Architect’s rendering shows the proposed relocation of the Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center into the SPJST Home Office in Temple, featuring expanded exhibits and interactive space. SPJST hosted a program outlining the vision on February 15. See more information and photos from the event on pages 13 and 44.
The Czech Heritage Museum has hosted tarok nights on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m. for many years. The nights will now be held at the SPJST Home Office. All are invited to learn the game or join in the fun. Pictured, from left, are Jimmie Coufal, Kenny Lange, Dan Kacir, and Carolyn Coufal.
Silvia Rangel Lodge 32, Victoria District
Aaron Denosaquo Lodge 88, Houston District
Melanie Camargo Lodge 88, Houston District
Lydia Talamantez Lodge 160, San Angelo
Janice Jahns Lodge 88, Houston
VESTNIK
S P J S T H E R A L D
SPJST HOME OFFICE
PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 254-773-1575 www.spjst.org
NORTH TERRITORY SABINO GARCIA 817-909-8899 • sabinog@spjst.com
WEST TERRITORY
RALPH JUAREZ, FIC, FICF 361-537-5506 • ralphj@spjst.com
DISTRICT COUNCILS
District 1
Chair Randy Gaas
Secretary Sandra Stone
Youth Chair Hannah Kovar
District 2
Chair Cory Miksch
Secretary Jvonne Elwood
Youth Chair Amber Bartek
District 3
Chair Douglas Galler
Secretary/Youth Chair Dana McAdams
District 4
Chair Janice Stevens
Secretary Beverly Teplicek
Youth Chair Tonya Wales District 5
Chair Dorothy Pflughaupt
Secretary Krystle Peterson
Youth Chair Kristen Jones
District 6
Chair Yvonne Marcaurele
Secretary Karen Kaspar
Youth Chair Lisa Bubela
District 7
Chair James House
Secretary Wendy Pruski
Youth Chair Marcia Rew
CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM AND GENEALOGY CENTER 520 North Main Street • Temple, TX Kenny Lange, Curator 254-773-1575 • klange@spjst.com
SGratitude Changes Everything
pring has a way of resetting things.
Not overnight. Not all at once. But quietly. Steadily. Surely.
You notice it in the small ways first. The trees that looked lifeless just weeks ago now have tiny green buds pushing their way through. The air feels different. The days last longer. The world didn’t ask for permission to begin again—it just did.
There’s a lesson in that.
It’s easy—almost automatic—to see what’s wrong. We complain about the weather. Too cold. Too hot. Too dry. Too wet. We complain about being busy. We complain about being tired. We complain about things not going the way we planned.
And sometimes, those frustrations are real. Life isn’t always easy.
But what we choose to focus on matters.
Instead of complaining about the hole in your socks, be thankful you have socks. Instead of complaining about the early alarm clock, be thankful you have somewhere to be. Instead of complaining about the work in front of you, be thankful you have purpose.
There are people who would give anything for the things we take for granted every day.
It’s not about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about recognizing that even in imperfect moments, there is still something good.
Gratitude changes your outlook. It changes your energy. It changes how you move through the world. When you stop focusing on what’s missing, you start seeing what’s present. When you stop focusing on what’s broken,
you start seeing what’s still strong. Spring reminds us of that. Nothing stays dormant forever. Nothing stays dark forever. Growth always comes. Renewal always comes.
But like the trees, you have to allow it.
You have to choose to see the good. You have to choose to move forward.
You have to choose to start praising instead of complaining.
Because when you do, everything begins to look different.
And sometimes, that’s all it takes.
Congratulations, Lodges!
Congratulations to the lodges who earned incentives during the fourth quarter of the membership drive:
Lodge 88, Houston30 points - $250
Lodge 92, Fort Worth21 points - $100
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi11 points - $100
Lodge 32, Victoria8 points - $100
Lodge 160, San Angelo8 points - $300
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines
April 2026 Vestnik deadline is March 10
May 2026 Vestnik deadline is April 10
June 2026 Vestnik deadline is May 10
July 2026 Vestnik deadline is June 10 —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published monthly on the 1st 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 premium 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 SPJST, c/o VĚSTNÍK, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
SPJST FAMILY FUN
DATES &
IMPORTANT
(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)
March 1 Lodge 24, Cyclone Welcomes Mollie B, Ted Lange, and “Squeezebox” (2)
March 1 Lodge 88, Houston Youth Club Chili Cookoff (5)
March 7 State Regular 42 Domino Tournament
SPJST Home Office, Temple (2)
March 8 Lodge 13, Dime Box Social • Paige Roadhouse (1)
March 14 Lodge 23, Moravia Fundraiser (6)
March 17-18 Executive Committee Meeting • SPJST Home Office
March 22 SPJST Rally in District 7 • Lodge 107, Floresville (7)
April 4 SPJST Home Office Closes at Noon • Good Friday
April 11 SPJST Rally in District 6 • Moravia Hall (6)
April 18 Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament (2)
April 19
April 25
April 26
SPJST Rally in District 1 • Lodge 9, Snook (1)
SPJST Rally in District 4 • Lodge 49, Rowena (4)
SPJST Rally in District 3 • Lodge 92, Fort Worth (3)
May 19-20 Executive Committee Meeting • SPJST Home Office
May 25 SPJST Home Office Closed • Memorial Day
June 7 Lodge 47, Seaton Picnic (2)
June 28 Summer Camp • Comfort - July 2
July 3
SPJST Home Office Closed • Independence Day
July 17-18 Lodge 47, Seaton Barbecue Cook-Off (2)
July 19 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Annual Picnic (3)
July 24-25 State Youth Showcase • Temple
Aug. 14-15 Lodge 47, Seaton 42 Domino Tournament (2)
Aug. 18-19 Executive Committee Meeting • SPJST Home Office
August 22 SPJST Rally in District 5 • Lodge 88, Houston (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
Dec.
Dec. 31 SPJST Home Office Closes at Noon • New Year’s Eve
Westphalia KCs hosts Friday evening shrimp and fish fry
Westphalia Knights of Columbus Council 13902 will sponsor a drive-thru shrimp and fish fry every Friday evening beginning February 20 through March 27. Plates will be “to-go only” starting at 3:30 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. (or sold out). Plates will consist of fried shrimp, fried fish, beans, slaw, and French fries. Cost is $15 per plate. Plates can be picked up in a drive-thru lane behind Westphalia Parish Hall, 3000 State Highway 320, Westphalia. Proceeds support the KC’s charity goals for the year.
James Kahlig Knights of Columbus Council 13902 - Westphalia —SPJST—
Member appreciates Vestnik Czech Heritage Month contest prize and SPJST Calender
Melanie,
I just wanted to let you know that I have received my beautiful cup towel and ornament. I am so excited as I love Czech-themed items, and I am very proud of my Czech heritage. The cup towel is being used in my kitchen and is a definite conversation starter! I love
it! I look forward to having my new Czech ornament on my Christmas tree in 2026 and the years ahead.
Thanks to SPJST for sponsoring the Czech Heritage Month contests in the Vestnik, and for my colorful Czech cup towel and ornament!
Also thanks for my 2026 SPJST Calendar. I do use it for all my daily reminders and appointments and look forward to trying some of the pie recipes this year . . . the recipes are always so delicious! Thanks bunches!
Shirley Drexler Moczygemba Lodge 32, Victoria —SPJST—
Member expresses appreciation for contest prizes
Melanie,
I wanted to drop you a quick note and thank you for sending my Vestnik Czech Heritage Month contest prizes. I liked the hand towel as well as the Christmas ornament. I will be putting the Christmas ornament on my tree this upcoming year.
Once again thanks. Have a great week!
Ronald Neumann Lodge 66, Waco —SPJST—
Job Postings
Accounting Assistant I (Part-Time)
Reports to: Accounting and IT Manager
Position Summary
This part time position is scheduled for 29 hours per week.
The Accounting Assistant I provides clerical and administrative support to the accounting department. This position assists with daily financial tasks, document processing, data entry, and member services to ensure accurate and efficient operations.
Qualifications
• People oriented with excellent customer service skills
• Team oriented and able to work collaboratively
• Self starter who takes initiative, is dependable, and takes pride in their work.
• Extremely attentive to detail
• Organized, able to prioritize tasks, and consistently meet deadlines
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with a strong aptitude for mathematics
• Ability to carefully proofread work and ensure proper formatting
Education, Experience, Knowledge
• High school diploma required, college degree a plus
• Proficient in Microsoft 365, especially Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to use 10-key by touch; experience with copiers, scanners, and general office equipment
• 5-plus years accounting experience preferred, working knowledge of basic insurance concepts a plus
• Computer hardware/software knowledge a plus
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand for brief periods
• Ability to sit for extended periods throughout the shift
• Use of hands to process documents and perform clerical tasks
• Occasional reaching with hands and arms
• Clear verbal communication and active listening skills for assisting members and coworkers
• Position requires the ability to sit,
stand, and walk as needed throughout the shift
• Occasional lifting of 10 to 25 pounds, with assistance if necessary
Apply Online
To apply, visit spjst.org/jobs/ —SPJST—
Annuity and Financial Services Assistant I (Part-Time)
Qualifications
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer
Position Summary
This part-time role is scheduled for 29 hours per week. The position includes training to support the servicing of IRA and non-IRA annuities, as well as learning the processes involved in servicing mortgage loans. Responsibilities also include becoming familiar with answering incoming phone calls and occasionally providing coverage for the receptionist’s desk.
Qualifications
• Strong people skills and a commitment to excellent customer service
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with others
• Self-motivated, dependable, and takes pride in delivering high quality work
• Exceptional attention to detail, with the ability to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with a strong aptitude for mathematics
• Highly organized, able to prioritize tasks, and consistently meet deadlines
• Skilled in proofreading and ensuring documents are properly formatted
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents
Education, Experience, Knowledge
• High school diploma required; college degree preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to use 10-key by touch; familiarity with copiers, scanners, and general office equipment
• Accounting experience or knowledge preferred
• Five or more years of accounting experience strongly preferred; familiarity with annuities and basic insurance concepts is a plus
• Willingness to attend IRA administrative training seminars and insurance related training
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand for short periods
• Ability to sit for extended periods throughout the workday
• Manual dexterity to process doc-
uments and perform clerical tasks
• Occasional reaching with hands and arms
• Clear verbal communication and active listening skills for assisting members and coworkers
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk as needed during the shift
• Occasional lifting of 10 to 25 pounds, with assistance as needed
Apply Online
To apply, visit spjst.org/jobs/ —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia to host 129th anniversary celebration – a day of history, heritage, and fun
SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia invites the public to join in the fun at a vibrant celebration honoring the Society’s 129th anniversary, showcasing the community’s
rich Texas-Czech heritage and the historic legacy of Moravia, Texas, on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Festivities will span two beloved local landmarks — the SPJST Lodge 23 Hall and the iconic Moravia Store.
The celebration begins at 11 a.m. with dine-in or to-go plates prepared by Tom’s BBQ of Schulenburg, followed by a special program at 1 p.m. Live music by The Czechaholics will bring the Mo-
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
I Don’t Need My Life Insurance Anymore
I have two insurance policies. I definitely don’t need them anymore. I have plenty to pass on to my kids. Why should I keep paying for it? That’s just a waste of money. So why am I keeping it?
First off, why should I make my kids use their money to put me in the ground? The money I’m leaving is technically theirs once I meet God. More importantly, life insurance gives them money immediately while the estate is being sorted out. What if there is a dispute, someone challenges the will, or probate takes time? That could tie things up for months or longer. What are they going to do—put me on ice until everything is settled?
Life insurance is not subject to probate or part of the estate. Your beneficiaries can access the money quickly while everything else is being sorted. And if the kids truly don’t need it, there are other options.
What about your church or charities you care about? If your kids don’t need the money, you can change the beneficiary to your church. This allows you to continue supporting its mission even after you are gone. Years ago, as an Elder, we did a capital campaign to build a school for our church. We asked members who no longer needed their life
ravia Store to life from 2 to 6 p.m. Guests can explore Czech cultural artifacts on loan from the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center of Temple, enjoy a soundtrack by Kendra Krupala, and take part in a 23-prize raffle, silent auction, and games, with all proceeds supporting ongoing restoration of the historic Lodge 23 hall.
A Community Built on Heritage and Resilience
Founded in 1897, Lodge 23 stands as one of SPJST’s original charter lodges, deeply linked with the legacy of Ignac Jalufka, an early community leader whose store, saloon, and dance hall shaped the settlement of Moravia beginning in 1881. His influence — spanning entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and even frontier law enforcement — remains woven into the town’s story.
the Texas-Czech pioneer spirit. A Tradition of Service and Fellowship Lodge 23’s longstanding values — mutual support, community service, and cultural preservation — have endured for more than a century. Members contributed to wartime efforts, supported local initiatives, and maintained Czech language traditions well into the 1970s. Today, Lodge 23 remains active with 154 members, many of whom are descendants of the area’s founding families.
A Message from
SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek
insurance to consider naming the church as beneficiary. Their premium payments essentially became a future gift. It’s been several years since the school was built, but those gifts continue to make a difference.
You probably have a favorite charity. You can donate your policy to them. And if it’s a small local charity, you can even have your death benefit annuitized over 10 years, allowing the charity to receive annual support from you long after you’ve passed through Heaven’s gates.
You paid all that money into your policy to make sure someone would be taken care of when you say your final goodbyes. Why cancel it now? It was designed to bury you or help someone you care about. Let it do that. And if your family doesn’t need it, you can still do something good for your church or a charity.
I bought my life insurance for the good of someone when I’m gone. I’m going to make sure it does exactly that. So before you cancel that policy, look at the good it can still do.
“No one has ever become poor by giving.” —Anne Frank
Have a safe and Blessed week, Delisle L. Doherty
Vice President of Sales and
The historic Moravia Store, built in 1889 and celebrated today as a Texas Historical Commission landmark, continues to serve as a cultural touchstone for the community and remains a symbol of
“This year’s 129th Anniversary Celebration offers more than a meal and a dance,” said SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek. “If you’ve never been to Moravia, Texas, this is your grand opportunity! It will be a good time 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.”
—SPJST—
Member Engagement News
March Forward Together in Joy
Howdy, SPJST Members!
March brings a fresh sense of energy, momentum, and renewal as we move toward spring and continue building the connections that make SPJST feel like family. After the stretches of winter weather we experienced across Texas in January, many of us are more than ready to welcome warmer days—and we’re hopeful that cold blast was the last one for the season. As winter fades, we’re re-
minded this is a time for growth, friendship, and moving forward together, making it the perfect moment to celebrate the fellowship that makes SPJST so special.
This month also marks the beginning of our District Rallies for the year, a time when members from across our districts come together to share ideas, celebrate accomplishments, and strengthen the bonds that unite us. These rallies reflect the heart of our Caring Challenges theme, “Gathering Together in Joy,” as we connect face-to-face and support one another at the district level.
Over the past few months, our
members have embraced this spirit through lodge meetings, tournaments, service projects, youth activities, and community events. As we move into a busy spring season, I encourage everyone to participate in your District Rally, invite new faces, and continue finding joy in the time we spend together.
Thank you for all you do to keep SPJST strong. Here’s to a March filled with connection, purpose, and meaningful gatherings as we continue to gather together in joy.
that reflect the energy of the season and the heart of SPJST:
February once again brought tarok players together for the 2026 SPJST State Tarok Tournament, held February 7, 2026, at the SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas.
A total of 40 players from across the state gathered early, ready for a full day of cards, competition, and camaraderie. It was great to see familiar faces and welcome players from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, South Texas, and our local communities. Many players continue to share how much they enjoy playing taroks at the SPJST Home Office, which has become a favorite location for this annual tournament.
The tournament included six rounds of play, with friendly competition and good sportsmanship on display throughout the day. Just as important as the games were the conversations, laughter, and opportunity to reconnect with fellow tarok players.
Players enjoyed morning kolaches and a delicious lunch, prepared by the Communications/Member Engagement Team, which helped keep everyone energized as the tournament continued.
Congratulations!
High round winners were:
Round 1 - Travis Mixon with 183 points
Round 2 - John Vrana with 211 points
Round 3 - Wes Hocker with 229 points
Round 4 - Zach Brezina with 163 points
Round 5 - James Svehlak with 194 points
Round 6 - Tim Prater with 202 points
Award and cash winners were:
1st - Tim Prater with 789 points
2nd - Eugene Kucera with 744 points
3rd - Danny Stefek with 733 points
4th - James Svehlak with 726 points
Peggy Dresbach won the box of Lucky Charms and a 100X Cash lottery ticket for a chance to win $500,000!
Thanks to the tournament participants from across the state who came out and made the State Tarok Tournament a success. Tammy and I enjoyed being your hosts for the day. We will see you at the next State Tarok Tournament on Saturday, February 6, 2027.
Fraternally,
Frank Horak,Director of Member Engagement
—SPJST—
�� What’s Inside This Newsletter
As we step into March—a month of renewal, fresh starts, and coming together—you’ll find updates and stories
�� 2026 SPJST Theme
�� SPJST District Rallies as they kick off across the state �� Youth Club News and activities
�� Community Spotlight: Giving from the Heart
March is a wonderful time to turn intention into action. Lodges looking to serve their communities might consider:
• Creating uplifting notes or “sunshine packets” for seniors, hospital patients, house-bound individuals, or those facing illness
• Collecting diapers, wipes, and baby essentials for local family-resource centers
• Donating coats, socks, and gloves to local shelters
As always, please remember to record your lodge’s service projects at spjst.org/gives and share your photos on social media using #SPJSTGives. Your generosity continues to brighten lives and strengthen communities as we move into spring.
�� Help Us Celebrate Lodge 23, Moravia!
Join us at SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia’s 129th Anniversary on Friday, March 14 in Moravia, Texas. This special day is a chance to come together with fellow members, enjoy good food, do a little dancing, and share in the fellowship that has always defined SPJST—all while supporting the ongoing restoration of the historic Moravia Lodge Hall.
Located about 10 miles south of Schulenburg, the Lodge 23 hall has long been a gathering place for community celebrations and SPJST traditions.
Whether you’ve been there many times or have never visited before, this is a great chance to come out, reconnect, and enjoy a memorable night together.
�� Where: SPJST Lodge 23 Hall
11421 FM 957, Moravia
tunity to come together with fellow members for a day of food, fellowship, fun, and SPJST tradition. Join us as we celebrate our lodges, connect with friends old and new, and enjoy all the energy that makes SPJST special.
Lodge 24, Cyclone
�� When: Friday, March 14
Come celebrate SPJST history, make new memories, and help keep this special hall going strong for years to come!
Vestnik Deadlines
The Vestnik is now a monthly publication. Note the upcoming dates and deadlines:
Tuesday, March 10deadline for April Vestnik
Friday, April 10deadline for May Vestnik
Sunday, May 10deadline for June Vestnik
�� 2026 SPJST District Rallies Are Coming!
Rally season is almost here! The 2026 SPJST District Rallies are a great oppor-
�� Rally Dates and Locations
District 7: Sunday, March 22
Lodge 107, Floresville
District 6: Saturday, April 11
Moravia Parish Hall
District 1: Sunday, April 19
Lodge 9, Snook
District 4: Saturday, April 25
Lodge 49, Rowena
District 3: Sunday, April 26
Lodge 92, Fort Worth
District 5: Saturday, August 22
Lodge 88, Houston
District 2: Saturday, October 3
Each Rally includes a svacina luncheon, service project, games, bingo, homemade desserts, a photography contest, and prize drawings for youth and adults — with kids’ prizes featured this year!
✨ Can’t make it to your District Rally? You are always welcome to attend any district rally!
Mark your calendar, invite your lodge members, and plan to attend a rally.
�� Learn more at spjst.org/districtrallies
⭐ Support Our Youth — Help Them Earn Their Way to Camp!
We are grateful to share that lodges from across the state have donated a
42 DOMINO TOURNAMENT
8 to 8:45 a.m Check-in
9 a.m.
Saturday
March 7
2026
Play begins $30 registration fee per player Includes lunch, snacks, and refreshments
Open to the public! Ages 16 and above.
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!
wonderful variety of raffle prizes, all to support our youth members who are working toward attending 2026 SPJST Summer Camp.
We encourage everyone to please support our youth when they are selling raffle tickets. Every ticket purchased helps reduce camp costs and shows our youth that their hard work and dedication are valued.
Youth certificate holders can earn $75 in camp credit for each qualifying event attended, up to $525 total. Selling raffle tickets is another great way to help make camp more affordable while teaching responsibility, teamwork, and pride in earning their own way.
For more information about raffle tickets, camp credits, or how to get involved, please contact me. Together, we can help our youth get to camp — where friendships are made and memories last a lifetime!
�� 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive
March is the final month to contribute! Help support the bright future of SPJST youth by giving to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Donations are accepted through March 31. Give online at spjst.org/scholarships or mail your donation to:
SPJST 100 Pennies PO Box 100 Temple, TX 76503-0100
Your generosity helps open doors and create meaningful opportunities for SPJST youth. Thank you for your continued support!
�� Get Ready for SPJST Summer Camp!
SPJST Summer Camp is coming up Sunday, June 28 through Thursday, July 2, and registration is now open — with spots filling quickly! Camp is packed with fun, friendship, and unforgettable experiences for youth of all ages.
Support the SPJST youth program by purchasing
2026 SPJST Summer Camp Raffle Tickets
TICKETS $10 EACH
CHANCE TO WIN 26 PRIZES VALUED AT $75 OR MORE
Drawing held on June 15, 2026 at 2 pm at the SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas. Need not be present to win.
100% of proceeds support camper fees, helping families offset the cost of attending. Contact Frank 254-534-0681 to purchase or sell tickets.
• Pictorial Art
• Science & Education
• Special Category
Held at Hermann Sons Life (HSL) Camp - Hilltop in Comfort, Texas, SPJST Summer Camp provides a safe, structured environment where youth can grow, learn, and make lifelong memories under the guidance of caring counselors.
✅ For Parents:
• Open to youth entering first to 12th grade
• First-come, first-served registration
• Safe location with established safety policies
• Supervised activities focused on fun, leadership, and teamwork
• Opportunities available to earn credits toward camp costs
�� For Youth:
• Get ready for games, activities, new friends, and nonstop fun!
• SPJST Camp is your chance to try new things, build confidence, and make memories that last a lifetime.
If your child plans to attend, we encourage families to register early to secure a spot. For more information on camp registration or credits, contact Tammy or me at the Home Office.
Don’t wait — summer fun at SPJST Camp is just around the corner!
�� SPJST Youth Showcase — Registration Opens March 1!
Get ready to shine! The SPJST Youth Showcase is back, celebrating youth talent, creativity, and community. The Showcase is Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25 in Temple, Texas.
�� Returning This Year: Friday Night Kickoff at SpareTime Join us for bowling, games, food, and fun to start the weekend right!
�� What’s Happening
• Creative projects, performances, and friendly competition
• Positive encouragement and SPJST fellowship
• A fun Friday kickoff + an exciting Saturday Showcase
✨ For Youth
Show off your talents, creativity, leadership—or just come support your friends. It’s a weekend full of energy, prizes, and SPJST spirit.
�� For Parents
The Showcase helps youth:
• Build confidence
• Celebrate achievements
• Connect with SPJST families
• Participate in a safe, positive environment
�� Register Early!
Join us Friday at SpareTime and Saturday for the full Showcase experience.
�� Categories ��
�� Creative Arts
• Blocks Construction
• Christmas Ornament
• Constructed Item (String and Rope)
• Dessert - Sweet Rolls
• Handicraft
• Hobby Kit (Non-Building Block)
• Holiday Corner
• Photography: “250 Years of Freedom, Friendship, and Family”
�� Talent
• Individual Talent (Solo)
• Group Talent (2+ Youth)
�� Royalty & Scholarships
• Mr. & Miss SPJST (9th to 12th)
• Junior Mr. & Miss (6th to 8th)
• Little Mr. & Miss (3rd to 5th)
• Tiny Mr. & Miss (K to 2nd)
�� Scrapbook
• Youth Group Scrapbook
Member Spotlight ��
Know a member or group we should highlight? Send photos and a description to frankh@spjst.org.
2026 Caring Challenges
United We Shine
Across Texas, SPJST members of all ages will join hearts and hands in 2026 to brighten lives. Each quarter offers three ways to make a difference:
�� MAKE IT
Create something from the heart.
�� COLLECT IT
Gather items that make a difference.
�� GIVE IT
Donate or contribute to brighten someone's day.
Whether your group meets monthly or quarterly, these activities are designed to be flexible, fun, and impactful!
�� Final Thoughts
March is a time for renewal and forward motion. Together, we continue building connections, traditions, and opportunities that make SPJST a true family. Thank you for the time, care, and dedication you bring to our organization. Fraternally, Frank Horak
Director
Member
of
Engagement —SPJST—
District Rally Season Begins—Join Us March 22 in Floresville
Spring brings more than warmer weather—it marks the beginning of SPJST District Rally season. These annual gatherings offer members and families an opportunity to reconnect, learn, serve, and celebrate what makes SPJST special. District Rallies are designed to bring together members of all ages for fellowship, service projects, informative breakouts, and plenty of fun.
District Rallies provide a welcoming environment for both longtime members and those who may be attending for the first time. Each Rally includes a svacina luncheon, service
projects benefiting local causes, educational breakout sessions, games, and interactive activities for youth and adults alike. Members are encouraged to share ideas, celebrate lodge accomplishments, and enjoy time with fellow SPJST members from across their district.
The first Rally of the season will be the District 7 Rally on Sunday, March 1 to 4 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville Hall, located at 1156 FM 1303 in Floresville.
This year’s District 7 Rally will benefit residents of the Frank M. Tejeda Texas State Veterans Home, reflecting SPJST’s commitment to service and giving back. Members are invited to bring donated items such as socks, undershirts, and snack foods including chips, powdered donuts,
honey buns, Jello, and pudding.
In addition to the service project, the Rally will feature:
A svacina luncheon and fellowship
Informative breakout sessions
Fun games and activities for all ages
Show and Share opportunities
Homemade dessert sharing (bring a dessert and printed recipe)
A photography contest with the theme “United We Shine”
Prize drawings for both youth and adult participants
Special prizes for children
Participants in the photography contest are invited to bring an 8x10inch or 8.5x11-inch photo reflecting the “United We Shine” theme. Youth and adult divisions will be included, with participants entered into prize drawings.
District Rallies are an important part of SPJST’s fraternal tradition. They strengthen connections between lodges, provide opportunities to support meaningful causes, and create lasting memories for members and families. Whether you attend every year or are considering attending for the first time, District Rallies offer
something for everyone.
Members are encouraged to attend a District Rally and take part in the activities, fellowship, and service opportunities. To RSVP or learn more about upcoming rallies, visit spjst.org/districtrallies.
District Rallies are open to all SPJST members across the state. If you are unable to attend your own district’s Rally, that’s okay. You are welcome at any Rally. Attend one. Attend several. Make a day of it. Bring a friend. Bring your family.
The goal is simple — show up, connect, serve, and enjoy being part of something bigger than yourself.
We’ll see you in Floresville on March 22.
—SPJST—
District 4 Council shares meeting minutes
The first online District 4 Council meeting for 2026 was held on January 26 at 7:30 p.m. Those attending were Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny; Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak; Ryan Jansa of Lodge 160, San Angelo; Governance Committee member Brad Teplicek of Lodge 49, Rowena; and Beverly Teplicek of Lodge 49, Rowena.
Officers for the year were elected. They are: Chair - Janeece Stevens of Lodge 229, Abilene; Treasurer - Brad Teplicek of Lodge 49, Rowena; Secretary - Beverly Teplicek of Lodge 49, Rowena; and Youth Chair - Tonya Wales of Lodge 49, Rowena.
There was some discussion on the
district rallies held in 2025 with results from the survey. The suggestions and responses were all appreciated. There was discussion on a service project for giving back to the community. The theme for the “Show and Share” will be pastries. The overall theme for the rallies is “United We Shine.”
The date for the District 4 Rally is Saturday, April 25 at Lodge 49, Rowena, starting at 11 a.m.
The next District 4 Council online meeting is set for March 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Respectfully, Beverly Teplicek, Secretary —SPJST—
Support Our Youth: 2026 SPJST Summer Camp Raffle Now Underway
SPJST is pleased to announce the 2026 SPJST Summer Camp Raffle, with 100 percent of proceeds directly supporting youth campers and helping families offset the cost of attending this year’s summer camp. Camp provides young members with opportunities to grow in leadership, build lifelong friendships, and strengthen their connection to SPJST and its fraternal values.
Tickets are $10 each, and the drawing will be held June 15, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the SPJST Home Office, located at 520 North Main Street in Temple. Winners need not be present to win.
Thanks to the generosity of lodges, individuals, and supporters across the state, a wide variety of exciting prizes are available, including gift cards, outdoor equipment, and specialty items. Among the prizes are
The Frio Original Softside Cooler donated by Bradley Stavinoha; a Ryobi blower and chairs donated by John
and Diana Engelke; and numerous gift cards donated by SPJST lodges, youth clubs, and individual supporters, including gift cards from Visa, Walmart, Texas Roadhouse, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Lowe’s, Cinemark, Main Event, Logan’s Roadhouse, and many more. Additional prizes include a giant sloth stuffed animal.
SPJST extends sincere apprecia-
tion to all donors whose generosity helps make this raffle possible and supports the development of our youth.
Summer camp continues to be one of SPJST’s most valued programs, providing a safe, engaging environment where youth learn teamwork, confidence, and leadership skills while enjoying outdoor activities and fellowship.
To purchase raffle tickets or for more information, please contact Frank Horak or any member of the Communications and Member Engagement Department.
Thank you for supporting SPJST youth and investing in their future.
—SPJST—
We appreciate our raffle donors. Thank you for your generosity!
2026 SPJST Summer Camp Raffle
SPJST Home Office • 520 N. Main St. • Temple, TX 76501
TICKETS $10 EACH. Drawing held on June 15, 2026 at 2 pm. Need not be present to win.
100% of proceeds support camper fees, helping families offset the cost of attending.Thank you for helping our youth!
Frio Original Softside Cooler – donated by Bradley Stavinoha
$150 Lowe’s Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 66, Waco
$150 Walmart Gift Card – donated by Regina House
Ryobi Leaf Blower – donated by John and Diana Engelke
$100 Amazon Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 142, Houston
$100 Cinemark Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 94, Wheelock
$100 Logan’s Roadhouse Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 94, Wheelock
$100 Rosa’s Cafe Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 94, Wheelock
$100 Saltgrass Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor
$100 Visa Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 80, Holland
$100 Visa Gift Card – donated by Rita Spinn
$100 Zift Zillions Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville
$100 Zift Zillions Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville Youth Club
$100 Zift Zillions Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club
$100 Main Event Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 66, Waco
Foldable Rocking Chair – donated by John and Diana Engelke
$90 Mix It Up Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock
$85 Outback Steakhouse Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 66, Waco
Foldable Rocking Chair – donated by John and Diana Engelke
$75 Darden Gift Card – donated by SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton
$75 Darden Gift Card – donated by Regina House
$75 Longhorn Steakhouse Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock
$75 Olive Garden Gift Card
– donated by SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock
$75 Texas Roadhouse Gift Card – donated by Regina House
$75 Walmart Gift Card – donated by Chris Liebum
$50 Darden Gift Card and Large Sloth Plush
– donated by SPJST Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point
Home Office celebrates Staff Member Katharine Tillman’s upcoming arrival
Home Office staff gath- ered for a potluck lunch on February 10, 2026, to honor and cele- brate Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer Katharine Tillman, who will soon welcome a precious
On Sunday, February 15, the SPJST Foundation welcomed the community to the SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas, for a special “Sunday Afternoon Svacina.” Attendees enjoyed a traditional Czech snack while receiving an exciting update on the future of the Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center. The event featured a first look at the museum’s modern new home, designed in partnership with Pillar Architecture Studio to include an art gallery, a flexible theater, and expanded exhibit spaces for a “living museum” experience.
SPJST LODGE SECTION
Lodge 4, Hallettsville reports on February meeting
Dear Members,
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Methodist Church Annex at 3 p.m.
President Joe Siptak opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Gayenell Chudej read a resolution of sympathy for our deceased member, Vernon Chudej. A moment of silence was held for our deceased members.
Secretary Annie Vahalik read the minutes to the last meeting, and Treasurer Patsy Zabransky gave the financial report. Both were approved.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Nanci Hadash reported on a successful and fun Christmas party. She also an-
SPJST gives to Fort Bend Czech Heritage Society
District 5 Director Bradley Stavinoha presents a $250 polka band sponsorship check to Leon Anheiser for Fort Bend Czech Heritage Society’s annual soup supper.
nounced our lodge had the top two teams in the fall Walk Across Texas. First place was Lodge 4 Walkers - Captain Jonathan Vahalik, Jordyn Vahalik, Frankie Torres, Miranda Torres, Mary Ann Cerny, Sarah Vahalik, Nick Vahalik, and Patsy Zabransky. Second place was SPJST Lodge Captain - Nanci Hadash, Susan Siptak, Joe Siptak, Sarah Brashaer, Jeff Brashaer, Barbara Steffek, Philip Vahalik, and Angela McConnell. Congratulations to all!
FAC Nanci thanked everyone for the homemade valentines that will be delivered to the residents in the local rest homes and also for the coats, socks, gloves, and blankets for the Share the Warmth project. They will be delivered to the Mid-Coast Family Services in Victoria.
For the next Caring Challenge, we agreed to participate in the Baby Bundle Drive. Members may bring diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials to the May meeting.
Our November bake sale was a success. Thanks for the members for donating the delicious baked goods and to the community for supporting our lodge.
District 6 Director Annie Vahalik updated us on the Lodge 23, Moravia fundraiser on March 14 and the District 6 Rally at Moravia Dining Hall on Saturday, April 11. Watch the Vestnik for details.
Philip Hadash invited us to his Czech lessons every first Thursday of the month at the Moravia Store, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Members voted to renew our membership to the Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce.
Recognized as having a birthday in February were Gayenell Chudej, Joe Siptak, and Philip Vahalik who won the prize.
Meeting adjourned followed by lunch.
FAC Nanci led the members in a fun game that decided the door prize winners. They were Susan Siptak, Annie Vahalik, Joe Siptak, Alton Chudej, Philip Vahalik, Phillip Hadash, and Patsy Zabransky.
Next Meeting—May 3
The next meeting will be Sunday, May 3 at Methodist Church Annex at 3 p.m.
Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood serves seniors and plans Easter party
Lodge 6, Cottonwood met Sunday, February 1, 2026, with 12 members, six youth, and two guests in attendance. December minutes and the treasury report were provided. Both reports were ac-
cepted by membership. Home Office news and upcoming fraternal activities were discussed.
Caring Challenges for March and April were also discussed. The firstquarter theme of “Giving from the Heart” was accomplished by completing two challenges. Prior to the lodge meeting, six members prepared 32 heartfelt cards with embellishments of heart stickers and valentine greetings. The cards were included in a goodie bag of useful items and candy to be distributed to seniors at West Senior Center. The collection of jackets, socks, and blankets completed the second challenge.
Thank you cards for donations distributed in 2025 were received from The West of 60 Senior Center, West Fire Department, Society of Saint Vincent DePaul, Ronald McDonald House, and The SPJST Foundation’s collection for the Texas Hill Country Flood Disaster.
Easter Party—March 29
The annual Lodge 6 Easter party will be March 29, as the Easter holiday falls
District 6 Cemetery Organization hosts annual meeting
District 6 Cemetery Organization hosted its annual meeting on February 1, 2026, at Los Cabos Restaurant in Hallettsville, Texas. President Yvonne Marcaurele led the meeting. Reports were presented, and numerous business items were discussed. Officers were also elected. TOP LEFT: Honorary District 6 Director Karen Kaspar, center, visits with David and Janie Bucek. TOP RIGHT: SPJST District 6 Cemetery Organization members attending the annual meeting were, left to right, Joe Siptak of Lodge 4, Hallettsville; Yvonne Marcaurele and Karen Kaspar, both of Lodge 30, Taiton; District 6 Director Annie Vahalik; Philip Vahalik, Jennifer Hessler, and Phillip and Nanci Hadash, all of Lodge 4, Hallettsville; Elizabeth Holub and Kathleen Guenther, both of Lodge 23, Moravia; and David and Janie Bucek, both of Lodge 151, WhartonEast Bernard.
The 2026 officers are President Yvonne Marcaurele, left, Vice President Vlasta Bartos (not pictured), Secretary Karen Kaspar, center, and Treasurer Kathy Guenther.
on the first Sunday of April. The monthly lodge meeting begins at 2 p.m., followed by an SPJST Lodge 6, Inc. meeting. After these meetings, the lodge president will recognize Milestone Members who are present. Easter egg hunt will follow, and there will be first through third prizes for each age category. A delicious fried chicken meal with savory sides will be served. Members are asked to bring a dessert to share.
District 3 Director John Engelke was present and installed the 2026 Lodge 6 officers. He also spoke to membership about Home Office activities and details regarding youth summer camp for 2026. February birthday recognition went to Ray Rosales and Riley Magouirk. Happy wedding anniversary to Robert and Kim Seith!
Progressive door prize name drawn was Patrick Matus, and he was not present. The attendance door prize winners were Steve Soukup, Kim Seith, and Peggy Dobecka.
Next Meeting—March 1
The next lodge meeting will be March 1. Mark your calendar for the Easter party on March 29! Come join us at Cottowood Hall!
Fraternally, Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook shares community service and updates
The February 4, 2026, meeting of Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7 p.m. Donnie Victorick led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We had a moment of silence for departed member Jacobo Banda. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the January meeting were approved.
Hall manager, communications, treasurer, and statewide reports were presented.
The youth club made valentine treats for the nursing home and will have a movie outing in March.
The sign has been installed near the dumpster regarding unauthorized trash dumping. The front doors will be replaced as soon as they are delivered. A motion was passed to sponsor Little
League basketball. We decided to recognize the Milestone Members during the memorial service/Christmas program in December.
February birthdays include James Schoeneman on the 5th and Loree Lewis on the 16th.
The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.
The next meeting will be February 4.
Fraternally, Sheila Orsak, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 13, Dime Box meets March 8
Lodge 13, Dime Box will meet Sunday, March 8 at 1 p.m. at Diamond I Venue. After the meeting, members will travel to Paige to enjoy a social at Paige Roadhouse. ^ Floyd Kostelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia to host 129th anniversary celebration – a day of history, heritage, and community fun
SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia invites the public to join in the fun at a vibrant celebration honoring the Society’s 129th anniversary, showcasing the community’s rich Texas-Czech heritage and the historic legacy of Moravia, Texas, on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Festivities will span two beloved local landmarks — the SPJST Lodge 23 Hall and the iconic Moravia Store.
The celebration begins at 11 a.m. with dine-in or to-go plates prepared by Tom’s BBQ of Schulenburg, followed by a special program at 1 p.m. Live music by The Czechaholics will bring the Moravia Store to life from 2 to 6 p.m. Guests can explore Czech cultural artifacts on loan from the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center of Temple, enjoy a soundtrack by Kendra Krupala, and take part in a
23-prize raffle, silent auction, and games, with all proceeds supporting ongoing restoration of the historic Lodge 23 hall.
A Community Built on Heritage and Resilience
Founded in 1897, Lodge 23 stands as one of SPJST’s original charter lodges, deeply linked with the legacy of Ignac Jalufka, an early community leader whose store, saloon, and dance hall shaped the settlement of Moravia beginning in 1881. His influence — spanning entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and even frontier law enforcement — remains woven into the town’s story.
The historic Moravia Store, built in 1889 and celebrated today as a Texas Historical Commission landmark, continues to serve as a cultural touchstone for the community and remains a symbol of the Texas-Czech pioneer spirit.
A Tradition of Service and Fellowship Lodge 23’s longstanding values — mutual support, community service, and cultural preservation — have endured for more than a century. Members con-
Lodge 6, Cottonwood members “Giving from the Heart”
TOP LEFT: Lodge 6, Cottonwood members enjoy making goodie bags and valentine wishes for seniors. Members participated in the January Caring Challenge - “Notes & Rays of Hope” - giving encouraging wishes in valentine gift packets. CENTER PHOTO: Jeanette Beseda, left, and Patti Rosales delivered the special items to West Senior Center. TOP RIGHT: Members prepare coats, socks and blankets for delivery to Mission Waco.
RIGHT PHOTO: The “Share the Warmth” Caring Challenge was a coat drive with the lodge donating coats, scarves, socks, gloves, and throws to Mission Waco. Jeanette Beseda delivered the lodge’s collection of items.
tributed to wartime efforts, supported local initiatives, and maintained Czech language traditions well into the 1970s. Today, Lodge 23 remains active with 154 members, many of whom are descendants of the area’s founding families.
A Message from SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek
“This year’s 129th Anniversary Celebration offers more than a meal and a dance,” said SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek. “If you’ve never been to Moravia, Texas, this is your grand opportunity! It will be a good time 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.”
—SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia meets March 10
Lodge 23, Moravia will meet Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the lodge hall starting at 6:30 p.m. Final plans will be made for our hall fundraiser on Saturday, March 14 at Moravia Store and our lodge hall.
Members are asked to attend and if possible, bring a snack for the snack table after the meeting is held.
Kathleen Guenther Secretary-Treasurer
—SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts Squeezebox Band featuring Ted Lange and Mollie B on March 1
On July 29, 2000, my parents went to a polka festival in Gibbon, Minnesota, and saw many bands. My dad had his camcorder and tried to get a little of each band to share with Daniel and me when they got home. On the video was one of the most popular bands in the area, The Jim Busta Band. Dad was able to video four songs by the Busta Band including songs such as “At the Spring Waltz,” “Deer Waltz,” “Polka Celebration,” and “When I Sleep,” and on each song, Jim’s daughter, Mollie, was playing and singing. It was very obvious that she would soon become an excellent musician outshining many of the others at the festival, even at her young age.
Well, years went by and she con-
SPJST
Lodge 4, Hallettsville Officers
tinued to play with her dad’s band, but soon Mollie Busta became known as Mollie B, and before too long the name “Mollie B” from Spring Grove, Minnesota, became a household word in many of the homes of Texas polka fans. She soon teamed up with a talented accordionist named Ted Lange, and they formed the “Squeezebox Band.” Both Ted and Mollie are very talented musicians and play a variety of instruments and styles of music and are both members of the International Polka Music Hall of Fame.
We are honored to have the “Squeezebox Band” come to SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall and perform for a four-hour dance on Sunday,
March 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. Doors and kitchen will open at noon. I am sure the bar will have your favorite beverage ice cold and ready for you.
Many of you already have tickets and are awaiting the exciting event. Tables are filling up quickly, and people are coming from near and far.
If you would like tickets, call Linda and Daniel Wilde at 254-231-5348. Advance tickets are $20 per person and $25 per person that night at the door.
We hope to see all of you there for a night of fun, dancing, and visiting!
Linda M. Wilde, Treasurer
—SPJST—
Lodge 17, New Tabor hosts Memorial Service and social at New Tabor Hall
On December 7, 2025, members of Lodge 17, New Tabor gathered at New Tabor Hall in Caldwell for a day of tradition and community. The event began with a solemn memorial service to honor deceased members, ensuring their contributions to the lodge remain in the hearts of the community. Following the service, everyone enjoyed a delicious catered meal before the youth club took the stage to present their annual Christmas program. The holiday spirit was in full force as Santa made a special appearance to visit with the children and guests. With nearly 100 people in attendance, it was a successful social that beautifully balanced remembrance with holiday joy.
The 2026 officers of Lodge 4, Hallettsville are, left to right, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Nanci Hadash, President Joe Siptak, Secretary Annie Vahalik, and Treasurer/Reporter Patsy Zabransky.
Family and friends gathered on Saturday, January 3, 2026, to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of Karen and Leroy Kaspar at the Taiton Community Center in El Campo.
The evening celebration, held from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., included dinner, drinks, and dancing as loved ones honored the couple’s golden milestone.
Karen and Leroy were originally united in marriage with Msgr. Petru serving as celebrant. Their wedding party included bridesmaids Rosann (Dorotik) Zalman, Sandra (Kaspar) McDonald, Tina (Howard) Dorotik, and Marian (Dorotik) Gleize; flower girl Jean (Dorotik) Merck; groomsmen Rob Gaskamp*, Kevin Dorotik, Ralph Gold, and Tommy Bram; and ring bearer Aaron Ermis. Ushers were Ricky Priesmeyer, David Kutac, Terry Priesmeyer, and Leroy Bram. Witnesses were Kevin Dorotik and Sandra (Kaspar) McDonald. Grand March leaders were Wanda (Rod) and Anthony Dorotik. House party members included Clare (Dorotik) Beltrand, Susie (Bohning) Ecklund, Diana (Urbanovsky) Prather, Vicki (Mills) Gold, Cindy (Pope)
Dennis*, Janice (Krenek) Pustejovsky, Monica (Merta) Staff, and Delores (Gold) Janik. Candle lighters and altar servers were Jerome Dorotik Jr. and Lester Priesmeyer. (*Deceased)
Together, Karen and Leroy have been blessed with a beautiful family. Their children are Lenice Kaspar; Michael and Bonnie (Buzek) Kaspar; Jason and Tamara (Harris) Kaspar; and Kyle and Stephanie (Stried) Kaspar. They are also proud grandparents to Julia, Olivia, Colton, Morgan, and Ellison Kaspar.
Members of Lodge 30, Taiton, Karen and Leroy have been active in SPJST for many years. Karen is a lifelong member and has served in numerous lodge, district, and state positions – most notably as District 6 Director from 2012 to 2020 and as Chair of the Board in 2019 and 2020.
The golden anniversary celebration reflected five decades of faith, family, and commitment. Members of Lodge 30, Taiton join their family and friends in congratulating Karen and Leroy on this remarkable milestone and wishing them many more years of happiness together.
and
nette Kaminsky of Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard. They have been married for 58 years. PHOTO 3: SPJST leaders with Karen and Leroy. RIGHT: Karen and Leroy’s children and grandchildren.
LEFT: Karen
Leroy Kaspar. RIGHT: Prior to the celebration, Karen and Leroy exchanged vows at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Taiton.
ABOVE: Wedding party who attended the special celebration.
LEFT: The beautifully decorated hall with Karen and Leroy’s wedding picture (1976) and their anniversary picture (2026). PHOTO 2: The couple married the longest at the celebration was Glenn and Jea-
LEFT: SPJST members present at the celebration to honor the special couple. RIGHT: Dorotik and Kaspar families.
Lodge 24, Cyclone prepares for Mollie B performance
Lodge 24, Cyclone met on February 8, 2026, at Flag Hall. The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Maddux, and minutes were read by Cathy Bruggman. Linda Wilde gave the treasurer’s report
Regarding the Mollie B show on March 1, many tickets have been sold and we expect a sellout.
Brenda Maddux gave the bar report, and Shirley Hoelscher gave the member engagement report. Sumer camp is available for the youth, and State Youth Showcase is July 24 and 25.
The parking lot light is being done by Daniel Wilde. Caring Challenge is collecting gloves and coats for Feed My Sheep, led by Brenda Maddux. In March, diapers, wipes, and little blankets will be taken to a shelter.
A food truck will be in place for Mollie B, and Daniel will prepare Mollie’s food for her before the peformance. This will be the last time she will be on the road to us. We will have a stretch raffle during the Mollie B performance.
Our hall insurance is due in April, and Linda Wilde is working on it. A headliner dance is being handled by Brenda Maddux. The Costumes & Cocktails event is looking for a date.
Birthdays were Linda Wilde, Rose Vrazel, and Kelly B. Wedding anniversary is Abby and Bruce.
Next Meeting—March 8
The next meeting is March 8 at 5 p.m.
For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts New Year’s Eve dance
TOP LEFT: Bobby and Alice Hoelscher sell tickets at the door. PHOTO 2: Daniel and Linda Wilde are pictured at the reservation table. CENTER PHOTO: Jerry and Helen Haisler. PHOTO 4: Kenny and Irene Sulak from Sefcik Hall come out for a fun night! TOP RIGHT: Linda Wilde and Rose Vrazel at the reservation table.
What a great time we all had at the New Year’s Eve dance at Flag Hall in Cyclone, especially since it was my husband Daniel’s birthday. He was the first baby born in Bell County that year, so right after midnight, we all celebrate his birthday.
Flag Hall was humming with conversation as people flowed in and greeted each other. Soon the tables were full of people with their snacks and treats ready to get the dance started. Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 then took the stage and provided the crowd with such wonderful music, from country to the top polkas and waltzes. Every song seemed to be a favorite of mine.
A big thank you to all who attended and rang in the New Year at Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall. We appreciate the band’s music and all you who came and danced the night away.
Thank you to the bar and kitchen helpers who volunteered to make the night a memorable one. And thank you to my husband, Daniel, and sister Rose who helped seat you with your group of friends. It was a wonderful night!
Linda M. Wilde, Treasurer —SPJST—
Next Meeting—March 25
The next meeting will be March 25. Tammy Pavelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis: new president leads first meeting
Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis members met on January 15, 2026, with Arlene Honza West holding her first meeting as president. All reports were approved as presented. Arlene reminded everyone we have moved to quarterly meetings effective this year, and they are April 9, July 9, and October 8. Committees will meet as needed especially in preparation for the Polka Festival in May. We will also begin a monthly game night.
Arlene thanked everyone for volunteering to help with various committees, and she is looking forward to the year ahead.
Fraternally yours, Rita Holland FAC/Youth Leader —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk reports strong financial standing
President Randy Pavelka called the Lodge 35, Elk Hall meeting to order on February 11, 2026, at 7:11 p.m. with 10 members in attendance. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all. Bill Kubitza was on the sick list. We are praying he feels better soon.
Minutes were read by Secretary Megan Mann and approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer reported a strong financial standing. Floor Chair James (Dude) Mann and Bar Chair Randy Pavelka gave good turn-ins for the month.
Old business consisted of updates on roof repair completion, and safety deposit box contents are under review.
Under new business, Cari Hammer will shop for interest rates to decide where to relocate a CD. A $200 donation was approved to give to the SPJST Scholarship Fund. We will host our annual Honorary Membership Dinner on August 8.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje appoints new fraternal activities coordinator
The Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje meeting was called to order at 1:07 p.m. on December 14, 2025, in Mikeska’s BBQ banquet room by President Linda Henderson. Linda led the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for the sick and those departed. All officers except for Sharon Borak were present.
Old business was the meeting minutes. Benny Reck made a motion to accept the minutes, and Leverne Bacak seconded the motion.
Lisa Reck gave the treasurer’s report. The lodge purchased a $500 sponsorship to El Campo Little League. The lodge checking account and youth account balances were shared with all members. Donations to the Blessing Cup and Library will be in the Vestnik.
Linda Henderson announced Sharon Borak had resigned as fraternal activities coordinator (FAC). Lisa Reck made a motion to appoint Patsy Reck as the new FAC. Leroy Bacak seconded the motion, and it was approved by all in attendance.
Correspondence was read by Artis Bacak. Thank you note was received from the Library and The Blessing Cup. Annie Vahalik asked if we could donate to Lodge 23 repairs to the building. Felicia Garcia made a motion to donate $200 to go to the raffle for Lodge 23 repairs, and Benny Reck seconded the motion, which was approved by all in attendance.
New member Benny Reck was welcomed back to the lodge. Anniversaries and birthdays were recognized and sung to.
We discussed the next quarterly meeting for March 8 to make a donation to Mikeska’s for the meeting room, and chopped barbecue sandwiches will be provided to all in attendance.
Felicia Garcia made a motion to donate $300 to Wharton County Crisis Center, Donna Schoeneberg seconded the motion, and all approved.
Patsy Reck made a motion to donate $300 to El Campo Hospice. Felicia Garcia seconded the motion, and it was approved.
A reminder to send in pictures of all social events with two or more SPJST members to the Home Office.
Georgia Henderson made a motion to adjourn the meeting, and Laverne Bacak seconded the motion.
Linda Henderson adjourned the meeting at 2:28 p.m.
Jennifer Higgins, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton supports youth and community activities
Dear Vestnik Readers,
Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthly meeting on February 1, 2026. President Brandon Bartek called the meeting to order. Members on the sick list are Lewis Sodek and District 2 Director Jesse Pospisil. A moment of silence was observed for Joe Carroll, Jr., Monica Mikeska, Marile Cook, Patriciann Coufal, and Elsie Jez.
New members are Dalton, Brittini, and John Krcha.
Secretary Shelly McNeill read the January minutes and the unofficial January board minutes.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Tammy Martinez announced the upcoming State Tarok Tournament on February 7 and the State 42 Domino Tournament on March 7. Tammy also discussed the Branson Music Festival and summer youth camp location and costs. Tammy also stated the SPJST Car Show at the TABA Home & Garden Show will be February 20 to 22.
Brandon read financials for January.
Youth Leader Amber Bartek an-
Lodge 25, Ennis members welcome new grandson
We are excited to announce the arrival of our new grandson, Phillip Charles Borders, who was born on October 16, 2025, at 2:13 p.m. weighing in at 7 pounds, 10 ounces. His parents are Thomas (Quattro) and Reagan (Langer) Borders IV of Kaufman. Grandparents are Phillip and Dana Langer of Ennis and Thomas (Tres) and Christine Borders III of Kaufman. We all are excited for Lil’ Phil to be in SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club in the future.
—Dana and Phillip Langer proud grandparents
Brandon discussed mowing bids, Lodge 172 grant application, hall repairs, improvements of front entrances, and Rogers ISD safe pick-ups and morning drop-offs. Brandon also discussed the Milestone Members recognition event in May - list, letters, and certificates, food for the Fiesta celebration, and new sponsorship forms for 2026 events.
February birthdays, anniversaries, and door prize winners were recognized.
Next Meeting—March 1
The next meeting will be Sunday, March 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/Lodge47Sea tonStarHall/.
Thank you for reading. I hope you all have a blessed day!
Fraternally, Shelly McNeill
Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
nounced the youth gathered baby items today for St. Mary’s, played games, and planned the next charity project for March.
Amber also discussed upcoming hall bookings. Danny Stepan turned in the bar report for January bookings and Friday night gatherings.
Lodge 25, Ennis kicks off the New Year
TOP LEFT: Joe and Arlene donate Spoetzel Brewery historical marker to the Johnnie I. Beer Garden at Lodge 25, Ennis. PHOTO 2: January meeting supper was prepared by Betty. CENTER and PHOTO 4: Members play dominoes and some learn to play Moon. TOP RIGHT: Chris and Jerry play a few tunes in the Johnnie I. Beer Garden. —Rita Holland, FAC/Youth Leader
Lodge 49, Rowena hosts May 9 golf tournament
Lodge 49, Rowena will host its second annual golf tournament on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Ballinger Country Club. Tee time is 9 a.m. The format will be a four-person scramble select shot. The entry fee is $150 per person that includes two mulligans per player. There will be a meal (included in entry fee) and a mafia drive on hole number 2.
To register, call Brad 325-656-0489 or the Ballinger Country Club 325-3653214.
Join us for a game of golf, a good meal, fun and fellowship!
Lodge 66, Waco changes meeting date to second Mondays
The January meeting of Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President Douglas Galler at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Bellmead. The roll was called, and all officers were present. Present were 13 adult members and two youth.
John Engelke made a motion to accept the last meeting minutes as printed in the Vestnik. Ronald Neumann seconded the motion, and it passed.
In correspondence, Secretary, Dana McAdams received a thank you card from John and Diana Engelke for the Christmas gift of gift cards to Trujillo’s. Dana had also received a thank you card from Ronald McDonald House in Temple for the pull tabs we donated.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jodie McAdams Sr. gave a report. He read most of Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak’s report that was printed in the Vestnik. Jodie mentioned the upcoming District Rallies, youth summer camp dates, and upcoming state tournaments.
Youth Club Report
Dana then gave a youth club report. The youth met Sunday, January 25, at 3 p.m. Present were 11 youth, five adults, and three guests - Kaden Thompson, Sandra Trickett, and Jeff Oliver. Camp was discussed. Youth are planning to meet the Sunday before adult meetings in 2026 at 2 p.m. Locations may change often, so please call or text Dana for exact location. The youth will create encouraging notes for seniors and those in nursing homes at the next meeting and will bring baby items for the Caring Challenge to the next meeting or in March.
Randy House then gave an insurance report. He mentioned annuities and said he is available for policy reviews or new policies. He read the insurance report from the Home Office.
Treasurer Diana Engelke then gave her report.
In old/previous business, we discussed what to do with the January “Share the Warmth” Caring Challenge items. Kim Allen suggested contacting someone she knows who has a FaceBook homeless outreach program. Dana
Lodge 38, Kovar gives to Breath of Life Ministries
Chrissy De Pine presents a donation check for $500 from Lodge 38, Kovar to Carey Klaus and other coordinators of Breath of Life Ministries. Breath of Life is a faith-based suicide prevention and mental health ministry that provides vital spiritual accompaniment for people experiencing mental health challenges and mental illness, as well as those who care for them.
Lodge
49, Rowena conducts quarterly business
will make contact and request a time to meet up to donate the blankets, scarves, gloves, socks, and jackets to this organization.
We then discussed the upcoming appreciation luncheon. Many dates were considered. Jodie Sr. then made a motion to have Diana see if July 11 or July 18 were available, and gave her authorization to book if one was available. The motion was seconded by Margaret Narovec and passed.
Dana then gave an update on Operation Christmas Child boxes. Some of our boxes are still in transit, but a few have been distributed in Nigeria and Mexico, and our five special Sensitive County boxes were sent to a country on the West Coast of Africa.
Under new business, we are going to distribute our February Notes & Rays of Hope at the Atrium in Bellmead. A date will be set for sometime in February. Please bring baby items like wipes, diapers, bottles, blankets, formula, etc. to the next meeting for the March Caring Challenge.
New Meeting Dates
Lodge 49, Rowena hosted its quarterly meeting with officers and members present. Discussion included the Valentine dance on February 14, the District 4 Rally scheduled for April 25, and the upcoming golf tournament. Members also prepared Valentine cards to distribute to area nursing facilities.
—Elaine Mucha, FAC
mead. Dana and Kim will bring soups, and we will have a dessert, salad, and crackers.
The December door prize was won by Michael Galler, and the January door prize was won by John Engelke. The 100 percent pot of $7 was won by Ronald Neumann.
The meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m. Respectfully, Dana McAdams Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 66, Waco plans member appreciation luncheon
We have also decided to move our regular monthly meeting from the fourth Monday to the second Monday of each month. Dana made the motion, John seconded, and the motion was passed.
Our donation this month is going to go to ABC Clinic on Clay Street in Waco. John will purchase dog food, and we will get together to deliver it sometime soon.
John then gave some District 3 Director updates. Please check your Vestnik for many upcoming activities and consider purchasing tickets for the summer camp fundraiser.
The next meeting is Monday, February 9, at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s in Bell-
The February meeting of Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President Douglas Galler at 5:33 p.m. on February 9, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Bellmead. A moment of silence was observed for a departed member of Lodge 54, West - Wilburn Willis. In roll call of officers, all officers answered. Ten adult members and two youth were present for the meeting.
Secretary Dana McAdams read the minutes from the January meeting. Ronald Neumann made a motion to accept the minutes, Jodie Sr. McAdams seconded, and the motion passed.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jodie Sr. then read excerpts from Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak’s report.
Youth Report
Dana then gave a youth club report. The youth met on February 8 at St. Paul’s in Bellmead. Seven youth, seven adults, and three guests - Adriana, Joey,
and Rachel Johnson - were present. They discussed the upcoming appreciation dinner, camp, Showcase, Caring Challenges, and possible fundraising ideas. The next youth meeting is March 8 at 2 p.m. at La Quinta in Woodway. We will have our meeting, swim, collect baby items, and have a social with chicken nuggets and French fries.
Youth member Victoria (Tori) Oliver was the only February birthday. Next, the youth created note cards with drawings, Bible verses, stickers, and uplifting messages for nursing home residents. The notes were then put into envelopes, along with crosses, and figures of Jesus, to create packets which will be handed out at the Atrium in Bellmead. We concluded our youth meeting by having a social with ice cream and lollipops.
Treasurer Diana Engelke then gave a report.
In old business, Diana was able to book the Bellmead Civic Center for July 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the lodge’s member appreciation luncheon. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. for members and guests to arrive. We will use the door on the side of the building and toward the back to enter. There was discussion about the menu, and many local eateries were mentioned for Diana to get quotes from. A flyer/invitation will be sent out by the Home Office (one per household)
when all arrangements have been determined and clarified. The RSVP deadline will be June 17. There was a discussion about door prizes, and John Engelke made a motion to keep the $500 amount as in previous years. The motion was seconded by Jodie Sr. All none members who were present voted for the motion, and none were against.
Caring Challenge “notes” will be given to the Atrium nursing home in Bellmead. Dana will contact them, and we will attempt to deliver them either on Thursday, February 12 or Friday, February 13 at 2 p.m.
In new business, Diana mentioned the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. John made a motion to give $500 to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Ron seconded the motion, and it was passed with all members voting in favor.
There was a discussion about the cost of camp for youth club members that have attended at least seven events during the year. We are not sure if is $250 or $225. Dana will call the Home Office to check on that this week and to ask about the sale of the raffle tickets that will help to pay for camp. (Editor’s Note: The camp fee for an active youth club member who has attended seven events is $250.)
Lodge 66, Waco makes a difference
Lodge 66, Waco helps furry friends in need
Douglas then asked about our meal for the meeting on March 8. We will have chicken tenders and sides from Golden Chick.
Jodie then made a motion to give our monthly donation to Shepherd’s Heart. The motion was seconded by Margaret Narovec and passed with all members voting yes.
In March, we are collecting baby items for the Caring Challenge. Please bring diapers, wipes, blankets, etc. to donate to a local organization. In April, we will create bookmarkers to give to St. Paul’s Church.
We discussed taking money out of the Lodge Fund Management Account at the Home Office to pay for upcoming expenses. Ron made a motion to transfer $7,000 to the lodge’s checking account. The motion was seconded by Jodie Sr. Here is a breakdown of how the money will be used by the lodge: $2,100 for the luncheon meal; $580 for the rental; $100 for decorations; $100 for cake and tea; $10 bottled water; $50 delivery charge; $500 for 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive donation; $1,000 monthly donations; $1,810 monthly meals and Christmas meal; $500 door prizes for luncheon; and $250 monthly door prize at lodge meetings. Douglas then called for a vote on the motion. All nine adult members voted for the motion.
Kim Allen won today’s door prizes and John Engelke won the 100 percent pot of $7.
The meeting adjourned at 7:38 p.m. Fraternally,
Dana McAdams
Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 66, Waco members deliver dog food for the disadvantaged to Animal Birth Control Clinic in Waco.
—Dana McAdams Secretary/Reporter
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi: brisket, business, and brotherhood at January gathering
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi met on January 18, 2026, with a meal of barbecue brisket and sides.
The meeting was called to order at 2:10 p.m. by President Mark Rebecek who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We had 14 members and guests in attendance. On the sick list was Suzanne Juarez. We wish her a quick recovery. All officers were present.
Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the December 2025 minutes, and they were approved.
Treasurer Jerry Sijansky did not have his financial report. He will present it at the next meeting.
Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell stated the crocheted hats we donated to a nursing home was a big hit with the residents. We will start collecting fronts of greeting cards and will send them to the Home Office. We will also be collecting nonperishable items to be boxed and sent to our military personal overseas.
President Rebecek introduced Territory Manager Ralph Juarez who provided informative information.
On January 20, President Rebecek, Secretary Virginia Rebecek, and Youth Leader Marcia Rew participated in the online District 7 Council meeting. The District 7 Rally will be at Lodge 107, Floresville on March 22.
Lodge 66, Waco members donated blankets, gloves, scarves, socks, sweaters, and jackets to a local community organization that distributed the items to homeless individuals in the Waco community.
—Dana McAdams, Secretary/Reporter
Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. She had four members and guests in attendance. The youth made edible slime.
The next meeting is scheduled for February 15 with Italian food prepared by Laura Rebecek and Ralph Juarez. Members are asked to bring a side dish.
Birthdays for January were Zackery Rew on January 10. Happy birthday, Zackery!
Winners of $25 dollar prizes were Eva Garcia and Jacob Rebecek.
Jerry Sijansky made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jacob Rebecek. The meeting was adjourned at 3 p.m.
Lodge 81, Needville met Sunday, February 15, 2026. At 12 p.m., President Vincent Newman gave a prayer of thanks. Everyone enjoyed a fried chicken meal purchased by the lodge at the Needville Senior Citizen fundraiser. Members brought an assortment of desserts.
At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman called the meeting to order. The youth club led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. Added to our sick list are Clarence Myers and Willie Mae Kuykendall. We are all keeping you both in our thoughts and prayers.
Krystle Peterson read the secretary’s report she took at the January meeting. It was approved as read. Vincent Newman read Bradley Stavinoha’s treasury report, and it was approved as read.
Under new business, Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Parmer talked about the need for food items for Needville Food Pantry. She handed out flyers with all the information. This is to help Miss SPJST Paetyn Beckendorf with her service project which she named, Czech Off Hunger. Kaylee plans to collect food
SPJST
Lodge 81, Needville Officers
Lodge 81, Needville Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Parmer leads effort to support Needville Food Pantry
Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Parmer talked about the need for food items for Needville Food Pantry at the Lodge 81, Needville meeting on February 15, 2026. She handed out informational fliers. This is in collaboration with Miss SPJST Paetyn Beckendorf’s service project “Czech Off Hunger.” Kaylee plans to collect food items at the lodge’s next meeting on March 15 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Lodge 81 hall.
—Jeanette
Newman, Reporter
The 2026 officers of Lodge 81, Needville are, left to right, Treasurer/Special Funds Bradley Stavinoha, Youth Leader Kristen Jones, Vice President Jeanette Newman, and President Vincent Newman.
items at our next meeting on March 15.
Under other business, Krystle Peterson mentioned she applied for part of the Lodge 172, Pasadena grant to use for repairs the lodge hall badly needs.
Door prize winners were Krystle Peterson, Karen Hargraves, Pavol Rojko, and Melissa Parmer. Since we had extra plates, we gave those as door prizes. Winners of the plates were Doug Parmer, Melissa Parmer, Kaylee Parmer, Krystle Peterson, Karen Hargraves, Tripp Hargraves, Pavlos Rojko, Leon Anhaiser, Bettye Anhaiser, Glen McDonald, and Leo Rojko. Congratulations to our lucky winners!
Next Meeting—March 15
For the next meeting on March 15, Bradley Stavinoha will purchase chicken fried steak plates from the American Legion fundraiser. Members, please bring a dessert.
See you at the next meeting!
Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas members begin early spring cleaning
Lodge 84, Dallas meets March 15
Lodge 84, Dallas will meet at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions.
We will enjoy a svacina afterwards, so please bring a dessert if you plan to attend.
Fraternally, Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST
Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met on January 18, 2026, at Tupinamba Cafe in Dallas. During the meeting, members discussed clearing items from the lodge’s storage locker. On February 1, members gathered at the storage locker to begin early spring cleaning.
—Anne Cowan, Reporter
Lodge 87, Temple meets April 20
Lodge 87, Temple will meet on its regular meeting date — the third Sunday of April — Sunday, April 20, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Golden Corral in Temple. Please note the location change due to renovations at the hall after last year’s storms. We hope to see you at the meeting.
Fraternally, Dan Kacir, President —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas shares fellowship and updates
Dear Readers,
Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Tupinamba Mexican Cafe for their monthly meeting. President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order at 2:45 p.m., and Flag Bearer Charles Nemec led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for our departed members, troops serving our country, and anyone needing special intentions.
Secretary Cherri Petr reported on correspondence from the Home Office. Sunshine committee reported that get well cards were sent to Brothers Darrin Tucker, Wesley Hubik, Randy Olson, and Paul Pokladnik, and to Sisters Mary Dees, Laurie Vlk, and Helen Gajdica. We hope you are all on the mend soon! Sympathy cards were sent to the families of Dr. James Novak, Bob Liska, and Patricia Adamcik. May your loved ones rest in peace.
Vice President Lynda Novak then gave her reports. She said an Easter celebration is in the planning stages to
be held on Sunday, April 12 at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231. Look for further details in the next Vestnik.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki then reminded everyone about the 2026 Caring Challenges projects and what is needed to complete them. She also mentioned about projects we can help to show support and appreciation to other organizations throughout the year.
Treasurer Jim Liska then gave his report.
President Vicki thanked everyone for coming out to the meeting and reminded everyone that our February meeting would be on Sunday, the 15th, at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions We will be having a svacina after the meeting so please bring a dessert if planning to attend.
We then adjourned the meeting to enjoy our lunch.
Fraternally,
Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville to host District 7 Rally on March 22
Due to the Super Bowl, Lodge 107, Floresville adjusted its schedule and held its monthly meeting on February 8, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall. President Trey Bielefeld called the meeting to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of deceased members, as well as military members and veterans.
The 2026 officers of Lodge 92, Fort Worth are, left to right, President Gene Tesar, Vice President Stephen Kercho, Secretary Mary Ann Krivanek, Treasurer/Bar Manager Jeanette Tesar, and Financial Secretary Lisa Ellsworth. They are pictured with District 3 Director John Engelke, far right, who installed the officers. —Lisa Ellsworth
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Officers
Roll call of officers showed all were present. Secretary Wendy Pruski read the minutes from the January meeting, which were approved as read. Oscar Korus then presented an update on the lodge’s financial report which was also approved as read.
Correspondence was read, including information on the Czech Harafica performances scheduled throughout the state in early March, along with the announcement of the 2026 Milestone Members. This year, the lodge will recognize members celebrating 25-year and 75-year milestones.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Stacy Bielefeld introduced the new year of Caring Challenges. A discussion followed, and members selected the acts of service they wish to participate in for the coming year.
Youth Leader Lian Lynn shared dates for the upcoming Youth Showcase and provided additional updates on youth camp activities.
Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand extended a heartfelt thank you to President Bielefeld for preparing the hall ahead of last month’s freezing temperatures and reported a last-minute hall rental. President Bielefeld noted the outdoor faucet below the kitchen window has developed a drip. Oscar Korus is obtaining parts to repair the oven, and the air-conditioning technician is planning to service the walk-in cooler.
Under old business, additional favorable comments were received regarding the New Year’s Eve party — enthusiasm was high, and members would like to see the event return. There was no new business, aside from discussion and planning for the upcoming District 7 Rally.
Next Meeting—March 22
The next meeting of Lodge 107 will be held during the District 7 Rally on March 22.
Fraternally, Trey Bielefeld, President —SPJST—
Lodge 142, Houston members enjoy January fellowship
Dear Readers, Lodge 142, Houston met Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Lodge 88, Houston. Lunch served at 1 p.m. was hamburgers, French fries, and all the delicious trimmings. Thank you to our wonderful kitchen crew. President Dennis Hermis led us in prayer.
President Hermis called the meeting to order at 2:07 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zoey Coleman.
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis called the roll of officers showing all present ex-
cept Vice President Kerry Herrington. We had 24 members in attendance. She also stated that monthly meeting letters are to be reviewed in the Vestnik.
Sales Agent Mary E. Bird spoke on annuities and shared additional insurance information.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick reported on the financials. All were in great order.
Youth Leader Karole Coleman reported SPJST Summer Camp is June 29 to July 2 at Hermann Sons Life Camp in Comfort, Texas. Youth eligibility is first through 12th grade, as of the 2026-2027 school year. A raffle is being held to help offset the cost of camp. Prizes and donations are being accepted.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider reported the next charity proj-
SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT
SPJST is pleased to welcome Jason Harris as a new sales agent serving Lodge 87, Temple and District 2.
Jason is a passionate speaker who has been in ministry for more than 35 years. He is a certified celebrant, aftercare specialist, preneed funeral counselor, author, and speaker. He is especially dedicated to grief support and helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones — committed to putting the “FUN” in “funeral.”
Born in Fort Worth, Jason currently resides in Temple, with his miniature dachshunds, Chewy and Leia, and his cat, Aslan. He also works with Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple.
Many are surprised at how much laughter and joy can be found at Jason’s presentations, including his popular talk, “Five Questions That Will Change Your Life.” Several funeral directors have remarked, “We have never had so much laughter coming out of our funeral chapel than when you do services here.” Jason believes that laughter through tears can be deeply healing.
Through his work, Jason
JASON HARRIS
NICK JASON HARRIS 214-478-2361 njason.harris@gmail.com
shares how grieving families often benefit from celebration as much as reflection, and he helps others learn what to say — and what not to say — to someone experiencing loss.
Jason can assist you with your SPJST life insurance needs and can be reached at 214-478-2361 or njason.harris@gmail.com. —SPJST—
ect is bringing baby items, diapers, baby wipes, etc. to be donated to the women’s shelter. A thank you note was received from Tunnels to Towers for our donation presented by Pat and Bob Schleider and Elizabeth and Dennis Hermis on January 14.
Sick Committee reported Jack Dowling in the hospital, Mary Jan Hue was not feeling well, and Steve Roznowsky was feeling better. Get well soon. Prayers for all.
New members are Connor Woods McLaughlin and Kristi Thompson. Sales agent is Kerry Herrington. New business discussed was the 2026 meeting dates were set for the year. Meetings will be on the third Sunday of each month unless otherwise stated.
January birthday celebrants are Jo Dien Roznovsky on the 25th and Catherine Manchack on the 1st. Happy birthday!
The meeting adjourned at 2:44 p.m. The next meeting is Sunday, February 15 at 2 p.m. with lunch served at 1 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston.
Door prizes were awarded, and a game of dominoes were played for our fellowship social.
Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary
—SPJST—
Lodge 151 Wharton-East Bernard meets March 9
Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard will meet Monday, March 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Hungerford Community Center. All members are invited to attend the meeting and enjoy a catered meal. Please RSVP by March 2 to Jeanette Kaminsky at 832-595-4232.
—SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock members gather for food, fellowship, Super Bowl fun
We had a wonderful gathering on February 8, 2026, at Virginia’s home. We discussed the upcoming events, and some members made some predictions on the Super Bowl. We had a very delish home-cooked turkey meal with all the trimmings. Thank bunches to Virginia for cooking the turkey and to everyone else who brought their cooking talents with sides and desserts. We all agreed to continue the collection of sauces for troops that we will be sending overseas. February birthday wishes go to Evelyn Rossi, Dwayne Alan Prinz, Brice Earl Plemons, Lisa Ann Pfluger, Christopher Allan Parker, James T. Noles, Bradley Wayne Noles, Heather Lea McLaughlin, Murphy T. Matus, Patricia Sue Leschber, Donald James Leschber, Charles A. Keltgen, Jordyn Mackenzie Kanak, Alexandria Renae Johnson, Kaitlyn Nicole Johnson, Crimson D. Holland, David J. Gola, Hazel June Fritz, Jim Tom Etheredge, Debra May Dillenberger, Emily A. Crawford, Jason D. Chaudoin, Marilyn V. Cernoch, Eva M. Burklund, Carl E. Burklund, A. B. Black, Ross Allan Thornton, Joseph Gabriel Strmiska, Dexter Simons, Jr., and Nicole Roechelle Scott.
Next Gathering—March 8
Our next gathering will be Sunday, March 8 at 3:30 p.m. at Anchor Bar and Grill in Round Rock.
Blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/FAC/Youth Leader —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston shares live music
Come join us at Lodge 88, Houston for live music with our lineup of incredible bands! We started off the year with the Original Remnants, a ninepiece horn band that had everyone on the floor dancing to favorite tunes.
Join us on March 29 for Polkas, Pivo, and Poppyseed! We will have the Lodge 88 Czech Orchestra, Lost Cause Band, and the Shiner Hobo Band.
On April 17, we revisit the 60s with the Fab 5, a 60s tribute band. Get out those go-go boots! Another polka fest is on June 7 with the Lodge 88 Czech Orchestra, Dujka Brothers, and the Red Ravens.
Get your boots out for Steel Country on June 27, and let’s kick up some dust! Look for updates coming soon for our other events and future dances. Lodge 88, Houston is the perfect place to gather and celebrate any event. We hope to see you soon! Come out and bring your family and friends. Visit lodge88.org to purchase tickets.
—Mary Hoffman, Entertainment Chair
Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point reviews business and plans for 2026
Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members met February 10, 2026, at Cotton Patch Cafe in Temple, Texas, for a lunch meeting.
President Frances McBride called the meeting to order at 11:30 a.m. Secretary Nancy Miller read the December 13, 2025, minutes, which were approved by Melanie Zavodny and Ingrid Petrik.
Treasurer David Nauert reported on the financial statements. The finances were reviewed for audit purposes and approved by Ingrid Petrik, Susan Hutton, and Cindy Dixon. Nancy Miller, CPA, also verified the report.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Susan Hutton discussed the Giving from the Heart program.
Under old business, in December 2025, the lodge received funds transferred from the SPJST Lodge Fund Management Account as previously voted upon and approved.
Under new business, we discussed the 2026 list of Milestone Members received from the SPJST Home Office.
Several Lodge 246 members are achieving 25 years of membership. Cards will be created for each Milestone Member to commemorate their longevity with SPJST and encourage involvement in Lodge 246.
Future meeting dates and locations were designated. They are:
Tuesday, April 14 at 11:15 a.m.
Golden Corral, Temple
Tuesday, June 9 at 11:15 a.m.
Oscar Store, Temple
Tuesday, August 11 at 11:15 a.m.
Mas Fajitas, Temple
Tuesday, October 13 at 11:15 a.m.
Sam’s Southern Eatery, Temple Saturday, December 12 at 11 a.m.
• Preparing Milestone Member cardsassigned to Melanie and Nancy, with completion at next meeting for all signatures.
• Providing fundraising suggestions at the next meeting – all members.
• Promoting upcoming SPJST events to all members, including:
- Home and Garden SPJST Car Show to be held at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton on February 20 to 22
- District 2 Rally to be held at Lodge 24, Cyclone on October 3
President Frances adjourned the meeting at 12:30 p.m.
Next Meeting—April
14
The next meeting will be Tuesday, April 14 at Golden Corral in Temple at 11:15 a.m. The address is 5101 South General Bruce Drive in Temple. Fraternally, Nancy Miller, CPA Secretary —SPJST—
Sefcik-Kubin reunion set for June 6 in
New Tabor
The families of George Sefcik and Francis Kubin Sefcik of the New Tabor community are reminded that there will be a reunion on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in the New Tabor Church Fellowship Building. (Take County Road 208 off Highway 21 East of Caldwell.)
We will gather at 11:30 a.m., and the meal will be served at 12:30 p.m. The meat will be provided. Please bring a side dish and a dessert for the meal.
The reunion is hosted by the Stefka and Orsag families.
For questions, contact Lillie (Stefka) Chafin at 979-777-6674.
Lillie Chafin Lodge 17, New Tabor —SPJST—
CIEE seeks host families for international high school exchange students
Hello, Vestnik Readers!
My name is Callie, and I work with CIEE, a nonprofit organization that brings international high school exchange students to the U.S.
I’m reaching out because I’m currently supporting a student named Till from Germany who is searching for a host family for the 2026-27 school year (arriving August 2026). Till is 16 years old and very outdoorsy. Being active, working with his hands, and spending time outside are some of his favorite things.
We’re hoping to find a host family who shares Till’s love for outdoor life. He truly enjoys helping out and would thrive in an environment where he can pitch in with everyday tasks like gardening, mowing, caring for animals, or general farm projects. He regularly mows lawns for neighbors, helps in the garden, and is comfortable using tools and equipment like ride-on mowers and brush cutters.
Would you be willing to share Till’s story with anyone you know who might consider hosting for a semester or school year? Or perhaps your family might be interested in learning more?
Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosts monthly country western dance
February
Here is what Till has to say: “I love to laugh and am usually in a good mood. I enjoy sports like soccer, running, rock climbing, and fishing. I like helping in the garden and working with tools, and I would be happy to help my host family in this way as well. I am very comfortable with animals and would love to spend time outdoors. I’m excited to become part of a family and share everyday life together.”
Host families:
• Provide a bed (shared room is fine) and meals within the home
• Live in a safe, supportive environment
• Make a lifelong connection with a young person from another culture
Exchange students:
• Come with their own spending money and health insurance
• Are proficient in English
• Attend the local high school and can take the school bus or carpool
• Are thoroughly vetted and supported by CIEE throughout their stay
If your business or organization refers a family that ends up hosting Till, CIEE will offer a $200 thank-you gift as a token of appreciation.
Thank you so much for helping spread the word about this life-changing opportunity. Our students work and wait for years for this experience, and we are so excited to help Till find the right home!
Feel free to check out our hosting videos at ciee.org.
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle shares January 13 meeting scenes
On January 13, 2026, Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle met at National Hall in Fort Worth. Donations were $500 to Ronald McDonald House; $1,000 to National HallSPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth; and $250 to St. Jude’s! Way to go, ladies! TOP LEFT: Hostesses were, left to right, Shirley Martin, Betty Krenek, Lynn Cummings, and Helen Rogers. TOP RIGHT: New members are Cristy Brand, left, and Linda Martin. BOTTOM LEFT: January birthday celebrants were Lynn Cummings, left, and Bessie Ellsworth. Not pictured is Kitty Rippen, who celebrated her 102nd birthday. —Lisa Ellsworth
Financial Secretary
On
1, 2026, Lodge 92, Fort Worth hosted its monthly coun try western dance. Everyone is invited to join the fun at Lodge 92 on the first Sunday of each month.
—Lisa Ellsworth
Reconnect with Your Czech Roots
On the Day of Czech People Living Abroad, warm greetings were sent from Brno, Czech Republic, reminding Czech descendants around the world that their heritage continues to connect them to their ancestral homeland.
Masaryk University in Brno has created special educational and cultural opportunities designed specifically for Czech compatriots living abroad. These programs invite individuals with Czech ancestry to rediscover their roots, strengthen their connection to Czech culture, and explore opportunities for study and travel in the Czech Republic.
Czech communities thrive in more than 90 countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Switzerland, and many others. Through programs offered by Masaryk University, Czech descendants have the opportunity to study the Czech language, participate in cultural heritage programs, attend summer schools, enroll in exchange programs, or
even pursue full academic degrees.
One such student, Adriana Kahanek of Colorado, was inspired by her Czech heritage to study General Medicine at Masaryk University. Through her experience in Brno, she has not only pursued her academic goals but also deepened her connection to her family’s Czech roots.
The university’s Czech Heritage Summer School offers participants the chance to explore the country, visit historic cities and villages, learn the Czech language, and experience firsthand the traditions and culture of their ancestors.
In addition, Masaryk University provides Czech language preparation courses designed to help students gain language proficiency and prepare for academic study or personal enrichment.
These programs provide a unique opportunity for individuals of Czech descent to strengthen their cultural identity, build lifelong friendships, and reconnect with the heart of Moravia.
For SPJST members and readers interested in learning more about these opportunities, additional information is available online at:
Lodge 142, Houston continues to Give, Give, Give!
When challenged in December to help restock a food pantry for the first Caring Challenge of 2026, our faithful members came through! From bags to boxes to a wagon full of various food items. Before long, we had a trunk full of donations! Thank you members! TOP LEFT: Denene Hooper, left, is pictured with Jo Dein Roznovsky, whoh celebrated her birthday on January 25. TOP RIGHT: Catherine Manchack, left, celebrated her birthday on January 1. She is pictured with Mary Bird, second from left, and Diane and Larry Weikel. —Pat Schleider, FAC
SPJST proudly celebrates the enduring connection between Czech heritage and future generations and encourages members to explore opportunities to reconnect with their roots.
—SPJST—
100 Years Ago This Month: Historical Events from March 1926
The month of March has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in March 1926.
• After a six-day trial, Anthony Bimba wins an acquittal in a Brockton, Massachusetts, courtroom on March 1. Bimba is the last person in the United States to be charged with the crime of blasphemy.
• Assistant Secretary of War Hanford MacNider formally rejects New York watchmaker Oscar M. Lazarus’s offer to design and install a wristwatch on the Statue of Liberty on March 2.
• Zizi Lambrino files a lawsuit against Prince Carol of Romania on March 4. The lawsuit claims Lambrino, who is seeking 10 million francs, was still legally married to the Prince and entitled to financial support for herself and their son, Carol Lambrino.
• The government of French Prime Minister Aristide Briand falls after failing to pass a financial bill on March 6.
• The first volume of the Great Greek Encyclopedia is published on March 1. The encyclopedia would ultimately contain 24 volumes featuring 280,000 articles and 37,000 images, paintings and maps spread out across 23,000 pages.
Lodge 142, Houston supports Tunnels to Towers
The Tunnels to Towers Foundation is committed to ending veteran homelessness nationwide. They ensure that no American service member is left out on the streets of the country they volunteered to defend. TOP LEFT: Lodge 142, Houston leaders Bob and Pat Schleider, left, along with Elizabeth and Dennis Hermis, right, present a donation to Tunnels to Towers Manager of Development Kim De Lorenzo. TOP RIGHT: Bob, Pat, Elizabeth, and Dennis received a personal tour of the Tunnels to Towers Veterans Village, located at 18818 Tomball Parkway, FM 249, Houston. The apartment complex provides permanent and transitional housing to 131 veterans. The picture of the American flag in the background was created with firehoses by a retired Houston firefighter. BOTTOM LEFT: Lodge 142 members tour one of 14 comfort homes on the property. For more information or to make a donation to Tunnels to Towers, contact Kim De Lorenzo at 347-868-6561. —Pat Schleider, FAC
CENTER PHOTO: Jean Herrington enjoyed the day at the Lodge 142 meeting. TOP RIGHT: Wagon full of various food products. We had a trunk full of items!
• The first wireless trans-Atlantic telephone call is made from New York to London on March 7, which also marks the 50th anniversary of the patenting of the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell.
• Bertha Knight Landes becomes the first woman to be elected as mayor of a major American city on March 9. Landes defeats incumbent Edwin J. Brown to become the mayor of Seattle.
• The first issue of the science fiction magazine Amazing Stories hits newsstands on March 10.
• Éamon de Valera resigns as the leader of Sinn Féin on March 11. De Valera had proposed a motion for the party to have representation in the bicameral parliament of the Irish Free State and the Parliament of Northern Ireland, but ceded leadership when the measure failed.
• The Savoy Ballroom opens on the famed Lenox Avenue in Harlem on March 12.
• Aviator Alan Cobham completes the first voyage by air from the British colony of South Africa to Great Britain on March 13. Cobham lands at Croydon and is welcomed by King George V.
• The cartoon character “Reddy Kilowatt” is introduced in an advertisement for the Alabama Power Company on March 14.
• British driver Henry Segrave reaches a speed of 152.33 miles per hour in
Lodge 139, Danbury delivers Christmas cheer
Members of Lodge 139, Danbury members delivered Christmas hams to all local members age 85 and older. Pictured are Lorenda Baldwin, Peggy Novak, and Joyce Parker.
Southport, Lancashire, England, on March 16, breaking the record for the fastest speed for an automobile.
• Czechoslovakia Prime Minister Antonín Svehla and his cabinet resign on March 17. The mass resignations occur after Svehla was unable to get parliamentary approval to raise wages for government employees.
• Chinese government troops shoot and kill 47 unarmed protesters on March 18. The tragedy becomes known as the March 18 Massacre. The protesters were speaking out against unequal treaties with foreign powers.
• On March 18, Second Lieutenant of the U.S. Army John Sewell Thompson becomes the first American military officer executed in peacetime. The 25year-old Thompson was hanged at Fort McKinley in the Philippines after being convicted of murdering his teenage fiancee.
The finished product could be sold at drug stories without prescriptions.
• The New York Police Department arrests seven members of the Whittemore Gang on March 19. The arrests mark an end to a string of bank and jewelry robberies committed by the gang.
• Kálmán Tihanyi of Hungary receives a patent for the charge-storage television tube on March 20.
• More than 100 people are killed when the Brazilian passenger ship Paes de Carvalho catches fire and sinks in the Amazon River on March 22.
• A manifesto drawn up by Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in April 1914 is published on March 28. Franz Ferdinand, who was assassinated in June 1914, had planned to transform the Austro-Hungarian Empire into a nation of self-governing states but was killed before ascending to the throne.
• The U.S. government grants permission to two breweries to make 3.76 percent alcohol “malt tonic” on March 29.
• Despite previous assertions that it would close down the colonial prison on Devil’s Island, the French government ships 340 convicts to the island on March 30. (MS)
—SPJST—
Tips for a safe and fun spring break road trip
Arriving months after the holiday season and right around the end of winter, spring break comes at the perfect time for families and students. A winter spent largely indoors can excite anyone about the prospect of soaking up some sun from the comforts of a sandy beach, and millions will do whatever it takes to make such a trip possible.
Many spring breakers may fly to their destination, but that can be costly for families paying for multiple flights. Indeed, spring break can be one of the more costly times to travel by air, as it’s considered a peak travel period. Families who want to get away but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on flights alone can take to the road and drive to their destinations. If a road trip is in the cards, families can consider these strategies to ensure a safe and fun excursion.
• Have your vehicle fully serviced before your trip. Winter can be hard on a vehicle, particularly when a car is parked outside in locations where harsh
Lodge 142, Houston shares scenes from February meeting: Small in number, but big in heart!
reached a milestone birthday of 96 years on February
and Mary
quarter Caring Challenges - “Baby Bundle Drive” - is to donate baby supplies for a local crisis or family center.
as flag bearer to begin the meeting.
Diane
TOP LEFT: Birthday beauties for February! Happy birthday to, left to right, Barbara Linney Gonzales on the 25th, Diane Weikel on the 8th, and Abi Freel on the 16th. Not pictured is Jack Dowling, who
7! PHOTO 2: These lovely ladies are ready to play bingo! They are Barbara Linney Gonzales, left, Jean Herrington, center,
Jane Hue. CENTER PHOTO: One of our first
PHOTO 4: Aiden Hermis filled in
TOP RIGHT: Seated in front are Catherine Manchack, left, and Mary Bird. In back are Pat Schleider, left, and
Weikel. —Pat Schleider, FAC
weather is the standard between December and March. A full checkup that tops off fluids, tests the brakes (and replaces them, if necessary), inflates the tires (and again, replaces them, if necessary), tests the battery, and checks headlights and wiper blades to ensure they're operating at peak capacity can prepare a vehicle for the journey to your spring break destination.
• Make some pit stops along the way. If it’s an especially long trip to your destination, extend your travels by a day or two and make an extra stop along your way to your destination and on your return home. Find a fun activity along the way, such as a trip to a local indoor water park or a must-see hiking spot, so everyone can spend a day moving around before getting back in the car.
• Don’t be a motorized martyr. When your ultimate destination is a warm, sunsoaked beach, it can be tempting to make the trip in a single day. But fatigued drivers are dangerous drivers, so it’s best to build in some time to take a break and even share driving duty with another licensed driver. Moms and dads can switch halfway through the trip. If you already know the trip will take multiple days on the road, then stop driving no later than sundown to ensure you and your fellow drivers get a good night's rest.
• Line up some in-vehicle entertainment. A long road trip with young children will require some in-vehicle entertainment. Load up a tablet with movies to keep the kids occupied during the drive but also arrange for some non-
Lodge 187, Round Rock enjoys January meeting
device game play as well. A book of puzzles, a family sing-along, a round or two of I spy, the license plate game, and even some kid-friendly trivia can provide some fun distractions on the way to your destination.
The cost of air travel can be prohibitive for families looking to get away this spring break. Some simple strategies can make road trips a safe, fun and costeffective means to getting away when school lets out this spring. (MS) —SPJST—
Locales with considerable Irish American populations across the United States
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are lively and green-tinted affairs filled with music, dancing, food, and signature beverages like Guinness stout and Irish cof-
February meeting
Lodge 187, Round Rock members had a great time at the first meeting of the year in Pflugerville, and we are excited to continue meeting monthly. We discussed our continuing collection of sauces for troops overseas.
—Jennifer McCarthy FAC/Youth Leader
fee. The phrase “everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day” has a lot of truth to it, as people from all walks of life enjoy having a little fun each year on March 17. But that fun might be amped up a little in cities with large populations of people who trace their ancestry to the Emerald Isle and locales where staples of life in Ireland are particularly accessible. A local Irish pub tends to be a fun place to spend St. Patrick’s Day regardless of where the establishment is located, but in 2023 LawnStarter examined a wide range of variables in an effort to identify the most Irish cities in the United States. After gathering publicly available data that ranged from a city's Irish population to its number of Irish dance schools to the amount of Irish pubs open within city limits, the team at LawnStarter came up with this list of the “Most Irish” cities in the U.S. The list is unofficial and intended to entertain as much as inform, but those looking to spend St. Patrick’s Day in a locale with a notably Irish feel can consider a visit to any of these cities:
3. Denver, CO
4. New York, NY
5. San Diego, CA
If it’s Irish dance performances you’re looking for, consider these cities, which LawnStarter found are home to more schools of Irish dance than other locales in the U.S.:
1. New York, NY
2. Los Angeles, CA
3. Chicago, IL
4. Orlando, FL (tie)
4. San Diego, CA (tie)
4. San Francisco, CA (tie)
There’s much fun to be had on St. Patrick’s Day. And spending the day in certain locales may be even more amusing and enjoyable. (MS) —SPJST—
1. New York, NY
2. Chicago, IL
3. Boston, MA
4. Philadelphia, PA
5. San Francisco, CA
6. Pittsburgh, PA
7. Denver, CO
8. San Diego, CA
9. Seattle, WA
10. Omaha, NE
Celebrants looking for cities where St. Patrick’s Day is a particularly big deal can consider a visit to these locales that LawnStarter identified as having the most St. Patrick’s Day events:
1. Chicago, IL
2. Boston, MA
Lodge 184, Moulton youth member Ryan Koncaba is pictured with his pig at the Flatonia Stock Show. SPJST Lodge 184 supported Ryan with $500 towards his project’s premium. Good job, Ryan! —Ann Koncaba, Reporter
Lodge 184, Moulton congratulates member Ryan Koncaba
Lodge 187, Round Rock members met February 8, 2026, in Georgetown. TOP LEFT: Left to right are Virginia, Rubie, Kember, Kadnce, Linda, Evelyn, Deborah, Luke, and Mathieu. TOP RIGHT: From left, Kember, Luke, and Kadnce are pictured with their valentine gifts.
—Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter
Lodge 187, Round Rock spreads love at
In the Czech Republic, Easter (Velikonoce) is the most important Christian holiday of the year. Its date changes annually because it follows the lunar calendar: Easter Sunday falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. The week leading up to Easter Sunday is known as Holy Week, a time when Christian remembrance and ancient folk customs intertwine in distinctive ways.
Blue Monday and Gray Tuesday
Jesus instituted Holy Communion. In Czech tradition, this day is strongly associated with the color green and the promise of health.
White Saturday
White Saturday (Bílá sobota) is a quiet day of anticipation. The name “White” refers to the white garments worn by newly baptized Christians in the early Church, symbolizing purity and new life.
Christ as the “Lamb of God.” Eggs are dyed and decorated, and the Easter table is prepared with care.
White Saturday represents the transition between sorrow and celebration.
Easter Sunday
In Czech folk tradition, the week begins with Blue Monday (Modré pondělí) and Gray Tuesday (Šedivé úterý). These days
were historically devoted to household cleaning. Chimneys were swept, dust and spiderwebs removed, and homes refreshed after winter. The thorough cleaning symbolized both physical and spiritual renewal — a preparation not only for Easter, but for the arrival of spring itself.
Ugly Wednesday
Holy Week continues with Škaredá středa, or “Ugly Wednesday.” The name refers to the biblical account of Judas’s betrayal of Jesus. According to tradition, one should not frown or complain on this day. Folklore warns that anyone who scowls on Ugly Wednesday may remain “ugly” — or in a bad mood — every Wednesday for the rest of the year.
In earlier times, it was also a day associated with sweeping out ashes and finishing household tidying. Like the earlier days of the week, it connects religious remembrance with spring cleaning customs.
Green Thursday
Green Thursday (Zelený čtvrtek) commemorates the Last Supper, when
It is customary to eat green foods such as spinach, cabbage, parsley, or nettles. According to folk belief, eating something green on this day ensures health for the coming year. In some regions, people observed partial fasting or ate only simple vegetable dishes.
Church bells ring for the last time on Thursday before falling silent. Folklore says the bells “fly to Rome” and do not return until Easter Sunday. During their silence, children traditionally replace them with wooden rattles and clappers. The rattling sound was believed to drive away evil or impure forces from homes and villages.
Good Friday
Good Friday (Velký pátek) marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospels, Christ died at three o’clock in the afternoon, and religious services are often held at this hour in remembrance of his suffering. It is traditionally a strict fasting day and one of mourning and reflection. Alongside its Christian significance, Good Friday is surrounded by numerous folk beliefs. It was once thought to be a day of hidden powers and magic. Legends tell of mountains opening to reveal hidden treasures — especially the mythical Mount Blaník. Some believed that water drawn from springs at dawn possessed special healing properties. These traditions reflect the blending of Christian solemnity with older pre-Christian ideas about nature and renewal.
Believers continue to fast and reflect while preparing for the Easter celebration.
At the same time, homes bustle with preparation. Traditional Easter dishes are baked, including mazanec (a sweet yeast bread with raisins and almonds) and the lamb-shaped cake known as beránek, which symbolizes
Easter Sunday (Boží hod velikonoční) celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches once again fill with worshippers as bells return and ring out in celebration.
The Easter table is rich with symbolism. Sweet breads, lambshaped cakes, and festive dishes mark the end of Lent. In folk belief, tasting the Easter lamb was said to bring good fortune. Sunday blends sacred joy with family gatherings, marking the spiritual high point of the week.
While Easter Sunday marks the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, Czech Easter traditions continue into Easter Monday — a day shaped more by folk customs than by formal church observance. If Holy Week reflects solemn remembrance and spiritual preparation, Easter Monday represents renewal, vitality, and community life. Many of the day’s customs trace their origins to preChristian spring rituals that gradually intertwined with Christian celebration.
Pomlázka: A Symbol of Youth and Renewal
The most distinctive Czech Easter Monday tradition is the pomlázka, a braided whip made from fresh willow branches. The word pomlázka is derived from the Czech verb pomladit, meaning “to make younger” or “to rejuvenate.” The custom is documented as early as the 14th century, though historians believe it likely predates written records.
Willow branches were tradi-
tionally chosen because willow trees are among the first to bud in early spring, symbolizing vitality and new life. Over time, simple branches were braided into increasingly elaborate forms, often decorated with col-
orful ribbons. In some regions, particularly in Moravia, craftsmanship became an important part of the tradition, and long, carefully braided pomlázky are still admired today.
On Easter Monday morning, boys and men visit girls and women in their community and lightly tap them on the legs while reciting traditional rhymes. The gesture is symbolic and playful; according to folk belief, the contact transfers health, youth, and vitality for the coming year. In return, boys traditionally receive decorated eggs (kraslice), sweets, small gifts, ribbons for their whip, or, in some regions of Moravia, a small glass of homemade plum brandy (slivovice).
One of the best-known rhymes recited during the visits begins:
Decorated Eggs and Spring Symbolism
Decorated Easter eggs, known as kraslice, are among the most recognizable symbols of Czech Easter. Across Europe, eggs have long represented fertility and new life. In Czech lands, hand-decorated eggs were historically valued gifts, especially following the Lenten fast, when eggs were not consumed. Regional decorating techniques vary widely. The wax-resist method
(often referred to as batik) involves applying melted wax in intricate patterns before dyeing the egg. Once the wax is removed, detailed designs are revealed. Other traditional methods include straw appliqué, etching, wiring, perforation, and dyeing with natural materials such as onion skins. In some regions, specific color schemes or patterns were associated with local identity.
Regional Celebrations and Living Heritage
Easter Monday customs differ throughout the Czech Republic. In some areas, girls playfully pour water on boys later in the day, echoing similar spring purification traditions. In Moravia, Easter celebrations are often particularly festive, sometimes accompanied by traditional dress, music, and community gatherings.
Many open-air museums actively preserve and present Easter customs to visitors. The Wallachian Open Air Museum in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, for example, hosts seasonal programs demonstrating egg decorating, pomlázka braiding, and other folk crafts. Veselý Kopec in East Bohemia similarly showcases traditional Easter preparations in historic village settings. These institutions play an important role in sustaining regional practices that might otherwise fade in modern urban life.
The Spiritual Dimension
Alongside vibrant folk traditions, the spiritual meaning of Easter remains central for many Czech Christians. Easter Vigil services are held
on Holy Saturday night, symbolizing the passage from darkness to light. Candles are lit, and church bells that had fallen silent on Green Thursday ring again on Easter Sunday in celebration of the resurrection.
Pilgrimage sites across the country host special liturgies and gatherings. Notable locations include the Holy Mountain in Příbram, the Roman Catholic parish in Velehrad in Moravia, and Zelená hora near Žďár nad Sázavou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These sacred spaces connect contemporary worshippers with centuries of faith tradition.
Today, Czech Easter reflects a layered heritage — one that blends Christian observance, folk symbolism, regional craftsmanship, and community celebration. From solemn services to braided willow branches and beautifully decorated eggs, the holiday remains a vivid expression of spring, renewal, and cultural continuity.
The Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek, No. 4, Hallettsville, on behalf of our entire membership, wishes to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of our departed brother,
VERNON EDWARD CHUDEJ, age 97, who went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 22, 2025.
diation treatments for skin cancer on his thumb. He was on the mend and asked the Lord for a few more years to make age 100, but the Lord had his own plan.
Vernon made many lasting friendships throughout his life. He outlived a lot of his friends and became close with his friends’ children. Vernon was a source of love, wisdom, and kindness.
In Memory of Eugene Dolezal
In Memory of Bernita Hlinsky
Bernita Ann Hlinsky of Ellinger, Texas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the age of 72.
Services were held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Pearland, Texas. Visitation was from 9 to 10 a.m. The funeral service was held at 10 a.m. with Pastor Jon Salminen officiating. Interment followed at 2 p.m. at Vsetin Cemetery in Hallettsville with Dr. Reverend Mark Labaj.
Vernon was born April 9, 1928, in Moravia, Texas just outside of Hallettsville. His family farmed cotton and raised cattle. He attended school in Moravia. He served in the US Marines.
He married Vivian Chudej on October 16, 1950. Shortly after they were married, Vivian and Vernon moved to Houston, and in 1975, they moved to Pearland, until 2021 when the power company bought their property. Vernon had been residing at Trinity Oaks Senior Apartments since then.
Vernon was employed by Folger’s Coffee Company in Houston until the plant was closed. He then went to work at Mount Carmel Elementary School and Church until he retired. He took pride in keeping the floors waxed and in keeping the church’s rose garden beautiful.
Vernon loved his cattle, his tractor, hunting, fishing, and his beer. He would spend as much time as he could in the country on his property he owned in Bila Hora. He was known to be able to fix anything.
Even though, Vernon lost vision in one eye and had limited vision in the other, he was able to live independently after Vivian died unexpectedly in 2022. In September 2025, he went through ra-
Many of his friends and family consulted with him on life’s issues and challenges. He always seemed to give the appropriate guidance. He was always checking with his grandkids and greatgrandkids on their life choices as they grew older.
He was preceded in death by his parents Agnes and Eddie Chudej; wife Vivian Chudej; son Michael Chudej; sister Virginia Spaeth and brother Marvin.
Left to cherish Vernon’s memory are his loving daughter Susan Chudej; brother Alton Chudej; grandchildren Melissa Pace (Jeremy), Wayne Thibodeaux (Rebecca), Luke Chudej, and Holly Chudej; great-grandchildren Morgan Pace, Shelby Thibodeaux, and Warren Thibodeaux; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to the church of your choice.
May our departed brother rest in eternal peace.
Resolution Committee
Gayenell Chudej
Susan Siptak —SPJST—
Eugene Charles Dolezal passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Visitation for family and friends was Monday, February 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Boze-MitchellMcKibbin Funeral Home in Ennis, Texas. Mass of Christian burial was Tuesday, February 17 at 10 a.m. at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church with Father James Yamauchi as celebrant. Interment followed at St. Joseph Cemetery in Ennis.
Eugene was born in West on October 9, 1942, the son of Charles and Ida (Cinek) Dolezal. He graduated from West High School and attended Draughon’s Business College, majoring in enginering drawing. When he finished college, he went to work for Bunning Brass and Bronze, later being the manager. In 1974, he started a business of his own, Gene’s Home Repair, until he retired in 2012.
On November 25, 1961, he married Mildred Sebek. To this union was born one daughter, Linda Ann.
Eugene was a member of St. John Catholic Church, where he was an usher for 40 years; KJT; and SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis, serving as president for eight years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ida Dolezal; and sisters Dorothy Dolezal and Betty Ender.
He is survived by wife Mildred Ann; daughter Linda Ann Jurik and husband Mitch; grandchildren Michael Jurik and wife Sarah, Amanda Jurik and Steffen, and Chad Jurik; great-grandchildren John Jurik, Forrest Jarrett and Micah Jane Jurik; nephew Douglas Ender; and nieces Michelle Holder and Janice Hodgson.
—SPJST—
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellinger with interment following. A visitation was at Fayette Memorial Funeral Home in La Grange from 12 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9. The family was present from 4 to 6 p.m. with rosary at 5:30 p.m.
Bernita was born in La Grange on July 2, 1953. She graduated from La Grange High School in 1971.
She married her sweetheart, Calvin, on August 24, 1979. She enjoyed attending local festivals and polka dances with Calvin. She volunteered at the local festivals and feasts. She loved playing bingo, watching soap operas, doing puzzles, and playing cards. What she loved the most was her grandchildren.
Bernita was one of the most patient, loving, caring, and kind souls you could ever meet. She spent her life caring for the sick and elderly as a nurse aide at Monument Hill Nursing Home, Fayette Memorial Hospital, and St. Mark’s Medical Center. She was truly an angel on Earth.
She was a longtime member of SPJST Lodge 51, Ellinger.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edna Lee and James Orsak of Ellinger; and sister Cynthia Niesner of Houston.
Bernita is survived by her husband, Calvin Hlinsky of Ellinger; daughter Kristi McFadden and husband Tobey of Weimar; grandchildren Alaina, Brooklyn, and Bradley McFadden, also of Weimar; and brother-in-law Dennis Niesner along with nephew and niece, Chad Niesner and wife Jennifer and Chanda Dinges and husband, Chris.
She will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved her.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to the St. Mary Catholic Church Cemetery Fund or to the Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department.
Vernon Chudej
Eugene Dolezal
Bernita Hlinsky
Services were under the care and direction of Fayette Memorial Funeral Home of La Grange. Please visit www.fayettememorialfuneralhome.com to share memories and leave your condolences for the family.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Julius Matula, III
We, the members of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of
JULIUS CHESTER MATULA, III.
Julius Matula, III, age 76, of Wharton, Texas, left this world peacefully on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
The family will honor Julius with a memorial service, to be held in the coming weeks at a venue yet to be determined. Burial will take place at St John’s Catholic Cemetery in Hungerford.
III
Julius was born on August 12, 1949, in Wharton to the late Julius Chester Matula, Jr. and Mary Louise Hobbs Matula.
He was a proud graduate of Wharton High School and later attended Texas A&I University, where he fostered a lifelong love of learning. Julius was known for his vibrant spirit and passion for music. He cherished the joy of dances, where he would often be found enjoying the rhythm and sharing smiles with family and friends. An avid reader and a history and war enthusiast, he spent countless hours immersed in books, eagerly sharing stories and insights with those around him.
He was a member of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Moseley.
Julius leaves behind a loving legacy, survived by his son, Bryan Matula and wife Kelly of Needville; sisters Teresa Davis, Rita Stavinoha and husband Johnny, Rosemary Kalina and husband, Gary, Susan Woolley and husband, John “Mark”, and Katy Winkwerder and husband Gary; brothers Glenn Matula and wife Veronica, Mark Matula and wife
Connie, James Matula, and John Matula and wife Virginia; grandchildren Mari, Kylie, Kole, Kody, Kyler, and Ian; and great-grandson Elias; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and close family friends.
Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.
Fraternally, Janie Bucek —SPJST—
In Memory of Patricia Raum
Patricia Ann Raum, 74, of Singleton, Texas, passed away peacefully in the morning hours of Sunday, February 8, 2026, at her home.
Funeral service was at 1:30 p.m. Friday, February 13, at the Singleton Church with Reverend Floyd Hoke officiating. Interment followed in the Singleton Cemetery.
Patricia was born June 2, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Clarence Wesley and Lula Belle Coonce.
To most of her friends she was simply “Pat,” but there were many other names: She was ‘Patty’ or ‘Aunt Patty’’ to dearest friends and family, ‘Tricia Ann’ to some, and even ‘Dish’ to her youngest brother.
Pat was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a loving and faithful wife and mother, a sister, and a friend to many. She lived a life that exemplified compassion, acceptance, loyalty, and love.
She was a member of SPJST Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station.
Pat is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, George Raum; son Brandon Eisenman and wife, Andrea; granddaughters Kelsie Meekins (Malcolm), Hallie Werner (Chase), and Christina Gilbert; great-grandchildren Leland Werner and Matney Meekins; brothers Richard Coonce (Barbara), Raymond Hutchens, and Victor Hutchens (Debby); along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Serving as pallbearers were Chase Wemer, Malcolm Meekins, Jamarcia Broadway, John Buxkemper, Mark Buxkemper, and Ashley Glass.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Wilburn Willis
Wilburn Lee Willis, age 87, of Waco, Texas, passed away Saturday morning, February 7, 2026, at the Atrium of Bellmead, Texas.
Funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 13 at West Brethren Church with Brother Terry Crawford officiating. Military graveside rites follow at West Brethren Cemetery near West, conducted by West Veterans Honor Guard. The family received vis itors from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb ruary 12 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West.
Wilburn was born on February 1, 1939, in Waco, the son of the late Callie (Carter) and Cecil Willis. He was a 1957 graduate of La Vega High School and later earned a degree in law enforcement from McLennan Community College. On December 30, 1981, he was united in marriage to JayDean Barton (Volcik) in Oklahoma.
his bravery, having saved the lives of four fellow officers during a shootout in October 1968, an event he later documented in a book that will be published.
Wilburn also helped at his family’s plumbing business, Willis Plumbing, with his brother, Kenny, for a number of years.
In his free time, Wilburn enjoyed having breakfast with friends at the Hewitt Cracker Barrel, driving people to the airport, and listening to their life stories. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Wilburn proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard and dedicated his professional life to public service as an officer with the Waco Police Department. He was a member of West Brethren Church and was actively involved in his community, serving as both president and vice president of SPJST Lodge 54, West, as well as a member of American Legion Post 478. Wilburn was especially proud to be an honorary member of the Waco Police Officers Association, having served as chaplain. He was widely respected for
Survivors include his beloved wife of 44 years, Jaydean Willis of Waco; children Steven Willis and spouse Kelly Knape of Portugal, and Melissa Rowen and husband John of Hutto; stepsons Terry Barton and wife Jill, and Darryl Barton; grandchildren Kris Barton and wife Gabriella, Kathleen Barton, and Faith Rowen; great-grandson Gabriel Barton; brother Kenny Willis and wife Martha; sister Glenora McDaniel and husband Ronnie of Lake Jackson; brother-in-law Larry Volcik and wife Dody; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Active pallbearers were Brent Stroman, Larry Scott, Scott Holt, Cecil Willis, Bubba Willis, and Ryan Volcik. Honorary pallbearer was Sheriff Parnell McNamara.
Memorials may be made to West Brethren Church or the HOT Public Safety Historical Center.
You are invited to share your thoughts and memories of Wilburn in a memorial guestbook found at www.aderholdfh.com.
—SPJST—
Julius Matula,
Pat Raum
Wilburn Willis
We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families of the following SPJST members. We honor their years of membership and service to our fraternal family.
Death Claims Paid June 2025 (Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Ray Allen Coufal, Lodge 1, Fayetteville 1974 • January 29, 2017 • Age 49
Lois Kubena, Lodge 13, Dime Box 1975 • May 5, 2025 • Age 95
Henry J. Hofferek, Lodge 38, Kovar 1959 • April 14, 2025 • Age 76
Willie Kwiatkowski, Lodge 169, Brenham 1969 • May 17, 2025 • Age 81
Kelli Dann Vettel, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station 1980 • January 12, 2024 • Age 59
Sally Holmes Vavra, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station 1992 • February 7, 2020 • Age 63
District Two
Joseph T. Biskup, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1970 • May 3, 2025 • Age 87
Anton J. Vrazel, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1959 • May 15, 2025 • Age 97
Eugene S. Vansa, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1961 • May 1, 2025 • Age 90
Rodney David Stabeno, Lodge 18, Elgin 1975 • May 19, 2025 • Age 69
Vonnie Ladean Stabeno, Lodge 18, Elgin 1988 • June 3, 2025 • Age 65
Daniel Creighton Huser, Lodge 20, Granger 1950 • October 28, 2018 • Age 70
Dorothy M. Klecka, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1960 • February 23, 2020 • Age 82
Irene F. Mikulencak, Lodge 29, Taylor 1966 • April 2, 2025 • Age 78
Marshall L. Lewis, Lodge 47, Seaton 2001 • April 28, 2025 • Age 77
Irene M. Cavanaugh, Lodge 80, Holland 1950 • December 8, 2024 • Age 77
Mickey Ruth Burleson, Lodge 87, Temple 2006 • July 13, 2024 • Age 87
Suzanne Meyer, Lodge 187, Round Rock 1982 • May 9, 2025 • Age 76
District Three
Ruth Frances Urbanovsky, Lodge 25, Ennis 1963 • January 20, 2025 • Age 82
James Edward Stanzel, Lodge 35, Elk 1965 • February 21, 2025 • Age 77
Willie Mae Wilkins, Lodge 66, Waco 1997 • January 16, 2025 • Age 95
George Alvin Stucky, Lodge 66, Waco 1984 • February 16, 2025 • Age 87
Charles B. Baker, Lodge 84, Dallas 1993 • May 20, 2025 • Age 73
District Four
Bobby Wayne Prichard, Lodge 73, Seymour 1999 • April 27, 2025 • Age 65
District Five
Johnie Ann Juroska, Lodge 88, Houston 1970 • April 21, 2025 • Age 91
Douglas Leon Mazoch, Lodge 88, Houston 1967 • April 23, 2025 • Age 77
Elizabeth Rose Kubala, Lodge 88, Houston 1956 • May 10, 2025 • Age 94
James R. Woodard, Lodge 97, Placedo 1987 • May 2, 2025 • Age 77
District Six
Georgia Louise Henderson, Lodge 40, El Campo–Hillje 1965 • April 23, 2025 • Age 77
Josephine P. Darilek, Lodge 40, El Campo–Hillje 1967 • May 9, 2025 • Age 84
District Seven
Henry C. Linh, Lodge 117, Robstown 1984 • March 29, 2025 • Age 82
Death Claims Paid July 2025 (Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Richard Raymond Vajdak, Jr., Lodge 9, Snook 1965 • August 24, 2024 • Age 63
Augusta S. Varner, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1971 • January 1, 2015 • Age 58
Geraldine Lindeman, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1969 • December 29, 2023 • Age 79
Irene Schumacher, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1959 • May 6, 2025 • Age 91
Elizabeth Colwell Ward, Lodge 17, New Tabor 2018 • June 13, 2025 • Age 87
Johnnie J. Janak, Lodge 38, Kovar 1952 • March 9, 2025 • Age 89
Anton William Hajek, Lodge 39, Bryan 1938 • May 10, 2025 • Age 88
B. J. Zientek, Lodge 169, Brenham 1985 • March 16, 2022 • Age 87
Shirley Ann Cmajdalka, Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 1943 • May 30, 2025 • Age 82
District Two
Doris Lamerle Zajicek, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1977 • September 21, 2022 • Age 91
Gary L. Talafuse, Lodge 15, Buckholts 2006 • June 25, 2025 • Age 72
Rodney David Stabenow, Lodge 18, Elgin 1975 • May 19, 2025 • Age 69
Ervin Lee Becker, Lodge 18, Elgin 1977 • June 4, 2025 • Age 86
Frances Ann Pechal, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1967 • July 12, 2025 • Age 81
Ronnie Lee Rieger, Lodge 29, Taylor 1973 • July 18, 2023 • Age 66
Kenneth C. Hobbs, Lodge 29, Taylor 1967 • June 21, 2025 • Age 73
Henry Elvin Rupley, Jr., Lodge 29, Taylor 1973 • November 9, 2024 • Age 82
Katherine E. Smith, Lodge 47, Seaton 1960 • January 7, 2025 • Age 64
Robert Lynn Kemble, Lodge 48, Beyersville 1971 • February 10, 2003 • Age 52
Marguerite J. Vanderford, Lodge 80, Holland 1950 • May 23, 2025 • Age 90
Darlene Neiser, Lodge 87, Temple 1951 • August 5, 2024 • Age 76
Mickey Ruth Burleson, Lodge 87, Temple 2006 • July 13, 2024 • Age 87
Marjorie F. Harper, Lodge 87, Temple 1989 • May 16, 2025 • Age 96
Lisa Cater, Lodge 177, Academy 1979 • March 18, 2023 • Age 65
Kenneth R. Werchan, Lodge 187, Round Rock 1978 • November 20, 2021 • Age 81
Mildred Jeannette Wentrcek, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 2011 • March 23, 2025 • Age 82
May Bell Weathers, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 1996 • June 6, 2025 • Age 91
Gloria Gepner, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 1994 • June 2, 2025 • Age 66
Jimmy Williams, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 2009 • July 7, 2025 • Age 75
Katherine Smith, Lodge 777, Temple 2009 • January 7, 2025 • Age 64
District Three
Gerald B. Tyler, Lodge 25, Ennis 1976 • September 26, 2022 • Age 77
Joe P. Pilat, Lodge 25, Ennis 1952 • June 5, 2025 • Age 90
Robert Earl Farmer, Lodge 35, Elk 2003 • April 28, 2025 • Age 86
Peggy Ruth Dieterich, Lodge 35, Elk 1944 • July 7, 2025 • Age 82
Gladys A. Quilter, Lodge 54, West 1987 • June 20, 2021 • Age 92
Lila Patricia Brown, Lodge 66, Waco 1938 • April 18, 2025 • Age 94
Carroll R. Simcik, Lodge 66, Waco 1984 • June 3, 2025 • Age 63
Lisa Suzanne Clay, Lodge 66, Waco 1984 • June 7, 2025 • Age 63
Norman Clarence Bailey, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1964 • April 4, 2013 • Age 68
District Four
Aileen B. Pokorny, Lodge 76, Wichita Falls 1963 • May 16, 2025 • Age 104
Bob Reynolds, Lodge 160, San Angelo 2002 • October 14, 2024 • Age 80
District Five
Lucille L. Clawson, Lodge 88, Houston 1966 • May 13, 2021 • Age 89
Thomas J. Darilek, Lodge 88, Houston 1958 • July 10, 2023 • Age 65
Warner W. Laskowski, Lodge 88, Houston 1974 • May 22, 2008 • Age 56
Joyce M. Williams, Lodge 88, Houston 1954 • October 24, 2012 • Age 59
Loretta Tomchesson, Lodge 88, Houston 1977 • February 5, 2025 • Age 79
Barbara J. Schneider, Lodge 88, Houston 1968 • November 3, 2024 • Age 89
Vlasta Mary Elzner, Lodge 88, Houston 1948 • April 6, 2025 • Age 91
William Abreo, Jr., Lodge 88, Houston 1981 • May 15, 2025 • Age 82
Nancy A. Hartig, Lodge 88, Houston 1972 • May 9, 2024 • Age 82
Thomas Jay Greer, Lodge 88, Houston 1965 • January 6, 2025 • Age 67
Mary Catherine Novak, Lodge 139, Danbury 1971 • April 5, 2025 • Age 94
Helen L. Schewe, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1984 • May 17, 2024 • Age 85
Gloria Blackstone, Lodge 191, Lufkin 1972 • April 28, 2025 • Age 78
Lori Turner, Lodge 196, Houston-West 1986 • May 10, 2025 • Age 65
District Six
Bernice M. Barborak, Lodge 23, Moravia 1954 • March 12, 2025 • Age 85
Dorothy Jean Rickaway, Lodge 32, Victoria 1999 • March 21, 2025 • Age 78
Alex V. Alvarez, Lodge 32, Victoria 2007 • July 4, 2025 • Age 82
Rosie Mae Repka, Lodge 32, Victoria 1950 • June 10, 2025 • Age 94
Irene S. Sedlock, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 2002 • April 17, 2025 • Age 88
Jarvis Mae Sczech, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1952 • June 18, 2025 • Age 90
Robert C. Marek, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1973 • June 28, 2025 • Age 94
District Seven
Carol Ann Wade, Lodge 133, San Antonio 1956 • May 31, 2013 • Age 64
Rolando G. Vargas, Lodge 133, San Antonio 2008 • June 28, 2025 • Age 72
Cecilia Hubli, Lodge 202, Jourdanton 1943 • May 24, 2025 • Age 83
Death Claims Paid August 2025
(Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
John E. Mikeska, Lodge 9, Snook 1946 • July 10, 2025 • Age 87
Ruby F. Knesek, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1953 • January 1, 2021 • Age 92
Alton D. Machan, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1959 • July 5, 2023 • Age 85
Gordon B. Richardson, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1970 • November 12, 2024 • Age 87
Lillie Mae Hivel, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1950 • June 30, 2025 • Age 94
Amelda H. Peikert, Lodge 141, Sealy 1977 • November 28, 2018 • Age 81
Kirby L. Winkelmann, Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 1954 • January 26, 2024 • Age 73
District Two
Virginia L. Williams, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1973 • July 21, 2025 • Age 90
Vonnie Ladeen Stabeno, Lodge 18, Elgin 1988 • June 3, 2025 • Age 65
Patricia A. Cavanaugh, Lodge 20, Granger 1971 • June 23, 2023 • Age 67
Thelma Naizer, Lodge 20, Granger 1947 • May 12, 2025 • Age 94
Jane Cavanaugh-Vicars, Lodge 20, Granger 1974 • January 19, 2024 • Age 87
Ramona H. Pavlas, Lodge 29, Taylor 1966 • June 5, 2025 • Age 59
Irene Kaye Michna, Lodge 29, Taylor 1992 • July 14, 2025 • Age 81
Charles G. Flink, Lodge 29, Taylor 1966 • December 11, 2024 • Age 100
Melvin Wayne Chupik, Lodge 47, Seaton 1960 • December 6, 2024 • Age 82
David Sebesta, Lodge 74, Lovelady 1945 • January 20, 2023 • Age 87
Hazel Moore, Lodge 74, Lovelady 1976 • February 17, 2021 • Age 96
William G. Grear, Lodge 87, Temple 1980 • July 30, 2025 • Age 73
Robert M. Ortiz, Lodge 155, Austin 2017 • June 13, 2025 • Age 80
Dale Allen Cater, Lodge 177, Academy 1980 • February 2, 2023 • Age 64
Jimmy C. Wooley, Lodge 177, Academy 1977 • October 28, 2024 • Age 84
Ramage Louis Streeter, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 1993 • July 16, 2025 • Age 80
District Three
Dorothy M. Kucera, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1994 • July 17, 2025 • Age 84
Catherine A. Polansky, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1939 • June 17, 2025 • Age 93
Jerry A. Trojacek, Lodge 25, Ennis 1973 • February 26, 2021 • Age 91
Darrell E. McBride, Lodge 25, Ennis 1975 • January 24, 2024 • Age 63
Richard James Goetz, Jr., Lodge 25, Ennis 2013 • July 6, 2025 • Age 72
Dorothy Langer, Lodge 25, Ennis 1967 • July 21, 2025 • Age 93
Kelly Leann Matus, Lodge 25, Ennis 1970 • July 20, 2025 • Age 55
Donald E. Steinke, Lodge 35, Elk 1966 • September 25, 2024 • Age 58
Robyn G. Reznicek, Lodge 54, West 1968 • July 16, 2018 • Age 50
Danny Ray Nors, Lodge 66, Waco 1978 • May 15, 2023 • Age 70
Vernon E. Hoppe, Lodge 66, Waco 1980 • July 21, 2025 • Age 91
Loretta Agnes Powers, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1991 • November 7, 2023 • Age 89
Patricia Robinson, Lodge 92, Fort Worth — • April 25, 2025 • Age 85
Marilyn Edith Seely, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1954 • June 13, 2025 • Age 86
Gladys F. Burkhalter, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1943 • July 29, 2025 • Age 88
Graciela Holguin, Lodge 183, Arlington 2013 • July 18, 2025 • Age 79
District Four
Anita M. Garcia, Lodge 219, El Paso 2019 • June 26, 2025 • Age 80
District Five Clara Matejka, Lodge 81, Needville 1968 • July 15, 2023 • Age 87
Joseph Duyka, Lodge 81, Needville 1970 • February 11, 2021 • Age 76
Joann Foytik, Lodge 81, Needville 1951 • July 10, 2025 • Age 85
Dolores J. Novosad, Lodge 88, Houston 1959 • February 6, 2022 • Age 83
Bobbie Lois Melcer, Lodge 88, Houston 1986 • August 24, 2024 • Age 88
Billie Jean McRae, Lodge 88, Houston 1975 • September 6, 2023 • Age 83
Patricia Jane Hodde, Lodge 88, Houston 1983 • December 28, 2024 • Age 92
Lisa Ann Wisnoski, Lodge 88, Houston 1975 • September 29, 2021 • Age 56
Sylvia Ann Vyoral, Lodge 88, Houston 1959 • March 19, 2023 • Age 85
Nancy C. Sheffield, Lodge 88, Houston 1950 • April 1, 2025 • Age 89
Sharon B. Johnson, Lodge 88, Houston 2012 • July 5, 2025 • Age 80
Earl McSpadden, Lodge 88, Houston 1969 • July 13, 2025 • Age 83
Willie V. Bohuslav, Lodge 88, Houston 1991 • March 9, 2025 • Age 93
Bobby Lee Miner, Lodge 88, Houston 1969 • July 30, 2025 • Age 92
Helen L. Blomstrom, Lodge 91, San Jacinto 1967 • April 26, 2022 • Age 87
Kathy Cravens, Lodge 91, San Jacinto 2012 • July 19, 2025 • Age 69
Marilyn J. Murray, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1973 • March 21, 2009 • Age 56
Wanda R. Leary, Lodge 191, Lufkin 1979 • August 13, 2023 • Age 84
Henry E. Bennett, Lodge 196, Houston-West 2009 • January 5, 2019 • Age 67
District Six
Joan M. Matak, Lodge 32, Victoria 1946 • April 4, 2011 • Age 83
Albert Oscar Haisler, Jr., Lodge 32, Victoria 1950 • July 1, 2025 • Age 91
Thomas H. Janota, Lodge 32, Victoria 1954 • July 23, 2025 • Age 93
Frances K. Livanec, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1967 • June 18, 2025 • Age 77
R. J. Schroeder, Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard 1947 • June 4, 2025 • Age 92
Johnnie W. Hoffman, Lodge 184, Moulton 1963 • June 25, 2025 • Age 71
District Seven
Thelma Jean Hrncir, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1946 • November 14, 2024 • Age 92
Genevieve Schwirtlich, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1948 • March 14, 2025 • Age 95
Gloria C. De La Paz, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2013 • July 5, 2025 • Age 89
Katherine K. Mills, Lodge 107, Floresville 1960 • June 17, 2024 • Age 73
William III Pattillo, Lodge 117, Robstown 1970 • November 25, 2021 • Age 67
Norma Morales Salazar, Lodge 133, San Antonio 2018 • June 10, 2025 • Age 80
Death Claims Paid
September 2025 (Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Carol Ann Broz, Lodge 1, Fayetteville 1948 • February 27, 2025 • Age 76
Bernice H. Hromadka, Lodge 1, Fayetteville 1970 • August 23, 2025 • Age 89
Roland Norris Junek, Lodge 9, Snook 1970 • May 25, 2024 • Age 63
Walter Rubach, Jr., Lodge 9, Snook 1959 • November 28, 2024 • Age 87
Edward C. Kasparek, Jr., Lodge 9, Snook 1954 • August 31, 2025 • Age 82
Myrtle M. Marek, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1971 • May 8, 2025 • Age 90
Leon F. Cash, Lodge 186, Caldwell 1973 • May 14, 2024 • Age 90
Monica Lynn Eichholz, Lodge 186, Caldwell 1985 • September 12, 2024 • Age 51
Jo Linn Wilder, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station 1971 • August 4, 2025 • Age 54
Dorothy L. Vytopil, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station 1947 • June 12, 2025 • Age 95
District Two
David Scott Mogonye, Lodge 18, Elgin 1980 • May 27, 2024 • Age 45
Janelle Mogonye, Lodge 18, Elgin 1974 • January 6, 2025 • Age 94
Lou Arbuckle, Lodge 18, Elgin 1975 • February 15, 2025 • Age 93
Randall W. Belz, Lodge 18, Elgin 1980 • May 7, 2025 • Age 64
Lovie L. Gillemister, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1938 • February 17, 2025 • Age 93
Marjorie Ann Marek, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1957 • April 26, 2022 • Age 86
Margaret Ann Urbanek, Lodge 29, Taylor 1951 • March 23, 2025 • Age 89
Theresa Lorraine Logan, Lodge 29, Taylor 1966 • August 19, 2024 • Age 75
Donny Ray Heine, Lodge 29, Taylor 1970 • February 10, 2024 • Age 84
Alvin Berryhill, Lodge 29, Taylor 1955 • August 20, 2023 • Age 83
Beatrice E. White, Lodge 47, Seaton 1947 • February 6, 2025 • Age 87
Darrell Mikulencak, Lodge 48, Beyersville 1964 • August 11, 2021 • Age 57
Linda J. Grigsby, Lodge 80, Holland 1953 • July 15, 2022 • Age 69
Johnnie M. Dickson, Lodge 87, Temple 2008 • January 16, 2025 • Age 86
David Cavazos, Lodge 87, Temple 2014 • August 15, 2025 • Age 54
Michael Emil Driska, Lodge 177, Academy 1982 • August 8, 2025 • Age 65
Harvey E. LaFlamme, Lodge 200, Bruceville–Eddy 1977 • October 29, 2023 • Age 78
Kenneth Wayne Zbranek, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 1998 • August 17, 2025 • Age 70
District Three
Milton N. Peterson, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1999 • February 19, 2023 • Age 81
Kenneth Wayne Toupal, Lodge 25, Ennis 1961 • July 5, 2025 • Age 71
Joe G. Tepe, Lodge 35, Elk 1976 • August 7, 2025 • Age 86
Irene Emma Janke, Lodge 66, Waco 1957 • July 16, 2019 • Age 93
William R. Adamcik, Lodge 66, Waco 1957 • August 18, 2025 • Age 85
Ronald J. Gerik, Sr., Lodge 66, Waco 1978 • December 13, 2024 • Age 71
Edward C. Diogu, Lodge 84, Dallas 2010 • August 3, 2025 • Age 81
Judy Elouise Green, Lodge 84, Dallas 1985 • April 1, 2024 • Age 85
Judy Lynn Bouska, Lodge 84, Dallas 1959 • March 25, 2025 • Age 82
Naomi L. Balusek, Lodge 130, Dallas 1970 • July 7, 2021 • Age 98
Fred Donald Merlick, Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1946 • May 30, 2023 • Age 87
Leona Tesar, Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1945 • August 3, 2025 • Age 96
Gerald E. Parker, Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1975 • August 21, 2025 • Age 85
Tim W. Culliton, Lodge 183, Arlington 2002 • August 13, 2025 • Age 73
District Four
Charles E. Hoelscher, Lodge 49, Rowena 1977 • June 6, 2022 • Age 90
Nicholas Alexander Bukis, Lodge 49, Rowena 2007 • September 7, 2025 • Age 83
John J. Laushman, Jr., Lodge 73, Seymour 1952 • August 16, 2025 • Age 73
Elizabeth Ann Hopkins, Lodge 76, Wichita Falls 1952 • August 28, 2025 • Age 73
Georgia Mae Pohl, Lodge 160, San Angelo 1947 • August 30, 2025 • Age 97
Alejandra L. Carrera De Hernandez, Lodge 219, El Paso 2022 • August 21, 2025 • Age 78
Edna E. Stringer, Lodge 229, Abilene 2012 • August 24, 2025 • Age 83
District Five
Lydia Ann Matula, Lodge 28, East Bernard 1952 • August 19, 2025 • Age 94
Laddie E. Cerny, Lodge 81, Needville 1960 • September 3, 2025 • Age 91
Clifford J. Machart, Lodge 81, Needville 1953 • July 9, 2025 • Age 92
Carolyn J. Jecmenek, Lodge 81, Needville 1953 • September 1, 2025 • Age 93
James C. Magee, Lodge 88, Houston 1970 • May 12, 2025 • Age 79
Betty Joyce Valenta, Lodge 88, Houston 1959 • May 6, 2025 • Age 91
Helen J. Hrachovy, Lodge 88, Houston 1970 • August 27, 2025 • Age 98
Thomas Wayne Valenta, Lodge 88, Houston 1966 • July 22, 2025 • Age 85
Helen R. Mills, Lodge 88, Houston 1954 • June 15, 2025 • Age 94
Margaret E. Hebert, Lodge 88, Houston 1974 • July 28, 2025 • Age 79
Annie Mae Piwetz, Lodge 88, Houston 1947 • July 26, 2025 • Age 98
Willie J. Novosad, Lodge 88, Houston 1950 • September 1, 2025 • Age 96
Mildred L. Socha, Lodge 88, Houston 1947 • September 7, 2025 • Age 98
Michael D. Nanik, Lodge 88, Houston 1993 • August 21, 2025 • Age 64
Pauline E. Maher, Lodge 88, Houston 1955 • August 13, 2025 • Age 93
Lillian M. Bolech, Lodge 88, Houston 1950 • August 29, 2025 • Age 99
Frank J. Walzel, Lodge 139, Danbury 1970 • August 28, 2025 • Age 89
Joyce Ann Eason, Lodge 191, Lufkin 1997 • September 2, 2025 • Age 87
Raymond Lee Young, Lodge 191, Lufkin 2001 • August 21, 2025 • Age 86
District Six
Victor D. Schindler, Lodge 4, Hallettsville 1975 • July 27, 2025 • Age 72
Marvin A. Kutach, Lodge 30, Taiton 1953 • August 22, 2025 • Age 94
Georgia Ann Jasek, Lodge 32, Victoria 1966 • August 27, 2025 • Age 81
Bennie J. Mica, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1960 • August 16, 2025 • Age 85
Joe A. Kana, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1961 • September 2, 2025 • Age 88
Evelyn M. Gerlich, Lodge 148, El Maton 1969 • September 4, 2025 • Age 85
District Seven
Victoriano A. Reyes, Lodge 107, Floresville 2004 • August 25, 2025 • Age 83
Anita M. Popp, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1960 • July 14, 2025 • Age 83
Olga B. Rodriguez, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2006 • August 28, 2025 • Age 82
Charles W. Smajstrla, Lodge 107, Floresville 1953 • August 26, 2025 • Age 94
Evelyn R. Klepac, Lodge 202, Jourdanton 1950 • September 6, 2025 • Age 93
Death Claims Paid October 2025 (Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Barbara J. Skrabanek, Lodge 9, Snook 1975 • July 1, 2025 • Age 77
Mark Henry Kovar, Lodge 9, Snook 1959 • September 13, 2025 • Age 73
Michael E. Kubena, Lodge 13, Dime Box 1976 • February 24, 2023 • Age 65
Archie Kubena, Lodge 13, Dime Box 1979 • February 28, 2025 • Age 64
Franklin William Maresh, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1940 • October 2, 2018 • Age 79
Charles Kornegay, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1944 • September 4, 2025 • Age 95
Millie J. Welch, Lodge 67, Schulenburg-Weimar 1953 • August 23, 2025 • Age 85
Minnie Jean Kimbell, Lodge 141, Sealy 1951 • July 1, 2024 • Age 95
Larry A. Sodek, Lodge 179, Warrenton 2003 • September 11, 2025 • Age 73
Mattie C. Noviskie, Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 1970 • March 26, 2011 • Age 86
Delton Elgin Fick, Lodge 201, Bleiblerville-Nelsonville 1948 • November 30, 2022 • Age 79
District Two
Carl W. Cole, Lodge 18, Elgin 1968 • May 12, 2025 • Age 83
Donald August Kovar, Lodge 20, Granger 1966 • August 17, 2024 • Age 91
Joshua Thomas Park, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1987 • September 22, 2025 • Age 41
Dorothy Jane Pace, Lodge 24, Cyclone 1944 • August 14, 2025 • Age 83
Dorothy G. Hirt, Lodge 29, Taylor 1954 • May 27, 2025 • Age 92
Kenneth Allen Jarosek, Lodge 29, Taylor 1984 • July 29, 2025 • Age 75
Ada B. Staton, Lodge 29, Taylor 1975 • September 20, 2025 • Age 86
Jackie L. Shelton, Lodge 29, Taylor 1947 • October 1, 2024 • Age 89
Marile Gena Cook, Lodge 47, Seaton 1968 • July 30, 2025 • Age 61
David Cavazos, Lodge 87, Temple 2014 • August 15, 2025 • Age 54
Julia Ann Juroska, Lodge 87, Temple 1956 • June 8, 2023 • Age 86
Rita Diaz, Lodge 155, Austin 2025 • September 16, 2025 • Age 80
Rhonda G. Daniel, Lodge 177, Academy 1983 • December 10, 2021 • Age 43
Ruth Irene Hollas, Lodge 177, Academy 1965 • September 13, 2024 • Age 89
Alan Leonard Pelzel, Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point 1972 • October 17, 2025 • Age 74
District Three
Nancy R. Philpott, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 2013 • August 18, 2025 • Age 82
Leonard Gary Beseda, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1972 • September 1, 2025 • Age 77
Eddie Marie Kolar, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1995 • September 10, 2025 • Age 83
Helen Novy, Lodge 25, Ennis 1977 • August 4, 2025 • Age 86
Norma M. Tinkle, Lodge 35, Elk 1970 • September 24, 2025 • Age 98
Agnes Irene Wolf, Lodge 54, West 1967 • September 27, 2025 • Age 87
Kevin Wayne Chupik, Lodge 54, West 1974 • October 5, 2025 • Age 58
Kimberly Forrest Frazier, Lodge 84, Dallas 1993 • August 8, 2019 • Age 42
Leonard S. Patak, Lodge 84, Dallas 1960 • February 3, 2025 • Age 80
Justina Libby Kutil, Lodge 84, Dallas 1997 • May 25, 2025 • Age 88
Patricia A. Patak, Lodge 84, Dallas 1957 • September 18, 2025 • Age 80
Joan G. Troxell, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1959 • April 16, 2019 • Age 74
Ruby W. Horton, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1993 • August 28, 2025 • Age 97
Pauline Jewett, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1946 • September 10, 2025 • Age 94
Lavanda B. Cannon, Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1979 • March 2, 2014 • Age 84
Coke Loyd Gage Jr., Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1984 • September 23, 2025 • Age 78
Willie C. Vaughan, Lodge 180, Burleson 1977 • September 10, 2018 • Age 87
Cynthia Lynn Milburn, Lodge 180, Burleson 1979 • July 25, 2025 • Age 63
John Neely, Lodge 183, Arlington 2022 • October 1, 2025 • Age 82
Thelma Lee Trojan, Lodge 183, Arlington — • August 13, 2025 • Age 93
District Four
Raul G. Mojica, Lodge 157, Lubbock 2005 • September 20, 2025 • Age 68
District Five
Henry Ondrey Jr., Lodge 81, Needville 1969 • August 30, 2023 • Age 90
Stanley John Spacek, Lodge 81, Needville 1940 • September 4, 2025 • Age 91
Stephen B. Pearson, Lodge 81, Needville 1966 • October 22, 2022 • Age 60
Todd Alan Pearson, Lodge 81, Needville 1968 • October 25, 2023 • Age 56
Dorothy Blinka, Lodge 81, Needville 1970 • September 18, 2025 • Age 88
Francis Felcman, Lodge 81, Needville 1953 • April 27, 2025 • Age 87
Jody W. Brazda, Lodge 81, Needville 1981 • May 19, 2025 • Age 57
Karol Kay Ognoskie, Lodge 88, Houston 1978 • June 23, 2022 • Age 65
Angeline Birkelbach, Lodge 88, Houston 1977 • February 24, 2022 • Age 93
Doris R. Halamicek, Lodge 88, Houston 1954 • July 28, 2022 • Age 94
David W. Honsensee, Lodge 88, Houston 1962 • December 15, 2022 • Age 60
Robert Allen Jircik, Lodge 88, Houston 1950 • November 29, 2014 • Age 92
Brenda Snider Bell, Lodge 88, Houston 1988 • May 27, 2016 • Age 57
Jerome L. Listvan, Lodge 88, Houston 1972 • September 13, 2025 • Age 73
Ivan John Anders, Lodge 88, Houston 1965 • June 4, 2025 • Age 98
James E. Marek, Lodge 91, San Jacinto 1949 • September 8, 2025 • Age 92
Teresa L. Geissen, Lodge 139, Danbury 1968 • September 27, 2025 • Age 83
Maurine Patterson, Lodge 142, Houston 1979 • October 11, 2016 • Age 90
Robert C. Schank, Lodge 142, Houston 1954 • June 3, 2022 • Age 84
Ruth Pauline Whitaker, Lodge 142, Houston 1937 • July 1, 2008 • Age 75
Willie Lee Lambert, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1992 • June 9, 2022 • Age 92
Sharon Ann Kucera, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1965 • February 14, 2024 • Age 81
Gary L. Butler, Lodge 191, Lufkin 1974 • June 23, 2012 • Age 55
District Six
Paul O. Voelkel, Lodge 4, Hallettsville 1958 • December 22, 2023 • Age 84
Hattie Konvicka Woodburn, Lodge 30, Taiton 1964 • September 9, 2025 • Age 80
Warren G. Kolar, Lodge 32, Victoria 1945 • February 9, 2025 • Age 86
Carl Percy Jager, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1971 • March 13, 2025 • Age 87
William B. Jalufka, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1955 • January 10, 2019 • Age 81
Jeanette M. Preuss, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1954 • August 17, 2024 • Age 77
Aurora Martinez Garcia, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 2010 • September 27, 2025 • Age 89
Joseph Paul Wendt, Lodge 63, Sweet Home 1939 • September 21, 2023 • Age 86
Ann Carolin Reed, Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard 1958 • August 22, 2025 • Age 85
Johnnie Schacher Jr., Lodge 184, Moulton 1962 • April 17, 2016 • Age 74
District Seven
Edna Mae Chong, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2010 • August 26, 2024 • Age 70
Fernando Javier Aguas, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2008 • July 25, 2024 • Age 56
Dorothy Ploch Franta, Lodge 107, Floresville 1952 • September 29, 2022 • Age 86
Guadalupe Cardona, Lodge 107, Floresville 2009 • August 28, 2025 • Age 74
Delia Resendez, Lodge 107, Floresville 2006 • October 8, 2025 • Age 76
Leroy Kunz, Lodge 133, San Antonio 1959 • July 3, 2018 • Age 78
Jo Ann Hosek, Lodge 202, Jourdanton 1962 • April 20, 2024 • Age 80
Death Claims Paid
November 2025
(Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Lucille Leitko, Lodge 13, Dime Box 1981 • September 5, 2025 • Age 87
Bruce Allen Clark, Lodge 17, New Tabor 1974 • August 31, 2025 • Age 68
Peggy Joyce Peschel, Lodge 141, Sealy 1941 • April 9, 2021 • Age 79
Steven W. Landes, Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station 1987 • November 5, 2025 • Age 63
District Two
Mary Irene Burtis, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1947 • November 9, 2022 • Age 79
Sandra Kay Peterson, Lodge 18, Elgin 1975 • September 15, 2025 • Age 80
Bessie Rose Dobias, Lodge 20, Granger 1949 • October 25, 2025 • Age 83
Willie Schlickeisen, Jr., Lodge 29, Taylor 1948 • January 24, 2022 • Age 83
Lois E. Lenz, Lodge 29, Taylor 1970 • July 28, 2023 • Age 82
Patricia Joan Schlickeisen, Lodge 29, Taylor 1950 • February 1, 2021 • Age 78
K. L. McConchie, Jr., Lodge 29, Taylor 1965 • December 13, 2024 • Age 83
Carolyn S. Langston, Lodge 47, Seaton 1947 • September 13, 2025 • Age 78
Frances Carol McGill, Lodge 80, Holland 1953 • August 12, 2025 • Age 84
Charles E. Jezek, Lodge 177, Academy 1954 • March 10, 2018 • Age 76
District Three
Theresa J. McHargue, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 2007 • October 14, 2025 • Age 64
Edwin J. Husak, Lodge 6, Cottonwood 1996 • October 21, 2025 • Age 91
Robert William Paris, Lodge 35, Elk 1947 • January 2, 2021 • Age 83
Johnnie M. Hollmon, Lodge 66, Waco 2007 • January 15, 2024 • Age 80
Lanell Brem, Lodge 66, Waco 1954 • September 10, 2025 • Age 81
Marie Ora Shulenburger, Lodge 66, Waco 1998 • October 18, 2025 • Age 91
Eileen Marie Kubala, Lodge 66, Waco 1983 • October 13, 2025 • Age 67
Elaine Skrabanek, Lodge 84, Dallas 1961 • November 21, 2020 • Age 83
Benjamin Frank Maca, Lodge 84, Dallas 1959 • January 8, 2015 • Age 73
Raymond Lee Syblik, Lodge 84, Dallas 1960 • August 6, 2024 • Age 79
Joe Leonard Dearing, Sr., Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1963 • September 24, 2025 • Age 88
Nancy Belle Alcorn, Lodge 154, Fort Worth 1945 • February 16, 2019 • Age 76
District Four
Elizabeth J. Hilbers, Lodge 73, Seymour 1951 • October 22, 2025 • Age 88
District Five
Janet Melliott, Lodge 88, Houston 1946 • May 4, 2017 • Age 77
Marjorie F. Colon, Lodge 88, Houston 1969 • September 24, 2025 • Age 78
Anna May Dibbern, Lodge 88, Houston 1967 • September 19, 2025 • Age 95
Roger G. Bobalik, Sr., Lodge 91, San Jacinto 1969 • April 3, 2022 • Age 63
Doyle H. Koehler, Lodge 142, Houston 1960 • January 30, 2022 • Age 79
Joe A. Velazquez, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1982 • October 9, 2025 • Age 87
Bryan Keith Edwards, Lodge 172, Pasadena 2003 • September 1, 2025 • Age 66
Victor J. Machac, Lodge 196, Houston-West 1954 • September 4, 2023 • Age 86
Joseph Machac, Jr., Lodge 196, Houston-West 1971 • June 12, 2024 • Age 78
District Six
Allen Phillip Smiga, Lodge 32, Victoria 1957 • October 18, 2025 • Age 69
William B. Jalufka, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1955 • January 10, 2019 • Age 81
Irene Hurta, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1951 • April 4, 2020 • Age 82
Barbara J. Rutledge, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1959 • November 20, 2014 • Age 71
Dorothy Mae Kacal, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1959 • December 20, 2018 • Age 85
Margie Ann Sklar, Lodge 97, Placedo 1947 • October 5, 2025 • Age 94
District Seven
Billy Joe Hurta, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1951 • April 24, 2022 • Age 86
George Edward Ligocky, Lodge 133, San Antonio 1955 • January 24, 2023 • Age 83
Marie R. McClure, Lodge 133, San Antonio 2008 • October 9, 2025 • Age 92
Ruby Swinney, Lodge 202, Jourdanton 1954 • May 13, 2022 • Age 80
Death Claims Paid
December 2025
(Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Jacobo Banda, Lodge 9, Snook 2015 • November 8, 2025 • Age 55
District Two
Margaret N. Henze, Lodge 18, Elgin 1975 • November 17, 2023 • Age 77
David Scott Mogonye, Lodge 18, Elgin 1980 • May 27, 2024 • Age 45
William Martin Chudej, Jr., Lodge 24, Cyclone 1940 • April 26, 2014 • Age 74
Willie Schlickeisen, Jr., Lodge 29, Taylor 1948 • January 24, 2022 • Age 83
William Hickman, Jr., Lodge 29, Taylor 1978 • September 15, 2023 • Age 84
Patriciann Coufal, Lodge 47, Seaton 1994 • October 24, 2020 • Age 73
Monica L. Mikeska, Lodge 47, Seaton 1978 • October 30, 2025 • Age 74
Joe Carroll, Jr., Lodge 47, Seaton 1970 • November 17, 2025 • Age 81
Elsie Rose Jez, Lodge 47, Seaton 1986 • December 3, 2025 • Age 92
Dianah R. Edwards, Lodge 87, Temple 1976 • May 11, 2023 • Age 80
Jesse Morales, Lodge 155, Austin 2004 • November 12, 2025 • Age 69
District Three
Darrell E. McBride, Lodge 25, Ennis 1975 • January 24, 2024 • Age 63
William J. Vitovsky, Lodge 25, Ennis 1969 • July 18, 2025 • Age 84
Edna Christine Malcik, Lodge 25, Ennis 1950 • October 6, 2025 • Age 91
Wesley Gene Knize, Lodge 25, Ennis 1973 • November 6, 2025 • Age 83
Ewing D. Perry, Lodge 35, Elk 1971 • August 24, 2008 • Age 61
Marie Ora Shulenburger, Lodge 66, Waco 1998 • October 18, 2025 • Age 91
Doris Mae Overstreet, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1985 • September 11, 2025 • Age 95
Crystal Ann Moon, Lodge 183, Arlington 1988 • September 29, 2025 • Age 47
Arthur E. Dial, Lodge 183, Arlington 2023 • October 22, 2025 • Age 81
District Four
Willie Naomi Bunch, Lodge 219, El Paso 2006 • November 13, 2025 • Age 84
Henry Lowery Bunch, Lodge 219, El Paso 2006 • November 17, 2025 • Age 86
District Five
Marvin Psencik, Lodge 81, Needville 1979 • May 4, 1994 • Age 47
Beverly Frenzel Roark, Lodge 81, Needville 1954 • November 10, 2025 • Age 71
Gloria Jean Krancher, Lodge 88, Houston 1968 • August 4, 2018 • Age 76
James Allen Prasifka, Lodge 88, Houston 1946 • January 7, 2018 • Age 71
Euna L. Bonora, Lodge 88, Houston 1967 • February 21, 2025 • Age 96
Jared John Kopecky, Lodge 142, Houston 1984 • January 31, 2025 • Age 43
Rose Mary Tanecka, Lodge 172, Pasadena 1981 • October 30, 2025 • Age 85
Cade Thomas Mervin, Lodge 191, Lufkin 2004 • September 21, 2025 • Age 21
Megan Lashell Scogin, Lodge 191, Lufkin 2001 • November 26, 2025 • Age 29
District Six
Marvin L. Kucera, Lodge 32, Victoria 1963 • March 26, 2022 • Age 75
Anna Lorene Rhoades, Lodge 32, Victoria 1947 • October 3, 2025 • Age 84
JoAnn Tullis, Lodge 32, Victoria 1962 • August 30, 2025 • Age 81
Barbara Sue Luksovsky, Lodge 184, Moulton 1957 • October 16, 2024 • Age 84
District Seven
Ronald L. Regmund, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1963 • October 22, 2025 • Age 80
Death Claims Paid January 2026
(Year joined • Date of death • Age)
District One
Bernita Ann Hlinsky, Lodge 1, Fayetteville 1954 • November 29, 2025 • Age 72
Robert F. Vitek, Lodge 1, Fayetteville 2005 • November 10, 2025 • Age 78
Allen Helmcamp, Lodge 39, Bryan 1977 • December 15, 2023 • Age 81
Jackie Faye Derrick, Lodge 39, Bryan 2007 • January 2, 2025 • Age 78
District Two
Leonard Doskocil, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1960 • December 26, 2020 • Age 84
David Hertenberger, Lodge 15, Buckholts 1979 • March 19, 2025 • Age 75
Johnathan Wesley Davis, Lodge 15, Buckholts
1975 • February 7, 2024 • Age 49
Sheryl Arbuckle Green, Lodge 18, Elgin 1974 • August 25, 2022 • Age 65
Lorene Ruth Beatty, Lodge 20, Granger 1965 • January 25, 2021 • Age 84
Johnnie Pospisil, Lodge 29, Taylor 1953 • November 30, 2025 • Age 84
Jerrie J. Barabas, Lodge 80, Holland
1967 • December 18, 2025 • Age 86
Glenda Faye Moss, Lodge 87, Temple 1980 • December 10, 2025 • Age 88
Jesse Morales, Lodge 155, Austin 2004 • November 12, 2025 • Age 69
District Three
Robert William Paris, Lodge 35, Elk 1947 • January 2, 2021 • Age 83
Donald Leon Gibson, Lodge 54, West 1951 • December 9, 2025 • Age 87
Janet Kirkpatrick, Lodge 66, Waco 1976 • September 2, 2023 • Age 81
Mark D. Poe, Lodge 66, Waco 1976 • April 4, 2011 • Age 59
Sara G. Doss, Lodge 66, Waco 1997 • November 25, 2025 • Age 95
James Wayne Novak, Lodge 84, Dallas 1973 • December 3, 2025 • Age 73
Irma D. Meza, Lodge 84, Dallas 2017 • December 14, 2025 • Age 88
Mary Jane Kane, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1951 • February 1, 2025 • Age 87
Lorene Louise Harrell, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1989 • November 11, 2025 • Age 92
Pamela A. Price, Lodge 92, Fort Worth 1947 • August 24, 2025 • Age 78
District Four
Ralph Boyd Chalfant, Lodge 160, San Angelo 2019 • November 30, 2025 • Age 79
Alberto Leon Meza, Lodge 219, El Paso 2007 • November 30, 2025 • Age 87
District Five
Rosella Glenz, Lodge 81, Needville 1950 • June 17, 2002 • Age 65
William J. Zela, Lodge 81, Needville 1973 • December 23, 2025 • Age 82
Darlene Langlotz, Lodge 81, Needville 1951 • February 5, 2025 • Age 94
Michael G. Sabrsula, Lodge 81, Needville 1981 • November 8, 2024 • Age 72
Euna L. Bonora, Lodge 88, Houston 1967 • February 21, 2025 • Age 96
Marcia A. Melnar, Lodge 88, Houston 1961 • February 11, 2025 • Age 85
Catherine R. Bannister, Lodge 88, Houston 1973 • December 7, 2025 • Age 82
Wallace Henry Jahns, Lodge 88, Houston 1970 • December 20, 2025 • Age 87
Charlotte A. Faulkner, Lodge 91, San Jacinto 1992 • December 9, 2025 • Age 83
Jerry S. Hlozek, Lodge 196, Houston-West 1979 • April 24, 2024 • Age 46
District Six
Leon L. Kahanek, Jr., Lodge 4, Hallettsville 1951 • April 29, 2012 • Age 80
David D. Kresta, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1948 • February 24, 2024 • Age 76
Dorothy Marie Faas, Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje 1978 • October 22, 2024 • Age 92
Tasha R. Balzer, Lodge 63, Sweet Home 1990 • March 30, 2024 • Age 43
District Seven
Charles Edward Huff, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1963 • June 24, 2025 • Age 67
Shawn Roy Peal, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 1969 • October 14, 2025 • Age 56
Rufina Phillips, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2018 • October 14, 2025 • Age 76
Maria S. Gongora, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2009 • March 25, 2025 • Age 90
Eligio V. Cueva, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi 2007 • November 23, 2025 • Age 79 —SPJST—
Bronze SPJST Cemetery Markers
Bronze SPJST cemetery markers are available for purchase through the Home Office for $20 a piece. Price includes shipping and handling. The markers measure three inches in diameter and include a fourinch threaded post for mounting. To purchase or for more information, call the Home Office at 800-727-7578
SPJST
YOUTH SECTION
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
JOIN THE ADULT CAMP EXPERIENCE WHILE THE YOUTH ARE AT CAMP THIS SUMMER.
A WEEK WITH NO AGENDA AND ALL FUN AT CAMP COMFORT
THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BE AROUND FRIENDS FROM ACROSS THE STATE OR CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE IN THE HILL COUNTRY. BOOK YOUR ROOM NOW AS SPACE IS LIMITED AT CAMP COMFORT. PRICES RANGE FROM $316-$565.50 FOR JUNE 28-JULY 2 PLUS TAX DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF ROOM SELECTED. RESERVATIONS CAN BE MADE AT AT WWW.CAMP-COMFORT.COM
IF YOUR ARE DECIDING TO JOIN US OR HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ADULT CAMP, CONTACT :
DOUGLAS GALLER AT 254-722-7307 or JASON BECKENDORF AT 254-379-2203
CAMP COMFORT 601 WATER STREET, COMFORT, TX 78013
Join the fun at Adult Camp in Texas Hill Country while youth attend summer camp
Dear Members, Join the Adult Camp experience while the youth are at camp this summer. A week with no agenda and all fun at Camp Comfort!
Camp Comfort is conveniently 20 minutes from Kerrville and Boerne, and 30 minutes from Fredericksburg. This is a great opportunity to be around friends from across the state, or create your own adventure in the Hill Coun-
Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club collects 378 pounds of food
for local families
The Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club demonstrated the true spirit of community service by organizing a food drive that ran from November 2 to December 3, 2025. The youth members worked diligently to collect non-perishable items for the "Food for Families" drive, which serves residents throughout Burleson County. By the end of the initiative, the group had collected an impressive 378 pounds of food. A total of 26 youth members and 7 adult members participated in the effort, contributing 33 combined volunteer hours to the cause. The donations, valued at $500.00, were gathered at New Tabor Hall in Caldwell before being distributed to local families in need.
try. Prices range from $316 to $565.50 for the week, plus tax, depending on the type of room selected. Reservations can be made at www.campcomfort.com.
Availability is limited, but The Meyer Hotel is also located along Cypress Creek in Comfort and is a twominute drive from Camp Comfort.
If you are deciding to join us or have questions about Adult Camp, contact Douglas Galler at 254-722-7307 or Jason Beckendorf at 254-379-2203. Fraternally, Douglas Galler Lodge 66, Waco —SPJST—
Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club donates to Wounded Veterans
Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club members, from left, Kara Ransom, Della Miksch, and Alexa Ransom show off the stamps they collected for the Stamps for the Wounded Veterans services. Not pictured is Tatiana Poldrack who also brought in her stamps to donate.
Hello SPJST,
For the month of February I spent the majority of my time focused on school, cracking down on college work and planning future service projects.
On February 10 and February 24, I went to my hometown food pantry, 5 Loaves and 2 Fish, and volunteered helping pack boxes of cans, bread, and many other things. I also helped pass out the boxes and apples to families who needed them.
For March our Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Palmer and I have been working together to establish a food drive in Needville.
My goal this year is to make an impact in as many SPJST Districts as I can. This March, Kaylee and I invite you to join us as we push to make a positive impact in SPJST District 5.
Kaylee created a flyer, featured here. She is handing it out to her lodge and posting on her moms - and SPJST’s - socials to try and get the word out for the food drive. We agreed on the Immanuel Evangelical Church Food Pantry to donate what we get at the food drive to. Our goal is to receive at least 300 pounds of food to be able to donate back to the community to help others in hunger.
Ways you can help: monetary donations, donating foods such as canned meats, soups, pasta, cereal, Hamburger helper - any shelf-stable products. You can also view my plans and past services on my Miss SPJST blog, spjst.org/miss/.
Please join Kaylee and me March 15 in Needville Texas at Lodge 81, 13609 Violet St, Needville, Texas, as we collect donations from 1 to 2 p.m. for the Immanuel Evangelical Church Food Pantry. Come out and support in any way you can! We’d love to have you.
Fraternally yours, Miss SPJST Paetyn Beckendorf —SPJST—
Hello people of SPJST, It is Mr SPJST, Levi McAdams and I'm happy to announce that we are finally getting the ball rolling. We are talking with Creative Waco to bring theater, puppets, and a friend to those kids who don't have one. We've talked a bit and we are waiting for a response. I will call to follow back soon but nothing is official yet. Hopefully we will be able to work with them and have a good time while being at it. To spread theater through puppetry, I thought it was a good idea for kids who don't have friends they can reside in the puppet. I'm sharing my love for theater using it to unite people, and to show the youth of Texas that SPJST is not only a place but a home for all.
Fraternally, Mr. SPJST Levi McAdams Lodge 66, Waco —SPJST—
Join us for the District 5 food drive in Needville!
Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Group celebrates autumn with snacks and hayride
On November 2, 2025, the Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club met at New Tabor Hall in Caldwell for their monthly meeting and a special seasonal social. The afternoon was filled with productivity and fun, featuring a standard business meeting followed by door prizes and snacks for all attendees.
Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club shares the warmth
one would be extra special! Bring along a small notebook and keep track of how many you spot.
Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club contributed items for “Share the Warmth” Caring Challenge ahead of the first freeze for 2026. These care packages included hats, gloves, socks, body warming packs, tissues, and snacks with an encouraging message. The adult lodge contributed some coats as well. These donations were distributed to Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry in Taylor, Texas, on January 22, 2026.
—Jennifer Miksch Secretary/Reporter
�� Create and Dress Up
��
St. Patrick’s Day Fun
Just for You!
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on March 17. It honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and over time it has become a joyful holiday filled with green, shamrocks, parades, and lots of fun traditions around the world. While adults may celebrate in their own ways, St. Patrick’s Day can be just as exciting for kids!
festive. Serve it in a clear cup so you can see the bright green sparkle!
�� Plan a Lucky Scavenger Hunt
Create your own St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt at home or in your yard. Make a short list of green or Irishthemed items to find — something green, a coin, a rainbow drawing, a clover, or even a gold-wrapped candy. You can hide small prizes or write silly clues to make it more exciting. Invite siblings or friends to join and see who can find everything first!
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to get creative. Make your own paper shamrocks, design a leprechaun hat, or decorate a crown with green and gold. You could even create a rainbow craft with a “pot of gold” at the end using cotton balls and construction paper. Then dress up in your favorite green shirt, fun socks, or homemade accessories.
St. Patrick’s Day is all about celebrating, learning, and having fun. Whether you’re hunting for shamrocks, making crafts, or enjoying a parade, there are so many ways you can make the day lucky and memorable. (MS)
�� Go to a Parade
If your town is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day parade, ask your family if you can attend! You might see marching bands, dancers, colorful floats, and people dressed in bright green outfits. Keep your eyes open for bagpipers and maybe even a leprechaun or two. Don’t forget to wear something green so you don’t get “pinched” for forgetting!
�� Make a Lucky Drink
Hosting a celebration at home? Help create a fun, kid-friendly drink. Try mixing lemon-lime soda with a scoop of lime sherbet for a fizzy “Leprechaun Float.” You can even add a drop of green food coloring to make it extra
�� Discover Cool Facts
Did you know St. Patrick wasn’t actually born in Ireland? He was born in Britain! And believe it or not, he was first associated with the color blue — not green. You can look up more surprising facts about St. Patrick and share them with your family at dinner. You might become the St. Patrick’s Day expert in your house!
—SPJST—
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi wishes Zackery Rew a happy birthday!
Happy January birthday to Zackery Rew! He celebrated his special day on January 10 and was recognized at the lodge’s meeting on January 18, 2026.
—Virginia Rebecek, Secretary
�� Go on a Shamrock Hunt
St. Patrick is said to have used the three-leaf shamrock to teach about the Holy Trinity. If the weather is nice, head outside and look for clovers in the grass. See if you can find a lucky fourleaf clover — they’re rare, so finding
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club donates to Lady of the Angel
Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club hosted a baby shower at the February meeting. All items were donated to Our Lady of the Angel in Temple. TOP LEFT: Tristan Martinez won the dirty diaper game by guessing all the correct candy bars. TOP RIGHT: Everhett Bartek and Carson Erskine won on the baby bottle guessing game.
—Amber Bartek, Youth Leader
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´
Temple’s Czech Heritage Museum outlines relocation plans, opportunities for growth
On Sunday, February 15, the SPJST Home Office hosted a well attended program outlining the evolving vision for the Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center. The event drew an estimated 100 attendees, reflecting strong community interest and continued public support for the museum’s growth and future direction.
SPJST Foundation President Brian Vanicek delivered the primary presentation, beginning with a historical and cultural overview that highlighted the museum’s mission to preserve and energize Czech Texan heritage. The remarks included:
• A reflection on the legacy of early Czech settlers in Texas and the museum’s role as both a guardian of artifacts and a storyteller for future generations.
• An update on the museum’s community programming, including the success of the Night at the Museum series—which has consistently exceeded expectations and underscored the limitations of the museum’s current facility.
• A clear articulation of the SPJST Foundation’s goal to create a more interactive, flexible, and engaging museum experience through relocation into the SPJST Home Office building.
Architectural Vision Presented
A major portion of the program featured early design concepts from Pillar Architecture Studio. Representatives Taylor Stumberg and Randy Stumberg presented:
• Conceptual renderings illustrating how the museum could be integrated into the Home Office.
• Ideas for interactive exhibits, flexible gallery and theatre space, and redesigned lobby areas that reflect the vibrancy of Czech culture.
• Preliminary thoughts regarding visitor flow, community engagement spaces, and the integration of technology to enhance the interpretive experience.
• Their participation communicated to attendees that the project is being approached collaboratively, professionally, and with attention to long term sustainability.
The event, which included a Czech svacina and social, benefited from exceptional volunteer support. Members of the Museum Advisory Committee, their spouses, and Home Office personnel helped with hospitality, and coordination, contributing to a smooth and successful program.
The strong turnout, positive reactions, and engaged audience questions collectively underscored broad interest in the museum’s next chapter and enthusiasm for the direction being charted.
“The event helped position the museum’s relocation and reinvention not merely as a facilities update, but as an opportunity to expand outreach, programming, and cultural impact across Temple and beyond,” says Vanicek.
Upcoming Night at the Museum Program
Early in his presentation, Vanicek referenced the Museum’s Night at the Museum series—and the next event is right around the corner!
Temple audiences will have a rare opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most cherished musical traditions when Babouci, the oldest South Bohemian brass band, performs at Temple’s Cultural Activities Center on Tuesday, April 14. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the program begins at 7 p.m.
• Adult admission: $10
• Children 12 and under: Free with an accompanying adult
• Tickets available: At the SPJST Home Office Building in Temple or online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/czechheritage-museums-night-at-the-museum-babouci-tickets-1982233302167? aff=oddtdtcreator
This special evening promises more than a concert—it offers a journey into the heart of Czech culture through traditional brass band music known as dechovka, a genre deeply rooted in community, history, and shared emotion. The Cultural Activities Center is located at 3011 North Third Street in Temple.
—SPJST—
Moravian ensemble Harafica visits Texas
The acclaimed Moravian cimbalom ensemble Harafica will be touring Texas in late February and early March. Current concert dates and locations are:
Friday, February 27 - 7 to 10 p.m. Houston Czech Center Museum
Saturday, February 28 - 6 to 10 p.m.
Austin Czech and Slovak Ball Headliners Club
Sunday, March 1 - 12 to 4 p.m. Barton Creek Country Club
Thursday, March 5 - 6 to 9:30 p.m. Moravia Store (Schulenburg Vicinity)
About Harafica
Harafica is one of the leading representatives of Moravian cimbalom music and a vibrant force in the folklore traditions of the Uherské Hradiště region of the Czech Republic. Formed in 1999 and performing independently since 2005, the ensemble is led by primáš (lead violinist) Martin Melichárek and artistic director/cimbalom player Petr Gablas. Their performances seamlessly blend traditional folklore with elements of other genres and original songwriting.
The group has released three acclaimed studio albums (Harafica, Harafica II, and Harafica Symphonic) and has toured extensively throughout the United States, including performances in Chicago, Washington, D.C., New York City, Miami, Orlando, Atlanta, and Cedar Rapids. Most recently, Harafica premiered their Christmas album Christmas Stories in 2023 under the famed Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City.
—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 send an email to polasek29@gmail.com to let us know
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
if you are coming. We want to have enough kolace for everyone! ^
Thadious Polasek Lodge 67
Schulenburg-Weimar
—SPJST—
Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society meets April 12
The Travis-Williamson Counties
Czech Heritage Society will meet on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Springhill Catfish Restaurant, 2505 West Pecan Street, Pflugerville, Texas. We begin gathering at 1 p.m. to order our lunch (optional), and the meeting will begin at 2 p.m. for business, fellowship, etc.
Scholarship forms have been mailed to area high school senior counselors for the TWCCHS Scholarship. Deadline for submission is March 8. You can pay your 2026 dues ($25) at the meeting or mail to Frances Petter, 15604 Horborne Lane, Pflugerville, Texas 78660.
Please plan on attending our meetings to keep this organization and Czech traditions alive.
For more information, contact Dotty Davis at dottydavis9@gmail.com or call 512-663-6592.
Janie
Zbranek, Reporter TWCCHS
—SPJST—
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 inter-
The Czech Heritage Museum’s Tarok Tuesdays now take place at the SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main in Temple, on the first and third Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Community members of all skill levels are invited to come play and learn this traditional Czech card game!
Moving the museum with care
TOP LEFT: Czech Heritage Museum Curator Kenny Lange, left, and Don Mears, right, carefully disassemble museum displays. TOP RIGHT: Curator Kenny Lange packs away one of the museum’s most prized artifacts, the Magic Gambler.
mediate 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 Genealogical Society
Website: txczgs.org
Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”
For membership: Marie Dulak 979-324-7871
SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment
Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities, entertainment dates, and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for nonprofit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org.
LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1)
Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville 78940. Hall Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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.
LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Sunday, 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)
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, 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 Friday, April 3—Good Friday: No band scheduled Friday, April 10—Sterling Country Friday, April 17—The Other Band
Friday, April 24—Texas Neon Ramblers
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, 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) 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.
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: Second 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: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Contact Youth Leader Dana McAdams 254-7156765 / danamcad@aol.com for location.
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.
Sunday, March 29—Lodge Czech Orchestra, Lost Cause Band, and Shiner Hobo Band
Friday, April 17—Fab 5
Sunday, June 7—Lodge Czech Orchestra, Dujka Brothers, and Red Ravens
Saturday, June 27—Steel Country
Saturday, July 18—Original Remnants
Friday, August 21—Fab 5
Saturday, Sept. 19—Dreams (Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band)
Saturday, October 10—Czechfest - Texas Sound Check and Chris Rybak
Friday, December 4—Fab 5
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) Tuesday, April 14—Meet and Eat at Golden Corral, Temple, 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday, June 9—Meet and Eat at Oscar Store, Temple, 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday, August 11—Meet and Eat at Mas Fajitas, Temple, 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday, October 13—Meet and Eat at Sam’s Southern Eatery, Temple, 11:15 a.m. Saturday, December 12—Christmas Celebration Lunch at Clem’s BBQ, Belton, 11 a.m.
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.
