33 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2020.11.23
by SPJST
SPJST Lodge Section
SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to: Questions? Call 800-727-7578 / / / Lodge 4, Hallettsville cancels Christmas party
Dear Members,
At the November 8, 2020, meeting of Lodge 4, Hallettsville, members voted to cancel the Christmas party which was scheduled for December 13 due to COVID-19.
We look forward to hosting the Christmas party next year. Stay safe and well! Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
The December meeting and Christmas party for members of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood have been canceled.
We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Next Meeting - January 3, 2021
The next meeting will be Sunday, January 3, 2021 with installation of officers at 2 p.m. Fraternally, Peggy Dobecka Treasurer/Youth Leader —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood elects 2021 officers
President Milton called the meeting of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood to order on Sunday, November 8, 2020 at 2 p.m. I was unable to make the meeting.
Christmas Meeting, Program Canceled
We will not be having our Christmas meeting and program this year.
We elected officers for 2021. All positions are the same except Fraternal Activities Coordinator Sister Evelyn Stuckly. Jeanette Beseda will take her place.
Please keep Sister Barbara Hykel in your prayers. She fell and fractured her back.
Stay safe and have a merry Christmas and happy new year.
Next Meeting—January 3
The next meeting will be on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at 2 p.m. Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
The November meeting and Christmas party for members of Lodge 8, Weimar has been canceled.
We wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a healthy and happy 2021.
May God bless everybody.
Carolyn M. Tobola
Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook to begin virtual meetings in January
The Wednesday, November 4, 2020, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7 p.m. Laura Sebesta led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for Helen Hildebrand. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the October meeting were approved. Hall manager, treasurer, state, and fraternal reports were presented.
Youth Club Christmas Gathering— December 13
At the youth club, it was decided to have a Christmas gathering with pictures with Santa on Sunday, December 13 from 3 to 4 p.m. at the hall.
We passed motions to run additional football ads if requested and allow Snook 4-H to hold their meetings at the hall over the next few months.
We elected officers. The motion was passed for all officers to remain the same. Beginning Wednesday, January 6, 2021, our monthly meetings will be offered as Zoom meetings. A link will be provided in December.
November birthday celebrants include Sheila Orsak on the 7th and Donnie Hejl on the 27th.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Next Meeting—December 2
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 2 at 6 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin to elect officers at January meeting
Dear Members,
Lodge 18, Elgin will meet and elect its 2021 officers on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. Please make plans to attend the meeting.
We wish all members a healthy, safe Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Fraternally, FL Meyer, Trustee —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia cancels Christmas social
SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia has canceled its annual meeting and Christmas social that was to be held on December 6, 2020. This is due to the increase of COVID-19 cases.
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville officers and committee members are, front, left to right, Secretary/Treasurer Helen Zabransky and President Joe Siptak. BACK: Reporter/ Refreshment Committee Chair Patsy Zabransky, Resolution of Sympathy Chair Gaynell Chudej, and Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik. Not pictured is Resolution of Sympathy Committee member Vicky Zak.
We wish all of our members a merry Christmas and happy new year. We hope to see everyone in 2021. Fraternally, Officers of Lodge 23, Moravia —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts successful barbecue fundraiser
Lodge 24, Cyclone met at Flag Hall on Monday, November 10, 2020, amid fields being planted with wheat. The meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by President Daniel Wilde. A moment of silent prayer was observed for our deceased members, members of the armed forces, and the political problems.
We discussed our fundraiser and the success we had. We were indebted to the cooks at the pit—Roy Malcik, Derek Campbell, Steve Bruggman, Carl Macek, Bill Smetanka, Robert Brenek, Keith Andel, Adam Bruggman, Chris and Covan Vrana, Brett Marek, Daniel Wilde, Kenneth Andel, and Jason Hoelscher cooked the beans. This group started at 4 a.m. Cathy Bruggman and her crew worked with the noodles, and Kim Campbell headed the coleslaw group. There were two lines preparing the plates including many of the same people like Alice Hoelscher. Jennifer Hoelscher and other members carried out the sacked plates. The operation was taroks on February 6; straight dominoes with 75 percent occupancy. Linda Wilde Lodge 4, Hallettsville recognizes All trustees were reelected for next year.Veteran alton chudej Jacob Maddux will be 27 on the 27th. Linda Smetanka’s birthday was on NoSPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville, met Sunday, November 8, 2020. As vember 4, and Jason Hoelscher’s birthday is on the 26th. Abbie Hoelscher will part of Fraternal Activ- celebrate her special day on November ities Coordinator 27. John And Lisa Hoelscher’s wedding Annie Vahalik’s re- anniversary is November 24. port, Alton Chudej, We voted to give to the 100 Pennies left, was recognized Scholarship Fund Drive in memory of for his military service our deceased members this year. We willto our country. Shown give District Two Director Jesse Pospiin the picture with him sil’s discretionary fund donation to Ronis State Fraternal Director, Frank Horak, who gave an update ald McDonald House. On the sick list is Justin Everett. on SPJST’s upcoming The lodge appreciates the longtime events and discussed service of Margaret Schneider Mikeska plans for Lodge 4 to and husband Wilbert and all they have once again have a given to the lodge. Thank you both. youth club. For the lodge, smooth as silk. The lodge appreciates the Repairs needed to be done. A person —SPJST— customers who bought the plates. doing this will be contacted. The Robert
There were no minutes. Linda gave Macek family have given up the hall the treasurer’s report. Thank you letters cleaning. It will be put out to the public were received from Cade Campbell and for bids. Contact Hall Manager Brenda Nash Campbell for their scholarships. Maddux for information. We will get rid State tournaments to be held at the Home of the trees. Office are Progressive 42 on January 9; Officers elected for 2021 are: on March 6; and regular 42 dominoes on April 3. We are going forward with a New Year’s Eve dance with Jerry Haisler. President Daniel Wilde Vice President/FAC Shirley Hoelscher Secretary Brenda Maddux Treasurer Linda WildeMollie B is scheduled for February 13 Reporter Bobby Hoelscher Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter is heading this. A dance with Red Ravens is also being discussed. Steve Bruggman is to cut the grass. O O O Presenting 2021 Officers SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton O O O
Lodge 32, Victoria Supports Salvation Army
Lodge 32, Victoria President Mark Lester presents a $500 check to Captain Kenny Jones with Salvation Army. Captain Jones was very appreciative of the gift saying it is much needed at this time of the year. —Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton officers are, second from left to right, President Yvonne Marcaurele, Vice President Megan Riha, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Patsy Baker, Treasurer/Youth Leader Lisa Bubela, and Assistant Youth Leader Kirby Lange. Not pictured is Secretary Marjorie Treumer. The officers were installed by District Six Director Annie Vahalik, pictured far left, at the lodge meeting on Sunday, November 1.
Lodge 47, Seaton Members Participate in Veterans Day Service
Lodge 47, Seaton member Sabrina Young presented a Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, at 11 a.m. to honor all Veterans in attendance and the Veterans who are buried at Seaton Cemetery.
Sabrina, who is also a Veteran, serves
Lodge 25, Ennis taking orders for apple strudels
Dear Members and Friends,
Lodge 25, Ennis is now taking orders for its annual SPJST Lodge 25 Apple Strudel Bake Sale. You can place your order by calling Margaret at 972-8786149; sending an email to spjstennis@yahoo.com; or by sending a message to the SPJST Lodge 25 Facebook page.
Strudels are $17 each. Please be ready to answer all questions when placing an order:
1. Do you want to pick up the strudel(s) on November 25 (8 a.m. to 12 noon) or December 23 (12 noon to 5 p.m.)? 2. How many strudels? 3. Do you want your strudel baked or unbaked? 4. Customize - Do you want traditional with everything, or do you want to request “no coconut,” “no raisins,” or “no pecans”?
If you cannot pick up on November 25 or December 23, and you would like to pick up your frozen strudel, we will try our best to arrange a pick up time for you.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Fraternally,
Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST— as the service officer at VFW Post 1820, Temple. She is also the owner of Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple.
The program included several prayers and facts about Veterans Day. 2020-2021 SPJST District Two Queen Kayla Young Lodge Karel Jonas, No. 28, East Bernard Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 13
Dear Readers,
Lodge Karel Jonas, No. 28, East Bernard will meet at 12 noon on Sunday, December 13, 2020, for its quarterly meeting at a location to be determined. Please call Secretary/Reporter Helen Kelner 832-490-0664 for the location.
We will present 50-year and 75-year membership pins and enjoy a meal, social and Christmas party. Officers will read the presidential proclamation. Buddy poppies were presented to each Veteran in recognition of their service. Veterans who are buried at Seaton Cemetery were honored with flags at their grave and bell ringing. All family members in attendance were also recog-
also be elected, and annual donations will be selected. Fraternally, Helen Kelner Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Letter of appreciation to Lodge 35, Elk
The Hallsburg Volunteer Fire Department and Fred Kubitza Jr., member of Hallsburg VFD and SPJST Lodge 35, Elk Vice President, wish to thank SPJST nized with buddy poppies for their support.
“We look forward to hosting the ceremony again on November 11, 2021, at 11 a.m.,” Mrs. Young said. —SPJST—
Lodge 35 for providing its facility for the use of the McLennan County Volunteer Fire Departments monthly meeting and meal on Thursday, October 22, 2020.
This facility was large enough to follow COVID-19 rules of social distancing which were observed by all members in attendance. We would also like to thank Brandon Kubitza with Thrivent who donated the delicious Rudy’s Barbecue meal for all McLennan County Volunteer Fire Department members in attendance. Proper food guidelines were followed.
The EOL Water Supply Corporation would also like to thank SPJST Lodge 35, Elk for the use of the hall for its monthly board meetings during the
McLennan County VFDs meet at Lodge 35, Elk Hall
Lodge 35, Elk Hall was the site of McLennan County Volunteer Fire Departments’ monthly meeting hall was large enough to follow COVID-19 guidelines of social distancing which were observed by all members in attendance. —Submitted by Janie Brewer, Reporter
District Six Director delivers special Halloween treats to Lodge 30, Taiton
COVID-19 pandemic providing social distancing for all board members in attendance. It is with heartfelt thanks to SPJST Lodge 35 for looking out for our community during this time. Thank you, Fred E. Kubitza, Jr. Lodge 35, Elk Vice President Member of Hallsburg VFD Board Member of EOL Water Supply Corp. —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 13
Dear Vestnik Readers,
Lodge 47, Seaton will have its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at Seaton Star Hall for all members, beginning at 3 p.m. with a memorial service remembering members who have passed away in 2020. A youth program and a ceremony honoring the lodge’s 50- and 75-year members will follow. An invitation will be mailed out to the families of deceased members and to the 50- and 75-year members. A potluck dinner, introduction of officers, and door prizes will complete the afternoon. Members are asked to bring a dish and/or dessert for the meal. We look forward to seeing all members.
District Six Director Annie Vahalik delivered Halloween cookies to members at Lodge 30, Taiton. LEFT PHOTO: Brett and Brooke Bacak choose a Halloween cookie from Director Vahalik’s box. CENTER PHOTO: Choosing their special Halloween cookies from Director Vahalik’s box are, from left, Vanessa, Hudson, Simone, and Megan Riha. RIGHT PHOTO: District Six Director Annie Vahalik, second from right, and husband Philip, right, are pictured with Youth Leader Lisa Bubela, left, Assistant Youth Leader Kirby Lange, and children Grady, in front, and Grant.
Next Meeting—December 6 If you have a favorite game you’d like
The next lodge meeting will be held to play, please bring it! at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 6 at Star Please RSVP by November 27 by calHall. ling Sylvia at 325-442-3141 or Laura at New Year’s Eve Dance Happy Holidays from Lodge 49,
Please make plans to attend Star Rowena! Hall’s New Year’s Eve Dance with music Fraternally, by Billy Holt. Tickets are $25 per couple, Laura Pospichal, President $15 for singles, and free of charge for —SPJST— kids ages 12 and under.
May you each have a blessed Thanksgiving surrounded by family and friends! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Lodge 54, West cancels Secretary/Reporter Christmas party—SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 6
SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena will host a Christmas party on Sunday, December 6, 2020, beginning at 4 p.m. at the lodge hall, 706 FM 2133 in Rowena.
Please bring your favorite snack/finger food. Spirits/beverages will be served. Games will be available for all ages. Make plans to bring your family. Come and enjoy food, fun, and fellowship.
We are asking each person to bring kitchen/cleaning supplies to be used for our lodge hall. Dish towels/rags, paper towels, dish soap, etc. will be appreciated. 325-365-6485.
SPJST Lodge 54, West held its quarterly meeting on Friday, November 6, 2020. After due consideration between the officers and members present at the meeting, it was decided to cancel our December 6 Christmas party this year due to COVID-19. We normally have a large attendance at our Christmas party, and it would be very difficult to adhere to the social distancing guidelines along with the wearing of masks and other safety guidelines. We do not want to put our members at risk of catching and spreading this terrible virus. We will be planning for our Christmas party in 2021 to make up for the loss this year.
We wish everyone a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy new year. We want everyone to stay safe, and God bless. Fraternally, Freddie Kaluza, President —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland sets Dec. 1 annual meeting
SPJST Lodge 80, Holland will meet Tuesday, December 1, 2020, at 6 p.m. at the lodge hall for the annual meeting. Financial statements, correspondence, and other updates will be discussed. It was voted unanimously at the last meeting that all officers and board members would continue to serve in the same capacity for 2021.
This will be a “holiday” meeting so members are asked to bring a canned food item, especially meat, and a variety of cereal for the food pantry at Holland First Baptist Church. Light refreshments will be served, and special door prizes will be awarded to lucky members.
We are still observing COVID-19 protocol so we ask members to wear masks. Hand sanitizer will be available. We hope you can join us for safe distance socializing after the meeting. Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Editor’s Note: The following article was requested by Honorary District Seven Director Thelma Hrncir to be reprinted. Sister Hrncir is a member of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi. She served as Supreme Lodge District Seven Director from 1984 to 1992.
Remembering a friend and Pearl Harbor
I was 10 years old the day Pearl Harbor was bombed. All four of my brothers served in World War II, and all survived . . . a real miracle.
~ Honorary District Seven Director Thelma Hrncir
v v v v v
Dear Brother Brian,
In looking through some clippings, I found this one about Emil Matula, Vestnik issue, December 7, 2016. He was a personal friend of mine and helped me get elected as District Seven Director.
Maybe you would like to put it on file and run it again in December 2020. Thank you, Thelma Hrncir —SPJST— 75 Years Ago, Remembering Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941 By Greg Bowen
New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung December 6, 2012
Photos by Laura McKenzie
Editor’s Note: This story by Greg Bowen appeared in the December 6, 2012, issue of the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Pearl Harbor survivor and World War II veteran Emil Matula joined SPJST on December 12, 1946, and was a 67-year member of SPJST Lodge 133, San Antonio when he passed away on December 27, 2013. Brother Matula served on the SPJST Publication Committee from 1976 to 1988. His wife Evelyn passed away on November 21, 2016.
Emil Matula was there, 75 years ago today, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.
The 94-year-old remembers firing a pistol up at the Zeros as the enemy fighter planes strafed his barracks on the infamous morning of December 7, 1941.
“I have no idea if I hit one,” he said. “They were too fast.”
Matula was a 23-year-old United States Army sergeant stationed at Schofield Barracks, one of the Pearl Harbor airfields targeted in the Japanese surprise attack.
Matula and his buddies on the 35th infantry football team had played for the base championship the day before the attack, and had stayed out late celebrating, even though they lost the game.
The Granger farm boy with a sixth grade education was sleeping that Sunday morning when the first wave of attackers rained down their torpedoes and bombs and bullets.
Matula, remembering, holds out his hand and makes a side-to-side rocking motion. “My bunk was doing like this,” he said.
He ran outside in his skivvies and watched the attackers come. “The planes flew right between the barracks and shot at us. They flew in so low I could see the Japanese pilots squeezing their triggers.”
The unarmed GIs stampeded to the supply room for their rifles and ammo, Matula said, but the supply room was locked, and the supply sergeant was off duty for the weekend.
Matula, a buck sergeant, was the ranking man.
“I gave the order to chop off the lock,” he said.
The men grabbed fire axes and broke into the supply room and claimed their weapons and ammo.
“I was worried,” he said. “In peacetime, you get court-martialed for doing that.”
But peacetime had ended for Matula and his fellow American fighting men. When the second and final wave of Zeros attacked, the soldiers were ready.
“We had machine gunners on the roof,” Matula said. “Some of the men had rifles. I had a pistol. This time, we fired back when they strafed us.”
Matula remembers an officer giving an order to ready Schofield’s airplanes for battle. “But all the planes were burning,” he said.
After Pearl Harbor
Less than a month later, Matula and the 35th were deployed to Guadalcanal, where Allied Forces were waging their first major offensive against the Empire of Japan.
On the way, Matula said he heard Tokyo Rose on the radio, delivering a warning to the Army infantry, which was relieving the U.S. Marines who had made the first incursion onto the Japanese-held island.
“She said, ‘We killed all the Marines, now we’re going to kill you, too.’”
Matula and his pals fought their way across Guadalcanal, the Philippines, and beyond.
“We went all the way to Tokyo,” he said.
Along the way, Matula was wounded five times and won five Purple Hearts. Once, a land mine triggered by a tank he was walking beside tossed him through the air and peppered his feet with shrapnel.
At Luzon, Matula took a sniper’s bullet through the face.
“The sniper shot out three of my teeth,” Matula said.
Each time he was hurt, the Army doctors patched him up and sent him back into action.
After one particularly bloody fight, Matula was given a “battlefield commission,” in which he was promoted from first sergeant to lieutenant.
Asked if it was a promotion for bravery, he responded that it was more a case of all of the unit’s officers and senior enlisted men having been “lost.” So the Army put Matula in charge and sent his unit back into the fray.
He remembers seeing a Bob Hope USO show on Guadalcanal featuring Hollywood film star Alice Faye and Sally Rand, the famous fan dancer from Houston.
Just days before the Japanese surrender, the Army sent Matula back home.
After 11 years in the Army, he married his wife Evelyn, raised seven kids, and had a career working as a salesman for Dr. Pepper and Jewel Tea in San Antonio.
“I was lucky,” he said, recalling his close encounters at Pearl Harbor and on the road to Tokyo. —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on November meeting
The November 2020 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 15th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed pizza provided by the lodge. Desserts were provided by members. I would like to thank Emma Kujawa and her kitchen committee for getting everything ready for us.
President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1:15 p.m. and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call except Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha and Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her report, and after a minor correction, it was approved as read. Willie Mae Kuykendall also read Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha’s report, and it was approved as read. Since Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho was not present, we will hear his November report at the December meeting.
Since we didn’t have any old business, we went straight to new business. Under new business, Jeanette Newman read a report from Bradley Stavinoha stating that the Home Office would like an activity calendar from our lodge. Each month was read with the present activities.
Under other business, the youth will make up stockings for the members. It was also decided to have door prizes at the Christmas meeting. Jeanette Newman will check with the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Home representatives to see if they will accept canned peaches that we usually donate every December.
Next Meeting—December 20
For the next meeting on Sunday, December 20, it was decided to have honeybaked ham, potato salad, black-eyed peas, and green beans provided by the lodge. Members are asked to please bring a dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Faith Clay of Lodge 80, Holland crowned NWHS Homecoming Queen
Faith Clay, a member of Lodge 80, Holland, was crowned North Webster High School Homecoming Queen on Friday, November 6, 2020, in Springhill, Louisiana, where she is a senior. Faith is the daughter of Michelle and Scott Taylor of Shongaloo, Louisiana, and Don Clay of Marlin, Texas. She is the granddaughter of Monica and Jim McDougall of Temple, Texas, and the late David Ivicic of Caldwell, Texas. She is the greatgranddaughter of Mrs. Helen Pajestka and the late Frank Pajestka, Sr. and the late Rudy and Alma Ivicic, all of Holland, Texas. Most of Faith’s family are members of SPJST Lodge 80, Holland. —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas to host Dec. 6 Christmas party
Dear Readers,
SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas will be hosting a Christmas party for its members to celebrate the holiday season! Plans are being finalized for members to gather for some great food, fun, and fellowship. The party will be held on Sunday, December 6, 2020, at Sokol - Dallas, located at 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231.
Schedule for the day is:
11:30 a.m. - doors open 12 noon to 1 p.m. - social hour 1:30 to 3 p.m. - Free catered lunch 3 to 5 p.m. - Bingo and afternoon fellowship
All members are asked to bring a dessert to share.
Additionally, there will be a canned good drive for the local food bank. Please be generous by bringing unexpired canned goods to donate. (No dented cans, please.)
Safety protocols will be in place so remember to wear your face mask. As an added precaution, your temperature will be taken upon entrance, and hand sanitizer will be available.
All members a re requested to RSVP to either Lynda Novak at 972-948-4456 or Vicki Sims at 214-763-0341 no later than Tuesday, December 1.
A good time is sure to be had by all so mark your calendars and plan to come and enjoy the day! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas elects 2021 officers
Dear Readers,
Lodge 84, Dallas held its monthly meeting on Sunday, November 15, 2020. Vice President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order at 2:45 p.m. Flag Bearer Lynda Novak led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence afterwards for departed member Helen Slovacek, those dealing with COVID-19 and helping to treat it, and our troops serving our country.
Secretary Cherri Petr read the minutes from the last meeting which were approved by all present after a few corrections. She then read correspondence received. Sunshine committee reported that everyone seems to be doing well as there were no cards sent out this month.
Youth Leader Lynda Novak reported that the youth are continuing to meet virtually. She has reminded them of the Christmas ornament contest deadline, Vestnik project submissions, and community service projects for the month. Sister Lynda then gave her reports on Fraternal Council and Czech Culture Society.
Lodge 81, Needville welcomes Sales agent jennifer sabrsula
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville would like to introduce new sales agent Jennifer Sabrsula. Jennifer is the daughter of Don Sabrsula. She grew up in Katy, Texas, but now lives in Fulshear. She sells real estate full time and does personal training. Call 346-366-0628 for all of your life insurance needs.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki Sims reported on the upcoming domino and tarok tournaments at the Home Office and the monthly webinars. She announced that District Three Director John Engelke was elected Supreme Lodge Chairman. Congratulations, Chairman John Engelke!
Treasurer Jim Liska was unable to attend the meeting and will give an updated report when we meet again. I inadvertently forgot to mention that at the October meeting, a motion was made by Sister Dorothy Schroder that our current slate of officers be retained by acclamation; a vote was taken, and it is official! Lodge 84 officers for 2021 are:
President Justine Yeager Vice President Vicki Sims Treasurer Jim Liska Youth Leader Lynda Novak Reporter Anne Cowan
Congratulations to our officers who will officially be installed by District Three Director John Engelke at the lodge’s Christmas party. Speaking of the Christmas party, it was announced that music will be provided by Laddie
Gajdica who will be entertaining us with his accordion music. With that said, plans are now all in place for Lodge 84’s Christmas party!
The meeting was then adjourned, and everyone enjoyed svacina! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 87, Temple expresses thanks to Director Pospisil for fund donation
Dear Members,
Lodge 87, Temple is grateful for the donation that District Two Director Jesse Pospisil provided from his discretionary fund for our lodge to donate to a deserving community organization. Below is a letter of appreciation from Lodge 87 President Sidney Kacir to Director Pospisil:
Dear Mr. Pospisil,
I am writing on behalf of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple to extend our thanks to you for having provided our lodge with a check from the District Directors’ Discretionary Fund for disbursement to a deserving community organization of our choice.
Lodge 87 members voted unanimously to include the discretionary fund check with an additional donation of funds from our lodge to Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC), 702 West Avenue G, Temple, Texas 76504, a most deserving community organization, in appreciation for all of the help that they continue to provide to our community in times of great need. Fraternally, Sidney Kacir, President
Fraternally, Carolyn Greene, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston announces Dec. 6 annual meeting
Dear Members,
Please note the date change for the annual meeting of Lodge 88, Houston. The annual meeting which was scheduled for December 13, 2020, at 1 p.m. has been rescheduled to Sunday, December 6 at 1 p.m. due to a scheduling conflict. We hope to see you on Sunday, December 6. Fraternally, Janice Jahns, President —SPJST—
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 184, Moulton officers are, left to right, Vice President/Secretary Terry Stevenson, President Elmer Michna, and Treasurer Johnnie Hoffman. They were installed by District Six Director Annie Vahalik, not pictured.
Lodge 184, Moulton President and Future President
by Bernice Stolarski. Treasurer Dora Martinez made a motion to accept the minutes, seconded by Bernice Stolarski.
Dora gave the treasurer’s report which was also accepted. Secretary Bernice then read some correspondence, mentioning that our lodge has a new member, Domingo Tobar. Since this was the first meeting since February 11, 2020, due to COVID-19, there were several notices of deaths and terminations. Fraternally, Bernice Stolarski Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 184, Moulton President SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold Elmer Michna is pictured with his its Christmas social and quarterly meetfive-year-old grandson Ryan Kon- ing on Monday, December 14, 2020, atcaba - the lodge’s future pres- Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100ident! Sunset Street in Wharton. A catered turkey and dressing meal Lodge 97, Placedo will be served at 6:30 p.m. Please RSVP Christmas brunch by Friday, December 4 to Carolyn Bucek at 979-532-1910 if you plan to attend so Saturday, Dec. 5 we can let our caterer know how much food to prepare. Members will furnish
Since our last meeting on March 2, the desserts. 2020, the officers of Lodge 97, Placedo have kept in contact through text messag- Lodge 47, Seaton membering. Decisions were made to cancel the June and September meetings for the bags buck health and safety of all members.
We are planning a Christmas brunch to be held at Las Palmas Restaurant in Victoria on Saturday, December 5 at 9:30 a.m. The group will be kept small per COVID-19 guidelines. Respectfully submitted, Judy Bellanger, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 141, Sealy reports on October meeting
SPJST Lodge 141, Sealy met Tuesday, October 13, 2020, at Gordon Memorial Library. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by roll call of officers and reading of the minutes
SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton member James Sladecek harvested a buck on Monday, November 9, 2020. James hunted on Mustang Creek Ranch in Salado, Texas.
Fifty-year membership pins will be presented after the meal. Fifty-year members are Donald Stavinoha and Dennis Zbranek. Members of the recipients’ families are invited to attend as guests.
Officers for 2021 will be elected.
Members with birthdays in October, November, and December will be honored.
We look forward to seeing you.
Fraternally,
Janie Bucek
Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 179, Warrenton meets virtually
Lodge 179, Warrenton continues to host virtual meetings due to COVID-19. All officers will remain the same for 2021. They are:
President Ruby Juergens Vice President Ora Lee Levien Secretary/Treasurer/Reporter Ricky Weyand Fraternal Activities Coordinator Joan Sue Goehring
The November Thanksgiving meeting was a drive-through turkey/dressing meal from J.W.’s Restaurant in Carmine. Four members and one guest participated.
Our lives have changed due to the pandemic, but let’s remember all the things we have to be thankful for. Joan Sue Goehring Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—
The next gathering of Lodge 187, Round Rock will be Sunday, December 13, 2020. Please bring a dessert and a $10 to $15 gift for the exchange. We will have our Christmas/holiday fajita dinner. Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
It is with great regret that Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station will not be having its annual Christmas dinner meeting this year. Hopefully, this will help ensure the safety and health of our lodge families as this terrible pandemic is still prevalent.
Until we can meet again safely, we wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Fraternally, Officers of Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station —SPJST—
Lodge 196, Houston-West welcomes new SPJST vice president
Pictured is newly appointed SPJST Vice President Delisle Doherty at his home Lodge 196, HoustonWest enjoying the annual lodge holiday party with daughter Brittany, left, and wife Lila. —Submitted by Linda Bratina Sales Agent
Lodge 184, Moulton members enjoy meal at November meeting
Enjoying a meal after the Lodge 184, Moulton meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, are, left to right, District Six Director Annie Vahalik, Joyce Pavlicek, Ann Marie and Kylie Koncaba, Elaine Hoffman, and Maggie Kubicek. —Photo by Patsy Zabransky
Lodge 196 Houston-West hosts Thanksgiving meal
Lodge 196, Houston-West had its Thanksgiving meal on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at the lodge hall. We had a very good attendance, and we were able to renew the fellowship with many of our members.
The food that was served was outstanding. As normal, everyone agreed we ate too much, but it was very hard to say no to such delicious looking (and tasty) holiday favorites. What a great time we had!
We were also able to congratulate Lodge 196 member Delisle Doherty on his selection as SPJST Supreme Lodge Vice President. We are all wishing great success in the years to come.
The business meeting was conducted with several suggestions discussed as to how to improve rentals this coming year and ways to make our exposure to the area stronger. After the business meeting was complete, we conducted the election of officers for next year. In a landslide victory, the current slate of officers was reelected for another year.
Next Meeting—December 6
The date for the next meeting will be Sunday, December 6, beginning with a meal at 1 p.m. and the business meeting at 2 p.m. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us on that date. Respectively yours, Don Fruin, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members have stayed in touch over the past eight months by telephone visits, text messages, and email communications. Members felt comfortable to meet in person and gathered on Monday, November 9, 2020, at Olive Garden Restaurant in Temple. President Ingrid Petrik welcomed the members and guests after she called the meeting to order at 11:15 a.m.
Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and observed a moment of silence for the troops serving our country, for deceased members, and for those who are in need of prayers.
Minutes from the January meeting were presented by Secretary Melanie Zavodny. New members welcomed since the January meeting include Edmundo Alvarado (sales agent David Nauert),
Marie I. Alvarado (sales agent David Nauert), Betty Rose Storey (sales agent David Nauert), Leroy Phillips, Jr. (sales agent Richard Hrbacek), William Kohlun (sales agent George Lytle), and Barbara Bush (sales agent George Lytle). We are grateful for their membership in Lodge 246.
Treasurer David Nauert informed members of the lodge’s account balances.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Charlie Herendon announced several upcoming activities including a virtual Christmas ornament contest for youth and adults and tentative 2021 state tournament dates. He stated the lodge’s fraternal hours will be submitted to the Home Office. He also mentioned that scholarship applications are available at spjst.org.
Under new business, Charlie Herendon made a motion, seconded by Susan Hutton, to donate $100 to the SPJST Memorial Scholarship Fund in memory of Maltilde Ramos, who passed away on November 6, 2019, and George Pavelka, who passed away on October 2, 2020. We extend sympathy to the families of both of these Lodge 246 members.
Lodge members discussed contributing $250 to Feed My Sheep for blessing bags for the homeless. A motion was made by Susan Hutton, seconded by Ricki Dixon. All approved the motion. President Ingrid Petrik agreed to present the check to Feed My Sheep.
Treasurer David Nauert suggested moving the lodge’s checking account from Bancorp South to Buckholts State Bank. Charlie Herendon made a motion for David Nauert to oversee the transfer of funds and the establishment of a new checking account for the lodge at Buckholts State Bank. The motion was seconded by Susan Hutton. All approved the motion.
Officers for 2021 were elected. The slate of officers presented to and approved by the membership were:
President Ingrid Petrik Vice President Susan Hutton Secretary Melanie Zavodny Treasurer David Nauert Fraternal Activities Coordinator Charlie Herendon
District Two Director Jesse Pospisil presented a donation check from his discretionary fund for $100 to the lodge for Morgan’s Point Volunteer Fire Department. Vice President Susan Hutton agreed to present the check to MPVFD.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:45 a.m., and members enjoyed lunch and visiting.
Next Meeting—January 11
The next meeting will be Monday, January 11, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. at Oscar Store. Fraternally, Melanie Zavodny Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy President James R. Hosch, right, presents donation check to Bruceville-Eddy Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ron Engelke at BEVFD’s fundraiser recently. The lodge’s donation was matched from District Two Director Jesse Pospisil’s discretionary fund.
Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Vice President Susan Hutton presents a check to Morgan’s Point Resort Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Mark Wilkerson, right, and Shane Sibley. The check was presented on behalf of District Two Director Jesse Pospisil’s discretionary fund. Thanks to Director Pospisil for his generosity.
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