September 2004 Journal - CSA Fraternal Life

the

Journal

January 2017

Certificates for Lodge Officers, Page 14

Town’s First Christmas Parade, Page 21

Balloon Festival, Page 27 In this issue...

On the Cover...

The cover features the Swedish Hill Historic District, Austin, Texas, in anticipation of our upcoming CSA Get-Together. Photo by Jeremy Keith

Czech Proverbs

Czech Proverbs taken from Naše zahrádky (Our Gardens) magazine, Vol. LXXX 2016 No. 6, are featured thougthout this Journal issue. Credit to Miroslav Chybik and Lillian K. Chorvat 2 — www.csalife.com - JANUARY 2017

3 4 5 6 7 8 13 16 18 19 22 32 35 36

President’s Piece Calendar of Events Today’s Fraternal Board Report Message from the Secretary Get-Together District Council Junior Bowl-o-Rama CSA Fraternal Calendar Lodge Happenings Scholarship In Memoriam Just Kids Photo Contest

President’s Piece Happy New Year!

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Happy New Year to everyone! I hope 2017 will bring health and happiness to you and your families in the months ahead. After the hectic holiday season, it’s always kind of nice to look back and reflect on the previous year, and, at the same time, look and plan ahead into the New Year. From the “big picture” standpoint, although we still have to finalize the numbers, we’re on pace for another profitable year, and continue to stabilize/grow CSA from the economic slide of the last decade. From a more detailed standpoint, we’ve been able to accomplish a number of things. One of the most significant accomplishments for CSA was the establishment of a new lodge. We’re proud to have Lodge Slunce No. 374 from Ocklawaha, Florida as our newest lodge. In an era where there have been lodge mergers here and there, it is very encouraging to add to our lodge roster. Kudos to the Slunce gang for organizing and accomplishing this! We continue to produce some wonderful Fraternal products and services, such as granting scholarships, which, of course, assist with higher education costs, to our members who meet certain criteria. In 2016, CSA granted over $70,000. Our Fraternal area continues to oversee our Lodge Recognition

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Program, our National Project, our Photo Contest, our Junior Bowl-oRama, and a number of other things, not to mention day-to day items. We’re always racking our collective brains, whether it’s here in the office, or with our National Board members, trying to improve our programs. As always, don’t be shy with any suggestions/comments if you have any on how to improve and/or add on to our Fraternal offerings. From a Sales standpoint, CSA also had a positive year. In fact, we achieved the Sales related goal that was spelled out by the Finance Committee of our 2014 National Convention. Our Sales Manager Julie Souza has been traveling a bit more, and getting a chance to meet with many lodges as well. An ongoing goal in 2017 will be to continue to add agents, specifically in areas which have been underrepresented in “CSA rich” areas. As many of us know, some of our CSA turf has been a bit barren with a lack of agents in certain local areas. Here in the Home Office, all is well. We’ve recently had a retirement of a long-time employee. Mr. Dale Novak, our now former IT Director, retired after 15 years of service. We’ll miss seeing Dale daily, but as Dale is an active member of Lodge Cermak here in the area, we’ll be seeing him around. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, if/ when you’re ever in the Lombard area, feel free to stop by and say “hi.” We’d

John J. Kielczewski CLU, FLMI, President

love to see you. In my time here, I’ve mentioned in this article a few times, how honored I am to have this role as President of CSA Fraternal Life. Well, I can’t tell you that enough! I’ll say it again. Thank you for putting your faith in me to oversee this wonderful Society. I truly appreciate that faith, and will continue to work tirelessly to continue the renaissance of CSA. As always, be safe. Until next month, Your brother, John J. Kielczewski, CLU, FLMI President, CSA Fraternal Life

JANUARY 2017 — CSA JOURNAL — 3

Calendar of

Events

Saturday, February 4, 2017 59th Representative Ball Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace, IL Cocktails at 6:30 p.m.; Dinner at 7 p.m. Open to women 16-21 years old of Czech or Slovak decent. More details to come. Sunday, April 30, 2017 Junior Bowl-o-Rama Various locations. See page 16. Saturday, May 6, 2017 Join Hands Day Various locations. More details to come. Friday - Sunday, August 4 - 6, 2017 CSA 81st Annual Get-Together Austin, Texas See page 8 for details!

CSA Journal

Volume 127 No. 1 January 2017

A Dynamic Magazine “Dedicated to Our Membership”

UREDNI ORGÁN JEDNOTY CESKOSLOVENSKYCH SPOLKU V AMERICE o

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Phone: 800-543-3272 FAX: 630-472-1100 Email CSA: [email protected] Website: www.csalife.com Editor-in-Chief, Gerri Romanelli Editor: Cynthia Hall, [email protected] Contributing Staff: Amanda Lovell

CSA MISSION STATEMENT CSA Fraternal Life is a fraternal benefit Society that provides families with financial security while promoting community involvement with volunteerism.

CSA Leadership

National Officers John J. Kielczewski, President Matthew Koski, Secretary James Kovac, Treasurer

National Directors Tom Ledvina Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota Ken Dvorsky and Adam Wilt Northern Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin Irma Farrell California, Colorado, Kansas and Texas Diane DiBianca Northern Ohio and Michigan Connie Wolf Missouri and Southern Illinois Terry Placek Southeastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania Carol Tranter Florida, Maryland, Virginia, D.C., Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey Paul Vavrasek New York State and Connecticut Home Office Hours Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

CSA Journal (ISSN 0195-9050)

See New Year’s images taken from the January 1957 Journal on page 12. 4 — www.csalife.com - JANUARY 2017

Published monthly—except bimonthly July/August by CSA Fraternal Life, 2050 Finley Rd., Suite 70, Lombard, IL 60148. Periodical Postage paid at Lombard, Illinois, and at additional mailing offices. Subscription Rate: $12 per year, U.S. only. Postmaster: send address changes to: CSA Journal, P.O. Box 249, Lombard, IL 60148.

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Today’s Fraternal Important Updates on Fraternal Programs for 2017 Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Fraternal Program announcements were sent to Lodge Secretaries as of December 2016 to be read at your lodge meeting. But for those of you unable to attend January’s meeting, the following is a review of our programs for 2017:

Lodge Recognition Program Responding to the suggestions and recommendations from the 2016 Lodge Recognition Survey, changes have been made to this year’s program.

In an effort to be fair to all lodges due to membership numbers, participation, or geographic location, the requirement to add one new lodge member has been deleted for all awards. To offset this deletion, Options have been added to the four categories and total points required for each award increased a bit. Be assured most, if not all, Options are activities performed by lodges for many years. To add variety and fun to lodge meetings, a few new Options are offered. The requirements for holding a certain number of meetings per year and donating at least 25% of the lodge’s annual allocation remain in place.

National Project, lodges can perform good works, either donations or volunteer hours, to any number of groups or causes in its local area or nationally. A minimum $50 donations is required, with the Home Office sending a matching check of at least $25. Home Office maximum matching funds will be $1500 per lodge.

Scholarship Program - CSA will continue to offer scholarships to qualified members in 2017. Members submitting applications for a first time scholarship in 2017 will be entitled to a one-year grant only. Renewals will no longer be offered as of 2017.

Renewal Scholarship grants will be available to students already on scholarship in 2016 or earlier as stipulated in the rules for those years.

Photo Contest – Members will be allowed to submit multiple photos in multiple categories for this year’s contest. Monetary prizes and other rules remain the same.

Gerri Romanelli, CSA Fraternal Director _________________________________

To assist members submitting entries for these programs, a Fraternal Calendar was published in the December Journal and again this issue. Please keep this calendar in a convenient place so that you can refer to it from time to time over the year.

Any questions can be referred to either Gerri Romanelli or Amanda Lovell at the Home Office. Gerri Romanelli, Fraternal Director Editor-in-Chief

CSA Serves – Because CSA no longer has a “National Project” assigning one charity or cause for all lodges’ donations/volunteer hours, the Board of Directors and its Fraternal Committee determined the title “National Project” no longer applies. The program beginning in 2017, and continuing, will be called CSA SERVES. Similar to the

Catch Up on CSA Activities and Current Events

CSA Website: csalife.com Twitter: https:/twitter.com/CSAFraternal Blog: http://csafraternallife.tumblr.com/ Facebook: https:facebook.com/CSAFraternalLife

Read the Journal online at: www.csalife.com


CSA Fraternal Life Board Report

November 18 & 19, 2016

All members were present for the final meeting of 2016 for the Board of Directors.

As mentioned in a previous report, the Community Service Action (CSA SERVES) kits are now available. Congratulations to our newest Lodge, Lodge Slunce in Florida, for partnering with a church in their area to raise funds to build wells in Uganda. What a great way to demonstrate our slogan, “Volunteering... it’s what we do.”

In the October Journal, you might have noticed an envelope for the Scholarship Fund. This is one way to earn points for the Star Award along with providing funds for our young members to pursue their education. Consider this for your Lodge or as a personal donation to the fund. It’s a great way to invest in the future of CSA.

In the past, the National Project has focused on a different philanthropy every year. We recognize that many Lodges have developed a working relationship with a specific charity in their community year after year. Because of this, the focus will now be changed from a designated national project to a broader concept - CSA SERVES. The Lodges will be receiving more information from the Fraternal Department.

On Saturday, our Board met with the Board of Directors of the Czech/Slovak Heritage Museum. They gave us very exciting news. They are in the process of acquiring property to house and show some of the beautiful Czech and Slovak heritage pieces along with using the building for various community meetings. In the days ahead, the museum will have a formal announcement on the new building. In addition, the museum will be pursuing grants and other financial aid to restore the property/building. This has been a long, hard road for their Board, but their efforts will realize an exciting project.

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As per Convention directives, the Board evaluates what we have done through the year and presents it to the membership. In 2016 we: Developed transparent long and short term goals Revisited the strategic plan Met with all our vendors Created new Fraternal Community Service Project kits Met goal from Convention Finance Committee to increase sales Explored smaller membership products Developed Risk, Governance and Compliance Committee to keep us in good stead with the State of Illinois and give the Board needed information Opened a new Lodge in Florida Continued education through the American Fraternal Association

Our Goals: Continue education Create a timely strategic plan Revisit the By-Laws in preparation for the Convention Develop products - work with the officers to implement Continue ongoing evaluation of vendors Work toward Lodge reengagement

The next meeting for the Board is March 10, 2017. Please let your Director know of your concerns.

Fraternally, Irma Farrell Chairman

Message from the Secretary Here We Are Again Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Here we are again, the beginning of a new calendar year. It is time to look back at the past year and reflect on what we have seen and experienced. At the same time, we can grade ourselves on how well we did helping others and learning new things. Perhaps there are areas that need more attention and could benefit from greater effort that we can look into this year. We can decide what we might want to learn or do that will improve our situation.

The New Year is a good time to look at your current insurance situation. Have you gotten married? Did you have a new child join your family this year? Is there a grandchild in your family who has yet to become a CSA member? Did you lose a loved one? If you have had one of these or other major life events, it could be the time to contact a CSA Sales Agent. The New Year is also a good time to review your beneficiary designations. You can email or contact the Home Office and we can help.

invite a friend. You can introduce new activities that your Lodge might enjoy. The CSA Get-Together will be in Austin, Texas this year. January is a good time start planning your trip to Texas with your fellow Brothers and Sisters. Exploring a new city with friends, old and new, can be very fun!

Looking back at 2016, I fondly reflect upon the Lodges that I have visited. Meeting CSA members and enjoying their varied activities is always a gratifying experience. We should all be thankful for our active society. Most recently in Cleveland, Heather and I enjoyed joining Director Diane DiBianca at the District No. 10 Annual Pin Party and celebrating the holiday season.

Enjoy 2017 and please feel free to contact the Home Office with any ideas, concerns, or questions. We are here for you!

This is the year to become more active in Lodge events. Attend more meetings and


Fraternally, Matthew Koski

Matthew Koski Executive Secretary/COO/CRO

Czech Proverb Člověk míní, pánbůh mění Man proposes, God disposes

Secretary, COO, CRO


“Waltz Across Texas”

Get your boots ready and join us as we “Waltz Across Texas” at the 81st CSA Annual Get-Together on August 4-6, 2017 in beautiful Austin, Texas.

This month, we would like to share with you some important information for the 2017 Get-Together. Austin, the capital of the Lone Star State, is located in Central Texas, on the eastern edge of the great Southwest. Austin, known as the Live Music Capital of the World, is the 13th most populous city in the United States and the 4th largest city in Texas. It is well known for its historic Sixth Street District where live music of all genres can be heard in a multitude of venues on this nine block area that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Sixth Street has been a major entertainment district since the early 1970’s and is known for its many bars, clubs, music venues, and restaurants. Nearby Second Street is made up of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment in Austin. Our Get-Together will be held at the Wyndham Garden Hotel which is close to downtown Austin, the State Capitol Building, and Sixth Street. The Wyndham is located four miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The Wyndham offers free shuttle service to and from the airport but you’ll have to call ahead to schedule pickup. With extensive meeting facilities, onsite dining, leisure facilities guaranteed to refresh and relax, and spacious guestrooms, your stay in Austin is destined to be enjoyed in comfort. The group rate is $109 per night plus taxes and fees. Be sure not to miss out on this year’s Get-Together as we 8 — www.csalife.com - JANUARY 2017

bring together the rich history of the State of Texas and the Czech heritage and culture that was vital to the founding of CSA. We look forward to showing you the diverse attractions Austin has to offer and sharing some of the Czech heritage as we “Waltz Across Texas” to the music of The Red Ravens, a polka band from El Campo, Texas. Be sure to watch future issues of the Journal as we highlight more details of this year’s Get-Together. The members of Lodge No. 277 Svetlo look forward to seeing you at the 81st CSA Annual Get-Together in historic Austin, Texas. Fraternally, Patsy Story and Susan Skrabanek

2017 CSA Get-Together Details Wyndham Garden Hotel (512) 448-2444

https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/groups/csa-fraternallife-81st-annual-get-together Group Rate is $109 per night (plus taxes & fees)

GET-TOGETHER REGISTRATION (Opens February 2017) Adult Fee - $125/Youth Fee (under 18)- $100

Inaugural Oddities

Military Today more than 5,000 servicemen and women, representing all branches of the armed forces, take part in the Inauguration Day activities while providing security and operational functions. Their involvement goes all the way back to the first inauguration ceremony in April 30, 1789, when members of local militia units and Revolutionary War veterans escorted George Washington at Federal Hall in New York.

Music Eighth U.S. president, Martin Van Buren, was the first to receive his own walk-up music. In 1837 his inauguration featured “Hail to the Chief,” played by the U.S. Marine Band. Formed in 1798, the Marine Band has played at every inauguration since Thomas Jefferson’s in 1801. Jefferson also coined the band’s nickname, “The President’s Own.”

Salute A 21-gun salute is provided after the president takes the oath of office. The use of gun salutes for military occasions is traced back to early warriors who demonstrated peaceful intentions. The 21-gun salute has become the highest honor a nation rendered.

Lunch The elite meet inside the Capitol for a luncheon after the swearing in. The president, vice president, their spouses, congressional leaders, inaugural committee members, and invited guests enjoy a meal provided by the bipartisan Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. This tradition started in 1953 with Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration, and since then only one president, Jimmy Carter in 1977, has failed to hold the event.

Booze? In 1865 Andrew Johnson was suffering from typhoid fever, and the journey from Nashville to Washington only worsened his discomfort and weakness. So, he downed three glasses of “medicinal” whiskey in preparation for his inaugural address inside the Senate Chamber. What was supposed to be a “brief” speech turned into a drunken, seventeen-minute ramble, finally coming to a close when Johnson gave the Bible a “tipsy” kiss. Sources: http://www.aarp.org/politics-society/history/info-2016/inaugural-oddities-and-funfacts-photo.html#slide1 http://www.history.army.mil/html/faq/salute.html http://www.nellaware.com/blog/andrew-johnson-drunk-at-lincolns-second-inaugural.html


Medicine Bottles

We are collecting clear, clean amber medicine bottles, buttons and unusual, foreign or limited edition stamps. Send your items to: CSA Fraternal Dept. 2050 Finley Rd., Ste. 70 Lombard, IL 60148

CSA Privacy Policy

You can access our Privacy Policy at www.csalife.com on right side of our Home page. Hard copies are available upon request.

It’s Freethinkers Day!

Freethinkers Day, January 29, falls on the birthday of Thomas Paine, a prominent thinker whose work and publications promoting a philosophy of Enlightenment heavily influenced the course of the American and French revolutions. Embrace Freethinkers Day by challenging arbitrary authority, questioning the status quo, and constructing logical and reasonable arguments against engrained behavior.


Make and Keep a New Year’s Resolution

Have you ever wondered why people make New Year’s resolutions? When did this start and why?

As far back as 153 B.C. the Romans started this practice. The month of January is named after the Roman mythical god Janus. Janus was unique in that he had two faces: one looking forward and one looking backward. On December 31 of each year, the Romans imagined Janus looking back at the events of the past year, but also looking ahead to the future. It was also a time to forgive enemies. To assure that Janus would forgive all transgressions of the previous year, Romans would give gifts and make promises, or resolutions, in the hope Janus would acknowledge their actions and bless them in the coming year.

Centuries later, unaware of Janus or the actions of ancient Romans, people today still make resolutions, usually in the form of goals, for prosperity, good health, forgiveness, and a variety of personal habits they wish to acquire or eliminate. Most common are resolutions to quit smoking, lose weight, get organized, tackle household repairs or projects, spend more time with loved ones, pay down credit cards, save more money, exercise more, sit less, etc., etc., etc. The list of goals is almost endless and can tell you a lot about the person making the resolution.


Experts agree that resolutions should be positive in nature. Example: “I resolve to save more money each month during the coming year.” A positive goal is stronger and more effective than one expressed in negative terms. Another good way to keep to those resolutions is to discuss them with a spouse or friend. Writing or journaling your resolutions is another way to solidify your intent, commit to a course of action, and provide a means to revisit them from time to time to keep track of your progress.

The only unofficial rule about resolutions is to keep them real and attainable. Resolving to increase monthly savings by 25% or exercise every day or learn a new language may sound admirable, but can be disappointing if not achieved. Resolutions should have a positive effect on your life, not remind you of short-comings or failures. Start with small goals, accomplish those, and then move on to more challenging ones. Good luck! Source: Wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-people-make-new-year-sresolutions “Wonderopolis is brought to life by the National Center for Families Learning."

Achieving a Work-Life Balance

In today’s demanding work environment, we’re needing to be more and more available. Humans are forever trying to multitask, but we’re not always the best at it. It’s important to maintain a healthy balance. Work hard; play hard... right? 1. Step away from your email.

It may be tempting, but we should all avoid our inboxes during evenings and weekends. Companies should focus on productivity, and it’s possible all this incessant checking adds to pointless stress. 2. Just say no.

Are you almost always agreeable to everyone, regarding everything? It’s time to take a step back before you become overloaded. If someone asks you for a favor, think before you give an automatic “yes.” We all have our limitations, and that’s ok. 3. Work smarter, not harder.

Prioritization is key. Allow yourself only a certain amount of time per task, and put your focus into the most important activities. The Mental Health Foundation states that when working long hours, 27% of employees feel depressed, 34% feel anxious, and 58% feel irritable. 4. Leave work at work.

diately for emergency purposes, you’re always a text or phone call away. 7. Get moving.

It cannot be stressed enough how important physical exercise is, especially if you work at an office job that requires long hours of sitting. Did you know that sitting is worse for you than smoking? From the driver’s seat to the office chair and then to the couch at home, Americans are spending more time seated than ever. 8. Fight the guilt.

Above all, remember that we are not perfect. Superman and Superwoman are fictional characters. We can’t truly devote 100% to everything we do. Learn to let things go. No matter how much effort you put into something, nothing in life will be perfect. Always work to the best of your ability, but give yourself a break. Don’t put extra pressure on yourself during times when it is not needed. Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/the-active-times/sitting-is-thenew-smokin_b_5890006.html https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/nov/07/tentips-for-a-better-work-life-balance

Closure is key. Either write down or type a note to yourself regarding all the unfinished tasks you will work on tomorrow. Then, completely turn off both the computer and yourself. Take a slow breath and acknowledge that you’ve left. 5. Don’t be a martyr.

Have you ever heard the phrase, “I have to do everything around here!” Are you actually the one who says it? It doesn’t need to be this way. No one wants to be around a know-it-all who claims they “do all the work.” 6. Make them wait.

Are you always “on” and available to people? Maintain a habit of responding to emails within 24 – 48 hours. As long as you stick to this and stay reliable, most people will not be bothered by this rule. If someone truly needs you imme-



New Year images taken from the January 1957 Journal.

“The CSA Executive Committee wishes that the new year brings good luck, health, and satisfaction to all CSA brothers and sisters, and that all their wishes and desires are fulfilled in 1957.”


District Council The Board of T.G. Masaryk Czech School Acknowledges CSA Lodges

The Board of T. G. Masaryk Czech School in Cicero, Illinois would like to acknowledge the following lodges of District Council #12 at CSA Fraternal Life:

Lodge Sokol Pilsen #434 Lodge Harrison/Hus/Garfield #378 Lodge Century of Progress/Bila Hora #231 Lodge Yankee-Jungmann #77 Lodge Friendship #66

Because of these lodges, the T. G. Masaryk Czech School has been able to continue providing Czech language and cultural classes for both children and adults. In the last five years, through the lodges’ assistance with volunteer hours and monetary donations, the school’s building has slowly been remodeled.

The building was built in 1921 and many repairs were needed both inside and out. With the lodges’ continued help, the school has been able to provide a safe environment for the students to conduct their studies. The school’s enrollment has increased to 70 children and 30 adult students.

The latest school project that was just completed was the installation of a Czech library. The students are now able to read and take out Czech books to help them with their studies.

To learn more, go to our website – https://czechschoolchicago.org – or view the school’s progress on Facebook. Thank you to all the above named lodges for their help in continuing Czech language and cultural studies. Andrew Bultas President T.G.Masaryk Czech School



District Council U-Pick-Em Bingo

Cultural Division of District Council No. 12, Northern Illinois, Wisconsin & Indiana – The Cultural Division held its annual Holiday Party at the Crystal Sky Banquets on Sunday, December 4. Despite the bad weather, only two members did not attend! First on the program was our delicious family-style lunch: chicken, ham, pasta, and tasty sides followed by sherbet and the famous kolach from Rose’s Catering. During dessert, Cultural Division President, Ed Slavik, played accordion and treated us to Christmas music. When dinner was over, we all joined in with a spirited sing-along of yuletide favorites. Our program continued with the honoring of Lodge Officers in attendance. Each officer was given a Certificate of Appreciation and a bottle of champagne. Twenty officers from various lodges were honored and applauded for their efforts. We thank them for their service! Next, we played U-Pick-Em bingo hosted by CSA Officer,

Matt Koski. This is a slightly different version of bingo in that players pick their own numbers and wait to see if they are called. Two games produced two winners who brought home beautiful poinsettia plants. The final event of the day was our annual raffle. This year the tables were filled with over 50 gifts including portable heaters, slow-cookers, pressure cookers, dishes, a toaster oven, candles, decorations, and many more. Guests were hard-pressed to choose which gift they liked best. Jerry Gaydusek and Ed Slavik kept things moving along and did an all-around excellent job. The Cultural Division of District Council No. 12 wishes all CSA brothers and sisters a safe, happy, and healthy 2017. Fraternally, Gerri Romanelli

We Need Your Help

In order to communicate more effectively with our lodges, Home Office management is requesting that each lodge provide at least one email address of an officer or active member. In this way, directives or urgent messages can be received by lodges in a timely manner in order to better inform their members on matters of importance or interest.


An email address can be sent via our Website homepage at csalife.com, see “Member Email Request” on the right side of the page, or emailed to: [email protected] or [email protected] or phoned in to the Fraternal Department at 1-800-543-3272. Your response is very much appreciated.

District Council May 2017 Be Rewarding District Council No. 12 of Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana- It’s hard to believe, but we are now in the first month of 2017. A few years ago, many of us thought the world was coming to an end, but somehow the computers weathered the big change and performed brilliantly as we entered into the 21st century! This is an interesting month; time to pack away the holiday trimmings, exchange Christmas gifts and clothes, shovel the snow, etc. We not only celebrate the New Year, we also have a whole bunch of birthdays to observe: • Elvis Presley 1/08/1935 • Benjamin Franklin 1/17/1706 • Martin Luther King, Jr. 1/15/1929 (observed on January 16 this year) • Franklin D. Roosevelt 1/30/1882 Another important day here in America is Inauguration Day (1/20/17), for our new President and Vice President. Let us hope and pray that our new political leaders get off to a good start and really work to make America great again.

Family Style at the Farm District Council No. 9, Southeastern Ohio – The officers and members celebrated the holiday season early in December at The Farm Restaurant with a delicious family style dinner. Special guests for the evening included Region C Director, Bro. Terry Placek and his lovely fiancée, Kathy, and former Director (Terry’s mom), Sis. Jean Placek. We enjoyed a lovely evening

Looking back a bit, the Fraternal Family Division held a nice party for CSA children. On November 27, the children enjoyed the Safari Land attractions, visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus, received a colorful picture from them, and had some delicious pizza and soft drinks. All in all it was a very enjoyable afternoon that was fun for both children and adults. The Cultural Division’s Christmas party was held on Sunday, December 4 at Crystal Sky Banquets in McCook, Illinois. The CSA members and guests who attended enjoyed good food, bingo games, holiday sing-alongs, and a gigantic raffle which featured over 50 prizes. Lodge Officers who attended (our honored guests) were awarded a nice citation and bottle of sparkling wine. Hopefully, everyone enjoyed the holidays (as well as the tasty foods and treats that come along with it) and may your 2017 be a rewarding year for our country, CSA family, and all of our loved ones. Fraternally yours, Ed Slavik

together socializing in the historic old farmhouse restaurant, which was beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Highlights of the evening included: hearing plans for Terry and Kathy’s upcoming wedding, updates about members’ children and grandchildren, Jim’s (Belanus) ideas about constructing a new house, and how our families were planning to celebrate the holidays. View the CSA Fraternal Life Facebook page


for more photos from our event! Sadly, our holiday excitement is now over. Hopefully the feelings of hope, joy, and peace remain with us all. We would like to wish our fellow CSA brothers and sisters a blessed new year! Sincerely, Wendy Lovell Vice-President, D.C. No. 9






Lodge Happenings Happy Anniversary Look for Us on Facebook

Photo (L – R): Joe and Jacqui Danek, Rick and Meri Nociti, and Rose and George Vytlacil November 9 Rick Nociti and Meri Danek Lodge Central Star No. 411

Rick and Meri (Danek) Nociti were married November 9, 1991 in Linden, Michigan with their reception at Grand Blanc Country Club. Rick is a graduate of the University of Miami and Meri graduated from Purdue University. They moved to Raleigh, North Carolina shortly after their marriage and currently reside in Cary, North Carolina. They have three children – Riley, who attends West Virginia University; Avery, who attends the University of Virginia; and

Czech Proverbs

Rocco, who is a freshman in high school. Meri is a former Miss National CSA and the daughter of Joe and Jacqui Danek. They are members of Lodge Central Star No. 411 in Owosso, Michigan. Rick and Meri were honored to have the residing President at that time, George and his lovely wife Rose Vytlacil, attend their wedding. Congratulations, Rick and Meri, on your 25 years together!

Lodge Brookfield No. 475, Brookfield, Illinois - Getting into a festive holiday spirit, a fair number of our members braved the frigid winter temperatures to attend our December meeting at Stevens Restaurant in Downers Grove. But before eating, we took time to elect officers for the upcoming year. We played some amusing games after dinner to relax and compete for small prizes. CSA President John Kielczewski came closest to guessing the correct number of pieces of candy in a decorated jar. John was also the lucky winner in our traditional musical hot potato game. Newly elected officers for 2017 are: President Barb Deig, Vice President Jerry Silhan, Treasurer Dolores Chiappetta, Secretary Sally Kelly, Guide Brian Smetana, Sentry Pat Pileggi, and Scribe Kimberly Silhan. An Installation of Officers ceremony will be conducted at our January meeting. We hope everyone enjoyed the holidays happily and safely and we’re looking forward to the exciting events in store for the new year. Lodge Brookfield meets at 5:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at the CSA Home Office in Lombard. Please remember to look for “Lodge Brookfield #475” on Facebook. Fraternally, Kimberly Silhan

Lež má krátké nohy, ale daleko nedoskočí A lie has short legs and cannot jump far Všude dobře, ale doma je nejlepší It is good everywhere, but home is best



Lodge Happenings “For She’s a Jolly Good Fellow”

Lodge DuPage Pioneers/Edison, No. 409, Lombard, Illinois – Twenty-two adults and three youth attended our annual Christmas Dinner at Sawa’s Old Warsaw Restaurant. We were happy to have DC No. 12 Director, Ken Dvorsky, and Fraternal Coordinator, Amanda Lovell, join us as well. Diners had their fill of the many offerings on the traditional Polish buffet. After dinner, a brief meeting was held. President Jerry Gaydusek welcomed lodge members and thanked them for coming out in sub-zero weather. He announced the Installation of Officers would be held at our January 16 meeting and dinner would be served. We welcomed back Helen Gaydusek with a rousing “For She’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” It was good to see her! Our raffle raised $120 for the lodge and we had fun choosing from an array of “treasures” on the gift table. Lodge DuPage Pioneers/Edison wishes all CSA Brothers and Sisters the best for the coming year; may it be happy and healthy. Fraternally Gerri Romanelli

Czech Proverb Není všechno zlato co se třpytí All that glitters is not gold


Lodge Happenings Town’s First Christmas Parade

Lodge Kruh Osvojenych Zen a Panu No. 121, Dillonvale, Ohio – We are excited to report that our small town of Dillonvale had its very first Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 3, 2016. Sis. Shelley Dulesky, son Joshua, and Bro. Brad Kurtz (all members of our lodge) rode in the parade. Shelley is the mayor of Dillonvale and an employee of the Bayer Corporation in Robinson Township, Pennsylvania. Brad is an employee of the Dillonvale-Mt. Pleasant Sewer District. Joshua is a junior at Buckeye Local High School. We were very proud to have some of our Lodge No. 121 members representing our town in the parade! Gary, Elijah, and I, along with other church members, helped serve refreshments in the Presbyterian Church Social Hall after the parade. Many of the participants in the parade, as well as parade watchers, supported our small fundraiser for the church fuel fund. Lodge No. 121 members, Roz Zifzal and her mom, Lynn Yanda, led the group in singing many familiar Christmas carols in the warmth of the church basement. These ladies – known as “Roz and Lynn” throughout Dillonvale and the surrounding areas – did a wonderful job! To everyone’s delight, there was already talk about another parade for next year. Who knows? Perhaps our lodge can encourage some of our members to march or ride on a float. Christmas kroje, anyone? We hope the new year finds all of you happy and healthy. It’s true what they say... the days are long, but the years are really short! Let’s spend our new year enjoying every day! Blessings, Sister Wendy Kurtz Lovell


Czech Radio

24 Hour Polka Place Elsie, Michigan 91.3 FM Live Stream: www.ovidelsie.org WOES FM

New Czech Voice of Cleveland Sundays 3:03 p.m. – 4:03 p.m. Simulcast: www.whkwradio.com (Click “Listen”) WHKW 1220 AM New Host: John Sabol Cedar Rapids Czech Radio Sunday Morning Polka Show - 9:05 a.m. – noon KMRY 1450 AM 93.1 FM Streaming audio at www.kmryradio.com Host: Dave (Kralik) Franklin Czech, German, American music by request.

The Polish Polka Program St. Louis, MO - Sundays 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. WEW 770 AM Polish and Czech Polka Favorites

The Polka Showcase with Rich Biela Wheeling, WV, Ohio Valley Area Czech, Polish & Slovenian Favorites Sundays 9:05 a.m. - 10 a.m. E.S.T. AM 1600 or AM 1370 Stream online: www.watchdognetwork.com Or listen live via the Tunein Radio App on your smart phone or tablet. JANUARY 2017 — CSA JOURNAL — 21


Scholarships are an important fraternal benefit!

Our CSA Scholarship Fund assists youths and adults not only with their education, but with their professional goals.

Scholarship Fund Report

November 10, 2016 through December 10, 2016

TO CONTINUE CSA’S TRADITION OF ASSISTING YOUNG MEMBERS IN PURSUING HIGHER EDUCATION John Stiber Lodge Mile-Hi Czechs, No. 432 Heather Koski on behalf of District Council, No. 10 Lodge Groveton, No. 4 Lodge St. Petersburg, No. 463

IN MEMORY OF JERRY FIEMA CSA Board of Directors Lodge Paramount/Southgate, No. 372

IN MEMORY OF DECEASED MEMBERS Lodge Paramount/Southgate, No. 372 Lodge Laurel, No. 452 Lodge R. T. Crane, Jr., No. 7


IN MEMORY OF DONNA KRAGENBRINK AND MATTHEW HOLUBIK Lodge Saginaw Valley, No. 214

IN MEMORY OF EDWARD JELINEK Karen Pecoraro

IN MEMORY OF MARTIN BUJAKY Lodge Groveton, No. 4

IN MEMORY OF IRENE KELLEY Lodge Groveton, No. 4 DONATION TOTAL

$1,045.00


Memorial Service for Departed Members

Lodge Happenings Annual Hot Dog Night Coming

Lodge Century of Progress/Bila Hora, No. 231, Cicero, Illinois – Elections were held at our November meeting at the T. G. Masaryk School. The following will be our officers for 2017: President Dolores Klejko, Vice President Nita Natkowski, Secretary Edward Slavik, Treasurer Roberta Kulik, and Guide Nita Natkowski. Tina and Edward Joe Klejko and their three-year-old son, Matthew, attended the Fraternal Family Division’s annual Family Holiday Party at Safari Land Amusement Park on November 27. Matthew had his picture taken with Santa and received some special goodies. During our November meeting, we celebrated our first memorial service for departed members. During this service, we had a table set up with a white cloth and a large lighted white candle. Also, we had a vase filled with carnations of various colors. Several members held smaller candles to represent all our members who passed away during the year. Each smaller candle was lit and the name of the departed was read. After this, a remembrance poem was read. Flowers were given to all present to remember all the members who have died throughout the years. This was a very moving experience. Our lodge celebrated its Christmas Party on December 14 at Bohemian Crystal Restaurant. We all enjoyed the good Bohemian food served there. Fraternally, Loretta Paulus

Lodge Yankee-Jungmann No. 77, North Riverside, Illinois - At our November meeting, we had two guests from Lodge Anton Cermak: Bill Strejc and Scott Kramer. They gave our Lodge four huge bags of pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. Thank you for saving these for us. Hopefully in 2017, we will hit the one million mark. We held election of officers as follows: President Mary Ellen Janda, Vice President Bill Hosna, Secretary Cynthia Bueneman, Treasurer Eunice Semple, and Sentry/Guide/Well Wisher Margaret Jasinski. We also voted on the following charities to help this year: T.G. Masaryk School, Bohemian National Cemetery, Friends of B.N.C., Czech Mission, Operation Support Our Troops, Beds Plus, and St. Barbara’s Pastoral Care. We are looking forward to a great 2017 with our Lodge. Upcoming events are a card-making night with Nancy Pohanka and our annual Hot Dog night with all the trimmings. A happy and healthy New Year to everyone. Fraternally, Mary Ellen Janda


Fraternal Well Wishes

Ellen Hixt Lodge Golden Gate No. 252 Bill and Elaine Medal Lodge Golden Gate No. 252

Lodge Happenings Many Brought to Tears

Lodge Golden Gate No. 252, San Jose, California – Recently our members journeyed to Walnut Creek to attend the annual Czech-Slovak Club Christmas luncheon. The event was catered by BJ’s of Concord and they served a wonderful Czech meal. For entertainment, Czech musician, Radim Zenk, played the mandolin, fujara, and flute. Professional singer, Liana Braunova Derner, later joined him. Liana has an excellent voice, and when she sang “Ava Maria,” it brought many to tears. St. Nicholas passed out presents to the children. While watching, I was startled as someone grabbed me from behind. Turning I could see it was the devil. Everyone at our table started wondering, “Had Walt been naughty or nice?” No lump of coal for me, just a friendly hug. It was co-hostess Barbara Soltys dressed up as the devil. The hug was her way of welcoming our group to the luncheon. At our December lodge meeting, we wrote Christmas cards for people at the Masonic Home and sorted recently collected used eyeglasses for our local Lions Club. I led a discussion of Czech Christmas traditions. For lunch, Pat Mastalir served a traditional Czech meal of pork roast, dumplings, sauerkraut, Czech beer, and apple strudel. Afterwards, we had a white elephant exchange. Just prior to lunch, we were joined by Jara Dusatko, president of San Francisco Sokol. She invited us to Sokol’s end-of-year Dinner Dance. Jara also gave us a special invitation to attend the San Jose Sharks’ hockey game on February 15. The San Jose Sharks will be hosting their first ever Czech Heritage Night. Two Czech hockey legends, Tomas Hertl of the Sharks, and Jaromir Jagr of the Florida Panthers, will be there. As of early December, Sokol already had a list of over 400 Czechs who had purchased tickets for the game. Both events should be fun! Our next lodge meeting, A

Writing Christmas cards for the Masonic Home.

Naughty or nice?

Celebration of Lodge Golden Gate’s 134th Anniversary, will be on March 3 in Sunnyvale. To find out more about our meetings or activities, please contact our secretary, Shelle, at (408) 528-9434 or email me at: [email protected]. Guests are always welcome. Fraternally, Walt Strach Right: Czech entertainers, Radim Zenk and Liana Derner, performed at the Czech-Slovak luncheon.



Bowling Congress Scheduled

Lodge Happenings Mr. & Mrs. Santa Give Gifts

Lodge Paramount/Southgate No. 372, Maple Heights, Ohio – The results of the Ohio/Penn bowling Tournament held October 22-23 in Cleveland, Ohio were received and our lodge members who participated did very well! They were Mary Ann Toncar, Jerry Besselman, Ron Johnson, John Weiss, and Bill Miller. Congratulations to all! The next tournament will be the annual CSA Bowling Congress scheduled for Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7 in Cleveland. More details will follow at a later date. Lodge officers for 2017 are: President Mary Ann Toncar, Vice President Annette Reichman, Recording Secretary Janet Dembowski, Treasurer Diane Di Bianca, and Guide John Weiss. The November 50/50 winners were Mary Ann Toncar and Annette Reichman. Wishing all of you a happy and healthy New Year! Fraternally, Fran Weiss

Czech Proverb

Lodge Prokop Velky No. 137, Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Lodge Prokop Velky entertained the holiday season with our annual Christmas Party on December 7 at St. Wenceslaus Church in Cedar Rapids with 44 members in attendance. Our President Vernon Rompot and his family members served appetizers and a delicious Christmas dinner that followed. Thanks to all who helped and to Carolyn Wilson, who shared her holiday decorations. We were honored to have our National Director Tom Ledvina and wife Loretta attend our party. Nice door prizes were won by several members. We collected over $200.00 in donations for our Veteran’s National Project. Christmas items were bought to the Veterans through their Linn County Veterans Affairs Pantry. Another holiday project was held on December 16 at the Hiawatha, Iowa Care Center for the 75 residents. Mr. and Mrs. Santa distributed gift bags with items that our members have made or bought for them. Music was provided for all to enjoy the holiday season. The Prokop Velky youth and their guests had their Christmas Party with a swim in the Bender Pool in Cedar Rapids on November 26. Nice gift bags were handed out to the 20 youth who attended. Thanks to Dorothy Ditch and Marj Nejdl for making this annual party a big success this year. Happy New Year! Get your new calendars out and mark the 2017 schedule Potluck, February 1, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. at Hus Presbyterian Church. May peace and joy be yours throughout the New Year. Fraternally, Barbara Edmunds

Right: Betty Konecny and Hermina Rigel enjoying the Christmas party.

Below: Dorothy Ditch welcoming the members to the lodge’s Christmas party.

Devět řemesel, desátá bída Nine occupations, tenth poverty

Proti gustu žádná dišputace No disputing other’s preferences

Na Nový Rok, o slepičí krok New Year’s Day is a chicken step (to morning light)


Lodge Happenings Balloon Festival

Lodge Mile-Hi Czechs, No. 432, Lakewood, Colorado - Our adult Christmas party was held in December. Again this year, Jake and Jan Jacobs hosted the event in their home. Jan does a wonderful job decorating their home for the holidays. Lodge member Mary Lou Bennington and a friend attended the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival held October 1 through October 9 this year. Take a look at the wonderful pictures that she took. The weather was just perfect for the opening of the festival. It was crisp before the sun came up that day, but later it warmed up with little wind and the sky was a beautiful deep blue without a cloud in sight. What a great day for Mary Lou and her friend. Albuquerque is located in the high altitude desert with ancient volcanic cones to the west and the Sandia Mountains to the east. This geography creates a special effect called the “box” when wind currents allow pilots to fly in a box-like pattern sometimes landing right back where they started. There were more than 500 balloons from all over the world. The day started early at about 4:00 a.m. with a quick breakfast, then catching the bus to the Fiesta Fair Grounds. The excitement began as attendees walked out onto the field in the darkness. They needed to watch their step, so they did-

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n’t trip over a rope, as they were everywhere. They heard and saw the firing of the burners pumping the hot air into the limp fabric balloons which were laying on the ground. The burners were like torches lighting up the darkness of the early morning. The mass ascension started after two test balloons carried the American flag up to test the winds. Balloons ascended in an orderly manner. Within an hour and a half, most of the 500 balloons were air born. They filled the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors and special shapes. Amazing! This story made me feel as if I were right there at the balloon festival with Mary Lou and her friend. I hope it made you feel the same way. Fraternally, Maryellen Hruska Vialpando


Lodge Happenings Happier Holidays for Those in Need

Lodge Woodrow Wilson No. 377, Lombard, Illinois - This year, our December toy drive was an all-time-high success! We collected almost $1000 worth of toys, games, and warm winter accessories for clients of People’s Resource Center. We couldn’t even fit everything into one photograph, so you see only a small sampling of the items here. Smiles and laughter were in abundance as we enjoyed surveying items that brought out the excitement of a childhood Christmas in all of us. The festive mood started with our holiday potluck feast and lasted through our celebration of a year filled with successful service, fraternalism, and friendship. Our members’ generosity surely will make for happier holidays for families in our community who are struggling, and we are very proud of that. We are also proud that our lodge’s efforts for the 2016 CSA National Project qualified for matching donations from the CSA Home Office at the maximum level, and we know that these funds will be put to good use by organizations that we supported through the year. We sent a belated, but heartfelt, wish for Dolores Faltynek, who reached a birthday milestone earlier in the year. She celebrated her 90th year in the company of family from Florida, Minnesota, and Illinois “locals.” Dolores’ famed travels have been curtailed for now, but she had recently taken a few steps on the Great Wall in China, cruised on the Amazon River, and visited family, Bob and Connie, in Washington, D.C. Upcoming lodge meetings include the men hosting in February (pizza party!); we also are hoping to schedule a spring luncheon, so stay tuned for updates. With wishes for a joyous new year, Jean Hemzáček Laukant [email protected] - 630-279-7894

Member smiles reflect the success of our toy drive! 28 — www.csalife.com - JANUARY 2017

Dolores celebrates 90!

Lodge Happenings A Visit from Santa Lodge Washington No. 30, St. Louis, Missouri - What a lovely Christmas Party the Lodge had! The dining room at the ACEC was set with beautiful poinsettia plants, and the whole room was decorated in the holiday spirit. Members enjoyed a delicious dinner provided by the Lodge, along with a wide selection of desserts provided by all who attended. Special guests included CSA President John Kielczewski, who gave greetings from the Home Office and an update on the Society’s progress in the past year; Director Connie Wolf and her husband, Mike; and our new sales agent, Ron Winker, who reminded everyone of the great selection of products CSA offers and how much he is looking forward to getting to know all of us better. There were even a couple of new member prospects we steered him to! We were also very pleased to have three volunteers from the Assistance League of St. Louis join us. The AL was our choice for the 2016 National Project, and we asked members to bring in personal care items for use with Project Rose, which provides them for women in shelters in the area. Wow, were all of you generous – the table was full of shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, combs, and brushes! Our volunteer work, donations, the matching funds

from the Home Office, and one-half of our 50-50 raffle brought a financial contribution of $150, and the ladies were very grateful for our help. We also elected officers for 2017, and all our current officers agreed to take their positions for another year. President Jenny Zeman, Vice President Deborah Zeman, Secretary Gail Petelik, Treasurer Mildred Zeman, and Guide and Sentry Karen Ditz will be installed at the District Council Installation of Officers on Friday, February 3, at the Center. And what kind of party would it be without a visit from Santa? Youth members received a gift from the Lodge and a few of them gave Santa their wish lists, and all posed for the traditional group picture around the tree. How some of the kids have grown! We had our gift exchange, candy jar guessing game, and several rounds of bingo as well. Many thanks to those who helped


make it a very enjoyable afternoon. The Czech Fall Festival held at our ACEC in November was another big success, and as always, Lodge Washington members were among those who put in a lot of hard work before and during the event. You could look almost anywhere – in the serving line, behind the booths, tending bar – and you would likely see a CSA member. This, plus the Spring Festival, are the two major fundraisers for the Center, and if you’d like to learn more about all the activities there, visit the Facebook page – American-Czech Educational Center – to find details. Here’s wishing all our Lodge members and all of you a joyous, prosperous, and very healthy New Year! Til next time – Fraternally, Mildred Zeman


Lodge Happenings Election of Officers

Lodge Sokol Plzen No. 434, Oak Brook, Illinois - Our Lodge meeting was held on November 27 at the Papuga home in Oak Brook. Elections were held and the results are as follows: Andrew Bultas, President; Diane Forsyth, Vice President; Candy Papuga, Recording Secretary; Steve Papuga, Treasurer; Charanne Papuga, Guide; Justin Papuga, Sentry; and Matthew Bultas, Guide. After the election, a Memorial was held. The members voted to continue to support T.G. Masaryk Czech School, Bohemian National Cemetery, and the Annual Mistletoe Medley, which helps The Infant Welfare Society of Chicago. The lodge acknowledged Nicole Jaros who represented the lodge in the Miss CSA Contest. Nicole and her entire family - her mother, father, brother, and sister - all attended the Get-Together in Memphis along with Candy and Stan Papuga. The meeting adjourned, and Candy Papuga served refreshments. Matthew Bultas

Wedding Bells are Ringing, Ringing, Ringing! Lodge Benjamin Franklin No. 02, Seven Hills, Ohio - Our members convened for November’s quorum under the bright glow of the supermoon. It did not seem to have any unwanted effects as all were in a jovial mood and anxious to begin this election of officers meeting. Even Mike Cernosky made a stellar, on time appearance. Dave Kus was already well into his standup comedy routine upon my arrival. Dave’s close proximity to the meeting location most likely contributed to that, having moved from his bachelor pad in Euclid, Ohio to a new stately manor in Seven Hills! Lodge Franklin approved a generous contribution to the Parma Heights Food Pantry as our National Project recipient for 2016. Treasurer Ken Burdzinski was to present the check to pantry director, Ann George. Hopefully, it made some families’ holiday a bit better! The moment of anxiousness was now at hand: elections! Franklin officers were ecstatic there were no challengers to their positions. With the exception of Sentry, which was eagerly accepted by Bill Daglow, we shall stay the course. Scott Krecow returns as President and I as Vice-President and Scribe. Vicki Zidlicky, with Mike Cernosky as shadow and understudy, will handle secretarial duties. Ken Burdzinski will be in charge of the finances and Dave Kus will continue as our Guide. Our lodge Keglers were a formidable force in the first third of the season, having finished in second place in the Parma Builders League at the Seven Hills house of thrills. The Good Guys hold the league high single game with an 1141 and league high scratch series at 3145. Lane conditions must be conducive to the high scoring of Scott and Dan Krecow, Bill Daglow, Ryan Malkus and “McHale” Cernosky.


Leadoff man, Ken Burdzinski, fired a lifetime high 613 series. Picking up a spot on the roster with one of the competing teams is Dave Kus, who fired a career high 268 game. Please don’t bowl like that against the lodge, Dave. Zidlicky brothers combine for the hat trick! Jimmy Zidlicky has announced his engagement to Nicole Romito of Parma, Ohio. A spring 2018 ceremony is in the works. Jim is the son of Vicki and Jim Zidlicky. While vacationing in Hilton Head, Corey Zidlicky popped the question to Jen Krause of Strongsville, Ohio. Fall 2017 nuptials are currently being planned. Candice Zidlicky and Ryan Wallace, hailing from Lorain, Ohio, will exchange vows in August of this year. Planning is currently in high gear. Corey and Candice are the children of Nancy and Jeff Zidlicky. Congratulations to these young and active members! Lodge Franklin extends to all of our members and friends, a healthy and prosperous new year! Fraternal Regards, Jeff Zidlicky [email protected]

Czech Proverb

Dvakrát méř, a jednou řěz Measure twice, and cut once

Lodge Happenings

Ready to Work on Recognition Awards

Lodge R.T. Crane No. 7, North Riverside, Illinois - Happy New Year! We hope your holidays were filled with lots of friends, family, smiles, and laughter. As 2017 begins, we reflect on a great end to 2016. A few of our members kicked off the holiday season at the Fraternal Family Division children’s

Christmas party held at Safari Land. Members Vera and Adam Wilt got the chance to meet with Mrs. Claus (who is also a member of Lodge Crane) and the big guy himself, Santa Claus. Many of our members enjoyed catching up at our annual Christmas party held at Czech Plaza restaurant. We played Christmas

Bingo, read a funny Christmas story, and played the highly anticipated ‘dollar game.’ We were so happy to see our longtime (and now honorary) member Riva Lola at the party. She recently celebrated her 101st birthday! Many of our members agree that this Christmas party is the highlight of the year! Now that the New Year has started, we are ready to get working towards another Lodge Recognition Award. In November, we re-elected the same slate of lodge officers for another year so everyone is ready to keep working hard in their positions. If any members are interested in coming to a meeting, we meet the fourth Wednesday of every month at the North Riverside Library at 6 p.m. for a potluck dinner. We love to share some of our favorite dishes with each other and then have a quick meeting with full stomachs and smiling faces. We wish everyone good health and happiness in the New Year! Fraternally, Alix Wilt

Lodges of the Chicagoland area attended, and their officers were honored with certificates and champagne. Christmas music was provided by Ed Slavik on his accordion and we all sang along. Thanks to Caroline Johnston for doing such a great job coordinating the luncheon. Jerry Gaydusek and Ed

Slavik were emcees for the raffle; over 50 gifts adorned the table. My grandson, James, won a few prizes as did my son, Richard. Lodge Sionilli members Millie Pultorak and Gen Misek won prizes, too! However, it was not my day, so I just sat and ate delicious cookies that someone passed around while I enjoyed my coffee and sherbet. When it was time to leave, we were greeted by a blowing snow storm, the first of the season. We hope you had a great holiday and a healthy New Year 2017. See you next year! Fraternally, LaVerne Weissensel

Lovely Christmas Luncheon

Lodge Sionilli No. 170, Brookfield, Illinois – We had a lovely time at the Christmas Luncheon on December 4 at the Crystal Sky Banquets. The food was great, the Bingo game and raffle prizes were fabulous, and everyone enjoyed the gifts given by District Council No. 12’s Cultural Division.

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Claim 51956 51949 51965 51967 51972 51941 51952 51953 51940 51968 51962 51957 51963 51954 51969 51939 51951 51959 51971 51943 51960 51942 51950 51944 51961

Name Angeline S. Zelenko Donald Kanak Alison C. Rice Marie A. Kutilek Bernard J. Klimas Irma C. Bowes Karel Choteborsky Lois I. Malozi Matthew J. Holubik Gladys Sandera Mildred N. Knowles Emma P. Kapostasy Lillian S. Miller Ronald E. Charniak Marie A. Parazaider Velma S. Weil Patty D. Stallings Elsie M. Schriefer Eero Ruuspakka Marie L. Vlasak Wanda H. Goodrow Sheila Burr Stacy H. Solomon Bernadette Breen Samuel H. Renninger

In Memoriam

Lodge 4 7 66 66 77 211 211 211 214 214 219 231 231 378 378 411 419 428 448 450 450 481 481 484 484

Place of Death PITTSBURGH, PA OAK BROOK, IL CLARNDN HLS, IL WILDOMAR, CA NORTH RIVERSIDE, IL HAYDEN, ID CLIFTON, NJ BEL AIR, MD FREELAND, MI STEVENSVILLE, MI CLEVELAND, OH PAINESVILLE, OH OMAHA, NE RIVERSIDE, IL YORKVILLE, IL STANWOOD, MI EVANSVILLE, IN BALTIMORE, MD NEWFIELD, NY VESTAL, NY HOLLAND PATENT, NY NEPTUNE CITY, NJ IRVINGTON, NJ PHILADELPHIA, PA SAYRE, PA

Date 10/25/2016 10/07/2016 11/25/2016 07/27/2016 11/23/2016 04/07/2015 06/02/2016 08/12/2016 10/13/2016 10/06/2016 10/27/2016 10/13/2016 10/16/2016 11/06/2016 09/26/2016 09/25/2016 10/06/2016 09/30/2016 11/25/2016 07/29/2016 11/10/2016 11/05/2016 09/28/2016 10/26/2016 11/1/72016

Age 102 85 59 85 83 78 69 72 47 90 85 88 89 76 93 91 71 91 93 82 87 72 71 67 78

In Memoriam

Lodge Paramount/Southgate No. 372 members were all saddened to hear about the passing of our past District Council No. 10 Director, Jerry Fiema. Jerry was a great director and a friend to all of us. He will be greatly missed. Our sympathies to the Fiema Family. May he rest in peace. Lodge Cleveland Chapter No. 219 received some very sad news at their meeting. Judy Genco’s and Karen Buzek’s cousin, Diane Hampton (daughter of Helen Martanovic) passed away the night before the meeting. May God rest her soul. She will be missed greatly. It is proper that we memorialize Charles Kropik, one of Lodge Sokol Plzen No. 434’s founders. Charles grew up in Chicago’s Plzen neighborhood. The area, at the time, was almost 100 percent Bohemian. Czech was spoken throughout the area. Charles was a good student and athletic. He played basketball for Harrison High School and for

the CYO. CYO for the Plzen area was sponsored by Father Walsh of Sacred Heart Church at 19th and Peoria, in Chicago. The team was very successful. It played in the CYO National Championship games in New York City, where they won their weight class Championship. This was a great accomplishment for them coming out of the Bohemian ghetto in Chicago. It is even rumored that they beat the Harlem Globe Trotters. It has been a privilege to give this memorial for Charles. He is a credit to our lodge and CSA he rose above a lot of adversities and became successful. Thank you, Chuck, for everything. I personally can attest to Charles’ basketball success as my father Andrew Bultas and my uncle Frank Sudlik were his team mates. Matthew Bultas Josephine J. (Hartl) Rozinek, 97 years old, of rural Ely, Iowa passed away November 30, 2016. Josephine and


Louis Rozinek raised four children and farmed over 66 years. Josephine was a long time member of Lodge Prokop Velky No. 137 along with her daughter, Patsy Howell (deceased) and two sisters and a brother. Lodge Prokop Velky sends sympathy to Josephine’s family and we will all miss her. (Pictured above.)

Lodge Happenings Successful Pin Party

Lodge Cleveland Chapter No. 219, Cleveland, Ohio - The cold and snowy weather has finally hit the Cleveland area. The east side of Cleveland is getting the brunt of the snow, off of Lake Erie. We’re hoping the lake freezes over, which will decrease the amount of snow we get. Our December meeting was a lot of fun! There were about 16 members who attended. Everyone brought some yummy food for our potluck and five members entered the cookie contest. Freddie Shima won first place, Joan Saap won second place, and Judy Genco won third place! Way to go, ladies! We had a rousing few games of Bingo after we ate. A lot of good laughs were shared by all. Our Vice President, Kathy Gawrilow, was able to attend our meeting/party. Our 50/50 raffle was won by Camille Shima and Tony Genco. The next District Council meeting will be on April 6 at the Garfield Heights Library. Tony and Judy Genco will also be attending those meetings. Betty Svaty will install the new officers next month. Our Pin Party was held on December 11. It was held at St. Michael’s Party Center. What a great time we had. There was a singer who sang during our meal. He had the most beautiful voice. Then we had a wonderful polka band that played and members danced. There were side boards and prizes. The food was wonderful and there was even extra baked goods provided by MaryAnn Toncar. Try to attend next year! Our own Mary Svoboda received her 75-year pin. We hope the year 2017 will be a happy and stress-free year for all of us. Happy New Year everyone! Fraternally yours, Judy Genco



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SKELETON SKIING SKI JUMPING SLEDDING SNOWBOARDING SNOWMOBILING SPEED SKATING

Czech to English

Leden…………………………………………..January (le-den) Granáty…………………………………………..Garnet (gr-ná-ty) Prsten………………………….....……………..ring (pr-sten) Náhrdelník……………………………….necklace (ná-hr-del-ník) Zima………………………………………………..cold (zi-ma) Klužiště………………………………………ice rink (klu-žiš-tě) Bruslit………………………………………………skate (brus-lit) Zařídit…………………………………………organize (za-ří-dit) Čistit………………………………………………..clean (čis-tit) kožich…………………………………………….fur coat (kož-ich)

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