Vestnik 2023.01.23

“A new year is a time for new beginnings, and we are all looking forward to being a part of the exciting upcoming changes within the SPJST Youth Program,” says Youth Leader Rita Holland. More on page 31.

that Lodge 25 is collecting for the Souper Bowl. SPJST lodges across Texas are participating in the charity project with the soup cans being donated to local communities.

´ VESTNIK

S P J S T H E R A L D

SPJST HOME OFFICE

PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 www.spjst.org

VĚSTNÍK EDITOR: MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) Mobile/Text: 254-534-0807 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 512-826-7371 jlpospisil@yahoo.com

DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIR JOHN ENGELKE

6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-717-7534 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

413 Beechwood Dr, Victoria, TX 77901-4516 361-649-4888 amvahalik@gmail.com

DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR

REGINA HOUSE

176 County Road 343, Charlotte, TX 78011-3663 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

STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK

Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com

TERRITORY MANAGERS

EAST TERRITORY KERRY HERRINGTON 281-704-5737 • kerryh@spjst.com

NORTH TERRITORY

CHRIS LIEBUM, LUTCF®, NSSA® 346-261-2100 • chrisl@spjst.com

WEST TERRITORY

RALPH JUAREZ, FIC, FICF 361-537-5506 • ralphj@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

Contact State Fraternal Director Frank Horak 254-534-0681 • frankh@spjst.com

District Five - Kristen Bender Jones 9010 Banker St, Needville, TX 77461-9339 936-556-3248 • joneskb06@hotmail.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

Valentine’s Day is coming soon, and now is the perfect time to turn to the back page of this week’s Vestnik and send valentines! The deadline is February 1.

Condolences

Just as we were sending the Vestnik to the printer, we heard the very sad news that District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky’s husband Albert passed away. We will have more information in the next Vestnik. Our sincere condolences to Patsy and her family.

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines

February 13 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Feb. 6 at 5 p.m. February 27 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. March 13 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Mar. 6 at 5 p.m. March 27 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Mar. 20 at 5 p.m.

We always love hearing from our readers. Emilie and Arnold Sefcik, past members of Lodge 172, Pasadena, shared this beautiful photo with the Vestnik. They are faithful readers who are enjoying life in Nashwauk, Minnesota. Best wishes to Arnold and Emilie and all Vestnik readers for a healthy, happy new year!

April 10 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Apr. 3 at 5 p.m. April 24 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Apr. 17 at 5 p.m. May 8 Vestnik deadline is Mon., May 1 at 5 p.m. —SPJST—

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.

SPJST

FAMILY FUN IMPORTANT DATES

(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)

Feb. 1 Deadline for SPJST Scholarship Applications Details and applications at spjst.org

Feb. 1 Deadline for Vestnik Valentines

Feb. 3 Lodge 88, Houston Dance: SqueezeBox featuring Mollie B and Ted Lange (5)

Feb. 4 State Tarok Tournament • SPJST Home Office, Temple

Feb. 5 Lodge 24, Cyclone Dance: SqueezeBox featuring Mollie B and Ted Lange (2)

Feb. 7 Lodge 186, Caldwell Member Appreciation Dinner Caldwell Civic Center (1)

Feb. 11 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Trivia Night (5)

March 4 State Progressive Straight Domino Tournament

SPJST Home Office, Temple

March 5 District Seven Annual Meeting

Hosted by Lodge 202, Jourdanton (7)

April 1 State 42 Domino Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple

April 1 District Four Annual Meeting (4)

April 30 District Five Annual Meeting • Lodge 88, Houston (5)

June 21-25 State Camp • Camp Kubena, Ledbetter

July 28-29 State Youth Showcase • Frank W. Mayborn

Civic and Convention Center, Temple

June 7-9 34th SPJST Convention • Frank W. Mayborn

2024 Civic and Convention Center, Temple

FROM THE SPJST Executive Committee

December 5, 2022, Minutes of the Special Called Meeting of the SPJST Executive Committee held at the SPJST Home Office Temple, Texas

PRESIDING

The meeting was called to order by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke on Monday, December 5, 2022, at 10 a.m.

ATTENDING

Board of Directors—Donnie VictorickDistrict One/Vice Chair of the Board of Directors; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chair of the Board of Directors; Bobby DavisDistrict Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven.

Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek, President/CEO; Delisle Doherty, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller.

Recording Secretary—Linda Hill, Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer.

OPENING OF MEETING

The meeting was opened by Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke with a welcome to all.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed in respect for our departed members. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led the Executive Committee in an opening prayer with an extra blessing for Honorary District Seven Director Bob Bayer, who passed away on November 26, 2022.

NETSUITE ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE

Controller Vajdak discussed the upgrades that NetSuite software will offer. Director Victorick made a motion to proceed with this accounting software, seconded by Director Pospisil. Motion carried unanimously.

CAMP KUBENA

Camp Kubena Executive Director Rob Clift discussed the 2023 camp budget and future strategies for camp. Motion made by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House, to approve the presented budget and strategies for 2023. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was from 11:25 to 11:40 a.m.

LODGE FUNDING PROPOSAL

Vice President of Communications Zavodny presented a proposal for lodge funding. Director Stavinoha made a motion, seconded by Director House, to adopt the lodge funding proposal as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess for lunch was from 12:20 to 12:50 p.m.

Meeting reconvened with a prayer from Chief Financial Officer Mikeska.

LODGE FUNDING PROPOSAL CONTINUED

Vice President of Communications Zavodny and State Fraternal Director Horak presented the youth group funding model. Director Davis made a motion, seconded by Director Vahalik, to accept the updated youth group funding model. Motion carried unanimously.

2023 SPJST BUDGET

Controller Vajdak presented the 2023 SPJST budget for review. Motion was made by Director House, seconded by Director Victorick, to approve the budget. Motion carried unanimously.

LODGE MANAGEMENT FUND

Interest rate on the Lodge Management Fund was discussed. Motion was made by Director Stavinoha, seconded by Director Victorick, to approve an increase of interest in the lodge management fund to 4 percent, effective as of December 1, 2022. Motion carried unanimously.

SPJST ADVISORY BOARD

President/CEO Vanicek discussed broadening its perspectives with the designation of three advisory board members.

SPJST STAFF EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM

Director Victorick made a motion to approve a staff educational support pro-

gram, seconded by Director House. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess was from 2:50 to 3:05 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

With no further business, Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke adjourned the meeting at 3 p.m. with a motion made by Director Davis, seconded by

Director House. Motion carried unanimously.

The next regular meeting of the Executive Committee will begin at 8 a.m. on January 17, 2023.

Fraternally submitted by, Linda R. Hill, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, CFO —SPJST—

you still get it. You can never outlive it.

Disadvantages

As mentioned earlier, annuities are designed for long term savings. Because of this, there is a surrender period. Unless it’s a guaranteed period, usually it’s seven years. This means if you pull out more than 10 percent any given year, you will be paying a surrender fee. That goes down a little every year until the eighth year.

There is also a 10 percent tax penalty if you take money out before you are 59 1/2 years of age. This is a government tax and cannot be waived.

When deciding if an annuity is right for you ask these questions:

1/2 years of age?

Do I have emergency money outside of the annuity?

Annuities are designed for long term savings. When you retire, it is not about how much you can make, but how much you can receive. Last thing you want is to have to keep working because you lost your money in the market when you were ready to retire.

“Think about retirement as being two six-month holidays per year.”

My door is always open; figuratively and literally.

It’s Your Life

Do I plan to keep it there for at least seven years (or less if you buy a guaranteed period)?

Will I need to access it before I’m 59

Annuities

Simplified

Like any product you buy that is tied to the financial industry, annuities are not for everyone. Annuities have many advantages and some disadvantages. Unlike the pressure from financial institutions to “make you rich,” annuities are designed for long term growth and protection. When you retire, it should not be about how much you make but how much you receive. Annuities were designed for that purpose—to make sure you receive an income your whole life. When looking at annuities, there are several things you should think about. Annuities are designed for long term savings. The advantage is for retirement or tax advantages, not to get you “rich” overnight (or in some cases, poor overnight). If you put money into annuities, you will not have access to it for a certain period so you need to have emergency money and not depend on it. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

One of the big advantages is annuities are tax-deferred. You don’t pay taxes until you use the money. Although annuities are more conservative, the tax advantage can produce more growth. For example, if you had a CD for $100,000 that earned 4.5 percent, you would earn $4,500 that year. Of that $4,500, you would pay taxes immediately. If you were in a 30 percent tax bracket, that means the $4,500 would only be worth

$3,150. If you earned 3.5 percent on that same $100,000, it would be worth $3,500.That means the whole $3,500 would be earning interest the next year. You only pay taxes on it when you use the money (with a Roth IRA, it’s tax-free if it meets government requirements).

Second, because they are self-managed by the insurance company, there are no fees. No management fees, brokerage fees, no administrative fees, no percent for asset undermanagement, etc. This means you are guaranteed to have more money tomorrow than you have today. It doesn’t help to earn a higher percent if it is being eaten by fees. Because there are no fees, the 1 percent floor means you will always have growth and never lose money.

Because it is an insurance product, it is not subject to probate or taxed as part of the estate. Basically, it is included in your estate to determine your estate taxes but when you use it, you are taxed as ordinary income. This means if your estate is taxed 65 percent, but you are in a 28 percent tax bracket, you are taxed 28 percent on the gains. Also, your beneficiaries will get the money while the estate is being sorted out since it is not subject to probate. This is a good substitute for life insurance if you are older or uninsurable.

Last advantage is you can get a lifetime income. Most retirement plans give you income for 20 years. Before, you would retire at 65, and at 85, your income stopped. With an annuity, you can take a lifetime option. This means you will never outlive your income. Live to 85, you continue to get it. Live to 100,

Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049

—SPJST— gives cares shares

spjst.org/gives frankh@spjst.com 254-773-1575, ext. 177

From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing

From the State Fraternal Director

State Fraternal Director shares February adult, youth updates

We started 2023 with a great turnout for the State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament on Saturday, January 14. It was nice having a large crowd back in the Home Office enjoying fun and fellowship. Players joined us from Ennis, El Campo, Victoria, and the surrounding Temple area. I want to say a special thank you to Margie Faltesek of Lodge 48, Beyersville for bringing her delicious pecan brittle and sharing it with everyone. Glad to have you back attending the tournaments, Margie!

I am excited to see some of the photos coming in of our youth and adults making Valentine’s Day cards for the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center residents. I know the residents are going to be so excited to receive your special cards wishing them Happy Valentine’s Day. Adult members, please feel free to make these cards with your children and grandchildren. This can be fun and help one to release a day of stress.

Thank you . . . Thank you . . . to the 58 lodges that submitted all of their lodge’s 2022 paperwork by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 15. We will soon be announcing a new way to collect the fraternal and community service hours for 2023. The link will be on our own web-

site. We will also be scheduling workshops in the districts for lodge officers. We will also have some online workshops, too.

State Tournaments

All SPJST state tournaments will be held at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Registration is $30 per person and includes a noon meal and snacks. Register online at spjst.org.

Taroks

Saturday, February 4 Progressive Straight Dominoes Saturday, March 4 Regular 42 Dominoes Saturday, April 1

District and Lodge Incentives

We are rolling out the district and lodge incentive program for 2023. We will no longer be using the fraternalsgive website. However, data will be collected on our www.spjst.org/gives page. We will be scheduling trainings and online discussions on what can be collected and what doesn’t count. We will be also asking lodges to enter these hours on a quarterly basis.

The fraternal and insurance departments will be working hand-in-hand on lodges earning additional funds through “The Survivor Game” and SPJST Membership Drive.

100 Pennies Scholarship Drive

The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive for 2023 will conclude on March 31. Donations of any amount will be accepted and added to the scholarship fund. Donations can be made online at https://spjst.org/scholarships/ or mail to SPJST 100 Pennies, c/o Tammy Martinez, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. We appreciate your donations.

Souper Bowl

Thanks to all lodges and youth clubs that are collecting soup for the Souper Bowl. These collections will benefit your local community.

• SPJST lodges, youth clubs, and members are invited to collect and donate soup to a food bank near you. Contact your local food bank for specific needs.

• Photograph your soup donations. Submit your photos along with the total ounces donated to spjst.org/gives and share on social media using #spjstgives.

District Youth Counselors Workshop

The DYC workshop will be held on

Saturday, January 28 at the Home Office. I will have additional details about the youth program in the February 13 Vestnik

Statewide Camp

Camp registration will be opening soon. Watch our SPJST Facebook page and website for the opening date. Also, please note that for future planning purposes, SPJST camp will be held the week immediately after Father’s Day (Wednesday through Sunday).

All camper information entered last year into the registration system will make this year’s sign-up process much easier. However, many parents did not enter their children’s medication information into the system. This must be completed so we can be better organized for the staff nurse. Tammy has reworked the medication boxes in the application to allow all campers’ meds to be entered. Parents would need to login to the Amilia website to complete this process.

State Youth Showcase

State Youth Showcase will be a twoday get-together starting Friday, July 28 to Saturday, July 29. We will have a special event on Friday evening that will be very fun-filled! We will be sharing the news with you as soon as we finalize a few details.

February – Caring Challenge

After collecting and reviewing the information from the youth survey, many participants wanted to see a change with the Vestnik Projects. In following with our fraternal trends of giving back to our communities, we came up with Caring Challenges for each month in 2023. The February challenge appears on the left of this page. It goes along with the State Charity Project of collecting and donating soup for local food banks. I have been asked if this is only for the youth. These projects are meant to bring youth and the young-at-heart together — so yes, all members are welcome and encouraged to participate in these challenges. We have the complete list for 2023 on our website so you can better prepare for the challenge each month.

Fraternally, Frank Horak

State Fraternal Director —SPJST—

SPJST Recognizes its Longtime Members

Our heartfelt thanks for your membership!

Age 100 Members ~ Born in 1923

District One Lodge 39, Bryan Minnie Walker

Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station John Herman

District Two Lodge 47, Seaton Darryce Ross

Lodge 74, Lovelady Dorothy Davis

Lodge 177, Academy Carolyn Dorris

District Three Lodge 154, Fort Worth Mary Schneider

District Five Lodge 81, Needville Earl Cameron Winnifred Susan

Lodge 88, Houston Elda Federwisch Edward Lorenz Mary Oliveros

District Six Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Edna Krenek

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca Alton Lange

District Seven Lodge 133, San Antonio Doris Moczygemba

District Nine Lodge 999, Home Office George Meyers

District Three Lodge 25, Ennis Frank Zajdl

Lodge 35, Elk Norma Tinkle

Lodge 54, West Marguerite Kasik Raymond Matus Betty Moss

Lodge 66, Waco Willie Chandler

Lodge 84, Dallas George Babek Juanita Kolenovsky

Lodge 183, Arlington Raymond Mikeska

District Four Lodge 157, Lubbock Alvin Matak

Lodge 160, San Angelo Warren Broz Ava Davis Georgia Simcik

Age 96 Members ~ Born in 1927

District One Lodge 1, Fayetteville Alex Wrobleski

Lodge 9, Snook Clifton Junek

Lodge 94, Wheelock Earlene Koenig

Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Albert Scasta

Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Deloris Mikeska

District Two Lodge 15, Buckholts Anton Vrazel

Lodge 20, Granger Sadie Blaha

Lodge 24, Cyclone Viola Doskocil Anna Quick

Lodge 29, Taylor Ruth Boudny

Lodge 47, Seaton Iladene Hejl Eldora Janacek Anna Kasberg Willie Lutz

Lodge 74, Lovelady Joe Burton

Lodge 87, Temple Thelma Groppell

District Five Lodge 81, Needville Lydia Eicher Valentine Kusy Beatrice Pickett

Lodge 88, Houston Lillian Blinka John Bradley Henrietta Culak Margie Denson Jerry Esser Louise Hollub Verlin Huebel Lee Noska Joicey Parrott Eugene Shazer Betty Spence Jack Spence Evelyn Walker Dorothy Wind Adeline Zingelmann

Lodge 91, San Jacinto Jerry Vojacek

Lodge 191, Lufkin Benjamin Pyle

Lodge 196, Houston-West Alma Hutto

District Six Lodge 4, Hallettsville Leona Guenther

Lodge 23, Moravia Agnes Vrana

Lodge 28, East Bernard Rosalie Miculek

Lodge 32, Victoria Edith Cantrell Olivia Fagg

Lodge 63, Sweet Home Henrietta Wayland

Lodge 97, Placedo John Balusek

District Seven Lodge 133, San Antonio Moises Cadena

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Edward Vincik

75 ~ Year Members ~ Joined in 1948

District One

Lodge 1, Fayetteville

Linda Walla

Lodge 9, Snook Frank Jakubik Charles Sebesta

Lodge 13, Dime Box Deann Keilberg Bettye Solcher

Lodge 39, Bryan Robert Lys Elizabeth Stasny

Lodge 67, Schulenburg Charlene Simper

Lodge 94, Wheelock Ronald Williams

Lodge 141, Sealy Patrick Cieslewitz

Lodge 186, Caldwell Tony Luksa Mary Touchstone

Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Betty Stetz Ernest Wentrcek, Jr.

Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville Carol Broz

Ora Chernosky Delton Fick Blake Frank Carol Hegemeyer Glenn Kaase Pearlie Maresh Ruth Schroeder

District Two Lodge 15, Buckholts Doris Svetlik

Lodge 18, Elgin Agnes Eschberger

Lodge 20, Granger Nelson Hall Lodge 24, Cyclone Gloria Bullion Reuben Marek

Lois Martinec

James Psencik

Marilyn Rothaus Jon Simek

Ronald Stepan Carolyn Wells

Lodge 29, Taylor Dorothy Ging Henrietta Hyzak Janet Lillie Janet Mcreynolds

Norman Miksch Charles Rieger Willie Schlickeisen Nelda Torres

Lodge 47, Seaton Helen Belson Johnnie Elsik, Jr. Marilyn Herring Margie Kelarek Edwin Marek Janet Measels

Linda Mikeska Joe Pechal Glenn Pfeiffer Dorothy Richter

Lodge 87, Temple Johnnie Chupik Bonnie Fowler Judy Millender Lannette Ranly

District Three Lodge 6, Cottonwood Rudolf Novotny Betty Watts

Lodge 25, Ennis Doris Krajca

Lodge 35, Elk Sharon Pelletiere

Lodge 54, West Patricia Cloud

Lodge 66, Waco Georgia Nors Larry Shumake

Lodge 84, Dallas Laddie Gajdica Sally McBride Wayne Slama

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Dianne Cannestra

Angela Casteel Linda Dean Barbara Martinek Bernard Polk

Lodge 130, Dallas Jerry Hosek, Jr. Wm. Janes Lawrence Janousek Kathleen Pottkotter Milton Vrla, Jr.

District Four Lodge 49, Rowena Dennis Jezek Patsy Kahlig Ronnie Smetana

District Five Lodge 81, Needville Helen Deiss Vlasta Smerek

Lodge 88, Houston Mary Burke Richard Darilek Elsie Deskins Vlasta Elzner Roy Flukinger Robert Hilsher John Kahanek, III James Kresta Beverly Layne James Leblanc, Jr. Dorothy Mowrey Diane Ricklefsen Robert Samohyl Sylvia Stegent Charleen Winn Mary Wisnoski

Lodge 139, Danbury Jo Caruth Thomas Caruth A. Christensen, Jr. Margaret Rose

Lodge 172, Pasadena Martin Buresh

District Six Lodge 4, Hallettsville Franklin Jahn, Jr.

Lodge 28, East Bernard Elizabeth Barta Alice Coody Raymond Hanzelka Gene Hruzek Bernice Janik

Lodge 30, Taiton Gloria Krpec Norman Peter

Lodge 32, Victoria James Damborsky James Duge Marilyn Fehlis Doris McNabb

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Anthony Gerla Helen Heitman Paul Holub David Kresta Christine Newton George Osina Daniel Pasak Diane Rodriguez

Lodge 63, Sweet Home Robert Berkovsky

Lodge 148, El Maton James Henkes Henry Pecha

Lodge 184, Moulton Sharrell Alber

District Seven Lodge 79, Corpus Christi Robert Hanus

Marjorie Jostes Edward Kucera Genevieve Schwirtlich Leona Short Ted Stasney Annie Thompson

Lodge 117, Robstown Karen Criswell

Lodge 133, San Antonio Lana Khodabakhsh

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Charlene Calhoun Buddy Myska

50 ~ Year Members ~ Joined in 1973

District One

Lodge 1, Fayetteville

Diane Geistmann

Elizabeth Geistmann

Brian Kubala

Rosemarie Rohde

Cecilia B. Vasicek

Cecilia M. Vasicek

Lodge 9, Snook

Kristine Brisco

Joshua Forburger

Justin Forburger

Tonya Forburger Sara Hyvl Cecil Reynolds, II Diana Rutherford

Annette Skopik Carolyn Skopik Melissia Skopik Bruce Skrabanek

Lodge 13, Dime Box

Sharla Ahrendt Russell Bay Craig Seal

Lodge 17, New Tabor

Mary Bills

Vera Dubcak

Richard Hogan, Jr. Donna Howell

Paul Ihlenfeldt

Donna Rychlik

Gary Sebesta James Speer Mark Stefka

Michael Stracener Gail Urbanovsky

Lodge 21, Engle

Deborah Riha Mark Riha Susan Riha

Lodge 38, Kovar

Barbara Bassham

Renee Blaschke

Billy Fritz Gail Fritz

Max Jones Ruth Whitehead

Lodge 39, Bryan

Diann Eggers

Elizabeth Foster Kelli Litterst

Lodge 51, Ellinger

George Bergfeld, Sr. Helen Krenek Marcia Mikeska

Lodge 67, Schulenburg

Deborah Krenek Ronald Krenek

Lodge 94, Wheelock Barbara Axtell

Lodge 141, Sealy Betsy Harlan Susan Jurik Gladys Pomikal

Lodge 169, Brenham Carol Bilski

Cynthia Bilski Christopher Canglose Kevin Hemann

Lodge 179, Warrenton Peggy Beard Kirby Oltmann Rhonda Oltmann Patsy Zwernemann

Lodge 186, Caldwell Lancier Brinkman

Leon Cash Lourine Churchill Marshall Harrell Barbara Lewis

Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Dana Busa

Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville

Vicky Draehn Rita Faithauer Carolyn Fisher Sherry Kruger Brenda Mize Kimberly Rowan Ronald Shupak

Edwin Shupak, Jr. Stephanie Stolz Marlene Zettel

District Two Lodge 15, Buckholts

Karen Hejl Kelly Offield David West Tina West Virginia Williams

Lodge 18, Elgin

Terry Cole James Mogonye Paul Mogonye Tracy Mogonye Christel Mucha Kimberly Nelson Paul Peterson Shirleen Sandifer

Lodge 20, Granger Alvin Bohac Brianna Bohac Michelle Eanes Alan Ebner Kelly Loessin Cynthia Meyners Gregory Shirocky Rebecca Steffek Rebecca Tomasek James Townsend

Lodge 24, Cyclone

Virgil Coots, Jr. Jo Culpepper Drew Hall Stephanie Marek Maxie Morgan Ronald Psencik Francis Reese Judy Sitz Georgia Stermer Jason Volek Kristie Waits

Lodge 29, Taylor Wayne Cuba Jennifer Hamann Kenda Hejl Russell Hyvl Gary Johle Ralph Johle Rose Machu Chad McMakin Cristi Minzenmayer Ronnie Rieger Henry Ripple, Jr. Amy Volek Randall Zavodny Mary Zimmerhanzel Connie Zycha

Lodge 47, Seaton

Elizabeth Aldrich Debra Alexander Allan Andrews Kelli Andrews Jeffrey Bartek Brandie Ciceri Debora Cripe Billy Croslow, Jr. Kenneth Heese Martin Heese

Martha Holloway

Lisa Hull

William Keith, Jr. Marilyn Kopriva Sharon Kopriva Ryan Leshikar Ryan McGlothlin

Cheryl Prater Brian Stork Juanita Weir Jimmy Williams Monica Williams Robert Williams, Jr. Cynthia Yates Mary Zavodny

Lodge 48, Beyersville

Kenda Ballew Kendall Klaus Donald Knott Bryan Kruse Anissa Lopez Koda Mushinski Kie Mushinski, Jr.

Lodge 74, Lovelady Wanda Allison

Jody Bobalik Mary Bobalik Terri Bobalik Leonard Bond Russell Bond Bobbie Brown Carl Buford Joe Burton Perry Corder Jesse Dominy James Dowell John Dowell Rhonda Dowell Rebecca Driskell Pamela Fannett

Leanne Hartgrove Rita Hobson Burl Hobson, Jr. Troy Langham John Lowery Rinthie Lowery Linda Masten Joe Melson Stephen Parrish

William Pascoe, Jr. Daisy Phillips Dudley Phillips Harold Stewart Charles Strickland Howard Thomas David Thornton Lisa Tunstall Marion Wink

Lodge 80, Holland

Charles Kohring

Joyce Martinets

Deborah Morris

William Riggan, Jr. Stephanie Sladovnik

Lodge 87, Temple

David Fronek

Janice Gorden

Elaine Hanold Shawn Hobbs

Pamela Hummel

Edward Hurta, Jr. Bob Odom Stacey Reisner Sandra Sawyer Lisa Sullivan

Lodge 155, Austin

William Hejl

Lodge 177, Academy Kimberly Adams

Pamela Adams Billy Bennett Shirley Bland Terrance Bland Michael Cox Richard Deweese Mary Dusek Virginia Kelsey Darrell Massar

Edwin Massar William May Raymond Messer Wanda Messer

Joseph Smith Tracy Smith Mary Underwood

Lodge 187, Round Rock Connie Hoelscher

District Three Lodge 6, Cottonwood

Sandra Barton

James Gerik

James Hromadka

Mary Lander

Kristina Lenart

Patrick Matus

Becki Mynar

David Mynar Beverly Uptmor

Lodge 25, Ennis

Robert Honza

Wesley Juricek

Candy Killen Wesley Knize

Leslie Luksa

Rodney Mach

Joseph Valek

Michael Valek Jason Zhanel

Lodge 35, Elk Jason Brown William Hejl

Ronald Kunkel

Richard Pavelka

Michael Pavlovsky John Pechacek

Rhonda Reesing Steven Vicha

Lodge 54, West

Jeffrey Holloman Becky Kapavik Roger Kirby

David Kocian Jeffery Kubacak Jill Kubacak

George Mynar Charles Nemec Brian Scott Derek Scott Kathy Stroud Mary Zahirniak

Lodge 66, Waco Thomas Bessire

Michael Brem Sharon Clark Samantha Firquin Terry Gerik Rayford Glaze Jennifer Jank Judith Kaska Jason Neill Christie Rogers Jerry Rogers Linda Rogers Elizabeth Scheffer Mary Schroeder Brian Trainor

Patrick Traywick Charles Uptmor Henry Veselka Sherry White Bradley Wright

Lodge 82, Ennis Jennifer Caldwell

Lodge 84, Dallas

Brandon Andreason Margaret Barnes Liam Carr Gary Edmondson Cynthia Edwards Jane Franks Craig Gaiser Diane Griser Matthew Gurecky

Albert Haluzan, III Kim Heider Brad Hendrik Shirley Hennig Donna Hunter Randolph Kozlovsky Jerrel Kutil Brian Martin Loren McCutchen Peter Nemec James Novak Rosalyn Olds Randy Olson Frances Petr Cheryl Petr Sharon Schumaker Carol Scott Janet Songer Deborah Tomson Joy Zabojnik

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Betty Boles Marion George Richard Gurney David Kaska Barbara Kozel David Kozel Donna Kozel Craig Lesikar John Murphy, III David Oujesky Mark Phillips Randell Rankin Mary Rhodes Calvin Ruzicka Cheryl Ruzicka Frankie Tesar Jeanette Tesar John Tesar

Lodge 130, Dallas Josef Maca Laura Pottkotter

Lodge 135, Ennis Michelle Dlabaj Sally Valek

Lodge 154, Fort Worth

Mary Cowen Shauna Cowen Jean Frantom Michael Mason Wanda Mason Ronald Robbins Nancy Seviek Shawn Stanford Mary Steinman Brandon Strittmatter Deborah Wood

Lodge 180, Burleson Brian Greenlees

District Four Lodge 73, Seymour Bonnie Ellington Margaret Ellington Deborah Judge Jay Tomanek

Lodge 76, Wichita Falls Karen Thompson

Lodge 160, San Angelo Steven Capps Renee Hoelscher Pamela Wilde

Lodge 215, South Plains Celeste Livengood Judy Odinek Felicia Reeves

District Five Lodge 81, Needville

Carol Boettcher Dennis Brazda Diane Dawes Shad Groze James Hurta Mark Janik Daniel Kolar Amber Krobot Andrew Krobot Terry Miller Katherine Minter Gilbert Pekar Michelle Pesak Dorothy Shumbera Eugene Sykora Barry Vacek, III Nancy Voegler

Mark Vogler

Vicki Vogler Gary Vojtek Wayne Warren Kathryn Wleczyk William Zela

Lodge 88, Houston

Esther Alvarado

Frank Alvarado Lisa Alvarado Thomas Alvarado Cynthia Anderson Edward Banks

Michelle Banks Barbara Bannister Catherine Bannister

Jesse Bannister Gary Blahuta Hattie Bledsoe Charles Boatman

Joseph Boswell

Wanda Boswell

Melissa Brown

Cathy Brummett

Celeste Budwit

Michael Bulgawitz

Wesley Bulgawitz

Lacinda Cadro

Ruth Cain

Jacqueline Chude

Michael Cobb

Christina Cocek Janet Cook

Linda Crane

Angela Davis

Cathy Davis

Phyllis Davis Shirley Davis

Robin Duke

Donna Durham

Nicole Durossette

Deborah Earnest

Nancy Etzler

Kevin Federwisch

Susan Frazier

Veronica Freyer

Janet Garcia

Olga Gonzales

Norma Griswold

Kristi Hallmark

Patricia Hallmark

William Hallmark

Cheryl Hatten

Deborah Hatten

Gerald Hatten

Karen Hatten

Rita Hatten

Theresa Hatten

Brian Havemann

Martin Hearn

Shirley Hein Charles Henke

Kent Hermis

Gregory Hilligiest

Stanley Hilligiest

F. Hoeninghaus, II

Jane Holton

Travis Jackson

Charles James

Lisa James Charles James, II

Roberta Johnson

Sharon Joseph

George Kadera, Jr.

Daryl Kadlecek

Annette Kelarek

Steven Kelly

Elizabeth Kiel

Josef Klam

Brian Knapek

Sharon Koudelka

Cynthia Krolczyk

Donna Krolczyk

Michaeline Krolczyk

Jennifer Kunkel

Kelley Legg

Cynthia Lloyd

Arthur Machala

Steve Madison

Cynthia Majkszak

Cynthia Malina David Maloch

Joe Martin

Jennifer Meiners

Juan Melchor, Jr.

Frances Miles

Patricia Neskorik

Gary Pape

Karen Parker

Gregory Pavlas

Kenneth Pavloske

Linda Pavloske

Raymond Pavloske

Ronald Pavloske

Stephany Pavloske

Richard Pennington

Richard Pennington

William Pennington

Louis Petry

Edward Petry, Jr. Michael Psencik Mark Rhodes Leah Roberts

Samuel Saladino, III

Jennifer Sanitz Rodney Santopolo Claren Scasta

John Semander, Jr. Suzanne Sheaffer

Kristen Shepherd Danette Sills

Terryl Sissom Sherri Slanina Susan Smith

Edna Sorensen Margaret Spilker Eric Stone

Tracey Todd Deborah Traylor Richard Vacek, Jr.

James Vanwinkle Mona Vanwinkle

Todd Vanwinkle

Willard Walden, Jr. Ella Walker

Shawn Walla Tina Webb Nancy Wenzel

Thomas Westerman Mary Whitfield

Brian Wischnewsky Gina Wischnewsky Heather Wischnewsky Linda Wischnewsky

Donna Wright Albert Zarosky Daniel Zarosky Walter Zarosky

Lodge 91, San Jacinto

Cynthia Boland Heath Harlien Phyllis Harlien Cecil Harlien, Jr. William Jordan, Jr. Karen Kratky Sharon Kratky Grace McKay Connie Owens Thomas Prochazka Staci Sebesta

Lodge 139, Danbury Joe Bulanek James Chafin Jason Filipp Robert Johnson, Jr. John Vrazel Mildred Vrazel Philip Vrazel Deborah Warner

Lodge 142, Houston Stephen Brezina Keith Kieschnick Barbara Kubeczka Garrett Liles Loren Luke Russell Luke Donna Pomikal Byron Rodenburg Jo Roznovsky Martha Roznowski Annette Strayer Diane Wishkoski Frances Wishkoski Ronnie Wishkoski

Lodge 172, Pasadena Bryan Elleven Cheryl Fritts Louis Zucha

Lodge 196, Houston-West Debbie Benesh Carrie Delancey Natalie Diers Rose Diers Gene Fischer Mattie Hansen Alfred Hutto Alma Hutto Debra Hutto George Hutto John Hutto Larry Hutto Terry Junek Carrie Killion Margaret Moore Michael Moore Andrew Pike Connie Rice

District Six Lodge 4, Hallettsville Kelly Grones Don Holly Randy Judd Alan Lorfing Kathleen Muenster William Pastucha Lillian Rabel Marlyn Sevcik Sharon Wilkens

Lodge 8, Weimar Donna Rigsby Jennifer Windberg

Lodge 23, Moravia Debra Berger Theodore Vanek

Lodge 28, East Bernard Weldon Ferrell Ronald Fojtik Jeffrey Janik Donna Sears Joe Valigura, Jr. Betty Zahradnik

Lodge 30, Taiton Lisa Altenhoff Mary Beery Diane Dluhos Jerome Dorotik, Jr. Lori Kocurek

Lodge 32, Victoria Katy Davis Mark Davis Reymundo De Los Santos Roberto De Los Santos Darren Drastata Kyle Duge Kathryn Hodgson Laura Huber

Edward Kalinowski, III Julie Kubena Michael Lyons Noble Malik Celeste Matejicek Patrick Schneider

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Vlasta Bartos

Giovanna Boff Kevin Boff Kathy Chase

John Dirba, Jr. Brenda Ermis Robert Ermis Christopher Henke Michael Kana Robert Marek Jeffrey Reckaway

Richard Sablatura

Nick Schwartzkopf

Wayne Socha

Wanda Taylor

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca

Rachel Bonuz

Kenneth Pustejovsky

Steven Pustejovsky

Judith Townsend

Lodge 63, Sweet Home

Catherine Sanders

Laverne Walleck

Lodge 97, Placedo

Gary Tomas

Lodge 148, El Maton

Linda Griffith

Denise Kazmiroski

Marilyn Murray

Cathy Rickaway

Kristy Siptak

Lodge 151, Wharton

Karen Alford

James Bucek

Mary Bucek

Howard Johnson

Bruce Reckaway

Debra Sabrsula

Eleanor Spacek

Angeline Wasicek

Lodge 184, Moulton

David Jochen

Marla Stock

Randy Vana

District Seven Lodge 79, Corpus Christi

Lynette Bivens

Vera Farek

Kitty Gorbet

Brent Holubec

Frankie Holubec

Diana Huff

SPJST extends its thanks and appreciation to the many members who are achieving membership landmarks in 2023.

The preceding pages list the SPJST members achieving 50 and 75 years of membership in SPJST, Age 96 and Age 100

William King

Barbara Kubala

Patricia Kubala

Taunia Lee

Amy Majek

Milena Sacky

Lisa Sandefur

Elizabeth Tamez

Sandra Wallek

Lodge 107, Floresville

Homer Burkett

Chad Lyssy

Terry Pfeil

Ryan Smith

Jeffrey Svoboda

Kimberly Svoboda

Randall Svoboda

Timothy Svoboda

Timothy Swientek

Lodge 117, Robstown

Mary Botello

Brenda Escobedo

Beverly Pavelka

Kay Wauson

Lodge 133, San Antonio

Randall Prokop

Kathy Uribe John Valchar

Lodge 202, Jourdanton

John Blalock

Wilson Blalock

Donna Blazek

William Blazek

Patrick Fojtik, Jr.

David Meyer

Joe Meyer

Sharon Myska

Jennifer Picarazzi

Beverly Saunders Jeanie Starr

Tricia Taylor

Laura Vrana

—SPJST—

members. Congratulations to these honorees. If a deceased member’s name is included on this list, please contact Tammy Martinez at 254-773-1575, ext. 164 so that our records can be updated. Thank you.

—SPJST—

SPJST LODGE SECTION

The deadline for Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Send your news and photos to:

SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo

Questions? Call 800-727-7578

Lodge 4, Hallettsville members, friends enjoy Christmas party

Dear Members, Lodge 4, Hallettsville held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at Vsetin Educational Building beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Upon arriving, members and guests registered and were greeted by Secretary/Treasurer Helen Zabransky and Jennifer Hessler.

At noon, President Joe Siptak welcomed everyone and gave the meal prayer. A delicious meal of fried chicken provided by the lodge and a large variety of side dishes and desserts brought by the members were enjoyed.

After the meal, President Siptak recognized our 50-year and 75-year members who were present.

FAC Annie Vahalik then led everyone in singing Christmas carols. “The 12 Days of Christmas” was sung with different members singing the various parts. It was a lot of fun.

Door prizes were won by Pat Hessler, Alene Steffek, Judy Grones, Gaye Ann Galetka, Vicky Zak, Joe Siptak, Bernice Marek, Adolph Marek, Alton Sevcik, Gaynell Chudej, Sarah Sralik, Dorothy Henneke, Susan Siptak, Sandy Holy, Barbara Steffek, Ricky Steffek, Philip Vahalik, and Mary Schroeder. Many thanks to the lodge and members who donated prizes.

Everyone then enjoyed playing bingo. Thank you to FAC Annie for organizing bingo and President Joe for calling the numbers. They did a great job!

Everyone departed for home with an SPJST cup filled with candy and in the Christmas spirit.

Next Meeting—February 12

The next meeting will be Sunday, February 12 at the Chamber meeting room at 3 p.m. Door prizes will be given, and lunch served as usual.

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 6, Cottonwood plans Feb. 26 appreciation dinner

The Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting was called to order by Brother Don Urbanovsky, who greeted us with “Happy New Year!” Sister Courtney McGuire led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST pledge. Attendance was 11 adults, five youth, and one guest.

The lodge minutes and treasury reports were presented by Secretary Sister Barbara Hykel. Both reports were approved by members present. The fraternal updates were given by Fraternal Activities Coordinator Sister Jeanette Beseda. Dates for taroky and domino tournaments were provided. February 1 is the deadline for submitting valentine greetings that will be printed in the February 13 Vestnik. The Home Office is encouraging food bank donations, as well as other charitable projects.

Sister Hykel reported sending a get well card to Pam Urbanovsky. Sympathy cards were sent to Lillie Marie Mynar, Bennie Mynar, Rose Marie Mynar, Becky Price, Ben Fish, Mike Matus, James Hromadka, Larry Hromadka, and Raymond Joe Hromadka. Thank you cards for Lodge 6 donations were received from the Czech Museum

in Temple, West Museum, and West Public Library.

Under old business, Brother Urbanovsky gave a summary of our lodge Christmas party that was held on December 4. We had a good turnout, and many thanks to everyone who prepared the meal and desserts. Thank you to Peggy Dobecka and Kevin Berger for arranging for Santa’s visit. We discussed the preparation of the appreciation dinner. Lodge members are asked to invite all volunteers who helped the lodge during one or more of Lodge 6’s fundraising events. The date and time for this event will be Sunday, February 26 at 12:30 p.m. Brother

James Nemec made a gracious offer of his family preparing the food for the appreciation event so funds could remain in-house. After discussion, membership thanked Brother Nemec and decided to cater the event since it was next month. The Nemec family’s offer will be revisited in the future when there is more time to plan.

Under new business, Brother Urbanovsky announced that Kim Seith will be chair of the charitable contributions committee. Brother Urbanovsky encouraged members to join in the SPJST game tournaments. Officers will be installed at the next lodge meeting on Sunday, February 5. Sister Hykel

volunteered to prepare a noon meal. A trustee meeting will be held between the meal and meeting.

Birthday for January was Sister Barbara Hykel, and membership sang “Happy Birthday” to her. The progressive door prize drawn was Grace Banik. Attendance door prizes were awarded to Sister Hykel, Sister Amber Perez, and Sister Jeanette Beseda. The meeting was then adjourned.

Next Meeting—February 5

The next meeting is Sunday, February 5 at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall.

Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—

SPJST hosts State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament

The start of a new year is a time to celebrate. Saturday, January 14, 2023, turned out to be a day of excitement for 28 players in the SPJST State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament. Last year, due to covid, we had 13 players cancel right before the tournament began, leaving us 16 players. It’s great to see that the number of players increased for 2023. Everyone had a good time competing, seeing one another, missing those that could not be there, and getting caught up on life after years of not seeing one another.

The players participating in the 14-round tournament all said they had a great time. After every third round, the top winner received a

$2 lottery ticket. District Six Director Annie Vahalik of Lodge 4, Hallettsville won two tickets — and she was a $9 winner! Congratulations, Annie!

As in years past, we had the winner of the box of Lucky Charms cereal and $5 lottery ticket. We had many players saying they wanted to play for that. To win the prize, all you need to do is have the lowest score. This year’s winner was Janice Heinrich from the Granger area. Congratulations, Janice, on winning $25 on the lottery ticket!

Melanie and David provided soup and sandwiches for lunch with a variety of cookies for dessert.

Congratulations to the tournament winners:

1st - Dwain Smith of Waco 2nd - Jimmie Coufal

Lodge 47, Seaton

3rd - Denyse Richter of Taylor 4th - Mary Ann Cerny Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Thanks to all participants. We look forward to seeing everyone again at the next tournaments: taroks on Saturday, February 4; progressive straight dominoes on Saturday, March 4; and 42 dominoes on Saturday, April 1.

Fraternally, Frank Horak

State Fraternal Director —SPJST—

Congratulations to tournament winners, front, left to right, first place - Dwain Smith of Waco; second - Jimmie Coufal of Lodge 47, Seaton; third - Denyse Richter of Taylor, back, second from left; and fourth - Mary Ann Cerny of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje. They are pictured with State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, back, left, and Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez, back, right.

Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas party scenes

Sunday, December 11, 2023 • Vsetin Educational Building • Submitted by Annie Vahalik, Vice President/FAC

ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: Helen Zabransky, seated in back, and Jennifer Hessler greet Judy and Allen Grones at the registration table. PHOTO 2: Alene Steffek, Pat Hessler, and Vicky Zak. PHOTO 3: Dorothy Hen-

neke, Bernice and Adolph Marek. PHOTO 4: Lodge 4 President Joe Siptak, left, with 75-year member Dorothy Henneke and 50-year member Ricky Steffek.

ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: Patsy Zabransky and Jennifer Hessler make meal preparations. PHOTO 2: Sandra Holy, and Ricky and Barbara Steffek. PHOTO 3: Sarah and Alfred Sralik. PHOTO 4: Philip Vahalik, left, and Joe

Siptak. BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO: Patsy Zabransky hands out goodie bags. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: Members enjoy fellowship at Lodge 4’s Christ mas social.

ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: Annie Vahalik, standing, verifies Gayenell Chudej’s bingo. PHOTO 2: Seated around the table are Joe Siptak; Gayenell and Alton Chudej; Alton and Marlyn Sevcik; Gaye Galetka; Laurie Leer;

Allen and Judy Grones. PHOTO 3: Joe Siptak and Annie Vahalik lead the bingo games. RIGHT PHOTO: Susan Siptak, Bernice Marek, and Gayenell Chudej assist with serving tea for the Christmas meal.

Lodge 8, Weimar meets February 27

Lodge 8, Weimar will have its first meeting of the new year on Monday, February 27, 2023, at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg, Texas, at 12 noon. Please try to attend. We would love to see you.

Pray the new year is going good for everybody.

Take care, God bless, be safe.

Carolyn M. Tobola Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 9, Snook welcomes new member

The Wednesday, January 4, 2023, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 6:56 p.m. James Schoeneman led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the December meeting were approved. Hall manager, communications, treasurer, and statewide reports were presented.

The youth club had a busy November

Happy Birthday, Barbara Hykel!

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville

The 2023 officers of Lodge 4, Hallettsville are, Secretary/Treasurer Helen Zabransky, seated, in front, and back, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik, President Joe Siptak, and Reporter Patsy Zabransky.

hall have been re-waxed, and the chair racks have been assembled. A big thank you to Randy Gaas, Ted Dusek, Donna Jones, and Susan Skrabanek for completing these projects. The lodge, in conjunction with the youth club and CSA Lodge 277 will be delivering valentine bags to the local nursing homes. The youth will be making valentine cards, CSA is providing the raisins, and our lodge will be purchasing bananas and ziplock bags. Plans are to have the youth deliver these prior to Valentine’s Day.

Next Meeting—February 5

and December. They are planning an activity for February. They sent off 20 Operation Christmas Child boxes.

We accepted one new member –Sadie Hargrove.

We discussed getting the back thermostat fixed and the floors redone.

The meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

Next Meeting—February 1

The next meeting is Wednesday, February 1 at 7 p.m.

Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 17, New Tabor hosts successful Christmas social

Lodge 17, New Tabor held its regular monthly meeting on Sunday, January 8, 2023. President Randy Gaas called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. All officers were present except Holly Narro who was at a youth club outing with the youth club. Secretary Betty Suehs read the minutes from the December meeting. Susan Skrabanek gave the treasurer’s report and hall report. Betty Suehs gave the fraternal and youth report for Holly. The youth were meeting at Urban Air in Bryan-College Station for their meeting and social activity. The quarterly charity is “Souper Bowl,” which is donating soup to charitable organizations. Our donations will be placed in the blessing boxes around town. Correspondence included accept-

ing one new member to our lodgeBrynn Olivia Paul.

Under old business, our annual Christmas social and memorial service was well attended. Our departed members that were remembered at this service included: Lillian Williams, Gladys Hejl, Edwin Hlavaty, and Milton Mynar. We also paid tribute to Ashley Victorick and Judy Richardson, supporters of our lodge and youth. Reverend Joseph Polasek did an excellent job with the memorial service; Jacob’s Catering provided an excellent chicken fried steak meal; the youth gave a wonderful program; and Santa Claus was a big hit with the 25-plus youth in attendance.

Under new business, the floors in the

The meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p.m. until the next meeting on Sunday, February 5 at 2 p.m. After the meeting, Randy, Ted, Susan, Mikaela (my new wife), and I moved the tables and chairs to their correct location.

Kyle Skrabanek, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin welcomes the new year

Well, we have the same officers we had for the last few years. We really would like to see some new faces. I don’t know when we will be able to attend the meetings again. With all the doctor appointments, it’s hard to find time for anything else. The dances are not very well attended, and the bands need to get paid better. We do have rent-

SPJST Gives to Granger Food Pantry

Lodge 20, Granger Treasurer Brenna Bohac, far right, and District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, second from right, present donation checks to representatives of Granger Food Pantry.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood sang “Happy Birthday” to Secretary Sister Barbara Hykel at the January meeting. Happy birthday, Barbara! Blessings to you!

—Patti Rosales, Reporter

als. We could use some new faces to help. We sure would like to see some of our members take interest in coming to help with the rentals. For information, please call Charles Wilson 512-9140375. SPJST has so much to offer - annuities, insurance, many youth projects, youth camp, and so much more. With no obligation, come to one of our meetings and meet the officers: President David Meyer, Vice President Mike Mogonye, Secretary-Treasurer Charles Wilson, and Reporter Irene Vrabel. We have a beautiful hall, and we want you to come check us out. This is a good place for family fun . . . let’s not let it just fade away.

Irene Vrabel, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone sets Super Bowl fundraiser

Lodge 24, Cyclone President Brenda Maddux called the meeting to order, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and had a silent prayer for our deceased members. President Maddux posted her agenda for the meeting. Secretary Cathy Bruggman read the minutes from November which was the last time we had a meeting at the hall.

Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report. Cathy Bruggman gave the fraternal report of the tarok and domino tournaments to be held at the Home Office. The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive is underway, and scholarship applications are to be completed online at spjst.org by February 1. The annual barbecue chicken dinner has been canceled.

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 20, Granger

President/Ceo Vanicek visits Texas State Capitol on his Birthday

An AED will be ordered for the hall. Daniel Wilde will see to the dance floor. Several bands are being talked to about a dance. A fundraiser based on the Super Bowl will be sold for $100 per square. Call this writer for a square at 254-9130915.

Birthday celebrants were Daniel Wilde and Steve Bruggman. Anniversary celebrants are Alice and Bobby Hoelscher - 62 years. On the sick list is Justin Psencik.

Tickets for Squeeze Box on Sunday, February 5 are going fast. Hamburgers will be offered. Please plan to dine with us.

We appreciated all who attended our New Year’s Eve dance.

For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone matches funds to Ronald McDonald House

Lodge 24, Cyclone donated to the Ronald McDonald House with the funds from District Two Director Jesse Pospisil’s discretionary fund. The lodge matched the $100 donation.

Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 29, Taylor to sponsor Little League teams

by the community. The first quarter challenge is the Souper Bowl canned soup drive from January 1 through March 30. Members were encouraged to bring cans of soup to the meetings and after the end of March, we will distribute the canned soup to Shepherds Heart Pantry. Ronnie made a motion for Lodge 29 to donate $100 towards buying cans of soup, and Barbara Ny-

SPJST gives to Taylor Lions Club

SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, right, celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, with a visit to the Texas State Capitol — and an opportunity to call on some of our legislative friends on the first day of the 88th Texas Legislature. He is pictured here with 55th District State Representative Hugh Shine who is a member of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple. Happy birthday, President/ CEO Vanicek!

Lodge 24, Cyclone to host Mollie B and Ted Lange

Lodge 24, Cyclone invites all to dance to the music of Mollie B and Ted Lange and the SqueezeBox Band from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at Flag Hall, 411 FM 964 Rd, Cyclone, Texas. Doors and kitchen open at 12 noon. For reservations, call 254-9852258.^

Fraternally, Daniel and Linda Wilde —SPJST—

President Ronnie Rieger opened the first meeting of 2023 for Lodge 29, Tay lor on Wednesday, January 11 with the Pledge of Allegiance. He asked for a moment of silence for our departed members and our servicemen. Officer roll call showed all officers present. The December minutes were read and ap proved.

Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report for November and December.

Linda gave the fraternal report. Lodge 29 received the awards of Best Bar, Best Music, and Best Bartender from the Readers Choice Awards included in the Taylor Press and voted on

The 2023 officers of Lodge 20, Granger are, left to right, Vice President David Kerlin, Treasurer Brenna Bohac, Secretary/Reporter Jvonne Elwood, Assistant Youth Leader Emilie Tischler, President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator/FAC Bridget Bohac, and Youth Leader Brita Bohac.

District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, left, presents a donation from his discretionary fund to Taylor Lions Club.

grin seconded. The motion passed. The SPJST State Camp will be from June 21 to June 25. The State Youth Showcase will be in Temple on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29. The SPJST Scholarship application season ends February 1. Each month, the Vestnik project will now be a monthly challenge, and all ages are encouraged to participate. The January challenge is to make a valentine(s) by drawing a picture and/or writing an encouraging message. Mail the valentine(s) by January 31 to SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503-0100. The valentines will be presented to residents at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers in Taylor, Hillje, and Needville.

Jesse reported the Lions Club Chili Supper will be held at the Taylor SPJST on Thursday, January 26. It will be drive-thru pickup only. He also discussed sponsoring Little League baseball and softball teams by purchasing a banner with our name on it. Kevin Carr made a motion to purchase a banner, and Albin Machu seconded. The motion passed. Jesse and Albin discussed the increased interest rates that SPJST annuities are paying.

Adolph Grieger advised members that the Taylor Rodeo Association is having its annual fundraiser in March. Jesse made a motion for Lodge 29 to purchase a ticket as we have done in the past, and Frankie Pustejovsky seconded. The motion passed.

Donald Ray and Lillian Pacha transferred from Lodge 80 to Lodge 29. Adolph Grieger made a motion to accept the new members, and Albin Machu seconded. The motion passed. Welcome to Donald and Lillian!

Members celebrating birthdays in January include Cristy Girod, Tammy Cannon, Leonard Kaderka, Aaron Kaderka, Amanda Kaderka, Dorothy Markert, Reagan Miller, Dorothy Skrhak, Peggy Dewbre, Kevin Carr, and Gregory Buzan.

Barbara Nygrin donated door prizes. Mary Jane Pustejovsky volunteered to bring door prizes for next month.

The meeting adjourned.

Next Meeting—February 8

The next meeting will be Wednesday, February 8 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary/Reporter/FAC —SPJST—

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Congratulations to SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor! The lodge recently received several Readers’ Choice Awards from Taylor Press The awards were Best Bar, Best Music, and Best Bartender (Carol Pitts). The historic Lodge 29 hall was dedicated on July 4, 1934. The hall is located at 5025 FM 619 in Taylor and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 10 p.m. Free dances are held on Fridays from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., and hamburgers are available. For more information, visit taylorspjst.com or call 512-352-9139.

Lodge 35, Elk reports on remodel project

President Randy Pavelka called the SPJST and Elk Hall, Inc. meetings to order on Wednesday January 11, 2023, at 7:01 p.m. Twelve members and two guests were present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.

Secretary Carla Price read the December meeting reports and with a correction, they were approved. Treasurer Cari Hammer was not present so Tammy Pavelka gave the reports for her. Floor Chair Gene Pavelka gave his turnin, and Bar Chair Randy Pavelka also gave his report with a nice turn-in.

Under old unfinished business, the gravel for the parking lot was delivered, and the guys will get it spread. Thank you.

We have been getting many compliments on the lady’s restroom since some remodeling. New tissue dispensers will

be installed as well. Thank you all for all you do.

With no other business, the meeting adjourned at 7:16 p.m.

Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—

The 2023 officers of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje are, from left, Secretary Carol Garcia, President/Youth Leader Cathy Garcia, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kate Manrriquez, Treasurer Felix T. Garcia. Not pictured is Assistant Youth Leader Felicia Garcia.

Lodge 29, Taylor Member Robert Kovar donates vintage SPJST photos

Special thanks to SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor member Robert Kovar for stopping by the Home Office and donating several historic SPJST photos. These photos have been scanned in for our online archive and will be placed in our lodge archives.

The two Granger photos by the famous Granger photographer - John Trlicahave his writing on them at the bottom. I read Czech writing very little and have to rely on Google Translate which does a pretty fair job, but sometimes doesn’t translate the Texas Czech that evolved some after our ancestors immigrated.

Regarding the photo of Lodge 48, Beyersville Hall, I had put a date in writing on the back of the original and on my photo identifying some people based upon some people in the photo. My mother is Alice Cuba (No. 8). She got married in 1939, and her sister Sylvia got married in 1940 so we know it is before 1939. In the bottom left is Albert Michalik. He was born March 2, 1925. It is difficult to tell his age, but we know he is probably more than 5 and less than 10 years old. Alfred Cuba married Vera Zavodny on December 31,

1929 so we know the photo was probably taken after 1930. If you are ever able to determine the occasion for the photo, you might be able to determine a specific date.

—Robert Kovar

If any member or lodge has historic photos or items that they no longer want or need, please contact the Home Office. We will scan or photograph the items and place them in our online archives.

—SPJST—

BOTTOM PHOTO: Editor’s Note: A History of the SPJST includes the following information on Lodge 48, Beyersville: “This building was constructed in April 1929 and dedicated on July 4 of the same year. The lodge held a picnic at the hall and dedicated the new building on July 4, 1929.”

Brother Kovar notes the photo of Lodge 48, Beyersville Hall to be circa 1930 to 1935. He states, “All of the people I’ve identified are related. They all lived on farms next to each other. Their homes were less than a mile away from the hall as the crow flies.”

1. John L. Cuba, 2. Albina Jansa Cuba, 3. Frank Swoboda, 4. Sylvia Cuba, 5. Edwin Cuba, 6. Vera Zavodny Cuba, 7. Alfred Cuba, 8. Alice Cuba, 9. Sophie Schiller Hejl, 10. Joe V. Hejl, 11. Anton Michalik, 12. Daniel Cuba, 13. Alvin Hejl, 14. Gordon Hejl, 15. Esther Michalik, 16. Albert Michalik, 17. Edmund Michalik, 18. Ruben Michalik, 19. Lucille Hejl, 20. Elsie Hejl, 21. Leona Hejl.

Editor’s Note: A History of the SPJST compiled by the late SPJST President Nick A. Morris, includes the following information on Lodge 20, Granger hall: “Lodge home of Lodge 20 Komensky in Granger was constructed in 1909 and dedicated on August 10 of that year . . . The Sixth SPJST Convention was held on the second story of this building in 1912.” ABOVE PHOTO: Siň řádu Komenský čís 20 SPJST v Ganger, Texas. Otevřená k jejímu účelu dne 10 srpna 1909 - Hall of the Comenius order No. 20 SPJST in Granger, Texas, opened for its purposes on 10 August 1909. BELOW PHOTO: Pruvod při svěcení sině SPJST v Granger Texas povoz představující lod - Procession at the dedication of the SPJST hall in Granger, Texas, a carriage representing a ship.

Robert Kovar of Lodge 29, Taylor holds historic photos taken by Jno. Trlica depicting Lodges 20, Granger and 48, Beyersville.

Lodge 47, Seaton elects 2023 board members

The January 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton was held on Sunday, the 8th at 2 p.m., beginning with the presentation of the flags. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by new President Brandon Bartek. All officers and board members answered roll call. There were 13 members present and five visitors. Secretary Patsy Koslovsky read the previous minutes from the December lodge meeting, which were approved as read, and the December unofficial board minutes. President Brandon Bartek thanked all members who showed up to help with tasks at the New Year’s Eve dance.

Rick Beck thanked everyone for electing him as new FAC and parliamentarian and expressed his hope to do a good job. He reminded everyone about the 2023 domino and tarok tournaments and to register online or learn more by visiting spjst.org. Lastly, he told the lodge about the SPJST canned soup drive entitled, “Souper Bowl,” taking place January 1 through March 30.

Youth Leader Amber Bartek gave the January youth report. She stated 18 youth were present, and the January challenge (Vestnik project) was for the youth to make valentine cards to give to local rest homes. Amber also shared a letter from a member for their appreciation to the lodge for the candlelight cer-

emony held to honor the 2022 deceased members.

Under old business, the lodge president said the urinal in the bathroom has not yet been repaired. He is still waiting on some bids in order to move forward with repairs.

Under new business, President Bartek stated the compression valve busted

Lodge 54, West shares meeting scenes

in the annex due to cold weather. He informed members it is minor and can be easily repaired. He also stated the need to gather lawn care bids and submit them by February. Elections for 2023 board members were held. Members Chris Ordogne, EJ Pechal, Tammy Martinez, Judy Pechal, and Edwin Pechal were nominated and voted in.

Under other business, member Gerry Dana was hospitalized, and members offered out their thoughts and prayers. We all hope Gerry makes a speedy recovery. January birthdays and anniversaries were also recognized.

Door prizes were awarded to Chris Ordogne, James Sladecek, and Tammy Martinez. Congratulations to our winners!

The flags were retired, and the meeting adjourned at 2:50 p.m.

Next Meeting—February 5

The next meeting will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 5 at Seaton Star Hall. Fraternally, Christopher Michael Ordogne Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena hosts Jody Nix February 11

Popular country and western singer Jody Nix and his band The Texas Cowboys will perform at SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena Hall in Rowena, Texas, on Saturday, February 11, 2023. Doors open at 7 p.m. The band will play from 8 p.m. until midnight. The event is BYOB, and sets-up will be available. For reservations, call 325-442-4841.

Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—

Lodge 54, West reports on November meeting

The meeting of SPJST Lodge 54, West was held at St. Joseph Hall on Friday, November 4, 2022. The meeting was called to order at 7 p.m. by President Freddie Kaluza. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Kaluza followed by a moment of silence for all our departed members especially Alan Bishop, the son of Elmer and Christine Bishop, who passed away since our last meeting, and for unity and peace in the world. All officers and sales agents were present, and we had 17 members and guests in attendance for the meeting.

The minutes of the September meeting were read by Janice Kaluza. Wilburn Willis made a motion to accept the minutes, and JoAnn Matus seconded the motion. Motion passed. FAC Linda Kaluza let the members know there are applications online for scholarships, and they are to be turned in before February 1. Guidelines to apply for this scholarship is for high school graduates and undergraduates, and you do have to be a member of SPJST to receive the award. Freddie will be sending out applications to all members who are eligible from our lodge. If anyone knows of a member that needs one and does not live in this area, let us know and we can mail them an application. The 125th anniversary raffle prize drawing will take place on November 18, 2022, if you still haven’t bought a ticket. The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive is from October 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023.

Mary Lou Mynar made a motion to accept the

November 4, 2022 • Submitted by Janice Kaluza

ABOVE PHOTO: Birthday celebrants, left to right, Jo Ann Matus, Diana Engelke, and Linda Kaluza.

LEFT PHOTOS: Lodge 54, West President Freddie Kaluza addresses membership.

Lodge 49, Rowena members collect, give non-perishable food items to ballinger cares

Lodge 49, Rowena’s service project at the Christmas party was to bring non-perishable food items to be given to Ballinger Cares. Ballinger Cares is the local food pantry, which distributes food and has a resell store. “We were able to donate 65 pounds of food,” says Lodge 49 President Laura Pospichal. Presenting the donation to Ballinger Cares Food Coordinator Phil Springer are Lodge 49 representatives, second from left to right, Beverly Teplicek, Laura Pospichal, and Sylvia Rollwitz.

FAC report, and Marcela Vaculik seconded the motion. Motion passed. The treasurer’s report was presented by Mary Lou Mynar. Janice Kaluza made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, and JoAnn Matus seconded the motion. Motion passed. Czech Reporter Jan Vaculik has finished his term, and we decided to abolish the position of Czech reporter.

In old business, our upcoming Christmas party will be held at Tours Hall on December 4, 2022, starting at 3 p.m. Marvin Cepak will play the accordion for afternoon entertainment. The West High Junior Historians will also dance at 3:30 p.m. followed by a fried chicken dinner catered by Eddie Ray’s for all the guests starting at 4:30 p.m. We are waiting for the RSVP cards to come in so we can let Eddie Ray’s Catering know how many guests are coming. Santa is expected to arrive at 5:30 p.m. to visit with all the children, hand out goody bags, and take pictures with them. Before all guests leave, there will be several cash prize drawings with $800 total given out for adults and $400 total for the children. We will make 75 goody bags for the kids. The lodge will provide the refreshments. We will be decorating the hall on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. if anyone would like to help.

In new business, we had one new certificate written for Will Daniel Gerik by Sales Agent Janice Kaluza. Linda Kaluza made a motion to accept him as a new member, and Mary Lou Mynar seconded the motion. Motion passed. Ronnie Kaluza and Marcela Vaculik did the audit and let everyone know the books are in order. Freddie will need to call Norma at the church and book St. Joseph Hall for our meetings in 2023 for March, June, September, and November.

We discussed our annual donations and voted to donate $200 to the SPJST Scholarship Fund, $100 to Santa and Mrs. Claus, $500 annual donation to St. Mary’s Catholic Church for use of the hall for meetings, $100 to Mary Lou Mynar for getting the food for the meetings, $50 to Marvin Cepak for playing the accordion, and $250 to the West High Junior Historians for their great performance every year. Janice Kaluza made a motion to do the annual donations, and JoAnn Matus seconded the motion. Motion passed.

District Three Director John Engelke said that he would match the $250 for the West High Junior Historians from

Lodge 54, West recognizes Jan Vaculik for longtime service

Lodge 54, West held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at Tours Hall in West, Texas. The event included a social hour, West High Junior Historian Dancers performance, fried chicken dinner, a visit from Santa, and door prizes. During the afternoon, Jan Vaculik was honored for his longtime service as Czech Reporter. RIGHT PHOTO: Accepting the outgoing officer plaque for Jan were his family, left to right, son Jon Vaculik, wife Marcela, and daughter and son-in-law Jana and John Riley.

Jan Vaculik was born March 22, 1945, in Miloslavov, Slovakia, to Karol and Ludmila Vaculik just before the end of World War Two in Europe. Due to the Communist takeover in 1948 and his father’s political status with the Communist government, he moved to Hluk at the age of three along with his mother and older brother.

Jan grew up living with his maternal grandparents and helping his grandfather, who was a butcher, and helping his uncles with farming chores. Hluk was a small city so his free time was spent mushroom picking, swimming in the creek, fishing, and hiking. He attended primary and secondary schools in Hluk and Uherske Hradiste, but at each step, the communist authorities attempted to deny him an education which continued when he attended Masaryk University in Brno.

After his mandatory two-year service in the army and a month after the Prague Spring in 1968, Jan made the decision that it would better for him to come to America. In September 1968, at the age of 23, Jan arrived in California and applied for polit-

ical asylum and joined his parents who left in 1948 and 1964. In 1974, he answered a request of the Czechoslovak Publishing Company in West for a native speaker to assist with editing and proofreading the Hospodar - a Czech language newspaper published in West. It was one of the few publications allowed to send to Communist Czechoslovakia and had frequent issues with the censors. In 1989, Jan had an opportunity to purchase the Hospodar and continued publication until June 2011 with assistance from his family.

During his time in Texas, Jan became active - and still is active - in several organizations: charter member of Sokol West, Czech reporter for SPJST Lodge 54, West, and Czech publicity officer for the Czech Education Foundation of Texas (CEFT). He is also a longtime member of McLennan Hill Chapter of the Czech Heritage Society of Texas - giving them Czech language and genealogy assistance at Westfest.

Jan has translated numerous genealogical resources, historical publications, and personal family genealogical histories

from Czech to English to the benefit of Texas Czechs. His translations include History of the City of Hovezi, Czechoslovak Legionnaires 1914-1920 Natives and Citizens of Vsetin County, Society for Reestablishment of Lidice Memorial to the Men of Lidice, Immigration from Ratiskovice to America, church records of Moravian Brethren congregations, and Roman Catholic parish records of Texas Czech settlements.

Jan helped collect Czech related books for the libraries at the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University.

In March 1980, he married his wife Marcela. They have two children - Jana Riley (husband John) and son Jon Vaculik, all of West. His lasting legacy is that he taught both his children the Czech language, history, and culture, and he taught them the importance of preserving the identity of the Moravian immigrants to Texas.

SPJST Lodge 54, West expresses its appreciation to Brother Vaculik for his longtime service and dedication to the lodge.

—SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Officers of Lodge 54, West present Jan’s outgoing officer plaque to his family. Left to right, FAC Linda Kaluza, Secretary/Reporter Janice Kaluza, President Freddie Kaluza, Jan’s family - son Jon, wife Marcela, and daughter and son-in-law Jana and John Riley, Vice President Wilburn Willis, and Treasurer Mary Lou Mynar.

Jan Vaculik

his discretionary fund. He will deliver it to Janice’s office at work because he will not be able to attend the Christmas party this year.

Director Engelke let all members know of upcoming events at the Home Office, the Temple Christmas Parade, and events in the other lodges. We also encouraged our members to support The Lights of West which will be available to tour the last part of November through the New Year weekend.

Vice President Wilburn Willis said a few words about the Heart of Texas Public and Safety Historical Center and Museum being built which would honor policemen, firemen, and emergency medical personnel. He also encouraged people to go vote to get our country back together.

Vice President Wilburn Willis took over the meeting for the election of new officers for the coming year 2023. Marvin Cepak made a motion to keep all officers the same by acclamation, and Marcela Vaculik seconded the motion. Motion passed. They are:

President Freddie Kaluza

Vice President Wilburn Willis

Secretary/English Reporter

Janice Kaluza

Treasurer Mary Lou Mynar FAC Linda Kaluza Audit Committee

Ronnie Kaluza and Marcela Vaculik

With no further business, JoAnn Matus made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mary Lou Mynar. Motion passed. Door prizes were awarded, and members enjoyed food and fellowship. The prayer was led by Janice Kaluza in English and Marcela

Vaculik in Czech. A cake was brought for the birthdays since the last meeting which were JoAnn Matus, Linda Kaluza, and Diana Engelke. Door prize winners were Jon Vaculik and Wilburn Willis.

Next Meeting—March 3

The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2023, at St. Joseph Hall.

Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. —1 John 4:16

Fraternally, Janice Kaluza, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville to host Czech heritage soup tasting supper

The January 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 15th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed a meal of stew cooked by Bradley Stavinoha. Desserts were provided by members. Thanks to the kitchen committee for getting everything ready for us.

President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Tripp Hargraves led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales was absent.

Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her report, and it was approved as read. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report and Marion Morales’ special funds report, and both were

Lodge 87, Temple supports CTLC

Lodge 76, Wichita Falls delivers christmas cheer to The Health and Rehabilitation center

Lodge 76, Wichita Falls members Irene Esparza and Rosalinda Juarez present a Merry Christmas basket full of goodies to Kevin Laukhuf at Senior Care for all the residents at The Health and Rehabilitation Center. The basket was presented on December 16, 2022.

approved as read.

Under old business, Vice President Jeanette Newman announced that she put the scholarship information from our lodge in the local papers and the Vestnik.

Under new business, Karen Hargraves announced that the city of Needville had started a Girl Scout troop and some of the young girls from our lodge joined. Also, the SPJST youth are in a contest of making valentines for the area nursing home residents.

Under other business, it was announced that the Czech heritage soup tasting supper will be Friday, February 3 at our lodge starting at 5 p.m.

Door prize winners were Clarence Myers, Nathan Hargraves, Jeanette Newman, and Shirley Pavlock. Congratulations to our winners!

Next Meeting—February 19

For the next meeting on Sunday, February 19, Bradley Stavinoha said that he will bring either gumbo or pizza. Members, please bring a side dish and/or a dessert. See you at the next meeting!

Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville seeks scholarship applicants

Any college or technical school bound senior, who has been a member of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville for at least one year, can apply for the local lodge scholarship. Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to SPJST Lodge 81, 9939 Peterson Road, Needville, Texas 77461 on or before March 15, 2023, to receive an application.^

Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas members to learn to make rosette pastries

Dear Readers, Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will be hosting its next meeting on Sunday, February 19, 2023, 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 have a svacina-making activity afterwards so please join us as we make traditional fried rosette pastries—it is sure to be fun!

Canned Soup Drive

—Carolyn Greene Secretary/Reporter

Also, the SPJST Home Office is encouraging lodges to join in a canned soup drive for food pantries so if you plan to attend the February meeting, please bring canned soup for this worthy

SPJST Lodge 87, Temple recently presented a donation to Churches

Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC). Pictured are, left to right, Dr. Tom Henderson, director for Bell Baptist Association; Dan Kacir, president of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple; and Earl Lloyd, director for CTLC.

cause - any size, any style, but please no out of date or dented cans. Again, please mark your calendars to join us. We look forward to seeing you!

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 87, Temple presents donation to Churches

Touching Lives for Christ

SPJST Lodge 87, Temple President Dan Kacir presented a donation check to Earl Lloyd, director for Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC), a well deserving charity which is such an important support for our community. We thank Dr. Tom Henderson, director of Missions for Bell Baptist Association, who assisted in coordinating the presentation.

The CTLC donation check was graciously made available to Lodge 87, Temple through discretionary funds from SPJST District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, and we want to express our appreciation again to Director Pospisil for the funds.

Fraternally, Carolyn Greene, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston presents

committee volunteering opportunities

Fellow Members,

You’ve already blown it with your “Dry January” so make a resolution to volunteer for a Lodge 88 committee, and make a bigger impact!

One aspect that differentiates the Lodge from other purely social organizations is that it is built on the idea of members being social while working together for the common good. Volunteering and participating in a Lodge Committee counts towards the five hours of service at the Lodge. Yes, we will still have the SignUp Genius available over the course of the year to help fill the ad hoc, but Lodge Committees play a critical role in shaping how the Lodge is run. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other members.

Like last year, we are soliciting interest in joining Lodge Committees via the survey below.

A few points to make regarding 2023 Committees:

The Charitable Events CommitteePart of the Lodge’s mission is to give back to the community. We are looking for a small group to create some opportunities for members to donate their time together in the name of Lodge 88 to

Lodge 107, Floresville

worthwhile 501(c)3s, preferably as a group.

The Pokrok Project - We are looking for experienced builders, designers, facilitators to help us chart out a five to 10year facilities plan for the Lodge. This is for both inside and outside.

The Czech Cultural Committee - We would like to have a Czech and/or Lodge history moment at upcoming meetings and are looking for volunteers to share and/or research these topics. Additionally, it would be nice to add some small, tasteful plaques around the Lodge highlighting her history.

Ideally, we will have Committee assignments ready by the next member meeting on Sunday, February 12 before the Super Bowl.

Couple of Reminders

Opportunities to volunteer for Lodge Committees in 2023 can be found at this link: https://cutt.ly/O26Ke6Y. Remember, just about everything at the Lodge happens because of our generous volunteers. Help keep the Lodge an active and vibrant community.

Mollie B Returns on February 3

Mollie B returns to the Lodge on Friday, February 3. If you haven’t seen her in person, you really need to. Get tickets at https://www.lodge88.org/eventsall/yelba10012022-8rsnh-76asf

Lodge 88 Scholarship

The Lodge 88 Scholarship application is available at https://www.lodge88.org/scholarships. Deadline to submit is February 28.

Blue Room Nights

SPJST Lodge 88, Houston will present Blue Room Trivia Night on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20, and dinner will be provided by Aladdin Mediterranean Grill. Brett Mossman returns as host.

Blue Room Casino Night is Saturday, April 15 at 6 p.m. Dinner will be provided, and tickets are $20 each.

Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

Meeting scenes from Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle January 10, 2023 • Submitted by Lisa Ellsworth

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle held its first meeting of 2023 on Tuesday, January 10. ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: Hostesses, left to right, are Lola Taylor, Lynn Cummings, Betty Krenek, and Shirley Martin. ABOVE RIGHT PHOTO: Guest was Lydia

Acosta. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Welcome to new members Anna Marie Moncrief and Margaret Sears. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Celebrating January birthdays are Bessie Ellsworth, left, and Lynn Cummings.

The 2023 officers of SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville are, left to right,

Treasurer Oscar Korus, Vice President Larry Bertrand, installing officer District Seven Director Regina House, President/Reporter Trey Bielefeld, Secretary Wendy Pruski, Fraternal Activities Coordinator (FAC) Polly Bayer, Youth Leader Lian Lynn, and Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand.

Lodge 88, Houston: Kidventure’s Camp Lodge 88 returns this summer

Dear Lodge 88 Members, Lodge 88, Houston is proud to announce that Kidventure Camp will return to the community bringing their 29 years of summer camp experience designed to foster fun, create lasting memories, and help build the social, emotional, and physical lives of our children. Camp Lodge 88 will offer nine unique weeks of summer day camp beginning June 5, 2023.

Your Camp Program

Explorers (entering first grade to fifth grade) will bring the excitement, challenge, and rewards of ‘overnight camp’ in a day camp setting.

The Camp Week

Each camp week will be Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the option for post camp from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Kidventure provides an active and purposeful camp curriculum that will include a variety of camp activities and events including athletics, art, team building, rock climbing, archery, field trips, and much more. Central to Kidventure’s mission is the fostering of meaningful character traits and strong values.

Priority Registration

Begins January 25

Camp is limited and fills quickly. Priority registration for members of Lodge 88 will begin at 9 a.m. on January 25 and remain open before opening to the public on February 1. At that time, you may register for any camp week at Kidventure’s website. The tuition cost for each week of camp is $320 with discounts for two or more children in the same family. Options such as camp lunches are also available.

To learn more about Camp Lodge 88 and Kidventure, visit https://kidventure.com/houston-summer-camp/ or call Kidventure at 713-960-8989. You can also check out the 2023 video at https://youtu.be/jVVCjDfeppw.

Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston

encourages high school seniors to apply for scholarship

The Lodge 88, Houston scholarship application for graduating seniors is now online at lodge88.org. Please visit our website to apply. The deadline is February 28, 2023.^

Fraternally, The Scholarship Committee Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

Lodge 107, Floresville reports on January meeting

SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville held its monthly meeting on Sunday, January 8, 2023, at 3 p.m. President Bielefeld called the meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by youth member Christian Lynn, and a moment of silence was held for deceased members, military members, and veterans.

Roll call of officers showed all present. Secretary Pruski read the December meeting minutes, and Treasurer Korus gave the financial report. Both were approved as read.

District Seven Annual Meeting

District Seven Director Regina House was in attendance and gave a report from the Home Office. Additionally, the District Seven Annual Meeting will be held in Jourdanton on Sunday, March 5.

Meeting Dates

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Polly Bayer is working to complete the required paperwork for 2022. Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand informed us we needed to move some of our meeting dates due to hall rentals. Our February and April meetings are now scheduled for the first Sunday of the month.

January birthdays are Laura Pavliska on the 2nd, Joshua Pavliska on the 5th, and Lacey Pavliska on the 21st.

After the meeting, Director House installed the 2023 officers.

Souper Sunday at Lodge 142, Houston

Next Meeting—February 5

The next meeting will be Sunday, February 5 at the lodge hall at 3 p.m. Fraternally, Trey Bielefeld, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo meets February 16

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, February 16, 2022, at 5 p.m. The meeting will take place at Los Panchito’s Restaurant, located at 34 West Avenue D in San Angelo. We hope you will be able to join us!

Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—

Lodge 180, Burleson welcomes guests to January meeting

We had our first monthly meeting of 2023 at Spring Creek Barbeque in Burleson, Texas, on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. What a pleasant and enjoyable way to begin the new year. We were honored with the pleasure of having some guests from up north, and I do believe that they kind of enjoyed our weather. These folks were Verna Mason’s son, Tom, and granddaughter, Faith.

It’s Souper Bowl

142, Houston’s Sunday, January 15, 2023, meeting! Pictured are some of the lodge members with their soup donations. The lodge will be collecting soup at their February and March meetings to be delivered to a local

Our meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silent prayer for all in need as well as those mentioned. Our meeting portion was pretty short as everyone was getting excited about some delicious barbecue. While everyone was enjoying their food, it was decided that our next meeting would be held at Rio Mambo in Burleson on Tuesday, February 7. The address is 295 East Renfro in Burleson. (Incidentally, they have plenty of parking.) We also had the privilege of having State Fraternal Director Frank Horak with us, and he explained some of the new ideas and thoughts that are being implemented for the lodges to help them grow and become fully active. I think that this will help all lodges to become busy and perhaps even financially better

at SPJST Lodge

food bank. RIGHT PHOTO: Dozens of valentine cards to be delivered to residents of S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers in Taylor, Needville, and Hillje were signed by Lodge 142 members at the January meeting.

—Pat Schleider, Fraternal Activities Coordinator

off. My brain thinks that it is on overload as I am trying to think of how I can help with this as well as the Lodge helping!

We also had a birthday cake for Rhonda Hurtik. Pat Sill got a delicious Italian cream cake for all of us to enjoy while celebrating Rhonda’s birthday. Birthday greetings to all of our members—Forrest Cooper, Dustin Cox, Teresa Doutlick, Kayce Finstad, Rhonda Hurtik, Blake Hurtik, Blake Janek, Keppie Kennedy, James Lloyd, Rita Mardis, Nicole McCrea, Randal Pustejovsky, Josef Sammet, Hector Seise, Eula Tankersley, and Willie Vaughan. Happy, happy birthdays to all of these folks.

Even though it is late, we at Lodge 180 wish each and every one of you a fantastic 2023!

yours, Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

rence, Julie Griser, Reagan Giesenschlag, Kevin Embree, Viba Edmiston. Kay Donelson, Suzanne Collins, Clinton Calcote, Stormi Brown, Regan Beck, Brent Acuff, and Melissa Oman.

Next Gathering—February 12

The next gathering will be Sunday, February 12.

Hello!

New Year activities

At our January meeting, we welcomed District Two Director Jesse Pospisil and wife Linda. We had a great discussion about annuities that was led by Jesse Pospisil and Rubie Volek. Great information! Jesse also installed the officers. Thank you! Deborah Rohlack

read all of the thank you letters from the charities that we donated to. That really warms my heart.

Carla Krenek entertained us by telling us about the Lunar New Year which this new year is the rabbit. She decorated, gave out fortune cookies, and gave red envelopes with money to the kids. By giving the money to children, elders are hoping to pass on a year of good fortune and blessings. Carla also told us about the Lantern Festival, celebrated on February 5, 2023. It began more than 2,000 years ago, the festival

has developed many meanings. It was really exciting information. Thank you shout out to Rubie Volek and Jesse and Linda Pospisil for bringing door prizes. We ended with a new year fajita dinner.

Birthday celebrants in January are Andrew Smith, Scott Ledbetter, Kelbie Stifflemire, Kendra Stevens, Jayden Pachicano, Jackie Nichols, Doulas Nelson, Helen McVey, Robert Leatherman, Rodney Lange, Morris Krueger, Peyton Johnson, Dustin Johnson, Linkyn Evans, James Johnson, Melanie Law-

Scenes from Lodge 151, Wharton Meeting

cek, Angie Wasicek, Sheila Minks, and Kim Wasicek. At the middle table, left to right, are Valeria Hundl, Bennie Hundl, Philip Vahalik, District Six Director Annie Vahalik, Edith Molberg,

and Tria Svatek. At the right table, left to right, are Tony Salinas, Carolyn Pavlicek, Ruth Sabrsula, Gerald Macha, Frances Macha, and Mary Jo Salinas. Photo provided by Carolina Covarrubia. PHOTO 2: Lodge 151’s new member Frances Macha, left, and Sales Agent Carolina Covarrubia. Photo provided by Carolina Covarrubia. PHOTO 3: District Six Director Annie Vahalik presents a 50-year membership

Blessings

to

all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Financial Secretary Youth Coordinator

—SPJST—

Lodge 191, Lufkin hosts Feb. 10 dance at VFW Post 1836

Shine up your boots and join SPJST Lodge 191, Lufkin at VFW Post 1836, Lufkin on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 7 to 10 p.m. for the SPJST Dance featuring the Glenn Lenderman Band. Cover charge is $10 for community guests. Menu of heavy snacks is available through the VFW’s Welcome Home Grille, and the VFW Cantina will be open serving your favorite beer, wine, and cocktails.

VFW Post 1836 is located at 1800 Ford Chapel Road in Lufkin.

—SPJST—

pin to Douglas Wasicek. Photo provided by Annie Vahalik. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 151, Wharton birthday honorees for October, November, and December are, left to right, Benny Hundl, David Bucek, Ruth Sabrsula, Tony Salinas, Edith Molberg, Mary Jo Salinas, Angie Wasicek, and Sheila Minks. Ruth Sabrsula celebrated her 92nd birthday in November. Photo provided by Carolina Covarrubia.

Fraternally

Lodge 187, Round Rock members entertained with Lunar

The 2023 officers of Lodge 151, Wharton are, left to right, President Gerald Macha, Vice President David Bucek, Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator (FAC) Janie Bucek, Second Vice President Edith Molberg, and Treasurer Carolyn Bucek. —Photo by Carolina Covarrubia

December 12, 2022 • Wharton Depot Museum • Submitted by Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC

Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting and Christmas social on Monday, December 12, 2022 at the Wharton Depot Museum. LEFT PHOTO: At the front table is Carolyn Bucek. At the far left table, left to right, are Douglas Wasi-

Ideas for More Memorable Gravesite Expressions

by Sabrina N. Young, CFSP SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Member and Owner of Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center

Many Western burial rites are relatively short and very minimalistic. But there are many ways that you and your loved ones can create a more memorable way to celebrate the life of the deceased. Adding additional elements to the service is also a powerful way to create an honorable and special service that is devoted entirely to the memory of the deceased.

Read a poem. Poetry is a timeless way to express emotion. Some of history’s greatest writers have created poems that articulate the feelings you might have at the loss of someone dear to you. They can celebrate the incredible life of your loved one. They can express the sadness you feel at saying goodbye. They can illustrate your hope for reuniting with them in the future. Reading a poem that captures your feelings at the

loss of someone you love is a special way to pay a tribute to their life and to testify to your family and friends how you truly feel.

Release butterflies or doves. Butterflies can symbolize the spirit, representing the beauty and freedom as they take flight. When onlookers experience the connection between nature and butterflies, they tend to instinctively feel that both harmony and peace are surrounding them. Releasing butterflies is a wonderful way to express the hope and peace you feel about your loved one moving on.

Releasing doves, much like butterflies, is a powerful gravesite expression. Letting go of such beautiful beings, and letting them fly free, is a symbol of you beginning the grieving process and “letting go” of the deceased.

Horse drawn carriages. Choosing to have a horse drawn carriage carry your loved one’s casket to its burial site is an elegant and memorable expression. The bold, strong horse guides the deceased to their resting place and adds a feeling of dignity and grace to a difficult experience for you or your family and friends.

Because so many Western burial services are so conservative, you may want to add something special to make the experience much more memorable.

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 185, New Braunfels

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 179, Warrenton

These additions can also make the service more relevant to your loved one’s personality. In doing so, you can better celebrate their life and pay tribute to their special nature. You can create a funeral service that will always be remembered as honorable, special, and truly wonderful.

Have questions or comments? Please call us at 254-401-1302. We will be honored to assist you with your needs. Email us at youngsdaughtersfuneralhome@gmail.com. Or check out our website for more information at www.youngsdaughters.com.

—SPJST—

Whip up something sweet for your sweetheart

Certain times of year give everyone license to indulge in sweets. The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are one such example, but perhaps no day of the year is more sweetsfriendly than Valentine’s Day.

Heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are ubiquitous come mid-February. While no chocolate devotee is liable to scoff at a box of delicious chocolates, those who want to hit a homerun with their sweetsloving sweetheart can try their hand at crafting their own confectionary concoction this Valentine’s Day. This recipe

for “Chocolate Cardamom Truffle Cake” from Maxine Clark’s “Chocolate” (Ryland, Peters & Small) can amaze that special someone and make this Valentine’s Day extra special.

Chocolate Cardamom Truffle Cake Serves 10 to 12

Amaretti Base

5 ounces amaretti

1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter 5 tablespoons sugar

Cardamom Truffle Filling

2 1/3 cups heavy cream

4 to 6 green cardamom pods, lightly bruised to open them 25 ounces dark chocolate (60 to 70% cocoa solids), grated 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cubed

4 tablespoons chocolate liqueur

Cardamom Cocoa Sugar

3 green cardamom pods

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa

1 10-inch cake pan with a removable base, base and sides lined with nonstick parchment paper

To make the amaretti base, finely crush the amaretti in a food processor or put them in a plastic bag and crush with

How can I make my loved ones graveside service more personal?

The 2023 SPJST Lodge 185, New Braunfels officers are, second from left to right, President Andrea Velasques, Vice President Jeremiah Mills, Second Vice President Lavonne Ohnheiser, Secretary Theresa Haag, Treasurer April Haag Adkins, and Youth Leader Jessica McCoy (standing in is Megan Ohnheiser). The officers were installed by District Seven Director Regina House, pictured far left.

Lodge 179, Warrenton met on Thursday, January 12, 2023, and elected its officers who will lead the lodge. The officers are, left to right, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marceil Malak, Vice President Ora Lee Levien, President Ruby Juergens, and Secretary/Treasurer Ricky Weyand.

a rolling pin. Melt the butter and sugar in a pan over low heat, then stir in the amaretti crumbs. Press the mixture evenly over the base of the prepared cake pan and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

To make the cardamom truffle filling, put the cream and cardamom pods in a pan and heat until almost boiling. Remove from the heat and set aside to infuse for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, put the chocolate and butter in a saucepan. Strain the infused cream through a fine strainer onto the chocolate (the cream will be warm enough to melt the chocolate). If it doesn’t melt, warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally, but do not allow to boil. Stir in the liqueur, then set aside until almost cold, but not set. With an electric mixer, beat the chocolate mixture for a couple of minutes - this will give the cake a lovely airy texture. Pour onto the amaretti base. Let cool, then cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or up to 48 hours before serving.

To make the cardamom cocoa sugar, remove the black seeds from the papery cardamom pods and put the seeds in a spice grinder with the sugar and cocoa. Grind to a powder. Carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel off the lining paper. Set on a chilled serving plate and sift the cardamom cocoa sugar evenly over the top. Serve immediately, cut into very thin slices. (MS)

—SPJST—

Tips to make your own Valentine’s Day jewelry

Romantic sentiments are the standard come Valentine’s Day. Dinners at upscale restaurants, floral bouquets, and even getaways to exotic locales can all create an air of romance each February. Crafty individuals can express romantic sentiments in other ways, including making homemade jewelry.

A survey from Statista found that 10 percent of Valentine’s Day gift shoppers gave jewelry in 2017. Jewelry remains a popular way to express romantic sentiments, and such gifts can be even more meaningful when they’re homemade.

Individuals who want to try their hand at making homemade jewelry this Valentine’s Day can consider these tips as they try to go the extra mile for that special someone in their lives.

Purchase a jewelry-making toolkit. Even skilled do-it-yourselfers with a kit full of useful tools can benefit from a toolkit designed specifically for making jewelry. Jewelry toolkits may feature an assortment of pliers, such as round nose and chain nose varieties, that can be useful for different projects or even different components of the same project. Additional tools to look for in a jewelrymaking toolkit include wire cutters, clasps and peg boards to bend wire.

P P P Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock

Start with something simple. Stone might be the most expensive component of items sold by licensed jewelers, but those hefty price tags also reflect the labor necessary to produce the beautiful items on display. Making jewelry is a complicated process, but beginners can narrow things down by looking for simple projects like homemade button earrings and

Longview area members gather for dinner; collect non-perishable food

ring pendants. Many crafts stores even sell kits for specific projects that include all the materials DIYers will need as well as the tools they’ll need to turn those materials into beautiful jewelry.

Watch online tutorials. Lessons from skilled crafts workers are only a click or two away. The internet offers plenty of tutorial videos that can help DIYers accumulate the right supplies and offer advice on projects that correlate to individuals’ skill levels.

SPJST

Practice, practice, practice. If the goal is to really impress that special someone in your life, then don’t plan to give the first piece you’ve ever made this Valentine’s Day. Though that’s an option if you discover you’re an especially skilled jeweler, it’s best to plan for some trial and error. So leave yourself ample time in advance of Valentine’s Day to experiment and learn the craft. This ensures that your sweetheart won’t just be excited by the sentiment homemade jewelry conveys, but the jewelry itself as well.

Homemade jewelry is a unique gift that conveys romantic sentiments that are synonymous with Valentine’s Day. (MS)

members in the vicinity of Longview, Texas, feasted on a delicious Mexican meal on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at Posados in Longview. Joining in the festivities were SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty, and Territory Manager Chris Liebman. Attendees contributed non-perishable food items which were later delivered to “Caring and Sharing” by SPJST Sales Agent David Cotham.

The 2023 officers of Lodge 187, Round Rock are, front, left to right, Vice President Janie Barron and Secretary Deborah Rohlack. BACK: Treasurer Rubie Volek, President Linda Johnson, Board Director Evenly Rossi, Reporter/Financial Secretary/Youth Coordinator Jennifer McCarthy, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Carla Krenek.

Texans, especially older adults, should beware of phone, online scams from Texas Department of Insurance

Your phone rings, you answer, and someone with a friendly voice asks for your bank account or Social Security number.

Hang up. It’s probably a scam.

Fraudsters tend to target older people, who are often more trusting and vulnerable. Older people are also more likely to talk to someone they don’t know.

In 2021, more than 6,700 Texans over age 60 reported losing more than $159 million to fraud.

Common Scams

A caller offers to fix a non-existent computer problem or to renew a fraud-

ulent software or security subscription. The caller might even transfer you to fake “customer service” staff.

A caller pretending to be a grandchild calling from another country and needing hundreds of dollars fast. Once money gets sent outside the United States, it’s very hard to recover.

A call or email that says you’ve won a sweepstakes or lottery. The catch: You need to pay thousands of dollars to get the bigger prize.

Someone on the phone or sending an email adopts a fake identity to gain affection and confidence. The scammer builds a relationship with the victim to steal their money.

For more information, visit https://www.tdi.texas.gov/blog/bewareof-phones-and-online-scams.html

—SPJST—

Texas Dance Hall Preservation offers grants, spring deadline is March 15

Texas Dance Hall Preservation offers seed grants to help dance halls make repairs or help pay for a building condition assessment by a qualified architect or structural engineer. Preservation Fund grants have helped hall owners fix damage to roofs, dance floors, and other critical items. Although the Preservation Fund grants may not pay for an entire project, a small grant can help kick off a larger fundraising campaign.

To qualify, the applicant must be a nonprofit organization with current 501(c) tax-exempt status per the IRS. Both 501(c)(3) and other 501(c) organizations are eligible, including fraternal

Lodge 185, New Braunfels adults, youth gather for holiday celebration

Lodge 187, Round Rock shares January Activities

Hill Country Lodge 185, New Braunfels members, guests, and youth club members gathered at the VFW Hall in New Braunfels on Friday, December 30, 2022, for a holiday celebration and bimonthly meeting. Due to the absence of the youth leader, youth club members joined the adult lodge for a meeting which turned out to be very informative.

Youth club members were able to ask questions, and adults learned a lot about the youth club activities.

The 2023 officers were elected and installed by District Seven Director Regina House. New officers are:

organizations’ lodges, such as SPJST, Sons of Hermann, and Knights of Columbus. For other eligibility requirements, see the current application form at texasdancehall.org.

Applications are considered twice a year with awards made shortly thereafter. The deadline to apply in the Spring is March 15. The Fall application deadline is September 15.

Quick Tips for Applicants

Start early; it may take several weeks to assemble the information you need for the application.

Get a written estimate from at least one qualified contractor.

Take new photos that clearly show the damage to be repaired. Work that has already been completed is not eligible for this program.

RIGHT

President Andrea Mills Velasquez

Vice President Jeremiah Mills Second Vice President Lavonne Ohnheiser

Secretary/FAC Theresa Haag

Treasurer/Assistant Youth Leader April Haag Adkins

Youth Leader Jessica McCoy

After the meeting, a delicious catered dinner was served, and everyone partied on.

Theresa Haag Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: District Two Director Jesse Pospisil installs the 2023 officers and directors of Lodge 187, Round Rock. ABOVE

PHOTO: The 2023 officers of Lodge 187, Round Rock are, front, left to right, Vice President Janie Barron and Secretary Deborah Rohlack. In back are Treasurer Rubie Volek, President Linda Johnson, Board Director Evelyn

Rossi, Reporter/Financial Secretary/Youth Coordinator Jennifer McCarthy, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Carla Krenek. BELOW

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right, Evelyn Rossi, Carla Krenek, Rubie Volek, and Linda Johnson. Lunar New Year decorations by Carl Krenek.

BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: New Board Director Virgina Hrachovy.

Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter

Include historic photos, before-damage photos, etc. to help us understand the problem.

Once you receive the grant, work must begin within three months and must be completed within 12 months. You also must submit a final report with in-progress photographs, invoices for the work completed, and proof of payment.

Contact Texas Dance Hall Preservation by sending an email to admin@texasdancehall.org or call 512-400-4315 if you have any questions! We can also advise you on historically appropriate repairs, etc.

The application can be downloaded at this link: https://texasdancehall.org/wpcontent/uploads/Preservation-FundGrant-Application-Fall-2021.pdf

—Texas Dance Hall Preservation —SPJST—

Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center to host gas engine reunion, blacksmithing conference January

28 and 29

The second annual Texas Blacksmith Conference and the Hume L. Baker Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion is coming up on Saturday, January 28 and Sunday, January 29, 2023, at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center’s Czech Village grounds in La Grange, Texas, beginning at noon on Friday and 9 a.m. on Saturday. Last year’s event was huge for the first year, and we hope to make this year’s event even better!

We are excited to announce that we have two guys that were featured on the famous TV show, Forged in Fire. Derek Melton from Mississippi and Logan Brackin from College Station will present in the Demonstration Tent on Saturday. Logan Brackin is going to be demonstrating a railroad spike knife, which is something that beginners often work on when they are starting to develop their craft. Derek Melton is going to be demonstrating a copper coffee scoop and also talk about how social media can be beneficial to the craft. He has quite the following on TikTok.

P P P

Presenting 2023 Officers P P P SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton

Also in the spot light will be Jonathan Pinkston from Kentucky. Jonathan will be forging a 3D horse head, showcasing the art side of blacksmithing. Josh Rachita from College Station will also be presenting a varied program of blacksmithing from the 18th century. There will be several more displays and demos around the grounds throughout both days.

The TCHCC and Village will be open for touring. The Zapalac Saw Mill and the Czech Newspapers Museum will be in operation. Concessions will also be available. A live auction will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday with many special handmade blacksmith items to top the list! New to this year’s event on Saturday is heritage musical entertainment. The Celtaire String Band will perform from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with historical music from 1776 to 1910 with bits of educational moments from times long ago, and The Harfmann’s will play toe-tapping, traditional Slovenian, Czech, and German accordion music from 2 to 5 p.m. Camp Kubena will also host its ax throwing booth at the event on Saturday.

There is no admission to the event. Donations are welcome. TCHCC regular business hours are Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Texas Czech Heritage

and Cultural Center is located at 250 West Fairgrounds Road on Highway 77 just north of La Grange. We hope to see you on January 28 and 29!

In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved under the roofs of the Fayette County Fairgrounds.

—Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center —SPJST—

The Most Popular Valentine’s Day gifts

Valentine’s Day sparks one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year. Though it might not inspire the masses quite like Black Friday, Valentine’s Day compels millions of people to find gifts for that special someone in their lives each February. In fact, the National Retail Federation’s Annual 2022 Valentine’s Day Spending Survey found that the average person expected to devote $175 to Valentine’s Day spending in 2022.

Any heartfelt gift can light up a sweetheart’s smile on Valentine’s Day, but certain items tend to be more popular than others on February 14. Though Valentine’s Day shoppers can always go

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Members meet, eat, plan 2023 activities

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point hosted a luncheon with its Monday, January 9, 2023, meeting. Pictured are, left to right, Susan Hutton, David Nauert, Ricki and Cindy Dixon, Frances McBride, and Ingrid Petrik. The next lunch-andplan get-together will be Monday, March 13 at Bella Blue, located at 1323 South 57th Street in Temple. All members are invited to attend.

—Susan Hutton, Fraternal Activities Coordinator

District Seven Director Regina House, far right, installs the 2023 officers of SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton. The officers are, left to right, President James House, Vice President Sharon LaGrange, Secretary Valerie Barta, Treasurer Sandra Hoggard, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator (FAC) Kathleen Polasek.

their own way when shopping for their sweethearts, some of the more traditional gifts remain wildly popular. In its survey, the NRF found that these go-to gifts maintained their status as the most popular items for individuals to show their love for that special someone in 2022:

Candy

Fifty-six percent of survey respondents indicated they planned to buy candy for their sweetheart on Valentine’s Day. Though any candy can suffice, chocolates inside a heart-shaped box tend to be especially popular in midFebruary.

Greeting Cards

Greeting cards will likely never go out of style, as 40 percent of respondents indicated they would give a card in 2022.

Flowers

The appeal of a bouquet is undeniable, prompting 37 percent of shoppers to give flowers on Valentine’s Day.

A Night Out

A romantic night out is perhaps as meaningful as ever in a world still emerging from the pandemic. So it’s no surprise that 31 percent of respondents indicated they planned to take their sweethearts out for a night on the town in 2022.

Jewelry

Though it might rank below the others on this list, jewelry remains a goto gift on Valentine’s Day. And with total Valentine’s Day spending on jewelry estimated at more than $6 billion in 2022, this could be where most Valentine’s Day dollars go this February. (MS)

—SPJST—

In Memoriam

Memory of Helen Gustafson

In

Helen Ray (Newstrom) Gustafson, age 89, of Elgin, Texas, fell asleep in Jesus’ arms and entered Eternal Glory with God the Holy Trinity on Sunday, January 8, 2023.

Visitation was Friday, January 13 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, followed by a celebration of life at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Carl Roth officiating. Interment followed at Elgin Cemetery. A reception followed interment at the church.

Helen Ray was born on January 16, 1933, in Taylor. She was baptized into God’s Kingdom on May 23, 1937, at Methodist Episcopal Church in Austin. She was confirmed in May 1948, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Taylor. Her confirmation verse was Romans 5:8.

She graduated from Taylor High School with the Class of 1951. She worked at Taylor Bedding Mfg. Co. in Taylor, Southwestern Camera Company in Houston, Nash Phillips Copus in Austin, and Elgin Bank of Texas in Elgin. She was joined in holy matrimony to Ervin Edgar “Curly” Gustafson on April 22, 1956, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lund.

She was a member of SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin.

Helen Ray was preceded in death by her parents, David G. and Milda A. Newstrom; brother Eden Newstrom; sister Alice Newstrom Kovar; and the love of her life, Ervin “Curly” Gustafson, who went before her into eternal life on March 3, 1994.

She is survived by her caregivers and good friends, Larry and Nancy Axelson and Paul and Sandra Mogonye; cousins Betty Creecy, Beverly Snowden, Dale

Kessel, Glen and Mickey Dale Newstrom, Eileen Newstrom, and Bradley and Tina Newstrom; and nieces Joyce Elaine Riddles, Wanda Kaye Remmert, and Karen Loew.

Pallbearers were Kyle Mogonye, Darren Mogonye, Bradley Newstrom, Dale Kessel, Darron Snowden, and Brian Snowden.

Honorary pallbearers were Larry Axelson, Paul Mogonye, Ervin Becker, Gilbert Kubicek, Mike Mogonye, Chuck Fromme, Larry Wayne Becker, and Carl Newstrom (deceased).

Helen Ray expressed her wish that memorials be given in her name to Grace Lutheran Church, 801 West 11th Street, Elgin, Texas 78621; SPJST Scholarship Fund, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503; or to the charity of one’s choice.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Emil J. Horak

Emil J. Horak, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, December 29, 2022, with family by his side.

A rosary was held Wednesday, January 11 at 7 p.m. at SparkmanCrane Funeral Home in Dallas. Visitation was at 5 p.m. The funeral mass was at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Dallas on Thursday, January 12 at 10:30 a.m. Burial and graveside interment was in Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Ennis at 12 p.m. on Thursday, January 12 where Emil was reunited with his parents, Frank J. Horak and Emily Laza Horak.

Emil, was the younger of identical twins, born in Ennis on the family farm, on September 12, 1930. Emil spent much of his youth attending Ennis public schools and as a member of St. Johns Catholic Church in Ennis. Emil was a graduate of Jesuit High School in Dallas, class of 1949. Emil has been a lifelong member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, in Dallas. As a dedicated Catholic, Emil volunteered at the church and served as an usher for more than two decades. Emil was a member of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas and KJT in Ennis for more than 50 years. He regularly attended Czech events in Ennis with his family and loved celebrating his culture and love of Czech music. Emil had a love of photography and was our family photographer, many of the memories we have are because of his love to capture those special family moments.

Emil had a fascination and talent for electronics and worked for Sears and Roebuck for more than 30 years as a technician servicing North Texas market, where he was recognized often for providing excellent service to his customers. It was often said, he never met a stranger, and it couldn’t be truer, he was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it, loved his family and had a wonderful life.

Married for more than 62 years, Emil was preceded in death by his parents, Frank J. Horak and Emily Laza Horak; and twin brother Frank L. Horak of Dallas; and many aunts, uncles, and grandparents of Ennis and Dallas.

Emil is survived by wife Vanora Pokorny Horak; son Emil Horak Jr. and wife Elizabeth Perez; grandchildren Holley Horak and longtime boyfriend Ron Brantley; grandson Ryan Horak; and nieces Julie Horak and Jennifer Horak and their husbands, Christopher Kobos and Jason Pali.

Arrangements were under the direction of Sparkman-Crane Funeral Home in Dallas. The family asked to offer a remembrance mass for Emil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ennis or St. Pius X Catholic Church in Dallas.

—SPJST—

Helen Ray Gustafson

Emil J. Horak

SPJST YOUTH SECTION

Lodge 47, Seaton youth celebrates Christmas, New

Dear Vestnik Readers,

Year

I had a fun Christmas. From Santa, I got a Nintendo Switch! I also got a new tablet, and the newest Diary of a Wimpy Kid book. We got to eat fried chicken for Christmas dinner. New Year’s was also fun. We got to eat black-eyed peas, pork steak, cornbread, cabbage, and French fries. It was a delicious meal, and we were all full afterwards.

On the day after New Year’s, we went fishing. I caught one channel catfish, and my mom caught three channel catfish. My dad also caught a fish, but we didn’t keep it. We got to bring them home and now we get to eat them soon.

I also had a sleepover the day after New Year’s with one of my friends. I had fun.

On Wednesday, we had to go back to school. My birthday is coming up soon. I cannot wait. I will be turning 11.

Fraternally, Travis Ordogne, age 10 —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth visits father’s work, sees military tanks

Dear Vestnik Readers, Welcome to 2023! I hope this will be a fun year. I think that there will be more active members in SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton.

I got a Nintendo Switch for Christmas. It was from Santa. I got two games for my Nintendo Switch the day after Christmas. I got Stardew Valley and Minecraft. I also got Crocs from my aunt. They are so cool.

I had fun during Christmas. I got to go see tanks with my dad on Thursday. It was pretty cool, too. I got to go inside the tanks. I wish I could go again. They will use them in wars. I want to go back again soon.

Fraternally, Andrew Ordogne, age 7 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth to graduate in May

Dear SPJST, Track practice has started for me, and I can’t wait for the meets. This is my last sport of my high school career. I’ll be ready to graduate in May then go into the workforce.

Lodge 20, Granger youth enjoy holiday lunch

Tanner Wood, age 18 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth practices for tennis season

Dear SPJST, Tennis season is here, and I’ve been practicing for about two weeks now. I hope this season goes well for me. School is still challenging at times. I sure am going to miss my brother next year when he graduates.

Hunter Wood, age 17 —SPJST—

Lodge 30, Taiton

youth wins powerlifting

medal

Dear Vestnik Readers,

On Saturday January 7, 2023, I attended my first powerlifting meet at Bay City High School. I earned second place in my weight class. I had so much fun for my first time and can’t wait til the next meet!

Sincerely, Bethany Baker, age 16 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth ready for camping weekend

Dear SPJST, We get to go camping this weekend with my uncle and his family. It’s going to be lots of fun with them. Mom says it’s maybe supposed to rain, but that’s okay - we will still have fun.

Cotton Wood, age 12 —SPJST—

Lodge 20, Granger members gathered for a holiday lunch at Sirloin Stockade in Taylor on Sunday, January 8, 2023. Youth group members are, left to right, Caraline Elwood, Cooper Elwood, Collin Teague, Caden Elwood (in front), Maxx David, and Sebastian Goodman with Youth Leader Brita Bohac. —Jvonne Lalla

Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club enjoys afternoon at Urban Air Sunday, January 8, 2023 • Urban Air Adventure Park • Bryan, Texas • Submitted

On Sunday, January 8, 2023, Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club enjoyed an afternoon of fun at Urban Air Adventure Park in Bryan. A total of 40 youth club members and siblings attended. Afterwards, we enjoyed dinner at CiCi’s Pizza with cupcakes to celebrate Youth Leader Holly Narro’s recent birthday (thank you, Gamma). Thank you to everyone who gave a memorial donation to the youth club in memory of Gladys Trcalek Hejl. Your contributions were used to help our youth enjoy a day of fun, food, and fellowship.

by Holly Narro, Youth Leader

Lodge 84, Dallas youth looking towards summer activities

Dear Readers, The youth of Lodge 84, Dallas continue to meet on a monthly basis to discuss upcoming youth events and activities.

Youth Leader Lynda reminds us to keep submitting our monthly challenges (Vestnik projects) and be thinking of our entries for the State Youth Showcase on July 28 and 29 in Temple and of course, State Camp which is June 21 to 25.

Until next month, Josh Tucker, age 12 —SPJST—

Valentine’s Day

History and Today

It’s Valentine’s Day! The special day of the year when we show our appreciation for people we care about, by exchanging cards, chocolates, and even exorbitant gifts. So how did this love fest begin? Read on . . .

History

There are many legends about the origin of Valentine’s Day. The most popular one dates all the way back to 270 AD, the days of the Roman Empire. According to folklore, Emperor Claudius II was not a big fan of young men getting married during wartime because he believed that single men made better

Lodge 25, EnniS: The New Year’s Eve Place to Be!

soldiers.

However, Bishop Valentine did not concur and performed many secret marriage ceremonies. When the Emperor discovered this, he sentenced the Bishop to death. While in prison, he fell in love with the jailor’s daughter and just before he was executed on February 14, he sent her a note signed - ‘From Your Valentine’ - a phrase that is still widely used today! In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius made it official by setting aside the day to honor St. Valentine and, a fun tradition was born!

Today . . .

Cards - Over 1 billion cards are sold and exchanged on Valentine’s Day worldwide making it one of the biggest days for greeting card companies, second only to Christmas, which takes the lead at 2.6 billion. It’s no wonder that the day is sometimes dubbed a “Hallmark Holiday.” Surprisingly though, a majority of the cards are purchased for teachers and children!

Flowers - Roses of course, are the preferred flowers of the day. Over 110 million roses exchange hands in the US alone, during the three day period around Valentine’s Day!

Candy - Chocolates first became popular in the 1800s when physicians routinely ‘prescribed’ them for their heart broken patients. Richard Cadbury, the heir to confectionery giant Cadbury’s pounced on the idea and began

marketing chocolate for Valentine’s Day. Sure enough, they became popular not just for lost love, but also, as a way to show love. Today, Americans spend over $1 billion USD on chocolate - most of it encased inside the 35 million heartshaped boxes that are sold each year.

Also popular, are the candy conversation hearts. According to the candy companies, over 1 billion are sold each year - enough hearts to stretch from Rome, Italy, to Valentine, Arizona, more than 20 times!

XOXO

While it is common to express ‘kisses’ with the letter X, the origin of this symbol has nothing to do with Valentine’s Day or love. It is believed that it began during the medieval times, when witnesses who were illiterate signed their names with an ‘X’ and then kissed it to show their sincerity.

Letters To Juliet Are Real!

Believe it or not, the Italian town of Verona, where Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo and Juliet was situated, is still thought of as special. Not only does the town hold a weeklong Valentine’s Day festival, it also, receives over 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet each year on this day! What’s even more fun is that just like the movie, the hard working women that are part of The Juliet Club actually respond to each one!

Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth wins local Voice of Democracy Contest

Dear Readers,

SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis was the place to be this past New Year’s Eve! Members, guests, family, and friends gathered together to dance the night away with music by Ennis’ own Moravian Polka Band to ring in 2023! And, everyone sure did have a good time! The balloon drop at midnight was amazing - we all were popping balloons in hopes of getting a dollar bill or a ticket to win a t-shirt or drink. Of course, we all want good luck in the new year so we ate some delicious black-eyed peas and cornbread made by Debbie, Darren, and Anna Slovak. Thank you so much! I feel lucky already!

Our youth met on Sunday, January 8 and made some really cute valentines for S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers. We are beginning to collect soup cans at our lodge for the first quarter “Souper Bowl” charity project. I have our youth club calendar year 2023 mapped out sharing State Camp Kubena and Youth Showcase dates with our members and parents.

A new year is a time for new beginnings, and we are all looking forward to being a part of the exciting upcoming changes within the SPJST Youth Program.

Fraternally yours, Rita Holland, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Congratulations to Megan Ohnheiser of Lodge 185, New Braunfels! She was selected as the first place winner of the 2022-2023 Voice of Democracy Audio-Essay Contest for her area. The program is sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and “Why is the Veteran Important?” was this year’s theme. “I was awarded a certificate with the designation An Outstanding Young Spokesperson of the Future, a medal, and a college scholarship of $1,000 from VFW Post No. 9213,” she said.

Best Valentine’s Gift Ever

While there have probably been hundreds of thousands of romantic and extravagant gifts given out on this day, none can beat India’s Taj Mahal - built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan as a memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz. This amazing structure is the epitome of true love!

Source: Article by Meera Dolasia at https://www. dogonews.com/2012/2/14/happy-valentines-day —SPJST—

Valentine’s Day Jokes

What did one volcano say to another on Valentine’s Day? I lava you.

What did one lightbulb say to another lightbulb? I like you a watt.

What kind of flower do you never give on Valentine’s Day? Cauliflower.

Lodge 81, Needville youth create valentines for S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center residents

How can you tell the calendar is popular? Because it has a lot of dates.

What do you call two birds in love? Tweet-hearts.

What did one pickle say to the other? You mean a great dill to me.

What did the ghost say to his girlfriend? You look Boo-tiful.

Do skunks celebrate Valentine’s Day? Yes! They’re very scent-imental.

Knock, knock. Who’s there? Peas. Peas who? Peas be my Valentine. —SPJST—

2022 SPJST Youth Clubs’ First Quarter Report

September • October • November

District One Total

Lodge Name Attendance Disbursement 9 Snook 42 $84 17 New Tabor 77 $154 District One Average Attendance - 40

District Two 47 Seaton 54 $108 48 Beyersville 7 0* 187 Round Rock 17 $34

District Two Average Attendance - 26

District Three 6 Cottonwood 6 0* 25 Ennis 35 $70 154 Fort Worth 18 $36

District Three Average Attendance - 20

District Four 49 Rowena 24 $48 160 San Angelo 28 $56

District Four Average Attendance - 17

District Five 81 Needville 51 $102

District Five Average Attendance - 17

District Six 30 Taiton 44 $88

District Six Average Attendance - 15

Dear Readers, Our January challenge was to make valentines to send to the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center. We weaved hearts and drew cards with cute photos. I know they are going to love them!

District Seven 79 Corpus Christi 18 $36 107 Floresville 13 0* 185 New Braunfels 60 $120 202 Jourdanton 8 0*

District Seven Average Attendance - 33

District Five Director and Lodge 81, Needville member Bradley Stavinoha

Fraternally yours, Tripp Hargraves, age 10 —SPJST—

State Quarter Average Attendance - 167 *Youth clubs with an average of less than five active members do not receive any funds during the quarter. —SPJST—

Tripp Hargraves

Nathan Hargraves

Nathan and Karen Hargraves

Krystle Peterson, Tripp Hargraves

2022-2023 Youth Club Member Update - Merit Points/Meeting Attendance - 1st Quarter

Dist District Number

Ldg Lodge Number

Name Youth club member

Pts Merit points earned January 1, 2022 to November 30, 2022

Mtgs Youth club meetings attended July 1, 2022 to November 30, 2022

Dist Ldg Name Pts Mtgs

1 9 Green, Joshua 25 4

1 9 Green, Joshua 25 2

1 9 Hruska, II, J. Beaux 76 4

1 9 Hruska, Jase 85 5

1 9 Kienow, Dakota 10 1

1 9 Kienow, Shane 30 2

1 9 Lauderdale, Jade 74 3

1 9 Lauderdale, Zane 82 3

1 9 Moltzer, Poet 27 4

1 9 Nicks, Courtlyn 44 2

1 9 Paul, Charlotte 106 4

1 9 Sebesta, Hagan 78 4

1 9 See, Caleb 106 4

1 9 See, IV, John William 54 3

1 9 See, Wesley 57 4

1 9 Tates, Tatiana 45 2

1 9 Weaver, Jensen 40 3

1 9 Weaver, Kallen 40 3

1 9 Webb, Audrey 3 0

1 9 Withem, Brett 5 1

1 9 Withem, Kennedi 5 1

1 17 Bammel, Madelynn 136 5

1 17 Castaneda, Branson 13 1

1 17 Castaneda, Londyn 33 3

1 17 Charanza, Cameron 77 4

1 17 Charanza, Cohen 64 4

1 17 Chmelar, Brylee 73 1

1 17 Chmelar, Taylor 81 2

1 17 Dowell, Maylee 129 4

1 17 Dowell, Millison 124 4

1 17 Dowell, Thatcher 124 4

1 17 Johnson, Kole 108 5

1 17 Johnson, Luke 108 5

1 17 Kellum, Ashlyn 61 5

1 17 Kocurek, Bailen 141 4

1 17 Kocurek, Marley 143 4

1 17 Lloyd, Denver Kate (Deni)70 4

1 17 Lloyd, Jackson 78 3

1 17 Lloyd, Rylie 83 4

1 17 Loehr, Emma 13 1

1 17 Lopez, Abigail (Abby) 76 4

1 17 Lopez, Easton 76 4

1 17 McCuller, Cobey 16 0

1 17 Parker, Carson 154 5

1 17 Parker, Jaycee 144 5

1 17 Parks, Jada 96 3

1 17 Pineda, Patsy 107 1

1 17 Plachy, Kamden 88 5

1 17 Plachy, Kyren 134 5

1 17 Satsky, Delaney 15 0

1 17 Satsky, Natalie 20 0

1 17 Starmer, Channing 120 5

1 17 Starmer, Collins 120 5

1 17 Story, Andrea 136 4

1 17 Story, Ryan 126 4

1 17 Supak, Emmy 104 5

1 17 Supak, Lila 109 5

1 17 Turner, Hank 13 1

1 17 Turner, Hugh 13 1

1 186 Coker, Ciara 52 0

2 20 Braden, Kenna 54 2

2 20 Daulton, Gabriel 49 2

2 20 David, Brennon Maxx 58 2

2 20 Elwood, Caraline 47 2

2 20 Elwood, Cooper 52 2

2 20 Goodman, Sebastian 60 2

2 20 Henley, Braxton 52 2

2 20 Marshall, Aubrey 52 2

2 20 Marshall, Sterling 35 2

2 20 Teague, Collin 37 2

2 20 Teague, Jr., James 37 2

2 47 Bartek, Camdon 96 4

2 47 Bartek, Everhett 114 4

2 47 Bilbrey, Sydney 121 4 2 47 Bilbrey, Tyson 16 1 2 47 Burt, Jayten 44 0 2 47 Carter, Dawsen 46 0 2 47 Carter, Jaysen 44 0 2 47 Erskine, Carson 24 3

2 47 Federle, Rebecca 18 0 2 47 Galler, Fiona 52 2 2 47 Hoelscher, Jennifer 57 3 2 47 Hoelscher, Joseph 41 2 2 47 Koslovsky, Tessa 59 2 2 47 Kristinek, Gauge 5 0 2 47 Kristinek, Riley 10 0 2 47 Marek, Jackson 5 0 2 47 Martinez, Kal-El 116 4 2 47 Martinez, Seth 91 2 2 47 Martinez, Tristan 120 4 2 47 Ordogne, Andrew 128 4 2 47 Ordogne, Travis 128 4 2 47 Ranly, Ian 47 4 2 47 Regan, Emma 67 0 2 47 Skrabanek, Kyler 8 0 2 47 Stock, Tamryn 57 2 2 47 White, Braxton 8 1 2 47 White, Brayton 8 1 2 47 Young, Kayla 57 3 2 47 Young, Kelsea 50 2 2 47 Young, Valora 57 3 2 47 Young, Zaydriana 57 3 2 48 Bosley, Sarah 30 0 2 48 Miksch, Della 96 4 2 48 Newsom, Makayla 108 4 2 48 Poldrack, Tatiana 89 3 2 48 Reyna, Jayden 22 3 2 182 Beckendorf, Bailee 79 2 2 182 Beckendorf, Paetyn 72 2 2 182 Beckendorf, Tynlee 74 2 2 187 McCarthy, Luke 101 5 2 187 McCarthy, Mathieu 109 5 2 187 Meyer, Alexis 34 3 2 187 Meyer, Kadnce 96 5 2 187 Meyer, Karter 77 5 2 187 Meyer, Kember 96 5 3 6 Dobecka, Aubrianna 96 5 3 6 Dobecka, Jackson 32 2 3 6 Dobecka, Quinlan 90 3 3 25 Henson, Beau 38 5 3 25 Henson, Clark 38 5 3 25 Henson, Winnie 38 5 3 25 Holland, June 120 5 3 25 Holland, Luke 110 5 3 25 Holland, Madison 119 5 3 25 Holland, Maison 81 5 3 25 Jurik, Chad 63 2 3 25 Oliver, Layne 94 3 3 25 Oliver, Morgan 94 3

3 25 Oliver, Paige 47 3

3 25 Oliver, Victoria (Tori) 94 3

3 25 Ryan, Kaylnn 109 5

3 25 Sullivan, Preston 106 5

3 25 Wyatt, Garrett 108 5

3 84 Ruzicka, Megan 60 0

3 84 Ruzicka, Ryan 53 0

3 84 Tucker, Josh 65 0

3 84 Tucker, Kalyne 61 0

3 84 Tucker, Kendall 56 0

3 154 Burcie, Gentry 31 3

3 154 Burcie, McKenzie 98 5

3 154 Jones, Holly 115 5

3 154 Jones, Miles 106 5

3 154 Sanders, Audrey 39 3

3 154 Suges, Steven 43 4

3 154 Suges, Victoria 43 4

4 49 Schwertner, Grace 73 5

4 49 Schwertner, Olivia 75 5

4 49 Schwertner, Colt 66 5

4 49 Schwertner, Bella 75 5

4 49 Schwertner, Tracy 64 5

4 49 Wood, Cotton 103 5

4 49 Wood, Hunter 103 5

4 49 Wood, Tanner 104 5

4 160 Craddock, Brenson 57 4

4 160 Craddock, Carson 57 4

4 160 Craddock, Hayden 52 4

4 160 Craddock, Stella 10 2

4 160 Gallant, Bree 57 5

4 160 Jansa, Caitlynn 75 5

4 160 Jansa, Nolan 75 5

4 160 Jarisch, Luke 15 3

4 160 Miller, Marley 57 4

4 160 Schwartz, Parker 64 5

4 160 Schwartz, Sterling 70 5

5 81 Brown, Addison 117 5

5 81 Dostal, Brady 42 5

5 81 Dostal, Elizabeth 83 5

5 81 Hargraves, Tripp 131 5

5 81 Hargraves, Nathan 57 5 5 81 Jones, Amber 136 5

5 81 Jones, Ruby 132 5 5 81 Jones, Zoey 59 5

5 81 Kelly, Emmett 30 5 5 81 Mikulec, Dayton 64 5 5 81 Mikulec, Miles 64 5 5 81 Mikulec, Rylie 66 5 5 81 Nesvadba, Brylie 42 5 5 81 Parker, Cheyenne 74 5 5 81 Parker, Kinsley 69 5 5 81 Parker, Tyler 64 5 5 81 Stavinoha, Maxx 100 5 5 88 Godwin, Nancy 39 0 5 88 Guerrero, Anahi 5 0 5 88 Guerrero, Juan 5 0 5 88 Guerrero, Sergio 5 0 5 88 Pflughaupt, Evan 95 2 5 88 Pflughaupt, Megan 95 2 5 142 Butera, Embry 17 0 5 142 Butera, Ryder 36 0 5 142 Coleman, Zachary 17 0 5 142 Coleman, Zoe 17 0 5 142 Comberrel, Brielle 39 0 5 142 Hermis, Aiden 22 0 5 142 Lerner, Jaydan 15 0 5 142 Lerner, Jonathan 15 0 6 30 Bacak, Brett 136 5 6 30 Bacak, Brooke 144 5 6 30 Baker, Bethany 157 5 6 30 Bubela, Grant 154 5

6 30 Garrett, Abigail 141 5

6 30 Garrett, Ella 140 5

6 30 Garrett, Millie Jo 140 5

6 30 Harwell, Hesston 33 3

6 30 Janssen, Case 142 5

6 30 Kresta, Emily 62 3

6 30 Kresta, Lauren 57 3

6 30 Lange, Grady 149 5

6 30 Marcaurele, Maverick 30 3

6 30 Riha, Hudson 143 5

6 30 Riha, Simone 122 5

6 30 Riha, Vanessa 125 5

6 40 Garcia, NayEli 67 2

6 40 Garcia, Noah 60 2

6 40 Gonzalez, Itzel 40 2

6 40 Gutierrez, Jason 40 2

6 40 Manrriquez, Claire 40 2

6 40 Manrriquez, Maysen 50 2

6 40 Manrriquez, Saydee 40 2

6 40 Manrriquez, Taylor 10 2

6 40 Manzano, Adryanna 40 2

6 40 Manzano, Angelica 50 2

7 79 Craig, Slade 52 5

7 79 Craig, Sloan 52 5

7 79 Rebecek, Jacob 67 5

7 79 Rebecek, Marcus 67 5

7 79 Rew, Brandon 31 1

7 79 Urbanovsky, Annika 57 5

7 79 Urbanovsky, Sarah 52 5

7 107 Coppola, Annabelle 19 3

7 107 Coppola, Olivia 19 3

7 107 Hastings, Aubree 64 4

7 107 Lynn, Christian 58 3

7 107 Petett, Caitlyn 77 4

7 107 Pruski, Colt 119 5

7 107 Tholkes, Bohden 42 3

7 185 Brown, Tyler 5 0

7 185 Cabrera, Camila 91 4

7 185 Gribble, Ben 93 4

7 185 Gribble, Michael 94 4

7 185 Grier, Fischer 15 1

7 185 Haag, Katherine 74 4

7 185 Haag, Sydney 86 5

7 185 Haag-Howard, Lilyanna 107 5

7 185 Kitchen, Madeline 55 1

7 185 Kitchen, Rileigh 58 1

7 185 Kitchen, Skeet 54 1

7 185 Lago, Harrison 76 2

7 185 Lago, Hudson 74 2

7 185 McCoy, Steel 101 5

7 185 Mills, Garrett 88 5

7 185 Mills, Gatlin 88 5

7 185 Mills, Payton 71 4

7 185 O'Gorman, Madeline 40 2

7 185 O'Gorman, Mary 72 4

7 185 Ohnheiser, Megan 122 5

7 185 Smith, Tate 40 3

7 185 Sosa, Knox 54 3

7 185 Stroobandt, Addison 42 2

7 185 Stroobandt, Jack 42 2

7 185 Velasquez, Anabella 86 5

7 185 Velasquez, Mallory 85 5

7 185 Velasquez, Shaylee 86 5

7 202 Fair, Jenna 85 4

7 202 Fair, Kayla 78 4

7 202 Poppe, Luke 67 3

7 202 Poppe, Makenna 76 3

7 202 Valdez, Diego 74 4

7 202 Zielonka, Camdan 10 0

7 202 Zielonka, Chloe 10 0

—SPJST—

The Facets of TCGS set for January 28 in Caldwell

Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS), as diamonds, has many facets. While they cannot all be featured at one event, we are pleased to invite everyone to join us at Caldwell Civic Center, located at 103 Presidential Corridor (Highway 21) in Caldwell, Texas, on Saturday, January 28, 2023. Doors will open at 8 a.m. with morning refreshments being offered. The program will open at 9 a.m. After a brief opening, The Taylor Czech Chorus will begin the day with their musical talents. What better way to begin a day than with Czech music!

Bratrstv

Sealy, Texas 77474. For further information, Susan can be reached by email at scrutch3@att.net.

We look forward to seeing you at Caldwell Civic Center on Saturday, January 28 as we look at four facets of TCGS: The Texas Czech Veterans’ Museum and Wall of Honor, educational opportunities, Czech Pioneer Room, and special entertainment.

Charlene Hurta Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy

Czech Center Museum Houston presents Harmonia Stellarum: Haydn and His Czech Colleagues

The day’s program is filled with excitement from opening to end, as three outstanding speakers with awesome presentations will follow the Taylor Czech Chorus. They are:

Michael Morris whose presentation, “From International Espionage to the SPJST Supreme Lodge” is sure to have many saying; “Oh, my gosh!”

Have you ever thought it would be really neat to have a family blog but had no idea of what or how to tackle such a

project - so it has just been a wish! Terry Loessin’s presentation, “A Simple and Easy Way to Set-up a Family Blog” will be your answer. Terry’s easy to understand, step-by-step instruction and illustrations will give you the “I can do this know-how.”

How many times have you heard your parents, grandparents, or maybe even found yourself talking about dragging a cotton sack through the field. TCGS President Patrick Janis will share a “True Story of the Cotton Pickin’ Czech Texan Who Kept Him From Totin; A Cotton Sack.” Memories and smiles are guaranteed throughout the presentation.

As with all TCGS events, lunch of barbecue beef brisket, potato salad, pinto beans, coleslaw, bread, tea, and cake will be included in the registration fee. Early bird registration postmarked on or before Thursday, January 12, 2023, is $55 for TCGS members and $60 for nonmembers. Early registration postmarked on or before Thursday, January 19 will be $60 for TCGS members and $65 for non-members. Registration of $70 will be charged at the door for members and non-members alike.

A colorful event flyer as well as a registration form is available on the TCGS website at: txczgs.org. To register by credit card, go to https://txczgs.square.site. To register by check, make check payable to TCGS, fill out the registration form and mail to: Susan Crutchfield, 507 West Street,

Editor’s Note: Michael Morris is a member of Lodge 47, Seaton and the 1987 SPJST State King and 1992 Mr. SPJST. Terry Loessin is a member of Lodge 20, Granger and the 1979 SPJST State King.

—SPJST—

Brazos Valley CHS offers Czech language class that begins January 30

Brazos Valley Czech Heritage Society (BVCHS) will be offering Czech language classes which will begin Monday, January 30, 2023, and continue until April 24, 2023. The class will address basic Czech and Czech culture and is open to anyone who is interested.

Classes will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Activity Center, located at 600 East 26th Street in Bryan, Texas, and will meet each Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Cost will be $35 per person for the semester.

The instructor for the course will be BVCHS member Stanislav (Stan) Vitha, who is from Olšovice in the Southern Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic and now a resident of Bryan.

For information regarding the class contact Marie Dulak at 979-324-7871 or mdulak52@gmail.com.

Kelly J. Sandhop, ADN, RN —SPJST—

A program featuring music by Joseph Haydn (1732–1809), Josef Antonín Štěpán (1726–1797), and Leopold Koželuh (1747–1818), performed by Harmonia Stellarum Houston is Monday, January 30, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston. Doors open at 6 p.m. with light refreshments. Czech Center Museum Houston is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston. Complimentary valet parking will be available.

Harmonia Stellarum Houston is an ensemble of vocal and instrumental virtuosos who seek to inspire, entertain, and enlighten audiences with meaningful, historically informed performances of well-known as well as newly discovered musical masterworks.

General admission tickets are $50, CCMH members are $30, and students are $20 (valid ID required upon entry). Tickets can be purchased at https://www.czechcenter.org/tickets.

About

Joseph Haydn (1732–1809) Arianna a Naxos Cantata for soprano and fortepiano

Josef Antonín Štěpán (1726–1797) Sonata for violin and fortepiano Allegro vivace – Andantino – Tempo di Menuetto

Leopold (bapt. Jan Antonín) Koželuh (1747–1818) Quanto è mai tormentosa Cantata for Soprano, Violin, and Fortepiano.

Meet the Artists

Dutch soprano Josefien Stoppelenburg is best known for her dazzling vocal agility and her passionate and insightful interpretations. Stoppelenburg has performed all over the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America as a Baroque and oratorio specialist, and as a concert singer. She has performed most major oratorio works by Handel, Haydn, Bach, and Mozart. Stoppelenburg has performed for the Dutch royal family on several occasions.

New York born Manami Mizumoto, started her lifelong relationship with music at age 3 on the violin. Manami is a graduate of the Juilliard School where she earned a bachelor’s with Catherine

Slovanská

Cho and Joel Smirnoff, a masters in historical performance, and graduated with the Norman Benzaquen Career Advancement Grant. In 2022, she was selected as the newest member of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, and continues to be a Fellow of The English Concert in America, elected in 2021.

Austrian conductor, harpsichordist, and musicologist Mario Aschauer has made his life’s work the interface of music scholarship and performance.

Mario holds degrees from the University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna, the University of Vienna, and the Linz Bruckner Conservatory. Upon completion of a postdoctoral fellowship at the Yale School of Music, he accepted a faculty position at Sam Houston State University where he is currently Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Early Music Research and Performance. He also teaches harpsichord and basso continuo at Rice University and serves as organist at First Lutheran Houston.

—SPJST—

Travis-Williamson Counties CHS meets February 14

The Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will meet Tuesday February 14, 2023, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Springhill Catfish Restaurant, 2505 West Pecan Street in Pflugerville, Texas. The restaurant has a buffet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or order from the menu. Eating is optional.

Dawn Orsak will give a presentation about Texas Czech Food in a cookbook titled Kolache Culture Cooking in Texas Czech Kitchens to be published in early 2024.

Please consider joining our society to preserve our Czech heritage. Membership dues are $16 for 2023. (This is $10 Czech Heritage Society state dues and $6 local Society dues). Dues can be paid at the meeting or mailed to Frances Petter, 15604 Hebbe Lane, Pflugerville, Texas 78660.

Email any questions to President Dotty Davis at dottydavis@gmail.com.

Janie Zbranek TWCCHS Reporter —SPJST—

Ennis Czech Music Festival welcomes four polka bands February 18 at Sokol Hall

Come join the polka bands of Ennis, Texas, at the 16th Annual Ennis Czech Music Festival - a day filled with great music, dancing, food, drinks, and much more!

Ennis Czech Music Festival will be Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Highway 34 in Ennis. Doors open at 12 p.m. with music from 1 to 10:30 p.m. Adult admission is $10, and kids 12 and under are free of charge.

Dance to four fabulous polka bands: The Moravians - 1 to 3 p.m.; Ennis Czech Boys - 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Jodie Mikula Orchestra - 6 to 8 p.m.; and Czech & Then Some - 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Come hungry because the Sokol kitchen will be serving Czech classics all day including klobase and sau-

erkraut. Fried catfish dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m.

The festival will also have a kid zone for the smallest of attendees.

Platinum sponsor for the festival is Josh Zapletal, Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent.

For information, call 972-878-4748; email ennisczechmusic@yahoo.com; or visit ennisczechmusicfestival.com See advertisement on page 37. —SPJST—

Embassy of the Czech Republic announces “Travels to Czechia!” photo competition

The Embassy of the Czech Republic invites all from around the United States to submit a photo of their travels to the Czech Republic! The deadline is March 31, 2023.

The photos should depict the beauty of Czechia, whether through its nature, architecture, culture, culinary delights, and/or modern marvels. They may feature the world-famous sights and historical wonders of Prague and other major cities or paths less traveled throughout the Czech countryside and villages. They may incorporate people and their joy, amazement, nostalgia, or other emotions felt during their travels.

Czech Cultural Calendar

Hours of Operation Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC), 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Hours: Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for those 60 or older, and $2 for kids, 12 and under. Every First and Third Tuesday Evenings: Tarok Parties—All ages and anyone interested are welcome. No admission or fee. Award-winning tournament champions Jimmie and Carolyn Coufal not only teach beginners, but also help experienced players increase their skill. For Museum information: tours, happenings, and activities, call: CHMGC 254-899-2935 (can leave a message); email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; find them on Facebook; or visit the website https://czechheritagemuseum.org.

Monday through Saturday

Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibits. Experience the culture, art, music, and stories of many Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty and democracy in America. Beginner Czech Lessons: Monday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Conversational Czech hourSaturdays, 1 to 2 p.m. Bring a friend or

neighbor and come practice your Czech! Not a member? Join today for early access to concerts, movie nights, lectures, and events at CCMH as well as free Czech language lessons and monthly membership socials. For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org.

February 4

CESAT (Czech Ex-Students Association of Texas) Membership Meeting—at 10 a.m. in the meeting room of Schulenburg Public Library in Schulenburg. Please email Thadious Polasek at polasek29@gmail.com to let us know that you are coming. We need a headcount for kolaches and coffee. Submitted by, Thadious Polasek, CESAT President / SPJST Lodge 67, Schulenburg member.

February 18

16th Annual Ennis Czech Music Festival—at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Highway 34 in Ennis. Doors open at 12 p.m. Adult Admission $10; kids 12 and under, free. Featured bands: The Moravians, Ennis Czech Boys, Jodie Mikula Orchestra, and Czech & Then Some. Klobase / sauerkraut available. Fried catfish dinner served 4 to 7 p.m. - $12. Kid zone. For information, call 972-878-4748; or visit ennisczechmusicfestival.com. See advertisement on page 37.

—SPJST—

The Czech Embassy will collect the photographs in honor of Czech automobile racer Eliška Junková and her love of travel, ahead of the Czech Embassy’s Mutual Inspirations Festival 2023 – Eliška Junková. Selected photographs will be exhibited at the Czech Embassy on May 13, 2023.

The Best Photos

The Embassy of the Czech Republic reserves the right to judge, select, and print the submitted photos, which it deems best within its discretion. The Embassy will display said best photos via an exhibition within its premises during the month of May 2023. The opening of the exhibition will be during the Embassy’s annual open house on Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each year, nearly 4,000 people visit the Embassy’s open house. The Embassy will notify the authors of the photos of their selection to be in the exhibition.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic further reserves the right to publish and post any of the submitted photos on its website at www.mzv.cz/washington and www.mutualinspirations.org as well as the Embassy’s social media.

Photo credit will be duly accredited to each and every photo whenever it is published or displayed.

Mutual Inspirations Festival 2023 –Eliška Junková

The Mutual Inspirations Festival is an annual initiative spearheaded by the Embassy of the Czech Republic, focusing on the mutual inspirations between

Czech and American cultures and featuring each year in September through November an extraordinary Czech personality. In its 14th year, the festival will celebrate Czech automobile racer Eliška Junková, her love of travel and modern machinery, as well as other inspiring female leaders. More information will be made available at www.mutualinspirations.org.

Contact Information

The Embassy of the Czech Republic is located at 3900 Spring of Freedom Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA. Its Public Diplomacy Department may be reached via czechembassypr@gmail.com.

Submission of Materials

● The photograph must be sent to the email address at czechembassypr@gmail.com. Deadline is no later than March 31, 2023. For

●

•

property of the Embassy of the Czech Republic, and the Embassy shall have no obligation to preserve, return, or otherwise make available any photographs and/or information so submitted.

• The individual understands that because the Embassy of the Czech Republic becomes the owner of all submitted photographs, the Embassy of the Czech Republic and its diplomats, employees, successors, and assigns may use, reproduce, edit, display, transmit, modify, publish, and otherwise make use of the submitted photographs and descriptions in any and all print, internet, media, and media social outlets, without compensation to the individual of any kind.

• By submitting any photograph, text, or other content or information to the Czech Embassy, the individual hereby

represents and warrants that the submitted photograph(s) and description(s) do not infringe on any copyright or trademark, any rights of privacy or publicity of any person, or any other right of any third party. The individual hereby represents and warrants that he or she has the right to transfer the photograph(s) and description(s) to the Embassy of the Czech Republic free and clear of any claims or encumbrances.

• The individual hereby agrees to hold the Embassy of the Czech Republic and its diplomats, employees, successors, and assigns harmless from and against—and hereby waive any right to pursue—any claims of any nature arising in connection with the Czech Embassy’s use of the submitted photograph(s) and description(s).

—SPJST—

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include a one sentence description of where the photo was taken in the Czech Republic and why the photo is special.

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SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities, entertainment dates, and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit 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. Hall

Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-966-3515.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday — February 12, June 11, August 13, and November 12 at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3)

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Hall

Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the lodge hall at 2 p.m. For information, call 254-227-8759. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the hall at 1:30 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net.

Sunday, February 5—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m. Friday, February 24—Cottonwood Water Supply meeting Sunday, February 26—Workers’ Appreciation Dinner, 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 5—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 12 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. For information, call 979-247-4168.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1)

Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Hall Rentals/Information: 979-272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-272-3732. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979220-4733.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly at Diamond I Venue (former SPJST Lodge 13 Hall), 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box at 7 p.m. For information, contact Ricky Ford 979-884-1451.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2)

Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly. For information, call 254-721-3902.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1)

Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Hall Rental Information: 979-272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the hall at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-272-3440. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-2184931.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2)

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Polka and country band bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-2853100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per personunless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlod ge18 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 the hall at 6:30 p.m. 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 254541-5344.

LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6)

Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg (located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia). Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on Tuesday in March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-562-2124.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE - FLAG HALL (2)

Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774 or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at the hall at 7 p.m. For information, call 254-721-1682.

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. For information, call 214-837-9490. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard. Call 832595-4231 for information.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2)

• All Friday night dances 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Free admission • Hamburgers served at 6 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Regular business hours: Hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 512-415-7225.

Friday, January 27—Dry Country

Friday, February 3—Robert Lawhorn and Triple Threat Friday, February 10—Texas Neon Ramblers Friday, February 17—The Other Band Friday, February 24—Old Friends (from Temple)

LODGE 30, TAITON (6)

Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call President Yvonne Marcaurele 979-543-8146. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979543-7120.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, Victoria. For information, call 361-676-7561.

LODGE 35, ELK - ELK HALL (3)

Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-722-1454. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com.

Saturday, January 28—Rental

Saturday, February 4—Joel Wood Band

Saturday, February 11—Rental

Saturday, February 25—Joe Parker Band Sunday, March 5—Rental

Saturday, March 11—Dustin Terral Band Saturday, March 18—Rewind Party Band Saturday, March 25—Justin Hewitt Band Saturday, April 8—Gordon Collier Band Saturday, April 15—Joe Parker Band Saturday, April 29—Nolan Pick Band

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/Donna; or 512581-2672/Dana. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-332-6758/Alfred.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. 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. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-332-1614. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date, time, location, call Youth Leader Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca. For information, call 361649-4736; or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com.

LODGE 47, SEATON - STAR HALL (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Amber Bartek 254-931-0295; Hall Phone: 254-985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-624-4119. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-9310295.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)

Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Lisa Jonse 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-635-3021. Youth Club Meetings: Held at Taylor Animal Shelter on Saturday morning. For date/time and information, contact Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226; mrn81978@gmail.com.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4)

Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Call Laura Pospichal for information 325-3656485. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-656-0029.

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 254-7092303.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)

Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting location and information, call Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.

LODGE 66, WACO (3)

Lodge Meetings: The fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1301 Hogan Lane in Bellmead. For information, call 254-717-7534.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at Kountry Bakery, Hwy 77 in Schulenburg at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-7430310.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For info, call 361-816-2328. 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 Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at “The Hall on 2268” (formerly SPJST Lodge 80 Hall), 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 254-760-6427. Watch the Věstník for changes in dates or times. For information, call 254-760-6427. Bingo has returned!

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)

Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-6504466. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon. For information, call 281-781-3156. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, email Youth Leader Kristen Jones joneskb06@hotmail.com.

February 3, 2023—Fort Bend County Czech Heritage Society Soup Supper, 4 to 8 p.m.

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 87, TEMPLE (2)

Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street in Temple. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October at 2 p.m. at the lodge hall at the hall. For information, contact Dan Kacir 254773-2363; kacirlaw@sbcglobal.net.

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)

Standing Events:

● Bingo every Thursday evening

● Beer Garden every Friday

● Ladies Night - first Thursday of each month

● Guys Night - third Thursday of each month

Visit www.lodge88.org/special-event for updates

Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). 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: Held the first Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call 713-

869-5767. Youth Club Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m. (one hour prior to adult lodge meeting). For youth club information, contact Youth Leader Sarah Itz 713-303-8845.

Friday, February 3—SqueezeBox featuring Mollie B and Ted Lange, 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 25—Moonglow, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 31—Fab 5

Saturday, April 22—Telstars

Sunday, June 4—Homecoming with Mark Halata & Texavia, and Czechaholics

Saturday, June 24—Yelba’s Variety Band

Friday, July 14—Fab 5

Saturday, September 30—Nitebeat

Saturday, November 11—Red Ravens

Friday, December 1—Fab 5

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Mark Halata & Texavia

LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 12 p.m. at a local restaurant. For information, call 832694-8762

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH - NATIONAL HALL (3)

Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfwtx.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. For information, call 817-688-9958.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Monday of March, June, September and December at 5:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102 in Victoria. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)

Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Hall Rental Information: 830-393-2600/Roxy. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 210-535-4916. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737.

LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard in Corpus Christi. For information, call 361-695-8280.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. For meeting location/date/information, call 210-861-4958.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting; luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979-922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. December meeting is held at Tony’s Restaurant; complimentary meal for members. For information, call 979-885-4900.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5)

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December, meeting is on the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; lunch served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th (the Heights) in Houston 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 at the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377.

LODGE 151, WHARTON (6)

Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street in Wharton. For information, call 979-532-5884 or email jbucek2001@yahoo.com.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)

Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at the hall at 3 p.m. For information, call 817-731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December. For dates/ time/location, call 512-472-1721.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the last Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at 2512 Mesa Road in Lubbock. For information, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek 806-763-7245; cyndynjerome@gmail.com.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4)

Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, and August; the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325-234-5879.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)

Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings to be announced in the Vestnik. For information or questions, call Jerry Dressler 512-551-9009.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)

Lodge Hall: 711 East Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. 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. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1)

Lodge Meetings: The lodge meets quarterly. Date and 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 6 p.m. Please call for meeting location 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)

Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-800-3485. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 817-896-5277.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)

Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD meeting room. For information, contact Secretary Terry Stevenson 361-772-0046; terrywstevenson@gmail.com.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7)

Lodge Meetings: Bi-monthly in the months of February, April, June, August, October, and December on the fourth Sunday (except for June and December). For meeting information, contact Theresa Haag 830832-3664; theresa.haag686@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-777-8215; jmccoy@pta.com.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1)

Lodge Meetings: For information, contact Victor Mendez 512-743-8297; or vmendez@kmc.net.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)

Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place in Round Rock. Hall Rental Information: Call Rubie Volek 512771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall followed by entertainment and potluck meal. For information, call Jennifer McCarthy 512-565-9156.

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan - unless otherwise noted. For information call 979-777-1426.

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the Monday before the second Friday at Catfish King Restaurant. Watch for meeting announcement in the Vestnik. For information, call George Scogin 936-875-2867.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, contact Cadance Wager 715-515-2835.

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 Secretary Michael D. Hosch 254-913-0273.

LODGE 201

BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at member’s home. For information, call 979-203-8390.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7)

Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the 3rd Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. A meal will be served at each meeting. For information, call 830-570-7750.

Youth Club Meetings: Youth attend quarterly adult lodge meetings and interim monthly meetings held the second Sunday of the month. Time and location TBD monthly. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830-570-2046.

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at 2302 FM 369 South in Iowa Park. For information, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940-855-0882.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4)

Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at John Witt Butane Gas Company., LLC, 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka at 6 p.m. For information, call 806-535-8356

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4)

Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, at 12 noon, at Corner Bakery Cafe, 655 Sunland Park Drive in El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, June, and September at Rosa Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard. For information, call 325-6697904.

Monday, April 24—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m. Monday, June 5—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m. Monday, September 11—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Monday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 11:15 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831.

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—