† Lodge 6, Cottonwood West debuts new food trailer at Westfest!
Lodge 6, Cottonwood recently purchased a new food trailer for events. Photos show the different food booths over the years. LEFT PHOTO: From the early years - the first and original food booth at Westfest. Left to right, Stanley Patak, Betty Jean Pavlas, Honorary District Three Director Johnnie Krizan, Josie Mae Straten, George Straten, Barbara Jean Hykel (holding a child), Ruth Krizan, and Willie Mae Schuetz. PHOTO 2:
Stitching for a Cause
Lodge 97, Placedo President and Agent Gay Revel, center, creates unique tote bags from feed sacks, which she sells at the Quilt Guild of Greater Victoria to support various charities. Pictured with Gay are Bernadette Bellanger, left, and Judy Bellanger, both of Lodge 97, who donate the feed sacks. Judy holds a sample of the tote, showcasing Gay’s creative craftsmanship and generosity.
The second Lodge 6, Cottonwood food booth that had been in use since 1985. PHOTO 3: Brand new food trailer! Don Urbanovsky, left, and Bobby Dobecka display the new menu banner. RIGHT PHOTO: The food trailer debuted at this year’s Westfest. Pictured are Irene Peterson, front. Back, left to right, Peggy Dobecka, Bobby Dobecka, Jeanette Beseda, and Jody Krizan. —Jeanette Beseda, FAC
COMING SOON: OCTOBER IS CZECH HERITAGE MONTH IN TEXAS
FIND A FUN CZECH ACTIVITY ON THE BACK PAGE OF THIS ISSUE!
VESTNIK
S P J S T H E R A L D
SPJST HOME OFFICE
PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575
ctober marks a special time for SPJST and for all who treasure their Czech roots, as we join the rest of the state in celebrating Czech Heritage Month in Texas! This is a time to reflect on the traditions passed down from generation to generation and the rich contributions of Czech culture to our communities. From the music and dancing to the food and customs, our Czech heritage reminds us of the values that guide SPJST—family, community, and fraternalism.
To kick off this month-long celebration, we are excited to introduce several Czech-themed activities in the Vestnik. Check out the back page of this week’s edition for our first activity. You can complete these activities and send them back in for a chance to win one of 15 Czech-themed prizes. These prizes are sure to bring a little bit of Czech tradition into your home. Be sure to watch upcoming issues for more activities throughout the month.
Save the Date: October 27
The Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in Temple and Pivovar of Waco will host a Czech National Day celebration and benefit for Czech flood relief on Sunday, October 27 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Pivovar in Waco. Watch our Facebook page for more details and ticket info.
100 Pennies Scholarship Drive
October also signals the start of the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, beginning October 1 and running through March 31, 2025. This long-
standing SPJST tradition helps provide scholarships to deserving youth. Every penny counts, and donations of any size are welcome. Let’s come together to support the education of our future leaders by contributing to this important cause. Donations can be made online at https://spjst.org/scholarships or by mailing checks to the Home Office.
In addition to our Czech-themed activities and scholarship drive, Czech Heritage Month is the perfect time to connect with your roots—whether it’s learning a few Czech phrases, cooking traditional Czech meals, or simply sharing stories of your heritage with friends and family. Let this month be a celebration of who we are, where we came from, and the legacy we continue to build.
As we move through October, let’s take pride in our heritage and honor the traditions that have shaped our community. Stay tuned for more ways to engage and celebrate Czech culture with SPJST.
Na zdraví!
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines
October 14 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Oct. 7 at 10 a.m.
October 28 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Oct. 21 at 10 a.m.
November 11 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Nov. 4 at 10 a.m.
November 25 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Nov. 18 at 10 a.m.
December 9 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)
Sept. 26 Life Insurance Reviews at Tanglewood Clubhouse, Victoria (6)
Sept. 29 State Family Fun Day/District Five Youth Fall Social Splashway Waterpark • Sheridan (5)
Nov. 7-9 3rd Annual Cowtown - Birthplace of Western Swing (3) 3-Day Festival at Lodge 92, Fort Worth - National Hall
Nov. 16 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Newlywed Game (5)
Dec. 1
Lodge 23, Moravia Christmas Social (6)
Dec. 1 Lodge 84, Dallas Christmas Party (3)
Dec. 1
Lodge 139, Danbury Christmas Party
Main Street Steakhouse, Danbury (5)
Dec. 5 Lodge 67, Schulenburg Christmas Party
Oakridge Smokehouse, Schulenburg (1)
Dec. 7 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Christmas Karaoke (5)
Dec. 8 Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas Party
SPJST INTEREST RATES
rates as of August 1, 2024
Lodge 47, Seaton leader appreciates SPJST’s recognition of teachers
We met with our youth club this month and enjoyed juice boxes and brownie bites. I encouraged all youth to find a teacher and tell them thank you! As a teacher, I know this small gesture means so much. Most teachers pour their hearts and souls into what they do. I am so blessed to be given the opportunity to pursue teaching later in life. So thank you, SPJST, for recognizing the importance of this line of work.
Amber Bartek, Youth Leader —SPJST—
Westphalia Picnic set for Sunday, October 13
The 117th Annual Westphalia Picnic Church of the Visitation will be held Sunday, October 13, 2024, on the grounds of the church, 144 County Road 3000 in Lott, Texas 76656.
Little school museum will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Homemade fried chicken, sausage, Westphalia noodles, green beans, slaw, and dessert plates will be served. Drive thru is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; inside dining is 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plates are $15. Homemade sausage will be available for purchase. Games from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. include bingo, fish pond, kids’ train ride, and more! Music featuring the Praha Brothers is from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Live auction begins at 1 p.m. Auction items can be previewed on Facebook. Prize drawing will also be held. Shuttle service is available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Come out for a family day of fun!
Patricia Hoelscher Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
“We must pay attention or one day, we may lose our freedom here.”
“Freedom . . . Guard it with your life, America,” often warned well-known Texas Gulf Coast fraternalist and late SPJST Lodge 40, El CampoHillje member Karel Matejka, Sr. of El Campo, Texas.
Karel was only 16 years old when the Vimperk, Sumava, Czechoslovakian Freedom Fighter was imprisoned by the Nazis following Germany’s occupation of the Sudentenland at the beginning of World War II.
He spent almost eight years of his youth as a forced laborer in Hitler’s infamous concentration camps.
He was freed in 1946 by General George S. Patton’s United States Army and returned to his Czechoslovakian homeland, where he opened a bakery and grocery store.
Karel became outspokenly critical of Post War Russian-imposed Communism that was being forced on the freedomloving Czechs. Czechoslovakia’s pre-World War Il democratic government had been patterned after the United States of America.
After learning in 1948 that his business was to be nationalized by the Communists and the impending threat of imprisonment again “as an enemy of the State,” Karel and his wife, Gizela, escaped overnight to western Germany.
Bishop John L. Morkovsky learned of their plight as displaced European refugees and arranged for the Matejkas to come to Houston in 1950 under the National Catholic Refugees Program.
Karel and his wife were warmly welcomed into the greater Houston American-Czech community including the old SPJST Lodge 88, Houston on Studewood Drive. He was active in the Houston Sokol movement and other benevolent Slavic organizations such as Western Fraternal Life.
The gifted singer and musician had a vast repertoire of authentic Czech folk songs. The accom-
plished accordionist and drummer also loved to polka dance. He formed a Houston band which played at many special celebrations including a downtown El Campo street dance and “All Nations Festival” in 1962 when the city became “Capital of Texas for 24 hours” as designated by “Governor-fora-Day” Culp Krueger, President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate at that time and owner of KULP Radio and the El Campo Leader-News-Svoboda
A member of SPJST Lodge 88 Choral Group and Drama Club, he was cast in major roles of many Czech language divadlos - theatrical presentations including operettas such as Kmoch’s “Muziky, Muziky” and other entertaining Czechoslovakian dramas and comedies staged at Lodge 88 and in other Texas communities.
Karel was honored in 1999 as one of the founders of the Saints Cyril and Methodius Slavic Heritage Festival, which is one of Houston’s oldest ethnic festivals.
He often expressed his worry that many Americans are apathetic about the precious liberty he and his wife finally enjoyed in Texas.
“We must pay attention or one day, we may lose our freedom here,” cautioned Karel on July 4, 2003, when he single-handedly staged an Independence Day event in El Campo after learning no local public observance was scheduled.
One of his happiest days was on November 12, 1958, when he became a naturalized United States citizen. His Czech citizenship had been revoked by the Communists, but President Vaclav Havel reinstated it in 2000 so Karel held dual citizenship during his final years.
Karel passed away on Friday, June 2, 2006 - his 83rd birthday.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally submitted by the late Chuck and Joanna Schwartzkopf of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje. “Karel was a very dear person who went through a lot for his freedom,” says Lodge 88, Houston member Mary Krippner who requested that this article be rerun in the Vestnik. “We often don’t value freedom as much as we should. I love America, and I treasure Brother Karel’s values.”
Hezký den a jak se máš? (Have a nice day and how are you?) October 1 marks the start of Czech Heritage Month here in the great state of Texas! Reflecting on my Czech heritage always brings back fond memories.
One of my earliest memories is of my dad working in the garage, listening to the Saturday morning Polka Party with Helen Pavelka out of Corpus Christi. I can still hear him singing along, even though I didn’t understand a word. Yet, whenever a polka or waltz played, it pulled me in. Before I knew it, I’d be humming right along with the tune.
Another cherished memory was our visits to my Great Aunt Annie’s house in Rio Hondo — she was a proud member of SPJST Lodge 164, Rio Hondo. Aunt Annie always had svačina waiting for us when we arrived: sandwiches, a veggie tray, sweet tea, and, of course, kolaches. Her kolache assortment always included poppyseed, cherry, cottage cheese, apricot, pineapple, and my favorite – prune. She’d tell me I could have only one, but that didn’t stop me from sneaking an extra one when she wasn’t looking. Aunt Annie would catch me in the act, but instead of scolding me, she’d give me a knowing smile, a wink, and a nod to go ahead before my parents noticed. Those were the good times!
As we celebrate Czech Heritage Month in Texas, I hope it brings back special memories for you too!
2024 Czech Heritage Run
SPJST is a proud sponsor of the Second Annual Czech Heritage 5K and Fun Run at Bold Republic Brewing in Temple on Saturday, October 5. We are teaming up with other sponsors, and proceeds raised from the event will go to support the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in downtown Temple. Visit czechheritage5k.com for complete details and to register.
Karel Matejka
100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive: Your Change Can Change a Life!
Starting October 1, we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact through the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Every penny counts, and your donation — no matter the amount — will go directly to the SPJST Scholarship Fund, helping deserving students achieve their educational dreams.
Whether it’s pocket change or a larger gift, your generosity can provide opportunities that will shape the future of our youth. Together, we can make a real difference! The drive runs through March 31, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to contribute.
Donating is easy! Visit us online at https://spjst.org/scholarships/ or send your gift to:
SPJST 100 Pennies PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503-0100
Your support means the world — thank you for helping us invest in the leaders of tomorrow!
2024 Lodge Membership Drive –SPJST Proud
The SPJST Insurance, Sales, and Marketing Department launched the 2024 Lodge Membership Drive earlier this year. This program is designed to help raise funds for your lodge while spreading SPJST pride. For full details on how your lodge can participate and benefit, please refer to the flyer in the September 9 Vestnik on page 5.
2024
Incentives Program –Third Quarter
Entries
As the third quarter of the 2024 Incentive Program comes to a close on September 30, we want to thank all lodge officers for their dedication to accurately recording fraternal and community hours. Your efforts have been crucial to the program’s success.
Please be aware that incentive progress reports were emailed on August 30 to update all lodge officers on their fraternal entries’ standings. If you didn’t receive this update, kindly check your spam or junk folder. If the email is still missing, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
All third-quarter entries must be submitted no later than Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
Remaining Quarter:
October to December (Entries due by January 15, 2025).
October Caring Challenge: Shoebox of Smiles
As we enter the final quarter, themed Bounty of Giving, we’re thrilled to introduce the October challenge: Shoebox of Smiles. Get into the spirit of giving by filling a shoebox with essential items for Operation Christmas Child or another local organization in need. Your thoughtful contributions will brighten the lives of those who need it most.
Don’t forget to capture the moment! Photograph your project and participants, then submit the details and photos at spjst.org/gives and share the joy on social media using #spjstgives.
2025 SPJST State Tournaments
We’re gearing up for the 2025 SPJST State Tournaments, all of which will take place at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. The registration fee is $30, and a meal will be provided. Please note, we will not be offering a straight domino tournament this year due to low participation.
Tournament Schedule:
- Progressive 42 Dominoes: January 11
- Tarok Tournament: February 1
- Regular 42 Dominoes: March 1
Lodge Officer Elections
A reminder that lodge officer elections will take place in November and December. To qualify for the 2024 Lodge Incentive, officer information must be submitted online by January 15, 2025. Be sure to include this on your lodge meeting agenda under “New Business” for your upcoming November or December meeting.
Contact Us!
We’re here to assist you! If you have any questions or need additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
• Frank Horak State Fraternal Director 254-534-0681 • frankh@spjst.com
• Tammy Martinez, Member Engagement Specialist 254-773-1575, ext. 164 tammym@spjst.com
Fraternally, Frank Horak
State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
When was the last time your lodge did some brainstorming?
I had a good time at the September 9 meeting of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard. This was the first meeting of the lodge since the members of Lodge 28, East Bernard and Lodge 151, Wharton met on June 29 and voted to merge their respective lodges. My thanks to Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Janie Bucek for inviting me to participate.
A light meal preceded the meeting which was held in the comfortable confines of the Holy Family Catholic Church CCD Building in Wharton. In addition to addressing the routine agenda items, President Gerald Macha guided lodge members through the agenda which included a discussion and assignment of donations to worthy causes, followed by a memorial service to honor the memories of members who had passed over the preceding year. The remaining balance of the meeting was devoted to what can best be described as a collaborative brainstorming activity. My thanks to SPJST Agent Mary Jo Salinas and District Six Director Annie Vahalik for lending a hand during this segment of the program.
lucky winners received Whataburger gift cards. The results of our session will go to the Lodge 151 president and secretary to follow up on at their next meeting.
Brainstorming – however you choose to do it – is a creative, collaborative, and fun way to generate ideas to help a lodge in defining its mission and what it is doing to make a positive difference in the lives of its members and the community. What’s more, it can be a powerful team building activity in that all participants can play a part and share their ideas without fear of criticism.
Collaborative brainstorming, sometimes referred to as “crowd storming,” offers a way for members to come together to generate new ideas and potential solutions on a specific subject or project. In this case, we were brainstorming ideas to identify lodge strengths and to bring clarity to the lodge’s fraternal mission.
We had some fun with the activity and awarded a ticket every time someone identified a lodge strength or suggested an idea to enhance the lodge experience. It started out kind of slow but within about 20 minutes, members generated enough ideas to fill two 27-inch by 34-inch flip chart pages! At the end of the exercise, three tickets were drawn, and the
Planning lodge calendars a year or more ahead of time is second nature in many SPJST lodges; however, if your lodge is looking for a place to start, please let me know. I’m always eager to assist and work with lodges that are looking for ways to make a positive difference in the lives of their members and their communities. Annual planning exercises can help the lodge identify where it is coming from, where it is now, where it wants to go, and how it is going to get there. A lodge will continue to grow and prosper only so long as there remains a vital cause to stimulate and unite it.
Let’s keep this conversation going
“The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” – John F. Kennedy
Fraternally,
Brian Vanicek President/CEO —SPJST—
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
When I Leave This Earth
When I leave this Earth, I know I’ll be joining the family members in heaven who went before me. That doesn’t sound like such a bad reunion. I’ll be in paradise, with God and my loved ones. I’m not afraid to pass beyond this life. But there is one thing that does worry me: What kind of mess will I leave for my family? How much work will they have to go through before they can actually enjoy my memory?
I look around my home office and see my collection of over 500 shot glasses, all my Michigan State Spartan memorabilia, my full-sized NFL helmets, and all my sports gear. In the shed and garage, there’s my old golf clubs, tools I haven’t touched in years, and piles of “stuff” I don’t even remember collecting. There’s a stack of old Sports Illustrated magazines, programs from events I’ve been to, and souvenirs from whoknows-when. At one time, all of this was important to me. But as I get older, I have to ask myself: will any of this matter to my kids?
If it does, great. But if not, am I leaving them with a burden?
As I approach my senior years (I’ve already passed the starting line!), now is the time to evaluate the future of my old memories. I’ll ask my kids what they want and what they don’t. Then, I’ll have a serious conversation with myself: How much of this will just become their problem when I’m gone? If it’s junk, it should take a quick trip to the trash. If it has value, I need to figure out how much trouble it will be for them to sell it. When I leave this Earth, I want to know I haven’t created extra headaches for them. After all, I want them to love me when I’m gone, not curse me for the work I left behind.
And then there’s the funeral. Everything keeps getting more expensive. I have enough life insurance to cover the costs, but what if I didn’t? What if the money I have is tied up, or if there are costs I haven’t anticipated? Even with a pre-paid funeral plan, there are nonguaranteed expenses—things we can’t foresee today but will come up tomorrow. Funerals don’t come with do-overs. Once the decision is made, you can’t go back and say, “Can we dig him up and change this?” It just doesn’t work that way.
My advice to you: Talk to your kids now. Find out what they’d like you to pass on and what they don’t want. Don’t make them sort through piles of things even you don’t remember saving.
And consider life insurance. You might not think you need it, but it will simplify things for the loved ones you leave behind. Yes, it can be pricey at our age, but to me, it’s worth it. Why make them tie up their time and money while the estate is being settled when you could make it easy now?
When I leave this Earth, I want my family to remember me for the good things I did in life—not for the clutter I left behind or the stress of figuring out how to pay for my funeral. Now is the time to help them.
“The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.” —Mark Twain
My door is always open, figuratively, and literally.
Stay blessed,
Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing
832-232-2049
—SPJST—
SPJST LODGE SECTION
Lodge 4, Hallettsville members give books, school supplies
The deadline for Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
cited, and a moment of silence for deceased members was held.
Welcomed to the meeting was Territory Manager Kerry Herrington.
policies.
FAC Annie Vahalik reported on the successful State SPJST Convention in June and the well-attended State Youth Showcase in July. She was happy to share that her grandson George Hargrove won second place in Hobby Kit, 3rd to 5th grade division. Attending were Annie and Philip Vahalik, Elizabeth and George Hargrove, and Patsy Zabransky.
Members were reminded of the District Six Fall Fun Day on Sunday, September 22 at Victoria Czech Heritage Festival at Victoria Community Center. Members’ entry fee will be paid by District Six - just sign in at the door.
It was voted to again join the Fall Walk Across Texas Program and to have a bake sale in November.
mas at Sea) project at the November meeting.
Door prize winners were Gayenell Chudej, Joe Siptak, Annie Vahalik, Philip Hadash, and Patsy Zabransky. The meeting adjourned followed by lunch, with President Siptak giving the meal blessing. Everyone then enjoyed playing Czech bingo. Many thanks to Philip Hadash for pronouncing the Czech words.
Next Meeting—November 10
Dear Members, Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, August 11, 2024, at Hallettsville First United Methodist Church Annex at 3 p.m. with President Joe Siptak presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was re-
Secretary Annie Vahalik read the minutes to the last meeting, and Treasurer Patsy Zabransky gave the financial report. Correspondence was read.
Kerry Herrington congratulated our lodge and presented a check for winning the quarterly referral contest for submitting the most referrals that turned into
FAC Annie thanked the members for donating school supplies for Mission Backpack and used books, games, puzzles, etc. for the Book Bonanza Caring Challenge.
For the October to December Caring Challenge, our lodge will fill shoeboxes with essentials for the Seafarers (Christ-
Welcome to Fayetteville SPJST Ball Park!
Baseball is a big thing in Fayetteville, Texas, and Fayetteville SPJST Ball Park is home of several state champs. These kids start early — seven-, eight-, and nineyear-old tournaments at the beautiful SPJST Ball Park will be held every Sunday this fall.
—Sharon Fritsch President/FAC
The next meeting will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 10 at First United Methodist Church Annex (behind the church). Officers for 2025 will be elected, shoeboxes for Seafarers filled, and final plans for the bake sale made. Door prizes will be awarded, and lunch served as usual.
Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Welcome! PHOTO 2: State champions banners are displayed. RIGHT PHOTO: Our dedicated SPJST Lodge 1, Fayetteville Youth Club at the time, was responsible for the renovation of the ball park with assistance from donors.
LEFT PHOTO: Kids love the AstroTurf grass. PHOTO 2: Parents wait patiently for their boys’ next game! PHOTO: 3: Fayetteville volunteers serve the crowd. RIGHT PHOTO: The parking lot was packed; we love to see this sight! Go, Lions!
President Don Urbanovsky called the Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting to order. All officers were present except Vice President James Nemec. All attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST pledge, followed by a moment of silence for departed members. Flag Bearer Irene Peterson reported 22 adult members, five youth, and one guest in attendance.
The minutes of the last meeting were read by Secretary Jeanette Beseda. Treasurer’s report was provided by Sister Peggy Dobecka. Both reports were approved.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette provided SPJST Home Office/fraternal news. For the teacher tribute, the lodge recognized teachers Melissa Beseda and Tory Dobecka and school support staff Courtney McGuire, Kim Seith, and Amber Perez were recognized for their contributions. October’s challenge, Bounty of Giving, begins at our next meeting. Please bring items for Operation: Christmas Child. We need donations of personal hygiene items, coloring books, crayons, spiral notebooks, and plastic toys small enough to fit into a shoebox-size box. These items are for three age catagories: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 9 years, and 10 to 14 years. Goal will be to have the final packing of these items at the November meeting.
Congratulations to SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville! They earned a check for $750 in the second quarter “SPJST Proud” lodge membership drive contest. Territory Manager Kerry Herrington, far right, presented the check to Lodge 4 officers, from left, President Joe Siptak, Treasurer/Reporter Patsy Zabransky, and FAC/Vice President/Secretary Annie Vahalik.
get well cards were mailed to Aubrey Uptmor and Bobby Dobecka. Upcoming hall rentals were provided by Sister Peggy, hall manager.
Under old business, Brother Don provided a final financial report on the Lodge 6 picnic held on July 21. Sister Peggy provided an itemized list of additional expenses spent on the food trailer to make it complete and functional. The additional expenses will be discussed and approved for reimbursement at the SPJST Lodge 6, Inc. meet-
Lodge 6, Ctonwood Grandpare and School Staff Appreciion
ing immediately following the lodge meeting.
New business—Brother Don provided tentative financial numbers on our Westfest food trailer sales on Labor Day
weekend. Brother Don recognized all members who are grandparents. Prior to our meeting, there was a catered lunch to honor all grandparents.
Name drawn for the progressive door prize was Betty Pavelka, and she was not present. Attendance door prizes were awarded to Peggy Dobecka, Barbara Hykel, and Bobby Dobecka.
Next Meeting—October 6
The next Lodge 6 meeting will be Sunday, October 6 at 2 p.m. with a lunch served at 12:30 p.m. Hope to see you all at Cottonwood Hall!
Respectfully,
Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 13, Dime Box Meets, Gives to SPJST Caring Challenges
TOP PHOTO: Lodge 13, Dime Box members and guest District One Director Donnie Victorick, middle row, far right, gather at Jake’s BBQ for the September meeting.
LEFT PHOTO: Director Victorick, left, delivers donations from Lodge 13, Dime Box to State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. Donated items included pop tabs, books, and games for the monthly SPJST Caring Challenges. Thanks, Lodge 13!
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 6, Cottonwood honors grandparents at its September meeting. Left to right are Dorothy Kucera, Kim Seith, Peggy Dobecka, Irene Peterson, Ray Rosales, Patti Rosales, Jeanette Beseda, and Barbara Hykel. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 6 shows appreciation to school staff with gift cards. From left are Courtney McGuire, Amber Perez, Kim Seith, and teachers Melissa Beseda and Tory Dobecka.
Lodge 9, Snook to participate in October 1 National Night Out
The Wednesday, September 4, 2024, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by Vice President Hannah Kovar at 7:02 p.m. Kinsley Crump led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the August meeting were approved. Hall manager, communications, and treasurer reports were presented,
The youth club made kolaches for the Firemen’s BBQ Country Store. They will have a grandparents’ celebration at a later date. They will dance the beseda at the Kolache Festival on September 14 and ride the SPJST Float in the Burleson County Fair Parade on September 21. We accepted four new members.
Under old business, we postponed our open house to discuss insurance policies to a later date to be determined. Motion was passed to reimburse the fire department for their hall rental.
Under new business, the Snook EEA
will host a communitywide event at the hall on March 1, 2025, for the Blessing Box. Participants will be able to sew items for breast cancer patients as well as make cards, etc.
September birthday includes Hannah Kovar on the 11th.
The meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.
Next Meeting—October 1
The next meeting will be at Snook Park on October 1 in conjunction with National Night Out.
Fraternally, Sheila Orsak, Reporter
—SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia to participate in Walk Across Texas
SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia met on Tuesday September 10, 2024, at the lodge hall. The meeting was called to order by President Elizabeth Holub at 6:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for departed
Lodge 23, Moravia members gather for fall social
Lodge 23, Moravia members met on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, for their quarterly meeting. Following the meeting, members enjoyed a social.
—Wanda Kusy-Carpenter, FAC
members and all those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001, tragedy to our United States.
President Holub welcomed District Six Director Annie Vahalik and her sister, Patsy Zabransky, as our guests.
Lodge 29, Taylor hosts appreciation dinner
Lodge 29, Taylor held a barbecue appreciation dinner for our sponsors and friends on Monday, August 19, 2024. Around 75 people attended. We had a meal consisting of fried fish, hush puppies, buttered potatoes (fur-
Roll call of officers was held with all officers present. The minutes of the June meeting were read and approved followed by the treasurer’s report.
New business was discussed. Our Christmas social will be Sunday, December 1 at 2 p.m. There will be a lunch after the meeting followed by games and door prizes. We will be also needing to repair a broken pipe in our restroom along with a new fixture.
This quarter, our lodge donated to the school supply fund. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Wanda Carpenter will present our donation to Weimar School first grade teacher Mrs. Claire Kusy.
Director Vahalik then spoke to us on upcoming events. Our lodge will once again do the Walk Across Texas program. She also reminded us of Czechfest in Victoria on September 22. All District Six members are invited and asked to sign in representing their lodge.
The meeting then adjourned, followed by a lunch and a game.
nished by Chris Kelm), pinto beans, and coleslaw. Everyone enjoyed the meal and visiting.
—Linda Pospisil FAC/Secretary/Reporter
Lodge 29, Taylor food crew. Left to right, Adolph Grieger, Duane Danek, Terry Skrhak, Leonard Kaderka, Scott Kaderka, Ryan Kaderka, Jesse Pospisil, and Frankie Pustejovsky. PHOTOS 2, 3: Welcoming attendees are Mary Jane Pustejovsky, left, and Barbara Nygrin. PHOTO 4: Food prep.
Left to right: Ryan Kaderka, Duane Danek, Scott Kaderka, Terry Skrhak, and Leonard Kaderka. PHOTO 5: Getting their plates, left to right, are State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, David Nauert, and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny.
LEFT PHOTO: President/CEO Brian Vanicek addresses the gathering. REMAINING PHOTOS: Attendees enjoy the delicious meal and fellowship.
Lodge 24, Cyclone to raise the roof with “Costumes & Cocktails” dinner, dance, auction
Please join us for a spooky evening filled with yummy food, refreshing drinks, fun activities, a little dancing, and great prize giveaways! Help us raise the roof at the Costumes & Cocktails fundraiser on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall.
Doors will open at 5 p.m. with a social hour until 6 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m., and the dance begins at 7 p.m.
A $125 ticket entitles two people to a delicious dinner for two catered by Circle S Bar-B-Que, decadent dessert bar, a chance at fabulous prizes, a night of great music and dancing by Jerry Haisler, and special, spooky cocktails. Wear your costumes!
Prizes
Top prizes are a $2,500 travel voucher, 12x6 flat bed trailer (valued at $1,690), Nespresso coffee machine and
Donna and Edwin Zimmerhanzel celebrate 65th anniversary
RIGHT PHOTO: Donna and Edwin Zimmerhanzel celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on August 15, 2024. Additionally, their daughter, Laura, and her husband, Ronnie Freirich, celebrated 32 years of marriage on the same day. Edwin and Donna are longtime members and officers of Lodge 38, Kovar. Congratulations to both couples!
~ Dana Bunte Secretary/Treasurer
Ninja Creami combo, leaf blower/backpack sprayer combo, and two tower patio heaters.
Stretch raffle and extra chance tickets will be available along with surprise live auction prizes and a silent auction.
Babysitting will be available for $25 per family at St. Joseph’s church parish hall with pizza, fun, and games.
For tickets and/or more information, contact Shirley Hoelscher 254-5417950 or Cathy Bruggman 254-4937039. Thank you for your support!<> —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor hosts barbecue cook-off
September 27, 28
Dear Members and Friends, Lodge 29, Taylor will host its 23rd annual barbecue cook-off on Friday, September 27 and Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the lodge hall, located at 5025 FM 619 in Taylor.
Free Dance on Friday
Second Hand Rose Band will play
for a free dance on Friday, September 27 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Old-fashioned hamburgers will be available beginning at 6 p.m.
$5,000 to be Awarded
Prize money of $5,000 will be awarded at Saturday’s cook-off. For barbecue cookers, the entry fees are $125 (brisket, chicken, and pork ribs).
Optional categories are jackpot pinto beans; jackpot cook’s choice (meat product, fish, or seafood); and jackpot pork butt. Entry fee for each of the optional categories is $10.
Cash and trophies will be awarded for first to 10th place for each meat category (brisket, pork ribs, and chicken).
Cash and unique trophies will be awarded for first, second, and third in “Master Cook” and “Best Rig.” Jackpot pinto beans, jackpot cook’s choice, and jackpot pork butt will award 80 percent payback. Cash prizes will be presented for first to fifth places and trophies for first to 10th places.
Cook-Off Judges Needed on Saturday
All are welcome to judge on Saturday. If you are interested, please contact Jesse at 512-826-7371 or Linda 512-415-7225 or send an email to jlpospisil@yahoo.com.
Silent Auction on Saturday
A silent auction will be held inside the hall on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
For more information, call/text Jesse 512-826-7371 or Linda 512-415-7225 or email jlpospisil@yahoo.com. <> Linda Pospisil
Secretary/Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members to volunteer at local turkey dinner
Who is ready to help with fall turkey fun? SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje will be volunteering at St. Andrew’s turkey dinner on Sunday, October 27 to help the Hillje Altar Society. Volunteering will begin about 9 a.m. to be ready for serving at 11 a.m. The dinner will be at St. Andrew’s Parish Hall, 207 St. Andrew Street. Members are welcome to help with volunteering for the event. See you in the serving line, Sharon Borak Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
LODGE 47, SEATON MEMBER CELEBRATES 80TH BIRTHDAY
Happy 80th birthday, Lewis Sodek! On September 25, please wish this youngster a big, happy birthday! He is a wonderful husband, father, papa, great-papa, friend, and community volunteer. He never sits still and doesn’t look his age. Happy birthday, Dad!
Love, Brenda Sodek Hoelscher
MRS. PATSY IS WELCOMED AT DISTRICT TWO MEETING
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje gives back to community with donation projects
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje meeting was called to order on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Mikeska’s Bar-B-Que Banquet Room by President Linda Henderson. Ardis Bacak led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the sick and departed members were honored in a moment of silence. Linda Henderson recognized all Lodge 40 officers. Guests were District Six Director Annie Vahalik and husband Philip Vahalik.
Lisa Reck made a motion that the minutes published in the June 17 Vestnik be approved, and Laverne Bacak seconded the motion. The motion was passed. The treasurer’s report was read, and members accepted the report.
Linda Henderson gave a thank you for attending the meeting, volunteering, bringing refreshments, and bringing your items for the Boys and Girls Club.
Vlasta Bartos discussed the Cemetery Committee. Currently the committee is caring for one grave.
Sharon Borak reported on the success of Lodge 40 volunteer activities for the past quarter. For the next quarter, remember that on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., we participate in volunteering at Blessing Cup in El Campo. On September 12 at 5 p.m., we will visit the Boys and Girls Club in El Campo to donate items collected for the Book Bonanza Caring Challenge. On October 5 at 10 a.m., we will be donating gift cards to El Campo and Louise Public Library to support the children’s programs. At the next meeting on December 8, members will be donating to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Remember to look in the Vestnik for updates to the volunteer-
submitted by Brenda Hoelscher, Secretary/Reporter • Lodge 47, Seaton
ing and social calendar.
Lisa Reck reported the new membership in the youth program.
Linda Henderson discussed the progress on the building clean-out. Donations like tables were made to local organizations like the Blessing Cup.
Director Vahalik reported on the results from the State Youth Showcase on July 26 and 27. District Six youth will be participating in the El Campo Christmas Parade. September 22 will be fall fun day in Victoria beginning at 10:30 a.m. The event will have games, music, dancing, and contests for everyone to enjoy. Remember to submit membership referral forms.
New Business
Death claims, new members, and lapses in policies were discussed.
Patsy Reck made a motion to donate a $50 gift card to both the El Campo and Louise Public Libraries to support the children’s programs. Laverne Bacak seconded the motion, and it passed.
Charlene Borak made a motion for Lodge 40 to provide a meal from Mikeska’s Bar-B-Que at the December 8 Christmas party meeting. Patsy Reck seconded the motion. The motion was passed. A cake will be provided to recognize the 25-year, 50-year, and 75-year members for the 2024 year. Registration for the December 8 meeting will begin at 11:30 a.m. The meal will begin at 12 p.m., then we will begin the meeting at 1 p.m.
September, October, and November birthdays were recognized and sung to. Charlene Borak made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Patsy Reck seconded the motion. The motion to adjourn the meeting was passed. Linda Henderson adjourned the meeting at 2:30 p.m.
Members enjoyed bringing items to the September meeting for the SPJST “Book Bonanza” Caring Challenge. Everyone enjoyed refreshments and conversation after the meeting. BOTTOM PHOTOS: Lodge 40 adult and youth donate books, games, and more to the Boys and Girls Club in El Campo. —Sharon Borak, Secretary
Honorary District Two Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky with . . . State Fraternal Director Frank Horak . . . Brenda Hoelscher . . . Dean Stout, granddaughter Emma Regan, and daughter Melanie Regan . . . previous youth club members Brooke Hoelscher and Brandon Hoelscher . . . Nora Sodek.
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members participate in SPJST “Book Bonanza” challenge
Everyone enjoyed refreshments, door prizes, games, and social conversation after the meeting.
Next Meeting—December 8
The next meeting is Sunday, December 8 at 1 p.m. at Mikeska’s Bar-BQue Banquet Room.
Sharon Borak, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje plans upcoming volunteer activities
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje met on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 1 p.m. in Mikeska’s Bar-B-Que Banquet Room. Vice President Ardis Bacak led the members in a moment of silence for the sick and departed SPJST members. She also recognized Georgia Henderson, who is sick in a Victoria hospital. All of our members are wishing her a speedy recovery, and we hope she will be home soon.
At our meeting, the members voting to donate $50 to the El Campo Public Library and Louise Branch Library towards their children’s programs.
We also discussed the District Six Fall Fun Day at Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival at the Victoria Community Center on Sunday, September 22.
Volunteer activities for Lodge 40 through December are:
• Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon - volunteering at the Blessing Cup. The sign-in sheet is in the office with Charlene Borak.
• October 5 at 10 a.m. - donation of individually wrapped candy or gift cards to the El Campo Public Library for the Halloween party.
• December - activity will be donating to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund.
After our September meeting, delicious refreshments were served with door prizes and great conversations.
Next Meeting—December 8
The next meeting will be Sunday, December 8 at Mikeska’s Banquet Hall off of Interstate 69. All members are invited to attend.
Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthly lodge meeting on Sunday, September 8, 2024, due to the Labor Day holiday weekend conflicting with the normal first Sunday meeting date. The meeting was called to order by President Brandon Bartek. A moment of silence was observed for deceased members. Currently on the sick list are Patsy Koslovsky, Judy Pechal, and Brenda Hoelscher with well wishes for a speedy recovery.
Brenda Hoelscher read the August
lodge and board minutes. Danny Stepan gave the bar report for August bookings and Friday night events. Rick Beck noted the 5K walk/run and Caldwell Kolache Festival upcoming events.
Brandon read Emily’s financial balances along with numbers from the District Two meeting.
Youth Leader Amber Bartek stated the youth club collected books for August and will write thank you cards for the “Teacher Tribute” in September. The youth club also helped sort through all of the wooden chairs for the hall. They helped organize and sort the aged wooden chairs. Amber also discussed the upcoming September and October hall bookings.
Old Business—Brandon Bartek discussed Seaton’s parquet wooden dance
gives cares shares
OCTOBER MONTHLY CHALLENGE 2024
BOUNTY OF GIVING
SH EBOX of smiles
Create a shoebox of smiles by filling a shoebox (or many!) with essentials for Operation Christmas Child or another local organization in need. Your thoughtful contributions will bring smiles to those who need it most. Let’s share the joy of giving and make a difference in the lives of others.
Photograph your contributions and members who participated. Submit photos and details at spjst.org/gives and share it on social media using #spjstgives.
Questions?
Call 254-773-1575, ext. 177
floor. Floors were inspected piece by piece, replacement pieces as needed, floors were then sanded, leveled, and sealed. The process took several weeks; but was worth the wait. The floor was finished and looks beautiful. Partial funds for the dance floor repairs have been received from the Texas Dance Hall Preservation (Seaton is now a member of the Dance Hall Preservation) and Heart of Texas Electric Co-op (HOTEC) Community Round-Up program, but we are still in need of more funds to completely pay for the dance floor repairs. Seaton’s Outdoor Extravaganza on September 21 will help with the remainder of the dance floor cost. Seaton participated in the Temple Feed Venado Grande Wildlife Event that was held on August 20. Seaton gave four Extravaganza tickets as door prizes for the wildlife event. Seaton held a successful first dance on the newly renovated dance floor on September 7 with the Backroads Band. Thank you to all that helped work the kitchen and hall! Thanks to all of our dancers that came out to dance on our beautiful dance floor.
New Business—Seaton is currently planning future dances for Star Hall. Stay tuned and watch our Facebook page for updates.
September birthdays and anniversaries were announced. A special happy 80th birthday to Lewis Sodek on September 25. Happy Grandparents Day!
Next Meeting—October 6
The next meeting will be Sunday, October 6 at 2 p.m.
Lodge 47, Seaton 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 always, follow Lodge 47 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lodge47Sea tonStarHall/.
Fraternally, Brenda Hoelscher Reporter/Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena to honor Veterans with meal, program Oct. 14
Lodge 49, Rowena will honor all Veterans with a meal and special program on Monday, October 14, 2024, starting at 11 a.m. at the lodge hall, 609 South FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Families are invited. The meal is free for all Veterans with a $5 fee for others. Please RSVP by October 10 by calling Beverly 325-4424841 or Sylvia 325-442-3141.
Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—
Lodge 63, Sweet Home members to assist at local church picnic
Lodge 63, Sweet Home members will once again participate in preparing for the Sweet Home Queen of Peace Church picnic. Any lodge member wishing to volunteer is to report to the Sweet Home Fire Station at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The picnic will be held on Sunday, September 29, with many of our members preparing and serving the meal, donating to the auction, and volunteering in various other capacities. If you cannot make it on Saturday, come out on Sunday and enjoy the day in Sweet Home!
Fraternally,
Elaine Berkovsky, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena Supports Winters ISD With
Lodge 49, Rowena members collected school supplies at their meeting and delivered them to Winters ISD on August 12, 2024. Accepting the supplies were school office personnel Stephenie Bollinger, Kathy Horner, Shayla Armstrong, Nancy Cooper, and Shirla Mullins.
School Supplies
Lodge 67, Schulenburg reports on August meeting
A date was set for the annual Christmas party, followed by the treasurer’s report and a report about the SPJST Convention.
Lodge 67, Schulenburg to discuss merger at December 5 meeting
Lodge 67, Schulenburg will host its quarterly meeting on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Oakridge Restaurant at 712 North US 77 in Schulenburg, Texas. The meeting will be important as we will be discussing the possibility of merging Lodge 67, Schulenburg with Lodge 8, Weimar. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m. and be followed by a short business meeting at 6 p.m.
This meeting will take place in conjunction with our annual Christmas party, therefore social hour will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m. A full buffet meal will be served. Door prizes will be presented.
All Lodge 67, Schulenburg and Lodge 8, Weimar members are urged to attend.
Thanks,
Adrienne Kobza, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland members meet, eat at September gathering
Dear Members and Friends,
Officers of Lodge 67, Schulenburg held their quarterly meeting on Monday, August 26, 2024, at Oakridge Restaurant. Items on the agenda included a discussion, followed by a motion, second, and approval, to host a meeting to discuss merging Lodge 67, Schulenburg and Lodge 8, Weimar.
Lodge 49, Rowena welcomes Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys
Adrienne Kobza, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland met on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Restoration Fellowship Hall with President Rita Spinn presiding. Lewis “Buddy” Wald led us in prayer and thanksgiving for the meal to follow. Thank you to Risa Pajestka, Michelle Taylor, Thomas Zajicek, Sarah Zajicek, and Virginia Zajicek for setup and the meal that was provided.
President Spinn asked everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and a
Lodge 49, Rowena welcomed Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys to its historic hall on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Lodge members hosted the concession stand at the evening dance. —Sylvia Rollwitz, FAC
Lodge 49, Rowena Hosts Quarterly Meeting And School Supply Drive
moment of silence for departed members. Secretary Linda Hill had handed out minutes from the previous meeting, and they were approved as printed, on a motion by Monica McDougall, seconded by Shirley Liles. New members accepted were Juan Castro, Claire Pajestka, and Sarah Zajicek, on a motion by Frank Horak, seconded by Lewis Wald. A thank you from CTCDRT was received for our donation. Treasurer Joyce Martinets handed out a printed financial report with all in fine standing.
President Spinn gave updates from the District Two meeting in Seaton on August 4, thanking members that were present; fundraiser at Lodge 48, Beyersville on August 17; and a function at Lodge 29, Taylor on August 19. President Spinn is serving on the SPJST Governance Committee and asked us to support other lodges with their functions. She thanked Bethany Zajicek and Hayden Taylor for participating in the State Youth Showcase and congratulated Bethany on placing on two items.
Vice President/FAC Frank Pajestka gave a report on bingo and asked for a donation for Czech Heritage Month to be made to the Holland PTO for the teachers. State Fraternal Director Frank Horak spoke on the 5K run/walk for the Czech Heritage Museum fundraiser on Saturday, October 5 at Bold Republic Brewing in Temple.
Birthdays in September are Thomas Zajicek, Frank Horak, Joe Liles, and Virginia Zajicek. Birthdays in October are Angie Pavelka, Lewis Wald, Shirley Liles, and Brad Zajicek. Jeanette and Lewis Wald will have an anniversary in October.
Bethany and Thomas Zajicek handed out door prizes to everyone in attendance in honor of Grandparents’ Day.
SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena met for its quarterly meeting and social on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at the lodge hall. The meeting was conducted by President Tanya Wales with refreshments served after the meeting. Members donated school supplies with approximately 185 items donated.
—Sylvia Rollwitz, FAC
Everyone was a winner; grandparent or not!
Kenneth Drake moved adjourn the meeting with a second by Connie Horak. Motion carried.
Next Meeting—November 4
The next meeting will be Monday, November 4 due to Veterans’ Day on the following Monday. Election of officers will be held with installation to follow.
Fraternally, Frank Pajestka
Vice President/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on September meeting
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville met Sunday, September 15, 2024, at 12 p.m.
President Vincent Newman said a prayer of thanks, and everyone enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch. Members brought side dishes and desserts. I want to thank Willie Mae Kuykendall and her kitchen committee for getting everything ready for us.
At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman called the meeting to order. Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. Everyone answered the roll call. Added to our sick list is Glenn McDonald. We
Lodge 49, Rowena Bakes, Serves Cookies to Ballinger Health, Rehab Residents
On August 15, 2024, Lodge 49, Rowena provided cookies for Ballinger Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Ballinger. Members enjoyed giving back to the community by baking and serving cookies to residents and guests after the weekly mass.
—Sylvia Rollwitz, FAC
pray for quick healing and successful test results.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read the minutes, and they were approved as read. Treasurer/Special Funds Chair Bradley Stavinoha read his reports, and they were approved as read.
Under old business, Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha said since the hall is rented on September 21, there won’t be any food trucks using the lodge’s parking lot. He also announced that he will bring a plastic tote for the lodge to store pantry items such as paper towels, napkins, knives, forks, etc.
Since we didn’t have any new business to discuss, we drew for door prizes. Winners were Sidney Blinka, Willie Mae Kuykendall, Glenn McDonald, and Bradley Stavinoha. Congratulations to our lucky winners!
Next Meeting—October 20
Next month on Sunday, October 20, it was decided to have fried chicken. Members, please bring a side dish and/or a dessert. See you at the next meeting!
Fraternally,
Jeanette Newman, Reporter
—SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas plan fall, Christmas activities
Dear Readers,
Members met on Sunday, September 15, 2024, for their monthly meeting. The meeting was called to order at 2:45 p.m. by President Vicki Sims. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Charles Nemec with a moment of silence held for our departed members, our troops serving our country, and those needing some special intentions. We also were sending special get well wishes to District Three Director John Engelke for a safe and speedy recovery after he took a fall and was recovering from surgery.
Secretary Cherri Petr then read the minutes from last month’s meeting which were approved by all present. Secretary Cherri then read correspondence received. In the absence of Vice President Lynda Novak, President Sims reported that at the recent Czech Culture Society meeting that plans were coming together for another successful Czech and Slovak Heritage Day celebration on Sunday, October 13 at Dallas Sokol from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Old business - it was brought up that at our last meeting we had started discussing charitable contributions we, as a lodge, could donate to help support our fellow lodges and community. We continued that discussion at our meeting today and will be gifting three recipients during this last quarter of the year.
New business - Vicki Sims announced that Lodge 84 will be spreading the spirit of giving by decorating a Czech Christmas tree with a special service project twist and will have the tree at the Czech & Slovak Heritage Day for the “special service project twist!”
We then briefly discussed the Christmas party to be held jointly with BetterLife, KJT Society 111, KJZT Society 108, and SPJST Lodge 84 on Sunday, December 1 at Sokol Dallas. More details will be forthcoming as they get confirmed so please be reading your Vestnik!
President Vicki thanked everyone for coming to the meeting. She said she looks forward to seeing everyone on October 13 at the Czech & Slovak Heritage Day Celebration. Additionally, she asked everyone to mark your calendars for Sunday, November 10 when our
Lodge
80,
Holland bi-monthly meeting scenes
Lodge 80, Holland hosted its bi-monthly meeting on September 10, 2024, at Restoration Fellowship Church in Holland - formerly SPJST Lodge 80, Holland. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 80 Officers prepare for the meeting. Left to right, FAC Frank Pajestka, President Rita Spinn, Secretary/Reporter Linda Hill, and Treasurer Joyce Martinets. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 80 members enjoy fellowship and delicious food.
—Risa Pajestka
monthly meeting will be held at the PetrSims Farm in Ennis. More details to follow so be watching your Vestnik!
The meeting was then adjourned and everyone enjoyed the svacina!
Fraternally,
Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas to help host Czech and Slovak Heritage Day on October 13
The American Czech Culture Society and its member societies – Sokol Dallas, Better Life, SPJST, KJT, KJZT, RVOS, VH Czech School, and Slovak Consulate – present Czech and Slovak Heritage Day on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The day includes music, food, vendors, raffle, jump house, ice cream truck, and children’s activities. Music and entertainment will be Dallas Czech Orchestra, Beseda Dancers Ennis and Fort Worth, VH Czech School Dancers, Czexasanka, UNT Brass Band, Laddie Gajdica Jam Session, and LoneStar Legends Band. Admission is $10 per person. Ages 16 and under are free of charge.
A Sokol run is scheduled for 10 to 11:30 a.m. Meet at Harry Moss Park. Wear kroj. Bring instruments for the jam session.
For more information, contact Bob Podhrasky eventinfo@sokoldallas.org;
give prizes to Delvin Tschoerner, left photo, and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, right photo.
SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT MAGALY REYNA
SPJST is proud to announce the addition of Magaly Reyna to its team of skilled and compassionate agents. With a background in community outreach and insurance services, Magaly brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role.
Magaly has been licensed in the state of Texas since 2019, initially partnering with her husband to help clients navigate the complexities of Medicare plans. Drawing on her 14 years of experience in community outreach, Magaly is now excited to expand her expertise by offering life insurance and annuity products to meet the financial needs of SPJST members.
“I’m thrilled to join the SPJST family and help clients secure their futures with life insurance and annuities,” said Magaly. “I’ve always been passionate about serving my community, and I look forward to continuing that mission through my new role with SPJST.”
Magaly is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who understands the importance of
ma2reyna@gmail.com
family and financial planning. Her experience, combined with her dedication to providing exceptional service, makes her a valuable asset to SPJST and the communities she serves. She is a member of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi. —SPJST—
ABOVE PHOTOS: Bethany and Thomas Zajicek
Nina Marcussen czechschoolofdallas@yahoo.com; or Lynda Novak magiclady_46@hotmail.com.
Lynda Novak, Vice President —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston Czechfest features Chris Rybak
Lodge 88, Houston’s biggest event of the year is coming: Czechfest 2024 is on Saturday, October 12 featuring Chris Rybak, and tickets are on sale NOW! Sweet updated logo, huh? Yep, that’s Charles Bridge.
Czechfest has tripled in size over the last three years (actual math, not hyperbole) because we have made it a better and better event each year but kept ticket prices the same. Who even does that anymore?
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Ci rcle meeting scenes
Next Meeting—October 13
The next meeting is Sunday, October 13 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall.
Trey Bielefeld, President —SPJST—
Lodge 133, San Antonio meets Sept. 29
Czechfest starts a little earlier this year so families with littles can get some fun in before naptime. As the day goes on, we will transition towards the Czech festival you all know and love. So what can you expect?
• More music - Chris Rybak plus the Czech Orchestra inside the ballroom along with the Marketplace.
• More food options including more barbecue and a traditional Czech meal. If you want the traditional Czech meal, please pre-buy when you get tickets. We cannot guarantee we won’t run out unless you pre-order.
• More kolaches because yum and the return of the kolache eating contest.
• Swag! Y’all have been asking for this, and now it’s happening. Czechfest t-shirts, koozies, beer steins, and more.
• A pumpkin patch for pumpkin painting for the kiddos.
Lodge 97, Placedo collects for a cause at quarterly meeting
• Puppet shows - Did you know that puppetry has long been a big part of Czech culture and was used to help preserve that culture during Austrian, Nazi, and Russian occupation?
• A Grand March! With the number of people we are planning for, this could be a whopper. If this one is big enough, we will invite the folks at Guinness next year.
• The return of fair games for the kiddos! Complete with earning your Czech passport.
• Plus much more!
It’s going to be great! Get your tickets now as prices will never be lower. Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville members meet at district fall fun day
SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville held its meeting on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Jourdanton Community Center in conjunction with District Seven’s fall fun day. President Bielefeld called the meeting to order, and members recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call confirmed that all officers were present.
A motion was made to postpone all business until the October meeting, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the festivities of fall fun day. The motion passed unanimously.
After the meeting, members enjoyed a potluck lunch, followed by games of dominoes and bingo.
Lodge 133, San Antonio will meet Sunday, September 29, 2024, at Bill Miller’s, located at 1418 Pleasanton Road from 2 to 4 p.m. We will have bingo and door prizes. Please call Marie Garcia (interim president) with any questions at 210-861-4985. <>
Sincerely,
Marie C. Garcia, B.A.
—SPJST—
Megan Pflughaupt named Lodge 88, Houston Fraternalist of the Month
Congratulations to 2024-2025 Miss SPJST Megan Pflughaupt of Lodge 88, Houston! She was selected to be the Lodge 88 Fraternalist of the Month for August. Lodge 88 President Aaron Rigamonti is pictured presenting Megan with the kolache trophy award.
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle met on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Birthdays were Lucy Martinez, Delores York, Mary Ann Krivanek, and Betty Loyd. Hostess for September was Jeanette Tesar.
—Lisa Ellsworth
LEFT PHOTO: Gay Revel, Bernadette, Judy, Sarah, and Harold Bellanger gather at Lodge 97, Placedo’s quarterly meeting to turn in their pull tabs collection for Ronald McDonald House. RIGHT PHOTO: Harold Bellanger proudly displays the little collection house he colored, holding one pound of pull tabs inside. His granddaughter Sarah looks on with admiration.
—Judy Bellanger, Secretary
Lodge 139, Danbury recognizes outgoing president Lonnie Lostak
Lodge 139, Danbury held its quarterly meeting on Sunday, September 8, 2024. Officers and three guests attended. Reports were read.
SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha presented outgoing Lodge 139 President Lonnie Lostak a plaque of appreciation for his many years of service as an officer.
President/CEO Vanicek and District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha both spoke on behalf of SPJST.
Guest Kasey Campbell, representing Danbury Little League, received a donation from Lodge 139.
A discussion on lodge activities was held and will be looked into.
The lodge Christmas and meeting will be Sunday, December 1 at Main Street Steakhouse.
Lorenda Baldwin, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 151, WhartonEast Bernard hosts brainstorming session at quarterly meeting
SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard held its quarterly meeting and social on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Holy Family CCD building in Wharton. A light meal was served to 13 members and five guests at 6 p.m. President Gerald Macha led the prayer before the meal.
President Macha called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for our departed members. The roll was called, and all of our officers were present except Carolina Covarrubia. Special guests were SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, District Six Director Annie Vahalik and sister Patsy Zabransky, District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha, and Mark Macha.
First, the March minutes and treasurer’s report were presented. The June quarterly meeting was only held to discuss and vote on the merger of Lodge
28, East Bernard with Lodge 151, Wharton. After the March minutes and treasurer’s report had been reviewed, David Bucek made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by Bennie Hundl, and it was approved. Then the June minutes and treasurer’s report were presented. After they had been reviewed, Frances Macha made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by Glenn Kaminsky. Motion passed. The September treasurer’s report did not show the amount of money Lodge 28, East Bernard deposited in Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard’s bank account because the treasurer’s report had been made before the deposit. The amount of the deposit was shared with the members.
Communications were read. Secretary Janie Bucek announced our lodge had three new members. In addition, she reported one policy was canceled, and four policies had been terminated. Lodge 28, East Bernard’s money management account had been transferred to Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard. Treasurer Edith Molberg read the annuity value report for the period ending August 31.
Lodge 117, Robstown collects, donates school supplies
Lodge 117, Robstown President Frances McDonald, right, and Treasurer Kathryn Marek display the lodge’s school supplies donation. Pictured with them is Territory Manager Ralph Juarez who was visiting their recent meeting. The school supplies were donated to the local school.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Janie Bucek reported on the many September activities, festivals, and events in the state.
President Macha was a delegate at the 34th SPJST Convention. He gave a report on the convention.
David Bucek presented the cemetery report. He stated everything is being taken care of at the Velehrad Cemetery.
Under new business, David Bucek made a motion to accept our three new members. Alan Pribyl seconded the motion, and it was approved. We would like to welcome Victoria Ruiz Pena, Silverto Martinez Solis, and Irma Cantu to Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard.
David Bucek made a motion to donate $150 to the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Needville (Christmas activity fund); $150 to the S.P.J.S.T Senior Living Center in Hillje (Christmas activity fund); $100 to the SPJST Scholarship Fund; $100 to Share; $100 to the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center; $100 to Wharton Depot Museum’s model train display; and $50 to Boy Scouts Troop 785 in East Bernard. The motion was seconded by Anton Salinas, and it passed.
Frances Macha made a motion to have our December quarterly meeting and social at Hungerford Community Center and have a catered meal. The motion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it was approved. President Gerald Macha will make all the arrangements.
A memorial service was held for departed Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard members Alfred Schaer, Gloria Kaminsky Greenwood, Frank Buxkemper, Abe Mack, Jr., Felicita Lopez, Theresa Ann Siska, and Alice Lucille Coody. Edith Molberg conducted the memorial service. David Bucek lit a candle for each departed member.
SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek led a discussion on how to help our lodge be more successful. He asked us to name all the things our lodge currently does and what other things could our lodge do. Answers were written on a chart. Members received a ticket for each answer, and the tickets were put into a drawing for three gift cards. The compiled list will be shared with the lodge secretary.
Director Vahalik praised the good work Gerald Macha and Jeanette Kaminsky did at the SPJST State Convention. Next, she reported the SPJST Youth Showcase was successful. Last of all, she reminded us the SPJST District
Lodge 139, Danbury shares September meeting scenes
Lodge 139, Danbury members met Sunday, September 8, 2024. Enjoying the conversation are, from bottom left, Lonnie Lostak, Harold Lostak, Gina Maness, Lorenda Baldwin, SPJST Presiden t / CEO Brian Vanicek, and Ella Marie Filipp.
Danbury Little League representative Kasey Campbell, center, receives a donation from Lodge 139 FAC Lorenda Baldwin and President Harold Lostak.
SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, left, presents outgoing Lodge 139 President Lonnie Lostak with a plaque of appreciation for his many years of service. Also pictured is Lodge 139 President Harold lostak.
Lodge 142, Houston recognizes members at September meeting
LEFT PHOTO: A mighty big shout-out to Elizabeth and Dennis Hermis who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on September 21. Congratulations! PHOTO 2: September birthday celebrant - Brent Weikel. PHOTO 3: Shelley Weikel, teacher at Northhampton Elementary School, accepts our donations of school supplies. PHOTO 4: Braelyn Muzny
Six Fun Day will be held in conjunction with the Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival that will be held on September 22.
Our birthday honorees were Martha Macha and Frances Macha. Both of them celebrated their birthday on September 4. Martha Macha’s birthday was special because she celebrated her 98th birthday.
Names for door prizes were drawn. The door prizes were provided by the SPJST Home Office and the lodge.
President Macha adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m.
Fraternally,
Janie Bucek, Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge
154, Fort Worth posts Sokol legends, shares member news
In 2023, the late Rome Milan of Lodge 154, Fort Worth was inducted into the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame. While recently looking back at all of the past inductees from 1959 to now, there have been many other Sokol members honored which we have compiled into the following list of gymnasts:
Frank Kriz, Sokol New York 1920, 1924, 1928 Olympian
Charles Vavra, Sokol Cleveland
Paul Fina, Sokol Chicago
Mildred Prchal, Sokol Tabor Chicago
Joseph Kotys, Sokol Cleveland
Ted Muzyczko, Sokol USA (Slovak)
Barbara Galleher Tonry, Sokol Dallas - DAC
Jerry Hardy, Sokol New York
Jay Ashmore, Sokol Dallas - DAC
Rudolf Hradecky, Sokol New York
Norma Zabka, Sokol New York
Jim Hartung, Sokol Omaha 1984 Gold Medalist
Avis Tieber Jamieson, Sokol Dallas
Phil Cahoy, Sokol Omaha 1980 Team Gymnast
Ellen Garlicki Nyemcsik, Sokol New Jersey
Rome Milan, Sokol Fort Worth
Member/Lodge Shout Outs
Debbie (Milan) Ulrickson performed at halftime of the Dallas Wings WNBA basketball game with her dance team.
Our last SPJST Lodge 154, Fort Worth meeting had a larger than usual
proudly displays her winning medals and ribbons from the recent SPJST State Youth Showcase. PHOTO 5: Some of Braelyn’s entries were a picture frame made of shells, a Christmas artwork picture, and the cutest display of puppies made from Legos.
—Pat Schleider, FAC
attendance, while we also celebrated Carolyn Cleveland’s birthday!
Libbie Vrla has been spotted recently in the Star Telegram in ads for Watermark Living. Keep an eye out for her in your paper.
Thinking of the following members and wishing them good health and quick recoveries - Gay Williams, Lori Pace, Mary Jean Sledge, and Carolyn Cleveland.
Welcome Home, Jones’ Family
Sokol Fort Worth was represented at the International Sokol Slet this summer in Prague by Carrie Ann and Loy Jones and all five of their children: Clark, Reid, Macy, Holly, and Miles Jones. We
Lodge 97, Placedo gives to Victoria school
Lodge 97, Placedo collected and donated school supplies to Smith Stem School in Victoria.
the
was
hope you enjoyed your experience and had a memorable time in the Czech Republic.
Fraternally, Mary Steinman, Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 229,
Abilene invites all to October 5-6 fall festival at Lodge 49, Rowena
SPJST Lodge 229, Abilene will host a fall festival on Friday, October 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday, October 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lodge 49, Rowena Hall, located at 706 FM 2133 in Rowena, Texas. We are seeking vendors. Booths are $45 and include a 10x10 space with two tables and chairs. To reserve a space or for more details, contact Deborah Stevens 325660-1421 or stevensd51@yahoo.com. We hope to see you at this fall event in Rowena, Texas!
Fraternally, Deborah Stevens, FAC —SPJST—
Receiving
generous donation
Brooke Woods - STEM Outreach Coordinator. Members pictured with their donations are Bernadette Bellanger, Harold Bellanger, Aileen Lott, Dennis and Donna Vanek, Judy Bellanger, Sarah Bellanger, Gay Revel, Darrel Tomas, Ken Revel, Joyce Tomas, and Brooke Woods.
Lodge 258, Seguin announces future meeting dates
Here are future/tentative Sunday dates for 2025; location to be determined.
Sunday, March 30, 2025 Sunday, June 29, 2025 Sunday, September 21, 2025 Sunday, December 14, 2025
Note: Lodge meetings are held quarterly at 1 p.m., normally the third month of each quarter. Date, time, and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For information, call Lodge 258, Seguin President Chester Jenke at 210-413-3053.
Christmas Party 2024
Lodge 258 will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, December 29. Officers will also be elected. Watch for details.
Carrie Origas, Secretary —SPJST—
5 notable college football stadiums across the country
Road trips are a big part of the college football experience for many of the sport’s most devoted fans. Each weekend in late summer and throughout fall, highways in various college football hotbeds are filled with fans traveling to see their schools battle it out on the gridiron.
The atmosphere at college football games is something to behold, and that undoubtedly plays a role in the sport’s popularity. There’s certainly no shortage of fun places to attend a college football game on a fall Saturday, and the following are five of the more notable stadiums across the country.
SPJST
Reunions
Surovik-Nedbalek families
The Surovik-Nedbalek families will gather on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Nelsonville Brethren Church. All are asked to bring a covered dish and to arrive between 10:30 and 11 a.m.
Lillian Beasley Lodge 17, New Tabor —SPJST—
1. Albertsons Stadium, Boise, Idaho: Home of the Boise State Broncos, Albertsons Stadium is known for its blue turf. Albertsons Stadium also is among the more intimate settings for big-time college football, with roughly 36,000 seats to welcome fans of a Broncos team that has strung together 26 consecutive winning seasons.
2. Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, Wisconsin: Often referred to as “Camp Randall,” the home of the University of Wisconsin Badgers has a capacity of just under 76,000. But that capacity may feel a lot greater at the start of the fourth quarter, when House of Pain’s “Jump Around” is blared through the stadium’s speakers, prompting a raucous celebration among the loyal Badgers faithful.
3. Kyle Field, College Station, Texas: Enormous crowds are the standard at
Kyle Field, which has been home to the Texas A&M Aggies since the early twentieth century (the stadium underwent an impressive rebuilding project in 2013). The current capacity of Kyle Field is around 102,000, though the stadium did host roughly 110,000 fans for a game between the Aggies and the Ole Miss Rebels in 2014. Visitors to Kyle Field also might be struck by the Twelfth Man, a reference to the school’s student body, which remains standing throughout every game in a show of support and solidarity with their beloved Aggies.
4. Notre Dame Stadium, Notre Dame, Indiana: The University of Notre Dame boasts a storied college football tradition, and the team’s nearly 80,000-seat stadium is a fitting home for the Fighting Irish. Even fans who have never been to Notre Dame Stadium can likely
SPJST LODGE 151, WHARTON-EAST BERNARD MEMBERS GATHER FOR SEPTEMBER MEETING
LODGE 151 WHARTON - EAST BERNARD LODGE MEMBERS GATHERED FOR THEIR SEPTEMBER MEETING
Monday, September 9, 2024 • Wharton, Texas
Submitted by Mary Jo Salinas, Photographer/Reporter/Agent
PHOTO 1: On Monday, September 9, Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard met at the Holy Family Catholic Church CCD Building in Wharton. From right to left at the table are Anton Salinas, Mary Jo Salinas (not pictured), Martha Macha, Mark Macha, Glenn Kaminsky, and Alan Pribyl. At the second table are SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, Janie Bucek, David C. Bucek, Valerie Hundl, Bennie Hundl, and Carolyn
3: At this time, Lodge 151 has
Bucek. At the third table, on the far left, are, Edith Molberg, District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha (not pictured), Gerald Macha, Frances Macha, District Six Director Annie Vahalik and Patsy Zabransky. Everyone enjoyed a great meal and fellowship before the meeting. PHOTO 2: SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek shared some great ideas in hopes to help attract more members to attend lodge meetings.
and 47
Frances
and
are SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek, Photographer/ Reporter/Agent Mary Jo
and
PHOTO
604 adults
children, for a total of 651 members. Awesome! PHOTO 4: A memorial service was conducted by Edith Molberg and accompanied by David C. Bucek to remember dear beloved members who recently passed away. PHOTO 5: Lodge 151 recognized two September birthday members
–
Macha, left,
Martha Macha, who turned 98 years young this year. Congratulations, Martha! RIGHT PHOTO: From left
Salinas, District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha,
District Six Director Annie Vahalik.
recognize one of its signature features. Affectionately referred to as “Touchdown Jesus,” the Word of Life is a mural on the side of the Hesburgh Library on campus. The mural depicts Jesus with arms raised in a fashion similar to the signal referees give when a touchdown has been scored. The mural is now only partially visible from the stadium after a recent renovation, but it remains one of college football’s most recognizable symbols.
5. Autzen Stadium, Eugene, Oregon:
Proximity to the field is part of the appeal at the home of the University of Oregon Ducks. The stadium was designed to ensure fans are close to the field, which helps to make it among the nation’s loudest venues, even though it boasts a capacity of around 60,000. Fans also might be taken aback by Autzen Stadium’s impressive video screen, which was the largest in the sport upon its construction in 2020. Atmosphere is everything at college football games, and there’s no shortage of must-see stadiums for fans to visit. (MS)
—SPJST—
7 benefits of cheerleading
Cheerleading captivates millions of participants. Statista Research says roughly 3.8 million Americans age six and older participated in cheerleading in 2023, which was up from 3.5 million a year earlier. According to Cheer Canada, the nation’s governing body of cheerleading, the sport has more than 400 schools and clubs and roughly 25,000 participants across the country.
While competitions and supporting school teams are the main objectives of cheerleading, there are many additional benefits of being involved in the sport.
1. Teaches sportsmanship: Cheer helps to teach athletes how to accept defeat gracefully, be proud of successess and maintain respect for fellow competitors or teams no matter a game's final outcome.
2. Encourages teamwork: Cheerleading is a team sport that takes into consideration participants' strengths to achieve the best outcome for the team. Squads that are inclusive of all skill levels and athletes have the best environment for success.
3. Promotes physical fitness: Cheerleading is hard work that pushes the body through cardiovascular exercises as part of high-energy routines. Choreography can include dance, tumbling, jumps, and other stunts that necessitate stamina and strength.
Lodge 229, Abilene signs cards for Veterans
4. Fosters discipline: Practices, showing up on the sidelines for football games and other sports and competing against other cheer squads all are part of the cheerleading experience. Cheerleaders need to prepare and focus to be at the best of their abilities, and that preparation fosters a sense of discipline.
5. Helps to build confidence: As participants make new friends and develop their skills, their confidence levels grow. Performing in front of an audience helps cheerleaders adapt to being in the public eye, which also boosts their confidence.
6. Improves self-awareness: Cheerleaders need to be aware of their move-
ments both individually and as part of the squad. This involves being in tune with what their bodies are doing in the air and on the floor in relation to others.
7. Connects participants with their community: Not only are cheerleaders part of the team, they often act as ambassadors for schools and programs. This may take them to various events where they get to mingle with the community and spread good cheer.
Cheerleading benefits participants in a number of significant ways. (MS) —SPJST—
Ora Nell Chernosky of Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville
attains Grand Age of 96
SPJST congratulates Sister Ora Nell (Wensel) Chernosky of Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville, who celebrated her 96th birthday on August 3, 2024.
She was born to Rinehart and Alma Wensel on August 3, 1928. Her siblings included Walter Wensel, Ella Mae Teufel, and Gladys Stein, all deceased.
Ora Nell married Dennis Chernosky in 1948. Dennis passed away in 1998. The couple was blessed with children Quinnan Chernosky and JoRetta Parker; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
Ora Nell worked as a seamstress from her home for many years. She made clothes for her clients. She also made the twirlers’ uniforms for Hempstead High School Band for several years.
After both her children were in school, she went to work for Garth of Texas, a women’s clothing factory. This was during the 60s and 70s when double knit was the favored fabric for women’s suits. She worked at Garth for 16 years sewing and in the sales showroom. After the factory closed, she worked in retail sales at a local department store and a local gift shop. When Walmart opened in Hempstead, she began a 26-year career in the fabric/craft department until her retire-
ment. She made many friends who shared her interest in sewing and handicrafts.
Ora Nell’s numerous hobbies include quilting, crochet, embroidery, and Swedish weaving. She has also made and donated lap quilts for Veterans. Now, with arthritis limiting her, Ora Nell makes knitted caps which she has donated to hospitals for preemie babies and other patients. She also donates them to a local non-profit agency for young victims of violence and abuse.
One of her recollections as a young woman is of her and her two sisters helping her father take care of the family farm including long days of picking cotton while her older brother was serving as a soldier in World War II.
Ora Nell was a member of the local quilt guild for several years. In 2023, she was honored at the annual quilt show sponsored by Hempstead Knights of Columbus. Several of her quilts were displayed along with photos of her creations like afghans, crocheted dolls, and doilies.
Again, we congratulate Sister Chernosky on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Sister Chernosky, for your devotion to SPJST . May God bless you and your family. —SPJST—
Lodge 229, Abilene members and friends met during the summer to enjoy a meal and sign cards for Veterans in conjunction with the project benefiting Central Texas Veterans at the SPJST State Youth Showcase.
In Memoriam
In Memory of Harlan Jochen
Harlan James Jochen, a proud father, devoted husband, and dear friend, passed peacefully at his home with family at his side on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the age of 72.
Harlan Jochen
Born in Weimar, Texas, on August 18 to parents Nelson and Alice. Harlan and his two sisters grew up in Schulenburg on their family’s ranch, which remained a sanctuary and special place for Harlan throughout the years.
Harlan’s life was one of adventure, hard work, and fun. After graduating high school, he pursued a business degree at the University of Houston while working at Weingarten’s supermarket. It was also during this time that he was drafted to serve in the United States Army, which found him stationed in Germany for two years. Following his time in the military, he finished his degree then continued his career in the food retail industry.
His hard work combined with an entrepreneurial spirit is what led him and his family to Navasota, Texas, where Harlan purchased his first grocery store, Navasota Food Market. From one to several, over the years, Harlan successfully scaled his business to provide much-needed grocery stores in small Texas towns. He proudly worked alongside his employees in all aspects of the business, wearing his signature uniform that included a pair of cowboy boots and a large key chain that jingled and jangled. Friends and customers often said you always knew when he was in the store, because you could hear his boots and key chain from across the aisles.
Harlan resided in a home he had long admired, Navasota’s “Castle.” He and Joette purchased the house that they have called home for many years, hosting card games, holiday gatherings, visitors, friends, family, and good times. He cared for the community and enjoyed serving as an active member. Boards and memberships that Harlan dedicated time to over the years include SPJST
Lodge 142, Houston, of which he was a member, Industrial Foundation, Navasota Kiwanis Club, Ducks Unlimited, Navasota Chamber of Commerce, St. Patrick’s Church Council, Grimes County Fair, and the Navasota Zoning Board. Harlan was also a proud Master Mason for 37 years with Lodge 299.
In 2015, Harlan hung up his keychain and strategically exited his portfolio of grocery stores to spend more time traveling with his beloved wife of more than 22 years, Joette, family and friends. He loved taking drives to his ranch listening to country music, La Casita on Sundays, and spending time at his beach house in Costa Rica where he embodied the “Pura Vida” lifestyle that means enjoying the simple things in life.
A connoisseur of things, Harlan added fun and flair to life with his hunting, collection of cars, cowboy boots in any and all colors, and leathers and a pilot’s license he obtained in the 1980s. With a full plane, you would often find him leaving the Navasota airport heading south to Mexico for a margarita at the famous Ma Crosbys or across the country for family vacations. His mischievous side and aerial advantage gave him and friends the upper hand one year when they infamously launched water balloons at the Navasota River Rats.
Harlan will be deeply missed by all those he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife, Joette; daughter Mandy McNiece and husband John; daughter Kristel Jochen; daughter Taloyre and husband Darin; sister Nellwyn and husband Ronnie; and sister Karen and husband Jim.
He was a proud grandfather to Scott, Cody, Hayden, Dillon, Lauren, Austyn, and Nathan. Harlan was also blessed to have relationships that he held near and dear with both extended family members and friends including Rosalyn Parrish and her daughters, Reagan, Marlee, and Finleigh, and his long-time friend, Jared Patout.
A visitation with family and friends was Wednesday, September 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Chapel, and a funeral mass was celebrated Thursday, September 5 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Stoneham with Monsignor Adam McClosky as the celebrant.
Honorary pallbearers included Jared
Patout, Joe Orsak, Tommy Meyer, Sam Ohendalski, Jim Hassell, Derrl Ohnheiser, Ricky Isbell, and Danny Clark. Serving as active pallbearers were Jason Petter, Garrett Owens, Gunner Owens, J. Patout, Anthony Fontana, Reese Pistler, Justin Langley, and Jace Langley.
Following the rite of committal in the church cemetery, lunch was served in the church hall.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Richard Vajdak, Jr.
world revolved around his children, and everything he did was for them. He not only leaves an incredible legacy for them, but his love and kindness will also continue to live on through them because of the example he set.
Richard Raymond Vajdak, Jr., 63, of Snook, Texas, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024, after a brief and sudden illness. Visitation was Wednesday, August 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Strickland Funeral Home in Somerville. Funeral was Thursday, August 29 at 10 a.m. at Snook Brethren Church, followed by interment at Snook Cemetery.
Rick was born on March 21, 1961, to Richard Raymond Vajdak, Sr. and Maryann Jakubik Vajdak in Bryan. He graduated from Snook High School in 1979. He dedicated over 30 years of his career to Energy Transfer.
Rick has two children that were the absolute loves of his life, and they loved and admired him deeply in return. Dakota was born on December 6, 1990, and Khloe was born on September 5, 2011, to Gwen and Alexis, respectively. Anyone who knew Rick knew that his
Many people know Rick for his European skull mounts. He loved hunting, especially with his kids. He also loved helping turn deer heads into lifelong memories for family and friends from all over. Many also knew him for being very involved in and supportive of the local community. He enjoyed gardening, canning his fresh veggies, growing grapes, making homemade wine, barbecuing and cookoffs, raising his cows, supporting his kids in sports, and most recently, helping Khloe raise chickens for the fair. Rick was loving, incredibly generous, full of jokes and laughs, and would drop everything to help anyone at any given moment.
He was a member of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook.
Rick was preceded in death by his mother and father, Maryann and Richard Raymond Vajdak, Sr.
He is survived by son Dakota Vajdak and wife Jane; daughter Khloe Vajdak; beloved dog Grace; brothers Billy and Kenneth Vajdak; sister Pat Collins; along with their respective spouses and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends that felt more like family.
Pallbearers were Arnold Motl, Bruce Faust, David Faust, Edward Macik, Jimmy Joe Svec, Kevin Junek, Robert Rubach, and Travis Becker. Honorary pallbearers were Billy Vajdak, Kenneth Vajdak, and Patricia (Pat) Collins.
The family requests donations be made to Snook 4H, an organization Rick gladly supported.
—SPJST—
Rick Vajdak, Jr.
SPJST YOUTH SECTION
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
On Saturday, September 14, 2024, I was able to attend the Kolache Festival in Caldwell. It was such an honor being introduced by our State Fraternal Director Mr. Frank, along with the other members of the Royalty Court and several district level royalty that were able to attend. There was so much to see at the festival then we had a lot of fun helping set up and watching the kolache eating contest. We even got to take a picture with the winners. Being this year’s Junior Miss SPJST has been so much fun! I’m looking forward to the next appearance.
—Vanessa Riha, age 11
Junior Miss SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton
TEMPLE, TEXAS
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club shares activities
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club members show the books they collected for the Book Bananza Caring Challenge. RIGHT PHOTO: Youth from Lodge
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club members at their September meeting. Pictured with the youth are District Six Director Annie Vahalik, at left, and
30, Taiton made angel ornaments and donated them to the Victoria Czech Heritage Festival for the country store. The festival will be held on September 22, 2024.
Youth Leader Lisa Bubela, at right. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 30 youth enjoyed an end-of-summer outing at Lost Lagoon on August 25.
Lodge 47, SEATON Youth Teacher appreciation
Mrs. Guevara is my teacher for teacher appreciation. She is the Spanish 2-5 teacher at Riesel High School. She is a smart and leading teacher. She values every student and teacher. I asked Mrs. Guevara why she wanted to become a teacher and what her favorite part about being a teacher is. She said, “I started teaching because I love teaching as a whole, and I enjoy being able to teach new things. My favorite thing about it is exposing students to things that they’re not aware of, so like me being a kind of bridge or vessel to other cultures.”
Mrs. Guevara has helped me understand and learn so much more in the Spanish language that I could ever do on my own. I am grateful she decided to join our school family.
Paetyn Beckendorf Lodge 47, Seaton
Lodge 30, Taiton youth, adults host Grandparents Day breakfast
On Sunday, September 8, 2024, the adult lodge and youth club sponsored a Grandparents Day breakfast after the 8:30 a.m. mass at St. John’s Parish in Taiton.
We gathered for our monthly meeting on Saturday, September 7, the evening before, where we all worked together to decorate the hall and prepare the food for the next morning.
We had such a great time celebrating our grandparents, not only members of our lodge, but all those in attendance that morning. It was a wonderful way to show how SPJST really cares for its community.
Simone Riha, age 15 —SPJST—
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
eská Část
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Brazos Valley CHS Fall Czech Language Class
Brazos Valley Czech Heritage Society (BVCHS) is holding its Fall Czech Language Class on Mondays beginning September 9 through December 2, 2024. Class will be held at the St. Joseph Parish Activity Center, 700 East 26th Street, Bryan, Texas, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $35. Instructor is BVCHS member Stanislav (Stan) Vitha, originally from Olsovice in the Southern Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. There is still room in the class for more students! To register or if you have questions, call Marie Dulak 979-324-7871; or via email mdulak52@gmail.com.
Jeannine
Koll —SPJST—
2nd Annual Czech Heritage 5K set for October 5 in Temple
We are thrilled to announce that the Czech Heritage 5K is just around the corner. Save the date for Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Bold Republic Brewing Company, located in West Temple. This year’s event promises to be bigger, better, and more exciting!
Why Run?
• Support a Great Cause: Your participation directly contributes to the local Czech Heritage Museum and its yearlong activities in the community.
• Health and Fun: Enjoy a day of fitness, camaraderie, and celebration.
Not to mention free Czech lager for runners and the kick-off to Bold Republic’s Oktoberfest!
• Community Spirit: Reconnect with familiar faces and make new friends.
How to Register:
1. Visit czechheritage5k.com and click “Register Now.”
2. Choose your category and fill out the registration form.
If you have any questions or need assistance with registration, please contact us at czechheritage5k@gmail.com. We can’t wait to see you at the starting line!
—SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas to co-host Czech & Slovak Heritage Day on October 13
The American Czech Culture Society and its member societies – Sokol Dallas, Better Life, SPJST, KJT, KJZT, RVOS, VH Czech School, and Slovak Consulate – present Czech and Slovak Heritage Day on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The day includes music, food, vendors, raffle, jump house, ice cream truck, and children’s activities. Music and entertainment will be Dallas Czech Orchestra, Beseda Dancers Ennis and Fort Worth, VH Czech School Dancers, Czexasanka, UNT Brass Band, Laddie Gajdica Jam Session, and LoneStar Leg-
ends Band. Admission is $10 per person. Ages 16 and under are free of charge.
A Sokol run is scheduled for 10 to 11:30 a.m. Meet at Harry Moss Park. Wear kroj. Bring instruments for the jam session.
For more information, contact Bob Podhrasky eventinfo@sokoldallas.org; Nina Marcussen czechschoolofdallas@yahoo.com; or Lynda Novak magiclady_46@hotmail.com. Lynda Novak, Vice President —SPJST—
Czech out the fun at TCHCC Heritage Fest & Muziky
October 18-19 in La Grange
The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange will host the 12th annual Heritage Fest & Muziky on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19. The Festival will begin on Friday evening on the terrace in front of the Main Center and TCHCC’s famous homemade chicken and dumplings will be served while it lasts in the Hanslik Banquet Hall beginning at 5:30 p.m. The KJT Octoberfest on the Deck will begin at 4:30 p.m. with music by the Dujka Brothers from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Mark and John Dujka have been making music together for over 36 years and have several acknowledgments to their name. Bring your lawn chairs, but leave your coolers at home, please!
Saturday, the big day kicks off at 10 a.m. with an opening ceremony with the CHS Czech Royalty and area dignitaries at 10:30 a.m. The Ewald Kubota Hospoda will be filled with cold pivo and musical entertainment by the Moravians Band of Ennis and the Praha Brothers Band of Temple from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In the Fraternal Mutual Pavilion, enjoy hospitality and music, including a performance by The CzechMates Trio featuring Alfred Vrazel from 12 noon to 3 p.m. with a Czech singalong to conclude their performance. The Czech fraternal organizations will sponsor a variety of fun activities all day in that area. No admission will be charge for the grounds and events on Friday evening and Saturday during the day!
Enjoy more music at the Balcones Minerals Muziky, Muziky event from 7 to 9:30 p.m. in the Sanford Schmid Amphitheater, with gates opening at 5:30
p.m. Always a popular part of the Heritage Fest, this year’s Legends Series is Part X and will be the re-creation of the famous Baca Orchestras from Fayetteville, Texas. Join some of Texas’ most popular musicians as they take you on a trip through decades of music of that memorable Baca beat! The Show is sure to leave a nostalgic glow in your heart! Admission to the Amphitheater is only $15 and can be purchased at the gate only. The HEB Fireworks Finale will be at 9:30 p.m. over the Amphitheater, weather pending.
In addition to enjoying the great music, you’re invited to stroll the Czech Village, an early 1900s recreated village complete with residential houses, barns, and stores. Demonstrations of early life for the immigrants will take place throughout the grounds all day, including working in the Zapalac Saw Mill, the operation of the Czech Newspaper Museum press and engine, blacksmithing, corn shelling and grinding, hay pressing, and the making of textiles, soap, noodles, sausage, and more. Children activities will be available by the Leo’s Club (train ride), CHS Royalty (games), KJZT (pumpkin painting), SPJST, KJT and RVOS (games) along with many other activities for everyone to take part in. The famous Kolace Eating Contest (1 p.m.), Stein Holding Contest (3P), and Beer Tasting Contest are a few favorites. There will also be mule drawn wagon rides around the grounds all day!
A huge antique farm equipment show sponsored by the South Texas Wheel Spinners and Crank Twisters Club and a big antique/classic car show by H&H Automotive Supply - Schulenburg and La Grange NAPA will spread throughout the Czech Village. The Janak Barn and Texas Czech Agricultural Museum displays farm practices and implements from the late 1800s to 1940s. Visit the vendors for some good buys, including fresh, stone-ground corn meal for cooking, pickles, jellies, and jams, and much more.
The Czech Village houses two music museums. The Czech Music Museum of Texas, located in the Kalich House, features four genres of Czech music – classical, folk, polka, and liturgical. The Polka Lover’s Club of Texas Museum, located in the Hoelscher House and Huebner Center, features a display of Texas polka bands, as well as memorabilia and photos of the Polka Lover’s Club of America, Texas Chapter. Continued on back.
Inside the TCHCC Main Center, stop by the Kopecky Gift Shop to browse the brand-new stock of authentic Czech items, T-shirts, caps, crystal, periodicals, large selection of music CDs, and new Christmas decorations for 2024. The Hanslik Hall will be the site of the annual KJT State Taroky Championship. Swing in there, and they’d be happy to teach you this fun card game. The Czech Heritage Society of Texas and US Royalty will have displays and be more than happy to visit with you and tell you more about their role in Czech heritage.
Enjoy the current featured exhibits at the Center: Wallachian Wooden Folk Art in the Museum and the updated military and glass exhibits in the Library. Have you always wondered about your Czech roots? The spacious Melnar Library will offer help with genealogy research and volunteers will be on hand to help out.
Plenty to do for the entire family! Come Czech out all the fun and variety you could imagine!
—SPJST—
Travis-Williamson CHS meets October 8
Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society (TWCCHS) will meet Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Springhill Catfish Restaurant, 2505 West Pecan Street, Pflugerville. We begin gathering at 1 p.m. to order our lunch (optional). The meeting begins at 2 p.m. for business, etc.
October is Czech Heritage Month in Texas, and it would be nice if you have a kroj to wear it to the meeting. Program agenda TBA.
We will be finalizing preparations for the Czech Heritage Society State Meeting to be held on November 9 at SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville, 10450 FM 619, Taylor 76574. Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will host the meeting, and we ask all members to help make this meeting a success.
For information, please contact Dotty Davis at dottydavis9@gmail.com; or call/text 512-663-6592.
Janie Zbranek
—SPJST—
Bravos Valley CHS sets October 12 celebration
Brazos Valley Czech Heritage Society (BVCHS) is celebrating October Czech Heritage Month by putting on its annual Czech Heritage Celebration Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Joseph Parish Activity Center, 700 East 26th Street, Bryan 77803. Doors will open at 12 p.m., and lunch is at 12:30 p.m. with dancing from 1 to 4 p.m. Music will be by DJ Missee Mora. Cost is $15; 10 and under free. No alcohol will be allowed on the premises. Please RSVP by October 7 with a call/text to Sharon Clements 281-779-8627; or via email sharondclements@suddenlink.net.
Jeannine Koll
—SPJST—
Father Stephen Nesrsta, center, pastor at Holy Trinity Catholic Church - Corn Hill, along with two seminarians from the Czech Republic visit Czech Heritage Museum, Temple on August 16, 2024.
Hours of Operation
Czech Cu l tural Calendar
Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC), 119 West French Avenue, Temple TX. 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 hincrease their skill. For Museum information: tours, happenings, and activities, call: CHMGC 254-899-2935; email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; find them on Facebook; or visit the Center’s website https://czechheritagemuseum.org.
Monday through Saturday Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMH), 4920 San Jacinto Street, Houston TX. 77004. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibits. Culture, art, music, and stories of Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty 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 events at CCMH as well as free Czech language lessons and monthly membership socials. Monthly Movie Night: CCMH has reinstated monthly movie nights. Call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org.
TCGS Contact Information
Texas Czech Genealogical Society’s new correspondence address is PO Box 150772, Austin, TX 78715. Please send all correspondence to this address including items for Ceske Stopy
October 5
Czech Heritage 5K Run—at Bold Republic Brewing Company in west Temple. Your participation directly contributes to the local Czech Heritage Museum.
October 13
Save the Date! Czech & Slovak Heritage Day 2024—at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue, Dallas TX, 12 to 6 p.m.: music/dancing, foods, Czech performances, entertainment for children and adults, items for sale. Sponsors: SPJST, Sokol Dallas, KJT, KJZT, Better Life, and RVOS. Stay tuned to the Vestnik as we get closer to the date. Submitted by Lynda Novak, Vice President / Lodge 84, Dallas member. See advertisement on page 28.
October 18-19
Heritage Fest / Muziky—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairground Road, La Grange TX 78945: Friday - Oktoberfest on the Deck, 4:30 p.m.; music 6 to 9:30 p.m.; food served at 5:30 p.m. Saturday - Hospoda Music 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; antique farm show; car show; demonstrations; tarock tourney; children’s actvities; food/drinks; historical exhibits. Amphitheater: Muziky, Muziky, 7 p.m. Legends Series Part X - recreation of the Baca Or-
chestra of Fayetteville; HEB Fireworks Finalé at 9:30 p.m. For information, call the Center 888-785-4500; email info@czechtexas.org; or visit www.czechtexas.org.
November 2
Cyclone Costumes & Cocktails Fundraiser—at SPJST Lodge 24, CycloneFlag Hall, 411 FM 964, Burlington TX 76519: Spooky evening filled with yummy food, refreshing drinks, fun activities, dancing, and fabulous prize give-aways! Stretch the raffle and extra chance tickets available. Doors open at 5 p.m. Social hour 5 to 6 p.m., dinner 6 p.m., dance 7 p.m. Babysitting available for a small fee at St. Joseph Church Parish Hall. For tickets / information, call Shirley Hoelscher 254-541-7950 or Cathy Bruggman 254493-7039.
November 7-9
3rd Annual Cowtown - Birthplace of Western Swing Festival (CBWS)—at Lodge 92, Fort Worth - National Hall, 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth TX 76114: Three-day event features Bob Wills’ Texas Playboys directed by Jason Roberts, Jake Hooker and the Outsiders with Tommy Hooker, Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys, Billy Mata, Junior Brown, and many more! For tickets, visit www.birthplaceofwesternswing.com/festival.
—SPJST—
Czech Heritage Month in Texas is recognized annually - October 1 through 31. All Czech Texans are encouraged to participate in this month-long commemoration.
As we celebrate, we remember the past and our ancestors who were proud enough to stand up for what they believed in and loved. The purpose of this annual event is to preserve and promote the many contributions made by Czech immigrants and Czech Texans, and to honor our ancestors.
The Legislature of Texas passed a resolution, signed by then-Texas Governor George W. Bush, designating the month of October to be celebrated annually as “Texas Czech Heritage Month.”
The idea for the resolution was introduced by Fayette County Judge Ed Janecka of La Grange. The Travis-Williamson Czech Heritage Society, during the presidency of Dr. Dorothy Bohac, was instrumental in having the resolution passed.
The month of October was chosen because of its historical significance: Czechoslovakian Independence was proclaimed on October 28, 1918.
The special month of October of each year gives the opportunity to remember and commemorate our rich Czech heritage. Here are a few ideas:
= Speak with school superintendents and principals informing them of Czech Heritage Month. Suggest that aspects of Czech culture be included in the curriculum.
= Paint or sketch posters or cut out illustrations of the Czech Republic and display them in classrooms, halls, libraries, downtown shops, malls, and bulletin boards.
October is Czech Heritage Month in Texas
= Display the Czech Republic flag with the USA and Texas flags whenever possible.
= Ask students to write article about the Czech Republic, “What Czech Heritage Means to Me,” or about Czech-Americans living in Texas
= Teach students greetings in Czech: Ahoj, Dobry den, Na shledanou, Nazdar, and Vitame vas.
= Find pen pals in the Czech Republic.
= Make a collection of short resumes and photos on persons of Czech ancestry who were in various professions, such as engineers, geologists, lawyers, nurses, sports, musicians and singers, etc.
= Teach children a Czech song or a short dance routine. Play a video or cassette featuring “Annie in the Cabbage Patch,” “Red Handkerchief Round You Go,” or “The Beseda.” Ask students to participate in dancing.
= Develop a family tree. Distribute generation charts to students to take home and trace their roots for future descendants. Eight volumes of passenger lists compiled by Leo Baca have listings of passengers, ports of entry and names of ships on which they sailed.
= Take trips to Czech museums such as the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple, Caldwell Czech Heritage Museum, Dallas Czech Club Museum, Sokol Collection
in Ennis, Fayetteville Museum, and the Institute of Texan Cultures in San Antonio.
= Present Czech programs, music and singing of Czech songs at nursing homes, retirement homes, hospitals and veterans’ hospitals. You can provide this during meal time in the dining room or lobby. Feature singing and Czech music at shopping centers to make people aware of Czech Heritage Month.
= Share your travel experiences in the Czech Republic and items of interest from there.
= Restaurants: Feature a Czech menu during Czech month. Add a little something to a hamburger and call it Czech-a-burger.
= Ask the mayor of your city to issue a proclamation.
= Display a marquee sign, “Czech Heritage Month.”
= Newspaper media: Submit Czech recipes during that month. Ask a news reporter to interview some early settlers in Texas. Submit an article on Czech notables such as Jan Komensky, father of Education, or Vaclav Havel, former president of the Czech Republic. Write an article about Czech composers: Antonin Dvorak, Bedrich Smetana, Leos Janacek or Jaromir Vejvoda, composer of Skoda Lasky. Write an article on the Czech national anthem, Kde Domov Muj? - Where is My Home? Publish the anthem in English and Czech.
= Radio: Contact radio stations about placing special emphasis on Czech music and programs.
= Adopt a school in the Czech Republic.
= Television: Set up interviews early with exchange students from Czech Republic or any person visiting from there.
= Give special recognition to the oldest lady or gentleman of Czech descent in your city; write their profile and have it published.
= Have children tape record an interview with their grandparents or great-grandparents.
= Plant a tree—oak (dub) or linden (lipa) or a rosebush. These grow in the Czech Republic.
= Churches: Place an announcement about Czech Heritage Month in the church bulletin; offer a special prayer for all Czech ancestors; celebrate a polka mass and the singing of Czech songs.
= Book marks: Have some printed with Czech Heritage Month in Texas on one side and a business advertisement on the other side.
= Distribute flyers which point out historical markers or important places and persons.
It is important that every ethnic group hold an annual commemorative day. If we learn about other ethnic cultures and they learn about ours, it will help us to get along better in this world.
Editor’s Note: This was originally submitted to the Vestnik in 1997 by the late Willa Mae Cervenka, longtime member of SPJST Lodge 54, West.
Eastern, Central Europe see heaviest rain in decades
By Emmanuel Miculita, Sophie Tanno, Radina Gigova, and Niamh Kennedy
Some of the heaviest rain in years hit central and eastern Europe, beginning September 13, 2024, causing flooding and widespread disruption. Authorities warn that they have recorded the heaviest rainfall in 100 years over the past 24 hours. A slow-moving low pressure system dubbed Storm Boris dumped months’ worth of rain onto several of Europe’s historic capitals including Vienna, Bratislava, and Prague, over just a few days.
On Monday, September 16, heavy rainfall continued to pummel the region with red alerts, the highest-level warning, still in effect for portions of Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Slovakia.
In Poland, authorities advised residents of Moszczanka and Laka Prudnicka to evacuate after a dam at risk of collapse breached.
Rescuers have been working hard to rescue hundreds of people left stranded by heavy rainfall there. The effects were most critical in seven localities in Romania. Around 5,400 houses have been damaged in the southeastern region of Galati which has been hardest hit by the flooding.
Residents in one of the region’s villages, Pechea, recounted that gushes of water had “entered the house” and “tore down the walls” and destroyed her
kitchen appliances and killing her farm animals.
Factory worker Gica Stan, whose entire house was also flooded, said he didn’t even have a “needle left” and was now relying on donated clothes.
While rainfall is expected to gradually ease for some of the hardest hit areas as Storm Boris slowly heads south towards the Mediterranean, flooding could persist in already waterlogged areas.
Rivers have burst their banks in Poland and the Czech Republic. In southwest Poland, 1,600 people were evacuated in Kłodzko county as local rivers reached record high water levels and broke their banks. Kłodzko, a town of 25,000, was left partially submerged in water on Sunday.
In the Czech Republic, authorities have been grappling with torrential rainfall across the breadth of the country. Czech President Petr Pavel warned reporters on Sunday that the flooding was still “far from over” with the country’s poorest regions likely to suffer the “greatest damage” in the coming days.
Since the beginning of the extreme rains, more than 10,500 people have been evacuated in the Czech Republic.
To take your shoes off or not when visiting friends? Should you say hello to people in lifts? These might not seem the most obvious things to ask about when considering dos and don’ts in your own country, but of course things which you don’t even think about at home can be a big issue elsewhere.
Meeting, Greeting, and Saying Goodbye
One of the things you’ll immediately notice in the Czech Republic is that people say hello and goodbye to complete strangers in various situations, and if you come from an English-speaking country this can take a little getting used to.
For example, if you enter or leave a shop you should say dobrý den/dobrý večer - hello/good evening - or na schledanou - goodbye. Obviously in larger shops such as hypermarkets, you don’t need to greet people as you enter, but you should certainly acknowledge the person at the counter. And if you’re sharing a table with strangers in a restaurant or pub it’s common courtesy to greet the people sitting there. The same goes for lifts, and compartments in trains. In some ordinary trains, which usually don’t have compartments, you’ll notice people saying goodbye to each other if they’ve had some form of contact, whether it be a brief conversation or if one person has helped another in some way, e.g. with a suitcase.
The idea behind all this is that you’ve acknowledged somebody’s presence in an enclosed space, and it’s quite polite when you think about it. Although it will feel strange at the beginning, soon it becomes a reflex. When you go back to your home country you’ll find you’ll have to stop yourself doing it automatically when entering a shop, lift, etc.
When it comes to comes to physical contact, you’ll notice that Czechs tend to shake hands a lot, and the more
touchy-feely approach to meeting and greeting common in Mediterranean countries is not usual here. Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. It’s also usual when saying goodbye. Initial greetings are formal and reserved. Most greetings include a handshake, direct eye contact, and the appropriate greeting for the time of day.
● Use titles and last names unless invited to use first names, which typically happens in more informal settings.
● Wait to be invited before using someone's first name or an informal greeting, as these are all signs of friendship.
● The offer to move to the informal is generally offered by the woman, the older person, or the person of higher status. Moving to the informal without an invitation insults the person and may be viewed as an attempt to humiliate them.
Respect Personal Space
Czechs value personal space, and maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations is appreciated. Avoid physical contact unless you’ve developed a close relationship. A friendly nod or smile is often sufficient for greetings in public spaces.
The Footwear Question
The Czech obsession with taking your shoes off indoors then selecting appropriate footwear for wearing inside the house could form the basis of years of scientific study. You’re bound to come across this trait, so it’s important to know what to do. Basically you should take off your outdoor shoes when entering a Czech flat or house. Your host may tell you it’s okay, not to worry, but it’s normal practice to change your footwear. Even if you’re told to keep your shoes on, you should at least go through the motions of taking them off – it shows good manners. Your Czech hosts will have rows
Jesenik, Czech Republic Rust im Tullnerfeld, Austria
Pechea, Romania
Ladek Zdroj, Poland
and rows of indoor footwear neatly arranged near the front door or in a box for shoes called a botník. They’ll offer you indoor something to put on your feet, often sandal-like footwear. Sometimes people wear indoor footwear at work, too.
Dress Modestly
Czechs typically dress neatly and modestly, especially in professional settings. While casual attire is acceptable in many situations, err on the side of dressing slightly more formally until you gauge the dress code in various contexts.
Understand
the Drinking Culture
Czechs have a strong beer culture, and socializing often involves sharing a drink. When offered a drink, it’s polite to accept - even if you only take a small sip. Remember to pace yourself, as the drinking culture can be quite festive.
Visiting, Dining
Dining is a social affair in the Czech Republic, and there are some specific etiquette norms to be aware of. Etiquette for visiting friends for a meal or similar situations is broadly similar to that in other countries, although there are certain points to bear in mind.
Bring flowers to the hostess or a bottle of wine or good brandy to the host. Flowers - especially rosesmight be a bit a less safe option given their romantic connotations. If however you think it’s acceptable to bring flowers, avoid buying an even number of stems or chrysanthemums - traditionally they are put on graves. If you have guests, it’s considered polite to open their gift straight way. In
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general, you should be cautious about giving flowers, since people over the age of 35 often see flowers as having a romantic connotation. If you give flowers, give an odd number, but not 13, which is considered unlucky. Do not give calla lilies as they are used at funerals. Gifts are usually opened when received. Other suitable gifts - a box of good quality chocolates, some other food item or a bottle of wine.
When to leave after visiting depends on the situation, but don’t stay too long into the evening. Around 10 p.m. might be considered a suitable time to be on the safe side.
Punctuality is highly valued in Czech culture. Whether it’s a social gathering or a professional meeting, arriving on time is a sign of respect. If you’re running late, communicate this promptly to avoid any misunderstandings.
When eating, you should always wish your fellow diners dobrou chut’. There is no equivalent to this term in English, although bon apetit is the closest. It’s a good idea to praise the food and to take a second helping (even if you feel full).
In cheaper restaurants, napkins are little more than scraps of paper. It’s usual to leave them on your plate after you’ve finished the meal. In more sophisticated establishments, the napkin is more substantial (made of cloth) and its usual to put it on your lap and then leave it on the table at the end of the meal.
The common toast is na zdraví! - to your health! You’re supposed to look into the eyes of the person you are toasting.
If you have guests, when refilling wine glasses, you could ask whether the person wants more wine before replenishing their glass.
● Expect to be treated with great honor and respect.
● Do not discuss business. Czechs separate their business and personal lives.
Table Manners
Table manners are rather formal in Czech Republic.
● Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
● The fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
● Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
● Unless the meal is formal, the napkin remains folded next to the plate. At
formal meals, the napkin is unfolded and put on your lap.
● The oldest woman or honored guest is generally served first.
● Refuse second helpings the first time they are offered. Wait for the hostess to insist.
● Compliment the meal while you are eating. This allows the hostess to discuss the food and the preparation.
● Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate.
Titles and Names
Like the rest of former Habsburg Europe, Czechs are obsessive about academic titles, and take every opportunity to let people know if they are
membership:
magistr, inženýr, or whatever. Knowing how to use the titles can be quite baffling. But the main thing is that you should be aware of the Czech predilection for academic titles – forearmed is forewarned. If in doubt, ask a Czech to help you choose the right form of address.
Related to this is the issue of using formal address. Like many other European languages, Czech has a formal and informal form of address, like German Du and Sie and French Tu and Vous. Actually knowing when to use ty (you – informal) and vy (you –formal) can be complex – you may have worked with a person for years and know them well, but still refer to them formally. But to be on the safe side, always use vy until the other person says the more informal term can be used.
Understand the Drinking Culture
Czechs have a strong beer culture, and socializing often involves sharing a drink. When offered a drink, it’s polite to accept - even if you only take a small sip. Remember to pace yourself, as the drinking culture can be quite festive.
Navigating the cultural landscape of the Czech Republic requires a blend of respect, curiosity, and adaptability. Embracing the local etiquette not only facilitates smoother integration but also opens the door to rich cultural experiences and meaningful connections that will enhance your expat journey in this vibrant and welcoming country.
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 78940. 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 Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday – February 11, April 21, August 11, and November 10 at 3 p.m. at First Methodist Church Annex, 206 South Dowling Street, Hallettsville 77964. For information, call President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056.
Sunday, December 8—Lodge Christmas Party at Vsetin Educational Building - beginning at 12 noon. Watch for details
LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3)
Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West 76691. Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-7170383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the lodge hall at 2 p.m. For information, call 254-266-3810.
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, 712 N US Hwy 77, Schulenburg 78956. For information, call 979-2474168.
LODGE 9, SNOOK (1)
Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook 77878. 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; loreelewis91@gmail.com.
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 77853 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 76518 (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held monthly at the hall. For meeting time/information, call 254-217-2863/Mary Helen Rodriguez.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1)
Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell 77836. 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) ● Kitchen is open at all dances.
Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin 78621. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Email: elginspjstlodge18@outlook.com. Lodge Meetings: Held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For information, call 737-233-0767/Judith Sanders.
LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)
Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger 76530. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-656-3634. 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. For information, call 512-753-9119/Jvonne Elwood. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254541-5344.
LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6)
Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg 78956 (located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia). Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-7430369/Kathleen Guenther.
LODGE 24, CYCLONE - FLAG HALL (2)
Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington 76519. 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 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 meeting information, call 214-837-9490/JoAnn Jones. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.
LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2)
● All Friday night dances 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.
● Free admission ● Hamburgers served at 6 p.m.
Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor 76574. 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 512-415-7225.
Friday, September 27—The Other Band
Friday, October 4—Second Hand Rose
Friday, October 11—Robert Lawhorn & Triple Threat
Friday, October 18—Texas Neon Rambler
Friday, October 25—Backroads Band
Friday, November 1—Second Hand Rose
Friday, November 8—Sterling Country
Friday, November 15—Glen Collins
Friday, November 22—Old Friends (Temple area)
LODGE 30, TAITON (6)
Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, at 9:45 a.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo 77437. For information, call President Yvonne Marcaurele 979-541-6108. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-541-7450.
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, 110 Medical Drive - Suite 102, Victoria 77904. For information, call 361-212-1143/Mark Lester.
LODGE 35, ELK - ELK HALL (3)
Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell 76624. Hall Rentals/Bookings: Tammy Pavelka 254-722-1454. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For meeting information, call 254-744-1426/Randy Pavelka. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855; sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com; Deann Beckendorf 254-275-8028; joh.becken@yahoo.com.
Saturday, October 19—Collin James Band
LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)
Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia 78941. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/Donna; or 512581-2672/Dana. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-332-6758/Alfred Hellinger.
LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday in March, May, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Mynde Kessler’s office, 2554 Villa Maria, Bryan 77802. For information, call 979-406-0158/Ronnie Roesler.
LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 1:30 p.m. at Mikeska’s BBQ off Highway 59, El Campo 77437. For information, contact President Linda Henderson 281-804-5252; email hendersonlj@homail.com; Vice President/Reporter Ardis Bacak 832-247-6350; or Secretary/Treasurer Sharon Borak Sharon_Borak@yahoo.com. Youth Club Meetings: Youth Leader Lisa Reck 512844-0254 or lisaannie7@hotmail.com.
LODGE 47, SEATON - STAR HALL (2)
Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple 76501. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Amber Bartek 254-931-0295; Hall Phone: 254-9852548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-624-4119/Brandon Bartek. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295; abartek002@yahoo.com.
LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor 76574. 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 512-365-3021. Youth Club Meetings: Held at Taylor Animal Shelter on Saturday morning. For date/time and information, contact Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226; mrn81978@gmail.com.
LODGE 49, ROWENA (4)
Lodge Hall: 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Hall rental Information: Beverly Teplicek 325-442-4841. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 970-799-2782/Tonya Wales.
Tuesday nights - Cornhole Game Night, 7 to 9 p.m. at the hall, 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. 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.
Monday, October 14—Veteran Honor Program/Meal at the lodge hall 609 South FM 2133, Rowena 78675 Families are invited. Meal is free for all Veterans; $5 fee for all others. Please RSVP by October 10 by calling Beverly 325-442-4841 or Sylvia 325-442-3141.
LODGE 54, WEST (3)
Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street, West 76691. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting location/information, call 361-781-2644/Ann Moseley.
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 76705. For information, call 254-7156765/Dana McAdams. Agent: Samantha Beene 903644-1855; sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com.
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at Kountry Bakery, Hwy 77, Schulenburg 78956 at 2 p.m. For information, call 979743-0310.
LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)
Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi 78415. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For info, call 361-816-2328/Mark Rebecek. 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 361-947-8233.
LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Monday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Restoration Fellowship Church (formerly ‘The Hall on 2268’), 12141 East FM 2268, Holland 76534. Watch the Věstník for changes in dates or times. For information, call 254-760-6427/Rita Spinn.
LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)
Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street, Needville 77461. 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 281-633-1882/Vincent Newman. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, email Youth Leader Kristen Jones 936-556-3248; 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. For information, cal 214-763-0341/Vicki Sims.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple 76501. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October at 2 p.m. For information, contact Dan Kacir 254-493-1307.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)
Standing Events:
● Member meetings held every second Sunday of each month. Meal at 1p.m., meeting at 2 p.m.
● Bingo every Thursday evening
● Beer Garden every Friday
● Ladies Night - first Thursday of each month
● Guys Night - third Thursday of each month
Visit www.lodge88.org/special-event for updates. Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) 77008. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call 713-8695767. 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. Dances held 8 to 11:30 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For infor-
mation, 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.
Saturday, October 12—Czechfest, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.: Event features Lodge 88 Czech Orchestra, and Chris Rybak.
Friday, November 8—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 8—Red Ravens, 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Moonglow, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 11 a.m. at a location to be announced in the Věstník For information, call 281-798-1092 / Malba Smesny
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. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. For meeting information, call 817-624-1361. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Dressy casual. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfwtx.com.
LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5:30 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.
LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)
Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville 78114. Hall Rental Information: 830-391-0919/Roxy Bertrand. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 210-5354916/Wendy Pruski. 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 Street, Corpus Christi 78410. For information, call 361241-3754.
LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7)
Update! Meetings resume in September, 2024 Sunday, September 29—Lodge meeting 2 to 4 p.m. at Bill Miller BBQ, 1418 Pleasanton Road, San Antonio 78221. We will have bingo and door prizes. For questions, please call Interim President Marie Garcia 210861-4985.
LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street, Danbury 77534. Luncheon follows meeting. For information, call Lonnie 979-864-9999.
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 77474. December meeting is held at Tony’s Restaurant; complimentary meal for members. For information, call 979-885-4900.
LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5)
Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. - except in December, meeting is held the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; lunch served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th (the Heights) Houston 77008 - in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, location as adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377; arh210@gmail.com
LODGE 151, WHARTON-EAST BERNARD (6)
Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-532-5884/Janie Bucek; or email jbucek2001@yahoo.com.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)
Meeting Location: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, 76179. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of February, May, August, and November at the hall at 3 p.m. For information, call 817-731-2580/Mary Steinman. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones carrieannjones@att.net or 817-371-1727, or Appa Burcie abburcie2015@gmail.com or 817-6142967 for information.
LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. For date/location, call 512-657-7783/Albert.
LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at the Kristinek’s home, 2512 Mesa Road, Lubbock 79043. For information, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek 806-632-2432; cyndynjerome@gmail.com.
LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4)
Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 5 p.m. For location information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-234-1339; 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: Held quarterly on the second Wednesday in March, June, September, and November at 6 p.m. For information or questions, call Jerry Dressler 512-551-9009.
LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)
Lodge Hall: 711 East Rio Poco, Little River-Academy 76554. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. For information, call 254-7218717/George Tomastik. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen 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 Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. Please call for meeting location 817-905-2097 / Nancy Kelly; or 972-268-0022 / Rhonda Hurtik.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November. Please call 817-896-5277 for meeting time and location.
LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)
Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, September, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD meeting room, 205 Cockrill Street, Moulton 77975. For information, contact Secretary Terry Stevenson terrywstevenson@gmail.com or 361-7720046.
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 theresa.haag686@gmail.com or 830-832-3664 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 186, CALDWELL (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21, Caldwell 77836. Bring your favorite dish for a potluck prior to the meeting. For information, contact President Victor Mendez 512-743-8297 or vmendez@kmc.net.
LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)
Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock 78665. Meeting/Hall Rental Information: Call Rubie Volek 512-771-4948. 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 Rudy’s BBQ, 504 Harvey Road, College Station 77840. For information call 979-777-1426/Henry Mayo.
LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the Monday before the second Friday in March, June, September, and December at 1:30 p.m. at Catfish King Restaurant, 806 Medford Drive, Lufkin 75901. For information, call 936465-2435/George Scogin.
Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, call 281373-9482.
LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7)
Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the 3rd Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m., and on the second Sunday in September and December at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton 78026. A meal will be served at each meeting. For information, call 830-570-5800. 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 219, EL PASO (4)
Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at Carnitas Queretaro Mexican Restaurant, 9077 Gateway Boulevard, West, El Paso 79938. Phone: 915633-9877. Contact information: President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.
LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, July and October at 6 p.m. at Rosa’s Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard, Abilene 79601. For information, call 325-370-0573/Jesusita Hudson.
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)
Future/tentative Sunday meeting dates in 2025. Location TBD: March 30; June 29; September 21; December 14.
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly at 1 p.m., normally the third month of each quarter. Date, time, and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For information, call 210-413-3053/Chester Jenke.
Sunday, December 29—Christmas party and election of officers.
—SPJST—
October October is C is C zz ech
October is a special time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of American Czechs and the many contributions they have made to American culture. In celebration, the Vestnik invites you to participate in its Czech Heritage Month activities. Several Czech-themed prizes will be awarded in a drawing from entries received.
Autumn Full of Pumpkins at Prague Botanical Garden
Each autumn, Prague Botanical Garden - Botanicka Zaharada Praha holds a pumpkin exhibition along with related activities. Autumn is the most colorful season in Prague, and pumpkins serve as the pefect seasonal decoration. The botanical garden showcases this vivid palette along with traditional harvest crops. Pumpkin Frolics encourages people to create pumpkins into pieces of art then use them for decoration at home. The last event of the season is the Halloween Celebration. The botanical garden offers pumpkin carving and various competitions for kids, and throughout the day, relax by a fire. A traditional Halloween parade with lit pumpkins is the day’s finale.
Start at the red dot at the top of the maze and head to Prague Botanical Garden for its Pumpkin Exhibition and Halloween Celebration
Entries must be received by Tuesday, November 5. Winners will be announced in the November 11 Vestnik. Mail your entry to: SPJST Vestnik • PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas
