OJoin in the fun as Lodge 23, Moravia celebrates the area’s colorful history at
129th Anniversary party
n Saturday, March 14, 2026, SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia hosts SPJST’s 129th Anniversary Celebration at two beloved landmarks – SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia Hall and Moravia Store. Festivities kick off at 11 a.m., with dine-in or take-out plates by Tom’s BBQ of Schulenburg, followed by a short program at 1 p.m. and live music by The Czechaholics at Moravia Store from 2 to 6 p.m. The lodge hall will showcase on-loan artifacts from the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center of Temple for the event. While viewing these pieces, attendees can enjoy country music by Kendra Krupala and accordion music by Art Zarosky. A 23-prize raffle, silent auction, and games will round out the event. Proceeds will support the restoration of the Lodge 23 hall—ensuring it remains a living, welcoming space for present and future generations.
History resonates within the walls of Lodge 23 and Moravia Store, recently featured on the Texas Country Reporter. To tell the story of Moravia is to tell the story of Mr. Ignac Jalufka—a community builder whose footprints cover the path from the wooden floorboards of Moravia Store to the meeting hall of SPJST Lodge 23.
Continued on Page 11.
Lodge 25, Ennis teaches youth how to play dominoes
Scooter Holland teaches youth at Lodge 25, Ennis how to play dominoes.
Sunshine
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club members delivered sunshine cards to Brookhaven Assisted Living in Temple where they visited Honorary District 2 Youth Counselor Patsy Koslovsky.
Pictured with Patsy are Junior Mr. SPJST Everhett Bartek, Tessa Koslovsky, and Sofia VonStasch.
—Amber
Bartek Youth Leader
Chris Liebum,
Armando
VESTNIK
S
SPJST HOME OFFICE
PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 254-773-1575 www.spjst.org
here are weeks when it feels like everything is happening at once. Deadlines pile up, calendars fill, and it’s easy to slip into the habit of simply moving from one task to the next without stopping to take stock of why we do what we do.
That’s when I try to pause.
SPJST has never been just about programs, events, or reports. At its heart, it has always been about people — people who show up, people who volunteer their time, people who quietly take care of one another in ways that don’t always make headlines. It’s about the familiar faces at lodge meetings, the steady hands behind the scenes, and the new members who walk through the door not quite knowing what to expect, but hopeful they’ll find a place to belong.
We are at a point where the world feels fast and often unsettled. Communities change. Traditions evolve. Expectations shift. But one thing that continues to hold true is that organizations like SPJST matter because they create connection — across generations, across towns and communities, and across seasons of life.
I’m often reminded that progress doesn’t always come from grand gestures. More often, it comes from small, consistent efforts: a lodge that keeps its doors open, a youth leader who encourages a shy child to try something new, a volunteer who shows up year after year simply because it matters to them. Those actions don’t fade. They add up.
As we move forward, my hope is that we don’t lose sight of that. That
we continue to value participation over perfection. That we remain open to new ideas while honoring the traditions that brought us here. And that we remember that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about responsibility, care, and followthrough.
If you’ve been involved for decades, thank you for the foundation you’ve built. If you’re newer to SPJST, I hope you’re finding your place and your people. And if you’ve been a bit distant lately, know that there is always room for you to step back in.
We’re stronger when we move forward together — not because everything is easy, but because we choose to stay connected, engaged, and invested in one another.
Thank you for being part of SPJST and for all the ways, big and small, that you contribute to this organization we share.
Congratulations, Lodges!
Congratulations to the lodges who earned incentives during the fourth quarter of the membership drive:
Lodge 9, Snook - $100 Lodge 79, Corpus Christi - $100 Lodge 88, Houston - $450 Lodge 92, Fort Worth - $200 Lodge 219, El Paso - $300
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines
March 2026 Vestnik deadline is February 10
April 2026 Vestnik deadline is March 10
May 2026 Vestnik deadline is April 10 —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
SPJST FAMILY FUN
DATES &
IMPORTANT
(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)
Feb. 7 State Tarok Tournament • SPJST Home Office, Temple (2)
Feb. 7 Lodge 88, Houston Super Brawl Saturday Wrestling Showdown (5)
Feb. 8 Lodge 88, Houston Super Bowl LX Potluck (5)
October 3 SPJST Rally in District 2 • Lodge 24, Cyclone (2)
Nov. 11 SPJST Home Office Closed • Veterans Day
Nov. 17-18 Executive Committee Meeting
Nov. 25 SPJST Home Office Closes at Noon • Thanksgiving
Nov. 26-27 SPJST Home Office Closed • Thanksgiving
Dec.
Dec.
Member receives calendar in Czech Republic
Dear Melanie, Good news! The calendar arrived today! Thank you so much, I am very happy with it.
We have had two light snows that melted away, or the rain washed them off. Now cold weather -10 C or about 10 F. We had plenty of cloudy, foggy days before this so we will have more snow or rain again. It has been a very unusual winter time here. Christmas wasn’t nice as the weather was bad, and even New Year’s Eve wasn’t good. I will be happy when spring comes so that I will be able to go walking or do garden work.
Best wishes to you and yours! Fraternally, John A. Kuba Podivin, Czech Republic Lodge 133, San Antonio —SPJST—
Junior Miss SPJST shares note of thanks
Dear Mr. Horak and SPJST Staff,
Thank you so much for the wonderful experience we had in Temple! We had a great time with lots of fun memories. I was truly treated like Royalty!
Thank you for sending me the 2026 SPJST calendar. We put all of our appointments on the calendar. Janie Bucek Lodge 151 Wharton-East Bernard —SPJST—
Seaton Cemetery Assocation meets January 25
The Seaton Cemetery Association will hold its annual meeting on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Seaton Church Fellowship Building, 12561 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas.
Anyone wishing to address the Association must be put on the agenda. Please do so by contacting Dolores Skrabanek at 254-721-5645.
November 18, 19, and 20, 2025 Minutes of the Regular Meeting of SPJST Executive Committee held at the SPJST Home Office Temple, Texas
PRESIDING
The meeting was called to order by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 8:18 a.m.
PARTICIPATING
Board of Directors—Donnie Victorick - Vice Chair of the Board of Directors/District One; Absent - Jesse Pospisil; John Engelke - Chair of the Board of Directors/District Three; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie VahalikDistrict Six; Regina House - District Seven.
Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek - President/CEO; Delisle Doherty - Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny - Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska - Chief Financial Officer.
Digital Transformation Consultant—Dr. Al Burns.
Recording Secretary—Katharine Tillman - Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer.
Employee—Brett Wheeler - Interim Controller.
OPENING OF MEETING
Chair Engelke welcomed attendees. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed in memory of departed members. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty led the opening prayer.
APPROVAL OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MINUTES
Director House moved, seconded by Director Davis, to accept the minutes from the regular meeting. Motion carried unanimously.
Director House moved, seconded by Director Stavinoha, to accept the Investment Committee meeting minutes. Motion carried unanimously. Management team meeting notes were reviewed.
OLD BUSINESS
President/CEO Vanicek commenced with an overview of the Management Team’s Quarter Activities. He then proceeded in presenting the Human Resource Administrator update.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty noted his report was as presented.
Chief Financial Officer Mikeska noted his report was as presented.
Interim Controller Brett Wheeler noted his report was as presented.
Vice President of Communications Zavodny noted her report was as presented.
Recess was from 9:34 a.m. to 9:59 a.m.
OLD BUSINESS CONTINUED
Consultant Dr. Burns noted his report consisting of the USSI servers options, ManageMy, and other items. Otherwise, his report was as presented.
DIRECTORS’ REPORTS
Directors presented their reports as submitted.
NEW BUSINESS
President/CEO Vanicek noted his report was as presented.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty noted his report was as presented.
Chief Financial Officer Mikeska noted his report was as presented.
INVESTMENT REPORT
Existing ILS loans are being handled by a third party. There are no plans to purchase any remaining ILS loans available via a third party.
Director Victorick moved to retire the 1-Year MYGA (Plan Code 8067), effective January 1, 2026, so the 6 Percent Bonus Flex (Plan Code 8081) can be promoted. Director House seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
The quarterly consideration for the investment policy statement (IPS) came up, and no changes were made.
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
Interim Controller Brett Wheeler noted his report was as presented.
Recess for lunch was from 12:26 to 1:10 p.m.
AQS INVESTMENT REPORT
Larry White and Stephen Gonzalez of AQS Asset Management presented a report on SPJST’s investment performance.
The Executive Committee met with AQS in executive session between 1:59 to 2:58 p.m.
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty recognized Doni Powell for her 25-year service anniversary and dedicated work at SPJST.
President/CEO Vanicek recognized District 7 Director Regina House and District 6 Director Annie Vahalik for five-year service anniversaries and dedicated work at SPJST.
Recess was from 3:11 to 3:22 p.m.
INVESTMENT
REPORT
Private session regarding investment discussion amongst Executive Committee between 3:22 to 3:35 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
Interim Controller Brett Wheeler presented the Q3 ERM Update and Deliverables report as presented.
Interim Controller Wheeler presented his report on the 2025 Adjusted Budget. Director Victorick moved, seconded by Director Stavinoha, to accept the proposed 2025 Adjusted Budget. The motion carried unanimously.
Vice President of Communications Zavodny noted her report was as presented.
Vice President of Communications Zavodny presented an opportunity of a four night summer youth camp reservation event planned for 2026. Director Victorick moved, seconded by Director House, to lock in the four-night summer youth camp event and authorized the deposit to be remitted to secure the contract. The motion carried unanimously.
Recessed for day at 5:05 p.m.
RECONVENED MEETING AT 8:24 A.M. (November 19)
Executive Committee began Strategic Planning at 8:40 a.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board of Directors met in executive session from 1 to 6:15 p.m.
RECONVENED MEETING AT 8:33 A.M (November 20)
Executive Committee continued Strategic Planning until 10:08 a.m.
BUDGET PROJECTION REVIEW
Actuary Glenn Tobleman provided the Budget Projections Presentation.
Recess for lunch was from 12:03 to 1:04 p.m.
Conversation with Glenn continued.
Executive Committee continued Strategic Planning between 2:18 to 4:09 p.m.
INTEREST RATES
Director Davis moved to change the annuity payout rates, seconded by Director Stavinoha. Motion was unanimously approved. The annuity rates would be effective as of December 1.
Annuity rates were changed (see below information). The rates will remain unchanged until they are changed by the board members.
ANNUITY PAYOUT RATES
Effective December 1, 2025
UNIVERSAL LIFE PRODUCT
Director Vahalik moved, seconded by Director Davis, to leave interest payout rates on universal life certificates unchanged. The motion carried unanimously.
2026 QUARTERLY DATES PLANNING
The Directors and Officers confirmed the following dates:
• 2026 Executive Committee Meetings
- March 17 to 18
- May 19 to 20
- August 18 to 19
- November 17 to 18 (online web conference)
• Audit Meeting Dates
- March 16
- August 17
• Strategic Planning 2027
- November 30 to December 1
ELECTIONS
For Chair of the Board of Directors, Director Stavinoha moved to nominate Director House, seconded by Director Davis. Director Victorick motion to approve by acclamation. The motion passed unanimously.
For Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, Director House moved to nominate Director Engelke, sec-
onded by Director Stavinoha. Director Victorick motion to approve by acclamation. The motion passed unanimously.
For Audit Committee Members, it was moved by Director House to nominate Directors Victorick, Stavinoha, and Vahalik, seconded by Director Davis. Director Victorick motion to approve by acclamation. The motion passed unanimously. Director Stavinoha volunteered to chair the Audit Committee.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke adjourned the meeting with common consent at 4:27 p.m. The Board of Directors met for Executive Session after the meeting was adjourned.
Great meeting with so much discussed. We cannot leave any of this behind and must always keep it in front of us. We cannot give lip service — we must do what we say we are going to do and never forget it.
We do not want to live with regrets or always think about what could have been.
These are quotes I do my best to live by. None are originally mine — I am simply borrowing the words of others who have been successful.
Nick Saban:
Mediocre people hate high achievers, and high achievers hate mediocrity.
It is lonely at the top.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
You don’t have to like everyone to be a team player.
Remember, life is full of choices.
Can or can’t — you’re right either way. Which do you choose?
Successful people make a habit of doing the things failures don’t like to do.
Ann Landers’ definition of failure
Nick Saban’s Five Choices in Life:
• Bad — takes no effort
• Average — takes some effort
• Good — takes talent and a little more effort
• Excellent — a lot of talent, commitment, and effort
• Elite — talent, total effort, and divine intervention
John Wooden’s definition of success
Fraternally, Donnie Victorick
District One Director
District Two Director Jesse Pospisil
Activity Report
July—Youth Showcase in Temple.
September—Lodge 187, Round Rock meeting, CE class (online).
October—CE class (online), Lodge 29, Taylor meeting; Executive Committee meeting (online).
November—Lodge 80, Holland meeting.
Fraternally, Jesse Pospisil
District Two Director
District Three Director John Engelke
Activity Report
August — Lodge 66, Waco meeting and meal; online meeting with President/CEO Vanicek; meeting with President/CEO Vanicek and Controller Vajdak; school supplies delivered to LaVega Schools (Lodge 66, Waco); peel potatoes at Lodge 6, Cottonwood; Westfest parade and grounds.
September—Lodge 66, Waco volunteer day at the Waco Zoo; meeting with President/CEO Vanicek; online SPJST Senior Living meeting; Kolache Festival in Caldwell; Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting and meal; Lodge 66, Waco meeting and meal.
October—Planning meeting for TCHCC event in La Grange (online); planning meeting for Pivovar Czech National Day event in Waco; Lodge 84, Dallas Heritage Day; online meeting on financials; TCHCC setup and event; Lodge 66, Waco meeting and meal; Pivovar Czech National Day in Waco; Museum meeting (online).
November—Lodge 66, Waco meeting and meal; Lodge 54, West meeting and meal; Lodge 183, Arlington meeting and meal; Executive Committee meeting, strategic planning, and Museum meeting in Temple. Fraternally,
John Engelke
District Three Director
District Four Director
Bobby Davis
Activity Report
September—Meeting with Lodge 219, El Paso officers; meeting with El Paso agents and Territory Manager Sabino Garcia; Lodge 230, Midland meeting; Lodge 229, Abilene meeting; working on meeting places for Lodge 76, Wichita Falls and Lodge 230, Midland.
October—Meeting with Jeff of American Legion on the flag project; Executive Committee meeting (online); meeting with Sons of American Legion; travel to Seymour to check on SPJST Cemetery; travel to Bronte for Mary McBee visitation and funeral.
As the new year begins, SPJST members and guests can once again look forward to friendly competition, fellowship, and connection. January marked the kickoff of the 2026 SPJST State Tournament Season with the Progressive 42 Domino Tournament held on January 11 at the SPJST Home Office in Temple.
The annual event brought together 32 participants from across Central Texas for a full day of spirited play and camaraderie. Players completed a 14-round tournament, with 11 SPJST members participating.
Participants enjoyed donuts and coffee upon arrival, followed by a hearty lunch. The meal included King Ranch casserole, green beans, green salad with dressing, and iced tea. Pecan pie dump cake and homemade brownies were served for dessert. Thanks to Member Engagement Specialist Tammy Martinez, Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, and David Nauert for helping prepare and serve lunch.
October—ILS meeting in El Campo; Lodge 88, Houston Czechfest; Executive Committee meeting (online); Lodge 81, Needville meeting; life insurance training - “How to Deal with Objections” (online); SPJST Annuity webinar.
Thirty-second Place: Carolyn Coufal won a box of Lucky Charms and a 100X The Cash scratch-off with a chance to win $500,000.
Upcoming Tournaments
Upcoming tournaments include State Tarok Tournament on Saturday, February 7 and State 42 Domino Tournament on Saturday, March 7. Both will be held at the SPJST Home Office in Temple, and Tammy and I hope to see you! For more information or to register to play, visit spjst.org/tournaments
Fraternally, Frank Horak
Director of
Member Engagement —SPJST—
District Six Director Annie Vahalik
Activity Report
August—Audit Committee meeting in Temple; Czech Heritage Museum Advisory Committee meeting in Temple; Executive Committee Meeting in Temple; Executive Committee Meeting (online).
September—Lodge 97, Placedo meeting; Lodge 32, Victoria meeting; Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje meeting; Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival. October—SPJST Executive Committee Meeting (online); meeting to discuss Lodge 23, Moravia Hall Restoration Fundraiser (online); Lodge 63, Sweet Home event at Shiner Brewery; Czech Heritage Museum Advisory Committee meeting (online).
August—Lodge 185, New Braunfels meeting; Special Called Executive Committee meeting (online).
September—Lodge 202, Jourdanton meeting; Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting; Lodge 258, Seguin meeting; TCHCC Czech Celebration in La Grange; Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting; fixed annuities webinar; Museum Advisory Board meeting (online).
Fraternally, Regina House District Seven Director —SPJST—
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
It’s More Than Just Life Insurance
This is something I hear almost every day: “I don’t really need life insurance.”
With SPJST, you receive much more than an insurance policy. You gain connection — family, friends, community, and benefits that support every stage of life.
SPJST helps build leadership skills in children, encourages heart-healthy and active lifestyles for adults, and supports local charities and service efforts. Youth have opportunities to stay involved, earn community service hours, qualify for scholarships, and grow as leaders. Adults can stay socially and physically active through the many programs offered by local lodges and the Home Office.
It’s called life insurance, not death insurance — and as a membership organization, SPJST offers far-reaching benefits beyond the policy itself.
Member Benefits Include:
• Annuities to assist with retirement planning and tax strategies
• Group travel opportunities
• PerkSpot discounts — thousands of savings on shopping, travel, entertainment, and more
• Lodge activities centered on family, fellowship, and community
• The Vestnik — SPJST’s member newsletter keeps you connected to lodge activities, youth programs, service projects, and the people who make our organization special.
Many of you reading this may not have attended a lodge meeting in years. This is a great time to reconnect with fellow members and your local community. Even smaller gatherings offer fellowship and help keep you engaged and active. If you have children or grandchildren, SPJST provides opportunities for them to grow through service, leadership, and confidence-building experiences. If you’ve moved, you are always welcome to attend the lodge nearest you — you’ll
• Legal access and resources for POAs, trusts, wills, probate, and business matters
• Scholarship opportunities for active youth — extra support for higher education
• Youth clubs focused on leadership development
• Summer camp opportunities for children
• Community service and fundraising hours for youth — excellent for college applications
• Tarok, dominoes, and other social activities for adults
• Weekly dances and bingo nights
• Czech heritage festivals and cultural events
be greeted with open arms.
If you know someone who could benefit from SPJST membership, please contact an agent or your territory manager, and let us show them how to become part of our family, friends, and community. Simply reading through this issue of the Vestnik shows how active, connected, and engaged our members truly are.
I am always happy to answer questions. Feel free to call me at 832-2322049 — my door is always open, figuratively and literally.
“The most touching thing that anyone can say to me is that I have done something beautiful for the community.”
—Santiago Calatrava
Have a safe and Blessed week, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049 —SPJST—
From the SPJST Insurance Department
Member Engagement News
February: A Month of Connection, Care, and Fellowship
Dear SPJST Members, February is often associated with love, kindness, and meaningful connections, making it the perfect time to celebrate the relationships that unite us as SPJST members. As we continue through the early months of the year, this month reminds us of the importance of coming together, supporting one another, and strengthening the bonds that make SPJST feel like family.
These ideas align beautifully with our Caring Challenges theme, “Gathering Together in Joy,” which continues to guide us through January, February, and March. Whether through lodge meetings, service projects, festivals, or shared moments of fellowship, your participation brings this theme to life.
Over the past year—and continuing into 2026—our members have shown dedication and heart. Your involvement strengthens our lodges, supports our mission, and makes a difference in our communities. Thank you for the time, care, and commitment you give to SPJST.
The new year is already off to a strong start for SPJST members, who are coming together through fellowship and friendly competition. January kicked off the year with the 2026 SPJST State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament, held at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Players from across Central Texas enjoyed a full day of spirited play and camaraderie, setting a positive tone for the year ahead and reinforcing Temple as the home for future state tournaments.
Inside this letter:
• Create uplifting notes or “sunshine packets” for seniors, hospital patients, house-bound individuals, or those facing illness.
• Collect diapers, wipes, and baby essentials for local family-resource centers.
• Donate coats, socks, and gloves to local shelters as winter continues.
Please remember to record your lodge’s service projects at spjst.org/gives and share photos using #SPJSTGives. Your acts of kindness continue to inspire and strengthen our communities.
Vestnik Deadlines
The Vestnik is now a monthly publication. Note the upcoming dates and deadlines:
• Tuesday, February 10 - deadline for March Vestnik
• Tuesday, March 10 - deadline for April Vestnik
• Friday, April 10 - deadline for May Vestnik
Lodge Fund Management Accounts Guidelines
The Lodge Fund Management Accounts process has been updated. Here is the process:
Online Withdrawal Request Process
To standardize documentation and ensure timely processing, all withdrawal requests from SPJST Lodge Funds Management Accounts—including Lodge Funds Management Special Deposit Accounts—must be submitted through the SPJST online withdrawal form (accessible via the website and/or Gives app).
Required documentation and information (upload within the form):
r Meeting minutes reflecting member approval of the withdrawal (date, quorum noted, amount, and stated purpose).
r Two non-related officer signatures in accordance with the guideline (preferably president and treasurer; for districts, district council chair and treasurer; for youth clubs, youth leader and another adult lodge officer).
r Requested amount, account identifier, and brief explanation of the intended use of funds.
Workflow:
1. Submission: Lodge completes the online form and uploads the required documentation. An automatic confirmation is emailed to the lodge, Director of Member Engagement, and Vice President of Communications.
2. Compliance check: The Director of Member Engagement and the Vice President of Communications review the request for completeness and adherence to policy.
3. Management Team review: The request is placed on the agenda for the Management Team for approval prior to disbursement (or routed electronically if timing requires).
4. Disbursement: Upon approval, the Accounting Department processes the withdrawal within two business days by EFT to the lodge’s designated account or by check mailed to the treasurer on file.
5. Recordkeeping: All submissions, approvals, and disbursement confirmations are stored in the lodge’s Home Office file. A monthly account summary will continue to be emailed to lodge treasurers.
State Tournaments
�� Branson Tour
�� SPJST District Rallies
�� Youth Club News
✨ Member Spotlight: FACs
�� Community Spotlight:
Giving from the Heart
February is a perfect time to share kindness and support those in need. Lodges looking to serve their communities may consider these ideas:
We will host a tarok tournament on Saturday, February 7 and a regular 42 domino tournament on Saturday, March 7 at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Registration is $30 per person, and lunch and snacks are included. Register online at spjst.org/tournaments. Come out, play hard, and enjoy the fellowship that makes these events so special!
District Rallies
With lodge officer listings submitted, we are now actively meeting with District Councils to plan the 2026 District Rallies. These online planning meetings provide an opportunity to connect with newly elected council representatives and work together as we prepare for the year ahead.
District Rally Dates
District One - Sunday, April 19 Lodge 9, Snook
District Two - Saturday, October 3 Lodge 24, Cyclone
District Three - Sunday, April 26 Lodge 92, Fort Worth
District Four - Saturday, April 25 Lodge 49, Rowena
District Five - Saturday, August 22 Lodge 88, Houston
District Six - Saturday, April 11 Church Parish Hall - Moravia
District Seven - Sunday, March 22 Lodge 107, Floresville
Branson Tour
SPJST members are invited to enjoy an unforgettable spring getaway to the Branson Music Festival, April 23 to 27. This all-inclusive tour features top Branson entertainers, live music shows, attractions, lodging, transportation, and meals — all thoughtfully planned so you can relax and enjoy the experience. Highlights include the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, the Branson Music Festival, Sight & Sound’s DAVID, Downtown Branson, The Haygoods, Wonders of Wildlife & Aquarium, and more. Members who enjoy live music, great food, and traveling with friends won’t want to miss this trip. For reservations or additional information, contact Terry Mansfield, CITM, at 281-7251574 or lindamansfield42@yahoo.com. See the flyer and more information on page 10 of this Vestnik.
TAROK
TOURNAMENT
8
a.m
Check-in
9 a.m.
Play begins
Saturday
February 7 2026
Open to the public! Ages 16 and above.
$30 registration fee per player
Includes lunch, snacks, and refreshments
Seating for 60 players only
Prizes will be awarded!
Planning Ahead
With 2026 underway, we hope lodges are actively planning a full year of socials, fundraisers, youth events, and service projects. Please remember to send your completed event calendar to the Home Office so we can help promote your activities and share them with members through the Vestnik.
100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive
Consider supporting the bright future of our youth through the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Donations are accepted through March 31, 2026. Donate online at spjst.org/scholarships or mail checks to:
SPJST 100 Pennies
PO Box 100 • Temple, TX 76503
Thank you for your generosity!
Youth Club News
Summer Camp: June 28 to July 2
We are preparing for the 2026 SPJST Summer Camp, scheduled for Sunday, June 28 through Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Hermann Sons Life (HSL) Camp –Hilltop in Comfort, Texas. Camp will include an additional day, allowing for expanded activities and programming.
Camp Location & Safety
HSL Camp – Hilltop is situated on elevated terrain at approximately 1,420 feet above sea level, nearly 1,000 feet above the Guadalupe River. The camp grounds are not located in a floodplain and are not impacted by river flooding. HSL Camp also maintains safety policies and procedures to support camper wellbeing.
42 DOMINO TOURNAMENT
8 to 8:45 a.m Check-in
9 a.m.
Play begins
Saturday March 7 2026
Open to the public! Ages 16 and above.
$30 registration fee per player
Includes lunch, snacks, and refreshments
Seating for 30 teams available
2-person team format
If you do not have a partner, one will be assigned to you Prizes will be awarded!
Eligibility & Registration
Open to SPJST members and nonmembers (space permitting)
Youth entering first to 12th grade as of September 1, 2026.
Camper spots are first come, first served.
Registration Fees (thru May 15)
$875 – Nonmembers
$775 – SPJST members
Active Youth Member Discount
SPJST youth can earn $75 in camp credit per qualifying SPJST activity attended - up to seven events, which offers $525 camp credits in total toward fees. Fees are prorated based on events attended.
Qualifying activities include youth or lodge meetings, socials, community service projects, district rallies, and Showcase events. This incentive rewards youth involvement while helping keep camp affordable for families.
Summer Camp Raffle Update
We are happy to share that we have received a number of wonderful raffle items. Thank you to everyone who has donated!
Our youth will sell raffle tickets soon. We appreciate your continued support by purchasing tickets. Every ticket sold helps fund a camper's camp fees to make it more affordable for families across SPJST.
State Youth Showcase
The State Youth Showcase is set for
Saturday, July 25 with judging of creative arts entries on Friday, July 24. The Guidebook will be available on the SPJST Youth Program and SPJST Youth Leadership Facebook pages and spjst.org/showcase.
“United We Shine”
Our 2026 theme, United We Shine,
Branson Music Festival
BEST OF BRANSON’S ENTERTAINERS
5 Day Event • April 23 - 27, 2026
Branson Music Festival presents a sampling of the best of Branson entertainers coming together to give a performance you will remember! Enjoy 10 to 12 acts each afternoon - a total of 20 to 22 different acts in just two days - including internationa lly known artists, and from some of Branson’s new shows.
All-Inclusive Tour Features:
Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Ozark’s “DAVID”
Downtown Branson
The Branson Music Festival
The Haygoods
Dick’s Five & Dime
Wonders of Wildlife & Aquarium
Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe
Clay Cooper’s Country Express
celebrates connection, community, and pride in our shared heritage. It also marks our nation’s 250th birthday — a milestone reminding us of the strength that comes from unity.
�� Member Spotlight - Fraternal Activities Coordinators (FACs)
This month, we shine a light on our hardworking Fraternal Activities Coordinators (FACs). These dedicated volunteers play a key role in keeping our organization running smoothly. They carefully record and update all fraternal and community service hours submitted by our lodges, ensuring every act of service is counted and recognized.
Thanks to their consistent efforts, SPJST can share an accurate picture of the many ways our members give back across Texas. Their work highlights the true spirit of SPJST—service, community, and teamwork.
To all FACs: thank you for your time, care, and commitment. You help tell the story of our organization, and we appreciate everything you do.
Know a member or group we should highlight? Send photos and a description to frankh@spjst.org.
Packages: Single: $1,849 Double: $1,499
Triple: $1,409
Quad: $1,369
Reservations: Contact Terry Mansfield, CITM lindamansfield42@yahoo.com | 281-725-1574
�� Final Thoughts
As we move into February, may this month bring continued momentum, renewed motivation, and plenty of meaningful moments within our SPJST family. Thank you for all you do to support your lodges, your communities, and one another.
Fraternally,
Frank Horak Director of Member Engagement
—SPJST—
$50 Donation to SPJST Youth Scholarship Program Per Attendee
Branson Music Festival
An Annual ALL-INCLUSIVE Tour
If you’re one of those folks who enjoys live music shows, this is the tour for you. Texas Country Music Hall of Fame highlights those individuals - both living and dead - who are recognized nationally as outstanding in their field. Overnight in Conway, Arkansas, at La Quinta Inn & Suites. (B, L, D)*
After a beautiful drive through the Ozark Mountains, The Music Festival in Branson takes center stage. Experience some of Branson’s best featuring at least 9 to 11 excerpts from different shows each day. A dinner buffet at Grand Country with a wide selection of dishes. “DAVID” at Sight and Sound theater features David’s ascent to the throne filled with towering giants and wild animals. Palestine Soldiers and original music inspired by the Book of Psalms. Holiday Inn Express, Quality Inn. (B, L, D)*
Downtown Branson, The Branson Music Festival, The Haygoods, and Dick’s Five & Dime
We start the day with a visit to explore Downtown Branson and Dick’s Five & Dime followed by lunch. This afternoon features The Branson Music Festival with 9 to 11 excerpts from different shows. Dinner at Dockside Cafe, then the Haygood’s show with incredibly tight harmonies, incredible special effects and amazing performances on more than 20 different musical instruments.. (B, L, D)*
d Clay Cooper’s Country Express
Our first stop this morning is voted one of the nation’s top wildlife museums in America. After your selfguided tour, do some shopping - a true sportsman experience ($10 gift card from Bass Pro Shop). Lunch is included at Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe. You will also visit the best immersive wildlife attraction in the world. The National Aquarium has been voted “Best in America.” A one of a kind conservation experience. Clay Cooper’s Country Express features Branson’s king of country. Clay Cooper leaves you singing and dancing. Twenty-four entertainers, great visual effects, and a variety of music: old and new country music,
Tour Includes: All Meals, Attractions Per Itinerary, Lodging, and Transportation Reserve
will be by now.
| 281-725-1574
129th Anniversary
Continued from Page 1.
Moravia was founded in 1881, when Ignac Jalufka and James Holub relocated a preexisting building to serve as a store at the junction of three roads in northern La Vaca County and named the settlement in honor of their Moravian homeland. The next buildings to follow were a blacksmith shop, a gin, and a school. In 1912, a Catholic church, named Ascension of Our Lord, was built.
In 1889, Jalufka built a two-story frame mercantile store and saloon to serve the community. The second floor served as a dance hall. Masquerades, seasonal celebrations, and other events made it a popular gathering place. From 1891, Jalufka was also United States Postmaster for the area, operating the post office from the store.
In an article from the August 26, 1946, LaVaca County Tribune, M.R. Vivial paid tribute to Jalufka, a man whose, “robust body sheltered a kind heart,” and “gave a start in life to many a newcomer to this new land of the free and the brave.”
“The name ‘Moravia’ lured many Czech families to that community, in whose surroundings thieves and rustlers were still plentiful,” wrote Vivial. “They would swoop down on the lonely farms set deep in the woods and harass the families and their property as much as they dared. They had a habit of gathering at Moravia at night and Mr. Jalufka had to oblige them by opening the saloon any time of the night. Sometimes they had no money to pay for the drinks or goods they purchased, but they always paid in full at the next visit. Oddly enough, they could be trusted in that respect.”
Vivial continues, “Those nightriders were all daring and dangerous fellows, and Jalufka had only himself to depend on in dealing with them. The sheriff or his deputies in Hallettsville in those days were of no value as peace officers to Mr. Jalufka at Moravia, for there were no roads and no telephones to call them if needed. Even if there had been, it would have taken hours to reach Moravia on horseback. Consequently, Mr. Jalufka, himself, had to be the law and without aid had to settle his accounts with the outlaws.”
“The (Czech) immigrants brought with them the big double-barreled shotguns from the old country while the outlaws used revolvers or six-shooters exclusively. The shotguns were unknown to the natives. Since the raiders operated at night, the darkness made it impossible for them to see the weapons the immigrants used. This unknown weapon puzzled them and caused bewilderment as to the kind of shooting iron they had to reckon with. The shotguns carried their bullets far, and the noise they made filled the outlaws with respect for the ‘greenhorns.’”
When SPJST Lodge 23 formed in 1897—one of the original 25 charter lodges of the Society—members elected Brother Jalufka as their first president, cementing the link between the Moravia Store’s proprietor and the young lodge’s direction and ideals. Alongside officers Frank Janak (vice president), J.M. Holub
(treasurer), Frank Kubala (secretary), and Josef Trojcak (financial secretary), Jalufka helped organize a membership of immigrant farmers, storekeepers, and teachers who pledged mutual aid: to care for the sick, support widows with small children, and lend a hand when accidents or fires struck.
That early ethic became the lodge’s defining tradition. Members contributed Liberty Bonds and Savings Bonds during World Wars I and II and made donations to the Red Cross; several served in the Armed Forces. Meetings were conducted in the Czech language until 1972, and—today—you can still catch Czech spoken after gatherings, a living echo of the lodge’s immigrant heritage. In more recent times, the lodge has supported a range of initiatives, including supporting the construction of the Fort Hood Memorial project.
Before it had a hall of its own, Lodge 23 met in the Moravia High School building, donating a small sum each year for use of the space. On March 9, 1913, members voted to build their own hall; by January 1914, they had completed it—largely with their own labor—at 11421 FM 957, on land donated by Joe Cervenka. It stands today not just as a building but as a citizen-made monument to shared work and shared purpose.
The lodge’s commitment to mutual support never dimmed. When members faced serious accidents or house fires, neighbors rallied—offering clothing, bedding, food, and cash, living out the pledge made by the lodge’s first members. Today, Lodge 23 counts 140 certificates, representing the descendants’ families and stories that continue to shape Moravia’s character.
Jalufka’s saloon and store thrived until Prohibition – 1920 – and his passing that same year. Ownership changed hands— Agnes Jalufka to Annie Chromcak and Lillian Blahuta in 1922; then to Lillian and Frank Blahuta in 1923—while the building itself evolved. A new dance hall rose across the road in 1930; the store’s second story later came down, leaving the one story general store locals recognize today. The dance hall across the road was torn down in 1950; the store remained in the Blahuta family until 1979, closing briefly in 1990 and reopening in 1996 under the watchful eye of Henrietta Filip, who continues to run the store today with the support of her family. In 1998, the Texas Historical Commission elevated the site’s standing with a state historical marker, honoring the store as a link to the Texas-Czech pioneer spirit of Lavaca County.
“This year’s 129th Anniversary Celebration on March 14 offers more than a meal and a dance,” says SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek. “If you’ve never been to Moravia, Texas, this is your grand opportunity! It will be a lot of fun and an opportunity for us to support the restoration of the hall, keeping it sturdy, safe, and welcoming for the next century of weddings, meetings, reunions, and community milestones.”
“As we mark 129 years of SPJST, we celebrate a legacy seeded by Ignac Jalufka: a storekeeper, postmaster, and lodge president whose simple conviction—that neighbors should look after neighbors—still anchors Moravia today and SPJST today.”
The Lodge 23, Moravia meeting hall is located approximately 10 miles south of Schulenburg at 11421 FM 957. The Moravia Store is nearby at 11501 FM 957. —SPJST—
25-YEAR MEMBERS joined in 2001
District One
Lodge 1, Fayetteville
Koltin Kocian
Ashlyn Pugh
Shawn Supak
Lodge 9, Snook
Chelsea Agee
Chad Alberth
Hannah Alberth
Madeline Alberth
Savannah Bartay
Ian Brumlow
Cody Dever
Haily Dever
Landon Eldridge
Kelly Evans
Chasity Gamble
Destiny Gamble
Jason Gamble
Zachary Gamble
Mark Hargrove
Toeben Kindt
Carol Kmiec
Carrie Kmiec
Joseph Kmiec
Grace Lewis
Chad Mikeska
Christy Mueggenborg
Cody Mueggenborg
Kaylee Supak
Gary H. Swarb
Gary C. Swarb
Poppie Swarb
Christi Everett
Matthew Everett
Tiffani Everett
Anthony Gutierrez
Peggy Gutierrez
Johnnie Poole
Lodge 67
Schulenburg-Weimar
Ethan Ebner
Thuriey Lee
Kamron Saunders
Christina Taylor
Kelsey Taylor
Kendall Taylor
Lodge 141, Sealy
Barbara Schram
Lodge 169, Brenham
Justin Counts
Lodge 179, Warrenton
Marilyn Tobola
Lodge 186, Caldwell
Rodney Bledsoe
Lodge 189
Bryan-College Station
Kara Jean Anglin
Laurie Forrest
Vanessa Glass
Calvin Wade
District Two
Lodge 15, Buckholts
Taylor Swarb
Lodge 13, Dime Box
Ashley Knox
Jordan Marek
Lodge 17, New Tabor
Hunter Blaha
Justin Brinkman
Kayla Brinkman
Coy Cass
Tabor Dowell
Ramona Dubcak
Jesse Floeck, IV
Chloe Harris
Colby Havemann
Nicholas Havemann
Molly Howell
Kara Ihlenfeldt
William Ihlenfeldt, Jr.
Brandon Kluge
Kimberly Krauter
Eliska Mattox
Briann Pendergraff
Alexia Perkkio
John Raus, III
Allison Rigler
Ethan Spiller
Trent Stefka
Zella Zaskoda
Lodge 38, Kovar
Bailey Gast
Russell Reiss
Lodge 39, Bryan
Mathias Brackin
Ricky Penn
Colton Posvar
Aaron Reisner
Shea Sebek
Stacie Sebek
Jessica Summers
Lodge 29, Taylor
Rebecca Delich
Scott Delich
Stephanie Delich
Cassandra Hoyle
David Hoyle
Jadon Keil
April Knapek
Jaden Kubiak
Jaren Martinez
Jeana Matetzschk
Ricky Matetzschk
Harvey Patschke
Erica Wagner
Hayden Wagner
Kaitlyn Whatley
Lodge 47, Seaton
Garrett Bragewitz
Lane Dach
Nicole Flores
Bernard Greger
Crystal Greger
Michael Grenier
Elizabeth Hoelscher
Brandon Kosel
Rita Kovar
Lisa Lopez
Matthew Machicek
Amy Mesecke
Ryan Orsag
Dakota Porubsky
Colton Regan
Hannah Junek
Emily Street
Garrett Street
Lodge 18, Elgin
Roland Arrisola
Spencer Brade
Maxwell Cobb
Jake Evans
Travis Krenek
Sherrill Mogonye
Halli Motyka
Thomas Motyka, III
Robert Nethery
Geraldine Ross
Maison Williamson
Mayo Williamson
Lodge 20, Granger
Callie Baird
Shaun Cavanaugh
Selinalynn Innes
Lauren Loessin
Colby Miller
Tracey Pekar
Elizabeth Vrana
Lodge 24, Cyclone
Cortni Ashcraft
Kalen Ashcraft
Andrew Chavez
Jessica Chervenka
Kole Coots
Rachel Farmer
Leland Jungmann, Jr.
Danny Mayes
Lodge 87, Temple
Travis Billeck
Kayla Broughton
Lori Broughton
Katherine Flores
Jakob Kostroun
Noah Kostroun
Bryan Kraut
Michael Kraut
Taylor Mathis
Brittney McGarity
Linda Ortega-Temeyosa
Edwin Tyroch, Jr.
Brent Wheeler
Lodge 155, Austin Collin Bunch
Lodge 177, Academy
Albert Alcozer
Jordan Goodman
Rebecca Mitcham
Kacey Rose
Kody Shaver
Zachary Shaver
Cheryl Stecher
Daniel Stecher
Lodge 187, Round Rock
Peggy Deck
Lauren Ischy
Brandon Larson
Marshall Oman
Kelly Rarick
Lillian Raska
Kelbie Stifflemire
Mason Stifflemire
Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point
Allen Rostovich
Misti Rostovich
Elizabeth Skrabanek
Darla Vasterling
Linda Winn
Lodge 48, Beyersville
William Cade Filla
Jaycee Johnson
Jordyn Johnson
Kenzie Jones
Hannah Kellermeier
Caden Kokes
Andella Kovar
Trace Lopez
Sarah Meza
Matthew Sellers
Lodge 80, Holland
Geoffrey Collier
Jessica Dague
Kolby Dague
Mitchell Hill
Garrett Mathesen
Gabrielle McLean
Twana Powell
Zachary Roy
Crystal Santos
Magdaleno Santos
Meredith Santos
Andrea Schlickeisen
Gracie Schlickeisen
Jason Schlickeisen
Roy Schlickeisen
Hayley Strickland
Justin Strickland
Heather Tobin
Davion Talbert
Taylor Talbert
Trestean Talbert
Julia Tucker
Sarah Vasicek
Jared Vochoska
Adrian Walker
Jordan Wallace
Lodge 25, Ennis
Jack Adams
Kalley Barber
Jerry Brown
Erica Clark
Madysen Cox
Amanda Droste
Brandon Droste
Kaitlin Griffin
Austen Holland
Jarron Honza
Amanda Jurik
Michael Jurik
Corbin Legrand-Barnes
Aubrey Pleiner
Austin Reeves
Tiffany Richardson
Henry Trojacek
Rex Woods
Sandra Woods
Lodge 35, Elk
Carl Hammer
James Mann, Jr.
Tara Pavelka
Kaylan Vicha
Nicole Vicha
Lodge 54, West
Kailee Brock
Anna Chaney
Bonnie Hancock
James Hancock
Terri Hancock
Raymond Manear
Sydney Manear
Reanna Martinez
John Martinez, Jr.
Garrett Odle
Jimmy Pruitt
Sarah Stuart Fara Vass
District Three
Lodge 6, Cottonwood
Frank Andrle
Irene Barber
Lula Mae Blahuta
Vickey Craig
Lakn Dieterich
Andrew Dulock
Anna Dulock
Marti Hanson
Wade Hanson
Cierra Hurd
Clara Matustik
Trinati Montes
Aaron Owen
Drake Pavelka
Irene Peterson
Christian Romero
Colin Schuetze
Kimberly Seith
Devin Sembera
Nicholas Svacek
Lodge 92, Fort Worth
Matthew Connella
Crystal Cote
Michael Cote
Michael Cote, II
Samantha Herdman
Lisa Juran
Matthew McCoy
Connally Scaff
Hayden Scaff
Alexandra Toupal
Brecken Toupal
Breighton Toupal
Chase Toupal
Lodge 154, Fort Worth
Athens Milan
Angel Pace
Amanda Palmer
Jessyka Prescott
Jayme Schafer
Lodge 180, Burleson
Alexis Payne
Lodge 183, Arlington
Elizabeth Crawford
District Four
Lodge 49, Rowena
Ashlynn Box
Payton Box
Jane Cook
Cameron Faubion
Cody Faubion
Brenda Forbess
Patricia Havlak
Daniel Lange
Paige Davila
Zoe Dushane
Sally James
Wesley James
Tyler Kaluza
Jeffrey Martin
Marissa Matus
Mason Matus
Janie Niemeyer
Cheyene Sulak
Edwin Sulak, III
Lodge 66, Waco
Madison Donaldson
Lauren Gerik
Tristean Huffman
Grant Pruitt
Robert Pruitt
Emmalee Stone
Braxson Warren
Daniel Wilde
Sherrie Yates
Lodge 84, Dallas
Chloe Athas
Joseph John Athas
Luke Athas
Rosemarie Athas
Lisa Barton
Betty Bartos
Linda Burleson
Brandie Cochran
Isabella Curtis
Charlotte Nemec
Cameron Troyer
Lynna Rollwitz
Denise Smallwood
Hunter Teplicek
Marshall Walther
Lodge 73, Seymour
Jake Myers
Katie Myers
Kylie Myers
Taylor Orsak
Laurie Peters
Lodge 76, Wichita Falls
Miguel Diaz
Dianna Ibarra
Faustina Ibarra
Brent Kotulek
Bryan Kotulek
Charles Kotulek
Cynthia Kotulek
Hailey Kotulek
Joyce Kotulek
Tyler Kotulek
William Waddle
Lodge 157, Lubbock
Beth Shuey
Katie Shuey
Lodge 160, San Angelo
Deyna Bilbo
Lawrence Blackburn
Cortny Broz
Megan Crawford
Abigail Erwin
John Kissko
75-YEAR MEMBERS
joined in 1951
District One
Lodge 1, Fayetteville
Gilbert Goeke, Jr.
Frank Macat
Ben Poncik
Lodge 9, Snook
Thomas Dedek
Jimmy Klechka
Mary Macik
Dennis Sebesta
Marilyn Seymour
Dennis Urbanosky
James Urbanovsky
Lodge 13, Dime Box
Joyce Hoffman
Florice Tydlacka
Lodge 17, New Tabor
Doris Blackmon
Melvin Marek
Alvin Paul
Kverin Urbanovsky
Kverin Urbanovsky, Jr.
George Zavodny, Jr.
Lodge 39, Bryan
Hubert Horcica
Mark Kristen
Adolph Kucera, Jr.
Dorothy Penicka-Dlabay
Lodge 67
Schulenburg-Weimar
Nita Crutchfield
Lodge 94, Wheelock
Judy Botts
Lodge 141, Sealy
Quinnan Chernosky
Lodge 186, Caldwell
Melvin Deutsch
Susan Deutsch
Carol Wilcox
District Two
Lodge 15, Buckholts
Jeanie Hrozek
Henry Tomasek
Joe Zajicek
Lodge 18, Elgin
Ruby Wiesner
Lodge 20, Granger
Ray Holubec
Shirley Volcik
Lodge 24, Cyclone
Alvin Bedrich
Albert Cabla
Willie Janicek
Joe Jarosek
Darlene Pechal
Douglas Pechal
Larry Pechal
Rodney Tyroch
Lodge 29, Taylor
Helen Fremin
Allen Hejl
Garry Hurta
Milton Janek, Jr.
Stephen Svadlenak
Lodge 47, Seaton
Marie Elsik
Margaret Gibson
Josephine Hoelscher
Katherine Hubnik
Douglas Jakubik
Ruth Keith
Evelyn Kneblik
Calvin Motl
Norma Tucker
Billy Vansa
Betty Wilkinson
Lodge 48, Beyersville
Virginia Marek
Lodge 80, Holland
Jane Martin
Douglas Martinets
Raymond Zajicek, Jr.
Lodge 87, Temple
Rodney Chervenka
William Machalek
Lodge 155, Austin
Diane Detwiler
George Zapalac
Lodge 187, Round Rock
George Hejtmanek
District Three
Lodge 6, Cottonwood
Michael Bezdek
Dorothy Machac
Margaret Peine
Lodge 25, Ennis
Charlie Bouska, Jr.
Venora Horak
James Houdek
Emil Martinek
Janice McLemore
Billie Mraz
Carol Mraz
Martha Neighbors
Barbara Nesuda
Paul Novak
Miles Strunc
Robert Toupal
Lodge 35, Elk
Susan Eagan
Lodge 54, West
Donald Gibson
Pauline Lawson
Sylvia Niemeyer
Lodge 66, Waco
Shirley Davidson
Willie Kofnovec
Paul Smajstrla
Lodge 84, Dallas
Paul Dujka, Jr.
Emilie Fitzhugh
Margie Gunter
Linda Holub
Sylvia Miller
John Palich
Lodge 92, Fort Worth
Joyce Brown
Michael Greer
Larry Kubala
Joseph Praslicka
Gary Skrabanek
Lodge 154, Fort Worth
Aline Duke
Victoria Mocio-Becan
Deborah Ulrickson
Lodge 183, Arlington
Charlie Andrle
District Four
Lodge 49, Rowena
Frankie Holubec
Lodge 73, Seymour
Gladys Martini
Lodge 157, Lubbock
Frank Mozola, III
Lodge 160, San Angelo
Sandra Havlak Jansa
Betty Hlavinka
Judy Holliday
Beverly Lennefelt
Kenneth Michalik
Nancy Weise
District Five
Lodge 81, Needville
Jerlene Anderson
Sidney Blinka
Diana Dockal
Sheila Elster
Alice Gregory
Estella Hundl
Willie Kuykendall
Darlene Langlotz
Anna Mikeska
Frank Suler
Lodge 88, Houston
Ruth Bartulla
Thomas Burke
Dennis Culak
Larry Maresh
Frances May
Betty Neimann
Cecelia Piwetz
Ray Pomykal
Charlene Schneider
Donald Sloan
Albert Vrazel, Jr.
Nancy Wooldridge
Victoria Zwainz
Lodge 91, San Jacinto
Charles Clinton
Mary Thamm
Lodge 139, Danbury
Pamela Peltier
Lodge 172, Pasadena
Paula Sefcik
Ronald Sefcik
Lodge 191, Lufkin
Dana Hafernick
Lodge 196, Houston-West
David Polasek
Virgil Tiemann
Lodge 32, Victoria
Benny Tater
Lodge 40, El CampoHillje
Ardis Bacak
Helen Hicks
Michael Hlozek
Ruby Hoffmann
Ray Jaksch
Betty Kallus
Rosalinda Marek
Bennie Reck
James Sralla
Dwight Vavra
Edward Vavra, Jr.
Lodge 63, Sweet Home
Jeanette Poppe
Lodge 97, Placedo
David Hajek
Forrest Pomykal
Lodge 151, WhartonEast Bernard
Josephine Cowan
Victoria Holley
Jeanette Kaminsky
Georgia Losack
Georgia Marsalia
Glenn Matula
Julius Matula, III
Carolyn Pavlicek
Jimmy Rieger
Lodge 184, Moulton
Gaye Baetz
Daniel Pelech
Dennis Wagner
Eugene Wagner
Carolyn Weir
District Six
Lodge 4, Hallettsville
Gloria Holly
Shirley Kovarek
Marvin Mikush
Dorothy Nagelmueller
Leonard Sklar
Lodge 23, Moravia
Joyce Mardis
Lodge 30, Taiton
Alice Blaha
Gayle Browning
District Seven
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi
Dewey Elsik
Jana Foreman
Daniel Kasper
Billy Sijansky
Patricia Suttles
Lodge 107, Floresville
Rose Malcher
Gary Pelech
Carolyn Pollok
Patricia Valcher
Lodge 133, San Antonio
Victor Clauss
Lodge 185, New Braunfels
Dennis Juren
Lodge 202, Jourdanton
Barbara Flippen
David Kitner
SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive
SPJST members and friends are encouraged to support the 2025-2026 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Donations are tax deductible, and 100 percent of the amount that is contributed is used for scholarships to SPJST members. Donations may be submitted online at spjst.org/scholarships. Mail contributions to:
SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503-0100
Thank you for your kind support. For more information or printed donation solicitation forms, please contact the Member Engagement Department at 254-773-1575.
Guidelines for Giving
1. Donations made by lodges out of lodge funds will be listed as a lodge donation.
2. Collected donations from a lodge meeting will be listed individually by member’s last name in alphabetical order. Individuals submitting a donation will also be listed by member’s last name alphabetically.
3. Gifts of $50 or more will be printed in bold.
4. Families or groups, which desire names listed under a particular last name or group name, should indicate this on the donation form or letter; otherwise, the names will be listed as individual donations by last name in alphabetical order.
5. 100 pennies donations made as a memorial will be listed under memorial donations in a separate listing.
Note: Please print donor’s name(s) clearly.
Donations to date for the 2025-2026 drive are $4,617. SPJST Memorial donations and endowment donations to date are $33,128. Thank you for your
generous donations to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund and Memorial Fund. Because of your generosity, many young SPJST members will be able to attend or continue with college. The 2025-2026 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive goal is $50,000. Thank you!
A New Home, A New Chapter for the Czech Heritage Museum
Dear Friends,
Greetings in the New Year! I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to update you on the future of the Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center and to personally invite you to join us in shaping this next transformative chapter.
As you know, the Czech Heritage Museum has long been recognized as one of Texas's foremost institutions housing an extensive collection of Czech cultural treasures, vintage home and family artifact, memorabilia and literary works. Since the SPJST Foundation assumed direction of the Museum in January 2023, the Foundation has embraced the responsibility of both honoring our Czech ancestors and redefining what a modern
regional cultural institution can be. Programs such as our Night at the Museum series—launched in 2023 have met with extraordinary public enthusiasm and have reinforced the value of live performances, and shared cultural experiences.
These events, which have grown far beyond the capacity of our current home at 119 West French Avenue, have underscored both the limitations of our existing space and the great potential for something more ambitious, more interactive, and more impactful. With the building now in the process of being sold, we have a timely and meaningful opportunity to reimagine the Museum from the ground up.
A New Home — and a New Vision
The SPJST Foundation is moving forward with plans to relocate the Museum to a significantly more accommodating and dynamic environment within the lower level of the SPJST Home Office at 520 North Main Street. This new location will allow us to incorporate:
• A fully re-envisioned interactive museum experience
• A flexible, multipurpose theatre and art gallery
• A refreshed and culturally expressive entrance and lobby area
• Expanded exhibition capacity that better reflects the breadth of our artifacts and stories
• Spaces designed for community involvement, education, and engagement
Equally important, the new Museum concept is intended to stretch beyond traditional exhibition models. The Museum Advisory Board is actively shaping a vision of a living, evolving institution—one that celebrates the past yet serves as a platform for cultural connection, creativity, and learning for generations to come.
Introducing Pillar Architecture Studio
To support this vision, we have engaged Pillar Architecture Studio, a Temple-based firm with deep local roots and a portfolio of thoughtful, communitycentered design. Their partnership brings exceptional architectural, engineering, and planning expertise—not only through the Pillar team but also through the unified capabilities of their parent company, KPA Engineers, and Covey Planning & Landscape Architecture.
Pillar’s proximity to the site, their responsiveness, and their grasp of Temple’s development environment lends tremendous confidence to this project. Their proposal includes detailed 3D modeling, thoughtful schematic planning, design concepts for museum spaces, theatre configurations, lobby enhancements, and exterior improvements. Their early conceptual work reflects the right balance of imagination, cultural respect, and feasibility.
The Museum’s Advisory Board believes they are the ideal collaborators to help bring this next chapter of the Museum to life.
An Invitation to Join Us
Your past support and personal commitment to preserving and advancing Czech heritage means so very much to us. In February, we will host an open community gathering and preview at the SPJST Home Office to share the conceptual imagery and design studies developed by Pillar Architecture Studio. We would be delighted to have you join
us. The event will be held:
Sunday, February 15 2 to 5 p.m.
SPJST Home Office Building 520 North Main Street Temple, Texas 76501
Light refreshments will be served. This presentation will offer a first look at what the Museum could become—a
project that is not only architecturally meaningful but culturally essential for the Czech community in Texas and beyond.
Hoping to see you on Sunday, February 15. Best wishes to you for a Happy and Healthy 2026!
Fraternally,
Brian Vanicek
SPJST Foundation President —SPJST—
SPJST LODGE SECTION
Lodge 4, Hallettsville celebrates Christmas and honors
Milestone Members
Dear Members,
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
75-year members Gayenell Chudej, Allen R. Grones, and Marlyn Sevcik. New member Sarah Vahalik was also present.
Secretary Annie Vahalik led the members in singing the entertaining and fun “Twelve Days of Christmas.” Christmas carols were sung.
Everyone then departed in the Christmas spirit.
Next Meeting—February 1
The next meeting will be Sunday, February 1 at 3 p.m. at Methodist Church Annex. We will collect items for Share the Warmth and valetines for rest home residents that members bring. Door prizes and lunch will be as usual. Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood plans service projects and volunteer appreciation
Lodge 4, Hallettsville hosted its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Vsetin Czech Moravian Brethren Church Educational Building, beginning at 11:30 a.m. with registration.
At noon, President Joe Siptak welcomed everyone and recognized our special guest, SPJST Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak.
The meal blessing was given by Pastor Mark Labaj. Everyone then enjoyed a delicious meal of fried chicken provided by the lodge and a large variety of side dishes and desserts brought by the members.
After the meal, our 2025 Milestone Members were recognized. Present were 50-year member Leon Koehne and
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Nanci Hadash held the drawing for many door prizes, assisted by Charlie Vahalik.
Lucky winners were Carol Koehne, Adolf Marek, Pat Hessler, Donna Hagens, Annie Vahalik, Sarah Vahalik, Vicki Zak, Alton Chudej, Susan Siptak, Charlie Vahalik, Patsy Zabransky, Joe Siptak, Bernice Marek, Marlyn Sevcik, Alton Sevcik, Vernell Labaj, Mark Labaj, Sandy Holy, Betty Jean Metzler, Asher Vahalik, Charlene Cheeham, and Earline and Luther Lorfing. Everyone received a goody bag from the lodge.
Czech bingo was then enjoyed with Philip Hadash saying the Czech words, assisted by Nanci Hadash. It was a lot of fun with lots of winners.
Caring Challenges were discussed and how those can be accomplished. Please bring gently-used jackets and blankets to the February meeting so we can get them to those in need during cold weather.
SPJST Home Office sent notice of death claims processed since last meeting. Thank you cards were received from The History of West Museum and West Independent School district for donations distributed.
An appreciation dinner will be held Sunday, February 15 at 12:30 p.m. This chicken-fried steak meal will be served to all volunteers who help with lodge activities, such as the annual lodge picnic and the Westfest activities. Come an hour before or stay after for dominos/social time.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting was held Sunday, January 4, 2026, and all officers were present. There were 11 members, three youth, and one guest in attendance. December minutes and the treasury report were provided. Both reports were accepted by membership. Home Office news and upcoming fraternal activities were discussed.
Discussion was held about several hall projects and needed repairs. Membership decided to apply for the Dressler Fund grant, presented by Lodge 172, Pasadena. A committee of three officers was created to obtain cost prospectives and submit application prior to deadline. The committee is comprised of Kim Seith, Peggy Dobecka, and Don Urbanovsky.
Lodge 6 hall rentals for February and
Home Office gets festive with Ugly Sweater Contest
Several Home Office staff wore their ugly sweaters on December 22, 2025. Pictured are, front, left to right, Katharine Tillman and Nancy Miller. BACK: Amanda Pacatte, Tammy Martinez, Joy Chesebro, Frank Horak, and Cynthia Hutka.
The 2026 officers of Lodge 6, Cottonwood are front, left to right, Flag Bearer Irene Peterson, Treasurer Peggy Dobecka, and Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette Beseda. BACK: Vice President Kim Seith, President Don Urbanovsky, and Reporter Patti Rosales.
SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood Officers
Lodge 4, Hallettsville celebrates Christmas and Milestone Members
LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to Lodge 4, Hallettsville’s 75-year Milestone Members! They are, Marlyn Sevcik, seated in front, and standing, siblings Gayenell Chudej and Allen R. Grones. PHOTO 2: Nanci and Phillip Hadash did a great job with the Czech bingo! Prizes were from the lodge and donated by the members. PHOTO 3: Playing Czech
bingo are, left to right, Mary Schroeder, Annie Vahalik, and Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak. RIGHT PHOTO: Enjoying the Christmas meal are, left to right, Asher, Philip, and Charlie Vahalik. In back are Alton Sevcik and Pat and Jennifer Hessler.
—Patsy Zabransky, Reporter
March were provided. These lodge activities need to be added to your calendar:
February 1—Lodge 6 meeting
February 15—Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
March 1—Lodge 6 Meeting
March 29—Lodge 6 April Meeting and Easter Party
Celebrating a January birthday was Barbara Hykel, and we all sang “Happy Birthday” to her. Progressive door prize name drawn was for Paul Kucera, and he was not present. The attendance door prize winners were Irene Peterson, Barbara Hykel, and Peggy Dobecka.
Next Meeting—February 1
The next lodge meeting will be Sunday, February 1. Come join us at Cottonwood Hall!
Fraternally, Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook reviews projects and community support
The January 7, 2026, meeting of Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7:05 p.m. Loree Lewis led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the December meeting were approved. Hall manager, communications, treasurer, and statewide reports were given.
The youth club had a very busy past few months. The Christmas program/memorial service was very well attended, and the program was good.
Work on the front doors should be completed soon. We passed motions to purchase a sign to display at our dumpster, refund the hall rental for Snook EEA dance, and sponsor Little League baseball/softball. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Next Meeting—February 4
The next meeting will be February 4.
Fraternally, Sheila Orsak, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 13, Dime Box kicks off the year with January meeting
Lodge 13, Dime Box held its meeting on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Diamond I Venue. President Ricky Ford called the meeting to order, and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Present were nine members and two guests.
Stevie Jatzlau, Doris Ford, and Kenny Ford agreed to be on the audit committee.
Members agreed to collect baby essentials and coats to donate to local
Lodge 6, Cottonwood gives back to the West community
6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky, right, distributed multiple donations to service organizations in the West area. Pictured here, he presents a donation to Matthew Hykel for St. Vincent de Paul program. Brother Don also delivered donations to West Fire Department and History of West Museum. —Patti
shelters and bring them to the next meeting.
It was also agreed to purchase a table at the T.G. Sheppard concert at the Diamond I Venue on January 16.
Next Meeting—March 8
The next meeting will be Sunday, March 8 at 1 p.m. After the meeting, members will travel to Paige to enjoy a social at Paige Roadhouse.
Floyd Kostelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia plans March 14 fundraiser and renovation project
Lodge 23, Moravia met December 14, 2025, at the lodge hall for its annual meeting and Christmas social. President Elizabeth Holub called the meeting to order at 2 p.m.
All recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was observed for departed members and those in our military.
Roll of officers was called with all officers present. Minutes from the September meeting were read and approved. The treasurer’s report was then given and approved.
President Holub welcomed District 6 Director Annie Vahalik and all members present. Director Vahalik spoke to us on upcoming SPJST events and new beginnings for the new year.
Our main discussion and new business was our hall restoration project.
Lodge
Rosales, Reporter
Vice President Arthur Zarosky outlined the hall renovation plans although the architect will be presenting us with more information soon.
March 14 Fundraiser
A fundraiser will be held at Moravia Store on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Food, raffles, silent auction, and music are planned for the day. Our lodge hall will also be open for visitors. There will be more planning meetings on this event and renovation project.
Election of officers was held with all officers elected by acclamation. Door prizes were won by Kathy Guenther, Kim Vanek, Blake Rerich, Wanda Carpenter, Bo Rerich, Arthur Zarosky, Theresa Rerich, Mike Holub, Dave Jorgensen, Bruce Vrana, Elizabeth Holub, and Janice Jorgensen.
Being no further business, the meeting adjourned and our social began. We served a lunch and enjoyed much visiting among members for the Christmas season.
Lodge 24, Cyclone to welcome Mollie B to Flag Hall on March 1
Lodge 24, Cyclone met at Flag Hall on January 11, 2026, at 5 p.m. Vice President Jason Hoelscher called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance and a silent prayer. Secretary Cathy Bruggman read the November and December meeting minutes. Linda presented the financials.
Report on the New Year’s Eve dance was that there were 395 tickets sold. The dance was a home run with the hall full of well-dressed dancers. Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 played favorite songs and was not loud. The contract for next year was signed.
Lighting on the parking lot was reported by Daniel Wilde.
The Mollie B event was up for discussion. The minimum is that Mollie’s contract calls for food to be available. This item is being worked on.
February’s Caring Challenge is to collect coats and gloves. Brenda will take them to Feed My Sheep.
Officer forms were sent to Frank by hand delivery to be there by January 15.
Birthdays were Daniel Wilde on January 1 and Steve Bruggman.
dge 13, Dime Box supports community toy drive
Next Meeting—February 8
The next meeting is Sunday, February 8 at 12 noon so members may watch the Super Bowl. Collecting diapers will be for the March Caring Challenge to benefit Our Lady of Angels.
For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone meets February 8
Lodge 24, Cyclone will meet on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 12 noon.
The next big event will be Squeeze Box with Ted Lange and featuring Mollie B on Sunday, March 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are on sale now by calling Linda Wilde at 254-231-5348. Mollie has mailed the tickets to Linda Wilde and they are for sale now. Please call soon to get your seat at a table. The lodge is looking forward to seeing you at the event.
July 26—Vrazels Tribute Band
The lodge will host the Vrazels Tribute Band on July 26.
Wishing you tidings of the season. Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis plans a new year of fun and fellowship
Dear Lodge 25 Members, Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe the holidays are behind us, and 2026 is upon us. Starting a new year brings about new beginnings and great ideas so our lodge has decided to add another social night to our monthly calendar! We have scheduled game night for Friday, January 23 so make plans to come out and have some good old-fashioned fun designed for the whole family!
Super Bowl Kick-Off Party—
February 8
Looking towards February, a Super Bowl Kick-Off Party is planned for Sunday, February 8.
Birthday Nights, Bar Nights
We will continue to carry on our traditional monthly Birthday Night the last Wednesday of each month as well as Bar Night every Wednesday! Look for reminders on Facebook.
Quarterly Meetings
Membership has also decided to transition our monthly meetings to quarterly beginning this month. The dates remain
Lodge 20, Granger brings holiday cheer to local children
—Floyd Kostelka, Reporter
Lodge 13, Dime Box presented a donation to the local community toy drive for needy children.
Lodge 20, Granger youth and adults put together 170 goody bags filled with apples, oranges, candy, and SPJST swag. On November 29, 2025, the lodge distributed the bags to children at the 6th Annual Granger Hometown Christmas and Tree Lighting.
—Jvonne Elwood, Secretary
on Thursday evenings beginning with a meal at 6:30 p.m. and are scheduled on January 15, April 9, July 9, and October 8.
We are looking forward to what 2026 has in store for us at Lodge 25 and other Czech- and SPJST-sponsored events throughout the state. Come on out to join in on the fun and bring a friend!
Šťastný Nový Rok! Happy New Year!
Fraternally yours,
Rita Holland
FAC/Youth Leader
—SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis invites all to
Super Bowl Kick-Off Party
Dear Readers,
Save the date — Sunday, February 8 at 4 p.m. — and plan to join us at Lodge 25, Ennis for a Super Bowl Kick-Off Party. Members and guests are invited to attend. Please bring a dish to share. For more information, call 469-3372284.
Fraternally,
Rita Holland
FAC/Youth Leader —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor marks the season with service and celebration
Lodge 29, Taylor hosted its meeting/Christmas party on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. President Adolph Grieger opened the meeting and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Adolph asked for a moment of silence to honor our departed veterans and those presently serving our country. All officers were present. The October minutes were read and approved.
Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report. Linda Pospisil gave the fraternal report. She also read a thank you letter from Texas Critter Crusaders. Lodge 29 members will collect for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive at the February meeting. Next week, we will distribute Lodge 29’s donation checks to Shepherd’s Heart Pantry, Taylor Fire Department’s toy drive, and to SPJST Senior Living for activities.
Jesse Pospisil thanked everyone for attending the meeting and especially thanked Adolph Grieger and Frankie Pustejovsky for taking care of items needing attention at the lodge hall. He also thanked them for the wonderful meal they prepared following our meeting.
The Lions Club will hold its annual chili supper on January 22, 2026, at Taylor SPJST Hall. It will be drive-through only.
Jesse recognized Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny for
Lodge 29, Taylor delivers donations to community partners
attending the meeting. Melanie swore in 2026 officers and property committee members and gave us an update on the Vestnik moving to a monthly publication in January 2026. Deadline to get information in the Vestnik will be on the 10th day of each month, and the Vestnik will be emailed and mailed to members around the 25th of each month so they will have it prior to the beginning of the month.
Members celebrating birthdays in December include Jesse Pospisil, Catherine Pasemann, Meredith Tate, Edwina Jezisek, Gary Johle, Lillian Pacha, Ethan Harrison, Deborah Marek, David Nauert, and Shelly Wiegand.
Lyn Rieger volunteered to bring door prizes in February.
Next Meeting—February 11
The next meeting will be Wednesday, February 11, at 6:30 p.m.
Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil
Secretary/Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk sets upcoming dances
Lodge 35, Elk invites all to its upcoming dances at the historic Elk Hall:
February 14 - Valentine’s Dance
Joel Wood Band
February 21 - Midnight Mustangs
March 28 - Chris Colunga
April 11 - Nolan Pick Band
We hope you will consider joining us for these dances!
Tammy Pavelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk addresses business matters in December
On December 17, 2025, Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall meetings were called to order by President Randy Pavelka with nine members and one guest in attendance. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The November minutes were
Lodge 29, Taylor members presented donations to Shepherds Heart Pantry, Taylor Fire Department Toy Drive, and SPJST Senior Living for activities.
—Linda Pospisil FAC/Secretary
The 2026 officers and property committee of Lodge 29, Taylor are, left to right, President Adolph Grieger, Property Committee Frankie Pustejovsky, Secretary/FAC/Reporter Linda Pospisil, and Treasurer Tammy Cannon. The leaders were installed by Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, far right.
SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Officers
read by Secretary Megan Mann and approved as read. New business consisted of discussion and clarification on some banking matters. The meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m. The next meeting was set for January 14, 2026, at 7 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Tammy Pavelka Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk shares January updates
The monthly meeting of Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall was called to order by President Randy Pavelka on January 14, 2026, at 6:55 p.m. with 10 members and one guest in attendance. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
Barbara Pavelka was on the sick list, and we wish her a speedy recovery. Minutes were read by Secretary Megan Mann and approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer gave the financial reports. Floor Chair Dude Mann and Bar Chair Randy Pavelka reported a profitable month. There were updates on roof repair and some discussion on advertising.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:17 p.m.
Next Meeting—February 11
The next meeting will be February 11.
Tammy Pavelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 39, Bryan makes the best of December gathering
Dear Readers,
Lodge 39, Bryan met at Lampstand Nursing Home on December 12, 2025, at 5 p.m. To our surprise, the home had a Covid outbreak. They said we could sing but had to wear masks. Even the event coordinator was out. So after everyone had arrived, we all decided it was best for everyone not to go in where the residents were. We took pictures inside and sang “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” outside with the kids. We had a great group again this year, and we were very disappointed.
Afterwards, we all went to CC’s Pizza. We had a wonderful meal and Christmas social with door prizes for ev-
SPJST Lodge 38, kovar Officers
eryone.
After we all enjoyed pizza and goodies, President Omer Everett called the meeting to order. We said the Pledge of Allegiance, elected 2026 officers, and postponed all other business until March 2026.
We hope to see you at the March meeting. Happy New year to all!
Sincerely,
Binnie Matejka Roesler Treasurer/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 38, Kovar supports community
Lodge 38, Kovar made its annual December donations to Smithville Food Pantry and Smithville Blue Santa. The lodge presented checks of $200 to each organization as part of the Caring Challenge Food Drive and Toy Drive.
—Dana Bunte Secretary/Treasurer
Lodge 38, Kovar keeps SPJST sign looking good
Lodge 38, Kovar Vice President
brings his tractor to give the SPJST sign a thorough cleaning, preparing it for the hall’s 2026 rentals. The Kovar SPJST lodge hall hosts many events throughout the year, and Edwin, along with the other lodge officers, works hard to maintain the facility and keep it available to the community.
—Dana Bunte Secretary/Treasurer
Lodge 39, Bryan enjoys holiday fellowship
Edwin Zimmerhanzel
The 2026 officers of Lodge 38, Kovar are, left to right, Vice President Edwin Zimmerhanzel, Second Vice President/Hall Rentals Donna Zimmerhanzel, Secretary/Treasurer Dana Bunte, and President Alfred Hellinger. Not pictured is Fraternal Activities Coordinator/Reporter Dorothy Lastovica.
Members of Lodge 39, Bryan gathered on December 12, 2025, for their annual holiday outing at Lampstand Nursing Home. Due to a COVID outbreak, members sang Christmas songs outdoors with the children, then enjoyed a pizza supper and Christmas social at CC’s Pizza, followed by a brief lodge meeting. —Binnie Roesler, Secretary
Lodge 47, Seaton recaps 2025
Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthly meeting on Saturday, December 6, 2025. President Brandon Bartek called the meeting to order. Flag bearers were Kal-El Martinez and Everhett Bartek. Members on the sick list are Brayton White and District 2 Director Jesse Pospisil. A moment of silence was observed for Cyclone member Elsie Jez. Secretary Brenda Hoelscher read the November lodge minutes and November board minutes. Brenda also announced that Seaton’s newest member is her granddaughter, Lucy Grace Hoelscher.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator
Tammy Martinez announced the upcoming 42 (January 10), tarok (February 7) and summer youth camp (June 28 to July 2) dates. Tammy also discussed the upcoming youth camp raffle fundraiser to help youth with camp costs.
Danny Stepan gave the bar report for November bookings and Friday night gatherings. Emily read financials for November.
Youth Leader Amber Bartek stated the youth club will help with the memorial candle lighting during the December 7 lodge memorial/Christmas party. The youth club is collecting toys and also supporting the food drive for Miss SPJST Paetyn Beckendorf’s service project.
Brandon discussed preparations for tomorrow’s lodge Christmas party on December 7, and Billy Holt Band will be providing music for the New Year’s Eve dance. Reserve your New Year’s Eve table at Eventbrite.com (Search NYE Star Hall) or call 254-985-2548 for more information. Officers for 2026 will be installed by Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny at the December 7 Christmas party. Members will decorate the hall for the holidays after the conclusion of this lodge meeting.
Officers were then elected for 2026. They are:
President Brandon Bartek
Vice President Danny Stepan
Secretary/Reporter Shelly McNeill
Treasurer Brenda Hoelscher
FAC/Parliamentarian Tammy Martinez
Youth Leader Amber Bartek Board Members
Jason Beckendorf, Heidi Holliman
Chris McNeill, Judy Pechal
December birthdays, anniversaries, and door prizes winners were recognized.
The next meeting was set for January 4, 2026, at 2 p.m.
Lodge 47 continues to gather and provide a place for members, family, and friends in the surrounding community to enjoy.
Keep an eye out for upcoming events and fundraisers. It is always a great time with SPJST. As always, follow Lodge
Lodge 49, Rowena gives back during Christmas season
47 on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Lodge47Sea tonStarHall/.
This letter is my last month as Lodge 47 Reporter/Secretary. It has been a pleasure serving SPJST and our members with these positions for the last few years. I will now take over the duties as lodge treasurer and will continue to be a part of the Lodge 47, Seaton Officers and Board.
Thank you everyone for reading. I hope you all have a blessed day.
Fraternally, Brenda Hoelscher Reporter/Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton plans full calendar of events for 2026
Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthy meeting on January 4, 2026.
President Brandon Bartek called the meeting to order. Flag bearers were Tessa Koslovsky and Sofia VonStasch. Members on the sick list are Edwin Pe-
chal and Brenda Hoelscher. A moment of silence was given for Martha Schiller, Alvin Simcik, and Michael Smith (friend of Lodge 47).
Secretary Shelly McNeill read the December lodge minutes, and Treasurer Brenda Hoelscher read the unofficial December board minutes.
FAC/Tammy Martinez announced the Vestnik will be published monthly in 2026 and the upcoming Progressive 42 domino tournament was set for January 10 at the Home Office. Tammy also discussed youth camp raffle donation deadline of January 15, and TABA Home & Garden SPJST Car Show is January 23 to 25 in Belton.
Brenda read financials for December.
Youth Leader Amber Bartek announced sunshine cards were made, youth is collecting baby items and coats and scarves.
Amber also discussed hall bookings. Danny Stepan turned in the bar report for December bookings and Friday night gatherings.
Brandon discussed the New Year’s Eve dance financials and attendance/reserved tables and lawn mowing bids. Brandon announced an audit committee meeting on January 12 and deadline for Lodge 172 grant fund is February 1. Brandon also discussed air conditioning
Lodge 54, West supports West High Junior Historian dancers
Members of Lodge 54, West attended a performance by the West High Junior Historian Dancers at West High School, presented for parents, grandparents, and the public. Lodge 54 supported the group with a $500 donation, presented during the event.
TOP PHOTO: The full group of dancers, including alumni who returned to watch the performance.
RIGHT PHOTO: Audience members join the dancers in “The Chicken Dance.”
—Freddie Kaluza, President
Lodge 49, Rowena hosted its Christmas party on December 7, 2025, at the hall. Members enjoyed a visit from Santa as well as finger foods and a social. Towels were collected to be given to the homeless.
—Becky Wood, Secretary
bids/plan and lodge entrance repairs/plans.
Heidi Holliman discussed the upcoming barbecue cook-off/CBA calendar.
January birthdays, anniversaries, and door prize winners were recognized.
Next Meeting—February 1
The next meeting will be Sunday, February 1 at 2 p.m.
Lodge 47 continues to gather and provide a place for members, family, and friends in the surrounding community to enjoy.
Keep an eye out for upcoming events and fundraisers. It is always a great time with SPJST.
As always, follow Lodge 47 on our Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/Lodge47SeatonStarHall/.
Thank you to everyone for reading. I hope you all have a blessed day.
Fraternally, Shelly McNeill
Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 48, Beyersville shares calendar of events
Lodge 48, Beyersville will host these events in 2026:
February 21—42 Dominoes from 1 to 5 p.m. Please RSVP to 512-791-1939 or 512-924-3669. The buy-in is $25 for prizes. Snack bar will be available and the youth club will offers desserts for donation.
March 6—Fish Fry from 5 to 7 p.m.
June 28—42 Dominoes from 1 to 5 p.m.
August 22—Fall fundraiser from 4:30 to 10 p.m.
October 17—42 Dominoes from 1 to 5 p.m.
Save these dates, and plan to join us at Lodge 48, Beyersville. More information will be shared closer to each event.
Lodge meetings are the second Monday of each month at the lodge hall at 6 p.m. If interested in attending a meeting, please email jenurbanek@hotmail.com to RSVP.
Fraternally, Jennifer Miksch, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena hosts February 14 Valentine’s Dance
Dear Readers,
Lodge 49, Rowena invites all to a Valentine’s Dance on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the SPJST Lodge 49 Hall, located at 609 South FM 2133 in Rowena, Texas.
J. Rodney Dunn and The Spring Creek Band will provide the music.
Come on out for a great evening celebrating Valentine’s Day!
Happy New Year from Lodge 49, Rowena!
Stay safe and thank you! Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—
Lodge 63, Sweet Home meets February 19
Lodge 63, Sweet Home will hold its quarterly meetings and meals on the third Thursdays in February, May, August, and November.
The first meeting of 2026 will be held Thursday, February 19 at Tobola’s Party House on FM 531 going into Sweet Home beginning at 7 p.m. We will start with a short meeting where activities for the coming year will be discussed along with our usual business. A meal, furnished by the lodge, will follow. Join us in planning some meaningful activities for our lodge.
Fraternally, Elaine Berkovsky, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 79, C
SPJST Lodge 79, corpus christi Officers
2026 officers
Secretary Virginia Rebecek, and Youth Leader Marcia Rew. Not pictured is Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell. Officers were installed by District 7 Director Regina House, far right.
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members Laura Rebecek and Vice President Gerilyn Donnell, along with a special volunteer, handmade over 60 hats for a local nursing and rehabilitation facility. Residents were excited to receive these Christmas gifts! The three ladies have crocheted more than 195 hours over the last six months for this project of love! Delivering the hats were President Mark Rebecek, Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell, and members Jerry Sijansky, and Laura Rebecek. TOP LEFT: Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members delivered knitted caps to nursing home. TOP RIGHT: Gerilyn Donnell and Laura Rebecek from Lodge 79 with a resident wearing a knitted cap.
TOP LEFT: Veterans were recognized at the November lodge meeting. Thanks to, from left, Jerry Sijansky, Mark Rebecek, and Ralph Juarez. TOP CENTER: Happy November birthdays to Brandon Rew, left. and Jerry Sijansky! TOP RIGHT: Lodge 79 members delivered canned goods to Our Lady of Perpetual Catholic Church Food Pantry. TOP RIGHT: Knights of Columbus accepts canned good from Lodge 79 members. BOTTOM RIGHT: Congratulations to Mark and Virginia Rebecek, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary!
The
of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi are, left to right, Treasurer Jerry Sijansky, President Mark Rebecek,
Lodge 66, Waco members collect warm items for Caring Challenge
The December meeting of Lodge 66, Waco was on December 15, 2025, at Heitmiller Steakhouse in Lacy Lakeview. There were 12 adult members and two youth members present. Everyone had a great time visiting together and sharing memories of past Christmas parties.
The members brought “warm” items for the January Caring Challenge. Gloves, scarves, socks, jackets, coats, and blankets were collected.
Dana gave a short update on the shoe drive fundraiser and said she would turn in the paperwork when it was completed.
John and Diana were honored with a gift card to a local restaurant for all the extra work they do to prepare the meals for each meeting. Lodge officers were also honored at the meeting with a gift.
The next meeting is scheduled for January 26, 2026, at St. Paul’s Church in Bellmead at 5:30 p.m.
Thank you for your attention.
Dana McAdams
Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 67 Schulenburg-Weimar celebrates Christmas and elects 2026 officers
Lodge 67, Schulenburg-Weimar members enjoyed a Christmas party at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg, Texas, on December 4, 2025. Members also elected the 2026 officers who were sworn in by Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak. Officers are President Adrienne Kobza, Vice President Jerry Shimek, and Secretary/Treasurer-Ginger Tilicek.
Fraternally, Ginger Tilicek
Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrates Christmas
On December 21, 2025, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated Christmas with a meal of ham and sides.
The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek at 2:05 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. All officers were present except Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell. In attendance were 20 members and guests.
Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the
SPJST
Lodge 84, DALLAS Officers
The 2026 officers of Lodge 84, Dallas are, second from right to left, President Vicki Sims, Vice President Lynda Novak, Secretary Cherri Petr, Treasurer Jim Liska, Reporter Anne Cowan, and Sergeant-atArms Charles Nemec. The officers were installed by District 3 Director John Engelke, far left.
November 2025 minutes, and they were approved.
President Rebecek introduced guests District 7 Director Regina House and husband James, Territory Manager Ralph Juarez and Agent Jacob Naranjo. All spoke to our group.
Treasurer Jerry Sijansky gave the financial report, and it was approved.
For the fraternal report, President Rebecek stated several members went to
Lodge 84, Dallas Christmas party scenes
Lodge 84, Dallas members gathered with friends and family from BetterLife, KJT, and KJZT to enjoy a Christmas party on December 14, 2025, at Sokol Dallas. All enjoyed a delicious meal, activities, and a dance by the Lone Star Legends. TOP LEFT: Lodge members enjoy lunch. PHOTO 3: Bob Podhrasky, president of the Czech Heritage Society, presents a plaque of appreciation to the family of Bob and Sadie Liska for their many years of service to the Czech community and their involvement with all Czech organizations. Accepting posthumously are son Jim Liska, fourth from left right, daughter-in-law Theresa Liska, and son Bobby Liska. Also pictured are Sarah Martin, president of BetterLife Community Group in Dallas, and Lynda Novak, vice president of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas, who have been worked with Bob and Sadie for many years. TOP RIGHT: The Lone Star Legends entertain guests. BOTTOM LEFT: Children sing “Rudolph the Red- Nosed Reindeer,” accompanied by The Lone Star Legends. —Anne Cowan, Reporter
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and donated canned goods we collected for their food pantry.
Some members also visited a nursing home and delivered 63 caps, knitted by Gerilyn Donnell and Laura Rebecek. They were appreciated for our donation.
Under communications, Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the insurance claims.
Youth Leader Marcia Rew had six members and guests in attendance. The youth made Christmas ornaments.
Under new business, the next meeting will be January 18, 2026, with barbeque beef brisket as our meal, and members are asked to bring a side dish.
Winners of $25 prizes were Jacob Naranjo and Annie Urbanovsky.
The 2026 officers were elected. Elected were:
President Mark Rebecek
Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell
Secretary Virginia Rebecek
Treasurer Jerry Sijansky
Youth Leader Marcia Rew
Congratulations to all! Mark Rebecek and Marcia Rew will serve on the district council.
Jacob Rebecek made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Christina Rew. The meeting was adjourned at 3 p.m.
Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland members to enjoy valentine gift exchange at Feb. 9 meeting
Lodge 80, Holland will meet on the second Monday, February 9, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. for its quarterly meeting. A light meal will be served. The event will be held at Restoration Fellowship, located at 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland. Agenda reports include fraternal and financial.
We will have a valentine gift exchange for anyone wanting to participate. Bring some type of valentine-themed item (candy, stuffed animal, cookies, decoration). It will be lots of fun. We will do this instead of door prizes for this meeting.
Please RSVP to Rita Spinn at rita@hot.rr.com or call/text 254-7606427. Come enjoy the fellowship! ^
Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville seeks scholarship applicants
Any college or technical school bound senior, who has been a member of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville for at least one year, can apply for the local lodge scholarship. Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to SPJST Lodge 81, 9939 Peterson Road, Needville, Texas 77461 on or before March 1, 2026, to receive an application.
Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville youth bring Christmas cheer to December meeting
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville met December 14, 2025. After a prayer of thanks, everyone enjoyed a meal of honey-baked ham and sausage provided by the lodge. Thanks to Leon and Bettye Anhaiser for picking up and heating them for us. Also, a big thanks to everyone who brought side dishes and desserts.
At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman called the meeting to order. Tripp Hargraves and the youth led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. Absent from the roll call were Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall and Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha.
Krystle Peterson read the secretary’s minutes taken be Karen Hargraves at the November meeting. They were approved as read. Since Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall was absent, Krystle Peterson agreed to take the minutes for the December meeting.
Since Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha was absent, we didn’t have the treasurer’s report.
Under old business, we will wait until the January meeting to hear from Bradley Rozner on the ice machine information. Also under old business, we will install officers at the January meeting.
The youth decorated the SPJST Senior Living windows and sidewalks for Christmas and sang carols for the residents. Lynnette Parmer talked about going to the Temple Christmas Parade
with Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Parmer.
Door prize winners were Nathan Hargraves, Tripp Hargraves, Vincent Newman, Doug Parmer, Scott Peterson, Kaylee Parmer, Lynnette Parmer, Glenn McDonald, Jeanette Newman, Valentina Rojkova, Rod Rojko, and Karren Hargraves. Congratulations to our lucky winners!
For the next meeting on January 18, 2026, it was decided to have pizza. The youth leaders will pick those up for us. Members, bring a salad and/or dessert or whatever you like to eat with your pizza.
Since there was no other business to discuss, President Vincent Newman adjourned the meeting.
Next, the youth gave everyone Christmas bags filled with goodies. Everyone sang Christmas carols with Doug Parmer accompanying on his guitar. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Fraternally,
Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville reports on January meeting
Lodge 81, Needville met Sunday, January 18, 2026. After a prayer of thanks by President Vincent Newman, everyone enjoyed a meal of different pizzas and a variety of desserts. Thanks to everyone who brought salad and desserts. The meal was very good.
Lodge 92, Fort Worth celebrates Christmas with music and dancing
Merry Christmas from Lodge 88, Houston Bingo Committee! We closed out the 2025 bingo year with more than 700 players! As a small token of appreciation, we gave away 10 hams after the last game. Our committee is grateful to all those who play bingo each week. Because of the community, we continue to make donations to many worthy causes. We started the new bingo year on January 8, 2026. Pictured, front, left to right, are Anahi Guerrero, Esther Martinez, Carol Havemann, Donnie Havemann, Jo Ann Buri, Fred Buri, and Sergio Guerrero. Back: Ana Latigo, Juan Latigo, Sandra Latigo, Josefina Latigo, Sarah Guerrero, and Vanessa Guerrero.
—Carol Havemann
At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman called the meeting to order. Amber Jones and the youth club led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered roll call. Added to our sick list is Clarence Myers. We’re all wishing you a speedy recovery.
Krystle Peterson read the secretary minutes from the December meeting, and they were approved as read. Bradley Stavinoha printed out his treasurer’s and special funds report. After President Newman read the report, it was approved as read.
Under old business, we are still waiting on quotes from Everest Ice machine to see if we want to proceed with this venture.
Under new business. Krystle Peterson handed out a printed paper with the dates of the youth activities for the year. Bradley Stavinoha was reminded by members to install a deadbolt lock on the storage room.
Also under new business, Calvin Lamensky stated that after working for the
Lodge 92, Fort Worth’s annual member Christmas party and dance was held Sunday, December 14, 2025, featuring The Moravians. —Lisa Ellsworth
camp for 10 years, he ensured everyone that this camp is built high above any water so it’s a safe place to send your youth. Karen Hargraves also mentioned that the youth are considering a drivethru type fundraiser, and they are planning a fundraiser along with the citywide garage sale where they can sell crafts and baked items. She also mentioned that our lodge should try out for the grant that Lodge 172, Pasadena is offering.
Under other business, Shirley Myers reminded everyone that Friday, January 30 is the Czech Heritage Soup Tasting Supper. Jeanette Newman announced that she placed the scholarship information in the local paper and the Vestnik. Lastly, we installed the new officers.
Door prizes were won by Ruby Jones, Krystle Peterson, Doug Parmer, and Kristen Jones. Congratulations to all of our lucky winners!
Next Meeting—February 15
For the next meeting on February 15, it was decided to have sausage and sauerkraut. Members, please bring a side dish and dessert.
See you at the next meeting!
Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas plans February, 15, March 15 meetings
Please mark your calendars for Lodge 84, Dallas’ upcoming meetings!
February 15 - Lodge 84 will meet at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 15 at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions. We will have a svacina afterward. Please bring a dessert if planning to attend.
March 15 - Lodge 84 will meet at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 15 at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions. We will have a svacina afterward. Please bring a dessert if planning to attend.
Hope to see you there! ^
Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston to host Super Bowl weekend events
Super Brawl Saturday
Lodge 88, Houston presents Super Brawl Saturday Wrestling Showdown on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the lodge hall, 1435 Beall Street in Houston. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. Food will be available for purchase. Lodge 88 member tickets are $7 for general admission. Other general admission is $10. Premium seats price is $20. Visit lodge88.org for tickets.
Super Bowl LX Potluck
The BBQ Committee presents Super Bowl LX Potluck on Sunday, February 8 in the backyard at Lodge 88. Kick-off is at 5:30 p.m. Bring a side to share. Cabrito tacos will be available for purchase for $4.
Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston announces scholarship
Lodge 88, Houston scholarship application is now online. If you are graduating in 2026 and plan to attend a college, vocational, or tech school, apply by February 28, 2026.
If you are continuing your education beyond a bachelor’s degree or any certification, you may also apply for a scholarship.
If you have any questions, please call Carol Havemann at 713-306-9973. ^
Fraternally, Carol Havemann Scholarship Committee —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville re-elects officers at December meeting
After enjoying a festive and delicious Christmas dinner at Maverick’s, members of Lodge 107, Floresville returned to the lodge hall to conduct their December meeting. President Trey Bielefeld called the meeting to order, and youth club member Colt Lynn proudly led the Pledge of Allegiance. A solemn moment of silence followed in remembrance of deceased members, as well as those currently serving in the military and our honored veterans.
Roll call showed Treasurer Oscar Korus and Youth Leader Lian Lynn were unable to attend. Secretary Wendy Pruski read the minutes from the November meeting, which were approved as read without correction.
Although Treasurer Korus was absent, the treasurer’s report was presented and
approved.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Stacy Bielefeld reported that planning is already underway for the lodge’s 2026 community projects. President Trey Bielefeld noted that the “New Year, New Roof” article has appeared in recent issues of the Vestnik.
Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand reported that the comedy show previously scheduled at the hall did not take place. She also shared that following the meeting, members would review party supplies in preparation for the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebration.
New business included the election of officers. All current officers were unanimously re-elected for another term, reflecting the membership’s continued confidence in the lodge’s leadership. With no old business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting was set for January 11, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall.
Fraternally, Trey Bielefeld, President —SPJST—
SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT
MELANIE CAMARGO
SPJST is pleased to welcome Melanie Camargo to our sales team! With more than four years of experience in the life insurance industry, Melanie is committed to helping individuals and families navigate their insurance needs with confidence and clarity.
Melanie works with clients at every stage of life — from young professionals just starting out to those planning for retirement. She takes a personalized approach to each policy, ensuring open communication and support throughout the process. Her goal is to make life insurance simple, transparent, and tailored to each client’s unique situation.
Outside of her professional work, Melanie enjoys visiting local farmers markets, traveling, and spending time with her family. She brings that same community-focused mindset to her work, striving to build lasting relationships with those she serves.
Please join us in welcoming Melanie Camargo to the SPJST
MELANIE CAMARGO 346-368-9719
camargomelanie10213@gmail.com
family! Melanie is a member of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston. She is available to assist members with their life insurance needs and can be contacted at 346-368-9719 or camargomelanie10213@gmail.com. —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville addresses repairs and 2026 planning at January meeting
Lodge 107, Floresville held its regular monthly meeting on January 11, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. President Trey Bielefeld called the meeting to order. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence in remembrance of deceased members, as well as our military members and veterans.
Roll call of officers showed Fraternal Activities Coordinator Stacy Bielefeld absent. Secretary Wendy Pruski read the minutes from the December meeting, which were approved as read. Treasurer Oscar Korus presented the December financial report, and it was also approved as read.
Several items of correspondence were read and discussed, including information regarding an opportunity to apply for an SPJST grant to assist with needed roof repairs.
District 7 Director Regina House attended the meeting and reported that all required paperwork has been submitted to the Home Office and that Lodge 107
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle has a blast for the holidays
On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle held its monthly meeting and annual Christmas party. The Ladies had lunch, and everyone enjoyed playing the game titled, “Mr. and Mrs. Right.” Each player received a wrapped mystery gift that they randomly acquired during the game. At the end, they were able to reveal their surprise! In addition, Ladies Circle President Cathy Simmank presented Jon Durham with a plaque of appreciation for his support and assistance within National Hall. Afterward, they concluded their day with bingo! —Lisa Ellsworth
remains in good standing. Discussion followed regarding the New Year’s Eve party, with all feedback being very positive. Many attendees expressed interest in making the event an annual tradition.
Youth Leader Lian Lynn shared important dates for the 2026 Youth Show-
SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville Officers
case and announced the scheduled dates for summer camp.
Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand reported that a burner on the kitchen stove is not functioning properly. Following the meeting, Roxy Bertrand, Treasurer Oscar Korus, and President Trey Bielefeld inspected the issue. Oscar will order a replacement element, pan, and connector for the stove. Roxy also noted that hall rentals are already coming in for 2026.
A motion was made and approved to accept the bid from the roofing company and to proceed with applying for the SPJST grant.
Following adjournment, Director House installed the 2026 lodge officers.
Next Meeting—February 8
The next lodge meeting will be Sunday, February 8 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall.
Lodge 142, Houston held its annual meeting on December 14, 2025, at Lodge 88, Houston. At 1 p.m., lunch was served and consisted of ham, yams, green beans, coleslaw, fruit salad, and cake. It was a delicious meal for the Christmas season.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zoey Coleman. We had 27 members present.
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis called the roll of officers, and all were present. She also stated that meeting minutes can be viewed in the Vestnik.
J.R. Coleman shared good information.
Territory Manager Kerry Herrington stated that sales for the 6 percent annuities are doing well. Agents Mary E. Bird spoke on beneficiaries and Margaret Norris-Guerrero wished all a happy holiday season.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick presented the financials, and all were in good order. Tunnel to Towers donation is to be delivered to Cypress location on January 14, 2026.
Youth Leader Karole Coleman reported Santa Wonderland was enjoyed by all. SPJST Camp dates are June 28 to
The 2026 officers of Lodge 107, Floresville are, left to right, President Trey Bielefeld, Secretary Wendy Pruski, Youth Leader Lian Pruski, Treasurer Oscar Korus, and Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand. Not pictured is Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Stacy Bielefeld.
July 2, 2026, at Hermann Sons Camp in Comfort, Texas.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider reported bringing canned goods for January as the lodge’s first charity project. State Progressive 42 Domino Tournament is January 10 in Temple.
New members/insurance include Connie Woods McLaughlin and Kristi Thompson - agent is Kerry Herrington.
Officers and committees for 2026 were elected. They are:
President Dennis Hermis
Vice President Kerry Herrington
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick
Youth Leader Karole Coleman
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider
Flag Bearer Zoey Coleman
Guide Aiden Hermis Audit Committee
Pat Schleider, Kenneth Malota Elizabeth Hermis
Sick Committee Mary E. Bird
Mary Jane Hue, Pat Schleider
Under new business, it was reported that there were no changes to the rules and regulations and renumerations.
December celebrants were Duane Weikel on the 12th and J.R. Coleman on the 30th. Happy birthday!
Lodge 142, Houston reflects on a year of service and fellowship
Lodge 142, Houston thanks all members and friends who attended lodge meetings and district and state activities in 2025. Your donations to the Caring Challenges show your dedication to help local communities. The annual meeting was productive. TOP LEFT: We celebrated the year with a “Merry Christmas” cake. TOP RIGHT: Happy birthday to JR Coleman, left, on December 30 and Duane Weikel, on December 12.
Anniversaries were Kerry and Debra Herrington - 19 years on December 12 and Keith and Amy Kieschnick - 28 years on December 6. Congratulations!
Capsule drawing winners were Margaret Norris-Guerrero, Larry Weikel, Mary Jane Hue, and Keith Kieschnick.
Door prizes were awarded, and the meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. with our next meeting on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 2 p.m. with lunch at 1 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston
Note: The following meetings will be February 15 and March 15.
After the meeting, all enjoyed a fellowship social where “Left-CenterRight” was played.
Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 151, WhartonEast Bernard wraps up year with quarterly meeting and Christmas social
Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard held its quarterly meeting and Christmas social on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Hungerford Community Center. President Molberg called the meeting to order at 5:30 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 officers were present except David Bucek who was recovering from knee replacement surgery.
Special guests were President/CEO Brian Vanicek, District 6 Director Annie Vahalik and husband Philip, and West Territory Manager Ralph Juarez.
The printed minutes and treasurer’s report was placed on the tables before the meeting. After the September minutes were reviewed, Alan Pribyl made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by Glenn Kaminsky, and it passed. Next, the treasurer’s report was reviewed. Alan Pribyl made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report. Glenn Kaminsky seconded the motion. Motion was accepted. The Lodge Management Fund report for November 30 was also given.
Lodge 142, Houston soaks in Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland
—Pat Schleider, FAC
Lodge 142, Houston members, family, and friends enjoyed an evening at Santa’s Wonderland in College Station on December 14, 2025. TOP LEFT: Pat and Bob Schleider. PHOTO 2: Tristan Fleming posing as a Gingerbread. PHOTO 3: Joseph Doherty having a blast. PHOTO 4: Karole with grandson Zayne. PHOTO 5: The Coleman Family. JR, Karole, Douglas, Bridget, Zayne, Zoey and guest. TOP RIGHT: Tristan with friend Patrick.
LEFT PHOTO: Megan, Benjamin, Joseph and Nicholas Doherty. These are Delisle's daughter-in-law, grandson's and son. RIGHT PHOTO: Delisle and Lila Doherty with grandson's Joseph and Benjamin.
Secretary Janie Bucek reported three death claims were paid, and one SPJST product was canceled. Next, she read thank you notes for the donations our lodge made to the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in Temple and East Bernard Boy Scout Troup 785. Last of all, she said she received an email from Director Vahalik stating the Moravia Hall Restoration project was seeking raffle prizes. Director Vahalik encouraged all lodges in District 6 to donate to this project. Jeanette Kaminsky made a motion to donate a $100 gift card to the restoration project. Greg Fuller seconded the motion, and it passed.
Lodge 151’s December Caring Project was to donate new, unwrapped toys to a charity. The toys our lodge collected were given to the Blue Santa Project in Wharton.
Director Vahalik wished us a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in Czech. She encouraged our lodge to do something fun like take a trip. Director Vahalik discussed Lodge 23, Moravia “Save the Hall” fundraiser that will be held on March 14. The District 6 Rally also will be held in Moravia on Saturday, April 11.
President/CEO Vanicek stated SPJST is getting ready for 2026. He reported
Lodge 151, Wharton-East
Bernard thanks members for years
of service
Special thanks to Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard members David and Janie Bucek for their longtime service to SPJST. They each received a certificate of appreciation in recognition of their many years as officers and leaders of SPJST. Pictured are, left to right, District 6 Director Annie Vahalik, President/CEO Brian Vanicek, and Lodge 151 Secretary/FAC Janie Bucek. David was not present to receive his award.
Camp Kubena had recently been sold. In addition, he mentioned the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center is being managed by the SPJST Foundation and is moving back into the Home Office. The building which housed the museum and genealogy center will be sold.
President Molberg recessed the meeting at 6:10 p.m. Fourteen members and eight guests enjoyed a catered turkey and dressing meal.
The meeting was reconvened at 6:50 p.m. West Territory Manager Ralph Juarez introduced himself and explained how he works with the lodges. He spoke about several SPJST products and informed us about new products SPJST has to offer.
President/CEO Vanicek and Director Vahalik presented David and Janie Bucek each with a certificated of appreciation in recognition of their many years of service as officers and leaders of SPJST. David Bucek was not present to receive his award.
Officers for 2026 were not elected. We plan to elect officers at the next meeting.
October, November, and December birthday honorees were recognized. They were Edith Molberg, Greg Fuller, Angie Wasicek, Sheila Barker, Benny Hundl, and Marcus Spacek.
Door prizes were awarded.
President Molberg adjourned the meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Fraternally, Janie Becek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 160, San Angelo meets February 19
Dear Members,
Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 5 p.m. at Los Panchito’s Restaurant, located at 34 East Avenue D in San Angelo.
Eyeglass Collection— Caring Challenge
Our Caring Challenge project for this quarter will be the collection of eyeglasses to donate to the local Lion’s Club. This will be done in conjunction with District 4 Director Bobby Davis. Please bring any glasses that you no
Lodge 157, Lubbock shares holiday fun with members
longer need to donate to this very worthwhile project.
We hope you will be able to join us!
Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—
Lodge 180, Burleson closes 2025 with Christmas celebration and donations
Lodge 180, Burleson hosted its Christmas party at Villa Diana’s in Burleson on December 7, 2025. We enjoyed delicious food and had a joyous celebration of fun and laughter. We were so happy to have some guests join us from the Home Office.
Lodge 180 President Sandy Almonte presented donations from our lodge for the Vestnik, the Foundation for the Czech Heritage Museum, and the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Donations were received by Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak, and District 3 Director John Engelke. This was such a wonderful way to close out 2025 and get ready to begin the new year.
Fraternally, Rhonda Hurtik, FAC/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 185, New Braunfels enjoys Friendsgiving and Fellowship
Lodge 185, New Braunfels members, youth club, and guests enjoyed Friendsgiving on November 30, 2025, at Zorn Bowling Club in Seguin. The lodge tried something new, and to our surprise, the event was well attended.
The youth club enjoyed bowling with friends and families followed by the monthly youth club meeting.
The adult members enjoyed visiting with fellow members whom they had not seen in a long time. During the quarterly meeting, the 2026 officers were elected, and District 7 Director Regina House installed the newly elected officers. Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak was our guest and spoke about the upcoming 2026 youth events and dates.
After the meeting, a meal was enjoyed by all.
A big thank you to all who brought canned goods for the SOS Food Bank.
To all our fellow SPJST members, Lodge 185 sends you wishes for Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Theresa Haag, FAC —SPJST—
Members of Lodge 157, Lubbock enjoyed a short visit with Santa and learned its of good food. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured are, from left, Fredda, Cyndy, and Carla Kristinek. RIGHT PHOTO: Grandchildren of Ernest and Angeline Kristinek. Left to right are Walter Kristinek, Jennifer Kristinek Turner, Janet Kristinek Betts, and Jason Kristinek.
Lodge 187, Round Rock holds November meeting and installs 2026 officers
The November 2025 meeting of Lodge 187, Round Rock was held at GattiTown in Round Rock. Linda Johnson welcomed Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak, who came to install the 2026 officers and directors. Because of openings for director positions, Shawn Oman and Troy Oman will now fill those rolls.
Welcome, Frank!
Frank gave us the news that the youth camp will be at the end of June and at the same location. He also mentioned that all the reporting will be easier this coming year because they are updating and revamping the process. We can not wait!
We all had a great time at GattiTown and thanks bunches to Virginia for
bringing the most delicious, moist pumpkin cake that I have ever eaten. I only wish that I could share the smell and taste of it. Amazing! Big thank you to Frank for installing the officers and directors.
The next gathering was scheduled for Smokey Mo’s in Georgetown on December 14 at 2 p.m. We will be doing our gift exchange, so bring a $15 to $20 gift to join in on the fun. Please bring Christmas desserts to share with all.
Birthdays
November birthday celebrants are Linda Johnson, Cale Rohlack, Mirynda Smith, Kember Meyer, Kadnce Meyer, Helen McVey, Rebecca Martinez, Mathew Lewis, Larry Leschber, Jacqueline Leonhard, Linda Larson, Brandon Larson, Susan Krueger, Julielan Samuel, Jimeneze Kiley, William Huggett, Kim Heintze, Scott Harman, Sara Green, Maia Fuchs, Matthew Crawford, Cynthia Dennis, William Cleveland, Rex
Lodge 187, Round Rock joins community partners for christmas charity
Lodge 187, Round Rock joined with UCOA (United Clubs of Austin) and BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) with Clubs for Kids in hosting a family in need of a Christmas. We collected monies, food, and items totaling about $1,250. We provided a full Christmas dinner, a tree, gifts, and gift card to HEB to a single mom and four beautiful children. BACA Sam Bass was honored to do a Christmas delivery, bringing a joyful and meaningful Christmas to a very grateful family. Thanks bunches to all who helped to make it possible.
—Jennifer McCarthy, FAC/Reporter
Cleveland, Rome Chapman, Justin Leschber, Deandra Roman, Carl Peterson, Lana Michalski, Doak Wilson, Rose Taylor, Michael Stork, Eric Smith, Jude Scott, and Tracy Scaparra. Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy FAC/Financial Secretary/ Reporter/Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock plans charitable giving for the year ahead
We had a wonderful gathering at Smokey Mo’s in Georgetown for the December meeting of Lodge 187, Round Rock. We discussed which charities we will be assist this upcoming year. After our floor discussion, we decided on two charities that we will go in on with the Home Office matching us and one that we will donate to all on our own. I believe all the decisions made on our charities chosen were well thought out. Personally, I cannot wait until the checks get to them so that all the charities can continue to do such wonderful work for our amazing community.
We all enjoyed barbecue and for some, it was their first time visiting Smokey Mo’s. We also had a fun time with the Christmas gift exchange. Lastly, we definitely – without a doubt – enjoyed Virgina Hrachovy’s homemade strawberry cheesecake. This woman, in my opinion, is a wonderful cook!
We are all looking forward to the next gathering at Linda Johnson’s home. All can bring your sweet treats to share. Please keep bringing the Sauces for Troops as well.
Happy December birthdays to Brodi Volek, Rose Etheredge, Deidra Young, Reagan Wilson, Karolynn Sawyer, Thomas Rinn, John Rinn, Norman Plemons, Melanie Noles, Jimmy Meyer, Noel Larson, Daniel Krueger, Maya Jimenez, Kate Henderson, Pamela Griffin, Joseph Gola, Dougal Cormie, Kris Christoferson, Carl Carson, Travis Betak, Jennifer Betak, and Susan Armbrister. Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/FAC/ Finical Secretary/ Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 189 Bryan-College Station starts New Year with member party
Dear Readers, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station hosted a New Year’s party on January 4, 2026, at C&J Barbeque in Bryan.
Dinner was provided to members and guests present. Several games of bingo were played for prizes, and door prizes were also drawn.
Lodge members Alfred and Elizabeth Wymola were recognized for celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary in the fall of 2025.
Lodge officers were all re-elected to continue in the same roles for 2026. They are:
President Henry Mayo
Vice President James Polasek
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Geri Polasek
Secretary-Treasurer John Skrabanek
It was decided to revise the quarterly meeting schedule to begin meeting in January, April, July, and October. Fraternally, Henry Mayo, President —SPJST—
SPJST supports Little River-Academy VFD
Lodge 177, Academy President George Tomastik, left, presents a $125 check from SPJST to Ira with Little River-Academy Volunteer Fire Department.
America’s Field Trip Student Contest
America’s Field Trip is a nationwide student contest sponsored by America250, the official nonpartisan entity charged by Congress with planning the nation’s Semiquincentennial, also known as the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America’s Field Trip invites students in grades 3 to 12 to be part of this historic milestone by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them — with the chance to earn a oncein-a-lifetime field trip experience at one of 16 different iconic American landmarks or cultural sites, including Mount Rushmore, the National Archives Museum, Kennedy Space Center, and Yellowstone National Park — just to name a few.
Visit America250.org/FieldTrip/Rules for Official Contest Rules.
★ Deadline: Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET.
★ Eligibility: Any student in grades 3 to 12 who is a legal resident of any of the
How to Enter the Contest
SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock Officers
Students at each grade level will respond to the prompt, “What does America mean to you?” with artwork or writing. Students must develop submissions individually and may not enter as a group.
Students under the age of 18 are required to have a teacher, parent, or legal guardian submit their entry through the application portal at America250.org/FieldTrip/Application. A teacher may only submit an entry on behalf of a student with written permission from that student’s parent or legal guardian. Written permission may be granted via email correspondence, text, or using the permission slip template.
For more information about America’s Field Trip, including official contest rules, 2026 field trip locations, judging criteria, submission thought starters, classroom activities, and Spanish-language resources, please visit America250.org/FieldTrip or scan the QR code.
50 states, the District of Columbia, or the five U.S. territories is eligible to enter. First- and second-prize awardees from the previous two America’s Field Trip contests are not eligible to enter or win.
★ Submission Requirements: Students at each grade level may create artwork, including physical artwork submitted through a high-res photo, a digital drawing, or a written response.
★ Judging Criteria: A panel of current
and former educators will evaluate submissions based on Student Voice (50%), Clarity of Idea (25%), and Presentation (25%).
★ Prizes: NEW! 125 first-place awardees and their designated chaperone will receive travel and lodging for a threeday, two-night trip to a select historical or cultural site in July and August 2026. 125 second-place awardees will receive $500 cash awards and three educators will each earn $1,000. Award recipients will be notified in late April 2026.
Visit America250.org/FieldTrip or scan the QR code to learn more. —SPJST—
Lodge 187. Round Rock rings in the Christmas season at December gathering
—Jennifer McCarthy, FAC/Reporter
Lodge 187, Round Rock members gathered at Smokey Mo’s in Georgetown for the December meeting. PHOTO 2: Lodge 187 sisters Kadnce and Kember Meyer enjoy dessert. CENTER PHOTO: Seated in front are Rubie, left, and Deborah. Surrounding them, from left to right, are Luke, Greg, Troy, Shawn, Virginia, Linda, Kadnce, Kember,
Evelyn, and Mathieu. PHOTO 4: Enjoying their Christmas goodies are, left to right, Luke McCarthy, Kadnce and Kember Meyer, and Mathieu McCarthy. TOP RIGHT: Virginia Hrachovy displays the delicious dessert.
The 2026 officers of Lodge 187, Round Rock are, left to right, Secretary Deborah Rohlack, Trustee Greg McCarthy, Vice President Virginia Hrachovy, Treasurer Rubie Volek, President Linda Johnson, Fraternal Activities Coordinator/ Financial Secretary, Reporter/ Youth Leader Jennifer McCarthy, and Trustee Troy Oman. The officers were installed by Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak.
Notable events in colonial America in 1776
The year the United States came to be was an interesting time to be alive, particularly for those living in colonial America. The American Revolutionary War began in 1776, and much of the year was marked by events stemming from that conflict. Below are some of the more notable events to take place during a year that has come to symbolize so much to generations of Americans.
• Thomas Paine publishes his 47-page pamphlet Common Sense in Philadelphia on January 10. Initially published anonymously, the pamphlet is considered a watershed moment in American history, as Paine's easily digestible writing style appealed to the masses, helping promote his arguments that encouraged common people to fight for an egalitarian government.
• The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge takes place near Wilmington, North Carolina on February 27. The battle is sparked when loyalists, after storming across a bridge over Moore’s Creek, attack a group of men they believe to be rebels. Though the engagement was brief, two loyalist leaders are killed,
Lodge 229, Abilene hosts Christmas gathering
another is captured and the force is scattered. The failed attempt later complicated efforts to recruit loyalists in the area to fight.
• The Fifth Virginia Convention is held in Williamsburg between May 6 and July 5. The meeting of the Patriot legislature of Virginia ultimately leads to the declaration of Virginia as an independent state and the production of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which asserts the state’s right to reform or abolish any form of government it deems inadequate.
• Thomas Hickey becomes an early casualty of the burgeoning conflict between the colonies and England when
the Irish-born soldier is the first to be executed by the Continental Army for “mutiny, sedition, and treachery” on June 28 in New York City. Hickey had been part of a protective detail for General George Washington but was briefly jailed for passing counterfeit money.
During that brief incarceration, Hickey told a fellow prisoner he was part of a conspiracy, and reports ultimately indicated he might have been part of a plot to assassinate General Washington, which proved enough to warrant his execution.
• An uptick incidents of violence between Native Americans and settlers in Kentucky was a ripple effect of the American Revolutionary War, and that increase in aggression was behind the capture of Jemima Boone and the Callaway girls on July 14. Days later Daniel Boone led a successful attempt to rescue his daughter and Elizabeth and Frances Callaway, who were the children of Colonel Richard Callaway, one of the first white settlers in Kentucky. A fictionalized version of the incident was included in James Fennimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans.
SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT ERNEST YANEZ
SPJST is pleased to welcome Ernest Yanez to our sales team! With nearly six years of experience as a licensed insurance professional, Ernest is dedicated to helping individuals and families protect their financial future through thoughtful, well-informed life insurance solutions.
Ernest specializes in life insurance and focuses on educating clients so they can make confident decisions about their coverage. As a husband and father, he understands firsthand the importance of planning ahead to provide security and peace of mind for loved ones, and this personal perspective guides his approach to serving families.
Based in South Texas, Ernest is owner of Murky Water Insurance. Known for his honest communication and personal service, Ernest is committed to serving his community with integrity and care.
Please join us in welcoming Ernest Yanez to the SPJST
ERNEST YANEZ
361-935-8407
eyanez@murkywater-ins.com
family! Ernest can assist you with your SPJST Life Insurance needs and can be reached at 361-9358407 or eyanez@murkywaterins.com.
—SPJST—
The 2026 officers of Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station are, left to right, President Henry Mayo, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Geri Polasek, Vice President James Polasek, and Secretary-Treasurer John Skrabanek.
SPJST Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station Officers
Lodge 229, Abilene hosted a Christmas party on December 20, 2025, at Golden Chopsticks. Everyone received a door prize. The guest speaker was from AirMed.
• The Great Fire of New York destroys as much as 25 percent of all buildings in New York City as it burns through areas in lower Manhattan on September 20 and 21. The fire broke out shortly after British forces began occupying the city. While each side accused the other of arson in the aftermath of the fire, historians dispute such assertions, noting the fire likely started with burning rooftop debris before windy conditions spread the conflagration to surrounding buildings. (MS)
—SPJST—
100 Years Ago This Month: Historical events from February 1926
The month of February has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in February 1926.
• The first theater production of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 novel The Great Gatsby premieres at the Ambassador Theater on Broadway on February 2. Veteran stage actor James Rennie stars as the titular character.
• The National League holds a banquet at the Hotel Astor in New York City on February 2 to celebrate the baseball league’s 50th anniversary.
• An explosion at a mine operated by the Pittsburgh Terminal Coal Company kills 20 miners in Horning, Pennsylvania, on February 3.
• Colonel Francisco Franco is promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the Spanish Army on February 3. Just 33 years old, General Franco, the future dictator of Spain, becomes the youngest general in Europe upon being promoted.
• Terrorists attack a train traveling from Moscow to Riga, Latvia, on February 5. The attackers were attempting to steal a diplomatic pouch, and courier Theodor Nette loses his life after being shot in the head.
• The grave of Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa is raided on February 6. Villa’s skull is stolen during the raid and its present location remains a mystery.
• Historian Carter G. Woodson initiates “Negro History Week” on February 7. The event serves as a precursor to Black History Month.
• The Plough and the Stars, Irish writer Seán O’Casey’s four-act play about the 1916 Easter Rising, opens at the Abbey
Theatre in Dublin on February 8. The play upsets some audience members and ultimately leads to angry protests in the theatre and riots outside of it.
• A filing with the League of Nations officially recognizes the border between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on February 8.
• President Plutarco Elías Calles nationalizes all property of the Roman Catholic Church in Mexico on February 11. Just two days later, President Calles’ adminstration orders all Catholic schools in Mexico to close.
• On February 12, Irish Minister for Justice Kevin O’Higgins appoints members to the Committee on Evil Literature. The committee is tasked with looking into censorship of printed matter in response to growing public pressure insisting that materials considered obscene are corrupting public morals or liable to do so.
• The National Socialist German Workers’ Party approves a motion to recognize Adolf Hitler as the sole and absolute authority within the party on February 14.
• The Grand National Assembly of Turkey approves the Turkish Civil Code on February 17. The code acknowledges women are entitled to the same rights as men, though it would be another eight years before Turkish women are granted the right to vote.
• On February 18, the French auto manufacturer Citroën opens a factory in Britain that would eventually prove capable of manufacturing 200 cars per day.
• A pastoral letter read in all Catholic churches in Austria on February 21 denounces mixed bathing, rhythmic dancing and immodest sports attire as “un-Christian.”
• On February 23, United States President Calvin Coolidge expresses his opposition to former general Billy Mitchell’s assertion that the country needs a large air force. President Coolidge disagrees with the suggestion on the grounds it would make the country militaristic and contribute to an arms race.
• Leon Collet is killed when the French pilot attempts to fly under the arch of the Eiffel Towel on February 24.
Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station members enjoy New Year’s party
Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station hosted a New Year’s party at C&J Barbeque in Bryan on January 4, 2026. TOP LEFT: Congratulations to Alfred and Elizabeth Wymola! They were recognized for celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary in the fall of 2025. TOP RIGHT: Sandra Mayo wins a door prize. —Henry Mayo, President
District 7 Director Regina House, far left, installs the 2026 officers of Lodge 202, Jourdanton. They are, second from left, President James House, Vice President Sharon Lagrange, Secretary/Treasurer Valerie Barta, Alternate Secretary/Treasurer Vivien Howe, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kathleen Polasek, and Assistant Youth Leader CC Evans. Regina also serves as the youth leader for Lodge 202.
SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton Officers
• Black boxer Tiger Flowers defeats his white opponent, Harry Greb, to win the World Middleweight Title at Madison Square Garden in New York City on February 26. (MS)
—SPJST—
All-time records from the NFL’s biggest games of the year
At one point during the second quarter of Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, a game that ended with the Eagles hoisting the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the second time since 2017, 138 million people were watching. Such viewership is a testament to the popularity of the National Football League and its championship game, which has become a cultural phenomenon that attracts diehard fans, casual enthusiasts and even those who don’t know a first down from a facemask penalty.
The chance to win the biggest game of the year in professional football has inspired many teams and athletes to produce record-breaking performances. As fans gather for this year’s big game, they can consider these records and see if any are broken this February.
• Most Super Bowl wins (player): 7, Tom Brady, New England Patriots (6) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1)
• Most Super Bowl wins (head coach): 6, Bill Belichick, New England Patriots
Lodge 187, Round Rock extends care from home to overseas troops
Our community services are a blessing in disguise. I am so proud and thankful of Lodge 187, Round Rock for all the donations, time, and miles put in to help our community during the holidays and throughout the year.
For November’s Caring Challenge, we were asked to gather non-perishable food for our local food bank, and all did not hesitate to help.
Our lodge also adopted a troop that is based in Korea. Our personal effort was to ship sauces from favorite restaurants to troops deployed at remote assignments overseas. It’s random, but it really makes a whole unit’s day to receive a big box with a taste of home in it to boost up their cafeteria food. Hopefully, we can get them some goodies before
• Most Super Bowl losses (player): 5, Gale Gilbert, Buffalo Bills and San Diego Chargers; Cornelius Bennett, Buffalo Bills and Atlanta Falcons; and Glenn Parker, Buffalo Bills and New York Giants
• Most Super Bowl losses (coach): 4, Don Shula, Baltimore Colts and Miami Dolphins; Bud Grant, Minnesota Vikings; Dan Reeves, Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons; and Marv Levy (Buffalo Bills)
• Most passing touchdowns (single game): 6, Steve Young, Super Bowl
Lodge 230, Midland gives toiletries to those in need
Christmas!
Our shipment will be going to an Army unit based in Korea.
We have sauces from Chic-fil-A, Popeye’s and other chicken places, Rudy’s and other barbecue places, Taco Bell, Taco Casa, Cracker Barrel, McDonald’s jelly, Panda, hot sauce, Whataburger, other US restaurants that will remind them of home. We also included drink mixes and candy. Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Financial Secretary/Reporter/ FAC/Youth Leader
—SPJST—
XXIX, January 29, 1995
• Most rushing touchdowns (single game): 3, Jalen Hurts, Super Bowl LVII, February 12, 2023, and Terrell Davis, Super Bowl XXXII, January 25, 1998
• Most receiving touchdowns (single game): 3, Jerry Rice (twice), San Francisco 49ers, Super Bowl XXIX, January 29, 1995, and Super Bowl XXIV, January 28, 1990
• Most sacks (in a single game, player): 4, L.C. Greenwood*, Pittsburgh Steelers, Super Bowl X, January 18, 1976
* Greenwood is not the official recordholder, as sacks did not become an official statistic until 1982. Various players have recorded three official sacks in a Super Bowl since 1982.
• Field goals made (single game): 4, Harrison Butker, Kansas City Chiefs, Super Bowl LVIII, February 11, 2024, and Don Chandler, Green Bay Packers, Super Bowl II, January 14, 1968
• Longest Super Bowl game (in game time): 74 minutes, 57 seconds, Super Bowl LVIII, Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers, February 11, 2024 (MS) —SPJST—
Lodge 229, Abilene collects cans for Hawley Food Pantry
Lodge 229, Abilene collected can food for Hawley Church Of Christ Community Food Pantry. Lodge 229 President Janice Stevens, right, is pictured with Church of Christ volunteers. Lodge 229 members collected more than 300 canned food items.
Lodge 230, Midland gave 144 toiletries kits to Safe Place in Midland. The representative of Safe Place, pictured far left, accepts the donation from, second from left to right, Lodge 230 members Jessica Hammond, Martha Slatton, Gina Madrid, and agent Anabel Sierra.
To: Brenda
Have a great Valentine!
From your great Valentine: Brian
To: Lucy Grace
Happy Valentine’s to our beautiful granddaughter! You are the sunshine in our lives, and we are so blessed to love you more each day.
Love from: Gramma and Grandpa
To: Mom and Dad
Happy 54th Anniversary and Happy Valentine's Day!
Love from: Brenda
To: Brian
My sweetheart for the last 39 years. So excited to be celebrating this Valentine’s at sea.
Love from: Brenda
To: Shirley and Dan Morgan
Thank you for always supporting us and looking for us in the Vestnik! We love you!
From: Amber, Ruby, and Zoey Jones
To: Papa Bender and Grandma Nell Bender
We love you so much! We cannot wait to see you again and give you big hugs! Happy Valentine’s Day Hugs!
From: Amber, Ruby, and Zoey Jones
To: Sharon Joy Hohmann Happy Heart Day Sharon!
We send Happy Valentine’s Day greetings to you and Beni. We love you!
From: Cindy and Roy
To: Great Aunt Shirley
Happy Valentine’s Day, Great Aunt Shirley! We can’t wait to see you when we come back to Temple this summer!
From: Tripp and Nate
To: Delores Macha
Happy Valentine’s Day, Giggy! We love you so much. May the Good Lord continue to bless you!
From: Lindsay and Sarah Norman
To: Albert You are the best thing that’s happened to me. 56 years and still going strong!
Love you!
From: Patsy
To: Betty Sister, I want you to know you are loved so much! May this year bring you endless happiness and blessings your way!
From: Patsy
To: Gavin and Natalie
Sending lots of love to my two dearest grandchildren! Happy St. Valentine’s Day! With much love forever and ever!
From: Starenka
To: Kember, Kadnce and Karter I wish all my grandchildren the best Valentine ever. May your special day be filled with love and laughter.
From: Mema
To: Grandpa & Grandma Nell
We are so thankful to have you in our lives! We have so much fun hanging out with y’all every time we come to visit! Happy Valentine’s Day!
From: The Hargraves Family
To: Melanie
My love, your beauty, strength, and caring heart amaze me every day. Happy Valentine’s Day to the woman who makes my world go round. I love you more and more everyday.
From: David
To: David Happy Valentine’s Day! You are my constant, my biggest supporter, and my greatest blessing. I’m thankful every day to share life with you.
Love from: Melanie
To: Jerry, Jenny, Dani, Katie, and Mom
Love from: Nancy
Timeless Tokens of Love:
A Look at Valentine’s Traditions
Valentine’s Day is a day of love nestled in the middle of February. Sweethearts use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to show the people they care about just how deep those feelings run. A 2023 survey from the National Retail Federation found consumers expected to spend $25.9 billion on Valentine’s Day, up from $23.9 billion in 2022. Forecasters suspect spending is likely to increase this year as well.
Valentine’s Day is awash in many different customs. Here’s a deep look at some of those enduring traditions and others that some may feel should be brought back into favor or adopted entirely.
Handwritten cards
It’s a common scene each year in card retailers and pharmacies: people three-deep in the aisle trying to pick out Valentine’s Day cards in the eleventh hour. People can save themselves the hassle of fighting the crowds if they make their own handmade cards. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, sweethearts created unique cards from scratch, according to Country Living. And prior to products produced by Hallmark and other greeting card companies, people used to send one another cards customized with personalized messages.
To: Ethan
Thanks for being my Valentine and the best husky wrangler around. We love you!
From: Kristen, Cosmo, and Wanda
Pampering gentlemen
It is common in North America for Valentine’s Day celebrations to lean significantly toward favoring women, who are often on the receiving end of flowers and chocolates. However, in South Korea and Japan, it is the men who are pampered with such gifts. Women purchase chocolates for their male partners, family members and coworkers as tokens of appreciation and affection. Never fear, a month later on White Day men reciprocate with candy, cake and flowers.
Bouquets
These days a dozen long-stemmed red roses might be the norm for Valentine’s Day gifting. However, roses weren’t always the preferred flower
for the holiday. History.com reports that, in the nineteenth century, bouquets might contain all sorts of flowers, each chosen to convey certain messages. Individuals can research the meanings behind certain flowers and put together a Valentine’s Day gift this year that expresses exactly what they are feeling.
Heart-shaped chocolate boxes
British chocolatier Richard Cadbury is credited with creating the first heartshaped box for Valentine’s Day. The boxes were intended to be so beautiful they would be kept to hold trinkets or love letters. Ornate chocolate boxes are not quite as common today, although the gifting of chocolate for the holiday is still strong.
Celebrating in June
Many Brazilians skip Valentine’s Day in February and choose to celebrate Saint Anthony, the patron saint of marriage and matchmaking, on June 12. Celebrating both is fine for those who prefer to shower affection on loved ones multiple times a year. Valentine’s Day traditions are still strong and can add a little something extra to celebrations this February.
Puzzle purses
Sweethearts in Victorian England created “puzzle purses,” which were a series of love letters that could be read separately, but also fit together to create a design and message. These intricately folded sheets of paper had parts of messages or verses written on different corners and were meant to be read in a specific order.
—SPJST—
In Memory of John J.D. “Pete” Coker
John Doyle “J.D.” “Pete” Coker, 99, of Holland, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Thursday, December 25, 2025, in a Temple hospital.
Funeral service was held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church Holland with Pastor Jeremy Bell officiating. Burial followed at Holland Cemetery with Masonic graveside services. The family received friends for visitation from 4 to 6 p.m. January 4 at Dossman Funeral Home in Belton.
Mr. Coker was born August 14, 1926, in Holland, the son of Enos Hawkins Coker and Lela Merl (Vanderford) Coker. He graduated from Holland High School and volunteered for the United States Navy in 1944. He served on the Aircraft Carrier Ranger CV-4.
On April 24, 1948, he married Kathryn Texanna Goodnight. They had two children, James Edward Coker and Mary Kathryn (Coker) Davis. They moved to Pasadena where they lived for 43 years. He worked for Shell Oil for 39 years in Deer Park. After retirement, they moved to his farm in Holland. The farm had been in the Coker name for more than 100 years.
After the death of his wife, Kathryn Coker, on April 2, 1994, he married Estelle Kourt Goodnight on December 21, 1996.
Mr. Coker was a member of Zerne Masonic Lodge 615, Holland; American Legion Post 526 Holland; SPJST Lodge 80, Holland; Area Chamber of Commerce, Holland; and Sons of The American Revolution Heart of Texas No. 26, Salado.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Kathryn Coker; son James Coker; son-in-law Mike Davis; brother Leland Coker; and sister-in-law Jeanette; and second wife Estelle Kourt Goodnight.
Survivors include his daughter, Mary Davis of Holland; grandchildren Roxanne Coker of Deer Park and Leah
McDowell of LaPorte; great-grandchildren Ryder McDowell and Cheyenne McDowell; daughter-in-law Mary Helen Coker of Houston; sister Linda (Coker) Johnson of Temple; and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in Pete’s memory may be directed to First Baptist Church, 506 Dixie Drive, Holland, Texas 76534; or the charity of your choice.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Wallace Jahns
Wallace Henry Jahns, age 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
the bottling department running the lines, operating and maintaining the machinery, and ensuring accurate filling and sealing processes. During his tenure, he was recognized and awarded for his excellent safety record as well as several other achievements. He retired after 30 years of service in March 1998 and was blessed to enjoy more than 20 healthy years of retirement.
Wallace’s hobbies included gardening, hunting, fishing, traveling, and dancing. He especially enjoyed going to dances where the Vrazels Polka Band was playing. He spent most of his retired days piddling in the garage, working in his garden, and doing yardwork; everything was always pristine and in perfect order.
In Memory of Alvin Marek
Alvin James Marek, a beloved husband, father, and cherished member of his community, passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home on Monday, December 15, 2025, surrounded by his family.
A visitation was held Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple, Texas. A memorial service to honor Alvin’s life was held shortly after, with the service commencing at 11 a.m.
He was born on November 25, 1935, in Red Ranger, Texas, to Rudolph and Justine Marek, and his life was a testament to hard work, love, and dedication.
The family received friends for a visitation on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Klein Funeral Home in Tomball. A Celebration of Life was Saturday, January 3 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Timothy Lutheran Church in Houston. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery in Somerville.
Wallace was born February 10, 1938, in Lyons, Texas, to Henry and Laura Krueger Jahns. He married the love of his life, Janice Marie Victorick, on September 29, 1962, and they were blessed with 63 years of marriage.
Wallace was baptized March 13, 1938, and confirmed October 5, 1952, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lyons. He attended school in Somerville. While in high school, he worked at Texas A&M University as a cook in Sbisa dining hall. It was there that he developed his passion for cooking. He was a great cook and enjoyed hosting family and friends over for barbecue, fish fries, holiday meals, or even a pot of homemade noodle soup – there was never a shortage of food.
Shortly after marriage, Wallace and Janice moved to Houston. He worked several different jobs before getting hired at the newly opened Anheuser Busch Brewery in 1968. He worked in
Wallace and Janice have been active and faithful members of St. Timothy for almost 40 years. During the years, he served on the Board of Elders and was an usher and a member of the BBQ Bubbas. He was also an active member of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston and volunteered countless hours for events as well as serving on the Board of Trustees. He attained the SPJST Lifetime Achiever Award for his loyal service and dedication.
Wallace was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Laura Jahns;, sister Darlene Witte and husband Havert; sister Laverna Lewis and husband Melvin; sister-in-law Janice Victorick; and nephew Ashley Victorick.
He is survived by his loving wife, Janice; son Steven Jahns (Deann); daughter Donna Casey (Keith); grandchildren Jamie Jahns, Jarod Jahns, Jayson Jahns, Claire Roca (Edward), and Catherine Casey; brothers-in-law Donnie Victorick and David Victorick; and several beloved nieces and nephews.
Wallace was a simple, genuine, and kind person. He was always ready and willing to help out whenever and wherever he could. Most of all, he loved and cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, Dad, PawPaw, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and soon-to-be great PawPaw. His wisdom, sense of humor, and sound advice will truly be missed.
Memorials in Wallace’s honor may be made at the family’s request to St. Timothy Lutheran Church.
—SPJST—
Growing up on a family-owned farm, Alvin developed a strong work ethic as he helped cultivate the land, primarily focusing on cotton, corn, and maize. This early experience laid the foundation for a fulfilling career that would span over two decades. Alvin worked as a carpenter with Cloud Construction for 29 years, demonstrating his craftsmanship until his retirement in 2000. His commitment to his trade earned him the respect of colleagues and community members alike, and he remained an active member of the carpenter local unions.
Alvin’s warmth and devotion were perhaps best exemplified in his longlasting marriage to Wanona Goldman. The couple first met at the Marak Picnic in 1955, and soon after, they became partners for life, wedding the following year after their high school graduation. Their bond lasted 69 years until Wanona’s passing in July 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and partnership that served as an inspiration to all who knew them.
Throughout their lives together, Alvin and Wanona fostered a nurturing home in Bell County, where they spent most of their days, with a notable 10year period in Dallas before returning to establish permanent roots. Alvin’s deep love for his family was matched by his passion for gardening and farming. He took pride in cultivating his crops not only as a means of sustenance but also
Pete Coker
Wallace Jahns
Alvin Marek
to share with those around him. His commitment to raising cattle, goats, hogs, and chickens highlighted his dedication to both family and community values.
Alvin will be remembered not just for his hard work, but also for his engaging personality. He was a devoted family man, often found sampling his wife’s cooking before meals were served. His interests included fishing, playing dominos, and making memorable trips to the casino. Alvin was particularly fond of treasure hunting at garage sales and had a noteworthy collection of ball caps that reflected his unique spirit.
In addition to his personal interests, Alvin was known as the “SPJST State 42 Domino Tournament Winner.” His love for Dr. Pepper was well noted, and he always made sure to keep his supply plentiful.
Alvin leaves behind a lasting legacy of his love for life, family, and friends. His community involvement as a member of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone showcased his commitment to fostering connections with others. He will be missed not only by his family but also by the countless friends whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Justine (Jezek) Marek; his beloved wife of 69 years, Wanona (Goldman) Marek; daughter Diane Spohn; brother Rudolph Marek Jr.; and sister Edna Malcik and husband Frank.
He is survived by daughter Ruth and husband Creed Cox; brother Reuben Marek of Temple; and grandchildren Rebecca Cox, James Spohn, Jennifer Spohn, and Jason Spohn.
Please consider making a memorial donation to the Ronald McDonald House in Temple.
Alvin James Marek’s spirit will continue to thrive in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his contributions to both family and community will be remembered with great affection and respect.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Richard Mewhinney
Richard Len Mewhinney, beloved Dad, Granddad, Uncle, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. In true Richard fashion, he spent his final days telling stories, entertaining everyone around him, and singing the praises of the people he cherished.
A Celebration of Life transpired on January 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Rustic Acres in Belton.
Richard was born in Temple, Texas, on January 18, 1935, to Cornelia (“Connie”) Young Mewhinney and Gene Barrett Mewhinney, Sr. He grew up in Holland and graduated from Holland High School in 1953, where he developed a lifelong love of ranching, horseback riding, hunting, and the land. He remained an accomplished cattleman well into his 80s.
Richard attended the University of Texas in 1953, where he pledged Phi Delta Theta fraternity (and quickly became the social chairman and made lifelong friends), then admittedly had “a whole lot of fun and not a lot of GPA.”
served as chair of the Texas Commission for Lawyer Discipline, receiving the President’s Award in 1996, and was president of the Bell, Lampasas, and Mills Counties Bar Association. Richard was also an instrumental figure of the initial Appraisal Review Board in Bell County to hear and resolve disputes over appraisal matters between taxpayers and the appraisal district in Bell County.
In 1985, he founded CentraLand Title Company with his partner Jerry Secrest. Respected colleague Thomas Baird later joined the CentraLand ownership and the company remains a well-respected business. However, Richard has said many times that without right-hand woman and very dear friend, Linda Chaison, the company would have never been as successful as it was. The company’s enduring success remained one of his proudest professional accomplishments.
cluding some favorite haunts like New Orleans, which he frequented with his family, Mexico (where he had many a drink, adventures, and laughs with Mike Cearley and Ronnie Starke), the Freer Deer Lease, Port Aransas Beach with his family, and Utopia with Sandy where he loved the people and the land.
Richard was a great example of what a loving husband should be. Professionally, his colleagues and clients respected his intellect and valued his integrity. He never forgot a friend, no matter how long ago they crossed paths. Richard admired and held dear all caretakers of his ranch and his home over many years. His home was naturally central for all family gatherings, all celebrations, lively (but true) storytelling, and competitive (but fair) game playing, and still is.
Richard married Boopie Johnson in 1958 and cherished eight years with her before her passing. In 1967, he married Sue Stokes, with whom he raised their daughters in Holland. They shared a life full of family, friends, dancing, and trips to places like Port Aransas and Mexico. After Sue’s passing, Richard reconnected with his longtime friend Sandy in 2000. Their connection was immediate, their laughter constant, and their adventures endless. They traveled the world together and spent cherished time in Holland, Utopia, and any casino with a good card table. Their love was truly one for the ages.
Of all his accomplishments, his favorite role was Dad and Granddad. He loved his daughters immensely, including never shying away from teaching lessons that were needed or offering sweet support and a strong shoulder when needed. He lit up when talking about his children and especially his grandchildren and never missed a chance to brag about them. He was lucky enough to get to know the grandkids’ significant others and wholeheartedly welcomed them as his family. Also, luckily, all Richard’s grandkids were able to spend a lot of quality time with and hear his vast array of stories and advice, share in his wisdom, and hear his honest assessments. His family (including friends) will say some of their best memories together were spent playing 42, vacationing in Port Aransas, spending time in a blind or at a card table, or riding around his ranch soaking in the land he loved and the people he loved even more. Importantly, Richard taught us how to give, receive, understand, and respect locational directions using predominantly directional calls (go to the northeast corner of the Bobby Gray place . . . ).
He was a member of SPJST Lodge 80, Holland.
He also attended Southwestern University and the University of Mary Hardin–Baylor before graduating from Baylor Law School in 1965. A few years after opening his first law office in Holland, Richard was elected as vice president and trust officer of First National Bank in Temple. Later, Richard worked and practiced law with partners/colleagues whom he greatly respected and considered to be dear friends. Overall, Richard practiced law for 60 years with a focus on real estate, probate, and estate administration, and also enjoyed work as a mediator. During his lifetime, Richard served as president of the Darrs Creek Watershed Authority, served as president of Holland ISD School Board, was an executive director of the Central Texas Economic Development District, and worked as legal counsel for Elm Creek Watershed Authority for 27 years. He was a Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, an AV Preeminent Peer Rated Attorney for his ethical standards and professional competence. He also
Richard lived a long, full, and adventurous life. Just when you thought you had heard every one of his stories, he somehow had another waiting in the wings. He was a cowboy, a gentleman, a dancer, a huntsman, a legendary storyteller, a strong-handed bartender, a widely respected attorney, and he loved the land. His wit was razor-sharp, his memory unmatched, and his toughness legendary. Richard believed in always doing the best you could with whatever you had and lived and modeled that mantra for all to see, both professionally and personally. He was honest to a fault, stubborn in all the best cowboy ways, and had a heart—and sentimental streak—the size of Texas. He loved traveling, staying up all night in casinos (even at age 90), playing 42, and riding around his ranch. His BBQ and BBQ sauce were famous enough to ruin you for anyone else’s. He had many adventures in his life all over the world, in-
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Connie Mewhinney; brother Gene Mewhinney Jr.; first wife Myra “Boopie” Johnson Mewhinney (1966); second wife and mother of his daughters, Sue Ellen Stokes Mewhinney (1997); and third wife, best friend, and partner-in-crime, Sandy Settegast Mewhinney (2015). Yes—he was a lucky man who knew three great loves in one
R. Mewhinney
1, 2026
great lifetime.
Richard leaves behind an entourage of loved ones gathered over a lifetime: daughter Mary Mewhinney Smith (Alex) of Frisco; daughter Ann Mewhinney Matous (Bruce) of Belton; stepdaughter Laurie Fondren (Leland) of Houston; grandchildren Madison Goodman (Paul Thomas), Miranda Smith (Colton Miller), Connor Smith (Calissa Fletcher), Kate Brown (Jacolby Brown), and Suzanna Richter; grandchildren Lauren Fondren (Derek Kelly), Brittany Fondren, Wren Fondren (Alana); grandchildren Madison Matous, Morgan Matous, and Matthew Matous; great-grandchildren Baer and Rafe Fondren-Kelly; honorary son Mike Cearley (Melany, Jacob, and JonCaleb Cearley).
He also leaves behind a host of extended family and lifelong friends.
To say we will miss him is an incredible understatement. The man, the dad, the granddad, the uncle, the friend, the hero, the legend —- he was truly one of a kind. The best there ever was, and always will be.
Please make donations to St. Jude in Mr. Mewhinney’s name: https://www.stjude.org
Dossman Funeral Home in Belton was in charge of arrangements. —SPJST—
In Memory of John Paprskar
John Edward Paprskar, 82, passed away unexpectedly on December 23, 2025.
Funeral service was at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Mount Olivet Chapel in Fort Worth, Texas. Interment was in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Memorial service followed.
SPJST YOUTH SECTION
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
John was born in 1943 in Corpus Christi. His family later moved to Fort Worth, where he attended Fort Worth Technical High School and majored in drafting. He played football, graduating in 1961. Later that year, he enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany for much of his service, a place he remembered fondly for the people he met and the experiences he gained.
He married Joy Paprskar and later moved to Big Spring. After a few years, John settled in Hurst, where he lived for the remainder of his life. During this time, John and Joy welcomed two children, Jon Eric and Jolie, into their family. He later earned a degree in business at the University of Texas at Arlington.
John dedicated 36 years of his career to the Charles F. Williams company, where he served as vice president of sales. He was also deeply involved in his community volunteering for the City of Hurst and serving on the city’s building and zoning commission. In addition, John was a lifelong member of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth and served as both trustee and president.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Helen Paprskar; and daughter Jolie Paprskar Mozingo.
He is survived by his son, Jon Paprskar, sisters Angela Casteel, Helen Brown, Kristi Gilcrease, brother Steven Paprskar, and grandson Brayden Mozingo.
John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness, sense of humor, and thirst for an adventure are among the many qualities that will be remembered most.
—SPJST—
Email: vestnik@spjst.org
Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo
Questions? Call 800-727-7578
March 1 chili cookoff
Calling all chili cookers - Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club is hosting a chili cookoff to raise funds for a trip to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. The cookoff will be held Saturday, March 1. Cost is $50 per chili team entry (should be sponsored/supervised by an adult). Chili tasting tickets are $10 each. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners.
For all youth who volunteer in some capacity before/during/after the event, and if we can hit our fundraising targets, the youth club will take a trip to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels!
Email youth@lodge88.org with questions. To register online, visit lodge88.org.
—SPJST—
Did you know these Presidents Day fun facts?
February isn’t just for Valentines—it’s also when we celebrate Presidents’ Day on February 16! Here are three funny facts about our nation’s leaders that you might not know:
The Stovepipe Filing Cabinet
Abraham Lincoln was famous for his tall hat, but it wasn't just for fashion. He actually used it as a filing cabinet! He would tuck important papers, letters, and speeches inside the hat to keep them safe while he walked around.
A Bathtub Squeeze
President William Howard Taft was a very large man. He once notoriously got stuck in the White House bathtub and couldn't get out! After the incident, he ordered a special, super-sized bathtub that
Lodge 25, Ennis delivers goodies to nursing homes
Lodge 25, Ennis sang Christmas carols and delivered more than 150 blankets, socks, caps, and gloves to local nursing homes on December 31, 2025. Thank you to all who generously gave towards this annual tradition!
—Rita Holland, FAC/Youth Leader
John Paprskar
was seven feet long—the largest the White House had ever seen.
The Original Teddy Bear
Did you know your stuffed animal is named after a president? The name "Teddy Bear" comes from Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. It started after a cartoonist drew a picture of him refusing to hurt a bear cub while on a hunting trip.
—SPJST—
Lodge 66, Waco Youth Club gathers for bowling and holiday fun
Lodge 66, Waco Youth Club met December 23, 2025, at Main Event in Waco for the December meeting and Christmas party. Eight youth members and six adults were present. The youth bowled, played lazer tag, did the ropes course, and played video games for prizes during their three-hour party time. Pizza was served, and the youth had a white elephant gift exchange. The youth club also collected “warm” items for the January community service project. The next meeting is January 25 at LaQuinta in Woodway at 2 p.m.
—Dana McAdams, Youth Leader
SPJST gives to Ronald McDonald House
Director of Membership Engagement
Frank Horak delivers SPJST lodges’ pulltab collections to the Ronald McDonald House in Temple, Texas, Wednesday, January 14. Receiving donations were Ronald McDonald House employees Evelyn Balli, left, and Leilani Kitchings. They were grateful for such a generous donation from SPJST members.
Lodge 81, Needville members met on December 14, 2025, at the lodge hall. The youth presented Christmas bags filled with goodies to everyone. All attendees then sang Christmas carols with Doug Parmer accompanying on his guitar.
—Jeanette Newman
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club donate shoeboxes to CASA
Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club delivered filled shoeboxes for CASA. The shoeboxes benefited many youth in the community.
—Kathleen Polasek, FAC
Lodge 30, Taiton youth club supports Blessing Cup event
Lodge 30, Taiton youth and adult members once again gave back to their community by participating in the Blessing Cup ‘Trim-a-Tree’ event. Members decorated an SPJST-themed Christmas tree, and each participant brought canned goods or other non-perishable food items to donate to the Blessing Cup Pantry. Members were excited to learn that their efforts earned the award for Best Civic or Non-Profit Group for the tree and food donations. It is always rewarding to showcase how SPJST continues to be an active and supportive part of the community.
—Simone Riha
Good Afternoon, SPJST Friends and Family!
On Friday, January 2, 2026, I hosted the District 2 food drive “Poppin’ Off the New Year,” where I served popcorn and other refreshments and collected food donations. During the entire month of December 2025, I planned and coordinated this food drive continuing my efforts to “Czech Off Hunger.”
Food and monetary donations were collected to support Churches Touching Lives for Christ Food Pantry in Temple and 5 Loaves and 2 Fish food pantry in Riesel.
With the help of District 2, I called on all lodges to help donate and bring donations to the Home Office by January 2.
During that day, I hosted a meet-and-greet and refreshments to generous members who donated to support the drive.
Churches Touching Lives for Christ was closed the day of the event. I asked Home Office staff, Autum Baker and Frank Horak, to deliver the donations at a time they were open to receive donations. Autumn and Frank reported a successful delivery on January 8.
The “Poppin’ Off the New Year” food drive raised more than $300 and more than 250 pounds of shelf-stable food. I split the donations the best way I knew how, so I could help our communities in meaningful ways.
I knew Churches Touching Lives for Christ would benefit from having food on hand right away. I also knew 5 Loaves and 2 fish can purchase two pounds of food for every dollar donated. I wasn’t sure if that was standard for all Texas food pantries, so I gave the money to the food pantry in Riesel.
In total, I raised more than 850 pounds of food during the “Poppin’ Off the New Year” event – thanks to generous donors and members.
During my event, I was interviewed by Temple Daily Telegram Reporter Bella Casey. I talked about the preparations and efforts I made for the event, and what I hope to do for the rest of my reign as Miss SPJST.
The article was published January 4, and I appreciate Ms. Casey’s support of my future aspirations as I continue my service project. I want to give a big thank you to everyone who helped out during my food drive. Thank you to Frank and Autumn for helping through this whole process, the Home Office for allowing me to host my event in the building, and my family for helping me with everything.
I wish all my fellow members a Happy New Year! I am looking forward to all of the new and exciting things awaiting as 2026 begins.
Please stay tuned this month! I plan to pursue volunteer work with Central Texas Food Bank. I would love for you to join me. For details on how to volunteer with me or donate to the Central Texas Food Bank this February, contact Communications Specialist Autumn Baker at 254-773-1575, ext. 169 or autumnb@spjst.com.
I appreciate your support as I continue to “Czech Off Hunger” in Texas. Fraternally yours, Paetyn Beckendorf Miss SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
Hi, it’s Levi McAdams.
Long story short, if you don’t know who I am, I was brought into SPJST by my aunt, Dana McAdams, a few years ago, and now I am Mr. SPJST.
I had a lot of thoughts about my service project, but I saw I wasn’t going anywhere. My idea of spreading theatre across Texas with SPJST wasn’t working. I did not want to give up the theatre idea – I can’t. But thankfully, I was sick over the holidays with the flu and missed a bunch of cool Christmas parties.
I know it sounds strange to be thankful for being so sick. I was literally thinking about hospitals. However, that’s what sparked an idea where I thought of other kids who may also feel miserable and can’t do what they enjoy.
I thought about kids who miss out on things they love because they’re sick. That thought led me to the idea that maybe I could go to those places and bring the same joy theatre brings me – but on their level.
Rather than coordinate productions and performances, I hope to reach kids through the power of pretend. I am coordinating with Home Office, hospitals, and children’s homes to host sock-puppet days. I call this initiative “Puppet Pragueress.”
I am coordinating events now and hope to have my first event this February. I am always accepting donations at the Home Office to help make these sock puppets. Anything kids might find fun glueing or sticking to their sock to make their puppet come to life would be appreciated. Items like new socks no bigger than adult small, pom-pom balls, hot glue guns and sticks, pipe cleaners, beads, and other craft materials are ideal.
For details how to support me or make donations, please contact Autumn Baker at 254-773-1575, ext. 169.
Fraternally, Levi McAdams Mr. SPJST Lodge 66, Waco
—SPJST—
Miss SPJST gives to CTLC
Director of Membership Engagement Frank Horak and Communications Specialist Autumn Baker deliver donations to Churches Touching Lives for Christ (CTLC) on behalf of Miss SPJST Paetyn Beckendorf.
Pictured, left to right, are Autumn Baker, CTLC Executive Director Paula Tanner, Frank Horak.
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstv
Czech Center Museum
Houston plans February 7
Masopust Winter Ball
The Czech Center Museum Houston will host its Masopust Winter Ball on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Czech Center Museum Houston, beginning at 6 p.m.
This signature evening brings together our community of patrons, partners, and friends in support of our mission to advance Czech culture in Houston. Enjoy a piano cocktail hour in Brno Gallery, followed by dinner and dancing in Prague Hall.
Join us for this exceptional celebration, an evening of fine food, lively music, and cultural elegance. We look forward to celebrating with you at the Masopust Winter Ball! Visit czechcenter.org for tickets and tables.
Upcoming Events
February 10—My Bohemian Kitchen
On Tuesday, February 10 at 6 p.m., meet the talented author, chef, and food
stylist Evie Harbury, as she shares her culinary journey and the inspiration behind her debut book, My Bohemian Kitchen. Enjoy the opportunity to purchase an autographed copy and hear her captivating story.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for a delightful evening with friends, this event promises to be a memorable experience. RSVP at czechcenter.org.
In order to pass through the signing line and meet Evie for book personalization, please purchase My Bohemian Kitchen from the CCMH gift shop. Since quantities are limited, we recommend purchasing your book ahead of time to ensure that you receive a copy. Your book can be picked up at the event.
If you cannot attend the event or you live out of town and would like a signed copy of the book, please indicate any personalization requests in the “comments” section when you check out. Books not picked up at the event will be signed and available for pickup at the CCMH gift shop until February 28.
Evie Harbury is a Bohemian-British
food writer and member of the Guild of Food Writers. After finishing her culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu, London, in 2016, Evie has since been working as a home economist, food stylist, recipe developer, and chef. Brought up between England and South Bohemia, Czech Republic, by an eccentric epicure of a father and an avant-garde, creative, baking mother, Evie is now an East London-based Bohemian (and has adopted some of these qualities).
Evie’s writing work includes recipes for cookbooks, commercials, and television series, as well as working on both film and stills as a food stylist and home economist. Her screen and print credits include several household names such as Dame Mary Berry, Tom Kerridge, and Mary McCartney. With her hunger for creating the most beautiful food, the most delicious plate, and the most satisfying creation in whatever form, she approaches every day in the kitchen as a bit of an adventure.
February 27—Harafica in Houston
Traditional folk music band Harafica from the Czech Republic is heading to Texas! During its Texas tour, the cimbalom band will perform in Houston, Austin, and La Grange. The concerts of Harafica will introduce more than just traditional cimbalom music and Moravian folk songs.
A young band born in the heart of Moravian Slovakia, Harafica ranks among the best bands to listen to in the Czech Republic. Led by experienced cimbalom player and music director Petr Gablas and lead violinist Martin Melichárek, this charismatic group has earned recognition on the domestic
front, gaining many fans among Czech audiences.
Although firmly rooted in folk music, their music-making and projects stretch much further, and they don’t shy away from mixing both modern and classical music either. The result is a fusion of overlapping genres and the band’s own compositions.
Enjoy an evening with Harafica on Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston. This will be a one-of-a-kind experience filled with folk and traditional tunes and a cocktail of genres including cinematic, modern and world music.
Visit czechcenter.org for CCMH member and non-member tickets. CCMH is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street, Houston, Texas 77004.
—SPJST—
CESAT meets March 7 in Schulenburg
The Czech Ex-Students Association, CESAT, will have its annual membership meeting on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Schulenburg Public Library. You do not have to have studied Czech to be a member. All that is necessary is an interest in Czech language and culture.
Please email polasek29@gmail.com to let us know if you are coming. We want to have enough kolace for everyone!
Thadious Polasek Lodge 67
Schulenburg-Weimar —SPJST—
Packing the Czech Heritage Museum for Its Next Chapter
The SPJST Communications/ Member Engagement Team spent January 5 and 6, 2026, carefully packing exhibits and displays at the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center in Temple. Working with Museum Curator Kenny Lange, the team prepared the collection for relocation as the Museum building at 119 West French Avenue moves toward sale. The Museum will be relocated to the SPJST Home Office at 520 North Main, with plans to reopen in 2027 following renovations. LEFT PHOTO: Digital
Communications Coordinator Kristen Mikeska, left, and Member Engagement Specialist Tammy Martinez assist with packing Museum items.
PHOTO 2: Communications Specialist Autumn Baker, left, and Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak help prepare exhibits for relocation. PHOTO 4: Museum Curator Kenny Lange, center, shares a moment with Anthony Andrews, left, and Terry L. Taylor, owner of Taylor Air Conditioning. Terry is also a longtime member of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone.
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Czechoslovak Foreign Institude annouces Czech Summer Study 2026
The Czechoslovak Foreign Institute announces the Czech Summer Study 2026.
When: June 25 to July 16, 2026. Depart US on June 24.
Housing: Group participants will be housed in dorms of the Agricultural School. The dorm is situated in the northwestern part of Praha, linked to downtown by bus and subway.
Food Service: Three meals a day will be served featuring authentic Czech cuisine.
Czech Language Instruction: Class size and levels will depend on enrollment. Your level: beginning or intermediate will be evaluated informally for placement into the proper class. The class will meet five days a week for four hours before lunch and once a week for two hours of conversation after lunch. The classes are non-credit courses. Arrangements for credit must be made with your university before you depart.
Instructors: Professors will be from Charles University and a linguistic institute in Praha.
For detailed information about the tour, email Thadious Polasek at Polasek29@gmail.com.
Thadious Polasek, President CESAT
SPJST Lodge 67 Schulenburg-Weimar —SPJST—
Texas Czech Cemeteries
by Larry J. Zajíček
SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Naše rodina
December 2025 (Vol. 37 No. 4)
This article originally appeared in the December 2025 issue of Naše rodina (Volume 37 Number 4) on pages 154 to 157. Naše rodina “Our Family” is the quarterly journal of the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International. Naše rodina promotes genealogy of the ethnic groups that comprise Czechoslovakia as it was formed in 1918.
When I received the March 2024 Naše rodina, I read with interest the article authored by Kathryn Nuwash (Nunvář) Palmquist entitled “CGSI Cemetery Project — What Can You Learn?”
The article included a personal account of Kathy visiting Bohemian National Cemetery in Silver Lake, Minnesota, with her dad, a place where generations of her family were buried. This struck a chord with me. When I was young, I liked to take trips with my parents, to cemeteries here in Texas, where family or friends were buried. My parents would lovingly tend the graves, clearing grass or leaves from the gravestones, and sweeping them free of debris, so that the information on the gravestone could easily be seen.
Kathy’s article went on to explain the CGSI Cemetery Project and the group that was active in documenting cemeteries in Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Kathy went on to solicit other CGSI members to help with the Cemetery Project. The group conducted its meetings via Zoom.
I joined one of the Zoom meetings on May 13, 2024, along with other CGSI members who were interested. In the meeting we viewed the interactive map of Czech and Slovak cemeteries. On the CGSI website you can view that map by clicking on “Get Involved,” then “CGSI Projects” in the drop-down list, and then “Czech and Slovak Cemeteries” in the side list.
By May 2024, much work had been done by the various volunteers, and the largest concentration of documented cemeteries was in the upper Midwest. Texas was a big blank, as was seen on a map of Czech and Slovak Cemeteries in
North America at CGSI.org, accessed October 8, 2025.
As I listened to the conversation, I thought, “I have an interest in cemeteries; I am of Moravian, Silesian, and Bohemian descent; the Texas map is blank; I have the ability to do this. I should do this!” So I volunteered to help with the project. Then reality set in. I thought, how am I going to do this? How do I go about making this project successful? Well, I thought, start with what you know. And that’s exactly what I did.
The surprising part of this journey was when Kathy Palmquist emailed me in February 2025, asking me to write an article for Naše rodina detailing what I had learned during the discovery process. Not knowing how to say no, I agreed to give it a try. Perhaps the article might be of interest to others. I began to write the article the day after my birthday, in March 2025. I sincerely hope it’s informative and helpful.
There are many Bohemians and Moravians in Texas who come under the umbrella of being Czech. As for Slovaks, I’m less familiar with them, although I know that there are some in Texas. Many of these Czech folks settled in small towns and were members of Catholic and Protestant churches, but some were freethinkers. Many were also members of Czech fraternal aid societies. Further, Find a Grave (findagrave.com) offers access to buried individuals as well as to cemeteries.
The list below, of 21 Czech settlements, encompasses the counties of Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Burleson, DeWitt, Falls, Fayette, Hill, Lavaca, Limestone, McLennan, Travis, and Williamson. I would also add Ellis, Fort Bend, Milam, and Wharton counties to the list, because of the many Czech communities within those counties.
1. Abbott (Hill County)
2. Waco (McLennan County)
3. West (McLennan County)
4. Mt. Calm (Hill County)
5. Mart (Limestone and McLennan Counties)
6. Rosebud (Falls County)
7. Temple (Bell County)
8. Bartlett (Bell and Williamson County)
9. Granger (Williamson County)
10. Taylor (Williamson County)
11. Elgin (Bastrop and Travis Counties)
12. Caldwell (Burleson County)
13. Smithville (Bastrop County)
14. La Grange (Fayette County)
15. Bellville (Austin County)
16. Flatonia (Fayette County)
17. Schulenburg (Fayette County)
18. Sealy (Austin County)
19. Shiner (Lavaca County)
20. Hallettsville (Lavaca County)
21. Yoakum (Lavaca and DeWitt Counties)
Czech settlements are most numerous in central Texas, in the US Route 35 corridor, or farther east, in Austin and Fayette counties. It is said that the rolling hills in this portion of the state reminded the Czechs of the places they left in their homeland.
By studying different Texas maps, I learned about many more places where Czech people lived and about the cemeteries in those communities. At some time in the past, more than 150 years ago, some communities were thriving, with churches, dance halls, schools, and homes. Today some of those same communities exist just in memory, with perhaps only a cemetery and a road sign on the highway to hint of their existence.
I knew the names of some of the more prominent Czech communities and determined their counties. I could look up those counties on Find a Grave, and get lists of the cemeteries located in them. From that listing I could easily spot the Czech-named cemeteries. Surprisingly, there were quite a few. As I began to comb through them, my spreadsheet began to grow. In order not to overlook any communities, I used a few important references, the websites of Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas/Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas (SPJST), Katolická Jednota Texaska/Czech Catholic Union of Texas (KJT), and Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS).
The cemeteries I discovered are varied. Some have only a few graves, while others have thousands of graves. Some are in poor condition, while others are well kept. Some are church-related and are located next to the parish church, or where the parish church used to be. Some belong to the local SPJST lodge. (SPJST is a fraternal insurance organization in Texas that began in Fayetteville, Texas, on July 1, 1897.) I found one cemetery with a Czech name, but no persons with a Czech surname are buried there.
On the SPJST website (spjst.org), under “News,” I was able to look at old copies of the weekly or semi-weekly newsletter, Věstník, (1952–2025). Many of the SPJST lodges are listed along with some of their newletters. The value in looking at the early issues is that some SPJST lodges have closed and merged with other SPJST lodges. I was able to find places that no longer exist, but still hold relevance to this project.
KJT (kjtnet.org) is a non-profit fraternal benefit society that operates under the lodge system. Looking at the KJT website, I was able to identify locations where Czech cemeteries might be located. The TCGS website can be found at txczgs.org. It has a section on cemeteries.
Many Czech cemeteries in Texas carry the names of the early settlers’ places of origin, such as Bila Hora (Sublime), Breslau (Hallettsville), Frydek (Frydek), Hranice (Dime Box), Krasna (Orchard), Moravia (Moravia), New Tabor (Caldwell), Praha (Praha), Velehrad (Moravia), and Vsetin (Hallettsville). Others carry family names, such as: Bartek, Frnka, Haidusek, Halamicek, Havlick-Vavra, Hruska, Hubenak, Jochec, Kanak, Klimitchek, Knezek, Kollatschny, Kovar, Lesikar, Machu, Marek, Mikeska, Pakan, Pjatka, Psencik, Pavelka, Schlapota, Schoppe, Schiller, Schimek, Smetana, Susen, and Tomascik. If any of the cemetery surnames interest you, please refer to Find a Grave for locations. Of course, these cemeteries are included on the interactive map on the CGSI website.
As a start, I created a spreadsheet of known cemeteries, which included the name, city, county, the Find a Grave cemetery number, and the origin of the settlers buried there. Initially, I thought there would be just a handful of cemeteries. The project would be easy enough to complete.
I added cemetery locations to my spreadsheet so I wouldn’t forget them. Then, going to each individual cemetery on Find a Grave, I reviewed the list of who was buried there, to determine if that cemetery contained any persons with Czech names. This proved to be intensive and time-consuming when the list was long. I found tools that helped with the process: Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, Find a Grave, and Internet searches for the names of cemeteries, counties, churches, etc.
I have chosen three cemeteries to highlight:
1. Corinth Cemetery at Buckholts, Milam County;
2. Praha Catholic Cemetery at Praha, Fayette County;
3. Wesley Brethren Cemetery at Wesley, but actually located in adjacent Austin County.
Corinth Cemetery
My favorite cemetery is Corinth Cemetery, located south of Buckholts, in Milam County, on County Road 104. This is where my Zajíček grandparents and great-grandparents are buried, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts, and great uncles, among others. According to Ancestry.com, I have 17 related people within this cemetery. Corinth Cemetery was founded in 1880, and is well maintained and under the care of a committee of local residents. (The earliest grave is from 1880.) For many years, my second cousin once removed, Hilda Kužel Burtis, was active in the oversight of the cemetery. The Kužel family has been active with the cemetery for many years. Recently, a gathering pavilion was built across the road, as a place for families to gather for burial services.
Corinth Cemetery is easy to get to via paved roads. This is unlike some cemeteries, which are not visible from any nearby roadway. I found that some cemeteries are in the middle of pastures, on private property with no access, and are overgrown with trees and briars. The location of those remote cemeteries makes me wonder what caused them to be created in that location in the first place.
Praha Catholic Cemetery
Another of my favorite cemeteries is Praha Catholic Cemetery, which is also known as Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Cemetery, founded in 1855. The cemetery is adjacent to Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, one of the many Painted Churches of the Texas Hill Country (churches with fairly plain exteriors, but ornate interiors, that were built by Bavarian and Bohemian immigrants between 1877 and 1906).
For information, visit: texashistoricalfoundation.org/redirectpages/blog.html/article/2023/05/25/pain ted-churches-of-the-texas-hill-country
Praha is a small hamlet in Fayette County, and is also known as Maticka Praha or Mother Prague.1 The popula-
tion is listed as 21. However, on August 15 (regardless of the day of the week), thousands of people descend upon Praha to celebrate their Czech heritage at the church picnic. The official reason is that August 15 is the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a Roman Catholic feast day. The celebration features food, pivo (beer), and koláče (Czech pastries), as well as polka bands and dancing under the pavilion. August in Texas can be hotter than a firecracker, but crowds have been coming here since 1855.
The earliest death date in the cemetery is 1852. As I look through the surnames on the gravestones in this cemetery, I find unfamiliar names. This causes me to wonder if that person was the last of his or her family. With that death, did the family line come to an end?
Wesley Brethren Church
Finally, there is Wesley Brethren Cemetery, which is adjacent to Wesley Brethren Church in Austin County. The church is a wooden structure that was built in 1866. It’s a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The church is the first congregation of the Czech Moravian Brethren in Texas, a denomination that later became known as the Unity of the Brethren. In this cemetery, the earliest death date on the tombstones is 1870.
A couple of things stand out for me regarding tombstones or grave markers.
1. The change from tombstone inscriptions written in Czech to being written in English. It is understandable that old tombstone inscriptions would be in Czech, the native tongue. When my Uncle Josef Bozon died in 1936, at age 38, his tombstone in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery in Corn Hill, Williamson County, was in Czech. When his widow, Millie Kubala Bozon died 55 years later, in 1993, my cousin replaced the original single tombstone for his father, which was in Czech, with a double tombstone for both parents, in English.
2. The amount of artistry that can be seen on some tombstones is amazing. My favorites are various sizes of cameotype photos of the deceased, shown as their loved ones chose to remember them — alive. I have also seen landscapes and portraits of individuals. Some of the artwork is even in color.
In the past, it was the custom for people to be buried in cemeteries. In recent times, burials are less common because cremation is less expensive and is believed by many to be more environmentally friendly. So, unless remains are placed in a columbarium within a cemetery or church, the future will look much different. Even though traditional burials may not continue, my hope is that people will still be remembered, at least with a memorial page on Find a Grave.
It has been my privilege and honor to be able to make these contributions to CGSI. I urge you to look at the interactive map on the CGSI website. If you find that your relatives are buried in a cemetery that has not been included, I hope you will let us know, so that all may be included.
About the Author
Larry J. Zajicek is a baby boomer who was born in Houston — a thirdgeneration Texan. Both his paternal and maternal ancestors came to Texas after immigrating to America. His paternal side arrived in 1873, in New Orleans, and his maternal side arrived in New York, in 1912. Prior to retiring in 2015, Larry was an insurance agent who had worked in the insurance industry for 50 years. He was formerly a student at the University of Houston. Larry and his wife, Vicki Jurchak Zajicek, were married in Houston, in January 1971. He enjoys family, traveling, genealogy, and listening to Texas Czech music.
Endnote
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praha, _Texas, accessed on September 1, 2025.
Vestnik Editor’s Note: Larry is a member of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston.
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LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1)
Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville 78940. Hall Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Sharon Fritsch 979-966-3515.
LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly - Sundays - November 9, 2025, at 3 p.m. at First Methodist Church Annex, 206 South Dowling Street, Hallettsville 77964. For information, call President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056.
Friday, February 20—Cottonwood Water Board Meeting
Saturday, March 1—Lodge 6 Meeting , 2 p.m. Sunday, March 29—April Meeting and Easter Party
Sunday, April 5—Marek Easter
Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West 76691. Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-7177840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the hall at 2 p.m. For meeting information, call Irene Peterson 254-266-3810.
LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook 77878. Hall Rentals/Information: Call 979-272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-2723732. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-2204733; loreelewis91@gmail.com.
LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Sunday 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 Doris Ford 979-777-5458.
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 quarterly - Second Tuesdays in January, April, July, and October at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Mary Helen Rodriguez 254-314-6548.
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 Susan Skrabanek 979-820-2218. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931.
LODGE 18, ELGIN (2)
Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin 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 February, April, June, August, October, and December at 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, 512-285-3100.
LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)
Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger 76530. Lodge Meetings: Held monthly. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Meeting date/time/location varies; for information, call Jvonne Elwood 512-753-9119. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Bohac 254-541-5344.
LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6)
Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg 78956 (located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia). Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call Kathleen Guenther 979-562-2124.
LODGE 24, CYCLONE - FLAG HALL (2)
Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington 76519. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-7211774 or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Held monthly - the second Sunday, September through May at 5 p.m.; and the second Monday, June through August at 6:30 p.m. - at the hall. For information, call Brenda 254721-1682.
LODGE 25, ENNIS (3)
Sunday, February 8—Super Bowl Kick-Off Party, 4 p.m. Members and guests invited. Bring a dish to share.
Thursday, April 9—Lodge meeting Thursday, July 9—Lodge meeting Thursday, October 8—Lodge meeting
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: January 15, April 9, July 9, October 8 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. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.
LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2)
Friday, January 30—Country Therapy Band Friday, February 6—Sterling Country Friday, February 13—The Other Band Friday, February 20—Justice Friday, February 27—Gabriel River Band Friday, March 6—Sterling Country Friday, March 13—Robert Lawhorn and Triple Threat Friday, March 20—Midnight Wranglers Friday, March 27—Second Hand Rose
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 9 p.m., except Fridays and rentals. On Fridays, bands play from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. No admission. Hamburgers served, beginning at 6 p.m. on Fridays. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Wednesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Linda Pospisil 512-4157225.
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 979-5417450.
LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - 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 Mark Lester 361-212-1143.
LODGE 35, ELK - ELK HALL (3) Saturday, February 14—Valentine Dance: Joel Wood Band Saturday, February 21—Midnight Mustangs Saturday, March 28—Chris Colunga Saturday, April 11—Nolan Pick Band
Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell 76624. Hall Rentals/Bookings: Tammy Pavelka 254-7221454. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: July 16, August 6, September 10, and October 22, 7 p.m. at the hall. For meeting information, call Randy Pavelka 254-744-1426. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855/ sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com.
LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)
Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia 78941. Hall Rental Information: Call Donna 512237-9099 or Dana 512-581-2672. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Alfred Hellinger 512-332-6758.
LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday in March, May, September, and December. Social/lunch begins at 12:30 p.m., meeting starts at 1 p.m. at Mynde Kessler’s office, 2554 Villa Maria, Bryan 77802. For information, call Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158.
LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second
Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Mikeska’s BBQ (off Highway 59), El Campo 77437. For information, contact President Linda Henderson 281-8045251; email hendersonlj@hotmail.com; Vice President/Reporter Ardis Bacak 832-247-6350; or Secretary/Treasurer Sharon Borak 940-3007151. Youth Club Meetings: Youth Leader Lisa Reck 512-844-0254 / 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, call/text 254-985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Brandon Bartek 254-624-4119. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295 / abartek002@yahoo.com.
LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Sunday, February 21—42 Dominoes, 1 to 5 p.m. RSVP to 512-791-1939 or 512-924-3669. $25 buy in for prizes. Snack bar available and youth club desserts for donation.
Friday, March 6—Fish Fry, 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 28—42 Dominoes, 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, August 22—Fall Fundraiser, 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 17—42 Dominoes, 1 to 5 p.m.
Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor 76574. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Lisa Jonse 512-7399324 / email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information or to RSVP, email jenurbanek@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Held at Taylor Animal Shelter on Saturday morning.
LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) 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.
Saturday, February 14—Valentine’s Dance: J. Rodney Dunn and The Spring Creek Band, 7 to 11 p.m.
Lodge Hall: 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Hall Rental Information: Beverly Teplicek 325365-6400. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Tonya Wales 970-799-2782.
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, 301 South Harrison Street, West 76691. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting information, call Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.
LODGE 66, WACO (3)
Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1301 Hogan Lane in Bellmead 76705. For information, call Dana McAdams 254-715-6765 / danamcad@aol.com. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855 /
sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com; Randy House 254-749-4636 / rhouse3407@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Dana McAdams 254-715-6765 / danamcad@aol.com for information.
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG-WEIMAR (1)
Lodge Meetings: Fourth Friday of March, June, and September; and a December Christmas party at noon at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, 712 North US Highway 77, Schulenburg 78956. For information, call Adrienne Kobza 979-743-5629.
LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4)
Lodge Meetings: Bi-monthly - the second Thursday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Jason’s Deli, 2907 Garnett Avenue, Wichita Falls 76308. For information, call Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383.
LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)
Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi 78415. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For information, call Mark Rebecek 361-816-2328. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-232-9316.
LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held Quarterly on the second Monday in February, May, August, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Restoration Fellowship, 12141 East FM 2268, Holland, Texas 76534. For information, call Rita Spinn 254-760-6427.
LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street, Needville 77461. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon. For information, call Vincent Newman 281-633-1882. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, contact 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, call Vicki Sims 214763-0341.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple 76501. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October at 2:30 p.m. For information, call Dan Kacir 254493-1307.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Standing Events:
● Bingo every Thursday evening
● Beer Garden every Friday
● Ladies Night - first Thursday of each month
● Guys Night - third Thursday of each month Visit www.lodge88.org/special-event for updates.
Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) 77008. Hall Phone/Rental Information: 713-869-5767 / www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call Lucy Gilmore 713869-5767. Youth Club Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m. (one hour prior to adult lodge meeting). For youth club information, contact Youth Leader Sarah
Itz 713-303-8845. Dances held 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For information, call Lucy 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. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501.
LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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 Malba Smesny 281-798-1092 Watch the Věstník for change in dates, times, and locations.
LODGE 92, FORT WORTH NATIONAL HALL (3)
● Randy Tatarevich Band, country/western: Every first Sunday of the month (unless otherwise noted).
Admission $10. Doors open at 1 p.m. Music, full bar, barbecue dinner $102 to 6 p.m. Best dance floor in Texas. Come on out for a great time!
Visit www.nationalhallfwtx.com. Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114
Lodge Meetings: Held at the hall on the second Sunday of each month, at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. All members and guests welcome! For meeting information, call Frankie Tesar 817504-3632. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Dances: Some dances have presale tickets available. Dressy casual.
LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5:30 p.m. at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, 7800 North Nararro, Victoria 77904. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361576-2935.
LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)
Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville 78114. Hall Rental Information: Call Roxy Bertrand 830-391-0919. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Wendy Pruski 210-535-4916. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830480-2737.
LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 10:30 a.m. at Filipp’s Cafe, 2315 Hoskins Mound Rd., Danbury 77534. Luncheon follows meeting. For information, call Lorenda Baldwin 979-864-9999.
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 Lodge 142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981 or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, location as adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Karole Coleman 346-497-0254 / karoleque@outlook.com.
LODGE 151
WHARTON-EAST BERNARD (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. For information, call Edith Molberg 979-332-1289.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 3 p.m. at Sokol hall, 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, 76179. For information, call CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leader Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com
LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - in March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. For date/location, call Albert Klinkovsky 512-6577783.
LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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: Held quarterly - the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 5 p.m. For location information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-234-1339 / sandra.jansa@hotmail.com.
LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Wednesday in March, June, September, and November at 6 p.m. For location, contact Delores Hicks 281-476-9055.
LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)
Lodge Hall: 711 East Rio Poco, Little RiverAcademy 76554. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthlythe 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 George Tomastik 254721-8717. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen open.
LODGE 180, BURLESON (3)
Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at Burleson Fire Station, 250 E Hidden Parkway, Burleson 76028. For information, call Rhonda Hurtik 972-268-0022.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 2 p.m. For meeting location, call Kay Weeks 817-896-5277.
LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)
Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton Volunteer Fire Department meeting room, 205 Cockrill Street, Moulton 77975. For information, contact Secretary Terry Stevenson 361-7720046 / terrywstevenson@gmail.com.
LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December For information, contact Theresa Haag 830-832-3664 / theresa.haag686@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-777-8215 / jmccoy@pta.com.
LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)
Lodge Meeting Information: Contact Deborah Rohlack 512-290-4153 for meeting location. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.
LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - in January, April, July, and October. Specific dates TBA. Most meetings are held at Rudy’s BBQ in College Station. Watch for meeting announcements in the Vestnik or contact President Henry Mayo hpmayo@gmail.com or 979-777-1426.
LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress 77429. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, call 281-373-9482.
LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Sunday of March, June, 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 Regina House 830-5702046. 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 830570-2046.
LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Carnitas Queretaro Mexican Restaurant, 9077 Gateway Boulevard West, El Paso 79938. For information, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.
LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, July, and October at 11 a.m. - July 1; and October 7 - at Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant, Abilene. For information, call Janice Stevens 325669-7904.
LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Tuesday in February, April, June, August, October, and December at 11:15 a.m. For meeting location, call David Nauert 254-534-0809.
LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - March, June, September, and December 14 at 1 p.m. Date, time, and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For information, call Chester Jenke 210-413-3053.
