Lodge Section

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:

SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo Questions? Call 800-727-7578

Lodge 6 Cottonwood excited to host July 18 picnic

President Milton Peterson called the meeting of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood to order on Sunday, June 6, 2021, at 2:15 p.m. Sister Peggy Dobecka recited the Pledge of Allegiance and SPJST motto.

A moment of silence was observed for the sick and deceased of the lodge. Officer Sister Jeanette Beseda was absent.

Sister Irene Peterson reported 13 members and one guest present. Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting. Sister Peggy gave the treasurer, youth club, and fraternal reports. The youth club will have a drawing at the picnic.

Great News! Lodge Picnic Returns!

Our lodge picnic is back! We will have plates to-go in the back of the hall or you can dine inside the hall. All plates will be $10 each for a great fried chicken meal. We will also have an auction and a prize drawing with great prizes.

Progressive door prize winner was absent. Birthdays for June were Dorothy Kucera and Don Urbanovsky. Attendance door prize winners were Pam Urbanovsky, Barbara Hykel, and Henry Blahuta. James Nemec won a glass dish donated by Henry and Lou Blahuta.

Everyone, make plans for the picnic - on the 18th - the third Sunday of July.

Next Meeting—July 11

The next meeting will be on Sunday, July 11 at 2 p.m.

Wishing all dads a happy Father’s Day and everyone a happy Fourth of July.

Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 6, Cottonwood says, “Happy June birthday!”

Happy June birthdays to Don Urbanovsky and Dorothy Kucera! They were recognized at the lodge’s meeting on Sunday, June 6, 2021. Best wishes!

Lodge 8, Weimar meets June 28

SPJST Lodge 8, Weimar will meet on Monday, June 28 at Oakridge Smokehouse in Schulenburg at 6 p.m. The meeting was originally scheduled in May but was canceled due to flooding. A memorial service for Lodge 8, Weimar members who passed away during 2019 and 2020 will be led by Anton Machacek.

All members are invited and encourage to attend. The meal will be compliments of Lodge 8, Weimar. Fraternally, Carolyn M.Tobola Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 9, Snook meets July 7

Reminder: The next meeting of Lodge 9, Snook will be Wednesday, July 7 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Vrazel Celebrate 60th Wedding Anniversary

1961 - June 24 - 2021

Bernice Vansa and Alfred Vrazel were married on June 24, 1961, at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Marak, Texas, with the Reverend Rafael Gerskovich officiating.

Alfred is retired from farming and Vrazels’ Polka Band, but he is still active in ranching and hosting the Alfred Vrazel Polka Show on KMIL 105.1 FM in Cameron, which has been on the air every Sunday since 1955.

Bernice has worked for Farmers Mutual Protective Association (RVOS) in Temple for seven years; Cameron Community Hospital in Cameron for eight years; and Central Freight Lines in Cameron, retiring after 12 years.

Both Alfred and Bernice are and have been active in their church, Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church at Marak all their lives.

The couple has one daughter, Cynthia Ann Morris, and husband, Michael, of Temple, and two grandchildren, Matthew Strmiska and Jessica Strmiska of Austin.

Alfred and Bernice Vrazel are members of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts.

Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts Ted Lange and Mollie B Friday, May 21, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall • Submitted by Linda Wilde, Treasurer

The doors of Flag Hall - SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone - opened at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021, and the crowds of people began to rush in. Immediately, the line to the kitchen and bar started to get long so that everyone would have their food and beverages ready when Ted and Mollie entered the stage at 7 p.m. and started a wonderful evening of music, fun, and dancing.

Many groups in attendance were celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations so lots of cakes and snacks were spread on tables, and the parties began.

Since people have been “sheltering in place” for over a year, it was good to see friends visiting and catching up on what has been happening around the area.

A wonderful grand finale was when Alfred Vrazel joined the band on stage, which made a group of four members of the National Polka Music Hall of Fame consisting of Mollie Busta, Ted Lange, Alfred Vrazel, and Fred Ziwich. But that traditional “Vrazel Polka Band” sound came out loud and clear when Alfred sang “If I Were a Bird” for his brother Anton who always put that special sound to that song on the accordion. Michael Morris, a local drummer, joined the group, giving Dana a break from the drums.

Following in that Vrazel Polka Band tradition of playing “overtime,” Ted and Mollie had so many requests that they too had to play till 11:30 p.m.

I hope you enjoy the pictures just simply showing the crowd having a wonderful time, and we hope to see you all again when Ted and Mollie come back to Flag Hall on Sunday, February 6, 2022. Details and ticket sales information will be announced in December, 2021.

Fraternally, Linda M. Wilde, Treasurer —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Alfred Vrazel, center, of Lodge 15, Buckholts joins the band. PHOTO 2: Mollie B, center, visits with Lodge 24, Cyclone members Rose Vrazel, left, and Debbie Vrazel. PHOTO 3: This group from West, Texas, joins the party at Flag Hall! RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 24, Cyclone Treasurer Linda Wilde, right, is pictured with Mollie B.

LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 24 kitchen workers are, left to right, Derek Campbell, Carl Macek, Steve Bruggman, Cade Campbell, Nash Campbell, Kim Campbell, and Jennifer Hoelscher. CENTER PHOTO: National Polka Hall of Fame members gather on stage for the grand finale. They are, left to right, Fred Ziwich, Mollie Busta, Alfred Vrazel, and Ted Lange. RIGHT PHOTO: Attendees enjoy the evening at Flag Hall in Cyclone.

Lodge 24, Cyclone readies for August 7 fundraiser

Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, June 14, 2021, at Flag Hall amid wheat fields crying for relief of their burden as the weather was causing the kernel to swell and get lighter. Also, one section of the ranch may soon be a solar farm.

The meeting was called to order at 7:07 p.m. by President Daniel Wilde. He led the Pledge of Allegiance and had a silent prayer for our deceased members. Secretary Brenda Maddux read the minutes of the last meeting. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report. Shirley Hoelscher gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. June 14 was Flag Day, and the District Two Annual Meeting was June 13. The deadline for the virtual District Youth Achievement Day was Sunday, June 13. State YAD is in person at the Frank W. Mayborn Center in Temple on July 31.

We discussed charitable works to be done. The big news was Cathy Bruggman’s report of the fundraiser on August 7. Tickets are available now. We are looking forward to their work on this project.

Birthdays were Nash and Cade Campbell on June 14. Daniel and Linda Wilde were married 45 years on June 5. Justin Everett is on the sick list.

Check out our ticket for the fundraiser for the zero-turn lawn mower. For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis honors high school seniors with scholarship awards

Dear Readers, This month’s Lodge 25, Ennis meeting was held Thursday, June 10, 2021, beginning with a delicious meal that Betty prepared and served, consisting of chicken spaghetti, salad, bread, kolache, and strudel. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. On the sick list is Don Wesley. The reports were read by the officers. Joann announced that the National Polka Festival was a huge success and that everyone had a great time. A big thank you to everyone who helped out. Special thanks to Frankie for making the barbecue and to Betty for the kolaches and strudel.

Lodge high school seniors were honored and awarded scholarships. They are: Landon Lipscomb, Jacob Mraz, Cody Nelson, and Olivia Zmolik. Pat Fowler noted that most of these youth are fourth generation SPJST members and that our ancestors would be very proud that we are able to help them out with their higher education expenses.

New flooring was discussed, and plans are to have the project complete in time for the lodge celebration on November 13.

A big thank you went out to the Milton Martinek family who donated a nice, round top table that held many domino playing memories.

After the meeting, everyone enjoyed refreshments and fellowship. Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis Honors Graduating High School Seniors

Lodge 25, Ennis honored its graduating high school seniors with scholarships at the June 10, 2021, meeting. LEFT PHOTO: Olivia Zmolik will attend Abilene Christian University. She is the daughter of Mark and Missy Zmolik and granddaughter of Betty Macalik.

LEFT PHOTO: Jacob Mraz is carrying on a legacy tradition by attending Texas Tech in the fall. He is the son of Jeff and Julie Mraz and the grandson of Pat Fowler. In the photo are Jeff, Julie, Jacob, and Pat. RIGHT PHOTO: Landon Lipscomb, son of Lisa and Pictured, left to right, are Missy, Olivia, and Betty. RIGHT PHOTO: Cody Nelson, son of Marie Nelson and Chad Nelson, joined the Air Force after graduation. Pictured are Lisa, Rita, Cody, Preston, and Scooter.

Rel Lipscomb and grandson of Adell Rejcek, will attend Texas State University to study HVAC. Pictured are Adell, Rel, Lisa, Landon, and Rita. Congratulations and best wishes to all! —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter

Lodge 29, Taylor seeks cookoff sponsors

Lodge 29, Taylor members met for their regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, with President Ronnie Rieger presiding. He led the Pledge of Allegiance, and members observed a moment of silence for our departed. All officers were present. The May minutes were read and approved.

Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report. Sharon read information about Flag Day which is celebrated on June 14. She reminded us of the District Two Annual Meeting at Lodge 48, Beyersville Hall on June 13.

Alice Kasper’s daughter, Dawn Layssard, passed away recently. Alice has been such a wonderful supporter of Lodge 29 so Mary Jane Pustejovsky made a motion to do a memorial for Dawn to the SPJST Scholarship Fund. Frankie Pustejovsky seconded the motion, and it passed.

Lyn Rieger made a motion to do a memorial in honor of Janice Victorick to the Donnie and Janice Victorick Scholarship Fund, and Frankie Pustejovsky sec-

onded. The motion passed.

Jesse Pospisil reported that a part has been ordered for one of our air conditioners. The electrical lines outside should be installed in a couple of weeks, weather permitting. Jesse also recognized Karin Bryant who became a United States citizen recently.

Ronnie Rieger asked members to start thinking of sponsors for our 20th Annual SPJST Barbecue Cookoff on September 24 and 25. We also discussed the appreciation dinner for barbecue sponsors. We will also have a silent auction on Saturday, September 25, and donated items are needed and will be greatly appreciated. On Monday, June 21, there will be a delegates’ meeting at Lodge 29, Taylor beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Members celebrating birthdays in June are Hailey Girod, Cindy Buzan, Pam Clark, Connie Voigt, Bonnie Rathke, Tommy Harrison, Louren Karkoska, Caroline Tate, Patrick Tate, Harrison Tate, Matthew Dewbre, Malaena Bazan, Monica Mehevec, Scott Kaderka, Luke Mehevec, Catherine Basil, and Frankie Limmer.

Jesse and Linda Pospisil celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on June 10.

Joyce Patschke furnished door prizes. Lyn Rieger volunteered to bring them in July.

Next Meeting—July 14

The next meeting will be Wednesday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 28 East Bernard welcomes new member

SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard welcomes new member Waylon R. Kopycinski. Waylon was born April 8, 2021, to Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Kopycinski. —SPJST—

Lodge 32, Victoria members meet in person

It was so good to see everyone again! It was 14 months since we were able to be in a group - a long time - so you can imagine all the noise we were making - all talking at the same time!

We enjoyed our dinner at La Hacinda on the patio - the noise from Navarro Street during 5 p.m. traffic meant we had to talk louder, but we had a great time!

Franklin Elles was presented his 75year pin. Congratulations, Franklin!

District Six Director Annie Vahalik and husband Philip were our guests. It was so good to have them with us.

Sales agent Sylvia Rangel and Regional General Agent Carolina Covarrubia joined us, too. It was so nice to have you ladies with us.

Next Meeting—July 8

Our next meeting is Thursday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at The Grapevine (close to DeTar North), located at 110 Medical Drive, Suite 202 in Victoria.

Everyone is having a good time as things begin to open and get back to as normal as possible - still stay safe and keep out of this heat!

Hope to see y’all soon. Kathy Ahlstrom FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco reports on May meeting

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President Douglas Galler on Monday, May 24, 2021, at St. Paul’s Church at 6 p.m. All officers were present except Guide Michael Galler and Secretary Dana McAdams. Five members and one visitor Fiona Galler - were present.

The Pledge of Allegiance and motto were recited. Members stood for a moment of silence for Rome Milan and for past member Mildred Stanislav. May they rest in peace

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Douglas Galler gave the fraternal report. He gave a list of upcoming events - one being the convention in August.

Bookkeeper Sister Diana Engelke gave the bookkeeping report. Fifty-year pins have been delayed until September.

Sister Dorothy Veselka sent a sympathy card to Brother Ron Neumann on the death of his grandmother, Katie Neumann. May she rest in peace.

Donation for May is going to CareNet.

Door prize winner was Douglas Galler; 100 percent winner was John Engelke; and mother-of-the-year was Diana Engelke.

The meeting adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

Next Meeting—June 28

The next Lodge 66 meeting will be Monday, June 28 at St. Paul’s Church at 6 p.m. Sandwiches, chips, tea, and dessert will be served. Fraternally, Dorothy Veselka, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 29, Taylor member Josephine Ewasiuk Achieves Grand Age of 96

SPJST congratulates Sister Josephine Ewasiuk of Lodge 29, Taylor, who celebrated her 96th birthday on Thursday, June 10, 2021. As such, Sister Josephine is entitled to all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments.

Josephine was born in Taylor, Texas, to Erick Polzin and Adele Rungy Polzin on June 10, 1925. She has one brother, John Polzin.

Josephine met Stanley Ewasiuk, and they were married on March 23, 1946, in San Antonio. They were blessed with three children - son Donald R. Ewasiuk of Homer Glen, Illinois, daughter Nancy L. Stalker of Knoxville, Tennessee, and daughter Christine R. Stegmann of Tinley Park, Illinois. Josephine did clerical office work in her younger years. She collects figurines and loves to do crossword puzzles in the newspaper. Her favorite pastime is playing Tri-ominos. Again, we congratulate Sister Josephine Ewasiuk on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Josephine, for all your devotion to SPJST for all these years. May God bless you and your family for many more years of good health and happiness. —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas invites members to upcoming events

Dear Readers,

The monthly meeting of Lodge 84, Dallas was brought to order at 6:46 p.m. at Tupinamba’s Mexican Cafe on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. Vice President Vicki Sims welcomed everybody before she brought the meeting to order. Flag Bearer Lynda Novak led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for departed member Sister Estelle Smith, our troops serving overseas, and those affected by the pandemic.

Secretary Cherri Petr then read the minutes from our June meeting and correspondence from the Home Office. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki Sims reported on the District Three meeting held on Sunday, June 13 at Lodge 25, Ennis. FAC Vicki also reported that three of her grandchildren - Kendall and Kalyne Tucker received honorable mentions and Josh Tucker received second place for their decorated rock contest entries. She then reminded everyone that a delegates’ meeting is scheduled to be held at Lodge 25, Ennis on Sunday, July 25.

Youth Leader Lynda Novak said that the youth continue to meet via Zoom. She also said how proud she was of the youth that they were all able to submit their YAD projects ahead of schedule and for continuing with submitting their Vestnik projects monthly.

Sister Lynda then gave her reports on Fraternal Council and Czech Culture Society.

Lodge 84 is staying very busy! Please mark your calendars and watch for updates to the following events that Lodge 84 will be having this year.

Sunday, July 18 - Lodge 84 Annual Lakeside Picnic. Please see more details in the following article.

Sunday, August 22 - Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo to be held at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75231. Spaghetti dinner prepared by Bessie’s Catering will be served starting at noon with bingo to follow. Please RSVP to Vicki Sims 214-763-0341 or Lynda Novak 972-948-4456 no later than Friday, August 13.

Sunday, October 10 - regularly scheduled monthly meeting.

Sunday, October 17 - Czech Culture Day celebration to be held at Sokol Dallas. More details to follow.

Sunday, November 14 - regularly scheduled monthly meeting.

Sunday, December 5 - Lodge 84 Annual Christmas party to be held at Sokol Dallas. More details to follow

So, as you can see, we are very active at our lodge, and we hope that you can join us for all the fun and fellowship we have planned. Remember to mark your calendars! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 32, Victoria Members meet for Dinner

After 14 months of not meeting in person, Lodge 32, Victoria members were excited to once again see each other. Members enjoyed dinner on the patio at La Hacinda. Congratulations to Lodge 32 member Franklin Elles! He was presented his 75-year SPJST membership pin. He is pictured in the top left photo, holding his pin. Special guests were District Six Director Annie Vahalik and husband Philip and Regional General Agent Carolina Covarrubia. We also enjoyed having Sales Agent Sylvia Rangel in attendance. The next meeting is Thursday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at The Grapevine (close to DeTar North), located at 110 Medical Drive, Suite 202 in Victoria. —Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom, Reporter

Lodge 84, Dallas lakeside picnic set for July 18

What: Lodge 84, Dallas Lakeside Picnic Where: 287 Autumnwood Trail Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 When: Sunday, July 18, 2021 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lodge 84, Dallas will be hosting a lakeside picnic and monthly meeting on Sunday, July 18, 2021. Please mark your calendars to join us as we enjoy a day of fun, fellowship, and food.

Everyone is asked to bring a dessert and side dish to share; the lodge will provide meat, bread, and paper goods. Everyone is also asked to bring your own folding tables and chairs, a personal cooler filled with your beverage of choice, your own rod and reel for fishing, and your own swimsuit for swimming. Other games and entertainment will be provided.

The picnic is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be served at 12 noon. The phone number to call in case you have questions or need directions is 214-5640269.

We hope to see you there! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 92, Fort Worth to host Paprskar Memorial Tarok Tournament IX

The Paprskar Memorial Tarok Tournament IX will be held Saturday, July 31, 2021, at SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth - National Hall, 3316 Roberts Cut Off in Fort Worth (Lake Worth). Registration and snacks will be served from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Six one-hour rounds

begin at 9 a.m. Meal is included at noon break. Trophies will be awarded for the top four scores. Cash will be awarded for the top four scores. Registration is $25 per player.

For more information or directions, contact John Paprskar 817-480-3480. Late entries will be accepted if player slots are available.

To register by mail, send name, address, and phone number by July 23 to John Paprskar, 905 Venice Street, Hurst, Texas 76053. Fraternally, John Paprskar —SPJST—

Lodge 202 Jourdanton to host District Seven meeting

SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton met Sunday, June 6, 2021, at Jourdanton Community Center with 21 members and guests attending. Flag Bearer Jenna Fair led the Pledge of Allegiance. Silence was observed for deceased members Maria Reyes Gonzales and Carol Horelka, and in honor of our armed forces.

President James House welcomed everyone. All officers were present. Kayla Fair gave the table prayer. Secretary Bettie House read the minutes that were approved as read. Treasurer Sandra Hoggard presented the financial report.

The letter from the Home Office concerning the annual lodge refund was read.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kathleen Polasek mentioned LIT camp, District YAD online, and State YAD.

Youth Leader Regina House reported on the youth outing at Pleasant Perk Coffee House in Pleasanton. June 14 will be an outing at Paradise Canyon on the Rio Medina.

District Seven Director Regina House noted the district meeting hosted by Lodge 202 is July 25. The Supreme Lodge is planning the state convention. The audit committee reported the financial records of the lodge and the youth club were in order.

The menu for the District Seven Meeting will be lasagna or King Ranch chicken, green beans, salad, bread sticks, and dessert for $5.

Door prize winners of $25 were Herlinda Ramos, Kayla Fair, Lloyd House, Valerie Barta, Ryanne Popham, Kathleen Polasek, Regina House, and Cheryl House. SPJST President Brian Vanicek donated items won by Sandra Hoggard, Patty Foster, Colton Fair, Sharon LaGrange, James House, Jenna Fair, Jesse Huizar, and Gloria Iberra. Winners of plates of food were Gloria Iberra, Patty Foster, Cheryl House, James House, Ryanne Popham, Colton Fair, and Bettie House.

The meeting adjourned.

SPJST President Brian Vanicek gave an interesting perspective on evaluating positive and negative aspects of a lodge. Members were challenged to report their thoughts. Next Meeting—September 12

Lodge 202 will meet Sunday, September 12 at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center. The youth club will honor grandparents with a Czech meal. Fraternally, Bettie House, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville; Catholic life donate flag to needville veterans memorial

SPJST Lodge 81, Needville and Catholic Life teamed up to donate a United States flag to Needville Veterans Memorial. Pictured are, left to right, Catholic Life representatives Denise Smerek and Bernadette Novak and SPJST Lodge 81 Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha.

Lodge 84, Dallas Members Dine Out for June Meeting

Lodge 84, Dallas members met at Tupinamba’s Mexican Cafe on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. Members enjoyed dinner and socializing along with the monthly meeting. One of the agenda items was planning the lodge’s lakeside picnic on Sunday, July 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The picnic will be held at 287 Autumnwood Trail in Gun Barrel City. Save the date, and plan to join us! For more details, please see the article in the Lodge Letters’ Section.

Ennis Sewing Circle

Ennis Sewing Circle met on Thursday, June 10, 2021, at 10 a.m., and we had 21 members present. Thanks to everyone for attending and quilting.

After lunch, President Liz called the meeting to order. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and “The Our Father” for Rome Milan and Olga Patak.

Secretary Dolores read the minutes of the last meeting; one correction was made by Pat Fowler.

Treasurer Anita Kubin gave her report. It was approved as read.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to Anita. We wish her many more happy days. In July, we will have our elephant sale and pizza party furnished by the Circle. Some of our members are bringing salad and dessert. Sorry, I didn’t catch the names. Please have all your sale items priced. In August and September, we will quilt for Anita and Maggie; October and November are open, but I think we will quilt our Junior Sokol quilt or baby quilts. It was announced that we need iced tea drinking glasses. I will bring them. I hope I don’t forget.

Dolores Vrana was our 50-50 winner.

Everyone, stay well and safe, and hope to see you all in July. Georgie Morales, Secretary —SPJST—

★ ★ Reunions ★ ★

Reunion notices are published at no charge and as a benefit to SPJST members. First-run announcements may be edited to fit the space. Thereafter, until the week prior to the reunion date - as space permits - notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include your SPJST lodge number/name, and your contact phone number. Thank you. Ruzicka family

The 31st annual Ruzicka family reunion will be held Saturday, July 17, 2021, at Church of Christ, 100 East 3rd Street, Cameron, Texas. Doors will open at 10 a.m. Please note this is a new location from previous years.

All descendants from the families of John Ruzicka (Mary), Rose (Ruzicka) Tomasek (Charlie), Sophie (Ruzicka) Jekel (Conrad), and Julius Ruzicka (France) are invited and urged to attend. Bring your entire family and friends! Please bring your favorite covered dish and/or dessert for all to share.

To help offset the cost of the reunion, we will again have a silent auction so please bring items for the auction. For more information or questions, contact Robert Harris 972-746-7565. We look forward to a great turn-out and a fun day! Joseph J. Beran Lodge 47, Seaton

July 10 Bartek family—at Ratibor Country Grill, 10226 FM 2086, Temple, Texas 76501. Contact Amy Pagel Devereaux at 254-913-9256 or Paula Pagel Faris at 512-818-0259. Submitted by Amy Pagel Devereaux and Paula Pagel Faris, Lodge 47, Seaton. —SPJST—

Happy Hoo Ray 1st Birthday, Lauren!

Happy first birthday to Lauren Lambert of Lodge 187, Round Rock. Her proud grandmother is Linda Johnson, who serves as president of Lodge 187.

Lodge 107, Floresville Members Host Hall Work Day

On Sunday, May 25, 2021, members of Lodge 107, Floresville had a work/clean-up day at the hall. A variety of chores were accomplished from lawn care, cleaning walls, and windows to staining new tabletops. —Submitted by Polly Bayer, Reporter

LEFT PHOTO: Hall manager Roxy Bertrand and youth member Colt Pruski apply stain to new tabletops inside the hall. CENTER PHOTO: Wendy Pruski tackles weeds with her weed eater outside the hall. RIGHT PHOTO: Youth Leader Lian Lynn’s youth exchange student, Davide Parolari, helps clean walls. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Trey Bielefeld cleans the windows. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Larry Bertrand mows the grass. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Youth member Colt Pruski babysits his sister, Tillie.

SPJST Member Services Directory

Continued from Page 1.

addition of new member business and service listings.

Users will be able to conduct searches on the basis of topics as well as location – like the zip code. What will really make SPJST’s online directory unique is that only SPJST members will have access to posting their businesses or services; however, the general public – by virtue of the Internet – will also have access.

“More access means more potential business for our members,” says Vanicek.

“Exactly!” says Zavodny. “We’ll be taking advantage of social media to promote the directory – to members, of course, as well as to non-members.

“It’s all part of SPJST’s invigorated effort to make membership in SPJST a more engaging experience,” says SPJST Vice President Delisle Doherty. “It underscores the great value SPJST places on building upon its existing relationships. We want to see our members do well. That’s the value proposition they receive in exchange for getting involved. ”

“We appreciate that and to show it, we’re going to provide every business that is listed in the directory with signage that will help to promote their business while it raises our profile.”

“Every business listed in the directory will receive signage that will help to pro-

Lodge 219, El Paso Agents welcome Vice President Doherty

SPJST Vice President Delisle Doherty visited with agents at Lodge 219, El Paso in May.

mote their business and help to build the SPJST member services network.”

Depending on the nature of the business or service, the signage will come in two forms – as a window decal and as a plaque – each designating the business or service provider as a “Proud SPJST Member.”

“By marketing your business or service as an SPJST member, I believe you’ll get the same kind of stimulus that you would if you were a member of your local chamber of commerce – which is also a good thing,” says Doherty, adding, “It reflects your community service orientation and makes you more desirable to customers.

“And, certainly, it helps SPJST because it helps to reflect the superior character of our membership.” —SPJST—

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point prepares meal at Feed My Sheep

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members prepared and served a meal on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at Feed My Sheep in Temple. Pictured are, left to right, Winifred Dorsey, Lodge 246 President Ingrid Petrik, and Lodge 246 Secretary Melanie Zavodny. RIGHT PHOTO: Feed My Sheep Feed volunteer Cindy Ecklund, left, and Ingrid Petrik. Feed My Sheep is a 501c(3) non-profit ministry for the homeless. Assisting the needs of the community, Feed My Sheep offers many services such as hot cooked meals and sack lunches seven days a week; showers (women and men locker rooms); laundry facilities and other personal services such as haircuts; children's clinic; and furniture donations. —Submitted by Melanie Zavodny, Secretary

Working From Home

by d.knape

I’ve been working from home for many many years it is nothing new to me and not caused by market conditions technology or the pandemic it is caused by a desire to loaf to goof off to live a more normal life like a natural human being freed from the treadmill to actually enjoy my Self - yes working from home is nothing new to me it’s called Retirement. —SPJST—

Someflowers

by d.knape Some flowers they are these Sunflowers with their giant stalks as tall as fence posts they rise up in my flower bed having come up on their own even after the brutal Texas freeze they survived somehow and are now hardy and strong reminders of life itself they project their joy their resilience each flower a miniature sun smiling. —SPJST—

Happy Anniversary, Regina and James!

Lodge 202, Jourdanton President James House and Youth Leader Regina House celebrated their 34th anniversary on Sunday, June 13, 2021. Regina also serves as District Seven Director. Congratulations and best wishes for many more happy years together! —Submitted by Bettie House, Secretary

“Pay attention . . . or we may lose our freedom.”

“Freedom . . . guard it with your life, America,” often warned well-known Texas Gulf Coast fraternalist and late SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje member Karel Matejka, Sr. of El Campo, Texas. Karel was only 16 years old when the Vimperk, Sumava, Czechoslovakian Freedom Fighter was imprisoned by the Nazis following Germany’s occupation of the Sudentenland at the beginning of World War II. He spent almost eight years of his youth as a forced laborer in Hitler’s infamous concentration camps. He was freed in 1946 by General George S. Patton’s United States Army and returned to his Czechoslovakian homeland where he opened a Karel Matejka bakery and grocery store. Karel became outspokenly critical of Post War Russian-imposed Communism that was being forced on the freedom-loving Czechs. Czechoslovakia’s pre-World War II democratic government had been patterned after the United States of America. After learning in 1948 that his business was to be nationalized by the Communists and the impending threat of imprisonment again “as an enemy of the State,” Karel and his wife, Gizela, escaped overnight to western Germany. Bishop John L. Morkovsky learned of their plight as displaced European refugees and arranged for the Matejkas to come to Houston in 1950 under the National Catholic Refugees Program. Karel and his wife were warmly welcomed into the greater Houston American-Czech community including the old SPJST Lodge 88, Houston on Studewood Drive. He was active in the Houston Sokol movement and other benevolent Slavic organizations such as Western Fraternal Life. The gifted singer and musician had a vast repertoire of authentic Czech folk songs. The accomplished accordionist and drummer also loved to polka dance. He formed a Houston band which played at many special celebrations including a downtown El Campo street dance and “All Nations Festival” in 1962 when the city became “Capital of Texas for 24 hours” as designated by “Governor-for-a-Day” Culp Krueger, President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate at that time and owner of KULP Radio and the El Campo Leader-News-Svoboda. A member of the SPJST Lodge 88 Choral Group and Drama Club, he was cast in major roles of many Czech language divadlos — theatrical presentations including operettas such as Kmoch’s “Muziky, Muziky” and other entertaining Czechoslovakian dramas and comedies staged at Lodge 88 and in other Texas communities. Karel was honored in 1999 as one of the founders of the Saints Cyril and Methodius Slavic Heritage Festival, which is one of Houston’s oldest ethnic festivals. He often expressed his worry that many Americans are apathetic about the precious liberty he and his wife finally enjoyed in Texas. “We must pay attention or one day, we may lose our freedom here,” cautioned Karel on July 4, 2003, when he single-handedly staged an Independence Day event in El Campo after learning no local public observance was scheduled. One of his happiest days was on November 12, 1958, when he became a naturalized United States citizen. His Czech citizenship had been revoked by the Communists, but President Vaclav Havel re-instated it in 2000 so Karel held dual citizenship during his final years. Karel passed away on Friday, June 2, 2006, on his 83rd birthday. Editor’s Note: This article was originally submitted by Chuck and Joanna Schwartzkopf of Lodge 40, El CampoHillje. “Karel was a very dear person who went through a lot for his freedom,” says Lodge 88, Houston member Mary Krippner who asks that the article be rerun around Independence Day. “We often don’t value freedom as much as we should. I love America, and I treasure Brother Karel’s values.”

—SPJST—