ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST
HERALD
Benevolence ★ Humanity ★ Brotherhood
Volume 109 Number 23
December 13, 2021
ISSN —07458800
November Top SPJST Sales Agents: Certificates Issued and Annualized Premium 1st - Certificates Issued 1st - Annualized Premium $500 Award
2nd - Certificates Issued 3rd- Annualized Premium $100 Award
3rd - Certificates Issued $50 Award
Kattia Lange Lodge 92 Fort Worth District Three
Ray Esparza Lodge 76 Wichita Falls District Four
Indra Votion Lodge 133 San Antonio District Seven
4th - Certificates Issued 2nd- Annualized Premium $100 Award
Ronnie Gaines Lodge 246 Morgan’s Point District Two
5th - Certificates Issued 4th - Annualized Premium $100 Award
Arnoldo Lerma Lodge 183 Arlington District Three
5th - Annualized Premium $50 Award
Boyd Maxwell Lodge 234 Luling District One
Christmas Whispers and Wishes Lodge 154, Fort Worth youth Gentry Burcie whispers his Christmas hopes and wishes in Santa’s ear while Mrs. Claus and 2020 SPJST State Queen Holly Jones attentively await aboard the SPJST Float at the Fort Worth Parade of Lights on Sunday, November 21 in downtown Fort Worth. Merry Christmas to our SPJST Members and Friends!
; / ; / ; / ; / ; Inside This Week’s Vestnik ; / ; / ; / ; / ; Readers Write ......................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Insurance Department Update ...........3 Lodge Section......................................5 Czech Christmas Traditions .............12
Youth Section ....................................15 Youth Theme Contest Participants..21 In Memoriam ......................................21 Czech Culture ....................................23 Advertisements .................................25 Lodge Calendar .................................26
Lodge 133 San Antonio teacher earns award Page 9
Page 11
Lodge 84 Dallas president achieves 25 years of service
Page 17
District Six hosts SPJST Float in El Campo Christmas parade
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Monday, December 13, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJSTHERALD
SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 Fax: 254-774-7447 www.spjst.org VĚSTNÍK EDITOR: MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 vestnik@spjst.org melaniez@spjst.com melaniez@usa.com EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) Mobile: 254-534-2902 vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING DELISLE DOHERTY 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) Mobile: 832-232-2049 delisled@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS MELANIE ZAVODNY 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) Mobile: 254-534-0807 melaniez@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) Mobile: 254-721-4739 leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 dv.aggie71@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371 jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIR JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-799-4247 john.engelke@hotmail.com DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM 1886 Pecos St, Ste 3, San Angelo, TX 76901-3268 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville TX 77461-9164 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK 2508 N Levi St, Victoria, TX 77901-4059 361-649-4888 amvahalik@gmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE 146 Deer Run St, Pleasanton TX 78064-1510 830-570-2046 spjst202youth@gmail.com
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair PO Box 252, Snook, TX 77878-0252 979-272-1243 • billorsak@gmail.com District Two - Edwin Pechal 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, TX 76501-7446 254-721-2887 • edwinpechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler 1312 Fawn Lily Dr, Temple Tx 76502-7808 254-744-8973 • mlgaller54@gmail.com District Four - Brad Teplicek PO Box 372, Rowena, TX 76875-4006 325-442-2001 • bptep@aol.com District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, Chair 1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, TX 77008-6232 713-859-8976 • dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, Secretary 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - Oscar Korus 2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet, TX 78065-5013 830-391-4169 • oscarkorus@gmail.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com DISTRICT FOUR - EL PASO AREA - Arnulfo Rivera 915-630-8074 • arnulfok5@yahoo.com DISTRICT FIVE - Kerry Herrington 281-704-5737 • kerryherrington@yahoo.com DISTRICT SIX - Carolina Covarrubia 281-779-9956 • covarrubia.carolina@yahoo.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Ralph Juarez 361-537-5506 • juarez2112@aol.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar PO Box 28, Snook, TX 77878-0028 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two - Patsy Koslovsky 764 S St Joseph Rd, Burlington, TX 76519-3108 254-718-1606 • patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Mary Steinman 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 817-731-2580 • appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Ryan Jansa 10377 Penny Lane, San Angelo, TX 76905-7616 325-234-5879 • rjansa1@gmail.com District Five - Melissa Victorick-Brown 2324 Lakeway Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546-6196 832-274-7369 • district5dyc@gmail.com District Six - Lisa Bubela 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - April Howard 814 Madison Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130-3918 830-624-9242 • aprhoward@gmail.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com
Editor’s Note
Christmas Blessings to you and yours! Merry Christmas, dear Vestnik Readers! May your day be blessed
and filled with the wonders of the season. Christmas will look a lot different for me this year. It’s the first time in my life that I will not celebrate this most special holiday with both of my amazing parents.The most precious gifts that I have this year are the treasured memories of past Christmases and the traditions that my parents instilled in me. Christmas preparations would begin in November with Mom decorating the house, Christmas shopping, wrapping presents, planning the big Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts, and Dad decorating the yard and ensuring that Christmas music was abundant throughout the season. It was always a bright and beautiful time of year that I looked forward to and longed for throughout the rest of the year. I am so grateful to have these precious memories that I will forever cherish. May your Christmas be filled with beloved moments and memories.
Still to Come . . . Thanks to our members and lodges who send articles and photos to the Vestnik. We greatly appreciate your contributions. Please continue sending them. Stay tuned for features from Lodge 15, Buckholts; Lodge 17, New Tabor; Lodge 49, Rowena; Lodge 54, West; Lodge 155, Austin; Lodge 180, Burleson; Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy; Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point; Temple Christmas Parade; and many more!
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines December 27 Vestnik • • • Early Deadline Alert • • • deadline is Fri., Dec. 17 at 5 p.m. January 10 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Jan. 3 at 5 p.m. January 24 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. February 14 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Feb. 7 at 5 p.m. February 28 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Feb. 21 at 5 p.m. —SPJST— This is one of our Zavodny family Christmases from about 30 years ago. We gathered every year to enjoy homemade Czech foods and desserts, games, Christmas music, gifts, and togetherness. Those were the best days and memories that I will cherish forever. Pictured with my parents and me are my two sisters and brothers-in-law, niece Ashley, and nephew Scott.
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, December 13, 2021
SPJST Family Fun • • • • • and • • • • • Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)
Dec. 13
Lodge 151, Wharton Christmas Social Wharton Depot Museum (6) Lodge 141, Sealy Christmas Meeting/Meal Tony’s Restaurant (1) Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float Wallis Christmas Parade (1) Lodge 35, Elk Christmas Party (3) SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Holiday SPJST Home Office Closed • New Year Holiday Lodge 18, Elgin New Year’s Eve Dance Glen Collins and The Alibis (2) Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve Dance Jerry Haisler and the Melody Five (2) Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve Dance Billy Holt Band (2) Lodge 88, Houston New Year’s Eve Dance Doug Boggs and the Cowboy Jazz Band (5) State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple State Tarok Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple Lodge 24, Cyclone Dance: Mollie B and Ted Lange (2) State Straight Domino Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple SPJST and Camp Kubena presents “Cars & Guitars” Camp Kubena, Ledbetter State Straight Domino Tournament Camp Kubena, Ledbetter
Dec. 14 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 24 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Jan. 8 Feb. 5 Feb. 6 March 5 April 2 April 2
SPJST INTEREST RATES 11/01/2021 - 01/31/2022 Universal Life Universal Life 3
(plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) • Credited Rate: 3.00%
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Readers Write Member enjoys seeing SPJST Float on televised Fort Worth Christmas parade Thank you to Melanie and David for bringing the SPJST Float to Fort Worth for the Fort Worth Parade of Lights on Sunday, November 21, 2021. The float looked wonderful, joyous, and beautiful on television! And, there was a wonderful shot of beautiful Melanie and her welcoming smile (and wave)! Whoever wrote the copy for the announcers to read did an awesome job! They emphasized that SPJST is celebrating 125 years and is a proud Texas family organization! Great advertising! Looks good, sounds good, more members is great! Lisa Juran Lodge 92, Fort Worth —SPJST—
CEFT expresses appreciation for Vestnik articles Dear Melanie, Thank you so very much for placing my “Bartered Bride” article in the Vestnik. Thank you, too, for carrying the Road Tour Itinerary the following week. Your kindness is deeply appreciated. Sincerely, Diane Sulak Wilson Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT) —SPJST—
From the Insurance Department SPJST Insurance Update through november 882 Certificates IssueD MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist. Apps. Written Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 1 9 $500,000.00 8 $35713.00 $7,531.72 2 8 612,241.00 6 112,241.00 5,671.80 3 19 580,000.00 16 385,000.00 7,959.76 4 24 1,917,391.00 19 912,887.00 11,483.16 5 8 540,000.00 6 415,000.00 2,555.96 6 2 40,000.00 3 90,000.00 767.04 7 9 177,000.00 9 87,000.00 3,653.36 9 0 0.00 0 0 0 Ann 6 0.00 6 0 0
Totals
85
$4,366,632.00
73
$2,337,841.00
$47,782.18
YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist. Apps. Written Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 1 117 $6,834,202.00 109 5,238,915.00 $69,926.44 2 68 2,527,740.00 59 1,802,740.00 34,704.83 3 136 5,334,000.00 115 3,820,743.00 59,904.53 4 223 16,942,374.00 190 12,327,777.00 131,576.23 5 158 14,005,872.00 141 10,817,133.00 62,092.17 6 84 6,607,585.00 75 4,603,573 .00 45,029.22 7 105 4,215,383.00 90 3,667,361 .00 45,397.42 9 0 0.00 0 0 0 Ann 103 0.00 103 0 0
Totals
994
$56,467,156.00
882
$42,278,242.00
$410,916.13
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Monday, December 13, 2021
VĚSTNÍK work toward larger objectives. Effective leaders unravel bureaucracy when it impedes action. And, because leaders know that taking risks involves mistakes and failures, they accept occasional disappointments as opportunities to learn.
Leaders Shape the Future by Brian Vanicek SPJST President/Chief Executive Officer
Dear Brothers and Sisters, Christmas Greetings, everyone, from the SPJST Home Office! I haven’t written to the Vestnik in a while. I suppose I’ve gotten a little too comfortable with deferring to Brother Doherty and his weekly words of wisdom in the Vestnik! Always informative and interesting! Thank you, Delisle, for taking the time to write and more importantly, thank you for taking the bull by the horns in your first year as Vice President and for working to make a positive difference in our sales and marketing area. My thanks, too, to the entire Home Office team and directors who are working to keep SPJST strong and worthy of your trust and support! In preparing this week’s Fraternal Focus, I wanted to present something of substance for our newly elected lodge officers. I’m always looking for that winning formula that gets people involved and makes them feel good! I recently discovered a great website, livingasaleader.com, that got me excited. I always appreciate a good refresher course and am taking the information to heart. I want to share it with you. Leadership is not about personality; it’s about behavior — an observable set of skills and abilities. When the co-authors of The Leadership Challenge, Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner, first set out to discover what effective leaders do when they’re at their personal best, they collected thousands of stories from ordinary people — the moments they recalled when asked to think of a peak
leadership experience. Despite differences in culture, gender, age, and other variables, these “personal best” stories revealed similar patterns of behavior. The authors discovered that when leaders experience their personal best, they display five core practices: Model the Way Leaders establish principles concerning the way people (constituents, peers, colleagues, and customers alike) should be treated and the way they should pursue goals. Leaders create standards of excellence and set an example for others to follow. They put up signposts when people feel unsure of where to go or how to get there. Leaders create opportunities for victory. Inspire a Shared Vision Leaders passionately believe they can make a difference. They envision the future and create an ideal and unique image of what the organization can become. Through their magnetism and persuasion, leaders enlist others in their dreams. They breathe life into their visions and get people to see exciting possibilities for the future. Challenge the Process Leaders search for opportunities to change the status quo. They look for innovative ways to improve the organization. In doing so, they experiment and take risks. Since complex change threatens to overwhelm people and stifle action, leaders set interim goals so that people can achieve small wins as they
Enable Others to Act Leaders foster collaboration and build spirited teams. They actively involve others. Leaders understand that mutual respect sustains extraordinary efforts. They strive to create an atmosphere of trust and human dignity. They strengthen others, making each person feel capable and powerful. Encourage the Heart Accomplishing extraordinary things in organizations is hard work. To keep hope and determination alive, leaders recognize the contributions that individuals make. In every winning team, the members need to share in the rewards of their efforts, so leaders celebrate accomplishments. They make people feel like heroes. It all sounds so simple! And, really, it is! But for it to take form and come to life, it has to be put into practice. Pretty words and platitudes alone don’t make a lodge program successful. Words may provide some inspiration; however, it takes active members working to achieve clearly defined goals to make good things happen. Thomas Edison had it right when he said, “Genius is 1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration!”
When we – as lodge officers and officers of the Society – are sincere and trustful, the members respond positively. I’ve always found that to be true. Even when they don’t, we can take heart and look at our situation from another angle. If the members and community aren’t responding, it may be time to examine what we are trying to accomplish as a lodge or as an organization. Up to this point, this information has been primarily directed to our lodge officers. But really, it applies to each and every fraternalist who is serious about building positive relationships with their fellow members and others in order to realize a common goal in their community. We’re in this together! If you have any thoughts on this topic that you would like to share, please drop me a line or call. I’d love to hear from you! Thank you for all that you do in the spirit of fraternalism and continue to look to the letters section of the Vestnik and see the great things your fellow members are doing. Until next time, best wishes to you for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Fraternally, Brian Vanicek President/CEO P.S. To those of you who have enjoyed the Fraternal Focus online programs that Melanie and I have been doing, please know that they are all still available for viewing on the spjst.org website. Go to the “Events” tab and “Fraternal Focus” appears as the first menu item. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, December 13, 2021
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
Break Your Brain Chain Have you considered whether your mind is open and free to explore the path that God has set for you? Or are you going through life like your brain is chained, locking in creativity and ideas? Free your mind and you will create a mental and spiritual environment for greatness. Examine yourself. Know what you believe. Know your ideas. Know what you stand for and know what has shaped your beliefs and ideas. Consider your family upbringing and what you were taught to believe. You may need to take the chain off your brain to develop your own belief system. Your family may have prejudices or biases that you don’t hold, but if you’re walking around with the family chain on your brain, you may have restricted yourself to a narrow environment without room for people who think differently, who will position you toward destiny. Build new friendships. Think new thoughts. Who you were raised to be will always have a significant impact on your life but does not have to determine your life and certainly doesn’t have to restrict your life. If you grew up with brothers and sisters, the dynamics of the household while you were growing up may shape each child differently. An alcoholic parent can raise identical twins. When they grow to adulthood, one becomes an alcoholic. Why? He might say, “Because I was raised by an alcoholic.” The other twin is an absolute teetotaler. Why? He, too, might say, “because I was raised by an alcoholic.” Do you have the courage to take the chain off your brain, even when the person who put it there is someone you love and who loves you? In spite of that love,
the accidentally incarcerated your creativity. But prison is prison, whether intended or not. All of what you have experienced plays a role in your destiny, even the situations and people you must choose to leave behind in order to arrive there. With life insurance, we often have our brains chained. You may think since our parents got them a small policy, your children only need a small policy. They may have been brought up that life insurance is a waste of money, or $5,000 is all that is needed to help with the funeral. You may have been brought up that a pre-paid burial plan is all that is needed. Your brain doesn’t realize the non-guaranteed expenses that come with that funeral. Life insurance is about lifestyle. It’s about living - not dying. It’s about children, college, retirement, family, protection, and everything about life, not death. How we were brought up may be how we think about life insurance. Children can get a lifetime worth of insurance at its lowest price and their healthiest time of life, yet we still don’t do it. We wait and let them pay higher prices when they get older and less healthy because our parents didn’t see any value, so you don’t either. Now is the time to break the brain chain, and let us show you what is truly needed. —Parts of this article are reprinted or modified from “Destiny, Step into Your Purpose” by T.D. Jakes My door is always open; figuratively and literally. Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049 —SPJST—
SPJST Lodge Section
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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 9, Snook members discuss Christmas activities The Wednesday, December 1, 2021, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 6 p.m. Donnie Victorick led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the November meeting were approved. Hall manager, fraternal, treasurer, communications, and statewide reports were presented. The youth club will present a Christmas program on Sunday, December 12 with a potluck meal starting at 4:30 p.m. The youth will make fleece throws for the nursing home. New speakers are being installed at the hall. A motion was passed to accept two new members. The meeting adjourned at 6:22 p.m.
Next Meeting—January 5, 2022 The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 5 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 Lodge 24, Cyclone will welcome Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 for its New Year’s Eve dance at Flag Hall on Friday, December 31, 2021. The hall’s address is 411 FM 964. Dance time is from 8:15 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Black-eyed peas will be served at the last intermission. Tickets are $15 each, and sales begin December 15. Call Linda Wilde at 254985-2258 for reservations. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Lodge 24, Cyclone! —SPJST—
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts The 2022 SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts are, left to right, Vice President Scott Brandon, President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Mary Helen Rodriguez, and Secretary/Treasurer Sandy Fischer.
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Monday, December 13, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member
Lodge 30, Taiton reports on October meeting
Dear Readers, Our last meeting was held Thursday, November 4, 2021. Betty prepared the meal, which consisted of corned beef hash, potatoes, sauerkraut, corn salad, and cake for dessert. Thank you, Betty! The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was held for deceased member Alan Hroza. On the sick list are Doreen Honza, Brad Jones, and Margaret Martinek. New member Diane Dvorak was welcomed to her first meeting. All officers gave their reports, and the reports were accepted as presented. We discussed the 50th anniversary party that everyone was looking forward to. Nominating committee Emil Martinek, Charlie Jurcik, and Harry Matus announced that all officers were contacted and asked if they would like to continue. A motion was made and carried for the current officers to be voted in by acclamation for another year. Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—
Dear Vestnik Readers, SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton’s meeting was called to order on Sunday, October 3, 2021, at Taiton Community Center. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ella Garrett. A moment of silence was observed for any sick or departed members. The reading of the minutes for the September meeting were waived. Five officers, 10 adult members, and 11 youth members were in attendance. Treasurer Lisa Bubela reported that the only outstanding bill at this time was the auction item donated to the Taiton Community Center Fall Festival. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Patsy Baker informed the members that there were no updates to report at this time. A thank you note was read from the family of Janice Victorick for our donation in her honor. There was also a thank you note read from Brad Stavinoha for a donation to support their lodge hall. Youth Leader Lisa Bubela reported that the youth would participate in an ornament contest on October 30 during a district outing to the El Campo Bowling Center. She also reported that the youth department will be undergoing a revamp
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis
Lodge 25, Ennis couple Wesley and Dorothy Prachyl celebrates 70th wedding anniversary Wesley Prachyl youth leader for and Dorothy Lodge 25, Ennis Vavra were marfor several years. ried November 20, She was a member 1951, at St. John of St. John’s ReNepomucene quiem Choir and Church in Ennis, St. John’s Czech Texas, where they Choir for more are lifelong than 25 years. members. They Their children are also both are Michael Pramembers of chyl (Cheryl), SPJST Lodge 25, Cathy Prachyl Cole Wesley and Dorothy Prachyl Ennis. (Bill), and Stephen Wesley is a Prachyl. They have Marine Corps Korean War Veteran. four grandchildren, one step-grandHe retired from Ennis Business Forms child, and five great-grandchildren. after 32 years. Dorothy served as —SPJST— of the program. The Christmas social was then discussed. It is scheduled for December at Taiton Community Center. Happy anniversary was wished to Heather and John Garrett as well as to Crystal and Brad Bacak. Happy birthday was wished to Marjorie Treumer and Millie and Abigail Garrett. The next meeting will be decided on at a later date, and the members will be informed. The meeting was adjourned by President Yvonne Marcaurele. Fraternally yours, Marjorie Treumer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Inc. report on November meetings
The 2022 SPJST Lodge25, Ennis officers are, left to right, Reporter Margaret Krajca, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kay Lynn Kovar, Secretary Pat Fowler, President JoAnn Martinek Jones, Vice President Arlene Honza, Treasurer Betty Macalik, Youth Leader Rita Holland.
On Wednesday November 10, 2021, Lodge 35, Elk President Randy Pavelka called the SPJST Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Incorporated meetings to order at 7:20 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all. We had 17 members and two guests present. Secretary Carla Price gave her reports on the October meetings, and with no corrections, they were approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer presented her reports. They were approved as read.
Floor Chair Gene Pavelka reported a good month as Bar Chair Randy Pavelka did also. Under old business, we will be getting a new United States flag as the old one is not in good shape any more. Under new business, it was discussed to allow Axtell School to use our building for no charge for a school function. A motion was made by Walter Kubitza and seconded by Gene Pavelka. The motion passed to let them use the hall. Also under new business, it was decided to pay officers an incentive gift. The cleanup crew did not accept any pay. Thank you for what you all do during the year to keep our hall up and running. I know it seems to be a never-ending job. The meeting was adjourned at 7:53 p.m. Next Meeting—December 19 The next meeting will be Sunday, December 19 in conjunction with the Christmas party. It will be at 4:30 p.m. We hope you might be able to attend. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
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Monday, December 13, 2021
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Lodge 25, Ennis honors October, november birthday celebrants
Lodge 25, Ennis honored and recognized its birthday celebrants recently. Happy October birthdays to, left to right, Harry Matus, Margaret Martinek, Don Wesley, Jr., Alan Prachyl, Betty Macalik, Nanette Liska, and Karen
Lodge 35, Elk to host SPJST Pavelka Cemetery Association meeting on Dec. 19 The Annual SPJST Pavelka Cemetery Association meeting will be held on Sunday, December 19, 2021, at SPJST Lodge 35, Elk hall in Elk, Texas. The meeting will be at 4 p.m. Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve dance: The Billy Holt Band Lodge 47, Seaton invites all to ring in the New Year at a dance with Billy Holt Band on Friday, December 31, 2021, at Seaton Star Hall, located at 10842 State Highway 53, near Temple, Texas. Hall, kitchen, and bar open at 6 p.m. The dance is from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Beer will be available in the bar. BYOB (bring your own bottle). Set-ups will be available. Cornbread and black-eyed peas will be served at midnight. Tickets are $15 per person, and $25 per couple. Children 12 and under are free of charge. Online paid reservations of six or more can reserve tables. For tickets, search NYE Dance @ Star Hall at eventbrite.com.
Seaton Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Call 254-624-4119 for more information about the event. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall! Fraternally, Brandon Bartek, Vice President —SPJST—
Puente. RIGHT PHOTO: Happy November birthdays to, left to right, Willie Matus, Scooter Holland, Jerry Valek, Darryl McClelland, Jennifer Henderson, and Marc Clark! —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter
Lodge 66, Waco elects 2022 officers SPJST Lodge 66, Waco met on Monday, November 29, 2021, at 6 p.m. at Saint Paul’s Church in Bellmead, Texas. President Douglas Galler called the meeting to order. Roll of officers was called, and Reporter Sister Dorothy Veselka was absent. Six members and three visitors were present. Lodge 66 Secretary Dana McAdams
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 80, Holland
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 80, Holland officers are, left to right, President Rita Spinn, Vice President Joe W. Liles, Secretary Linda Hill, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka, Jr., and Treasurer Joyce Martinets. They are pictured with SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, far right.
read the minutes from the last meeting, and they were approved with one correction. Sister Dana then read a letter from SPJST Controller Roy Vajdak about some new members and terminations that may not have been reported in the monthly reports. Sister Dana then read a letter from Home Office Compliance Specialist Tamara Gettys about the annual election of officers for Lodge 66. Lodge 66 Treasurer Diana Engelke gave her report. Sister Dana then made a motion to accept three new candidates for membership in Lodge 66. The motion was seconded by Sister Diana and passed. The new members are Cody Bryan Hallman and Shane Christian Allen, whose new certificates were written by Sales Agent Randall House, and Maria D. Maciel, who was written by Sales Agent Arnolda Lerma. In old business, there was talk about the Lodge 66 Facebook page. In new business, Brother John Engelke made a motion to give our November and December donations to Toys for Tots. The motion was seconded by Sister Dana and passed. Brother John then mentioned officer bonuses for the Christmas holidays. He then made a motion to continue the tradition of giving officers of Lodge 66 a Christmas gift. The motion was seconded by Sister Dana and passed. Next Meeting—December 21 The next meeting will be Tuesday,
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Monday, December 13, 2021
December 21 at 6 p.m. Please call or email Brother John or Sister Dana if you are planning to attend. The January meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 24 at 6 p.m. at St. Paul’s. Brother Michael Galler will surprise us with a meal. The next order of business was the election of lodge officers. Brother John Engelke made a motion to elect these officers by acclamation: President/FAC Brother Douglas Galler Vice President Brother Ronald Neumann
An excerpt from . . .
History of Wharton County, page 269 Outstanding in the community is the Czech Catholic Home for the Aged, a large brick building built through the efforts of the Czech Catholic Women. Four years went into the planning and fundraising for this home. It was approved in 1950 by the Czech Catholic Women at their state convention as a worthy cause, and three women were appointed on a fundraising committee. They were Mrs. Mary Baca of El Campo, Mrs. Gussie Franta of Hallettsville, chairman, and Mrs. B.P. Matocha of San Antonio. A $20,000 farm offered by the Faltysek Mary F. Baca
VĚSTNÍK Secretary/Reporter Sister Dana McAdams Treasurer Sister Diana Engelke Guide Brother Michael Galler The motion was seconded by Sister Diana and passed. Door prize was won by Sister Dana and the 100 percent pot of $4 was won by Brother Ron. The meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dana McAdams Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
family provided the nucleus for building the home. The main section was completed in November 1954, and the first 12 residents were admitted. Two wings have since been added to the main building. Residents of all denominations are admitted, and 52 are now living in the home, with more on the waiting list. The home is adjacent to the church. Today Hillje has a population of about 75. Update: The facility was recently acquired by S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes, Inc., and the administrator is Rowena TablerSmith. In November 2021, there were 45 residents and more than 30 staff. S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living of El Campo is located at 248 Wisteria Lane in El Campo. Article and update were submitted by Nick Schwartzkopf of SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje, who resides in Ganado, Texas. —SPJST—
f Czech Catholic Home for the Aged, Hillje as it appeared in 1954.
f S.P.J.S.T Senior Living of El Campo in December 2021
Lodge 79 Corpus Christi members celebrate Thanksgiving On Sunday, November 21, 2021, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated Thanksgiving and honored Veterans with a meal of turkey and sides. The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek at 2 p.m. who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present, and we had 26 members and guest in attendance. President Rebecek recognized Regional General Agent Ralph Juarez and Sales Agent Carlos Benevidez. Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the October minutes, and Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the October financial report. Both were approved. Under communications, Secretary Virginia Rebecek read a letter requesting a transfer from Kitty Kaye Gorbet to Lodge 79 from Lodge 117, Robstown. The transfer was approved. Welcome to our lodge, Kitty! Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jerry Sijansky stated fraternal acts need to be turned in by December 31, 2021. Officers for 2022 will be elected at the December 19 meeting. Under new business, Lodge 79 will host the District Seven Annual Meeting on March 13, 2022. Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. Five members and guests were in attendance. The youth made turkeys out of pudding cups. The youth are planning a trip to Peter Piper Pizza during the Christmas holidays. Youth Leader Marcia Rew presented Jacob Rebecek a participation ribbon for entering the rock contest. Birthdays for November were Becky Urbanovsky on the 8th, Leona Grant on the 27th, and Jerry Sijansky on the 27th. “Happy Birthday” was sung to these members. Wedding anniversaries for November were Jerry and Jill Sijansky - 52 years on the 22nd and Mark and Virginia Rebecek - 56 years on the 27th. Congratulations! President Rebecek introduced Veterans, and each received a gift card. They were Larry Elzner - retired Navy, Jerry Sijansky - Army, Ralph Juarez Army, and Mark Rebecek - Army. Thank you for your service!
Door prizes of $25 were won by Carlos Benevidez and Lela Mae Hayek. Judy Majek made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Christina Rew. Motion approved at 2:55 p.m. Next Meeting—December 19 The next meeting will be Sunday, December 19. The lodge will furnish a ham, and members are asked to bring a side dish. We will also elect officers for 2022. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor welcomes new member Lodge 29, Taylor welcomes new member Vera Kathryn Elanora Elam. She is the daughter of Thomas Elam and Audrie Eno. She is also pictured with her greatgrandfather Helmer Dahl, whose goal is to insure all of his great-grandchildren with SPJST. This is Helmer’s 21st great-grandchild. Helmer was a farmer and a musician and played for a number of bands in the central Texas area, including his own band. The SPJST agent is Albin Machu. —SPJST—
Vera Kathryn Elanora Elam with great-grandfather Helmer Dahl
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Lodge 81, Needville plans Dec. 19 Christmas meeting The November 2021 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 21st. At 12:05 p.m., a prayer of thanks was offered by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed homemade chicken noodle soup bought from the Catholic fundraiser and hot tamales provided by Bradley Stavinoha. The members brought side dishes and desserts. We added John Pavlock to the sick list. We pray that you will begin healing soon. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered roll call except Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha and Spe-
cial Funds Chair Marion Morales. Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read the minutes, and they were approved as read. She also read Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales report will be read at the next meeting. Under old business, we were told that the new stove will be delivered next month. Also under old business, a towel rack was installed in the restroom. The new 20-position advertising banner was also installed. Under new business, we elected officers. It was made into a motion and seconded to elect all officers by acclamation. Officers are: President Vincent Newman Vice President Jeanette Newman Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha Special Funds Chair Marion Morales
Also under new business, we voted in new member Edwin Bender. Under other business, we discussed the Christmas meeting. A motion was made and passed that we will award 10 money door prizes. The youth will make stockings to give out to everyone, and they will deliver a case of peaches to the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living in Needville. Door prizes were won by Calvin Lamensky, Joyce Lamensky, Shirley Meyers, and Willie Mae Kuykendall. Congratulations to the lucky winners!
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Leora Uribe named Outstanding Teacher of the Humanities
Next Meeting—December 19 For the next meeting on Sunday, December 19, Bradley Stavinoha will get a honey ham. Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Honors Veterans, Birthday/Anniversary Celebrants at November Meeting
LEFT PHOTO: Wedding anniversary celebrants were, left to right, Mark and Virginia Rebecek - 56 years on November 27, and Jerry and Jill Sijansky - 52 years on November 22. Congratulations! RIGHT PHOTO: Veterans recognized at the meeting, were, left to right, Mark Rebecek - Army, Ralph Juarez - Army, Jerry Sijansky - Army, and Larry Elzner - retired Navy. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Judy Majek celebrated her birthday on October 31, 2021. Happy Birthday, Judy!
BELOW PHOTO 2: Jerry Sijansky celebrated his 80th birthday on November 27. Happy Birthday, Jerry! BELOW PHOTO 3: Celebrating birthdays in November were Leona Grant, left, on the 27th and Becky Urbanovsky on the 8th. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Youth Leader Marcia Rew presents a participation ribbon to Jacob Rebecek for entering the rock contest. —Submitted by Mark and Virginia Rebecek
Humanities Texas is an organization which recognizes the achievement of teachers across the state of Texas each year. A teacher has to be nominated then must apply to be considered as a candidate for an award. Nominees need to be professional, skillful, and dedicated teachers. Each year, the Humanities Texas organization selects 12 teachers to receive the Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award. Humanities are subjects which include English, foreign languages, art, history, and social studies. SPJST Lodge 133, San Antonio proudly congratulates member Leora Uribe on being selected as one of the teachers to receive the Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award. Leora received a $5,000 cash award and an additional $1,000 award for her middle school to buy humanities-based materials. Leora intends to use the cash award she won to get a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. She has completed her first semester at Western Governors University. We also wish to congratulate Leona’s parents, Rick and Kathy Uribe, who are also members of Lodge 133. —SPJST—
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle readies for Christmas Christmas is fast approaching, and as we celebrate our dear Savior’s birth, we must give thanks for all he has blessed us with. Amen! Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle met on Tuesday, November 9, 2021. It had been a very long time since I had been to a Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle meeting. It was exciting to get out
VĚSTNÍK of the house and also a little unnerving. However, I was looking forward to seeing all of those sweet ladies. I believe they started meeting again in August and have continued their gatherings each month since. The numbers have been small but steadily rising, and those attending have enjoyed their time together. President Cathy Simmank opened the meeting of approximately 30 members and guests in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Sandi Celusniak, in the absence of Vice President Janet Basham, gave a devotion entitled “Your Impact on Other
People.” Very good thoughts. President Cathy then welcomed new members Sharron Smith Connelly, Rose Ann Krenek, and Lynn Cummings. Also attending after a long absence were Lola Taylor, Pauline Morbitzer, and yours truly. Business, reports, and announcements followed. Of special interest, we learned that Kitty Rippin who is in her 90s and a veteran would be traveling to Hawaii in December. She will be an honoree for a military celebration around the anniver-
sary of Pearl Harbor Day. Marlene Bass shared that Carolyn Irby has had hip surgery, and Bobby Shropshire had open-heart surgery. Both are recovering at their homes. Jon Durham announced upcoming activities scheduled for the lodge. The next several months will include the Western Music Festival scheduled for November 12 to 14 and is sold out, western dances, New Year’s Eve celebration, Valentine’s Day dance, and a polka dance scheduled for December 12. For definite details, call the lodge.
Lodge 80, Holland members gather for meal, november meeting Tuesday, November 16, 2021 • Oscar store, Temple, Texas
Lodge 80, Holland hosted its November meeting with a delicious dinner for members at Oscar Store. LEFT PHOTO: Linda and Danny Hill.
CENTER PHOTO: Pictured left to right are Danny Hendrix, Pete Coker, and Mary Davis. RIGHT PHOTO: Jeanette and Buddy Wald.
LEFT PHOTO: Frank and Risa Pajestka with daughter Victoria Zajicek, in back. CENTER PHOTO: From left, Rita Spinn, Joyce Martinets, and Joe W. Liles. RIGHT PHOTO: Frank and Connie Horak. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Clay, Delvin, and Silveria Tschoerner. BELOW CENTER
PHOTO: David Nauert, Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, Linda and District Two Director Jesse Pospisil. RIGHT PHOTO: SPJST President/CEO Brian and Joan Vanicek. Attendees enjoyed socializing, reminiscing, dinner, and door prizes.
VĚSTNÍK New Business Under new business, officers were elected. President Cathy was nominated to remain as president. Janet Basham was nominated to return as vice president. Secretary Joan Shropshire was nominated to continue as secretary. Claire Rooney was nominated to be treasurer. All were elected unanimously. The Christmas party and lunch was discussed and will take place on Tuesday, December 14. We have Jon Durham to thank for providing the food for us. Please let President Cathy know if you plan to attend. Also, it was agreed that a $10 to $15 gift should be brought if the member wishes to participate in a gift exchange game. We will also bring non-perishable food items or take donations for the Tarrant Area Food Bank. Sandi Celusniak announced that there would be a drive-through food giveaway at River Oaks Community Center on November 12 starting at 10 a.m. To conclude, hostesses Margaret Laymance, Judy Ackerman, Lucy Martinez, and Shirley Martin were thanked for their “labor of love.” Then Marilyn DiOrio, Marlene Bass, and Karen Smith were recognized as November birthday ladies. They were serenaded and wished many more years of good health and happiness. Twelve door prizes were awarded, and it seemed as if everyone got a pressie! In honor of Veterans Day, we saluted Veterans Claire Rooney and Kittie Rippin. A show of hands revealed how many veteran spouses and family members we had at the meeting. Thank you to all who served in the military and have kept our country safe. We are so very thankful for you. Before closing the meeting, Lucy
Monday, December 13, 2021 Martinez asked each person in attendance to bring a friend or guest with them to the January meeting. We also take this opportunity to invite anyone who wishes to join us to please feel free to come. All are welcome! The blessing for lunch was offered, and a delicious meal was served. Respectfully, Joan Shropshire, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 141, Sealy Christmas meeting Dec. 14 The Lodge 141, Sealy Christmas meeting/meal will be at Tony’s Restaurant on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at 6 p.m. The meal costs will be covered by the lodge. All members are invited. Bernice Stolarski, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 81, needville unveils advertising banner
Lodge 81, Needville proudly unveiled its new advertising banner which is now displayed in the hall. —Submitted by Jeanette Newman, Vice President
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Lodge 84, Pokrok, Dallas President Achieves 25 Years of Service Dear Lodge 84, Dallas Members and Readers, It’s been my wonderful pleasure to have served as your president for more than 25 years. This year, my trusty vice president, Vicki Sims, has agreed to step up to the role of president. Vicki’s loyalty, history, and love for Lodge 84 as well as the entire SPJST organization is of the upmost example of fraternalism. She and the other great officers will
show leadership and consistent following according to the codes that our organization has had for more than 100 years. May all our SPJST families have a terrific holiday season, and I hope to see you all soon. Fraternally yours, Justine Pokladnik Yeager —SPJST—
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Lodge 142, Houston honors veterans
Czech Christmas Traditions sources: Radio Praha www.radio.cz/en/ www.myczechrepublic.com
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and
Traditional Czech Christmas Czechs begin preparing for Christmas early - usually, by the middle of November. It was once the custom for Czechs to fast for the whole day on Christmas Eve, for only those who did not eat until Christmas Eve dinner would be able to see the golden pig - a symbol of prosperity on the wall that evening! That morning the Christmas tree would have been decorated - mostly with red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, and other sweets, and on the tip of the tree the star of Bethlehem was set. It was also customary for the tree to be mostly decorated by the children because the mother had too many other things to do. Candles were fastened to the tree branches, to be lit in the evening and give Christmas Eve an even greater sense of magic. The whole family would be finishing up their final preparations before the Christmas feasts, which were just beginning on Christmas Eve at nightfall. Old Holiday Customs and Traditions ◆ No lights should be lit in the house before the first star comes out. After it does, dinner is served. ◆ The table should be set for an even number of guests. An odd number brings bad luck or death. ◆ An extra plate can be used to even out the number of guests. An extra plate should also be prepared in case an unexpected guest or a person in need comes by the house at dinner time.
“On Veterans Day . . . and every day . . . we are grateful for our military service personnel who bravely served our country. We thank you!” Lodge 142, Houston recognized Veterans at its November meeting. Pictured are, left to right, District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha - US Army, Steve Roznovsky - US Army, Caleb Ngo - US Army, Jack Manchack - US Air Force, and Jack Dowling - US Navy.
◆ The legs of the table can be tied with a rope to protect the house from thieves and burglars in the coming year. ◆ No one should sit with their back to the door. ◆ Christmas dinner should consist of nine courses including soup, bread with honey, carp, potato salad, fruit (dried, fresh or canned), dessert (apple strudel or vanocka - Christmas bread), and other foods. ◆ No alcohol should be served on Christmas Eve. ◆ No one should ever get up from the Christmas table before dinner is finished. Doing so brings bad luck and death in the family.
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 155, Austin The 2022 SPJST Lodge 155, Austin officers are, front, left to right, Treasurer Jean Motl, Vice President Marianna Wood, and Secretary Ginny Prasatik. BACK: Reporter Amy Eskew and President/FAC Albert Klinkovsky.
◆ Everyone should finish their dinner and leave nothing on the plate. ◆ The first person to leave the table after dinner will be the first one to die in the coming year. That is why everyone should get up from the table at the same time. ◆ Any leftovers from dinner (crumbs, fishbones, etc.) should be buried around the trees to ensure they will bear lots of fruit. ◆ All household animals should be fed after dinner so that no one goes hungry on Christmas Eve.
The Power of Foods and Plants Certain plants, spices and foods are said to have special qualities and have been an important part of Czech Christmas celebrations throughout history. Here are some of them: ◆ Garlic - An essential part of Christmas that should not be missing at any Christmas dinner. It is believed to provide strength and protection. A bowl of garlic can be placed under the dinner table. ◆ Honey is believed to guard against evil. A pot of honey can be placed on the dinner table. ◆ Mushrooms give health and strength. A traditional meal called kuba, prepared from dried mushrooms, barley, garlic, onions, and spices, used to be served as the main meal in the past. Mushroom soup can be served before dinner. ◆ Sheaf of Grain - A bundle of grain dipped in holy water can be used to sprinkle the house to prevent it from burning down in the next year. ◆ Poppyseed, Peas, Wheat, Barley - If given to the hens on Christmas Eve, lots of eggs will be laid in the coming year. ◆ Vanocka (Christmas Bread) - Feeding a piece of vanocka to the cows on Christmas Eve will ensure that there will be lots of milk all year. Putting a few vanocka crumbs in front of the beehive will make sure that the bees will produce enough honey next year. Throwing a piece of vanocka into the well will ensure good quality of the water. ◆ Apple - If the goats are given apples on Christmas Eve, their milk will be sweet.
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo officers are, second from left to right, President Sandra Jansa, Vice President Betty Schwartz, Secretary Charlene Dusek, Treasurer Sharon Hohmann, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Brenda Holik, and Youth Leader Ryan Jansa. They are pictured with District Four Director Bobby Davis, far left.
VĚSTNÍK Foretelling the Future The foretelling of the future and predicting the well-being of the family in the coming year is connected with many popular Christmas customs -- some of which are still practiced today. ◆ The Floating of Walnut Shells - Little boats are made out of empty walnut shells and each family member places a little burning candle into a shell. Everyone's shells are then floated on a bowl of water. If the shell makes it across the bowl, its owner will live a long and healthy life. A shell that sinks brings bad luck to its owner. ◆ The Cutting of the Apple - After Christmas dinner, every person present at the table cuts an apple in half (crosswise, from the stem down). Both halves are shown to everyone around the table. If the core is shaped as a star, it means that everyone will get together next year in happiness and health. A four-pointed cross is a bad omen and means that someone at the table will fall ill or die within a year. Foretelling Marriage There are lots of Christmas customs that help young girls in the family find out if they will get married in the year to come: ◆ Cherry Tree Twigs (Barborky) - On December 4, St. Barbora’s Day, an unmarried girl is supposed to cut a twig off of a cherry tree and put it in water. If the twig blooms by Christmas Eve, the girl will marry within a year. ◆ The Throwing of the Shoe - An unmarried girl is supposed to throw a shoe over her shoulder and towards the door. If the shoe lands with the toe pointing towards the door, the girl will marry within a year. ◆ The Shaking of the Elder Tree - An unmarried girl is supposed to shake an elder tree and if a dog barks, she will marry a man who lives in the direction from which the dog bark came. ◆ Money and Wealth - Although Czech Christmas has traditionally been focused on spirituality and family rather than on material possessions, there are a few customs relating to money and wealth. ◆ Fish Scales - Fish scales should be placed under Christmas dinner plates or under the tablecloth to bring wealth to the house. Carrying a fish scale in a wallet all year will ensure that money will not run out. Midnight Mass Christmas Eve ended with Midnight Mass, which was held in every church. In some regions, Christmas plays were also part of the Mass, which was followed in any case with caroling. On Christmas Eve
Monday, December 13, 2021
Lodge 160, San Angelo awards scholarship to Davis Schwartz
Betty Schwartz presents a Lodge 160, San Angelo scholarship to her grandson, Davis Schwartz, which he was received at Lodge 160’s annual meeting on Sunday, November 21, 2021. Other scholarship winners, not pictured, were Allison Halfmann and Trey Schwartz.
and God's Feast — December 25 — people wouldn’t play cards, go to the pub or visit relatives. This had to wait until St. Stephen’s Day, December 26, when the dancing parties and the period of merrymaking and caroling began. Carols and Caroling Caroling is an old Czech custom, where carolers go from house to house in a group, singing songs and collecting presents in each house. The main period of caroling runs from Christmas Eve to the Day of the Three Kings, thus from December 24 to January 6. Most often, people went caroling on Christmas Eve, St. Stephen’s Day (December 26), and on New Year’s. Another period of caroling was during the Easter holidays. Through their carols the people wished for prosperity in the future, and this wish for success in agriculture and in their personal life (love and health) had a deeper meaning than the later New Year's good wishes. For this reason, carolers were warmly welcomed into homes and their carols were of good tidings and delivered with a merry feeling. Carolers would often go dressed in costumes and caroling would take on a racier nature. The medieval Church frowned on carolers for the spectacle that they would
sometimes make of themselves, including masquerading themselves as animals! Consequently, the Church ended up forbidding people’s caroling and began introducing priests to the caroling trips. Through this the Church hoped to replace the old caroling, and so in the 14th century popular caroling was replaced by Church Christmas songs about the birth of Christ, first in Latin, later in the national tongues. The best known of the czech carols today are Narodil se Kristus Pan - Christ the Lord was Born from the 15th century, Nesem Vam Noviny - Bringing Good News to You from the end of the 19th century or Ticha Noc - Silent Night. Though Austrian by origin, this last song was soon adopted here. Czech Christmas Today Preparations for the Christmas holidays mostly get underway for Czechs with a good house-cleaning. The whole house is cleaned from top to bottom: the carpets are washed, the furniture polished, and everywhere vacuumed, even under the beds and cupboards. In recent times, Czechs have begun placing other objects that symbolize Christmas in these nice, clean windows — lit Christmas stars bought in the shops or artificial wreaths. After cleaning their home completely, people begin slowly bringing in supplies and gifts for Christmas. They hide them in their cupboards and other hiding-places, so their family members don’t accidentally find them and ruin the surprise on Christmas Eve. This is when parents ask their children to write a letter to Jezisek (Baby Jesus), to tell him everything they want to find under the tree on Christmas Eve. Christmas Sweets From the beginning of December, the
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attractive aromas of Christmas confectionery begin emanating from Czech kitchens. Even if more and more Czechs lack the courage to bake a vanocka Christmas loaf, baking Christmas sweets at home remains a Czech speciality. The more types of sweets on the table during Christmas, the better. The custom was that the children would help their mothers. The custom was also that the children, along with their fathers, would steal the sweets before Christmas from the box where their mothers had put them for safe-keeping. Another rule was also that housewives and grandmothers would bake even more kinds of sweets to get a headstart on them. The results of all these actions can be seen in extra weight around the middle after the holidays. Towards the end of November, Christmas markets begin to appear in the squares in towns, filling them with smells of pine, from all the large Christmas trees, constantly reminding passers-by that Christmas is near. Shopping Neither the house-cleaning nor the cooking compares with the suffering endured in all the lines in the department stores and other shops. People from the countryside come into larger cities or Prague, along with people from the larger cities and towns. The most common spot for Christmas shopping is still the Prague department stores Kotva, Bila Labut, and Tesco. Mikulas In the midst of these holiday preparations, the parents of small children have the holiday of Mikulas (St. Nicholas Day) to look forward to. It’s celebrated on the eve of the day in his honor, thus on the
Lodge 187, Round Rock member earns “Brand Associate of the Month” honor Congratulations to Lodge 187, Round Rock member Alexandria Johnson! She has been employed at Old Navy in Bastrop for three months and was named “Brand Associate of the Month” for going above and beyond her duties.
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Lodge 200 Bruceville-Eddy supports seniors
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy President James R. Hosch presents a donation to Taylor Hall representative Jessica Stengel for its senior citizens activities. The funds were raised from the lodge’s Veterans Day pancake supper.
fifth of December, and one of the only old Czech advent holidays that is still being celebrated. Every year on this night, the streets are filled with devils rattling chains, St. Nicholases with white cotton beards, long white robes and bishop’s staves, and angels with paper wings, coming to see small children to give them a scare before giving them sweets, and then drinking a toast with their parents. Advent also brings with it advent concerts, which are often connected with collections for a charitable cause. Christmas Wishes During the holiday season, Czechs
VĚSTNÍK think of all their friends and relatives and send their Christmas greetings to them. The design of these Christmas cards varies every year, but among them are always cards featuring the Czech artist Josef Lada. These are typical Czech Christmas greetings and people send plenty of them, even with the Czech Post continually raising its prices. The Czech Post does think of its customers, however, and tries to soften the blow by issuing brand new postage stamps every year at Christmas with holiday motifs. The Christmas Tree The closer Christmas gets, the more everyone realizes what they still haven’t gotten done: Mailing Christmas cards, buying that gift for Auntie, making those special rum balls and picking out the Christmas tree. Christmas trees can be bought in most town squares and other open spaces, and every year they get more expensive. The most expensive are fir trees, followed by pine and then spruce trees. The newest trend is the artificial Christmas tree. Most Czech families keep their trees out on the balcony, where it remains until Christmas Eve. Christmas Carp and Other Preparations Once the house is clean, the sweets are all baked, the gifts bought, the Christmas cards sent out and the Christmas tree out on the balcony, it’s time to arrange Christmas visits with friends and relatives, to organize the Christmas decorations, to prepare for the Christmas party at work, to get all the right ingredients for the potato salad and buy the Christmas carp. Carp is only a recent addition to the Czech table, and according to studies, is part of Christmas Eve dinner in three quarters of Czech households, while the remainder prefer fried fish or filets. The carp-sellers are a common sight on the streets in the wintry weather prior to Christmas, pulling carp out of the tanks of
O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point The 2022 SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point officers are, left to right, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Susan Hutton, President Ingrid Petrik, and Secretary/Treasurer David Nauert.
icy water, and even killing and gutting them there if the customer desires. Some people take them home, however, and put them in the bathtub. There are two things to remember concerning the keeping of the Christmas carp in the bathtub: 1) Don’t feed it! (so it doesn't have full intestines when Dad guts it after killing it), and 2) Don’t give it a name under any circumstances! This is so that the kids or their parents won’t feel sorry for it and run out on Christmas Eve to return it to the Vltava River! The most important day of the Czech Christmas celebration, the 24th of December is naturally as idyllic for adults as it is for children, who have a day full of traditional Christmas fare to enjoy. The Christmas television schedule is more or less the same every year. Fairy tales - old ones such as Pysna princezna (The Proud Princess), Princezna se zlatou hvezdou na cele (The Princess with the Golden Star on her Brow), Obusku z pytle ven (Take the Club from the Sack), and then the newer ones like Silene smutna princezna (The Terribly Sad Princess), or Tri orisky pro Popelku (Three Nuts for Cinderella). There’s also no shortage of
old Czech and foreign comedies, such as the film Babicka (Grandmother) or the musicals My Fair Lady and Mary Poppins. One Christmas hit is missing from the schedule, however, the Soviet fairy tale Mrazik (Frost), which will be engraved in the hearts of the children of the 1970s and 80s and their parents forever. In the afternoon, the Christmas tree is decorated, with whatever ornaments are in fashion at the moment. Recently the preferred decorations have become natural ornaments — red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, straw or wooden figures and classical candles. Christmas Day In the Czech Republic, just as here, December 25 is an official national holiday. Everyone gets to sleep in! It is also customary at this time of the year to publicly forgive those you have quarreled with during the year. Traditionally the main meal at noon on Christmas Day would be: giblet soup with homemade noodles, roast goose with bread dumplings and sauerkraut. After this huge meal, they eat fresh kolaches, fruits, nuts, and drink coffee. —SPJST—
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy Honors Veterans with Pancake Supper on Veterans Day
Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy hosted a Veterans Day pancake supper on Thursday, November 11, 2021 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall in Eddy.
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Scenes from District One Fall Fun Day Sunday, October 24, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor • Submitted by Holly Narro, Assistant Youth Counselor On Sunday, October 24, 2021, District One held its annual fall fun day at Lodge 17, New Tabor. The afternoon was filled with a Halloween costume contest, trunk-or-treating, Christmas ornament contest, bingo, and a meal. Thank you to everyone who decorated a trunk for the youth to enjoy. Also, thanks to Lodge 17, New Tabor for hosting and for the delicious meal. It was a fun afternoon! —Holly Narro, District One Assistant Youth Counselor —SPJST— TOP PHOTO: Costume contest participants are looking so cute! TOP CENTER and FAR RIGHT PHOTOS: Costume contest winners - congratulations! RIGHT and BELOW PHOTOS: Trunk-or-treat fun!
Participants of all ages enjoy playing bingo for candy and other fun prizes!
CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT CONTEST WINNERS. From left, ages kindergarten to 8 years: 1st Channing Starmer (17), 2nd - Kyren Plachy (17), 3rd - Marley Kocurek (17); ages 9 to 11: 1st - Collins Starmer (17), 2nd - Brylee Chmelar (17), 3rd - Abby Lopez (17); ages 15 to high school senior: 1st - Ciara Coker (186), 2nd - Ashlyn Kellum (17), 3rd - Macy Narro (17).
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VĚSTNÍK
District One Youth Enjoy Overnight Stay at Camp Kubena
Youth of District One enjoyed a fabulous overnight stay at Camp Kubena on November 13 and 14, 2021, filled with archery, gun range, axe throwing, ropes course, games, crafts, hiking, hayride, and hot chocolate. Thank you to Rob and staff for a wonderful weekend! A great
big thank you to Mr. Donnie Victorick and Ashley for providing us with a delicious hamburger meal. —Submitted by Holly Narro, Assistant District One Youth Counselor
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Lodge 30, Taiton youth bowls with SPJST friends
Lodge 30, Taiton youth places first with ornament
Lodge 30, Taiton youth enjoys Christmas meal
Lodge 47, Seaton youth excited about Santa Claus
Hey, Readers! On Saturday, October 30, 2021, we had a District Six outing at El Campo Bowling alley and had our Christmas ornament contest. I had the best time bowling with my fellow SPJST friends. I even placed second with my ornament. It was a fun day! Grady Lange, age 7 —SPJST—
Dear SPJST Members, On Saturday, October 30, 2021, District Six had an outing at the El Campo Bowling alley. We had our Christmas ornament contest as well that day. I had a great time helping the younger youth learn how to bowl and helping them bowl. We enjoyed a hamburger lunch. I placed first with my ornament. It was a fun day! Grant Bubela, age 15 —SPJST—
On Monday, November 22, 2021, we had our November and December meeting at the Lone Star Cafe in Taiton. We also had our Christmas party, too, where we enjoyed food, fellowship, and fun! We had a delicious meal of beef and chicken fajitas with all the trimmings. I enjoy being with all of my SPJST friends! Sincerely, Bethany Baker, age 15 —SPJST—
Dear Vestnik Readers, Merry Christmas! I am so excited for Santa Claus to come to town! This Friday, our lodge is having a lock-in. We are invited to bring friends. I can’t wait. I have invited two friends so far. Also soon will be our lodge Christmas party. We get to visit with Santa and even put on a play! School is almost out for Christmas break! I can't wait! The last Friday of
District Six Youth, Adults Ride SPJST Float in El Campo Christmas Parade District Six hosted the SPJST Float in the El Campo Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 2, 2021. Members of Lodges 30, Taiton and 40, El Campo-Hillje rode the float in the parade. RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Melanie Zavodny, Frank Horak, Cathy Garcia, Wendy Korenek, Yvonne Marcaurele, Debbie Krpec, and Karen Kaspar.
TOP LEFT PHOTO: Claire Manrriquez (40), Hudson Riha (30), and Vanessa Riha (30). PHOTO 2: 2021-2022 District Six Duchess Vanessa Riha (30) and Queen Faith Korenek (30). PHOTO 3: Debbie Krpec (30). RIGHT PHOTO: Duchess Vanessa and 2019 State Duke Hudson Riha (30). LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 40, El CampoHillje youth riding the float are Angelica Manzano, Jackson Vasquez, Aiden Garcia, NayEli Garcia, Saydee Manrriquez, and Claire Manrriquez. RIGHT PHOTO: Hudson and Vanessa Riha, front, are pictured with their grandmother Yvonne Marcaurele, left, and David and Melanie Zavodny Nauert.
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school before Christmas break, we get a Christmas party and an early release. My mom and dad got me a trip for Christmas, but I don’t know what it is yet! Happy holidays and see you in 2022. Fraternally Travis Ordogne, age 9 —SPJST—
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Lodge 47, Seaton youth earns soccer medal Dear Vestnik Readers, Today, I got my flu shot. I was a statue. It did not hurt at all. I did not know she finished. It was so quick it felt like she had just started. Then I got a sucker. I ate the sucker right when I got it. It was really good. I won second place for soccer. I got a soccer medal. I was sad because I won’t get to see my teammates anymore. I also had a soccer party.
For Thanksgiving, I am going to my MawMaw and PawPaw’s house. I cannot wait to eat lots and lots and lots of turkey. I cannot wait to see my grandparents’ dogs Ally and Coco. Goodbye, and Happy Thanksgiving! Andrew Ordogne, age 6 —SPJST—
Simply Because by d.knape
I write this poem simply because the world needs more expressions of Love that is given freely away let Christmas come then every day. —SPJST
District Six hosts Youth Ornament Contest; Bowling Social
District Six hosted a youth outing on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at El Campo Bowling Center. The event included the Christmas ornament contest. TOP PHOTOS: Congratulations to winners, from left, ages kindergarten to 8 years - 1st - Case Janssen (30), 2nd - Grady Lange (30), 3rd - Millie Garrett (30); ages 9 to 11 - 1st - Abigail Garrett (30), 2nd - Simone Riha (30); ages 12 to 14 - 1st - Bethany Baker (30); ages 15 to high school senior - 1st - Grant Bubela (30). SECOND ROW: Youth display their ornaments; District Six Youth Counselor Lisa Bubela and Bethany Baker; youth are pictured with District Six Director Annie Vahalik, back, left, and DYC Lisa Bubela, back, right. —Submitted by Kirby Bubela
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Congratulations, District Seven Christmas Ornament Contest Winners! —Submitted by April Howard, District Seven Youth Counselor
Lodge 81, needville youth club decorates s.p.j.s.t. senior living center windows
Ages 5 to 8
1st - Sloan Craig Lodge 79, Corpus Christi
2nd - Colt Pruski Lodge 107, Floresville
3rd - Slade Craig Lodge 79, Corpus Christi
Ages 9 to 11
1st - Camila Cabrera Lodge 185, New Braunfels
2nd - Jacob Rebecek Lodge 79, Corpus Christi
Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club met on Sunday, November 29, 2021, and decorated the windows of the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center. We couldn’t carol so we did this for the people instead. The nurses and people inside watched the decorating show. Our next meeting is Monday, December 20. Ruby Jones, age 6 —SPJST—
3rd - Skeet Kitchen Lodge 185, New Braunfels
Ages 12 to 14
1st - Katie Haag Lodge 185, New Braunfels
2nd - Megan Ohnheiser
3rd - Gatlin Mills
Lodge 185, New Braunfels
Lodge 185, New Braunfels
Ages 15 to High School Senior
1st - Rileigh Kitchen Lodge 185, New Braunfels
2nd - Caitlyn Petett Lodge 107, Floresville
3rd - Sarah Urbanovsky Lodge 79, Corpus Christi
Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club members proudly pose in front of two of the windows they decorated at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville. Pictured are Nathan Hargraves, Zoey Jones, Amber Jones, Tripp Hargraves, and Ruby Jones.
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Lodge 81, needville youth club decorates Christmas tree at hall
LEFT PHOTOS: Youth members Tripp Hargraves, age 9; Amber Jones, are, left to right, Emma Kujawa, Willie Mae Kuykendall, Miss Janzeck, age 8; Ruby Jones, age 6; Nathan Hargraves, age 4; and Zoey Jones, Amber Jones, Nathan Hargraves, Tripp Hargraves, Ruby Jones, Kristen age 4, decorate the Christmas tree at Lodge 81, Needville. FAR RIGHT Jones, Zoey Jones, Dorothy Kuban, and Miss Pieper. PHOTO: Pictured in front of the beautifully decorated Christmas tree
Dear Readers, On Sunday, November 21, 2021, Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club met for our monthly meeting and decorated a Christmas tree for the lodge. Our old tree got messed up by the freeze damage so our Grandpa, EJ Bender, donated a
tree and the youth club bought the ornaments and angel, which is really pretty. We had so much fun decorating the tree. We all put on ornaments, and Amber and Youth Leader Kristen put on the angel. Ruby and I got to put on the tree skirt. The lodge members of the
kitchen committee said it was such a pretty tree and took a photo with us when it was done! Next Meeting—December 19 Our next meeting is Sunday, December 19 where we will sing Christ-
mas carols to the lodge and give out stockings to our members. I can’t wait to see everyone then! Merry Christmas! Fraternally, Tripp Hargraves, age 9 —SPJST—
Lodge 154, Fort Worth Youth Club hosts SPJST Float in Parade of Lights Sunday, November 21, 2021 • Fort Worth, Texas
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 154, Fort Worth members are ready to ride. They are pictured with, front, left to right, District Three Director John and Diana Engelke and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny and David Nauert. CENTER PHOTO: From left are Gentry Burcie, Holly Jones, and Carolyn Cleveland. RIGHT PHOTO: Loy Jones and Mary
Steinman. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Appa Burcie, left, Gentry Burcie, and 2020 SPJST State Queen Holly Jones. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Laci Rasor, left, and 2021 District Three Queen Macy Jones. RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Holley Burud, Mckenzie Burcie, and Kyleigh Hernandez.
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2022 SPJST Youth theme design contest participants Overall Winner Camila Cabrera Lodge 185, New Braunfels
Ages 12 to 14 Winner Bethany Baker Lodge 30, Taiton
Ages 5 to 8 Winner Amber Jones Lodge 81, Needville
Ages 15 to High School Senior Winner Tanner Wood Lodge 49, Rowena
District One Lodge 17, New Tabor Bailen Kocurek Marley Kocurek Rylie Lloyd Jaycee Parker Kyren Plachy Lila Supak
Lodge 154, Fort Worth Mckenzie Burcie
District Two Lodge 47, Seaton Seth Martinez Andrew Ordogne Travis Ordogne
District Five Lodge 81, Needville Tripp Hargraves Amber Jones Ruby Jones
District Six Lodge 30, Taiton Bethany Baker Grant Bubela Abigail Garrett Ella Garrett Millie Garrett Grady Lange
District Four Lodge 49, Rowena Cotton Wood Hunter Wood Tanner Wood
District Seven Lodge 107, Floresville Caitlyn Petett
District Three Lodge 25, Ennis Layne Oliver Morgan Oliver Victoria Oliver
Lodge 185 New Braunfels Camila Cabrera Megan Ohnheiser
In Memoriam Resolution of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge Pokrok, No. 84, Dallas wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family of our departed brother RAYMOND DLABAJ. Raymond Stanley Dlabaj of Ennis, Texas, passed away peacefully at age 91 on August 23, 2021, in Ennis. He was born to John Sr. and Aloise Dlabaj on July 25, 1930. He was the second youngest of 11 children. He grew up in Ennis and left school after the eighth grade to Raymond Dlabaj help his parents on the family farm. He later established his career as a plumber founding Advanced
Plumbing Service. In 1952, he married the love of his life, Evelyn Julie Vlacilek. Shortly after marriage, Ray was drafted into the United States Army at the young age of 23 and served in the Korean War. He was decorated with six medals while serving and was discharged in 1954. During this time, Ray and Evelyn were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Sandy and Diane. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather. He loved taking road trips with his family across the country. A man of many hobbies, Raymond enjoyed his time spent on Lake Whitney, hosting parties at the Ennis farm, and hunting at the deer lease in Jewitt. He was especially proud of his hand-built 30-foot by 11-foot floating barge he had on Lake Whitney and made countless memories with friends and family for more than 60 years. Raymond was an accordion player and founded “The Country Boys Band” entertaining
crowds with Czech and country music. Raymond was an active member of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas; KJT; and Western Fraternal Life Association. He is preceded in death by his beautiful wife Evelyn Dlabaj of 60 years and all 10 siblings. Raymond is survived by daughter Sandy Adamcik and husband Bobby; daughter Diane Lucien and husband Alan Sr.; grandchildren Alan Lucien, Jr. and wife Jill, Jennifer Adamcik and spouse Jason Anderson, Lindsay Waugaman and spouse Wes, and Angela Marek and spouse Jon; and great-grandchildren Charley, Raylee, Joey and Ava. Visitation was Tuesday, August 31 at J.E. Keever Mortuary in Ennis at 6 p.m. with rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Mass of the Christian burial was Wednesday, September 1 at 10 a.m. at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Ennis. Interment followed in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary. May our departed brother rest in peace. SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas Resolution Committee —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge Pokrok, No. 84, Dallas wish to express out deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, OLGA PATAK. Olga Janosek Patak, 84, of Dallas, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on May 22, 2021. She was born on July 12, 1936, in Ennis to Frank W. and Antonia Trojacek and was the youngest of four children. Olga grew up in Ennis and attended Olga Patak St. John’s Catholic School. She married Vincent (Jimmy) Janosek on August 7, 1954, and they made their home in Dallas. They had two daughters, Carol and Barbara. Olga enjoyed being a homemaker and was a wonderful wife and mother. As her daughters got older, she took on a part-
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time job as a retail associate at Sears. She was a faithful member of St. Pius for 52 years, an active member in the church ladies’ society, and in the ‘over 55’ club. Everyone enjoyed her baked goods, especially her Czech pastries, such as kolaches and strudels. In 1985, Olga lost husband Vincent of 31 years. Through God’s goodness, Olga was reunited with an old high school classmate and fell in love. In 1987, she married Leo Patak in a double wedding with her daughter Barbara and son-in-law John by her side. Olga and Leo were members of several Czech fraternal organizations, including SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas, and they enjoyed many years of polka dancing together with family and friends. Fishing was a favorite pastime for Olga at their lake house in Tawakoni. Great memories were made which her grandchildren still remember and talk about quite often. Olga was a kind-hearted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She loved baking and decorating cakes for family and friend’s special occasions. Olga enjoyed a variety of activities throughout her years such as bowling, dominoes, pinochle, crocheting, and most of all - playing Yahtzee! Her family and friends loved her dearly and will miss her beyond words. Olga was preceded in death by her first husband Vincent (Jimmy) Janosek; sisters Wilma Jelinek and Ruby Janicek; and brother Frank G. Trojacek. She is survived by loving husband Leo Patak; daughters Carol Beisert and husband Rick and Barbara Ozymy and husband John; stepsons Michael Patak and wife Kay and Brian Patak; grandchildren Jenilee Bell, Alan Beisert, Jan Turkington (Beisert), Randy Beisert, Jordan Patak, and Keller Patak; and great-grandchildren Kaylee, Skylee, Kendell, Jayden, Emma, and Ashley. Memorial donations may be made to Stephanie’s Dream, P.O. Box 243, Palmer, Texas 75152 May our departed sister rest in peace. SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas Resolution Committee —SPJST—
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In Memory of Evelyn Stuckly Evelyn Mary Stuckly, age 88, of Penelope, Texas, passed away early Sunday morning, November 28, 2021, at Providence Hospice Place in Waco. A rosary was recited at 6 p.m. Tuesday, November 30 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 8 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 1 at the Church of the Nativity, BVM in Evelyn Stuckly Penelope with Reverend Brijil Lawrence as celebrant. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery near Penelope. Evelyn was born May 22, 1933, in Hill County near Penelope, the daughter of Charlie and Mary (Mynar) Mikuda. She was a 1950 graduate of Penelope High School. On November 22, 1950, she was united in marriage to Elton “Shorty” Stuckly in Penelope. Shorty preceded her in death on April 20, 2007. Evelyn was a faithful member of the Church of the Nativity, BVM in Penelope. She was also a member of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco, Catholic Daughters of America Court No. 829, and RVOS Lodge No. 49, where she served as secretary for 55 years. Evelyn was a homemaker, mother, and farmer. She enjoyed playing cards, quilting, working puzzles, tending to her rose garden, fishing, camping, picking and shelling pecans, and talking on the phone with her friends and relatives. Evelyn was known for her homemade chicken noodle soup, buchtas, banana pudding, and chocolate chip cookies. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Evelyn was also preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law Eddy Herring; and grandson Michael Sheard. Survivors include children Darlene Herring of Waco, Dr. Elton Stuckly, Jr. and wife Peggy of Ross, and Charlotte Hromadka and husband James of Penelope; brother George Mikuda; grandchildren Cory Herring, Delton Stuckly and wife Patti, Angela Laukaitis and husband Robert, Jimbo Hromadka and wife Megan, Elaine Rodriguez and hus-
VĚSTNÍK band Dustin, Amy Keel and husband Heath, and Chip Sheard and wife Rene; great-grandchildren Edward, Aidan, Logan, Emily, Alayna, Madison, April, Skylar, Ashley, Madyson, McKenzie, Kennedy, Perry, Camden, and Maren; great-great-grandsons Christopher and Anthony; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Active pallbearers were Cory Herring, Delton Stuckly, Jimbo Hromadka, Robert Laukaitis, Dustin Rodriguez, Heath Keel, and Chip Sheard. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. Bobby Daggs, Jack Hawkins, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery Association in Penelope. May our sister rest in peace. Resolution Committee Dorothy Veselka Diana Engelke —SPJST—
In Memory of Carrie Walkoviak Carrie Majewski Gurka Walkoviak was born January 28, 1924, and died peacefully of natural causes on November 23, 2021. Born Kazimiera Petronella Majewski, she was the second of six children born to Tony and Veronica (Mozdzinski) Majewski almost 98 years ago in the Sauney Stand Carrie Walkoviak Community (southeast of Chappell Hill, Texas). It was a time in which hard work and family were priorities. Despite Polish being her first language, Carrie attended Armstrong School and learned English. The Majewski siblings walked in unpredictable Texas weather over one mile each way on an unpaved road. Carrie, at age eight, lost her father unexpectedly. Her mother, now head of household, bravely raised their young children and managed somehow to work the family’s 111-acre farm. History would repeat itself, as Carrie would also lose her first husband, raised two young sons, and managed the family’s rental property. Carrie married Anzelmas Floyd
Gurka on July 18, 1943, at St. Stanislaus Chappell Hill (m. 26 years). They were blessed with three children. Zelma died of multiple myeloma on March 14, 1970. Carrie met Joe Louis Walkoviak, and they were married at St. Rose of Lima Houston on June 17, 1978. (m. 43 years). This energetic lady learned to appreciate and embrace the cultures of the Polish American lifestyle of fun, food, music, and dancing at an early age. She found a particular interest in polka and waltz music. She taught all three of her children the art of dancing. Carrie loved ballroom dancing and always said that “it was her exercise.” She followed television personality and fitness guru Jack LaLane every morning to get her workout. Other pastimes included Funjets to Vegas and Elko, Nevada. As soon as she and Joe returned, they were already booking another trip. This was their routine until Louisiana opened up casinos for business. On those Coushatta bus trips, Carrie had her special bag ready to go on a moment’s notice. She looked forward to playing bingo at local venues and playing house card games with Stash, Tilly, Alois, and Elizabeth. Carrie followed the stock market, too. A green thumb gardener, she enjoyed tending to house plants and propagating her Dutch amaryllis bulbs in her outside flower garden. Faithful to her classic country music, Carrie listened to KWHI radio in Brenham, catching up with “News-atNoon” from Washington County and the Ronnie and Hazel Dutka Saturday morning music radio show from Cypress. She was thrilled when fiddler Brian Marshall rescued all those old Polish tunes from obscurity. Carrie was a huge fan of the Mollie B Polka Party and just couldn’t get enough of the Big Joe Polka show. In her car, the radio frequency was tuned-in to a country and western station. She was a fantastic cook who prepared delicious country recipes from scratch. Carrie’s awesome desserts included cakes, pecan, and dewberry and meringue pies. Her legendary coconut cream pie and chocolate delight were family favorites, though. Carrie was a member of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council 2917 Ladies Auxiliary, and SPJST Pokrok Lodge 88, Houston. When she could no longer attend mass, she tuned into EWTN for her spiritual needs. She was a past member
of St. Stanislaus Chappell Hill, Christ the King, St. Rose of Lima, St. Elizabeth Seton, and St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Community. Our loving mother lived unconditionally for her family. Carrie was a devoted wife, mother, and Granny. Her family remained her sole passion throughout her life. “I don’t want to leave y’all” is what she would say when discussing death. Carrie was predeceased by her parents; first husband; sisters Emilie Wisnieske, Nancy Kubeczka, and Pauline Stepanski; brothers Eddie and Tom Majewski; and niece Barbara Stepanski. Survivors are husband Joe Walkoviak; children Betty Mikolajchak (Clarence), Larry Gurka (Elizabeth), Marvin Gurka (Dorothy); grandchildren Christie Cripps (Chris), Wendy Martin (Tracy), Christopher Gurka (girlfriend Lina), and Michael Gurka (Kristina); great-grandchildren Alyssa Cripps, Quentin Martin, Scott Cripps, Matthew Cripps, Landon Gurka, and Presley Gurka; sister-in-law Elizabeth Nowak (August); and first cousins Lillian Sechelski and Bruno Majewski, Jr. Pallbearers were Christopher Gurka, Michael Gurka, Chris Cripps, Scott Cripps, Matthew Cripps, Quentin Martin, Geoff Gorka, and Tracy Wisnieske. Honorary pallbearers were Henry Wisnieske Jr., Vincent Gurka, Marion “Bill” Gurka, Alois Mazurkiewicz, and Tracy Martin. Special caregiver was Wendy Gurka Martin. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, December 13, 2021 Example: Pán ředitel podal zprávu o škole.
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Česká
Část
ROČNÍK 109 ZÁŘÍ 23
13.prosinec.2021
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE HUMANITY BROTHERHOOD
Sem means ‘here’ or ‘to here’, with action. Example: Včera prijeli sem. Pojď sem! Dojeli sem šťastně.
Lekce osmnáctá Lesson 18
All of these involved action in coming or getting here.
Correcting some often-made errors.
Jsem means simply ‘I am’, or when used with certain verbs, denotes tense, or time something happened.
In this lesson, we will deal with some errors that are frequently made by Czechs in Texas. Kde/Kam
Example: Jsem už starší člověk. Jsem by (byla) na výletě v horách. Jsem se měl dobře.
These two words are probably misused more than any others. We frequently hear, ‘Kde jedeš?’ This is wrong. To indicate the physical action of going somewhere, the word kam is used: Kam jdes; Kam jedeš? The word kde indicates a stationary situation, and cannot be used to indicate physical action.
In speaking the above two words of sem and jsem, there is practically no recognizable difference. However, in writing it makes all the difference in the world. One means one thing, and the other means something else.
Example: Kde to je? Kde bydlíte? Kde je nádraží? etc. And using kam, we say the following: Kam pojedete večer? Kam půjdete po divadle? Kam jste šli po zábavě, etc. All you need to remember is whether you are indicating action or not.
Správa/Zpráva
S
S
S
Sem/Jsem We call words like these homonyms. They sound the same, but have entirely different meanings. In English, some homonyms are there, their, they’re; bear, bare; and close, clothes.
S
S
S
S
S
Umět/Mohu Umět means ‘to know how to do things’. It must not be confusedwith mohu.
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech
Using both words: Vedoucí státní správy podal podrobnou zprávu o své činnosti.
Example: Umíte mluvit česky? Ten člověk neumí mlčet. Umíš hráti na klavír? Mohu means ‘I can’, indicating permission. Example: Mohu jet s vámi - Can I go with you? Ano, mohu vám to říci. In colloquial speech, možu, and můžou may be used for mohu, mohou. S
Nesmím means ‘I must not’. Nemusím means ‘I need not; I don’t have to.’ S
Správa means administration; správka, which is a repair; or spraviti which means to fix or to repair. Example: Státní správá je umístěna v Austině. Strojník provedl správku na pračce. Podařilo se mu náš přijímač spraviti. Zpráva means report.
S
S
Smět Smět means ‘to be allowed to’: smím - I may smíš - you may smí - he/she may smíme - we may smíte - you (pl.) may smějí - they may Examples: Smím kouřit? - Smíte. Smím vás doprovodit? - Nemusíte. S
S
kde kam sem jsem správa zpráva smím uměti mohu nesmím musím smějí S
S
S
Read out loud and translate: Čisťounka Anička Pohledněte na Aničku jak pěkně padla v kašičku Teď tu stojí - neví rady: proč jenom šla do zahrady! Proč pak neposlechla máti, že si smí doma hráti. Vyběhla, že se proskáče - teď tu stojí, smutně pláče. —SPJST—
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Nesmím/Nemusím
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Here are two tricky words, both written and pronounced exactly the same, but again have two entirely different meanings. It is, therefore, important that we know how to spell the one we wish to use.
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Exercise Use the following words in a sentence:
Czech Cultural Calendar Tuesday through Saturday Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private small group tour, contact the Museum: czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; or leave a message 254-899-2935. The Museum hosts Czech Films on the second Tuesdays of the month - at Beltonian Theatre, 219 East Central Avenue, Belton: Matinee at 3 p.m.; Night - 6 p.m. Free admission. Donations accepted online or through a donation box at the concession window. Imported Czech beer, wine available. Every First and Third Tuesday Evenings Tarok Parties—at Czech Heritage Museum, Temple, 119 West French. All ages and anyone interested are welcome. No admission or fee. Jimmie and Carolyn Coufal are award-winning tournament champions who not only teach beginners, but also help experienced players increase their skill. For information, call CHMGC 254-899-2935; find them on Facebook; or on the web at https://czechheritagemuseum.org. —SPJST—
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Czech language passed from generation to generation at Cicero, Illinois school built 100 years ago Ron Grossman, Chicago Tribune November 4, 2021 The Masaryk School is architecturally undistinguished, a faceless cube set among Cicero’s bungalows, but every brick was laid with loving care by immigrants determined to pass the Czech language on to future generations. A century later, the parents of its students are equally committed.
Some drive their children in from farflung suburbs such as Aurora and Downers Grove, then kill time during the three hours that classes meet on Saturdays. When I asked a room full of beginning students if they were there by choice or command, hands shot up at the second alternative, accompanied by some giggles and exclamations. But when the room quieted down, 5year-old Isabella Holub, of Elgin, said: “I want to learn Czech so I can talk with my grandmother.” A life in two languages is the blessing and curse of every immigrant group. It subjects newcomers to accusations of infecting America with foreign ideas and customs. It brought the Masaryk School into existence. Before the school was built, Czech language lessons were given in Cicero schoolrooms on Saturdays, when the public schools weren’t in session. But in 1919, the school board voted against further use of its classrooms by the Bohemian Freethinkers association. As the population of Cicero was then 70 percent Czech, the maneuver seemingly reflected the establishment’s fear that “foreigners” were displacing them. In response, the Czechs decided to build their own school. They bought a lot on
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22nd Place, and a Czech draftsman drew up the plans for free. A Czech contractor issued a call for carpenters and brick masons to volunteer their services to his construction crew, and on May 8, 1922, the cornerstone was dedicated. Several hundred schoolchildren carrying little American flags marched at the head of a parade to the site, according to the Denni Hlasatel, Chicago’s Czech newspaper. The children sang the Bohemian national anthem. A band played “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the Karl Marx Singing Society performed. Some of that next generation will be there grudgingly, others by choice. But one or two may say: “I’m here because my father learned Czech here so he could talk with his grandmother.”built by Freethinkers, was named for one “too: Thomas Masaryk, a philosopher and historian as well as a political activist, who had realized his dream of an independent Czechoslovakia because Austria was on the losing side in World War I. Masaryk was in exile in the United States when he was chosen as the new country’s president. Two hundred thousand Czechs and their linguistic cousins, the Slovaks, turned out to greet him as he passed through Chicago on his way to Prague in 1918. Its enthusiasm for Masaryk notwithstanding, Chicago’s Czech community remained split between Catholics and Freethinkers, and the debate sometimes escalated into fisticuffs. The feud began when Marie Silhanek, a Czech woman, was denied burial in a Catholic cemetery in 1871 because she hadn’t made confession or received communion during the Easter season. Freethinkers responded by establishing the Bohemian National Cemetery on what became Chicago’s Northwest Side but was then the village of Jefferson Park. Jefferson Park tried to veto the cemetery, alleging of Czech burial customs:
“Picnics are held in the cemeteries, liquor is sold, drunkenness and noisy carousing ensue,” according to a Tribune story. Such was typical of the stereotypes Czechs faced. It’s why they financially underwrote the Masaryk School: It demonstrated that Czechs were not uneducated and vulgar, lacking a literature and a history worth knowing. It had language classes for adults as well as children. At 10, Jeanne Zasadil said, she was given this poem to memorize: Za nasich mladejch let When we were young bejva svet jako kvet the world was beautiful like a flower. After reciting it at the Christmas program, she dropped out. Decades later, and having moved to downtown Chicago, she again took Czech classes at the Masaryk School, she said recently. The school also taught English and prepared those seeking U.S. citizenship for the required civics test. “Only this way will you be able to use your political rights of voting and combating those unfriendly factors which oppose immigrants,” the Denni Hlasatel newspaper observed in calling upon readers to sign up for the courses. Fraternal associations and civic-minded groups such as the Czechoslovak Taxpayers Association of Cicero met at the school. The Freethinkers kept watch over the separation of church and state. In 1922, they warned that a proposed revision of the Illinois Constitution would allow the Bible to be taught in public schools. Czechoslovakia’s turbulent history kept the school’s classrooms and auditorium filled. Occupied by the Nazis on the eve of World War II, Czechoslovakia was made a Soviet satellite afterward. A reform movement was crushed by Russian tanks in 1968. Only in 1989 did democracy return.
Better conditions in the Old Country and the suburbanization of Chicago’s Czech community drained the Masaryk School’s audience pool. By 2010, only one classroom was in use. But that year, the Czech Republic dispatched Klara Moldova to be the school’s first paid director. “I had to learn to say ‘ahoj’ not ‘dobry den,’ ” she recalled. Both translate as “hello”. The latter is more formal, and customary in Europe, but haughty sounding to American ears. Possessing unlimited energy, Moldova met with Czechs wherever they were to be found: at picnics and in senior citizens centers. She lured them back to the school, sometimes both chairing a program and playing the violin. She is a professionally trained musician. Recently, she presented a reading by novelist Jan Novak. He was born in Czechoslovakia, raised in Chicago, and now lives in Prague. His English and Czech novels are set in both cities. As older Czechs returned to the school, so too did their children and grandchildren, and now all classrooms are again in use. Its Czech classes traditionally ended after the eighth grade, but this year, high school students insisted on going on. Jerry Mech, a student at Chicago’s Lane Tech High School, explained that he wanted to have the option of going to university in Prague. Such commitment could yield a new crop of Masaryk students when Mech and others from the school’s first ninth grade class have their own children.
Some of that next generation will be there grudgingly, others by choice. But one or two may say: I’m here because my father learned Czech here so he could talk with his grandmother.” https://news.yahoo.com/czech-language-passed-generationgeneration-174700664.html
—SPJST—
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Monday, December 13, 2021
Submissions now being accepted for new upcoming book, Czech Churches Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) has placed itself on the cutting edge of publishing books which will currently, and for future generations, be a key source of information for family research. A book such as Czech Churches will fill these expectations. We often hear of the decline in our heroes, those who so bravely served our country in World War II. These precious Veterans know what we will never know if it is not recorded now. Thankfully, TCGS has marched forward in doing so with our Czechs In Uniform books, Volumes I, II, and III. Have you ever thought about our generation being the last to possibly have excess to key information on the early Czech churches - those churches our grandparents, great-grandparents, and great-great-grandparents founded? How many times have we learned “those records were lost a number of years ago”; or, “we have no idea where a copy of the information you are seeking can be found”. It may be a copy of your own birth, confirmation. or wedding certificate(s) . . . or those of your parents or grandparents - copies you believed you would always be able to readily put your fingers on. Perhaps your ancestors were instrumental in founding a church, some of the earliest members, or might have been the ones who donated the property on which the church was built. It is our desire to document as much information on the early Czech churches as possible - both Protestant and Catholic. In an article, information could possibly include: 1. History of the Church How and when did the church begin? Is there any special documentation concerning the church property and/or the
Texas Czech Genealogical Society Website: txczgs.org Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.” For membership: Marie Dulak 979-589-1903
building itself? To be able to publish a copy of the original deed would be extra special. 2. Early Photos All photos are welcome, especially early photos of the church building, ministers and members. Photos of special events or celebrations associated with the church, including weddings, baptisms, confirmations, youth groups, special guest ministers, etc. Photos of any special architectural design(s), both inside and out. Photos of the church as it may have changed throughout the years because of building enlargements, repairs, etc. 3. Bible or Prayer Book Notations, especially from years past. It was almost a norm for family information to be recorded in family Bibles or prayer books - not only family but information on friends and church members alike. 4. Cemetery Is there a church cemetery, adjacent or otherwise? What is the name of it and its history? Perhaps a photo of the earlier tombstone? Is there a particular tombstone which draws a special interest? Is there a special feature? How did it come into being? Who was responsible?
7. Perhaps the church was not 100 percent Czech, but a large portion of the congregation was Czech. Because it was (is) a church where Czechs worshipped the Lord, we are interested in documenting.
please write the names of, and location on photo, on the back as they are viewed from the front. Please also list your name, address, phone number and email in the event we need to contact you.
Submission Guidelines for the TCGS Czech Churches Book Include:
6. It is best not to submit an article laid out in a particular manner as this, as a rule, does not comply with the book layout. Please do not embed photos in the article.
1. You may submit as many articles and photos as you wish. Each can be of any length, but please submit each individual church on a separate CD, DVD, flash drive, and they must be accompanied by a printed copy of the article submitted. Submissions can also be submitted via email. See the contact and email information below. 2. If you do not have access to a computer, a typewritten hard copy will be accepted. We are sorry, but we cannot accept handwritten articles. Handwritten exceptions include notations by ministers, minister records, Bible or prayer book notations, etc. 3. Articles should be typed using number 12 Times New Roman Font and be single-spaced with double-spacing between paragraphs. Margins should be set at one inch.
5. Church School Is there presently, or has there perhaps in the past, been a school associated with the church? Photos of classes, teachers, buildings, perhaps a report card or copy of a subject book are all possibilities to be considered as submissions.
4. Please be aware that submitted photos will be published in black and white. Photos should be of good quality. Please do not send original photos as the photos will not be returned. Quality copies can be made at Walmart, Walgreens, or CVS pharmacies.
6. Maybe your ancestors were not members at the founding of the church but were members in the 1930s, 40s, 50s, etc., and you can supply additional information and/or photos. Combining your information with other submissions, the book will become a more useful source of information while documenting in a unique way.
5. We realize it may be impossible to identify those shown on early photos. If, however, those shown can be identified,
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7. Because of the number of printers involved, some do not recognize the Czech diacritical markings and will change the letters, resulting in possible incorrect spellings, especially with names. Please do not use the Czech diacritical markings. 8. The Texas Czech Genealogical Society reserves the right to make minor corrections only, i.e. grammatical or sentence structure. TCGS will not write articles. If the book committee has any questions regarding the content, contact will be made with the article author. Submission Deadline: April 9, 2022 Projected Availability Date: January 28, 2023
Send Articles and Photos to: Charlene Hurta, 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515. Email to: cmhurta@earthlink.net. For more information, call 979-848-6517. Submitted by, Charlene Hurta —SPJST—
CDs Taylor Czech Chorus CDs Newest CD: The Taylor Czech Chorus Still Carrying On the Tradition CD plus song booklet - $18.00 + $4.50 shipping Holiday CD: Czech Sounds of Christmas CD plus song booklet - $18.00 + $4.50 shipping Original CD: The Taylor Czech Chorus - Songs of Our Heritage $10.00 + $4.50 shipping
Send check to: Buster Pavlicek 112 Walnut Tree Loop Georgetown, Texas 78633
For more information, please contact Buster at busterpavlicek@gmail.com
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Monday, December 13, 2021
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SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is Wednesday at 12 noon, unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: 254-773-8087. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for nonprofit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org. LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Lodge hall is located on Hwy 159 East, 3 blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: 979-9663795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Sunday, December 12—Christmas party in Vsetin Lodge Meetings: Held every other month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call 361798-3347. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Saturday, December 11—Sykora Family Ford Christmas Party Sunday, December 12—Straten Christmas Saturday, December 18—Brennan Christmas Sunday, December 26—Private Party Sunday, January 2—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m. Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. Lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road. Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Hwy 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles then turn left on CR 225. Go 1 mile, veering to the right. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931. LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Friday, December 31—News Year’s Eve: Glen Collins and The Alibis, country. $20 Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Polka and Country band bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person - unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18 . LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254-541-5344.
LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg.
LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. Directions: From Hwy 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West for 4 miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North; go 1 mile. Hall is on the right. Lodge Meetings: Tuesday after the second Sunday in March, June, and September, 7:30 p.m.; and the first Sunday of December, 3 p.m. at the hall.
LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733.
LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit Hwy 53 at blinking light to FM 485; go 1 mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774; or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Kim Campbell 254-721-0586.
LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Hall: 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979-884-1451; Hall Phone: 979-8841451. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Julie Schneider 512-269-8180.
LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 1901 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Mail: PO Box 129, Ennis, Texas 75120. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the lodge dining room with supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary social in the game room. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.
LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Directions: Hall is located on hHwy 36, east of Buckholts, 1/4 mile east of downtown Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly. For information, call 254-721-3902.
LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.Call Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624 for information.
LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Note: Hall will be closed on Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24 and Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25. Hall will reopen for business on Sunday, December 26. Friday, December 17—Texas Neon Ramblers Friday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Robert Lawhon and Triple Threat Saturday, January 1, 2022—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Hall will be closed Friday, January 7—Second Hand Rose Wednesday, January 12—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor members will hold their monthly meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. Covered dish meal following the meeting. Friday, January 14—Dry Country Band Friday, January 21—Sterling Country Friday, January 28—Gabriel River Band Regular business hours: Hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. All Friday dances: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. with free admission. Hamburgers served each Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the large, 2-story hall. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-5437120. LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Meetings: Held the second Thursday of every other month - January, March, May, July, September, and November, 2019 at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact Secretary Linda Mozisek 361-220-7725. LODGE 35, ELK (3) Saturday, December 18—Gordon Collier Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy 84 East through Bellmead; go approximately 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road; go approximately 1 mile; the road will dead end. Turn right at the dead end; go approximately 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com. LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-8394353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758. LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR. Go 2 miles to Mumford Road; turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. Hall (white building) is at the bend of the road. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - watch for date in Věstník, 1 p.m. at the hall. Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. For information, call President Wade O’Shields 979-2183527; or FAC Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158. LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Directions: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date, time, location, call Youth Leader Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614. LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca. For information, call lodge Secretary Mary Sitka 361-5525170 or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com.
LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is 7 miles east of Temple on Hwy 53. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Danny Stepan 254-760-7819; Hall Phone: 254985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295. LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112 and go about 0.8 mile. Turn right on FM 619; continue on FM 619 for approximately 4 miles. Hall is on the right. Update: Hall is complete! We are now taking bookings. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Kim Ogden 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth club meetings: Held prior to the adult meeting at 5:15 p.m. Call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226 for information. A notification will be sent to members if meeting times need to be changed. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-6560029. LODGE 51, ELLINGER (1) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Ellinger Fire Department, West Main Street in Ellinger. For information, call Calvin Hlinsky 979-378-2364. LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303. LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For meeting location or information, call Lodge Secretary Ann Moseley 361-781-2644. LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Date, time, location TBA in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. For information, call 254-799-4247. LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Third or fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December (Christmas) at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg, 2 p.m. To confirm meeting date/s, call Ernest Kutac 979-561-7190. LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For meeting location, call Alice Orsak 940-889-2391. LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Lodge Meetings: Sunday, September 13; and Sunday, December 6. Meetings are at 12:30 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls. For information, contact Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383. LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779. LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east on FM 2268. Go 1/2 mile to hall, which is on the right. Hall Phone: 254-6572485. Bingo: Every Thursday, 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly. Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Board of Directors’ Meetings: Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall, 6 p.m. Call Youth Leader Kelly Taisler 254-913-3309 for location, information. LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Hwy 36, Needville. Directions: Hall is located at the corner of Hwy 36 and FM 361, one mile from the traffic light in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466. Hall Phone:
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Monday, December 13, 2021
361-793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Kristen Jones 936-5563248 or Assistant Youth Leader Krystle Bender 832-7921194.
Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay Hwy 287 on until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy 34. Sokol Hall is on the left.
LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Meeting location will be posted in the Věstník. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. - unless otherwise announced in the Věstník. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456.
LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting at 12 noon, luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979-922-1553.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2) Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Directions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50th Street; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-773-2363.
LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. For information, contact Secretary Bernice Stolarski 979-885-6786.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Friday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Doug Boggs and the Cowboy Jazz Band, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Hwy 290—Take Mangum Dacoma exit; stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto 18th Street. Go under freeway at third traffic light, turn on Beall Street. Hall is on the right. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For information, call 713-869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Zoom Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. To join, please email spjstyouthlodge88@yahoo.com for link. For information, contact Youth Leader Vanessa Guerrero 281-745-1697. LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings - TBA in the Věstník. For information, contact Lodge Secretary Vonda Smesny 832-694-8762. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North; it becomes Jacksboro Hwy (TX 199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cut Off, which is a right off of Jacksboro Hwy. Hall - also known as National Hall - is on the right about 2 or 3 blocks down the road. Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-6241361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Monday, March 2; Monday, June 1; Monday, September 14 in the Community Room at Victoria Mall, 6 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935. LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West for 3 miles to FM 1303; turn right and go 2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 830-393-7796. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737. LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of March, June, September, and December, 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard, Corpus Christi. LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date, time, and location, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385 or email jvrla@cebridge.net. LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings are held in March, July, October, and December at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio. For information, contact President Jarolyn Popp 830-964-5135. LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Hwy 34,
LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December which is the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-5605377. LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month following the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Call Youth Leader Melissa Zielonka for information 979-618-1890. LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street, Wharton. For information, call 979-532-5884. LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-20 West exit. Stay on IH-20 West until you come to 820; stay on 820 until you come to Jacksboro Hwy and Azle Street exit. Take Azle Street exit; go to the traffic light. Turn left at the traffic light. Go to the second traffic light then turn right onto Boat Club Road. Go approx. 2 1/2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 817-731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net; or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information. LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: For dates time, and location of quarterly meetings, call Secretary Ginny Prasatik 512-472-1721. LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Last Sunday of every other month of March, June, and September; then December - the first Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For meeting location, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek - phone 806-763-7245; or email cyndynjerome@gmail.com. LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Sunday, November 21—Lodge 160, San Angelo annual meeting at Wall Brethren Church Hall: Lunch served at 12 noon. Door prizes. Lodge Meetings: Third Wednesday of February, May, and August; and the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact President Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325234-5879. LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. For information, contact President Betty Crawford 713-594-5049. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center. For information, call Youth Leader Brenda Moyle 713-303-1471.
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LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, 6:30 p.m. at Texas Seafood and Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham. (December meeting/social information will be announced at a later date.) Lodge Information: Call Stephen Bliznak 979-251-4150; or Lenora Bliznak 979-277-8845.
Quarterly business meetings are held in March, June, and September, and a social meeting in December. Location and dates will be announced in the Věstník. Contact President Henry Mayo for information 979-777-1426. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan.
LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) UPDATE - Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Lodge activities have shut down and the building and property are for sale. For information, call Secretary Jerry Dressler 512-551-9009.
LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Lodge/Hall Information: George Scogin 936-875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Due to Covid-19, meetings are now held quarterly.
LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November - Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 11 a.m. Location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138. LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S.W. Wilshire Boulevard, Burleson at 6 p.m. For information, call 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022. LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth 100 Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. For information, contact Youth Leader Becky Beckendorf 254749-5732. LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North. Stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Turn right on Mayfield; go down and turn left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-8003485. Game Nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. Lodge Meetings/Family Nights: Third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall.
LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Phone: 281373-9482; email spjstlodge196@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Potluck social at 1 p.m.; meeting begins at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Cadance Wager 713-5152835. LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month on even months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street, Eddy. For information, contact President James R. Hosch 254-718-4798. LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions: Hall is across the street from the post office in Bleiblerville. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Jenell 979-357-2181. LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly, the first Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m.; and the second Sunday of September and December at 1 p.m. A meal will be served at each meeting. Meetings are at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Secretary Bettie House 830281-8246. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of every month at 1:15 p.m. except in September and December, meetings are held on the second Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830-570-2046. LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. For meeting location, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940855-0882.
LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD building in the meeting room. RSVP to Elmer Michna at 361-7723876 or Johnnie Hoffman at 361-772-5049. Please RSVP by Thursday of the week prior to the meeting.
LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Secretary Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-632-5239.
LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (subject to change). Call Youth Leader Jessica McCoy for information 979-7778215.
LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of March, April, and May at 6 p.m. at Puerto Vallarta Grill, 1611 Montana Avenue, El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.
LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy 36, Caldwell. Directions: Hall is just off Hwy 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: 979-567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Yolanda Brinkman for information 979-5670637. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Directions: From Taylor, take Hwy 79 into Round Rock until you get to Sunrise. There will be a 7-11 store on the right. Turn right and proceed past Hopewell School. Continue through the four-way stop. Luther Peterson Boulevard is the first street on the left. From Temple, take IH-35 South. Just past Georgetown, exit on University Boulevard. Proceed to stop sign. Take left on University Boulevard. The third street is Sunrise. Turn right onto Sunrise. The second street to the right will be Luther Peterson Boulevard. Hall Rental Information: 512-255-1554; or 512-771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal. LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1)
LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. For meeting location information, contact Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089. LODGE 232, HOUSTON MIDTOWN (5) Lodge Meetings: Held the third Tuesday of every other month in January, March, May, July, September, and November, 6:30 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto, Houston. For information, contact Secretary Catherine Anderson 713-726-1928. LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Unless otherwise announced, second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November, 11:30 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831 or Secretary Melanie Zavodny 254-534-0807. LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7) Lodge Meetings: For meeting date, location, and time, contact President Chester Jenke 210-413-3053 or Treasurer Colleen Jenke 210-215-9494. —SPJST—
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