41 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2021.12.27
by SPJST
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing It’s Your Life
Kubena: It’s Not Just a Camp
Camp Kubena is well known for our youth summer camps and Leaders-In Training (LIT) program, but it is much more than that. Just because camp is in the name, it doesn’t mean it’s only for camping. Camp Kubena is a full-service camp that can accompany a variety of venues, events, retreats, and services. Located in Ledbetter, Texas, it’s an easy drive from Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin.
Venues
Camp Kubena can help you organize a customized venue. Looking for a southern- or western-themed wedding? We have perfect settings. Looking to start a cowboy church or know a church that is seeking to relocate? Our land is perfect for that. Looking to do a fundraiser picnic? There is plenty of space and a variety of activities to accommodate your needs.
Events
Are you looking for a field trip for your school? We have educational and teambuilding activities for classes of all ages. What about a barbecue cookoff? We have the land to accommodate you. Cowboy or rustic wedding receptions have the perfect environment with us. Looking for the ideal location for family reunions? We have activities for all interests, cabins, and a kitchen and dining area to keep everyone cool and dry. How about your next company picnic? We have a high and low ropes course, axe throwing, archery, fishing, swimming pool, a pond with a blob, and many other activities to keep everyone busy. If you have an event, we have the place!
Retreats
Looking for a retreat for your church? The perfect venue is right here at Camp Kubena! Whether it’s for your women’s group, leadership team, or youth, we have a program that is perfect for you. With a full dining area, kitchen, cabins, and activities, it doesn’t matter if it’s a weekend or weeklong, your needs will be met. How about a company team building retreat? We have multiple activities to keep your employees engaged. It doesn’t matter if you have five employees or 50 or more, we have you covered.
Services
Those who set up at craft shows and festivals throughout the area - we have accommodations. Our cabins can accommodate everyone. Whether it’s you and your spouse or the entire family, we have you taken care of. No loud, noisy hotel rooms, just quiet comfort with plenty of room for your trailers.
Come By For A Tour
If you are in the Giddings or Ledbetter area, come by and take a tour. We would love to show you our facility. Camp Kubena is more than a camp, it’s an adventure for everyone of all ages. It’s a gathering spot. It’s team building. It’s for families, charities, churches, and groups. It’s for competition, relaxation, and good company. Oh yes, it’s also the perfect place to camp, too!
If you would like more information or to set up a tour, contact the camp at:
2001 Waldeck Road Ledbetter, Texas 78946 979-249-5674 rob@campkubena.com
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
The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to:
SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo Questions? Call 800-727-7578
Lodge 4, Hallettsville welcomes new member
Dear Members,
Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, November 14, 2021, at the Chamber meeting room at 3 p.m. with Vice President Annie Vahalik presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Resolution Chair Gayenell Chudej read resolutions for Mark Holy and Agnes Louise Sembera.
Secretary-Treasurer Helen Zabransky read the minutes to the last meeting, presented the financial report, and shared correspondence.
Welcomed into our lodge was a new member, Felicity Marie Kubicek, daughter of Elizabeth and Jonathan Kubicek. Elizabeth (Wagner) was the 1997 State Queen from Lodge 4.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik reported on upcoming activities including domino tournaments. We are also collecting plastic caps from medicine bottles, water, detergent, and any plastic lids. They will be used to make a bench for the VA Clinic in Victoria. We are joining with the VFW Auxiliaries with this project.
Lodge 15 Buckholts hosts lunch fundraiser
Lodge 15, Buckholts hosted a pork chop lunch fundraiser on Sunday, November 21, 2021.
Under old business, final plans were made for our Christmas party.
Election of officers followed with all present officers being re-elected.
Under new business, meeting dates for next year were discussed. We will meet Sunday, February 13 with the rest of our dates to be decided then.
The meeting adjourned followed by lunch and visiting.
Door prize winners were Gayenell Chudej, Philip Vahalik, and Annie Vahalik.
Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST Controller and Wife Visit Governor’s Mansion
Lodge 6, Cottonwood recognizes 50-year members
SPJST Controller Roy Vajdak and wife Becky were invited to a Christmas party at the Governor’s Mansion on Saturday, December 4, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: Becky and Roy are pictured with Governor Abbott in front of the Christmas tree in the Governor’s Mansion. RIGHT PHOTO: Becky and Roy with Mrs. Abbott in the Sam Houston bedroom which is located on the second floor of the Governor’s Mansion.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Milton Peterson called the meeting to order on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 2 p.m. Brother Don Urbanovsky led the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was observed for the sick and deceased of the lodge. Sister Irene Peterson reported 25 members, five children, and four guests were present.
Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the last meeting. Sister Peggy Dobecka was absent so Sister Barbara presented the treasurer’s and youth club reports.
Sister Jeanette Beseda gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. She also reported two new members were welcomed into the lodge. Get well cards were sent to Milton Peterson and Dan Ferguson. Sympathy cards were sent to the families of Jo De White, Maria Arvize, Wayne Zapalak, Mark Zapalak, Elton Stacha, and James Hromadka.
We were honored to have three 50-
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor officers are, left to right, President Randy Gaas, Vice President Ted Dusek, Secretary Betty Suehs, Treasurer Susan Skrabanek, Reporter Kyle Skrabanek, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Youth Leader Holly Narro. They are pictured with District One Director Donnie Victorick, far right, who installed the officers at the meeting on December 5, 2021. —Submitted by Holly Narro, FAC year members present. They were Anton Kaluza, Kenneth Maler, and Paula Berger.
Birthdays for December were Pam Urbanovsky, Kenneth Maler, and Amber Halbert.
The winner of the progressive door prize was Irene Peterson. Attendance door prize winners were Don Urbanovsky, Kaden Halbert, and Pam Urbanovsky.
The appreciation lunch for all workers from the picnic and Westfest will be on Sunday, February 20, 2022, at 12:30 p.m.
Next Meeting—January 2
The next meeting will be Sunday, January 2 at 2 p.m.
I will not be the reporter for the lodge next year. I want to wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
Dorothy Kucera, Reporter
Editor’s Note: Sister Dorothy, thank you for your dedication and service as reporter for Lodge 6, Cottonwood. We appreciate you.
—SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook meets January 5
The next meeting of Lodge 9, Snook is Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 7 p.m. Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Česko Národní Hřbitov Czech National Cemetery
Česko Národní Hřbitov - založen roku 1912. Czech National Cemetery, founded in 1912, is located in East Bernard, Texas. The cemetery sign and gates were recently updated. Donnie Kelner repainted the gates and poles, and the lettering was added by artist Sabah Sadoun. Lodge 28, East Bernard members Tony and Helen Kelner worked to beautify the cemetery by removing limbs from the graves.
Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5
Lodge 24, Cyclone welcomes Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 for a New Year’s Eve dance at Flag Hall, 411 FM 964, on Friday, December 31, 2021. 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. Call Linda Wilde at 254-985-2258 for reservations. Happy New Year from Lodge 24, Cyclone! —SPJST—
On Tuesday, December 14, 2021, Lodge 24, Cyclone held a party for everyone who worked at the fundraiser meal on October 31. This included their families, too. The affair was held at Oscar Store, and the meal consisted of a large hamburger and fries. The writer could not get the whole thing down! Oscar Store did a great job.
President Daniel Wilde was the leader. He asked everyone to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and observed a silent prayer to start, and a prayer was said before the meal.
The board of trustees had a meeting to elect officers for the next year. Jason Hoelscher is president, and Cathy Bruggman is secretary. This is a requirement of the State of Texas. If no one would serve, we could not have a lodge.
President Wilde had a ceremony honoring our deceased members of last year.
Many pictures were taken, including group photos of former Lodge 24 Youth Club members and youth leaders, past lodge presidents, and several more groups. District Two Director Jesse Pospisil installed the 2022 officers. Later, President Wilde gave out door prizes. There were many, and everyone had at least one prize. Reminds me of everyone having an office. A Christmas song was sang as the last function.
Special guests were District Two Director Pospisil and wife Linda and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny and husband David.
Cathy Bruggman did most of the planning as the Wildes were on a cruise. We are in Cathy’s debt. For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter
Editor’s Note: See photos in the next Vestnik. —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood Members Enjoy Christmas Party
Sunday, December 5, 2021 • Lodge 6, Cottonwood Hall • Submitted by Patti Rosales
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 6, Cottonwood Vice President Don Urbanovsky, right, honors 50-year pin member Anton Kaluza. PHOTO 2: Vice President Urbanovsky, right, congratulates 50-year member Kenneth Maler. PHOTO 3: Paula Berger is recognized by Vice President Urbanovsky for her 50 years of membership. RIGHT PHOTOS: A delicious turkey and ham dinner, with all the trimmings, was enjoyed by all attending.
LEFT PHOTO: New SPJST member Kove Dobecka visits with Santa! PHOTO 2: Left to right are Lodge 6 President Milton Peterson, Santa Claus, SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, and Lodge 6 Vice President Don Urbanovsky. PHOTO 3: Lodge 6 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette Beseda gives Santa a hug. RIGHT PHOTO: Young members enjoy a visit with Santa.
Lodge 29, Taylor Members Enjoy Christmas Party
Sunday, December 5, 2021 • Lodge 29, Taylor Hall • Submitted by Linda Pospisil, Secretary/Reporter
Lodge 32, Victoria members celebrate Christmas
We held our Christmas party at Red Lobster on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. It was nice to see people in Christmas shirts and sparkly skirts, velvet jackets, as well as Christmas jewelry - what a way to set the Christmas spirit!
This night was celebrating the commercial side of Christmas – it’s always fun to celebrate with lights on our houses, putting up a tree and giving presents – and children (well, adults, too) anticipate Santa coming if they’re “nice” and not “naughty.”
But we all know the spiritual side of Christmas means that Baby Jesus was born in a manger, and we celebrate His birthday on December 25.
We can celebrate both sides of Christmas and have a wonderful Christmas season - as long as we keep CHRIST in Christmas.
Next Meeting—January 13
The next meeting will be Thursday, January 13, 2022. We will meet at 6:30 p.m. at Grapevine Café, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102.
“Good tidings we bring to you and your kin . . . We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.” Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom FAC/Reporter —SPJST—
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone officers are, left to right, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Cathy Bruggman, Secretary Brenda Maddux, President Daniel Wilde, Reporter Bobby Hoelscher, and Treasurer Linda Wilde.
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 ages 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. Call 254-6244119 for more information about the event. Seaton Star Hall is a non-smoking facility.
Happy New Year from Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall! Fraternally, Brandon Bartek, Vice President —SPJST—
Lodge 28, East Bernard members enjoy dinner
Lodge 28, East Bernard members enjoyed a Christmas meeting and party on Sunday, December 12, 2021, at East Bernard Library. Pictured, left to right, are Helen Vrana, Bernice Pribyl, Barbara Tichacek, and Jeanette Kaminsky. —Submitted by Helen Kelner, Secretary/Reporter
Lodge 80, Holland announces January 11 meeting location
Lodge 80, Holland will meet on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. for its bi-monthly meeting. The meeting will be held at The Hall (formerly Holland SPJST Hall), located at 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland. Agenda items will include financial statements, minutes, and plans for 2022. I look forward to seeing each of you at the first meeting of the New Year. Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor supports Red santa project
Members of Lodge 29, Taylor present a check to representatives of Taylor Professional Firefighters Association for their Red Santa gifts for children with needs at Christmas. District Two Director Jesse Pospisil also presented a donation from his discretionary fund for the same cause. Pictured, left to right, are Firefighter Brandon Sellears, Leonard Kaderka, Director Pospisil, Lieutenant Tim Davis, Barbara Nygrin, Angie Malicoat, Kathy Merka, Linda Pospisil, and Firefighter Ajay Payton.
Lodge 81, Needville to repurpose room for youth
The December 2021 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 19th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed honey-baked ham and sausage. Members brought side dishes and desserts. We kept John Pavlock on our sick list. We pray that he will begin healing soon. We also added social member Gloria Wood to our sick list. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1:06 p.m. Everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance led by the youth. All officers answered the roll call. Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her minutes, and they were approved as read. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales read his report, and it was approved as read. Under old business, the new stove was delivered. Also, under old business, Hall Manager Marion Morales said the outside doors were painted, and he’s planning to transform the old storage room into a youth room for the youth to meet in. Under new business, we had the installation of officers. Under other business, the youth prepared Christmas bags for all the members. They did a wonderful job decorating the bags and making ornaments for each one. Karen Hargraves gave the youth report.
Lodge 32, Victoria Shares Christmas party Scenes
Lodge 32, Victoria members enjoyed a Christmas party at Red Lobster in Victoria on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: Allison Elles is pictured with the great server who was a lot of fun! RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Mark and Wanda Lester, Richard Raska, and Mary Raska.
LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Buddy and Nancy Zaplac and George and Margaret Frederick. RIGHT PHOTO:
Pictured, from left, are Allison Elles, Linda Mozisek, Kathy Ahlstrom, Franklin and Lois Elles, Wanda and Mark Lester, Mary Raska, Richard Raska, Joette and Jimmy Otto, Susan Smiga, Nancy and Buddy Zaplac, and Margaret and George Frederick. —Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom, Reporter
Bradley Stavinoha gave a report on the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville and how well the SPJST Home Office is doing. Door prizes were won by Calvin Lamensky, Joyce Lamensky, Glenn McDonald, Marion Morales, Emma Kujawa, Winnie Susan, Krystle Bender, Martha Polasek, Cristi M, and Jeanette Newman. Congratulations to our lucky winners! Next Meeting—January 9 Note: Our next meeting will be on Sunday, January 9, 2022, to synchronize with the youth meeting. Marion Morales will grill hamburgers and hot dogs.
Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena Members enjoy Christmas party
Lodge 49, Rowena had its Christmas party on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at the lodge hall in Rowena. Members enjoyed finger foods and played card games, dominoes, and visited with one another. The youth had a Chinese gift exchange. Everyone had a great time! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Lodge 49, Rowena! —Submitted by Becky Wood, Secretary/Reporter
Scenes from Lodge 47, Seaton Christmas Party
Scenes from Lodge 54, West Christmas Party
Sunday, December 5, 2021 • Tours Parish Hall • Tours, Texas
Lodge 84, Dallas members enjoy Christmas party
Dear Readers,
Lodge 84, Dallas’ Christmas party on Sunday, December 5, 2021, was very successful! Many thanks to all who attended . . . but those who were unable to attend, we hope you can be with us in 2022!
I have a special thanks to David Podhrasky who cooked the dinner. This gave me more time to have a special Christmas dessert bar with many goodies! I hope you enjoyed my special treats and felt the Christmas spirit. After all, many recipes came from the North Pole Bakery!
Our new Lodge 84 officers for 2022 are:
President Vicki Sims Vice President Lynda Novak Secretary Cherri Petr Treasurer Jim Liska Reporter Anne Cowan Flag Bearer Charles Nemec Youth Leaders Lynda Novak Vicki Sims and Kelly Tucker
They were installed by District Three Director John Engelke.
Lodge 84 is now getting together to have some different activities, and we are wanting you to join us for the festivities! If you have some ideas to share, please call any of the officers or come to our meetings and share your thoughts . . . we would love to hear them!
Keep the Vestnik handy so you will be informed of our plans. We can visit with each other, have a good time, and keep our traditional events plus more!
Again thanks for a wonderful 2021, and we look forward for more times together.
Fraternally, Lynda Novak, Vice President —SPJST—
Happy Birthday, John Lastovica!
John Lastovica celebrated his birthday with a Mexican dinner and cake afterwards. John, center, is pictured with his niece Lizabeth Holder, nephew Matt Holder, second from left, mother Dorothy Lastovica, and nephew Ethan Holder. They are all members of Lodge 38, Kovar.
LEFT PHOTO: Santa Claus waves on the SPJST Float in the Hyde Park neighborhood parade on Saturday, December 11, 2021, in Austin, Texas. Stephen Gonzalez of Lodge 187, Round Rock arranged for Santa’s appearance from the North Pole! RIGHT PHOTO: District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, left, and float driver David Nauert enjoy the cool, crisp evening parade in Austin.
Lodge 84, Dallas meets January 16
Dear Readers,
Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will meet Sunday, January 16, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions.
We will be enjoying svačina afterwards so please bring a dessert to share if you plan to attend.
We have a lot going on so please mark your calendars to attend this meeting!
Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST congratulates Sister Ruby Orsak Bulanek of Lodge 88, Houston, who celebrated her 96th birthday on November 5, 2021. Sister Ruby now receives all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments.
Ruby was born to Emmett and Eloise Orsak in Sheldon, Texas, on November 5, 1925. She has two brothers - Emil Orsak and Adolph Orsak and three sisters - Albina Orsak, Katy Thompson, and Jeffie Thompson. She also has five step-brothers - Edward Kopinitz, Johnnie Kopinitz, Gus Kopinitz, Martin Kopinitz, and Sigmund Kopinitz.
Ruby met Pete Paul Bulanek, and they were married on May 10, 1947, in Sheldon. The couple was blessed with son Gary Lee Bulanek (Cindy) of Houston and daughter Peggy Ann Perry (Doyle, Jr.) of Crosby. Ruby was a housewife, and Pete worked for Armco Steel Railroad as an engineer.
When Ruby was younger, she loved
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 54, West officers are, left to right, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Linda Kaluza, Secretary/Reporter Janice Kaluza, President Freddie Kaluza, Treasurer Mary Lou Mynar, and Vice President Wilburn Willis.
to hunt squirrels and deer. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, listening to and watching baseball games (Houston Astros), canning, and baking kolaches. She has always been fond of Czech music, looking at pictures of olden days, her dog Bruno, and spending time with caregiver Anna Hernandez - exchanging stories about the families and friends. Anna was also Pete’s caregiver and is considered to be part of their family.
Congratulations again to Sister Ruby Orsak Bulanek on attaining the Grand Age of 96! Thank you, Ruby, for your devotion to SPJST for all these years. May God bless you and your family for many more years of happiness and health.
—SPJST—
Lodge 91, San Jacinto members gather in December
Lodge 91, San Jacinto held its fourth quarterly meeting at Baytown Seafood
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 81, Needville officers are, left to right, Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall, President Vincent Newman, Vice President Jeanette Newman, Youth Leader Kristen Jones, Assistant Youth Leader Krystle Bender, and Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha. in Crosby, Texas, on Saturday, December 4, 2021. All officers were present.
The meeting was called to order by Kathleen Munch at 11 a.m.. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited followed by a moment of silence for departed members.
Minutes were read by Secretary Vonda Smesny. Motion was made by Frankie Brewer, seconded by Malba Smesny, to approve the minutes as read. Motion carried.
Treasurer Marie Stasney presented her report. Motion was made by Robert Smesny, seconded by Lavern Trahan, to approve the report. Motion carried.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Malba Smesny mentioned the SPJST Scholarship and the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Paws Across Texas was also mentioned but tabled until the next meeting.
All current officers were voted in by acclamation.
Motion to adjourn was made by Malba Smesny, seconded by Marie Stasney. Motion carried. Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas Hosts Lodge Christmas Party
Sunday, December 5, 2021 • Dallas Sokol • Photos by Jason Sims and Lynda Novak
LEFT PHOTO: Service plaque to Justine Pokladnik Andreason Yeager. PHOTO 2: Vice President Vicki Sims accepts the plaque for Justine from District Three Director John Engelke. PHOTO 3: On behalf of the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, right, presents a Czech Day proclamation to Bob Podhrasky. PHOTO 4: Josh, Kalyne, and Kendall Tucker pose with Santa. PHOTO 5: President/CEO Vanicek and wife Joan visit with Santa. PHOTO 6: It was good to see Jennifer Ruzicka in attendance while recuperating from ankle surgery.
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Hosts Christmas Polka Dance
Sunday, December 12, 2021 • Lodge 92, Fort Worth National Hall
Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosted a Christmas polka dance on Sunday, December 12, 2021. Members of Lodge 92 gathered to organize a Christmas party to help spread joy and holiday cheer. The 2022 lodge officers were also installed. —Photos by Cherish and Garland Ellsworth
SPJST congratulates Sister Rose Lydia Krobot Lys of Lodge 94, Wheelock, who celebrated her 96th birthday on November 25, 2021. Sister Rose now receives all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments.
Rose was born in Houston, Harris County, Texas, on November 25, 1925, to Frank J. Krobot and Lydia Tracy Dockal Krobot. Rose lived in the Addicks-Houston area and attended Addicks and Houston schools. The family also lived in the Alief area of Houston on a family farm next to her grandmother, Anna Schiller Dockal, until December 1942, when her parents moved to a farm in Caldwell. She finished her senior year of high school in Caldwell and graduated in May 1943.
On November 1, 1943, she joined the United States World War II Cadet Nursing Corps. She was admitted to Brackenridge in Austin and served the required three years of training and became a registered nurse on November 15, 1946.
After graduating, Rose worked the night shift in the maternity ward of Brackenridge for six months. After Rose left Brackenridge Hospital, she worked at the hospital in Taylor until her aunt had her first child and needed help afterwards in Houston.
At some point, she returned home to visit her parents and was there when she met her future husband at a Fourth of July dance in Deanville in 1947. They were married on April 2, 1948, in the new parsonage of the Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Caldwell. The wedding was officiated by Reverend H.E. Beseda. Rose and Joe were the first couple to be married in the newly completed parsonage.
Joe and Rose made their home in Bryan where Joe worked for the telephone company. Joe passed away in July 2007 in Bryan.
Rose is the oldest of three children. Her siblings are sister Martha Krobot Brymer of Caldwell and brother Stanley Frank Krobot (deceased in 2012). Her sister-in-law (Stanley’s wife) is Alice Krobot of Caldwell.
Rose’s family includes daughter Janice Martin (husband Don) of Bryan; son Donald Lys (deceased in August 2007); daughter-in-law (Donald’s wife) Sharalynne of Bryan; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Rose currently lives with her daughter and son-in-law in Bryan.
When her children were growing up, Rose’s hobbies included sewing, embroidery, planting flowers and working in her flower beds, reading, playing dominoes with friends and family, and going to SPJST dances. She loved to dance, and now she enjoys listening to Czech music. Rose is still an avid reader. She reads the local newspaper and her magazines from cover to cover. When her children were growing up, she loved to bake cakes, pies, cinnamon rolls, and cookies - especially bar cookies.
Congratulations again to Sister Rose Lydia Krobot Lys on attaining the Grand Age of 96! Thank you, Rose, for your devotion to SPJST for all these years. May God bless you and your family for many more years of happiness and health.
—SPJST—
SPJST Gives • Director’s Discretionary Funds • SPJST Gives SPJST supports Safe Place
District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, right, presents a donation from his discretionary fund to Lodge 155, Austin President Albert Klinkovsky for Safe Place.
Hello, and hope all is well!
We welcomed guest Nancy Mangum. It was great seeing Virginia Hrachovy.
We discussed the lodge signs and where it would be most beneficial to install. We deliberated about what charities to donate to and voted on the ones that we were going to help.
Landscaping improvements were also mentioned.
Thank you to Rubie Volek for the door prizes.
Thanks bunches to Virginia Hrachovy for the donation for the lights to add to the landscaping improvements.
Big hugs and thanks bunches to Roger Krenek for frying up our turkey. It was magnificent and so juicy!
Our Thanksgiving potluck dinner was the best ever! Words cannot describe the taste and juiciness of our fried
Lodge 155, Austin members attend christmas meeting, meal SPJST gives to academy volunteer fire dept
District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, far right, presents a contribution from his discretionary fund for Academy Volunteer Fire Department to Lodge 177, Academy members, left to right, Penny Rowe, Bernice Hutka, Dinell Tuerck, and Bruce Tomastik.
turkey cooked by Roger Krenek.
Birthdays in November were Linda Johnson on the 22nd; Ashley Smith on the 15th; Eldon Lange on the 20th; Kember and Kadnce Meyer on the 4th; Lana Michalski on the 25th; Cale Rohlack on the 5th; and Deandra Barron Roman on the 18th.
The next gathering will be on December 12 at 2 p.m. We will have our traditional fajitas dinner so just bring the sweets. We will also have our gift exchange. All gifts should be new and from $10 to $15 and gender neutral. If you want to join in the fun, please bring a gift for each person participating. Don’t forget to bring a gift for any little ones that you may bring so that they can join in on the fun, too.
Hope to see you all soon! Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 180, Burleson hosts Christmas party
Lodge 180, Burleson hosted a Christmas party on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at Villa Dianna Italian Restaurant. Members enjoyed a delicious meal and socializing. Pictured, left to right, are Red and Nancy Kelly; Rhonda and Joe Hurtik; Dena Bowden, Liana Scott, and Sandy Almonte; and Robert and Pat Sill.
From left are District Three Director John Engelke and wife Diana; Connie and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak; David Nauert and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny.
Lodge 187 Round Rock members enjoy Christmas dinner, gift exchange
Hello!
We had a wonderful visit from Roger and Towana Krenek. We all got to thank him in person for frying up our Thanksgiving turkey. We also were blessed to have Evelina Rossi at our gathering this month as well.
We discussed the lodge signage, and it will be looked into after the holidays. We also talked about getting someone to hang up all the lights in the trees and someone to refresh the paint on our existing lodge sign. Board and executive members positions were also discussed and will continue in January.
We had such a great time with the gift exchange. I truly know that all enjoyed the fajita Christmas dinner and all the sweets. Thank you so much to Rubie Volek for getting the dinner together. Also, a huge thanks to Carla Krenek for the gifts to the youth group. They were all so surprised!
Happy December birthdays to Brodie Volek, Rose Etheredge, and Reagan Wilson.
Next Meeting—January 9
Our next gathering will be on Sunday, January 9 at 2 p.m. Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 184, Moulton Members Gather for November Meeting
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 184, Moulton members are pictured at the lodge’s Tuesday, November 9, 2021, meeting. Pictured are Patsy Zabransky of Lodge 4, Hallettsville, Kylie Koncaba, Ann Marie Koncaba, Elaine Hoffman, Joyce Pavlicek, Maggie Kubicek, and District Six Director Annie Vahalik. Not pictured are Elmer Michna, Johnnie Hoffman, Terry Stevenson, and Kyle Koncaba. RIGHT PHOTO: Ryan and Kylie Koncaba.
Lodge 246 Morgan’s Point gives to Feed My Sheep
Dear Members,
Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point met Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at Olive Garden in Temple. Special guests were District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda.
The meeting was called to order by President Ingrid Petrik. Routine reports were presented by Vice President Susan Hutton, Treasurer David Nauert, and Melanie Zavodny.
New lodge members include John Paruzinski, Jr., Timothy Weddle, Dana Boyd, and Tyrice Green. The lodge welcomes the new members and is grateful to Sales Agents Terry Malina, Ronnie Gaines, and Marissa Salinas.
Members discussed various holiday projects and decided to support Feed My Sheep with a monetary donation and Christmas bags with socks, candy, and goodies. District Two Director Pospisil announced that he would match the lodge’s donation with his discretionary fund.
Officers were elected for 2022. They are:
President Ingrid Petrik Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Susan Hutton Secretary/Treasurer David Nauert
Director Pospisil then installed the officers.
Members then enjoyed lunch and socializing.
Next Meeting—January 3
The next meeting will be Monday, January 3 at 11:30 a.m. at Olive Garden in Temple.
Hope you all enjoyed a blessed Christmas. Wishing you a very happy, healthy New Year! Fraternally, David Nauert Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Cedar Tree Christmas
by d.knape About two weeks before grandpa would go out into the woods and chop down a Cedar tree for Christmas then he’d throw it on a sled (not a fancy sled like you see on postcards now but more like a wood pallet) pulled with chain harness by old Charley the sway back horse grandpa kept for sentimental reasons and he’d bring the tree up to the farm house and unload it there by the picket fence and then turn old Charley out for grazing (there was still some green winter grass behind the barn) then granddad would heave the Cedar tree up the steps into the house and set it up in the corner
of the main room and grandma would come decorate it with candy canes she got at the five and dime in town and scraps of ribbons and bows she had left over and with any homemade decorations she had made then she’d top it off with the silver angel which she had got from her mother and her mother got from hers then that would be it nothing fancy but it was the most beautiful Christmas tree there ever was its Cedar aroma filling up the house and the room all aglow from the fire in the pot-bellied stove the only warm place in the house there weren’t many presents in those days because people didn’t have much back then but what they did have in abundance was good old fashioned love spread freely amongst the welcomed guests and family between grandmas and grandpas and uncles and cousins Love was all they had to give
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 258, Seguin officers are, second from left to right, President Chester Jenke, Vice President Melvin Strey, Secretary Carrie Origas, and Treasurer Colleen Jenke. Pictured with them is District Seven Director Regina House, far left, who installed the officers on November 21, 2021. back when Christmas meant something besides greed and excess so love was what was exchanged and that love is still remembered and that homemade Christmas tree still sits in a corner of this little boy’s memory you cannot forget a Christmas like that the Cedar Tree Christmas of so long long ago.
—SPJST—
Arthritis
by d.knape Moves around my body like water in a bowl fluid and becoming worse as I’m growing old
So cruel it advances when temperatures turn cold the pain deep as ever to the depths of my soul
Joints grow sore and painful when to it exposed up and down limbs it travels it goes unopposed
Like the bite of a hornet the thorn of a rose its sting remains with us we worry it grows.
—SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock members celebrate Thanksgiving with meal, fellowship
Lodge 187, Round Rock members enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving dinner and fellowship at the Sunday, November 14, 2021, gathering. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter/Youth Coordinator District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, far left, presents a check from his discretionary fund for Bruceville-Eddy Volunteer Fire Department to Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy officers Secretary Michael D. Hosch, second from left, President James R. Hosch, and Treasurer Frances McBride.
Christmas Tree
by d.knape The Sumac is a scrawny tree more a bush or shrub than a real tree it grows along the fence-lines on hard rock and little dirt through the barbed wire fences along the sides of roads anyplace that is neglected or forgotten it takes root in next to nothing and somehow thrives a scrappy tree struggling to get to decent height it is always in the shadows of larger trees but it has one outstanding character and that is its brilliant color in the fall all aflame in red and gold and yellow it sparks the countryside in beautiful colors providing cheer like Christmas decorations for all who take the time to absorb their beauty they negate all the other trees which have grown dormant and drab and so we seek them out like poor relatives they come along with nothing but leave us in awe at their pure hardiness and determination growing where nothing else will grow they show us how to live. —SPJST—
S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Directors, Administrators Meet at SPJST Home Office in Temple
S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Directors and Administrators met on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at SPJST Home Office in Temple. Pictured are, front, left to right, Administrator Rowena Tabler Smith, Lead Administrator Natalie Wright, Board Secretary Beverly Teplicek, Board Treasurer Valerie Barta, and Board President Donnie Victorick. BACK: Director Joe Siptak, Administrator Angela Parks, Director John Engelke, Director Howard Leshikar, and Director Bradley Stavinoha.
Afterthoughts
by d.knape My ideas pose no problem they come to me at random at odd times they are just little ideas with little forethought they don’t get in the way of other people’s thoughts they are usually polite and courteous most of my ideas are not original they are afterthoughts they come after a nap. —SPJST—
Small Town Bakery
by d.knape
Lodge 258, Seguin presents a $250 donation to New Berlin Volunteer Fire Department. The donation was matched by SPJST District Seven Director Regina House’s discretionary fund. Pictured are, left to right, Joy Strey, Lodge 258 Vice President Melvin Strey, Director House, President Chester Jenke, Treasurer Colleen Jenke, Secretary Carrie Origas, and Steve Origas. In back is New Berlin Fire Chief Kurt Strey. Melvin also serves as treasurer for New Berlin Fire Department, and his wife, Joy, is actively involved with the fire department.
Cows
by d.knape O’er pastures they roam grass casually chewing
as dumb as a rock occasionally mooing
but look in their eyes a soul you are seeing
they are just like us lost sentient beings.
—SPJST—
The flavor of a town lies in its bakery there on Main Street one door down from the barber shop a small business it’s not size that matters but the skill of the work artists in dough creating warmth creating goodness with desserts as puffy as clouds aromas that permeate the square you have to go in a little bit of heaven right here on earth. —SPJST—
S.P.J.S.T. senior living in needville lights up for christmas
Blinkers
by d.knape
Signal lights on the car are called blinkers I leave my blinkers on because I am old
I don’t hear them blinking consequently people following me back off because they don’t know what I’m going to do next
It’s called Offensive driving but it drives my wife nuts the people behind me however find it a source of amusement
They always wave and shout something out the window as they go by then they give Me a signal
I am not against changing lanes and I am not against blinkers I am just against Change in general and I don’t want to change my ways. —SPJST—
Purple Sage
by d.knape
The Purple Sage has grayish leaves the Sage grows gray kind of like me
Some say the Sage grows dull with age has not one leaf with green displayed
Still it survives on occasion may show purple blooms like little flames
Despite its gray it still retains a certain graceblooms when it rains. —SPJST—
The 2022 SPJST Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy officers are, from left, Secretary/Reporter Michael D. Hosch, President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator James R. Hosch, and Treasurer Frances McBride.
State Royalty Participates in Temple Christmas Parade
Monday, December 6, 2021 • Downtown Temple
