30 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2022.03.28
by SPJST
SPJST Lodge Section
The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to:
SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo Questions? Call 800-727-7578 Prizes were awarded. Thanks, Annie! It was enjoyable.
Everyone then enjoyed a delicious lunch and visiting.
Next Meeting—June 12
The next meeting will be Sunday, June 12 at the Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. with door prizes and lunch as usual.
Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 4, Hallettsville members to participate in Walk Across Texas
Dear Members,
SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville met on Sunday, February 13, 2022, at the Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. with President Joe Siptak presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Resolution Chair Gayenell Chudej read resolutions of sympathy for George W. Bucek, Jr. and James E. Voelkel. A moment of silence followed.
Secretary/Treasurer Helen Zabransky read the minutes to the last meeting and gave the financial report. She read the list of our 50- and 75-year members. Their pins are to be mailed to them from the Home Office. They will be honored at a later date.
FAC Annie Vahalik informed members of upcoming events including Cars & Guitars Car Show and Music Festival at Camp Kubena on April 2. (Editor’s Note: The Cars & Guitars event has been moved to October 29.) SPJST is celebrating 125 years in 2022, and the District Six Annual Meeting will be held April 10, hosted by Lodge 30, Taiton with an Easter egg hunt also planned.
Philip Vahalik reported on the District Six Cemetery meeting held in Hallettsville on January 30.
Members voted to participate in Walk Across Texas, a health program offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. It will begin March 13 for eight weeks. Members participating will be Gayenell Chudej, Barbara and Ricky Steffek, Patsy Zabransky, and Annie and Philip Vahalik.
The collection of plastic cups from water bottles, medicine bottles, etc. which we joined with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary is now over. They collected more than 400 pounds that will be made into a bench for the VA Clinic in Victoria. Thanks to the members for their help.
Our Sunday meeting dates for this year are June 12; August 14; November 13; and December 11, which will be our Christmas party.
Door prize winners were Gayenell Chudej, Vicky Zak, and Helen Zabransky.
Meeting adjourned. FAC Annie then had a game that was a lot of fun. Instead of the game show “America Says,” she did “Annie Says.” Members had to guess what she said to various phrases.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter party Sunday, April 3
Easter greetings from Lodge 6, Cottonwood! You’re invited to an Easter party on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at the lodge hall, located at 700 South Czech Hall Road in West, Texas.
The April meeting begins at 2 p.m. We will honor the 50- and 75-year members. SPJST Lodge 6, Inc. annual meeting follows.
After the meetings, it will be time for an Easter egg hunt for all ages. A fried chicken dinner will be served at 5 p.m. Members are asked to please bring desserts. We hope to see you there!
Happy Easter from SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood! ^ Fraternally, Barbara Jean Hykel, Secretary —SPJST—
The 2022 SPJST District Seven officers are, left to right, President James House (202), Vice President Oscar Korus (107), Secretary Wendy Pruski (107) - holding granddaughter Tilly Lynn, Treasurer Sandra Hoggard (202), Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kathleen Polasek (202), and District Youth Counselor April Howard (185). They are pictured with District Seven Director Regina House, far right.
Lodge 9, Snook to host October 9 family heritage day
The Wednesday, March 2, 2022, SPJST Lodge 9, Snook meeting was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 6:53 p.m. Sharon Kovar led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for Ashley Victorick. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the February meeting were approved. Hall manager, FAC, treasurer, and statewide reports were presented.
The youth club discussed YAD, beseda, summer dates, and Chilifest. They donated $50 to the Victorick Scholarship Fund.
Motion was passed to accept two new members.
We will be hosting the District One Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 10.
We discussed the great turnout we had for the display of Snook memorabilia and plan to do another one on October 9. It will be called Snook Family Heritage Day, and we ask the community to bring out their family memorabilia.
Birthday celebrant in March is Donnie Victorick on the 23rd.
Next Meeting—April 6
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 6 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone to host District Two Annual Meeting
Lodge 24, Cyclone met Monday, March 14, 2022, amid a thunderstorm. President Daniel Wilde called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. A silent prayer was observed for our deceased members and the military. Brenda Maddux read the minutes from
the last meeting, and they were approved as read. Linda Wilde gave the monthly treasurer’s report as well as the year end treasurer’s report for 2021. Cathy Bruggman gave the fraternal report. Brenda Maddux presented the bar and hall reports.
Old business included Kenny Orts not being able to give us a date for his performance that we could coordinate with our schedule. We will host the District Two Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 22. A free wedding dance with All Around Czechs playing will be held at our hall on Saturday, June 18. The “Vrazel Tribute Band” dance will be held on Sunday, July 31. Squeeze Box featuring Ted Lange and Mollie B will be held next year on Sunday, February 5, 2023.
The ceiling lights in the hall have been replaced with LED lights. There are more than 30 lights. The small lights are LED also. Several maintenance items were discussed. The insurance covering the hall and its contents was discussed at length as the price has gone up substantially. Member Brian Vanicek offered some alternatives to the issue.
Please keep all of our sick and home bound members in your thoughts and prayers.
There were no birthdays or anniversaries this month. For the Lodge Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis invites all to April 2 fundraiser O O O Presenting 2022 Officers O O O
SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville
Dear Readers,
Lodge 25, Ennis met Thursday, March 10, 2022. Members enjoyed a meal prepared by Betty consisting of chicken, rice, salad, and mandarin orange cake. Thank you, Betty!
Joann opened the meeting, and Charlie Jurik led the Pledge of Allegiance. On the sick list are Sandra Trojacek and Teresa Emlet. All reports were approved as given. Rita invited the members to attend District Three Youth Achievement Day (YAD) which will be held at our lodge on Sunday, March 27.
We discussed the upcoming fundraiser which will be on Saturday, April 2. Auction items are needed, and everyone is encouraged to help sell tickets. Let Arlene know how you can help that day. The cornhole tournament will kick off the day beginning at 1:30 p.m. Dinner will be served beginning at 5 p.m.
February and March birthdays will be observed the last Wednesday of the month on March 30. Everyone, please bring a dish.
The 2022 officers of Lodge 4, Hallettsville are, front, Secretary/ Treasurer Helen Zabransky, left, and Reporter Patsy Zabransky. BACK: President Joe Siptak and Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik.
Lodge 29, Taylor to sponsor October 29 Cars & Guitars event
Next Meeting—April 14
The next meeting will be Thursday, April 14th. We hope to see everyone there.
Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca Reporter —SPJST—
Jesse Pospisil called the meeting to order on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. He led the Pledge of Allegiance and had a moment of silence in honor of our departed members and the military serving our country. Officers absent were Ronnie Rieger and Sharon Kaderka. The February minutes were read and approved. Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report.
Linda Pospisil reported that The Friends of the Moody Museum sent us a request for a donation. Frankie Pustejovsky made a motion to donate $100, and Tammy Cannon seconded. The motion passed. The District Two Annual Meeting will be held at Lodge 24, Cyclone on Sunday, May 22. The Cars & Guitars car show and music festival will be held at Camp Kubena on Saturday, April 2. (Editor’s Note: This event has been moved to October 29.) Sponsors are needed for each of the 18 holes in the disc golf tournament. Frankie Pustejovsky made a motion for Lodge 29 to sponsor two holes for a total of $100, and Adolph Grieger seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Evelyn Rossi transferred to Lodge 187, Round Rock.
Members celebrating birthdays in March include Sharon Kaderka, Kristen Rieger, Frankie Pustejovsky, Mike Girod, Andylyn Teat, and Mike Cannon. Mary Jane Pustejovsky brought door prizes. Next month, Lyn Rieger volunteered to bring them.
Next Meeting—April 13
The next meeting will be Wednesday, April 13 at 6:30 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 4, hallettsville members enjoy february meeting activities
Lodge 4, Hallettsville met on Sunday, February 13, 2022, LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 4, Hallettsville members, left to right, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik, Vicky Zak, and Alene Steffek take part in the “Annie Says” game. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 4 member Jennifer Hessler helped distribute chocolate candy to members in remembrance of a longtime lodge tradition by “Papa” Bucek in February. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 4 February birthdays were recognized. Left to right, are Joe Siptak on the 14th, Philip Vahalik on the 13th, and Gayenell Chudej on the 9th. —Submitted by Helen Zabransky, Reporter
Lodge 47, Seaton lunch fundraiser Sunday, April 3
Dear Members and Friends,
We invite all members, family, and friends to SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall for a fundraiser on Sunday, April 3, 2022, beginning at 11 a.m. We will be serving a lunch of pork loin, potato salad, green beans, and dessert, which will be drive-through only. The cost will be $12 per plate. We hope you will leave the cooking to us along with having no dishes to clean!
The first Sunday of the month is our regular lodge meeting. The youth meet at 1 p.m., and an Easter egg hunt with follow the short meeting. All children and friends are invited to join in on the fun. All treats will be provided. The adult meeting will be held at 2 p.m. We would love to have all members and friends join us at this time. You are always welcome!
We hope to see you for the lunch, and we appreciate your support!
We would very much appreciate members and any others who will help us with bringing desserts for the meal. If you have any questions, please give me a call 254-718-1606. Thank you all! Patsy Koslovsky, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 79 Corpus Christi to meet April 10
On Sunday, February 20, 2022, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated a belated Valentine’s Day with a meal of chicken fried steak and sides. President Mark Rebecek called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. A moment of silence was observed for deceased member Pat Peal. In attendance were 29 members and guests, and all officers were present.
President Rebecek introduced District Seven Director Regina House who gave an informative talk. Regional General Agent Ralph Juarez also attended the meeting.
Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the January meeting minutes, and Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the financial report for January. Both reports were approved. Treasurer Larry Elzner received a thank you note from the homemaking committee of the Nueces County Livestock Show for our donation.
The fraternal report was presented by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky. He stated that all members need to continue turning in their fraternal hours.
Under unfinished business, President Rebecek mentioned that the District Seven Annual Meeting will be held in Corpus Christi on March 13. He asked all members to bring a dessert. The April meeting will land on Easter Sunday so we will have our meeting on Sunday, April 10 instead of April 17. Meatloaf will be the main course, and members are asked to bring a side dish.
Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. She stated that eight members and guests were in attendance. The youth made flowers, and each received a valentine goody bag from the youth leaders. The youth are planning a trip to Chuck E. Cheese.
Birthdays for February were Lela Mae Hayek on the 1st, Annie Urbanovsky on the 4th, Dorothy McCoy on the 8th, and Christina Rew on the 16th. “Happy Birthday” was sung to these members.
Door prizes of $25 were won by Becky Urbanovsky and Larry Elzner.
Judy Majek made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Ralph Juarez. The meeting was adjourned at 3 p.m. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on March meeting
The March 2022 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held Sunday, the 20th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed a meal of chicken fried steak plates purchased by Bradley Stavinoha from the Needville American Legion fundraiser. Desserts were provided by members.
President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Bradley Stavinoha led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll. Added to the sick list were Glenn McDonald and Rosemary Pieper. We wish you both a full and speedy recovery.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her report, and it was 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, Special Funds Chair Marion Morales mentioned that he already purchased the wood to put bottom doors on the bottom cabinets in the kitchen at our lodge hall.
Youth Leader Kristen Jones said the youth made approximately 60 valentines, and they were able to drop them off at the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville for the residents. The youth are also continuing their work on a scrapbook for our lodge.
Lodge 29, Taylor youth @@@@@@
For the week of March 15 to 20, 2022, American Southwest Conference named Brandon Girod as one of its “Baseball Players of the Week.” Brandon, who is a member of Lodge 29, Taylor, was named Pitcher of the Week. He is a left-handed sophomore who attends HardinSimmons University. Brandon tossed a three-hit, 2-0 shutout against LeTourneau. He tossed a 3-hit shutout over nine innings in the Cowboys 2-0 win over LeTourneau. He allowed one walk and struck out a careerbest eight batters.
D3baseball.com also named Brandon to its “Team of the Week.” The Team of the Week is D3baseball.com’s weekly honor roll, in its 10th season of recognizing the top performers at each of nine positions from the previous week. Players are selected from nominations from their school’s sports information directors.
Brandon is the son of Mike and Cristy Girod and the grandson of District Two Director Jesse and Linda Pospisil. The entire family are members of Lodge 29, Taylor. —SPJST—
earns baseball honors Lodge 184, Moulton member Gladys Mikulencak achieves SPJST congratulates Sister Gladys Mikulencak of Grand Age of 96 Lodge 184, Moulton, who celebrated her 96th birthday on February 16, 2022. Sister Gladys is now entitled to all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments. Gladys was born in Moulton, Texas, to Frank and Olga Brom. Her two sisters were Maxine Horak and Helen Seifert - both deceased. On October 14,1946, Gladys married Elvin Mikulencak. They were blessed with daughters Glennette Vinklarek (spouse Clifton) of Yoakum and Cartis Mikulencak of Moulton and sons Lanny Mikulencak (spouse Marsha) of Houston, Allen Mikulencak (spouse Eva) of France, and Danny Mikulencak (spouse Janel) of Baytown. Gladys has always been a homemaker. She also worked as a nurse’s aide at nursing homes. She loves quilting and crossword puzzles. Congratulations again to Sister Gladys Mikulencak on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Gladys, for your membership and dedication to SPJST. May God bless you and your family for many more years of good health and happiness. @@ —SPJST— @@
SPJST Sales Booth Featured at Victoria Livestock Show
SPJST hosted a booth at the Victoria Livestock Show held Thursday, February 24 to Sunday, February 27, 2022, in Victoria, Texas. LEFT PHOTO: District Six Director Annie Vahalik, Regional General Agent Carolina Covarrubia, and Sales Agent Mary Jo Salinas enjoyed meeting and greeting visitors to the booth. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to Cynthia Davis who was the winner of the fire pit in the drawing held at the SPJST booth. District Six Director Annie Vahalik is pictured with Cynthia's granddaughters Emma Herrera and Kynlee Herrera. Submitted by District Six RGA Carolina Covarrubia
Under new business, Special Funds Chair Marion Morales asked for permission to increase the deposit and rental fee for special events held at the lodge. It was also decided to give the cleaning crew extra money to clean up after the last event held at the lodge.
Under other business, the youth will decorate the windows at the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville for the residents to enjoy.
Door prize winners were Joyce Lamensky, Shirley Pavlock, Marion Morales, and Vincent Newman. Congratulations to the winners!
Next Meeting—April 24
The next meeting will be Sunday, April 24 since Easter falls on our regular meeting day. Marion Morales said that he will barbecue chicken and sausage. Members, please bring a side dish and a dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas readies for April 3 Easter celebration
Dear Readers,
Lodge 84, Dallas members met Sunday, March 20, 2022, for their monthly meeting. The meeting was brought to order by President Vicki Sims at 2:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for our troops serving our country, those affected by the Covid pandemic, those affected by the Ukrainian refugee crisis and Russia, and everyone affected by the Texas wildfires. I want to report that it was a very short meeting due to the fact that our vice president, secretary and even I, the reporter, were not in attendance. I want to give a big thank you to President Vicki Sims for giving me notes on what was discussed in lieu of the absences.
Old business discussed was how everyone enjoyed dining at Back Country for the February meeting.
New business was the upcoming Easter celebration to be held on Sunday, April 3. Please see more information in the article that follows. It was also decided that if time permits, we will try to hold a short meeting at some time, due to Easter Sunday falling on our regular meeting day of April 17.
Brother Jim Liska then gave the treasurer’s report.
President Sims thanked those who were in attendance. A motion was then made for adjournment, and everyone enjoyed svačina.
I hope to see you all on Sunday, April 3. I know I will be there! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas will join KJT, KJZT, and WFLA/Better Life on Sunday, April 3, 2022, for an Easter celebration at Sokol Dallas.
Mass is at 11 a.m. A social follows at 12 noon. A fried chicken dinner and all the trimmings will then be served, and an Easter dessert bar will be available. Afterwards, all will enjoy fellowship.
I heard that the Easter Bunny is supposed to make an appearance. I also heard that there will be an Easter egg hunt. SPJST Lodge 84 youth are asked to please contact Lynda Novak by email to magiclady_46@hotmail.com or call/text to 972-948-4456 by March 27 to let her know you are coming so she can relay the message to the Easter Bunny.
Keep reading the Vestnik as plans come together, but mark your calendars for Sunday, April 3 to come enjoy fun, food, and fellowship! ^ Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 9
The Easter bunny is hitting up Lodge 88, Houston and hiding eggs for the biggest, best Easter egg hunt 2022 has ever seen! Grab your kids and their baskets, and bring the family out to the backyard at the Lodge on Saturday, April 9 at 10 a.m. for our annual Easter egg hunt.
This is a member-only event and is free for all our members, but please be sure to RSVP by Wednesday, April 6 with the number of children you’re bringing and their ages. To RSVP, visit https://bit.ly/spjst88-egg-hunt.
We want to ensure the Easter bunny brings enough eggs and prizes for all participants. Catherine Thedinger —SPJST—
Lodge 91, San Jacinto discusses hosting Paws Across Texas Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members enjoy valentine meal
Lodge 97, placedo members meet in march
Lodge 91, San Jacinto held its first quarterly meeting of 2022 at Baytown Seafood in Crosby, Texas. All officers were present. Also present was Sales Agent Tommy Ganaway.
The meeting was called to order by President Kathleen Munch at 11 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was said followed by a moment of silence for the citizens of Ukraine and departed member Ashley Victorick.
The minutes were read by Secretary Vonda Smesny. Motion was made by Malba Smesny, seconded by Robert Smesny, to approve the minutes as read. Motion carried.
Treasurer Marie Stasney read her report. Motion was made by Kathleen Munch, seconded by June Smesny, to approve the treasurer’s report as read. Motion carried.
FAC Malba Smesny mentioned hosting a Paws Across Texas this summer. Mrs. Smesny stated that she would check on available dates at Walmart in Crosby.
Sales Agent Tommy Ganaway spoke briefly about SPJST annuity rates and the Cars & Guitars event at Camp Kubena. (Editor’s Note: The Cars & Guitars event has been moved to October 29.)
Motion to adjourn was made at 11:45 a.m. by June Smesny and seconded by Marie Stasney. Motion carried. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—
ABOVE PHOTOS: Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members enjoy a valentine meal on Sunday, February 20, 2022. LEFT PHOTO: Birthdays recognized were, left to right, Christina Rew on the 16th, Annie Urbanovsky on the 4th, Lela Mae Hayek on the 1st, and Dorothy McCoy on the 8th. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 79 Youth Club members present the flags at the District Seven Annual Meeting held Sunday, March 13 at the lodge hall in Corpus Christi. Marcus Rebecek carries the American flag, and Jacob Rebecek carries the Texas flag. Also pictured are Colt Pruski of Lodge 107, Floresville and District Seven Youth Leader April Howard. —Submitted by Virginia Rebecek, Secretary
Lodge 97, Placedo welcomes district director
Lodge 97 Placedo held a quarterly meeting on Monday, March 14, 2022. Lodge 97 members arrived at The Grapevine Café at 5:30 p.m. President Gay Revel opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Judy Bellanger said the prayer. Dennis Vanek gave the treasurer’s report and said he had received the premium refund. Correspondence was read and included thank you letters from Christ’s Kitchen and the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent for the Christmas donations.
District Six Director Annie Vahalik made several announcements. District Six Annual Meeting will be Sunday, April 10 in Taiton. She asked that any suggestions for youth program activities be fostered to Melanie. Directory Vahalik updated us on the enhanced premium guidelines and told about the nice facilities at Camp Kubena.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Donna Vanek said she had no information whether there would be a Join Hands Day this year.
The 125th anniversary celebration for SPJST will be in October in La Grange.
Next Meeting—June 13
The next meeting will be at The Grapevine Café on Monday, June 13 at 5:30 p.m. Fraternally, Judy Bellanger, Reporter —SPJST—
District Six Director Annie Vahalik, standing, presents a report to the members at the March 14, 2022, meeting held at The Grapevine Café in Victoria. Pictured, seated, from left, are Aileen Lott, Gay Revel, and Dennis and Donna Vanek. Not pictured are David and Bernadette Bellanger and Judy Bellanger. —Submitted by
Judy Bellanger
Lodge 133 San Antonio members invited to April 24 appreciation rally
Dear Members,
You and your family are cordially invited to attend the SPJST Lodge 133, San Antonio member appreciation rally on Sunday, April 24, 2022, from 2 to 4 p.m. at VFW Post 76, located at 10 10th Street in San Antonio. VFW Post 76 Sam Houston Post is the oldest and largest Post in the State of Texas; organized and chartered in San Antonio on June 26, 1917, by the Veterans of the Spanish American War. The 10th Street structure, also known as the Petty House, was sold to the Sam Houston Post 76 in June 1947, and has since been used as the post headquarters, a place to serve and honor our veterans, and a social center open to the surrounding community. Refreshments and light snacks will be served, and three lucky winners will receive dining packages at San Antonio area restaurants.
SPJST, which celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2022, is a family organization that cherishes the idea of service to each other and the community. SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek will be on hand to present an informative program touching on the history of SPJST in Texas and the San Antonio area. In ad-
dition, boys and girls will receive information on SPJST summer camp and other youth benefits including scholarships. Three lucky youngsters will win gift cards to Academy.
Feel free to extend this invitation to others in your household or friends who are not already members. We want this to be a fun event!
Please RSVP on or before 12 noon on Thursday, April 21 by contacting SPJST District Seven Director Regina House at spjst202youth@gmail.com. Thank you for your attention and consideration. I look forward to seeing you on April 24! Fraternally, Jarolyn Popp, President —SPJST—
Congratulations, Christine Ventrcek on 75 Years of SPJST membership
Lodge 202, Jourdanton member Christine Ventrcek received her 75year SPJST membership pin from Lodge 202 Secretary Bettie House. Congratulations, Christine! —Photo by Bettie House
Lodge 142, Houston to honor longtime members at May meeting
Dear Readers,
The monthly meeting of Lodge 142, Houston was Sunday, March 20, 2022, at Lodge 88, Houston. A social and lunch of pizza, salad, and dessert was served at 1 p.m. Prayer was given by Pat Schleider.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zac Coleman.
Roll call of officers showed all present, except Vice President Kerry Herrington, Youth Leader Amanda Muzny and Sales Agents Connie Carter, Kerry Herrington, and Mary E. Bird. Bob Schleider was appointed to act as vice president during the meeting. We had 23 members in attendance.
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis’ minutes were not read with a motion by J.R. Coleman, seconded by Keith Kieschnick.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick presented his report. All approved.
Youth club report was given by Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider reported on Cars and Guitars event set for April 2 (Editor’s Note: This event has been moved to October 29.) and District Five Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 1 at Lodge 196, HoustonWest. She spoke briefly regarding Lodge 142 for checking into social media and Instagram.
Sick committee reported Mo and Holland Dunn both doing well. Mary Jane Hue was better and present at our meeting.
New member/insurance was Holly Fraley. Her sales agent is Kerry Herrington. Transfers to our lodge were Mary E. Bird and Sherman L. Bird. The members were approved with a motion by Karole Coleman, seconded by Keith. All were in favor.
Old business was a discussion regarding our meal for celebration of honorees for 50- and 75-year members during the May 15 lodge meeting.
Under new business, scholarship recipients Karlee Kieschnick and Zane Manchack were accepted upon motion made by Keith, seconded by Barbara Linney-Gonzales. All were in favor.
Birthday celebrants were Aiden Hermis on the 2nd, Natalie Lerner on the 5th, Karole Coleman on the 20th, Jayden Lerner the 21st, and Steve Rosnovsky on the 23rd. We all sang “Happy Birthday.”
Next Meeting—April 10
The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m., with the next meeting on the second Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m. with a meal served at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88 Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
lodge 133, san antonio members to gather april 24 at oldest vfw post in texas
Lodge 133, San Antonio members are invited to attend an SPJST member appreciation rally on Sunday, April 24, 2022, from 2 to 4 p.m. at VFW Post 76, located at 10 10th Street in San Antonio. VFW Post 76 Sam Houston Post is the oldest and largest Post in the State of Texas; organized and chartered in San Antonio on June 26, 1917, by the Veterans of the Spanish American War.
Lodge 154, Fort Worth plans April 17 Easter picnic
SPJST Lodge 154, Fort Worth will host its annual Easter picnic at Lodge154/Sokol Fort Worth on Sunday, April 17, 2022. Doors will be open at 12:30 p.m.; eating at 1 p.m. Remember to bring food for the “shared picnic lunch.” After lunch, we will begin the children’s egg hunts followed by the men’s and women’s hunts. Warm up your arms for the raw egg toss and softball game to end the day. Hope to see you all there! Fraternally, Lesli Milan, Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 172, Pasadena meets April 13 to review future prospects following sale of lodge property
Members of Lodge 172, Pasadena are invited to attend a dinner meeting on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at 6 p.m. at Peppers Steak and Seafood, located at 3604 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena. The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss the recent sale of the lodge building as well as outlining a path forward for Lodge 172, Pasadena. If you would like to attend, please contact me by email at Bradley@NeedvilleInsurance.com or by telephone at 979-7392386.
Fraternally, Bradley Stavinoha District Five Director —SPJST—
Lodge 177, Academy will host Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 for a dance on Saturday, June 4, 2022. The dance is from 7 to 11 p.m., and admission is $10 per person (under age 12 will be admitted free of charge). The band will play great country and variety dance music.
Save the date, and plan to come on out to Lodge 177 to enjoy a fun evening of music and dancing! See you there! Fraternally, Jerry Haisler Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
March Meeting Scenes from Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle met Tuesday, March 8, 2022. CENTER PHOTO: President Cathy Simmank crowned the Mardi Gras Queen Shirley Martin, Attendant Lucy Martinez, and Leprechaun Judy Robinson. RIGHT PHOTO: March hostesses were Carolyn Irby, Jeanne O’Connor, Patti Williams, and Delores Rooney. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Celebrating the Green. It’s Janet Basham, Claire Rooney, Cathy Simmank, Shirley Martin, Lucy Martinez, Judy Robinson, and Joan Shropshire. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Several door prizes were awarded. —Submitted by Lisa Ellsworth
Lodge 179, Warrenton hosts April 3 appreciation svačina
Greetings to our wonderful Lodge 179, Warrenton members! We hope that you are doing well!
The year ahead brings new challenges and opportunities for SPJST Lodge 179, Warrenton. As our way of saying thank you for your devoted membership, you are cordially invited to attend and participate in a members and friends “Appreciation Svačina” on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at 1 p.m. at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), located just north of La Grange on State Highway 77 at 250 West Fair Grounds Road. (Svačina means “snacks.”)
Make plans to come out and enjoy what is sure to be an enjoyable presentation — and a delicious svačina! The svačina will be followed by a tour of TCHCC’s Texas Czech Village. An assortment of svačina items and recipes will be available for attendees to sample and enjoy. SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek will be on hand to share the story of the svačina from early days to modern times, with an emphasis on the Texas Czech svačina — especially kolaches.
Although not required, attendees are welcome to bring their own specialty items to add to the sample table. Also, bring out the youngsters as there will be activities for the kids.
It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been to a lodge meeting in years – or if ever. You are a valued member of SPJST and of Lodge 179, Warrenton and that’s what counts. It would be our honor to have you in attendance. And please feel free to extend this invitation to everyone in your household. Invite your friends, too. We want this to be a big party!
Please RSVP by email to Lodge 179 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marceil Malak at malaktax@gmail.com. You can also RSVP by telephone by calling Marceil at 979-966-7270 or myself at 979-249-3080.
We look forward to your reply and seeing you on Sunday, April 3! On behalf of the officers of Lodge 179, Warrenton,^
Fraternally, Ruby Juergens, President —SPJST—
Fort Worth Friendship Club: March Fun!
LEFT PHOTO: Fort Worth Friendship Club met on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Pictured is the Leprechaun Tipsy O’Malley created by Sharron Connelly. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to St. Patrick’s Day Queen Betty Krenek and Leprechaun King, her husband Stanley, with his top hat and green beer mug. —Submitted by Sharon Connelly • Lodge 154, Fort Worth
Lodge 187 Round Rock welcomes new member
Hello!
At the March meeting, we discussed the ongoing landscaping improvements and what is yet to come. We talked about the District Two skating/pizza event, and how the kids had so much fun. We, with great pleasure, all accepted the transfer and welcomed with open arms Evelyn Rossi to Lodge 187.
Thank you, Rubie Volek, for the door prizes.
Birthdays in March were Mathieu McCarthy and Carla Krenek. Anniversary in March was Greg and Jennifer McCarthy.
We had a tasty fajita potluck with all the trimmings. We all left so full.
Next Gathering—April 10
Our next gathering will be on Sunday, April 10. As a reminder: Get those rocks painted for the District Two Annual Meeting which will be held May 22 in Cyclone. Blessings to all of you, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator/ Financial Secretary —SPJST—
