Vestnik 2020.12.14

ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T

Volume 108 Number 23

Benevolence

From our home to yours.

H E R A L D

★ Humanity

★ Brotherhood

December 14, 2020

ISSN —07458800

Merry Christmas to all!

Christmas Parades & Royalty Across the State

ABOVE: Fort Worth Parade of Lights (virtual) - State King Koby Stone, State Duke Everhett Bartek, State Queen Holly Jones, and State Duchess Mckenzie Burcie. BELOW LEFT: Temple Christmas Parade (static) - District Two Queen Kayla Young and District Two Duchess Valora Young. BELOW RIGHT: El Campo Christmas Parade - District Six Duchess Millie Garrett and Queen Brittany Baker.

from SPJST November Top SPJST Sales Agents in Certificates Issued and Annualized Premium 1st - Certificates Issued 2nd - Annualized Premium $300 Award

1st - Annualized Premium 3rd - Certificates Issued $300 Award

2nd - Certificates Issued 3rd - Annualized Premium $100 Award

4th - Certificates Issued 4th - Annualized Premium $100 Award

Janice Jahns Lodge 88 Houston District Five

Baltazar Nunez, FIC Lodge 219 El Paso District Four

Ray Esparza Lodge 76 Wichita Falls District Four

Patsy Koslovsky, FIC Lodge 47 Seaton District Two

( ( ( ( ( Inside This Week’s Věstník ( ( ( ( ( Readers Write ......................................3 Interest Rates ......................................3 Supreme Lodge Meeting Minutes ......4 Insurance Department Updates .........4 Lodge Section......................................5 SPJST Store ........................................7

Christmas Ornament Winners..........15 Youth Section ....................................16 In Memoriam ......................................19 Czech Culture ....................................23 Advertisements .................................25 Lodge Calendar .................................26

Lodge 48 Beyersville hall nears completion Page 9

Lodge 84 Dallas hosts Christmas party Page 11

Lodge 9 Snook Youth Club shares activities Page 17

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Monday, December 14, 2020

VĚSTNÍK

ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST HERALD

SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 Fax: 254-774-7447 www.spjst.org VĚSTNÍK EDITOR/ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 email: vestnik@spjst.org or melaniez@usa.com SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) • Mobile: 254-534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT DELISLE DOHERTY 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) • Mobile: 832-232-2049 email: delisled@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) Mobile: 254-721-4739 • Home: 254-778-3720 email: leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) • email: royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 email: dv.aggie71@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371 email: jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-799-4247 • email: johnengelke@hotmail.com DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM 1886 Pecos St, Ste 3, San Angelo, TX 76901-3268 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville, TX 77461-9164 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 email: spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK 2508 N Levi St, Victoria, TX 77901-4059 361-649-4888 • email: amvahalik@gmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE 146 Deer Run St, Pleasanton, TX 78064-1510 830-570-2046 • email: spjst202youth@gmail.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com LODGE 219, EL PASO - Francisco Viniegra 915-203-3124 • fviniegra@vinquiz-insurance.com DISTRICT FIVE - Contact SPJST Home Office 800-727-7578 for assistance.

DISTRICT SIX - Carolina Covarrubia 281-779-9956 • covarrubia.carolina@yahoo.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Armando Perez, LUTCF 361-425-5543 • asperez6040@hotmail.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com

HUMAN RESOURCES LYNETTE TALASEK 254-773-1575 (ext. 146) • email: lynettet@spjst.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar, PO Box 28, Snook, TX 778780028 - 979-220-7904 - ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two (Acting) - Amber Bartek, 10745 Burgess Rd, Temple, TX 76501 - 254-931-0295 -abartek002@yahoo.com District Three - Mary Steinman, 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 - 817-731-2580 - appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Laura Pospichal, PO Box 253, Rowena, TX 76875-0253 - 325-365-6485 - yellowcar02@aol.com District Five - Melissa Victorick-Brown, 2324 Lakeway Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546-6196 - 832-274-7369 distric5dyc@gmail.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 - 979-543-7120 - lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - April Howard, 814 Madison Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130-3918 - 830-624-9242 - aprhoward@gmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, PO Box 252, Snook TX 77878-0252 -979-272-1243 - billorsak@gmail.com District Two - Bridget C. Bohac, PO Box 182, Granger TX 76530-0182 - 512-694-1897 - brdgtbhc@gmail.com District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw TX 76179-3463 - 817-731-2580 - appamary@sbcglobal.net District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, 1243 Clovis Rd, Houston TX 77008-6232 - 713-859-8976 - dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell Ave, Bay City TX 77414-6944 - joesiptak@yahoo.com - 979-479-0056 District Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet TX 78065-5013 - 830-391-4169 - oscarkorus@gmail.com FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Debbie Kostelka, 1914 County Road 403 Dime Box TX 77853-5379 - 979-540-8532 - debbiekostelka@yahoo.com District Two - Edwin Pechal, Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53, Temple TX 76501-7446 - 254-721-2887 - edwinpechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen Dr, Robinson TX 76706-5121 - 254-744-8973 - mlgaller54@gmail.com District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM 765, San Angelo TX 76905-7461 - 325-651-8550 - hdweise@zipnet.us District Five - Ashley Victorick, 26810 Sweetstone Springs Ct, Cypress TX 77433-3500 - 832-577-5433 - ashley.victorick@gmail.com District Six - Karen Kaspar, 8550 N State Highway 71, El Campo TX 77437-9819 - 979-332-1616 - k-kaspar@hotmail.com District Seven - Colleen Jenke, 211 Cottonwood Ln, Seguin TX 78155-0697 - 830-303-4316 - jenkec@att.net INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, District One - Susan Skrabanek, Chair - 2657 FM 166, Caldwell TX 77836-4300 - 979272-3440 - spjst@aol.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S St Joseph Rd, Burlington TX 76519-3108 254-985-2396 patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Robert Sill, 400 Westview Ter, Arlington TX 76013-1632 - 817-274-2783 - arlingtonsill@yahoo.com District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plain View Dr, San Angelo TX 76905-7509 - 325-234-8117 - ljansa13@gmail.co District Five - Kerry Herrington, 18703 Ember Trails Dr, Houston TX 77904-2617 281-704-5737 kerryherrington@yahoo.com District Six - Elizabeth Holub, 4624 Freyburg Hall Road, Schulenburg, Texas 78956 - 979-561-8640 - mikelizh@cvctx.com District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 CR 430, Pleasanton, Texas 78064 - 210-535-4916 - poohbear78064@hotmail.com PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 CR 403, Dime Box, Texas 77853 - 979-540-8531 - floydkostelka@yahoo.com District Two - Amber Bartek, 10745 Burgess Rd, Temple TX 76501-7441 - 254-931-0295 - abartek002@yahoo.com District Three - Lynda Novak, 7153 Cornelia Ln, Dallas TX 75214-3226 - 972-948-4456 - magiclady_46@hotmail.com District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Dr, San Angelo TX 76903-9106 - 325-651-5884 District Five - Baley Stavinoha, 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville TX 77461-9164 281-912-9619 baleystavinoha@gmail.com District Six - Marjorie Treumer, 1806 Laurel St, Bay City TX 77414-8405 - 979-578-2762 - mtreumer@gmail.com District Seven - Trey Bielefeld, 518 County Road 210, Floresville TX 78114-5215 512-917-0083 trey.bielefeld@gmail.com

This holiday season is unlike any

other, to cap off a year unlike any other. Throughout this season, and as we move into a new (and hopefully better) year, we wish you moments of peace, connections with family and friends even if they can’t be in person, the warmth of memories from holidays past, and wonderful glimpses of the joy. May your holidays bring you the gifts of love, peace, and happiness.

Christmas Ornament Contest Winners Announced Thanks to all who participated in the Christmas ornament contest. More than 120 entries were received. This week’s Vestnik features the winners of the 2020 SPJST Christmas Ornament Contest on page 15. All ornaments are featured on SPJST’s Facebook page.

Věstník Dates and Deadlines The Vestnik is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, and the deadline is on the first and third Mondays at 5 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Upcoming Vestnik dates and deadlines are: December 28 Věstník deadline is Fri., Dec. 18 at 5 p.m.

January 11, 2021 Věstník deadline is Mon., Jan. 4 at 5 p.m.

January 25 Věstník deadline is Mon., Jan. 18 at 5 p.m.

February 8 Věstník deadline is Mon., Feb. 1 at 5 p.m.

February 22 Věstník deadline is Mon., Feb. 15 at 5 p.m.

March 8 Věstník deadline is Mon., Mar. 1 at 5 p.m.

—SPJST—

Merry Christmas from the Vestnik/Communication Department!

Katherine Morris

Melanie Zavodny

Brooke Hoelscher

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

VÄšSTNĂ?K

Monday, December 14, 2020

3

SPJST Family Fun and Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)

Dec. 14

Lodge 151, Wharton Christmas Social Wharton Depot Museum (6) Dec. 18 5 p.m. Deadline for December 28 Vestnik Dec. 23 Lodge 25, Ennis Bake Sale: Strudel Pick Up (3) Dec. 24-25 SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Holidays Dec. 31 Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler (2) Dec. 31 Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve Dance: Billy Holt (2) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2021 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • January 1 SPJST Home Office Closed • New Year’s Day Holiday January 10 Lodge 88, Houston Annual Meeting (5) January 12 Fraternal Focus Webinar • register online at spjst.org January 16 Youth Leaders Workshop SPJST Home Office, Temple January 30 Youth Development Workshop SPJST Home Office, Temple/Camp Kubena, Ledbetter February 1 SPJST Scholarship Application Deadline March 27 Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter Egg Hunt (5) June 23-27 Leaders-In-Training Camp Camp Kubena, Ledbetter July 7-11 Junior Camp Session One Camp Kubena, Ledbetter

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We’re All In This Together Dear Brothers and Sisters, Being able to use technology has “What did you learn today?� That’s a helped people feel less alone and 55 perquestion I used to ask my kids a lot. It was cent of the seniors surveyed say this is the a good way to strike up a conversation. case. That’s been the case in our family More than that, it implied that since they too. My wife’s family – all 11 brothers were going to school, they were expected and sisters – and sometimes their mom – to learn something. get together every two weeks by Zoom.

Have you ever noticed though, that Joan and I do the same with Stephanie once you get out of school, people gen- and Samuel. Seventy-three percent of reerally stop inquiring as to what you spondents below the ages of 55 said they learned during the had made more of an day? Is it assumed effort to connect with that once you get elderly friends and past a certain age, relatives this years. the learning stops?

And 63 percent of people said they’ll If you think that avoid seeing exway, I assure you, it tended family this will become a selfChristmas in order to fulfilling prophecy. protect them from On the other hand, if any risk. you take on life as an On that note, thanks adventure and learning experience, then https://i.pinimg.com/originals/aa/e5/36/aae536b04caaf4c93cbca4b7fad6e045.jpg to those of you who that is what it becomes. And, goodness have been joining us online for the last knows, the last few months have been a three months for our Fraternal Focus welearning experience for me. From a tech- binars. It’s been a great way to reconnect nological perspective, I found myself fill- with a lot of you as well as to share inforing my SPJST social void with mation about SPJST lodges, lodge haptechnology workshops and webinars. In penings, and member benefits. The next that regard, I’m not alone. Just today, I online Fraternal Focus is scheduled for read an article – which prompted this col- Tuesday, January 12, 2021. The focus will umn – which stated that older people – be on “fraternalism.� We will be explor“seniors� was the word they used – have ing the role of the local lodge in the combecome more tech savvy since the start of munity and why it’s a business model that the pandemic. is right for the times. To that end, please GearHungry.com – which is an online know that I am currently gathering ideas retail establishment – surveyed 3,000 for the program now and would be happy people, aged 65 and older, to find out how to receive your input on the topic. they coped and overall, 63 percent of the For 123 years, SPJST has worked to seniors said their understanding of tech- ensure the financial security of its nology has improved since the start of the members and its fraternal commitment to pandemic. the communities where SPJST members The study concluded that seniors know live, work, and play. What prompts what tabs to click on, what virtual buttons members to get involved? The reasons to press, and how to unmute their micro- will vary from lodge to lodge. In my case, phones. Thirty-eight percent of seniors Joan and I had been living out of state for said their children or grandchildren have several years and wanted to get involved spent time with them this year, explaining in the life of the community. Two of our how everything works. fellow lodge members — the late Louise

4

Monday, December 14, 2020

Zavodny and LaVerne Cabla – were especially encouraging to us. They made a positive difference. In almost no time, we evolved from inactive to active members.

Over the years we were blessed with two children who also found an extended family and opportunities to grow through SPJST. One good thing led to another . . .

SPJST—through its lodges and fraternal programming—has the capacity to bring people together and make good things happen. But you know, it takes time . . . How much you give – that depends on you. You generally get out of it what you put into it. The payoff comes when something that your lodge does helps somebody, fills a need, or makes a positive impact on the community. It’s a good feeling.

Earlier, I made reference to life and how it can be an adventure and a learning experience. Your involvement in SPJST and your lodge can be both those things.

It can – provided that your lodge commits to achieving worthy objectives, rather than merely going through the motions.

Holding meetings solely to meet organizational requirements – that’s selling the

VĚSTNÍK SPJST short. We can do better than that.

I’m an idealist, I suppose; however, I’m also a realist. I know that if you are reading this message, I am probably “preaching to the choir,” as the saying goes. If that’s the case, well, that’s okay, too! Sometimes it helps knowing that there are other folks out there who feel the same way and who are there for you.

2020 has been a challenging year for our lodges. Next year, I pray, all of this COVID-19 and social distancing will be behind us. Please support your lodge and your fellow members in 2021. Better yet, find ways to get your family and friends involved. That’s when it gets fun! Dream big. Communicate your goals. Set your sights high and then do what it takes to help your lodge to achieve them. And, if you ever need help, please let me know . . . We’re all in this together.

May God bless you this Christmas season!

Fraternally, Brian Vanicek, FIC SPJST President —SPJST—

From the Insurance Department SPJST Insurance update Through November: 670 Certificates Issued

SPJST Records Referrals Through the end of November, the following individuals contributed: 148 referrals.

Lodge 0 0 0 25 25 25 25 29 29 47 47 47 47 54 80 80 87 154 177 185 246 246 246

Name

Referrals

Maria De La Cruz Holly Knecht Danny Walden Marlene Clark Rose Dlabaj Laure Krajca Betty Macalik Helmer Dahl Richard Delancey, Jr. Rhonda Greger Terry Malina Dorothy Stuchly Lynette Talasek Jacob Kaluza Linda Hill Carol Wolf Sharon Ingram Nikolas Noble Janie Coakley Ryan Brown Tamara Gettys Ann Paruzinski Marissa Salinas

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 49 2 1 3 1 4 25 1 2 1 19 5 25

SPJST Monthly Insurance Report

Minutes of the Special Called Meeting of the SPJST Supreme Lodge held on November 21, 2020, in Temple, Texas PRESIDING Supreme Lodge Chairman John Engelke called the meeting to order at 10:50 a.m.

ATTENDING Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Delisle Doherty, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller; Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chairman; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chairman; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven. Other—Melanie Zavodny, Editor/Director of Communication; Human Resources Administrator Lynette Talasek.

PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The purpose of the meeting was to adopt a resolution authorizing Vice President Delisle Doherty to sign legal documents conducting the business of SPJST and to be an authorized bank signatory to sign SPJST checks.

Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska moved adoption of the resolution, Director Donnie Victorick seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, a motion to adjourn passed unanimously.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:58 a.m.

Janie Coakley, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—

Through November MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS

FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist.

Apps.

Written Certs.

Issued Annualized Prem.

1 4 $149,900.00 4 $134,900.00 $3,320.40 2 4 100,000.00 5 95,000.00 972.36 3 11 274,000.00 6 115,000.00 2,442.78 4 19 994,089.00 17 544,089.00 11,878.18 5 10 1,330,000.00 14 1,180,000.00 4,464.66 6 1 25,000.00 2 40,000.00 2,015.16 7 1 10,000.00 3 37,141.00 2,286.48 9 0 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 Totals 50 $2,882,989.00 51 $2,146,130.00 $27,380.02 YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist. Apps.

Written Certs.

Issued Annualized Prem.

1 81 $4,197,094.00 68 $2,518,094.00 100,131.77 2 71 1,750,860.00 61 1,280,000.00 40,352.51 3 104 3,663,464.00 84 2,630,772.00 98,739.01 4 149 10,888,848.00 122 7,922,092.00 185,757.45 5 159 17,309,032.00 152 12,442,141.00 70,641.38 6 91 5,262,115.00 77 3,588,384.00 62,441.78 7 121 5,808,289.00 106 3,668,978.00 75,493.96 9 0 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 Totals 776 $48,879,702.00 670 $34,050,461.00 $633,557.86

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, December 14, 2020

SPJST Lodge Section 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 discusses starting youth club Dear Members, Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, November 8, 2020, at Hallettsville Chamber meeting room at 3 p.m.

President Joe Siptak called the meeting to order followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Resolution Chairman Gayenell Chudej read resolutions of sympathy for Leonard Henry Marek, Frank A. (Frankie) Woytek, Aline Zak Wojtek, Marvin Fojt, Ervin Michalcik, Marjorie Gallia, and Elizabeth Junek.

President Siptak recognized guest State Fraternal Director Frank Horak and District Six Director Annie Vahalik.

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

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

State Fraternal Director Horak spoke to the members about again starting a youth club. The youth year runs from January through December. He also reminded the members of the adult Christmas ornament contest and gave an update on the changes at Camp Kubena.

Secretary-Treasurer Helen Zabransky read the minutes to the last meeting and gave the financial report.

FAC Annie Vahalik reported. Being close to Veterans Day, she recognized Veteran Alton, and everyone thanked him for his service. She also reminded the members of the November webinar and other upcoming events.

Philip Vahalik, who is the Lodge 4 representative on the District Six Cemetery Association, reported they would be meeting in January as usual, if possible.

The Christmas party was discussed, and due to COVID-19, it was decided to cancel it for this year.

Election of officers was held with all present officers being reelected.

Due to the SPJST 2021 Convention in August and on the weekend of our annual Family Day, it was voted to cancel Family Day in 2021.

Meeting Dates for 2021 Meeting dates for 2021 were voted on and will be held on Sundays on March 14, June 13, August 8, November 14, and December 12, or the Christmas party.

After a discussion, it was approved for State Fraternal Director Horak to proceed with assisting to again start a large youth club.

Charitable donations were made to St. Nicholas Ministry, SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, Hallettsville Fire Department, and Hallettsville ISD Education Foundation.

Director Vahalik spoke to the members. She had just attended a Supreme Lodge meeting and had visited with some lodges. She is excited about working with the Supreme Lodge and District Six lodges and members.

The meeting adjourned. Awarded door prizes followed. Lucky winners were Jennifer Hessler, Annie Vahalik, Susan Siptak, Alton Chudej, Joe Siptak, Helen Zabransky, and Patsy Zabransky.

President Siptak gave the meal prayer. Everyone then enjoyed the delicious snacks brought by the members.

5

Next Meeting—March 14 The next meeting will be Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 3 p.m. in Hallettsville Chamber meeting room.

Merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year to everyone! Stay safe and stay well.

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 6, Cottonwood meets January 3 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone, and please stay safe.

The next meeting will be Sunday, January 3, 2021, with installation of officers at 2 p.m.

Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin meets January 19 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 Christmas holidays.

Fraternally, FL Meyer, Trustee —SPJST—

Supreme lodge gathers for strategic planning session

SPJST leaders gathered on Thursday, November 19 to Saturday, November 21, 2020, at Holiday Inn Express in Temple for three full days of learning and planning for 2021. Pictured are, left to right, Directors Regina House, Annie Vahalik, Bradley Stavinoha, and Donnie Victorick; Chief Financial

Officer Leonard Mikeska; Controller Roy Vajdak; Directors Jesse Pospisil, John Engelke, and Bobby Davis; Vice President Delisle Doherty; President Brian Vanicek; and Human Resources Administrator Lynette Talasek. Not pictured is Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny.

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Monday, December 14, 2020

Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve dance: Jerry Haisler Tickets to Lodge 24, Cyclone’s New Year’s Eve dance on Thursday, December 31, 2020, are $15 each. Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 will provide the music that evening. Bring your food.

For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis members enjoy Thanksgiving meal Dear Members and Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis held its monthly members’ supper on Thursday, November 12, 2020. Betty Macalik prepared a Thanksgiving feast of turkey, dressing, gravy, and green beans casserole with Italian creme cake and pecan pie for dessert.

Officers present were President JoAnn Jones, Vice President Arlene Honza, Treasurer Betty Macalik, and Secretary Pat Fowler.

Following the wonderful meal, the lodge meeting was called to order by

VĚSTNÍK President Jones at 7:05 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Van Fowler.

There were no deceased members since the last meeting. On the sick list are Rose Dlabaj, Van Fowler, Annette Honza, Wesley Honza, Harry Matus, Lucy Mikula, and Steven Prachyl.

Pat Fowler read the minutes of the last meeting. Betty Macalik gave the financial/treasury reports. Arlene Honza reported on bar income. There was no youth report. Kay Lynn Kovar reported on fraternal activities and extended a gracious thank you to all Veterans for their service. Correspondence read by Secretary Fowler included notes from two Ennis charitable organizations - Helping Hands and Meals on Wheels, both asking for monetary donations.

Sales Agent Margaret Krajca signed up two new members - Landry Mae Hunter, who is sponsored by fraternal grandparents David and Jenna Hunter, and Henry Alexander Walker, who is sponsored by maternal grandmother Marlene Clark.

New business included the election of officers. The election committee recommended we keep the same slate of officers. There was no opposition.

There was some discussion on the uneven temperature and air flow within the facility. It was announced that Roland Christian has volunteered to spread asphalt to improve parking lot conditions.

It’s Christmas Time!

In keeping with the annual tradition, several SPJST Home Office staff members gathered in the lobby to decorate the Christmas tree the day before Thanksgiving - Wednesday, November 25, 2020. The tree is filled with ornaments made by youth club members through a statewide contest that is held in the fall in each district. The 2020 SPJST Christmas Ornament Contest was held virtually, and winners appear on page 15.

Irene Rollins of Lodge 15, Buckholts achieves Grand Age of 96 SPJST congratulates Sister Irene S. Rollins of Lodge 15, Buckholts, who celebrated her 96th birthday on November 3, 2020. As such, Irene is entitled to all SPJST member benefits with no further dues or assessments.

Irene was born in Buckholts, Texas, on November 3, 1924, to John and Anne Kuzel. Sister Irene had two sisters Hilda Burtis and Loraine Millian (both deceased) and one brother E.J. Kuzel (deceased).

Irene was married to Joseph J. Rollins in San Antonio. They were blessed with children Elizabeth Cook (spouse Bar is Now Open at Lodge 25, Ennis No Christmas or New Year’s party will be held at Lodge 25, Ennis this year due to COVID-19 precautions. We are, however, happy to announce that the bar is open on Wednesday evenings from 5 to 10 p.m. To keep our members and guests safe, we are strictly adhering to the CDC distancing guidance and occupancy recommendations. We invite you to come out and see us!

Gregory) of San Antonio and John Rollins of Austin.

Sister Irene worked at Fort Hood as a dental assistant, and she worked parttime as a cashier at Stagecoach Inn in Salado. Irene is very interested in politics.

Again, we congratulate Sister Irene S. Rollins on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Sister Irene, for your devotion to SPJST for all these years.

May God bless you and your family for many more years of happiness together.

—SPJST— Holiday Apple Strudel Sale We are in the process of our annual holiday apple strudel sale. To place an order for your Christmas strudel, please call Margaret at 972-878-6149.

Annual Fundraiser—February 6 We are also tentatively planning our annual fundraiser for Saturday, February 6, 2021. Please watch the Vestnik for updates.

With no other business to discuss November birthdays were announced.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to Ray Elleven who was present. Wedding anniversaries were then announced.

Congratulations to Margaret and Emil Martinek who were both present.

The meeting adjourned and social began with 16 members and four officers present. Ron Mraz entertained us with live music, a song that he wrote and hopes to record. Thank you Ron! The next meeting and social activities will be Thursday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. for the members’ supper and 7 p.m. for the monthly meeting. The social will follow.

We hope you are all staying safe and taking all proper precautions. We look forward to things getting back to normal, and we hope to see you soon.

Fraternally, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—

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Lodge 25, Ennis taking orders for apple strudels Lodge 25, Ennis is taking orders for its annual SPJST Lodge 25 Apple Strudel Bake Sale. You can place your order by calling Margaret at 972-878-6149; sending an email to spjstennis@yahoo.com; or by sending a message to the SPJST Lodge 25 Facebook page.

Strudels are $17 each and will be available for pick up on Wednesday, December 23 from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Please be ready to answer all questions when placing an order:

Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member Lodge 25, Ennis and Sales Agent Margaret Krajca are proud to announce new member Landry May Hunter.

Landry was born September 13, 2019, and is the daughter of Jordan and Hillary Hunter. Paternal grandparents are David and Jenna (Marusak) Hunter of Ennis, and greatgrandparents are Jerry and Janie Marusak and Jean Ellen Hunter, all of Ferris. Maternal grandparents are Paula and Ian Coleman and Jeff and Jennifer Latson.

Landry’s dad Jordan, uncle Bryant, and aunt Rachel were an active Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club for several years. Aunt Rachel was the 2005 SPJST State Queen.

—SPJST—

Landry May Hunter

Monday, December 14, 2020 1. How many strudels?

2. Do you want your strudel baked or unbaked?

3. 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 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—

Lodge 29, Taylor elects 2021 officers On Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Lodge 29, Taylor met for its regular meeting. President Ronnie Rieger opened the meeting and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ronnie asked for a few moments of silence to honor the departed Veterans and those presently serving our country. Officer roll call showed all officers present. The October minutes were read and approved.

Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report. Sharon Kaderka reported the members will collect for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive at the December meeting, and Lodge 29 will match the amount collected. Sharon also discussed the virtual district Christmas ornament contest for adults. Sharon then recognized the Veterans in attendance. They were Frankie Pustejovsky, Jesse Pospisil, Leonard Kaderka, and Charlie Campbell.

Cristy Girod reported the youth club has not met due to the coronavirus.

Jesse made a motion for Lodge 29 to donate $100 to Shepherds Heart Pantry.

Frankie Pustejovsky seconded the motion. The motion passed. Jesse will give $100 out of his District Two Director’s discretionary fund to match the donation.

Officer elections for 2021 were held.

All current officers were reelected except for youth leader. Lodge 29 will not have a youth club for the upcoming year.

Mikey Girod and Scott Kaderka were elected to a three-year term on the Property Committee (2021 to 2023).

Spotlight Items From The SPJST Store eat Makes Gra Christm s Gifts!

Place Your Order Today!

$22.00

$16.00

$13.00

Blanket

Apron

Pocket Knife $13.50

Large Stuffed Animal All prices include shipping and handling.

Fill in the order form below or order online at spjst.org.

SPJST Store Items Order Form Name ______________________________________ Lodge _______________ Address/City/Zip ___________________________________________________ Phone ____________________________________________________________ Apron ($12.00 each)

I would like to order _____ Apron(s).

Blanket ($8.00 each)

I would like to order _____ Blanket(s).

Pocket Knife ($5.00 each)

I would like to order _____ Knife(s).

Large Stuffed Animal ($13.00 each) I would like to order _____ Animal(s).

Total Amount Enclosed: ___________________ Send your order along with your check to SPJST Home Office c/o Susan Shofner • P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

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El Campo Christmas Parade Thursday, December 3, 2020 •

District Six hosted the SPJST Float in the El Campo Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 3, 2020. 2020-2021 District Six Queen Brittany Baker and Duchess Millie Garrett, both of Lodge 30, Taiton, rode the float along with members of

The 2021 officers for Lodge 29 are: President Ronnie Rieger Vice President/FAC Sharon Kaderka Secretary/Reporter Linda Pospisil Treasurer Tammy Cannon Property Committee members include Jesse Pospisil (2019 to 2021), Frankie Pustejovsky and Adolph Grieger (2020 to 2022), and Scott Kaderka and Mikey Girod (2021 to 2023).

It was decided by the members that we would not have our annual Christmas party this year. Lodge 29 will have its next regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9.

Members celebrating birthdays in November include Travis Franks, Elaine Machu, Michael Dewbre, Barbara Nygrin, Aaron Jezisek, and Sharon Beran.

Door prizes were furnished by Frankie and Mary Jane Pustejovsky. Jesse and Linda Pospisil will donate door prizes in December.

The next meeting will be Wednesday, December 9 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was then adjourned.

Fraternally, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve Dance: Billy Holt Please make plans to attend Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall’s New Year’s Eve Dance with music by Billy Holt. Tickets are $25 per couple, $15 for singles, and free of charge for kids ages 12 and under.

May you each have a blessed Christmas surrounded by family and friends!

Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco recognizes longtime members The meeting was called to order by President Michael Galler with all officers present on Monday, November 23, 2020, at St. Paul’s Church at 6 p.m. Present were 10 members and three guests - Hannah, Fiona, and Reid Galler.

The Pledge of Allegiance and motto

El Campo, Texas

Lodges 30, Taiton and 40, El Campo-Hillje Youth Clubs. The entry received the first place non-commercial award. The winter evening was cool and crisp as many socially-distanced people and families lined the streets for the parade.

were recited. Members stood for a moment of silence for Alfons Kolar.

Secretary Sister Dana McAdams read the minutes of the September 28 meeting, and they were approved as read.

Sister McAdams read a letter that she received from Tamara Gettys of the Home Office who was needing updates on Lodge 66 officers. Sister McAdams also received a letter from SPJST Controller Roy Vajdak on transfers from Lodge 167, Penelope to Lodge 66 - Joe Samuel Rendon and Dorothy Ann Snapka. They were accepted into Lodge 66.

Sister Diana Engelke read names of candidates for membership - Clifford Randal House wrote certificates for Kevin Walter Hannes and William Byron Allison. They were accepted into Lodge 66.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Brother Douglas Galler gave the fraternal report from State Fraternal Director Frank Horak.

Sister Diana Engelke read a resolution of sympathy on Alfons Kolar. May he rest in peace.

Fifty-year pins were presented to Ron Neumann and Thomas Galler.

Donations for November and December of $200 were given to St. Paul’s Church.

Officers were then elected. They are: President/FAC Douglas Galler Vice President Ron Neumann Secretary Dana McAdams Financial Secretary/Treasurer Diana Engelke Reporter Dorothy Veselka Guide Michael Galler Door prize for November was awarded to Ron Neumann, and door prize for December was won by Thomas Galler. The 100 percent winner was Margaret Narovec.

The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

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New Lodge 48, Beyersville Hall Nears Completion The new SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville hall is nearing completion. We are taking bookings to rent this beautiful facility that is located at 10450 FM 619 in Taylor, Texas. Please contact Bonnie Urbanek at 512-739-9324

for available dates. The lodge will also restart monthly meetings in January and will elect 2021 officers.

—Submitted by Alice Bracewell, Secretary

Lodge 79 Corpus Christi celebrates Veterans, Thanksgiving

Twenty-five dollar prizes were won

by Michael Urbanovsky and Jerry Sijansky.

Christina Rew made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Michael Urbanovsky.

The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated Thanksgiving and Veterans Day on Sunday, November 15, 2020, with a turkey and trimmings meal. The meeting was called to order at 2:05 p.m. by President Mark Rebecek. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for deceased member Alphonse Peters.

All officers were present, and we had 29 members and guests in attendance.

President Rebecek introduced District Seven Director Regina House and husband James and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. Regina and Frank both gave a nice talk.

Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the October minutes, and they were approved. Treasurer Larry Elzner could not give the financial report because he did not receive October bank statement in time for our meeting. A thank you note from the Home Office was read for our donations to the scholarship fund.

Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jerry Sijansky stated all fraternal acts must be turned in at the December meeting. His deadline is January 1, 2021.

Under new business, Kelly Craig made a motion that our monthly donation go to Camp Hope. The motion was seconded by Michael Urbanovsky and approved.

Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. Eight youth were in attendance. The youth made turkeys.

Birthdays for November were Becky Urbanovsky on the 8th, Kelly Craig on the 15th, Leona Grant on the 27th and Jerry Sijansky on the 27th. “Happy Birthday” was sung to these members.

Wedding anniversaries for November were Frank and Connie Horak - 26 years on the 19th, Jerry and Jill Sijansky - 52 years on the 22nd, and Mark and Virginia Rebecek - 55 years on the 27th. Happy anniversary to all!

The Veterans were recognized and presented gift cards. They were Larry Elzner - retired Navy, Jerry Sijansky Army, and Mark Rebecek - Army.

Spencer Craig was also recognized as a first responder with Victoria Fire Department.

Next Meeting—December 20 The next meeting will be Sunday, December 20 with Marcia Rew making a pork roast. Members are asked to bring a side dish.

Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville meets Sunday, Dec. 20 For the next Lodge 81, Needville meeting on Sunday, December 20, it was decided to have honey-baked 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—

Lodge 84, Dallas members gather to celebrate Christmas Dear Readers, Lodge 84, Dallas held its Christmas party on Sunday, December 6, 2020.

There was a nice turnout of members who came and enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of fellowship, food, and fun!

Members nibbled on cheese, chips, and fruit and beverages during social hour before a tasty lunch of stuffed chicken breast, rice, green beans, and salad was served. Of course, everyone saved room for the many choices of dessert afterwards.

Vice President Vicki Sims then welcomed everyone in attendance. A motion was made and seconded to postpone our December meeting until the new year.

She then introduced Supreme Lodge Chairman/District Three Director John Engelke and wife Diana who were able to join us for the festivities. Director Engelke installed the 2021 officers.

With all the formal business addressed, it was time to play bingo. Everyone had a good time, and it was nice to

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Monday, December 14, 2020

be able to enjoy some socializing despite the pandemic concerns; we all practiced safe distancing and protocols throughout the event.

As the afternoon came to a close, Vice President Vicki Sims once again thanked everyone for attending. She wished everyone a merry Christmas, happy new year, and said she hoped to see us all at the next meeting on Sunday, January 17, 2021, at the home of Charlie and Kathy Nemec.

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter Editor’s Note: Photos from the Lodge 84, Dallas Christmas party appear on page 11.

—SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston reschedules annual meeting for January 10 The Lodge 88, Houston annual meeting which was scheduled for December 6, 2020, has been rescheduled to Sunday, January 10, 2021. This change was due to COVID-19, and members expressing concerns about having the meeting. The meeting on Sunday, January 10 will begin at 1 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to attend as lodge officers and board members for 2021 will be elected.

There are still concerns about the virus, but we are practicing social distancing, and masks are required to be worn. The ballroom has ample space for this so please make every effort to attend this very important meeting as we cannot delay this any longer. Thank you.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I hope that everyone stays safe and well, and I hope to see everyone at the annual meeting.

Fraternally, Janice Jahns, President —SPJST—

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Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Honors Members at November Meeting

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi recognized several members at the November 15, 2020, meeting. TOP LEFT PHOTO: November birthday celebrants are, left to right, Jerry Sijansky, Kelly Craig, Becky Urbanovsky, and Leona Grant. Happy birthday! TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Happy 55th anniversary to Mark and Virginia Rebecek. BELOW

LEFT PHOTO: Happy 52nd anniversary to Jill and Jerry Sijansky! BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Veterans/First responders recognized at the November meeting were, left to right, Jerry Sijansky (Army), Larry Elzner (Retired Navy), Mark Rebecek (Army), and Spencer Craig (first responder with Victoria Fire Department).

Lodge 142, Houston reports on November meeting Lodge 97, Placedo announces 2021 meeting dates With the ongoing concerns of our members of Lodge 97, Placedo, we postponed our December meeting and deferred the election of officers until the next meeting which will be Monday, January 11, 2021, at 6 p.m. in the Community Room in Victoria Mall.

The 2021 meeting dates will be quarterly on the second Mondays March 8, June 14, and September 13 at the Community Room in Victoria Mall at 6 p.m. The December 2021 meeting date will be decided later in the year.

Gay Revel, President —SPJST—

Lodge 142, Houston met on Sunday, November 15, 2020, at Lodge 88, Houston. Social and lunch consisted of ham and turkey sandwiches, chips, and a cookie.

President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zac Coleman. A brief moment of silence was observed for all deceased veterans.

Present were 27 members. Roll call of officers showed Secretary Elizabeth Hermis and Guide Walter Rosier absent.

Sales Agents Alexis Scott and Connie Carter were also absent. Catherine Manchack, Carlos Iparraguire, and Stacy Kellen have retired as sales agents. Pat Schleider filled in as secretary for Elizabeth Hermis.

Pat Schleider read the October mi-

nutes. J.R. Coleman moved to approve the minutes, and they were approved by all.

Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick presented his report. Mike Schleider moved to approve the report, seconded by Kerry Herrington. It was then approved by all.

Correspondence included new member Mica Descioli (sales agent Kerry Herrington) and Myriam Zalesky as a transfer.

Youth Leader Amanda Muzny gave the youth club report. She brought boxes and toys for the youth to wrap for their charity Christmas project. Ashley Maul entered the Flag Essay competition sponsored by the Home Office and won $50.

Congratulations, Ashley!

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider encouraged all who are eligible to apply for both the Home Office and local lodge scholarships. She reminded everyone that the election of officers is next month. Veterans recognized were

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Lodge 84, Dallas Members Enjoy Christmas Food, Fellowship, Fun Lodge 84, Dallas hosted its Christmas party on Sunday, December 6, 2020. Members enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of fellowship, food, and fun!

—Submitted by Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter

J.R. Coleman - Army, Steve Roznovsky - Army, and Jack Manchack - Air Force.

Thank you for your service. The Home Office wished everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

The sick committee reported Jack Manchack has been in and out of the hospital during the summer. It’s great to report that he is doing great now and was at our meeting.

Old business discussed was that remunerations will be brought up and voted on for 2021 at the annual meeting. Bylaw changes will not be discussed until next year which will be the convention year.

President Dennis then presented an SPJST Outgoing Officer plaque to Mary Ann Kieschnick for her many years of

service to Lodge 142, Houston. Thank you and congratulations, Mary Ann! New business included a discussion on scholarships. All applications are to be addressed to Youth Leader Amanda Muzny and Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick.

Keith Kieschnick also brought up about our items in the storage building, pictures of past presidents, and convention pictures, etc. He was going to speak with the Home Office since we do not have a lodge building.

Birthdays were Mary Ann Kieschnick - 75 years young on November 15, Mike Schleider - 33 years on November 16, and Braelyn Muzny - 2 years on November 26. Happy birthday!

Anniversaries were Jack and Cathe-

rine Manchack, celebrating 45 years on November 22; Jo Dein and Steve Roznovsky - celebrating 64 years on November 12; Amanda and Brent Muzny celebrating five years on November 28; and Lisa and Roger Maul - celebrating 17 years on November 8. Congratulations!

The meeting adjourned, and our next meeting will be Sunday, December 13 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally, Pat Schleider FAC for Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 196 Houston-West plans Easter event Lodge 196, Houston-West is pleased to announce its annual Easter event and Easter egg hunt will be held on Saturday, March 27, 2021, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Lodge 196 Hall, located at 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress, Texas 77429.

Everyone is welcome. We look forward to seeing all of you there. Masks will be required, and hand sanitizer will be readily available for all.

Best regards, Linda Bratina, Vice President —SPJST—

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Monday, December 14, 2020

Christmas Ornaments by d.knape

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lodge 180, burleson supports Meals on wheels

Lodge 142, Houston honors veterans

We store these ornaments carefully so hopefully they will last and bring back precious memories of Christmases in the past, Little trinkets become treasures on our tree so proudly hung reminders of our history when our family was young Christmas ornaments are tokens of who we used to be so many years of happiness displayed upon our tree, For in these special ornaments is the accumulation of our years and seeing them again returns those days we hold so dear When our children were just little the excitement and the play all remembered in these ornaments displayed on Christmas Day, These special family ornaments to our hearts a softness brings they represent our family what Christmas really means —SPJST—

Lisa Deese, development director of Meals on Wheels North Central Texas, received a check for $1,000 from SPJST Lodge 180, Burleson.

Lodge 142, Houston honors longtime officer Mary Ann Kieschnick

Lodge 142, Houston recognized Veterans at the November meeting. Pictured are, left to right, J.R. Coleman (United States Army), Steve Roznovsky (United States Army), and Jack Manchack (United States Air Force). Thank you so much for your service to our great country! No words can express our gratitude to you.

—Submitted by Pat Schleider, FAC

Christmas Lights by d.knape We hang up lights it’s a better world at Christmas time to light our houses as people ride around or trees looking at lights or lamp posts saying WOW or anything else that is standing still look at that one the lights and for one magic night make the world so much nicer there is peace in the world more colorful changed attitudes and more bright happy faces a softer glow to the harshness of the little smiles in every blinking light. world —SPJST—

Lodge 246, morgan’s Point gives to feed my sheep

Congratulations to Mary Ann Kieschnick of Lodge 142, Houston! She was honored at Lodge 142’s November meeting. LEFT PHOTO: Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider, right, presents a rose to Mary Ann celebrating her birthday. Mary Ann celebrated her 75th birthday on Sunday, November 15. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 142 President Dennis Hermis presents a plaque to Mary Ann for her many, many years of continued service to the Lodge. Mary Ann served in various lodge offices and on many lodge boards and committees. Thank you, Mary Ann. Lodge 142 appreciates you!

—Submitted by Pat Schleider, FAC

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point President Ingrid Petrik, left, presents a $250 check to Feed My Sheep. The funds will be used to provide blessing bags for individuals in the Temple community.

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Fort Worth Parade of Lights November 2020 • SPJST was honored to participate in the virtual 2020 Fort Worth Parade of Lights in Fort Worth, Texas. 2020-2021 State King Koby Stone and State Duke Everhett Bartek, both of Lodge 47, Seaton, joined State Queen Holly Jones and State Duchess Mckenzie Burcie, both of Lodge 154, Fort Worth, for the Hollywood-style video recording on Saturday, November 14 inside the Fort Worth Convention Center. This was also the first time for the Royalty Court to meet each other. After the

Downtown Fort Worth video recording, the Royalty visited Fort Worth Water Gardens. The parade was broadcast via local television and on the internet on Sunday, November 22. The SPJST Float with State Queen Holly Jones was also featured in a special float display in Downtown Fort Worth on Monday, November 23. Queen Holly greeted and waved at attendees throughout the evening. The virtual parade will be broadcast again on Thursday, December 24. Visit SPJST’s Facebook page for details.

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Temple Christmas Parade Monday, December 7, 2020 • Temple, Texas The “static” or “frozen” 2020 Temple Christmas Parade was held in downtown Temple around the new Santa Fe Gardens. Attendees drove by the parade entries that were parked along the route. Featured on the SPJST Float were 2020-2021 SPJST State Royalty King Koby Stone and Duke Everhett Bartek, both of Lodge 47, Seaton; Queen Holly Jones and Duchess Mckenzie Burcie, both of Lodge 154,

Fort Worth; and District Two Queen Kayla Young and Duchess Valora Young, both of Lodge 47, Seaton. The float received the special “Best Use of Lights” award.

The turnout was much larger than organizers anticipated with nearly 550 vehicles coming through the route. The parade was also broadcasted live on local television and social media channels.

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2020 SPJST Ornament Contest Youth, Adult Winners District Five

District Six

District Seven

Ages 5 to 8

Ages 5 to 8

Ages 5 to 8

Ages 5 to 8

Della Miksch Lodge 48, Beyersville

Luke Holland Lodge 25, Ennis

Ruby Jones Lodge 81, Needville

Grady Lange Lodge 30, Taiton

Colt Pruski Lodge 107, Floresville

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Ages 9 to 11

Patsy Pineda Lodge 186, Caldwell

Kenna Braden Lodge 20, Granger

Aubrianna Dobecka Lodge 6, Cottonwood

Cotton Wood Lodge 49, Rowena

Addison Brown Lodge 88, Houston

Abigail Garrett Lodge 30, Taiton

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ages 12 to 14

Ashlyn Kellum Lodge 17, New Tabor

Luke McCarthy Lodge 187, Round Rock

Kyleigh Hernandez Lodge 154, Fort Worth

Hunter Wood Lodge 49, Rowena

Maxx Stavinoha Lodge 81, Needville

Brooke Bacak Lodge 30, Taiton

Lodge 185, New Braunfels

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Ages 15 to HS Sr.

Macy Narro Lodge 17, New Tabor

Brooke Newsom Lodge 48, Beyersville

Reagan Hernandez Lodge 154, Fort Worth

Addee Williams Lodge 215, South Plains

Faith Korenek Lodge 30, Taiton

Caitlyn Petett Lodge 107, Floresville

Adult

Adult

Adult

Adult

Adult

Adult

Adult

Dorothy Zaskoda Lodge 17, New Tabor

Shannon Newsom Lodge 48, Beyersville

Lynda Novak Lodge 84, Dallas

Becky Wood Lodge 49, Rowena

Kristen Jones Lodge 81, Needville

Lisa Bubela Lodge 30, Taiton

Sandra Hoggard Lodge 202, Jourdanton

District One

District Two

District Three

Ages 5 to 8

Ages 5 to 8

Bailen Kocurek Lodge 17, New Tabor

District Four

Marcus Rebecek

Megan Ohnheiser

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Monday, December 14, 2020

VĚSTNÍK 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:

Lodge 20, granger youth blows christmas ornament I recently was able to go to Salado Glassworks. I got to blow my first ornament. We had so much fun.

You get to pick your colors. I love the way my ornament turned out.

H o p e f u l l y, we can make this a yearly tradition.

Aubrey Marshall, age 10 —SPJST—

SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Questions?

Call 800-727-7578 This section is dedicated to the youth of SPJST. As part of its membership benefits, SPJST offers a statewide youth program. If you or someone you know is interested in learning about opportunities offered to young members of SPJST, please contact your local lodge, District Youth Counselor (listed on page 2), or State Fraternal Director at 800-727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.

Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club shares activities After canceling the April, May, and June meetings, Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club resumed meeting in July. Officers were installed by former Lodge 9 Youth Leader Mrs. Marie Shelfer, and the graduating high school seniors were honored.

Many youth participated in the SPJST Youth Showcase, including Caleb See, who was first runner-up for State King.

Youth had a busy start to an odd school year with school starting in midAugust with masks in place. Most of our high school youth jumped right into athletic two-a-days at the beginning of August and haven’t stopped - expect for the 14-day quarantine enforced on our volleyball team. Both volleyball and football made it to the playoffs, and we are proud of them.

Many of our youth participated in the Burleson County Youth Fair, and while it was a little different this year, our youth performed well and were all winners.

The Lodge 9 Beseda Dancers performed live at Brazos Valley WorldFest on Saturday, October 24. It had been quite some time since we danced.

With so many holiday events being canceled, we are exploring ideas to celebrate together and remain safe at the same time. We look forward to things getting back to normal, but life has continued for our youth and they are making the best of it.

Fraternally, Loree Lewis, Youth Leader —SPJST—

We have been cotton stripping, and I have been running one of the cotton strippers. It’s been a blast. Now I get to start shredding stalks. I will get my learner’s permit in a couple of weeks.

I’m excited about that.

Hunter Wood, age 15 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth loves cats

Lodge 20, Granger Youth Club hosts food drive to benefit local pantry

I’m ready for Thanksgiving break to have a break from school. I’m ready to eat Thanksgiving food and spend time with my cousins. I love my cats. They are getting so big; it’s hard for me to carry them.

Cotton Wood, age 10 —SPJST—

Lodge 20, Granger youth volunteers at educational farm

Lodge 20, Granger Youth Club hosted a food drive to help the local food pantry. Members held an in-person and phone-in meeting for those not comfortable meeting in-person. We really enjoyed seeing each other.

—Submitted by James Teague, age 15

Lodge 49, Rowena youth strips cotton

My cousin James Teague and I enjoy volunteering at Slice of Heaven educational farm in Holland. We had fun working at the Christmas on the Farm event. Our job was to help people roast marshmallows in the giant fire pit. If anyone is looking for volunteer hours, this is a fun place to do it.

Sterling Marshall, age 14 —SPJST—

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Lodge 9, Snook Youth Leader Shares Club, Member Activities

LEFT PHOTO: The 2020-2021 Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Officers are installed by past Youth Leader Marie Shelfer, pictured far left. CENTER PHOTO: Youth members are presented SPJST Youth Showcase awards

by District One Youth Counselor Hannah Kovar, not pictured, at the Sep-

tember meeting. Congratulations to all who participated in the contest!

RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 9 youth members, left to right, Caleb See, William See, Hagen Sebesta, and Wesley See lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the October adult meeting.

LEFT: Congratulations to Kyleigh Hruska who was crowned 2020 Burleson County Fair Queen.

—Submitted by Loree Lewis LEFT PHOTO: Riley Green, who was also a fair Youth Leader queen contestant, won first place with her float entry in the 2020 Burleson County Fair Parade.

Pictured on the float with Riley are her siblings, Josh, Shane, Riley, Dakota, Grayson (cousin), 2020-2021 District One King Caleb See is prepared for his virtual State King interview from the dining room at his home.

RIGHT PHOTO: Senior recognition 2020 graduating seniors Sierra Sebesta and Colby See are honored at the July meeting. Not pictured is Natalie Vacha.

and Caden. RIGHT PHOTO: Caleb See won grand champion with his broilers at the 2020 Burleson County Fair. Assisting Caleb are brother Colby, left, and dad Randy. Congratulations to all youth who participated in the fair.

Lodge 9, Snook Teen Beseda Dancers performed live at Brazos Valley WorldFest in Bryan on Saturday, October 24.

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Monday, December 14, 2020

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 187, round rock youth make christmas ornaments

Lodge 49, Rowena youth injured in football game Dear SPJST, I got hurt in my last football game. I have pneumothorax which is air outside the lungs. I’m okay, but I have to take it easy for a couple of weeks.

I’m glad Thanksgiving break is coming up so I can relax, but once I’m better, I start powerlifting.

Tanner Wood, age 16 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth ready for Christmas Dear SPJST, I am ready for Christmas so I can see my family. The break from school will be nice, too. I’m doing powerlifting now so I can get stronger for football.

School hasn’t been too bad lately. I’m very thankful that none of my family has gotten the corona yet.

Tanner Wood, age 16 —SPJST—

Lodge 187, Round Rock Youth Club members display the Christmas ornaments that they made for the SPJST Christmas Ornament Contest while attending the online November youth club meeting. Pictured left to right are Alexandria with a bear in hot cocoa and

Lodge 49, Rowena youth shops for Christmas Dear SPJST, I am so ready for Christmas. I can’t wait to see what I get. I went shopping for my mom last week, and now I have

Lodge 25, Ennis youth collects, donates can tabs to Ronald McDonald House

to go shopping for my dad this week. I am ready for the break from school.

Cotton Wood, age 10 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth receives driving permit Dear SPJST, My birthday was yesterday, and it was an awesome day. I got my driving permit yesterday, and my mom and I

went out to eat. I will be driving my mom and dad around everywhere. Getting my permit was the best gift!

Hunter Wood, age 15 —SPJST—

Lodge 202, Jourdanton youth: football season success

Lodge 187, Round Rock youth wears red, white, blue for veterans day

Lodge 25, Ennis youth shares Christmas ornament

Four-year-old June Holland of Lodge 25, Ennis, makes a Christmas ornament out of felt, a recycled Christmas card, and super hero stickers. Great job, June!

marshmallows; Kadnce and her painted angel; Karter painted an elf; Kember made a bear in eggnog; Luke created a “support our troops” tree; and Mathieu decorated a light bulb to show support for teachers.

—Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Youth Coordinator

Lodge 25, Ennis youth Kalynn Ryan displays two large jars of can tabs that she collected in 2020 with the help of her Babicka “Babi” Laure Krajca and her great-grandmother “MeMe” Margaret Krajca. The can tabs will be donated to Ronald McDonald House for its charity.

Lodge 187, Round Rock Youth Club member Mathieu McCarthy’s school, Dearing Elementary, recognized Veterans Day in a big way!

I had a great freshmen football season with Pleasanton High School with only two losses.

Merry Christmas to all!

Diego Valdez, age 15 No. 79 —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, December 14, 2020

In Memoriam In Memory of Lydia (Tirk) Alholm Lydia (Tirk) Alholm, 100, passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2020.

Viewing was from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 2 at Mount Olivet Funeral Home in Fort Worth, Texas.

Funeral service was at 11 a.m.

Thursday, December 3 at St. John The Apostle Catholic Church in Fort Worth. Interment was at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Lydia (Tirk) AlLydia Alholm holm was born on April 30, 1920, in Fort Worth to Czech immigrants, Anthony Tirk and Frances (Gajda) Tirk.

She had three siblings (whom are all now deceased) - Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Tirk, Jr., Frances (Tirk) Matthews, and Joseph V. Tirk.

When Lydia was five years old, her parents traded a shoe store and two houses for 165 acres in Colleyville. The family worked the land raising cattle, dairy, and growing much of their own food during the Depression.

Lydia attended Pleasant Run Grade School and graduated from Grapevine High School in 1938 where she was active in many school activities and sports and was voted “All Around Girl.” In 1998, on the 60th anniversary of her graduation, she was celebrated as an honorary homecoming queen. After high school, she went to North Texas Teachers College where she graduated in 1942.

Following her college graduation, Lydia taught for one year before she enlisted in the Navy WAVES in October 1943. She attended boot camp at Hunter College in New York. After completion of boot camp, she was stationed in Washington, DC. She supervised 112 fellow WAVES who worked 24 hours a day decoding intercepted Nazi and Japanese messages. She would eventually attain the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

Tragically, she lost older brother Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Tirk, Jr. during the war when the fighter planes squadron he was commanding was severely

outnumbered in a dogfight with the Nazis off the coast of Italy. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his heroic actions that day.

While stationed in Washington, DC, Lydia attended a polka dance at the Czech Embassy where she met a young soldier from Crosby, Minnesota, named Roy Alholm. They married in August 1946 and remained married for 53 years until Roy’s death in 2009.

Following the war, Lydia and Roy briefly moved to Chicago, Illinois, where they bore two sons - Roy Leonard Alholm, Jr. (“RL”) and Anthony Alholm (“Tony”). RL taught school and coached sports in the Fort Worth school district for 27 years before retiring. He passed away in 2011. Tony went to the University of Notre Dame for undergraduate and law school before going on to a successful career as a trial attorney in Chicago. He married Kathleen (Gallagher) Alholm, and they bore Lydia three grandsons - Matthew Alholm, Daniel Alholm, and Timothy Alholm. Tragically, Tony died of cancer in 1999 at the young age of 49.

Roy and Lydia moved back to Fort Worth, and in 1964, they built a home on the family land in Colleyville, where for many years they hosted a very festive Sokol/SPJST Easter picnic. Lydia taught for 30 years in the Fort Worth school district and eventually retired in 1980. During their retirement, Roy and Lydia traveled extensively throughout Europe and enjoyed polka festivals throughout the United States. Since 2004, Lydia was living at The Wellington in North Richland Hills.

Lydia was active in many civic groups and was essential in getting the Colleyville World War II monuments erected. Her name is listed on one of the monuments as the only woman from Colleyville who served in World War II. Her name, along with her brother’s, also appears on the Texas Czech Genealogical Society’s Wall of Honor for Czech Veterans in Temple, Texas. She was a member of Fort Worth Friendship Club and Circle of Czech Women for more than 30 years as well as the Fort Worth Retired Teachers Association. She was also a member of Sokol for more than 80 years and SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth for more than 80 years. She received the SPJST Lifetime Achievement

Award in 2004. Lydia and Roy led the grand march at many weddings and anniversaries. Her parents were charter members of Sokol in 1912.

Lydia was a proud Czech and a proud Texan. She was strong, vibrant, generous, and derived much joy from being around other people. She enjoyed music, dancing, and bingo. She barely slowed down in her later years and even drove until the age of 98. She loved playing slot machines and made regular trips to the casino until the COVID-19 pandemic. She lived every moment of her 100 years. She left a positive impression on countless lives, and she will be missed by many.

Memorials may be made to Sokol Fort Worth, 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76179.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Ernest Bezdek, Sr. Ernest L. Bezdek Sr., age 91, of West, Texas, passed away Tuesday morning, November 24, 2020, at Providence Hospital in Waco.

A rosary was recited 4 p.m. Sunday, November 29 at Aderhold Funeral Home, followed by visitation until 6 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Monday, November 30 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Ernest Bezdek, Sr. Assumption in West, with Reverend Ed Karasek as celebrant. Military graveside rites followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery, conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard.

Ernest was born December 7, 1928, in Penelope, the son of Ludwig and Hattie (Holacka) Bezdek. He attended St. Mary’s School and was a 1945 graduate of West High School. Ernest later received certification from the American Banking Institute at McLennan Community College and Baylor University.

He proudly served his country with the United States Army during World War II and the Korean War, then served for 32 years with the Army Reserves before being honorably discharged at the rank

19

of Chief Warrant Officer.

On October 18, 1949, he was united in marriage to Evelyn Girard in West.

Evelyn preceded him in death on May 13, 2015. Ernest was a lifelong and faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus Council 2305; SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood; American Legion Post 478; Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4819; and KJT Society 31. Ernest served his community on many boards including West Hospital Authority, McLennan County Appraisal District, McLennan/Hill Czech Heritage Society, West City Council, West Chamber of Commerce, and was a founding member of West Fraternal Auditorium. For Westfest, Ernest served as an Associate Director and was in charge of the taroky tournament for many years. He was a senior vice president for Pointwest Bank for more than 40 years before retiring in 1999. Ernest enjoyed collecting coins, taking gambling trips to Louisiana, traveling, and playing taroky and 42. Watching his grandchildren play sports was something he loved to do and brought him great pride.

Ernest was also preceded in death by his parents; sister Doris Konvicka; granddaughter Brittany Polasek; and nephew Ernie Konvicka.

Survivors include children Dolores Prince of Austin, Ernest “Sonny” Bezdek, Jr. and wife Renee of Humble, and Lisa Pavelka and husband Mark of West; grandchildren Ken Prince and fiancée Cari Senefsky, Kimberly Bezdek, Dex Bell, Amber Pavelka, and Crystal Pavelka; grandson-in-law David Polasek; great-grandchildren Avery and Makayla; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Active pallbearers were Ken Prince, Kim Bezdek, Amber Pavelka, Crystal Pavelka, Jason Wood, David Girard, Billy Girard, Ronnie Girard, Tommy Miller, Tommy Muska, and Charles Nemec. Honorary pallbearers were Avery Bell, Makayla Polasek, and past and present employees and directors of Pointwest Bank.

—SPJST—

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Monday, December 14, 2020

In Memory of Van Fowler Michael Van Fowler was born on April 8, 1948, to Helen and Percy Fowler of Alma, Texas, and passed away on Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at the age of 72.

Van graduated from Saint John School in 1966 and Navarro College in 1968. He married his wife, Patricia Trojacek Fowler, on July 12, 1969, and they enjoyed 51 years of marriage. He worked for Southern Auto, Van Fowler Cody Company, and Sherwin Williams Automotive Division until 1984 when he began his own company. He was owner and operator of Lone Star Paint and Equipment for 36 years until his death. He had a wealth of accomplishments throughout his life and made many friends over the years.

Van served many organizations in various positions. He was most notably known for his dedication to the fire service in his position as fire chief of Telico Volunteer Fire Department for the past 40 years (from January 1980 until his death). He served as past president of the North Texas Fireman’s and Fire Marshalls’ Association and past board member of the State of Texas Firemen’s and Fire Marshalls’ Association. Most recently, Van was president of Rice Water Supply and a board member of Navarro County Electric Co-op. Additionally, he served as a past president of SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. He was a Knights of Columbus member and a member of St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church.

Van dedicated his life to helping and mentoring his family, friends, and others. His tireless efforts will be remembered by the hundreds of people he touched throughout his life. Van had a great ability to understand mechanics and how things work, which led him to be able to fix almost anything. When his grandsons were younger, “Take it to PawPaw, he can fix anything,” was a common saying. As they got older to work directly with him, it was common to hear from Van, “That's alright, but that’s not how I would have done it!”

Van was preceded in death by his

VĚSTNÍK mother; father; and brothers John Richard Fowler and Percy Sylvester, Jr. He is survived by wife Patricia; daughter Julie Fowler Mraz and husband Jeff; son Michael Van Fowler, Jr. and wife Christy; grandchildren Justin Mraz, Jacob Mraz, and Kaylee Fowler with a future grandson expected in January 2021; brother Bruce Fowler with David Sacha; sister Rosemary Fowler; three nephews; and one great-nephew.

He will also be remembered by a host of cousins and other family and friends.

Van’s visitation was Wednesday, December 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. in J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis with rosary at 7 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial was on Thursday, December 3 at 10 a.m. in St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church with Father Fred Caldwell as celebrant.

Interment followed in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. Pallbearers were Justin Mraz, Jacob Mraz, Joshua Ludwig, Matthew Ludwig, Lucas Ludwig, and Larry Pechacek. Honorary pallbearers were Lawrence Reeve, Charlie Patak, Martin Zapletal, and the Telico Volunteer Fire Department.

The family asks for donations to be sent to Telico Volunteer Fire Department c/o Marvin Trojacek, 8911 FM 1181, Ennis, Texas 75119.

Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—

In Memory of Patricia Hill Patricia Dlabaj Hill, 76, passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2020, in Dallas, Texas.

Patricia was born on March 15, 1944, to Emil J. and Hattie (Slovak) Dlabaj.

She grew up in Ennis and attended St. John High School. On July 9, 1961, she married J.C. Hill, Jr., and they made their home in Ennis.

Patricia worked for Texas InstruPatricia Hill ments and Fine Line Ribbon. She was a member of St. John Nepomucene

Catholic Church, KJZT, and SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. She was a devoted wife and mother, and her family was the joy of her life. She enjoyed cooking, fellowship with family, and polka music.

Patricia is survived by her husband of more than 59 years, J.C. Hill, Jr.; son Jeff Hill and wife Nancy; daughter Tammy Cardinal; grandchildren: Lacey Hill, Jonathan Cardinal, and Eric Hill; sister Evelyn Hitchcock; and a host of extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and infant son Christopher.

Visitation was Friday, December 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. with rosary at 7 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis.

Mass of the Christian burial was held on Saturday, December 5 at 10 a.m. in St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church with Father John Dick as celebrant. Interment followed in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. Betty Macalik Financial Secretary —SPJST—

In Memory of Milton “Butch” Keith, Jr. Milton P. “Butch” Keith, Jr., 79, of Taylor, Texas, passed away Sunday, October 25, 2020, at his daughter’s home in College Station surrounded by family.

A memorial service was at 3 p.m. Friday, November 6 at First Baptist Church of Navasota with Reverend Richard Walters officiating.

A celebration of life will be held at a later determined date in Taylor.

Butch was born in Temple on January 4, 1941, to MilButch Keith ton P. Keith, Sr. and Cora Faith (McDonnold) Keith. Butch was raised in Rogers by a family submerged in church, music, art, and mechanics. He quickly developed a special love and talent for working with his hands and fixing things, especially air conditioners, just as his father, Milton Keith, Sr. Butch began performing at the Bap-

tist church in Rogers, where his mother played piano and organ. After he graduated from Rogers High School, he went on to study music at Sam Houston State University. Butch then met his first wife, Mary Katherine, with whom he had two children, Trey and Charlotte.

After college, Butch joined up with Jimmy Heap and the Melody Masters for The Jimmy Heap Show, with whom he travelled and entertained, packing dancehalls across the country, including Las Vegas, Nevada. After the band dismantled, Butch settled down in Navasota with wife Amy and had a second daughter, Nikki. He worked at Turner, Pierce and Fultz for several years and eventually opened his own successful air conditioning and appliance repair business before finally joining the amazing people in Area 3 Maintenance at his beloved Texas A&M University in College Station.

During his years working at Texas A&M, Butch fell in love with the campus and Kyle Field and even requested to ride by and see the day before he was admitted into the hospital (which was obliged). Butch always had a passionate heart for serving God and his church, First Baptist Church of Navasota, where he sang and performed with the choir and ensembles, served as a deacon, and even led as the music minister before he began his special mission reviving The First Baptist Church of Anderson.

Soon after Amy passed, Butch moved back to Taylor, where he had many friends and people he cared deeply for. He spent his early retired years performing with his new band, competing in chili cook-offs, and traveling with his companion, Nancy. They enjoyed many years of life together, frequenting the local music and entertainment scene. He will be greatly missed by his friends, family, and music fans everywhere.

He was a member of SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Amy Lou Godbold Keith; and daughter Charlotte Kay Keith Urias.

Left to cherish his memories are companion Nancy Bigon of Taylor; son Milton P. “Trey” Keith, III and wife Monica of Hutto; daughter Natalie “Nikki” Sullivan and husband Matt of College Station; sister Linda Keith Brashears of Temple; grandchildren Dr. Ashley Edwards, Joseph Strelsky, Milton “Cory” Keith, IV, Benjamin Keith, James Urias, Mallory Urias, and Talli

VĚSTNÍK Sullivan; and great-grandchildren Hendrix Strelsky, Maxwell Keith, Adin, Zane and Charlotte Keith, Nicholas and Zoee Mancusi, and James Urias, Jr. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

You are invited to leave fond memories or kind words at www.noblesfuneral.com.

—SPJST—

Resolution of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge Hvezda Texasu, No. 47, Seaton, express our sincere sympathy to the family of our departed sister, ADELINE ESTHER SHENKIR KOHUTEK, age 93, of Bryant Station, Texas. who died Friday, November 27, 2020, in a Cameron nursing rehab facility.

Visitation was held Friday, December 4 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Marek-BurnsLaywell Funeral Home in Cameron.

Graveside service was at 1 p.m. Friday, December 4 at Corinth Cemetery near Buck- Adeline Kohutek holts.

Mrs. Kohutek, a homemaker, was born March 5, 1927, to Frank and Mary (Ruzicka) Shenkir at New Colony near Rogers. She graduated from Rogers High School in 1944. She married her high school sweetheart, Willie E. Kohutek, on April 19, 1945.

She enjoyed sewing, quilting, baking, and gardening. She was a longtime member of Buckholts Brethren Church and active in SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. Adeline was a 81-year member of SPJST. She served as youth leader at Lodge 47. Her husband Willie was District Two Director from 1984 to 1996.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother; two grandsons; and a great-grandson.

She is survived by sons Kenneth J. Kohutek, Sr. and wife Trish, Gordon L. Kohutek and wife Lili, and Ralph A. Kohutek; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Memorials can be sent to the SPJST

Monday, December 14, 2020 Youth Program, 520 North Main, Temple Texas 76501.

Marek-Burns-Laywell Funeral Home of Cameron was in charge of arrangements.

Resolution Committee Ruth Hanusch Joyce Skrabanek —SPJST—

In Memory of Alfons Kolar Alfons Kolar, age 90, of Birome, Texas, passed away early Tuesday morning, November 17, 2020, at West Rest Haven in West, Texas.

A rosary was recited at 5 p.m. Thursday, November 19 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m.

Friday, November 20 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in Alfons Kolar West, with Reverend Timothy Vaverek as celebrant. Military graveside rites followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery, conducted by West Veterans Honor Guard.

Alfons was born June 18, 1930, in West, the son of Frank and Annie (Gerik) Kolar. He attended the old Alligator Creek School. Alfons proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. On January 4, 1958, he was united in marriage to Leona Marek in Abbott. Leona preceded him in death on April 16, 1999. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West. Alfons was also a member of Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 4819 and SPJST Lodge 66, Waco. He operated the family farm and ranch his whole life, and in 1971, he was recognized by McLennan County Conservation District as Outstanding Conservation Farmer. Alfons enjoyed riding around the farm, watching the crops grow, working the land, and taking care of his cattle. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Alfons was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers Frank, Rudolph, Albin, Adolph, and George Kolar; sisters

Mary Grmela, Annie Marek, Angeline, Margaret, Lillian, and Irene Kolar.

Survivors include sons Alfons Kolar, Jr. and wife Henrietta of Wharton, Thomas Kolar and wife Barbara of West, James Kolar and wife Becki of Robinson, and Kenneth Kolar of Birome; grandchildren Emily Pruett, Laura Wichman and husband Kyle, Jacob Kolar and wife Petra, Kara Priest and husband Brandon, and Kailey Kolar; great-grandchildren Rachael, Logan, Colton, Dylan, Ezio, and Alice; brothers Raymond Kolar and Johnny Kolar and wife Edda; sisterin-law Jaroline Kolar; brothers-in-law Leon Marek and wife Kathy and Eugene Marek and wife Betty; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Pallbearers were David Kallus, Harry Grmela, Larry Marek, Ronnie Skerik, Rudy Kolar, Jr., and Gregory Marek.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church Building Fund.

Thoughts and memories of Alfons can be shared in the memorial guest book found at aderholdfuneralhome.com.

Aderhold Funeral Home in West was in charge of arrangements.

—SPJST—

In Memory of William Matush William Joe Matush, age 94, of Temple, Texas, slept peacefully into the arms of the Lord on November 22, 2020.

William was born on August 31, 1926, in Temple.

He graduated from Temple High School and Texas A&M University, Class of ’47. He proudly served in both the United States Air Force where he was staWilliam Matush tioned in Puerto Rico and the United States Army serving in Korea.

He returned to Temple to work in the family business, Matush Motors and later Matush Auto Supply. In 1968, William joined the faculty of Temple Junior College as director of the Arnold Student Union and Bookstore. In this new career, he enjoyed the students, his colleagues, co-workers, and the growth of the school. Education was always im-

21

portant to him, so he proudly endowed a Temple College scholarship for students of Czech heritage. Upon retirement, he and his much loved wife, Lynda, found new joys working together at her family ranch. His admirable work ethic, no matter the job, was always evident and is a legacy we each appreciate.

William also loved his church, community, and friends. As an adult, he became a lifelong active member of First United Methodist Church and was a charter member of the Dawson Sunday School Class. He loved his many years in Temple Kiwanis Club, especially cooking at the annual pancake suppers.

He was also a proud member of VFW, SPJST Lodge 87, Temple, American Legion Post 133, and charter member of the Cotillion Dance Club. His Friday Night Group stood the test of time, though reshaped over and over by the passage of years. As long as he and Lynda were able, their Fridays were ‘booked.’ Many of his friends have gone before him, but he treasured each of them all along the way.

Above all, he valued family. Even through his 80s, he stayed in touch with the kids and grandkids through phone calls, emails, and Facebook. He inspired us in so many ways - even with his willingness to embrace the new technologies. We will miss our long talks at the kitchen table, the teaching moments on an old or new tool, his keen interest in what we were up to, and our annual Christmas family photo on the front porch. But the blessings of time with him and the impact of his life on ours will be lasting.

William was predeceased by parents Frank and Janie Matush; brother Frank Matush, Jr.; and sisters Marie Brook and Dorothy Fowler.

He is survived by beloved wife Lynda; daughters Marilyn Taylor and Mona Kohutek; son Mike Matush; Lynda’s daughter Lori Clendennen; brothers John Allen Matush and James Matush; grandchildren Elisa Etter, Melanie Jarvis, John Sammons, III, Cain Kohutek, Emileigh Hebert, August Beverly, and Jay Matush; great-grandchildren Jackson and Preston Etter, Drew, Avery and Caton Jarvis, Eivin, Merak and Lennox Hebert, Kaysen Kohutek, Liesl Matush, Ruby and Junot Sammons.

WJ’s family suggests any memorials to honor him be made to Temple College Foundation, Frank and Janie Ma-

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Monday, December 14, 2020

tush Scholarship, 2600 South First Street, Temple, Texas, 76504.

Per his wishes, a private family celebration of his life will be held at a later date at Lake Victor Cemetery, near Burnet.

Arrangements were made through Scanio-Harper Funeral Home in Temple.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Albert Regmund, Jr. Albert “Bert” William Regmund, Jr., age 79, passed away on Monday, November 16, 2020. He was born on July 27, 1941, to Anita and Albert Regmund in Corpus Christi, Texas.

He was raised in Corpus Christi along with his brother Ronny Regmund and sister Jackie Epperson. He graduated from West Oso High School, and shortly after, he joined the Army. Albert Regmund, Jr. After his Army career, he met Devery Hicks. They married in 1967. They had two children Melanie Regmund Taylor and James Regmund.

Bert started working at CCAD in Corpus Christi about this time and decided to move the family to Mathis. He wanted his family to enjoy his favorite things - fishing, boating, hunting, and country life. Little did he know he was in for baseball, tennis, and cat collecting.

He made sure to love all of his family’s hobbies, even the cats.

Bert retired from CCAD after 30 years of service. After his retirement, he started a new chapter in his life, meeting his partner for more than 30 years, Dollie Huddleston. The two enjoyed dancing, gambling trips, and family.

Family was the most important part of life for Bert - family barbecues, holidays, and summer birthdays with lots of food. He was especially proud of his two granddaughters - Deriann Taylor Poehl and Madison Regmund. He loved following their many adventures. Once they were born, he became known as Papaw Bert. He loved being Papaw most of all.

VĚSTNÍK He was a 61-year member of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi and a 60-year member of Sokol Corpus Christi.

Bert was preceded in death by his parents; sister Jackie and her husband Larry Epperson; and his partner Dollie Huddleston.

Left to cherish his memories are brother Ronny and wife Raeann Regmund; daughter Melanie and husband Richard Taylor; son James Regmund; granddaughters Deriann and husband Matt Poehl and Madison Regmund; beloved cat Pumpkin; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation was at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 21 at Seaside Funeral Home.

A graveside service was at 11:30 a.m. at Seaside Memorial Park.

Please make any donations in Bert’s memory to Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 78415.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Dorothy Stiff Dorothy Louise (Urbanovsky) Stiff, age 95, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away Wednesday morning, September 30, 2020, at Morton Plant Hospital after a brief illness.

A memorial service was held at 5 p.m.

Tuesday, October 6 at the family home in Clearwater with Dr. Anthony Stiff, her grandson and a Presbyterian pastor, officiating.

Dorothy Stiff A memorial graveside service was held at 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, November 21 at St. Mary’s Cemetery in West.

Dorothy was born August 17, 1925, in West, the daughter of the late Raymond and Lillian Urbanovsky. She attended St. Mary’s School and was a 1943 graduate of West High School. On February 2, 1948, she was united in marriage to Lacy M. Stiff in Washington, DC. Lacy preceded her in death on November 4, 1990.

Dorothy worked for the Veterans Administration and Department of Navy and Marine Corps, before retiring from federal government service in 1975. She also worked for County of Westmoreland, Virginia, Division of Social Serv-

ices and volunteered for Pinellas County School System until 2004. Dorothy was a member of SPJST Lodge 54, West. She enjoyed reading, crosswords, Czech genealogy, and spending time with her grandson and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include daughters Dana Holland of Clearwater, Florida, and Sara Pope and husband Eric Theall of Canton, Georgia; grandson Dr. Anthony Stiff and wife Jessica of Buckeye, Arizona; greatgrandchildren Cali Stiff and Liam Stiff; and many other cousins, relatives, and friends.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s School in West or to a charity of your choice.

Family and friends are invited to share their thoughts and memories in the memorial guest book found at www.aderholdfuneralhome.com.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Frankie B. Vrla Frankie B. Vrla, age 87, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on Friday, November 20, 2020.

Visitation and viewing was Sunday, November 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Sparkman/Crane Funeral Home on Garland Road. Funeral mass was held on Monday, Frankie Vrla November 30 at Calvary Hill North Chapel at 2 p.m. with a graveside burial immediately following.

He was born in Ennis on October 24,

1933. Frankie graduated from Ennis High School. He went on to attend Texas A&M University where he graduated in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.

He was preceded in death by his parents Frank B. and Mary H. Vrla; brothers Arnold and Edwin; and sisters Millie and Mary.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Wilma M. Vrla. Also left to treasure memories are sons and wives, David and Cindy of Dallas, Darrell and Kathy of Houston, and Frank and Kelly of Dallas; beloved grandchildren Bryan Vrla and wife Dr. Nancy, Kimberly and husband Jason Wagner, Rebecca and husband Jason Fry, Andrew Vrla and wife Sarah, Brad Vrla, Sarah Caitlin Vrla, Kyle Vrla and wife Sarah, and Chad Vrla and wife Jenna; step-grandchildren Carrie and husband Joshua Hatfield and Carlie and husband Jacob Woodlee; most important descendants and great-grandchildren Brooklyn and John Vrla, Reese, Cora, Emmett and Gavin Wagner, Aidan, Peter, Justin and Bethany (expected in December) Fry, Jackson and Sadie Vrla, and Easton Vrla; and step-great-grandchildren Cody and Ryann Hatfield and Cash, Jaxon and Noah Woodlee, and Kyson and Kindi Dobson.

Frankie was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, St. Thomas Men’s Group, KJT, and SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas. He played trumpet and bass horn and was a member of several local Czech bands. He also served as Boy Scout leader for Troop 43.

Donations may be made in memory of Frankie B. Vrla to St. Joseph Cemetery Ennis, c/o St. John Catholic Church, 401 East Lampasas Street, Ennis, Texas 75119.

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, December 14, 2020 Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Česká

Část

ROČNÍK 108 ČISLO 23 14.prosinec.2020

Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE

HUMANITY

BROTHERHOOD

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Druhá telekonference CEFT se vydařila Jan Vaculík česky píšící dopisovatel Druhá telekonference České vzdělávací nadace státu Texasu se konala dne 24. října 2020 z místnosti Slovenské podporující jednoty státu Texasu v Temple, Tx., kde pracovali předseda Sboru ředitelů James Sassín, president nadace Ray Lenart, vicepresident nadace John Šefčík a několik dalších ředitelů nadace, ostatní ředitelé spolupracovali prostřednictvím telekomunikace.

Po prvním příjemném dojmu z telekonference se snažili všihni účastníci spolupracovat a tak jsme probrali body programu bez zdržení. Původně byla plánovaná schůze do Dentonu, Tx., kde jsme měli mít malou slavnost, protože říjen je měsíc oslav národního dědictví v Texasu, ale epidemie tyto plány překazila a ředitelé se rozdělili do Templu a do domovů. Výhoda je v tom, že jsem setrval jen několik vteřin cestováním ze schůze.

Tajemník nadace Paul Hlavinka probral podrobně zápis z poslední schůze a zápis byl schválen tak, jak byl čten. Zápis byl z března a epidemie tak způsobila, že jsme se nemohli sejít přes celé léto.

Tajemníkovi hodně pomáhá telekonference, protože vidí a slyší jednotlivé projevy a může si zapsat průběh schůze v pohodlí domova. Tuto výhodu mám i já, že si dělám poznámky ze schůze v pohodlí domova. Přesto je přirozenější výměna názorů v přímém kontaktu, Doufejme, že se epidmie ukončí v blízké době.

Předseda Sboru ředitelů James Sassín zahájil program schůze poměrně krátkou zprávou, protože nadace nemohla pracovat veřejně, ale máme několik nadějných okolností a osob, které by mohly za-

sáhnout ve prospěch naší nadace v budoucnosti. Profesoři na Texaské universitě se snaží pracovat s omezenými možnostmi a epidemie působí značnou nejistotu pro budoucnost. Nicméně, částka na stipendium pro katedru neustále utěšeně roste. Z výsledků práce katedry je nutno vyzvednout ukončení kursu českého jazyka, který je možno prohlédnout na počítači. Když bude přibývat uživatelů češtiny, pak si musím dát pozor na to, abych ve svých článcích nedělal chyby. Nepochybně někdo přijde na užitečnou stránku psaní článků v češtině jako cvičení pro zdokonalení znalostí češtiny.

President nadace Ray Lenárt podal zprávu o činnosti na Severotexaské universitě, kde jsme plánovali oslavu za přítomnosti Kostohryzovy rodiny, ale epidemie zasáhla a museli jsme se spokojit jen s konstatováním, že částka stipendia pro katedru české hudby přibývá a nyní je Kostohryzovo a Bezděkovo stipendium na hudební katedře Severotexaské university na patřičné úrovni.

Profesor Tom Sovík byl ustanoven vedoucím pracovníkem pro pořádání akcí a doporučil, abychom uspořádali nějakou akci na konec epidemie. Sám se bude snažit pokračovat v dosavadní činnosti propagace naši hudby po všech stránkách jak v Texasu, tak i na Moravě.

K poměrům na Texaské A and M universitě v College Station,Tx. bylo podo tknuto, že universita nabídla kvalitní a mnohem lepší program studií pro moravské studenty, avšak toto stipendium musí být založeno na značné částce dolarů a případně je nutno i změnit název stipendia, aby jiné známé jméno přilákalo dárce a podporovatele nadace.

Universita vyjde vstříc nadaci, když nadace splní finanční požadavky univer sity. Naše nadace se nyní musí v College Station, Tx. vzchopit a uspořádat sbírku na milion dolarů k založení stipendia pro moravské studenty na universitě v Col-

lege Station, Tx. V projednávání situace na této universitě budeme pokračovat, až dospějeme ke zdárnému konci.

Velmi pěknou zprávu podala finanční tajemnice Cindy Belknap a ráda přjme jakoukoliv částku anebo dar na práci naší nadace. Uvědomělí podporovatelé nadace mohou předpokládat, že nadace bude potřebovat větší částku na založení stipendia v College Station,Tx. A bylo by rozumné již předem posbírat dolary do pokladny. Posílej te co možná nejvíce dolarů na adresu CEFT c/o Cynthia P. Belknap, 2520 Willig Ave, Fort Worth, TX.76110. Nadace vám bude za každou podporu vděčna. Prohledala staré záznamy dárců a spolu s místopředsedkyní Sboru ředitelů Dianou Šulákovou Wilson seřadila starší případné kandidáty na podporu nadace z dřívějších dob a poslali jim dopis s brožurkou o činnosti nadace.

Tato práce je velmi zdlouhavá a vyžaduje trpělivost a pečlivou práci. Doufáme, že mnozí dřívější příznivci se ozvou. Ředitel Brian Vaníček upozornil na zajímavou okolnost ve městě Wacu, Tx., kde.našinci organisují založení a výstavbu našeho centra, které po dokončení stavby bude sloužit jako pivovar, jídelna, společenská místnost pro texaskou veřejnost. Pozemek byl již zakoupen a propagace se koná po celý rok a tak se tam pojedeme po dívat. Město Waco se nyní modernisuje a z bývalých továren na pneumatiky jsou nyní restaurace a místo, kde bude pivovar, je na severní straně města, kde doposud stály zanedbané budovy skladů a sila. Po uklizení smetí však místo zabrala výstavba dálnice a přídavných cest a v silách je nyní modlitebna. Město se budovalo směrem na jih a západ a nyní se buduje na sever a východ.

Další důležitou podrobností je dokončení úpravy stanov nadace zásluhou vice presidena Johna Šefčíka. Vzpomínám si, že hned od počátku členství u naší nadace byly stanovy nadace na prvním místě jeho zájmu a nyní je zmodernisoval a upravil tak, aby si je každý mohl přečíst a nabýt dojmu o činnosti nadace. Je nutno si všimnout, že jsou na světě lidé, kteří si nejprve přečtou stanovy organisace a pak se rozhodují, zda se připojí k práci. Jsme rádi, že John vydržel a stanovy upravil, což je jeho velká zásluha. Nyní každý zájemce může prostudovat stanovy a navštívit několik našich schůzí a pak se svobodně rozhodnout, jak si bude počínat. Každý zájemce o naši nadaci má nyní příležitost se k nám připojit a pracovat pro dobro naší krajanské veřejnosti. Potřebujeme

23

více řadových členů a štědrých dárců pro činnost naší nadace.

Epidemie způsobuje a způsobovala nepříznivé změny v životě milionů lidí po celém světě. Nevidíme příslovečné světlo v tunelu a tak musíme být připraveni na dobrou spolupráci v budoucnoti, i když vím, že ani tato etpidemi nebude trvat věčně.

—SPJST—

Across the Globe: Observing Historical Parallels My good friend Bradley Stavinoha of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville asked me to put together some information about the COVID-19 situation in the Czech Republic. And so I thought about it, Pavel Helstyn and here it is. Now let me preface it with a disclaimer. This is going to be a biased account. I think it’s very hard these days to put together something that is not. And so I’m not even going to try. You will probably find a lot of people that would disagree with me. And that is okay. You make your own opinion.

Now, just so you know where I’m coming from. I am a 37-year-old single guy living in a nice apartment in the center of Prague. I am well financially, I run my own business internationally.

Actually, we are launching a new business in the UK in a couple of weeks which makes buying a used car easier and less stressful for people. I am quite excited about that. I am healthy, and I exercise. By all accounts, I do well and I should be well. Despite everything, I find the current situation quite emotionally challenging.

In the last few weeks, I came to find that I have a completely different perspective from some of my friends who have families. Some of them live in a house in the countryside. They are absolutely not experiencing the same emotional ups and downs that I am, yet the situation does affect them as well. Thus my bias. They have their own different COVID-related challenges. But you’d have to ask them. Now back to me.

24

Monday, December 14, 2020

Fall of Communism, 1989 There’s no other way to put it, but we’ve been in lockdown for the last more or less eight weeks. This is a great time to think on it. November 17, which was three days ago, is a national holiday. It commemorates the fall of communism in our country in 1989. That was 31 years ago. That was when people took to the streets to retake their freedoms. Thirtyibe years later, it’s safe to say that even more of those freedoms have been taken away from us now under the pretext of a disease. At this point, you probably know where I’m going to go from here.

To be honest with you, I don’t even know what’s legal anymore. It changes every week. Sometimes, more than once.

I do know a few things for sure. I do know that there’s a curfew. You’re not allowed to leave your house between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Does that sound shocking to you? Sadly, for us, it’s the new normal. I know for sure that the stores are closed. Grocery stores and florists (for some random reason) remain open.

There might be just a few other store categories that are open, but I can tell you that the vast, vast majority of stores are closed. The restaurants are closed. All the services have been closed. That means you’re not supposed to go to the gym.

Actually, you can go to the gym, but you will find that it’s closed. You can’t officially get a haircut. And the list goes on.

Anecdote - Pursuing a Hobby You know, it actually gets anecdotal.

I started taking dance lessons just about two or three weeks before the lockdown.

It was great. I always loved dancing. I thought this would be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people while improving at my hobby. And so I did. Our lecturer, Martina, is a single mother of two children. She runs her studio all by herself while looking after a two-year-old and a teenager. She is a wonderful person. You cannot not love her. I took some individual lessons, and I took group lessons. In the group lessons, I met two lovely girls with whom I danced. Two weeks in, they locked us down. That means no lessons, no studio, no dancing, no socializing. Oh, that reminds me, public singing is also forbidden. Yes, you heard right. And people are forbidden from going to church and attending a mass.

But back to my dancing story. Martina who pays rent for the studio and has a bunch of dance teachers on payroll now has no income. She is forbidden by the

VĚSTNÍK government from making a living doing what she loves and what she’s great at. I would love to attend the classes. I am not that afraid of the virus. I know other people in the group feel the same way. I know Martina feels the same way. The only problem is that the government doesn’t allow for it. Martina is the representation of literally hundreds of thousands of people in this country that are now forbidden by the government from making a living for themselves and their families. Being a single mom was too easy, I guess.

Inside the Czech Republic Anyway, I could go on about all the things that are happening here, but I think you get the point. Yesterday, our parliament which is the equivalent of the American Congress, passed a resolution which keeps us locked down until December 12. For now. This is the second time they’ve extended the lock down, and they probably will again. Now this part, I think, should resonate with my friends in Texas.

The resolution was passed with the support of the communist party and the socialist party. Yes, we still have the communist party in this country. And yes, it has such influence that we are locked down “thanks” to it supports to the government. It’s shocking, I know. It is ironic to write about this just a few days after the commemoration of the fall of communism. Many people’s businesses are completely destroyed. They are prohibited from carrying out their livelihoods. Many of us are isolated in our homes. Just as are our parents and friends. We are prohibited from socializing, unless it’s for work or with your closest family. Did I already mention how many businesses are closed? That makes it kind of difficult to go to work for a lot of people.

This is what happens when the government wants to save you literally at all cost. They will save you even if it should cost you your life. I hope I’m making the irony clear enough. I could go on about this for several pages. How this creates division and disassociation in the society, how groups of “morally correct” judges of character emerged shaming everyone who’s not following the haphazard government rules, how the government publicly chastises “disobedient citizens,” and imposes stricter rules allegedly on their account. The list goes on.

Historical Happenings in America My friends, I have been following what’s going on in the political arena in the United States in the last few weeks and months. You don’t have the same experience we do with communism. I fear some of you do not see the threat quite clearly enough. Do not fall into socialism. Be very careful about it. Your personal freedoms and a government that fears the people — not the other way around — is the most valuable thing that you have. Cherish it and keep it. We need a beacon of hope, a country that is still free. While we pray this does not last long and that we can still restore our communities; while we hope that we don’t become the next Venezuela, we need to look up to the United States of America as the land of the free and the brave, whatever flaws it has. I promise you, the “perfection” of socialism is much harder to bear. This crisis is not only a health crisis, it is primarily a crisis of values.

There you go. That’s my biased account. Stay happy, healthy and in touch.

The next time on a more positive and optimistic topic, I hope.

Reach me at pavel@ecalypse.com with anything you’d like to know about The Czech Republic. I live in Prague, Czech. I love Texas, and I hope that we can soon again meet in person there or in the Czech Republic over a glass of pivo.

God bless you all.

Pavel Helstyn —SPJST—

This book, written by Czech citizens in the Old Country during World War I, was written to express gratitude to the Czechs in America who answered their call for aid during this war to assist them at a critical time when their homes, livelihoods and very existence had been decimated by the war. The book was translated to English and published by TCGS in 2019 in an effort to show Americans today the rigors of war and to instill pride in Czech Americans because of the way we helped our cousins in the homeland in their time of need. The book is loaded with much information about the beginnings of this noble effort and also includes surnames and many photos, many of which have identified people in them.

Because many people are reluctant to shop at stores during the Covid Pandemic, this book would make a terrific and easy-to-obtain Christmas gift for those you love.

To order the book, please send a check for $48 along with your shipping address to Nancy Machu, 3337 Bianco Terrace, Round Rock, Texas 78665. Shipping charges are waived during November and December.

To charge your order, call 512-9714284, leaving a message for a call-back.

Submitted by, Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—

TCGS: Christmas Giving Book of the Month

Czech Center Museum Houston is pleased to announce that its holiday fundraising concert is Friday, December 18, 2020, from 7 to 10 p.m. This blacktie event will showcase a live performance by five talented musicians playing traditional Czech and American holiday songs.

The Museum will serve drinks and fine hors d’oeuvres before the concert.

The holiday drawing begins after the performance along with dessert. Drawing tickets are on sale for $50 each, and prizes include a Danube River Cruise Tour, Cedar Rapids trip, and a $500 Amazon gift card. The online auction closes at 6 p.m. on December 19.

Seating is limited to 100 guests so be sure to reserve tickets. Ticket prices are

Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) offers its newest publication, Czechoslovaku Pamatnik as its November and December Book of the Month.

Czech Center Museum Houston plans Dec. 18 holiday concert

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, December 14, 2020

$200 per person, and valet parking is provided. Current COVID-19 precautions will be observed.

For complete details about the event, online prize drawing, and auction, please visit czechcenter.org; call 713-528-2060; or email development@czechcenter.org.

—SPJST—

Czech Center Museum Houston plans Dec. 19 holiday market With the holiday season rapidly approaching, the Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMH) is pleased to announce that its annual holiday market will be Saturday, December 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Market in Houston will have beautiful items from the Czech Republic

for sale to help you find that perfect gift.

A country store selling homemade Czech favorites, such as strudels, poppy seed rolls, canned pickles, and hot mulled wine will also be available.

Fun and Festivities Tickets for the Holiday Market are free of charge for December 19. For the safety of our guests, it is required to register before your visit. Current COVID19 precautions will be observed.

For complete details about the event, visit czech-center.org; call 713-528-206; or email development@czechcenter.org.

—SPJST—

CESAT to meet February 6, 2021 Czech Ex-Students Association of Texas (CESAT) will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, February 6, 2021,

CZECH CULTURAL CALENDAR TEMPORARILY CLOSED. Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. ACTIVITIES TEMPORARILY CANCELED. First and third Tuesday tarok lessons • Czech film screenings at The Beltonian Theatre in Belton.

Wednesdays POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Taylor Czech Speaking Class meets every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living, 505 East Lake Drive in Taylor. This is an informal class setting for learning to speak, write, and read Czech.

For information, contact Instructor Lydia Kurtin 512-859-2543. Submitted by Alice Bracewell, Lodge 48, Beyersville.

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

Pre-registration preferred. For information, call 888-785-4500; 979-968-9399; or email info@czechtexas.org.

Second Tuesdays POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Czech Film Nights and Matinees—at The Beltonian Theatre, 219 East Central, Belton. Showtimes - 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Free

admission. Film is presented by Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC). For information, call CHMGC 254-899-2935; find them on Facebook; or on the web at www.czechheritagemuseum.org. Find The Beltonian online at www.thebeltoniantheatre.com or on Facebook.

January 23, 2021 TCGS Submission Deadline: for TCGS upcoming book Czech Family Histories V. For information, contact Charlene Hurta, 1231 County Road 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515; phone 979-849-0348; or email cmhurta@earth.

February 6 Czech Ex-Students Association of Texas (CESAT) Annual Meeting (virtually/online)—at 10 a.m.: To attend online in real time, contact either Thadious Polasek - polasek29@gmail.com; Jane Reynolds - janereyn@austin.rr.com; or Sandra Morkovsky - smshiner@sbcglobal.net at least four days prior to the meeting. For membership information, contact CESAT President Thadious Polasek polasek29@gmail.com; or Vice President Brad Masek - bradmasek@gmail.com. Submitted by Thadious Polasek, Lodge 67, Schulenburg.

—SPJST—

25

at 10 a.m. virtually (online).

Please contact CESAT President Thadious Polasek for information regarding membership at polasek29@gmail.com or Vice President Brad Masek at bradmasek@gmail.com.

If you wish to attend online in real time from the comfort and safety of your home, contact either Thadious Polasek at polasek29@gmail.com, Jane Reynolds at janereyn@austin.rr.com, or Sandra Morkovsky at smshiner@sbcglobal.net at least 4 days prior to the meeting.

Submitted by, Thadious Polasek Lodge 67, Schulenburg —SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”

For membership: Marie Dulak 979-589-1903

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

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254-778-1824 COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501

26

Monday, December 14, 2020

VĚSTNÍK

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is on the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: 254-773-8087. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Lodge hall is located on Hwy 159 East, 3 blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: 979-9663795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Tentative dates for 2021: Sunday, March 14—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, June 13—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, August 8—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, November 14—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, December 12—Christmas party in Vsetin Lodge Meetings: Held every other month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call 361798-3347.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road.

Lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road.

Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall.

Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. Dates are February 24, May 25, August 24, and November 23.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Hall: 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979-884-1451; Hall Phone: 979-8841451. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Julie Schneider 512-269-8180.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.)

Directions: Hall is located on Hwy 36, east of Buckholts, 1/4 mile east of downtown Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly.

For information, call 254-721-3902.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Hwy 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles then turn left on CR 225. Go 1 mile, veering to the right. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Attention: Although all lodge events at SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin have been canceled for 2020, please note that for hall rental information, please contact FL Meyer 512-940-7970.

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Hall Rentals/Band Bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254-541-5344.

LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. Directions: From Hwy 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West for 4 miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North; go 1 mile. Hall is on the right. Lodge Meetings: Tuesday after the second Sunday in March, June, and September, 7:30 p.m.; and the first Sunday of December, 3 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit Hwy 53 at blinking light to FM 485; go 1 mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774; or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall.

For information, call Kim Campbell 254-721-0586.

LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Wednesday. December 23—Apple Strudel Bake Sale pick up, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. To place orders, call Margaret Krajca 972-878-6149 or Betty Macalik 972-878-7719.

Lodge Hall: 1901 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Mail: PO Box 129, Ennis, Texas 75120. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the lodge dining room with supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary social in the game room. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.Call Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624 for information.

Due to the global pandemic, please contact the lodge/district prior to attending any event due to possible schedule changes, postponement, or cancellation.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the large, 2-story hall.

Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Live Music: First and third Wednesday each month, free, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday night dance, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For information and meeting location, call Youth Leader Cristy Girod 512-468-1347.

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

Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo.

For information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-5437120.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Meetings: Held the second Thursday of every other month - January, March, May, July, September, and November, 2019 at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact Secretary Linda Mozisek 361-220-7725.

LODGE 35, ELK (3) Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy 84 East through Bellmead; go approximately 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road; go approximately 1 mile; the road will dead end. Turn right at the dead end; go approximately 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com.

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-8394353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR. Go 2 miles to Mumford Road; turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. Hall (white building) is at the bend of the road. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - watch for date in Věstník, 1 p.m. at the hall.

Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish.

For information, call President Wade O’Shields 979-2183527; or FAC Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158.

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

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca.

For information, call lodge Secretary Mary Sitka 361-5525170 or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com.

LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is 7 miles east of Temple on Hwy 53.

Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Danny Stepan 254-760-7819; Hall Phone: 254985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall.

Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) The new hall is nearing completion. We are now taking bookings by contacting Bonnie Urbanek at 512-7399324. Monthly meetings will restart in January.

Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112 and go about 0.8 mile. Turn right on FM 619; continue on FM 619 for approximately 4 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 512-739-9324. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-9130226.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-6560029.

LODGE 51, ELLINGER (1) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Ellinger Fire Department, West Main Street in Ellinger. For information, call Calvin Hlinsky 979-378-2364.

LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.

For meeting location or information, call Lodge Secretary Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.

LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Date, time, location TBA in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. For information, call 254-799-4247.

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

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

LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Lodge Meetings: Sunday, September 13; and Sunday, December 6. Meetings are at 12:30 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls. For information, contact Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi.

Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east on FM 2268. Go 1/2 mile to hall, which is on the right. Hall Phone: 254-6572485. Bingo: Every Thursday, 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly. Watch the Věstník for dates/times.

Board of Directors’ Meetings: Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall, 6 p.m. Call Youth Leader Kelly Taisler 254-913-3309 for location, information.

VĚSTNÍK LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Hwy 36, Needville. Directions: Hall is located at the corner of Hwy 36 and FM 361, one mile from the traffic light in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings: Dan Natho 979-618-1426. Hall Phone: 361-793-4742.

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leaders Krystle Bender 713-933-1392 or Karen Hargraves 713-398-5622.

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m.

Meeting location will be posted in the Věstník. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. - unless otherwise announced in the Věstník. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456.

LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2) Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Directions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50th Street; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-773-2363.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Hwy 290—Take Mangum Dacoma exit; stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto 18th Street. Go under freeway at third traffic light, turn on Beall Street. Hall is on the right. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 713-8695767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Starting January 2020, Lodge 88 Youth Club meetings will be held on the second Sunday of the month at the lodge. hall. For information, call Youth Leader Vanessa Guerrero 281-745-1697.

LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings - TBA in the Věstník. For information, contact Lodge Secretary Vonda Smesny 832-694-8762.

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North; it becomes Jacksboro Hwy (TX 199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cut Off, which is a right off of Jacksboro Hwy. Hall - also known as National Hall - is on the right about 2 or 3 blocks down the road. Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-6241361.

Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Monday, March 2; Monday, June 1; Monday, September 14 in the Community Room at Victoria Mall, 6 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West for 3 miles to FM 1303; turn right and go 2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 830-393-7796. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737.

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

LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date, time, and location, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385 or email jvrla@cebridge.net.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings are held in March, July, October, and December at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio. For information, contact President Jarolyn Popp 830-964-5135.

Monday, December 14, 2020 LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay Hwy 287 on until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy 34. Sokol Hall is on the left.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting at 12 noon, luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979-922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. For information, contact Secretary Bernice Stolarski 979-885-6786.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December which is the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-5605377.

LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, 6:30 p.m. at Texas Seafood and Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham. (December meeting/social information will be announced at a later date.) Lodge Information: Call Stephen Bliznak 979-251-4150; or Lenora Bliznak 979-277-8845.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Lodge Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. at the lodge hall, 3609 Preston Avenue, in Pasadena. November and December meetings will be held on the third Sunday. For information, contact Jo 346-317-4412; or Helen 713-920-7172 LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open.

Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November - Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 11 a.m. Location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138.

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S.W. Wilshire Boulevard, Burleson at 6 p.m. For information, call 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022.

LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month following the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Call Youth Leader Melissa Zielonka for information 979-618-1890.

LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. For information, contact Youth Leader Becky Beckendorf 254749-5732.

LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street, Wharton. For information, call 979-532-5884.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North. Stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Turn right on Mayfield; go down and turn left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-8003485. Game Nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. Lodge Meetings/Family Nights: Third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall.

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

For information, call 817-731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall.

Contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net; or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: For dates time, and location of quarterly meetings, call Secretary Ginny Prasatik 512472-1721.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Last Sunday of every other month of March, June, and September; then December - the first Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For meeting location, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek - phone 806-763-7245; or email cyndynjerome@gmail.com.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Wednesday of February, May, and August; and the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact President Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325234-5879.

LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. For information, contact President Betty Crawford 713-594-5049. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center. For information, call Youth Leader Brenda Moyle 713-303-1471.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD building in the meeting room. RSVP to Elmer Michna at 361-7723876 or Johnnie Hoffman at 361-772-5049. Please RSVP by Thursday of the week prior to the meeting.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (subject to change). Call Youth Leader Jessica McCoy for information 979-7778215.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy 36, Caldwell. Directions: Hall is just off Hwy 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: 979-567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Yolanda Brinkman for information 979-5670637.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Directions: From Taylor, take Hwy 79 into Round Rock until you get to Sunrise. There will be a 7-11 store on the right.

Turn right and proceed past Hopewell School. Continue through the four-way stop. Luther Peterson Boulevard is the first street on the left. From Temple, take IH-35 South.

Just past Georgetown, exit on University Boulevard. Proceed to stop sign. Take left on University Boulevard. The third street is Sunrise. Turn right onto Sunrise. The second street to the right will be Luther Peterson Boulevard.

Hall Rental Information: 512-255-1554; or 512-771-4948.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal.

27

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Quarterly business meetings are held in March, June, and September, and a social meeting in December. Location and dates will be announced in the Věstník. Contact President Henry Mayo for information 979-777-1426.

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

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Hall Rental Information/Dance Reservations: George Scogin 936-8752867. Regular Dances: Third Friday night of each month, 7 to 10 p.m. Please bring finger foods for the snack table.

Lodge Meetings: Monday night before the Friday dance of the month, 7 p.m. at the hall.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Phone: 281373-9482; email spjstlodge196@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Potluck social at 1 p.m.; meeting begins at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Cadance Wager 713-5152835.

LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month on even months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street, Eddy. For information, contact President James R. Hosch 254-718-4798.

LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions: Hall is across the street from the post office in Bleiblerville.

Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Jenell 979-357-2181.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly, the first Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m.; and the second Sunday of September and December at 1 p.m. A meal will be served at each meeting. Meetings are at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton.

For information, contact Secretary Bettie House 830281-8246. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of every month at 1:15 p.m. except in September and December, meetings are held on the second Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830-570-2046.

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m.

For meeting location, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940855-0882.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Secretary Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-632-5239.

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of March, April, and May at 6 p.m. at Puerto Vallarta Grill, 1611 Montana Avenue, El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. For meeting location information, contact Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089.

LODGE 232, HOUSTON MIDTOWN (5) Lodge Meetings: Held the third Tuesday of every other month in January, March, May, July, September, and November, 6:30 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto, Houston. For information, contact Secretary Catherine Anderson 713-726-1928.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Unless otherwise announced, second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November, 11:30 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831 or Secretary Melanie Zavodny 254-534-0807.

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

—SPJST—

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