpa

§ § § § § § §

To: Pam Lehman and Laura PospichalYou two are always willing

to go the extra mile! Thank you for your continued

dedication to the youth of District Fourand for working so hard to be creative

despite the distance. Thank you both for your continued

efforts in District Four, and I hope you have a wonderful

Valentine’s Day.From: Lynette Talasek

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: GlennHappy Valentine’s Day!

I love you!Love from: Cynthia

§ § § § § § §

To: Joan and BrianThank you for all you do

for Mom and Dad.We appreciate you with all our hearts.

Love and blessings.From: The Green Family

§ § § § § § §

To: Mimi and Papa BrezinaWe are so lucky to have

the best grandparents in the world!We hope you have

a great Valentine’s Day! Sending you lots of hugs and kisses.

From: Madison and Carson

§ § § § § § §

To: Maylee DowellRoses are red,

Violets are blue.You’re the sweetest girl

And I love you!From: Granny Leisa

§ § § § § § §

To: Marlene + DarleneOur Valentine’s Day

is always double-sweet! Thank you for all you do for us!

We love you!From: Mom + Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Alvin FrantaDearest Dad,

Grandpa and Great-Grandpa,You hold such a special place

in our hearts. We love you so much and wish you

the happiest Valentine’s Day!Love and kisses.

From: Your Family

§ § § § § § §

To: Lloyd, Richard, Sandra Eric, Katie, Tiffany, Lane

Sammy, Amanda, and LukeMy wonderful family.Happy Valentine’s Day

wishes and love.XOXO

From: Bettie

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mamaw and Papaw MiglSending you lots of love

with extra hugs and kisses - because you’re the best grandparents

any kids could ask for! Happy Valentine’s Day!

We love you!From: Nathan and Jered Polly

§ § § § § § §

To: ColtonHope your Valentine’s Day is as awesome as you are!

Go RR Dragons!Love from: Nana and Popo

§ § § § § § §

To: Lacy, Lindsey, Logan Kyle, Tyler, Hunter, Joshawa

Tabor, Maylee, Millison Thatcher, and MadelynnHappy Valentine’s Day

to all our favorite cousins! We love you all.

From: Dillon and Macy§ § § § § § §

To: Emily E.You are a very warm

and generous daughter who remains full of love.

May you have all the success for the goals in your life.

We love you always.From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Meredith and OliviaWishing you both

Happy Valentine’s DayFrom: Aunt Judy

§ § § § § § §

To: Cindy V.I know I always call you

the “Best Wife Ever”and tell everyone how lucky

and spoiled I am to be married to you . . . well . . . It’s all true!I love you with all my heart,

and I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you.

Happy Valentine’s Day!From: David V.

§ § § § § § §

To: Dad and Mom V.Happy Valentine’s Day

from your daughter-in-law :) !From: Cindy

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Granny MikeskaWe wish you

a Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you.

From: Madison, Carson, and Colton§ § § § § § §

To: Kenneth, Michael, Lindsey, and Grandkids

Thanks for always being there for meduring my heart attack

and all the other times of the year. I love my kids and grandkids and am very proud of them.

From: Mom and Mema§ § § § § § §

To: MelanieNo words could ever tell you,

No action could express,The way I feel about you,

With you, my life is blessed.You’re the light in my tunnel,

You are my pot of gold.You are the best wife

in the whole wide world.Happy Valentine’s Day

I love you.From: David

§ § § § § § §

To: My Lil Man Tyler ParkerHappy Valentine’s

to the sweetest, most kind-hearted sonanyone could ask for.

I’m so lucky he’s my valentine. I love you to the moon and back

and always will.Hope you have a wonderful

Valentine’s Day.From: Mommy

§ § § § § § §

To: GrannyHappy Valentine’s Day, Granny.

We hope you will be our valentine! We love you!

Yours truly from: Andrew, Matthew, and Sarah

§ § § § § § §

To: Brooke AshleyHappy Valentine’s

to our sweet beautiful daughter. Wish you all the best for 2016.


To: Tammy and CristyYou will always be my valentines.

From: Dad§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § § §

To: Rosey HenryTo my wonderful sister

that is always giving me a hard timeabout taking of myself.

Thanks for caring and being my sisterand Happy Valentine’s Day.

Love you.From: Sis, Linda

§ § § § § § §

To: Bob and SadieWe are so lucky to have such wonderful parents.

We are who we are because of you. We love you. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Jimmy and Theresa§ § § § § § §

To: Brandon and Katie KoselHope your Valentine’s Day

is just as awesome as both of you are.Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Love Aunt Kerri

and Uncle Barry§ § § § § § §

To: Gladys HejlYou make me so proud to call you my mother.

Thank you for all the good and funny memories.

Happy Valentine’s Day.I love you.

From: Carol§ § § § § § §

To: David and EmilyKayla and Anthony

Rhianna, Jonathan, and PhilipKasey, Cory, and Madison

Justin, Zachary, EmmaKarley, and AlyssaKaitlyn, and Kelsey

Valentine’s Day greetings!From: Granny Judy Majek§ § § § § § §

To: Granny Gladys HejlHappy Valentine’s Day, Granny!

You are so special to us. We love you!From: Ralph, Holly, Dillon, and Macy

§ § § § § § §

To: Popo and Granny ChudejDear Granny and Popo,

We want to wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day!

Thanks for all you have done for us -we are truly blessed

to have you in our lives! We love you!From: Haley, Aubri and Landon Chudej

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Granny and PapaHappy Valentine’s Day!Thinking of you both.

Sending hugs and love!From: Chris and Julia

§ § § § § § §

To: Brooke HoelscherTo the love of my life,

I cannot wait to be married to you. But until then, be my valentine.

From: Thomas§ § § § § § §

To: MelanieHappy Valentine’s Day

to the most beautiful person we know.May you always know

how important you are to us. Our lives would be nothing without you to share it with.

We love you, Valentine.From: Richard, Liberty, Miley

Buttercup, Fetti, Glammy, SunflowerTangie, Rosie, Macy, Mitty, and Molly

§ § § § § § §

To: Granny Judy MajekHappy Valentine’s Day

to our favorite sweetheart.You are a blessing!

We love you!From: Carlos, Christy

David, and Emily§ § § § § § §

To: JeanetteHappy Valentine’s Day, my sweet.

Love from: Archie§ § § § § § §

To: My Baby GirlKinsley Parker

Happy Valentine’s Day, Baby Girl!From your little giggles to your tickle me toes

you are the most fun-loving,brave little girl I know.

I can’t believe you started big girl school this year.

Every brave step you take, I’ll always be there with you. Mommy loves you, curly girl,

to the moon and back.From: Mommy

§ § § § § § §

To: Jered PollyYou are the highlight of our life!

Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you!From: Mamaw and Papaw Migl

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mimi and Papa BrezinaI hope you have

a Dinorific Valentine’s Day!From: Colton

§ § § § § § §

To: Debbie and FreddieFaye and Carroll and ScottAshley, Eric, and CasetonHappy Valentine’s Day!

We love you all very much.Love from: Melanie and David

§ § § § § § §

To: My Dear Mother Myriam Zalesky

Happy Valentine’s Day, Mom.I love you with all my heart

and forever will. This past year alone

you’ve made me proud of all the changes life threw at you;

even in your darkest times, you never gave up.

Dad would be so proud of you.Have a great Valentine’s Day, Mom.

From: Natalie Zalesky§ § § § § § §

To: Mica, Marshall, and MabreyYou all make me very proud

to call you my children. Keep your faith and all will continue

to work in your favor. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Love you all so much. Love from: Mama

§ § § § § § §

To: Donnie HavemannRoses are red.

Violets are blue.You’re my one and only valentine.

I love you!From: Carol

§ § § § § § §

To: Abby A.You will forever remain in our hearts.

Your kindness and love of faith continue to grow. May this year

be the best yet with continue success in your life. We love you always.


To: Dillon and MacyHappy Valentine’s Day

to the best two kids. Keep up the good work in everything you do. We love you so much!From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: My Sweet Christine - The Love of My Life - Happy Valentine’s Day.

I pray that we will continue to grow closer each year

of our wonderful marriage. All my love.From: Vern

§ § § § § § §

To: Tyler, Joshawa, Tabor, Hunter,Maylee, Millison, and Thatcher

I love all of you to the moon and back.You all make me so proud

and are all my favorite valentines.Have a very Happy Valentine’s Day.

Love from: Grandma

§ § § § § § §

To: RalphThanks for being a great husband and father to our two great kids.

I love you so much. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Holly

§ § § § § § §

To: DonnieHappy Valentine’s Day to you.

Love ya!From: Betty

§ § § § § § §

To: District Two Youth, Leaders, and Parents

Wishing a Happy Valentine’s Day to all the youth, leaders,

and parents of District Two.Your love, fun,

and great memories are the best!Love from: Patsy

§ § § § § § §

To: Nathan PollyQ: What do squirrels give each other

for Valentine’s Day?A: Forget-me-nuts!

Happy Valentine’s Day!We’re nuts about you!From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: My SistersCarol, Susan, and Donna

So blessed to havethree wonderful sisters in my life.

I love you all very much. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Betty

§ § § § § § §


driguez, and the Pledge of Allegiancewas led by Regina Peevey, visitorfrom Lodge 80, Holland. Mary Helengave the report on upcoming events.

Treasurer Sandie Fischer gave thefinancial report. She also reported onattending the awards banquet and re-ceiving a check and beautiful plaque.She commented on the beautiful dec-orations. During the presentation,Brian Vanicek asked for prayers forour ailing officers, and we truly ap-preciated that. We are all praying fortheir rapid recovery.

The next meeting is Monday, Feb-ruary 8.

Respectfully submitted,Sandie Fischer, Treasurer

—SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennisinvites all to Feb. 27fundraiser danceDear Readers,

Lodge 25, Ennis will host afundraiser dance on Saturday, Febru-ary 27, 2016, from 7 p.m. to 12 mid-night at the lodge hall. Doors willopen at 6:30 p.m. Music will be pro-

vided by Lost Money and The Pon-tiax. A cash bar and snacks will beavailable. Admission is $10 per per-son. Some of the prizes that will begiven away are a John Deere Zero-Turn Mower, $1,000 cash, and a tripfor two to Las Vegas. For more infor-mation, please call 214-837-9490.

Come on out for a great evening offun!

Fraternally yours,Margaret Krajca, Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 32, Victoriato celebrateValentine’s Daythis Thursday

We remind everyone of the Lodge32, Victoria meeting this Thursday,February 11, 2016, at 6:30 p.m.

We will celebrate Valentine’s Dayas well as January, February, andMarch birthdays.

Hope to see you there!Fraternally.Kathy AhlstromFAC/Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 35, Elkhonors longtimemembers

On Wednesday January 13, 2016, at7:09 p.m., President Randy Pavelkacalled our SPJST meeting to order.The Pledge of Allegiance was recitedby members and guests.

No one was on the sick list.Secretary Carla Pavelka read the

minutes of the December 11, 2015,meeting, and Treasurer BarbaraPavelka gave her report. With no cor-rections, they were approved as read.A thank you note was read from JoeGeorge Tepe.

Several members are receivingtheir 50-year and 75-year pins. Con-gratulations to all for being membersfor so long.

Receiving a 75-year pin is HelonLouise Holub.

Receiving 50-year pins are EugeniaD. Bordovsky, Carolyn Jane (Janie)Brewer, Richard Gary Brewer, ErwinH. Dieterich, Sondra Denise Dieterich,Ronnie R. Etgen, Pamela M. Hein-burg, Barbara Jean Hurst, Thomas J.

Lodge 4Hallettsvillemeets Feb. 14Dear Members,

SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville willmeet this Sunday, February 14 at theChamber of Commerce meeting roomat 3 p.m. There will be door prizes,games, and lunch.

Fraternally,Patsy Zabransky, Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 8, Weimargives to CzechHeritage Museum

SPJST Lodge 8, Weimar met Mon-day, January 25, 2016, at OakridgeSmokehouse Restaurant in Schulen-burg at 6 p.m. Business discussed in-cluded the treasurer’s report, FACreport, and delegates’ information forthe upcoming convention in June.

The District Six Spring Meetingwill be Sunday, April 3 with Lodge 23,Moravia hosting.

A donation was also given to theCzech Heritage Museum in memoryof Eugene Veselka. Next Meeting—February 22

The next meeting for Lodge 8,Weimar will be Monday, February 22at 6 p.m. at Oakridge SmokehouseRestaurant in Schulenburg. We hopeto see you there!

Fraternally,Lodge 8, Weimar Officers

—SPJST—

Lodge 15Buckholtsreports onJanuary meeting

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 15,Buckholts was held Sunday, January31, 2016, at the Post Office Cafe. Theregular meeting was postponed due toillness. President Doug L. Williams isin the hospital, and Secretary DorothyTomascik is home after surgery andstill unable to attend meetings. SecondVice President Derrick Ruzicka wasalso unable to attend due to illness.

The meeting was called to order byVice President Mary Helen Ro-

The deadline for all Vestnik itemsis 5 p.m. the Wednesday before thepublication 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: [email protected]

Questions?Call 800-727-7578

SPJSTSPJSTLodgeLodgeSect ionSect ion

District FACs, PresidentsGather in Temple

District Fraternal Activities Coordinators and Presidents gathered at theSPJST Home Office in Temple on Sunday, January 31, 2016, for their an-nual meeting. Pictured are, front, left to right, State FAC Frank Horak, VickiSims of Lodge 84, Dallas; Ruth Hanusch of Lodge 47, Seaton; and PatBruce of Lodge 88, Houston. BACK: James House of Lodge 202, Jour-danton; Selby Holder of Lodge 6, Cottonwood; Cheryl Petr of Lodge 84,Dallas; Joe Siptak of Lodge 4, Hallettsville; and Helen Zabransky of Lodge4, Hallettsville. Not pictured are Randy Gaas and Kyle Skrabanek, both ofLodge 17, New Tabor; Laura Pospichal of Lodge 49, Rowena; JaneeceWilliams of Lodge 215, South Plains; Ashley Victorick of Lodge 88, Hous-ton; and Glen Pruski of Lodge 107, Floresville.


Jurecka, Johnnie M. Lyda, Angela D.Pavelka, Richard Pavelka, Jr., Eliza-beth Pechacek, Donald E. Steinke, andRonald E. Steinke.

Hopefully, you have all receivedyour pins by now.

Floor Chairman Gene Pavelka gavehis report.

There was a reminder of the SPJSTScholarship applications.

Under new business, it was decidedto put an ad in the 2016 Conventionprogram.

With no other business, the meetingwas adjourned.Elk Hall Meeting

The Elk Hall meeting was called toorder at 7:32 p.m. by President RandyPavelka.

Secretary Carla Pavelka gave herDecember 11, 2015, report, and it wasapproved as read. Treasurer BarbaraPavelka gave her report, and it was ap-proved as read.

Floor Chairman Gene Pavelka gavehis report. Bar Chairman RandyPavelka gave his report.

There was no other business so themeeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

There was 13 members present.Next Meeting—February 10

Our next lodge meeting will beWednesday, February 10 at about 7p.m.

We hope to see you then.Fraternally yours,Janie Brewer, Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seatonsets KlinkovskyMemorial taroktournament

Save the date—Saturday, February27, 2016. Lodge 47, Seaton will host theFrank Klinkovsky, Sr. Memorial TarokTournament at Seaton Star Hall. StarHall is located five miles east of Templeon Highway 53 (Adams Avenue).Everyone is welcome!

Registration is from 8 to 8:45 a.m.,and play begins at 9 a.m. The fee is $25per player and includes lunch andsnacks. Trophies and $500 in cashprizes for the top four scores will beawarded. High round winner will eachbe paid.

All proceeds will benefit the FrankKlinkovsky, Sr. SPJST Memorial En-dowment Scholarship Fund.

Mail your $25 check made payableto SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton along withyour name, address, and phone numberby February 10 to:

SPJST Lodge 47, Seatonc/o Tammy Martinez

2090 FM 437Burlington, Texas 76519

Late entries will be accepted if playerslots are available. Please pre-register tohelp us estimate our food supply.

For more information and/or to reg-ister, contact Tammy Martinez 254-493-9892 or [email protected] or JimmieCoufal 254-721-1875 or 254-985-2386.

Fraternally,Tammy MartinezFraternal Activities Coordinator

—SPJST—

Lodge 66, Wacogives to HelpingHands Ministry

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 66,Waco was called to order by PresidentJohn Engelke on Monday, January 25,2016, at St. Paul’s Church at 6 p.m.with all officers present with the ex-ception of Secretary Dana McAdams.There were 10 members present.

Members recited the Pledge of Al-legiance and motto.

Members stood for a moment ofsilent prayer for Joe Provazek.

Due to the absence of SecretarySister Dana McAdams, President En-gelke read the minutes of December14, 2015, and they were approved asread.

President Engelke read correspon-dence from Supreme Lodge PresidentBrian Vanicek concerning the awardsbanquet to be held at the MaybornCenter on January 30.

President Engelke received corre-spondence from Ruth Hanusch of theHome Office concerning 50- and 75-year pins. Seventy-five year memberis William Frank Cervenka. Fifty-yearmembers are Arnold August Gerik, Jr.;Stephen E. Leuschner; Gladys M.Makovy; Daniel R. Matula; Kay LynnMaynard; Shannon C. Pavelka; Bev-erly Ann Roberts; and Henry E. Slo-vak.

President John Engelke received aletter from Supreme Lodge PresidentBrian Vanicek that Lodge 66 will re-ceive an enhanced premium refund atthe awards banquet on January 30.

Sister Dorothy Veselka of the En-tertainment Committee gave her re-port. For the February 15 meeting,summer sausage, cheese, crackers,chips and dip, tea, and dessert will bebrought by the members.

FAC Sister Diana Engelke read aletter from State FAC Frank Horak.The 100 Pennies Scholarship FundDrive ends March 31.

Sister Dorothy Veselka of the Cheer

Happy Birthday,Earlene!

Happy birthday to Lodge 8, WeimarSecretary Earlene Lorfing. She cel-ebrated her special day on January11, 2016, and was recognized at thelodge’s January meeting.


and Condolence Committee reportedthat she sent sympathy cards to thefamily of Joe Provazek on the death ofJoe Provazek and to MargaretNarovec on the death of her brother-in-law Phelps G. Brookshire. Maythey rest in peace. She will be sendingget well cards to Dana McAdams andGilbert Marek who have been in thehospital. We hope they feel bettersoon.

Sister Diana Engelke read names ofcandidates for membership. LarryMatula wrote up Gabriel Ray Flores.Clifford Randall House wrote upDawn Michele Geer. Both were ac-cepted into Lodge 66.

Sister Diana Engelke read a resolu-tion of sympathy on Joe Provazek.May he rest in peace.

Lodge 66 will purchase a one-halfpage ad for the 32nd SPJST Conven-tion Program Book. The convention

will be at the Killeen Civic and Con-ference Center on June 13 to 15.

A $100 donation for January fromLodge 66 will be made to HelpingHands Ministry in the Bellmead, LacyLakeview, and Elm Mott areas.

President Engelke reported that onMarch 11, a memorial dedication willbe held in Killeen for the Fort HoodMemorial.

Door prize winner and 100 percentwinner was Weldon Galler.Next Meeting—February 15

The next Lodge 66 meeting will beheld on Monday, February 15 at 6 p.m.at St. Paul’s Church.

The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.Fraternally,Dorothy Veselka, Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 91San Jacinto sets March 5 quarterly meeting

Lodge 91, San Jacinto will hold itsfirst quarterly meeting of 2016 atCrosby Dairy Queen. The meetingwill take place on Saturday, March 5at 11 a.m. See you there.

Fraternally,Vonda Smesny, Secretary

—SPJST—

Lodge 92Fort Worthinvites all to February events Dear Members and Friends,

We invite you to mark these dates onyour calendars. Please come on out fora great time!

Wednesday, February 10Sportsmans’ Club meets from 7:30

to 9:30 p.m. This is a monthly meetingof hunting and fishing enthusiasts withspeakers and prize drawings. Admis-sion is free of charge, and the event isopen to the public.

Friday, February 12Tanglefoot ballroom dance from 8

to 11 p.m. Members are $10, and non-members are $17.

Sunday, February 14Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting at 2

p.m.Tuesday, February 23

Game night at Lodge 92 at 7 p.m.Hall Rentals

For information regarding hallrentals and upcoming events informa-tion, please call Events Manager JonDurham at 817-624-1361 or check thehall’s website: www.nationalhallfort-worth.com.

Fraternally,Angela Paprskar CasteelPresident

—SPJST—

Lodge 101Gainesvillereorganizationalmeeting set for Feb. 18Dear Members and Friends,

Greetings in the New Year! In the last two months, we have had

two productive meetings with themembers of Lodge 101, Gainesville.At the January meeting, members ex-pressed a strong desire to move for-ward with the formal reorganization oftheir lodge.

The reorganizational meeting ofLodge 101, Gainesville will take placeat 12 noon on Thursday, February 18at The Neu Ranch House, located at1825 US 82 in Gainesville.

Among the items that will be ad-dressed are election of officers, officerorientation, and a discussion of waysto bring renewed relevance to thelodge experience. All members are in-vited to attend. Guests and prospectivemembers are also invited to attend.

Please call Fraternal Services Spe-cialist Tammy Martinez at 800-727-7578 by mid-day Wednesday,February 17 if you will attend.

I look forward to seeing you there!Fraternally,Brian VanicekSupreme Lodge President

—SPJST—

Lodge 133San Antonio meets Feb. 21

SPJST Lodge 133, San Antoniowill have its monthly meeting on Sun-day, February 21, 2016, at 2 p.m. atGood Shepherd Activity Center, lo-cated at 1630 Goliad Road. The meet-ing will be followed by a light lunch.Afterwards, members will enjoy agames party.Very Important—No Meeting on March 20

The luncheon for our anniversarycelebration will not take place on Sun-day, March 20. Good Shepherd Activ-ity Center called and explained the

Lodge 79Corpus Christi

member nominatedgarden, nature

center president

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi memberRandy Sijansky was recently nom-inated as president of SouthTexas Botanical Garden and Na-ture Center. The Gardens are lo-cated in Corpus Christi on 182acres. The South Texas BotanicalGardens and Nature Center ad-vances the knowledge and appre-ciation of plants and theenvironment, in relation to per-sonal and community education,well-being, and scientific under-standing. As a nature center, itconserves, preserves, displays,and interprets native and adaptedflora and fauna of South Texas, forarea residents and visitors alike.—Photo submitted by Jan Sijansky

Mark and Virginia Rebecek cel-ebrated their 50th anniversary onNovember 27, 2015, at Katz 21Steakhouse in Corpus Christi,Texas, with their children andgrandchildren.

The couple was married on No-vember 27, 1965, at St. CyrilMethodius Catholic Church inCorpus Christi. They have twochildren, Stephanie (Frank) Rinaldiof San Antonio and Stephen(Laura) Rebecek of Corpus Christi,and four grandchildren, Kyle andSarah Rinaldi and Marcus andJacob Rebecek.

Mark and Virginia and theirchildren and grandchildren are allmembers of Lodge 79, CorpusChristi. Mark serves as president ofthe lodge, and Virginia is secretary.

—SPJST—

1965 - 2015Mark and VirginiaRebecek celebrate

50 years of marriage


Activity Center will not be availablethat Sunday due to Palm Sunday serv-ices.There will be no meeting onMarch 20.Lodge Anniversary—April 17

We will celebrate the anniversary ofLodge 133 on the third Sunday ofApril. Please join us on April 17 at12:30 p.m. for a catered barbecuemeal. If you have any questions, youmay call me at 830-214-5228.

Submitted by,Jarolyn Popp, President

—SPJST—

Lodge 160San Angelomeets Feb. 17Dear Members,

SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo willhold its quarterly meeting on Wednes-day, February 17, 2016, at 6 p.m. TheDutch treat dinner and meeting willtake place at the Ole Gin Steakhousein Wall. We invite all members to at-tend this meeting.

Fraternally,Sandra Jansa, President

—SPJST—

Lodge 181, Conroemeets Feb. 23

Lodge 181, Conroe, will hold itsFebruary meeting on Tuesday, Febru-ary 23, 2016, at 6 p.m. at the GoldenCorral Buffet Restaurant, 1604 Inter-state 45 North, Conroe 77301-1697,which is on the I-45 northbound ac-cess road between SH105/West Davisand Wilson Road.

For further information, contactPresident Barbara Williams-Rash,936-295-7778, email [email protected]; Vice President ChuckToney, 281-362-9062, [email protected]; or Treasurer PatsyMcClelland, 936-788-5714 or [email protected].

—SPJST—

Lodge 196Houston-Westplans March 6Easter party

Lodge 196, Houston-West willhave its annual Easter party on Sun-day, March 6, 2016, at the lodge hallfrom 2 to 4 p.m. There will be games,coloring contests, face painting, a firetruck, and a chance to have your pic-ture taken with the Easter bunny. Wewill serve cookies and other goodiesalong with lemonade and iced tea.Each child will receive an Easter bas-ket packed with treats.

All SPJST members and their fam-ilies and friends are invited to attendand take part in the fun.

Don Fruin, Reporter—SPJST—

Lodge 202Jourdanton seeks scholarshipapplicantsAttention Lodge 202, JourdantonHigh School Seniors:

Lodge 202, Jourdanton is offeringscholarships to its graduating seniors.If you are interested in applying forthis scholarship, please email YouthLeader Regina House at

[email protected] or call830-570-2046. Scholarship applica-tions are due May 31, 2016.

—SPJST—

Lodge 246Morgan’s Pointto Feed My SheepDear Members,

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point metTuesday, January 13, 2016, at theSPJST Home Office in Temple.Thanks to Ingrid Petrik and SusanHutton for hosting lunch which wassoup and salad from Olive Garden.

The meeting was called to order byPresident James L. Lee, III. Membersrecited the Pledge of Allegiance. Amoment of silence was observed inmemory of deceased members

Richard W. Barber and Michael R.Flores who passed away recently. Ourthoughts and prayers are with theirfamily members.

Secretary Melanie Zavodny readthe minutes from the November andDecember meetings. The minuteswere approved as read. Correspon-dence was shared regarding theawards banquet on January 30 at theMayborn Convention Center in Tem-ple. The lodge is also invited to placean advertisement in the conventionprogram book.

Treasurer Ingrid Petrik shared thefinancial report. Fraternal ActivitiesCoordinator Susan Hutton informedmembers about the Fraternal Allianceof Texas bowling tournament on Feb-ruary 13 in New Braunfels. She alsomentioned that the state tarok tourna-ment is February 6, and the statestraight domino tournament is March5. She encouraged lodge members toparticipate in the events. Susan re-minded everyone that Join Hands Dayis May 7.

Members discussed various activi-ties and projects for 2016. Beginningin March, the lodge will sponsor andprepare sack lunches for Feed MySheed on the second Wednesday ofeach month. In conjunction with themonthly lodge meetings, we will pre-pare sandwiches and assemble sacklunches each month on the secondTuesday at 12 noon at the SPJSTHome Office in Temple. Volunteersare needed and will be appreciated.We invite you to come on out and giveus a hand! Contact Ingrid Petrik at254-760-1831 for more information.Next Meeting—February 10

The next meeting will be Wednes-day, February 10 at 12 noon at theSPJST Home Office in Temple. Wehope to see you there!

Fraternally,Melanie ZavodnySecretary/Reporter

—SPJST—

State Representative Molly WhiteVisits Lodge 80, Holland

On January 14, 2016, Texas State Representative, District 55, Molly Whitevisited Lodge 80, Holland. Molly is a member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton.She is running for reelection to the Texas House of Representatives. Shegave a brief talk to the attendees at bingo. Sister White is pictured with theLodge 80 kitchen crew. Left to right are Jewell Wolf, Molly, Curtis Wolf,Connie Horak, Carol Wolf, and Shelby Horak.

—Submitted by Risa Pajestka


in a job at the Home Office. The Ty-roch and Zabcik families were long-time friends. “I remember it waswintertime and cold weather on theday when Mr. Zabcik came by. Heasked me to come in on Monday,which happened to be Valentine’sDay.” Dorothy graduated from RogersHigh School in 1965. After gradua-tion, she began working at TerryFerry’s department store in downtownTemple.

Her experience with SPJST actu-ally started prior to her employment.Dorothy’s parents purchased a life in-surance certificate for her and sisterDoris when the girls were two monthsold. Her mother’s family was fromTaylor, and she remembers attendingdances and other activities at Lodge29, Taylor at an early age. Dorothywas also asked by then-Lodge 47,Seaton Youth Leader Vlasta Divis torepresent the lodge in the royalty con-test. She presented a speech and wasselected first runner-up in the DistrictTwo Queen competition. She also mether husband Ray at a Lodge 29, TaylorMay Fete.

Dorothy replaced Ann (Chlapek)Wolf at the Home Office, and the de-partment consisted of Mr. Zabcik,Jerry Mikulas, and Dorothy. “I couldsee Sears Roebuck from the roomwhere we worked in The ProfessionalBuilding in downtown Temple,” shesays. Her desk was right next to Jerry’sdesk and Mr. Zabcik’s desk. “We allthree shared one phone,” she pointsout, “and we were all in the open soeveryone heard all the conversations.”

Dorothy reminisces about the oldHome Office building. “There wasfood downstairs, and some floors wererented out to real estate brokers andother businesses like Ruben Marek,Mr. Talasek, a Mr. Brodie, a barbershop, and even Lastovica Jewelry.”She recalls that the building had sev-eral floors, and the employees tooktheir coffee breaks on another floorfrom the one that they worked on.Dorothy looked forward to walkingover to V and M Drug Store whichwas near SPJST’s building to buyvanilla malts. “Those were such goodtimes in that building . . . we even atedinner in the director’s room (whichwas the board room).”

Dorothy worked at SPJST beforecomputers were introduced at theHome Office. “I typed all of the infor-mation on a typewriter.” She precisely

describes the process that included awhite sheet, two yellow sheets, and apink sheet. She typed the names ofmembers who owed premiums andwhether they paid monthly or annu-ally. She says she used flags of differ-ent colors to signify the month that amember was to pay the premiums. “Iremember going to Seaton Star Hallwith my parents to pay our premiumsat the lodge. Payments didn’t come tothe Home Office. Members paid at

their lodges.”The process later changed, and

computers were added to the HomeOffice operations. “That was likelearning a new job,” Dorothy recalls.“Everything was totally different.”

“From the time she started in 1966,her job description changed 100 per-cent in 1980 because of the introduc-tion of computers,” HonoraryFinancial Secretary Jerry Mikulas,who retired in 2010, states. “Dorothygradually worked into the cycle andbecame successful in what she did.She may have been a little reluctant atfirst, but she got right into it and didquite well.”

Albeit seeing Dorothy’s goodworkmanship, then-President EdwardL. Marek approached Dorothy later onin 1966 to inquire if sister Doris mightbe interested in a job at SPJST. “It wasreally nice when we were both on atSPJST,” Dorothy says. “We were al-ways close, but when I really thinkabout it, that’s when we became reallyclose . . . it’s just a bond that formedwhen we both started working to-gether at SPJST. Being twins is muchmore different - and special - than justbeing sisters!”

The twins rode to work together -something they still often do - with an-other set of twins from their commu-

In the new Home Office building in approximately the late 1970s. FinancialSecretary Jerry Mikulas is pictured with staff, from left, Dorothy Stuchly,Debbie Dohnalik, Linda Johnson, and Linda Smith. CENTER PHOTO:Dorothy, second from left, assists fellow staff members Dorothy Pechal,

left, Peggy Sue Chastain, second from right, and Daryl Entrop at a HomeOffice food drive. RIGHT PHOTO: Financial Secretary Jerry Mikulas withstaff members, left to right, Lisa Kirby, Linda Johnson, Debbie Dohnalik,Dorothy Stuchly, Sue Moore, and Lori Slack in 2005.

Dorothy StuchlyContinued from Page 1.

Dorothy worked in The Profes-sional Building in downtown Tem-ple, which was purchased bySPJST and served as the Home Of-fice until 1971.

SPJST Home Office photos from the 1970s and 1980s.


nity. “When we started working to-gether, Doris and I rode with theBrenek twins who had governmentjobs downtown,” Dorothy shares. “Wewere dropped off at Seaton Churchand met them there. SPJST let off at4:30, and we had to wait for theBrenek twins for a half hour so Dorisand I sat on benches by the barbershop.”

“Dorothy was always punctual,”her past supervisor Jerry Mikulas says.“I never had to worry about her not

being there or not being there on time.She always completed every assign-ment; and quite often, Dorothy gaveup her coffee breaks to make sure theaccounting cycle got started each day.And, another thing about Dorothy, shenever complained. She always did thework and went right along with it. I al-ways enjoyed working with her. As asupervisor, I never worried about her .. . she always did her work.”

Dorothy says that she has tried toget along with everyone in the office.

“There have been lots of employeesthrough the years.” She says she stillkeeps in touch with a few past em-ployees and sees them occasionally.She enjoyed the camaraderie and thegood times in the department - espe-cially when Pat Geistman was an em-ployee. “We worked good together,and Pat always kept us laughing.”

Dorothy was married in 1974, andshe remembers Jerry Mikulas and PatGeistman helping her with her wed-ding. “They took the candelabras back

for me, and that really helped!”While Dorothy’s longevity has

spanned several generations, she hasworked for four supervisors during heremployment. She worked for Finan-cial Secretary Ben Zabcik from 1966to 1976; Financial Secretary JerryMikulas from 1977 to 2010; InterimFinancial Secretary Debbie Dohnalikfrom 2010 to 2011; and Financial Sec-retary Roy Vajdak from 2011 to pres-ent.

Dorothy’s current supervisor, Finan-

LEFT PHOTO: Past co-workers Linda Johnson, left,and Jerry Mikulas congratulate Dorothy. CENTERPHOTO: Home Office staff members reminisce whilelooking at past photos at the noon luncheon honoring

Dorothy and her years of service. RIGHT PHOTO:Dorothy and Ray, back, are pictured with Honorary Fi-nancial Secretary Jerry Mikulas and wife Betty whoattended the luncheon.

LEFT PHOTO: Financial Secretary Roy Vajdak, right, recognizes Dorothy’syears of service and presents a plaque and other gifts to her. CENTERPHOTO: Dorothy shares several stories of her past years working at the

Home Office. Looking on are sister Doris and husband Ray. RIGHTPHOTO: Dorothy is pictured with past supervisor Jerry Mikulas, seated,and current supervisor Roy Vajdak.

Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek, left, and Financial Secretary RoyVajdak, second from right, present a plaque of appreciation to DorothyStuchly for 50 years of outstanding and dedicated service. Looking on isDorothy’s husband Ray. RIGHT PHOTO: Financial Secretary Departmentstaff honor and celebrate with Dorothy on this grand occasion during the

noon luncheon held at the SPJST Home Office. Pictured are, front, left toright, Roy Vajdak, Dorothy Stuchly, Sharla Pechal, and Billye Westlake.Back: Nancy Miller, Mary Carrillo, Debbie Dohnalik, Christina Martinez,Sharon Ingram, Lisa Kirby, and Terry Malina. Not pictured is JenniferWright.


Billy Joe Luza 39 Bryan 3/25/1975 7/20/2015 62Vernice E. Luedke 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 1/02/1958 11/04/2015 81Diann C. Reeves 88 Houston 1/22/1954 5/05/2014 72Elanora Mae Matula 81 Needville 10/21/1942 12/10/2015 89Nolan W. Kalich 88 Houston 3/08/1974 11/29/2015 73Patsy R. McCandless 229 Abilene 8/08/2008 12/06/2015 78Margaret A. Hawrylak 154 Fort Worth 4/16/1948 11/28/2015 90Colette H. Gordon 66 Waco 3/04/1977 11/26/2015 50Viola Wilma Pokorny 29 Taylor 10/01/1992 11/02/2015 92Joyce Edna Ford 13 Dime Box 2/02/1982 11/15/2015 84Dakota Wyatt Tosh 91 San Jacinto 9/14/1995 12/07/2015 20Marcus J. Walker 25 Ennis 2/09/1966 12/13/2015 81Richard W. Barber 246 Morgan’s Point 10/16/2002 12/03/2015 67Erma L. Taplin 181 Conroe 9/26/2008 11/13/2015 76Victor Peter Kubeczka 88 Houston 2/01/1952 5/05/2015 84Susan C. Sacky 79 Corpus Christi 9/17/1965 11/23/2015 73Eleanor A. Hirsch 97 Placedo 2/20/2008 10/22/2015 78Frank Vrana, Jr. 148 El Maton 7/01/1952 12/13/2001 73Ellen Gaidosik 81 Needville 3/06/1947 11/05/2015 87Floyd F. Wolcik 91 Crosby 9/09/1947 11/06/2015 87Georgie S. Blinka 81 Needville 12/26/1968 12/06/2015 84Eugene L. Veselka 8 Weimar 9/21/1965 12/12/2015 85Otto Heinze, Jr. 179 Warrenton 7/16/1980 12/19/2015 76Don A. Young 25 Ennis 2/28/1973 10/07/2014 65

Death Claims Paid in January 2016SPJST • Temple, Texas

Name Lodge Location Date of Admission Date of Death Age

In Memoryof Jerry Mikus, Sr.Jerry Jasper Mikus, Sr. passed

away on January 26, 2016, at the ageof 92. Jerry was preceded in death byhis wife Marge-lene and grandsonJason Davis. Heattended TexasSchool for theDeaf (TSD). Hebuilt P-51 and B-17 planes duringWorld War II. Hewas a union car-penter for over 50years. Jerry was4th Degree Knight in the Knights ofColumbus and belonged to NorthTexas Deaf Senior Citizens, SPJSTLodge 183, Arlington, and ArlingtonBass Club.

Jerry is survived by his children

Jerry, Jr., Mike, Brian, and SherryDavis; eight grandchildren, and 10great-grandchildren.

Burial was at Calvary Hill Ceme-tery. Donations are requested to tsd-foundation.org.

—SPJST—

Resolutionof Sympathy

We, the undersigned ResolutionCommittee of SPJST Lodge 88, Hous-ton, Texas, and on behalf of our entiremembership, wish to express our sin-cere and heartfelt sympathy to the be-reaved family of our departedmember,

GLADYS FOYT.Gladys Foyt, age 80, born in Hal-

lettsville, Texas, passed away Wednes-day, January 20, 2016, in Cypress.

Visitation was Friday, January 22 from5 to 8 p.m. Rosary was at 7 p.m. at St.Joseph Catholic Church in Houston.Funeral mass was on Saturday, Janu-ary 23 at 1 p.m. at All Saints CatholicChurch, Houston.

She was a member of SPJST Lodge88, Houston.

May our departed sister rest inpeace.

Resolution CommitteeGladys HavemannAnnabelle Veit

—SPJST—

Jerry Mikus, Sr.

cial Secretary Roy Vajdak, is amazedwith Dorothy’s 50 years of service.“When you get to know Dorothy, youdiscover that her longevity at SPJST isdue to her love for SPJST and her de-sire to see SPJST continue to flourish.”He adds that it is evident in her cus-tomer service skills. “She is alwayswilling to assist our members. She is aprimary contact for members that needto change addresses and phone num-bers or wish to transfer to a differentlodge,” he says. She is the first step inthe processing of members’ insurancepayments. “Dorothy very accuratelyopens the mail and assembles the dailydeposits so our members can be rest as-sured that their payments are correctlyapplied.” He says that Dorothy is alsowilling to assist any other employeewho needs help. “I am very proud tohave Dorothy as a member of mystaff.”

Dorothy and husband Ray will cel-ebrated their 42nd wedding anniver-sary on June 22. They have onedaughter, Kayla, who is married toRichard; one son, Kris; and fourgrandchildren. In her spare time,Dorothy enjoys gardening, and shestays busy with all of the cooking andother chores around the house. Sheand Ray enjoy their grandchildren,and they attend Temple Bible Church.

Dorothy also enjoys spending timewith her “best friend” - twin sisterDoris. So will the sisters retire to-gether? “We haven’t even discussedit,” Dorothy smiles. “I always say thatwhen it’s our time to go, we want adouble funeral!”

Special thanks to Sister Dorothy forher tenure and service to SPJST, andbest wishes on her golden anniversary.“It doesn’t seem like 50 years,”Dorothy adds. “The years went byvery fast.”

—SPJST—

Dorothy Stuchlyshares note

of appreciationOfficers, Directors, and Employ-ees,

Once again, I wish to thank allof you for my 50-year celebration.It was very nice. I will always re-member this special day. Also,thanks for the gift, the meal, beau-tiful flowers, and cake.

May God bless each of you.Dorothy StuchlyLodge 47, Seaton

—SPJST—


Rita J. Williams 88 Houston 3/22/1963 12/10/2015 91Dolores G. Greinert 18 Elgin 11/28/1979 12/27/2015 88Roger J. Arrambide 107 Floresville 3/12/2007 12/15/2015 44Aubrey L. Bordovsky 107 Floresville 9/17/1963 11/29/2015 77Georgia Wensowitch 135 Ennis 2/22/1967 12/31/2015 88Edward T. Inderwish 88 Houston 4/28/1967 11/07/2015 82Anton J. Novak 162 Iowa Colony 7/07/1977 12/12/2015 79Edwin A. Kuehn 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 12/11/1973 12/03/2015 83Quinton Elijah Bozeman 206 Mexia 12/28/2009 12/12/2015 25Arlene Marie Malak 88 Houston 3/11/1965 12/21/2015 57Lester R. Sralla 28 East Bernard 6/01/1955 12/17/2015 93Thelma L. Cox 87 Temple 4/23/1968 1/16/2016 86Linda Jean Grand 88 Houston 2/08/1952 12/02/2015 63David R. Scott 6 Cottonwood 4/10/1963 12/29/2015 68Goldie L. Kovar 1 Fayetteville 5/27/1941 11/22/2015 92Ruby P. Lentz 88 Houston 9/08/1972 10/02/2015 90Robert Allen Busby 54 West 7/25/1944 1/01/2016 89Harold Eddie Cogswell 88 Houston 8/19/2008 12/16/2015 81Ann K. Daniel 139 Danbury 2/24/1966 2/18/2013 63James Dale English 84 Dallas 12/15/1943 11/23/2015 72Elaine W. Black 187 Round Rock 1/18/2006 1/06/2016 69Georgia A. Forbis 88 Houston 6/01/1948 9/02/2015 67Richard C. Smith 333 First State Bank 12/23/2003 10/15/2015 64Margaret Irene Musgrove 74 Lovelady 12/14/1972 12/18/2015 91

To the Bereaved Survivors of Our Deceased Brothers and Sisters, the SPJST Supreme Lodge Expresses Its Heartfelt Sympathy.

Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC

Supreme Lodge Secretary-Treasurer

Death Claims Paid in January 2016 cont’d.SPJST • Temple, Texas

Name Lodge Location Date of Admission Date of Death Age

Expressionof Sympathy

We, the undersigned ResolutionCommittee of SPJST Lodge 88, Hous-ton, Texas, and on behalf of our entiremembership, wish to express our sin-cere and heartfelt sympathy to the be-reaved family of our departedmember,ROBERT JOHN MIKSCH, SR.Robert “Bobby” John Miksch, Sr.,

of Houston, Texas, died peacefully onTuesday, January 19, 2016, in hishome.

He was born in Taylor, Texas, onAugust 20, 1939, to Joseph and AdellaMiksch.

He was preceded in death by hisparents Joseph and Adella Miksch;first wife Erin Colleen Sing; and

brother Joseph“Jody” Leo, Jr.

Bobby workedfor Exxon USAfor 25 years be-fore becoming ase l f -employedbusinessman. Hewas a member ofSPJST Lodge 88,Houston; HoustonLivestock Show and Rodeo; andLions Club. Bobby’s favorite hobbieswere playing golf, gambling, andwatching sports and old John Waynemovies.

He is survived by wife Cathy; chil-dren Robert Miksch, Jr. and wife Jen-nifer, Rebecca Ann Erickson andhusband Steven, and JohnathanCharles Miksch and wife Lauren;grandchildren Ashley Miksch, Court-

ney Erickson, Madeline Erickson, andJoseph Erickson; and soon-to-arriveAva Grace Miksch.

He will be truly missed by his fam-ily and many friends.

Visitation was at Pat H. Foley andCompany on Thursday, January 21from 5 to 8 p.m. Funeral service wason Friday, January 22 at 10 a.m. atGethsemane Lutheran Church inHouston. Burial followed at EarthmanResthaven Cemetery.

May our departed brother rest inpeace.

Resolution CommitteeGladys HavemannAnnabelle Veit

—SPJST—

In Memory of Dennis PokornyDennis W. Pokorny was born on

April 30, 1948, in Taylor, Texas, theson of Joe R. and Viola Palla Pokorny.Dennis graduated from Thrall HighSchool. He was amember of St.Mary’s CatholicChurch and theKnights ofColumbus.

He was a mem-ber of thePlumbers and Pip-efitter’s UnionLocal 286 ofAustin. He loved his work and trav-eled to Boston, Alaska, Albuquerque,and Las Vegas with his job.

Dennis passed away into the lovingarms of his Lord and Savior on Feb-ruary 1, 2016, at the age of 67. He issurvived by his wife of 46 years,Theresa Hyzak Pokorny; sisters GailJohle of Taylor and Karen Miller andhusband Ken of Georgetown; and sev-eral nieces and nephews.

He enjoyed fishing and hunting,tending to his cattle with his friendlypal, Scruffy the Dog, and telling jokes.Visiting with friends at Moe’s was afavorite pastime.

Honoring Dennis as pallbearerswere Randy Hyzak, Daryl Stefek,Darrin Svehlak, Danny Stefek, Jr.,Mike Hyzak, and Trey Johle. Hon-orary pallbearers were Paul Pokorny,Mike Daffin, August Svehlak, III,Ronnie Mundkowsky, Anton Pokorny,Edward Betak, Robert Kaderka, JerryRoznovak, Glenn Naivar, CharlieMikulencak, Dan Krenek, and FellowMembers of Local No. 286.

Visitation was Thursday, February4 from 6 to 8 p.m. at St. Mary’sCatholic Church in Taylor with arosary recited at 7 p.m.

Celebration of life mass was at 2p.m. Friday, February 5 at St. Mary’sCatholic Church with burial at St.Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can bemade to St. Mary’s School or TaylorBrethren Church.

Resolution CommitteeAlice WuenscheRuth Ann Wuensche

—SPJST—

R. Miksch, Sr.

Dennis Pokorny


§ § § § § § §

To: Grandma DotYou are the one who cares for me. You are the eyes that help me see.

You are my friend, my heart, my soul,and the greatest friend I know.

You are the words inside my song. You are my love, my life, my mom.

From: Kay Gerlich Weeks§ § § § § § §

To: GaryI love you for a lifetime,

not only for a day. I love you for who you are,

not what you do or say.From: Susie

§ § § § § § §

To: JeredSealed with lots of hugs and kisses,

sending you sweet Valentine’s Day wishes!

Hope your day is just as awesome as you are!

XOXOFrom: Aunt Marlene and Uncle Steve

§ § § § § § §

To: Diana and JohnHappy Valentine’s Day.

Thank you so much for all you do for us.

We love you.From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: JenniferThe best daughter

We are so proud of you. Have a great Valentine’s Day.

From: Momma and Brad§ § § § § § §

To: Margie, Mike, and Travis StockmanWords will never be able to extend

the appreciation that I have for each of you for everything

you all have done for me these past two years.

You have brought me back from the edge of lifelessness

to become a God-fearing child of God,full of life and reason to live.

You continue to be great relatives for my daughters and always treat them

as if they were your own. Blessings are sent to each of you now

and always for the continued awesomeness you all show.

Happy Valentine’s Day with much love.From: Kenneth

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Nana and PapaI don’t know what I would do

without such loving grandparents as you! Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Brooke Hoelscher§ § § § § § §

To: My Wonderful Paul and My Wonderful

Daughter-in-Law DanielleThank you for always being there

for me and for all you do. I love you.From: Mom, Janice Stevens

§ § § § § § §

To: Sam and LiamHappy Valentine’s

Love from: Grammy and Gramps§ § § § § § §

To: My Daughter Cassandra and Son Willie HolmesHappy Valentine’s Day

to my beautiful daughter and awesome son-in-law.

Love you bunches.Love from: Your Mom Suzie Hudson

§ § § § § § §

To: DavidOn Valentine’s Day,we think of people

who have cheered and encouraged us,who go out of their way to be kind and caring,

who have enriched our livesjust by being themselves.

You are such a person,and I’m so happy

you are my valentine.I love you.

Love from: Melanie§ § § § § § §

To: Keith and CurtisThanks for being such great sons.You’ll always be my valentines.

Love from: Mom (Mary Ann Kieschnick)§ § § § § § §

To: MasonYou are my special little man.

Love you.From: Momo and PawPaw§ § § § § § §

To: Joyce, Sharla, and ChelseaHappy Valentine’s Day!

So glad we make such a great team.Love you ladies!

From: Amber§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Mommy and DaddyY’all are the best parents ever

in my whole life. You’ve been my guidethrough all of my life since I was born

till all the way now. Thank you for being my Mom and Dad.

Love you forever and Happy Valentine’s Day.

Love you so so much, more than anyone or anything.

Love you to the moon and back.From: Bailee Beckendorf

§ § § § § § §

To: Mother and JohnnieI love you and miss you with all of my heart . . .

Happy Valentine’s Day in Heaven!From: Jeanette

§ § § § § § §

To: Michael D. HoschTo an awesome guy!

Keep up the hard work you do every day.

Have a good day working, while I eat all your candy!From: Michael D. Hosch

§ § § § § § §

To: Claire KrollHappy Valentine’s Day

to my sweet baby granddaughter. Keke loves you very much.From: Keke (Karen Hykel)

§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie and DavidThank you for everything you do

for all the members of SPJST. All of the hours and dedication

you devote to SPJST are very much appreciated.

From: Linda and Jesse

§ § § § § § §

To: Mike and Mary Beth DeleonLove you both so much.Happy Valentine’s Day

from all the kiddos!From: Ashley Tullos

§ § § § § § §

To: Mrs. Patsy KoslovskyHappy Valentine’s Day

to the best District Youth Counselor.The youth of District Two are so lucky!

From: Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Landon, Katelyn, Carly, Dylan, and Nathan

Roses are red.Violets are blue.

You are the sweetest blessings.We love you.

From: Grandma and Grandpa§ § § § § § §

To: LindaMy very best “sister” friend.

My life has been blessed with a friend like you.

From: Sharon§ § § § § § §

To: Helen Hegwood and Annette SewantonSending you my love

for all of the good times that we had growing up at Lodge 88, Houston.From: Marilyn Sikona

§ § § § § § §

To: Aunt Theresa and Aunt ElaineHappy Valentine’s Day!Sending hugs and love

for all you do for us.From: Chris and Julia

§ § § § § § §

To: Jennifer, Joseph, and JasonHugs to my sweet kids.

I love you both so much . . .and to my hubby, kisses to you!

From: Shirley§ § § § § § §

To: Auntie Evelyn, Aunt Grace, Aunt Vallie, Aunt Toni

and Uncle LeonHappy Valentine’s Day

to our very special aunts and uncle!We love you.

Love from: Melanie and David§ § § § § § §

To: Jesse and Linda PospisilHappy Valentine’s Day

to the best parents in the world. Your love and generosity is so special.

We love you so much!From: Cristy and Mike Girod

§ § § § § § §

To: Bailee, Paetyn, and TynleeHappy Valentine’s Day!

Love from: Grammy and GrampsBeckendorf

§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § § §

To: NathanKnow what’s so special

about having a nephew like you?Everything! Happy Valentine’s Day!

Love you bunches! XOXO

From: Aunt Marlene and Uncle Steve§ § § § § § §

To: Seaton Youth Club My Wonderful Assistants

and DYC PatsyThanks for being the best kids, parents,

and assistants in the state of Texas.From: Joyce, Youth Leader§ § § § § § §

To: Clay and Cutter StarrI want to wish you

a Happy Valentine’s Day and to tell you how so very proud I am of both of you.

I love you so much.From: Nanny (Janice Stevens)

§ § § § § § §

To: Gilbert RiveraMy Brother

Happy Valentine’s Day to a wonderful brother

that a sister could ask for. Love you lots.

From: Your Sister§ § § § § § §

To: Mark Adrete Jr.My Grandson

Happy Valentine’s Dayto my awesome grandson.

Love you so much. Thank you, God, for having him

in my life. XXX OOOFrom: Your Grandma Suzie Hudson

§ § § § § § §

To: LynetteI hope you feel loved and appreciatedthis Valentine’s Day and every day . . .

Because you are!From: Patsy

§ § § § § § §

To: Aunt Mary WunderlichYour beauty continues to shine

through to all who encounter you.Every person you meet is blessed

over and over. You are a true friend for those around you

and a great family member for those who cherish you. You are fun to be around,

and I have enjoyed every living minutewith you. May God bless you always.

Happy Valentine’s Day with love.From: Kenneth

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Theresa Haag and Regina HouseGiving from a full heart

is one of the most joyous things you can do and you two do it daily.

Thank you both for your fraternal heartand the desire to share it.

Thank you for your continued efforts in District Seven, and I hope you

have a wonderful Valentine’s Day.From: Lynette Talasek

§ § § § § § §

To: Cristy and MikeyYou are very special people in our lives

and we love you very much.From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Janice StevensI just want you to know

that I love you very much, and I am so proud of you for being

so strong. You have been through somuch, but always held your head high.

From: Tammy Copeland§ § § § § § §

To: Bailee, Paetyn, and TynleeHappy Valentine’s Day!

You girls have brought so much joy,laughter, and love into our hearts.

We love you lots and lots. We love you the mostest.

From: Daddy and Mommy§ § § § § § §

To: BrandonHappy Valentine’s Day, My Love! So thankful to share this journey with you! Here’s to many more.

From: Amber§ § § § § § §

To: Wilfred and Helen HildebrandThank you, Granny and Grandad for all of your love and support.

We love you!From: Josef and Colton Orsak

§ § § § § § §

To: Grandma Alice and Grandpa BobbyHappy Valentine’s Day!

We love you!From: Jennifer and Joseph§ § § § § § §

To: Lodge 29, Taylor Youth ClubHappy Valentine’s day to you all!

I am proud to be your youth leader and look forward to a great year.

From: Cristy Girod§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Jerry PechalHappy Valentine’s Day!

So very proud of your accomplishments.

From: Mom and Dad -Tammy and David

§ § § § § § §

To: VickiRoses are red,

Daffodils are yellowDavid Glen you have wedHe’s a mighty fine fellow!

Happy Valentine’s to you both!From: Patti

§ § § § § § §

To: DjuanaAnother year gone

as my love runs deep. May God bless you now and always.The search for one begins with Him.

Happy Valentine’s Day.Love from: Kenneth

§ § § § § § §

To: Kaitlyn, Brandon, Hailey, and Collin

You are wonderful grandchildren. We are so proud of you

and love you very much.From: Grandma and Grandpa

§ § § § § § §

To: Mary C. Krivanek, Mary Ann Krivanek, John Paprskar

and Frankie Joe TesarThank you for all of the effort and energy that you dedicate to organizing and setting up

game nights at Lodge 92! Thank youfor your continued fraternalism!

From: Lisa Juran§ § § § § § §

To: Dylan and PaigeBe my valentines. I love you both.

Love from: Grandma - Mary Ann Kieschnick

§ § § § § § §

To: Jeanette TesarHappy Valentine’s Day

to the Sweetheart of Lodge 92! Wanted to let you know

that all of your dedication and hard work has not gone unnoticed!

Thank you!From: Lisa Juran

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: TynleeYou are the best sister

ever in the entire world.From: Bailee

§ § § § § § §

To: SPJST 2015-16 State King Brady Alexander

Wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Dayand a successful rest of your senior year

and reign as State King!From: Your favorite cousin, Brooke

§ § § § § § §

To: All My Grandchildren and Great-GrandchildrenHappy Valentine’s Day

to Cassie Miller, Savannah MillerColten Miller

Olivia, Marin, Ben, and Andy CarrollFrom: Frances McDonald§ § § § § § §

To: Kyle SkrabanekRoses are red,

Violets are blue.You’re my favorite son

And I love you.From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

To: Vonda SmesnyTo my beautiful daughter

whom has become my very best friend.Thank you from the very bottom

of my heart for being there for me. I love you.

From: Mom§ § § § § § §

To: MomHappy Valentine’s Day

from Texas!We love you and miss you very much.Sending you lots of hugs and wishes

for a very special day.Love from:

David and Melanie§ § § § § § §

To: My Sweet Daughter Mandy Greenand Son-in-Law Daryl

Mandy, you are such a wonderfulmother, and you are always calling

and checking on me and that means so much.

Daryl, thanks for being good to my Mandy and grandsons.

From: Janice Stevens§ § § § § § §


830-570-2046. Scholarship applica-tions are due May 31, 2016.

—SPJST—

Victor PeterScholarship seeks applicants

The Victor Peter Memorial Schol-arship is a $500 scholarship granted byThe Czech Heritage Society of Texasto a graduating Texas high school sen-ior. The money is given to the recipi-ent upon proof of registration in aprogram of studies at a college or uni-versity.

The applicant must submit the fol-lowing:1. A copy of his or her high schooltranscript.2. Two letters of recommendation.One should be from a high schoolteacher attesting to the student’s aca-demic promise. The other should befrom an adult attesting to the student’sinterest in Czech culture.3. A 200-word autobiography (TimesNew Roman font, 14 point, one inchmargins on a separate sheet of paper.)4. A 100-word statement explaining

what he or she plans to study in col-lege or university, and what he or sheplans to do in terms of a career. In-clude the name of the college or uni-versity you plan to attend. (TimesNew Roman font, 14 point, one inchmargins on a separate sheet of paper)5. A list briefly explaining up to 10ways in which he or she has had con-tact with Czech culture or The CzechHeritage Society of Texas organiza-tion. The list should be in order of im-portance, with the first item as themost important. Even seemingly smallthings may be included, such as learn-ing how to make kolaches or visitingCzech festivals. (Times New Romanfont, 14 point, one inch margins on aseparate sheet of paper. A line shouldbe skipped between each numbereditem in the list.)

6. An original 300-word essay. Topicmay be either: A Family Member WhoRepresents Czech Heritageor A Family Member Who Con-tributed to the Czech Heritage in theUnited States. (Times New Romanfont, 14 point, one inch margins on aseparate sheet of paper.)

7. A cover sheet including the stu-dent’s name, address, phone number,and high school’s name, address andphone number.

The deadline for all Vestnik itemsis 5 p.m. the Wednesday before thepublication 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: [email protected]

Questions?Call 800-727-7578

SPJSTSPJSTYouthYouthSectionSection

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 inlearning about opportunities offered to young members of SPJST, please contact yourlocal lodge, District Youth Counselor, State Youth Director at 800-727-7578, or visitwww.spjst.org.

District Twoplans Feb. 20 skating partyDear District Two Youth Members,

It is once again time for youth andfriends to get together for our first ac-tivity of 2016. The annual DistrictTwo Skating Party will be held on theevening of Saturday, February 20,2016, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. atWheel’s Family Skating Center, lo-cated in Temple at 814 North 31stStreet.

We are hoping each of you willbring a friend and also invite them tobecome a member of your youth club.If your friend joins, your name will beput into a drawing for a prize. Yourfriend will have until April 15 to jointhe youth club for you to be eligiblefor the drawing.

Pizza and drinks will be served toall attending. Of course, we will havedoor prizes and our famous dollar billwhen you leave.

We are looking forward to this tra-ditional event. Let’s keep the traditiongoing as it is normally the best at-tended District Two social. It has beenquite some time since we have all beentogether. Let’s all get together for agreat evening.

We look forward to seeing you onFebruary 20!

Fraternally,Patsy KoslovskyDistrict Two Youth CounselorCristy GirodAmber BartekAssistant District TwoYouth Counselors

—SPJST—

Lodge 202Jourdanton seeks scholarshipapplicantsAttention Lodge 202, JourdantonHigh School Seniors:

Lodge 202, Jourdanton is offeringscholarships to its graduating seniors.If you are interested in applying forthis scholarship, please email YouthLeader Regina House [email protected] or call

District Youth Counselors, AssistantsMeet to Plan 2016-2017 Youth Program Year

District Youth Counselors and assistants met Sunday, January 31, 2016, at the SPJST Home Office in Temple toplan the 2016-2017 youth year. Pictured are, left to right, Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez, DYCSharon Russell of Lodge 13, Dime Box; ADYCs Lindy Beasley and Holly Narro, both of Lodge 17, New Tabor;DYC Patsy Koslovsky of Lodge 47, Seaton; ADYCs Cristy Girod of Lodge 29, Taylor and Amber Bartek of Lodge47, Seaton; DYC Kay Weeks of Lodge 183, Arlington; ADYC Laura Pospichal of Lodge 49, Rowena; DYC PamLehmann of Lodge 215, South Plains; ADYC Michelle Wockenfuss and DYC Barbara Linney-Gonzales, both ofLodge 88, Houston; ADYC Susan Siptak of Lodge 4, Hallettsville; DYC Lisa Bubela of Lodge 30, Taiton; ADYCRegina House of Lodge 202, Jourdanton; DYC Theresa Haag of Lodge 185, New Braunfels; and State Youth Di-rector Lynette Talasek.


All items must be submitted to-gether in one envelope postmarked nolater than February 28, 2016, and sentto:The Czech Heritage Society of TexasVictor Peter Memorial Scholarship

Pat Parma3311 Carolina Way

Richmond, Texas 77406-9680Pat ParmaLodge 81, Needville

—SPJST—

Sweet and SaltyValentine’s Chex™

Party MixRecipe by Annalise Sandberg

www.bettycrocker.com

This crowd-pleasing snack mix,made with Vanilla Chex™, chocolatecandies, popcorn, and peanuts, is over-the-top addictive!

Ingredients1 cup Vanilla Chex™ cereal 1 cup mini pretzels2 cups lightly salted popped popcorn1/2 cup salted peanuts1/2 cup dark cocoa Candy Melts™1/2 cup white Candy Melts™1/2 cup seasonal M&M's®

chocolate candies1 tablespoon Valentine’s candy

sprinklesDirections

Line large cookie sheet with cook-ing parchment paper or waxed paper.Spread cereal, mini pretzels, popcornand peanuts on cookie sheet.

In separate bowls, microwaveCandy Melts™ on Medium (50%) in1-minute intervals, stirring after each,just until melted.

Use spoon to drizzle melts over ce-real mixture. Top with candies andsprinkles. Let stand about 10 minutesor until drizzle is set. Break intopieces. Store in airtight container up to3 days.

—SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club Helps at Czech Soup Supper

LEFT PHOTO: Assisting at the Czech soup supper,hosted by Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Soci-ety on January 29, 2016, are, left to right, AnnaGadway, Baley Stavinoha, and Maxx Stavinoha.CENTER PHOTO: Elizabeth Dostal and Brice Nes-

vadba help guests carry their plates. RIGHTPHOTO: Brianna Nesvadba, Sierra Sivils, and EvanStavinoha enjoy some of the six different types ofsoup that were served.—Submitted by Bradley Stavinoha, Youth Leader

SPJST

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Attention Lodge Members!Bring beans and rice donations

to your youth club or contact your District Youth Counselor

listed on page 2 of the Vestnik for more details.


Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Cookieswww.bettycrocker.com

The subtle strawberry cream cheeseflavor is a nice addition to these sugarcookies. Decorating them before youpop them in the oven saves time - noadditional frosting or decorating re-quired!Ingredients1 pouch Betty Crocker™

sugar cookie mix1/4 cup Gold Medal™

all-purpose flour 4 ounces strawberry cream cheese,

softened2 teaspoons grated lemon peel 1 eggNeon pink food color, if desiredAssorted candy sprinkles

DirectionsHeat oven to 375 degrees F. Line

cookie sheet with cooking parchmentpaper.

In medium bowl, stir cookie mix,flour, softened cream cheese, lemonpeel and egg until soft dough forms.Stir in food color to get desired neonpink color. Roll dough 1/4 inch thickon lightly floured surface. Cut with 2

1/2- to 3-inch heart-s h a p e dc o o k i ec u t t e r .Place 1inch aparton cookies h e e t .Decoratecookies asdesired bypress ingassor t edsprinkles into dough.

Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until lightgolden brown around edges. Remove

from cookie sheet to cooling rack.Cool completely, about 15 minutes.

—SPJST—

Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club Enjoys Painting with a TwistLodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club enjoyed

an outing to Painting with a Twist in New Braunfelson January 24, 2016. The outing was well attended.A total of 29 youth club members and guests en-

joyed the afternoon learning how to paint while en-joying snacks and background music.

Painting with a Twist is a fairly new form of en-tertainment for people of all ages. It was a real hit

with our youth club.Fraternally,Theresa Haag, Youth Leader

—SPJST—


Czech polka bandsinvite all to EnnisCzech Music Festival

The Czech polka bands of Ennis in-vite everyone to the 10th AnnualEnnis Czech Music Festival! Comeout to Sokol Activity Center, locatedat 2622 East Highway 34, just east ofEnnis on Saturday, February 13, 2016,from 1 to 10:30 p.m. Listen and danceto five polka bands:

Czech Harvesters at 1 p.m.Jodie Mikula Orchestra at 3 p.m.Czech and Then Some at 5 p.m.

Moravians at 7 p.m.Ennis Czech Boys at 9 p.m.

Admission is only $7 per person,and ages 13 and under will be admit-ted free of charge. Great prizes will begiven away, too! The kitchen will beopen. Dress casual. Czech costumesare encouraged. Doors open at 12

noon. No reservations, please.And, There’s More . . .

Get a head start on the festival byjoining us at the Friday Night Pre-Party on February 12 from 7 to 11p.m. in the Sokol Clubroom to listenand dance to the music of Ennis’newest and youngest polka band “OutOf The Box.” No cover will becharged. Clubroom entrance is locatedon the back west side of building.Doors open at 5 p.m. Bring a covereddish if you like.

For more information, see www.en-nisczechmusicfestival.com orwww.sokolennis.com or call 972-878-4748.

Also, make plans to attend the 50thanniversary of the National Polka Fes-tival in Ennis on May 27 to 29. Formore information, see www.nation-alpolkafestival.com.

Be sure to tune in to KBEC PolkaParty every Sunday morning from 9 to11 a.m. on 1390 AM or online atwww.kbec.com. See ad on page 32.

—SPJST—

Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ BratrstvíBENEVOLENCE HUMANITY BROTHERHOOD

Česká ČástROČNÍK 104 CISLO 6 10.únor.2016

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu TexasUředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

BVCHS setsValentine’s DayDance in Bryan

Everyone is cordially invited to theThird Annual Brazos Valley CzechHeritage Society Valentine’s DayDance on Sunday, February 14, 2016,at St. Joseph Catholic Church ParishActivity Center, located at 600 East26th Street in Bryan, Texas 77803.Doors open at 1 p.m., and the dancestarts at 1:30 p.m. and will go until4:30 p.m. Adult admission is $10, andchildren ages 12 and under will be ad-mitted free of charge.

The event will feature the PrahaBros. as the entertainment and our fa-vorite master of ceremonies, RonnieHorcica of KAGC Czech Polka TimeRadio. You will be entertained withyour favorite polkas, waltzes, and two-steps!

Snacks and non-alcoholic bever-ages will be provided at the dance.

Please come with your favoritedance partner to the Brazos ValleyCzech Heritage Society Valentine’sDay Dance!

Submitted by,Jo Ann ZaeskeLodge 189Bryan-College Station

—SPJST—

Travis-WilliamsonCounties CHSmeets Feb. 17

The Travis-Williamson Czech Her-itage Society will meet Wednesday,February 17, 2016, at PflugervilleRecreation Center, 400 ImmanuelRoad.

There will be a brief meeting at 7p.m. followed by desserts and coffee.In attendance will be Monika Ca-vanagh, who is a candidate for Miss

Travis/Williamson CHS 2016. PetrMarham and his family of the CzechRepublic, currently living in Austin,will share interesting informationabout their home land.

Guests are always welcomed. Ifyou have any questions, contact EileenRosipal at 512-452-3292 or [email protected].

Submitted by, Edwin Gerick

—SPJST—

CESAT meets February 20in Schulenburg

The Czech ExStudent’s Associa-tion of Texas (CESAT) will have itsannual membership meeting on Satur-day, February 20, 2016, at Blinn Col-lege in Schulenburg at 10 a.m.Members who have paid their dueswill have the opportunity to be a partof the meeting via the Internet.

Thadious PolasekLodge 67, Schulenburg

—SPJST—

Bexar County CHS plans March 6 dance

Bexar County Czech Heritage So-ciety invites all to a dance on Sunday,March 6, 2016, from 2 to 6 p.m. atMartinez Social Club, located at 7791FM 1346 at FM 1516 in San Antonio,Texas 78220. Music will be by MarkHalata and Texavia.

Refreshments will be sausage-on-a-bun and kolaches.

For more information, call 210-648-2681

Alice Vida, BCCHS Reporter—SPJST—

Fort Hood Soldier Marek Skala Views TCGS’ Czech Veterans Wall of Honor

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marek Skala, who is stationed at Fort Hood, visitedthe SPJST Home Office recently and toured the Texas Czech GenealogicalSociety Czech Veterans Wall of Honor. Marek is originally from the CzechRepublic and has served in the United States military for several years.


TCGS celebratesCzech Gems and Treasuresat annual meeting

The Texas Czech Genealogical So-ciety celebrated its first 15 years as anorganization at its annual meeting onSaturday, January 30, 2016, at the

Caldwell Civic/Visitor Center in Cald-well, Texas. The theme was “CzechGems and Treasures.”

In the year 2000, six like-mindedindividuals, including Charlene Hurta,Patrick Janis, Reverend John Gantt,Sally and Wayne Wendt, and SylviaLaznovsky organized the society.Sixty-one charter members joinedthem and began the work required toevolve into a premier genealogical so-

ciety, striving to carry out its motto, “Agenealogical society founded byCzech genealogists dedicated to help-ing you with your Czech genealogy.”

The group has a great deal to beproud of, including publishing 18books, publishing a quarterly publica-tion, in full color, that has won awardsat state competition, hosting seminarsand events that are always top-notchaccording to those in attendance, and

helping Czechs research their Czechgenealogy. One of the reasons for thesuccess of the organization is the ded-ication, hard work, and support of itsmembers, especially its charter mem-bers. The Charter Members were hon-ored at this meeting. They representedthe Czech Gems mentioned in themeeting theme, and our ancestors rep-resented the Treasures.

After a time of visiting over ko-

TCGS Celebrates 15 Years with “Czech Gems and Treasures” Event

Four TCGS awards were presented by President Charlene Hurta. LEFTPHOTO: Shirley Ischy, left, was presented the Editor’s Award for heroutstanding contributions of articles for the Ceske Stopy. PHOTO 2:Leslie Gerik Nelson, right, received the Member of the Year Award forher work as TCGS Facebook and Social Media Manager. PHOTO 3:Nancy Machu, right, received the President’s Award for handling the

gift shop duties, packing and transporting items as needed for the var-ious events that TCGS participates in, and working twice a month inthe office/library/museum since its inception. RIGHT PHOTO: EdwinHlavaty received the Outstanding Excellence Award for his constantsupport of TCGS over the years. Nancy is a member of SPJST Lodge20, Granger, and Edwin is a member of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor.

Speakers for the day’s event were, left to right, Jana Vaculik Riley, Frank Kalbac, Laura Doskocil, and Leslie Gerik Nelson.

The Kovanda Band entertained everyone with a great performance.


laches, coffee, and juice, the jam-packed day began. The first speakerwas Jana Vaculik Riley from West,Texas, a proud first generation Amer-ican. The title of her presentation was“Hope, Hardship and Faith – Life ofthe Czech People before Immigra-tion.” Recalling the hardships that ourancestors experienced, causing themto leave everything familiar to them,including family, to come to this greatland set the tone of Jana’s most inter-esting presentation. They certainlymust have had much hope and faith totake such a giant step to try to make abetter life for their families.

After arriving in America, new in-ventions and innovations began tocome about. One of those was the Cot-ton Gin. Frank Kalbac, the secondspeaker, discussed cotton ginning inthe 1900s and showed an interestingvideo of one such gin in Burton,Texas. This presentation resulted inmany questions from the audience.

Shortly before lunch, LauraDoskocil, CFO of Snook’s SlovacekSausage Company, gave a short his-tory of the company. Almost no one inattendance realized that this companyis shipping sausage internationally,and in just a few weeks will ship itsfirst order to Dubai.

Slovacek’s was the caterer ofchoice for this special event. Attendeesenjoyed a delicious lunch of grilledchicken breast, sauerkraut andsausage, buttered potatoes, greenbeans, and assorted cakes.

During the lunch break, time wasspent bidding on items on the silentauction table and shopping at theTCGS Gift Table where its newestpublication, Pilgrims for Hope, Vol-ume II was available for purchase forthe first time. This book covers immi-

gration from the Czech villages ofFrenstat pod Radhostem and Tro-janovice in southern Moravia, the areawhere many Czechs who settled incentral Texas came from.

A short business meeting was heldafter lunch, with President CharleneHurta presiding. The main item at thismeeting was the election of FrankKalbac as vice president. On a lighternote, Charlene asked four trivia ques-tions about TCGS, and four lucky peo-ple who answered the questionsreceived gift cards as prizes. GladysValcar, TCGS Secretary, presentedCharlene with a small gift as appreci-ation for her hard work, leadership,and vision for the organization.

Four TCGS awards were then pre-sented by Charlene. Shirley Ischy wasgiven the Editor’s Award for her out-standing contributions of articles forthe Ceske Stopy; Leslie Gerik Nelsonreceived the Member of the YearAward for her work as TCGS Face-book and Social Media Manager.Nancy Machu received the President’sAward for handling the gift shop du-ties, packing and transporting thoseitems as needed for the various eventsthat TCGS participates in, and work-ing twice a month in the Office/Li-brary/Museum since its inception.

Edwin Hlavaty received the Outstand-ing Excellence Award for his constantsupport of TCGS over the years, goingfar above expectations.

The last event of the day was themuch anticipated performance by theKovanda Czech Band from Houston.The smooth sounds of this group werea very fitting ending to a satisfying andinformative day.

—SPJST—

• Remoska •By Ivo Marek

Choceň, Czech RepublicRemoska is a small electric portable

oven with heating from over. Its mainpart is a cover with a built-in electricresistance heating wire, a glass roundwindow and holes for escape of adump. This cover was supplied withaluminum tops of sundry depths (af-terwards to the sizes of baked gro-cery). The heat radiates up from thecover and is also led on walls of thetop (do not go to burning from down).The original Remoska was very sim-ple, without regulation of output andwithout the external thermal insulationof the top.

Cooking-baking in Remoska is

Texas CzechGenealogical Society

Website: txczgs.orgPromoting the study of thegenealogy of the particulargroup of people known as“Texas Czechs.”

For membership:Merlene Bravenec

254-778-7285

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very easy and the prepared meal in itdoes not lose water, the meat doesn'tdry out. Chicken baked in a commonoven just can’t stand comparison withchicken prepared in Remoska,whether today or the former version.The original Remoska without glasswindow has proven to be more advan-tageous, a warm’s deal outflowthrough the window and the middle ofthe baked meal so easily did not bake.

Oldřich Homuta devised Remoskaat the beginning of fifties, who opti-malized the prototype with hiscoworkers further. The first remoskaso had sign HUT (Homuta, Uher, Ty-burec). Small Homut’s workshop wasnationalized and fused to the concernof the local business REMOS (= Re-visions, Electro, Montages, Opravy,Service). (Concern REMOS producedfor example holders of apparatus`fuses.)

First Remoskas began serial pro-duced in the city Zdice, because localplant was specialized on baking ovens(and its products have born the signESČ since 1926). Production onto thenew plant in the city Kostelec nad

Černými Lesy moved in 1957 was,where 2.7 million pieces of all Re-moska’s sizes produced until 1991th.Then the production stopped was.

Double of Misters Blažek andUličník bought the trademark Re-moska 1994, who also founded newproduction plant Remoska Ltd. in thecity Frenštát pod Radhoštěm. LicenseDuPont on the Teflon® layer’s spraybought in 1999th. Export into GreatBritain began in the year 2003 andthen the one followed onto a decade ofcountries. More than 50 percent ofproduction is exported.

The price of reborn Remoska didabout CZK-3000.0 in 2014, price wasat the smaller design CSK 180.0 andat the bigger design CSK 210.0 in six-ties. Resounds on the modern Re-moska are perplexed, it seems that itspersistence will not be as same as atfirst types, which in many cases use tothis day and are easy repairable in thecommon D.I.Y. workshop.Sources: https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Re-moska; http://www.radio.cz/en/static/inven-tors/remoska

—SPJST—

Czech Cultural CalendarWednesday Evenings

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

Second Sunday each MonthCzech Language Class—at Texas CzechHeritage and Cultural Center, 250 WestFairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, LaGrange, Texas, 1 to 4 p.m. Informal un-derstanding of basic Czech terms, alpha-bet/conversational Czech, children’sliterature, Czech song lyrics. Fee is $10per person per class. Call or email to ver-ify classes. Pre-registration is suggested,but not required. Call toll free 888-785-4500; 979-968-9399; or [email protected]

First/Third Tuesdays each MonthTarok Lessons with Tarok Champion Jim-mie Coufal—at Czech Heritage Museum,119 West French Avenue, Temple, 7 p.m.:Designed for all skill levels, beginners toproficient. Come enjoy some inexpensiveentertainment; it’s a great social game.Get off your Xbox and join us. Free andopen to everyone. For information, call254-899-2935.

Each Monday during Spring Semester Beginning January 25

Brazos Valley CHS Czech LanguageClasses—at St. Joseph Catholic ChurchParish Activity Center, 600 East 26thStreet, Bryan: for all levels; 7 to 8:30 p.m.Cost of class $35. Jan Benes, Czech Ed-ucation Foundation of Texas FellowHlavinka Fellow selected student from theCzech Republic is instructor. For informa-tion, contact Jo Ann 979-846-2035; orLynette 979-450-1820/email [email protected]. Submitted byJoAnn Zaeske, Lodge 189, Bryan-CollegeStation.

Second/Fourth Tuesdays/MonthBeginning January 26

Czech Heritage Museum and GenealogyCenter “Svacina Time!”—at 119 WestFrench Avenue, Temple: Bi-monthlyCzech language social hour, 2 to 3 p.m.Social hour will follow a structured formatthat changes every 15 minutes. This is nota class - no homework. Betty Marek andJanet Young will coordinate the logistics.For information, call 254-899-2935; oremail [email protected] by Susan Chandler, MuseumAdministrator, Czech Heritage Museumand Genealogy Center.

February 1310th Annual Ennis Czech Music Festi-val—Czech polka bands of Ennis at SokolActivity Center, 2622 East Highway 34,Ennis, 1 to 10:30 p.m. Czech Harvesters -1 p.m.; Jodie Mikula Orchestra - 3 p.m.;Czech and Then Some - 5 p.m.; Mora-vians - 7 p.m.; Ennis Czech Boys - 9 p.m.$7 per person; 13 and under, free. Prizeswill be given. Kitchen will be open. Dresscasual. Czech costumes encouraged.Doors open at 12 noon. See ad on page32. Friday Night Pre-Party on February

12, 7 to 11 p.m. in the Sokol Clubroom.Free. Entrance is located on the back westside of the building. Doors open at 5 p.m.Bring a covered dish if you like. Visitwww.ennisczechmusicfestival.com;www.sokolennis.com; or call 972-878-4748.

February 13TCHCC Valentine Dinner/Piano Con-cert—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cul-tural Center in La Grange. Evening beginsat 4 p.m. with social, appetizers, featuredwines and Czech mead; four-course din-ner/desserts served at 6 p.m. in HanslikBanquet Hall; followed by grand pianoconcert with pianist John Dujka. Advanceticket reservations only by February 8.Tickets are $75 per person and includesall drinks, appetizers, dinner, concert, androses for attendees. Only 80 tickets will besold. For more information or to reserveyour tickets, contact TCHCC at 1-888-785-4500; or email [email protected] www.czechtexas.org. Proceeds ben-efit TCHCC.

February 14Third Annual BVCHS Valentine’s DayDance—at St. Joseph Catholic ChurchParish Activity Center, 600 East 26thStreet, Bryan. Doors open at 1 p.m.;dance with Praha Bros.,1:30 p.m. to 4:30p.m. Snacks, non-alcoholic beverages.Submitted by Jo Ann Zaeske, Lodge 189,Bryan-College Station.

February 20Czech ExStudent’s Association of Texas(CESAT) Annual Membership Meeting—at Blinn College in Schulenburg, 10 a.m.Members who have paid their dues willhave the opportunity to be a part of themeeting via the internet. Submitted byThadious Polášek, Lodge 67, Schulen-burg.

February 28Application Deadline for Czech HeritageSociety of Texas’ Victor Peter Scholar-ship—For scholarship submission guide-lines, contact: CHS of Texas Victor PeterMemorial Scholarship, c/o Pat Parma,3311 Carolina Way, Richmond, Texas77406-9680. Submitted by Pat Parma,Lodge 81, Needville.

March 6Bexar County CHS Dance—at MartinezSocial Club, 7791 FM 1346 at FM 1516,San Antonio, 2 to 6 p.m., Mark Halata andTexavia. Refreshments. For information,call 210-648-2681. Submitted by AliceVida, BCCHS Reporter.

Through June 12Multi-media exhibition Texas Czechs:Rooted in Tradition on display—in Austinat the Capitol Visitors Center (CVC) on theTexas State Capitol grounds. This uniqueexhibition features contemporary TexasCzech cultural traditions in photos, text,objects and film. CVC hours atwww.tspb.state.tx.us or call 512-305-8400. More info at polkaworks.org or call512-448-4536.

—SPJST—


§ § § § § § §

To: Weston and Wyatt BeasleyOur grandsons who give us so much joy and pleasure

with playing all their sports, inviting us to their school functions,

and going to all their SPJST functions. We love all the times

we have with you, and you are our special valentines.

We love you both!From: Paw-Paw and Maw-Maw Beasley

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: My Sweet, Sweet Little Grandchildren

Brooks Henry, Griffen Thaddeus,and Paige Elise Buri.

Happy Valentine’s Day!You are the love of our lives.

From: PamPaw and NaNa Buri§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Brandon and Appa BurcieI am so happy

God let Brandon marry my Appa. You are my valentines.

From: Mom§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Faye and MelanieLove and hugs

to my special sisters.You are a double blessing

in my life.From: Debbie

§ § § § § § §

To: BJ, CarrieAnn, Ky, Clark, Reid, Macy, Holly, MilesThank you for staying active in SPJST and keeping our tradition.

I love you so much. Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Mother / GMommy § Carolyn Milan Cleveland

§§§§

§§§§

Happy Valentine’s Day

from the Vestnik!

§ § § § § § §

To: Hailey E. FalkOur Little Love Bug

You were here just a short time, but how you captured all of our hearts.

We miss you so. Ask our Lord to help your Mom and Dadthrough this difficult time. We love you!From: Great-Grandma and Great-Popo

§ § § § § § §


§ § § § § § §

To: JoanThe candy will soon disappear;And the flowers will die away;

But the love that I have for you in me;That will always stay!Veselého Valentýna!Love from: Brian

§ § § § § § §

To: Mr. and Mrs. PospisilThank you for everything, all you do for District Two.

You are amazing people and Happy Valentine’s Day.

From: Lodge 182 Youth§ § § § § § §

To: DavidHappy Valentine’s Day.You are so special to us and you are our hero.

We love you!From: Your Kitty Family§ § § § § § §

To: Wyatt H. OhlHappy Valentine’s Day!

Love from: Popo and Granny§ § § § § § §

To: Jacqueline MalotaYou will always make me very proud

as you continue your journey through college and life.

All you do and all you will ever do continues to show the beautiful

and dedicated person you have beenand always will be. I am so proud

to call you my daughter. I love you, Booger Bear.

May God bless you and hold you always and forever.

Happy Valentine’s Day.From: Daddy

§ § § § § § §

To: Justin and MishaHappy Valentine’s Day.

We love you both so much.Love from: Granny and Grandpa

§ § § § § § §

To: Members of Lodge 47, SeatonJust want to say you make my day.

Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Ruth H.

§ § § § § § §

To: Chelsey StevensHappy Valentine’s Day, Heffer.

I hope you have fun.From: Tammy (Bessie) Copeland

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Aunt JereleneCarnations are pink

Roses are redYou make a pretty valentine,

That’s all I said!From: Patti

§ § § § § § §

To: Brad KraatzThanks for being my everything.

Have a great Valentine’s Day. I love you with all my heart.

From: Joyce§ § § § § § §

To: Patti and VickiYou two are my most favorite valentine

cousins! Happy Valentine’s Day!Love from: Jeanette

§ § § § § § §

To: All ReadersHappy Valentine’s Day!From: Michael D. Hosch

Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie, David, Katherine, and JerrySending each of you

special Valentine’s Day wishes. There’s no one that I’d rather work

for/with than y’all. I’m blessed to haveeach of you in my life, and I’m excited

for what the future has in store. Y’all certainly keep me

laughing and on my toes!Love from: Brooke

§ § § § § § §

To: Lisa Bubela and Susan SiptakTwo of the sweetest women I know.Thank you both for your continued

efforts in District Six, and I hope youhave a wonderful Valentine’s Day.


To: Claire CaseyHappy Valentine’s Day

to our sweet granddaughter who is about to embark on the next milestone

of her journey in life. We love you!From: Nana and Pawpaw§ § § § § § §

To: Members of Lodge 88, HoustonI wish you each

a Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Patricia Bruce

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Grandma and Grandpa Jesse and Linda PospisilI love you both so much.

You are the best grandparents to me. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: Hailey Girod§ § § § § § §

To: MawMaw Juanita Bartek

Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you bunches!

From: Hunter, Dannikka, Camdon, and Everhett

§ § § § § § §

To: Members of Lodge 179, WarrentonThank you for being special people.

You are great to work with, and I do appreciate your friendship.

From: Joan Sue Goehring, FAC§ § § § § § §

To: LeonardThe Love of My Life

for 51+ yearsI love you more today than yesterday.

Happy Valentine’s Day!From: Sharon

§ § § § § § §

To: NaNa and PaPaHappy Valentine’s Day!Thinking of you both.

Sending hugs and love!Thanks for all you do for us!

From: Chris and Julia§ § § § § § §

To: Lucas CernosekHappy Valentine’s Day

to the sweetest, awesome, smartest, and funniest six-year-old

we know. It’s a joy having you for our grandson.

From: MamMaw and PoPo Cernosek§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie and DavidHappy Valentine’s Day to two special friends.

Love you both.From: Dorothy Lastovica§ § § § § § §

To: MiraHappy Valentine’s Day.

We love you, our precious great-granddaughter.

From: Granny and PawPaw§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Jesse and LindaPulling out the valentine wish to hope you have a great day!

Love from: Patsy§ § § § § § §

To: Brianna MalotaYour fierce determination in the eyes of adversity

show the kind of person that you are as you continue to strive for excellence.

I have been and always will be extremely proud of all that you do.

Closeness is not just a feeling,but it is the actions

of one’s heart to another. My heart will forever love you. May God bless you, my Bre-lee.

Happy Valentine’s Day.From: Daddy

§ § § § § § §

To: Izzy, Nikky, and LillyYou are my Sweethearts.

Love and kisses.Love from: Momo and Paw Paw

§ § § § § § §

To: Memew and PapaWe love you so very much more

than anything or anyone and Happy Valentine’s Day.

Y’all are the best Memew and Papaever in the world.

Y’all help me always. Thank you for everything

you do and give.From: Bailee Meredith Beckendorf

§ § § § § § §

To: Gladys HavemannRoses are red,

Violets are blue.We wish you a sweet Valentine’s Day.

We love you!From: Carol and Donnie§ § § § § § §

To: Jerry PechalJerry, I want you to always remember

I was your first valentine. You are a great guy!

From: Ruth§ § § § § § §

To: JeanetteRoses are red

Violets are blueYou’re a real sweetieAnd I love you, too!

From: Patti§ § § § § § §

36 Wednesday, February 10, 2016 VĚSTNÍK§ § § § § § §

To: Patsy and AmberHappy Valentine’s Day

to my sweet friends. Love y’all!From: Cristy Girod

§ § § § § § §

To: Lila DohertyIf love, loyalty, beauty, and grace

had a face, it would be yours. For you are my everything. I give you my heart forever.

From: Delisle Doherty§ § § § § § §

To: Tammy and MikeYou are a special part of our lives.

We love you both. Happy Valentine’s.


To: Roy VajdakTo my Czech Prince. I love you so much!From: Becky Vajdak

§ § § § § § §

To: Kelly and Michelle HouseHappy Valentine’s Day!

I love you both!From: Regina House

§ § § § § § §

To: JesseYou are such a loving, caring person

and I am glad to share my life with you.I love you.

From: Linda§ § § § § § §

To: Rosie (Mama) MalotaYour continued love and faith

show me why I love you so much. I wish continued blessings for you

and God’s protection always. Never give up your prayers

and always trust in Him. I love you more than words can say

and I am so proud to call you my mama. You are truly

my blessing here on earth. Happy Valentine’s Day.

From: Kenneth§ § § § § § §

To: Aidan Green and Charlie GreenHappy Valentine’s

to my special grandsons. I love you so much

From: Nanny§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Ruth and Alfred SabrsulaHappy Valentine’s Day

to the both of you. We love you very much.

From: Cousin Dorothy (Jean) Lastovica§ § § § § § §

To: Wilbert CernosekHey, Babe.

Happy Valentine’s Day to the sweetest, helpful, generous,

flexible, smartest, well-read, fun and all-around nice guy

and a good PoPo. I know today and everyday

I love you!From: SusanYour Wife

§ § § § § § §

To: Jessica A. KelnerHappy Valentine’s Day!From: Tony and Helen

§ § § § § § §

To: ThomasYou’re my everything.

You’ve brought so much love and joyinto my life, and I’m so excited to see

what our future together holds. Happy Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart!

Love from: Your fiance, Brooke§ § § § § § §

To: Brent, Braden, Kelsie, Leigha, Emily, and AbbyHappy Valentine’s Day!

I love you.From: Nanny Hegwood§ § § § § § §

To: Suzie HudsonMy Wife

Happy Valentine’s Day to the most wonderful wife

and best friend a man could ever ask for.Love from: Elvie Hudson

Your Husband§ § § § § § §

To: Justin KraatzHappy Valentine’s Day.

So proud of you. Love you.From: Mom and Dad

§ § § § § § §

To: Pam UrbanovskyHappy Valentine’s Dayto my wife of 35 years.

Love always.From: Don Urbanovsky§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Grandma and Grandpa Jesse and Linda PospisilHappy Valentine’s Day, Grandma and Grandpa.

Thanks for always being there for me. I love you!

From: Brandon Girod§ § § § § § §

To: All My GrandchildrenI love you all,

Jacob, Ryan, Aaron, Kara, Jen, Caitlyn,Kendall, Emily, Ivan, Heidi, Kaden,

Joseph, and AmandaFrom: Grandma and Papa§ § § § § § §

To: Christine Brooks and My Little Mila

Happy Valentine’s, my sweet girls. I love you so much.

From: Nanny (Janice Stevens)§ § § § § § §

To: Nana/Mrs. PatsyThank you for being a good leader to usand SPJST members and everyone else.

You are a good friend also and you are an awesome Nana

to me and others. We love you so much. Happy Valentine’s Day and thank you again.

From: Bailee, Paetyn, and Tynlee Beckendorf

§ § § § § § §

To: Stephanie and Samuel,“Creativity is just connecting things.

When you ask creative people how they did something,

they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it,

they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while.

That’s because they were able to connect experiences they’ve had

and synthesize new things.”— Steve Jobs

Keep up the creativity! Loving you now and always.


To: SPJST Publication CommitteeJarolyn, Floyd, Helen,

Tammy, Bessie,Sharon, and Lorenda

Thank you for your neverendingsupport and guidance.

I appreciate youand your dedication to SPJST!From: Vestnik Editor Melanie

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: MelissaHappy Valentine’s Dayto a very special person.

We appreciate you very much,and sincerely thank you

for all the good care and lovethat you give to our parents.

From:Debbie, Faye, and Melanie§ § § § § § §

To: Patsy ProctorKazoo on!

To the best aunt a girl could ever have -I love you to the moon and back!


To: Mother/Granny Irene PagelHappy Valentine’s Day

to a wonderful, caring and feisty ladywith a heart as big as Texas,

two crazy daughters and two granddaughters

(one that’s too nice and the other that is quickly becoming your carbon copy).

We love you for all you do and hope you enjoy this special day,Love from: Paula (your Mini-Me),

Katie (the Nice One), and Ashleigh (your Carbon Copy)

§ § § § § § §

To: Mira CadenceHappy Valentine’s to our sweetie!

We love you this much . . .Love from:

Maw Maw and Pifrom the Mindcraft Village§ § § § § § §

To: Melanie and DavidThank you for the million of things

you do to bring joy to everyone!I am truly blessed

to call you my friends!Love you!

From: Patsy§ § § § § § §

To: Brandon PowellI love you more than words can say.I have been blessed to be your mom.

I love you.From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

To: Rika and Jerry TalasekYou two are the best parents and friends

a daughter could ask for. Thank you for your continued supportand love. I love you both very much.



§ § § § § § §

To: Mckenzie Lynn BurcieYou are a special valentine

that God gave me. I am so glad that he let me

marry your daddy. Love you.

From: Appa

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Zoe TalasekWe have had some ups and downs,

but I will always love you. Thank you for just being you,

and I thank God for allowing me

to go on this life journey with you. From: Mom

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Frank and Wilma VrlaWow! What a great 60th wedding

anniversary party last summer! We want to remind you again

how much we love you and thank you for all the joy

you have brought to our lives. Happy Valentine’s Day!

From: David, Darrell, and Frank Vrla

§ § § § § § §

§ In Memory §

of My Wife Helen Muyres

To: HelenSix years ago,

you lest me with a saddened heart, but with fond memories of our ups and downs.

You were my only valentine and will always bring back

my love for you for a lifetime!From: Husband Johnny Muyres§ § § § § § §

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§

§ § § § § § §

To: Florian SkubalHappy, Happy

Valentine’s Day, Mom!From: Melinda

§ § § § § § §

To: Great-Granny and Great-Grandpa VrlaMaybe, instead, we should say “Super-Great Granny and Super-Great Grandpa!”

Whatever we call you, it doesn’t change the fact that you are the best grandparents and great-grandparents in the whole world! We all love you.

From: David and Cindy Vrla

§§§§

§§§§

§ § § § § § §

To: Larry W. PflughauptWishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Thank you for 50 years of joy, laughter, and companionship. Love you always and forever.

From: Dorothy§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § §

To: Angel PaceYou will always be

my special valentine.From: Appa T

§ § § § § § §

§ § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § §

§ § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § § §


LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1)Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Direc-tions: Directions: Lodge building is located on High-way 159 East, three blocks from the town square. HallRental Information: (979) 966-3795. Lodge Meet-ings: First Monday of even-numbered months Febru-ary, April, June, August, October, and December, 6p.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, contactYouth Leader Ronnie Pflughaupt 979-249-6702;[email protected].

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6)Note: Lodge meetings are held at HallettsvilleChamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street,Hallettsville, the second Sunday of each month at3 p.m.

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

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

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3)Note: The bridge on the road to the hall is out; butgood news; there is a detour to get to the hall. Di-rections: Take Farm Road 2114 East for 5 miles. Turnright on Adair Road and immediately veer right ontoMarek Road. Marek Road runs into Czech Hall Road.Turn right onto Czech Hall Road. The hall is on the leftabout 1/2 mile.

Friday, February 19—Cottonwood Water SupplyMeetingSunday, March 6—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.; SPJST 6inc. meeting and Easter partyFriday, March 18—Social

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Note:The bridge on the road to the hall is out; there is adetour to get to the hall. Directions: Take FarmRoad 2114 East for 5 miles. Turn right on Adair Roadand immediately veer right onto Marek Road. MarekRoad runs into Czech Hall Road. Turn right ontoCzech Hall Road. Hall on the left about 1/2 mile down.Hall Rental Information: 254-799-8550; Hall Phone:254-227-8759. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of eachmonth, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings:First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Forinformation, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka254-799-8550; or [email protected]

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

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

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1)Lodge Hall: 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box. Di-rections: in Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on theleft. Hall Rental Information: 979-884-1451; HallPhone: 979-884-1451. Lodge Meetings: SecondThursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. YouthClub Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 5:30p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2)Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 36, Buckholts. Directions:Hall is located on Highway 36, east of Buckholts. HallRental Information: 254-593-2222. Lodge Meetings:Second Monday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Re-freshments served after meeting, and door prizesawarded.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1)Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions:From Caldwell, turn from Highway 36 east onto FM166. Proceed 2.1 miles; turn left on CR 225. Go onemile, veering to the right. Lodge building is on the right.Hall Rental Information: 979-272-3440. Lodge Meet-ings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall.Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2)Note: Until further notice, youth club meetings willbe held with the adult meetings, which are on thethird Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

Sunday, February 14—Valentine Dance: Dujka Broth-ers, polka/waltz, 3 to 7 p.m. $8/person. Kitchen will beopenSunday, February 21—Barefoot Becky, polka/waltz,3 to 7 p.m. $10/person. Kitchen will be openSunday, February 28—Glen Collins Band, countrywestern. 3 to 7 p.m. $8/personSunday, March 6—Glen Collins Band, country west-ern. 3 to 7 p.m. $8/personSunday, March 13—Brandon Hodde, polka/waltz, 3to 7 p.m. $8/person. Kitchen will be open

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is anon-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information/Coun-try/Western Band Bookings: David Meyer 512-217-0162; Polka Band Bookings: Artie Monson512-281-3711; Hall phone: 512-285-3100. LodgeMeetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at thehall. Youth Club Meetings: Until further notice,youth club meetings will be held with the adultmeetings, which are held on the third Tuesday ofeach month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, callYouth Leader David Meyer 512-217-0162.

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall RentalInformation: Rita Marburger 512-859-2584. LodgeMeetings: First Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at thelodge hall - unless it’s a holiday then the meeting will beheld on the second Monday. A light meal is served be-fore each meeting. All members are invited. YouthClub Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30p.m. at the hall.

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

LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2)Saturday, February 20—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m.$8/person.

Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington. Directions: Hallis 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit atblinking light on Hwy 53 to FM 485; go one mile to FM964. Hall Rental Information: Mark or Brenda Mad-dux 254-985-0002; Hall phone: 254-985-2393. LodgeMeetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. atthe hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach month, 2 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 25, ENNIS (3)Thursday, February 11—Lodge meetingFriday, February 12—Dining room rentalSaturday, February 13—Dining room rentalSaturday, February 20—Hall rentalSaturday, February 27—SPJST Lodge 25 AnnualFundraiser. For details, see lodge letter on page ??? .

Lodge Hall: 1901 East Highway 34, Ennis. Direc-tions: From iH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287East exit. Stay on Hwy 287 East until you come toEnnis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and gounder the overpass at interstate 45. Go approx. 3/4mile on Hwy 34. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Infor-mation: 972-875-8381; Hall Phone: 972-875-8381.Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday ofeach month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Game Room: Openevery Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6)Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 12noon at Wharton County Library - East BernardBranch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard. For infor-mation, contact Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2)• All Wednesday and Friday night dances

are free admission.• Old-fashioned hamburgers

served every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.

Thursday, February 11—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylormembers monthly meeting, begins at 6:30 p.m. Cov-ered dish meal follows the meetingFriday, February 12—Night Skies, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.Wednesday, February 17—Sam and Bobby Bandwith guest musician Fritz Hodde, 7 to 10 p.m.Friday, February 19—Old Friends, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.Friday, February 26—Sterling Country Band, 7:30 to11:30 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: in Tay-lor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Busi-ness (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM619, 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 Wednesdayof each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meet-ings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For infor-mation, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod 512-468-1347.Music: First and third Wednesday each month, musicby Bobby Jay Five Band, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday evening,7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

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

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

LODGE 35, ELK (3)Saturday, February 13—Gordon Collier BandSaturday, February 20—Midnight MustangsSaturday, February 27—Steve Dansby and the Tail-gate Philosophers

Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: FromiH-35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy.84 East through Bellmead; go approx. 8 miles. On theright side of Hwy. 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Turnright onto Elk Road; go approx. 1 mile; road will deadend - turn right; go approx. 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left.Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326; Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings:Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at thehall. Sales Agents: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275and Gene E. Pavelka 254-749-3326.

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. HallRental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-839-4353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of eachmonth, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Di-rections: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR; go 2 milesto Mumford Road and turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turnleft on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on CherryBend Circle. The lodge hall is at the bend of the road(white building). Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach 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; FACRonnie Roesler 979-406-0158.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Di-rections: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental In-formation: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone:979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach 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 Presbyte-rian Church, Royal Road, Port Lavaca.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2)Lodge Hall: 10842 State Highway 53, Temple. Direc-tions: Seaton Star Hall is five miles east of Temple onHighway 53 (Adams Avenue). Star Hall is a non-smok-ing facility. Hall Rental Information: Michelle Porub-sky 254-493-8020; Hall Phone: 254-985-2548. LodgeMeetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at thehall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of eachmonth, 1 p.m. at the hall. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: FromTaylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112. Goabout 1/2 mile. Turn right on FM 619. Go about threemiles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information:512-450-8310. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach month, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; except for the followingmonths, the meeting time will be at 6:30 p.m. on Mon-day, May 11; Monday, June 15; Monday, July 13; andMonday, August 10 at the hall. Youth Club Meetings:Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at thelodge hall.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4)Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental In-formation: 325-442-4841. Lodge Meetings: FirstWednesday of February, May, August, and November,7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sundayof each month at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall.

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

LODGE 54, WEST (3)Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and No-vember; the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. atSt. 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, and time to be an-nounced in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes thatappear in the Věstník. Call 254-799-4247 for more in-formation.

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

LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4)Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m.For meeting location, call 940-256-2263.

LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4)Lodge Meetings: First Sunday in March and June at1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in WichitaFalls; second Sunday in September and December at1 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in WichitaFalls.

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 wel-come. Hall Phone: 361-854-8423. Youth Club Meet-ings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at SokolHall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Direc-tions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east onto FM2268; go 1/2 mile to hall on the right. Hall Phone: 254-657-2485. Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of eachmonth, 4 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Sec-ond Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at YouthLeader Connie Horak’s home; call 254-541-9165 foraddress. Board of Directors’ Meetings: First Satur-day of each month, 3:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Thursdayat 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574;AL17460607355.

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)Lodge Hall: 13609 Highway 36, Needville. Direc-tions: Lodge building is located at the corner of High-way 36 and FM 361. Hall Rental Information:979-793-4313; email [email protected]. Hall

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and in-formation here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for theFraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 5 p.m., unless otherwiseposted. Send updates directly to: VESTNIK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100,Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: 254-773-8087. Email to: [email protected]. Advertis-ing rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit or-ganization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertisinginformation, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email [email protected].

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment


Phone: 361-793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sun-day of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth ClubMeetings: Contact Youth Leader Bradley Stavinoha979-739-2386.

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3)Note: Youth club meetings are held one hour be-fore the adult lodge meeting at the lodge hall un-less otherwise noted. For information, contactYouth Leader Bessie Petr.Lodge Hall: 2625 Floyd Street, Dallas. Directions:From iH-35 East in Dallas, take iH-20 East. From iH-20 East, take the iH-45 exit toward downtown Dallas.iH-45 runs into Hwy 75. From Hwy 75, take a right atBryan Street exit. From Bryan Street, turn right onCantreal Street and go until you come to Floyd Street;take a right on Floyd Street. Hall is the second buildingon the right. Hall Rental Information: 469-951-7396.Hall Phone: 214-823-0072. Band Bookings: CherriPetr 214-352-4397. Lodge Meetings: Third Sundayof each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meet-ings: Held one hour before the adult lodge meeting atthe lodge hall unless otherwise noted. For information,contact Youth Leader Bessie Petr.

LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Direc-tions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50thStreet; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental In-formation: Karin Bryant 254-947-3100 or Judith Little254-913-8568. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday ofeach month at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)Saturday, February 13—The Fab Five - Beatles’ trib-ute. $10Saturday, February 20—Barefoot Becky, polka/variety.$10Saturday, February 27—private partySaturday, March 5—Moonglow Orchestra, big band.*Dress Code. $15Saturday, March 12—Red Ravens, polka/variety. $10

All dances are held from 8 to 11:30 p.m., unlessotherwise noted. Reservations suggested, but not re-quired, unless otherwise noted. Reservations held only30 minutes past start of dance. For reservations, call713-869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please donot bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: eveningattire for ladies and gentlemen. Lodge Hall: 1435Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Di-rections: Highway 290—Take Mangum Dacoma exit;stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto18th Street. Go under freeway at third traffic light, turnon Beall Street. Hall Rental Information: Lodge Hall:713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meet-ings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth ClubMeetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at thehall. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; early bird spe-cial 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 theVěstník. Contact Secretary Vonda Smesny 713-870-7114.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3)Friday, February 12—Tanglefoot ballroom dance, 8 to11 p.m. Members $10; non-members $17.Sunday, February 14—Lodge 92 meeting, 2 p.m.Tuesday, February 23—Game night at Lodge 92, 7p.m.

Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cutoff Road, Fort Worth.Directions: From interstate 35 West in Fort Worth,take interstate 30 West to the Henderson exit. TakeHenderson North, and it becomes Jacksboro Highway(TX199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cutoffwhich is a right off of Jacksboro Highway. The lodgealso known as National Hall is on the right about 2 or3 blocks down the road. (A Great Western inn Motel ison the corner.) Hall Event/Rental Information: Forhall rentals and upcoming events information, callNaitonal Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Also visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhall-fortworth.com. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach 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 eachmonth. Ladies Circle meets the second Tuesday ofeach month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Bandplays every first Sunday. Dressy casual.

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

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions:From Floresville, take FM 536 West three miles to FM1303; turn right and go two miles. Hall is on the right.Hall Rental Information: 830-393-7796. Lodge Meet-ings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at thehall.

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

LODGE 130, DALLAS (3)Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date/time/lo-cation, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214-906-3385; or via email [email protected].

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. Direc-tions: From iH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy. 287East exit. Stay Hwy. 287 on until you come to Ennis.Go straight through downtown Ennis and under theoverpass at iH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 mileson Hwy. 34. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Informa-tion: Larry Valek 214-794-7674. Lodge Meetings:Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7p.m. at the Sokol hall.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at11 a.m. at The Smith Group Building, 1718 MainStreet, Danbury. For information, call 979-922-1279;or 979-922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1)Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North CircleDrive, Sealy.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5)Lodge Meetings: Second or third Sunday of eachmonth - whichever is noted, at 2 p.m., meal served at1 p.m.; held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston dining roomor annex building - whichever is noted, at 1435 BeallStreet at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). YouthClub Meetings: Same time/location as adult lodgemeetings. For information, contact Lodge 142, Hous-ton President Keith Kieschnick 832-627-2842; or Sec-retary Alice Jochen 979-743-3613.

LODGE 148, EL MATON (6)Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. YouthClub Meetings: Second Sunday of each month fol-lowing the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Cam-phouse in El Maton.

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

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Di-rections: From iH-35 West in Fort Worth, take iH-20West exit. Stay on iH-20 West until you come to 820;stay on 820 until you come to Jacksboro Highway andAzle Street exit. Take Azle Street exit; go to the trafficlight. Turn left at the traffic light. Go to the second traf-fic light, then turn right onto Boat Club Road. Go ap-prox. 2 1/2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall RentalInformation: Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meet-ings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at thehall. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of eachmonth, 5 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of March, June, Sep-tember, and December. Call Secretary Ginny Prasatik512-472-1721 for meeting time/location.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of every othermonth, 1 p.m. Contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek806-763-7245; [email protected] for meeting lo-cation.

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

LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5)Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m.at iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, iowaColony. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of eachmonth, 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 Seafoodand Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham.(December meeting/social information will be an-nounced at a later date.) For information, contact Nelloand Dorothy Strickland 979-836-2609.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Reser-vations/Hall Rental Information: Jo 713-993-6878;Hall Phone: 713-487-3297. Country/western dancesheld the first Saturday of each month, 7 to 11 p.m., ex-cept when noted. Variety dances are held the fourthSaturday of each month, 7 to 10 p.m., except whennoted. Beer, soft drinks, and ice are available at thebar. (Do not bring them inside the hall.) RegularLodge/Covered Dish Meetings: Fourth Sunday ofeach month, meal at 1 p.m. followed by meeting at 2p.m. with the exception of November and December,as noted. Lodge Executive Board Meetings/TrusteeMeetings and Workdays: Second Monday of eachmonth, (unless the second Monday is a holiday) at 2p.m. Dances: Held the first Saturday of each month,unless otherwise noted. Variety Dances: Fourth Sat-urday of the month, unless noted.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River. Directions:Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95,on the right. Hall Rental Information: 254-982-4530.Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Lodge Meetings: SecondWednesday of each month at the hall; Board oftrustees meet at 6 p.m.; lodge meeting follows at 6:30p.m. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doorsopen at 5:30 p.m.; kitchen is open.

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

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3)Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month, 6:30p.m. Check Věstník for times or call one of the follow-ing: 817-295-6497; 817-371-0255; 972-268-0022; or817-905-2097.

LODGE 181, CONROE (5)Note: Lodge meeting location/time will be an-nounced in the Vestnik.

Tuesday, February 23—Lodge meeting at 6 p.m. atGolden Corral Buffet Restaurant, 1604 interstate 45North in Conroe, which is on the i45 northbound ac-cess road between SH105/West Davis and WilsonRoad.

Lodge Meetings: Lodge meeting location/time will beannounced in the Vestnik. For further information, con-tact President Barbara Williams-Rash 936-295-7778;email [email protected]; Vice President ChuckToney 281-362-9062; email [email protected]; or Treas-urer Patsy McClelland 936-788-5714; or email pmc-clelland@consolidated.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2)Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin.Youth Club Meetings: Same time and place as adultlodge meeting.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Di-rections: Take iH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take iH-20East exit and proceed on iH-20 East until you come toCooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to theNorth and stay on Cooper Street until you come toMayfield Street. Take a right on Mayfield; go down andtake a left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Infor-mation: Hall Phone: 817-465-8538; 214-876-9029.Lodge Meetings: Third Monday of each month, 7 p.m.at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Last Friday of eachmonth, 7 p.m. at the hall. Game nights are everyTuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30p.m. Permit No. 17516910506.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)Lodge Hall: FM 532 West, Moulton. Directions: FromTexas 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 thehall.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7)Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April,June, August, October, and December. Call for meet-ing date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings:Call Youth Leader Theresa Haag 830-625-8262 formeeting 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 ofCaldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. HallRental 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 baropen. License Permit No. 1-74-20733095-41002.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock.Hall Rental Information: 512-255-1554; 512-771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of eachmonth, 2 to 3 p.m. at the hall followed by entertainmentand potluck meal.

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

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5)Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental In-formation/Dance Reservations: George Scogin 936-875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Monday night before thethird Friday night of the month, 7 p.m. at the lodge hall.Regular Dances: Third Friday night of each month, 7to 10 p.m. Please continue to bring finger foods for thesnack table.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5)Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Di-rections: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall RentalInformation: 281-351-1045; Hall Phone: 281-373-9482. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of eachmonth, at 1 p.m. at the hall. Covered dish meal will beserved.

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

LODGE 201BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1)

Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions:Hall is across the street from the post office inBleiblerville. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday ofeach 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.) atJourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Av-enue, Jourdanton. Youth Club Meetings: First Sun-day of each month at 1:15 p.m. (March, June,September, and December at 1 p.m.) at JourdantonCommunity Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdan-ton.

LODGE 204, STEPHENVILLE (3)Lodge Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, callNorman Kneschk 254-386-3222; or email [email protected].

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4)Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6p.m. Call Secretary Mary Hatter 940-322-8503; or anysales 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. atTahoka Housing Authority (small room - 1400 Ave K).For any questions, call Secretary Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: For location/time,contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-990-3351.

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4)Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month,9 a.m. Call Secretary Edna Rivas 915-727-2048 formeeting location.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6p.m. Call Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089for meeting location.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2)Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month atSPJST 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, andtime, contact President Chester Jenke 210-413-3053or Treasurer Colleen Jenke 210-215-949

—SPJST—

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