28 minute read
Lodge Section
from VESTNIK 2021.07.12
by SPJST
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 4, Hallettsville reports on June meeting
Dear Members,
Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, June 13, 2021, after the District Six Meeting held at Camp Kubena.
President Joe Siptak called the meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. The minutes from the last meeting and financial report were dispensed with until the August meeting.
Congratulations to our SPJST scholarship recipient Hanna Chudej.
We discussed recognizing our 50year members at the Christmas party in December. Next Meeting—August 8
The next meeting will be Sunday, August 8 at Hallettsville Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. Door prizes will be given, and lunch will be served as usual. Members are cordially invited to attend. Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
District Directors Celebrate July 4 in schulenburg
District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha and District Six Director Annie Vahalik are all smiles at the Annual Fourth of July Picnic at St. John Parish in Schulenburg, Texas, on Sunday, July 4, 2021.
Lodge 6 Cottonwood excited to host July 18 picnic
Lodge 6, Cottonwood’s 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. We look forward to seeing you there! Dorothy Kucera Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard plans to honor longtime members
The members of Karel Jonas No. 28, East Bernard met Tuesday, June 15, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. via telephone. President Kaminsky called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present.
Next, there was a moment of silent prayer for our members who passed away and for the members of SPJST who passed away. Our sympathy goes to their families. We wished members
Lodge 18, Elgin Earns First Place Awards in Western Days Parade
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 18, Elgin hosted the SPJST Float in the Western Days Parade on Saturday, June 26, 2021. The entry earned two first place ribbons. Pictured on the float are, left to right, Lodge 18 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Mike Mogonye, President David Meyer, Hailey Girod of Lodge 29, Taylor, Secretary Charles Wilson, and Trustee F.L. Meyer. Later in the day, Lodge 18 hosted a successful class reunions’ event and free dance with Glen Collins and the Alibis. RIGHT PHOTO: Supporting Lodge 18’s entry in the parade are siblings Hailey and Brandon Girod, both of Lodge 29, Taylor. They are pictured with Float Driver David Nauert and Vestnik Editor/Director of Communication Melanie Zavodny.
on the sick list a speedy recovery. President Kaminsky asked for the minutes and the treasurer’s reports for March, April, and May. Reports were approved by members as given. Members then discussed the upcoming convention and the by-law changes to be voted on. Changes to be voted on are in the May 10 Věstník issue. Helen Kelner discussed correspondence from SPJST Home Office and upcoming fraternal and youth activity events. Members discussed honoring our 50-year (10) and 75-year member Bertie Jo Hlavinka at the next quarterly meeting on September 12. We also talked about the plans. Congratulations on your accomplishment!
Helen asked members to turn in fraternal hours for March, April, and May.
Next Meeting—September 12
The next quarterly meeting will be Sunday, September 12 at 12 noon in Wharton County Library Meeting Room.
Fraternally, Helen Kelner Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor meets July 14
Lodge 29, Taylor will meet Wednesday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the lodge hall. We hope to see you there! Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk; Elk Hall, Inc. report on June meeting
On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, President Randy Pavelka called the Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Inc. meetings to order at 7:26 p.m. We had nine members present. The Pledge was recited by all present.
Secretary Carla Price read the minutes of the May meetings, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer gave her May reports, and she is still working on the books to get them updated.
Floor Chair Gene Pavelka had a great month with a good turn-in. Bar Chair Randy Pavelka had a great month, too.
Under old business, we have a beautiful new floor in our kitchen. Thank you to everyone who gave their time to get the flooring installed. You all did great!
I hope everyone enjoyed the family time during the Fourth of July holiday.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
Next Meeting—July 14
The next meeting will be Wednesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. We welcome members and guests to attend our meetings. Please come join us. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 38, Kovar welcomes visitors
Lodge 38, Kovar held its monthly meeting on Monday, June 14, 2021. Present were five members and two guests, District One Director Donnie Victorick and son Ashley Victorick. It was a nice, surprise visit.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and Dana Bunte read the prayer.
Donna Zimmerhanzel read a thank you note from FFA student Morgan Adams whom we had presented a donation. There was no old business or new business.
We donated to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.
Donnie talked about different things that need to be addressed at the Convention.
The meeting was then adjourned. Dorothy Lastovica Reporter —SPJST—
Irene Bucanek Celebrates 81st Birthday with Family and Friends
Happy 81st birthday to Irene Bucanek of Lodge 29, Taylor! She is pictured with Elvis celebrating her special day. RIGHT PHOTO: Edward Kopecky plays favorite polkas and waltzes on his accordion and sings for Irene’s birthday.
Irene Bucanek, owner of the Kolache Shoppe Bakery in Taylor, celebrated her 81st birthday on June 2, 2021, with family and friends. A party was held in her honor by her children and their spouses - Debbie and David Kubiak, Cheryl and Lee Perez, Charles and Tisha Bucanek, and Sidney and Chris Bucanek. A dinner was served and entertainment was provided by the King himself - Elvis Presley, who sang and performed his greatest hits. Ed Kopecky also played polkas and waltzes on accordion and sang throughout the afternoon. Everyone had a wonderful time! Happy birthday, Irene!
Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member
Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member Travis Wayne Baker. He is the son of Dillon and Christina Baker of Stephenville, Texas, and grandson of Corey and Suzanne Baker and Ronnie and Debbie Ticer. Great-granny is Betty Macalik, and great-grandparents are Joe and Billie Baker. Travis is a fourth generation SPJST Lodge 25 member, as he is the great-great-grandson of Joe and Annie Martinek.
Travis’ sales agent is Margaret Krajca.
—SPJST—
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated Father’s Day on Sunday, June 20, 2021, with a meal of meat loaf prepared by Virginia Rebecek and Jill Sijansky while members brought side dishes.
The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek at 2:05 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present except for Treasurer Larry Elzner. We welcomed 21 members and guests in attendance.
On the sick list were Larry Elzner recovering from surgery, Jill Sijansky who had a stay in the hospital, and Libby Tabola who was still recovering from Covid. We wish them well.
Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the May meeting minutes, and they were approved as read.
The financial report was presented by Secretary Virginia Rebecek in the absence of Treasurer Larry Elzner. It was approved as read.
We received a thank you note from Mother Teresa Shelter for our donation.
President Mark Rebecek introduced our guest, District Seven Director Regina House. Regina discussed the upcoming District Seven Annual Meeting in Jourdanton and the upcoming SPJST Convention in Killeen.
Under communications, Secretary Virginia Rebecek read a letter from District Seven Secretary Wendy Pruski giving information pertaining to the upcoming district meeting in Jourdanton on July 25.
The fraternal activities coordinator’s report was given by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky. He talked about the event that happened on June 10. It was the anniversary of the destruction of the town of Lidice in the Czech Republic by Nazi Germany.
Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. They had six members and guests in attendance. The youth made paper crosses and discussed the district meeting and rock contest.
Under new business, Secretary Virginia Rebecek made a motion that our monthly donation go to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, seconded by Jerry Sijansky, and approved by members. Wedding anniversaries were James and Regina House - 34 years on June 13; Becky and Michael Urbanovsky - 30 years on June 29; and Stephen and Laura Rebecek - 14 years on June 30. Happy anniversary to all!
Door prizes for $25 were won by Marcus Rebecek and Christina Rew.
Christina Rew made a motion to adjourn our meeting, seconded by Michael Urbanovsky, at 3 p.m.
Next Meeting—July 18
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 18 with the lodge furnishing hot dogs. Members are asked to bring a side. We will celebrate the Fourth of July. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton honors graduates
Congratulations to 2021 Rogers High School graduates Logan Erskine, left, and Koby Stone, both of Lodge 47, Seaton! They were honored at the lodge’s meeting on Monday, June 7. Both Logan and Koby will attend Texas A&M University in the fall. Koby serves as the 2020-2021 SPJST State King. —Submitted by Amber Bartek, Youth Leader
Lodge 80, Holland meets July 19 Lodge 81, Needville discusses hall improvements
The June 2021 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 27th since we were hosting the District Five Annual Meeting at our lodge. At 11 a.m., a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed barbecue chicken, cooked by Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales. Side dishes and desserts were brought by the members.
President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 11:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all the members. All officers answered the roll.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall presented the minutes, and they were approved as read. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales read his report, and it was approved as read.
Under old business, President Vincent Newman presented a scholarship to our scholarship winners, Sarah Norman and Carson Schultz. Congratulations! We wish you both a very successful college endeavor. Also under old business, Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales talked about all the work that was done on the hall, and all the work that still needs to be done.
Under new business, Kristen Jones decided to attend the state SPJST Convention as a delegate since another member had other commitments. Bradley Stavinoha suggested doing a sponsor backdrop on the back of the stage area. Kristen Jones brought the idea of having a photo booth at the corner of the hall by the stage.
Under other business, Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha informed members that the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville is doing much better and is becoming self-sufficient.
Lodge 84, Dallas invites all members to a lakeside picnic on Sunday, July 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The bi-monthly meeting of Lodge 80, Holland will be Monday, July 19, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. at the lodge building. Agenda items will include financial statements, minutes, future activities, and proposed state by-laws changes. Social time will follow the meeting. We hope all can attend. Rita Spinn President —SPJST—
The address is 287 Autumnwood Trail Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156
Next Meeting—July 18
For the next meeting on Sunday, July 18, Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales volunteered to grill hamburgers. Members, please bring chips, dips, and/or a dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
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! Please see the map illustration at the bottom of page 13.
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.
Scenes from Lodge 47, Seaton’s Picnic Sunday, June 6, 2021 • Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall • Submitted by Amber Bartek, Youth Leader
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 97, Placedo welcomes back members
A heavy rain storm blew in as members were arriving. The meeting room had no air conditioning or electricity so we held the meeting at the tables at the end of the mall.
President Gay Revel brought the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Judy Bellanger said the opening prayer. There were 12 in attendance. Dennis Vanek gave the treasurer’s report.
District Six Director Annie Vahalik was introduced. She reported on the many improvements at Camp Kubena and all the good things happening. She told us the Convention was to be held August 13, 14, and 15, 2021, and checked to see if delegate Donna Vanek Lodge 141, Sealy had her reservations and hotel room set. Annie told us of all the positive things gives to Janice going on since Delisle Doherty took and Donnie Victorick over as Supreme Lodge Vice President. Camp Kubena is open and fully booked. Scholarship Fund A total of $39,000 in SPJST scholarships was awarded to 39 students. The Czech Heritage Museum is open again. Gay Revel spoke about new final expense plans that are now available. The June 8, 2021, meeting of Lodge 141, Sealy was called to order by President Rick Martinez, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance and followed by
Ken Revel made a motion to adjourn the roll call of officers. All officers were the meeting. present. We were excited to have eight members present, three of which were Next Meeting—September 13 youth. Secretary Bernice Stolarski read
The next meeting will be Monday, the minutes of the previous meeting, and September 13, the second Monday, at Treasurer Dora Martinez reported on the the Mall. bank balance. Both reports were apFraternally, proved. Judy Bellanger, __ President Rick stated that he had at—SPJST— tended the District One Meeting at Lodge 9, Snook, and they talked about the SPJST Convention in Killeen in August. Members approved a $100 donation for the Janice and Donnie Victorick Scholarship Fund.
With there being no other business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned.
Next Meeting—September 14
The next meeting will be Tuesday, September 14. Bernice Stolarski, Secretary —SPJST—
The monthly meeting of Lodge 142, Houston was held on Sunday, June 20, 2021, at Lodge 88, Houston. Our social and delicious lunch at 1 p.m. was pizza and dessert. Dennis led the prayer.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zac Coleman. A moment of silence was held for our departed member, Mary Ann Kieschnick and for Janice Victorick.
Roll call of officers showed all present except Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider and Sales Agents Connie Carter and Alexis Scott. We had 23 members present and guest Dorothy Pflughaupt.
At this time, Dorothy reminded everyone about the District Five Annual Meeting on June 27 at Lodge 81, Needville. She also spoke about a District Five delegates’ meeting on Monday, July 19 to discuss the by-law recommendations.
J.R. Coleman made a motion to have Secretary Elizabeth Hermis’ minutes approved as written. The motion was approved by all.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick read the May financials. All were approved as read.
Under correspondence, a thank you note was received from the Mary Ann Kieschnick family for the beautiful flowers. Kaylee and Karlee Kieschnick thanked the membership for their scholarships they received from SPJST. Con-
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi honored fathers at the June meeting. Pictured are, left to right, Zackery Garcia, Stephen Rebecek, Mark Rebecek, Michael Urbanovsky, and Jerry Sijansky. BELOW PHOTOS: Happy anniversary to, from left, District Seven Director Regina and James House - 34 years on June 13; Stephen and Laura Rebecek - 14 years on June 30; and Michael and Becky Urbanovsky - 30 years on June 29. Congratulations!
—Submitted by Virginia Rebecek, Secretary
gratulations to both!
Youth Leader Amanda Muzny spoke on an activity on a beach cleanup in July or August.
Sick Committee reported Mike Schleider was moved to a regular room and doing rehab. We wish a speedy recovery to Mike.
Under old business, Dorothy Pflughaupt discussed the Larry W. Pflughaupt Endowment Fund with a prize drawing and lottery tickets.
Catherine Manchack spoke of a lodge family weekend at Camp Kubena for two nights on Labor Day weekend. We will take a head count at our July meeting for all those who are interested in going.
June birthday celebrants were Elizabeth Hermis on the 1st, Zoey Coleman on the 1st, Keith Kieschnick on the 18th, and Dorothy Pflughaupt on the 29th. Happy birthday!
Anniversary celebrants were Karole and J.R. Coleman - 37 years on June 9. Congratulations!
Father’s Day recognition went to all dads!
The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Additional door prizes were presented.
Next Meeting—July 18
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 18 at 2 p.m. with a lunch at 1 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 151, Wharton reports on quarterly meeting
SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting on Monday, June 14, 2021, at the Wharton Depot Museum. A light meal was served to nine members and two guests. Vice President David Bucek led the prayer before the meal.
President Gerald Macha called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for our departed members. The roll was called, and all of our officers were present. Special guest was District Six Regional General Agent Carolina Covarrubia.
The March minutes and treasurer’s report had been handed out to the members. After they had been reviewed, Second Vice President Edith Molberg made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed.
Communications were read. Treasurer Carolyn Bucek read the letter from the Home Office regarding refunds to lodges. Secretary Janie Bucek reported Lodge 151 received four transfer requests.
Janie then gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report.
David Bucek gave the cemetery report. He stated the SPJST Moravia Cemetery has been deeded to the Moravia Catholic Church. The SPJST Shiner Cemetery also has been deeded to the Shiner Catholic Church. He then reported the recent heavy rains eroded part of a section of the new road in the SPJST Velehrad Cemetery. A 20-foot culvert will have to be installed, and more gravel will be needed to repair the road.
Under new business, Jo Ann Preisler made a motion to accept four transfer members to our lodge. The motion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it passed. We would like to welcome Rebecca A. Rubio, Martin Ramirez, Jr., Arcadia Castro, and Helodio Castro to Lodge 151.
RGA Carolina Covarrubia reported Supreme Lodge Vice President Delisle Doherty is updating software and new applications to bring in new members. Delisle is also working to acquire more agents to increase the SPJST membership.
Door prizes were drawn.
President Macha adjourned the meeting at 7:55 p.m. Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville President Vincent Newman, pictured right, congratulates and presents Lodge 81 scholarships to Sarah Norman and Carson Schultz. Congratulations to both Sarah and Carson!
Lodge 88, Houston presents scholarship to hallie shepherd
Congratulations to Lodge 88, Houston member Hallie Elizabeth Shepherd, second from left, who received a scholarship from the lodge. She is pictured with Brent Shepherd, Kristen Shepherd, and Betty Green.
The Lodge 88, Houston Scholarship Committee awarded a scholarship to an outstanding graduating senior at the June monthly meeting.
Hallie Elizabeth Shepherd received a $1,000 scholarship. Hallie is the daughter of Kristen and Brent Shepherd. She is the granddaughter of Betty Green and the late Larry Green. Hallie’s greatgrandparents were the late Talita and John Hilsher, all members of Lodge 88, Houston. Hallie graduated from Cypress Creek High School and plans to attend the University of Texas, majoring in government. She was active in volleyball serving as team captain in her senior year. She was also on the varsity golf team. Hallie was a member of the National Honor Society and served as the treasurer in her senior year. She was a member of the student council and student government. She served as treasurer of He Would Love First her junior and senior years. Hallie was also a member of Young Life and Lakewood United Methodist Church.
In her essay, Hallie shared her experience on a church mission during her junior year. She learned “not only how to love and appreciate strangers, it taught me how to handle many different personal situations such as consoling our clients and managing a worksite.” Hallie also stated, “It is clear to me that supporting humanity in any way, shape, or form is of the utmost importance.”
Congratulations to this fine member! May your future be bright. Fraternally, Carol Havemann, Chair Scholarship Committee —SPJST—
Lodge 160 San Angelo meets August 5
Dear Members,
SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, August 5, 2021, at 5 p.m. at Los Panchitos Restaurant, located at 34 West Avenue D in San Angelo. Note the change of meeting location from previous meetings. Please RSVP to Sandra at 325234-1339 if you plan to attend. We hope you will be able to join us! Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—
Lodge 180, Burleson members gather, reacquaint
It seems like forever since we have had an actual meeting with members in attendance. On Tuesday, July 6, 2021, we had a meeting at El Fenix in Burleson.
With all the happenings that have taken place recently in Burleson and the additional staffing of the Burleson Police, the Community Room has not been available for outside usage. All of our members enjoy eating at El Fenix, and they have a room just the perfect size for us to meet.
Our meeting was different from our usual meetings as we had not had one in well over a year. Seems very hard imaging such a long time with Lodge 180 kind of being in an idle time.
I would say that this meeting was not held in the true tradition of our usual meetings, but we did open the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silent prayer. I would say that this meeting was a get-acquainted-withyour-fellow-member time.
All members were present for the meeting with District Three Director John and Diana Engelke as well.
After a wonderful meal and visiting with each other, we enjoyed great tasting muffins in lieu of a cake for the many birthdays that were missed in the past. Each person received a gift card of their choice when leaving.
It was great seeing and being around fellow lodge members, and I look forward to our next meeting which will be Tuesday, August 3 at El Fenix in Burleson.
Respectively, Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 202, Jourdanton members Valerie Barta, left, and Kathleen Polasek celebrate birthdays on July 19 and July 25, respectively. Valerie is the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers Director for District Seven, and Kathleen is the Lodge 202 Fraternal Activities Coordinator. Enjoy your special days, young ladies! —Submitted by Bettie House Secretary
★ ★ 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.
Kresta family
The 54th annual Kresta reunion will be held on Sunday, July 25, 2021, at Moravia Parish Hall, southwest of Schulenburg, Texas, on FM 957. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. A catered meal consisting of barbecue brisket, sausage, fried chicken, German potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, bread, and tea will be served at around 12:30 p.m. The cost is $12 per person, and children under 12 are free of charge. Since the meal is catered, we must have an accurate head count. Please RSVP before July 16 by calling/texting Amy Kresta at 325-203-8382 or sending an email to akresta@yahoo.com. Donated raffle items should value at least $25. Items of lesser value can be donated to silent auctions. All items will be greatly appreciated, but not required. Bring lawn chairs for outside time, if desired. Again, please RSVP by July 16. This is very, very important! Thank you very much. Marylyn Kresta Kubecka Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje
July 17 Ruzicka family—at Church of Christ, 100 East 3rd Street, Cameron. For more information, contact Robert Harris 972746-7565. Submitted by Joseph J. Beran, Lodge 47, Seaton. —SPJST—
Lodge 155, Austin members celebrate marriage of Kylie Tullos and Lance Brady
Congratulations to Kylie Tullos and Lance Brady, who were married on June 15, 2021, at Reveille Peak Park in Burnet, Texas. They are pictured with Kylie’s great-grandparents Joe and Jean Motl. Kylie and her great-grandparents are members of SPJST Lodge 155, Austin. Other family in attendance who are also members of Lodge 155 were Kylie’s mother Ashley Tullos; brother Nathan Tullos; and cousins Amy Eskew, Travis Brack, Joy Eskew, and Dean Eskew. Nathan Tullos served as the ring bearer, and Joy Eskew was the flower girl. Kylie has enlisted in the United States Army and will start her service in July. Best wishes to the couple and to Kylie in her new career.
Moravian Benevolence Fund
Continued from Page 1. crowns in emergency aid. As of June 25, labor offices started distributing individual aid of CZK 58,000 crowns per person to help those who have lost their homes.
In the coming days, the regional development and agriculture ministries will channel another 500 million crowns to the affected municipalities. Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has also called on the European Union to earmark finances from its Solidarity Fund to help remove the damage caused by the devastating tornado.
Closer to home, Americans are learning of the destruction and are asking what they can do in order to show their solidarity and support for their distant motherland whose residents are now suffering and who must begin what promises to be a lengthy rebuilding process. Texans, especially, remember that it was not so long ago that it was the Czech Republic that showed compassion and support for the people of Texas when disaster struck.
In 2013, the Czech Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented four million crowns — approximately $200,000 — to the city of West, Texas for rebuilding following the massive explosion of a fertilizer warehouse that occurred in that Central Texas community. Four years later, in 2017, the Czech Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs approved the provision of five million Czech Crowns — approximately $237,000 — for humanitarian assistance to displaced families in La Grange, Texas in response to Hurricane Harvey. The gifts demonstrated the Czech Republic’s dedication and solidarity with the United States and especially Texans, where Texans of Czech Moravian ancestry represent a large part of the population.
Individuals and organizations wishing to offer assistance may make their taxdeductible donations to:
Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund c/o The SPJST Foundation P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503
The SPJST Foundation
The Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides assistance to projects of redeeming value, especially those which embrace Czech heritage and culture.
Donors may also make their gifts online on Facebook at this link: (8) Facebook.
“Facebook was selected as our primary donor site as Facebook pays all of the processing fees, enabling100 percent of the monies collected will go to the cause,” says Foundation President and Honorary Czech Consul Brian Vanicek. Every individual and group donor will be recognized. The funds will be retained until such time it can be determined where they can be most effectively utilized.
“As Texans of Czech ancestry we have a deep and enduring need to be connected with our Czech homeland. The Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund will help us to make that connection. We will stay in touch with our friends and contacts throughout the region,” says Vanicek.
“To that end, The SPJST Foundation’s Facebook page will provide regular updates of how the situation is progressing.”
—SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock members share rock designs
LEFT PHOTO: Greg McCarthy and his eagle holding dog tags rock art. CENTER PHOTO: Rock painting station. RIGHT PHOTO: Mathieu McCarthy and his narwhal rock art. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Luke McCarthy and his Samurai training in the mountainous archipelago of Japan rock art. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Jennifer McCarthy and her Charlie Brown and Snoopy watching Fireworks. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: JoAnn Oman wins a double at the District Two Meeting. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter
Old Dead Tree
by d.knape Old dead tree sticking its head out above the rest an old balding man weathered and worn bark-less and gray dead from age and lightening strikes it now looms over the woods a statue without arms a ghostly figure seen from afar it speaks of what it has been through saying do not forget me I gave you shade I gave you comfort above all I gave you beauty see me now.
—SPJST—
