ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T
Volume 109 Number 6
Benevolence
H E R A L D
★ Humanity
★ Brotherhood
March 29, 2021
ISSN —07458 800
Supporting My Community, Thanks To SPJST SPJST congratulates Alvin Stasney of Lodge 91, San Jacinto who celebrated his 100th birthday on Saturday, January 2, 2021. Alvin resides in Crosby, Texas, and is a veteran of World War II. During the early months of 1944, Alvin served as navigator on a B-24 Liberator fourengine bomber. At that time of the air war over Europe, the loss rate for airmen was so high that it appeared Alvin Stasney of Lodge 91, San Jacinto celebrated statistically impossible his 100th birthday on Saturday, January 2, 2021, with to complete their re- wife Virginia, left, and children Rebecca, Laura, and quired 25 missions. Mark. Brother Stasney was recuperating in the hosFor example, upon pital from partial hip replacement surgery. He is the joining the 392nd last living crew member of the ‘Mairzy Doats,’ a World Bomb Group based in War II bomber crew. Wendling, England, Alvin’s first mission Alvin’s crew, who found themselves was to bomb a Messerschmitt facility alone over Berlin after being unaware (Nazi airplane manufacturing facility) this ‘maximum effort’ mission by the near Gotha, Germany. On that day, 20 U.S. 8th Air Force had been recalled. Following successful attacks on Gerpercent of the Liberators in his group were lost, and half of the planes that sur- man fighter manufacturing during February 1944, Berlin had now become the vived received battle damage. Alvin’s family graciously shared the ultimate target for the mighty U.S. 8th story of a mission that occurred on Army Air Force. Not only was it an imMarch 3, 1944. Although not very signif- portant strategic target, but Berlin offered icant in the history of the 392nd Bomb Group, it was an unforgettable day for Continued on Page 14.
Congratulations to Lodge 20, Granger Youth Club member Sterling Cavanaugh Marshall! Sterling was recently inducted into the National Junior Honor Society at Academy Middle School. The NJHS application asked for the student’s involvement in community service projects within the past two years. “Thanks to SPJST,” Sterling says, “it was almost too many to list. SPJST has taught me how to support my community with various service projects. Thank you, SPJST, for playing such an important role in my life.”
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Together, We’ll Get Through This
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“Our hall flooded from the winter storm,”says Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club member Amber Jones. “We will get through this together. While the hall is being repaired, we will continue to meet at the American Legion hall.”
( ( ( ( ( Inside This Week’s Věstník ( ( ( ( ( Important Dates ...................................3 Readers Write .....................................3 Interest Rates ......................................3 Supreme Lodge Meeting Minutes ......3 Fraternal News ....................................4 Lodge Section......................................5
Youth Section ....................................15 Věstník Project...................................17 In Memoriam ......................................18 Czech Culture ....................................18 Advertisements .................................21 Lodge Calendar .................................22
Lodge 88 Houston member achieves Grand Age of 96 Page 8
Lodge 40 El CampoHillje hosts strategic planning session Page 9
Lodge 106 La Grange member achieves Grand Age of 96 Page 11
Monday, March 29, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK SPJST HERALD
SPJST HOME OFFICE PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 Fax: 254-774-7447 www.spjst.org VĚSTNÍK EDITOR/ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 email: vestnik@spjst.org melaniez@spjst.com melaniez@usa.com SUPREME LODGE PRESIDENT BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) • Mobile: 254-534-2902 email: vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT DELISLE DOHERTY 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) • Mobile: 832-232-2049 email: delisled@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) • Mobile: 254-721-4739 email: leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) • email: royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 email: dv.aggie71@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371 email: jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIRMAN JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-799-4247 • email: john.engelke@hotmail.com DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM 1886 Pecos St, Ste 3, San Angelo, TX 76901-3268 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 email: bgdsr2428@aol.com DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville TX 77461-9164 Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 email: spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK 2508 N Levi St, Victoria, TX 77901-4059 361-649-4888 • email: amvahalik@gmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE 146 Deer Run St, Pleasanton TX 78064-1510 830-570-2046 • email: spjst202youth@gmail.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com DISTRICT FIVE - Kerry Herrington 281-704-5737 • kerryherrington@yahoo.com DISTRICT SIX - Carolina Covarrubia 281-779-9956 • covarrubia.carolina@yahoo.com DISTRICT SEVEN - Armando Perez, LUTCF 361-425-5543 • asperez6040@hotmail.com CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com
HUMAN RESOURCES LYNETTE TALASEK 254-773-1575 (ext. 146) • email: lynettet@spjst.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 email: frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar, PO Box 28, Snook, TX 778780028 - 979-220-7904 - ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two (Acting) - Amber Bartek, 10745 Burgess Rd, Temple, TX 76501-7441 - 254-931-0295 - abartek002@yahoo.com District Three - Mary Steinman, 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 - 817-731-2580 - appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Laura Pospichal, PO Box 253, Rowena, TX 76875-0253 - 325-365-6485 - yellowcar02@aol.com District Five - Melissa Victorick-Brown, 2324 Lakeway Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546-6196 - 832-274-7369 district5dyc@gmail.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 - 979-543-7120 - lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - April Howard, 814 Madison Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130-3918 - 830-624-9242 - aprhoward@gmail.com BY-LAW COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, PO Box 252, Snook, TX 778780252 - 979-272-1243 - billorsak@gmail.com District Two - Bridget C. Bohac, PO Box 182, Granger, TX 76530-0182 - 512-694-1897 - brdgtbhc@gmail.com District Three - Mary Steinman, 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 - 817-731-2580 - appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Beverly J. Teplicek, 817 FM 381, Rowena, TX 76875-4006 - 325-442-4841 - bjtep@verizon.net District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, 1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, TX 77008-6232 - 713-859-8976 - dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Joe Siptak, 2312 Norvell Ave, Bay City, TX 77414-6944 - joesiptak@yahoo.com - 979-479-0056 District Seven - Oscar Korus, 2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet, TX 78065-5013 - 830-391-4169 - oscarkorus@gmail.com FINANCE COMMITTEE District One - Debbie Kostelka, 1914 County Road 403 Dime Box, TX 77853-5379 - 979-540-8532 - debbiekostelka@yahoo.com District Two - Edwin Pechal, Edwin Pechal, 10660 State Highway 53, Temple, TX 76501-7446 - 254-721-2887 - edwinpechal@yahoo.com District Three - Michael Galler, 526 Karen Dr, Robinson, TX 76706-5121 - 254-744-8973 - mlgaller54@gmail.com District Four - Herman D. Weise, 6006 FM 765, San Angelo, TX 76905-7461 - 325-651-8550 - hdweise@zipnet.us District Five - Ashley Victorick, 26810 Sweetstone Springs Ct, Cypress, TX 77433-3500 - 832-577-5433 - ashley.victorick@gmail.com District Six - Karen Kaspar, 8550 N State Highway 71, El Campo, TX 77437-9819 - 979-332-1616 - k-kaspar@hotmail.com District Seven - Colleen Jenke, 211 Cottonwood Ln, Seguin, TX 78155-0697 - 830-303-4316 - jenkec@att.net INSURANCE COMMITTEE District One - Susan Skrabanek, 2657 FM 166, Caldwell, TX 77836-4300 - 979-272-3440 - spjst@aol.com District Two - Patsy Koslovsky, 764 S St Joseph Rd, Burlington, TX 76519-3108 - 254-985-2396 - patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Robert Sill, 400 Westview Ter, Arlington, TX 76013-1632 - 817-274-2783 - arlingtonsill@yahoo.com District Four - Leonard Jansa, 6617 Plain View Dr, San Angelo, TX 76905-7509 - 325-234-8117 - ljansa13@gmail.com District Five - Kerry Herrington, 18703 Ember Trails Dr, Houston, TX 77904-2617 - 281-704-5737 - kerryherrington@yahoo.com District Six - Elizabeth Holub, 4642 Freyburg Hall Rd, Schulenburg, TX 78956-5478 - 979-561-8640 - mikelizh@cvctx.com District Seven - Wendy Pruski, 3895 County Road 430, Pleasanton, TX 78064-6113 - 210-535-4916 - poohbear78064@hotmail.com PUBLICATION COMMITTEE District One - Floyd Kostelka, 1914 County Road 403, Dime Box, TX 77853-5379 - 979-540-8531 - floydkostelka@yahoo.com District Two - Amber Bartek, 10745 Burgess Rd, Temple, TX 76501-7441 - 254-931-0295 - abartek002@yahoo.com District Three - Lynda Novak, 7153 Cornelia Ln, Dallas, TX 75214-3226 - 972-948-4456 - magiclady_46@hotmail.com District Four - Sharon Hohmann, 222 Crestwood Dr, San Angelo, TX 76903-9106 - 325-651-5884 District Five - Baley Stavinoha, 10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville, TX 77461-9164 - 281-912-9619 - baleystavinoha@gmail.com District Six - Marjorie Treumer, 1806 Laurel St, Bay City, TX 77414-8405 - 979-578-2762 - mtreumer@gmail.com District Seven - Trey Bielefeld, 518 County Road 210, Floresville, TX 78114-5215 512-917-0083 trey.bielefeld@gmail.com
Editor’s Note . . .
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W
e are wishing you bright and happy days this Easter and always! Few people would not enjoy finding carefully crafted chocolate confections in an Easter basket. As revered as hidden eggs are on Easter, chocolate and other candies nestled in a bed of green plastic grass often bring back sweet childhood memories. Many people have their preferences in regard to Easter sweets. Some can’t wait to sink their teeth into a milk chocolate bunny. Others savor marshmallow chicks or sweet jelly beans. Still, chocolate often reigns supreme, and people may wonder how chocolate Easter treats came to be. Eggs and rabbits have long been associated with fertility and new life, long before they became symbols of the Easter holiday. In German folklore, the Osterhase, now known as the Easter Bunny, was a mythical creature that magically laid eggs, which he then carried in a basket and delivered to children as gifts on Easter morning. These first eggs were decorated chicken and duck eggs. As the custom of giving eggs spread, egg-shaped toys started to be manufactured in the 17th and 18th centuries. Chocolate Easter eggs were not created until the 19th century. France and Germany pioneered the manufacturing of these eggs. The first eggs were solid until chocolate artists could master the art of molded, hollow eggs. One of the first chocolate eggs was made by John Cadbury in 1845. But it wasn’t until both the Dutch invention of a press for separating cocoa butter from the cocoa bean and the introduction of pure cocoa by Cadbury Brothers in 1866 that molded chocolate — and molded chocolate eggs — could be made easily.
As the process for molded chocolate evolved, just about any shape could be possible. Easter bunny and egg traditions came to America by way of German and Dutch settlers. In 1890, a Pennsylvania pharmacist became the self-proclaimed “father of the chocolate Easter bunny” when he displayed a five-foot-tall chocolate rabbit in his shop as an Easter promotion. After this, sales of chocolate Easter bunnies began to skyrocket. According to the confectionary company Piece, Love & Chocolate, 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are produced every year around the world. Millions more chocolate Easter eggs also are made and sold. Seventy-six percent of Americans claim to eat the ears on their chocolate rabbits first. Chocolate bunnies and other candies are part of many families’ Easter traditions. These beloved confections have a rich history. (Source: Metro)
Věstník Dates and Deadlines Unless otherwise noted, the Vestnik is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, and the deadline is on the first and third Mondays at 5 p.m. Upcoming Vestnik dates and deadlines are: April 12 Věstník deadline is Mon., Apr. 5 at 5 p.m. April 26 Věstník deadline is Mon., Apr. 19 at 5 p.m. May 10 Věstník deadline is Mon., May 3 at 5 p.m. May 24 Věstník deadline is Mon., May 17 at 5 p.m. June 14 Věstník deadline is Mon., June 7 at 5 p.m. June 28 Věstník deadline is Mon., June 21 at 5 p.m. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, March 29, 2021
SPJST Family Fun and Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)
Please contact the lodge/district, prior to attending. March 31 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends March 31 Lodge 88, Houston Scholarship Application Deadline (5) April 2 SPJST Home Office Closed • Good Friday April 8 Lodge 13, Dime Box Special-Called Meeting (1) April 10 District Four Spring Meeting • Lodge 49, Rowena (4) April 11 Second Sunday Youth Webcast register at spjst.org April 11 Lodge 80, Holland Special-Called Meeting (2) April 17 Lodge 81, Needville hosts SPJST Float: Needville Youth Fair Parade (5) April 20-21 SPJST Supreme Lodge Meeting SPJST Home Office, Temple (2) April 27 Fraternal Focus Webinar • register at spjst.org May 1 SPJST Convention Delegates’ Online Advisory Webcast register at spjst.org May 8 Lodge 20, Granger hosts SPJST Float: Lakefest Parade (2) May 29 SPJST Float: National Polka Festival Parade, Ennis (3) June 6 Lodge 47, Seaton Picnic (2) June 13 Deadline for SPJST District Youth Achievement Day Craft, Talent, Royalty Entries • enter at spjst.org June 14 Deadline to Submit Recommendations to the By-Law Committee and Finance Committee for the 33rd SPJST Convention June 23-27 Leaders-In-Training Camp Camp Kubena, Ledbetter July 7-11 Junior Camp Session One Camp Kubena, Ledbetter July 14-18 Junior Camp Session Two Camp Kubena, Ledbetter July 25 District Seven Annual Meeting Jourdanton Community Center July 31 State Youth Achievement Day Frank W. Mayborn Convention Center, Temple Aug. 13-15 33rd SPJST Convention
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From the SPJST Supreme Lodge Minutes of the Special Called Meeting of the SPJST Supreme Lodge held on March 10, 2021 via video conference PRESIDING Supreme Lodge Chairman John Engelke called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m. ATTENDING Supreme Lodge—Brian Vanicek, President; Delisle Doherty, Vice President; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller; Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chairman; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chairman; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven. Other—Melanie Zavodny, Editor/Director of Communication; Janie Coakley, Recording Secretary. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the meeting was to view a demonstration of illustrate inc, a cloudbased software for sales agents. The demonstration was presented by Eric Swanson and his associates. After discussion, Vice President Doherty moved to proceed with implementing the illustrate inc software. Director Davis seconded the motion, and the motion carried with 10 in favor and one abstention. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President Doherty, Chief Financial Officer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, Director Engelke, Director Davis, Director Stavinoha, Director Vahalik, and Director House. Abstained: Controller Vajdak. Vice President Doherty presented pricing on the use of DocuSign for the Home Office. After discussion, Director Pospisil moved to proceed with implementing DocuSign. Director Victorick seconded the motion, and the motion carried with 10 in favor and one against. Voting in favor: President Vanicek, Vice President Doherty, Chief Financial Officer Mikeska, Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, Director Engelke, Director Davis, Director Stavinoha, Director Vahalik, and Director House. Voting in opposition: Controller Vajdak. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Director Davis moved for adjournment. Director House seconded the motion, and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 1:10 p.m. Janie Coakley, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—
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Monday, March 29, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
From the SPJST State Fraternal Director Fraternal Focus Webinar - April 27 and You’re Invited SPJST President Brian Vanicek will host the next Fraternal Focus webinar on Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at 7 p.m. The webinar is open to all SPJST members who register. Topics vary from month to month. The lively webcast typically includes reports on select lodge happenings, organizational updates, and the “topic of the month.” As an added bonus, the names of three attendees are drawn at the end of each show for prizes. It’s fun and informative. I encourage you to join in on the April presentation. This link will take you to the registration page: https://spjst.org/fraternal-focus/ - or you can go to www.spjst.org and click on “Events” in the upper menu of the website. After you register for the webinar, you will receive a confirmation email that you registered for the event. Please see the next Vestnik for more “topic of the month” information. SPJST District Annual Meetings Thanks to the efforts that have been made to beat the coronavirus as well as the vaccines that are being administered. SPJST district officers are encouraged to begin the process of scheduling their 2021 district meetings. In scheduling their district meetings, the Supreme Lodge recommends that district organizers select Sunday calendar dates in June and July which do not conflict with SPJST Summer Camp dates, Father’s Day weekend, or Independence Day weekend: June 6, June 13, June 20, and July 25. Why June and July? By that time, most of the recommendations to the By-Law and Finance Committees will have been submitted, thereby enabling the members to discuss any relevant recommendations at your district meeting. The deadline for submitting recommendations to the ByLaw Committee and to the Finance Committee is June 14. The 2021 SPJST Convention is scheduled for August 13 to 15 in Killeen, Texas. Of Special Interest to 2021 SPJST Convention Delegates SPJST Supreme Lodge will host an online advisory webcast for 2021 SPJST Convention delegates on Saturday, May 1 starting at 10 a.m. You won’t have to drive to Temple or any place else . . . It’s all online! Delegates will be briefed on SPJST financials as well as receive reports on various SPJST projects, highlighting key
fraternal, marketing, and investment initiatives. Additionally, the Supreme Lodge will present the recommendations that it will be making to the 2021 Convention. The webcast format will allow meeting participants to ask questions as well as participate in interactive surveys. Melanie will be sending out the online invitations as the date approaches. 54th National Polka Festival in Ennis SPJST is a proud supporter of the National Polka in Ennis which takes place on Memorial Day weekend, May 28 to 30. What makes this year’s sponsorship special is that SPJST will be sponsoring the National Polka Festival King and Queen Dance Competition on Friday, May 28 at Sokol Auditorium. It’s a great event that was organized in 1987 by Lodge 25, Ennis members Brother Johnnie and Sister Margaret Krajca. The contest was facilitated by Johnnie and Margaret for many years and to this day, Margaret with the help of her family - continues to oversee the contest. Dust off your dancing shoes and join us for a fun evening – and weekend! It is not necessary for dance contest competitors to wear a Czech kroj or fancy dancing outfit. Couples can register for the contest at the entrance of Sokol Hall before 8:30 p.m. Also, please plan to join your SPJST friends in downtown Ennis on Saturday morning, May 29 for the National Polka Festival parade at 10 a.m. SPJST State Royalty will be riding the float along with members from SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis. After the parade you can stroll through the vendors and food booths and enjoy listening to great polka music! Mayfest in La Grange SPJST members are also invited to join their SPJST friends at the annual Mayfest celebration on the grounds of Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange on Sunday, May 16. The festival begins with a ceremony at 10:30 a.m. paying tribute to all Czech-Texas immigrants. That will be followed by a fried chicken dinner at 11:30 a.m. and music by Czech Harvesters of Ennis, Texas, May pole dancing, antique car show, a demonstration at the Zapalač Saw Mill, and Czech Village and museum tours. The tour includes the historic SPJST Lodge 19, Velehrad hall which is located at the entrance to the Czech village.
SPJST Summer Camp Information Please know that youth who have completed kindergarten to high school senior are eligible to attend SPJST Camp. For camp registration, go to spjst.org. Under “Programs,” click “Summer Camp Registration” which will direct you to the CampDoc website to register. The direct link is http://app.campdoc.com/register/spjst. • Youth members, this year you can invite a friend to camp! Yes, that’s right. Your friend(s) does not have to be an SPJST member to attend camp with you. The cost is $350 for non-member youths to attend. • If your child is a current youth club member and has made seven out of 12 meetings, SPJST will sponsor the cost of your child’s camp fee. • Youth that attend lodges with no youth club can attend seven adult meetings and qualify for camp at no charge. The lodge secretary will need to provide the Home Office with copies of the membership roster of each meeting the youth attended. • Youth that have not made at least seven meetings will be prorated $35 per meeting missed. Youth can make up a meeting by attending another local youth club. Please see your youth leader about this. • Parents and grandparents, please know your child or grandchild can attend camp this year for $250 - as long as they have a current SPJST life insurance certificate that is inforce. • Parents and grandparents, if you have an inforce certificate and your child or grandchild does not have one, he or she can still attend camp for $350. Please contact me if you have any questions about attending our camp. 2021 SPJST Camp Dates Leaders in Training (LIT)/Teen Camp Wednesday, June 23 to Sunday, June 27 Junior Camp Session One Districts Three, Four, Five, Seven Wednesday, July 7 to Sunday, July 11 Junior Camp Session Two Districts One, Two, Six Wednesday, July 14 to Sunday, July 18
Strategic Planning for Your Lodge SPJST recognizes the importance of fielding a fraternal program that is relevant and in touch with the lives of its members. Whereas some lodges are experiencing a resurgence in member participation, others have been less fortunate. There are reasons for this: While it is certainly possible for a lodge to experience a level of success without a plan, those lodges whose members have invested the time and resources into a mission and goals can look forward to achieving success at a much quicker pace. A great place to start is by conducting a simple — and fun — strategic planning session that helps to answer, “What is my lodge doing to make a positive difference for its members and for the community?” And with a little bit of advance notice, President Vanicek and I would love to lend a hand with the process. With just a little preparation, it is possible to conduct this three-step exercise in 60 to 90 minutes. In the end, the information that is collected can be useful in constructing a strategic plan for your lodge. It makes for a fast-paced and enjoyable program. Topics that don’t typically come up in your regular lodge meetings will be — the positives as well as the negatives — and then we talk about how to build on the positives and what we can do to eliminate the negatives. When we’re done, your lodge will be well on its way to moving forward with a clearly defined mission statement. If you’d like to have us come in and work with your lodge, please give me or Brian a call, and we’ll set it up. SPJST FAC Assistance We are here to help if you need assistance. Please feel free to call me at 254534-0681 or 800-727-7578 or email frankh@spjst.com or Tammy at 800-7277578 or 254-773-1575 or email tammym@spjst.com. Your District FAC is also available to assist you: District One FAC Kyle Skrabanek 979-820-0531; District Two FAC Ruth Hanusch 254771-0193; District Three FAC Vicki Sims 214-763-0341; District Four FAC Janeece Williams 806-632-5239; District Five FAC Clay Zapalac 281-750-2920; District Six FAC Helen Zabransky 361798-3347; and District Seven - 254-7731575. Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
∂ District News ∂ District Four plans April 10 spring meeting at Lodge 49, Rowena
District Four Spring Meeting will be held Saturday, April 10, 2021. Lodge 215, South Plains will be hosting. We will be meeting at Lodge 49, Rowena’s hall. Registration will begin at 10 a.m., and the meeting will start at 10:30 a.m. There will be a meal served following the meeting. District Four Youth Club will be having their annual rock contest. We will follow Covid-19 guidelines
such as social distancing and mask wearing. We will also have hand sanitizer. The meal will be commercially prepared. Please RSVP to either Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356 or Janeece Williams 806632-5239. Thank you, Pam Lehmann, Secretary Lodge 215, South Plains —SPJST—
SPJST Lodge Section The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send
/// Questions? Call 800-727-7578
Lodge 9, Snook to meet virtually on April 7 The next meeting of Lodge 9, Snook is scheduled for Wednesday, April 7 at 7 p.m. To join the Zoom meeting: https://tamu.zoom.us/j/95317632082?pw d=QjBoVWVzZm0wdUc1dGlyeGdoZFlTZz09 Meeting ID: 953 1763 2082 Passcode: SPJST (ALL CAPS)
SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087
Monday, March 29, 2021
Lodge 13, Dime Box to vote on selling hall at April 8 meeting Dear Members, All members, please know that you are invited to and encouraged to attend an important meeting on Thursday, April 8, 2021, at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall in Dime Box. The purpose of this meeting will be to consider and vote on a motion to sell the land, building, and its contents. Thank you for your attention, and please mark this date on your calendar and plan to attend the meeting. If you have any questions, please give me a call at 979-884-1451 or Floyd Kostelka at 979-540-8531. Fraternally, Ricky Ford, President —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone appoints fundraising committee Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, March 8, 2021, at Flag Hall. President Daniel Wilde called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance and a silent prayer for our deceased members. Linda Wilde advised that our lodge received its incentive award from the Home Office and the add-on for Jennifer Hoelscher for her grand champion yeast
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bread in the auction at the Bell County Youth Fair. Linda further discussed the insurance due on the lodge. The price is north of $10K with replacement value. A committee was appointed for fundraisers. Committee members are Daniel Wilde, Bobby Hoelscher, and Steve Bruggman. Shirley Hoelscher gave the fraternal report. The annual tournaments at the Home Office have been canceled for the winter/spring of 2021. The passing of Wilbert Mikeska has left a hole in our world. He and wife Margaret have given so much to the lodge for so many years. We also lost members of the Red Ranger community in that Joe and Martha Dubcak passed away in January. They are the parents of our member Nancy Posvar. They were princes of people. Justin Everett is on the sick list as well as Alan Hoelscher. The Mother’s Day dinner has been moved to October. Our workers on the wainscoting are plugging along on Sundays. Thank you, Steve Bruggman, Daniel Wilde, Derek Campbell, and Roy Malcik. For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Sales Agents meet in District Seven for Annuity Training Class
One tap mobile +13462487799,,95317632082#,,,,,,0#,,6 30623# US (Houston) Dial by your location +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) 877 853 5247 US Toll-free 888 788 0099 US Toll-free Meeting ID: 953 1763 2082 Passcode: 630623 Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—
SPJST Vice President Delisle Doherty and District Seven Regional General Agent (RGA) Mando Perez hosted an annuity training class in San Antonio on Friday, March 12, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: Vice President Doherty, left, and RGA Perez congratulate new Sales Agent Linda Figueroa for making her first sale. She was
presented a crisp $20 bill. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured are, left to right, Vice President Doherty, RGA Perez, and agents Sandra Cortez, Linda Figueroa, Marie Garcia, and Evangelina Cisneros. The class was instructed by Vice President Doherty. —Submitted by Mando Perez, RGA
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Lodge 35, Elk reports on March meeting Lodge 25, Ennis partners with National Polka Festival Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis held its monthly meeting on Thursday, March 11, 2021. The meal was prepared by Linda Trojacek and consisted of pork roast sandwiches, chips, and coleslaw. Dessert was made by Amy Gurley. Thank you to the cooks! The meeting was called to order by President JoAnn with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Charlie Jurcik. There were no sick members, deaths, or new members announced. It was announced that Lodge 25 will be involved with the 54th National Polka Festival this year. On Saturday, two Czech bands will play at the hall, and the kitchen will be open. Plans are also underway to celebrate our lodge’s 50th anniversary which will be held the second weekend in November. Watch for more information to come on this exciting event. Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca —SPJST—
Happy Birthday, James!
Happy February birthday to James Nemec of Lodge 6, Cottonwood! He was recognized at the lodge’s February meeting. —Submitted by Dorothy Kucera, Reporter
On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, President Randy Pavelka called the Lodge 35, Elk and Lodge 35, Elk, Inc. meetings to order at 7 p.m. Present were 14 members and one guest. All recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Carla Price read the minutes from the February meetings. With no corrections, the minutes were approved as read. She also read a letter from the Home Office about our incentive check. Treasurer Cari Hammer presented her monthly report as well. Bar Chairman Randy Pavelka then gave his report. Under old business, there was an update on our finances. The repairs on the outside of the building could not be completed due to windy conditions. We all wish a very happy birthday to Secretary Carla Price who celebrated her special day on March 6. With no other business, the meetings were adjourned at 7:16 p.m. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton hosts successful fashion bingo Dear Vestnik Readers, On Sunday, March 7, 2021, following the lodge’s successful afternoon “Fashion Bingo” fundraiser, Lodge 47, Seaton President Edwin Pechal called the meeting to order at 5 p.m. Fourteen members, two youth, and visitor Jennifer Faldyn were present. After the flags were presented, members stood for moment of silence for deceased members Tom Gibson and Dean Mikeska. Our sympathy goes to the families of these two fine gentlemen. Roll call of officers and board members showed all present except Vice President Brandon Bartek, Assistant Youth Leader Chelsey Bilbrey, and Board Member Chris Ordogne. The February lodge minutes were accepted as read by Secretary Patsy Koslovsky. She also read the unofficial February board minutes. President Pechal thanked all who or-
O O O Presenting 2021 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood officers are, front, left to right, Vice President Don Urbanovsky, President Milton Peterson, and District Three Director John Engelke, who installed the officers. BACK: Treasurer/Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka, Flag Bearer Irene Peterson, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette Beseda, and Reporter Dorothy Kucera. —Submitted by Dorothy Kucera, Reporter
ganized and helped with our first-ever fashion bingo. Our hats off to all the ladies of the lodge, especially Ginger Ringwald who took on the position of committee chair for all of her hard work. With this being the third try to have the fundraiser - once rescheduling due to Covid-19 restrictions and this past February due to the ice storm with the lodge having no electricity and the water being off, Ginger got very familiar with the bingo licensing office in Austin, by phone and also making a trip to their office to be sure the new, updated license was in hand for the event. A special thank you to member CJ Wilde for calling the numbers. Thank you also to all who sold and bought tickets. Everyone had a great time and asked for the date of the next one. The date will be set soon. Congratulations to all purse and jewelry winners! Several gentlemen of the lodge and friends met at the hall the day before to take care of the tree damage caused by the ice storm. Thank you, gentlemen, for getting the grounds back in shape. There are broken pipes which also will need to be repaired. Lodge 47 Picnic—June 6 President Pechal brought up new business, with the members desiring to have a picnic in 2021. Becky Zavodny made a motion to have the picnic the first Sunday in June - the 6th - and have the
traditional picnic as in the past (with the exception of last year). Please mark your calendars and join in for the fun at the Lodge 47, Seaton Picnic on Sunday, June 6! Get ready for the traditional meal of sausage and fried chicken with trimmings, prize drawing, live auction, a sweet booth, and of course, some wonderful polka music. Weather permitting from a heat wave, music and dancing will be under the pavilion. Final plans will be discussed at the March 15 board meeting. Watch the Vestnik for more details! Treasurer Becky gave the financial status. She was pleased to have received the incentive check from the Home Office. The 2020 honoring of the 50- and 75year SPJST members was postponed (due to Covid-19) and held at the lodge’s Christmas party in December. All agreed to have the 2021 recognition in December at the lodge Christmas party again on the second Sunday in December, which is December 12. Youth Leader Amber Bartek stated the youth will have a virtual meeting on Monday, March 8. Celebrating March birthdays are Brandon Bartek, Joyce Kraatz, Debbie Alexander, Chris Ordogne, Jerry Pechal, Justin Kraatz, Windee Skrabanek, Marcus Psencik, Lisa Gidding, Joan Shelton, Patricia Hoelscher, Kyle Hoelscher, and
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Doris Holtman. We wish each of you a happy birthday with many more years of good health, happiness, and lots of fun! Congratulations to Albert and Patsy Koslovsky on 47 years of marriage on March 16 and to Edward and Alice Mares. May you be blessed with many more years of happiness with each other. Lodge door prizes were won by Edwin Pechal, Danny Stepan, and Andrew Ordogne. Next Meeting—Monday, April 5 Easter is on Sunday, April 4, which is the first Sunday. Therefore, the lodge meeting will be held on Monday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. Please join us! The meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m. Take care and may you all have a blessed Easter! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland to vote on sale of lodge building at April 11 meeting
Lodge 35, Elk appreciates Barbara Pavelka for her many years of dedicated service Lodge 35, Elk President Randy Pavelka presents Barbara Pavelka with an appreciation gift for her many years of dedicated service as treasurer of Lodge 35. Barbara is a longtime member who has played an active role in the lodge for many years. Congratulations and thank you, Barbara!
To All Members: A special called meeting will be held on Sunday, April 11, 2021, at 2 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 80, Holland Hall, located at 12141 East FM 2268, Holland, Texas 76534. The purpose of this meeting will be to propose and vote on a motion to sell the lodge building and its contents. If you have any questions, please contact me by telephone 254-760-6427 or by email rita@hot.rr.com. Thank you for all of your support throughout the years. Fraternally, Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville discusses grand re-opening The March 2021 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 21st. At 12:15 p.m., a prayer of thanks was given, and everyone enjoyed a meal of sandwiches provided by the
lodge 24, Cyclone appreciates Wilbert and Margaret Mikeska
Lodge 24, Cyclone presented an award of appreciation to longtime members Wilbert and Margaret Mikeska for their many years of unselfish dedication to the lodge. “Your labor of love will forever be remembered.” The couple served in many leadership roles over the past several decades. Brother Wilbert passed away on March 6, 2021.
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lodge. Chips and pecan pie were provided by members. President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1:10 p.m. Willie Mae Kuykendall led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call. We observed a moment of silence for departed member Robert Polasek. Our sympathy goes to his family and friends. Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall deferred the reading of the minutes until the April meeting. Bradley Stavinoha read the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales will have a report at the April meeting. Under old business, Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales informed everyone about the progress that is happening on the cleaning and rejuvenation of SPJST Lodge 81 hall since it had flood damage. He said the goal is to have it completed by May 1. Under new business, a suggestion was made to try to get emails from the members who have email addresses. The lodge members decided to have a grand re-opening of the lodge when it is completed. The date will be determined later. Next Meeting—April 18 For the next meeting at the Needville American Legion hall on Sunday, April
18, it was decided to have pizza provided by the lodge. Members, please bring a dessert and whatever else you like to eat with pizza. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas members gather for March meeting Dear Readers, The monthly meeting of Lodge 84, Dallas was brought to order by Vice President Vicki Sims on Sunday, March 21, 2021, at 2:35 p.m. Flag Bearer Lynda Novak led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was held afterwards for Brother Joe Klecka and Willie Honza as well as our departed SPJST members, troops serving our country, and those affected by the Covid19 pandemic. An added surprise to our meeting was the attendance of our lodge president Justine Yeager via Zoom! It was really nice to see her smiling face. President Yeager then presided over the rest of the meeting. Secretary Cherri Petr read the minutes from the February meeting which were
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approved by all members present. Secretary Cherri read a thank you note from the family of Sister Tara Andreason Cloutman for everything Lodge 84 members did for the family; it meant so much to them. The Home Office sent acknowledgments for scholarship memorial donations sent to the Sid Pokladnik and Bessie Petr scholarship funds in memory of Tara. Sunshine committee sent a sympathy card to the family of Brother Joe Klecka and to the family of Willie Honza. May your loved ones rest in peace. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki Sims reported on updates received about the current plans for the SPJST Convention to be held in Killeen on August 13 to 15, 2021. Youth Leader Lynda Novak then gave her report. The youth continue to meet virtually each month. Lynda reported that on the second Sunday of every month, State Fraternal Director Frank Horak hosts a webcast with the youth to keep them current on things during the pandemic. She then reported on Leader-InTraining (LIT) dates, District Three camp dates, and that the chaperone training is now online. District Three’s Youth Achievement Day (YAD) will be held virtually and State Youth Achievement Day will be held July 31 in Temple. Sister Lynda then gave her reports on Czech Culture Society and Fraternal Council. The treasurer’s report was postponed in the absence of Brother Jim Liska. We then set about scheduling future meeting dates and locations. Sister Kathy Nemec gave a special presentation about the history of the George Washington “Appeal to Heaven” flag. Thank you, Kathy. It was a very educational report! Before signing off, President Justine Yeager thanked everyone for attending the meeting. She said she was glad to be able to be there virtually. Next Meeting—April 18 Vice President Vicki Sims then reminded everyone that the next meeting will be held Sunday, April 18 at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, located at 10707 Webster Terrace in Dallas, Texas. Call 214-351-4214 for directions. The meeting was then adjourned, and everyone enjoyed the afternoon svačina! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
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Lodge 91, San Jacinto hopes to meet regularly again soon A meeting of officers was held on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at Iguana Joe’s in Crosby. The meeting was called to order by President Kathleen Munsch. The big item of discussion was trying to return our meetings back to a normal schedule. Watch the Vestnik for information on the June meeting. A moment of silence was held for member and past president Chester Stasney who passed away on February 18. Fraternally submitted, Malba Smesny Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 117, Robstown members reminisce about nursing home visits Dear Readers, On February 14, 2020, Frances McDonald and I attended the valentine party at Windsor Nursing Home in Calallen. We were able to celebrate the crowning of the king, queen, prince, and princess. This was the last time we were able to visit with the residents and staff. In March 2020, the coronavirus changed the way we live our lives. Visitors were not allowed, and the residents were confused and did not understand what was happening. Even though we can’t go inside, I have continued to make treat bags for monthly birthdays. I have also donated shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, deodorant, and activity books (word search). I hope the year 2021 will be better, and we can visit the nursing home once again. Fraternally, Kathryn Marek, Treasurer —SPJST—
Grand Age of 96
Congratulations, Josephine Pflughaupt of Lodge 88, Houston worked in the ofSPJST confice as financial gratulates Josesecretary for nuphine Jane merous years. (Hilsher) PflugShe most recently haupt of Lodge served as guide 88, Houston, who for more than 18 celebrated her years. Leander 96th birthday on and Josephine Saturday, March were elected del13, 2021. Sister Pflughaupt is now egates to the entitled to all quadrennial SPJST member SPJST Convenbenefits with no tions. In recent further dues or asyears, Josephine sessments rehas become acquired. tive in the BirthJosephine was day Club Sisters born on March at the lodge. Josephine Pflughaupt 13, 1925, to Josephine Czech parents and Leander travChas and Albina (Halamicek) eled all over the United States going Hilsher at the family home in Roz- to his military conventions and renov, Texas. She was the sixth of unions. They also traveled to Europe eight children. Her siblings included several times. In the Czech RepubAlfred Hilsher, Elenora Lange, John lic, they met some of Josephine’s Hilsher, Charlie Hilsher, and Harold family members. Hilsher, all deceased. Siblings living They were always active in their are her sisters Gladys Havemann children’s lives, attending everyand Ruth Martinak. thing they could - marching band, Josephine graduated from Fay- Red Coats, Boy Scouts, Little etteville High School where she met League, Reagan High School foother future husband. She loved ball games . . . the list goes on. They school and graduated second in her even made it to some of their grandclass. Right out of high school, Jose- children’s events. phine married Leander Pflughaupt Josephine loves to read, garden, in Houston on July 5, 1942. Leander and visit with family and friends. In preceded her in death on February her younger years, dancing was al14, 2013, after more than 70 years ways one of her favorite activities. of marriage. They were blessed with Their weekends were spent going children - son Larry (deceased) and to their farm outside of Frelsburg. wife Dorothy; daughter Carol; and Josephine had a huge garden, raising son Lynn. Josephine has five grand- a little bit of everything. They also children and 11 great-grandchildren. enjoyed the harvest from the pecan, Josephine has been a member of peach, and fig trees, and dewberry SPJST for more than 78 years. She vines. Josephine would also be out and Leander were always involved in the pasture helping with the cattle, in the lodge in some capacity devot- when needed. ing many hours of time. She helped Congratulations, Josephine, on Leander when he was chairman of attaining the Grand Age of 96! You the entertainment committee work- have been blessed with a full and ing all the dances. Josephine served rich life. Thank you for all your deon several committees over the votion to SPJST. May God bless you years and was chairman of the and your family. scholarship committee. She also —SPJST—
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Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje hosts Strategic Planning Meeting
Sunday, March 14, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Photos by Annie Vahalik, District Six Director and Carolina Covarrubia, District Six Regional General Agent
SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members participated in a strategic planning meeting on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall, located at 30420 Loop 524 US Highway 59 in Hillje, Texas. Pastries and dessert items were available during the meeting. SPJST Supreme Lodge President Brian Vanicek led the discussion about the lodge and where
it’s been, where it stands, and where we want to be next year and the year after that. Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje is on its way to moving forward with clearly defined missions and goals. The lodge occupies a historic place within the community. It is our sincere desire to continue to bring people together and make a positive difference in our community.
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Lodge 179, Warrenton members recover from freezing conditions Members of Lodge 179, Warrenton all enjoyed the beauty of the 2021 snow. With the beauty came the freeze and electrical blackouts. Most of the members experienced some kind of frozen pipes and freezing water wells. Some are still without their wells due to lack of supplies and plumbers. We continue to get Covid-19 vaccines and encourage all to do the same. There are robins around - spring is near. Let’s get past the time change, and we will all be okay again. Just keep in touch with each other and check on your neighbors. Submitted by, Joan Sue Goehring Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 187 Round Rock members learn about St. Patrick’s Day We finally did an in-person meeting again. This crazy Texas weather really took lots of us by surprise. We welcome some wonderful fellow members Jesse and Linda Pospisil. We also had a delightful return guest Derik Konz. Deborah Rohlack discussed the charity checks that were sent and read thank you notes from them. Rubie Volek updated us on the lodge’s minor damage to surviving the snow, and a plumber will have to be called. Our district spring meeting will be coming up soon so all youth and adults should be painting those rocks. Carla Krenek did a program about St. Patrick’s Day. She discussed when it started, the shamrock, wearing green, the leprechauns, and where the saying, “Kiss me! I’m Irish!” comes from. All I can say is Wow! Forget the cakes, candies, and cookies . . . Carla’s entertainment is the treat! We were so excited to have District Two Director Jesse Pospisil install our officers and directors.
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SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT VERONICA SALAZAR SPJST welcomes Veronica Salazar as a sales agent. She is a member of SPJST Lodge 91, San Jacinto. Veronica moved to Houston, Texas, in 2000. She attended University of Houston-Downtown and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Veronica recently received her general lines agent license in 2020. She is passionate about helping individuals and local small and mid-sized businesses protect their assets and the one’s they love. Veronica is married to Mark Salazar, and they have a blended family of nine children and three grandchildren. Veronica enjoys traveling and being in nature with their two dogs that love their adventurous parents. She has a strong faith in God and knows that He is her provider VERONICA SALAZAR 281-623-3006 in all things. Please contact Veronica to assist with veronicasalazar.2072@gmail.com your life insurance needs. Best wishes to Veronica in her career with SPJST! A big thank you bunches to Linda Pospisil and Rubie Volek for bringing the great door prizes. We also want to give another thank you and hugs to Carla Krenek for all the goodies. All enjoyed them - kids and adults. President Linda Johnson presented a 50-year SPJST membership pin and cake to Jennifer McCarthy. January birthdays celebrants were Tom Etheredge on the 3rd, Andrew Smith on the 10th, and Dustin Johnson on the 27th, Jayden Pachicano, Sandra Everett, Jan Bartz, Scott Ledbetter, Stormi Hobbs, Kay Donelson, Regan Beck, Diana Hagens, Doug Nelson, Allen Johnson, Rodney Lange, Kelbie Stifflemire, Melissa Oman, Sandra Kruse, Sarah Johnson, Jerry Kadlubar, Robert Leatherman, Bernie Wuthrich, Susanne Collins, and Doug Barron. February birthday was Alexandria Johnson on the 5th. Anniversary congratulations go to Tom and Rose Etheredge. March happy birthday shout-outs go to Carla Krenek and Mathieu McCarthy on the 12th, and an anniversary greeting goes to Greg and Jennifer McCarthy on
the 17th. We all would like to send our well wishes, positive vibes, and prayer support to all who have fallen ill and/or are surviving the winter storms. We ended our meeting with pizza and tasty sweet treats! Next Meeting—April 11 The next gathering will be Sunday, April 11, and we will have a potluck! Much love and blessings to all, Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 196 Houston-West meets April 11 The next monthly meeting of Lodge 196, Houston-West is scheduled for Sunday, April 11, 2021. We will start with a potluck lunch at 1 p.m., and the meeting will follow at 2 p.m. We will abide by all safety health protocols that are currently
in place so please wear a mask and observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be available. The main meal item will be provided, and we ask that you bring a side dish that is enough for your family and six to eight others. We hope to see lots of you there! Don Fruin Event Coordinator —SPJST—
Lodge 246 Morgan’s Point reports on March meeting Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point met Monday, March 8, 2021, at Oscar Store in Oscar, Texas. President Ingrid Petrik welcomed the members. The meeting was called to order at 11:30 a.m. The November meeting minutes and reports from Vice President Susan Hutton, Treasurer David Nauert, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Charlie Herendon, and Member Ricki Dixon were reviewed and discussed. Correspondence included an acknowledgment for donations to the SPJST Scholarship Fund in memory of Matilde Ramos and George Pavelka. Members remembered Jesse Mendoza who passed away on March 5. Jesse attended several lodge activities in the past, and he will be missed. May our departed brother rest in peace. Congratulations to our president, Ingrid Petrik! She is the proud great-grandmother to twins who were born the morning of March 8. Ingrid shared that the two great-grandbabies weighed 7.16 ounces and 7.8 ounces. She reported that the babies and their mother are all doing great. We are also glad that Ingrid is feeling better. She spent several days in the hospital earlier this year while battling Covid-19. We wish her continued good health. Next Meeting—May 10 The next meeting will be Monday, May 10 at 11:30 a.m. at Oscar Store. Fraternally, Melanie Zavodny Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
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What’s Good About Country Living by Brent Hegwood Lodge 88, Houston My name is Brent Hegwood. I’m a member of Lodge 88, Houston and the son of Vincent and Kim Hegwood, and the grandson of the late King B. and Helen Hegwood. I am a graduate of Texas A&M University Class of 2018. When I was three years old, I was diagnosed with autism. Since then, I’ve overcome a lot of struggles and learned a few things along the way. Throughout my life, there were two constants that have aided me in my journey: God and family. The Lord laid the path before me to travel, and my parents walked beside me, catching me whenever I stumbled. I’m eternally grateful to both of them. At first, I didn’t think that my story would be all that interesting to people. I always considered myself pretty average, so I figured other people would find me as boring as I found me. But my mother shared my story with others on social media and in person. I discovered that I could touch the lives of so many with just my story. What would happen if I purposefully focused my energy into such an exercise? So I started this blog. I hope that my whimsical words will brighten your day and enlighten your mind. At the very least, I want my words to show you a different perspective, one you may not have thought of
Monday, March 29, 2021 but will be familiar to those who struggle with autism or who have a family member who struggles with autism. Ah, the Texas countryside. As cliché as it sounds, I, as a Texan, love it. I enjoy the rolling prairie hills, the long country roads, the small towns, and the farms. I like eating country-fried, homemade cooking. I like walking around the corn maze. And I most of all love hanging out with the people there. Part of it is nostalgia. Much of my family lives in the Texas countryside, so throughout my childhood, I’d often visit them. Oftentimes, this took place during annual family reunions at the dining hall at the local church or during holidays up at my great-grandparents’ dairy farm. My family in the country is very large, with many, many cousins, aunts, and uncles, with my great-grandparents at the head of the family. Or at least, they were before they passed away. For me, time on the farm filled me with such nostalgia. I’m not alone in feeling nostalgia for the country life. Agrarianism is a timehonored tradition in many different parts of the world, including America. Some of America’s Founding Fathers, such as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, believed in a republic of yeoman farmers. These farmers would grow their food on their land and be independent. Thus, they wouldn’t be beholden to the interests of any centralized government. This was the vision of freedom many of the early Americans believed in. What is it about country living that causes people to romanticize it? It’s the simplistic nature of it. In the country, the complications that come with industrialization and urbanization do not exist. There are no long commutes to work. There are no crowded streets. And most of all, the isolation that seems inherent to large cities does not exist. Despite the independence of the ideal farmer, everyone
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Grand Age of 96
Congratulations, Charlie Ripper of Lodge 106, La Grange SPJST congratsigning of the ulates Brother Peace Treaty in Charlie Henry Tokyo Bay, Japan, Ripper of Lodge on September 2, 106, La Grange, 1945, ending the who celebrated his greatest war in his96th birthday on tory. Charlie is one Saturday, March of the five individ20, 2021. Charlie uals still living is now entitled to who witnessed the all SPJST member event. He retired benefits with no as a barber after 62 further dues or asyears. After retirsessments reing, Charlie went quired. to the local nursing Charlie was home for more born in Holman, than 20 years to Texas, on March cut the hair of the 20, 1925, to Anton men residents. Charlie Ripper and Sophie Ripper. He served on the The couple was La Grange City blessed with 11 children - Charlie Council for six years and is involved Ripper (living), Evelyn Ripper (liv- in church work at Sacred Heart Cathing), and Susan, Olga, Dorothy, Al- olic Church in La Grange. Charlie has fred, Martin, Bernard, Erwin, Anton enjoyed playing golf, dancing, travelJr., and Walter (all deceased). ing to Europe (three times), and travCharlie married Irene Lee Fisher eling in the United States. on June 14, 1948, in Ammannsville. We congratulate Brother Charlie They were blessed with one child - Ripper on attaining the Grand Age of Carol Ann Peters (spouse Richard) of 96. Thank you, Charlie, for your devotion to SPJST. May God bless you Austin and grandson Ryan Peters. Brother Charlie grew up on a farm and your family for many more years and served his country from 1943 to of happiness together. —SPJST— 1945. He was an eyewitness to the in a small community like that knows each other. There’s no suspicion, and nobody feels the need to lock their house at night for fear of someone breaking in. Agrarians hate urbanization because they find something inherently alienating about city life. Everyone in the city feels atomized from everyone else despite people being packed together like sardines. And all this, for the profit of a few rich businessmen. Everyone feels the dominance of the oligarchical structure of cities. The farmer, by contrast, has a stable place and a concrete sense of belonging. At the same time, the farmer has total independence and self-sufficiency – he grows his food and provides for his family directly through the sweat of his brow. He’s his own man, as it were. Rural society is, in many ways, the ideal society. The fellowship that you can
see in American small towns – the kinds of places where everyone knows everyone else – is second to none. As Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “Those who labor in the earth are the chosen people of God, if ever he had a chosen people, whose breasts he has made his peculiar deposit for substantial and genuine virtue.” Nowhere in the history of mankind has there been moral corruption in the mass of cultivators. Even today, the image of the yeoman farmer is a wholesome one. The secret to this is the tight-knit, high-trust communities such farmers inhabit. This has been my experience with the country. Rural areas feel “homey” in a way that the suburbs never have, despite having lived in the suburbs my entire life. And maybe one day, that’s where you’ll find me. —SPJST—
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Hard Boiled Egg Decorating Old-time Easter Egg Dye It’s gettin’ time for Peter Cottontail to come hoppin’ down the bunny trail, gather dye-makin’s from the garden, and spend a nice Saturday coloring eggs. The following method boils fresh eggs with dyestuff ingredients, which is a quicker process than dipping eggs into dye and soaking. Eggs 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar 2 1/2 cups plant-dye material Water Put fresh eggs in a single layer in a pan with just enough water to cover them completely. Add vinegar and your chosen fruits, vegetables, or leaves. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the eggs promptly if you want lighter shades. For darker colors, strain the dye into a bowl with the eggs and let sit in the refrigerator overnight. Submitted by, Dorothy Stuchly Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
Dyeing and Decorating Tips You can also hard boil eggs ahead of time then make dyes/colors in which to soak the eggs. Make the dyes using individual stainless steel, glass, or enamel saucepans for each dye/color. Be sure to add distilled white vinegar to the dye/color - as it acts as a fixative; without it, the dyes won’t stick to the eggs. Approximate ratio: One quart water/2 Tablespoons distilled white vinegar. For each dye/color, choose dyestuff ingredient/s. Boil for 15 minutes and let cool before soaking/dyeing eggs. Strain the dye into a bowl or leave the ingredients; either way, allow to cool to room temperature. Soak boiled eggs (for various periods of time) to achieve the desired colors. Red - red onion skins, beets, cranberries, paprika, deep red fruit juice, i.e., pomegranate, or soak in pureed frozen raspberries. Pink - cranberry juice, rhubarb stalks, raspberries, red currants, shredded beets. Purple - purple petunias, pansies, or violets, hibiscus tea, frozen or fresh blueberries, purple juice, i.e., grape juice Blue - red cabbage, canned blueberries, pureed frozen blueberries.
Lodge 187, Round Rock honors Jennifer Mc Carthy for 50 years of SPJST membership
O O O Presenting 2021 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 142, Houston
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 142, Houston officers are, front, left to right, Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick, Vice President Kerry Herrington, President Dennis Hermis, Secretary Elizabeth Hermis, and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider. BACK: Youth Leader Amanda Muzny, Flag Bearer Zac Coleman, Guide Karole Coleman, and Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington. —Submitted by Pat Schleider, FAC
Yellow - turmeric spice, ground cumin, yellow apple, orange or lemon peels, celery seed, dandelion and daffodil blossoms, saffron threads (1/4 teaspoon of saffron powder equals approximately 4 to 6 threads). Orange - yellow onion skin, paprika, chamomile tea. Green - spinach leaves; carrot tops; green apple peels produce a yellowgreen. Brown - strong brewed coffee, chili powder; black tea.
❊ Before dyeing, hard boil white eggs and let them cool. ❊ For a mottled, tie-dyed, or spotty effect, leave all the ingredients in the pans. ❊ For deeper colors, use more dyestuff and/or let the eggs soak longer. ❊ For uniform color, strain each dye mixture through cheesecloth or a fine strainer. ❊ Use crayons to make designs - circles, geometrics, your name - on the egg; the crayoned part will not take up any dye. White crayons work especially well. ❊ For special effects, dip half the egg LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to Jennifer McCarthy, left, of Lodge 187, Round Rock! She was presented her 50-year membership pin by Lodge in one color, the other half in another. 187 President Linda Johnson at the March 14, 2021, meeting. RIGHT ❊ Blot the eggs dry or allow them to air PHOTO: Jennifer McCarthy is pictured with a beautiful, delicious cake dry, as for some colors the dye will rub that was served in Jennifer’s honor after the presentation. off while still wet.
❊ Make sure eggs of different colors are completely dry before piling them up in a bowl together, as wet dye from one egg can transfer to another. Easter Egg Safety ❊ Keep eggs refrigerated before boiling; ❊ Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the eggs; ❊ If you won’t be coloring the eggs right after cooking them, store them in the refrigerator; ❊ When hiding eggs, avoid areas where they might come into contact with pets, wild animals, birds, reptiles, insects, or lawn chemicals. ❊ Refrigerate your eggs again after they have been hidden and found, and don’t eat cracked eggs or eggs that have been out of the refrigerator for more than two hours; ❊ Don’t eat eggs that sit around in hot water for many hours or overnight. Save those for decorations only; ❊ If your egg hunt involves hard-boiled eggs, it’s wise to keep track of how many the Easter Bunny hides. If you don’t find eggs on Sunday, you might be smelling them by Wednesday. http://www.icangarden.com/document.cfm?task=viewdetail&itemid=846#ixzz0hiJaRTUB
—SPJST—
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Monday, March 29, 2021
A beloved staple with a sweet twist Sweet potatoes are a beloved side dish throughout the year. Despite the popularity of sweet potatoes, some misconceptions about them have prevailed. The terms “sweet potato” and “yam” often are used interchangeably, but they actually are two different plants. Sweet potatoes, according to the cooking resource Epicurious, are in the morning glory family. Yams are related to palms and grasses. Yams are native to Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Central America. Sweet potatoes are grown primarily in the United States, although they were likely brought from Central or South America. One similarity of sweet potatoes and yams are that they are not potatoes at all. Sweet potatoes range in color from yellow to dark orange. There also are purple varieties. Yams have brown or black, scaly skin. They can produce offwhite, purple, or red flesh that is more starchy and dry than sweet potatoes. Most North American stores do not sell genuine yams.
Sweet potatoes can be prepared in both sweet and savory ways, making them equally at home on the dinner table or for dessert. Sweet potato fries are one of the tastier ways to enjoy sweet potatoes. This recipe for “Baked Sweet Potato Fries,” courtesy of the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission, can make for the perfect side when serving steak or burgers. Baked Sweet Potato Fries Serves 8 7 medium sweet potatoes 1⁄3 cup olive oil 1⁄2 teaspoon salt Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with foil; spray with
O O O Presenting 2021 Officers O O O SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock
The 2021 SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock officers and board of directors are, front, left to right, Financial Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Joann Oman, Reporter/Youth Coordinator Jennifer McCarthy, and Vice President Janie Baron. BACK: Director Greg McCarthy, Secretary Deborah Rohlack, Treasurer Rubie Volek, President Linda Johnson, and Fraternal Entertainment Coordinator Carla Krenek. They are pictured with District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, back, far right, who installed the officers and directors. Not pictured are Lodge Directors Tom Etheredge, Rose Etheredge, and Johnnie Haak. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter/Youth Coordinator
nonstick cooking spray. For crispier results, place a metal rack on each baking sheet. Peel the sweet potatoes, if desired, and cut into 1⁄4-inch strips. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, oil and salt; with your hands, toss to coat. Spread sweet potatoes in a single layer on racks or foil without crowding; set aside remaining sweet potatoes. Bake until crisp, about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Repeat until all the sweet potatoes are baked. —SPJST—
Enjoy comfort food throughout the year Comfort food is a favorite in all seasons, and “Croissant Bread Pudding” is an ideal choice. Topped with a rum-flavored sauce, it’s sweet and decadent for all the right reasons. Enjoy this recipe from “The Pampered Chef: Stoneware Inspirations” (The Pampered Chef, Ltd.) by The Pampered Chef Test Kitchens. Croissant Bread Pudding Yields 12 servings 4 large croissants (about 3 ounces each) 1 red baking apple, such as Jonathan 6 eggs 1⁄2 cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar, divided 2 cups half and half 1 orange 1⁄2 cup pecan halves, chopped 3⁄4 cup butterscotch caramel ice cream topping 1⁄4 teaspoon rum extract 1⁄2 cup golden raisins
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until blended. Carefully pour egg mixture over croissants. If necessary, lightly press croissants down to coat. 3. Zest orange to measure 2 teaspoons zest. Juice orange to measure 1⁄4 cup juice; set juice aside. Chop pecans. Combine remaining sugar, orange zest and pecans; sprinkle over croissants. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown and set in center. Remove from oven to a cooling rack; let stand 10 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, combine ice cream topping, rum extract, reserved orange juice, and raisins in a microwave-safe container. Microwave on high 30 to 60 seconds or until hot; pour into serving bowl. Serve sauce over pudding. —SPJST—
Happy Birthday, Karen!
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a deep baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Slice croissants from top to bottom into 1⁄2-inch slices. Set aside 16 of the largest slices. Cube remaining slices and place in bottom of baker. Arrange reserved slices over cubes in an overlapping circular pattern. Core and slice apple, leaving peel on; cut slices in half. Tuck apple slices between croissant slices. 2. In a bowl, whisk eggs and 1⁄2 cup of the sugar. Pour half and half into a microwave-safe container and microwave on high 2 minutes or until hot. Slowly add half and half to egg mixture; whisk
Lodge 202, Jourdanton wished Karen Fair a happy birthday at its March 7, 2021, quarterly meeting. Karen celebrated her birthday on March 14. —Submitted by Bettie House
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Continued from Page 1. the prestige of striking at the heart of the Nazi war machine. The war planners knew Berlin would be heavily defended, and the United States was eager to maintain pressure on the Luftwaffe by bringing it out into battle. According to the Mighty Eighth War Diary by Roger Freeman, the entire 8th Air Force was dispatched to Berlin that day with approximately 1,000 planes. The weather conditions to be faced were among the worst ever experienced, with heavy clouds up to 30,000 feet and tem-
VĚSTNÍK peratures reaching -60 degrees Fahrenheit or below. As the massive group of aircraft flew in corkscrew-like circles to reach altitude, they encountered a thick bank of icy clouds beginning over the North Sea. Unable to see in any direction, Alvin Stasney’s plane, named the ‘Mairzy Doats,’ crossed another B-24’s prop wash. The aircraft went into a stall and partial spin toward the water below. The crew prepared to bail out, which would have meant a very meager chance for survival. Pilot Joe Darnell struggled to regain control and eventually pulled their Liberator out of its death spiral. The temperature now dropped to below the gauge dial limit of -60 degrees Fahrenheit. The aircraft’s radio stopped working and their
Last photograph of the ‘Mairzy Doats’ crew after 30 completed missions. Pictured are, front, left to right, S/Sgt Manuel A. Rego, waist gunner; 1/Lt Edward E. Slagle, copilot; S/Sgt John R. Sundo, waist gunner; Sgt Luell E. Ward, tail gunner. BACK: T/Sgt Richard F. Mandel, radio operator; 1/Lt Robert C. Lory, bombardier; S/Sgt Edward J. Courtney, ball turret; 1/Lt Joseph F. Darnell Jr., pilot; S/Sgt Jack W. Whitaker, engineer; 1/Lt Alvin J. Stasney, navigator.
Alvin Stasney’s B-24 plane was named ‘Mairzy Doats,’ which was the name of a nonsense song by the Pied Pipers. The song was fun to sing and made the pop charts several times, with a version by the Merry Macs reaching number one in March 1944.
wrist watches froze. With zero visibility, their plane became separated from the other bombers. But the crew continued to their target just north of Berlin with Stasney navigating by instrument. Exposure to these temperatures began to take a real toll on the crew. One of the complaints about the B-24 was the ineffective insulation in the nose turret which allowed icy winds to penetrate the crew compartments. Bombardier Frank Richardson was manning the nose gun. Noticing that Richardson was not responding, Stasney pulled him up to the flight deck unconscious, with icicles hanging from his eyes and frost covering his face. Stasney was also suffering greatly with frozen feet due to his electrical-heated suit malfunctioning. Nearing their target, Pilot Darnell found about 500 feet of clear air sandwiched between two layers of dense clouds. As they looked around, of the 1,000 planes launched that morning, there was not another aircraft to be seen. The entire bomber force had been recalled, but Darnell’s crew didn’t receive the message due to the distraction from their near crash and radio problems. Being the only bomber in the sky over the target, they decided to abort the mis-
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sion taking refuge within the same dense clouds they had previously been cursing and setting a return course while descending to a less frigid altitude. They encountered some flak near Germany’s Heligoland but safely returned to their base on the east coast of England to the surprise of many who assumed the Mairzy Doats was M.I.A. Upon landing, Navigator Alvin Stasney and Bombardier Frank Richardson were immediately transported to the hospital by ambulance. No debriefing of Alvin was done, so nothing was ever entered into the 392nd Bomb Group official records regarding this first American B-24 over Berlin - albeit unofficial. Both Stasney and Richardson flew the next two Berlin missions on March 6 and 8. Richardson, who later joined a different crew, was killed in action on March 18 in the mission over Friedrichshafen. Alvin Stasney is the last living crew member of the ‘Mairzy Doats.’ He celebrated his 100th birthday on January 2 while recuperating in the hospital from partial hip replacement surgery. Happy birthday and congratulations to Brother Stasney on achieving the Grand Age of 100! —SPJST—
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Monday, March 29, 2021 The deadline for all Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to: SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503 Fax: 254-773-8087 Email: vestnik@spjst.org Questions? Call 800-727-7578
This section is dedicated to the youth of SPJST. As part of its membership benefits, SPJST offers a statewide youth program. If you or someone you know is interested in learning about opportunities offered to young members of SPJST, please contact your local lodge, District Youth Counselor (listed on page 2), or State Fraternal Director at 800-727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.
State Fraternal Director shares April youth news Calling All Youth Members! Plan to Join in the April 11 Webcast Calling all SPJST youth members! The honor of your presence is requested for our “Second Sunday” youth webcast on Sunday, April 11, 2021, at 6 p.m! This will be our first get-together using the Zoom platform. It will be a fun way to get reacquainted as well as address questions that you may have regarding the online Youth Achievement Day (YAD) contests. To make things a little more interesting, everyone who signs up will have a chance to win one of three great prizes! This is an important meeting as it can be applied to attending this year’s SPJST Summer Camp if you still need to make up a meeting. To register for the April 11 webcast, visit www.spjst.org and click on “Events” and “Second Sunday Youth Webcast” to register. You can sign up as late as 6 p.m. on the day of the webcast. After you register as a participant in the webcast, you will receive an email confirming that you have registered to participate. Facebook Private Group for DYCs and Youth Leaders We are in the process of setting up two “closed groups” on Facebook. The first will be for the SPJST Youth Leadership — DYCs, youth leaders, and directors. The other closed group will be for parents and their children as well as DYCs
and youth leaders. These pages will be designed to communicate and share information on events and reminders related to SPJST Summer Camp and Youth Achievement Day (YAD) contests. The idea is to routinely and easily share information – including questions and answers – on the private, closed Facebook pages which so many members are accustomed to using. I will notify you by email when the groups are up and running. 2021 Quarterly Reports and Recording Merit Points Youth leaders, please remember that your 2021 first quarterly report is due in the Home Office by April 15. Reports must be turned in on or before the 15th of the month following the end of the quarter for a youth club to qualify for its quarterly incentives. First Quarter (January, February, March) is due Thursday, April 15
Second Quarter (April, May, June) is due Thursday, July 15 Third Quarter (July, August, September) is due Friday, October 15 Fourth Quarter (October, November, December) is due Saturday, January 15 Online Camp Registration Please know all campers must have finished kindergarten to high school senior to attend camp. For camp registration, go to spjst.org and under “Programs,” click “Summer Camp Registration” that will direct you to the CampDoc website to register. Leaders in Training (LIT)/Teen Camp Wednesday, June 23 to Sunday, June 27 Junior Camp Session One* Districts Three, Four, Five, Seven Wednesday, July 7 to Sunday, July 11 Junior Camp Session Two* Districts One, Two, Six Wednesday, July 14 to Sunday, July 18 *Campers who have a conflict may opt to attend either of the two junior camp sessions. LIT and Chaperone Registration (Note that dates have been extended.) Junior camper applications are due Friday, June 4 LIT Applications are due Friday, May 28 2021 Chaperone Applications are due Friday, May 28 State Youth Achievement Day (YAD) Please mark your calendar for State YAD on Saturday, July 31 in Temple at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center. Plans are to have a live, onsite YAD in Temple. This may change
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if Covid-19 cases are increasing during that time. District registration is open on the SPJST website or go directly to https://spjst.org/yad/ Decorated Rock Contest This year’s decorated rock contest will be held in the individual districts onsite. It will be up to the District Youth Counselor to determine the time, date, and location. The event may be held in conjunction with the district meeting; however, it may also be held apart from the district meeting. First place winning rocks are to be photographed and emailed to me for the Vestnik. All participating youth will have the choice to donate their decorated rock to be displayed at Camp Kubena Rock Garden. If you are unable to deliver your rock while attending camp, please let your DYC know, and she can collect your rock and bring it to camp. Age groups are kindergarten to 8 years; ages 9 to 11 years; ages 12 to 14 years; and age 15 and high school senior. Awards are $25 gift cards to be presented to the overall winner in each age group. Camp Chaperone Training Online in 2021 In 2021, SPJST Summer Camp Chaperone Training is mandatory. I will check CampDoc on a weekly basis to set up the training for Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention program. Chaperones will receive an email notification from TrainRight. This training is based on Texas laws. Camp Kubena chaperone training will be conducted online by video conference. SPJST will offer a number of training dates to choose from. Camp Kubena training will be conducted by Camp Director Rob Clift and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. All chaperones are required be at camp for the entirety of camp.
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Vestnik Project The May Vestnik Project will focus on District Six Youth Counselor Lisa Bubela. SPJST youth members and leaders will get to know Lisa when she was young and what her interests were while growing up. Youth leaders, please let the parents of youth club members know that the monthly Vestnik Projects are to be completed and submitted online. If you receive the Vestnik by mail, you will need to scan the QR code to be directed to the online Vestnik Project. If you receive your Vestnik by email, click on the link under the QR code to direct you to the project. All 2021 Vestnik Projects will be accessible on the www.spjst.org webpage under the “Youth Program” tab. The April Vestnik Project is on page 17. Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
Lodge 20, Granger Youth Club plans 2021 events
We had our youth club meeting today. It’s one of my favorite meetings of the year. We always do an Easter egg hunt. We also plan out our events for the year. Today, we booked the SPJST Float for Granger Lakefest. Aubrey Marshall, age 10 —SPJST—
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Lodge 20, Granger youth inducted into National Junior Honor Society
LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to Lodge 20, Granger Youth Club member Sterling Cavanaugh Marshall! Sterling, center, with friends Mia Canava, left, and Gabriella
Last week, I was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society at Academy Middle School. I had to put what community service projects I have
Lodge 47, Seaton youth: snapping, soccer, hiking, Green Jacks Dear Vestnik Readers, Hello, guys! Today is Monday, March 15, 2021. Today, I am going hiking. Hiking is very, very, very, very fun. We had company come over yesterday. I got to pet Riley. Are we going to do the rock painting contest? I really, really, really want to go to camp. I can snap. I learned how to snap at school. I like to play sports. I am playing soccer right now. We are called the Green Jacks. I am number 9. Fall season, I was number 4. Last spring, I was number 13, but I only got to play one game because of Covid-19. And Vestnik readers, please like the story. Andrew Ordogne, age 5 —SPJST—
Davis displaying their National Junior Honor Society certificates of membership. RIGHT PHOTO: AMS students are pictured during the induction ceremony.
been involved with in the last two years. Thanks to SPJST, it was almost too many to list. SPJST has taught me how to support my community with various service
projects. Thank you, SPJST, for playing such an important role in my life. Sterling Marshall, age 14 —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club continues to meet virtually Lodge 47, Seaton youth ready for spring warmth Dear Věstník Readers, This is the best time ever because it will start to get warm. Yay! I cannot wait for spring. One thing is it won’t snow, hopefully. This week is spring break, and I am going to have so much fun. Today, we are going hiking, and I can’t wait. Spring, oh, lovely spring! Soon it will be camp, and I will be super excited. I can’t wait! So have a great month, and see you next time. Fraternally, Travis Ordogne, age 9 —SPJST—
Dear Readers, The pandemic still dictates our monthly meetings and activities, but somehow, we still manage to meet via Zoom! A big thank you to Youth Leader Lynda Novak and her assistants Vicki Sims, Kelly Tucker, and Jennifer Ruzicka who work hard to keep us all upto-date and on track with all the upcoming SPJST events. Youth Leader Lynda continues to remind us about submitting our Vestnik Projects, the monthly youth webcast schedule with State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, District Three Youth Achievement Day (YAD) to be held virtually, and State YAD on July 31. Lynda has told us about Leader-InTraining (LIT) dates, District Three
VĚSTNÍK camp dates, and that the chaperone training is now online so if any parents or grandparents would like to attend camp and keep an eye on us youth, they need to register. We are all staying busy working on our YAD projects during the quarantine and doing our best to stay healthy. Hope you all are, too! Fraternally, Josh Tucker, age 11 Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 185 New Braunfels youth pens first place essay Dear Vestnik Readers, I was recently honored by being selected the first place winner of the 20202021 Patriot Pen Essay Contest for my district. The contest is sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars, and “What Is Patriotism to Me?” was the theme.
I was awarded a certificate with the designation ‘An Outstanding Young Spokesperson of the Future,’ a medal, and a prize of $500. Sincerely, Megan Ohnheiser, age 14 —SPJST—
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SPJST April Věstník Project This project earns a maximum 1 point in the SPJST Youth Merit Point System. To complete the project questions to earn 1 point in the SPJST Merit Point System, scan the QR Code below, or go directly to spjst.org/programs/vestnik-project/
Get to Know District Three Youth Counselor Mary Steinman “I probably had an SPJST certificate written for me as I was being born,” Mary Steinman says. “My grandmother was Anna Milan, and she was the first female top salesperson in SPJST.” Mary was the sixth of nine children born to Don and Rosie Steinman. “My sister Donna Rose gave me the nickname ‘Punkie,’ Mary states. “She said when I would sleep, I would curl up and look like a pumpkin.”
Mary was born in Fort Worth. When she was six months old, her family moved to a farm where Mary had to share a bed with her two other sisters. “Oh, the mischief we could get into! I loved riding my pony, Little Joe, to the corral which was my own little make-believe town. When Mom and Dad left the house and Little Joe was good — I brought Little Joe into the house with me to watch the television show Mr. Ed and let him eat lunch with us. However, my sister Teresa would not let that happen!” Mary attended SPJST meetings along with her siblings and cousins. She recalls attending many functions at the SPJST Lodge 154, Fort Worth hall along with many fun dances with the entire family. “My favorite dance partner was my cousin, Patti. I started at-
tending SPJST camp at the age of six when my mother attended as a chaperone. When it was time to go to camp, we all piled into two vehicles and rode down to Camp Val Verde, near Waco. It was my favorite camp - even if there was no A/C (air conditioning) in the cabins. The nights were always cool, and we would hear the tales of “Christy’s Crossing.” My favorite thing at camp was riding horses.” In high school, Mary was one of three freshmen who played on the junior varsity basketball team. Volleyball was her favorite sport, but it was not offered at her school. She did, however, play volleyball at Sokol Fort Worth. She also participated in gymnastics. Sokol (sokol Czech word that means ‘falcon’) is another Czech-founded national and international organization. In 1976, Mary had the honor of riding a horse as part of a special event during the National Sokol Slet (slet - Czech word that means ‘gathering’) in Chicago. The special program included participants from Sokols in Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Ennis, Houston, and West. “I had to ride an unfamiliar horse while holding a flag,” Mary remembers. “It was the only time in the history of National Slets that a live animal was used in a special event.” When h e r daughter Appa was 11 months old, Mary was asked to chaperone at camp, due to need for additional chaperones. “My husband, Larry, told me to go, and he would take care of Appa,” Mary says. “I have been attending camp as a chaperone ever since. Once my daughter Appa was old enough, she attended as a camper and later, as a chaperone. Now, her kids are attending camp while she serves as a chaperone. This is
one of the cherished traditions we have passed down in our family.” Mary says she had the pleasure of taking her mother to many Czech festivals around Texas. “I may have complained sometimes, but it was important to her which made it special to me. If you were ever at Westfest or National Polka Festival in Ennis, you were sure to see Rosie on a parade float, wearing her kroj, taking pictures, or singing with the Brave Combo band with people chanting, ‘Rosie, Rosie, Rosie . . .’ “This all came about because of o u r SPJST f a m i l y. T h e SPJST family unit is difficult to explain to those not familiar with the organization. There are a lot of great feelings and memories you make during your time with SPJST. “Oh, by the way, my name is Sister Mary Steinman, District Three DYC!” —SPJST—
https://spjst.org/programs/vestnik-project/
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Finding Time by d.knape
I forgot what day it was it’s like that when you’re retired there is no clock to punch no calendar to cross off nothing to measure time by but you don’t worry about it a day is just a day you wake up the whole week is gone then you wonder what happened and where time went if you could ever find that place where time goes you could get all those weeks back and relive them once again but time is mysterious we do not know where it goes or where its hiding place is so we live in the present thinking we have time to spare until it’s too late and we end up finally finding time and then ironically wish we hadn’t found it. —SPJST—
Apple by d.knape
A poem is like an apple it’s small compact and is healthy for your mind and spirit a poem snaps when you bite into it you can roll it around on your tongue chew on it lovingly it leaves a pleasant aftertaste. —SPJST—
Sweet Rain by d.knape
After each rain a new day arrives with fresh smells and a fresh outlook everything is so much greener and better the trees the plants even the people look happier all refreshed by rain our natural additive the nectar that sweetens our life. —SPJST—
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In Memoriam In Memory of Joseph D. Nezval Joseph Dominic Nezval, 91, passed away Friday, March 12, 2021. A perennial SPJST booster and past president and sales agent for SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard, Brother Nezval was born March 18, 1929, in East Bernard to Dominic and Lillie Foitik Nezval. Graveside service for Brother Nezval was Wednesday, March 17 at 2 p.m. Joseph D. Nezval at Czech National Cemetery, located west of East Bernard. Joseph D. “Joe” Nezval had two families in this life. His biological family — the family into which he was born — and his SPJST fraternal family which he grew into and embraced. His birth family includes his cousin, Billy Fojtik, and Billy’s son, Will. Joe was born in the height of the Great Depression. Times were hard and most everyone was poor by today’s standards. It was a time when so many families lived by the self-reliant motto: “Use it up, wear it out, make do or do without.” But to hear Brother Joe tell it, growing up during the Depression, wasn’t all that bad . . . especially if you had loving parents like Lillie and Dominic. Brother Joe’s parents were popular within the East Bernard fraternal community and were actively engaged in the affairs of SPJST and of the local Sokol gymnastics organization. It was growing up in this environment that helped Brother Joe develop an appreciation for all things fraternal. Much of Joe’s early life – and the life of the community – centered around the SPJST Building at 106 Leveridge Street in East Bernard. Lodge meetings were held there, of course, and a druggist operated on the first floor; however, what really made the lodge building special – what made it the center of the community — was the magnificent auditorium that occupied the entirety of the second floor. Performing troupes — including the Czech players from SPJST Lodge 88, Houston — would regularly perform Czech language plays in the auditorium, delivering a measure of Old World culture to East Bernard.
Brother Joe’s job for these early productions was that of stagehand. His father Dominic often served as director and his mother Lillie as one of the leading actresses. According to Brother Joe, his mother was considered by many in the area to be the “Czech Bettie Davis!” The lodge hall and auditorium had an elaborate system of backdrops and moveable stage scenery, all of which was designed and painted by Joe’s father. Dominic, who had studied art in Slovakia and the US, was a gifted commercial artist. Brother Joe was extremely well-versed in the history of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard and SPJST in general. He was also very well-versed in the lives and genealogical histories of his extended fraternal family. And – especially in his later years — he loved reaching back in time and telling stories of the things that he had witnessed, seen and done. He displayed joy in sharing his exploits as a business student on the campus of University of Houston. As a student, Brother Joe was an active member of the Alpha Phi Omega service organization. Historically, the mission of Alpha Phi Omera – APO for short – on college campuses has been to prepare community leaders through volunteer service – not unlike SPJST. Brother Joe revelled in his APO experiences. In 1946, the University of Houston became involved in intercollegiate sports. Their coach at the time was John Bender – who had previously been at Washington State where the mascot was a cougar. When Coach Bender arrived at U of H, he decided that his team there would also be the cougars. That’s what prompted APO to get involved. In 1947, the service organization purchased a live cougar in Mexico for U of H, They also held a campus-wide contest to name the cougar. Of the 225 entries that were received, the name “Shasta” was picked because it sounded like “She has to.” (She has to have a cage. She has to have a winning team. She has to have the best.) And when it came to having a handler, she had to have the best – Brother Joe Nezval. Brother Joe served as Captain of the University of Houston Cougar Guard. Shasta was attended by these student handlers at all U of H sporting events and public appearances. Brother Joe is pictured with Shasta by his side in
the 1952 University of Houston yearbook. As Captain of the Cougar Guard, Joe was also deputized by the Houston Police Force, enabling him to wear a pistol on his side. The rationale here was that if Shasta ever got out of hand, it would be up to Joe to lay her down. Thankfully, Brother Joe never had to cross that bridge, and Shasta lived to the ripe old age of 15 and passed away of natural causes in 1962. Following his college years, Brother Joe served a stint in the US Army, attaining the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Brother Joe had a profound and continuing respect for the military and its role in maintaining our nation’s freedoms. He was very much a patriot. By the early 1960s, Brother Joe was already very much involved in the affairs of SPJST, including serving as a sales agent for the Society. Thanks to Brother Joe’s passion and persistence, a total of 151 men, women, boys, and girls were enrolled as members of the Society. He was committed to the idea of building his lodge and SPJST. In addition to his devoted efforts as an SPJST sales agent, Brother Joe was active in his lodge and in District Six. He joined SPJST in 1936 and was an 85year member. Brother Joe was protective of his fraternal order and serious about the leadership roles that he held in District Six and as president of Lodge 28, East Bernard. In so many ways, his SPJST love and affinity for SPJST defined his mission and purpose in life. Brother Joe, who would have been 92 on March 18, celebrated his 90th birthday with his SPJST family at the District Six Spring Meeting on March 24, 2019, at Moravia Catholic Church Parish Hall. Even at the age of 90, Brother Joe was an active participant in meeting activities that day. It was Brother Joe who made the motion to accept the Nominating Committee’s slate of district officers. Brother Joe valued the strong fraternal base upon which the Society is founded. We have been deeply touched by Brother Joe’s passing, but the sadness in our hearts and especially in the hearts of his loved ones, who survive him, should be moderated in that we know that he has lived a good and useful life of service. He lived and served according to the instructions and teachings he received in SPJST on Benevolence, Humanity, and Brotherhood. May our departed brother rest in eternal peace. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, March 29, 2021 Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Česká
Část
ROČNÍK 109 ČISLO 6 29.březen.2021
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE
HUMANITY
BROTHERHOOD
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech Lekce druhá Lesson 2 The following are short sentences using the letters of the Czech alphabet, plus some others using combinations of letters. Read them slowly, carefully, and out loud. Get family or friends help with the pronunciation; do them together. Clip and save each lesson, and compile them into notebook form. Set aside a regular time each week for the study of these lessons. a - Anna dostala malou panenku. á - Má máma má málo máku. b - Bratr běhal venku bez kabátu. c - Cihláři dělaji cihly v cihelně. č - U kočárku jsou čtyři kolečka. d - Pod dubem ležely dva žaludy. ď - Pojď se podívat na loď. e - Ten pekař peče chutné pečivo. é - Lékař léči nemocného. ě - Věra pověděla tetě o smetaně. f - František koupil na farmě fazole. g - Olga našla novou gumu. h - Honza dlouho hledal hrábě. ch - Chlapec chytal mouchy. i - Indián si koupil inkoust.
í - Na píšťalu se píská. j - Jeden jelen je u jezera. k - Koza okousala krásný keř. l - Lampa stála na stole. m - My máme mnoho malých mís. n - Naše maminka nemá náušnice. ň - Kůň se díval na stráň. o - On chodil okolo našeho domu. ó - Ó, jak jsem se polekal! ou - Soused koupil kousek louky. p - Petr poslal psaní panu Pavlíkovi. r - Sestra Růženka roztrhala zástěru. ř - Rybář potkal mylnáře u řeky. s - Sousedka nese maso, máslo a sádlo. š - Šest hochů se sešlo u školy. t - Teta dostala starý kabát. ť - Obrať se, je zde labuť ! u - U domu je hromada uhlí. ú - V únoru bylo údolí pod sněhem. ů - Růžena půjde domů pro růže. Těch hochů je hodně. v - Nam vitr foukal velmi volno. y - Všechny louky u řeky se zelenaly. ý - Malý Karlík dostal zlatý prstýnek. z - Zajíc si pochutnal na zelí. ž - Božena spatřila žábu u louže. bě - Obě děvčata běžela do školy. vě - Dvě a dvě jsou čtyři. pě - Jdi pěkně po pěšině. mě - Bratr měl jít do města. dě - Děti se těšily na neděli. tě - Malé kotě spalo v botě.
ně - Někdo odvázal naše koně. di - Já jsem byl hodinu v divadle. ti - Ti vojáci tiše odešli. ni - Oni nikohoi neviděli. dí - Dítě se dívalo na obrázky. tí - Frantík utíká domů. ní - Na chodníku neni žádný sníh. S
S
S
Read the following verse; see if you can translate it. What new words do you see? Look up their meanings. Říkadlo Až příjde leden, za kamna vlezem až příjde duben, ještě tam budem; až příjde máj, půjdeme v háj! —SPJST—
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all necessary documentation on or before Saturday, May 1, 2021. Late applications will not be considered. Applications are available at local high school offices, can be downloaded from Taylor Czech Chorus Facebook page, or by contacting Betty Zimmerhanzel at 512-352-6823. Monica Stojaník Lodge 20, Granger —SPJST—
Visit Czech Center Museum Houston Add some color to your 2021, and visit the revamped exhibits at Czech Center Museum Houston. Experience the culture, art, music, and stories of many Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty and democracy in America.
Taylor Czech Chorus to award scholarship More than 10 years ago, Taylor Czech Chorus proudly established a $500 scholarship that is awarded to a graduating senior of Czech descent. The selected recipient will have the scholarship paid to the accredited college or university of their choice. Requirements are: 1) Be a graduating senior in the 2020-21 school year. 2) Have a minimum high school GPA equivalence of 3.0 on a 4-point scale. 3) Provide documentation of Czech heritage. 4) Include a 300- to 400-word essay, typed, double-spaced defining why you feel you should be selected for this scholarship, how your Czech heritage has influenced you, and what your heritage means to you. 5) The recipient must live no farther than 25 miles from Taylor, Texas [exception: a relative of a Taylor Czech Chorus member]. 6) Recipient must be willing to attend a meeting of Taylor Czech Chorus in Taylor, Texas, to receive the award. 7) Submit a completed application and
Czech Center Museum Houston is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, Texas 77004-5719 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The phone number is 713-5282060. Visit czechcenter.org for more information. Karlin Lojo-Kirton —SPJST—
Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center opens wedding display Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) is pleased to open a beautiful new display, Texas-Czech Wedding Apparel and Traditions, of
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wedding dresses, associated apparel, and information on early wedding traditions in the main Museum. The exhibit includes 10 dresses that have been donated by our members and are from weddings that occurred from 1883 to 1946. Although many things have changed in the modern era, many wedding ceremonies and their traditions have endured. Take a walk back in time and view these fragile mementos and leave with an understanding of Czech culture and traditions that are still alive today. The exhibit opened March 16 and will close November 15, 2021. TCHCC is located just north of La Grange on US Highway 77 adjacent to Fayette County Fairgrounds. Hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 888-785-4500 or visit the website, www.czechtexas.org. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK nominations and was the top grossing Czech film of 2020. Charlatan, directed by Agnieszka Holland, will be shown on Tuesday, April 13. The film was short-listed for an Academy Award for Best International Film. It received five Czech Oscars - Best Film, Director, Actor, Cinematography, and Sound. Alchemical Furnace will be shown on Tuesday, April 20. This documentary film was directed by Adam Ol’ha and Jan Dañhel. It features legendary surrealist stop motion animation filmmaker Jan Švankmajer and is a great influence on Terry Gilliam, Brothers Quay, and more. The Droneman will be shown on Tuesday, April 27. Directed by Petr Zelenka, the film received two Czech Oscars in 2020 and Academy Award Nominated Director (The Karamazov Brothers). Gates open at 7 p.m. Movie starts at 8. The film is in Czech language with English subtitles. Learn more and get tickets at pioneerfarms.org. Seating is limited! —SPJST—
Moravský hymnus s textem Jaroslavy Pechové a melodií upravenou podle lidové písně. Nazpívala kapela Ozembóch The music is written on the motifs of an old folk song, the lyrics were written at the request of the band by writer Jaroslava Pechová with the wish to give listeners hope for times when it will be better again in these difficult times. In the Czech Republic, the song has a nice audience and we hope that it will please you as well. The band consists of a trio of Roman Kubínek (violin) from the Department of Experimental Physics of the Faculty of Science, Hana Přichystalová (guitar) from the Institute of Medical Chemistry of the Faculty of Medicine of Palacký University, and Vladimír Severa (bass guitar, bass ukulele, classical ukulele, and musical instrument ozembouch) from the Department of Foreign Languages of the Faculty of Science. Please convey our message from the Czech Republic. Sincerely yours, Roman Kubinek and Jaroslava Pechova •••
Czech That Film Fest set for April in Austin Hey, Czech Film Lovers! Czech That Film - Texas 2021 is back! Join us for drive-in screenings at Pioneer Farms in North Austin (10621 Pioneer Farms Drive, Austin, Texas 78754-5415) every Tuesday in April. The four-night Czech That Film Festival will open on Tuesday, April 6, 2021, with the acclaimed screen biopic about former Czech President Vaclav Havel, presented by Big Day Pictures and PolkaWorks. The festival will continue on Tuesday evenings, April 13, 20, and 27. Released in 2020, Havel traces the irony and absurdity of Václav Havel’s metamorphosis from celebrated playwright to banned and jailed human rights activist to president of Czechoslovakia. The film is a highly acclaimed look at a talented yet complicated man who stood up to Eastern Bloc rule and won, eventually leading the country he helped free from totalitarian governance. Havel was directed by Slávek Horák and received 14 Czech Oscar
A celebraic song from the Czech Republic for compatriots in the USA My Dear Compatriots, Nowadays, we’re at war with Covid19. Our scientists develop nanotextils, tests to detect the virus or describe the effects of both antivirals and viruses themselves. We have strong scientific potential, but sometimes optimism is running out. In the Czech Republic, we wanted to lift people’s spirits in this miserable time, marked by a pandemic, and remind them of the beauties of our country, especially Moravia, where we live, before the coming spring and summer. I think the song could also make you, our precious compatriots, who live in the USA or Canada, happy, and we have together today not only the difficult destiny of the pandemic, but above all the ancestors in our beautiful country. Moravo moje - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1 dhG-jFYys&list=RDd1dhGjFYys&start_radio=1
Drazí krajané, V dnešní době jsme ve válce s covidem-19. Naši vědci vyvíjejí nanotextilie, testy na detekci viru či popisují působení antivirotik i virů samotných. Máme silný vědecký potenciál, ale někdy dochází optimismus. V České republice jsme chtěli lidem pozvednout náladu v této mizerné době, poznamenané pandemií a před nastávajícím jarem a létem jim připomenout krásy naší země, zejména Moravy, kde žijeme.
Myslím, že by skladba mohla udělat radost také vám, našim vzácným krajanům, kteří žijete v USA, případně Kanadě a máme dnes společný nejen těžký úděl pandemie, ale především předky v naší krásné zemi. Moravo moje - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1 dhG-jFYys&list=RDd1dhGjFYys&start_radio=1 Moravský hymnus s textem Jaroslavy Pechové a melodií upravenou podle lidové písně. Nazpívala kapela Ozembóch Hudba je napsána na motivy staré lidové písně, text napsala na přání kapely spisovatelka Jaroslava Pechová s přáním, aby posluchačům dodávala v této nelehké době naději na časy, kdy zase bude líp. V České republice má písnička pěknou sledovanost a doufáme, že potěší i vás. Kapela je tvořená trojicí Roman Kubínek (housle) z katedry experimentální fyziky přírodovědecké fakulty, Hana Přichystalová (kytara) z Ústavu lékařské chemie Lékařské fakulty Univerzity Palackého a Vladimír Severa (basová kytara, basové ukulele, klasické ukulele a hudební nástroj ozembouch) z Kabinetu cizích jazyků přírodovědecké fakulty. Předávejte prosím naše poselství z České republiky. S úctou Roman Kubínek a Jaroslava Pechová —SPJST—
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Monday, March 29, 2021
Czech Easter Eggs from TCGS The custom of exchanging intricately decorated Easter eggs, as practiced by our Czech ancestors, symbolized a new beginning, a symbol of love, friendship, and good things to come. We at Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) hope that you have learned a bit about this custom and have decided to begin a new tradition within your family of celebrating the spring and Easter season by collecting and displaying beautiful Czech eggs on an Easter tree or in an Easter basket in your home.
There is still time to order and receive your eggs for this season, but please get in touch as soon as possible. To place an order, please contact Nancy Machu at nbmachu@gmail.com or call 512-9714284, leaving a short message for a callback. Shipping charges will be added, based on the number of eggs ordered. TCGS staff wishes you and yours a beautiful spring and Easter season, full of Christ’s many blessings, throughout this joyful time of the year. Nancy Machu Lodge 29, Taylor —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: #EGL-2 - $8 - approx. 3.15” - Jeweled Golden Egg. PHOTO 2: #EGL-3 - $8 - approx. 3.15” - Silver Flowered Egg;
PHOTO 3: #EGL-5 - $8 - approx. 3.15” Purple-Adorned Egg. PHOTO 4: #EGL-6 $8 - approx. 2.5” - Ruby/Gold Design Egg.
LEFT PHOTO: #EGL-8 - $8 - approx. 2.5”Green/Gold Geometric Egg. PHOTO 2: #EGL-9 -$8 - approx. 3.15” - Gold/Rosebud Design Egg. PHOTO 3: #EGL-363 - $15 - ap-
prox. 0.5” - Pink Roses. PHOTO 5: #ESM162 - $10 - approx. 2.75” - Floral Design. RIGHT PHOTO: #EGL-12 - $14 - approx. 2.5” - Moravia designs vary.
Czech Easter Stuffing Čech Velikonoční Nádivka Hlavička On Holy Saturday - velikonoční nádivka, a special kind of Czech Easter food is baked. It’s full of green spring herbs and smoked meat. This Czech Easter stuffing might look fancy, but it’s totally easy to make. Czech Easter stuffing - velikonoční nádivka hlavička - is a traditional meal, baked in the Czech Republic just before Easter. It contains smoked meat, rolls dipped in milk, eggs, butter, and spring herbs. It is prepared in a pan and baked in the oven and can include up to three kinds of meat. Nádivka has different names in various regions of the Czech Republic. It’s also called hlavička, řežábek, sekanina. Hlavička means ‘little head’ - the name is based on the thorn crown, said to be on Jesus’ head when he was crucified. Other theories say that its name is based on its key ingredient, which was a cow’s head, or that it was baked in a circle pan resembling a head. Ingredients vary according to the region. In some places, boiled meat is used instead of smoked meat; in other places, the meat is replaced with klobása, a Czech type of sausage. You can also shape nádivka in a loaf stuffing form.
Czech Cultural Calendar Tuesday through Saturday Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private small group tour, contact the Museum at czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com or leave a message at 254-899-2935. April 15 “The Pagan Queen.” (English. Adult nature. Not for children.) Czech film screenings are held at The Beltonian Theatre in downtown Belton, 219 East Central Avenue, 3 and 6 p.m. For a complete list of films, visit the website of the Czech Heritage Museum, located in Temple, at www.czechheritagemuseum.org and
August 13-15 SPJST Convention—at Killeen Civic and Convention Center.
Ingredients 3 rolls (stale) 4 eggs 3/4 stick butter - unsalted, softened at room temperature 10 oz smoked meat (fattier) Salt, to taste Pepper (freshly ground), to taste Pinch of grated nutmeg, optional 3 oz fresh green herbs (parsley, spinach, spring onion, lamb’s lettuce, chives, leek – all green) Milk and broth (to pour over the rolls, maybe 1 to 1 1/2 cups together) Butter and breadcrumbs (to grease the pan) Directions Boil the smoked meat: cover the meat with enough water. Cook for 1 hour. Don’t dispose of the broth. Take butter out of the fridge so that it can soften. Grease pan with butter and dust with breadcrumbs. Wash herbs with ample water. Scald them; then wash again in cold water; chop them. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Dice rolls into small pieces; place them into a large bowl and pour warm milk and broth over them. Crack eggs, separate yolks and whites. Whip whites and salt together until they form stiff “snow.” Beat the yolks with the softened butter. Add chopped herbs, diced smoked meat, egg white “snow,” and beaten yolks with butter to the bowl with rolls. Season with salt and pepper, and add nutmeg. Mix everything together. Bake for 20 minutes. Serves 4. Tip: Cook the smoked meat ahead of time. Let the smoked meat cool down in the broth where you cooked it; the meat will be juicier. For more Czech recipes from Petra Kupská, visit https://www.cooklikeczechs.com. https://www.cooklikeczechs.com/velikonocni-nadivka-orhlavicka-czech-easter-stuffing/
click on the link at the top; or click the Event tab. May 11 “Miloš Forman, What Doesn’t Kill You.” (English and Czech audio, English subtitles.) Czech film screenings are held at The Beltonian Theatre in downtown Belton, 219 East Central Avenue, 3 and 6 p.m. For a complete list of films, visit the website of the Czech Heritage Museum, located in Temple, at www.czechheritagemuseum.org and click on the link at the top; or click the Event tab.
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—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 979-589-1903
CUBA & CUBA, P.L.C. Attorneys & Counselors at Law
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254-778-1824 COURT CUBA EXTRACO BANK BUILDING 18 S. MAIN, SUITE 802, TEMPLE, TEXAS 76501
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VĚSTNÍK
SPJST Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities and entertainment dates and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is on the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. FAX to: 254-773-8087. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org. LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Lodge hall is located on Hwy 159 East, 3 blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: 979-9663795. Lodge Meetings: First Monday of even-numbered months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6) Sunday, June 13—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, August 8—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, November 14—Lodge 4, Hallettsville meeting, 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce Sunday, December 12—Christmas party in Vsetin Lodge Meetings: Held every other month at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call 361798-3347. LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3) Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Directions: From Interstate 35, take the West exit and stop at the blinking light. Go east at the blinking light and stay on Oak Street through downtown West. Take Farm Road 2114 East for 3 miles. Turn right on Czech Hall Road. Lodge hall is on the right about 1/2 mile down the road. Hall Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the lodge hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net. LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. Dates are February 24, May 25, August 24, and November 23. LODGE 9, SNOOK (1) Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Directions: From Snook, turn on FM 2155 to downtown. At Snook School, stay right on Spur 2155. At “T”, turn right on CR 269. Go 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733. LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1) Lodge Hall: 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box. Directions: In Dime Box, turn left from FM 141 on CR 424. Go east on CR 425 for 3/10 mile; hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: 979-884-1451; Hall Phone: 979-8841451. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Julie Schneider 512-269-8180. LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2) Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Directions: Hall is located on hHwy 36, east of Buckholts, 1/4 mile east of downtown Buckholts. Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly. For information, call 254-721-3902.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1) Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Directions: From Caldwell, turn from Hwy 36 east onto FM 166. Proceed 2.1 miles then turn left on CR 225. Go 1 mile, veering to the right. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 979272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931. LODGE 18, ELGIN (2) Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Hall Rentals/Band Bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 20, GRANGER (2) Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254-541-5344. LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6) Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg. Located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia. Directions: From Hwy 77 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg, take FM 532 West for 4 miles to Moravia. Turn right on FM 957 North; go 1 mile. Hall is on the right. Lodge Meetings: Tuesday after the second Sunday in March, June, and September, 7:30 p.m.; and the first Sunday of December, 3 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 24, CYCLONE (2) Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Directions: Hall is 12 miles east of Temple, past Zabcikville. Exit Hwy 53 at blinking light to FM 485; go 1 mile to FM 964. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774; or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Kim Campbell 254-721-0586. LODGE 25, ENNIS (3) Lodge Hall: 1901 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Mail: PO Box 129, Ennis, Texas 75120. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the lodge dining room with supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary social in the game room. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284. LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive, East Bernard.Call Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624 for information. LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2) Attention: The hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. All dances on Fridays are from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., and admission is free of charge. Friday, April 2—Pure Country Friday, April 9—Old Friends Friday, April 16—Les and the Leftovers Friday, April 23—Second Hand Rose Friday, April 30—Gabriel River Band
Due to the global pandemic, please contact the lodge/district prior to attending any event due to possible schedule changes, postponement, or cancellation. Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: In Taylor, at intersection of State Hwy 95 and US 79 Business (4th Street), turn east on Hwy 79. Proceed to FM 619, turn north (left) and go about .8 mile to the large, 2-story hall. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. LODGE 30, TAITON (6) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-5437120. LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6) Lodge Meetings: Held the second Thursday of every other month - January, March, May, July, September, and November, 2019 at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact Secretary Linda Mozisek 361-220-7725. LODGE 35, ELK (3) Saturday, March 27—Nolan Pick Band Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Directions: From Interstate 35 in Waco, take Hwy 84 East exit. Stay on Hwy 84 East through Bellmead; go approximately 8 miles. On the right side of Hwy 84 will be a sign saying “Elk.” Take the Elk Road. Turn right on Elk Road; go approximately 1 mile; the road will dead end. Turn right at the dead end; go approximately 1/2 mile. Hall is on the left. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the hall. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254-715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com. LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-8394353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758. LODGE 39, BRYAN (1) Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. Directions: From Hwy 6, turn west on OSR. Go 2 miles to Mumford Road; turn left. Go 1.1 mile and turn left on Magnolia. Take the first right turn on Cherry Bend Circle. Hall (white building) is at the bend of the road. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - watch for date in Věstník, 1 p.m. at the hall. Lunch at 12:30 p.m. Meat, drinks, and serving items provided by the lodge. Please bring a dessert or side dish. For information, call President Wade O’Shields 979-2183527; or FAC Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158. LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6) Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Directions: Hall is just off US 59 in Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date, time, location, call Youth Leader Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614. LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca. For information, call lodge Secretary Mary Sitka 361-5525170 or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com. LODGE 47, SEATON (2) Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Directions: Seaton Star Hall is 7 miles east of Temple on Hwy 53. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Danny Stepan 254-760-7819; Hall Phone: 254985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall.Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295.
LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Attention: Update - The new hall is complete. We are now taking bookings. Contact Bonnie Urbanek 512739-9324. Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Directions: From Taylor, take the South Loop. Turn right on FM 112 and go about 0.8 mile. Turn right on FM 619; continue on FM 619 for approximately 4 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 512-739-9324. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-9130226. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-6560029. LODGE 51, ELLINGER (1) Lodge Meetings: Third Friday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Ellinger Fire Department, West Main Street in Ellinger. For information, call Calvin Hlinsky 979-378-2364. LODGE 54, WEST (3) Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303. LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. For meeting location or information, call Lodge Secretary Ann Moseley 361-781-2644. LODGE 66, WACO (3) Lodge Meetings: Date, time, location TBA in the lodge’s monthly meeting minutes that appear in the Věstník. For information, call 254-799-4247. LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1) Lodge Meetings: Third or fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December (Christmas) at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg, 2 p.m. To confirm meeting date/s, call Ernest Kutac 979-561-7190. LODGE 73, SEYMOUR (4) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 12 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For meeting location, call Alice Orsak 940-889-2391. LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4) Lodge Meetings: Sunday, September 13; and Sunday, December 6. Meetings are at 12:30 p.m. at Luby’s Cafeteria, 1801 Ninth Street in Wichita Falls. For information, contact Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383. LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served at 1 p.m.; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779. LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2) Lodge Hall: 12141 East FM 2268, Holland. Directions: On Hwy 95, south of Holland, turn east on FM 2268. Go 1/2 mile to hall, which is on the right. Hall Phone: 254-6572485. Bingo: Every Thursday, 7 p.m. Permit No. SP12371416574; AL17460607355. Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly. Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Board of Directors’ Meetings: Watch the Věstník for dates/times. Youth Club Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall, 6 p.m. Call Youth Leader Kelly Taisler 254-913-3309 for location, information.
VĚSTNÍK LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5) Lodge Hall: 13609 Hwy 36, Needville. Directions: Hall is located at the corner of Hwy 36 and FM 361, one mile from the traffic light in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466. Hall Phone: 361-793-4742. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Kristen Jones 936-5563248 or Assistant Youth Leader Krystle Bender 832-7921194. LODGE 84, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Meeting location will be posted in the Věstník. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. - unless otherwise announced in the Věstník. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456. LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2) Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple. Directions: From East Adams Avenue, turn north onto 50th Street; go 2/10 mile. Hall is on the left. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-773-2363. LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Directions: Hwy 290—Take Mangum Dacoma exit; stay on frontage road. At third traffic light, turn left onto 18th Street. Go under freeway at third traffic light, turn on Beall Street. Hall is on the right. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 713-8695767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. Lodge Meetings: Third Monday, 7 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Zoom Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. To join, please email spjstyouthlodge88@yahoo.com for link. For information, contact Youth Leader Vanessa Guerrero 281-745-1697. LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings - TBA in the Věstník. For information, contact Lodge Secretary Vonda Smesny 832-694-8762. LODGE 92, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-30 West to the Henderson exit. Take Henderson North; it becomes Jacksboro Hwy (TX 199). Stay on this road north until Roberts Cut Off, which is a right off of Jacksboro Hwy. Hall - also known as National Hall - is on the right about 2 or 3 blocks down the road. Great Western Inn Motel is on the corner. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-6241361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfortworth.com. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6) Lodge Meetings: Monday, March 2; Monday, June 1; Monday, September 14 in the Community Room at Victoria Mall, 6 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935. LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7) Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Directions: From Floresville, take FM 536 West for 3 miles to FM 1303; turn right and go 2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Rental Information: 830-393-7796. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737. LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of March, June, September, and December, 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard, Corpus Christi. LODGE 130, DALLAS (3) Lodge Meetings: For monthly meeting date, time, and location, contact President/Sales Agent John Vrla 214906-3385 or email jvrla@cebridge.net. LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7) Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings are held in March, July, October, and December at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Activity Center, 1630 Goliad Road, San Antonio. For information, contact President Jarolyn Popp 830-964-5135.
Monday, March 29, 2021 LODGE 135, ENNIS (3) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of January, April, July, and October, 7 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 2622 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Directions: From IH-35 East at Waxahachie, take Hwy 287 East exit. Stay Hwy 287 on until you come to Ennis. Go straight through downtown Ennis and under the overpass at IH-45. Then go approximately 1 3/4 miles on Hwy 34. Sokol Hall is on the left. LODGE 139, DANBURY (5) Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting at 12 noon, luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979-922-1553. LODGE 141, SEALY (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. For information, contact Secretary Bernice Stolarski 979-885-6786. LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5) Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December which is the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; meal served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-5605377.
LODGE 169, BRENHAM (1) Lodge Meetings: Fourth Thursday in February, April, June, August, October, 6:30 p.m. at Texas Seafood and Steakhouse, 2209 South Market Street, Brenham. (December meeting/social information will be announced at a later date.) Lodge Information: Call Stephen Bliznak 979-251-4150; or Lenora Bliznak 979-277-8845. LODGE 172, PASADENA (5) Lodge Hall: 3609 Preston Road, Pasadena. Lodge Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month at 2:30 p.m. at the lodge hall, 3609 Preston Avenue, in Pasadena. November and December meetings will be held on the third Sunday. For information, contact Jo 346-317-4412; or Helen 713-920-7172 LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2) Lodge Hall: 711 Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Directions: Hall is on the south side of Academy, just off Hwy 95, on the right. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November - Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1) Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, 11 a.m. Location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138. LODGE 180, BURLESON (3) Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at the Burleson Police Department Building - Community Room, 1161 S.W. Wilshire Boulevard, Burleson at 6 p.m. For information, call 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022.
LODGE 148, EL MATON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month following the adult lodge meeting at Frank Hahn’s Camphouse in El Maton. Call Youth Leader Melissa Zielonka for information 979-618-1890.
LODGE 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. For information, contact Youth Leader Becky Beckendorf 254749-5732.
LODGE 151, WHARTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street, Wharton. For information, call 979-532-5884.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3) Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Directions: Take IH-35 West to Fort Worth. Take IH-20 East exit and proceed on IH-20 East until you come to Cooper Street exit. Take Cooper Street exit to the North. Stay on Cooper Street until you come to Mayfield Street. Turn right on Mayfield; go down and turn left on Pleasant Valley Lane. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-8003485. Game Nights are every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. and every Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Permit No. 17516910506. Lodge Meetings/Family Nights: Third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at the hall.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3) Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Directions: From IH-35 West in Fort Worth, take IH-20 West exit. Stay on IH-20 West until you come to 820; stay on 820 until you come to Jacksboro Hwy and Azle Street exit. Take Azle Street exit; go to the traffic light. Turn left at the traffic light. Go to the second traffic light then turn right onto Boat Club Road. Go approx. 2 1/2 miles. Hall is on the right. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 3:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 817-731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. at the hall. Contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net; or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information. LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2) Lodge Meetings: For dates time, and location of quarterly meetings, call Secretary Ginny Prasatik 512472-1721. LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4) Lodge Meetings: Last Sunday of every other month of March, June, and September; then December - the first Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For meeting location, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek - phone 806-763-7245; or email cyndynjerome@gmail.com. LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Wednesday of February, May, and August; and the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact President Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325234-5879. LODGE 162, IOWA COLONY (5) Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center, 12003 CR 65, Iowa Colony. For information, contact President Betty Crawford 713-594-5049. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Iowa Colony Community Center. For information, call Youth Leader Brenda Moyle 713-303-1471.
LODGE 184, MOULTON (6) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD building in the meeting room. RSVP to Elmer Michna at 361-7723876 or Johnnie Hoffman at 361-772-5049. Please RSVP by Thursday of the week prior to the meeting. LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7) Lodge Meetings: Every other month - February, April, June, August, October, and December. Call for meeting date, time, and location. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. (subject to change). Call Youth Leader Jessica McCoy for information 979-7778215. LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1) Lodge Hall: 937 State Hwy 36, Caldwell. Directions: Hall is just off Hwy 36 on the south side of Caldwell, next to Burleson County Fairgrounds. Hall Rental Information: 979-567-4264. Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Yolanda Brinkman for information 979-5670637. LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock. Directions: From Taylor, take Hwy 79 into Round Rock until you get to Sunrise. There will be a 7-11 store on the right. Turn right and proceed past Hopewell School. Continue through the four-way stop. Luther Peterson Boulevard is the first street on the left. From Temple, take IH-35 South. Just past Georgetown, exit on University Boulevard. Proceed to stop sign. Take left on University Boulevard. The third street is Sunrise. Turn right onto Sunrise. The second street to the right will be Luther Peterson Boulevard. Hall Rental Information: 512-255-1554; or 512-771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal.
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LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1) Quarterly business meetings are held in March, June, and September, and a social meeting in December. Location and dates will be announced in the Věstník. Contact President Henry Mayo for information 979-777-1426. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of March, June, September, and December, 2 p.m. at (unless otherwise noted) C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan. LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5) Lodge Hall: 197 Hughes Road, Lufkin. Lodge/Hall Information: George Scogin 936-875-2867. Lodge Meetings: Due to Covid-19, meetings are now held quarterly. LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress. Directions: Off Hwy 290 West at Skinner. Hall Phone: 281373-9482; email spjstlodge196@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Potluck social at 1 p.m.; meeting begins at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Cadance Wager 713-5152835. LODGE 200, BRUCEVILLE-EDDY (2) Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month on even months - February, April, June, August, October, and December, 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Hall, 100 4th Street, Eddy. For information, contact President James R. Hosch 254-718-4798. LODGE 201 BLEIBLERVILLE-NELSONVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 3948 FM 2502, Bleiblerville. Directions: Hall is across the street from the post office in Bleiblerville. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Jenell 979-357-2181. LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly, the first Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m.; and the second Sunday of September and December at 1 p.m. A meal will be served at each meeting. Meetings are at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Secretary Bettie House 830281-8246. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of every month at 1:15 p.m. except in September and December, meetings are held on the second Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830-570-2046. LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4) Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. For meeting location, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940855-0882. LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4) Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Secretary Pam Lehmann 806-535-8356. Youth Club Meetings: First Saturday of each month, 6 p.m. at 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka. For information, contact Youth Leader Janeece Williams 806-632-5239. LODGE 219, EL PASO (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of March, April, and May at 6 p.m. at Puerto Vallarta Grill, 1611 Montana Avenue, El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062. LODGE 229, ABILENE (4) Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. For meeting location information, contact Secretary Tammy Copeland 325-333-4089. LODGE 232, HOUSTON MIDTOWN (5) Lodge Meetings: Held the third Tuesday of every other month in January, March, May, July, September, and November, 6:30 p.m. at Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto, Houston. For information, contact Secretary Catherine Anderson 713-726-1928. LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2) Lodge Meetings: Unless otherwise announced, second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November, 11:30 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831 or Secretary Melanie Zavodny 254-534-0807. LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7) Lodge Meetings: For meeting date, location, and time, contact President Chester Jenke 210-413-3053 or Treasurer Colleen Jenke 210-215-9494. —SPJST—
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