Vestnik 2023.11.27

ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST HERALD

Benevolence ★ Humanity ★ Brotherhood

Volume 111 Number 22

November 27, 2023

ISSN —07458800

Exclusive SPJST Member Benefit

Happy Helpers at Lodge 80, Holland Lodge 80, Holland Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka receives assistance from his grandchildren, Thomas and Bethany Zajicek, as they delightfully draw names for door prizes at Lodge 80’s meeting on November 14 at The Hall on 2268.

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you’re invited to a

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Y 7 Z 7 Y 7 Z Readers Write ......................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Member Engagement News................5 Lodge Section......................................6 Death Claims......................................18

czech heritage museum and genealogy center 119 W French Ave • Temple, Texas

friday, december 1 3 to 7 p.m.

More details on the back page

Inside This Week’s Vestnik

In Memoriam ......................................21 Youth Section ....................................22 Czech Christmas Traditions .............24 Czech Culture ....................................26 Advertisements .................................29 Lodge Calendar .................................30

Page 6

Lodge 1 Fayetteville serves 600 turkey/ dressing dinners

Y 7 Z 7 Y 7 Z Lodge 219 El Paso gives to Legion dinner

District Two Director Pospisil honored on Veterans Day Page 10

Page 17

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Monday, November 27, 2023

VĚSTNÍK

ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST

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

HERALD

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair PO Box 252, Snook, TX 77878-0252

Editor’s Note

‘Tis the Season for SPJST Fellowship

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 Hannah Kovar (District One) 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu Mary Steinman (District Three) 817-731-2580 • appamary@sbcglobal.net Kristen Bender Jones (District Five) 936-556-3248 • joneskb06@hotmail.com Lisa Bubela (District Six)

Christmas.” Join us in spreading the W ith December’s brisk winds spirit of the season along the parade soon to be signaling the arrival of the holiday season, we are delighted to bring you another edition of the Vestnik. Within these pages, you’ll find a collection of invitations to festive gatherings from SPJST lodges across Texas. The season of joy is here, and our lodges eagerly anticipate hosting Christmas parties and celebrations to welcome their members. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the warmth of friendship and the festive spirit of the season with your fellow SPJST members.

Czech Heritage Museum hosts December 1 Open House Mark your calendars for the Christmas Open House at the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in Temple. On Friday, December 1 from 3 to 7 p.m., immerse yourself in the richness of Czech Christmas traditions. The event promises an array of activities, including cocoa, coffee, and cookies to warm your spirits. Engage in holiday shopping, indulge in the joy of kids’ activities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and bask in the cheerful atmosphere filled with music and holiday cheer. It’s an event not to be missed, and we encourage all to attend.

SPJST State Royalty Shines in Temple Christmas Parade Join us in supporting our SPJST State Royalty as they participate in the Temple Christmas Parade on Monday, December 4 at 6:30 p.m. Our representatives will be on the SPJST float themed “A Gnome-Fashioned

route and let your presence highlight the strong sense of community that defines SPJST.

Sincere Sympathies Our deepest condolences go out to Honorary Supreme Lodge Legal Advisor Drew Popelka on the passing of his father, Tom Popelka, on Sunday, November 19, in Temple. The funeral service took place on Saturday, November 25 at Bethel Church in Temple, followed by burial at Seaton Cemetery.

Additionally, we offer sincere sympathy to Honorary District Six Director Karen Kaspar, who recently lost her mother, Georgia Dorotik, on Monday, November 20, in Taiton. Mrs. Dorotik was a 51-year member of Lodge 30, Taiton, and she served as youth leader and lodge officer for many years. Services were pending as of press time. Our thoughts and support are with both families during this difficult time.

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines December 11 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Dec. 4 at 5 p.m.

December 25 Vestnik >Early deadline alert.< deadline is Fri., Dec. 15 at 12 noon January 8 Vestnik >Early deadline alert.< deadline is Fri., Dec. 29 at 12 noon January 22 Vestnik Note: new deadline time for 2024 deadline is Mon., Jan. 15 at 8 a.m.

—SPJST—

979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM AND GENEALOGY CENTER • 119 W French Avenue, Temple, TX Kenny Lange, Curator 254-899-2935 • klange@spjst.com

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

SPJST FAMILY FUN

&

IMPORTANT

DATES

Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 31

(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)

Nov. 27 Nov. 29 Dec. 11 Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 2 Dec. 2 Dec. 2 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 4 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 7 Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 8 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 11

Dec. 16

Lodge 8, Weimar Holiday Lunch Oakridge Smokehouse, Schulenburg (1) SPJST Holiday Tour: Czech Republic

Dec. 31 Dec. 31

Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, Temple Christmas Open House Lodge 88, Houston Biergarten Movie Night: The Elf (5) Camp Kubena participates in Round Top Christmas Parade (1) Lodge 88, Houston Christmas Party (5) Lodge 97, Placedo Christmas Brunch Golden Corral, Victoria (6) Lodge 6, Cottonwood Christmas Party (3) Lodge 17, New Tabor Christmas Social (1) Lodge 18, Elgin Special Called Meeting: Sale of Hall and Property (2) Lodge 23, Moravia Christmas Party (6) Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Christmas Social Mikeska’s BBQ, El Campo (6) Lodge 54, West Christmas Party • Tours Hall (3) Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas Party (4) Lodge 84, Dallas Christmas Party • Sokol Dallas (3) SPJST Float: Temple Christmas Parade (2) Lodge 24, Cyclone Christmas Party (2) Lodge 32, Victoria Christmas Party • The Sky (6) District Six hosts SPJST Float: El Campo Christmas Parade (6) Lodge 67, Schulenburg Christmas Party Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg (1) Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club Parents’ Night Out (2) Lodge 39, Bryan Christmas Caroling Event/Pizza Social Lampstand Nursing Home/CiCi’s Pizza, Bryan (1) Camp Kubena participates in Fayetteville Christmas Parade (1) Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club Visit to SPJST Senior Living Center, Needville (5) Lodge 142, Houston Youth Club Visit to SPJST Senior Living Center, Needville (5) Lodge 155, Austin hosts SPJST Float: Hyde Park Christmas Parade (2) Lodge 177, Academy Dance: Terry Taylor & the Texas Neon Ramblers (2) Lodge 229, Abilene Christmas Party Golden Chopsticks Restaurant, Abilene (4) Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas Party Vsetin Educational Building (6) Lodge 9, Snook Christmas Program/Memorial Service (1) Lodge 18, Elgin Christmas Dance: Red Ravens (2) Lodge 28, East Bernard Christmas Social Wharton County Library Meeting Room (6) Lodge 47, Seaton Christmas Party/Memorial Service (2) Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Christmas Dinner C&J Barbeque, College Station (1) Lodge 202, Jourdanton Christmas Party Jourdanton Community Center (7) Lodge 151, Wharton Christmas Social

/

Dec. 31 Jan. 14 Jan. 16-17 Feb. 1 Feb. 3 Feb. 28 March 2

/

3

Wharton Depot Museum (6) Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float: Wallis Christmas Parade (1) Lodge 35, Elk Christmas Party (3) Lodge 258, Seguin Christmas Party (7) Lodge 18, Elgin New Year’s Eve Dance: Glen Collins and the Alibis (2) Lodge 24, Cyclone New Year’s Eve Dance: Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 (2) Lodge 47, Seaton New Year’s Eve Dance: Billy Holt Band (2) Lodge 88, Houston New Year’s Eve Dance: Mark Halata and Texavia (5) • • • • • 2024 • • • • • State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple Executive Committee Meeting SPJST Home Office, Temple SPJST Scholarship Application Deadline State Tarok Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple Lodge 88, Houston Scholarship Application Deadline (5) State 42 Dominoes Tournament SPJST Home Office, Temple

Seaton Cemetery Association expresses thanks The Seaton Cemetery officers and directors wish to thank everyone for helping on cleanup day at Seaton Cemetery.

Janet Young, Secretary Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

SPJST INTEREST RATES 11/01/2023 - 01/31/2024 Universal Life Family Value Universal Life 2.00% Guaranteed Rate Credited Rate: 3.00%

Annuities 1-Year Annuity** Credited Rate: 5.25% 2-Year Annuity** Credited Rate: 5.00% 3-Year Annuity** Credited Rate: 4.75% 5-Year Annuity** Credited Rate: 4.50%

Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity Non-IRA* 1.85% Guaranteed Rate Credited Rate: 4.75%

Traditional and Roth IRAs* 1.85% Guaranteed Rate Credited Rate: 4.75%

*$1,000 minimum deposit **$10,000 minimum deposit

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Monday, November 27, 2023

4

VĚSTNÍK

Member Engagement news

from state fraternal director frank horak From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing

It’s Your Life

Quiet Heroes Dot Our Landscape.

Join That Team

T

his partly comes from an article I wrote years ago. It’s well worth repeating.

Quiet heroes dot the landscape of our society. They don’t wear ribbons or kiss trophies; they wear spit-up and kiss booboos. They don’t make the headlines, but they do sew hemlines and check the outlines and stand on the sidelines. You won’t find their names on the Nobel prize short list, but you will find their names on the homeroom, carpool, and Bible teacher lists.

They are parents, both by blood and deed, name and calendar. Heroes. News programs don’t call them. But that’s okay. Because their kids do . . . They call them “Mom.” They call them “Dad.” And these moms and dads, more valuable than all executives and lawmakers west of the Mississippi, quietly hold the world together. Be numbered among them. Read books to your kids. Play ball while you can and they want you to.

Make it your aim to watch every game they play, read every short story they write, hear every recital in which they perform.

Children spell love with four letters: T-I-M-E. Not just quality time, but hang time, downtime, anytime, all the time.

Your children are not your hobby; they are your calling. Even if you don’t have kids or all your kids are grown, find some child looking for that precious time and share some of yours with them. Be a hero to someone. Mentor a youth, grow a youth group, help the ones in your lodge, tutor a child.

Once you learn the value of your time with children, you will learn the value of your time with adults. Your spouse, your loved ones, strangers, and clients will quietly see you as a hero in their own way. TIME grows heroes, not accomplishments. Accomplishments come because you gave your TIME. The Christmas season can be very rewarding and very stressful at the same time. The gift of TIME can be the difference between that joy and stress. Give your time and join that landscape of quiet heroes.

“Life happens in an instant, enjoy every moment.”

—Delisle Doherty My door is always open; figuratively and literally.

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

State Fraternal Director shares December updates As we move into December, I want to wish all our members and their families a Merry Christmas! The gift of love. The gift of peace. The gift of happiness. May all these be yours at Christmas.

Reflecting back on 2023, the Member Engagement Department expresses its sincerest gratitude to our lodge officers and youth leaders. Each officer’s responsibilities are very important in making the lodge and youth group successful. Thank you for your leadership, service, tenacity, and the ability to implement the new programs that were introduced in 2023. This does not go unnoticed by any means.

Special thank you to the officers entering the data for the lodge incentive program. These reported hours are very important in keeping our tax exempt status year to year. The American Fraternal Alliance shares these community service hours with individuals who lobby on our behalf with senators and representatives in Washington, D.C. Something to look forward to . . . in 2024, we will continue to enter the data at SPJST.org/gives; however, it will be streamlined process with only one form for the adult lodge, and one form for the youth groups.

I’d like to pass along a handy tip specifically designed for smartphone users.

During a meeting with Brenda Holik, the fraternal activities coordinator of Lodge 160, San Angelo, where she was sharing insights into entering fraternal hours for the lodge, I learned a useful trick. Once you’ve selected your lodge and specified the beginning/ending date of the activity, proceed to the next text box. Instead of manually typing the information, click on the microphone icon and utilize the speech-to-text feature.

This allows you to verbally input the details, making it particularly helpful for those who find typing on a small device challenging. Not only does this method enhance accessibility, but it also saves valuable time. Simply click on the subsequent box, speak into your phone, and repeat the process. A big thank you to Brenda for sharing this valuable information!

2023 Incentives Program The 2023 incentive program will end December 31. Each lodge officer received an update on what needs to be completed during this final quarter of 2023. Please submit the information online at spjst.org/Gives no later than 11:59 p.m. Monday, January 15.

Lodge Officer Elections If you did not elect lodge officers at your November meeting, you will need to do so in December. To receive the 2023 lodge incentive, your officer listing must be submitted online at spjst.org/lodge-officer-update by January 15, 2024. Please add this task to your lodge meeting agenda under new business.

State Tournaments Scheduled All 2024 SPJST state tournaments will be held in Temple at the SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street.

Registration fee is $30. A meal and snacks will be provided. Tournament dates are: Saturday, January 13 Progressive 42 Dominoes Saturday, February 3 Taroks Saturday, March 2 Straight Dominoes Saturday, April 6 Regular 42 Dominoes 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive continues. Thanks to those who have contributed. Donations of any amount will be accepted and added to the scholarship fund that is maintained by the Home Office. The drive will end March 31, 2024. Donations can be made online at spjst.org/scholarships or mail to: SPJST 100 Pennies PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 State and District Royalty All state and district youth who earned a title in the royalty competition at the State Youth Showcase are encour-

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

aged to attend festivals and events in your community, socials, local lodge or districts activities. Please attend these events and proudly wear your tiara and sash. Contact the event organizers for more information and offer to assist with tasks at the event. Remember to submit photos of your experience in the Vestnik. You are the representatives for the SPJST Youth Program, and we appreciate your good deeds.

2023 State Charity Project Through December, our quarterly project is Socks for Seniors. This drive is called “Socks for Seniors,” however, actual socks do not have to be collected.

We ask that you partner with a senior home, organization, or local shut-ins.

Contact them for specific needs. Note that needs may range from socks, warm clothing, blankets, toiletry items, gifts, etc. This initiative continues through December 31. SPJST lodges, youth clubs, and members are invited to participate.

Photograph your donations with the donors. Submit your photo and information at spjst.org/gives and share on social media using #spjstgives.

Please be aware that some homes/facilities may not permit visitors for various reasons. If this is the case, take your group photo outside by the facility’s sign or by the front door.

Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—

5

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District Six Members Gather For Fall Fun Day at TCHCC —Photos by David Bucek, Jr.

District Six members and guests met at SPJST Lodge 19, Velehrad Hall on the grounds of the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Drinks and kolaches were enjoyed by everyone. District Six President Joe Siptak (4) opened the meeting with a welcome at 10:30 a.m. District Six Director Annie Vahalik (4) said the prayer. After the prayer, a moment of silence was observed for our departed members.

At the conclusion of the moment of silence, music from the Hospoda tent was being played, and all present paid tribute by singing the National Anthem followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lisa Bubela (30) moved to dispense with business discussion.

Yvonne Marcaurele (30) seconded the motion. Motion carried.

We welcomed David Bucek, Jr. (151) who introduced guests present from the Czech Center Museum Houston and the Czech Republic.

After announcements, we joined together on the porch of Velehrad Hall for a group photo. The meeting adjourned, and everyone was able to enjoy lunch and the day’s events which included a performance by the Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club and various contests and activities under the big tent in conjunction with RVOS, KJT, and KJZT. Fraternally, Elizabeth Holub District Six Secretary

Johana Dickerson is executive director of the Czech Center Museum Houston; Mrs. Jitka Andrysova is a lead interviewer and source researcher for Post Bellum; Karlin Lojo is the archives and collection manager of the CCMH; and Alice Adam is a former CCMH Director, currently serving on the advisory board. She was born in the Czech Republic. They were guests of the Bucek family at the District Six meeting at the Czech Heritage and Muziky Festival in La Grange on Saturday, October 21. They enjoyed meeting everyone, visiting the exhibits, and visiting Czech communities in the area.

LEFT PHOTO: Left to right are Johana Dickerson, Karlin Lojo, Mrs. Jitka Andrysova, Carol Bucek, and Alice Adam. RIGHT PHOTO: From left are Mrs. Jitka Andrysova, Carol Bucek, Alice Adam, and Lukas Zaludek.

6

Monday, November 27, 2023

SPJST LODGE SECTION

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

Send your news and photos to: SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo Questions? Call 800-727-7578

Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas party December 10

Lodge 4, Hallettsville to celebrate Milestone Members on December 10

Dear Members, Our lodge will hold its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Vsetin Educational Building beginning at 11:30 a.m. A noon meal with fried chicken provided by the lodge will be served. Members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

We will have a program, play bingo, and award door prizes. Members and their families are cordially invited to attend.

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—

Dear Members, You are invited to the SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas party on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Vsetin Educational Building at Vsetin Czech Moravian Brethren Church, located six miles northeast of Hallettsville on FM 2314.

The lodge will provide fried chicken for the noon meal and members are asked to bring a side dish and /or dessert to share with everyone. After lunch we will have a short program, door prizes, and play bingo.

Congratulations to our 2023 Age 96, 75-year and 50-year members. We hope you and your family will join us.

Age 96 Member Leona Guenther

Lodge 8 Weimar Donates to Parkview Manor Members of SPJST Lodge 8, Weimar recently presented a donation of $100 to the Parkview Manor Activity Fund in Weimar.

Seated are Carolyn Tobola, left, and Henrietta Veselka.

Back: Becky Jares, left, and Parkview Manor Activity Director Tammy Vincent.

75-Year Member Franklin Jahn, Jr. 50-Year Members Kelly Grones • Randy Judd Alan Lorfing • Kathleen Muenster William Pastucha • Lillian Rabel Sharon Wilkens We appreciate your membership in our lodge and hope to see you all at the Christmas party. Congratulations!

Please join us at our upcoming 2024 quarterly meetings scheduled for the following Sundays: February 11, April 21, August 11, and November 10. Meetings begin at 3 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce meeting room in Hallettsville.

After the meetings, we enjoy socializing and lunch brought by the members.

Check the Vestnik for more lodge meet-

ing and activity information. In addition, you will find the Vestnik has great articles regarding our insurance and annuity products as well as upcoming events for our youth members.

The 2024 Lodge 4, Hallettsville officers are: President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056 Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Annie Vahalik 361-649-4888 Secretary/Treasurer Helen Zabransky Reporter Patsy Zabransky Merry Christmas! Have a happy and healthy 2024!

Fraternally, Lodge 4, Hallettsville Officers —SPJST—

Lodge 1, Fayetteville Serves 600 Turkey/Dressing Plates Lodge 1, Fayetteville prepared 600 plates to serve our community and beyond with the best turkey, gravy, dressing, noodles, beans, and cranberries. It was a heavy plate! It gives us great pleasure to hold this event, but we could not do it without the many volunteers that show up to help. Thank you!

All of this was captured by Emil Knodell as shown using this QR code. Just place your cell phone camera to the code, and a link will appear to show the video.

After all was said and done, with some plates leftover, our sweet and caring lodge secretary, Debby Pflughaupt, took plates to the local elderly and those in need. What a great way to share this season of thanksgiving.

Here at Lodge 1, we wish you all a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving celebrating with family and friends.

Remember . . . count your blessings!

—Sharon Fritsch, President/FAC

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 6, Cottonwood plans December 3 Christmas party President Don Urbanovsky called the Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting to order at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 5, 2023.

All officers were present. All attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Pledge, followed by a moment of silence for departed members. Flag Bearer Sister Irene Peterson reported 15 members, five youth, and four guests in attendance.

Minutes of the last meeting were read

by Secretary Barbara Hykel, and minutes were approved by membership.

Treasurer Peggy Dobecka provided the treasurer’s report which was approved as given. FAC Jeanette Beseda provided news from SPJST Home Office. Discussion was held regarding the Socks for Seniors for December. Sister Jeanette invited everyone to participate in writing down what you are grateful for and creating a chain of thankfulness.

Correspondence Secretary Sister Barbara reported that a get well card was mailed to Mary Neckar, and a sympathy card was sent to Irene Barber.

Hall Manager Sister Peggy provided information on the lodge bookings for November and December. See the last section of this Vestnik to review the upcoming events.

Youth Leader Sister Peggy informed the membership that the youth club will have a raffle at the Lodge 6 Christmas party to benefit the West Kiwanis Toy

Monday, November 27, 2023 Drive.

Under old business, Brother Don reported on the leveling of the lodge structure and obtaining a bid for the work is still pending.

Under new business, District Three Director John Engelke conducted the election of officers. Sister Barbara Hykel requested that she be removed from her position as secretary. She has held that position for more than 50 years. The membership gave her a standing ovation to show our gratitude to her and her diligence and talent for detail. Thank you, Sister Barbara!

The 2024 Lodge 6 Cottonwood officers are: President Don Urbanovsky Vice President James Nemec Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette Beseda Treasurer Peggy Dobecka Reporter Patti Rosales Flag Bearer Irene Peterson Director Engelke provided details about the SPJST Convention coming in the summer of 2024. Based on our number of memberships, Lodge 6 will send three delegates to the convention.

Brother John proceeded in facilitating the election of delegates. Lodge 6 delegates are Peggy Dobecka, Jeanette Beseda, and Irene Peterson. The two alternates are Don Urbanovsky and Patti Rosales.

Brother James Nemec presented the lodge with two handmade planter boxes filled with beautiful croton and ivy plants. He is working on his graduate

7

Lodge 8 Weimar Donates to Boys and Girls Club Champion Valley

Members of SPJST Lodge 8, Weimar recently presented a donation of $100 to the Boys and Girls Club Champion Valley in Weimar. SPJST Lodge 8 representatives Becky Jares, left, Carolyn Tobola, second from right, and Henrietta Veselka, right, are pictured with Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Jennifer Owens, second from left, and Administrative Assistant Olivia Wettstein, center.

program at Tarleton State, and this was the result of a project management class that he led along with three fellow students. Thank you, James, for thinking of the lodge as the recipient of this project.

Christmas Party—December 3 Lodge 6 Christmas party will be held Sunday, December 3 following our 2 p.m. lodge meeting. Menu to be served was discussed. Members are asked to bring a dessert. Meal will be served at 4:30 p.m. and followed by Santa’s arri-

Lodge 6, Cottonwood shares thanksfulness; receives planter boxes

val. Please join us! It’s always a lot of fun.

We congratulated Brother Steve and Frances Soukup, who were present at the meeting, on their 64th wedding anniversary.

Attendance door prizes were awarded to Sister Lou Blahuta, Sister Dorothy Kucera, and Sister Irene Peterson. Director John brought four SPJST gifts for door prizes and the recipients were Don Urbanovsky, Henry Blahuta, Amber Perez, and Patti Rosales. Thank you, John, for these door prizes and facilitating our elections.

Next Meeting—December 3 The next Lodge 6 meeting will be Sunday, December 3 at 2 p.m. Come hear what’s going on at the hall and join us for our Christmas celebration. Merry Christmas to everyone!

Fraternally, Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—

Members of Lodge 6, Cottonwood work on a chain of thankfulness at the November meeting. From left are Sisters Barbara Hykel, Peggy Dobecka, Irene Peterson, and Pam Urbanovsky. (Photo by Sister Jeanette

Beseda) RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 6 received planter boxes with plants donated by Vice President James Nemec, as part of a team project at Tarleton State University.

—Patti Rosales, Reporter

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Monday, November 27, 2023

Lodge 18, Elgin meets Dec. 3 to address sale of hall and property Dear Members, Please make plans to attend a special called meeting of SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall, located at 702 Hwy 95 North in Elgin. Lodge leaders are considering the sale of the lodge building as a way for the lodge to take advantage of the significant equity that exists in the property. Correspondingly, and in accordance with SPJST operational procedures, a special called meeting will be held to discuss, consider, and vote on the proposed sale. All adult members are encouraged to attend.

SPJST officials, including District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, will be in attendance.

Should the vote for the sale be approved, it will also provide an ideal opportunity to discuss ideas for the future of Lodge 18, Elgin, following the sale as well as prospects for a future lodge home. We want SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin to be known as a family organization that embodies the idea of service to each other and to the community. If you are unable to attend the meeting, you are invited to share your thoughts with us through email at irvrabel@gmail.com; however, please note, to vote on the proposed transaction, it will be necessary for you to attend the meeting on December 3.

VĚSTNÍK Thank you for your attention.^ Fraternally, Officers of Lodge 18, Elgin David Meyer, President/Trustee Charles Wilson, Secretary/ Treasurer/FAC/Trustee Irene Vrabel, Reporter FL Meyer, Trustee Mike Mogonye, Trustee —SPJST—

Lodge 23, Moravia Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts Czech heritage display reports on

November meeting

Lodge 23, Moravia Christmas social December 3 Lodge 23, Moravia will hold its annual meeting and Christmas social on Sunday, December 3, 2023, starting at 2:30 p.m. at our lodge hall. A meeting will be held followed by lunch, games, and door prizes. Members are asked to bring a dessert for the sweets table. The fourth quarter state project is Socks for Seniors so members are asked to bring a donation to the meeting. Two 50-year members Debra Sue Orsak Berger and Theodore Vanek are asked to attend to be recognized.

We hope to see our members on Sunday, December 3. ^ Fraternally, Kathleen Guenther, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 23, Moravia hosted a Czech heritage display at Schulenburg Historical Museum in honor of October being Czech Heritage Month in Texas.

Lodge 24, Cyclone Christmas party December 4 Lodge 24, Cyclone will have a Christmas party at Flag Hall on Monday, December 4. The hall will open at 6:30 p.m., and you must call Brenda Maddux by November 27 to give the number of guests who will be attending.

Leave a message. Brenda’s number is 254-721-1682. ^ For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, November 13, 2023, at Flag Hall in Cyclone. President Brenda Maddux called the meeting to order with a silent prayer of peace for the Middle East and for our deceased members.

Secretary Cathy Bruggman read the minutes from the last meeting, and they were approved. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report, and Brenda Maddux gave the bar report.

Fraternal activities report was presented by Cathy Bruggman. Camp will be June 19 to 23, and the State Youth Showcase will be July 26 and 27. Upcoming tournaments are progressive 42 dominoes on January 13, taroks on February 3, straight dominoes on March 2, and regular 42 dominoes on April 6.

Service hours are being recorded.

The Christmas party is Monday, December 4 at the hall. The discussion on officers’ gifts is to be continued. The original hall group picture has been reframed. Credit cards for the hall has been done. Plumbing in the ladies room is completed. A donation will be made to Ronald McDonald House. Our chain of thankfulness has been completed and a picture will be sent to the Home Office.

The hall will host a New Year’s Eve dance with Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Reservations will be taken.

The lodge voted to move its meetings to Sunday; however, it was not approved by the members. We are asking the SPJST Board of Directors to consider

Lodge 25, Ennis shares november meeting scenes

LEFT PHOTO: Betty serves turkey to members at the November 9, 2023, meeting. CENTER PHOTO: Officers begin the meeting with the Pledge

of Allegiance. RIGHT PHOTO: Members recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the meeting.

—Margaret Krajca, Reporter

VĚSTNÍK allowing our lodge to meet every other month on the even months of the year.

There are many large rentals coming up at Flag Hall.

Officers elected are: President Brenda Maddux Treasurer Linda Wilde Reporter Bobby Hoelscher

Monday, November 27, 2023 Birthdays are Abby Hoelscher, Jason Hoelscher, Jacob Maddux, and Anton Vrazel who is 96 years old.

Next Meeting—January 8 The next meeting after the Christmas party will be January 8.

For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Convention delegates are Jason Hoelscher and Bobby Hoelscher. The 2024 Convention is June 7 to 9 in Temple.

Lodge 20, Granger hosts Tarok Tournament Forty-four players participated in the Saturday, November 11, 2023, tarok tournament at Lodge 20, Granger. Players enjoyed a hearty homecooked meal of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green

beans. A great time was had by all!

Congratulations to the winners: 1st - Keith Hansen, 2nd - Mark Brezina and Sonny Klepac, and 3rd - Jerry Brezina.

—Jvonne Elwood

Congratulations to the tarok winners! Right to left, 1st - Keith Hansen, 2nd - Mark Brezina and Sonny Klepac, and 3rd - Jerry Brezina.

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Lodge 24, Cyclone: ring in the new year with Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 Ring in the new year at Lodge 24, Cyclone on Sunday, December 31, 2023. Music will be by Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 with dancing from 8:15 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and Brenda will have your favorite cold beverage ready to order at the bar.

You are welcome to bring your snacks and food for your group as our kitchen will be busy cooking those delicious black-eyed peas.

Daniel and Jason will be cooking the black-eyed peas and baking that delicious golden yellow cornbread. You will be served a large cup of peas at the last intermission so you can leisurely eat and be ready to go home when the dance is over.

We have top hats for the gents and tiaras for the ladies.

To reserve your favorite table, call Linda Wilde at 254-985-2258.

Come on out for a good “down home” evening at Flag Hall. See you all there!

Linda M. Wilde, Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis reports on November meeting Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis met on Thursday, November 9, 2023. In honor of Thanksgiving, Betty prepared a delicious turkey with dressing and all the trimmings for us. It was so good. Thank you, Betty!

Our meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer. Moment of silence was observed for Jimmie Mach and Ed Plasek. On the sick list are Sheila Motley, Adell Rejcek, Skip Elleven, and Brad Jones. Reports were given and approved.

2024 Officers Elected Charlie Jurcik, chair of nominating committee, thanked the officers for their hard work. The Lodge 25 officers for 2024 were approved by acclamation.

Congratulations to:

Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member Westynn Gray Langley. Westynn was born on June 1, 2023, and is the son of Hayley and Kevilynn Langley and the grandson of Sandra Trojacek and the late Billy Slovak. He is also the great-grandson of Linda Trojacek and the late Victor Trojacek.

Westynn represents the sixth generation of SPJST members, with a family legacy that began with greatgreat-great-grandparents Joe and Annie Martinek, and continued through great-great-grandparents Milton and Nadine Martinek. Across each successive generation, this family has played a significant role in contributing to the success of SPJST Lodge 25. Their commitment and involvement persist, with the family remaining actively engaged in the lodge to this day.

Westynn Gray was born at Baylor Scott & White Waxahachie and weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces and was 18.7 inches long.

Margaret Krajca, Westynn’s great-great-great aunt, is his sales agent and is so proud to have sold this policy!

—SPJST—

Westynn Gray Langley

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Monday, November 27, 2023 President JoAnn Jones Vice President Arlene West Secretary Pat Fowler Treasurer Allis Droste Reporter Margaret Krajca FAC/Youth Leader Rita Holland

Sales Agent Margaret Krajca announced new member Westynn Gray Langley, great-grandson of Linda Trojacek. Membership approved. A new sound system for the bar area was proposed, and membership approved to purchase. Joann announced that we will have a Christmas party in December.

Details to come. Rita asked the lodge for a donation for care packages to be sent to Brian Holland’s platoon serving in Egypt. District Three Director John Engelke spoke to members regarding next year’s upcoming convention. He also brought some nifty prizes that were awarded to members in a drawing.

After the meeting, everyone enjoyed socializing. Don’t forget to come to our November birthday celebration on Wednesday, November 29.

Next Meeting—December 14 Our next meeting will be Thursday, December 14. Hope to see you all then!

Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 32, Victoria Christmas party December 5 By the time you read this, we will all have had a lot of turkey (yum!) and with faith, family, friends, food, and, of course, football.

I love Thanksgiving because of the above and because it is not so commercialized (yet). It’s about being thankful and appreciating our families, friends, food, a roof over our head, and last of all, our country. Things are crazy these days – the entire world is upside down.

The Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Harbor in 1620 and celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621. I wonder what they would think about our Thanksgiving – we have it so much easier than they had. America is a country we love, and we owe thanks to the Pilgrims that were so brave to get on The Mayflower – so as we give thanks for all we have, please include the Pilgrims.

Join us on December 5 We are having a Christmas party on Tuesday, December 5 at 6 p.m. at The Sky, 236 Foster Field Drive (by the airport). Please RSVP by December 1 to Kathy Ahlstrom at 361-648-9239 or email kathya@suddenlink.net.

Our lodge collected 115 pairs of socks for the quarterly “Socks for Sen-

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca honors Milestone Members

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca President Larry Rokyta, left, and District Six Director Annie Vahalik, second from left, present membership pins to Lorene and Jimmie Pustejovsky. The Pustejovsky couple accepted 50-year membership pins for their children, Kenneth and Steven Pustejovsky and Judith Townsend, who were unable to attend the September member appreciation banquet held at Bejing Restaurant in Port Lavaca.

iors” project and will be delivered this week. Watch for pictures in an upcoming Vestnik.

Fraternally and Thankful, Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 35, Elk Christmas party December 17 Lodge 35, Elk will host its meeting, Christmas party and officer induction on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 4 p.m.

Please RSVP to 254-722-1454 by December 10.

Tammy Pavelka, FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 39, Bryan members invited to December 8 Christmas events On Friday, December 8, 2023, at 5 p.m., Lodge 39, Bryan will meet at the Lampstand Nursing Home to sing Christmas carols. The residents love to see us, and some sing along with us.

Afterwards, we all will go to CC’s pizza for our social and a nice meal provided by the lodge and our meeting.

Please, all come join us on December 8 at the Lampstand off 29th Street in Bryan at 5 p.m.

God bless and hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving.

Fraternally, Binnie Matejka Roesler Reporter —SPJST—

SPJST District Two Director Honored on Veterans Day Jesse Pospisil’s family honored his service with a flag at Georgetown Texas Field of Honor® for Veterans Day. Jesse was a Master Sergeant/E8 in the United States Army.

Jesse and wife Linda

Jesse and family, all members of Lodge 29, Taylor. LEFT PHOTO: Jesse with daughters Cristy Girod, left, and Tammy Cannon. PHOTO 2: Jesse with grandson Brandon Girod. RIGHT PHOTO: Jesse with Mike and Tammy Cannon.

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje plans December 3 meeting

Monday, November 27, 2023

Presenting 2024 Officers

SPJST LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA

The next meeting of SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje is Sunday, December 3, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Mikeska’s BBQ off Highway 59 in El Campo.

Youth club meetings will be held monthly. For information, call 979-3321614.^ —SPJST—

Christmas party to follow after the meeting.

Memorial and Christmas Party— December 10 Lodge 47 memorial and Christmas party will be Sunday, December 10 at 3 p.m. The lodge will provide pork loin and green beans. All members are asked to bring a side dish and a dessert.

Member dues of $6 will be collected.

Lodge officers were elected. Officers for 2024 are: President Brandon Bartek Vice President Danny Stepan Secretary/Reporter Brenda Hoelscher Treasurer Emily Ordogne FAC/Parliamentarian Rick Beck Youth Leader Amber Bartek

Lodge 47, Seaton elects 2024 officers, sets December 10 Christmas party Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthly lodge meeting on Sunday, November 5, 2023. Flag bearers were Everhett Bartek and Travis Ordogne. President Brandon Bartek called the meeting to order. The lodge observed a moment of silence to remember members that were recently lost. Veterans were recognized. Veterans present at the meeting were Jesse Pospisil and Brandon Bartek. Thank you to all of our veterans for your service.

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The 2024 officers of SPJST Lodge 41, Port Lavaca are, left to right, Vice President Darlene Baker, President, Larry Rokyta, Treasurer Mary Allison, and Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Mary Sitka.

Treasurer Emily Ordogne noted that taxes had been paid. Youth Leader Amber Bartek reported nine youth members present for today’s meeting, and they made a thankful chain. They are still collecting blankets, socks, and mittens for the seniors.

Danny Stepan gave the bar report for the October bookings. Rick Beck told members about the upcoming events -

Lodge 80, Holland participates in church women’s Bingo fundraiser On Saturday, November 12, 2023, SPJST Lodge 80, Holland members participated in ABOVE PHOTO: Bethany Zajicek, far right, has fun calling some bingo the St. Stephen Catholic numbers as grandfather Frank Pajestka Church Women’s Society assists with microphone, and brother turkey bingo fundraiser. Thomas look on. BELOW PHOTO: Thomas The funds raised go to Zajicek calls out numbers loud and clear provide for church needs. as his sister Bethany covers her ears.

Several Lodge 80 members were in attendance and helped with event. Pictured here are some very charming assistant bingo callers with the official caller, Frank Pajestka.

—Risa Pajestka

42 tournament in January, tarok tournament in February, and 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.

President Brandon Bartek discussed transfers of the Beckendorf family to Lodge 47. Members voted and accepted their transfers.

Next Meeting—December 9 Brandon also discussed the December lodge meeting on Saturday, December 9 at 10 a.m. with setup for the

Lodge 47 voted Chris and Emily Ordogne as the Fraternalists of the Year.

Delegates for the 2024 SPJST Convention were also nominated and accepted as Edwin Pechal, Tammy Martinez, Danny Stepan, Rick Beck, James Skrabanek, and Jason Beckendorf.

November birthdays, anniversaries, and door prize winners were recognized.

Lodge 47 continues to gather and provide a place for members, family, and friends in the surrounding community to enjoy. Keep an eye out for upcoming events and fundraisers. It is always a great time with SPJST. As al-

Presenting 2024 Officers

SPJST LODGE 80, HOLLAND

The 2024 officers of Lodge 80, Holland are, second from left to right, President Rita Spinn, Secretary Linda Hill, Treasurer Joyce Martinets, Trustee Silveria Tschoerner, Trustee Connie Horak, Trustee Danny Hendrix, and Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka.

They are pictured with State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, far left.

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Monday, November 27, 2023

ways, follow Lodge 47 on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ Lodge47SeatonStarHall/.

Thank you to everyone for reading. I hope you all have a blessed day!

Fraternally, Brenda Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 80, Holland recognizes Veterans at bingo night

Lodge 48, Beyersville elects 2024 officers Members and guests of Lodge 48, Beyersville had their monthly meeting on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the hall. All reports were presented and approved as read.

The youth leader’s current projects are the state charity initiative collecting items which are being designated as donations to the homeless of Taylor. They also are planning a donation to the SPJST Senior Living Center Christmas Tree gift for a named resident with special requests.

Old business was finalizing plans for our annual Christmas party with meal choices, the white elephant game, and

On Thursday, November 10, 2023, Lodge 80, Holland honored Veterans during evening bingo. Games were paused to recognize Veterans in attendance. Each Vet told when and where he served, and each was presented a complimentary bingo book and treat. Everyone then stood and recited the Pledge of Alle-

door prizes. Upcoming events discussed for January are a garage sale and bingo.

Those dates and times will be submitted after they are finalized.

The hall manager reported on the status of events bookings which have been steady.

New business was the election of 2024 officers:

giance. The bingo patrons applauded. Thank you, Veterans, for your service! LEFT PHOTO: Frank Pajestka gives each Veteran a complimentary bingo book. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 80 President Rita Spinn presents each Veteran with a sweet treat.

—Risa Pajeska

President Cory Miksch Vice President/FAC/Youth Leader Michelle Newsom Secretary/Reporter Jennifer Miksch Treasurer/Financial Janine Adams We appreciate all of our officers who have served and are looking forward to enjoying another good year with all the

Lodge 80, Holland Hosts Spooktackular Halloween Bingo ABOVE PHOTO: Lodge 80 Treasurer Joyce Martinets, left, Janie Luna, center, and Silveria Tschoerner prepare for bingo card sales. RIGHT PHOTO: Jim McDougall and Janie Luna survey prizes.

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland hosted a spooktacuHalloween-themed lar bingo on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Hall on 2268 in Holland. Treats were given to all bingo paworkers Bingo trons. really got into the spirit of the evening with the charming decorations. Everyone seemed to have a great time.

—Risa Pajestka

LEFT PHOTO: Bumblebee Judy Gotcher gets ready to sell cards on the floor as Connie Horak signs in to work. Looking on are Buddy and Jeanette Wald.

ABOVE PHOTO: Jeanette Wald and Ann Mazoch sell cards to some hopeful players.

incoming and returning officers.

Alice Bracewell, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas party December 3 Lodge 49, Rowena will host a Christmas party on Sunday, December 3, 2023, beginning at 4 p.m. at Lodge 49, Rowena Hall, located at 706 FM 2133 in Rowena, Texas.

Please bring your favorite snack/finger food. Spirits/beverages will be served. Games for all ages and cornhole boards will be available. If you have a favorite game you’d like to play, please bring it!

We are asking each person to bring new socks to be donated to local seniors and senior care facilities.

Make plans to bring your family.

Come and enjoy food, fun, and fellowship.

Happy holidays from Lodge 49, Rowena!^ Laura Pospichal President —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

Lodge 54, West Christmas party December 3

visiting spjst.org/54christmas. We hope you will come out and enjoy the Christmas party!^

Lodge 54, West will host its Christmas party on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Tours Hall, located at 301 St. Martin Church Road in West, starting at 3 p.m. The West Junior Historians will dance at 3:30 p.m. followed by a fried chicken dinner for all the guests starting at 4:30 p.m. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elf are expected to arrive at 5:30 p.m. to visit with all the children, hand out goody bags, and be available for photos.

Before all guests leave, there will be several cash prize drawings for adults and children. Each SPJST family is asked to bring a dessert for the meal.

Please RSVP by November 18 by

Lodge 80, Holland turkey bingo scenes

“Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”

—1 John 4:16 Fraternally, Janice Kaluza, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 67, Schulenburg Christmas party December 7 Lodge 67, Schulenburg will host a Christmas party on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, located off I-10 at Highway 77

in Schulenburg, Texas.

Social hour with refreshments is from 6 to 7 p.m. The meal will be served at 7 p.m.

Please RSVP by Monday, December 4 to Adrienne Kobza 979-743-5629 or Ernest J. Kutac 979-561-8686.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Fraternally, Mary Ann Kutac, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville elects 2024 officers, convention delegates SPJST Lodge 81, Needville met on Sunday, November 19, 2023. At 12 noon, Vice President Jeanette Newman

On Thursday, November 16, 2023, Lodge 80, Holland held its annual turkey bingo. Just before the last game, all the attendees were asked to check their red numbered ticket. Tickets had been distributed to all in attendance earlier during the games. Ticket

Lodge 80, Holland President Rita Spinn with some lucky turkey winners.

LEFT PHOTO BLOCK: Turkeys are handed out with assistance from Michelle Taylor, and in bottom right corner, assistance from Silveria

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gave a prayer of thanks. Everyone enjoyed a lunch of honey-baked ham purchased by Leon Anhaiser and provided by the lodge. Members provided side dishes and desserts.

At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman called the meeting to order. Everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Absent from our meeting was Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha. Added to our sick list was Aileen Janik. We are sending her a speedy recovery wish.

Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall gave her report, and it was approved as read. Vice President Jeanette Newman read Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha’s report, and it was approved as read.

Since we didn’t have any old business, we moved straight to new business. We elected officers which were nominated by acclamation. Jeanette Newman will also bring the rules and

numbers were called out by Frank Pajestka. Tickets had been randomly drawn by various bingo players.

Everyone seemed to have had a great time ,but especially the turkey winners!

—Risa Pajestka

Tschoerner and Connie Horak. RIGHT PHOTO BLOCK: President Spinn is pictured with more turkey winners, with Michelle Taylor assisting, and Frank Pajestka in the background calling out numbers.

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Monday, November 27, 2023

regulations and the committees to our December meeting. Delegates for the June Convention were voted on. They are Karen Hargraves, Kristen Jones, and Bradley Stavinoha.

Under other business, the youth will prepare Christmas bags to be handed out at the December meeting.

Door prize winners were Leon Anhaiser, Karen Rust, Jeanette Newman, and Bettye Anhaiser. Congratulations to our lucky winners!

Next Meeting—December 17 For the next meeting on Sunday, December 17, it was decided to have honey-baked ham and sausage.

Members, please bring a side dish and/or a dessert. See you at the next meeting!

Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Lodge 84, Dallas supports Battalion 72 troop members Dear Readers, Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met on Sunday, November 12, 2023, for their monthly meeting at Dunston’s Steak House. President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance led by Flag Bearer Charles Nemec. A moment of silence was observed for the troops serving our country and any member needing some special intentions.

Secretary Cherri Petr reported there were no notifications of death or illnesses before reading the minutes from the last month’s meeting.

Youth Leader Lynda Novak and Treasurer Jim Liska then gave their reports.

President Vicki welcomed District Three Director John Engelke and wife Diana to the meeting before moving to the election of officers.

The 2024 officers are: President Vicki Sims Vice President Lynda Novak Secretary Cherri Petr

Lodge 160, San Angelo officers meet with SFD Horak and Director Davis to review lodge incentive program

Lodge 160, San Angelo officers met with State Fraternal Director Frank Horak and District Four Director Bobby Davis on Thursday, November 2, 2023. The meeting was held at Napolis, and a meal was shared.

Members discussed the many ways to report fraternal activities and the sign-in forms that need to be completed. From left are President Sandra Jansa, First Vice President Betty Ann Schwartz, Second Vice President/FAC Brenda Holik, Treasurer Sharon Hohmann, SFD Horak, Director Davis, Anita Davis, and Youth Leader Ryan Jansa. Not in attendance was Secretary Charlene Dusek.

Treasurer Jim Liska Reporter Anne Cowan Sergeant-at-Arms/Flag Bearer Charles Nemec Old business discussed was the Czech Heritage Day celebration on October 15.

New business was Director Engelke’s visit to our meeting to report on information about the upcoming convention and the number of delegates that Lodge 84.will have. Members then voted to have Vicki Sims, Cherri Petr, Jim Liska, and Lynda Novak representing Lodge 84. Charles Nemec and Anne Cowan will be the alternates.

During the meeting, a heartfelt

request from Lodge 25, Ennis member Brian Holland, conveyed through his mother Rita, reached our Lodge 84 members. Their plea for personal items for U.S. Battalion 72 troop members struck a chord with us. In response, Lodge 84 unanimously passed a motion to contribute to this act of kindness. The lodge took the initiative to gift the Hollands a generous check of $1,500. I am grateful to share that Scooter, Rita, and their grandkids graciously received the donation at Jimmy Liska’s house.

It was mentioned that President Vicki had an upcoming birthday so well wishes were shared with her for the momentous occasion. We wish you many more to come, Vicki!

Lodge 84, Dallas members enjoy meeting and meal

LEFT PHOTO: State Fraternal Director Frank Horak is adorned with the November Caring Challenge - thankfulness paper chain - given to him by youth and adult members of Lodge 84, Dallas. CENTER PHOTO: District Three Director John Engelke presents Charles Nemec with a shell casing pen. RIGHT PHOTO: Shell casing pen. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Director John and wife Diana Engelke. REMAINING PHOTOS: Lodge 84, Dallas members enjoy steak dinners during the meeting.

VĚSTNÍK In honor of Veterans Day, Director Engelke presented a writing pen made from shell casings to Brother Charles Nemec, a dedicated veteran.

President Vicki then thanked everyone for attending. She reminded everyone that our next meeting will be held Sunday, January 21 at 2:30 p.m. at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231. There will be bingo and a svacina following the meeting.

She also reminded us that we would be collecting socks to donate to local nursing homes/senior care centers. Please be generous and bring a donation of socks if you plan to attend.

Director John Engelke then installed the 2024 officers before enjoying our delicious steak dinners.

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas invites all to December 3 Christmas party Dear Readers, What is the best way to ring in the Christmas season . . . by celebrating with a Christmas party, of course.

This holiday event is open to members and guests of SPJST Lodge 84, BetterLife - Dallas, KJT No. 111, and KJZT No. 108 at no cost and will be held on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue Dallas, Texas 75231.

Monday, November 27, 2023

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November meeting scenes from Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle

The Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth met Tuesday, November 14, 2023. LEFT PHOTO: Hostesses were Margaret Sears, Anna Marie Moncrief, Helen Rogers, JuDawn Potter, and Rose Ann Spann.

The schedule is: • Doors open at 10:30 a.m.

• Christmas Mass - 11 a.m.

• Santa will visit from 12 to 12:30 p.m.

• Catered meal served from 1 to 2 p.m.

• Lone Star Legends will play from 2 to 5 p.m.

Please note: No social hour. No drinks can be brought in. No BYOB. A cash bar will be available and sodas and water will be free of charge during the party.

There will also be a 50-50 raffle, with tickets for $1 each or six for $5. The drawing will be held at 4:30 p.m., and you must be present to win!

Everyone is asked to bring canned goods for the food pantry drive collection. No cans with expired dates, please.

Also, kindly bring your receipt or know the estimated cost of your donation.

CENTER PHOTO: Guest Linda Whitley was welcomed. RIGHT PHOTO: Birthdays for November were Marlene Bass and Marilyn DiOrio.

—Lisa Ellsworth

Please contact Vicki Sims at 214763-0341 or send Vicki an email at specialgran412@sbcglobal.net with any questions.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 3. I hope to see you there!

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

idents, and we hope all youth and their families will join us on Saturday, December 9 at 3 p.m. at 8611 Main Street in Needville, Texas 77461. If you’d like to carpool/drive together, please meet at the lodge parking lot at 1:45 p.m. If you need a ride, please reach out to Sarah Itz 713-303-8845.

This is a youth event, but we’d love to have everyone come join us to help spread Christmas cheer!

Lodge 88, Houston plans holiday activities

Return of Biergarten Movie Nights December 1 with Elf showing at 6:30 p.m.

Nursing Home in Needville Please take a moment to mark your calendars for our annual trip to the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville to sing carols and decorate. Our youth did a great job packing up presents and candy bags to give to the res-

Put on your Dancin’ Shoes December’s bookended by shindigs!

Friday, December 1 is the Fab 5 - 60s tribute music from 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door. Sunday, December 31 is Mark Halata and Texavia from 8:30 p.m. to

160, San Angelo was represented by Brenda mentary Second Grade Class Choir. Additionally, the Lodge 160, San Angelo Lodge Holik, her daughter Elizabeth Odom, and grand- service awards two scholarships to the graduating members attend daughter Grace Odom, all members of Lodge 160, senior class. The event drew approximately 400 atthe 36th Annual Wall Community Thanksgiving tendees, and refreshments were served afterward.

Wall Community at Service, hosted at Wall High School gymnasium. A SPJST members Rick Weise and Peggy Black were ThanksgiviNg Service tradition at this event is the performance by Wall Ele- also in attendance.

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Monday, November 27, 2023

12:30 a.m. Tickets are $30 online and $35 at the door. The evening includes party favors, champagne toast, and breakfast. A $4 bottle fee is collected at the door for all dances. Visit www.lodge88.org for tickets.

Christmas Party—December 2 The Lodge 88 Christmas party is Saturday, December 2 from 4 to 8 p.m. ‘Tis the season for a very merry Lodge Christmas, but we need your help to make it happen! The Christmas Party Committee is looking for a few additional members to serve on the planning committee for this beloved annual event. If you are newish to Lodge 88, this is a perfect way to get involved and meet others! If you are a Swim Club member who still needs to fulfill your hours, bring your Christmas creativity our way! We are eagerly recruiting people to help with planning this event.

To learn more, email Alicia Stephens aliciamstephens@gmail.com.

Calling All High School Seniors!

It’s time to apply for the Lodge 88 scholarship. Please go online and submit

by February 28, 2024.

Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo members participate in National Night Out

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Lodge 219, El Paso members gather for october meeting Lodge 219, El Paso members are pictured at the meeting held Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at Camilas-Queretaro Restaurant in El Paso.

Lodge 88, Houston scholarship applications available through Feb. 28 The scholarship application for seniors graduating in 2024 is now available on the Lodge 88, Houston website lodge88.org. The scholarship is open to any lodge member going to a university, college, or trade school. Please encourage your senior to apply. Applications are due February 28, 2024.^ Carol Havemann Scholarship Committee —SPJST—

Lodge 183, Arlington

Congratulates our Texas Rangers on Winning the 2023

World Series

Lodge 160, San Angelo members Brenda Holik, left, and Charlene Dusek participated in National Night Out on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.

The event included door prizes, free hamburgers, and informational booths on how to keep you and your property safe. Many law enforcement entities also participated in the event to make the evening a big success.

Courtesy Photos (Source Unknown)

Submitted by Kay Weeks, Reporter

Lodge 91, San Jacinto meets December 9 Members of Lodge 91, San Jacinto are invited to the fourth quarterly meeting to be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Lunas Mexican Restaurant in Baytown, Texas. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to 281-798-1092 or 713-818-9028 by December 8.^ Fraternally, Malba Smesny, FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 117, Robstown supports community Lodge 117, Robstown has been busy doing what we can to support our community. There are so many needs this year due to inflation, and we were told

by Halo Flight after the Coastal Bend Day of Giving that they were down $5,000 from the amount they received last year. So we have been collecting shampoo, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, combs, brushes, socks, and other personal items for the homeless at Mission 911 in Corpus Christi. Our lodge is doing a monetary donation in December, and individuals are collecting items as well which will be brought to the December meeting.

Dianne Raska, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 133, San Antonio meets December 10 The next meeting of SPJST Lodge 133, San Antonio will be Sunday, December 10 at 2 p.m. at Bill Millers Restaurant, 1418 Pleasanton Road in San Antonio. All members are encouraged to attend.^ Respectfully submitted, Kathy Uribe, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 142, Houston meets December 10 Dear Readers, Our annual meeting of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston will be Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston. We will elect officers and committees. Please plan to attend.

Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 184, Moulton presents scholarship

Lodge 184, Moulton President Elmer Michna presented a scholarship from Lodge 184 to Moulton High School senior Hope Kirkland.

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Lodge 151, Wharton Christmas social December 11 SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its quarterly meeting and Christmas social on Monday, December 11, 2023, at Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100 Sunset Street in Wharton.

A catered turkey and dressing meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. Please RSVP

by Friday, December 1 to Carolyn Bucek at 979-532-1910 or Janie Bucek at 979-532-5884 if you plan to attend.

Members will furnish the desserts.

The presentation of SPJST 50-year membership pins will take place after the meal. Fifty-year members are Karen Sue Alford, James Michael Bucek, Mary Jane Bucek, Howard E. Johnson, Bruce Edwin Reckaway, Debra L. Sabrsula, Eleanor J. Spacek, and Angeline E. Wasicek.

Officers for 2024 will be elected. In addition, we will elect a delegate to next year’s state convention.

Socks for Seniors Socks for Seniors is our fourth quarter state project. Members are encouraged to bring regular and diabetic socks that will be donated to residents in Wharton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Any kinds of socks can be donated: ankle, quarter-length, crew, with grippers, etc.

Monday, November 27, 2023 Members with birthdays in October, November, and December will be honored.

We hope to see you there!^ Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 177, Academy invites all to biweekly bingos, Dec. 9 dance Dear Readers, Lodge 177, Academy hosts bingo on Tuesdays and Fridays. Doors open at 5 p.m. Event games are at 6 p.m., and regular bingo is at 7 p.m. Come join us!

We will welcome Terry Taylor and the Texas Neon Ramblers for a dance on Saturday, December 9. Doors open at 5 p.m., and the band plays from 7 to 11 p.m. Admission is $10 per person with kids under 12 admitted free of charge.

Lodge 177 is located at 711 East Rio Poco in Academy.

We hope to see you soon! Happy Thanksgiving from Lodge 177!^ Fraternally, Penny Rowe, FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 184, Moulton awards scholarships to students

Lodge 219, El Paso gives canned goods to veterans

SPJST Lodge 184, Moulton awarded two $500 education scholarships to Moulton High School students. Hope Kirkland and Trista Michna will both be attending school in the fall to advance their education. Congratulations and best wishes to both students.

Terry Stevenson Vice President/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station Christmas dinner December 10 Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station invites their members and guests to their December meeting and annual Christmas dinner on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 12 noon at the new C&J Barbecue, located at 2112 West Briargate at Wm. J. Bryan Parkway in Bryan.

A buffet meal will be provided.

Members are asked to bring a dessert to share. We ask all members to attend this annual lodge meeting. To ensure that enough food will be available, please RSVP by December 4 to Henry Mayo 979-777-1426 - call or text. If no an-

Lodge 219, El Paso donates salsas to Legion ceremony dinner

Lodge 219, El Paso donated salsas to the American Legion officer installation ceremony on June 25, 2023. The lodge also helped serve food to more than 100 attendees. At this ceremony, Commader Alfred “Freddie” Frias, was installed for the second time as Commander of the American Legion Post 36 by the

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Sergeant-at-Arms. Carnitas was the main dish. Pictured in the kitchen are, left to right, Lodge 219 President Aracely Quiz, Commader Alfred “Freddie” Frias, Veterans Coordinator Patricia “Patty” Ramirez, and Lodge 219 Vice President Francisco Viniegra.

—Francisco Viniegra, Vice President

Lodge 219, El Paso donated canned goods to veterans in need, a drive organized by Veterans at Breakfast at American Legion Paso Del Norte Post 58. In the picture, left to right, are Lodge 219 Vice President Francisco Viniegra, Lodge 219 President Aracely Quiz, and American Legion Commander John Lugo.

swer, please leave a message with your attendance number. You may also email your RSVP to hpmayo@gmail.com.

Remember, we are all in the SPJST family, and it is important to share in this fraternal activity and keep our lodge active. As always, there will be door prizes! Bring your kids and grandkids.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, December 10! Merry Christmas from Lodge 189!

Fraternally, Henry Mayo, President —SPJST—

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Monday, November 27, 2023

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Death Claims Paid November 1 to December 31, 2022

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point gathers for fall dinner Name

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members met on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Olive Garden in Temple for dinner. In front, left to right, are Susan Hutton and Cindy and Ricki Dixon. Back: Ingrid Petrik, Frances McBride, David Nauert, Melanie Zavodny, and District Two Director Jesse Pospisil.

Lodge 202, Jourdanton Christmas party December 10

Lodge 229, Abilene Christmas party December 9

Lodge 202, Jourdanton will host a Christmas party on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue in Jourdanton, Texas.

Come join us at 1 p.m. for a carne guisada and tamale lunch provided by the lodge. A short business meeting will be held after lunch. We will play bingo, and there will be door prizes.

Please RSVP by Friday, December 1 to Secretary Valerie Barta at vbarta57@gmail.com or to Youth Leader Regina House at spjstyouth202@gmail.com. Call or text Valerie at 830-570-8920 or Regina at 830-570-2046.

We will be collecting items for the Caring Challenge - Socks for Seniors.

Please bring socks, warm clothing, blankets or toiletry items for donation.

Hope you can attend.

Valerie Barta, Secretary —SPJST—

Dear Members, Join us for an evening of fun! You’re invited to celebrate the season at SPJST Lodge 229, Abilene’s annual Christmas party on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. at Golden Chopsticks Restaurant, 4358 Sayles Boulevard in Abilene, Texas 79605.

Come enjoy good food and a 50-50 drawing. The meal will be provided by the lodge. Please bring new socks, gloves, and/or scarves to be donated to the local nursing home.

Special guest speaker will be Tanya Wales, SPJST member and attorney. She will discuss the importance of wills and estate planning.

We look forward to seeing you!

Please RSVP by Thursday, December 7 to Janice Stevens 325-669-7904.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from SPJST Lodge 229, Abilene!

—SPJST—

Robert F. David, Jr. Allen R. Lehmann Alvin J. Laubert Michael James Allison Edwin Louis Hlavaty Katy N. Tidwell George E. Krupala Rose Lillian Krupala Carol Bernice Chervenka Doris Nell Klinkovsky James Ronnie Stepan, Sr. Nancy Lou Hubnik Shirley L. Kleypas John T. Marek Johnny J. Slovak Robert M. O'Daniel Ronald Wesley Gillespie Annette Alice Kropp Frank Louis Chovanec Alejandro Salazar, Jr. James R. Duge Nelda Evelyn Anderson Donato M. Gonzales Joyce A. Sykora Maria G. Cordero Jerry F. Kadlubar Naomi Ruth Scott Elizabeth Sue McDaniel Juanita Z. Villarreal Lawrence Novosad Frederick M. Bunker Martha Mae Mahdak Walter Prasifka Helen E. Easterling Ray Clawson Allen Christopherson Joseph Wayne Miles Josephine Jane Pflughaupt Kathryn A. Higgs Wilma Prochaska Kulcak Sondra K. Sirocka Janet S. Pappas Mary C. Saladin Robert J. Vaclavik David E. Clifton Gordon Ray Walleck Steven Morales Jerry Adolph Stransky Bobbie Wise Valicek Ernest James Dvorak Leona Honza Harold Lloyd Hall Ruth Rosalie Jurik Dolores Baranowski Allen Joseph Kohleffel Maria V. Garcia Jimmie Brenek Ruby Rose McDonald Florine D. Schmid Marjorie L. Stevens Billie Louise Lauderdale Darin Wayne Delancey Angela E. Trevino Sallie S. Gaydos Senta C. Casanova Charlotte Kay Taylor Ann Marie Paruzinski Joy Edith Strey

Lodge/ Location

Date Admission

Date of Death

Age

5 Pilot Point-Tioga 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 15 Buckholts 17 New Tabor 20 Granger 23 Moravia 23 Moravia 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 30 Taiton 32 Victoria 35 Elk 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 54 West 54 West 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 80 Holland 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 87 Temple 87 Temple 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 91 San Jacinto 92 Fort Worth 92 Fort Worth 92 Fort Worth 97 Placedo 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 130 Dallas 133 San Antonio 135 Ennis 135 Ennis 139 Danbury 141 Sealy 142 Houston 151 Wharton 155 Austin 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 169 Brenham 172 Pasadena 186 Caldwell 187 Round Rock 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 204 Stephenville 246 Morgan's Point 258 Seguin

2/10/97 9/7/66 8/16/66 3/27/72 1/7/48 3/11/82 4/19/56 7/1/47 5/18/50 1/1/48 5/17/47 2/1/57 7/26/45 3/16/71 4/3/74 2/9/21 1/13/04 5/11/77 12/22/49 2/25/10 6/14/48 1/2/39 10/19/20 10/10/55 11/25/08 1/16/59 12/21/49 11/5/51 9/10/09 10/16/62 5/2/69 11/17/33 7/7/44 11/14/86 9/20/74 12/16/74 7/6/73 5/29/41 6/18/65 12/17/92 11/10/64 5/2/02 9/30/70 1/6/58 2/5/20 6/2/81 10/16/15 12/6/40 11/17/52 7/15/57 6/23/67 5/22/17 10/11/44 5/1/88 12/14/06 7/21/06 4/30/74 10/13/78 12/4/63 4/20/76 7/28/45 9/1/84 12/3/08 9/9/75 11/8/76 5/2/97 9/13/77 7/10/00

9/28/22 10/1/22 10/16/22 10/11/22 6/11/22 10/1/22 9/25/22 9/25/22 9/22/22 11/10/22 11/1/22 10/21/22 9/23/22 10/12/22 10/5/22 10/1/22 9/16/22 8/19/22 8/23/22 10/12/22 7/15/22 10/22/22 9/1/22 9/29/22 11/7/22 9/19/22 10/10/22 3/14/22 8/10/22 9/26/22 9/19/22 2/13/22 10/3/22 10/2/22 10/15/22 10/18/22 8/22/22 9/1/22 5/2/08 10/21/22 10/8/22 10/26/22 2/16/22 7/6/22 10/14/22 8/30/22 9/27/22 7/1/22 6/11/22 10/14/22 10/2/22 12/8/22 5/26/22 11/7/21 8/20/22 10/16/22 10/25/22 9/14/22 10/15/22 10/14/22 8/22/21 9/6/22 10/7/22 9/1/22 10/18/22 8/12/22 9/28/22 7/18/22

86 78 94 63 90 93 94 90 72 90 75 84 93 88 87 78 77 79 73 51 90 102 72 84 76 86 90 88 83 75 87 91 94 73 94 83 60 97 91 81 79 85 51 75 68 61 65 86 97 86 92 76 93 86 61 64 82 84 97 93 86 39 87 75 49 78 69 85

2023

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Monday, November 27, 2023

Death Claims Paid January 1 to October 31, 2023 Name Alfred Michalsky Gilbert E. Canik Larry E. Shimek Alvin E. Mikush Bennie James Orsak Delores V. Chaloupka Don Calvin Holly Hilmer R. Galetka Joe Frank Konecny Josephine Annie Zapalac Lillie Annie Balusek Chase Alan David Alphonse V. Polansky Edward A. Havel Edward Hykel, Jr. Georgie C. Soukup Marie M. Snider Robert W. Krizan Stanley M. Watts Arlene Pearl Marshall John Paul Pesak Raymond Kocian, Jr. Dorothy S. Hinson Georgia A. Ptacek Henry Micky Groce Joseph Frank Skopik Joseph John Junek Martha Royder Donita Leyva Leona E. Turner Robert Brann Allison Carol Ann Petty Glenn Allen Faust Mildred M. Crnkovic Milton Joe Mynar Raymond Erpelding Robert E. Tompkins Betty Ruth Pohler Dale L. Olson Dorothy D. Arnhamn Helen R. Gustafson Joy L. Arbuckle Lee Roy Schilling Edward E. Dykowski Everette D. Clement Nelson Raymond Hall, Sr. Ronald E. Steffek Daniel J. Simek Ervin J. Neskora, Sr. Josephine A. Eggemeyer Charlie Joe Waits David Charles Vanicek Georgie Lee White James D. McLoud Kitty C. Stuart Ronda L. Montgomery Tommy E. Cartwright Viola H. Doskocil Anthony Thomas Huff, Jr. Barbara Morgan-Downing Bob H. Trojacek, Jr. Danny L. Zaidle Frank Julius Zajdl Juanita Roberts Maggie O. Perry Barbara Jean Tichacek Cynthia Kubicek Gloria K. Greenwood Joy K. Balderach Lanell Kalkomey Rosalie Miculek Audrey Ann Pelzel

Lodge/ Location

1 Fayetteville 1 Fayetteville 1 Fayetteville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 4 Hallettsville 5 Pilot Point-Tioga 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 6 Cottonwood 8 Weimar 8 Weimar 8 Weimar 9 Snook 9 Snook 9 Snook 9 Snook 9 Snook 9 Snook 13 Dime Box 15 Buckholts 15 Buckholts 17 New Tabor 17 New Tabor 17 New Tabor 17 New Tabor 17 New Tabor 17 New Tabor 18 Elgin 18 Elgin 18 Elgin 18 Elgin 18 Elgin 18 Elgin 20 Granger 20 Granger 20 Granger 20 Granger 21 Engle 23 Moravia 23 Moravia 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 24 Cyclone 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 25 Ennis 28 East Bernard 28 East Bernard 28 East Bernard 28 East Bernard 28 East Bernard 28 East Bernard 29 Taylor

Date Admission

Date of Death

Age

8/30/74 12/12/72 10/10/11 5/9/55 6/14/57 4/29/44 9/7/73 12/22/48 6/13/47 10/8/43 3/4/52 7/28/01 9/12/50 7/11/86 12/18/74 2/1/87 1/14/69 11/7/88 3/22/67 11/6/64 2/14/74 1/20/53 10/4/04 12/23/38 2/8/72 6/30/42 12/5/46 9/13/49 12/17/76 3/5/75 9/1/86 2/1/56 11/7/45 1/4/40 6/1/59 5/20/86 7/15/03 9/28/74 11/11/75 1/29/75 1/22/74 11/4/75 2/1/86 3/9/72 4/14/54 9/17/48 9/3/71 8/25/58 3/1/97 11/24/45 10/6/80 8/17/78 8/17/49 12/13/72 12/22/77 3/28/88 1/12/06 7/23/45 6/26/15 10/19/45 4/23/65 9/1/83 1/10/61 6/21/74 8/3/99 5/20/59 7/16/79 11/1/97 7/6/98 7/23/45 12/20/38 12/1/64

4/16/19 9/20/23 6/3/23 3/29/22 3/27/23 9/11/23 5/18/23 12/21/22 2/21/23 5/21/23 6/27/23 2/20/23 12/18/22 8/17/23 3/28/23 1/21/23 5/23/23 6/25/22 5/3/23 9/28/22 9/30/22 9/14/23 3/22/23 8/20/23 6/8/23 8/11/21 2/18/22 1/6/23 7/24/23 4/1/23 7/11/16 3/24/23 3/14/23 2/28/09 10/19/22 12/5/22 9/12/23 6/10/23 8/20/22 1/28/21 1/8/23 1/13/23 11/11/22 12/28/22 2/25/12 5/29/21 8/9/23 4/1/23 11/3/22 11/25/22 12/27/22 3/10/23 6/24/23 5/3/23 7/25/23 1/6/23 8/31/23 3/1/23 6/5/23 8/21/23 9/27/23 3/30/23 10/17/22 1/1/23 3/19/23 5/19/23 2/10/23 7/17/23 4/13/23 12/16/22 6/6/23 5/15/23

91 84 80 67 71 89 65 95 88 79 92 37 94 70 60 88 82 80 73 89 51 86 92 86 67 85 95 89 60 95 83 67 90 89 83 76 79 76 85 88 89 87 92 88 93 82 77 71 96 77 79 75 91 87 88 47 83 95 56 78 62 71 95 90 83 67 71 84 91 93 95 60

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y Charlotte G. Mashburn Diego Oviedo Donald Ray Pacha Dorothy Ann Mueck Edw Wm. Leshikar, Jr. Gladiola M. Kruse Jerry S. Bohac Jessie James Nelson-Ayers Kenneth Joe Schneider Laverne Eulenfeld Monica Maria Hernandez Robbie Jean Price Robert Dewey McMillan Robert James Crabb Sybil M. Heselmeyer

y 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor 29 Taylor

6/24/55 11/12/02 8/16/76 5/20/53 2/24/41 11/12/65 8/5/71 2/19/76 10/14/59 6/13/69 1/17/13 1/19/79 6/22/95 2/14/55 11/26/74

10/12/22 9/8/23 2/20/23 1/29/21 9/28/22 4/3/23 3/7/23 3/3/22 10/21/21 6/3/22 7/20/23 3/29/23 12/27/22 1/23/23 1/25/23

75 86 71 84 88 93 97 49 78 90 55 90 93 69 85

William J. Michalik Aurelia Garza Cruz Debra Elizabeth Kaspar Jose Andrew Martinez Michael J. Kubena Dixie Ann Schustereit Eugene Julius Repka Jeanette E. Mikus Josephine Muhlstein Noble M. Malik Olivia E. Fagg Severo Garza, Jr. Eugene A. Schiller Gloria Pavelka Marie F. Fabianke Milton W. Mills Wanda Faye Sebik Bobby G. Hofferek Ruth Whitehead Emilio Cruz Garcia Linda G. Vaughn Minnie Ann Walker Robert Lys Benicio Acuna, Jr. Brian Keith Gadd Diane S. Rodriguez Donato M. Gonzales Ella Mae Knebel Gloria A. Slovak Jimmy Hilton Bard Josephine A. Bacak Paul Henry Holub Wanda J. Newman Carolyn Jean Rokyta Dorothy Agnes Rokyta Albert Joe Koslovsky Donald Gene Mikeska Dorothy M. Gaines Eldora Joan Janacek Helen Bragewitz Henry Louis Jezek Janet Mikulas Odstrcil Joyce Nell Wall Julius J. Dubcak Kristie Lauren Prater Marilyn J. Sammons Mary Ann Young Sylvia J. Glenn Vallie A. Zavodny Billy G. Mucha Charles Nelson Wagner Mason A. Bosley Brian Paul Frerich Eddie Jesse Day Gayle Ann Hovorak Glen W. Fisher Lois Marie Gordon Melton Holubec John Roy Koepke Alfred Renfro Pavlas Christine Annie Bishop Frankye Mae Mikeska Jimmy Adolph Chupik Raymond A. Bartosh

29 Taylor 30 Taiton 30 Taiton 30 Taiton 30 Taiton 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 32 Victoria 35 Elk 35 Elk 35 Elk 35 Elk 35 Elk 38 Kovar 38 Kovar 39 Bryan 39 Bryan 39 Bryan 39 Bryan 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 40 El Campo-Hillje 41 Port Lavaca 41 Port Lavaca 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 47 Seaton 48 Beyersville 48 Beyersville 48 Beyersville 49 Rowena 49 Rowena 49 Rowena 49 Rowena 49 Rowena 49 Rowena 51 Ellinger 54 West 54 West 54 West 54 West 54 West

6/10/46 9/9/08 8/22/00 1/28/10 7/7/75 11/7/49 6/1/59 4/11/49 12/3/51 10/25/73 7/1/84 4/8/10 2/19/51 1/12/49 12/23/59 10/19/53 12/8/59 7/5/56 5/31/73 5/15/20 7/24/62 9/15/39 2/17/48 3/6/02 10/26/99 5/5/48 10/19/20 2/1/51 5/26/04 12/28/05 6/24/99 2/10/48 10/9/63 6/13/47 11/17/59 3/20/52 3/6/46 8/16/68 7/1/87 4/28/69 11/1/92 9/15/39 11/1/53 3/4/70 11/1/90 8/27/69 2/28/69 4/9/51 10/11/44 7/18/69 2/1/94 8/26/14 10/26/99 6/1/93 12/15/54 2/20/68 7/1/47 11/1/41 8/1/83 2/20/70 7/3/50 1/3/49 12/14/61 6/12/61

2/24/23 6/25/23 12/14/22 12/19/22 1/12/23 7/20/23 7/23/23 4/14/23 4/19/23 2/14/23 6/7/23 8/25/23 6/15/23 1/23/23 2/24/23 5/18/23 2/6/23 12/14/22 6/14/23 5/25/23 12/16/22 3/17/22 12/5/22 5/25/23 3/20/23 5/30/23 9/1/22 6/5/23 6/4/23 1/24/20 1/30/23 8/12/23 1/24/23 9/25/23 8/19/23 1/19/23 3/5/23 1/28/20 2/20/23 12/22/22 4/29/23 9/29/22 6/8/23 2/15/23 12/4/22 11/20/22 12/30/22 6/1/23 11/1/22 5/11/23 2/3/23 4/7/23 1/10/23 2/24/23 6/26/23 10/11/22 7/8/22 12/25/22 3/3/23 8/28/23 3/27/23 7/27/23 6/4/23 12/24/22

94 78 49 72 68 83 88 95 85 92 96 69 81 90 88 70 79 81 96 68 66 98 91 71 58 75 72 90 87 65 85 76 88 78 84 71 78 92 95 88 81 84 90 83 38 96 85 74 95 76 88 22 53 69 76 64 94 91 87 54 87 93 77 77

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Monday, November 27, 2023

Virginia Louise Muehlstein Daniel Adolph Pekar Dwayne Martin Pesek Franklin G. Kopecky Henrietta Wayland Betty Mazanec Bessire Emma M. McDougal Gracie Mae Soukup Henry Mark Veselka James E. Smith James R. Yates, Jr. Johnny L. Miller, Sr. Stewart J. Scott Willie M. Chandler Agnes Barta Johnnie Wayne Kutac Leonard B. Barta Wesley Boyd Maxwell Mary Ellen Petrek Ann E. McNabb Joe Sherman Burton Kathryne J. Stewart Margaret Garcia Castillo Mearline Gray Debra Jean Cirlos Gloria Sanchez John Andrew Pavelka Judith L. Majek Marjorie Ann Jostes Peggy Jean Janota Phyllis J. Elsik Charles R. Vitek Floyd G. Lange James Dean Ruemke Wilma Dean Brisbin Beatrice E Pickett Cindy D. Sebesta Dorothy J. Thompson Ella E. Owens Gary Gene Hubenak Gilbert J. Walzel Jared Ashton Zellars Joe Niver, Jr. Laverne Horelica Pauline Jones Andrew Mahdak Caroline A. Rejcek Charles B. Ranly Daniel R. Gajdica Donald Lynn Petr Emil J. Horak James M. Davis Jennifer Rae Horak Jerry R. Foitek Lillian Degrand Mary Ann McBride Mary Ann Skrabanek Carolyn J. Haynes Edward L. Whitlow George Sidney Kacir Helen Dorothy Epperson Jerry Ray Bell Marvin R. Labaj Pauline G. Whitlow Raymond Roy Tharp Robert Erroll Wendland Shirley Ann Purser Willie D. Pinkney Adela Barbara Fojt Alan Neveux, Sr. Alvin Joseph Hollas Betty Jean Kulhanek Beverly Ann Higgins Bobby Ray Havran, Sr. Burmah L. Swayne Clara Pauline Dvorak Clint D. Ramey Dorothy M Broussard Eli N. Hudson

54 West 63 Sweet Home 63 Sweet Home 63 Sweet Home 63 Sweet Home 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 66 Waco 67 Schulenburg 67 Schulenburg 67 Schulenburg 67 Schulenburg 73 Seymour 74 Lovelady 74 Lovelady 74 Lovelady 76 Wichita Falls 76 Wichita Falls 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 79 Corpus Christi 80 Holland 80 Holland 80 Holland 80 Holland 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 81 Needville 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 84 Dallas 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 87 Temple 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston

VĚSTNÍK 10/12/07 12/15/43 8/12/58 11/6/42 1/11/43 2/28/79 3/21/72 8/30/55 11/1/85 8/21/07 11/1/83 4/3/92 12/13/77 5/13/70 4/9/57 4/20/59 12/14/78 7/25/03 9/1/96 1/23/80 6/13/73 8/23/73 3/26/08 1/11/07 2/15/11 8/1/08 5/13/49 12/14/45 6/21/48 5/21/51 5/25/82 8/11/67 6/16/66 7/2/09 11/24/70 2/3/43 3/14/75 4/25/60 1/23/80 10/7/63 8/17/46 12/1/93 8/20/47 1/10/45 11/18/70 11/1/84 3/22/60 5/1/58 4/7/47 9/4/57 2/22/55 12/10/79 4/4/77 3/10/59 11/17/33 3/2/56 11/21/41 2/1/50 2/10/72 1/8/42 8/26/04 3/29/67 4/1/61 9/21/76 10/1/85 5/2/06 1/17/56 9/13/11 6/12/69 7/14/71 10/1/97 2/8/74 7/1/84 9/7/05 5/17/77 6/11/52 10/8/05 3/16/55 11/13/68

8/13/23 8/13/22 2/5/23 1/7/23 3/28/23 2/2/18 9/11/23 4/26/23 9/25/21 8/18/23 4/21/23 4/12/23 6/20/23 3/2/23 6/21/23 6/30/22 8/2/23 8/19/23 12/14/22 4/11/23 12/10/11 8/3/22 3/13/23 3/25/23 6/28/23 10/18/22 7/19/23 6/4/23 12/26/22 12/31/22 3/11/23 1/16/23 11/6/22 1/18/23 9/21/23 9/25/18 1/31/23 8/19/23 8/12/17 12/29/22 2/5/18 2/6/23 4/5/23 12/25/22 2/16/23 1/23/23 4/11/23 9/10/23 4/4/23 12/1/22 12/29/22 1/4/23 1/5/23 6/17/23 1/3/23 4/23/23 4/14/23 8/21/23 1/11/23 5/11/22 7/13/17 1/1/23 11/12/22 1/7/23 2/23/23 6/3/18 7/3/23 7/8/23 4/23/23 4/25/12 5/19/23 2/8/23 2/5/23 2/15/23 4/29/22 1/20/23 2/9/23 5/5/23 12/6/22

82 96 65 87 95 88 94 90 36 81 55 74 85 95 85 63 87 67 91 83 84 86 81 86 64 74 74 93 92 89 80 79 85 71 95 91 54 81 97 70 94 30 88 96 85 67 76 89 80 65 92 90 48 86 94 83 83 88 84 92 86 83 91 83 92 88 87 73 93 84 94 79 74 82 95 93 70 84 93

Elsie H. Deskins Eugene Zablocky Evelyn P. Walker Florence Arnet Hoff Frances Jean Carwile George T. Lagrone, Jr. James W. Heinsohn Jeffrey Glen Shofner Jode Jean Bennett John M. Phillips John T. Bradley Joyce Marie Coggin Linda Cay Wren Lucy O. Brosch Manuel Galindo Margaret M. Mika Margie L. Denson Mary Lou Hanzelka Mary P. Noska

88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston

1/3/48 12/6/04 3/22/79 11/3/77 10/9/64 12/4/87 10/4/68 4/10/80 11/18/58 3/4/80 5/14/65 9/25/00 8/25/72 4/20/44 5/1/83 7/27/79 6/18/74 7/16/68 4/25/68

6/23/23 11/17/22 2/25/22 9/13/21 1/31/23 2/11/23 2/21/23 5/4/23 7/18/23 11/7/22 5/26/00 7/19/23 5/17/23 3/23/22 1/28/23 4/8/23 1/19/23 3/23/23 12/22/22

91 70 95 91 89 79 70 74 64 81 72 73 75 90 82 85 95 89 88

Nancy Chude Wood Patricia A. Edwards Peggy T. Telschow Richard W. Wren Roger S. Ward Rosalie Kainer Lobpries Tris T. Watkins, Jr. Verna Dell Polasek W C. Duncan Walter Williams William Eugene Samohyl William J. Vasek Arthur Gordon Ressler June A. Smesny Kylar Dwayne Samuels Robbie L. Irvan Nora E. McWilliams Pauline Louise Woolsey Ronnie Gene Marek Willie Rose Spindor Emil Joe Chanek John Albert Balusek Antonio Humberto Cerda Gilbert J. Arrambide, III Henry Robert Sralla Janice Jean Moczygemba Jason Coffman Lawrence E. Bertrand Robert Jack Bayer Brenda A. Myers Florinda Gutierrez Rose Mary Johnston Gerardo F. Santacruz Iris G. Columbia Jose Carmen Arriaga Noel Ramirez, Jr. Betty W. Jarvis Patsy J. Wagner Richard Krampota Rockford Hoyt Broadway William James Wilson, Jr. Adelle Ruth Hintz Dellie Mae Ermel Sebastian Martinez Byron W. Kieschnick Charlie John Chupik James T. Worsham Joyce Wisnoski Larry John Kopecky Leonard R. Wasicek Louis Skrabanek, Jr. Martha J. Vacek Allen Joseph Kohleffel Stanley A. Konvicka Annette Schabowski Charles R. Simek, Jr. Elizabeth M. Harlow Frances E. Mamula George A. Fox Jack O. Shannon, Jr.

88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 88 Houston 91 San Jacinto 91 San Jacinto 91 San Jacinto 91 San Jacinto 92 Fort Worth 92 Fort Worth 92 Fort Worth 92 Fort Worth 97 Placedo 97 Placedo 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 107 Floresville 117 Robstown 117 Robstown 117 Robstown 133 San Antonio 133 San Antonio 133 San Antonio 133 San Antonio 139 Danbury 139 Danbury 139 Danbury 139 Danbury 139 Danbury 141 Sealy 141 Sealy 141 Sealy 142 Houston 142 Houston 142 Houston 142 Houston 142 Houston 142 Houston 148 El Maton 148 El Maton 151 Wharton 151 Wharton 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth

3/18/57 8/1/87 8/22/63 3/21/75 6/1/76 10/22/68 4/7/43 1/3/66 6/24/70 10/13/77 8/26/44 5/7/76 7/1/52 5/4/49 11/17/05 12/6/13 3/1/86 10/3/56 2/14/58 1/21/46 9/4/57 12/23/43 12/28/09 11/25/69 7/15/38 9/23/54 12/1/04 4/6/87 12/20/67 11/10/08 6/8/11 7/25/53 4/26/17 10/30/68 2/17/16 3/14/09 2/14/75 6/5/58 6/22/44 6/9/67 9/25/53 10/2/47 11/10/64 9/21/15 4/3/75 10/3/46 5/16/88 12/1/88 8/1/84 11/1/88 12/23/49 4/1/46 12/14/06 1/1/54 8/13/75 1/12/49 10/15/42 1/15/46 10/19/78 7/16/54

3/30/23 4/21/22 1/4/23 10/16/22 4/1/23 2/14/23 10/1/23 11/10/22 1/12/23 10/9/22 2/4/22 5/2/23 10/3/22 4/23/23 10/24/22 6/15/23 8/2/23 3/4/23 5/23/23 11/13/22 6/16/23 7/3/23 1/26/23 7/18/23 8/10/15 3/15/23 9/24/23 2/11/23 11/26/22 4/11/23 7/19/23 7/3/23 7/15/23 11/15/16 1/21/23 12/29/22 12/13/22 3/6/23 6/18/20 6/13/23 10/14/21 4/9/23 10/19/21 3/4/23 2/9/23 6/13/23 7/4/23 5/23/23 9/3/23 1/16/23 2/27/23 11/11/22 8/20/22 8/30/23 1/31/23 1/3/23 12/29/22 9/12/23 8/21/23 2/21/23

76 75 93 73 62 98 80 89 85 94 82 80 86 90 21 62 90 91 65 92 87 95 81 53 93 76 37 67 83 74 83 85 68 92 76 76 85 84 76 96 68 92 91 74 47 77 70 60 72 91 88 91 61 86 86 92 80 92 91 94

VĚSTNÍK Kevin Dodd Bowling Tillie L. Kubiak Alvin Matak Claudell Wartley William Dorotio Sanchez, Jr. Susie T. Rodriguez Felix M. Barnhart Margie S. Autrey Maria T. Sanchez Mary Ruth Mayne Matthew S. Guzman Tommy L. Braden Troy Hays McGee Aaron Moore, Jr. Ann M. Pen Audrey J. Rushing Darryl W. Hawthorne Elvia Galvan Gene Allen Henson Hilda M. Wiederhold Mary C. O'Rear Randolph Kivch Louis P. Fuentez Martha A. Garcia Norma Lee Lowery Randall H. Cross Rosemary Hunter Barnes Stanley Joe Malina Imogene M. Snider Karl W. Goehring John Dale Hilcher Julius A. Psencik Marsha Lynn Waddell Carl Lee Klander Charles Francis Kocsis Mary Campise Cody William Bartosh Mary Ann Roznovsky Emil James Tousek Henrietta J. Heimann Margaret Ann Kubicek Adele Ann Zboril Annie T. Polasek Joey Jimenez Johnny C. Kovar Laverne Boehme Marcella P. Franzetti Curtis E. Seelig Jose Rene Gonzales Karl D. Rhodes Norman E. Fuessel Linda D. Larson Phyllis Y. Shenkir Philip Hybner, Sr. Annie Lee Mizell Joyce Mae Polzin Marvin J. Machac Loree Laster James J. Elick Kermit E. Kolwes Margie Tingle Willie D. Schovajsa, Jr. Chester Gail Lee Frances R. Novosad Jesus R. Huizar Mary Ann Barta Sharon A. Fuller Anselma Z. Reyes Bobby Carl Williams Linda K. Stephens Walter A. McAlister Carmen Ontiveros Meili Edgar David Hernandez Elfida P. Ortega Gloria T. Martinez Irma Montes Jose A. Marrufo Maria R. Garcia Nicolas Sanchez Rios

Monday, November 27, 2023 154 Fort Worth 154 Fort Worth 157 Lubbock 157 Lubbock 157 Lubbock 157 Lubbock 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 160 San Angelo 162 Iowa Colony 169 Brenham 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 172 Pasadena 177 Academy 177 Academy 177 Academy 177 Academy 177 Academy 177 Academy 178 Longview 179 Warrenton 180 Burleson 180 Burleson 180 Burleson 181 Conroe 181 Conroe 181 Conroe 183 Arlington 183 Arlington 184 Moulton 184 Moulton 184 Moulton 186 Caldwell 186 Caldwell 186 Caldwell 186 Caldwell 186 Caldwell 186 Caldwell 187 Round Rock 187 Round Rock 187 Round Rock 187 Round Rock 188 Centerville 189 Bryan-College Station 191 Lufkin 196 Houston-West 196 Houston-West 196 Houston-West 200 Bruceville-Eddy 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 201 Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 202 Jourdanton 215 South Plains 215 South Plains 215 South Plains 215 South Plains 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso 219 El Paso

8/18/66 6/23/59 7/21/43 5/18/10 3/13/17 10/20/05 11/19/03 1/13/53 7/2/08 11/8/45 10/4/93 3/5/93 9/13/02 10/6/21 8/4/88 6/30/72 4/6/09 12/8/14 5/2/72 1/11/82 3/13/40 7/22/64 9/14/99 3/21/80 7/3/06 5/17/72 4/1/96 12/3/74 10/29/75 8/6/76 2/1/92 7/24/62 4/16/99 5/30/72 7/1/75 10/2/01 8/1/83 4/28/75 1/20/54 11/15/38 5/1/68 2/1/93 11/12/54 1/14/10 1/1/51 11/1/54 10/5/81 12/10/79 6/22/06 10/17/06 3/7/78 7/31/80 11/9/59 6/10/66 4/24/45 8/24/00 3/3/60 10/27/95 12/3/74 5/1/49 8/18/52 10/25/45 3/20/01 9/22/60 4/5/02 9/1/55 8/9/73 1/10/17 2/19/98 3/7/05 9/28/10 5/21/14 2/23/07 4/1/09 11/24/15 10/21/08 4/26/12 2/19/16 2/20/19

1/15/21 3/12/20 3/2/23 11/1/22 5/2/23 10/26/22 4/14/23 4/21/23 9/7/23 4/1/23 9/4/23 5/5/23 12/7/22 3/27/23 8/4/23 7/15/23 12/26/22 6/6/23 8/5/23 9/2/22 3/15/23 7/1/23 8/23/23 2/1/23 6/17/23 5/29/23 7/21/23 7/13/23 12/29/17 11/19/22 10/28/22 3/25/23 1/10/23 8/11/23 10/22/22 5/25/23 3/12/23 3/20/23 5/27/23 1/1/23 5/2/23 7/20/22 4/15/23 4/7/23 5/21/22 7/8/23 9/26/23 1/4/23 4/8/23 4/16/23 1/14/23 12/17/22 12/12/22 11/30/22 11/1/22 5/23/23 1/18/22 3/4/23 12/25/22 6/8/23 4/7/23 8/30/23 12/14/22 7/5/23 4/17/23 12/14/22 3/10/23 5/26/18 1/13/23 1/17/23 9/21/23 6/10/23 7/3/23 10/31/22 10/20/22 6/20/23 7/12/23 5/6/23 3/20/23

54 91 95 78 70 86 73 70 85 99 29 71 80 70 62 91 60 80 91 90 86 63 98 91 81 73 88 64 89 47 70 88 68 65 83 82 58 85 88 94 83 91 94 28 86 80 76 89 79 79 96 74 88 96 90 86 81 67 75 94 86 78 76 90 77 86 67 60 87 74 82 78 31 87 77 75 66 69 80

Rosa Villanueva Moya Mary Elaine Haralson Sally Ann Holladay Karolyn A. Todd Virgil Hill Timmi Elizabeth Owen Wanda A. Barsch Marie Theresia Fonji Juan O. Pena Catherine R. Beimer

219 El Paso 230 Midland 234 Luling 240 Bay City 246 Morgan's Point 256 Denver City 258 Seguin 264 North Dallas 272 Del Rio 999 Home Office

8/21/08 3/24/20 9/26/06 11/4/08 10/20/04 12/14/11 7/12/99 8/1/08 10/21/08 2/9/72

1/19/23 6/19/23 12/5/22 12/2/22 7/13/23 11/24/22 9/22/22 5/10/21 6/5/23 5/31/22

To the Bereaved Survivors of Our Deceased Brothers and Sisters, the SPJST Supreme Lodge Expresses Its Heartfelt Sympathy.

Fraternally, Leonard D. Mikeska, FIC Chief Financial Officer SPJST

21 75 61 69 64 91 52 92 51 68 102

In Memoriam In Memory of Mary Kubin Mary Frances (Pokladnik) Kubin, age 102, passed away Monday, November 13, 2023. She was born January 6, 1921, in Dallas, Texas, to Emil Matt and Marie Lillian (Kopecky) Pokladnik; she was the eldest daughter of seven siblings and attended Forest Avenue High School in Dallas. She later met the love of her life, John William Kubin, at a polka dance in a Czech music hall. As she walked his way, he told a friend, “That is the girl I will marry.” They did, and this union was blessed with three wonderful children.

They bought a home in Dallas. As a young mother, Mary worked at a bread company and later for Gulf Insurance as an administrative assistant. They also tended cattle on their ranch in Blue Ridge for many years. She liked going to Las Vegas as well as playing the slots at casinos in Oklahoma and enjoyed the

Dallas Symphony as well as the Shen Yun Performing Arts program. She also enjoyed the outdoors and going fishing.

Her cooking will be missed, from her Czech pastries to her paprika chicken and other favorite dishes. She had a subtle and dry sense of humor and was loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

Mary was a member of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas She was preceded in death by her parents; six siblings; and husband John William Kubin.

Mary is survived by daughter Margaret Cole of Red Oak; daughter Gwendolyn Johnson of Garland; son John Wayne of Dallas; grandchildren Kathy Elliott, Justin Johnson, Heather Cole, and Richard Cole; great-grandchildren Nathan, Caleb, Carly, Joshua, Abigail, Hannah, Daniel, Esther, Ruth, and Joseph; and numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

—SPJST—

22

Monday, November 27, 2023

SPJST YOUT H SECT ION

VĚSTNÍK 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 40, El Campo-Hillje youth appreciates cousin’s service SPJST Family and Friends, I would like to start off by saying, “Happy Veterans Day.” This is my cousin, Diego.

He serves in the Navy. He was able to make it to one of my games before he was deployed.

Thank you for serving our country.

Sincerely Noah Garcia, age 12 —SPJST—

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje youth enjoys soccer Hello, SPJST Family and Friends!

Soccer is my second favorite sport. I played for the El Campo Soccer League. It was so much fun, and I enjoyed playing with the older kids. Can’t wait for next year.

Love, NayEli Garcia, age 9 —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club hosts Dec. 8 parents’ night out and membership drive SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club invites you and your children to parents’ night out and youth club membership drive on Friday, December 8, 2023, from 5 to 11 p.m. at Seaton Star Hall, 10842 State Highway 53 in Temple, Texas.

The evening will include games, crafts, movies, and much more. Dinner and snacks will be provided.

To RSVP or for any questions, contact Amber Bartek at 254-931-0295 or email abartek002@yahoo.com.

Fraternally, Amber Bartek, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club reports on November meeting The Sunday, November 5, 2023, meeting of the SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club was called to order at 1:05 p.m. by Carson Erskine. Everhett Bartek led the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Youth Club motto. Members remained standing for a moment of silent prayer.

The register was read. Present were nine members and four adults. The minutes for the last meeting were read and approved.

Our youth leader, Amber Bartek, reported that we are still collecting blankets, socks, and mittens for the Socks for

Seniors challenge. She reminded us that all the items we collect will be donated to the VA Hospital and to Feed My Sheep.

Youth then made a thankful chain.

Each youth member was encouraged to fill out four or five paper slips of something they were thankful for. A picture was then taken of each youth holding the “thankful chain.”

The meeting was adjourned at 1:27 p.m.

Next Meeting—December 9 The next youth meeting is Saturday, December 9 at 10 a.m. at Seaton Star Hall. We are also going to have a parents night out on December 9 from 5 to 11 p.m. at the hall for youth members and their friends. All guests must RSVP with a youth club member. It includes dinner, games, a movie, and crafts. Hope to see everyone there!

Travis Ordogne, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth excited about Thanksgiving Dear Vestnik Readers, November is here! I am excited for Thanksgiving because I get to eat a lot of food, plus my grandparents make super good food! Next week, we get to have the whole week off from school!

I finally got my boot off. The sad thing that comes out of this is that I did not get to go to my last soccer game.

We went to my G.G.’s 90th birthday party instead. My team finally won our first soccer game that day. Our first win on our last soccer game.

If you like the Texas Aggies then I think I need to tell you they just fired their head coach. The funny thing is that they beat Mississippi State 51 to 10! I guess I should feel sad for him, but not really. Maybe now the Aggies can get a coach, and they can win.

Andrew Ordogne, age 8 —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton youth excited about holidays Dear Vestnik Readers, It is getting cooler outside. I absolutely hate it! I like the warmer temperatures much more. I also don’t like it getting so dark out early. I would much rather it be dark in the morning and light during the day. Thanksgiving will be coming soon. I know I will eat a lot.

Christmas is also coming up soon. I hope I get good presents. Luckily, all this makes a lot of holidays at school.

Yippee! Happy holidays!

Fraternally Travis Ordogne, age 11 —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

23

District One Fall Fun Day: Halloween haunt games, treats, and eats District One held its fall fun day at SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor Hall on Sunday, October 22, 2023. Activities included trunk-or-treat, youth costume contest, bingo, and meal.

Thank you to everyone who hosted an activity and trunk/treats. The kids loved it! Thanks also to Lodge 17, New Tabor for hosting the fun-filled afternoon. ~ Holly Narro, District One Assistant Youth Counselor Costume contest participants. So cute!

Good job, youth members!

Bingo callers, Hannah and Randy.

Thanks to all who provided a trunk/treats and activities for the youth of District One. PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: Sharon Kovar, Hannah Kovar, Macy Narro, Lodge 17, New Tabor Officers Betty Suehs and Randy Gaas, Loree Lewis, and Susan Broesche.

Youth enjoy trunk-or-treat and fun activities.

Bingo fun!

24

Monday, November 27, 2023

Czech Christmas Traditions Czechs and Slovaks get a good start on Christmas with a traditional house cleaning at the beginning of December.

This is not ordinary house cleaning, but a week-long effort.

The Christmas holiday season officially begins with Saint Nicholas Day. This marks the start of baking Vanocni Cukrovi (Christmas candies and sweets).

Each family has its special goodies to share with other families and friends.

Part of the holiday includes visiting friends and celebrating together. It is customary for those who had quarreled during the year to forgive each other publicly.

A tree is bought, secretly hidden away; no one is allowed to see it until after dinner on December 24. Only the head of the household trims the tree, done on Christmas Eve morning, and only he or she can see the tree until that magic moment when Jezisek - the Christ child - arrives, which always happens after dinner.

The Christmas tree is decorated with handmade ornaments using walnut shells wrapped in colored paper or gilded.

Some use eggshells decorated to look like fish or angels. Colored pin wheels resembling snowflakes and stars are hung by a thread. A small crèche is placed at the base of the tree. Gifts are put under the tree before 6 p.m. in great secrecy.

On December 23, people go out and buy the traditional Christmas carp for dinner. Several days earlier, huge wooden barrels appeared in the cities with live carp swimming around in them.

The buyer points to the fish he or she wants, and the fun of trying to catch it begins. Most often, the carp is taken home alive and allowed to swim in the family bathtub until Christmas Eve morning.

Best cuts of the carp are covered with flour, dipped in egg, covered with bread crumbs, and fried. Lesser cuts are baked with dried prunes and served with dumplings mixed with butter-fried cubes of bread. Some carp is made in plain gelatin as Rosol and served cold as salad. The head and tail are wrapped in white cloth, boiled, and the stock is made into soup

VĚSTNÍK with vegetables and served with croutons.

There was caroling in the streets and homes on Christmas. Sometimes the carolers carried miniature Bethlehem scenes along. It was customary to invite them in for a glass of wine and vanocka, a sweet bread made with nuts, raisins, and candied fruit. There is much dancing and eating after the fasting which ends on Christmas Eve. Sometimes little boys dressed as The Three Kings go out singing for treats.

Dinner begins at 6 p.m.with members of the family standing and praying together, and then when the mother gives the signal, they all sit down at the same time to dinner and no one is allowed to get up - not matter what! They may share oplatky and honey before the meal.

Christmas Eve supper might include pearl barley soup with mushrooms, carp, potato salad, fruits, and decorated cookies. In some families, there is a custom of putting a small coin under each person’s plate to symbolize wealth in the coming year, and that coin is carried around for good luck. When dinner is over, they all stand at the same time and wish each other a Joyous Christmas Stastne a Vesele Vanoce. Then they embrace and finally rush to the tree, and gifts are distributed and opened. A quiet evening is spent until Midnight Mass.

Sometimes the children slept on a bedding of straw on the floor under a table or the Christmas tree. This custom allowed them to take part in the Lord’s poor and humble birth.

Christmas dinner might consist of giblet soup with noodles, roast goose with dumplings and kraut, braided coffee cake, kolace, fruit, nuts, and coffee.

Some games were played. One is the placing of tiny lit candles into nutshells and floating them in a tub or water; the player whose candle burns the longest is the winner. (Christmas Traditions provided by the Wilber Republican). http://www.nebraskaczechs.org/czech_christmas_traditions.htm

—SPJST—

Traditional Czech Christmas Eve Menu and Customs It was once the custom to fast for the whole day on Christmas Eve, for only the person who didn’t eat until Christmas Eve dinner would be able to see the golden pig on the wall that evening. That morning, the Christmas tree would have been decorated - mostly with red apples, walnuts, gingerbread, and other sweets, and on the tip of the tree the star of Bethlehem was set. It was also customary for the tree to be mostly decorated by the children because the mother had too many other things to do. Also, candles had to be fastened to the tree branches, to be lit in the evening and give Christmas Eve an even greater sense of magic.

The whole family would be finishing up their final preparations before the Christmas feasts, which were just beginning on Christmas Eve at nightfall. The table was covered with a white tablecloth, and the legs were wreathed in garlands so there’d be no thieves stealing from the fields. Under the table was put a bowl of grain, and on it, a bowl of garlic. Garlic was believed by all Slavs from ancient times to have special powers of strengthening and protection. At that time, garlic was always present at Christmas in the Czech Lands and used to be as important a part of Christmas as the tree and sweets are today. Besides garlic, the cross and the candlestick with a candle stood for the sanctity of Candlemas. The mother then layed out on the table a loaf of bread and a pot of honey. The father then tied together some shocks of grain, dipped them in holy water, and sprinkled the whole house with them, not forgetting the fire in the oven so it wouldn’t be troublesome and burn down the house.

Even if it was getting dark early on Christmas Eve, nothing could be lit until the first star came out. As soon as it did, the family all sat down together to dinner.

This dinner was always plentiful in every household, for even the poorer ones tried to fill the Christmas table with the greatest number of dishes.

Before dinner, the father recited the family prayer then dinner was begun by cutting a loaf of bread into many slices.

Each was daubed with honey and handed

out, starting with the oldest, to everyone present. If a slice or two was left, then that meant that someone would arrive in the family. If one was missing, then in the next year, someone would die. Then all the other courses followed, which that evening were more than usual, for it was believed that the more courses there were, the more grain there would be in the field.

The traditional Czech Christmas Eve menu had different forms in different regions. In some places, the bread was followed by soup, most often mushroom, but a traditional Christmas Eve course everywhere was kuba, which was prepared from grouts, wild mushrooms, and garlic. Like garlic and honey, mushrooms also have a special position in Christmas.

According to old myths, they are ascribed a heavenly origin. Another part of the feast were peas, which were prepared in the Old Czech style - sweetly, sprinkled with sugar and gingerbread.

At the end, desserts were passed around, combined with fruit, which unlike today were dried: apples, pears, plums, and nuts. Traditional Christmas desserts were strudels and vanocka, a special Christmas bread. From the previous list, it’s clear that the abstinence that ruled the period of Advent gave way on Christmas Eve to plenty.

After finishing dinner, no one got up from the table quite yet. The father first took a walnut and an apple from a bowl in the center of the table. If the nut was rotten when cracked open, it was an omen of sickness, or even death. But everything could still be saved by the apple; if a star was revealed when it was split in half, this foretold health and long life.

Not so fortunate was if the cross was discovered in the middle of the apple. As soon as the man of the house had read his fortune, the process was repeated by all present, from oldest to youngest.

After dinner was finished, everyone tried to stand up from the table at the same time, for it was believed that whoever stood up first would die within a year. The leftovers were then taken by the father out to the livestock. The poultry received a different treat - peas or poppy seeds so they’d lay plenty of eggs.

The rooster, gander, and dog got garlic in their food so they would be as sharp as they should be in the next year.

With dinner over, came the time that children then and now looked forward to most: opening the presents left under the tree by Baby Jesus. After this, came time for another customary practice: A very

VĚSTNÍK common custom even to the present day, the floating of little boats made of nutshells on water. A bowl of water was set on the table, and everyone put in their half-shell boat, in which was fixed a burning candle. The fortune of each boatowner was read from the fate of their craft. If the boat made it across the bowl, then a long life lay ahead for the boat’s owner. If it sank, then something less pleasant lay in wait for the unlucky captain.

There was another custom connected with walnuts. After dinner, three nuts were cracked open and their insides removed. The first walnut shell was refilled with dirt, the second with a little piece of bread, and the third with money. The shells were then stuck back together and placed back among the other ones. At midnight, everyone took a walnut from the bowl on the table. If someone got the nut with the dirt inside, then poverty awaited them. Getting the nut with bread foretold a comfortable life, and the one with money inside naturally was a prophesy of great wealth.

Other customs were practiced in particular by girls eager to marry. One way they could look into what the future had in store was throwing their shoes over their heads. If the toes pointed to the door, then the parents knew to get a wedding dress ready, for the girl would be married within the next year. If, on the other hand, the toes of her shoe pointed back into the room, then their daughter had another year to wait.

If a girl discovered by her shoes that she had to wait for her wedding and wanted to know for how long she had to wait, she had to give up a strand of her hair. On this hair she would tie a ring and hold it as close to a glass as she could.

The number of times that the ring clinked

Monday, November 27, 2023 against the glass before it settled was the number of years she had to wait.

A girl curious about the physical make-up of her future husband could find out by pulling wood - closing her eyes and taking a piece of wood out of a pile. The shape of this piece of wood would reveal to her how well-built, bent, slim, or fat the future partner held for her would be. This fortune could also be read by younger girls, who wanted to know about their future husbands.

Single girls could attempt to get an even better idea of what their future betrothed would be like. All she had to do was to take three slips of paper with the names of her probable partners and tie them up in handkerchiefs so that not a bit stuck out. Then she tied up a fourth handkerchief and put them all under her pillow on Christmas Eve. On the morning of God’s Feast (Christmas Day), she would choose one of the hankies and untie it. If it was empty, then she was never going to marry. This gloomy fate could still be averted, however, if she put the three slips of paper with the names into three dumplings, which were cooked for the Christmas Day feast. The husband fate held for her would then be revealed by the first of the dumplings cut open.

Christmas Eve ended with Midnight Mass, which was held in every church.

In some regions, Christmas plays were also part of the Mass, which was followed in any case with caroling. On Christmas Eve and God’s Feast - December 25 - people wouldn’t play cards, go to the pub, or visit relatives. This had to wait until Saint Stephen’s Day - December 26 - when the dancing parties and the period of merry-making and caroling began. http://archiv.radio.cz/christmas/customs.html

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TRADITIONAL CZECH

CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATIONS In the 19th Century, a Christmas tree appeared for the first time in the Czech Lands. Traditional Czech Christmas trees were decorated using unique ideas, shapes, and materials. Many of the decorations had symbolism. Decorate the tree below using the decoration/symbolism guide.

Star Tree Top Guiding star that led the Wise Men White Dove Near Tree Top Peace Popcorn Garland Rope on Joseph’s donkey Walnuts Wrapped in Silver Gifts the Wise Men brought Religious Pictures Honor Mother Mary and Baby Jesus Apples and Oranges Hopes for a prosperous year Ribbon Candy Hopes for a prosperous year

Silver and gold garlands were added to the tree as they became available.

Gingerbread cookies, cut in the shapes of Wise Men, stars, bells, and fish, were decorated with colored icing.

Angel The angel who appeared before Mary Candy Santa Clauses Honor Svaty Mikulas, the Czech Santa White Cloth Around Base Faith and purity Bowl of Fruit at Base Prosperity and good health Coins in Fruit Bowl at Base Good luck Pickle Hidden on the Christmas tree, whoever finds it first gets an extra gift In the days of no electricity, clipon candle holders held candles that were small, round, and the thickness of a pencil. Candles were placed from the top to about halfway down the tree so small children could not reach them. The candles were lit with a match for a short time, usually at night, by the parents who watched so a fire would not start and burn the house down. As the candles burned on the tree, the nighttime prayers were said. Christmas carols were sung when guests visited.

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Monday, November 27, 2023

VĚSTNÍK

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Česká

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ROČNÍK 111 ČISLO 22

27.listopad.2023

Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE HUMANITY BROTHERHOOD

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Czech Heritage Museum in Temple hosts December 1 Christmas Open House The Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center invites the community to immerse themselves in the joy of the holiday season at their annual Christmas Open House. The event will take place on Friday, December 1, from 3 to 7 p.m. at 119 West French Avenue Temple, Texas.

John Hillman’s Vltava-themed poem selected for Waco WordFest anthology

Highlights of the Christmas Open House include:

Congratulations to John Hillman of Waco! His poem, “Moonrise over the River,” has been selected by the Waco Cultural Arts Fest WordFest for inclusion in its 2023 anthology. Here is the text of his composition:

• Cocoa, Coffee, and Cookies: Indulge in the warmth of the season with delightful refreshments.

• Czech Christmas Traditions: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Czech Christmas traditions.

• Kids’ Activities: Exciting activities for the little ones, including a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Moonrise over the River

• Christmas Shopping: Explore unique holiday gifts and decorations.

By John Hillman Prague’s Vltava welcomes the Strawberry Moon as its beams stretch forth on the third of June.

Many overlook this tranquil sight since it occurs at almost midnight.

Lunar beauty eludes workers for pay who retire early to face the next day.

Party animals shun it, too, as they drink and dance each evening anew.

Couples strolling the Charles Bridge by night bask in the aura of exuberant delight.

Under the shadow of an ancient king, they pledge love eternal with a golden ring.

Prague serves as a threshold between the fearful and bold.

Its moon illuminates every soul until endless devotion gains control.

About John Hillman John Hillman never imagined travelling to Europe as a boy growing up on a West Texas farm. But circumstances led the 1974 Baylor graduate to the Czech Republic eight times and created a lifelong affinity for the country and its people.

Hillman’s first Czech contact occurred in November 2014 at McLennan Community College while serving as guest instructor in dance fitness. That day, he met MCC’s two Czech exchange students from Masaryk University, and the pair accepted his invitation to Sunday dinner.

Since that chance encounter, Hillman and his wife, Kathy, have provided transportation and hospitality to over 30 Czech students majoring in English education. MCC’s exchange program offers them the opportunity to experience a five-month intensive English environment.

The accountant has hosted reunion dinners in Brno, travelled throughout Moravia with former students, and coached in a week-long basketball camp. The Hillmans are members of the Czech Educational Foundation of Texas (CEFT) and the American Friends of the Czech Republic. He also serves on the community involvement board of the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple.

—SPJST—

• Music and Holiday Cheer: Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with live performances, including a special performance by the Taylor Czech Chorus from 4 to 5 p.m.

“We’re thrilled to open our doors to the community for a magical Christmas celebration,” says Kenny Lange, curator at the Czech Heritage Museum. “This year, we are excited to coincide with the City of Temple’s First Friday event, creating an even more vibrant and festive atmosphere for all attendees.”

The Christmas Open House is free of charge and open to the public. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories with friends and family. For more information, please visit czechheritagemuseum.org or check out the Museum’s page on Facebook.

About the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center The Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Czech culture and heritage in the Temple community. The museum serves as a focal point for educational programs,

cultural events, and genealogical research, fostering a sense of pride and connection among residents.

—SPJST—

TCHCC to host Dec. 2 and 9 open house Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center will host an open house on Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, 250 West Fairground Roads in La Grange, Texas.

In the Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will be “Czech Foods and Traditions.”

In Hanslik Hall on December 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be a cooking demonstration on how to make kolače by Bruno Shimek, Caldwell’s Kolače Baking King. Admission is $20, and participants must RSVP as there is a limit of 20 participants In Hanslik Hall from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on December 9 will be a cooking demonstration on how to make famous rosettes by Katherine Svatek.

Visit the gift shop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a variety of Christmas and gift items available for purchase. A 15 percent discount will be offered to TCHCC members on purchases at open house.

Not a member? For just $50, you can become a member instantly!

In the Czech Village from 1 to 3 p.m.

- step into vintage decorated homes displaying an earlier time in Texas-Czech history.

For more information, visit www.czechtexas.org or call 888-7854500.

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

Texas Czech Genealogical Society offers 2023 Christmas legend ornaments

By Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor Can you believe that Christmas will be here in FOUR WEEKS? This is the forth article describing the Texas Czech Genealogical Society’s selection of legend, symbol and traditional ornaments for 2023.

If you haven’t ordered this year’s ornaments for gift giving or for your family’s Legend Tree yet, please do it as soon as possible! Orders will be accepted through December 13, however the longer one waits to order, the less inventory will be available to choose from.

To place an order or ask a question, please contact Nancy Machu at nbmachu@gmail.com or by phone 512-9714284. You may pay by check, payable to TCGS, or by credit card. To pay by credit card, please call Nancy. Shipping charges will be added to the prices shown, based on the number of ornaments purchased.

When calling, kindly leave a short message for a return call as anonymous calls without messages will not be answered or returned.

The Symbol of the Hummingbird CW-821 - $15 The hummingsymbolizes bird love, joy, wonder and beauty. Hummingbirds are fascicreatures nating which have been

=========

around since ancient times. Looking at a hummingbird from one direction may show its throat to be red, blue or green.

From another angle, it may be cold black. Their color depends on how light filters through their feathers and is only partly caused by pigmentation. Hummingbirds spend their breeding season in the United States after which they fly to Central and South America. A hummingbird weighs about the same as a nickel, yet it flies over 500 miles, nonstop, to cross the Gulf of Mexico. They can do things no other birds can. Their wings beat approximately 80 times per second, and their extra flexible joints enable them to go from full speed to a full stop in the blink of an eye as well as to fly backwards. This unique ability teaches us that we can look back at our past without dwelling on it as we move forward. As the hummingbird hovers to drink nectar, we are reminded to savor each moment in life.

The Symbol of the Cross OR-221 - $15

beautiful This silver infinity cross symbolizes faith and the everlasting love of God and the promise of eternal life in Jesus Christ.

This gift of eternal life was given to Christians when Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross for our sins, and arose from the dead. Because of the pain and humiliation that He suffered, this humbling symbol helps us to be mindful of our beliefs and duties as

Christians. Shimmering with a shiny silver surface and glittering accents of white and gold, this unique doublesided ornament is a meaningful expression of religious faith.

Tradition of the Snowman T-222 - $12 centuries For children have gleefully awaited the winter’s first snowfall. Rolling large balls of that fluffy gift from heaven, they delight in making their own special companion. Complete with a carrot for a nose, coal for the eyes and mouth, and sticks for arms, the snowman truly does come to life for the children who created their frosty friend. Our whimsical glass snowman sports a red hat and a face filled with tiny styrofoam “snowballs”.

The Legend of Saint Nicholas T-212 - $26 The concept of the Santa American originated Claus with St. Nicholas, who was born in Asia Minor about 280. He was known as a kind, benevolent man and made a saint because of his generosity. St. Nicholas is not only the saint of children,

Entire Christmas ornament collection offered by TCGS

27

but also the saint of sailors. In honor of St. Nicholas, December 6 became the traditional day in Europe for the exchange of Christmas gifts and the beginning of the holiday season.

Dutch immigrants to the United States brought with them their version of the gift-giving St. Nicholas, which they called “Sinter Klass”.

Americans found this name hard to pronounce, and turned it into “Santa Claus”, who is beloved as a symbol of Christmas by children of all ages.

The Symbol of the Seashell OR-226 - $8 The seashell played an important part in the religious symbolism of the early inhabitants of Mexico, where it symbolized birth and life itself. Some baptismal fonts are carved in marble in imitation of a giant shell, symbolizing Christian rebirth. Its use as a trumpet since time immemorial also symbolizes power and authority. This pink and white seashell ornament was created by dusting a real conch shell with prismatic glitter accents. It will be a gorgeous addition to one’s Christmas tree now and in years to come.

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Monday, November 27, 2023

NCSML hosts December 2, 3 Old World Christmas Market in Cedar Rapids, Iowa The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, recently recognized in TripAdvisor as Number Two of the Best Specialty Museums in Iowa by visitors, hosts its 14th annual Old World Christmas Market at 1400 Inspiration Place SW in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Experience a delightful market with local handcrafted items, delicious treats, entertainment, and activities for people of all ages. The Old World Christmas Market, inspired by traditional European markets, is an enchanted celebration of culture, community, and holiday cheer. It is free of charge for the entire weekend, including admission to all NCSML galleries.

Traditional European Christmas Markets are typically found outside in the town square, so initially NCSML’s was outside — in Czech Village, in the parking lot, and on the lawn by the river.

It was lovely. However, it was very cold and sometimes muddy. After a few years of trying it outside, the event moved indoors and was expanded into the galleries with even more activities for families to enjoy!

As the museum confirms its final plans, please check our website (www.ncsml.org) for additional vendors, activities, and updated schedules.

One thing’s for certain: Saturday hours will be extended, and all admission fees are waived during the celebration.

New This Year: Czech and Slovak Pop-Up Restaurant The menu of this full-service restaurant will feature traditional and authentic favorites, including: • Beef Goulash — a decadent mix of earthy flavor and tender meat, served with side dumplings to reach perfection!

• Chlebicky — the Czech and Slovak version of an open-faced sandwich and popular for all kinds of celebrations — especially Christmas Eve. • Buchty — traditional Czech sweet buns filled with marmalades and preserves. Similar to kolaches, yet they are very different.

• Mramorová Bábovka — often simply called Bábovka, this Marble

VĚSTNÍK Bundt cake is the perfect combination of a gentle vanilla flavor with a decadent chocolate flavor.

CESAT offers Czech Christmas carol lessons

Guests can sit down and enjoy the festive atmosphere, or grab some takeout for a meal at home. And it wouldn’t be a traditional European Christmas Market without mulled wine and hot chocolate, which will be served outside on the terrace.

CESAT is pleased to announce that on Fridays in December at 8 p.m., Schulenburg Public Library will be offering online free Czech Christmas carol lessons.

Individuals from the comfort of their

Beautiful Music will Fill the Air On Saturday, The Marion Chamber Trio will perform a 90-minute program at noon, and the Young at Harp Ensemble begins an hour-long program at 2:30 p.m. In the evening, a Bell Choir will perform. On Sunday at 1 p.m., the Světlušky Youth Ensemble, a Czech music and dance ensemble, will perform in their colorful folk dress.

As always, Old World Christmas Market features: • Wreath Raffle (Winners drawn on Sunday at 3 p.m.)

• Cookie Walk (Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

– noon, or as long as supplies last) • Kolache Café • Master Czech Folk Artist Marj Nejdl will be on site to personalize Czech Christmas ornaments from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days • Visits from Svatý Mikuláš • Family-friendly crafts both days.

Come make paper doll finger puppets featuring Czech and Slovak fairy tale characters in kroje. Cut out and color pre-made puppets or design your own and have fun making up stories with them! Also, some old favorites: floating walnut beeswax candle boats and a carp toss. No one is too young or too old to enjoy!

—SPJST—

home will be able to learn the words for three to four Czech Christmas carols each Friday and will be able to learn the tunes to the carols.

To receive an invitation to the online meeting, please email your request to schulenburgpubliclibrary@yahoo.com Thadious Polasek Lodge 67, Schulenburg —SPJST—

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 at 7 p.m.: 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 Night: CCMH has reinstated monthly movie nights. CCMH, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston. For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org

December 1 Christmas Open House—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Temple, 3 to 7 p.m. Event includes

Czech Christmas traditions, cocoa, coffee, cookies, kids activities, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas shopping, music, and holiday cheer. For information, call the Museum 254-899-2935.

Through December 18 100 Years of Czech Radio Exhibit—at Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMHouston), 4920 San Jacinto Street, Houston. Exhibit includes unique archival photographs, authentic historical recordings, development of broadcasting and transmission technology and presents Czech Radio not only as an institution with a century-old tradition, but also as a modern public service medium. Exhibit was created by Czech Centres in collaboration with Radio Prague International and made possible through the generous support of donors.

For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org.

January 5, 2024 TCGS Business Meeting: Officers, Standing Committees, Chairpersons, Special Project Members, Members— at TCGS Office/Museum at SPJST Home Office - downstairs gallery, 520 Main Street, Temple - at 10 a.m.

February 1 TCGS’ Ceske Stopy spring issue submission deadline. Theme: Grandpa’s Shoes Tell a Story. Please submit your articles to Charlene Hurta at cmhurta@earthlink.net; 1231 CR 201A, Angleton, Texas 77515. For information, call 979-848-6517.

February 3 TCGS Annual Membership Meeting, Speakers, and Election of Officers—at Caldwell Civic and Visitor Center, 103 Presidential Corridor (Highway 21) in Caldwell, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch for details.

—SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK

Monday, November 27, 2023

Unlock the Richness of Czech and Slovak language and culture with Miss Czech-Slovak US Royal Court Zoom lessons

What You’ll Learn: • Simple words and phrases in Czech and Slovak • Common funny jokes or limericks • Daily conversational topics • Traditions, history, and cultural fun facts

On Monday, November 13, 2023, the Miss Czech-Slovak US Royal Court held their first Czech-Slovak Zoom Language and Cultural Lesson! During the lesson, they covered Czech-Slovak harvest season, the All Saints Day tradition, Czech and Slovak alphabet pronunciations, harvest season terms, and more. The lesson was a great success, and they were so glad to see a wonderful turnout for their first class.

The next lesson will be on Monday, December 11 from 6 to 7 p.m. Central Time and every second Monday of the month after that.

If you are interested, visit the following link to fill out the form to be added to the email list:

Cost: Absolutely nothing! These lessons are offered free of charge to enrich your knowledge and appreciation.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAI pQLScMX9KDmQyxdh0ifjmHKXuUGViWCl4JbC1BoPr0LRdrMkVxpQ/v iewform?fbclid=IwAR2eTs1nzvWEhU9 16AGxjO7_wkaoOI67sLSmf7ZprxfT49 0UI8_wt3i4W0s

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

Who Can Participate: This program is designed to be beginner and child-friendly, welcoming anyone with an interest in delving deeper into the beauty of Czech and Slovak language and culture.

Where: Conveniently hosted on Zoom, these online lessons provide a virtual space for interactive and enjoyable learning experiences.

Miss Czech-Slovak Us Royal Court The Miss Czech-Slovak US 2023 Royal Court consists of Destiny Hollingsworth, Miss Czech-Slovak US 2023-24; Drew Hejna, Miss Czech-Slo-

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vak US 1st Runner-Up 2023-24; and Lauren Luchetti, Miss Czech-Slovak US 2nd Runner-Up 2023-24. Ďekuju, Ďakujem.

—SPJST—

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Monday, November 27, 2023

VĚSTNÍK

SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities, entertainment dates, and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Hall Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-966-3515.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday — 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.

Saturday, December 2—Hykel party Sunday, December 3—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m. Christmas party following the meeting.

Saturday, December 9—Sykora Christmas party Sunday, December 10—Straten Christmas Saturday, December 16—Brennan Christmas Sunday, December 17—Birthday party Sunday, January 7—Meeting, 2 p.m.

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 12 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg.

For information, call 979-247-4168.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Hall Rentals/Information: 979-272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-272-3732. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall.

For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979220-4733.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Meetings: Held the first Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November 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: For information, call 254-217-2863.

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: 512-2853100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Held every other month (even months) on the third Tuesday. Call FL Meyer 512-940-7970 for information. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 and on Twitter @SPJSTelgin18.

Sunday, December 10—Christmas Dance: Red Ravens, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

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 254-5415344.

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 Ennis Avenue, Ennis, TX 75119. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5 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 214837-9490. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.

LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call President Yvonne Marcaurele 979-543-8146. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979543-7120.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Thursday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 6404 Nursery Drive, Victoria. For information, call 361-6767561.

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 254-715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com.

Saturday, December 2—Joe Parker Band Saturday, December 9—Steve Dansby Band Saturday, December 16—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) For information, call President Omer Everett, Jr. 979693-5287; or FAC Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge meetings held quarterly. Next meeting is Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. at Mikeska's BBQ off Highway 59 in El Campo. Youth club meetings held monthly. For information, call 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 29, TAYLOR (2) ● All Friday night dances 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Free admission • Hamburgers served at 6 p.m.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Lisa Jonse 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall.

For information, call 512-635-3021. Youth Club Meetings: Held at Taylor Animal Shelter on Saturday morning. For date/time and information, contact Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226; mrn81978@gmail.com.

Lodge 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 February, April, June, August, October, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 512-4157225.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Tuesday nights - Cornhole Game Night, 7 to 9 p.m. at the hall, 609 S FM 2133, Rowena. Boards will be furnished. Bring your own bags, if you so chose. All ages welcome! For information, call Tony 325-977-0453 or Brad 325-656-0489.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard. Call 832595-4231 for information.

Lodge Hall: 609 S FM 2133, Rowena. Hall rental Information: Beverly Teplicek 325-442-4841. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Call Laura Pospichal for information 325-3656485. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-656-0029.

LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-7092303.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting location and information, call Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.

LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: The fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1301 Hogan Lane in Bellmead. For information, call 254-717-7534.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at Kountry Bakery, Hwy 77 in Schulenburg at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-7430310.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For info, call 361-816-2328. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at “The Hall on 2268” (formerly SPJST Lodge 80 Hall), 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call 254-760-6427. Watch the Věstník for changes in dates or times. For information, call 254-760-6427. Bingo has returned!

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-6504466. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon. For information, call 281-781-3156. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, email Youth Leader Kristen Jones joneskb06@hotmail.com.

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.

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

VĚSTNÍK Friday, December 1—the Fab 5 will take us back to the 60s during their performance from 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve Dance: Mark Halata and Texavia will waltz and polka us into the new year from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call 713-869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501.

Lodge Meetings: Held the first Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call 713869-5767. 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.

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) ● Randy Tatarevich Band, country/western: Every first Sunday of the month unless otherwise noted. Doors open at 1 p.m.; music starts at 2 p.m. Admission - $10. Barbecue dinner - $10. Full bar available. Best dance floor in Texas. Come on out for a great time!

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 210-861-4985.

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.

Monday, November 27, 2023 LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December, meeting is on the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; lunch served at 1 p.m.

Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th (the Heights) in Houston in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, location as adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377.

LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street in Wharton.

For information, call 979-532-5884 or email jbucek2001@yahoo.com.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at the hall at 3 p.m. For information, call 817-731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December. For dates/time/location, call 512-657-7783.

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.

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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). Contact Theresa Haag 830-832-3664; theresa.haag686@gmail.com for meeting information. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-777-8215; jmccoy@pta.com.

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 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Meetings: Held on the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21 in Caldwell. Bring your favorite dish for a potluck prior to the meeting. For information, contactact President Victor Mendez 512-743-8297 or vmendez@kmc.net.

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

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan - unless otherwise noted. For information call 979-777-1426.

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

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress.

Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, contact Cadance Wager 713-515-2835.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at John Witt Butane Gas Company., LLC, 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka at 6 p.m. For information, call 806-535-8356.

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at Carnitas Queretaro Mexican Restaurant, 9077 Gateway Boulevard, West in El Paso, TX. Phone: 915-6339877. Contact information: President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, June, and September at Rosa’s Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard. For information, call 325-669-7904.

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—

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Monday, November 27, 2023

VĚSTNÍK

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

Life Insurance and More

at the

czech heritage museum and genealogy center 119 W French Ave • Temple, Texas

friday, december 1 3 to 7 p.m.

COMEAND ANDJOIN JOINUS USFOR: FOR: COME CzechChristmas ChristmasTraditions Traditions Czech Cocoa, Coffee, and Cookies Cocoa, Co ee, and Cookies Taylor Czech Chorus 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Kids Activities - Santa and Mrs. Claus Santa and Mrs. Claus 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Shopping Kids Activities Music and Holiday Cheer Christmas Shopping

Home Office: 520 North Main Temple, Texas 76501 800-727-7578 info@spjst.org www.spjst.org