31 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2021.10.25
by SPJST
SPJST Lodge Section
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Lodge 4, Hallettsville meets November 14
Dear Members,
SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville will meet Sunday, November 14, 2021, at the Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. Door prizes will be given, and lunch served as usual.
Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST— Marie Mynar, and Edward Smajstrla.
Brother Don Urbanovsky gave the Westfest report.
The progressive door prize winner was absent. Attendance door prize winners were Mary Neckar, Ray Rosales, and Don Urbanovsky.
The next meeting will be on October 3 at 2 p.m. The youth honored the grandparents with a meal at 12:30 p.m. before the meeting. It was delicious. Dorothy Kucera, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood receives award from Westfest
President Milton Peterson called the Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting to order on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at 2 p.m. The youth led the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST motto. A moment of silence was observed for the sick and deceased of the lodge. Sister Irene Peterson reported 22 members, four children, and two guests present.
John Hurtick, president of Westfest presented the lodge with a framed document stating that the lodge booth is the oldest one at Westfest. Lodge 6 has been there from the beginning. Many thanks to all the workers over the years who have made this happen.
Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting. Sister Peggy Dobecka gave the treasurer’s and youth club reports. Sister Jeanette Beseda gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. One new member was voted into the lodge.
Sympathy cards were sent to Wayne and Mark Zapalac, Benny and Rose
Lodge 9, Snook reports on October meeting
The Wednesday, October 6, 2021, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7:02 p.m. He then led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the September meeting were approved. Hall manager, treasurer, and statewide reports were presented.
The youth club had a very successful country store and Grandparents Day celebration. A District One weekend will be held at Camp Kubena on November 13 and 14, and the fall fun day will be at Lodge 17, New Tabor on Sunday, October 24. Beseda dancers performed at the Kolache Festival, and Riley Green was crowned Miss Kolache Festival Queen.
The new SPJST signs have been installed. We discussed displaying the Snook memorabilia and having a reception in early 2022. Motions were passed to accept six new members and to be a sponsor for the Burton football game.
October birthdays include Marie Shelfer on the 6th, Sharon Kovar on the 18th, and Laura Sebesta on the 19th.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:38 p.m.
Next Meeting—November 3
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 3 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin plans November dances
Lodge 18, Elgin is open and working on getting the dances back in Elgin. If you come, the bands will come; however, the bands cannot afford to play for nothing. We need you to come get your exercise and meet with your family and friends. Our hall holds 600 people so you can distance. We would love to say everyone is vaccinated, but we don’t know. The hall has asked those who are not vaccinated to wear a mask or have a recent covid-free report.
The Czechaholics have canceled their dance for November 14. Also, the misprint on the printed lodge dance schedule says Czechchoice - sorry about that. It wasn’t caught before the schedules went out. On Sunday, November 21, we will welcome Glen Collins and The Alibis. We hope you will plan to attend.
We would really love to see more of the members attend the meetings. We meet every third Tuesday at 7 p.m. Come out to say hello, we would love to have you even if you are not a member. Check us out!
We send prayers to the family of Gary Greener. We are so sorry for your loss. Gary was a great musician and friend, and he will be missed.
“Give a little love to a child, and you get a great deal back.”
—John Ruskin
Irene Vrabel, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone plans October 31 barbecue dinner
Lodge 24, Cyclone met amid barren fields on Monday, October 11, 2021, on the dance floor. President Daniel Wilde called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. A silent prayer was held for our deceased members, and we remembered Lodge 24 member Milton Zavodny and Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride, who both passed away recently. RVOS and SPJST LEADERS enjoy dinner together
RVOS and SPJST leaders enjoyed dinner together at Ratibor Country Grill on Wednesday evening, October 20, 2021. Pictured, standing, are RVOS President Wiley Shockley; Ratibor Country Grill owner and Lodge 47, Seaton President Edwin Pechal; and SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek.
President Wilde welcomed SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda.
The minutes were read by Cathy Bruggman for Brenda Maddux. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report, and Shirley Hoelscher talked about the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. We are not doing the blessing bags as we ran out of time. The sign is being worked on by President Wilde. It will be at 485 and the road to Cyclone, FM 964. This is a big job.
Thanks to Director Pospisil who presented us a $100 donation for Ronald McDonald House. We will match the donation with $200. Thank you, Director Pospisil! October 31 Dinner
Several of the members present came to discuss the meal on Sunday, October 31. We will have 800 chicken halves to be barbecued starting at 3 p.m. along with beans made by Jason Hoelscher. The slaw will be made on Friday at the hall. Cathy Bruggman and Kim Campbell are taking on duties of the kitchen and rounding up materials.
Shirley Hoelscher had a birthday on September 2. Bobby Hoelscher will be 84 on October 22, and Melanie Zavodny has a birthday on October 22. Brenda and Mark Maddux will be married for 29 years on October 24.
On the sick list are Gary Greener, Darwin Bruggman, Justin Everett, Anton Vrazel, and Brenda Maddux. Brenda attended the meeting. We had good luck as door prizes were donated by Brian and Jesse. We were like a lodge that had something for everyone! Winners were Steve Bruggman, Jason Hoelscher, Linda Wilde, Daniel Wilde, Cathy Bruggman, Bobby Hoelscher, Kim Campbell, Joseph Hoelscher, Brenda Maddux, and Shirley Hoelscher.
The District Two meeting is on October 24 at Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall.
This writer remembers Milton “Fuzzy” Zavodny being on the trustees and working at the bar with Martha when Melanie was very young in grade school. The hall had dances every week then, and it required much time from his many projects. For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher Reporter —SPJST—
Members of SPJST Lodge Karel Jonáš No. 28, East Bernard met in the Wharton County Library Meeting Room at 12 noon on Sunday, September 12, 2021, for their quarterly meeting. All officers were present.
Honored guests present were 50-year members Eugenia Kulhanek and husband Dennis and Donald Buxkemper and wife Kim as well as District Six Director Annie Vahalik and husband Philip Vahalik, East Bernard Volunteer Fire Chief Randy Kresta, and Regional General Agent Carolina Covarrubia.
SPJST Honors Staff Members for Years of Service
Congratulations to SPJST Home Office staff members who received service awards at the Executive Committee meeting held on Wednesday, October 20, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: Accounting Assistant Dorothy Stuchly is recognized for 55 years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Controller Roy Vajdak. CENTER PHOTO: Accounting Manager Debbie Dohnalik is recognized for 45 years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Controller Roy Vajdak. RIGHT PHOTO: Insurance Department Manager Cynthia Hutka is recognized for 35 years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty.
LEFT PHOTO: Annuity/IRA Specialist Marissa Salinas is recognized for 15 years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska. CENTER PHOTO: Investment Specialist/Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer Linda Hill is recognized for 10 years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska. RIGHT PHOTO: Scanning/Data Entry Clerk Marie Wolf is recognized for five years of service. She is pictured with Chair of the Board John Engelke, left, and her supervisor, Controller Roy Vajdak.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and greetings to all. Then President Glenn Kaminsky said grace and recessed the meeting for all to partake of our catered meal of roast beef and pies from Ben’s Chuck Wagon.
When the meeting convened, everyone enjoyed the meal. President Glenn asked everyone to introduce themselves and give a little history about their time with SPJST.
Next, President Glenn reported on planning for the next quarterly meeting on December 12 - it will be made an extra meeting due to Covid-19.
President Glenn asked Director Vahalik to give her report. She reported the Home Office is sound, and that we have new referral cards for gaining new members, and the bonus. She reported that the convention went well.
RGA Covarrubia reported on the agents’ happenings and new products and the condition of the district.
President Glenn reported Philip Vahalik kept everyone well supplied with having candy dishes always filled - no one was in need of a sweet.
Next, a presentation was made by Director Vahalik on behalf of the SPJST Foundation to East Bernard Volunteer Fire Chief Randi Kresta. She also congratulated Eugenia Kulhanek and Donnie Buxkemper on their 50 years of membership with SPJST. She thanked them.
We wish to thank Director Vahalik for her delicious cookies she donated.
Everyone received a door prize.
Next Meeting—December 12
The next quarterly meeting will be Sunday, December 12 in the Wharton County Library Meeting Room. It is time to elect officers and choose our yearly donation recipients. We hope to see you there, and we wish everyone good health. Fraternally, Helen Kelner, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall: Site of Texas Shed Haulers Annual Barbecue and Family Picnic
On Saturday, October 16, 2021, the day included games, food, contests, and a truck show with 42 big rigs. Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall was the site of the Texas Shed Haulers annual family picnic on Saturday, October 16, 2021. According to Lodge 24 President Daniel Wilde, this was the group’s third year to host its event at Flag Hall. The Texas Shed Haulers are a group of independently owned businesses who haul sheds and barns for individuals and companies.
As the sun went down, drivers fired up the big trucks and paraded out of the hall’s parking lot and through the community honking and waving to the people on the country roads.
Lodge 29, Taylor hosts successful barbecue cook-off
On Wednesday, October 13, 2021, Lodge 29, Taylor members met for their regular meeting. President Ronnie Rieger called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for the military serving our country. All officers were present. The September minutes were read and approved.
Tammy presented the treasurer’s report. Vice President Sharon Kaderka read the list of income items from the barbecue cook-off. Sharon asked members if they want to make a donation in honor of Gene McBride and Milton Zavodny. Lyn Rieger made a motion to donate for each of them to the Czech Heritage Museum, and Tammy Cannon seconded. Sharon also asked members if they wanted to donate to Shepherd’s Heart Pantry. Adolph Grieger made a motion to donate to Shepherd’s Heart Pantry, and Frankie Pustejovsky seconded the motion. The motion passed. Jesse, as District Two Director, will match the amount from his discretionary funds.
Sunday, October 24 will be the District Two Fall Fun Day at Lodge 47, Seaton beginning at 3 p.m. Sharon discussed at length all of the activities that are planned. Jesse made a motion for Lodge 29 to donate $100 to buy goodies for the trunk-or-treat activity for the youth. Adolph Grieger seconded, and the motion passed.
Jesse Pospisil thanked everyone who worked at the barbecue cook-off. Frankie Pustejovsky thanked Billy and Kaden Kaderka for all of their help in the judging area. Other volunteer workers who helped at the cook-off included Kathy Merka, Nancy Bigon, Lyn Rieger, Sandra Kaderka, Frankie Pustejovsky, Cindy Buzan, Jeana Matetzschk, Scott Kaderka, Leonard and Sharon Kaderka, Cristy and Mike Girod, Linda and Jesse Pospisil, Adolph Grieger, Mike and Tammy Cannon, Roger Kaderka, Amanda Kaderka, and Paula Hajda.
Ronnie informed us we will have officer elections next month. Jesse’s term on the property committee is up for reelection.
We will discuss the December meeting/Christmas party next month.
Members celebrating birthdays in October include Ronnie Rieger, Mary Jane Pustejovsky, Adolph Grieger, Terry Skrhak, Collin Whatley, Adam Jezisek, Wyatt Leschber, and Loretta Tate.
Sharon Kaderka furnished door prizes. Mary Jane Pustejovsky and Lyn Rieger will bring door prizes next month.
Next Meeting—November 10
The next meeting will be Wednesday, November 10 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was then adjourned. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 32, Victoria meets November 11
Lodge 32, Victoria will meet Thursday, November 11, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. at The Grapevine Cafe - address is 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, in Victoria. This will be our last meeting for 2021 what a fast year! Then the January 13, 2022, meeting will get us off to a great start!
Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom, FAC/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 28, East Bernard Shares September Meeting Scenes
Lodge 28, East Bernard met Sunday, September 12, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured, left to right, are Lodge 28, East Bernard President Glenn Kaminsky, Vice President Jeanette Kaminsky, Treasurer Anton “Tony” Kaminsky, Secretary/Reporter/FAC Helen Kelner, and District Six Director Annie Vahalik. RIGHT and BELOW PHOTOS: Members enjoy the lodge’s meal. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Regional General Agent (RGA) Carolina Covarrubia, left, Lodge 28 President Glenn Kaminsky, in back, and District Six Director Annie Vahalik, right, congratulate 50-year member honorees Eugenia Kulhanek and Donald Buxkemper. —Photos submitted by Carolina Covarrubia, RGA
Lodge 54, West meets November 5
Dear Members,
SPJST Lodge 54, West will hold its quarterly meeting on Friday, November 5, 2021, at 7 p.m. This is our annual meeting with the election of officers. The meeting will take place at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West. We had to cancel our September meeting due to many members and officers having Covid. We are scheduled to have our annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 5. Members will receive an invitation in the mail the first part of November.
We hope to see everyone at our November meeting. Fraternally Freddie Kaluza, President —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland sets November 16 annual meeting
Lodge 80, Holland will meet Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. for its annual meeting. The meeting will be held at the Kuhlmann Center in downtown Holland. Agenda items will include financial statements, minutes, and election of officers. Social time follows with a catered meal. Please RSVP for the meal to rita@hot.rr.com or call/ text 254-760-6427. I look forward to seeing you at the annual meeting. Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on October meeting
The October meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 17th. At 12:05 p.m., a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed barbecue chicken and ribs cooked by Bradley Stavinoha and Marion Morales. Members brought side dishes and desserts.
President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1:06 p.m. The youth led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read the minutes, and they were approved as read. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales read his report, and it was also approved as read.
Under old business, Special Funds Chair Marion Morales said that our new stove will be installed by our November meeting.
Under new business, Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha gave a report on the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville, investments, and loans. Also under new business, Youth Leader Kristen Jones told us how the youth did with their Christmas ornaments. She also mentioned that the youth will be planning to decorate the common room area windows for Christmas since they are not allowed to sing due to Covid-19. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales said that he is planning to get the storage room finished so it can be a youth room. His goal is January 1, 2022. He will also check on the price of a dry erase board for this new room. Lastly, Marion said that he will be installing handrails in both bathrooms and adding new paper towel holders and toilet paper holders.
Door prizes were won by Kristen Jones, Jeanette Newman, Joyce Lamensky, and Leon Anhaiser. Congratulations to our lucky winners!
Next Meeting—November 21
For our next meeting on Sunday, November 21, Special Funds Chair Marion Morales said that he will bring fried turkey. Willie Mae Kuykendall volunteered to make the dressing. Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Scenes from Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth
The Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting was held on Monday, October 12, 2021. The host and hostesses this month were Delores Rooney, Bill Bollinger, Jeanne O’Connor, and Claire Rooney. RIGHT PHOTO: Janet Basham celebrated her birthday this month. The Ladies Circle will have its craft sale at the next meeting which is on Tuesday, November 9. Come sell your crafts!
Happy birthday, matt and Ethan, of Lodge 38, kovar!
Happy birthday to Matt Holder! Celebrating Matt’s special day with him are his Grany Dorothy Lastovica, sister Elizabeth, mom Sheri, and brother Ethan. They are all members of SPJST Lodge 38, Kovar.
RIGHT PHOTO: Ethan Holder celebrated his 10th birthday with his family. Pictured with Ethan are his Grany Dorothy Lastovica, sister Elizabeth, mom Sheri, brother Matt, and uncle Allen Lastovica. All are members of SPJST Lodge 38, Kovar. —Submitted by Dorothy Lastovica
Lodge 84, Dallas plans Christmas party
Dear Readers,
Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met at Enchilada’s Mexican Restaurant for their monthly meeting on Sunday, October 10, 2021. The meeting was brought to order by Vice President Vicki Sims at 3:10 p.m., and Flag Bearer Lynda Novak led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our departed members, the troops serving our country, those affected by the Covid pandemic, and for Milton Zavodny, father of Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny.
Secretary Cherri Petr read the minutes from the September meeting which were approved by everyone present, followed by correspondence from the Home Office. There was no sunshine committee report.
Youth Leader Lynda Novak reported that the youth continue to meet via zoom, but they are scheduled to meet during the Czech Heritage Day celebration on Sunday, October 17. She has reminded them all to bring entries for the Christmas ornament contest. Sister Lynda then gave her report for the Czech Heritage Committee and Fraternal Council.
Unfinished business included Vice President Vicki Sims reminding everyone that we need to put a nominating committee in place for 2022 officers.
Treasurer Jim Liska then gave his report.
A discussion was held about our Christmas party celebration for 2021. Please mark your calendars for Sunday, December 5. SPJST Lodge 84 will join with KJT/KJZT and WFLA at Sokol Dallas to celebrate Christmas. So far, the plans are:
10:30 a.m. - Doors open 11 a.m. - Mass 12 to 1 p.m. - Social 1 to 2 p.m. - Lunch 2 to 5 p.m. - Czech Harvesters to perform for your dancing and listening pleasure.
Please continue to watch the Vestnik for more details of activities as they become available.
Vice President Vicki thanked everyone for coming out for the meeting and then reminded everyone that our next meeting will be held on Sunday, November 14 at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec.
I hope to see you then! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas meets November 14
Dear Readers,
Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will be holding its next meeting on Sunday, November 14, 2021, at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace in Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions.
This is a week earlier than our usual regular meeting date due to it being the week of Thanksgiving. We will be having a svačina afterwards so please bring a dessert to share if you plan to attend. We have a lot going on so please mark your calendars on Sunday, November 14!
Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Dear Lodge 160 Members,
The annual meeting for Lodge 160, San Angelo will be held Sunday, November 21, 2021, at Wall Brethren Church Hall. A delicious lunch will be served beginning at 12 noon. Door prizes will be given to each family in attendance. You will also have the opportunity to enter your name into a drawing for several other prizes to be awarded during the meeting.
We will be drawing for the winners of our Lodge 160 Scholarship at the meeting. There will be six scholarships awarded. If you are enrolled in college or a technical school and a member of Lodge 160, please complete the application prior to the meeting and send it to Betty Schwartz. The application will soon be arriving in your mailbox with your annual newsletter.
Come join us for a fun-filled time of fellowship and food! We look forward to seeing you on November 21! Sandra Jansa President —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland Celebrates Czech Heritage Month; Honors Teachers, Administrators at Holland ISD
Lodge 80, Holland officers celebrated Czech Heritage Month by showing teachers and administrators of Holland ISD their commitment to the students and community. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Pictured in back are Lodge 80 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka, Holland ISD Superintendent Shane Downing, Lodge 80 Secretary Joyce Martinets, and Lodge 80 Vice President Joe Liles. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 80 also donated $1,000 to Holland ISD. Presenting the check to Superintendent Shane Downing, center, are Lodge 80 Secretary Joyce Martinets and Lodge 80 Vice President Joe Liles.
Lodge 196 Houston-West sets Thanksgiving dinner
Lodge 196, Houston-West would like to invite all of its members and friends to the annual Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday, November 14, 2021, at 1 p.m. The turkey will be provided by the Wagers, and we are asking everyone that comes to bring your favorite Thanksgiving dinner side dish with enough to feed eight to 10 people. Also, if you are coming, we would like to know so that a large enough turkey can be prepared. Please call the lodge phone at 284-3739482 to give us the number of people that will be coming.
This dinner will be a wonderful time to reconnect with old friends and meet some new lodge members. This is always a great time, and the food is always yummy!
We look forward to seeing everyone. Don Fruin, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas participates in October 17, 2021, Czech Heritage Day at Dallas Sokol
LEFT PHOTO: Cherri Petr, left, and Kendall Tucker, right, enjoy a visit with baby Alina Mae Patselov. PHOTO 2: Entries in the Christmas ornament contest. PHOTO 3: Lodge 84, Dallas Czech Concert Orchestra. RIGHT PHOTO: 2021-2022 District Three Queen Macy Jones and Lodge 154, Fort Worth Youth Leader CarrieAnn Jones lead the National Anthem.
LEFT PHOTOS: Klobase sandwiches, cups of sauerkraut, kolaches, klobásník and strudel - all prepared and served by Bessie’s Catering, which is owned by Lodge 84, Dallas member Lynda Novak. RIGHT PHOTO: Alina Mae Patselov with parents Andrey and Jamie. Baby Alina is wearing her grandmother Lynda Novak’s kroje from when Lynda was a baby.
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 84, Dallas Treasurer Jim Liska, far right, and Vice President Vicki Sims, second from right, present a $1,000 check to District Three Director John Engelke, center, for the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund. Looking on are 2021-2022 District Three Queen Macy Jones and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. CENTER PHOTO: Consulate of the Slovak Republic to Texas Martin Valko speaks to attendees at the Czech Heritage Celebration. RIGHT PHOTO: Dallas Czech Concert Orchestra entertains. —Photos by Vicki Sims, Vice President and Lynda Novak, Youth Leader —Photos submitted by Anne Cowan, Reporter
Lodge 200 Bruceville-Eddy invites all to Nov. 11 pancake supper Lodge 84, Dallas meets at enchilada’s
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy will host a pancake supper at Taylor Hall on Veterans Day - Thursday, November 11, 2021, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Complimentary pancakes and sausage will be served to Veterans. Donations will be appreciated, and proceeds will benefit Lodge 200 and Taylor Hall/Senior Citizens Center. Fraternally, Michael D. Hosch Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas members met at Enchilada’s Mexican Restaurant for the monthly meeting on Sunday, October 10, 2021. —Submitted by Anne Cowan, Reporter
Czech Influences in Texas: A celebration of Texas Czech Heritage Month
This panel program will address the story of the Czechs who came to Texas as early as 1851 and their incredible influences on Texas past, present, and future.
Wednesday, October 27, 2021 2 to 3:30 p.m. Virtual via Zoom Register at this link: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RDEY01vPR2e_8B9uENElQg
History of the Texas, Czechoslovak, and Czech Heritage
The Texas Legislature declared the month of October as “Czech Heritage Month” in 1999. The month of October typically brings many festivals throughout the State of Texas to celebrate and honor the heritage of this state’s Czech descendants.
MAIN STREET CAFE in danbury honors tommie h. lostak with display
Happy 61st Anniversary, Polly & Bob Bayer!
1960 • October 22 • 2021
Congratulations to Honorary District Seven Director Bob and Polly Bayer of Lodge 107, Floresville! They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on Friday, October 22, 2021. The couple has been active in the lodge for the past 52 years. They have three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren who are all members of Lodge 107.
Thanks to District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha for sharing the photo on the right of an area on the wall at Main Street Cafe in Danbury, Texas. It features a plaque that recognizes the late Tommie H. Lostak of Lodge 139, Danbury. Brother Tommie’s Lifetime Achiever Award is on display in the cafe. He is also recognized for 79 years of SPJST membership from 1923 to 2008; 37 years as secretary of Lodge 139 from 1952 to 1988; 31 years as treasurer of District Five from 1956 to 1987; a delegate to eight conventions from 1956 to 1984 and attendee at conventions in 1992, 1996, and 2000; 12 years as a member of the SPJST Publication Committee from 1980 to 1992; and for coordinating picnics for District Five at Lone Pine in Danbury for 23 years from 1953 to 1976. Tommie (1918-2008) and wife Gladys (1919-1988) are pictured on the left.
October 28 marks the date when the first independent Czechoslovak state was founded after World War I from territories that were previously part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. President Tomáš G. Masaryk became the leader of a state that was based on President Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points, especially the principle of selfdetermination. Czechoslovakia became one of Europe’s first successful multi-party parliamentary democracies, and it was stable enough to withstand the international depression of the 1930s.
Although Czechoslovakia no longer exists today, Czechs and Slovaks continue to view October 28 as the day of their national founding. There are more than 1 million people living in all areas of Texas and all walks of life who can claim Czech heritage. They take great pride in sharing with the rest of the state their contributions in the areas of art, music, literature, food, folklore, and many other fine customs that are part of Texas’ rich diverse culture. These Czech as well as descendants of Slovak and Silesian people who today make up the present Czech and Slovak Republics are renowned for their exemplary work ethics and love of democracy and have established standards of excellence as both private and public citizens to whom all can aspire recognition.
Panelists are Brian Vanicek, Ed Janecka, Dr. Joseph A. Kotarba, and Dr. Joseph Baar Topinka. View their bios at https://inclusion.txstate.edu/students/programs/cultural-celebrations/TxCzechHeritage.html
All program participants are highly encouraged to review the comprehensive overview prepared by the Texas State Historical Association at: https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/czechs —SPJST—
SPJST Foundation gives to hungerford VFD
District Six Director Annie Vahalik and Lodge 151, Wharton President Gerald Macha, right, present a check to Hungerford Volunteer Fire Department Fire Marshall Larry Bubela, second from left, and HVFD Chief Keith Jedlicka on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at Lodge 151’s meeting. The check is from the residual funds from the Hurricane Harvey fund drive.
Lodge 151, Wharton shares scenes from September Meeting
Lodge 151, Wharton members met Tuesday, September 21, 2021. The lodge hosted a memorial service to honor deceased members. A meal was served, and door prizes were awarded.
LEFT PHOTO: District Six Director Annie Vahalik, left, and Janie Bucek were recognized as the birthday honorees for the quarter. Happy birthday!
Zombie Halloween
by d.knape Full moon tonight will light the sky it’s Halloween and passers-by used to come knocking on our door due to Covid though fun is no more No gangs of goblins in the night no monsters who give us a fright no buckets filled as were before Covid changed all that forever more Who killed this night this hallowed time who called an end to what was fine oh Halloween may we implore rise from the dead your night restored
As hosts we wait with treats in store yet here we sit completely bored no ghosts appear nor knocks on door normal Halloween is never more. © d.knape —SPJST—
Camp Kubena Advisory Committee Meets
Monday and Tuesday, October 4 - 5, 2021 • Camp Kubena
Camp Kubena Advisory Committee members met at Camp Kubena in Ledbetter, Texas, on Monday, October 4 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021, to discuss the strategic plan, review 2022 programs, visit with camp staff, and to tour the entire facility. Camp Kubena Advisory Committee members are Camp Kubena Executive Director Rob Clift, District Three Director John Engelke, State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, District One Director Donnie Victorick, and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny.
Lodge 177, academy displays new sign
Lodge 177, Academy members proudly display their new sign in front of their hall which is located at 711 Rio Poco in Little River-Academy on Highway 95 in Academy, Texas.
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy gives to bevfd, sets november 11 pancake supper
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Treasurer Frances McBride and President James Hosch, right, present a $50 donation to Bruceville-Eddy Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ron Engelke at BEVFD’s fish fry. Lodge 200 will also host a pancake supper at Taylor Hall on Veterans Day - Thursday, November 11, 2021, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Complimentary pancakes and sausage will be served to Veterans. Donations will be appreciated, and proceeds will benefit Lodge 200 and Taylor Hall/Senior Citizens Center. —Submitted by Michael D. Hosch, Secretary/Reporter SPJST hosts fish pond; kolache eating contest at Texas Czech Hertiage and Cultural Center Annual Heritage Fest
SPJST hosted the fish pond and kolache eating contest at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center’s annual heritage fest in La Grange, Texas, on Saturday, October 16, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek visits with two of the participants in the girls’ kolache eating contest. RIGHT PHOTO: Boys’ contest. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Women’s contest. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Left to right are girls’ winner - Makayla Rodriguez of Conroe; boys’ winner - Abram Bernsen of Plum; SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek; men’s winner - William Bernsen of Plum; women’s winner - Kris Beane of Katy. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Men’s contest.
