Lodge Section

SPJST Lodge Section

SPJST V ě stník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org The deadline for all V ě stník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to: Questions? Call 800-727-7578 / / / Lodge 8, Weimar cancels August meeting

Lodge 8, Weimar has canceled its August meeting that was scheduled for Monday, August 24, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you, Carolyn M. Tobola Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 9, Snook proud of youth showcase royalty contestants

The Wednesday, August 5, 2020, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 6:58 p.m. Emily Hejl led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the July meeting were approved. Hall manager, treasurer, state, and fraternal reports were presented.

The youth club was well represented at the 2020 SPJST Youth Showcase. Our king/duke contestants were Caleb See and Zane Lauderdale, respectively. Our queen/duchess contestants were Riley Green and Dakota Kienow, respectively.

Under old business, we received another bid for the insulation. This will be tabled for now, and we expect to receive one more bid. Under new business, we passed a motion to give $25 to each king/queen contestant and $15 to each duke/duchess contestant.

The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m. Next Meeting—September 2

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 2. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 17, New Tabor misses summer youth activities

Dear Readers,

What a crazy summer it has been! I can honestly say I missed my time working with the youth of our lodge on Youth Achievement Day (YAD) group talents and beseda dancing.

Lodge 17, New Tabor did not meet in July due to one of our officers testing positive for the virus and two other officers having a direct exposure. I am happy to report that all are doing fine.

We met on Sunday, August 2, 2020, with President Randy Gaas calling the meeting to order at 2 p.m. All officers were present, and we had one member and one guest present as well. Secretary Betty Suehs read the minutes of the last meeting, and they were approved as read. Resolutions of sympathy were read for our departed sisters, Patricia Vavra, Johnnie Ruth Homeyer, and Mildred Houdek. A moment of silence was observed.

Treasurer Kyle Skrabanek gave his report. He stated that the account at Prosperity Bank had been closed and that all funds were at Citizens State Bank.

Holly Narro gave the youth report. She stated that several youth participated in the 2020 SPJST Youth Showcase (virtual District YAD) and many had placed and advanced to the state round of competition. Macy Narro was selected District One Queen, and Millison Dowell is her duchess. Holly is saddened that we did not get to experience the typical summer SPJST season with YAD practices and camp. She also gave her fraternal activities coordinator’s (FAC) report stating that state tournaments were not yet scheduled.

Susan Skrabanek gave the hall report. She reported that she has only had a couple of rentals in the last four months, and they were for small family gatherings.

Under old business we postponed the 50- and 75-year pin presentation. It was discussed to include this with our December memorial service.

There was no new business and meeting was adjourned. Susan Skrabanek, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin temporarily cancels events, dances

Attention, Readers:

Due to the current pandemic situation, all events/dances have been canceled at Lodge 18, Elgin until further notice. Please watch for event updates. We look forward to opening the hall and hosting events and dances again soon. Fraternally, F.L. Meyer, Trustee —SPJST—

Governor Abbott names Alan Tyroch, M.D. Chair to Advisory Council on Emergency Medical Services

Texas Governor Greg Abbott Tyroch received an Associate’s in Apnamed Alan Tyroch, M.D. as chair to plied Sciences from Temple College, Advisory Council a Bachelor of On Emergency Science in MicroMedical Services. biology from The council recTexas A&M Uniommends changes versity, and a Docto the tor of Medicine EMS/Trauma Sysfrom The Univertem in order to ensity of Texas sure that the Health Science community reCenter at Houston. ceives comprehenHe completed a sive and efficient general surgery inemergency care. ternship at Baylor

Alan Tyroch, College of MediM.D. of El Paso is cine, a general surthe Chair of Surgery residency at gery at Texas Tech Phoenix Integrated University Health Surgical ResSciences Center El idency Program, Paso. He is a Alan Tyroch, M.D. and a Trauma and member of the Surgical Critical American College of Surgeons, Texas Care Fellowship at the University of Surgical Society, American AssociaCalifornia of San Francisco, Fresno tion for the Surgery of Trauma, Socicampus. ety of Critical Care Medicine, Dr. Tyroch is a longtime member of Southwestern Surgical Congress, SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone. He is the Western Surgical Association, Amerison of the late Ben and the late Gladys can Trauma Society, Pediatric Trauma Tyroch of Seaton, Texas. They were Society, Texas Medical Association, dedicated members of Lodge 24. and El Paso County Medical Society. —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone appreciates members’ work on hall cooler

SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, August 10, 2020, at Flag Hall, amid fields that have been stripped of their heavy burden of corn. The meeting was called to order at 7:08 p.m. by President Daniel Wilde with a silent prayer for our deceased members and prayers for our nation and medical workers.

Margaret Mikeska discussed the minutes of the last meeting.

Sadly, we lost Vallie Goeke, James Foshee, and Marilyn Olson. Our condolences to their families.

We received thank you letters from Michael Hoelscher and Sara Stowers for their graduation money.

The money for the Vrazel Tribute dance has been refunded. A total of $160 dollars of the money was donated back to the lodge.

Our management account has been a real help. We are using it to the nth degree.

Knights of Columbus Assembly 3488 had its fundraiser drawing at the hall. Jason Hoelscher paid for the kitchen and the beer that was consumed.

Camp Kubena had day camps this summer.

We talked about the lack of insurance sales for our lodge.

We thanked Carl Macek and Daniel Wilde for their work on the new cooler. The lodge gave them a bonus.

Birthday celebrants were Jonathon Maddux who turned 23 years old on August 18 and Barbara Macek who had a birthday on July 3. For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton to host Sept. 13 drive-thru plate lunch

Dear SPJST Members and Friends,

Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall officers and members would like to once again thank everyone who supported our drivethru picnic plate lunch on Sunday, July 26, 2020. Not knowing how many to prepare for with COVID-19 everywhere, we prepared 500 plates. Serving for only a

Milton Zavodny celebrates 91st birthday want to congratulate them and thank Milton Zavodny of to SPJST Lodge 54. Lodge 24, Cyclone We will keep everyone updated about celebrated his 91st birthday on Thursday, August 6, 2020, with when we will be able to meet again, and if we will be able to have our annual special visitor Jerry Christmas party depending on the status Haisler of Lodge 47, of the COVID-19 pandemic. Seaton. Jerry sang God bless everyone, and I hope evCzech songs while eryone is staying safe during this playing his accordion COVID-19 pandemic. for Milton’s enjoy- Fraternally, ment. Milton is also celebrating his 75th Freddie Kaluza, President year of SPJST —SPJST— membership in 2020. Happy birthday and best wishes, Milton! very short time, we realized with the members. Their pins will be mailed to Lodge 81, Needville number of cars lining up, we would be them at this time, but we do plan to honor discusses hall out of food in no time. All workers prepared plates as quickly as possible, and them at a future meeting once this pandemic is under control, and we are back improvements shortly before noon, all plates had been sold. Members were grateful for the great response, but very saddened for those of you who were in line expecting a delicious home-cooked lunch, only to find out we had sold out. We apologize to to normal. Members of Lodge 54 who are to receive their 75-year pins this year are Jeanette J. Karlik and Mary Ann Roden. Members of Lodge 54 who are to receive their 50-year pins this year are SPJST Lodge 81, Needville held an officers’ meeting on Sunday, August 16, 2020. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Vincent Newman led us in the Pledge of each of you! We want to go a step further Helen Marie Matus, Daniel R. Mynar, Allegiance. All officers answered the than an apology to each of you. Alfred Renfro Pavlas, Lawrence E. roll. We had a moment of silence for de

On Sunday, September 13, Lodge 47, Skinner, and Mark Henry Tobola. We parted member, George Abschneider. Seaton will have another drive-thru picnic plate lunch with the same delicious menu, and 850 plates will be prepared! Martha (Sulak) Gerik of Lodge 54, West Serving will begin around 10:45 a.m. We thank you in advance, and hope you achieves Grand Age of 96 will join us! We look forward to seeing you all! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky, Secretary —SPJST— SPJST congratulates Sister Martha (Sulak) Gerik of Lodge 54, West, who celebrated her 96th birthday on Thursday, August 20, 2020. As such, Martha is entitled to all SPJST member benelaches. One of Martha’s best stories and recollections is when she was a little girl attending SPJST lodge meetings. They did not have a hall in Stamford, fits with no further dues or assessTexas, to hold their meetings so they ments. would meet in someone’s home. She Martha was born to Mr. and Mrs. remembers when it was time for her Lodge 54, West Frank Kutach on August 20, 1924, in parents to hold the meeting at their cancels Sept. 11 Avoca, Texas. She had two sisters, home, her mom and dad would call all Agnes (Kutach) Webb and Marie (Kuof her aunts and uncles to come have meeting tach) Kolar, both now deceased. dinner with them then they would Martha married Eugene A. Sulak hold the meeting in the afternoon. She Dear Members, on April 13, 1942. They were blessed liked it because she could play with

After speaking with the lodge officers with six children - daughters Sandy her cousins. She later heard the Stamand other lodge members who attend our Sulak Schroeder (Larry) of Granbury, ford lodge was combined with the meetings, it was decided to cancel our Jeanette Sulak Janek (Ronald) of Italy, Seymour lodge as the members were next quarterly meeting which was schedDenise Sulak Hall (Alan) of Granso few. uled for September 11, 2020, due to the bury, and Dianna Sulak Gerik (Edwin) Again, we congratulate Sister MarCOVID-19 pandemic. Since most of the of Waxahachie and sons Dale Sulak tha (Sulak) Gerik on attaining the members who attend our meetings are (Martie) of Red Oak and Tommy Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Martha, elderly, we want to keep them as safe as Sulak (Rita) of Ennis. for all your devotion to SPJST for all possible. Martha is retired from Farm Buthese years. May God bless you and

We were planning to present our 75- reau as secretary. She loves sewing, your family. year and 50-year pins at this meeting gardening, canning, and making ko—SPJST— with a ceremony honoring these them for their long-standing membership

Our thoughts are with his family and friends. It was nice to see Willie Mae Kuykendall after her recovery from pneumonia.

Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her June report, and it was approved as read. We did not meet in July so there was no July report. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho read his report, and it was approved as read.

Under old business, Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho said that he would like to purchase a padlock for the side gate that comes into our parking lot. That was approved. Also under old business, Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha mentioned having a dance at our lodge after our meeting on the third Sunday of October since the Harvest Festival has been canceled. It was decided to allow the new polka band, the M&M Playboys, to provide the music.

Under new business, Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho said that the contract was up for the dumpster. It was decided to pay it by the month instead of annually. Dan also mentioned that the hall needs to be sprayed for bugs. That was approved by all officers.

Under other business, Special Funds Chairman Dan Natho said that he would like to purchase a new floor mat by the front door, but he will wait until later to get it.

Next Meeting—September 20

For our next meeting on Sunday, September 20, it was decided to have pizza which will be provided by the lodge. Members, if you wish to bring a dessert, please bring something that is individually prepackaged. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas members ready to meet again

Dear Readers,

As Lodge 84, Dallas members continue to self-quarantine during this coronavirus pandemic, there really is nothing that I can report on except to say that all members are being very careful with practicing preventive measures to protect ourselves until we are able to meet again.

But on a lighter note, I would like to share that while my husband is working from home during this time, he has the use of an able and willing feline assistant to help with anything he needs. A big thank you to Cali the cat for her patience during this time! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas to meet Sept. 20

Dear Readers,

Lodge 84, Dallas will meet Sunday, September 20, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. for its first monthly meeting since the coronavirus pandemic. We will meet on the outdoor patio at Tupinamba Cafe, located at 9665 North Central Expressway (cross street Walnut Hill Lane) in Dallas, Texas 75231. Restaurant phone is 972-991- 8148. Face masks are required at all times except when eating or drinking. The lodge will be buying everyone an appetizer and drink to prevent any cross

Lodge 49, Rowena Family Members Spend Weekend Together

SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena members Maynard and Nancy Schwertner and their children and grandchildren spent the weekend together in Rowena. The weekend included visiting, playing games and dodgeball, swimming in tanks, making a homemade slide in the tank, fishing, and eating. “With the

grandkids getting so big now, much food had to be prepared,” Maynard and Nancy shared. “The adults can’t seem to win any dodgeball games over the kids anymore!” The couple reports that everyone had a great time with many smiling faces and much laughter. All are members of Lodge 49, Rowena.

contamination issues. If you need further information, please contact Vicki Sims 214-763-0341 or Lynda Novak 972-948- 4456.

It has been awhile since we have met, and it will be good to see everyone! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 91, San Jacinto officers to meet Sept. 19

Due to COVID-19, Lodge 91, San Jacinto will host an officer-only meeting on Saturday, September 19, 2020. Fraternally, Vonda Smesny, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 133 San Antonio members look forward to meeting again

Dear Members,

I have missed seeing all of you during this COVID-19 pandemic. I was hoping to have the July meeting, but we were still worried about social contact at that time and the need for enough space for social distancing. Our meeting hall doesn’t seem large enough to spread out, and I certainly did not want to endanger anyone.

I am hoping that we will be able to meet in October or November for our Thanksgiving luncheon. We will see how September looks. Then I will see if having the luncheon is feasible.

Stay safe. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. If you need something, call me on my cell phone 830-214-5228. If I don’t answer, I will return your call if you leave a voice mail. Sincerely, Jarolyn Popp, President —SPJST—

Lodge 151, Wharton meets Sept. 14

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its quarterly meeting on Monday, September 14, 2020 at the home of Carolyn Bucek. Due to COVID-19, attendance will be limited to lodge officers and SPJST executive members. In addition, our memorial service will be held at a later date.

A light meal will be held at 6:30 p.m. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to Carolyn Bucek at 979-532-1910 by Thursday, September 10. Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 180, Burleson extends birthday wishes

I never thought that I would be writing another article about another meeting that we were not able to have. I thought when I headed that last article in that manner that it would be the first and last time to begin writing in that manner. But, no!

Here we are again kind of in the same boat that we have been in for the last four or five months. When we are in a quarantine-type setting, it seems that the hours, days, and months all just blend together. Do you have to check the date on your phone or calendar to be sure that you are on the correct day? I will admit that I do.

It has saddened my heart to hear about some of the deaths during this time frame - both friends and loved ones as we have not been allowed to grieve for these losses in the normal way. Prayers for all that have lost loved ones during this time frame.

August birthday wishes go to these members of Lodge 180, Burleson— Brian Greenlees, Vicki Raney, Anna Rummel, Sean Yates, Kamella Wheat, Crystal Schuder, Carol Faulder, Corey Jones, Hoby Payne, Claudette Cooper, Ryan Payne, Kristen Hicks, and Wanda Underwood. May each one of you have a great birthday celebration with many more in your future.

Here’s hoping that we will be able to resume our monthly meetings soon. I remain . . . Respectfully yours, Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 200 Bruceville-Eddy plans Oct. 7 meeting

Via a conference call with SPJST Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy members on Monday, August 3, 2020, it was decided not to have our monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 5 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next meeting will be Wednesday, October 7.

Due to the passing of Lodge 200 President Mr. Allen Trigg, Sr. on June 25, Vice President James R. Hosch has stepped up as the new president of Lodge 200.

Officers will be elected at the October meeting. The lodge will be hoping that more members will attend this meeting and want to help the lodge continue to do things for the community.

Anyone interested in becoming an officer must be willing to attend meetings every other month starting on February 3, 2021, and be able to help out and get

Lodge 142, Houston Family Members Gather at Lake O’The Pines

Jack and Catherine Manchack hosted the first Jack Manchack family gathering at Lake O’ The Pines in East Texas from Friday, July 17 to Monday, July 20, 2020. Jack and Catherine have four sons, three daughters-in-law, 11 grandchildren, three granddaughters-inlaw, and 10 great-grandchildren. A total of 28 of the 33 family members were in attendance. Eighteen of them are members of SPJST Lodge 142, Houston.

involved. If anyone is interested, please call James R. Hosch 254-859-3989 or 254-718-4798 for more information and for the lodge’s rules and regulations.

Also discussed was that there would not be a Christmas party this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the October meeting, there will be a dinner served so please call James R. Hosch to let us know how much to prepare for. Thank you. Fraternally, James R. Hosch, President —SPJST—

Happy 93rd Birthday, Raymond Mikeska of Lodge 183, Arlington

Raymond Mikeska of Lodge 183, Arlington is a lifelong member of SPJST. He was born in Abbott, Texas, to Otillie and Joe Mikeska.

Raymond loves planting his garden, tending to his pecan trees, and spending time with his family. He has four children - Cindy, Randy, Janis, and David; four grandchildren - Tara Moore, Lauren Reed, Chelsea Martin, and Rachel Reed; and three great-grandchildren - Madeleine Moore and Hadley and Declan Martin.

Happy Birthday to my dad!

Submitted by,

Cindy Mikeska Klinger —SPJST—

Lodge 187, Round Rock Family Members enjoy summer swim time

Pictured are the grandchildren of Linda Johnson of Lodge 187, Round Rock who are cooling off in the swimming pool on a hot, summer day. They are members of Lodge 187. Fort Worth Friendship Club

The Fort Worth Friendship Club again sends greetings to all our members and friends. Our last meeting was in March, and it is doubtful that we will meet in September. We have an excellent telephone committee, and they will call each member before our next meeting. Hopefully, it will be soon as everyone has missed our socials and meetings.

Our member, Mary Agnes Ward, sent me a letter that her brother, Father Jerome Ward, wrote to the Friendship Club which I will send all a copy. He wrote that he and his sister, both in their 80s, are grateful for their good health and have stayed free from colds, the flu bug, or other issues. They had to cancel trips to Minnesota in May along with a trip to upstate New York, where they were born and raised, and a trip to the Kentucky Derby in September. He also wrote about having to wear a mask which we all have to do. Padre Jerry, thanks for your letter; I enjoyed it. Come join us for lunch at the Friendship Club whenever we meet again.

A few years ago, our entertainer for the Friendship Club program was Jeanette Keim. She played the piano and presented both Czech and English songs which were enjoyed by all. I have since learned that she has a “star in the sidewalk” in Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards. It is on the first step of the Livestock Exchange Building between Sid Richardson’s star on the right, Sue and Charlie McCafferty’s star - founders of the Stockyards Museum, in the middle, and Jeanette’s on the left side. Jeanette’s stage name of “Jean Marlowe” is on her star. The stars are sponsored by the Texas Trail of Fame featuring people who have contributed to the life and development of the historic district. In the 1980s, when the restoration of the stockyards began, the newly restored Stockyard Hotel hired “Miss Jean,” the piano machine, to entertain in the restaurant/bar of the hotel’s Booger Red Saloon. The rinky tink piano was a big hit as there were lots of enthusiastic patrons, tourists, volunteers, etc. available who Jean rounded up to develop the first two nonprofit organizations in the Stockyards - Cowboy Church and Cowtown Opry. Both organization are still thriving after 28 years of continuous service of preserving the cowboy culture, their mission to preserve, perform, and promote our Texas heritage. Jeanette and Art Keim are 50-year Sokol members and their grown children are SPJST Lodge 154, Fort Worth members.

Helen Skrasek is now home from her 10 days in Oklahoma with son Ron and his wife LeeAnne. She said she had a wonderful time!

September birthday celebrants are Mary Ann Krivanek on the 9th, Sherrill Gustafson on the 19th, Mary Schaffer on the 20th, and Libbie Vrla on the 29th. May you all have many more.

I talked with a few of our members. Marilyn Llewellyn is doing well, and she makes sure she wears her mask when she goes out. Margaret Sears has a birthday today and has her daughter and two grandchildren over. They have just taken a cake out of the oven so we know Margaret will have a special birthday cake.

Jacie Skrasek, Debbie Skrasek’ granddaughter, had her first day of school today with an ice cream cone as a special treat before going home. I will be anxious to know how it went for her as I am sure it will be different from the normal. Debbie and Gary Skrasek celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary on August 11 with dinner out at Hoffbrau. They said their steaks were wonderful.

Stay well, stay safe, and wear your mask. Libbie Vrla, Reporter —SPJST—

Lloyd and Bettie House celebrate 62 years of marriage

Lodge 202, Jourdanton members Bettie and Lloyd House celebrated their 62nd anniversary on August 23, 2020. Bettie currently serves as secretary of Lodge 202, and Lloyd has previously held the offices of president and vice president of Lodge 202.

★ ★ Reunions ★ ★

Reunion notices are published at no charge and as a benefit to SPJST members. First-run announcements may be edited to fit the space. Thereafter, until the week prior to the reunion date - as space permits - notices will be run in an abbreviated form. Please include your SPJST lodge number/name, and your contact phone number. Thank you. Orsak family

The Orsak reunion in El Campo scheduled for October 25, 2020, at Mikeska’s will be canceled due to COVID19. We plan to have the reunion next year in 2021. We will send out more information as the date approaches. We look forward to seeing you in 2021.

Take care, and stay safe and well.

Viola Kunetka

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Michulka family

Descendants of Josef Michulka were planning to meet in October 2020 at Riverside Hall in East Bernard. However, the reunion has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. We hope to meet again in 2021. Helen Kelner Lodge 28, East Bernard —SPJST—

S.P.J.S.T. Senior living goes above and beyond for residents

by Jason Hennington Taylor Press August 15, 2020

Reprinted with permission.

For three and a half months, S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Taylor went without a case of COVID-19. The staff at the facility has worked hard to keep residents, families, and themselves safe during this pandemic.

“They are a very dedicated group of individuals. I’ve been very proud of them,” said Natalie Wright, lead administrator at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living. “I consider them all to be heroes for continuing to put themselves at risk and their families at risk to come and work under these circumstances.”

She said staff members go “above and beyond” to continue to ensure some quality of life for residents.

“All of our workers have been great. They can see when someone [a resident] is down and they spend a little extra time with them,” said Donna Farr, business manager. “They’re going in helping them eat or talking to them while they are going through lunches or dinners. They just give them a little bit of extra personal care every day, so they don’t get lonely.” Wright explained staff members also dedicate time to contact and update residents’ families. There are six family liaisons for the facility, who contacts families and updates them on their residents’ care and what is happening in the nursing home.

“It’s one thing to talk to the loved one, but it’s another to hear from the staff, too,” she said.

One of the most impactful changes is the restrictions that require residents to stay in their rooms.

“Their contact with their loved ones has only been by telephone or by the computer,” Wright said. “That’s been the

The Joy of Living by d.knape In the morning before the sun comes up there is that special time when the earth is quiet and thinking about what it will do today

S.P.J.S.T. resident Harry Matoska enjoys playing to win at Hallway Bingo while fellow resident Marjorie Purcell looks on with an ever watchful and helpful eye.

hardest part for the residents.”

She said some families sit outside of the window and interact with residents.

Another way families visit their loved ones is through video at the nursing home. Families sign in and use a laptop or tablet to video chat with their resident. Guidelines from the state restricted visitation, communal dining, and group activities. However, staff members at S.P.J.S.T. modified activities to help residents gather without violating any guidelines.

“One of the most popular activities is bingo, but you can’t get a big group together. So, we do hallway bingo,” Wright said.

Residents sit in the doorway of their rooms, and the activity director walks up and down the hallway calling numbers. Other activities have also been restricted, which has inconvenienced several residents.

“No beauty shop,” Farr said. “It’s been four months since [residents] have will it show us rain or sun or a cover of clouds will it give us an overcast mood or will it glisten with sunshine and will it give us luck or something to work around a challenge or a bet been able to get their hair fixed or cut. They can’t get it colored or permed, nothing.”

She said a therapist purchased clippers and gave some residents basic haircuts.

Wright said despite the negative impact of the pandemic, it has brought the S.P.J.S.T. family together.

“Our staff, our residents, and their family members, it has brought us all much closer together,” she said.

“It has gotten us to meet the outside families,” Farr added. “It gives us a chance to get more personal with the residents also.”

Last week, outdoor visitation guidelines were discussed at the state level, and Wright sees this as a positive for residents.

“There’s requirements to be met and we have to obtain permission,” she said. “Hopefully, that will help.”

—SPJST— we await the day in anticipation not knowing what will be coming next

the prospects are unlimited the expectation the joy of living.

spjst youth showcase

Continued from Page 1. goal is to be a leader for younger generations and to learn more about her Czech heritage.

Holly is a freshman at Byron Nelson High School in Trophy Club, Texas, where she plays tennis and has been accepted into the culinary academy. Holly is also active in varsity choir, theatre, Duke TIP, GT, Destination Imagination, National PTA Reflections, and UIL. Her honors include historian for all four choirs, tennis district qualifier, nine years as regional qualifier for Destination Imagination, multiple years as a state qualifier in dance choreography in National PTA Reflections Program, board of trustees’ award winner, and multiple gymnastics awards including first place in regionals in Jacksonville, Florida.

Holly is a former Junior Olympic Rhythmic Gymnast. Holly sings in the choir at school and church and serves on the student leadership team. She enjoys tumbling, dancing, singing, acting, playing tennis, and taking care of children.

Holly’s future plan is to attend college to study culinary arts and play tennis.

State Duchess Mckenzie is 10 years old and the daughter of Brandon and Appa Burcie of Fort Worth. Mckenzie is in fifth grade at Willowcreek Elementary in Saginaw.

First runners-up were King Caleb See and Duke Zane Lauderdale, both of Lodge 9, Snook in District One, and Queen Macy Narro and Duchess Millison Dowell, both of Lodge 17, New Tabor in District One.

Second runners-up were King Preston Sullivan and Duke Luke Holland, both of Lodge 25, Ennis in District Three, and Queen Madeline O’Gorman and Duchess Sydney Haag, both of Lodge 185, New Braunfels in District Seven.

The SPJST State Junior of the Year Award went to Simone Riha of Lodge 30, Taiton in District Six, and the SPJST State Teen of the Year Award went to Reid Jones of Lodge 154, Fort Worth in District Three.

The winner of the $1,500 SPJST State Merit Grant was Macy Narro of Lodge 17, New Tabor in District One. District Merit Grant recipients were Riley Green of Lodge 9, Snook in District One; Cade Campbell of Lodge 24, Cyclone in District Two; Carter Charanza of Lodge 6, Cottonwood in District Three; Evan Stavinoha of Lodge 81, Needville in District Five; and Faith Korenek of Lodge 30, Taiton in District Six. They each received $1,000 grants. —SPJST— State Junior of the Year Simone Riha Lodge 30, Taiton

Congratulations to Macy who received a $1,500 grant to the college or university of her choice.

SPJST has come a long way and has definitely seen a lot of superheroes since 1897 when it was chartered with 782 members and 25 lodges consisting primarily of Czech farming immigrants. Although the founding father’s primary goal was to provide the members with the economic security of fraternal life insurance, they also had a purpose of making the members feel at home in their new homeland. These founding fathers were the first SPJST superheroes. The Czech immigrants learned to be better American citizens from their association with the SPJST. Today, our society is comprised of over 42,000 members and 100 lodges with members of all ethnic backgrounds and all walks of life. All of these members and lodges came from normal people showing superhero powers.

Merriam-Webster defines a superhero as: A fictional hero having extraordinary or superhuman powers; also, an exceptionally skillful or successful person. When you think of a superhero, you may think of Superman, Batman, or even The Hulk who fight crime. When I think of a superhero, I think of the many people who make a difference in this world. There are many individuals within the SPJST who are real-life superheroes who deserve our gratitude, from the youth club presidents, to youth leaders, to supreme lodge officers, all the way to members who display superhero powers. Every single District Merit Grant Winners

District Merit Grant winners each received a $1,000 grant. The 2020 Dis- trict Merit Grant winners are: District One Riley Green Lodge 9, Snook person can make a difference and be their own version of a superhero.

I consider myself an SPJST superhero. My SPJST adventure began literally when I was born. As a life-long member of the SPJST and being very active in my youth club since the age of five, I have had the opportunity to show my superhero powers through my leadership at Leader-InTraining Camp, district summer camp, and many more. I have also grown as an individual and leader and feel that younger members look up to me as their “superhero.” The SPJST is, always has been, and always will be a huge part of my life.

One of my favorite adventures has been dancing the Ceska Beseda, and what an adventure it has been! The SPJST continues to appreciate the unique heritage of the founders of our organization. Our Czech ancestors were strong in customs, especially their music and dances. I am proud of my Czech culture and feel that the SPJST has instilled in me the importance of preserving the Czech heritage. I have danced the Ceska Beseda since the age of six at numerous events including the Kolache Festival, District and State Youth Achievement Days, community events, and local nursing homes. Our youth group also celebrates Czech Heritage month in October by baking cookies for local school staff, truly superheroes in our community. This is a great way to not only let our schools know they are appreciated, but also celebrates the Czech heritage that we are proud of. These events have given me a chance to learn more about Czech language, history, and culture.

Being a superhero requires courage and taking a leap. When I first joined the youth club, I was unsure. I remember the first time that I participated on the ropes course at camp. The camp director had to literally push me off the platform. I was so scared and frightened, but I did it, I took a leap. Being a superhero requires

District Three Carter Charanza Lodge 6, Cottonwood

District Five Evan Stavinoha

State Teen of the Year District Two District Six Reid Jones Cade Campbell Faith Korenek Lodge 154, Fort Worth Lodge 24, Cyclone Lodge 30, Taiton

State Merit Grant Essay: SPJST Superheroes Unite!

By Macy Narro of Lodge 17, New Tabor - District One

Lodge 81, Needville you to show courage and bravery, even though you are scared. Younger members look up to me to be their “superhero” at camp and youth events, and the SPJST has taught me the skills to conquer my fears, fight diversity, and be a good leader.

There is no other fraternal organization that provides such an outstanding youth program to its members. SPJST has taught me self confidence that I may not have found anywhere else. Through my involvement in the SPJST, I have had the opportunity to participate and interact with many superheroes within the com- munity and organization. Each year, our youth club makes homemade Valentine cards and treat bags for residents of nurs- ing homes in our community. We deliver them just before Valentine’s Day. This is perhaps my favorite community activity we do all year. I love to go and visit with the residents and make their day special. These residents consider all members of our youth club superheroes when we visit. I also participate in many local charity events such as delivering stuffed animals to the local emergency room, donating items to the Rainbow Room, Adopt-ASoldier donations, and local food pantry donations. One of the many community service projects we participate in is Join Hands Day. Each year, our youth club joins hands with our adult lodge and the local cemetery association and takes the time to clean up our local cemetery. We clean up by picking up old flowers and re- placing them with new ones. After clean- ing, the cemetery is more pleasant to see for those who visit. These are all super- hero acts that the SPJST provides its youth members.

There are many stereotypes as to what a superhero is. Superheroes can come in all shapes and sizes, all ethnicities, and all walks of life. They may be portrayed as big, strong, and muscular, but in the SPJST, anyone can be a superhero; whether big or small, you can make a dif- ference. —SPJST—

SPJST – Superheroes Unite! Royalty Speech by State King Koby Stone

Today, more than ever, we need superheroes in our com- munity to unite and heal the problems we face in our world. However, when I think of superheroes uniting, I think of the Avengers movies and how the superheroes teamed up to save their world. These superheroes are very smart, skillful, and powerful.

I believe that we have SPJST superheroes among us be- cause growing up within the SPJST community, I have ac- quired knowledge, skills, and power.

The superheroes in the Avengers were all very intelligent, and this particular knowledge allowed them to overcome their adversaries. SPJST has given me knowledge through camp experiences as a young child. This knowledge has given me the courage to learn more and become a better person. The knowledge I have acquired through SPJST has helped me excel in my academic endeavors and my extracurricular ac- tivities.

Each one of the Avengers have their own super skills, whether it may be martial arts, archery, or marksmanship. SPJST taught me some of those skills like archery and bal- ancing through the high ropes. But, by far the most important skill SPJST has taught me is the ability to inspire young chil- dren. I will continue to perfect my skills and develop as a per- son to help the young children become strong and confident individuals . . . so one day they, too, can inspire young chil- dren.

Some Avengers have their own special powers, but their greatest power is working as a team in unison. When SPJST members work together, there is nothing they can’t accom- plish. I have learned great teambuilding skills which has made me a more powerful person. These powerful skills will help me make a difference.

Although I don’t pos- sess supernatural powers or strength, I possess skills to unite with other individ- uals to make a positive im- pact on this world. This confidence comes from the lessons I’ve learned through the SPJST com- munity. The SPJST organ- ization has made such a powerful impact on my life.

I would like to close by stating that I and all my fel- low contestants stand be- fore you today ready to unite and make a differ- ence as your future SPJST superheroes. —SPJST—

SPJST—Superheroes Unite! Royalty Speech by State Queen Holly Jones

Captain America once proclaimed, “The strength of this country isn’t in buildings of bricks and steel, it’s in the hearts of those that have sworn to fight for its freedom.”

Just like America, SPJST’s strength isn’t in its lodge build- ings; it’s in its members who have fought to keep the fraternal- ism alive for generations. The SPJST superheroes of my life have used their special powers to help mold me to be a superhero for future generations.

Watching the efforts of non-profits and fraternal organiza- tions like SPJST join hands to fight for our health and freedom ignited my passion to volunteer. As my number one champion and “Superhero Mom,” my mother has set the example for me and my four siblings as a volunteer with church, school, and SPJST. She has helped me identify other superheroes in my life that will stand by me, rescue me when needed, and help me de- velop my own superpowers. She followed in the footsteps of other “Superhero Seniors,” like my grandmother, who was an SPJST youth leader for more than 20 years. Many respected leaders have exemplified hard work even into their 70s and 80s.

The district and state youth counselors have united to create a youth program that has been the cornerstone of our family from aunts and uncles, to cousins and siblings. In monthly meet- ings, quarterly district events, and annual events like Youth Achievement Day, parades, festivals, summer camps, and Corpus Christi Getaway, I’m surrounded by the support of my SPJST family and have learned so much about my Czech heritage. I can’t wait for our events to get back to normal, especially my opportunity to attend Leaders-in-Training camp to strengthen my leadership skills and become a positive influence to younger campers,

We are all regular people by day and must use our super- power values of strength, honesty, kindness, trust, and hard work to uphold the ideals of the SPJST youth pledge:

Seeking brotherhood, Pledging benevolence, Joining hands Supporting humanity and Trust in my ability to make this world a better place.

That makes a true Superhero, and you can count on me, as a lifetime SPJST member, to continue the servant leadership and fraternalism that has been such an influence on my life - forever. —SPJST—