Vestnik 2023.03.27

SPJST Steers Clear of Financial Storm

Federal regulators shuttered California’s Silicon Valley Bank on March 10, making it the second-largest bank failure in United States history and the largest bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis. The bank’s meltdown and the collapse of Credit Suisse the following week sent shockwaves throughout the banking industry.

“As you can imagine, the SPJST Home Office received several calls and emails from members wanting to know if their financial positions – especially as that relates to annuities – was safe,” says SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek. “The short answer to that question is ‘yes.’ SPJST annuities are guaranteed in their entirety based on the financial strength and claims paying ability of SPJST.”

“Silicon Valley Bank’s problems can be traced back to its investment decisions,” says Vanicek, explaining that the bank over-invested in U.S. Treasuries, which sank in value as the Federal Reserve rapidly raised rates.

“Silicon Valley Bank was confronted with a liquidity crunch which forced it to

sell the bonds at a loss to cover its capital needs as its large tech-depositor base withdrew $42 billion from the bank on March 9, leaving it with a negative $1 billion cash balance the next day,” Vanicek says. He adds, “In the case of Credit Suisse, that institution has been struggling for years and was a victim of a string of compounded financial losses and scandals.”

“As a life insurance company, SPJST is subject to regulatory scrutiny, including a requirement to file financial statements every quarter,” says Vanicek. “SPJST liabilities are stress-tested through a process referred to as cash flow testing. Based on the cash flow testing results under a variety of market environments, SPJST remains confident that the Society will be able to meet its certificate holder obligations.”

“Absolutely,” agrees SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty. “SPJST has historically been very conservative in its operating strategies, including investments.”

Continued on Page 3.

Having FUN . . . Raising FUNds

Members design and donate to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. LEFT: Leonard Kaderka of Lodge 29, Taylor displays his penny design.

RIGHT: Alexa Ransom of Lodge 48, Beyersville holds a peacock, frog, and ring made from one dollar bills.

ABOVE: An “SPJST” design made from 100 pennies by Diana Engelke of Lodge 66, Waco.

VESTNIK

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 Haag-Adkins

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

The spirit of Easter is all about hope, love, and joyful living. Easter reminds us that hope should never be lost for as dark the road may seem, there always lies light at the end of it. May all your prayers be fulfilled and may wonderful blessings be upon you and all your loved ones on this very special day. I wish you a very Happy Easter!

Czech That Film

Thanks to Vestnik friend and Big Day Pictures Producer/Programmer Jeffrey Brown for sharing information that Czech That Film Texas is returning on Tuesdays in April to Violet Crown Cinemas in Austin, Texas!

Presented by Big Day Pictures and PolkaWorks, Czech That Film Texas annually brings the best of Czech contemporary cinema to Texas. The festival is committed to exhibiting films that not only expose participants to Czech culture, but also enlighten audiences, bring people together, and present inspired entertainment for all. The festival has traveled to 20 cities in the USA and Canada over the last decade. This year’s schedule is:

Tuesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. with an opening reception at 6:15 p.m. - Somewhere Over the Chemtrails (Kdyby radsi horelo) - Directed by Adam Koloman Rybánsky. The film’s awards include Official Selection - Berlinale Panorama Best Feature - Finale Plzen IFF.

Tuesday, April 11 at 7 p.m. - The Last Race (Posledni zavod) - Directed by Tomas Hodan. Film honors include Czech Oscar and Best Cinematography.

Tuesday, April 25 at 7 p.m. - Nightsiren (Svètlonoc) - Directed by Tereza Nvotová. Film honors are Best Feature - Locarno IFF and 11 Czech Oscar Nominations.

Wednesday, May 3 at 7 p.m. - Buko - Directed by Alice Nellis. Film awards are Czech Oscar Best Supporting Role - Martha Issová.

All films are in Czech with English subtitles. All screenings will be at Violet Crown Cinema, located at 434 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. Tickets are available at www.violetcrown.com. For more information, visit www.czechthatfilmtexas.com.

Sincere Sympathy

We extend our heartfelt condolences to SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and his family. Brian’s brother, David Vanicek, passed away on March 10. David was a member and past president of Lodge 24, Cyclone. Funeral service was Friday, March 17 at Seaton Brethren Church. Burial followed at Seaton Cemetery. His obituary appears on page 20. Please keep President/CEO Vanicek and family in your thoughts and prayers.

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines

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.

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 location.)

March 31 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends

April 1 State 42 Domino Tournament

April 1

SPJST Home Office, Temple

District Four Annual Meeting • Lodge 49, Rowena (4)

April 1 Lodge 88, Houston Easter Egg Hunt (5)

April 1 Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter Egg Hunt (5)

April 2 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter Egg Hunt/

Milestone Member Recognition (3)

April 7 Home Office Closes at Noon: Good Friday

April 13 Night at the Museum

Czech Heritage Museum, Temple (2)

April 15 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Casino Night (5)

April 16 District One Annual Meeting • Lodge 9, Snook (1)

April 16 District Six Annual Meeting

April 17-18

Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall, Victoria (6)

Executive Committee Meeting

SPJST Home Office, Temple

April 22 Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament (2)

April 22 Lodge 47, Seaton Dance: Czechaholics (2)

April 23 District Three Annual Meeting • Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3)

April 23 Lodge 48, Beyersville Bingo Social (2)

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

May 6 Advisory Council (Delegates) Meeting (online)

May 13 District Five Youth hosts Night at the Ballpark

Constellation Field, Sugar Land (5)

May 13 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Jazz Night (5)

May 27 Lodge 25, Ennis hosts National Polka Festival Event (3)

May 29 Home Office Closed: Memorial Day Holiday

June 21-25 State Camp • Camp Kubena, Ledbetter

July 4 Home Office Closed • Fourth of July Holiday

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

BEEA Rummage, Bake Sale set for April 14 in Seaton

Bell County Extension Education Association (BEEA) fundraiser is scheduled for Friday, April 14, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, April 15 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Seaton Community Center, 12287 Highway 53, Temple, Texas (Seaton).

The multi-family rummage sale will include crafts, miscellaneous household

Financial Update

Continued from Page 1.

“That ‘steady as she goes strategy’ has enabled SPJST to grow,” Doherty says. In 2022, SPJST added more than $10 million to its policy reserves. Through year-end 2022, SPJST investments were in excess of $262 million.

“SPJST looks great in terms of its ratio of Liquid Invested Assets (LIA), says Doherty. “This refers to the Society’s assets in bonds, stocks, cash, and short-term investment for each $100 of evaluations. A high ratio indicates a more liquid investment position which enables an insurer to meet unforeseen emergency cash requirements.” SPJST posts liquid invested assets of $88.98. The 2023 Independent Comparative Report prepared by Standard Analytical Service, Inc. indicates that the LIA average of 25 of the leading life insurance companies in the United States is $47.54.

Standard Analytical Service, Inc. is independent of any insurance company or companies. Their financial reports and comparisons are based on statutory financial statements filed with the state insurance departments and are intended to serve as a guide with respect to the current financial responsibility of the individual company featured.

“To further illustrate SPJST’s strength, SPJST maintains $262.72 in assets for every $1,000 of life insurance in force. That compares very favorable to

items, including small furniture, gently used clothing and accessories, CDs, wall hangings, sports equipment, kitchen utensils, bedding, potted plants, and assorted baked goods.

The event will benefit Bell County 4H graduating seniors with scholarships and BEEA activities. For additional information, call Gayle 254-742-5431.

Gayle Pomykal Lodge 24, Cyclone —SPJST—

the average of 25 of the leading life insurance companies which is $63.69,” says Doherty. “Please drop me a line at delisled@spjst.com if you would like to receive a copy of the 2023 Standard Analytical Service, Inc. Independent Comparative Report.”

“SPJST will always err on the side of caution,” says Doherty. “We understand the importance of your money and will not exchange high risk investments for your financial security. It is never in our best interest to sacrifice your financial security for our financial gain.”

SPJST’s 2022 Statement of Financial Condition and Statement of Operations appears below. “SPJST’s investment income and annuity program enabled the Society to post strong operating results through year-end 2022,” says Vanicek. Investment income increased 7.2 percent to $12.233 million compared to $11.356 million at year-end 2021. Insurance premiums and annuity deposits increased 29.5 percent to $31.465 million compared to $24.291 million at year-end 2021.

“SPJST’s annuity program had another good year as risk-averse individuals appear to have steered in our direction, away from the volatility of the stock market,” says Doherty. Correspondingly, SPJST’s sustained increase in investment returns enabled the Society to increase interest rates on its annuity plans in October 2022. “That trend could continue if the Federal Reserve continues raising its benchmark interest rate,” says Doherty.

Net income for the 12-month period ending December 31 was a negative

$581,321. “With the significant increase in annuity sales, it was necessary for SPJST to set aside ample reserves to guard the security of these member investments,” explains Doherty.

Excellent progress has also made year-to-date in executing the strategy of investing in digital tools for frontline workers and sales agents to modernize workflows, and improve workplace culture and communication,” says Vanicek.

“In 2022, SPJST began what is expected to be a three-year data migration and conversion process to the cloudbased Oracle Insurance Policy Administration software,” says Vanicek. “Also,

in 2022, illustrate, inc., a powerful cloudbased insurance quoting and illustration software platform, was introduced to SPJST sales agents providing them with needs analysis tools and the ability to complete and submit applications for new certificates online.” In 2022, that amounted to $778,565.50 which was applied toward the integration of the Equisoft administrative system and $88,680.15 which was directed to illustrate, inc.

SPJST assets increased to $262.689 million at year-end 2022, a 4.7 percent increase from the $250.843 million recorded at year-end 2021. SPJST’s un-

From the Controller

SPJST Financial Statement as of December 31, 2022

Dear Members:

In accordance with the 2021 SPJST ByLaws, I am submitting a report of our Society which is extracted from the Annual Statement for the period ending December 31, 2022.

This report gives you pertinent items of information concerning our Society. All items are entered as found in the Quarterly

Statement which was filed with the Texas Department of Insurance in March 2023. Please review this report in detail and should you have any questions, please contact me.

Fraternally, Roy W. Vajdak Controller

—SPJST—

allocated surplus declined slightly to $11.819 million, down from $13.225 million recorded at year-end 2021. The previously referenced $867,245 in expenditures on software contributed to the decrease. Life and annuity benefits extended to members in 2022 were $28,254,383, a 23.5 percent increase from the $22,872,398 in benefits paid in 2021.

“SPJST’s overall investment portfolio is solid,” says Vanicek, adding “More than 99 percent of SPJST’s bonds at year-end 2022 are considered investment grade, and all of the bonds are publicly traded.”

“SPJST’s residential and commercial mortgages are diversified with an overall average of less than $200,000 per loan and a cumulative ‘loan to value’ ratio of

less than 60 percent at year-end 2022,” says Vanicek, adding that, “SPJST maintains a first lien on all of the properties that it finances. That means that these are all loans that are secured with real estate as collateral and in the unlikely event of a default, SPJST has priority over all claims on the property.”

“Long before I took this position, I had my money with SPJST because I’m conservative and have always looked for the safest place for my dollar,” reflects Doherty. “SPJST won’t make the most money for your dollars, but you will always have more, and you never have to worry if your money is safe. So sleep tight and have pleasant dreams, as your money is safe with us.”

Member Engagement news

from state fraternal director frank horak

April News and Updates for Adult and Youth Members

Spring is here, and I know many of our members have already started planting their garden or are getting ready to start planting. Sister Pat Schleider of Lodge 142, Houston shared a post on her Facebook page: “A garden returns 50 times the investment you put into it. Not just food, but joy, peace, and a real connection with creation. A spiritual retreat from a noisy world and hurried people. Grow a garden!” Thank you, Pat, for sharing the post. I agree with you. Whether it’s your first-time gardening or a long-term hobby, gardening can be an enjoyable activity to improve your wellness.

Sister Henrietta Veselka of Lodge 8, Weimer plants a small vegetable garden for herself. Thank you, Sister Veselka, for sharing your valuable knowledge and tips with me about vegetable gardening. I am trying some of those tips this year!

Sister Rhonda Hurtik of Lodge 180, Burleson loves to plant and takes care of her antique roses. Sister Hurtik shares, “We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course, it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.” I tend to agree with Sister Hurtik.

Besides growing vegetables, my wife, Connie, has taken up a new hobby. She has started growing vegetable plants from seeds. She turned our daughter’s

bedroom into her growing area with shelving, plant warmers, starter kits, and growing lights. I am impressed with her interest and knowledge of growing three varieties of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, marigolds, and zinnias. She tells me that the first year is a learning process. If she over fertilizes, it will hurt the plant—and if she doesn’t use enough fertilizer, then the plant will not produce as well. She will start placing the plants in beds in the coming weeks. I will keep you posted on Connie’s crop production.

April is National Volunteer Month

National Volunteer Month in April celebrates the impact volunteers have on our lives and encourages active volunteerism in generations to come. Most often unpaid, they generously donate a part of their lives to do the work that nobody else likes to do — cleaning up after the event, cemetery maintenance, chaperoning camps, or helping with a fundraiser; there are so many areas requiring volunteers. This month, we salute and thank SPJST volunteers for their unwavering services to their communities, members, and lodges.

District Annual Meeting Dates

Districts have scheduled their annual meetings for 2023. They are:

District One—Sunday, April 16

Lodge 9, Snook

District Two—Sunday, August 6

Lodge 48, Beyersville

District Three—Sunday, April 23

Lodge 6, Cottonwood

District Four—Saturday, April 1

Lodge 49, Rowena

District Five—Sunday, April 30

Lodge 88, Houston

District Six—Sunday, April 16

Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall

Victoria

Lodge Incentives

We recommended that lodge officers attend their district meetings. The Home Office will be outlining the 2023 lodge incentive program. We will share what counts as fraternal hours and community service hours set by American Fraternal Alliance. We will talk to you about the hour collection process which is now live at spjst.org/gives. We will also answer your questions.

We will be announcing several online meetings that will walk you through the process of entering the information. We will also talk about the hours and projects that qualify. The Home Office is asking the FACs to enter these hours on a quarterly basis instead of waiting until January 2024 to enter the hours. Some amazing incentives are available to our lodges, and we look forward to visiting with you and helping you work towards achieving them for your lodge.

The Member Engagement (Fraternal) and Insurance Departments are working hand-in-hand on lodges earning money through “The Survivor Game” and SPJST Membership Drive. Check these out - and congrats to the lodges who are still alive in “The Survivor Game.”

2023 State Tournaments

Our final SPJST State Tournament for 2023 is scheduled for Saturday, April 1 at

AprilJune FOR A

the Home Office in Temple. Registration fee is $30, and a meal will be provided. We hope to see you! Please register online at spjst.org/tournaments or call 254773-1575, ext. 164 as soon as possible so we can reserve your space and meal.

Paws for a Cause

We are kicking off our second quarter state charity project — Paws for a Cause. The collection time is April through June. Lodges and youth clubs are asked to identify a local animal shelter or pet rescue organization. Contact them to determine their needs. Then, collect items or offer assistance, according to the specific needs. Take photos of your lodge’s or youth club’s project. Submit online at spjst.org/gives. Be sure to also share on social media using #spjstgives.

We thank all the lodges and youth clubs that joined in the Souper Bowl and made donations to their local food banks.

gives cares shares

2023

MAKE IT YOUR GOAL TO PARTICIPATE IN

PAWS CAUSE

Animal Shelter Drive

April 1 through June 30, 2023

• SPJST lodges, youth clubs, and members are invited to collect and donate supplies to a animal shelter near you. Contact your donation site for specific needs.

• Photograph your donations with the donors. Submit your photo along with the total items donated at spjst.org/gives and share on social media using #spjstgives.

• Questions? Call 254-773-1575, ext. 177

If you collected soup cans and have not submitted your information, please do so at spjst.org/gives.

2023 Youth Group Incentives

SPJST is introducing an exciting new incentive program to engage our young members in community work and volunteerism. Through this process, youth will help fund their youth clubs by participating in Group Community Service, Social Engagement Activities, and Matching Funds. You can read more about the program in the flyers that are being emailed to youth leaders and lodge leaders. If you have any questions, please contact me, and I will help you.

SPJST State Camp—

“Painting the World a Better Place”

SPJST Summer Camp registration is open at spjst.org/camp. Camp is Wednesday, June 21 to Sunday, June 25 at Camp Kubena in Ledbetter, Texas.

• Youth enrolled in 1st through 12th grade as of the 2023-2024 school year may attend.

• Fee is $335 (includes $25 non-refundable registration fee).

• SPJST youth members can earn up to $210 in camp credits for attending 7 meetings between June 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023. Youth leader (lodge secretary for adult meetings) provides sign-in sheet for verification of attendance to apply towards the camp registration.

• SPJST youth who have a current life certificate that are unable to attend youth club/adult lodge meetings/activities can receive credits by earning service hours for community projects on behalf of SPJST. Please contact me for more details. Projects completed through May 15, 2023 will count.

• The $25 non-refundable registration fee is due at the time of registration. Please select the $25 online/$310 offline payment option. This will defer the remaining balance until the Home Office can update the meeting credits, if applicable. Payment can then be made through login.

• All fees must be paid by June 1. Fees (except $25) are refundable until June 6.

• Registration ends on May 1 or when all available slots are filled. Registration is first come, first served. A waiting list will be created, if necessary. Please notify us by June 6 if unable to attend for a full refund (except non-refundable fee).

• Camp registration is now open to nonSPJST members.

• Fee for non-members is $450 (includes $50 non-refundable registration fee).

• All fees must be paid by June 1. Fees (except $50) are refundable until June 6.

• If you have any questions about camp registration, please contact Frank at 254773-1575, ext. 177 or Tammy at 254773-1575, ext.164.

SPJST Camp Gift Card

Leaders and parents, set up a gift card through the Amilia website for your campers. They will be able to purchase camp merchandise at Camp Kubena Outpost (camp store). With the gift card, campers and chaperones will not have to keep up with cash or a debit card while at camp.

Visit spjst.org/camp. Then sign into your Amilia (camp registration) account. Under the SPJST logo, click on the tab labeled “Gift Cards.” To the right of the page, you will see Description and five fill boxes. After you have completed adding your information in the fill boxes, click on Add to cart. You will then select checkout, and the next page will come up. Select checkout again. Then select Continue my purchase, and on the next screen, you will be able to pay with a credit card.

State Youth Showcase

Registration for State Youth Showcase opens on April 1 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, June 30. We will include all of the guidelines for the creative arts, talents, and royalty categories in the next Vestnik. The registration process will be at spjst.org/youth-showcase. There are

DECORATE A ROCK for Camp Kubena

Who?

SPJST youth clubs, lodges, members, and friends are invited to participate.

What?

Choose a rock and decorate it! Photograph your decorated rock and submit online at spjst.org/gives. Share it on social media using #spjstgives. Bring your rock with you to Camp Kubena this summer or place it somewhere in your community.

When?

By April 30, 2023!

12 creative arts categories, and youth can submit one entry in each category. Note that four new categories have been added.

Creative Arts Categories

• Christmas Ornament (new)

• Constructed Items

• Desserts

• Handicraft

• Hobby Kits

• Holiday Corner (new)

• Photography

• Pictorial Art

• Science / Education

• Special Category (new)

• Video Short (new)

• Yearbook (for youth groups)

Talent Categories

• Individual Talent

• Group Talent

Royalty Categories

• Mr. and Miss SPJST

• Junior Mr. and Miss SPJST

• Little Mr. and Miss SPJST

The State Youth Showcase will be held on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. We will host a special event on Friday evening at Summer Fun Water Park in Belton. More information will be shared with the youth leaders through an email blast and in the SPJST Leadership and Youth Program Facebook Groups.

April Caring Challenge

Our caring challenge for April is decorating a rock. Be sure to take a photo of your rock. Then, visit spjst.org/gives to submit the photo of you and your completed rock. We would also love to see your rock on Facebook and/or Instagram. Post your photo using #spjstgives which also links to the SPJST pages.

Now that you have submitted your decorated rock, you can place it somewhere in your community—or bring it to Camp Kubena when you come to camp this summer and place it in the rock garden by the dining hall!

Fraternally,

Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—

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

It’s Your Life

Is My Money Safe?

The last month seemed to be a tough time for the banking industry. It seems like everyday a bank collapses. It is no wonder people are starting to wonder if their money is safe. The FDIC insures only so much of it. In some cases, that might not even be a guarantee. If your money is in the stock market, you spend many sleepless nights hoping you don’t go from a comfortable living to trying to just live. These are definitely trying times. For many, the questions on their mind is “Is there any safe place for my money?” and “Maybe I need to go back to tucking it under my mattress.”

If you have any money with SPJST, you are probably asking the same question: “Is my money safe with SPJST?” Like you, I have to ask the same question. My everyday money is at the credit union, and that worries me. My 401(k) seems to be disappearing, and that worries me. The rest of my retirement is with SPJST annuities, and that DOES NOT worry me. You may ask why? It’s not because I’m the vice president, that’s for sure. We are an insurance company so we are not insured by the federal government. So why am I not worried? It’s because over the last several years, we have made changes that have positioned ourselves to handle times like this.

Standard Analytics is an independent reporting company, that does comparative studies for the insurance industry. Last year’s study compared SPJST to the top 25 insurance companies (out of thousands). For every $100, the top 25 companies had $47.54 in liquid invested capital. This includes bonds, stocks, cash, and short-term investments. SPJST’s liquidity was almost twice as much at $88.98 for every $100. To further show

our strength, for every $1,000 of life insurance in force, we have $262.72 in assets compared to the top 25 that has $149.03. We also have $235.49 in reserves per $1,000 compared to $63.69 for the top companies. Having the higher reserves stabilizes us even more.

SPJST has always been more conservative and overly cautious with your money. Because of our strategy, we are always able to find a way to grow during down markets. This last year alone, we added more than $10 million to our policy reserves and our admitted assets are more than $262 million.

SPJST will always err on the side of caution. We understand the importance of your money and will not exchange high risk investments for your financial security. It is never in our best interest to sacrifice your financial security for our financial gain.

If you are interested in a copy of this report, please email me at delisled@spjst.com and I will be glad to send you a copy. Long before I took this position, I had my money with SPJST because I’m conservative and have always looked for the safest place for my dollar. We won’t make the most money for your dollars, but you will always have more, and never have to worry if your money is safe. So sleep tight and have pleasant dreams, as your money is safe with us.

“Do not save what is left after spending but spend what is left after saving.”

–Warren Buffet

My door is always open; figuratively and literally. Stay blessed, Delisle L.

Doherty Vice President of Sales

and Marketing

832-232-2049

—SPJST—

District News

2023 Annual District Meetings

District One - Sunday, April 16 at Lodge 9, Snook

District Two - Sunday, August 6 at Lodge 48, Beyersville

District Three - Sunday, April 23 at Lodge 6, Cottonwood

District Four - Saturday, April 1 Lodge 49, Rowena

District Five - Sunday, April 30 at Lodge 88, Houston

District Six - Sunday, April 16 at Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall, Victoria

District One Annual Meeting Agenda

Sunday, April 16, 2023 • Lodge 9, Snook Hall 457 County Road 269W • Snook, Texas

The District One Spring Meeting will be Sunday, April 16, 2023, at the lodge hall in Snook. Lodge 9, Snook will host the meeting with registration starting at 12:30 p.m. Lodge 9 is located at 457 CR 269W.

A meal will be served from 12 to 1 p.m. The meeting will start at 1:30 p.m. This is also the time for election of district officers and the director of the

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers board. Youth members will go to the city park to paint rocks and play games. I hope to have a large turnout for our meeting. Hope to see you there. Fraternally, Randy Gaas

District One President —SPJST—

12 to 1 p.m. - Meal Served • 12:30 p.m. - Registration 1:30 pm. - Meeting Begins

501(c)(3) Director’s Report

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers ........................................................Donnie Victorick

Appoint Audit Committee ...............................................................................Randy Gaas

Call Meeting to Order ......................................................................................Randy Gaas

Pledge of Allegiance.............................................................District One King and Queen

Welcome by Lodge 9 President.......................................................................Donnie Hejl

Roll Call of Officers and Lodges.......................................................................Sandra Stone

Recognition of Guests......................................................................................Randy Gaas

Reading of Minutes........................................................................................Sandra Stone

Tribute to Departed Members ........................................Kyle Skrabanek/Ronnie Roesler

Reading of 50- and 75-Year and Age 96 Members ............................Randy/Kyle/Ronnie

Treasurer’s Report ........................................................................................Sharon Kovar

District Youth Counselor Report .................................................................Hannah Kovar

Governance Committee Report ..........................................................................Bill Orsak

Executive Committee Report ................................................................... Delisle Doherty

District Director’s Report...........................................................................Donnie Victorick

Old Business Audit Committee Report

New Business

Election of District Officers for 2023 and 501(c)(3) Director

Selection of Site, Time, Date of Fall Fun Day and 2024 Annual Meeting Adjournment —SPJST—

District Four plans April 1 annual meeting in Rowena

Dear District Four Members, The District Four Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023. Lodge 49, Rowena will host this year’s meeting in Rowena at the SPJST Hall. It is located at 706 FM 2133. Registration

will begin at 11 a.m.

Please RSVP to Laura Pospichal at 325-365-6485 or Sylvia Rollwitz 325442-3141 by March 26.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, April 1!

Fraternally, Janeece Williams

District Four Vice President/FAC —SPJST—

District Five Spring Social

Sunday, April 30, 2023 • Lodge 88, Houston 1435 Beall Street • Houston, Texas 77008

Registration 11 a.m. - Youth Kite Project

Meal 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Brief Meeting Begins at 1 p.m.

Welcome.................................................District Five President Dorothy Pflughaupt (88) Lodge 88 President Aaron Rigamonti

Pledge of Allegiance

Memorial and Prayer for Departed Members ........................Dorothy Pflughaupt (88)

Introduction of Guests .....................................................................Linda Bratina (196)

Roll Call of Officers.......................................................................Krystal Peterson (81)

Meeting Minutes (printed in handout) ..........................................Krystal Peterson (81)

Treasurer’s Report (printed in handout).....................................Kerry Herrington (142)

DYC Report (printed in handout) ......................................................Kristen Jones (81)

Senior Living Centers’ Report (printed in handout) ..........................JR Coleman (142)

Camp Kubena Report (printed in handout) ......................................................Rob Clift

District Director’s Report (printed in handout) .........................Bradley Stavinoha (81)

Home Office Report (printed in handout) .............................................Delisle Doherty

Each attending lodge is asked to share a report on fundraising, fraternal activities, and/or success stories.

Old Business

New Business

District and Lodge Incentives Program .........................................Melanie Zavodny

Election of District Five Officers

2024 SPJST Convention in Temple

Youth Winners and Raffle Results Announced

Site Selection of Fall Fun Day

Installation of Officers

Door Prizes

District Five Spring Social

Sunday, April 30,

District Six plans April 16 annual meeting in Victoria

Dear Members, District Six has set its annual meeting for Sunday, April 16, 2023, at the Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall in Vic-

toria, Texas. More information will be made available once the final arrangements have been made.

Fraternally, Elizabeth Holub

District Six Secretary —SPJST—

Bloody Mary Contest Rules

• Single entrants or a team of not more than 2 persons are allowed.

Entrants must be 21 years or older when the use of alcohol is present (alcohol is optional). Those under the age of 21 may enter a non-alcoholic version (pre-mix only).

• A list of ingredients must be provided to the judges (this will be part of the judging of originality). The quantities/measurements of those listed ingredients is optional. MUST SHOW IF ALCOHOL IS PRESENT. This submission may be handwritten or typed on a 4 x 6 index card with a name for their entry, i.e. “Team Bloody Mess.”

• CANNOT use any pre-made Bloody Mary mix. Recipes must be original and tomato-based. Vodka shall be the only alcohol used. The choice of Vodka or garnishment is entirely optional to each entrant(s).

• The entrant(s) may make the non-alcoholic pre-mix, including garnish(es) prior to arrival. Entrant(s) will provide container of pre-mix (with or without alcohol included) at check-in, and given ample time to make presentation prior to the Judge's table. Entrant(s) wishing to infuse Vodka prior to check-in is permissible, or may mix on site after check-in.

• Each entrant or team will need to provide at least 16 - 20 ounces (ice optional), for the official judges, and up to 32 ounces additional for samples to “Public Judges.” That number may vary.

• Turn in for judging the presentation glass (with garnish) to the judges may not be consumed by the judges, but the sampling cups will be consumed and should be prepared accordingly.

Judging

No more than four judges will be assigned, with one being knowledgeable in mixology, if possible.

Official judging will be based on the following point score:

Taste: 40 points

• Presentation/Appearance: 25 points

• Originality: 20 points

• Garnish: 15 points

In the event of a tie, the presiding head judge will make a final decision.

During the contest, the judges’ decisions are final and if necessary, will supersede these rules.

Winners

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will receive prizes and bragging rights.

A Spirited Open House in Temple’s Historic District

Czech Heritage Museum • 19 West French Avenue

Celebrating National Volunteer Month in April

Thursday, April 13 • 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Admission Free

Thanks to These April Sponsors

Mikeska Distributing • Ratibor Country Grill & Catering

Kolache Kitchen • The SPJST Foundation

If your business, civic or cultural organization, church or school group is working to make a positive difference in Temple and the surrounding area, Night at the Museum is your opportunity to spread the good word while you mix and mingle with friends old and new. Night at the Museum is a spring and summer series hosted by the SPJST Foundation dedicated to establishing the museum as a community center with regularly scheduled activities including performances and events. Night at the Museum open houses are scheduled for April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13 and August 10. To showcase your group or business at Night at the Museum, including sponsorships, please contact Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com

Night at the Museum: Czech Heritage Museum to start new series of community fun

by David Stone Our Town Temple Owner/Publisher and Temple Daily Telegram Contributor

Night at the Museum, a new community engagement series at the Czech Heritage Museum, kicks off April 13 and will continue on the second Thursday of each month at least through August.

The event will run from 5 p.m. to about 7:30 p.m. and is free of charge to the public.

“This is a new monthly series — an open house for the community to connect and network,” said Brian Vanicek, president of the SPJST Foundation and SPJST Fraternal Life Insurance. “We’re testing the waters for five months and hope to make it a regular event.”

The SPJST Foundation has taken over operations of the museum and is planning several events designed to give the facility a community center feel.

“We want to broaden the perception of what museums are all about,” Vanicek said. “We want the Czech Heritage Museum to be a relevant part of the Temple community. We’d like to host a range of events and activities ranging from live performances to competitions, beer and wine tastings, and outdoor events.”

Three well-known Central Texas businesses — Ratibor Country Grill, Kolache Kitchen, and Mikeska Distributing — will be providing food and drink for the inaugural Night at the Museum event. Future celebrations will be on May 11, June 8, July 13, and August 10, and businesses interested in sponsoring a gathering should contact Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

“If your business, civic or cultural organization, church, or school group is working to make a positive difference in Temple, you are invited,” he said. “Likewise, if you’ve got a project to promote and share, this is your time to spread the word. We’ll have an open mic for you to promote your activities. We’re also inviting individuals who are engaged in the performing arts – youth/collegiate/adult – to present snippets of upcoming performances, including plays, musical performances, dance ensembles, and theatrics.”

Popular Central Texas artist Lisa Chase will present a collection of 12 paintings that will be sold during an online auction during the month of April.

Proceeds from the auction will go toward a newly created memorial scholarship in honor of Susan Chandler, the museum’s curator and director who died unexpectedly on September 4, 2022.

“Susan had been working to establish a local advisory team consisting of movers and shakers from Temple’s business and civic communities,” Vanicek said. “The Foundation is raising funds to endow a scholarship for a high school senior to honor Susan’s memory. We’ve already collected $5,000, but we want this to be an ongoing scholarship to continue to honor her work and memory for years to come.”

The advisory team has been reestablished and is already making a positive difference, Vanicek said.

“Over the past few months, quite a few things have changed at the museum,” he said. “Most notably, the oversight of the museum, which previously rested in the hands of the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center board, has been transferred to the SPJST Foundation. Kenny Lange, who has been at the museum for years, is the building manager and curator.”

One of the group’s members is RVOS Corporate Secretary Jamie Smith, whose organization will be hosting the state’s first Czech-American Heritage Run — a 5K walk and run on October 7 that will support the Temple museum.

The Czech Heritage Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday by appointment only.

—SPJST—

Susan Chandler, Czech Heritage Museum curator who died unexpectedly September 4, 2022, demonstrates the magic gambler machine last summer at the museum. The SPJST Foundation, which oversees the museum, is raising money for an annual scholarship to a high school senior in Susan’s honor. Twelve paintings by renowned artist Lisa Chase will be auctioned online, and the proceeds will assist in funding the scholarship. David Stone photo

Czech Heritage Museum Advisory Team met Wednesday, March 8. Pictured are, front, Brian Vanicek. Second row: Rod Henry, Brook Fowler, Helen and Jerry Haisler. Back: Kenny Lange, Jamie Smith, Melanie Zavodny, Frank Sodek, and Dan Kacir.

SPJST LODGE SECTION

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter egg hunt

Sunday, April 2

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 8, Weimar plans memorial service at May 22 meeting

On Sunday, April 2, the Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting will be at 2 p.m. before the Easter celebration. At that time, there will be a recognition of those members receiving 50-year and 75-year pins. A fried chicken meal will follow our annual Easter egg hunt. Members are requested to bring a dessert to be served with the meal. Be sure to join us for a fun afternoon!^

Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 8, Weimar met on Monday, February 27, 2023, at 12 noon at Oakridge Smokehouse in Schulenburg, Texas, for the meeting and meal. President Henrietta Veselka called the meeting to order at 12:05 p.m. Marilyn Yates led the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for departed members.

Nine members and guests were in attendance, including State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. All officers were present. Minutes of the November 28, 2022, meeting and holiday meal were in the Monday, January 9, 2023, issue of the Vestnik. Becky Jares made a motion, sec-

Members of Lodge 8, Weimar are pictured with the soup donation/collection for the SPJST Souper Bowl at the February meeting. The soup collection was donated to Schulenburg Food Pantry. Pictured are, front, left to right, Carolyn Tobola and Luther and Earlene Lorfing.

BACK: Melvin

Becky

Marilyn and R.E. Yates, and Henrietta Veselka.

onded by Earlene Lorfing, to accept the minutes as printed in the Vestnik. The motion carried. Becky Jares made a motion, seconded by Melvin Tobola, to accept the treasurer’s report as presented. Motion carried.

Under correspondence, a letter was received (dated February 17) from Tamara Gettys notifying our lodge that the Home Office has successfully filed our e-postcard for tax year 2022. Old correspondence received on December 23 was an email from Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska stating SPJST increased its payout rates for the Lodge Management Fund. A letter was received notifying us of the Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion Texas Blacksmithing Conference at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center on January 27 to 28.

A memorial service is scheduled at the next meeting on Monday, May 22. Henrietta thanked Marilyn, Earlene, and Carolyn for their help with the memorial service held last year.

Tanner Konvicka applied for an SPJST scholarship. Tanner is the greatgrandson of Rosie Shumbera.

Earlene and Luther Lorfing are proud to announce the birth of a new greatgrandson.

State Fraternal Director Horak reported our 2022 SPJST Lodge Enhanced Premium Refund will be $135.61. He discussed the new incentive program for 2023 - “Into the Community,” which replaces the previous premium refund program. We can receive more funds if we meet socially at least six times this year. The minimum incentive is $350. More information on this will be forthcoming. The soup collection for the Souper Bowl held at this meeting will be going to the Schulenburg Food Pantry. The dog food collection, Paws for a Cause, at the next meeting will be going to an area animal shelter.

Birthdays since the last meeting are Earlene Lorfing and Rosie Shumbera.

The District Six meeting will be at Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall in Victoria on Sunday, April 16.

Melvin made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Earlene seconded, and the motion carried.

Thank you, Frank, for the door prizes. They are appreciated.

After Frank led us in prayer, we enjoyed a very delicious lunch, compliments of Lodge 8, Weimar.

Next Meeting—May 22

Our next meeting will be on Monday, May 22 at 12 noon at Oakridge Smokehouse in Schulenburg.

Carolyn M. Tobola, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone honors Daniel Wilde for 18 years of service

Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, March 14, 2023, at Flag Hall amid the new corn crop emerging to put new money in our farmers’ pockets and supply new money to our economy.

President Brenda Maddux called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance and a silent prayer. Cathy Bruggman read the minutes from the last meeting. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report. Refund from the Home Office was received. The insurance renewal is a major challenge. The Home Office worked well in helping us keep the tax exemption. Brenda gave the bar report. We did not have an FAC report.

Lodge 29, Taylor members welcome Baby Hazel at March meeting

—Linda

Tobola,

Jares,

Lodge 8, Weimar

Lodge 29, Taylor member Kara Kaderka is pictured with her daughter, Hazel Pitre, at the lodge’s meeting held on March 8, 2023. Hazel Kay was born December 21, 2022.

Pospisil Secretary/Reporter

Daniel Wilde gave the roof report. Mollie B has been moved back a week to January 28, 2024. An outgoing officer plaque was presented to Daniel Wilde for 18 years of service as president of Lodge 24, making him the second longest serving president of our lodge.

President Brenda read the names of the 50- and 75-years pin members. The Home Office will contact these members about receiving their pins.

On the sick list is Bobby Hoelscher. For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 29, Taylor sets barbecue cook-off for Sept. 29-30

President Ronnie Rieger called the meeting of Lodge 29, Taylor to order on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. He led the Pledge of Allegiance and had a moment of silence in honor of our departed members and the military serving our country. Tammy Cannon was absent. The February minutes were read and approved. Ronnie gave the treasurer’s report.

Linda read a thank you note from Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry for our donation in December. She also read a thank you letter from the Texas Critter Crusaders for our support through inkind sponsorship of their 2022 Spayghetti Dinner and Dance. Lodge 29 received $2,958.07 from the 2022 SPJST Lodge Enhanced Premium Refund. Fraternal activities include observing Monday, March 13 as National Good Samaritan Day. Tuesday, March 28 is “Respect Your Cat Day!” It’s a day to celebrate you and your feline bestie! Sunday, August 6 is the scheduled date of the District Two Annual Meeting. It will be held at Lodge 48, Beyersville. The next statewide community service project (April through June) will be Paws for a Cause. Lodges and members will be asked to collect and donate supplies for local animal shelters.

Jesse informed members of the 22nd Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Barbecue Cook-Off on Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30. We have raised the payout money to $5,000.

Jesse will order 408 cans of soup from HEB to donate to Shepherd’s Heart Pantry and will arrange a date and time when Lodge 29 members can deliver them. Jesse also discussed various ideas to improve the interior of the hall.

Ronnie expressed sincere condolences to Lillian Pacha on the unexpected loss of her husband, Donald.

Members celebrating birthdays in March include Kristen Rieger, Frankie Pustejovsky, Mike Girod, Andylyn Teat, and Mike Cannon.

Ronnie and Lyn Rieger brought door prizes. Next month, Adolph Grieger volunteered to bring them.

Next Meeting—April 12

The next meeting will be Wednesday, April 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally submitted, Linda

Pospisil Secretary/Reporter/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 39, Bryan discusses sale of property

Dear Readers,

Lodge 39, Bryan met Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Carter Burgers. The meeting was called to order at 1 p.m. All officers’ reports were read and approved.

Members discussed the sale of the lodge property and the next steps for the

HEY, YOUNG ADULTS!

sale. This was a lengthy discussion. Lodge members/officers are working on cleaning up the property.

The meeting was then adjourned.

Next Meeting—May 24

The next meeting will be Wednesday, May 24 at Carter Burgers in Bryan at 1 p.m. Members, please come and join this meeting.

Sincerely,

Binnie Ann Matejka Roesler Reporter —SPJST—

Summer employment dates are May 14 to August 4, 2023

Housing and meals provided

All staff will be professionally trained and certified in high ropes, first aid/CPR, lifeguarding, camp programs, and more.

Starting at $300/week

Applications are available at campkubena.com/jobs

For more information contact Rob at robc@spjst.com or 979-249-5674

Camp Kubena is located on 182 acres in the heart of Texas farm country, between Austin and Houston, off Highway 290 • 2001 Waldeck Road, Ledbetter, Texas 78946

Lodge 47, Seaton seeks volunteers for picnic committee

The March 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton was held on Sunday, the 5th at 2:03 p.m., beginning with the presentation of the flags by youth club members Everhett Bartek and Travis Ordogne, and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Officers present were Brandon Bartek, Rick Beck, Patsy Koslovsky, Amber Bartek, and Emily Ordogne. Previous lodge meeting minutes were read and approved. The unofficial board minutes were also read. Currently, the board is still working on collecting bids for the dance floor preservation. There will be a workday scheduled for March 11 at 8 a.m. to clear some branches that came down during the most recent winter storm.

Vice President Danny Stepan was away promoting the tarok tournament, which will be held on Saturday, April 22. It was reported that there are an estimated 15 to 20 people interested.

Lodge members were thanked for helping with replacing the rope lights surrounding the interior of the hall and bar area.

Emily Ordogne gave the treasurer’s report.

FAC Rick Beck informed lodge members that National Good Samaritan Day will be on March 13. He encouraged

everyone to be a good Samaritan that day. He also reported that the District Two Annual Meeting will be August 6 at Lodge 48, Beyersville. Lastly, he mentioned that the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive and Souper Bowl are still going on, and both will end the last day of March.

Youth Leader Amber Bartek gave the youth report and presented an update on March hall bookings.

In old business, recognition for the 50and 75-year members of Lodge 47 will be held during the May lodge meeting. Please keep an eye out for invitations. The lodge is trying to apply for the Texas Dance Hall Preservation grant, and currently trying to get information together including bids for the dance floor in order to apply.

In new business, Amber is still needing volunteers for the Picnic Committee. She informed the lodge if anyone wants to join, or knows someone who wants to join, please let her know. As of right now, she is just requesting to get together and brainstorm some ideas. Amber also informed the lodge that the Easter egg hunt will, unfortunately, not happen this year. In lieu of this, it was discussed to have goodie bags available for any youth present at the April meeting.

March birthdays and anniversaries were recognized, and door prizes were rewarded.

The flags were retired, and the meeting adjourned at 2:45 pm.

Next Meeting—April 2

The next lodge meeting will be scheduled for Sunday, April 2 at 2 p.m.

Christopher Ordogne Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton plans April 22 tarok tourney, Czech dance

Dear Readers,

Save the date: Saturday, April 22, 2023! Lodge 47, Seaton will begin the day with a tarok tournament. Six rounds of play will begin at 9 a.m. The $30 registration fee includes lunch and awards. To register or for more information, call 254-760-7819 or 254-493-9892.

The Czechaholics will play for a

dance from 7 to 11 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. The event is family friendly, and the kitchen will be open serving delicious food. Admission is $10 per person, and kids under age 12 are admitted free of charge. For more information, call 254624-4119.^

Fraternally, Brandon

Bartek, President —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville members hear about upcoming youth activities

The March 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 19th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by the youth, and everyone enjoyed a meal of chicken fried steak plates

DONATE TO CAMPERSHIPS!

Lodges and members are encouraged to help youth in need experience a fantastic summer oppportunity.

There are several ways to give to our campership program: donate online at spjst.org/camp or send your donation to SPJST c/o Summer Camp, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503.

Members of Lodge 29, Taylor are pictured donating 408 soup cans to Shepherd’s Heart Pantry in Taylor. —Linda Pospisil, Secretary/Reporter

- compliments of the lodge - from the Needville American Legion Fundraiser. Desserts were provided by members. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. The youth led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call except Special Funds Chair Marion Morales. Added to our sick list was Glenn McDonald.

Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her report, and it was approved as read. Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha read his report, and it was approved as read. Bradley also read the special funds report from Marion Morales, and it was approved as read. Bradley then read his audit for 2022.

Since we didn’t have any old business, we moved into new business. Under new business, Kristen Jones announced that on Saturday, May 13, District Five youth will host an evening at the ballpark. This event will take place at Constellation Field in Sugar Land. Kristen also mentioned that on Sunday, April 30, the youth will participate in the district annual meeting where they will build a kite. Next, Karen Hargraves showed pictures of some Astros wreaths that she hopes to make for a fundraiser. Lastly, our lodge agreed to donate $1 per community service hour to the youth who are planning to attend camp.

Door prize winners were Shirley Pavlock, Vincent Newman, Tripp Hargraves, and Karen Hargraves. Leftover plates were won by Shirley Myers, Amber Jones, Pam Labay, Leon Anheiser, Zoey Jones, and Glenn McDonald. Congratulations to our winners!

Next Meeting—April 16

For the next meeting on Sunday, April 16, Marion Morales will provide barbecue chicken. Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting!

Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas meets April 16

Dear Readers,

Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will meet Sunday, April 16, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. at Back Country BBQ, located at 6940 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231. The restaurant’s phone is 214-696-6940.

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas Member Laddie Gajdica Celebrates 90th Birthday

Spring Break: Lodge Houston88, Members Visit SPJST Home Office

SPJST President/ CEO Brian Vanicek welcomes Lodge 88, Houston Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Lea Kiefer, husband Rob Bialas, and daughters Willa and Evaline to the Home Office in Temple during their spring break travels.

Laddie Gajdica celebrated his 90th birthday with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in an all-day event filled with lots of fun, a big dinner with an accordion-shaped cake, and a polka dance at Lodge 88, Houston where Laddie danced with wife Helen, his daughter, daughters-in-law, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters! He is loved by them all! Happy birthday, Laddie!

Lodge 88, Houston Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 1

Fab 5 this Friday, March 31

Fab 5 is coming back to Lodge 88, Houston on Friday, March 31! If you’ve been before, you know how fun the show is. If you haven’t, you should check it out. Visit lodge88.org for tickets.

Easter Egg Hunt

The Easter bunny is hitting up Lodge 88 and hiding eggs for the biggest, best Easter egg hunt 2023 has ever seen! Grab your kids and their baskets and bring the family out to the backyard at the Lodge on Saturday, April 1 at 9:30 a.m. for our annual Easter egg hunt.

The north gate to the backyard will open at 9:30 a.m. for pictures with the Easter bunny, donuts, kolaches, and coffee. The bar will also be open at 10 a.m. and serving mimosas if you’re so inclined.

The egg hunt will be held in phases with ages 1 to 2 starting at 10 a.m.; ages 3 to 5 at 10:10 a.m.; ages 6 to 8 at 10:20

a.m.; and ages 9 and older beginning at 10:30 a.m.

This is a members-only event and is free for all our members, but please be sure to RSVP at https://rb.gy/5zgbhw by Wednesday, March 29.

Please be sure to include the number of children you’re bringing and their ages. We want to ensure the Easter bunny brings enough eggs and prizes for all participants. We also need the number of adults coming, too.

Want to help out? You’re in luck! We need members to fill eggs and setup on Friday, March 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and we also need members to help distribute eggs for the Easter bunny from 8 to 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 1. This is a really fun way to get your volunteer hours in - here is that link: https://rb.gy/rqikez

We hope to see you on April 1!

Lodge Dues - Pay Now!

It’s time to collect 2023 Lodge 88 dues! A couple of reminders / updates: If you are a Swim Club member, you should have already paid your Lodge and Swim Club dues. If not, the Swim Club will keep bothering you until you do.

We will be collecting annual lodge dues through our membership portal which you should already set up in. Log into the Membership Portal. Use the email address you used to pay dues last year.

If you don’t have a password, just click the link to reset.

Click on the link in the red bar that says: “Your account is not paid for the current season. To make a payment click here.”

Annual lodge dues are:

$155 for Standard Dues - This is a reduction from 2022.

Still just $25 for Legacy MembersQualifications listed below.

There are no dues for Youth Members. Contact administrator@lodge88.org if you have any issues such as: Log in problems.

Your dues amount seems incorrect. Your family seems to be missing someone who you would like to pay dues for.

We have tried to group everyone by family, but there was no perfect record to use . . . until now!

A Few Other Reminders

Annual dues are a responsibility for any Lodge 88 member with a life insurance certificate or annuity. This is not to be confused with any premiums paid to the SPJST Home Office which is a separate responsibility.

This is our first time collecting Lodge Dues payments through the membership portal so please be patient if there are issues.

Annual dues are not prorated or discounted.

We ask that everyone pay their dues by March 31, but go ahead and do it now because why not!

Legacy Member Qualifications

• Anyone who has been an Adult Member of SPJST Lodge 88 in good standing for more than 10 years and is over 50 years of age.

• Any Adult Member who joined SPJST Lodge 88 as a Youth Member (16 years old or younger prior to 2021, 17 years old or younger thereafter).

• Any Adult Member whose primary residence is more than 30 miles from SPJST Lodge 88.

Lifeguards

Do you know someone who would make a great lifeguard at Lodge 88? Have them express their interest here: https://rb.gy/9uutuv, and we will get them in contact with the pool management company. Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

Lodge 91, San Jacinto reports on March meeting

Lodge 91, San Jacinto held its first quarterly meeting on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at Crosby Dairy Queen at 2 p.m. Officers present were President Kathleen Munsch, Treasurer Marie Stasney, and FAC Malba Smesny. Secretary Vonda Smesny and Vice President June Smesny were not in attendance. Also present were two guests.

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

TOP LEFT PHOTOS: Lodge

92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle

celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at the March 14, 2023, meeting. President Cathy Simmank named Artemisa Massey our ‘Littlest Leprechaun.’

BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Lee Williams celebrates a birthday this month. BELOW RIGHT: March hostesses were Sandi Celusniak, Bessie Ellsworth, Garland Ellsworth, and Lisa Ellsworth with help from Delores York and Lucy Martinez.

—Lisa Ellsworth

The meeting was called to order by President Kathleen Munsch. FAC Malba Smesny read the minutes, and Treasurer Marie Stasney gave the financial report. Frankie Brewer made a motion to accept both the minutes and financial report as given. Malba Smesny seconded, and the motion carried.

A motion was made by Malba Smesny, seconded by Marie Stasney, to adjourn the meeting at 3:30 p.m. Everyone enjoyed a small lunch.

Malba Smesny

Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

S

Lodge 97, Placedo to host April 16

District Six Annual Meeting

Lodge 97, Placedo held its quarterly meeting on Monday, March, 13, 2023. President Gay Revel opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, and Judy Bellanger said the prayer. Dennis Vanek read the treasurer’s report. The secretary read a letter stating that our lodge had met the requirements to receive the 2022 SPJST Lodge Enhanced Premium Refund. A discussion was held, and our

UPER BOWL

Lodge 142, Houston

gives cares shares

Lodge 142, Houston Fraternal Activities

Coordinator Pat Schleider, right, presents the lodge’s collection of donations to Cypress Assistance Ministries. Accepting the donation Food Pantry Director Henry Lombrana.

Lodge 142, Houston members are pictured with their soup donations at the March meeting for the Souper Bowl project. Left to right are Jack and Catherine Manchack, Jo Dein and Steve Roznovsky, Elizabeth and Dennis Hermis, and Jean Herrington. Not pictured is Barbara Linney Gonzales. —Pat Schleider, FAC

lodge and several members made donations to the District Six Scholarship Fund.

Gay Revel announced that Lodge 97 will be hosting the District Six Annual Meeting, which will be held on Sunday, April 16 at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Center, located at 3201 North Laurent Street in Victoria, Texas 77901. Our members were asked to volunteer to help with setup and welcoming. Each Lodge is asked to bring a door prize and a dessert.

With no further business, Ken Revel made a motion to adjourn the meeting. After a second, members voted to adjourn the meeting.

Fraternally, Judy Bellanger, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 107, Floresville mourns loss of vice president

SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville held its monthly meeting on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at 3 pm. President Bielefeld called the meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for deceased members, military members, and veterans. A special moment of silence was held for the loss of our lodge’s vice president, Larry Bertrand.

Roll call of officers showed all present. Secretary Pruski read the February minutes. After one correction, they were approved. Treasurer Korus gave the financial report, and it was approved as read.

Under correspondence, Secretary Pruski received and read a letter from the Home Office about the annual lodge refund which has been direct deposited.

FAC Bayer received new forms from Frank at the District Seven meeting. She will start filling them out. Hall Manager Bertrand reported all weekends in April, May, and June have been booked with rentals.

For old business, reflective tape has been ordered for the legs of the sign in the parking lot.

Next Meeting—April 2

The next meeting will be Sunday, April 2 at the Floresville Flower Shop at 3 p.m.

Fraternally,

Trey Bielefeld, Reporter —SPJST—

S UPER BOWL gives cares shares

Lodge 151, Wharton

tion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it passed. We would like to welcome Frances to Lodge 151.

Under new business, Edith Molberg made a motion to donate $25 to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of David Vanicek. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed. Next, Frances Macha made a motion to donate $25 to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. The motion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it passed.

Our bank started charging $10 to mail our monthly bank statements. Frances Macha made a motion to have our bank statements sent to our lodge electronically. The motion was seconded by Carolyn Bucek, and it passed. David and Janie Bucek said they would make arrangements to receive our bank statements electronically.

Our lodge participated in the SPJST Souper Bowl. Members were thanked for their generous donations of canned soup. In addition, Angie Wasicek was unable to attend the meeting, but she also donated several cans of soup. The cans of soup will be donated to Share in Wharton.

Lodge 151, Wharton welcomes new member

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting and social at Wharton Depot Museum on Monday, March 13, 2023. A light meal was served at 6:15 p.m. to eight members. Vice President David Bucek led the prayer before the meal.

President Gerald Macha convened the meeting at 6:55 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for our departed members. Roll was called, and all officers were present.

The December minutes and treasurer’s report were handed out to the members. After they had been reviewed, Frances Macha made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed. Communications were read. Treasurer Carolyn Bucek read a letter from the Home Office about our lodge’s premium refund amount. Next, President Macha announced SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek’s brother David had passed away. He read David Vanicek’s obituary. Lastly, Secretary Janie Bucek reported one death claim had been paid, and we had one new member.

Janie then gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. She announced the

District Six Annual Meeting will be held in Victoria on Sunday, April 16. Janie also reported on upcoming SPJST projects and activities.

David Bucek presented the cemetery report. He stated the cemetery organization needs to make sure all of the lots are marked in the SPJST Velehrad Cemetery for future burials.

Janie Bucek made a motion to accept new member Frances Macha. The mo-

Birthday honorees for January, February, and March were Carolyn Bucek, Janie Bucek, Valeria Hundl, and Gerald Macha. Each birthday honoree received a gift from the lodge.

Door prizes were drawn.

President Macha adjourned the meeting at 7:45 p.m.

Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 151, Wharton Honors Birthday Celebrants

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton birthday honorees for January, February, and March are, left to right, Janie Bucek, Valeria Hundl, Carolyn Bucek, and Gerald Macha. Congratulations and Happy Birthday!

Members of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton participated in the SPJST Souper Bowl. Pictured with canned soup donations, are, left to right, Edith Molberg, Carolyn Bucek, David Bucek, Janie Bucek, Valeria Hundl, Bennie Hundl, and Gerald Macha. Not pictured are Frances Macha (photographer) and Angie Wasicek who couldn’t attend the meeting but donated several cans of soup.

Lodge 187, Round Rock next meeting: May 7

Hello,

Lodge 179, Warrenton prepares for April 13 meeting

Recent activities by our lodge membership include volunteering our services at the Ledbetter Firemen’s Feast in Ledbetter on Thursday, March 9, 2023. Officers President Ruby Juergens, Secretary/Treasurer Ricky Weyand, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marceil Malak attended. Donations on behalf of Lodge 179 were made to American Cancer Society and Ledbetter Volunteer Fire Department.

We invite and encourage all members to attend our next meeting on Thursday, April 13 at J W Steakhouse in Carmine beginning at 11 a.m. Since we have begun meeting quarterly, it is important that we make plans for activities well in advance. Please attend this meeting and help us plan further community events, as well as provide a membership activity for the enjoyment and benefit to you— the membership.

We look forward to a large crowd at this meeting!

Fraternally, Marceil Malak

Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

S UPER BOWL gives cares shares

Lodge 160, San Angelo

Our March madness meeting! Just kidding! It was a normal meeting but still fun. We welcomed back guest Eva Hanley. It’s always a pleasure. We had a discussion about all the bookings at the lodge and the clearing of all the damaged beautiful, old oak trees. We talked about the upcoming District Two meeting and the summer camp.

Some of our youth had some fun playing with all the pennies that were donated by the lodge. Thanks bunches to all of you! Thank you, Rubie Volek, for bringing the door prizes. We also had a great time playing bingo! We ended with our fabulous potluck dinner.

Happy anniversary to Greg and Jennifer McCarthy.

Birthday wishes go to Mathieu McCarthy, Carla Krenek, Kollins Rohlack, Lori Randig, Dianne Mills, Suzanne Meyer, Jimmy Meyer, Donna Mabry, Mary Kiely, Alice Kasper, Doyle Hobbs Jr., Kimberly Harman, Ryan Green, Clayton Green, Maria Gonzales, Steven Gola, Blake Burklund, Journeigh Bubenik, Judy Brewster, Norma Betak, Paula Almquist, FG Seeberger Jr., and Tanner Bartz.

Next Meeting—May 7

Due to Easter and spring events, we will not have a meeting at the lodge in

Lodge 155, Austin Hosts Lunch Social

April. Our next gathering will be on Sunday, May 7, and we are planning to have some guest speakers attend.

Blessings to all, Jennifer

McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator Financial Secretary

—SPJST—

Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter egg hunt set for April 1

The annual Easter egg hunt at Lodge 196, Houston-West will be Saturday, April 1, 2023. No, it is not a joke or a misprint . . . it is the date for our exciting Easter egg hunt!

As always, there will be lots of egg to find, prizes, cookies, and other things to do. The word is that the Easter Bunny will make his normal appearance so bring your children to have a great time (ages 12 and under will hunt eggs). The fun starts at 2 p.m., and the event ends at 4 p.m. Get your baskets ready to gather those eggs, and come have a fun time!

If you would like to help with this event, please contact the lodge at 281373-9482 or me at 832-651-5388. We look forward to another fun time.^

Don Fruin Event Coordinator —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo adults and youth members participating together in the Souper Bowl project, collecting 140 cans of soup which totaled 110 pounds. This was delivered to Concho Valley Regional Food Bank in San Angelo. “The youth were so helpful in loading all of the cans of soup on the cart for the Food Bank,” says Lodge 160 President Sandra Jansa. “The Food Bank staff was so appreciative of the donation!” Pictured are, front, left to right, Caitlynn Jansa, Luke Jarisch, and Nolan Jansa. BACK: Sandra Jansa, Betty Schwartz, Sophia Jarisch, and Ryan Jansa.

How to Keep Unwanted Guests from Attending a Funeral

Why would families have police or hired security at families

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

Funerals are a highly emotional and sensitive time for a family and can bring complicated issues to light. However, it is important not to let family feuds take the focus off of honoring the life of the person who has passed away. To make sure the funeral is a time to grieve and not the start of a major fight, some families choose to place restrictions on who can and cannot attend the service, and some hire off duty police officers or security guards.

While placing a limit on who is permitted to attend the funeral may hurt some feelings, it can also prevent dramatic situations from unfolding and turning the funeral into a stressful experience instead of a celebration of a person’s life. Additionally, restricting the attendance at a funeral can save a family a significant amount of money. If you are hoping to limit attendance at a funeral, there are a few different ways to do so in a tactful and respectful way. This includes:

Lodge 155, Austin hosted its March meeting and lunch social on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Pok-E-Jo’s in Austin. Pictured are, from left, Mike Wood, Marianna Hejl Wood, and Clara and Albert Klinkovsky. Not pictured are guests District Two Director Jesse and Linda Pospisil.

Announce the death of the person, while indicating that the funeral service will be private

Unless you specify otherwise, it is implied that anyone is welcome to attend the funeral. While a large funeral service is often a beautiful thing, it can also become a source of stress if there is tension among those in attendance. When you specify that the funeral is private, you control who shows up. This means that you can prevent inappropriate incidents from happening during the service, thus keeping the focus on the person who has passed, as it should be.

Announce that the person has passed after the funeral is over

When you place an obituary for that person in the paper after the funeral has already taken place, it still allows you to get the word out that the individual has died, but it prevents you from having to welcome everyone and anyone to the funeral.

Have a memorial service at a later date

If you are truly concerned about an unpleasant situation that may unfold at a loved one’s funeral, you can still honor that individual’s life without a traditional funeral service. Instead, have a memorial service for that person several months

after they have died. Let only a select handful of people know about the service, and tell them that it is private. If someone contacts you asking to know the details of the event, you can choose whether or not you’d like to share the details with this person.

Be honest

In some instances, honesty is the most effective method. If a family member who has been at odds with others contacts you, explain that you would love to have them attend, but that you are concerned that doing so would create tension at the service. Instead, invite them to spend some time with your family after the service is over, allowing them to pay their respects without worrying about issues arising.

Ultimately, a funeral service is a time to honor the life and legacy of someone who has died. If an open service would cause dramatic situations to occur, it is best to restrict attendance. While some feelings may be hurt as a result, it is worth it in order to allow the service to remain a peaceful and poignant experience for all.

Funeral homes are not responsive to ask guests to leave. At Young’s Daughters, we have professional staff for hire for the reasons to limit or ask guests to

Lodge 179, Warrenton Supports Ledbetter VFW and American Cancer Society

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Hosts Spring Luncheon

Lodge 179, Warrenton President Ruby Juergens deposits donation checks from Lodge 179 into a boot for Ledbetter Volunteer Fire Department and into a decorated jar for the American Cancer Society at the Firemen’s Feast held in Ledbetter on Thursday, March 9, 2023. Other lodge officers present at the feast were Secretary/Treasurer Ricky Weyand Fraternal Activities Coordinator Marceil Malak.

—Marceil Malak, FAC

Members

on Monday,

13,

Temple.

Melanie Zavodny, Frances McBride, Ricki Dixon, Susan Hutton, and Ingrid Petrik. The lodge is planning an event to support Tiny Hooves Rescue and Petting Zoo for the quarterly “Paws for a Cause” project. The lodge will host its next lunch social on Monday, May 8 at Bella Blue at 11:15 a.m.

David

leave. They are also available for security at the house if families feel that they are concerned about their home. When selecting a funeral home, ask if they are prepared and if they have trained staff to handle these situations.

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

Easter in the Czech Republic from A to Z

A is for All Week Long: Czech Easter is a nearly week-long celebration that begins on Ugly Wednesday and continues through to the Easter Monday feast with numerous special days in between.

B is for Brunch: Easter brunch is quickly becoming a tradition in Prague with many hotels and restaurants offering special menus throughout the Easter weekend.

C is for Cantata: In Prague, the Bach Easter Cantata or mass at St. Nicholas cathedral commemorate the religious aspects of the holiday, forgotten under the communist regime when Easter was celebrated only as a rite of spring.

D is for Decorations: Aside from colored eggs and hand-made willow whips, Czechs also adorn trees and bushes with Easter regalia as part of a 19th-century European tradition originating in Germany and Austria.

E is for Eggs: In Moravia, especially Easter eggs - vejce - are decorated by hand using a variety of stunning tech-

of the Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point hosted a lunch social

March

2023, at Bella Blue Restaurant in

Pictured are, left to right,

Nauert,

niques including batik and wrapping in a fine decorative wire which have made them world-renowned.

F is for Fertility Rituals: From whipping women to dousing them in water to ensure fertility, this Czech holiday comes with a trigger warning…not for feminists!

G is for Good Friday - Velký pátek: In Czech, Velký pátek, was not recognized as a national holiday under the communist regime; but it’s now officially back. Hello, four-day weekend.

H is for this traditional carol, sung by Czech children at Easter:

Hody hody doprovody

dejte vejce malovany

Nedate-li malovany dejte aspon bily

však Vam slepička snese jiny.

Give me a colored egg if you won’t give me a colored egg give me a white one and get your hen to lay another.

I is for Increased security: Hard to believe, police are on high alert for overzealous party people. Yes, Czech Easter is that kind of holiday.

J is for Judas March: A 16-century White Saturday custom, Vodění Jidáše sees one lucky guy get dressed up in a bale of hay and pointy hat, parading through the village followed by legions of children collecting candy.

K is for Kraslice: The most traditional technique for coloring eggs the Czech way, these gloriously hand-painted eggs are synonymous with the holiday.

L is for Lamb: Lamb-shaped cake beránek is served as dessert.

M is for Mazanec: This classic Czech yeast bread, baked with an egg wash and sprinkled with almonds, is similar to the hot-cross buns of Easter tradition served elsewhere.

N is for Nádivka: Easter would not be Easter without this Czech stuffing. Each year in Prague there is a competition devoted to the best one; nettles, spinach, and other herbs are added to symbolize spring rebirth.

Lodge 258, Seguin Spring Get-Together

Sunday, March 12, 2023 • Rocket Wings Restaurant in Seguin

who wear it to symbolize good health and happiness.

X is for Xaverov: Obscure fact - Xaverov, a municipality and village in Benešov District in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, is for Czechs of a certain age, synonymous with eggs!

Y is for Yolks, be gone: Eggs are blown out or hollowed before decorating, per Czech tradition.

Z is for Zelený čtvrtek - Green Thursday: One of the three Holy Days leading up to Easter when only vegetables including an herb-based soup are eaten, and some Czechs drink green beer.

https://news.expats.cz/community/czech-easter-holidayfrom-a-to-z/ —SPJST—

O is for Onion Peels: Use them along with other vegetable peelings or dried leaves to decorate eggs in the natural way.

P is for Pomlázka: A willow-branch whip festooned with ribbons that is used in the traditional Czech Easter-whipping custom. P is also for pučálky - an Easter dish made of peas.

Q is for Question: Not sure about this one, but supposedly in a leap year, women get to whip the men at Easter.

R is for Řehtačka: These rattles are used by school children to scare off Judas throughout Holy Week.

S is for Slivovice: The preferred Easter libation, best enjoyed while parading

through the village in search of female victims to whip.

T is for Trhy: The Easter marketsvelikonoční trhy - that dot the Czech capital are pretty much just like the Christmas markets, but with eggs.

U is for Ugly Wednesday: Called Škaredá středa, this is the day Judas be trayed Jesus, and when children are let out of school early to help with Easter preparations.

V is for Velikonoce: The Czech word for Easter derives from “great night” - velká noc - after the day Christ rose from the dead.

W is for Wearing red: Red is still the ultimate Easter symbol for many Czechs

LEFT PHOTO: Melvin Strey and Henrietta and James Lowak.

RIGHT PHOTO: Steve and Carrie Origas and Colleen Jenke.

LEFT PHOTO: In front are District Seven Director Regina House and husband James and David Nauert. In back is Territory Manager Ralph

Juarez. RIGHT PHOTO: Colleen and Chester Jenke, Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, and Director House.

Stephanie and David Mills with children Bryana, Logan, and Aryana visit with Clara Orbeck, far right.

online at spjst.org or send order and payment by mail to PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503 orders

In Memoriam

In Memory of Cindy Kubicek

Cynthia (Cindy) Kubicek, age 71, of East Bernard, Texas, passed away suddenly on February 10, 2023, in a Sugar Land hospital with her family by her side.

Rosary was at 4 p.m. with a memorial mass at 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 23 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Father Charles Otsiwah as celebrant.

Cindy was born on January 10, 1952, in Brenham to the late Otto and Helen Look Schulte.

Cindy grew up in Simonton and was a true country girl, helping her dad with cattle and taking trips with her family. She was a graduate of Lamar Consolidated High School, class of 1970, enjoying her time as a twirler and drum major. She married Kenneth Kubicek on January 21, 1972, and then set their roots deeply in East Bernard.

She worked hard devoting her time to Richmond State School before changing avenues in occupation. Early in her career, she worked as secretary for Wharton County Justice of the Peace John Murrile for 16 years. After his retirement, she was elected to the position of Justice of the Peace, a role she was honored to fill for the community for the following 16 years. She established numerous relationships with law enforcement, county leaders, and those popping in and out of the office, rather for good or bad reasons. Cindy was also appointed the first East Bernard Municipal Judge.

Cindy played a huge role in the growth of East Bernard as she loved finding homes for families in her role at K Reality which she ran alongside her husband, Kenneth. A tremendous community supporter, her goals were always to make the community a better place to live and work. Cindy enjoyed her grandchildren tremendously who were definitely the light of her life. As her health allowed, she was sure to attend every sporting event, play, concert, and fund-

raiser that they participated in. She was an avid reader, enjoyed day trips with Kenneth to just drive around or get dinner from their favorite restaurants, and being involved in the community.

Cindy was a member of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard. She was a former member of East Bernard Little League, serving as president, and East Bernard Booster Club, serving as secretary for many years. She was a past Chamber of Commerce director and voted East Bernard’s “Citizen of the Year” in 2006. Cindy was also a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Cindy is survived by her husband of 51 years, Kenneth Kubicek; son Justin Kubicek and wife Kelly; daughter Kaylan Kopycinski and husband John; sister Connie Hill; precious grandchildren Carson and Carly Kubicek and Hays and Ridge Kopycinski; and many friends.

Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com. Services were under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, Wharton.

Helen Kelner FAC/Secretary/Reporter

—SPJST—

In Memory of Helen Skrasek

Helen S. Skrasek, 99, passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Funeral service was at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 16 at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in North Richland Hills, Texas. Interment was at Myrtle Cemetery in Ennis. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15in the Breyley Suite at Mount Olivet.

The “loves of Helen’s life were “My family, my friends, my faith, music, dancing, cooking, baking, and fishing.”

Helen was a member to several organizations including SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, social member of KJT,

Sokol gymnast, Fort Worth Friendship Club, Catholic Daughters, and St. John the Apostle Catholic Church.

The times we saw her smile as greatly beyond her words above, were during travel to the Czech Republic and meeting the extended family. Then, at the beach in South Carolina, she struggled to walk in the soft sand only to find firm ground at the water’s edge, then walked so far, so quickly, we thought we had lost her.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Skrasek in 1987; parents Frank W. Sonka and Mary (Skrivanek) Sonka; grandson Jason Wain Skrasek in 2008; and sister Adele (Janak) Strand in 2019.

Survivors are son Ron and wife LeAnne of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; son Gary and wife Debbie of Fort Worth; grandchildren Stephanie Skrasek Myers and husband Knick of Knoxville, Tennessee, Steven Skrasek and wife Michelle of Arlington, Ron Jr. and Misty Skrasek of Portland, and Randy Skrasek of Seattle; great-grandchildren Sara and Ella Myers of Tennessee, Sebastian Skrasek of Berlin, Milla Skrasek of Portland, and Jaycie Skrasek of Arlington; brother-in-law Harold Strand; and many nieces and nephews who fondly called her “My Favorite Aunt Helen.”

Memorial donations can be made to your favorite charity.

“Am Always with You.” —SPJST—

In Memory of David Vanicek

David Charles Vanicek passed away Friday, March 10, 2023, at a local hospital.

Visitation was Thursday, March 16 at Seaton Brethren Church from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral service was Friday, March 17 at 11 a.m. at Seaton Brethren Church.

He was born on March 31, 1947, to Mr. Henry Joe Vanicek and Mrs. Willie Mae Rose Hutka Vanicek in Temple, Texas. He grew up in the Ratibor community, attended Lost Prairie School, and gradu-

ated from Rogers High School in 1965.

In high school, David was an active member of FFA and participated in University Interscholastic League (UIL) office skills competitions. Always the dutiful son, he played an important part in helping his father work the family farm as well as his grandmother’s property. Following high school, he sought to broaden his education by taking business classes at Temple Junior College.

David married the love of his life, Patsy Joyce Stewart, on September 10, 1966. Together, they started their family with the birth of daughter Terri in 1967.

While attending Temple College, David worked at Arcadia Theatre as a lobby attendant. From there, he took on a position at American Desk where he acquired the drafting skills necessary to develop technical plans for product design and the installation of auditorium seating. It was a skill that served him well, enabling him to move into a range of management positions at ABC Scientific, Griggs International, Temple Products, and Earle Industries where he served as vice president. He was also active in his community and served as past president of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone.

David started Bartlett Auction in 1990, and shortly thereafter, he acquired credentials as a licensed auctioneer. It was a role in which he thrived until his retirement in 2019. Not surprising, David’s hobbies included shopping garage sales and flea markets, collecting and restoring antiques. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, riding his lawn mower, and an occasional outing to the casino. Sharing time with family and friends, cooking, grilling, playing with his dogs, and storytelling were also high on his list of priorities.

David’s and Pat’s circle of friends expanded greatly when they rediscovered the community at their doorstep as members of Seaton Brethren Church. Sunday services as well as church social activities like Golden Hearts programs became essential elements of David and Pat’s weekly social calendar. More importantly, it helped David to quench a spiritual thirst as well as providing the opportunity to reconnect with friends, old and new.

David is preceded in death by his parents; and brother Harold Wayne Vanicek.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Patsy (Stewart) Vanicek; daughter Terri Vanicek; brother Brian Vanicek and wife Joan of Temple; along with nu-

Cindy Kubicek

Helen Skrasek

David Vanicek

merous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorials may be made to Seaton Brethren Church, 12561 TX-53, Temple, Texas 76501

Arrangements were under the direction of Sabrina N. Young of Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple.

In Memory of Mary Wunderlich

Mary Frances Kollaja Wunderlich, 88, of Houston, Texas, passed away on January 20, 2023, from natural causes.

Mary’s life was celebrated and remembered on Thursday, January 26 during a visitation and gathering at Heights Funeral Home beginning at 10 a.m. Graveside committal service followed at 2 p.m. in Fayetteville, where Mary was laid to rest next to her husband, Eldie.

Mary was born in Fayetteville on January 11, 1935, to John and Mathilda Kollaja, and she was one of an eventual band of four sisters: Rosie, Mary, Adell, and Dorothy. Tragically, John died suddenly and unexpectedly in 1949, which left the Kollaja women alone to support one another, all at very young ages. These early years were very difficult, but they helped to form and shape Mary, her sisters, and their mother into the strong and enduring women they became.

Mary eventually moved to Houston and worked as a waitress in several local restaurants and food establishments in the area around Washington Avenue.

On June 13, 1959, Mary was united in marriage to Eldie Wunderlich, and they remained married for 29 years until Eldie’s death in 1989. Mary and Eldie

lived and established a close-knit community of friends and neighbors around the Heights area, and they enjoyed spending time camping and fishing around Texas. While Eldie spent his career at Cameron Iron Works, Mary worked for many years as a teacher in several local mother’s day out programs, including at Chapelwood United Methodist Church and Houston’s First Baptist Church. Mary told stories until her death about a number of children in these programs over the years who touched her life in various ways.

Mary also cherished her countless years as an active member of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston and the many friendships she made through this important fraternal organization, which keeps alive the cherished traditions, customs, and Czech language of Mary’s ancestors.

At the end of her life, Mary lived at Brookdale The Heights and appreciated being there with her older sister, Rosie. Mary enjoyed playing bingo (and undoubtedly holds the record for the most winnings!), listening to music and dancing, feeding the chickens, speaking Czech with her sisters, and generally keeping everyone in line and looking out for her fellow Brookdale residents and friends.

Mary’s mind was extremely sharp until the end. She had a memory like a vault, and she exhibited a unique and funny wit that will be difficult to replace. Mary had a funny and unique sense of humor to the end and was a real pistol throughout her entire life; she will be dearly missed.

Mary is survived by sisters Rosie Malota, Adell Johnson, and Dorothy Thompson (Gene); nieces and nephews Marla Thompson Poirot (Karl), Brian Thompson, Vickie Mason, Jerome Malota (Janet), Kenneth Malota (Djuana), and Margie Stockman (Mike); and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John and Mathilda Kollaja; husband Eldie; and cherished niece Marisa (Johnson) Burkhalter.

2022-2023 SPJST Youth Clubs’ Second Quarterly Report

Mary Underlich

SPJST YOUTH SECTION

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Send your news and photos to:

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

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

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Questions? Call 800-727-7578

Donating to Camperships

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club shares meeting scenes

Sunday, March 5, 2023 • Submitted by Kirby Bubela, Assistant Youth Leader

SPJST will host one state camp session this summer beginning Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Camp Kubena in Ledbetter, Texas. The session will be open to SPJST members and non-members, pending availability.

SPJST youth members who will be in first through 12th grade as of September 1, 2023, are eligible to attend. Activities will be age-specific for both teens/leaders-in-training and juniors, and programs will run parallel during the camp session.

Registration for members opened on February 15 and closes when filled or on May 1. Camper slots are first come, first serve and a waiting list will be created, if necessary. The fee for youth members is $335. The fee for youth who have attended at least seven lodge/youth club meetings between June 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023, is $125, which includes a $25 non-refundable registration fee. Fees will be prorated for youth who have attended less than seven meetings.

Camp registration for non-members opened on March 15. The fee is $450, which includes a $50 non-refundable registration fee.

All fees must be paid by June 1. Fees (except non-refundable registration fees) are refundable until June 6.

Camperships (Camp Scholarships) What are Camperships?

Through the generosity of our donors, SPJST is able to offer camp scholarships (camperships) to individuals and families in financial need. The Campership funds make it possible for children and families to attend camp regardless of their ability to pay.

Will you help us make this the best summer ever for an SPJST camper this year? Lodges and members are encouraged to help youth in need experience a fantastic summer opportunity. There are several ways to give to our campership program: donate online at

Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth performs in Capital rotunda

West High Junior Historians polka dancers performed in the rotunda of the Texas State Capitol in Austin on “West Day” - Wednesday, March 15, 2023. One of the dancers is Lodge 6, Cottonwood youth member Quinlan Dobecka. Her dance partner is Croix Dvorak. Quinlan is the daughter of Kevin and Tory Dobecka and the granddaughter of Robert and Peggy Dobecka, all of Lodge 6, Cottonwood.

spjst.org/camp or send your donation to SPJST c/o Summer Camp, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

Applying for a Campership

Financial assistance is based on the United States poverty guideline. The application form may be found at spjst.org/camp or contact the State Fraternal Director at 254-534-0681. Mail your completed application to SPJST State Fraternal Director, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503-0100. After you have been approved for a campership, you may register online with your financial deposit.

For more information about SPJST Summer Camp, visit spjst.org/camp or contact State Fraternal Director Frank Horak at frankh@spjst.com or 254-7751575, ext. 177 or Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Marti nez at tammym@spjst.com or 254-773-1575, ext. 164. —SPJST—

District Five youth night at the ballpark

May 13 in Sugar Land

Dear Readers, Are you a fan of our nation’s favorite pastime, baseball?

Come join District Five Youth Club, and enjoy a night at the ball park on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Constellation Field in Sugar Land will open at 5 p.m. Join us for an evening of food and fun. This event is for any

youth club member and young-at-heart. You will receive complimentary admission into the game and a $15 voucher for food and drinks in the park. A parking pass will also be included for each family.

Complete the Google form using the QR code on the flyer to sign up. We will no longer take sign-ups after April 18. Hope to see you there! Go, Space Cowboys!^

Kristen Jones District Five Youth Counselor —SPJST—

Peeps Rice Krispie Treats

Sweet and crunchy Peeps Rice Krispie Treats is the perfect Easter treat! A classic Rice Krispie Treat turned festive by using Peeps for the marshmallows. The kids will flip over these fun, vibrant treats that they can make because they are so easy! Make a batch - or two - for your Easter dinner or package them up for a fun springtime treat for friends and family!

Ingredients

16 cups Rice Krispies Cereal

2 cups Mini Marshmallows

2 packs Purple Peeps

2 packs Pink Peeps

2 packs Blue Peeps

12 Tablespoons unsalted butter

Nonstick Cooking Spray

Purple food coloring, optional

Tip: If you want a more vibrant purple layer, add some purple food coloring after you melt the purple peeps. If you want it darker, add some coloring.

Directions

Prep – Place the mini marshmallows in a large bowl. Place each color of peeps in three other bowls so you have all four colors (white, purple, pink, and blue) in their own mixing bowls.

Melt – Place butter in the bowl with the purple peeps. Heat the peeps for one minute and 15 seconds in the microwave.

Mix – Stir well until combined (add the food coloring, if using), and then pour Rice Krispies into the mixture. Stir well

and then press the mixture into the prepared pan.

Layer – Repeat this melting process with the other bowls of marshmallows in this order: pink, white, and blue. Press each layer into the prepared pan.

Set – Cover the peeps rice krispie treats and keep them at room temperature for three hours or until they are fully set.

Tips for the Best Peeps Easter Rice Krispie Treats

✓ Use fresh marshmallow peeps for this recipe. If they are stale, your treats won’t be as good.

✓ Once you’ve melted the marshmallow peeps, work fast to mix in the cereal and press it into the pan. Do the melting and stirring, and have the kiddos help press the mixture into the dish.

✓ To make it easy to press the mixture into the pan, lightly coat your hands with cooking spray.

✓ If your baking dish is more narrow at the bottom than at the top, you may need to work the cereal mixture so you get an even layer. The easiest way is to break off small pieces of the mixture and move them around to get an even layer.

✓ This recipe makes thick treats so if you prefer thinner ones, you don’t have to do different colors – one solid color looks great or do two or three layers.

✓ If you make thinner treats, you can slice them into squares or use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes!

✓ Mix sprinkles or Easter candy into the cereal mixture or add sprinkles on top before the bars set for more festive fun!

✓ Don’t have a microwave? You can use the stove to make them. Melt the peeps

March Caring Challenge: Lodge 30, Taiton Youth

2023 SPJST

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

LIMITED AVAILABILITY DON’T WAIT!

REGISTRATION OPEN TO SPJST MEMBERS AND NON-MEMBERS SIGN UP TODAY!

5 DAYS, 4 NIGHTS • JUNE 21 - 25, 2023 REGISTER ONLINE AT SPJST.ORG/CAMP

Lodge 30, Taiton youth wins spot in sale at HLSR

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club participated in March’s Caring Challengecreating a work of art using 100 pennies to benefit the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. —Kirby Lange, Assistant Youth Leader

Dear Vestnik Readers, On Thursday, March 9, 2023, I showed my broilers for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at Fort Bend County Fair Grounds. I placed 93 out of 178 pullets which I got a spot in the sale. Overall, the hard work and dedication paid off, and I had the best day ever!

Sincerely, Bethany Baker, age 16 —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis youth welcomes new baby brother

Dear Readers, I have a new baby brother. His name is John Wesley. He is very cute. Fraternally yours, Luke Holland, age 9 —SPJST—

and butter in a pot or large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir often until the mixture is melted. Add the cereal and press the mixture into the pan. You will need to wipe out the pot before you do the next layer so the colors don’t get combined.

✓ Peeps Rice Krispie Treats too gooey? Make sure to let them set for at least a few hours at room temperature. If you try to slice them right away, they will be too gooey and may not hold together.

https://kidsactivityzone.com/peeps-rice-krispietreats/ —SPJST—

Easter Egg

Dyed Potatoes

It’s no secret that the price of eggs has skyrocketed in recent months. Use potatoes instead of eggs when dying Easter eggs this year! Plus, there are several benefits using potatoes instead of eggs:

● There won’t be rotten egg smell weeks later if there is an egg forgotten

● Easter egg dyed potatoes are easy, affordable.

● Dyeing potatoes like easter eggs is budget friendly.

● Easter egg dyed potatoes are a great way to work on color recognition with younger children.

. . . Sounds like a major win-win!

Supplies Needed for Easter Egg Dyed Potatoes

● Baby White Potatoes – These may also be called “yukon gold” potatoes in your grocery store. I recommend getting potatoes more towards the medium-small size. Don’t grab those super tiny, bite-

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club S UPER BOWL

tato with a light coating of hairspray after they dried to keep the dye from transferring onto other surfaces. You don’t have to do this, but your dyed potatoes may bleed onto each other and any other surfaces they sit on. Note: If you spray your potatoes with hairspray, they will not be safe to eat later.

How to Dye Potatoes

Wash each potato well and be sure all dirt has been cleaned off. Cover your work space with paper towels and prep a clean bowl with some water.

Grab a clean potato and drop one drop of your selected color of dye onto the potato. Use a paint brush to spread it around. Cover the entire potato with one color, or do multiple colors. Add more dye as needed until the whole potato is covered!

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members collected 45 cans to donate to Ronald McDonald House in Temple, Texas, along with donations from Rogers 4-H. Pictured are, front, left to right, Tristan Martinez, Sydney Bilbrey, Travis Ordogne, Andrew Ordogne, and Camdon Bartek. BACK: Everhett Bartek, Ian Ranley, Fiona Galler, Carson Erskine, Seth Martinez, and Kal-El Martinez.

sized ones, but don’t get really large ones either. Choose potatoes that are a good round shape. Do not peel the potatoes!

● Water based food coloring – Use any color of water based food-coloring that you’d like. Not recommended: gel-based food coloring as it won’t dry completely and will make a mess.

● Paint brushes – Any simple paint brush will work.

● Paper Towels – This is the one time I recommend splurging and getting the expensive paper towels. You’ll want some paper towels that are really absorbent and will protect your work surface as you dye potatoes.

● Rubber gloves – You don’t have to use these, but you’ll likely get dye all over your hands if you don’t.

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Pennies’ Project Fun

For the March monthly challenge, Lodge 47, Seaton youth had a friendly competition to create an art from 100 pennies at the March meeting.

—Amber Bartek, Youth Leader

● Water – You’ll need a small bowl of water to clean your paint brushes in between colors.

● Optional: Hairspray – Spray each po-

Place each dyed potato on clean paper towels and then spray them in a light coating of hairspray to lock in the dye. Let them dry for 5 minutes, and they’re ready to go!

Pro Tips for the Best Easter Egg Dyed Potatoes

✓ Mix and match the colors you use for this easter egg alternative so that you can create a vibrant display. You can use neon food coloring, too!

Lodge 185, New Braunfels youth selected for School’s Patrol Leadership Program

Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club members Lily Howard and Steel McCoy open doors for cars at Goodwin Elementary School in New Braunfels as part of the Patrol Leadership Program. Both youth were selected as part of the fifth grade program for the 2022-2023 school year. As part of this program, the youth are expected to open car doors for the other students before and after school, ensure students safely enter the correct car, help teachers, raise the flags, walk the students across the parking lots, keep hallways and areas clean, and keep the younger youth quiet while waiting for class to begin. What a great program that provides building blocks for our future leaders!

Lodge 84, Dallas youth share photography entries

Dye Easter Eggs with Rice

These pretty, speckled eggs are so easy to make when you shake rice, eggs, and food dye together, the kids will making these! It’s a great way to change up your egg dying this year for Easter.

Materials

White Hard Boiled Eggs

10 Tablespoons raw rice

5 colors of food coloring like red, blue, yellow, green, and orange

Lodge 187, Round Rock Youth 100 Pennies Art

Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Leader Lynda Novak, left, and Assistant Youth Leader Vicki Petr Sims display the 2022 YAD photography entries belonging to Josh and Kalyne Tucker. The entries were returned to the youth at the February meeting.

✓ Cover your workspace in plastic wrap and lay paper towels on top. This will ensure a more water-proof surface in case spills happen.

✓ You can make tie dye potatoes, but just a heads up that they won’t be super vibrant. But, they’re really cute! Secure a coffee filter onto a potato with a rubber band and drop food coloring on it. Let it dry for 10 minutes, and then unwrap it.

✓ What won’t work - Kool-aid method and the traditional egg dyeing method.

https://kidsactivityzone.com/easter-egg-dyed-potatoes/ —SPJST—

● White Hard Boiled Eggs – Make sure you get white eggs when you dye them so the color turns out vibrant and pretty. Brown or other colored eggs will alter your colors.

● Raw rice – This can be either brown or white rice or any other kind - it doesn’t matter which type you have in your pantry!

● Food coloring like red, blue, yellow, green and orange. Recommended: use a gel food coloring as it will give you the most vibrant color for your dyed Easter eggs.

Instructions

The first thing you need to do is divide rice into five different bowls about, 2 Tablespoons per bowl.

Then add in about 10 drops of food coloring. If you use gel food coloring the color with more vibrant quicker than regular food coloring.

Mix the rice and food coloring by placing a cover on top of bowls and shake until rice is fully covered. Set aside and repeat for each color.

To dye an egg, place the egg in the cup of colored rice. Cover it and gently shake in a rolling motion. Check periodically until the desired color has been achieved.

Lodge 187, Round Rock youth participated in the March Caring Challenge - creating a work of art from pennies in support of the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. TOP LEFT: Kember Meyer’s and Eva Hanley’s design. BOTTOM LEFT: Mathieu McCarthy’s design. RIGHT

Remove it from the bowl and lay on a piece of paper towel to dry. Repeat until all eggs are dyed.

Helpful Tips

✓ You can also use bags to mix the rice and food coloring in instead of bowls if you find that easier.

✓ Always add the food coloring to the rice and mix before adding the egg.

✓ Make sure to be gentle when mixing the eggs and rice so they don’t crack!

✓ If you are having trouble getting the color to adhere to the eggs shell add a few drops of vinegar to the bag with the rice and food coloring.

✓ Get creative and layer your colors to make your own unique look!

✓ Save the egg carton and place the eggs back in it for safe storage after you are done decorating them!

✓ Remember to store your dyed eggs in the refrigerator if you plan on consuming them at any point. If they are out for more than 2 hours at any point discard them. Make sure your dye is food coloring if you plan on consuming them also in case the dye bleeds through the shell.

✓ Hard boiled eggs will keep in the refrigerator for about a week. Do not peel them before you are ready to eat them as the shell protects them from bacteria.

✓ Use the float test to tell if an egg is good still. Drop them in a pot of water: If it sinks, you can eat it. If it floats, toss it!

✓ You can use Ceramic Eggs with this method and get a pretty speckled egg that you can leave out for decoration at Easter time or give as gifts!

https://kidsactivityzone.com/how-to-dye-eastereggs-with-rice/ —SPJST—

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Host for Residents

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club visited residents at Argent Court Assisted Living in March 2023. Youth members played bingo with the residents and had a wonderful time making their day! Our youth club

members always enjoy making someone’s day, and going the extra mile for community service. These kids are amazing!

—Submitted by Regina House, Youth Leader

PHOTO: Pictured with all the pennies are, left to right, Mathieu McCarthy, Kember Meyer, and Eva Hanley.

—Jennifer McCarthy, Youth Leader

2022-2023 Youth Club Member Update - Merit

Dist District Number Ldg Lodge Number

Name Youth club member Pts Merit points earned January 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023

Mtgs Youth club meetings attended June 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023

Points/Meeting Attendance - 2nd Quarter

3 25 Oliver, Morgan 94 4

3 25 Oliver, Paige 47 4

3 25 Oliver, Tori 94 4

3 25 Ryan, Kaylnn 129 9

3 25 Sullivan, Preston 120 8

3 25 Wyatt, Garrett 128 9

3 84 Ruzicka, Megan 94 9

3 84 Ruzicka, Ryan 87 9

3 84 Tucker, Josh 132 9

3 84 Tucker, Kalyne 123 9

3 84 Tucker, Kendall 90 9

3 154 Burcie, Gentry 48 6

3 154 Burcie, McKenzie 114 9

3 154 Jones, Holly 130 9

3 154 Jones, Miles 121 9

3 154 Sanders, Audrey 49 6

3 154 Suges, Steven 58 7

3 154 Suges, Victoria 58 7

4 49 Schwertner, Grace 85 8

4 49 Schwertner, Olivia 87 8

4 49 Schwertner, Colt 78 8

4 49 Schwertner, Bella 87 8

4 49 Schwertner, Tracy 76 8

4 49 Wood, Cotton 124 9

4 49 Wood, Hunter 124 9

4 49 Wood, Tanner 125 9

4 160 Craddock, Brenson 72 8

4 160 Craddock, Carson 72 8

4 160 Craddock, Hayden 67 8

4 160 Craddock, Stella 25 5

4 160 Gallant, Bree 72 9

4 160 Jansa, Caitlynn 90 9

4 160 Jansa, Nolan 90 9

4 160 Jarisch, Luke 30 6

4 160 Miller, Marley 67 7

4 160 Schwartz, Parker 79 9

4 160 Schwartz, Sterling 85 9

5 81 Brown, Addison 117 6

5 81 Dostal, Brady 42 6

5 81 Dostal, Elizabeth 83 6

5 81 Hargraves, Tripp 131 6

5 81 Hargraves, Nathan 57 5

5 81 Jones, Amber 136 6

5 81 Jones, Ruby 132 6

5 81 Jones, Zoey 59 5

5 81 Kelly, Emmett 30 5

5 81 Mikulec, Dayton 64 6

5 81 Mikulec, Miles 64 6

5 81 Mikulec, Rylie 66 6

5 81 Nesvadba, Brylie 42 6

5 81 Parker, Cheyenne 74 6

5 81 Parker, Kinsley 69 6

5 81 Parker, Tyler 64 6

2 182 Beckendorf, Paetyn 88

2 182 Beckendorf, Tynlee 90

2 187 McCarthy, Luke 119

2 187 McCarthy, Mathieu

2 187 Meyer, Alexis

2 187 Meyer, Kadnce

5 81 Stavinoha, Maxx 100 6

5 88 Godwin, Nancy 39 1

5 88 Guerrero, Anahi 5 0

5 88 Guerrero, Juan 5 0

5 88 Guerrero, Sergio 5 0

5 88 Pflughaupt, Evan 95 3

5 88 Pflughaupt, Megan 95 3

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 1

5 142 Lerner, Jaydan 15 1

5 142 Lerner, Jonathan 15 1

6 30 Bacak, Brett 148 8

6 30 Bacak, Brooke 151 7

6 30 Baker, Bethany 176 9

6 30 Bubela, Grant 174 9

6 30 Garrett, Abigail 158 9

Century of Sefcik Hall

from Our Town Temple by David Stone

The big white two-story building in Seaton was built as a spot for farmers to gather after a hard day in the cotton fields. That was in 1923. Over the years, the children and grandchildren of those original patrons made Tom Sefcik Hall an eastern Bell County institution, and today, the aging dance hall continues to play a vital role in the Czech community.

Sefcik Hall is one of a handful of original dance halls still in existence today. Built as a general store with a small bar and upstairs concert hall, the aging legend was a place where Texas music was born and raised.

Asleep at the Wheel played there. So did Gary P. Nunn, Rusty Weir, and Johnny Rodriguez, and Buckholts rocker David Zychek was a permanent fixture for 30 years.

“This place was built by my grandparents, and my mom owned and operated the hall for decades,” said current co-owner Kenny Sulak, who runs the family business along with his wife, Irene.

The Sulaks are planning to celebrate the hall’s centennial year in style with an April full of celebrations.

“We’ll be celebrating every Sunday in April except Easter Sunday,” Irene said. “We’ll have the Praha Brothers here on April 2, Jerry Haisler and The Melody Five on April 16, The Majek’s from Corpus Christi on April 23, and two bands on the 30th - Ennis Czech Boys and The Vaneks.”

“These will be special dances promoting Czech heritage,” Kenny said. “The 16th will be the big celebration. State Representative Hugh Shine will be here to recognize the milestone. We’re going to have food trucks at all the events, and on April 16 we will have free sausage wraps and cake.”

All five bands coming to celebrate Sefcik’s birthday are extremely popular. Jerry Haisler is a Central Texas legend, and The Majeks are originally from Cameron.

Shine isn’t the only one who plans to recognize the Sefcik Hall milestone.

“We are going to be recognized by the Texas Czech Heritage Society in La Grange on March 25,” Irene said. “We will be honored with a Texans of Czech

Ancestry recognition for promoting Czech music and dances for a century.”

Sefcik Hall is one of very few businesses to be owned and operated by the same family for 100 years.

Tomas and Terezia Sefcik - she went by Tracy - were farmers in the predominantly Czech community of Seaton, a tiny town about eight miles east of Temple, in 1923. The community consisted of a church, school, cotton gin, and a blacksmith shop, and the Sefciks decided a general store was needed.

The big building that Tom built sold lumber, hardware, basic food items, and clothes. But, Seaton couldn’t be all work and no play, so the Sefciks soon added a dance hall upstairs and a community bar on the ground floor.

Sefcik Hall was a community gathering place. Baseball games were held in the “yard” to the northwest of the hall, Irene said. “Baseball was a regular weekend event along with dances,” she said. “After World War II, the community league baseball was big. Local towns had their own teams consisting mainly of World War II veterans.”

Over the years, Tom Sefcik Hall would host dances, weddings, parties, concerts, and even rock ’n’ roll shows, but it always primarily served as a home for Czech bands and the polka and country music they played.

One of the first bands to play at the

new venue was Adela and The Music Masters. Adela, an accordion player, was one of two Sefcik children. They played Tom Sefcik Hall and other nearby halls, and even ventured to National Hall all the way over in Cameron in 1943.

One of The Music Masters was Adela’s sister, Alice, who first played drums, but later made the switch to saxophone. Many Central Texans may remember Alice - she ran Sefcik Hall for decades and passed on June 20, 2022.

After Alice became too frail to run the show, her son, Kenny, and daughter-in-

law, Irene, took over.

“If it wasn’t for Mom, Sefcik Hall would have closed years ago,” Kenny said. “This dance hall and her music is what she knew - this was her life.”

Alice began booking bands at Sefcik Hall when she was 14, plus she kept up with school work and farm chores. After Tom and Terezia passed, she decided to keep the Hall open. It became a Bell County landmark and one of the most famous dance halls in Texas.

For years, the Sefcik Hall bar has been open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and there were upstairs dances with live music on Sunday afternoons. Eventually, the days Sefcik Hall is open may expand.

“Right now, Irene and I both work so we don’t have the time to devote to the business full time,” Kenny said. “But I plan on retiring in a couple of years, and this is my retirement plan.”

“There’s a lot of work we need to do, and I’d like to fix it up a bit and add a limited kitchen,” he said. “Someday, I’d like to bring the big names back to Seaton.”

Irene said the hall has become a popular spot for weddings and wedding parties.

“The price for renting a wedding venue in Central Texas has skyrocketed in recent years,” she said. “A lot of folks are getting married here. We keep the cost low, and they can get married and have their reception in one place. We’ve become a popular place to tie the knot.”

“People are used to Sefcik Hall being open every weekend,” Kenny added. “If we have to close for a weekend, the customers ask: ‘Where are we going to go?’”

Sefcik Hall’s 100 Years of Polka Celebrations

Sunday, April 2: The Praha Brothers from 3 to 7 p.m. Food truck on site. Good Friday, April 7: Music by Jerry Haisler, Billy Pitts and Brandi Clark. 8 to 11 p.m.

Sunday, April 16: Jerry Haisler and The Melody Five at 6 p.m. Free sausage wraps and cake.

Sunday, April 23: The Majeks from Corpus Christi, 2 to 6 p.m. A food truck will be parked out front.

Sunday, April 30: Two extremely popular bands: The Ennis Czech Boys and The Vaneks. Music from 2 to 7 p.m. and a food truck will be on the premises.

Editor’s Note: Alice Sulak was a member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. —SPJST—

Tom Sefick Hall in Seaton is 100 years old, and the business is still in the same family. Today’s owners, Irene and Kenny Sulak, will celebrate the big milestone with a series of big parties featuring some of the top Czech bands in Texas. Kenny’s grandparents built the hall as a general store back in 1923. ~ Nan Dickson

The late Alice Sulak, daughter of Sefcik Hall founders Tomas and Terezia Sefcik, shown at the bar with her saxophone. Alice played sax and sang with Jerry Haisler and other Czech/country bands for decades. She passed in June 2022.

Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´

Travis-Williamson Counties CHS meets April 11

The Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will meet Tuesday, April 11, 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.

Frances Barton will be our special guest speaking about her book Czech Songs in Texas. She will also entertain us with her accordion music.

TOCA (Texans of Czech Ancestry) Banquet will be held March 25 in La Grange honoring two of our members, Frances and Jim Petter, and others.

The CHS (Czech Heritage Society) Spring State Meeting be held in New Taiton on April 22. TWCCHS will be celebrated for our 30th anniversary. If interested in attending, contact TWCCHS President Dotty Davis at dottydavis9@gmail.com or call 512-6636592.

Please consider joining our society to help preserve our Czech heritage and attend our meetings.

Janie Zbranek TWCCHS Reporter —SPJST—

Spring into family research with Texas Czech Genealogical Society

As spring arrives, it brings new beauty and color to our lives. We marvel at the beauty of the Texas bluebonnets and Indian Blankets along the road; and as we see them dotted along the way with pink buttercups, a new smile crosses our face.

As the beauty of spring fills the corners of our lives, our mind also drifts to “unfinished projects . . . things we have put on the back burner, so to speak. We hit a roadblock while looking and put the project on hold. It could be while looking into your family – past and present. Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) will offer you an excellent opportunity to find ways of traveling through, and around, the roadblock and onto beautiful answers.

On Saturday, April 29 at Caldwell Civic Center in Caldwell, Texas, you will be given the opportunity to hear four professional speakers present programs which will offer a wealth of knowledge.

Moving past entering a name in Google or Family Search, Bernard Meisner will present “Techniques and Strategies for More Effective Online Searching.” Having seen his handout sheet, you will definitely want your pencil handy, adding additional notations to the many his handout currently lists.

Those who have viewed a virtual program online with Texas State Genealogical Society have become familiar with Tony Hanson as he guides the audience. So here is a question. Have you been to Aunt Susie-Q’s house and she brings out a photo or document you would just love to have a copy of . . . but, you know she is not going to let it

out of her sight? It seems as if our cell phone never leaves our sight. Come learn another use for your phone as Tony presents “Using Your Smart Phone When a Scanner is Not Available.”

During the course of time, past and present, world conflict has left many with the question: What happened to my special family member (hero)? He/She seemed to have disappeared off planet Earth while serving our country. Many of us own and have read Ken Breaux’s book, Known Only to God. Ken works closely with a number of large organizations seeking to find answers of how and when those brave men and women lost their lives during past wars. We are thrilled to let you know that Ken has released a new book, Known But to God – America’s Twentieth Century Wars and the Search for the Missing. We have been in awe with previous presentations Ken has brought, and we eagerly await learning new, current details as we move forward through searching for those MIAs or KIAs in our lives.

You have spent years collecting, saving, and building your family history. At first, it filled a small box; the box grew to a container on the closet shelf – then to two containers . . . Now, you have lots of odds-and-ends papers and/or photos you know are valuable – perhaps originals only you possess – but, what do you do with all of it? In her presentation, “Organizing Genealogy Stuff,” Barbara Coakley will give us ways to handle and preserve each special treasure.

Adding to our day’s lineup of professional speakers will be TCGS Webmaster and Lifetime Member Danny Lesikar. Danny has spent years building what is termed “Czech Family Files.” He searches and researches the world over adding daily to these files which now exceed 115,000 . . . and he offers his information to you free of charge. You will need to provide a flash drive for him to download whatever information and/or photos he has on your family. You may be surprised. Chances are he has something you do not have.

Doors to the Caldwell Civic Center will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 29 with morning refreshments being offered. The day’s program will begin at 9 a.m. As with all TCGS events, lunch of grilled pork steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, rolls, tea, and cake for dessert will be included in the reg-

istration fee. Spring early bird registration postmarked on or before Thursday, April 13 is $45 for TCGS members and $50 for non-members. Early registration postmarked on or before Thursday, April 203 will be $50 for TCGS members and $55 for non-members. A registration of $60 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 and pay by credit card, visit https://txczgs.square.site. To register by check, make check payable to TCGS, complete the registration form and mail to Susan Crutchfield, 507 West Street, 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 April 29 as we Spring into Family Research.

Fraternally, Charlene Hurta

TCGS Vice President Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy —SPJST—

CCMH shares updates, upcoming activities

Czech-in

Updates from the Czech Republic Prague, Czech Republic—New Czech President Petr Pavel was sworn into office on Thursday, March 9, 2023. He took the formal oath in Prague Castle, the seat of the presidency. Pavel started his five-year term with pledges to continue supporting Ukraine and to anchor the Czech Republic to the EU and NATO.

Tokyo, Japan—Czech Baseball won their first-ever game in the World Baseball Classic in a dramatic fashion against China. Their next game was on Saturday, March 11 where they were defeated by the eventual world champions - Japan.

Updates from the CCMH

Congratulations to the winner of the CCMH member photo contest, Vincent Provasek! You will want to visit soon to view the other submissions on display until March 31. Members can visit as often as they like free of charge! CCMH members also receive a bilingual

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

monthly newsletter, Postcards from Prague, written by Irena Jirků in their inbox. Jirků is a journalist who lives in Prague and writes mainly for Hospodářské noviny and the news website Aktuálně.cz. She specializes in interviews with interesting personalities of the public and especially cultural life. She is also the author of a number of books.

Coming Up

Egg Hunt - Saturday, April 8 at 12:30 p.m. Visit our website to register.

April is Jazz Appreciation Month, and CCMH is celebrating with a program by Sparky’s Jazz Express at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 20.

Save the date—Saturday, April 29 at 11:30 a.m. is the annual CCMH Spring

Festival with live music, crafts for kids, sweet shop, dominoes, sausages, cold beverages, kolache eating contest, and so much more!

Tuesday, May 23 at 7 p.m. is the Stribrnanka Moravian Brass Band performance.

Czech Center Museum Houston is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, Texas. Visit czechcenter.org for more information.

—SPJST—

Learn Czech live online this fall through Blinn College

Attend live, online classes through the fall at Blinn College-Schulenburg Campus:

Beginning Czech I (CZEC 1471)

Monday through Thursday

7:45 to 8:50 a.m. (or view class recordings at any time)

August 23 to December 13

Credit and non-credit options available, textbook required.

Scholarship funding available for credit students.

Intermediate Czech I (CZEC 2371)

Monday through Thursday

8:55 to 9:45 a.m. (or view class recordings at any time)

August 23 to December 13

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 Center’s 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 hour - Saturdays, 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. Monthly Movie Nights: CCMH has reinstated monthly movie nights. Check the online calendar for more information. CCMH is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston.For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org

Deadline March 31

Travels to Czechia Photo Competition— photos should depict the beauty of Czechia, whether through its nature, architecture, culture, culinary delights, and/or modern marvels. Photos may feature world-famous sights, historical wonders of Prague, and other major cities or paths less traveled throughout the Czech countryside and villages. Photos may incorporate people and their joy, amazement, nostalgia, or other emotions felt during their travels. The Czech Embassy will collect the photographs in honor of Czech automobile racer Eliška Junková and her love of travel. Selected photos will be exhibited at the Czech Embassy on May 13, 2023. For guidelines and information, contact visit https://www.mzv.cz/washington

July 30

Save the Date! Vrazels’ Tribute Band—at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall, 411 FM 964, Burlington, Texas 76519. Take a trip down memory lane. Doors / kitchen open at noon. Dance 2 to 6 p.m. For advance tickets and reservations, call 254-985-2258 or 254-231-5348.

—SPJST—

Credit and non-credit options available, textbook required.

Scholarship funding available for credit students.

Conversational Czech Advanced (CENA 1000)

Tuesdays

7 to 8:45 p.m.

September 12 to November 7

This is a non-credit course. Cost $79

Texas Czech Genealogical Society

Website: txczgs.org

Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”

For membership: Marie Dulak 979-324-7871

Czech Dual Credit for High School Students

Contact Becky Garlick by sending an email to bgarlick@blinn.edu or call 979743-5222.

To register for non-credit courses, please call 979-743-5337. For credit course information, please call 979-5435200. Visit www.blinn.edu/czech.

—SPJST—

Altar Society SPRINGFEST

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Cyclone, Texas

Sunday, April 2 10:30 a.m. until ?

Dine In & Drive-Thru

Home-Fried Chicken and Sausage with all the trimmings

$15 per plate

Public invited!

Hand-Pieced Quilt Drawing

Religious Articles

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 — 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.

Wednesday, March 29—Cottonwood Water Board

Sunday, April 2—Easter Party: Meeting at 2 p.m. SPJST 6, Inc. meeting at 3 p.m. Egg hunt at 4 p.m., and meal at 5 p.m.

Sunday, April 9—Marek Easter

Saturday, April 22—Birthday party

Sunday, April 23—District Three Annual Meeting

Sunday, April 30—Penelope School reunion

Sunday, May 7—Meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 28—Lander reunion

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 979-220-4733.

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 254-7213902.

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 979-218-4931.

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: 512-285-3100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person - unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlod ge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18

Sunday, May 21—Glen Collins

Saturday, June 24—Western Days’ Dance: Glen Collins

Sunday, July 16—Glen Collins

Sunday, August 13—Mark Halata

Sunday, September 17—Glen Collins

Sunday, November 5—Glen Collins

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Glen Collins

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 254-541-5344.

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 832-595-4231 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 512415-7225.

Friday, March 31—Dry County

Friday, April 7—Robert Lawhorn and Triple Threat

Friday, April 14—New Band: Michael Petty and The Outlaw Revival Band

Friday, April 21—The Other Band

Friday, April 28—Glen Collins

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 979-5437120.

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 361676-7561.

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, 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 512-5812672/Dana. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758/Alfred.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)

Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. For information, call President Omer Everett, Jr. 979-6935287; 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 254-931-0295.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)

Sunday, April 23—Lodge 48, Beyersville Bingo Social, 2 to 5 p.m.

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 325-365-6485. 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 54, WEST (3)

Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)

Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of 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 254760-6427. Bingo has returned!

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)

Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466.

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.

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. For information, contact Dan Kacir 254-899-2332; or via email dkatty2000@yahoo.com

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 713869-5767; 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, March 31—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 22—Telstars, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

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

Saturday, June 24—Yelba’s Variety Band, 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Friday, July 14—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 27—Chris Rybak, 2 to 6 p.m.

Saturday, September 30—Nitebeat, 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Saturday, November 11—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m.

Friday, December 1—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Mark Halata and Texavia, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

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 following second Mondays: March 13; June 12; and September 11 at 5:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, Victoria 77904. 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 281787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held at the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetingsunless 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 817731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)

Note: Lodge 155, Austin will hold its next meeting on Sunday, March 19 at 2 p.m. at Pok-E-Jo’s Smokehouse, 2121 West Parmer Lane, Austin TX 78727. Please mark the date on your calendar and plan to join us.

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 325234-5879.

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 830-8323664; 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)

UPDATE: SPJST Lodge 186, Caldwell has secured Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21 in Caldwell as its meeting location in 2023. Meetings will be held the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. Bring your

favorite dish as we will enjoy a potluck prior to the meeting. The next meeting is Tuesday, March 14. Make plans to join us. For information, please contact Lodge 186 President Victor Mendez 512-7438297 or vmendez@kmc.net.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)

Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place in Round Rock. Hall Rental Information: Call Rubie Volek 512-7714948. 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 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 830570-2046.

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 806535-8356

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 325-669-7904.

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: Held quarterly, normally the third month of each quarter. Date, time and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For meeting date, location, and time, contact Chester Jenke 210-413-3053; Colleen Jenke 210-215-9494; or Carrie Origas -210-415-8744.

—SPJST—