ˇ ´ VESTNIK S P J S T
Volume 109 Number 19
H E R A L D
Benevolence ★ Humanity ★ Brotherhood
October 11, 2021
ISSN —07458800
100 Percent SPJST Members Mikulecs Focus on Family by B.J. Pollack Communications Director Needville ISD
in the midst of vacation. But a little thing like a venomous snake bite couldn’t keep this 6-foot, 3-inch man down. “We went to Great Wolf Lodge that For husband and wife coaches Mar- Wednesday, Pedernales Falls Thursday, cus and Jaime Mikulec, the decision to I got snake bit Friday in Rocksprings, shift their focus from the careers they the kids had Saturday at Llano River loved to a new diState Park, and we rection was easy beall went to Concan cause they did it for Sunday,” Marcus something they hold said with a laugh. “I even more dear: was only in the hosfamily. pital for one night. I For this very still made it to the dedicated couple Frio River at Concan and their four chilfor the family trip; dren, it’s all about just had to keep the time and the opporfoot elevated and tunity to spend as dry.” much of it together Self-described as possible. “avid outdoor “There is somepeople,” the Mikuthing special about lecs head to the Frio time,” said Marcus, River as often as 39. “It’s dynamic possible each and unmeasurable Coaches Jaie and Marcus Mikulec summer, stopping at because of its rel- decided to stop coaching the Jaime’s dad’s land in sports they love in order to spend Rocksprings along ativity.” more time with the people they love the way to fill deer so much more: their four children. feeders. That’s when Outdoor Seated on their porch swing are, a very sneaky snake adventures rock No doubt time from left, mom Jaime, 3-year-old almost put an end to Bayler, 14-year-old Rylie and dad was on his mind Marcus; standing in back: 5-year- their summer vacawhen he was bit on old Dayton and 11-year-old Myles. tion this year. the foot by a rattle- They are all members of SPJST Continued on snake this summer, Lodge 81, Needville. Page 16.
September Top SPJST Sales Agents: Certificates Issued and Annualized Premium 1st - Certificates Issued 4th - Annualized Premium $300 Award
1st - Annualized Premium 3rd - Certificates Issued $300 Award
2nd - Certificates Issued $50 Award
2nd - Annualized Premium 5th - Certificates Issued $100 Award
Janice Jahns Lodge 88 Houston District Five
Kattia Lange Lodge 92 Fort Worth District Three
Susan Leach Lodge 256 Denver City District Four
Dorthelia Williams Lodge 24 Cyclone District Two
3rd - Annualized Premium $50 Award
Boyd Maxwell Lodge 234 Luling District One
4th - Certificates Issued $50 Award
5th - Annualized Premium $50 Award
Carlos Benavidez Lodge 79 Corpus Christi District Seven
Hilda Shearer Lodge 133 San Antonio District Seven
Extravaganza Crowd at Lodge 47, Seaton Surrounded by hundreds of Outdoor Extravaganza attendees, Lodge 47, Seaton Vice President and event chair Brandon Bartek, center, is pictured with State Representative Hugh Shine, left, of Lodge 87, Temple and Bell County Sheriff Eddy Lange. The successful event was held on Saturday, September 18 at Seaton Star Hall. An article begins on page 6, and photos appear on page 12.
; / ; / ; / ; / ; Inside This Week’s Vestnik ; / ; / ; / ; / ; Readers Write ......................................3 Interest Rates.......................................3 Important Dates ...................................3 Insurance Department Updates .........4 District News........................................4 Lodge Section......................................6
In Memoriam ......................................20 Youth Section ....................................23 Czech Culture ....................................27 Advertisements .................................29 Lodge Calendar .................................30 Czech Heritage Activity.....................32
Lodge 29 Taylor hosts 20th annual barbecue cook-off Pages 8-11
Page 23
District Six hosts family camp weekend at Camp Kubena
Page 24
Lodge 185 New Braunfels youth ride SPJST Float in Comal County Fair Parade
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Monday, October 11, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
ˇ ´ VESTNIK
Editor’s Note
In Loving Memory of My Dad
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: MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) • Mobile: 254-534-0807 VĚSTNÍK Fax: 254-773-8087 vestnik@spjst.org melaniez@spjst.com melaniez@usa.com EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BRIAN VANICEK, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 139) Mobile: 254-534-2902 vanicek@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING DELISLE DOHERTY 254-773-1575 (ext. 240) Mobile: 832-232-2049 delisled@spjst.com VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS MELANIE ZAVODNY 254-773-1575 (ext. 122) Mobile: 254-534-0807 melaniez@spjst.com CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC 254-773-1575 (ext. 149) Mobile: 254-721-4739 leonardm@spjst.com CONTROLLER ROY VAJDAK 254-773-1575 (ext. 142) royv@spjst.com DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIR DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085 Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 dv.aggie71@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL 4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 Home: 512-365-1110 • Mobile: 512-826-7371 jlpospisil@yahoo.com DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIR JOHN ENGELKE 6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-799-4247 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 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 spjst@earthlink.net DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK 2508 N Levi St, Victoria, TX 77901-4059 361-649-4888 amvahalik@gmail.com DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE 146 Deer Run St, Pleasanton TX 78064-1510 830-570-2046 spjst202youth@gmail.com
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair PO Box 252, Snook, TX 77878-0252 979-272-1243 • billorsak@gmail.com District Two - 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 - Brad Teplicek PO Box 372, Rowena, TX 76875-4006 325-442-2001 • bptep@aol.com District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, Chair 1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, TX 77008-6232 713-859-8976 • dotpflugh@yahoo.com District Six - Lisa Bubela, Secretary 1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com District Seven - Oscar Korus 2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet, TX 78065-5013 830-391-4169 • oscarkorus@gmail.com REGIONAL GENERAL AGENTS DISTRICT ONE - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT TWO - Jim Schroeder, LUTCF 936-661-2294 • jeschroeder.insurance@gmail.com DISTRICT THREE - Sabino Garcia 817-909-8899 • garciasabi@att.net DISTRICT FOUR - Lydia Talamantez 325-262-9743 • lillyg636@yahoo.com DISTRICT FOUR - EL PASO AREA - Arnulfo Rivera 915-630-8074 • arnulfok5@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 - Ralph Juarez 361-537-5506 • juarez2112@aol.com STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR FRANK HORAK Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS District One - Hannah Kovar PO Box 28, Snook, TX 77878-0028 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu District Two - Patsy Koslovsky 764 S St Joseph Rd, Burlington, TX 76519-3108 254-718-1606 • patsyk2011@yahoo.com District Three - Mary Steinman 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 817-731-2580 • appamary@sbcglobal.net District Four - Ryan Jansa 10377 Penny Lane, San Angelo, TX 76905-7616 325-234-5879 • rjansa1@gmail.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 CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com
Milton Zavodny
8/6/ 1929 - 9/27/2021
Heaven is always perfect and beautiful, but on September 27, it became even more perfect and beautiful when my dad joined my mom. What an amazing reunion and celebration it must have been when the angels opened the gates. I can only imagine . . . My dad loved SPJST, and when he could no longer participate in the local lodge activities, he lived SPJST by faithfully reading the Vestnik - cover to cover - word for word. He loved asking me about the articles, photos, and people in the Vestnik. Most of this year’s weekends were spent at my dad’s house. He sat beside me at the kitchen table as I worked on my laptop preparing for the convention and other projects. Oh, the conversations that we had! I learned so much about SPJST, Lodge 24, East Bell County, family, and life. These moments that we shared together were filled with joy and laughter. At the end of the day, when David and I helped him to bed, he graciously thanked us for being there with him, made us promise to come back tomorrow, and always said, “I love you.” My dad was one of my biggest teachers, and he helped shape me into who I am today. One of the most memorable conversations with my dad was on the subject of “joy.” I was maybe five or six years old, and we were fishing at the tank (pond). I vividly recall Dad saying, “Have joy by giving joy by
living joy.” I was slightly confused and asked him what he meant. He didn’t explain, but he said to think about what he said and to always remember it. I pondered that conversation because the words really stuck with me. “Have joy by giving joy by living joy.” A few years later, I realized that “joy” actually meant Jesus - Others - Yourself. And, that is exactly how my dad lived his life - very humble, loving and God-fearing man, who always, always put God and others first. He literally would give the shirt off his back to someone who needed it . . . and I saw him do that many times. My dad will always be a part of me, and he will live forever in my heart and mind. I am proud to be a part of his living legacy. His obituary appears on page 22 of this week’s Vestnik. My sincere gratitude to the many people who have reached out to me to express their condolences over the past week. Your prayers, thoughts, and kind sentiments are carrying me through this extremely difficult time.
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines October 25 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. November 8 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. November 22 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. December 13 Vestnik deadline is Mon., Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. December 27 Vestnik deadline is Fri., Dec. 17 at 5 p.m.
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021
SPJST Family Fun • • • • • and • • • • • Important Dates (Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district.)
October 14 October 17 Oct. 20-21 October 23 October 24 October 24 October 31 Nov. 11 Nov. 13 Nov. 14 Nov. 14 Nov. 21 Nov. 25-26 Dec. 5 Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Dec. 18
Dec. 24 Dec. 31 Dec. 31
Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float: Austin County Fair Parade, Bellville (1) District Three Fall Fun Day at Celebrating Heritage Day Dallas Sokol (3) Board of Directors’ Meeting • Home Office, Temple Lodge 49, Rowena Dance: Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys (4) District One Fall Fun Day • Lodge 17, New Tabor (1) District Two Fall Fun Day • Lodge 47, Seaton Pavilion (2) Lodge 24, Cyclone Barbecue Dinner Drive-Thru (2) SPJST Home Office Closed • Veterans Day Holiday Lodge 25, Ennis 50th Anniversary Party (3) District Seven Fall Fun Day • Lodge 107, Floresville (7) Lodge 196, Houston-West Thanksgiving Dinner (5) Lodge 160, San Angelo Annual Meeting (4) SPJST Home Office Closed • Thanksgiving Holidays Lodge 84, Dallas Christmas Party • Dallas Sokol (3) Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas Party Vsetin Educational Building (6) Lodge 202, Jourdanton Christmas Party Jourdanton Community Center (7) Lodge 18, Elgin Christmas Dance: Red Ravens (2) Lodge 141, Sealy hosts SPJST Float Wallis Christmas Parade (1) SPJST Home Office Closed • Christmas Holiday SPJST Home Office Closed • New Year Holiday Lodge 18, Elgin New Year’s Eve Dance Glen Collins and The Alibis (2)
SPJST INTEREST RATES 08/01/2021 - 10/31/2021 Universal Life Universal Life 3
(plans 1203-1222 with a guaranteed rate of 2.50%) • Credited Rate: 3.00%
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Annuities Credited Rate: 1.25%
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2-Year Annuity
Credited Rate: 1.75%
5-Year Annuity
(plan 8064 with a 1.00% guaranteed rate) • Credited Rate: 3.25%
Annuity 7
(plans 8069-8075 with a 1.00% guaranteed rate) • Credited Rate: 3.25%
Readers Write Member remembers Gene McBride Melanie, Just wanted to thank you for the coverage for our friend and Honorary Supreme Lodge Vice President Gene McBride (who passed away on September 7, 2021). First time I met Gene was in the office of Bernie Gebala many moons ago. We did some great promotions together; in fact, we named “Orel,” the SPJST mascot. But Gene was more than a customer to me; he was a friend. I never will forget the concern he showed for my family when my wife Shirley was battling leukemia. I will never forget his smile or his hand shake. H.G. “Butch” Doss Lodge 66, Waco —SPJST—
BEEA sets rummage sale for Nov. 5, 6 in Seaton Bell Extension Education Association’s (BEEA) annual fundraiser for Bell County 4-H scholarships will be a rummage sale. The multi-family event is set for Friday, November 5 and Saturday, November 6, 2021, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Seaton Community Center, 12301 Highway 53, Temple, Texas 76501, which is east of Temple. This gigantic sale offers a wide variety of items worthy of purchase, including household goods and small electric appliances, bicycles, clothes, crafts, Welcome to Your SPJST Member Discounts
1-Year Annuity
Subscribe to receive the Věstník by email. Visit www.spjst.org to sign up for an email subscription.
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CDs, photo albums, and much more. Call 254-742-5431 for additional information. Submitted by, Gayle Pomykal Lodge 24, Cyclone —SPJST—
Rockport Volunteer Fire Department extends thanks to SPJST Foundation Thank you for your recent donation on July 21, 2021, in the amount of $510. Donations like yours are critical to provide funding to protect lives and property from fire and other emergency perils. Donation funds help maintain our fleet of apparatus, purchase new gear and equipment, provide life saving training for firefighters, and deliver the best possible emergency services within our community. For more than 130 years, Rockport Volunteer Fire Department has protected the lives, homes, and businesses of our community. Our firefighters are on call to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - each time the fire alarm sounds. We responded to 533 emergency calls for service in 2020. In addition, our volunteer members attended essential training here in Rockport, and across the state throughout the year. Sincerely, Matthew Grimes, Fire Chief Rockport VFD Rockport, Texas —SPJST—
COMPARE AND PERSONALIZE YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERAGE
DO YOU SHOP AT AMAZON.COM? Check out Amazon’s charity site
Support The SPJST Foundation
GO TO WWW.SPJST.ORG ▬► PROGRAMS ▬► MEMBER BENEFITS FOR MORE INFORMATION
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Monday, October 11, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
From the Insurance Department SPJST Insurance Update through September From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
Finding Passion Life is a series of choices. From the time you wake up until the time you “clock out,” your choices will determine if you can pay your bills, fill your gas tank, take care of your family, and make a living. Every choice does affect everything you do. So take time to think carefully about the direction of your life and the choices that you’ve been making. Then, try to come up with at least one “new and improved” choice that you can make today, and be passionate about it. You have the opportunity to influence people’s lives in a positive way. What you do today could change a child’s life forever. Refer their parents to someone who can show them how a college fund works. A child that may never see a chance for college, because of you now gets that educational opportunity to change their life. That young couple that is working so hard and knowing one day they will want to retire but can’t because of their work. Don’t tell them how to save, show them how to do it. Help them find a better job. That senior having trouble pushing their grocery cart. Help them and then load their car. Show them they are not invisible, and people do care. That family at church struggling, pray with them and give them comfort. Show
your passion in your choices and people will notice. The more you positively influence others, the more positive you will find coming back to you. Like Zig Ziglar said, “ You can get everything in life you want if you just help enough people get what they want.” John Wesley said, “ Catch on fire with enthusiasm and people will come from miles to watch you burn.” His words still ring true. When you fan the flames of enthusiasm, your passion will serve as a beacon to others. The world desperately needs people who are passionate for others. Your work can fan those flames for them and for you. When you are passionate about your choices in life, faith, and work . . . great things happen. “Success or failure can be pretty well predicted by the degree to which the heart is fully in it.” —John Eldredge My door is always open; figuratively and literally. Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing —SPJST—
District News District One Fall Fun Day October 24, 2021 • Lodge 17, New Tabor 2674 CR 225 • Caldwell
District One Fall Fun Day will be held Sunday, October 24, 2021, at SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor, located at 2674 CR 225 in Caldwell. Registration is from 2:30 to 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. A Christmas ornament contest will be held for all youth club members. We will have a trunk-or-treat starting at 3 p.m. with a costume contest
for the youth. We will then play bingo. The evening meal of pizza and salad will be served at 5:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, October 24 at Lodge 17, New Tabor! Fraternally, Randy Gaas District One President —SPJST—
709 Certificates IssueD MONTH-TO-DATE TOTALS FOR INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist. Apps. Written Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 1 13 $1,251,000.00 12 $820,000.00 $8,155.32 2 7 160,000.00 5 265,000.00 4,930.80 3 16 877,000.00 10 360,000.00 5,093.52 4 29 2,064,750.00 26 1,455,266.00 14,458.80 5 18 1,556,836.00 14 849,490.00 6,355.22 6 7 390,000.00 4 320,000.00 4,658.40 7 10 520,000.00 10 520,000.00 6,118.56 9 0 0.00 0 0 0 Ann 6 0.00 6 0 0
Totals
106
$6,819,586.00
87
$4,589,756.00
$49,770.62
YEAR-TO-DATE TOTALS INSURANCE WRITTEN, ISSUED, AND ANNUALIZED PREMIUM Dist. Apps. Written Certs. Issued Annualized Prem. 1 102 $6,079,202.00 92 $4,308,202.00 $55,325.64 2 50 1,645,018.00 41 1,400,018.00 25,527.47 3 106 4,019,000.00 87 2,504,039.00 45,377.08 4 167 13,543,505.00 140 9,475,885.00 100,838.15 5 139 13,135,872.00 123 10,047,133.00 58,432.20 6 76 6,332,585.00 67 4,303,573.00 42,407.82 7 86 3,648,383.00 73 3,215,361.00 40,357.23 9 0 0.00 0 0 0 Ann 86 03,784,925.00 86 0 0
Totals
812
$48,403,565.00
709
$35,254,211.00
$368,265.59
District Two Fall Fun Day
October 24, 2021 • Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall 10842 State Highway 53 • Temple, Texas
Attention, District Two Members! We, the District Officers, are planning the District Two Fall Fun Day. This event will be held outdoors at the pavilion at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton - Star Hall on Sunday, October 24 at 3 p.m. Star Hall is located at 10842 State Highway 53, seven miles east of Temple. We will have a Christmas ornament contest for adults and youth. So get started on something for this contest! We will also have “trunk or treat.” We are asking each lodge in the district to please have one vehicle stuffed in the trunk with all sorts of candies - but please, no chocolate - and make sure all candy is individual wrapped. You can decorate the trunk with Halloween decorations or anyway you choose or not. You don’t have to stuff the trunk all the
way to the top - just so you have a lot of candy for the youth to pick from. We will be having hot dogs with all the trimmings, chips, nachos, drinks for your enjoyment, and it will only cost $2 per person. We will also have a cake walk, one spin wheel, door prizes, and a 50/50 drawing. All we ask is that you bring some sweets for the cake walk and something for the spin wheel. Please plan to come out to Seaton Star Hall on Sunday afternoon, October 24 for a lot of fun activities. Meet up with some folks that you may have not seen for a while. Let’s all have some fun! Thank You, Ruth Hanusch District Two Vice President/FAC —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021
October Focus: SPJST Annuities Members and friends are invited to the next Fraternal Focus webcast on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at 7 p.m. We will explore the benefits of the SPJST Annuity Program and share the latest SPJST news and updates. Attendees can ask questions during the webcast. To register, visit https://spjst.org/fraternal-focus/ After you register, you will receive instructions on how to join the
live webcast. Click the link on Tuesday, October 19 at 7 p.m., and you will be able to view the webcast and learn about SPJST Annuities. All attendees are in listen-only mode and can type questions in the chat box. (No webcams will be viewed, except the Home Office presenters.) Attendees can join through desktops, laptops, tablets, or mobile phones. We hope you will join in!
SPJST Annuities Never Outlive Your Retirement
Proclamation We, the Directors and Officers of the SPJST, and in concurrence with the State of Texas, do hereby proclaim
October 2021 What is an Annuity? Annuities are long-term tax-deferred saving plans that utilize principal and interest to provide lump-sum funds or income for a fixed period or even guaranteed for life. It is an excellent way to accumulate money for retirement or other purposes. Annuities are funded by either lump-sum or flexible premiums.
Why Choose an Annuity? Annuities Offer More Income
Annuities Have No Management Worries
Both principal and interest are used to generate income. Thus, SPJST annuities can usually provide significantly more income than any other financial plan.
SPJST annuities are fixed annuities. This means that your money is always earning SPJST’s best rate. No more worrying about the stock market or mutual funds. The SPJST team of investment experts handles all money management responsibilities.
Annuities Are Safe Your money is secure with SPJST. As a highlyrated company, SPJST’s investment portfolio is carefully managed to achieve a proper balance in growth, safety of principal, and rate of interest return. You are encouraged to check out our financial background.
Annuities Get Favorable Tax Treatment Even though SPJST annuities are credited with interest earnings, no income taxes are assessed as long as the funds are in the annuity. Taxes may apply on withdrawals.
Annuities - Insurance Against Living Too Long It is no secret that people are living longer these days. Retirement is going to be what you make it. Chances are when you reach retirement, the only things that will be there when you get there is what you send on ahead now. Having worked and saved all your life, you deserve more than just a modest income. Plan your retirement now. SPJST can help you along the way.
What Annuity Types Does SPJST O昀er? Whatever your cash accumulation or savings goals may be, SPJST has an annuity to meet your needs. In addition to Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Account (IRA), SPJST offers flexible annuities with fewer restrictions, high current rates of return as well as a guaranteed minimum rate. SPJST also offers a 1-Year, 2-Year, and 5-Year Annuity which locks in a high rate of return for five full years with no SPJST penalties at the end of the term. All SPJST annuities offer tax-deferred interest accumulation. You do not pay any applicable income taxes until you withdraw the funds.
as
Czech Heritage Month WHEREAS, The month of October typically brings to Texas a host of festivals celebrating the Czech heritage that are enjoyed by a multitude of citizens across the state; and WHEREAS, Beginning in the late 1840’s Czech settlers came in growing numbers to the Lone Star State, gravitating to the rich soil of the blacklands and upper coastal plains; these industrious pioneers created close-knit communities that kept intact their unique old-world customs while adapting to the challenges of a new land; and WHEREAS, Since that time, the number and stature of Czech descendants living in Texas has grown tremendously; there are, by some estimates, approximately one million people living in all areas of the state and walks of life who can claim Czech heritage; and WHEREAS, From their earliest days in Texas, Czechs have sought to preserve their language, traditions, songs and dances, foods, and customs; and WHEREAS, Czechs are renowned for their exemplary work ethic and love of democracy and have established standards of excellence as both private and public citizens to whom all can aspire; and because for generations, Texans of Czech ancestry have made many notable contributions, both cultural and historic, to the betterment of our state; and their many accomplishments in this regard are truly worthy of special legislative recognition. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Directors and Officers of the SPJST, in concurrence with the 76th Texas Legislature which in 1999 designated October as “Czech Heritage Month” in Texas, do hereby invite each and every Texan to recognize and to celebrate the contributions made to Texas by the Czech settlers and their descendants. This resolution is hereby submitted on October 1, 2021 and attested by:
Leonard Mikeska Leonard Mikeska Chief Financial Chief FinancialOfficer Officer
What About Penalties? SPJST early withdrawal penalties are assessed if withdrawals are taken in the early years of an annuity. IRS penalties apply if withdrawals are made prior to age 59 1/2. Penalties may be waived under certain conditions such as total disability or nursing home confinement. No penalties in event of death. SPJST Home Office • PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 • 254-773-1575 • info@spjst.org • spjst.org
Brian Vanicek Brian Vanicek President and CEO President/CEO
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Monday, October 11, 2021
SPJST Lodge Section
VĚSTNÍK
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 Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo
Lodge 32, Victoria meets November 11 Lodge 32, Victoria will meet Thursday, November 11 at 6:30 p.m. at The Grapevine Cafe - address is 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, in Victoria. This will be our last meeting for 2021 - what a fast year! Then the January 13, 2022, meeting will get us off to a great start! Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom, FAC/Reporter —SPJST—
Questions? Call 800-727-7578
Lodge 4, Hallettsville recognizes youth winners Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville met Sunday, August 8, 2021, at Hallettsville Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. President Joe Siptak presided. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Resolution Chairman Gayenell Chudej read a resolution of sympathy for Laddie Kurtz. Secretary-Treasurer Helen Zabransky read the minutes to the last meeting and gave the financial report. FAC Annie Vahalik reported on various activities on the district and state levels. She attended District Six Youth Achievement Day awards presentation in Taiton. Our lodge had two district winners. Attending was Asher Vahalik who placed first in talent, ages 9 to 11, with a piano selection. He later went to state and got second place. Unable to attend was George Hargrove who placed second in hobby kits, ages kindergarten to 8. Congratulations to Asher and George! Also attending was Charlie Vahalik, age 4 - who was so excited to receive a ribbon from Ms. Lisa - and Patsy Zabransky. Cheer cards were sent to Evelyn Holy and Lillie Balusek by FAC Annie. Philip Vahalik reported that flowers were put on the graves at the SPJST Velehrad Cemetery by Patsy Zabransky, and Annie and Philip Vahalik. Members voted to make a contribution to the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund. At the next meeting in November, we will elect officers, set meeting dates for 2022 and make final plans for our Christmas party.
Door prize winners were Annie Vahalik, Helen Zabransky, and Philip Vahalik. Everyone then enjoyed lunch and visiting.
Lodge 35, Elk; Elk Hall, Inc. reports on September meetings
Next Meeting—November 14 The next meeting will be Sunday, November 14 at the Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. Door prizes will be given, and lunch served as usual. Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
On Wednesday, September 15, 2021, President Randy Pavelka called our meetings to order at 7:20 p.m. We had 11 members present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by officers and members. Richard Brewer had been on the sick list, but he has recovered from a bad bacterial infection in his foot. We are glad he has recovered and wish him well. In our secretary’s absence, Tammy
District seven sales agents meet and greet new rga ralph juarez
Sales agents in District Seven gathered recently to meet and greet new Regional General Agent Ralph Juarez, pictured third from right. SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty visited with the agents and shared exciting news and upcoming changes from the Home Office that affects the field force. Pictured are, left to right, agents Marie Garcia, Evangeline Cisneros, and Laura Martinez, RGA Ralph Juarez, and agents Javier Mora and Victor M. Ramirez.
Pavelka read the minutes from our August meetings. They were approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer gave her August reports, and they approved as read. Tammy Pavelka gave the floor reports as well due to Gene Pavelka’s absence. Under old business, thanks to those who worked on problems in the restrooms. That seems to be a weekly problem at times. Under new business, Keith Stefka asked for a raise in pay for taking care of our lawn. It was decided to keep it at the same pay. With no other business, the meetings were adjourned at 7:47 p.m. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton hosts successful Outdoor Extravaganza Dear Members and Friends, The officers and members of Lodge 47, Seaton would like to thank each of you who participated in our annual Outdoor Extravaganza fundraiser which was held on Saturday, September 18, 2021. We appreciate your support in helping us make this event a success. Everyone had a great time visiting with friends, enjoying delicious food and refreshments, and hoping their number would be called to win that one special item they so much wanted. A special thank you to Committee Chair Brandon Bartek and Amber for all they did once again in organizing this event. They spent countless hours and miles a running. Thank you to Edwin Pechal and Judy and their crew who prepared the delicious meal. There are many members and friends who helped tremendously in so many ways: selling tickets, getting donations, setting up the hall, bringing desserts, serving food and snacks and helping wherever and whenever needed. Thank you! Thank you! We thank our many members, friends, and businesses who participated with donations, purchasing tickets, purchasing signs for their business, bringing and bidding on silent auction items, and of course, the live auction. Thank you for your support of Lodge 47. There are many friends (not lodge members,
VĚSTNÍK well, not yet anyway!) who came out to help. We really appreciate you! Top prize winners in the drawing were: first prize - the white tail deer hunt for one and a non-hunting guest at Mustang Creek Ranch (Salado, Texas) was won by E.J. Pechal; second prize cruise for up to four people through Mega Travel in Temple (valued at $2,000) was won by Mac Haik; third prize - three-person guided bay fishing trip with Blacklash Fishing Charters in
Georgie Strmiska of Lodge 20, Granger celebrates 88th Birthday
Happy birthday to Georgie Strmiska, seated, of Lodge 20, Granger. She is pictured with her sisters, back, left to right, Dorothy Zarosky, Geraldine Konarik, and Emily Hutka. Dorothy and Emily are members of Lodge 47, Seaton.
Georgie Strmiska of Granger, Texas, celebrated her 88th birthday at her home on September 13, 2021. A surprise birthday party in her honor was hosted by her daughter, Nadine Goodney of Baytown. Attending were Georgie’s sisters Dorothy Zarosky of Academy, Geraldine Konarik of Cedar Creek, and Emily Hutka of Zabcikville, along with friends. Georgie is a lifetime member of SPJST Lodge 20, of Granger. —SPJST—
Monday, October 11, 2021 Corpus Christi was won by Kristena Loos; fourth prize - three-person guided one-half day pheasant and one-half day quail guided combination hunt in Santa Anna, Texas, with the guide and dog included was won by Elaine Zavodny; fifth prize - four-person nighttime bowfishing with Slim Life Bowfishing Charters Trip with Captain Seth Skinner providing all gear needed for the trip and the sixth prize - spa package - won by Gary Couch and Lisa Vansa. Congratulations to each of you! Winners were excited to have so many nice prizes this year along with many auction items and prizes from the bucket drawing. There were many of you who bid on the live auction, purchased tickets for the bucket items, and bid on the silent auction items. Included in the evening were a card game, knife throw, and silent auction. Being a fraternal organization, Star Hall always supports our youth and the youth of the community. Many youth were present that evening. SPJST is a fraternal organization, and every youth was involved in the fun. A new game for the children was trying to get a hole-in-one on a nice putting green. There were many really good young golfers out there. And then came the longtime favorite for the kids, “Head and Tails.” It was so much fun to watch the youth choose their “heads” or “tails” and see who would continue on. Bell County Sheriff Eddy Lange wanted to be certain the adults didn’t feel left out on all that fun, and asked all adults to participate in the game only. OMG! It was hilarious, and the crowd was loving them trying to keep up. Each year youth participate in the “turkey call” and the “duck call.” These are beloved games with many young ones and all. These kids were awesome with their talent. You would have thought there was a turkey in the building. Of course, as the saying goes, “There’s always one in the crowd.” Hollering and pointing at someone, he hollers “Here’s the turkey!” The crowd roared in laughter. Then came the special drawing. Each youth attending was put into a drawing for special prizes. They had to be in attendance to win the prize. This year, we had several youth prizes—a shotgun, a tent, outdoor game sets, a girls’ fishing pole, and a boy’s fishing pole. There was a drawing for the youth only which had some really neat prizes. All youth did leave with a prize. “Every
youth in SPJST is a winner.” That’s my favorite phrase! We appreciate Sheriff Lange for being the auctioneer once again, the announcing, and making the crowd feel welcome. It is always fun when the one announcing is out there in the crowd, and you can tell he is enjoying himself. Thank you, Sheriff Eddy. Once again, thank you to all who participated in our annual fundraiser. It was a great evening. It was fun to see so many people enjoying, visiting, and making new friends. We look forward to next year. Please mark your calendars for the third Saturday in September which will be September 17, 2022, for our next annual “Outdoor Extravaganza.” Invite your friends and family, too. We, at SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton do have a wonderful time in our many different activities during the year. We’d love to have you join us. We welcome you at any time. Always feel welcome to call any officer or member to find out what’s on our calendar. We also have an
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outstanding youth program for youth in kindergarten through high school seniors. There is so much to offer these young ones like scholarships, camp, outings, and lifelong friendships. Meetings for the youth are held on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. with the adults meeting at 2 p.m. Please join us! We’d love to have you! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky, Secretary Editor’s Note: Photos from the event appear on page 12 of this week’s Vestnik. —SPJST—
Lodge 28, East Bernard member Charlie E. Janik Achieves Grand Age of 96 SPJST congratulates Charlie E. Janik of Lodge 28, East Bernard, who celebrated his 96th birthday on Monday, October 4, 2021. Brother Janik now receives all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments. Charlie was born in Jourdanton, Texas, to Emil and Sophie Janik. He had four brothers Louis Janik, Bennie Janik, Leroy Janik, Edwin Janik and two sisters - Willie Mae Janik Rieger and Betty Janik Krenek. They are all deceased. Brother Janik married Mildred Melnar in April 1949 in Wallis. They were blessed with two children - Cheryl Janik Drabek (spouse Jerry) of Hempstead and Chris Janik (spouse Lora) of Bay City. Charlie and Mildred were married for 66 years. Mildred passed away in 2015.
Brother Charlie loves his grandchildren, Rebecca Janik Waddell (spouse Matt) and Matthew Janik and his great-grandchildren, William, and Nathanial Waddell. In Charlie’s early years, he worked as a butcher. He also worked as a roughneck at a Sulphur Company and retired as a machinist. He served our country in World War II and the Korean War. He is still very patriotic. Brother Charlie is active in his church and community organizations. He enjoys watching sports, especially the Houston Astros. Again, we congratulate Brother Charlie E. Janik on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Brother Janik, for your devotion to SPJST for all these years. May God bless you and your family for many more years of health and happiness. —SPJST—
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20th Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor BBQ Cook-Off Saturday, September 25, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor
Still Cookin’ 74 teams take beef to another level Jason Hennington publisher@taylorpress.net Taylor Press - reprinted with permission For 20 years, SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor has hosted a successful barbecue cook-off, and this year was no different.
On Saturday, the 25th of September, 74 teams showed up and filled the grounds at the lodge to compete in the 20th annual barbecue cook-off. While out at the lodge, many of the cookers had televisions to make sure they did not miss any college football. Awards were presented at the end of the day for master cook, best rig, brisket, pork ribs, chicken, jackpot beans, jackpot cook’s choice, and jackpot pork butt. Master Cook went to Cassie Leschber of Twisted L #2. Second place went to James Stokes of Stokin It Up, while third place went to Jamie Beran of Post Oak Cookers.
Master Cooks
Terry Skrhak of the Czexicans took home the award for best rig. Skrhak has competed in almost every cookoff, except when he was overseas. He originally began a team with his brother Randy, who is now a part of the Smokin Bohemians. Skrhak said there is a friendly sibling rivalry between the two at the cook-off. Inside the lodge, there was a silent auction and judges tasted entries to determine winners. —SPJST—
Best Rig
2021 SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor BBQ Cook-Off Results Master Cook 1st - Twisted L #2 Cassie Leschber 2nd - Stokin It Up James Stokes 3rd - Post Oak Cookers Jamie Beran Best Rig Czexicans Terry Skrhak Brisket 1st - Kickin Ash #1 Steven Rieger 2nd - Post Oak Cookers Jamie Beran 3rd - Twisted L #1 Sean Leschber 4th - CTBA Outlaws Charlie Shirley 5th - Stokin It Up James Stokes
6th - Longhorn Cookers Richard Hykel 7th - Snake Snatchers Adam Jezisek 8th - Czexicans Terry Skrhak 9th - Hywind Yella Catters Clayton Loeve 10th - Smokin Bohemians #2 Jeff Stork Pork Ribs 1st - Dirty BBQ Catering #2 Daniel Perez 2nd - Twisted L #2 Cassie Leschber 3rd - Straight Up BBQ Clay Raesz 4th - Dirty BBQ #1 Matt Perez 5th - Post Oak Cookers Jamie Beran 6th - Stokin It Up James Stokes
7th - Smokin Bohemians #1 Randy Skrhak 8th - Hawg Knuckle Thomas Ramirez 9th - Snake Snatchers Adam Jezisek 10th - 2nd Hand Smoke Roy Walters Chicken 1st - Resurrection Aviation Robert Patnode 2nd - Twisted L #2 Cassie Leschber 3rd - Dirty BBQ #1 Matt Perez 4th - Papo Joe's Grilling Supplies, Hutto Chuck Aleksines 5th - Serious Smoke Syrissa Dominguez 6th - Stokin It Up James Stokes 7th - Hawg Knuckle Thomas Ramirez
8th - Boozin Bohemian BBQ Justin Knapek 9th - Boondocks #1 Matthew Kreidel 10th - Boondocks #2 Dillon Kreidel Jackpot Beans 1st - Boozin Bohemian BBQ Justin Knapek 2nd - Hawg Knuckle Thomas Ramirez 3rd - Stokin It Up James Stokes 4th - Dirty Foot BBQ #2 Heidi Holliman 5th - Just A Krusen #2 Kristie Jones 6th - S & V Cookers Steve McCarty 7th - Resurrection Aviation Robert Patnode 8th - Coupland Kountry Klub Wayne Ging
9th - 2nd Hand Smoke Roy Walters 10th - Smokin Farm Boys #1 Carl Synatzske Jackpot Cook's Choice 1st - BDB Seth Srnensky 2nd - Dirty BBQ #1 Matt Perez 3rd - Czexicans Terry Skrhak 4th - Stokin It Up James Stokes 5th - Mashin Papas Mick Castillo 6th - Kovar Kookers Kyler Kovar 7th - Twisted L #1 Sean Leschber 8th - Serious Smoke Syrissa Domingues 9th - Resurrection Aviation Robert Patnode 10th - Patin Construction Brian Fisher
Jackpot Pork Butt 1st - BBQ Bandits Leo Makovy 2nd - Twisted L #2 Cassie Leschber 3rd - Resurrection Aviation Robert Patnode 4th - Twisted L #1 Sean Leschber 5th - Your Boring Friends #1 Norman Frey 6th - Nazarene Norm Ebeling 7th - Boondocks #2 Dillon Kreidel 8th - Hawg Knuckle Thomas Ramirez 9th - Boss Doss Bill Doss 10th - Czexicans Terry Skrhak
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Monday, October 11, 2021
20th Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor BBQ Cook-Off Saturday, September 25, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor
Brisket Winners
Pork Ribs Winners
Chicken Winners
Jackpot Beans Winners
Jackpot Cook’s Choice Winners
Jackpot Pork Butt Winners
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20th Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor BBQ Cook-Off Saturday, September 25, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor
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20th Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor BBQ Cook-Off Saturday, September 25, 2021 • SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor
Thank you, Tim Mikeska, for taking these great pictures of our 20th Annual SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor Barbecue Cookoff. We had 74 teams and a wonderful weekend. Awards and pictures are also posted on our Tayor SPJST website www.taylorspjst.com.
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Lodge 49, Rowena invites all to October 23 dance
Lodge 66, Waco honors 50-year member
Lodge 49, Rowena will host a dance on Saturday, October 23, 2021, and all are invited to attend. Lodge 49 is located at 706 FM 2133 in Rowena. Please save this date on your calendar:
The meeting of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President Douglas Galler at St. Pauls Church at 6 p.m. with all officers present with the exception of Reporter Sister Dorothy Veselka. Present were six members and three guests - Hannah, Reed, and Fiona Galler. Sister Diana Engelke read a resolution on Brother Joe Traywick. May he rest in peace. Members also stood for a moment of silence for Brother Traywick. Secretary Sister Dana McAdams read the minutes of the August meeting, and they were approved as read. Brother Ron Neumann made a motion to accept them, and Brother Michael Galler seconded it.
Saturday, October 23 - Dance to Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the lodge hall. Doors open at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—
Brother President Douglas Galler read the fraternal report. Sister Diana Engelke read the insurance report. Sales Agent Clifford House wrote up William Allison and Kevin Hannes, and Sales Agent Larry Matula wrote up Michael Matula. They were all accepted into Lodge 66. In old business, we again discussed making a Facebook page on Lodge 66 history. Sister Diana Engelke made a motion, and Sister Dana McAdams seconded it, and all approved. Our monthly donation will be sent to the Humane Society. Brother Ron Neumann made a motion, and Brother Michael Galler seconded it. All approved. President Douglas Galler presented our one 50-year pin to Sister Diana Engelke. Congratulations, Diana. September birthdays were Sister Diana Engelke and Sister Hannah Galler. Door prize was won by Brother Ron Neumann, and 100 percent winner was
Brother John Engelke. Brother John Engelke made a motion to adjourn the meeting, and Brother Ron Neumann seconded it. All approved. Thanks to Sister Diana Engelke who wrote up the minutes. Next Meeting—October 25 The next meeting will be on Monday, October 25, and we will serve sandwiches and chips. Fraternally Sister Dorothy Veselka Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton shares Scenes from Outdoor Extravaganza
Saturday, September 18, 2021 • Lodge 47, Seaton Star Hall • Submitted by Amber Bartek, Youth Leader
LEFT PHOTO: Some of top prize drawing winners. Congratulations! CENTER PHOTO: Table honoring the 13 United States service members who lost their lives in a recent attack in Afghanistan. CENTER PHOTO: Top kids’ prize drawing winners. Congrats! BELOW LEFT PHOTO: District Two Queen Emma Regan of Lodge 47, Seaton and District Two King James Teague of
Lodge 20, Granger assist with the evening. BELOW PHOTO 2: 2020 State Duke Everhett Bartek of Lodge 47, Seaton participates in the turkey call. BELOW PHOTO 3: Melanie and Chris Regan, front, and Colton Regan and Storie Powell welcome all attendees to the Outdoor Extravaganza. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Kids play the heads-and-tails game.
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Lodge 79 Corpus Christi honors longtime members
roast. Members are asked to bring a side dish. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
SPJST WELCOMES NEW SALES AGENT MARY D. ORTIZ
On September 19, 2021, SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi honored 50and 75-year members with a catered meal of chicken fried steak and sides. The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present except for Youth Leader Marcia Rew and Assistant Youth Leader Christina Rew. In attendance were 23 members and guests. President Rebecek introduced District Seven Director Regina House and husband James. Regina gave a very informative talk. Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the August minutes, and they were approved. The August treasurer’s report will be presented at the October meeting. The fraternal report was given by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky. We talked about September being Life Insurance Awareness Month. He had signup cards to hand out. Under new business, President Rebecek introduced member Jennifer Rebecek who received her 50-year pin. It was presented to her by President Rebecek and District Seven Director Regina House. Congratulations, Jennifer! Virginia Rebecek made a motion to
SPJST welcomes Mary D. Ortiz as a sales agent. She is a member of SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria. Mary was born and raised in Victoria. She is the proud mother of four children. Her passion has always been to help people. She has worked for several years as a principal secretary in a law office. Mary says that she is not afraid of challenges, and she welcomes them. Please contact Mary to assist with your life insurance needs. Best wishes to Veronica in her career with SPJST! —SPJST— give our monthly donation to the American Heart Association, seconded by Michael Urbanovsky. Motion approved. Birthday for September was guest Mary Jo Rebecek who celebrated her birthday on September 21. Happy birthday was sung to Mary Jo. Twenty-five dollar door prizes were won by Jane Brelsford and Michael Urbanovsky.
Lodge 142, Houston members hear convention highlights
MARY D. ORTIZ 361-648-1191 mmdelortiz@yahoo.com
Kelly Craig made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Laura Rebecek. The meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Next Meeting—October 17 The next meeting will be Sunday, October 17. We will be celebrating Halloween and Czech Heritage Month. Marcia Rew volunteered to make a pork
The monthly meeting of Lodge 142, Houston was held on Sunday, September 19, 2021, in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Lunch and social consisted of Subway sandwiches at 1 p.m. Vice President Kerry Herrington called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zac Coleman. A moment of silence was held for our departed member Bill Gaddy who passed away on August 19, for the 9-11 victims and their families, and for the lives of our military personnel who passed away in Afghanistan while evacuating Americans and our Afghanistan allies. Roll call of officers showed all present except Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington and Sales Agents Alexis Scott and Connie Carter. We had 22 in-person members, 23 via teleconference, and visitor Maria Poitot. Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat
Lodge 25, Ennis celebrates august, september birthdays
Lodge 25, Ennis celebrates monthly birthdays on the last Wednesday of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a meal, birthday cake, candles, and singing! All members and guests are welcome. We hope to see you there. LEFT PHOTO: Happy August birthdays to, left to right,
Adell Rejcek, Annette Honza, Ernie Martinek, Arlene Honza, and Ellen Slovak McDonald. RIGHT PHOTO: Happy September birthdays to, left to right, Nancy Swindell, Barbara Liska, Don Wesley, Tom Droste, and Margaret Krajca. —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter
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Schleider read the August minutes. Karole Coleman made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Barbara Linney-Gonzales. Minutes were approved. Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave his report. JR Coleman moved to approve the report, seconded by Debra Ngo. Correspondence included a thank you note from the family of Larry W. Pflughaupt for the $1,000 donation to the Larry W. Pflughaupt Memorial Scholarship Fund. Youth Leader Amanda Muzny gave her report. Our youth are planning an outing to the aquarium on Saturday, October 23. Amanda is getting with District Five Youth Counselor Melissa Brown to see if they want to make this a district event. No district events have been scheduled yet for this year, but our youth will be going to Lodge 88’s Czech Fest on Saturday, October 9 at 3:30 p.m. FAC Pat Schleider gave her report. She mentioned that the Home Office is reminding all lodges to play it safe since Covid-19 is still affecting so many lives. If we have in-person meeting, we need to make sure we have all necessary supplies like masks, hand sanitizer, soap, distancing ourselves, etc. We were also reminded that meetings online or teleconferencing still remains an option at this time. We then had all the grandparents stand as September 12 was Grandparents Day. Sick committee reported Dennis and Elizabeth Hermis are now Covid-free and were on the call. They are doing so much better. Mary Wunderlich still has good and bad days, but she was with us at the meeting. Speedy recovery is wished and prayers for all to get better soon. Auditing committee stated they will try to audit soon but are waiting for all to feel better. Members/Insurance - We had four transfers from Lodge 91, San Jacinto Kyle Gilmore, Bianca Gilmore, Susan Steele, and Billye Norsworthy. Keith Kieschnick made a motion to accept these new members, seconded by JR Coleman. Under old business, Pat Schleider brought up some highlights from the SPJST Convention held in August. Mainly, the new structure of our Supreme Lodge is now called Executive Committee, which is the officers and directors. The Board of Directors (district directors) will be the seven voting members. Age of adult members
VĚSTNÍK changed from 16 years to 18 years, and there are no more standing committees (By-Law, Finance, Insurance, and Publication). These committees were combined into one committee which is called Governance Committee. The District Five representative on the Governance Committee is Dorothy Pflughaupt. Bradley Stavinoha is the District Five Director. Birthday celebrant recognized was Taylor Maul on the 17th. Keith Kieschnick mentioned that member Emil Kutra celebrated his 99th birthday on September 15. Keith said he has been an active member of Lodge 142 in the past years, and we should honor him as a honorary member and present him with $99. If not for sickness, he would still be attending every meeting. The motion passed, and Keith will see that he receives his birthday money. Dennis and Elizabeth Hermis cele-
brated 47 years of marriage on September 21. JR Coleman mentioned that he and Karole’s son Douglas Coleman just earned his associate’s degree Cum Laude and Phi Theta Kappa from Lone Star College. Congratulation, Douglas! Plus, Douglas just became a new dad again to a son - Zane. The meeting adjourned at 2:50 p.m. Next Meeting—October 17 The next meeting will be held Sunday, October 17 at 2 p.m. with a meal and social at 1 p.m. in the dining area/room at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis (Minutes recorded by Pat Schleider) —SPJST—
Lodge 151, Wharton honors deceased members SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting and memorial service on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at the Wharton Depot Museum. Our meeting scheduled for Monday, September 13 had to be canceled because a storm was approaching the Texas coast in our area. A light meal was served to seven members and five guests at 6:15 p.m. David Bucek led the prayer before the meal. President Macha called the meeting to order at 6:50 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for our departed members. The roll was called, and all of our officers were present. Special guests were SPJST District Six Director Annie
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi recognizes members at September meeting
Congratulations to Jennifer Rebecek, second from right, of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi! She was presented her 50-year pin by Lodge 79 President Mark Rebecek, second from left, and District Seven Director Regina
House. Also pictured is Lodge 79 Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jerry Sijansky. RIGHT PHOTO: Jennifer Rebecek is pictured with her parents Jane and Harry Breslford at the awards luncheon.
LEFT PHOTO: Happy birthday to Mary Jo Rebecek of Lodge 79! She celebrated her special day on September 21. RIGHT PHOTO: Rebecek family who at-
tended the awards luncheon are, left to right, Jennifer, Mary Jo, Ronnie, Virginia, Jacob, Marcus, Mark, Laura, and Stephen.
VĚSTNÍK Vahalik and husband Philip, Keith Jedlicka, Larry Bubela, and Frances Macha. President Macha recessed the meeting at 6:55 p.m. District Six Director Annie Vahalik presented a $750 check to Hungerford Volunteer Fire Department’s Fire Chief Keith Jedlicka and 51year member Larry Bubela. The check was from money left over from the SPJST Foundation Hurricane Harvey Fund. Hungerford Volunteer Fire Department helped Harvey victims and cooked food for the first responders. Chief Kieth Jedlicka and Larry Bubela expressed their appreciation for the check. President Macha resumed the meeting at 7 p.m. The June minutes and treasurer’s reports were handed out to the members. After they had been reviewed, Edith Molberg made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed. Communications were read. Secretary Janie Bucek reported our lodge had five new members. She also reported one death claim had been paid, and one member’s certificate had been terminated. Janie then gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. David Bucek gave the cemetery report. He reported the new 20-foot convert had been added to the new Velehrad cemetery road to stop heavy rains from eroding the road. The Velehrad cemetery looked nice with the flowers SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville recently put on the graves. Bennie Hundl made a motion to accept our five new members. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed. We would like to welcome David Lopez-Escamilla, Perla Judith Lopez, Miranda Lopez, Damian Lopez, and Daniella Lopez to Lodge 151. Under new business, David Bucek made a motion to donate $100 to S.P.J.S.T Senior Living Center in Needville; $100 to S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center in Hillje; and $100 to Share in Wharton. The motion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it passed. District Six Director Annie Vahalik reported the 2021 SPJST Convention was successful and got all of its business done in two days. Twenty delegates from District Six attended the convention. Director Vahalik informed us District Six will not be having a fall meeting due to Covid-19. She said she will be attending the October 20 and 21 SPJST Board of Directors’ Meeting in Temple. Last of all, she encouraged us to contact
Monday, October 11, 2021 her when we have a problem or need a question answered. A memorial service was held for departed Lodge 151 members Paul Jerry Kopecky, Georgene Chumchal, Carolyn Ann King, Gary Louis Chumchal, Brenda Joyce Humberson, Edward Martinka, Sr., John Henry Kubosh, Mary Louise Matula, Emma Mladenka, and Amelia Vera Sablatura. A candle was lit for each departed member. Director Vahalik was the only birthday honoree for the months of July, August, and September. She received a gift from the lodge. Door prizes were drawn. President Macha adjourned the meeting at 8:12 p.m. Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 179, Warrenton meets October 14 Lodge 179, Warrenton plans to meet on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at 11 a.m. at JW’s Steakhouse in Carmine, Texas. We hope see our members there. Ricky Weyand, Reporter —SPJST—
Tillman and Rhonda Steelman celebrate 25th anniversary Congratulations to Tillman and Rhonda Steelman of Lodge 183, Arlington who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on October 4, 2021. The couple was married on October 4, 1996, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, at the Anglers Choice Bass Fishing Classic. On the dock of the Arkansas River after Tillman came in from pre-fishing with his father, Rhonda surprised him with a ring, old, new, borrowed, and blue. Rhonda gave Tillman a change of clothes, deodorant, and some cologne and told him, “We have 30 minutes to go across the street from the boat ramp to get our marriage license, change your clothes, and meet Justice of the Peace Odoha Brown back at the dock so we can get married.” And the rest was history! Tillman and Rhonda have lived in Frisco for their entire 25 years of
marriage. Members of SPJST Lodge 183, Arlington, Rhonda is a lifetime member and Tillman is a 19-year member. They have two sons - Pate, age 23, and Wade, age 21, who are also lifetime members of SPJST. Tillman has been an auto glazier for 35 years and owns Frisco Auto Glass. Rhonda has been a sales agent for SPJST for 20 years and an agent for RVOS Farm Mutual Insurance for 20 years. She has also served on the RVOS Board of Directors for the past 10 years. They are parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Frisco. Tillman and Rhonda renewed their vows in 2006 surrounded by family and friends at Embassy Suites in Frisco. Congratulations to Tillman and Rhonda, and best wishes for many more years of happiness! —SPJST—
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Lodge 196 Houston-West plans Nov. 14 Thanksgiving dinner Lodge 196, Houston-West would like to invite all of its members and friends to the annual Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday, November 14, 2021, at 1 p.m. The turkey will be provided by the Wagers, and we are asking everyone that comes to bring your favorite Thanksgiving dinner side dish with enough to feed eight to 10 people. Also, if you are coming, we would like to know so that a large enough turkey can be prepared. Please call the lodge phone at 284-3739482 to give us the number of people that will be coming. This dinner will be a wonderful time to reconnect with old friends and meet some new lodge members. This is always a great time, and the food is always yummy! We look forward to seeing everyone. Don Fruin, Reporter —SPJST—
★ ★ Reunions ★ ★ Michulka family
Descendents of Josef Michulka will gather at Riverside Hall in East Bernard, Texas, on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at 11 a.m. A meal will be served at 12 noon. A meeting, auction, and games will follow the meal. Come join us for our 41st annual reunion. Please help us by contacting your family to verify they received an invite. The meal will be catered, but we ask that you bring a dessert. Items are needed for the live auction and prize drawing items such as homemade and canned items. Items are also needed for the country store. We will have a table set up for our descendents’ family members. Please bring photos to set on the table with names and dates. Officers are President Stanley Michulka 979-335-4081; Vice President Lena White 409-957-5560; Treasurer Joey Pitman 281-236-7652; and Secretary Lorraine Chumchal 979-533-1282. Fraternally submitted by, Helen Kelner Lodge 28, East Bernard •••
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Monday, October 11, 2021
Orsak Reunion - Canceled
The Orsak reunion that was planned for Sunday, October 24, 2021, at Mikeska’s on the freeway has been canceled due to the surge of Covid-19 cases. Please be careful and stay safe. Let us all hope that we can get together
VĚSTNÍK next October 2022. Viola Kunetka Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje —SPJST—
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month by Tamara Kapplinger, PA-C Lodge 196, Houston-West October is Czech Heritage Month trogen receptors, progesterone recepin Texas, but it is also Breast Cancer tors, and excess HER2 protein. TriAwareness month nationwide! I am a ple- Negative breast cancer is physician assistant, considered to be but this year I bemore aggressive came a breast and have a poorer cancer patient and prognosis since survivor! Breast there are fewer cancer affects one medicines available out of eight women for treatment. Treat(12 percent) in the ment typically inUnited States and cludes a one out of 1,000 combination of chemen over their lifemotherapy, radiatime. Most breast tion therapy, and cancer begins in our surgery. I have been 60s; however, 9 perblessed that my cent of new cases of cancer was found so breast cancer in the early and my United States are healthcare team recfound in women ommended chemoyounger than 45 therapy prior to years old. Being a woman and get- surgery. Within 3.5 weeks of diagnoting older are both risk factors for sis, I began a five-month course of breast cancer. Other risk factors in- chemotherapy. Currently, I am recovclude family history, lack of physical ering from a bilateral mastectomy activity, poor diet, being overweight, with reconstruction. My chemotherdense breast tissue, history of hor- apy worked! My cancerous lesions mone replacement therapy, drinking shrank and with the mastectomy, I alcohol, and radiation to the breast or became officially “cancer free”! I am chest. Therefore, eating healthy, ex- so thankful to my healthcare team ercising, refraining from excessive along with my family and friends alcohol intake, and breastfeeding can who supported me during my cancer reduce your risk for breast cancer. journey. Although I consider myself a Many adults have lapsed in their healthy 44-year-old woman (I eat routine healthcare during the Covidhealthy, exercise, rarely drink alco- 19 pandemic. So please remember hol, have no immediate family his- the importance of maintaining a tory of breast cancer, and breastfed healthy lifestyle and receiving roumy girls when they were babies), a tine health screenings despite the routine mammogram screening re- pandemic. Early detection with vealed suspicious calcifications in breast cancer can make a huge differJanuary 2021. Further imaging and ence in treatment and prognosis. And an ultrasound-guided biopsy helped when you see pink ribbons in Occonfirm my diagnosis of Stage 1B tober, please remind your loved ones Triple-Negative Invasive Ductal Car- to do their self breast exams and get cinoma. Triple-Negative means that their routine mammograms! my cancer tested negative for es—SPJST—
Mikulec family Continued from Page 1.
“I’m fine, though,” said Marcus. “I’m back to running and working out now.” In addition to hunting, fishing and camping, the Mikulec family has recently taken up hiking in state parks, and they enjoy traveling to the many natural swimming holes the state has to offer. “We are a very traditional family, meaning we have a few family activities that we commit to every year like skiing in New Mexico in the winter and floating the Frio in the summer, with some occasional trips to Chinquapin for some fishing,” Marcus said. “Like clockwork, you will find us in Rocksprings every Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring breaks. Other than that, locally checking the cows, camping on Sawmill Road, near Brazos Bend State Park, and occasionally hanging out with friends sum up who and what we are.” Oh, but there is so much more to this very special family. The Road to Needville The Mikulecs have been married 15 years and have four children: 14-yearold Rylie, an eighth-grader at Needville Junior High; Myles, age 11, who attends fifth grade at the middle school; five-year-old Dayton, who is in kindergarten; and Bayler, age three, who attends day care two days a week. Rylie is an altar girl at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, where the family attends services, and is grateful for her parents’ decision to focus on family. “I remember my summers with little activities, but filled with my parents at work or me with them at work,” she said of her younger years. “These last few summers have been filled with strange adventures, memories, and family time that I’m so grateful for. I never realized how much my siblings and I were missing out on until my parents were able to do all these things with us. Marcus remains a member of the Rosenberg chapter of the Catholic philanthropic organization, Knights of Columbus, but limits any other activities
that don’t involve the entire family. Jaime and Marcus met while attending Sam Houston State University and the rest, as they say, is history. “I had a cousin who graduated from Needville, and he and his friends lived in the same apartment complex as Jaime and her friends,” Marcus recalled as he explained how they met. “I played football at Sam. I loved every aspect of it. It was truly a life, hobby, and pastime. Every aspect of my life was football.” But when a couple of surgeries restricted his ability to play that last season, his coaches allowed him to serve as a coach and help out where he could. It was then that Marcus decided to enroll in iteachTEXAS online classes and earn his teaching certificate. Meanwhile, he graduated in 2005 with bachelor’s degrees in both finance and banking and financial institutions, and Jamie graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, then received her teaching certification in 2004. They married in 2006 and returned to her hometown of Needville to begin their careers and start a family. Jaime began her volleyball and track coaching career at George Junior High in Rosenberg. Marcus knew her coworkers and was quickly brought on board when a coaching spot opened at that school. From there, he went to Elkins High School while Jamie jumped at the chance to coach at Needville ISD as soon as an opening was available. “I followed her and worked for Coach Ryan Roark for three years, then worked with him in Angleton for a couple of years before heading back here to Needville,” Marcus said. The importance of roots Much of Marcus’ young childhood was spent moving to various towns throughout Texas for his father’s job, so teaching his children the importance of community and family roots and values is extremely important to him; and he gives Jaime credit for opening his eyes to that importance. “She would be the reason that Needville means the world to me – the closeness of her family from the area and how welcoming they have been to me,” he said. “And it’s not only Jaime’s family, but everyone I know because of her. I couldn’t have asked for a better
VĚSTNÍK
A photo of the Mikulec family from their coaching days. Pictured are Marcus and Jaime with their children Bayler, front, left, and Dayton, and in back are Rylie, left, and Myles.
family to marry. I think that’s really what you end up marrying in the long run, is the whole family.” Although Marcus is not a Needville native, he said, “This town, as well as the community, truly means so much to me. Not being a part of a multigenerational community or school system due to my father working all over the state, I want my kids to understand its significance, relevance, and how truly special it is.” Marcus’ dad was a manager for Luby’s Restaurant, but before getting his own store, the family moved from town to town as he worked his way up the ranks. “He actually got his own store in Texarkana when I was in kindergarten,” Marcus recalled. “We moved there while I attended school at Pleasant Grove, and then he retired and we settled in Canton, which is where I graduated from high school.” Marcus said moving from place to place for many years made it feel as if his family never really had a home of their own. “By me marrying Jaime and raising our kids here in Needville, this community and our close family and friends have filled that void,” said Marcus. “Of course, with that come highs and lows, but what a ride!
Monday, October 11, 2021 “If you get more native to Needville than my wife, I’m not sure how. She is a third-generation Needville High School graduate, and both her parents graduated from Needville. She had one grandmother graduate from Needville, and the only reason the other didn’t was because Needville ISD didn’t exist when she graduated.” The Mikulecs feel it’s important to teach their children that family and friends are important, as is giving back to the community in which you live. “A true buddy of mine and I get together and try and help out at the church whenever we are available to do so,” Marcus said. Most of the close-knit Mikulec family’s time is spent with each other, enjoying their various hobbies, with a new one added to the list of late. A new kind of coaching “Recently, I have become a member of several retriever hunting clubs. We train dogs with each other, and it has been a great way of meeting people in the sport,” said Marcus. “It’s also another activity all the family enjoys together.” It seems coaching is in these parents’ blood, and although Marcus is now training four-legged athletes, he continues to admire coaches of the two-legged variety. “While coaching football, I was pretty accustomed to working from sunup to sundown,” he said. “I truly have the utmost respect for the coaches who do it the way it’s supposed to be done, and care about it. But, being out of that world now, something has got to fill that time. I made one of my personal goals to spend as much time with
my kids as possible, and the dog training has been a way to do both.” Marcus said he doesn’t expect anyone else in the family to get up early in the morning with him to do drills with his Labrador Retrievers, but there are plenty of tasks for everyone in the family after school; and they all enjoy rollicking with their 10-monthold black Labrador Retriever, Doc. “I enjoyed my parents coaching, but what I like more is my parents not coaching because I can hunt more and train Doc,” said Myles. “I like training Doc at the pond,” Bayler chimed in while pointing excitedly to the pond behind their home. As for Dayton, training Doc is fun, but his main interest lies elsewhere: “I like hunting and feeding the cows on the tractor with Daddy,” he said. Still, when it comes time to throwing life-size rubber ducks known as “bumpers” for Doc, blowing duck calls for him, or spraying him down with the water hose, all the Mikulec children love to join in the fun. “He loves this,” Myles said while turning on the water as Doc jumped and played in the spray. Doc also enjoys holding blinds, where the dogs are stationed before calling them out to see the objects they will retrieve. “This is a process because a lot of anxiety and excitement builds up in the dog due to the anticipation of the retrieve,” Marcus said. The American Kennel Club offers junior, senior, and master hunt titles for hunting dogs, with what Marcus described as “truly special dogs” advancing to field trial world in an attempt to achieve a field champion or amateur
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville member Marcus Mikulec relaxes in the Frio River one day after being bit by a rattlesnake, keeping his foot elevated as instructed by the emergency room doctor.
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field champion title. “We lost a dog last December who had earned a junior hunt title, and now we have 10-month-old Doc, who is getting ready to run hunt tests at the junior level,” said Marcus. “Training these dogs has truly been a way for me to fill time with a great family effort.” Mike Simpson with Hurricane Labradors, a former coworker with whom Marcus coached, is the person responsible for turning Marcus on to Labrador Retrievers and retriever training. “He breeds dogs from exceptional pedigrees and typically always has puppies,” Marcus said. Marcus has trained dogs for other people, but admits it’s easy to become attached to the lovable animals. “It is hard to part with the dogs when you work with them daily. Not only for me, but there is a bond created with everyone in the family,” he said. “However, it is satisfying to see a family pick up the dog and see the transformation. “The most fun part of training dogs is the similarity to teaching or raising children. What you find out is that it is all about setting an expectation and making sure that expectation is met,” Marcus said. “It is done by consistent repetition of commands, and then tying those commands together to get your end result.” Time with family is priceless Marcus uses that educational technique at Needville Junior High, where he teaches a computer literature course for eighth graders and the yearbook class for seventh and eighth graders. Jaime is a counselor at the middle school, having left coaching at the
Marcus soaks up the sun in the Frio River with his sons Myles, left, and Dayton during a family vacation this summer. They are all members of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville.
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Monday, October 11, 2021
same time as her husband. “The time that I have to spend with Marcus and the kids by not coaching is priceless,” she said. “This time spent together truly makes me a better person. I enjoy the cows, the hill country, the dog, and I am now able to go to all of the kids’ activities. I like watching Marcus work through training challenges and seeing his success. I help when I can, but I don’t have the training knowledge that he does, so there is a big learning curve for me.” Marcus also experienced a rather large learning curve when he took on the yearbook class at the junior high. “I was somewhat thrown into yearbook with absolutely zero experience with the software or organization. Luckily for me, I am a fairly organized person,” Marcus said. “I quickly realized that once I set up what was going to be on each page, delegating pages was relatively simple. I also wanted to give each student the ability to achieve every aspect of a page.” Each student takes pictures, conducts interviews, writes, edits, and organizes the pages for which he or she is responsible. “It has been a wonderful experience for me,” said Marcus. “Like anything else: Be organized and set what the expectation is going to be; everything else seems to take care of itself.”
Among the favorite activities for Doc, the 10-month-old Labrador Retriever owned by the Mikulec family near Fairchilds, is cooling off with a water hose after training sessions. He enjoys being sprayed by Myles Mikulec.
VĚSTNÍK Last year, the Mikulec family’s Labrador Retriever, Duke, earned an American Kennel Club Junior Hunt title. With him are Myles Mikulec, left, and his dad, Marcus.
October by d.knape October makes her entrance seemed like she never would She played so coy we wondered not sure of where we stood Still we waited, ever patient for our anticipated date On first sight we fell in love her kiss well worth the wait.
That was even the case this past school year, in the midst of COVID-19. Despite virtual classes, masks, and social distancing, the requirements for Needville ISD staff members to fill out health logs before arriving at work in the mornings, and so many other pandemic-related changes, said Marcus, things went very smoothly all across the school district. “What an incredible year-and-a-half we had - multiple obstacles and adjustments, with some being changed hourly. Wow!” he said. “The leadership we received all the way across our district could not have been better, and our students did incredibly well because of it.” Marcus said he is often asked by coaches he met during all those years in the profession whether he misses it, and his answer remains the same: “Sure.” “There is something special about watching a young boy develop into a young man and being a significant part of his last three years’ worth of development,” he said. “The relationships built between coaches and their players are rivaled by very little.” But for the past several months, Marcus has followed up his response with a little story from this past year’s deer season. “My daughter Rylie got very selective this year and was hunting one of about three bucks,” he recalled. “It took us 35 hunts together to get her buck. At three hours per hunt, that’s 105 hours of us spending time together. I would not have been allotted the time to spend with her this past year if I had still been coaching, and I would not have traded that time for anything.” All in all, said the proud father, the biggest reason he left coaching is fairly
simple. “I got in to coaching with only one pastime, hobby, and job: football. The older I’ve gotten, the more and more hobbies my family and I have acquired. The more things that we enjoy doing together, the more time that is required to do all of them,” he said. “I don’t ever want to have to look back and think, ‘I wish we would have done more x, y, or z.’” Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Needville ISD Communications Director B.J. Pollack for sharing this story with the Vestnik. Rylie, Myles, and Dayton are members of Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club. —SPJST—
•••
Simple Man by d.knape I am a simple man simple to understand Simplicity comes naturally of it I am a fan My poems are always simple on that principle I stand This poem therefore is simple as simple as I am. •••
Snail Trails by d.knape When snails go they go real slow and where they go is marked with slime, it’s how they roll they’re so inclined there is no rush they have the time. •••
The Sun by d.knape
Proud dad Marcus Mikulec watches as three-year-old daughter Bayler throws a ball for the family’s dog, Doc, to retrieve. The exercise is one of several training methods the family uses as Doc prepares to earn an American Kennel Club hunt title.
The Sun and I get up at the same time if he is not up yet I wait for him we are buddies and hang out together before all the others get out of bed he is such a beautiful Sun all shimmering and orange and we enjoy each other’s company as we start the day together it’s a shame he had to leave so soon but he had to go to work. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021
October is Czech Heritage Month in Texas Editor’s Note: This information was originally submitted to the Věstník in 1997 by the late Willa Mae Cervenka, member of SPJST Lodge 54, West. Texas Czech Heritage Month is October 1 through 31. All Czech Texans are encouraged to participate in this monthlong commemoration. As we celebrate, we remember the past and our ancestors who were proud
enough to stand up for what they believed in and loved. The purpose of this event is to preserve and promote the many contributions made by Czech immigrants and Czech Texans, and to honor our ancestors. The Legislature of Texas passed a resolution, signed by then-Texas Governor George W. Bush, designating the month of October to be celebrated annually as “Texas Czech Heritage Month.”
The idea for the resolution was introduced by Fayette County Judge Ed Janecka of La Grange. The Travis-Williamson Czech Heritage Society, during the presidency of Dr. Dorothy Bohac, was instrumental in having the resolution passed. The month of October was chosen because of its historical significance— Czechoslovakian Independence was proclaimed on October 28, 1918.
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October gives us an opportunity to remember and commemorate our rich Czech heritage. Here are a few ideas: n Speak with school superintendents and principals informing them of Czech Heritage Month. Suggest that aspects of Czech culture be included in the curriculum. n Paint or sketch posters or cut out illustrations of the Czech Republic and display them in classrooms, halls, libraries, downtown shops, malls, and bulletin boards.
SPJST participates in 2021 Westfest SPJST hosted a booth at Westfest on Saturday, September 4 and Sunday, September 5, 2021. LEFT PHOTO: From left are President/CEO Brian Vanicek, State Duke Zane Lauderdale, State King Caleb See, State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, State Duchess Lilyanna Howard, and State Queen Megan Ohnheiser. RIGHT PHOTO: Czech queens pose with SPJST State Royalty and President/CEO and Mrs. Vanicek. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: Sandra Hoggard of Lodge 202, Jourdanton makes a purchase at the SPJST booth. Thanks to Slovacek’s for partnering with SPJST to sell merchandise to benefit the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund. BELOW CENTER PHOTO: Don Urbanovsky and Joan Vanicek, right, assist with booth sales.
LEFT PHOTO: Slovacek’s owner Tim Rabroker, left, and SPJST from the Lodge 6, Cottonwood booth. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to President/CEO Brian Vanicek. PHOTO 2: Joan Vanicek displays an SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood! The lodge was recognized as the oldest, original food cookbook. PHOTO 3: Jonna See, right, of Lodge 9, Snook purchases food vendor at Westfest and was presented a framed plaque award.
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Monday, October 11, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
n Display the Czech Republic flag with the USA and Texas flags whenever possible.
n Restaurants: Feature a Czech menu item during Czech month. Add a little something to a hamburger and call it Czech-a-burger.
n Ask students to write article about the Czech Republic, “What Czech Heritage Means to Me,” or about Czech-Americans living in Texas
n Ask the mayor of your city to issue a proclamation.
n Teach students greetings in Czech: Ahoj, Dobry den, Na shledanou, Nazdar, and Vitame vas. n Adopt a school in the Czech Republic. n Find pen pals in the Czech Republic. n Make a collection of short resumes and photos on persons of Czech ancestry who were in various professions, such as engineers, geologists, lawyers, nurses, sports, musicians and singers, etc. n Teach children a Czech song or a short dance routine. Play a video or cassette featuring “Annie in the Cabbage Patch,” “Red Handkerchief Round You Go,” or “The Beseda.” Ask students to participate in dancing. n Develop a family tree. Distribute generation charts to students to take home and trace their roots for future descendants. Eight volumes of passenger lists compiled by Leo Baca have listings of passengers, ports of entry and names of ships on which they sailed. n Take trips to Czech museums such as the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple, Caldwell Czech Heritage Museum, Dallas Czech Club Museum, Sokol Collection in Ennis, Fayetteville Museum, Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange, Czech Center Museum Houston, and the Institute of Texan Cultures in San Antonio. n Present Czech programs, music and singing of Czech songs at nursing homes, retirement homes, hospitals and veterans’ hospitals. You can provide this during meal time in the dining room or lobby. Feature singing and Czech music at shopping centers to make people aware of Czech Heritage Month. n Share your travel experiences in the Czech Republic and items of interest from there.
n Display a marquee sign, “Czech Heritage Month.” n Newspaper media: Submit Czech recipes during that month. Ask a news reporter to interview some early settlers in Texas. Submit an article on Czech notables such as Jan Komensky, father of Education, or Vaclav Havel, former president of the Czech Republic. Write an article about Czech composers: Antonin Dvorak, Bedrich Smetana, Leos Janacek or Jaromir Vejvoda, composer of Skoda Lasky. Write an article on the Czech national anthem, Kde Domov Muj? - Where is My Home?. Publish the anthem in English and Czech. n Radio: Contact radio stations about placing special emphasis on Czech music and programs. n Television: Set up interviews early
with exchange students from Czech Republic or any person visiting from there.
n Give special recognition to the old-
est lady or gentleman of Czech descent in your city; write their profile and have it published.
n Have children tape record an inter-
view with their grandparents or great-grandparents.
n Plant a tree—oak (dub) or linden
(lipa) or a rosebush. These grow in the Czech Republic.
n Churches: Place an announcement
about Czech Heritage Month in the church bulletin; offer a special prayer for all Czech ancestors; celebrate a polka mass and the singing of Czech songs.
n Book marks: Have some printed
with Czech Heritage Month in Texas on one side and a business advertisement on the other side.
It is important that every ethnic group hold an annual commemorative day. If we learn about other ethnic cultures and they learn about ours, it will help us to get along better in this world. —SPJST—
In Memoriam Expression of Sympathy We, the members of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of IRVIN PHILLIP CHUMCHAL. Irvin Phillip Chumchal passed away peacefully on Monday, October 4, 2021, at his home in Wharton, Texas. He was born on March 31, 1926, in Hungerford to the late P.V. Chumchal and Annie Sabrsula Chumchal. Irvin graduated from Wharton High School in 1943. He was Irvin Chumchal drafted into the United States Air Force in 1944 And was a B-17 aerial gunner who has later promoted to Corporal. He received his honorable discharge in 1946. After returning home, he attended Wharton County Junior College for one year and then went on to attend the University of Texas in Austin majoring in accounting for three years. In 1950, he returned to Hungerford to farm with his father. On August 27, 1955, he married Aileen Marie Schmidt in Hillje. Together, they raised seven children - three girls and four boys. Irvin was raised in the Catholic faith and was a longtime member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Hungerford. Irvin worked as a farmer and rancher for 71 years until his retirement in 2021. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister Helen Chasak and brother Albert Chumchal. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Aileen of Wharton; daughters Karol Curran and husband Michael of Dallas, Cindy Marek and husband James of Wallis, and Lana Leech and husband Simon of Amarillo; sons Roy Chumchal, Curtis Chumchal, Kelly Chumchal and wife Sandra, and Wes Chumchal, all of Wharton; grandchildren Michaela Overturf, Ross Chumchal, Brandon Curran, Myles Marek, Derrick Chumchal, Mason Marek, Kurt Chumchal, Courtney Chumchal, Kyle Chumchal, Hannah
Chumchal, Ralston Chumchal, and Nathan Leech; great- grandchildren Bayleigh, Hudson, Knox, Madelyn, and Ava; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was at St. John’s Catholic Church in Hungerford on Saturday, October 9 at 9 a.m. with a rosary at 9:30 a.m. Funeral mass began at 10 a.m. with Father Charles Dwomoh officiating. Interment followed at Wharton Cemetery in Wharton. Pallbearers were Kelly Chumchal, Kurt Chumchal, Ralston Chumchal, Brandon Curran, Nathan Leech, and Myles Marek. Condolences may be left for the family at whartonfuneralhome.com. Janie Bucek, Secretary Lodge 151, Wharton —SPJST—
In Memory of Albina Kubala Henson Albina Kubala Henson passed away on Wednesday, September 8, 2021, in North Richland Hills, Texas, at the age of 87. She was born to Rudolph and Millie Kubala in Tioga. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, September 22 at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth. Albina was raised in Pilot Point, where she Albina Henson attended and graduated from high school. Her family moved to Fort Worth in 1953. She was preceded in death by husband Clifton Henson; parents; brother Emil Kubala; and sisters Martha Janca and Helen Holford. She is survived by daughter Tammy Neese and husband Mark; son Gary Don Henson and wife Cari; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters Hermina Muse and Bernice Janecka; brother-in-law Bobby Henson and wife Nancy; sisters-in-law Abbie Kubala and Imogene Fritz; and many nieces, nephews, great-nephews, and
VĚSTNÍK great-nieces. Albina will be greatly missed by her family and friends. —SPJST—
In Memory of JoAnn Oman JoAnn Elizabeth Bruchmiller Oman, age 79, of Hutto, Texas, passed away on Friday, July 23, 2021. JoAnn was born December 17, 1941, the daughter of Raymon and Irene Dierschke Bruchmiller in Bethel. JoAnn graduated from Paint JoAnn Oman Rock High School and San Angelo Junior College (now Angelo State University). She retired from the State Comptroller’s office after 31 years of service. After retiring, she enjoyed working with her husband’s catering business, Captain Red’s Catering, that he started in 1989. JoAnn was a charter member of SPJST Lodge 187, Round Rock since 1979, when it was founded. She had served as financial secretary for Lodge 187 for the past 20 years. She was also a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylor. She was a prior member of Hutto 4-H/FFA booster club and served as 4-H club manager for 16 years. She was preceded in death by husband David “Red” Oman; parents; brother-in-law Richard Oman; and sister-in-law Irene Dooley Bruchmiller. She is survived by sons Shawn Oman and Troy Oman, both of Taylor; grandchildren Marshall and Thomas Oman, also of Taylor, step-grandchildren Kelbie Stifflemire of Barnesville, Ohio, and Mason Stifflemire of Taylor; siblings Barbara Bokor (Donny) of Buda, Ronnie Bruchmiller of San Angelo, and Linda Bruchmiller of Ballinger; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation was held Monday, July 26 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. with rosary starting at 7 p.m. at Beck Funeral Home Pflugerville. Funeral service was on Tuesday, July 27 at 10 a.m., also at Beck, with burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Taylor.
Monday, October 11, 2021 Pallbearers were Marshall Oman, Thomas Oman, Kelbie Stifflemire, Mason Stifflemire, Darren Bokor, Randy Bruchmiller, Curtis Pearson, Mike Summers, and J.D. Doyle. Memorial donation may be made to St. Mary of the Ascension Catholic Church in Taylor. —SPJST—
Expression of Sympathy We, the Resolution Committee of Lodge Pokrok, No. 84, Dallas, wish to express out deepest sympathy to the family of our departed sister, ESTELLE SMITH. Estelle Ann Kaluza Smith of Dallas Texas, passed away June 14, 2021. She was born in the Czech community of Mount Calm on October 13, 1925. Estelle graduated from Ball High School in Galveston where she grew up fostering a passion for swimming and ballroom dancing. How she loved to dance. If there Estelle Smith was music, her feet were moving and in November 2020, she danced to her last dance to her heart’s content at her granddaughter Stephanie’s wedding. She did sleep for three days afterwards, but what a time she had! When the war started and many of the men went to war, Estelle took a position as a file clerk with Santa Fe Railroad. When the war ended, Raymond Smith came home to claim his job which Estelle occupied. She thought he was arrogant and did not like him much. They went to a few dances together, and Raymond must have been a good dancer because as fate would have it, when Raymond got transferred to Houston, he asked her to go with him. They were married October 26, 1946. They later got transferred with the Santa Fe Railroad to Dallas in 1952 where they purchased a home on Merrell Road and lived happily together for 52 years until his death in 1998 - Estelle’s only home until January 2021 when she fell ill and was unable to live unattended.
She worked in sales for Sarah Coventry Jewelry for more than 15 years and was a top earner winning many exciting vacations that she and Raymond enjoyed. She loved to travel and took many exciting adventures with family and friends to Europe, Czechoslovakia, Italy, and of course, their mountain getaway in Bella Vista, Arkansas. She was a member of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas. She was also a lifelong member of KJZT No. 108 Czech fraternal organization, which she helped organize in Dallas and acted as president for more than 12 years. Estelle was an ardent organizer and leader in any activity she participated in. She was a devoted volunteer at St. Monica Parish Catholic Daughters organization, and a member of the church since its inception in 1954. She was also the anchor of her neighborhood where she had many wonderful friends and organized several block parties over the years. Estelle loved a good party! She is survived by children Janet Presley of Denver, Colorado, Bruce Smith of Coolidge, Texas, and Cynthia Urrutia of Odessa, Texas; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by husband Raymond Scott Smith; parents Joseph J. and Frances Kaluza of Texas City; son-in-law Leo W. Urrutia; daughter-in-law Linda F. Smith; former sonin-law Scott Presley; brothers Joseph (Jody) J. and Angeline Kaluza of Beaumont, and Gerome (Jerry) J. Kaluza of Texas City and his children Frances (Franny) Kaluza and Christine Collins. Estelle lived an active life working in her garden as she loved flowers, and won Garden of the Month many times in her neighborhood. She was also very keen on health foods, home remedies, and was always reading and trying new recipes. Estelle lived a full life so I guess it worked! Funeral and mass was at 2 p.m. on June 26 at Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas. May our departed sister rest in peace. Resolution Committee of Lodge 84, Dallas —SPJST—
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In Memory of Joe Traywick Joe Traywick, age 65, of Waco, Texas, passed away late Monday night, September 20, 2021, at Baylor Scott and White Hillcrest Hospital in Waco. The family received visitors from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 24 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West. Graveside service Joe Traywick was held at 9 a.m. Saturday, September 25 at Waco Memorial Park with Reverend Pat Cummings officiating. Joe was born February 13, 1956, in Waco, the son of Edward and Lillian (Hanzelka) Traywick. He was a graduate of Reicher High School. On June 14, 2003, he was united in marriage to Cindy Light in Waco. He worked as a retail merchandiser for many years. Joe enjoyed working outside and around the house, playing golf, watching football, and cooking outside on the grill. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Joe was also a very loving and devoted husband to Cindy. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Evelyn Traywick. Survivors include his beloved wife of 18 years Cynthia Traywick of Waco; children Chad Traywick of Temple, Howard Tompkins and wife Shelley of West, James Tompkins of Waco, Christine Traywick of Jewett, Heather Tompkins of Hewitt, and Charles Traywick and wife Mariela of Elm Mott; grandchildren Colton, Mary Jane, David, Fellicia, Charlotte, Kyndal, Tori, Carson, Elliot, Lilly, Aubri, and another grandson on the way; great-grandson Cullen; sister Norma Adamcik and husband Billy; brother Edward Traywick, Jr. and wife Marie; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Memorials may be made to West Volunteer Fire Department. May our departed brother rest in peace. Resolution Committee Dorothy Veselka Diana Engelke —SPJST—
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Monday, October 11, 2021
VĚSTNÍK
In Memory of Henry Mark Veselka
In Memory of Milton Zavodny
Henry Mark Veselka, age 36, of China Spring, Texas, passed away Saturday, September 25, 2021, at his residence. A rosary was recited and memorial service held at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, September 29 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West with Reverend Ryan Higdon Henry Mark Veselka officiating. Henry Mark was born June 29, 1985, in Austin, the son of Henry and Dolores (Martinez) Veselka. He was a 2003 graduate of West High School prior to attending TSTC. He was a member of St. Philip Catholic Church in China Spring. Henry Mark played youth baseball, soccer, and Pop Warner football. He worked for Applebee’s, HEB, McDonald’s, IHOP, Dave’s Burgers, and N-Line Construction. He enjoyed playing video games, playing with his dogs, swimming, taking family trips, river rafting, watching movies, listening to music, cooking, creating recipes, and eating. He was a member of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco. Henry Mark was preceded in death by his grandparents; aunts Clara Veselka and Debbie Martinez; and uncle Raymond Martinez, Jr. Survivors include parents Henry and Dolores Veselka of China Spring; sister Heather Grace Hughes of Waco; uncles Jerry Veselka and wife Mary, Steve Veselka and wife Pam, and Vince Veselka; aunts Connie Caldwell and husband George, Paula Corfield and husband Rodger, Norma Moon, Velma Kocian and husband Roger, Libby Kopatz and husband Jack, and Kay Martinez; his dogs Petey and Spanky; and many cousins, other relatives, and friends. Honorary pallbearers were Aaron Kocian, Raymond Martinez, III, Justin Radcliff, Steven Veselka, Jr., Christopher Leffert, Robbie Dominguez, Travis Veselka, Taylor Veselka, and Lucas Ramirez. May our departed brother rest in peace. Resolution Committee Dorothy Veselka Diana Engelke —SPJST—
Milton Zavodny, age 92, passed away peacefully at home in Rogers, Texas, on Monday, September 27, 2021. The family accepted visitors at Hewett-Arney Funeral Home in Temple on Friday, October 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. A celebration of life was held at the funeral home on SatMilton Zavodny urday, October 2 at 10 a.m. with Chaplain Gary Baxley officiating. Graveside service followed at Seaton Cemetery in Seaton. Milton was born in Cyclone to the late Joseph Frank Zavodny of Polanka, Moravia, Czech Republic, and Lydia (Bartos) Zavodny of Fayette County. He was a resident of the East Bell County area his entire life. Milton, who was also known as “Fuzzy” to many of his friends and “Uncle Fuzzy” to family members, was a young boy with a zest for life. As a child, he attended several rural schools in East Bell County, including Rogers. His father passed away when he was only 12 years old. He stepped up and spent many hours working on the family farm while learning and experiencing hard work and family values. On November 7, 1953, in Temple, Milton officially made Martha Schiller “his girl.” The newlywed couple settled outside of Rogers to build a home, farm, and family together that would eventually include twin daughters, Debbie and Faye. Milton was always proud of the fact that he had twins — and baby Melanie 16 years later. He worked for Mobil Oil Company in Rogers, McCelvey and Moore Oil Company in Temple, and Lamberth Oil Company in Temple delivering gas products to farmers and businesses throughout Bell and surrounding counties. After 40 years in the fuel industry, he retired in 1993 but later joined the team at Dillard’s Department Store where he stayed active participating in the joy of helpfulness. His service did not go unnoticed as he treasured his 10-year service award for his excellent workmanship. He enjoyed his occupations, not only providing for his family, but getting to meet
many people who became lifelong friends. His other love was the acres of land he farmed, producing fields of beautiful cotton, corn, and maize. He worked on old tractors and trucks. He could fix and build just about anything. He was passionate about raising animals – especially pigs that would go on to win awards for youth at county shows. Gardening was also evident in his love for fresh fruits and vegetables as Martha loved canning their delicious produce. His favorite pastimes included spending time outdoors, fishing, hunting, family trips to the Texas coast, and later enjoying his two grandchildren. He also loved the Dallas Cowboys and the Rogers Eagles. Milton and Martha both loved helping daughter Melanie in her shop during high school homecoming season by preparing mum ribbons, organizing charms, talking to customers, and assisting with their orders. Milton was active in his daughters’ lives, attending football games and other extracurricular activities. He always lent a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and family. His loyalty, honesty, and kindness remained throughout his life. Milton was a 76-year member of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall. He volunteered his time and talents on committees and working at events and fundraisers. He also served as a local lodge sales representative and trustee and a delegate to state conventions. He assisted with youth projects, holiday events, and parades. Milton participated in state domino and horseshoe tournaments and won several awards. He received the Lifetime Achiever Award in 2003 for loyal service and dedication to SPJST. He was proud of his Czech heritage, and he stayed true to it by speaking the
Czech language with family and friends – and especially with daughter Melanie over the past few years. He listened to Czech music, sang Czech songs, and read Czech books and the Vestnik faithfully. He also fluently spoke Spanish and enjoyed listening to Spanish music. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Martha (Schiller) Zavodny in 2020; brother Alfred Zavodny in 1915; an infant brother in 1916; brother Joe Lee Zavodny in World War II in 1944; brother Jerry Zavodny in 2001; sister Lillian Mikulec in 2013; and sister Henrietta Slavik in 2015. To cherish his memory, Milton leaves daughter Faye Hudson and son-in-law Carroll of Robinson; daughter Debbie Veselka and son-in-law Freddie of Robinson; daughter Melanie Zavodny and son-in-law David Nauert of Temple; granddaughter Ashley Shoesmith and husband Eric of Leander; grandson Scott Hudson of Robinson; great-grandsons Caseton and Bryce Shoesmith of Leander; brother Leon Zavodny and wife Vallie of Rogers; several nieces and nephews; special friend and dedicated caregiver Carolyn Rumfield; and his cat Maženka. Pallbearers were grandson Scott Hudson; nephews Elden Zavodny, Jodie Zavodny, Leon George Zavodny, Jr., and Randy Schiller; and neighbor/special friend Jason Koliha. Memorials in honor of Milton’s life may be made to Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple, Texas 76501. We take comfort in knowing Milton has joined his beloved wife Martha, and they are both in the presence of their Lord and Savior. He will be missed by all and remembered for his good deeds, generosity, and loyal service throughout his life. —SPJST—
God’s Garden God looked around his garden And found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth, And saw your tired face. He put His arms around you And lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew that you were in pain. He knew that you would never Get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough And the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids And whispered “Peace be thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you But you did not go alone . . . For part of us went with you The day God called you home. —D.W. McConway
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021
n io t c e S h t u o Y T S J SP
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 Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo 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), State Fraternal Director at 800-727-7578, or visit www.spjst.org.
District Two plans activity-filled fall fun day on October 24 at Lodge 47, Seaton The District Two Officers met recently in Seaton to discuss a District Two Fall Fun Day. Thank you to Lodge 47, Seaton President Edwin Pechal for volunteering to donate the outdoor pavilion (or hall in case of bad weather) to host the event. This fun event will be held on Sunday, October 24, 2021, beginning at 3 p.m. with a Halloween theme. Christmas Ornament Contest Youth and adults, please bring your handmade Christmas ornaments to enter the annual contest. You can check the rules online at www.spjst.org. There will be participation prizes and also first, second, and third place awards for both youth and adults. Trunk-or-Treat We are asking each lodge in the district to sponsor a vehicle for a trunk-or-
District Six Family Camp Weekend
September 4 5, 2021 • Camp Kubena, Ledbetter, Texas Youth club members from Lodge 30, Taiton enjoyed lots of great activities during their camp stay. Some of the best times were spent at high ropes, archery, BB guns, swimming pool, and of course, the hayride! Rob and the Camp Kubena staff really outdid themselves preparing and making sure we had the best time. We never went hungry as the chefs prepared amazing meals for us, and we never missed a snack. - Lisa Bubela, District Six Youth Counselor
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treat. You may decorate the vehicle’s trunk (if you’d like) and have candy, small snacks, prizes, a bag with some money change or whatever you would like for the trick or treaters. No chocolate please, due to it melting. Lots of Fun Activities There will be games for the youth and adults: cake walk, spinning wheel, 50/50 drawing, other games, and door prizes. Activities will be the same as we have had in the fall at our district meetings. What To Bring We ask each family to bring: • Grocery items of your choice for the spinning wheel • Desserts for the cake walk. Hot Dogs and the Trimmings Meal Hot dogs and all the trimmings, chips, nachos, and a drink will be served for $2 per person. Other Details Youth, we ask that you please join in
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on the fun and of course, bring a friend! Everyone is welcome to dress in the Halloween style. We hope to see you all - family and friends! And don’t forget to bring your Christmas ornament for the contest. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone! Fraternally, Patsy Koslovsky District Two Youth Counselor —SPJST—
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Club assists with fall festival SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton met on Sunday October 3, 2021, at Taiton Community Center. After members spent the morning volunteering at the Taiton Fall Festival, serving turkey and dressing plates and selling prize drawing tickets, Grant Bubela called the meeting to order and Ella Garrett led the Pledge of Allegiance. We discussed many upcoming due
VĚSTNÍK dates, including the annual Christmas ornament and camp t-shirt contests. Everyone was reminded to check the October newsletter and to submit their Vestnik projects. We have two birthdays in October Millie on the 1st and Abigail on the 5th. Abigail Garrett, age 10 —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton youth appreciates Six Flags trip This past Saturday, October 2, 2021, was the District Two Six Flags trip, where my family and I had plenty of fun going on most of the rides. In the end, we loved it all and hope to go again in the future. Thanks, SPJST! Seth Martinez, age 15 —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena youth: football teamwork is good
Lodge 49, Rowena youth ready to dress up for fall festival
Dear SPJST, Football is going good for me. Our JV team is doing really good. We connect good as a team. I like playing with the boys on the team. Everyone seems to get along really well. Hunter Wood, age 15 —SPJST—
Dear SPJST, My class is having a fifth grade haunted house for our fall festival. I’m going to be dressed in a scary clown costume and scare all the kids. I’m going to have lots of fun this year in fifth grade. My teachers are amazing. We get to do science projects and lots of games and activities. Cotton Wood, age 11 —SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena youth prepares for district football game Dear SPJST, I’m still enjoying football each Friday night. This Friday, we have a tough game. It’s our first district game. I hope we can keep up with the other team and not get blown away. Tanner Wood, age 16 —SPJST—
Lodge 185, New braunfels Youth Club Rides SPJST Float Friday, September 24, 2021 • New Braunfels, Texas
Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club hosted the SPJST Float in the Comal County Fair Parade on Friday, September 24, 2021, in New Braunfels, Texas. 2021-2022 State Queen Megan Ohnheiser and State Duchess
Lilyanna Howard, both of Lodge 185, New Braunfels, and members of Lodge 185 were featured on the patriotic float. The float received the second place award.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021 1 1/4 cups semisweet chocolate chips 2 teaspoons shortening Assorted Betty Crocker™ Decorating Decors candy sprinkles
Brownies on a Stick Betty Crocker Kitchens
Family fun in the kitchen doesn’t need to be complicated. With a handful of simple ingredients, even the littlest bakers can help. Stick to brownies the kids will love! Frosted and decorated, brownies-on-a-stick become extra kidfriendly. Ingredients 1 box (16 ounce) Betty Crocker™ Supreme original brownie mix Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box for cakelike brownies 15 craft sticks (flat wooden sticks with rounded ends)
State Queen, State Duchess ride in Comal County Fair Parade
State Queen Megan Ohnheiser and Duchess Lilyanna Howard, along with other youth members from Lodge 185, New Braunfels, participated in the Comal County Fair Parade on Friday, September 24, 2021, riding on the SPJST Float. The crowd loved the float, the music, and patriotic theme.
Steps 1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Line 9-inch square pan with foil, allowing some to hang over edges of pan. Grease bottom and sides of foil with shortening or cooking spray. Make and bake brownies as directed on box for cakelike brownies. Cool completely on cooling rack, about 1 1/2 hours. 2. Place in freezer 30 minutes. Using foil to lift, remove brownies from pan, and peel foil away. Cut into 15 rectangular brownies, 5 rows by 3 rows. Gently insert craft stick into end of each. Place on large cookie sheet; freeze 30 minutes.
one-third to half of each brownie into chocolate; sprinkle with candy sprinkles. Lay flat on waxed paper or foil. Let stand about 1 hour or until chocolate is set. Tips • Try white vanilla baking chips for the chocolate chips. • Visit a cake-decorating supply store or catalog to find an array of candy sprinkles. https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/brownies-on-astick/d03cb0c5-d1d2-4d6c-ada9-0831f47613f6
—SPJST—
I finally made it back to Camp Kubena! It was such a fun weekend. We zip-lined, swam, roasted marshmallows, and had an awesome time doing archery and axe throwing. On the way home on Sunday morning, we even got to go to a Czech mass with polka music. I’m already counting down until next year! Abigail Garrett, age 10 —SPJST—
Candy Corn Bark Betty Crocker Kitchens
Just three ingredients and three steps will give you delicious candy barks - an easy, perfect dessert! Ingredients 24 ounce vanilla-flavored candy coating (almond bark), chopped 2 cups thin pretzel sticks, broken 2 1/2 cups candy corn Steps 1. Spray 15x10x1-inch pan with cooking spray. Line pan with waxed paper.
3. In small microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips and shortening uncovered on High about 1 minute; stir until smooth. If necessary, microwave additional 5 seconds at a time. Dip top
Lodge 30, Taiton youth returns to Camp Kubena
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2. In large microwavable bowl, microwave candy coating on High 1 minute 15 seconds; stir. Continue microwaving and stirring in 15-second intervals until
Lodge 30, Taiton youth experiences Camp Kubena activities
Lodge 30, Taiton youth: zip-line fun at Camp Kubena
I got to stay at Camp Kubena for the first time! I was so scared to do the zipline, but I was finally brave enough to do it and couldn’t get enough of it. I loved swimming with my friends, too. Ella Garrett, age 6 —SPJST—
After missing out on camp this summer, we were finally able to go to Camp Kubena, and I had a blast! My favorite thing to do at camp is the zip-line. It was so much fun that I did it over 10 times! I can’t wait to go back! Millie Garrett, age 8 —SPJST—
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melted and smooth. Stir in pretzels and 2 cups of the candy corn. Spread mixture evenly in pan. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup candy corn evenly over top; press in lightly. 3. Let stand 1 hour or until completely cooled and set. Break into irregular 2- to 3-inch pieces. Store covered at room temperature. Makes approximately 36 servings. Tip If you have Halloween-themed cookie cutters, try them on this candy. https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/candy-cornbark/795a6ce8-622d-466d-9f1f-1a3d2084f0f0
—SPJST—
East Peanut Butter Cookie Cups Betty Crocker Kitchens
This easy peanut butter cookie will triple your pleasure with peanuts, peanut butter chips and peanut butter cups all together in one cookie cup.
Ingredients 1 pouch (1 pound 1.5 ounce) Betty Crocker™ peanut butter cookie mix Water, vegetable oil and egg called for on cookie mix package 1/4 cup chopped cocktail peanuts 1/4 cup peanut butter chips 1 1/2 Tablespoons coarse sparkling sugar 36 Reese’s miniatures peanut butter cups, unwrapped - let the kids help with this! Steps 1. Heat oven to 375°F. Place mini paper baking cup in each of 36 mini muffin cups. 2. In large bowl, stir cookie mix, water, oil and egg until soft dough forms. Stir in peanuts and peanut butter chips. 3. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Dip top half of each ball into sugar. Place one ball, sugar side up, into each muffin cup. 4. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Immediately press 1 peanut butter cup into center of each cookie. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Remove to cooling rack to cool completely. https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/easy-peanut-buttercookie-cups/110e9143-f4a6-48ed-84d5-135de2fb28e8
—SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK
Shortbread Cookies Betty Crocker Kitchens
Can a cookie that’s so tender, so buttery, and so delicate really only be three ingredients? Yes, it can! This iconic shortbread recipe is as simple as mixing butter, flour, and sugar together to create a dough that’s not too sweet but oh-so delicious. And, since this shortbread can be made in under an hour, you can have tasty treats for tea parties, birthdays, showers, and any occasion in between. Possibly the best part about this recipe is that it’s up to you to get creative—keep it simple with classic shortbread or try dipping your finished cookie in melty chocolate for a showstopping finish. But that’s not all. You can mix in crushed toffee, dried fruit, and chopped nuts for a twist on this timeless favorite. Ingredients 3/4 cup butter, softened 5 Tablespoons sugar 2 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
Steps 1. Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, stir butter and 4 Tablespoons of the sugar until well mixed. Stir in flour. (If dough is crumbly, mix in 1 to 2 Tablespoons more softened butter.) 2. Roll dough on lightly floured surface until 1/2 inch thick; sprinkle with remaining 1 Tablespoon sugar. Cut into small shapes with knife or use cookie cutters. On ungreased cookie sheets, place shapes 1/2 inch apart. 3. Bake about 20 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks. Makes approximately 24 servings.
Lodge 107, Floresville youth excited about band program
Lodge 47, Seaton youth helps with hall painting
This month for our charity project, I helped paint the girls restroom at our hall. I love to paint so I had a lot of fun. The restroom really needed an update, and it looks really nice! Sydney Bilbrey, age 8 —SPJST—
I am so excited to be participating in my high school band program this year! I am especially excited to be playing the snare drum. We are all working hard on our UIL show entitled Les Miserables. Sincerely, Caitlyn Petett, age 16 —SPJST—
Tips • Make dough as directed. On ungreased cookie sheet, pat dough into 8inch round. Sprinkle with 1 Tablespoon sugar. Bake 20 to 24 minutes or until set. Cool 10 minutes on cookie sheet on cooling rack. Using sharp knife, cut into 24 wedges. • Stir in 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries, cranberries or blueberries with the flour. • Stir in 3 Tablespoons chopped crystallized ginger with the flour. • Stir in 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachio nuts or silvered almonds, toasted if desired, with the flour. • Stir in 1/2 cup toffee bits with the flour. https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/shortbreadcookies/bc3291aa-1e6d-4174-9784-700bebb69b91
—SPJST—
Lodge 185, New Braunfels earns “Best Youth Entry” at Comal County Fair
Congratulations to Megan Ohnheiser of Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club! Her summer dress won “Best Youth Entry” at the 2021 Comal County Fair in New Braunfels. Megan was also awarded tricolor ribbons for each of her two baking entries. She is the 20212022 SPJST State Queen.
VĚSTNÍK
Monday, October 11, 2021 Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
Česká
Část
ROČNÍK 109 ZÁŘÍ 18
11.říjen.2021
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´ BENEVOLENCE HUMANITY BROTHERHOOD
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Učme se česky Let Us Study Czech Lekce čtrnactá Lesson 14 Rules of Spelling and Punctuation The Czech alphabet possesses the ability of rendering the quantity of vowels by the use of the čárka, and the palatal sound of the three consonants, ď, ť, and g. To further increase the number of sounds and letters, the háček or caret is used for some hushing sounds:
The soft consonants are ď, ť, ň, ž, š, č, ř, and c and j. If these are followed by the ee (bee, see) sound, the sound must be spelled with an i or í. Words with i or í in their root are in the vast majority: dívat ticho ničitel živý šíti číslo řízek cizinec Jiskra S
S
S
The neutral consonants b, p, v, f, m, l, s, and z are follwed by either i, í, or y, ý, according to their origin or derivation. When you add a prefix before words like účel, the long ú is retained: bezúčelný. S
S
Use of Capital Letters
As indicated previously, the following are hard consonants - d, t, n, h, ch, k, and r. If these hard consonants are followed by the pIt bIt sound, the sound must be spelled with a y or ý, thus: kdyby (byl) týden žádný hybny chytrý kytice rytíř
There is a difference in the usage of capital letters in Czech and English. Example: Yesterday was Wednesday, July 14, 1963. Včera byla středa, 14 července 1963. S
S
S
Consequently, days of the week and month are not capitalized. Note also that a simple period is used after the date. S
S
S
Example: Karel Dvořák, Wilsonovo nádraží, Dunaj, Angličan, Čechy, Smetanova opera, “Prodaná nevěsta”, etc., and Naše římsko-katolická cirkev; Veliká slovanská podporujíci jednota. S
S
S
Here are Other Important Points in Spelling Pronouns and possessive adjectives of the polite-formal usage are capitalized, as are those of the familiar-informal usage. The polite form is capitalized only when referring to a group (plural) then the pronouns are not capitalized. Vy, Vám, Váš; Ty, Tvůj, Tobě. The latter are always in caps.
S
s-š c-č z-ž r-ř
Proper nouns - names of persons, places, things, nations, etc. titles of books, films (but not religious bodies or organizations), etc. take capitals. Capitals are not used for emphasis or for news headlines in Czech. On the whole, the use of capital letters is rather restricted in Czech.
S
S
S
S
S
S
A common error made is when the formal Vy, Vás, Vám are used. A plural verb is used, although only one person is being addressed. Do not use a plural verb unless you are speaking to more than one person. Wrong: Vy, (one person) jste včera jeli do města. Right: Vy jste jel do města. S
S
S
The pronoun já is not capitalized. Neither do we capitalize adjectives and adverbs indicating nationality. (This is done in English.) Example: Mám česku ženu. - I have a Czech wife. Mluvíme česky. - We speak Czech. S
S
S
Punctuation marks are the same in Czech as in English. (See also Lesson 5.)
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tečka(.) čárka(,) vykričnik(!) uvozovací( ) středník(;) dvojtečka(:) pomlčka(—) Otázník(?) znaménka(“ “) závorky( ) rozdělováci znaměnko(-) S
S
S
One big difference in English and Czech punctuation has to do with the use of commas. Commas are used: —before and after a relative clause: Ztrátil jsem knihu, kterou mi dál. —before and after a noun clause: Je dobře, že tomu rozumíš. —before and after an adjective clause: Všechen cukr, všechna káva. —before and after an adverbial clause: Jakmile mě uviděl, šel pryč. S
S
S
Finally, quotation marks are always preceded by a colon. In Czech, the first quotation marks are on the line, not inverted, and are inverted at the end of the quotation. The trend in the United States is to use the standard English quotation marks — “ ” . Example: Otec řekl synovi: “Pokračuj a uč se!” —SPJST—
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Monday, October 11, 2021
TCGS introduces 2021 Christmas Ornaments Legend, Symbol, and Traditional As the year 2021 moves into the cooler days of autumn, Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) introduces its 2021 collection of 21 new ornaments which relate to a legend, a symbol, or a tradition of Christmas. Each ornament comes with a story card describing the legend, symbol, or tradition of that ornament. Some of these stories may be well known, and many of them may be new to our readers. The year 2021 is a perfect time to begin a tradition of gifting these ornaments to family members and friends. The entire collection of ornaments may be viewed by visiting our gift shop in the lower level of the SPJST Home Office by appointment only, or by reading about them in the next four issues of the Věstník. We feature five of the ornaments this week. Symbol of the Bird in a Nest No. CW-121 - $22 This sweet little blue bird, sitting on her cozy nest, represents the love, commitment, and effort it takes to build a happy home. A bird sitting on a nest is also a symbol of good luck and prosperity, which legend says will come to the home that has a bird’s nest on its CHRISTmas tree. The Legend of Silent Night No. CW-221 - $15 The Christmas carol - Silent Night was first sung on Christmas Eve in 1818. Legend goes that in 1818, the St. Nicholas Church in the little town of Oberndorf, Austria, was experiencing problems with an organ that was broken and could not be used. To those parishioners, it was expected that Christmas Eve would be a very si-
VĚSTNÍK lent night. Two men, Joseph Mohr and Franz Gruber, worked together to write a song that would change the world forever. That song was “Silent Night,” and it was sung at the Christmas Eve service by the parishioners without the use of the organ. This keepsake ornament features the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf, Austria, the site where the song was first sung, along with sheet music from “Silent Night,” with the names of the composers listed. This special ornament will be treasured for years to come! The Symbol of the CHRISTmas Star No. CW-321 - $10 The Christmas Star shone brightly over the place where Jesus was born on that first Christmas in Bethlehem. It guided the magi and the shepherds to the manger where they brought gifts and worshiped the newborn child. The star is often considered a shining reminder of the reason for the season. The Legend of the CHRISTmas Stocking No. CW-1021 - $18 Perhaps one of the best-known renditions relating to the legend of the Christmas stocking is the one surrounding Saint Nicholas of Bari who was born a nobleman in 280 A.D. in Turkey. Nicholas lost his parents at an early age, and it is reported that he used his inheritance to help the poor and sick. As the story goes, a poor widower living in the 4th century A.D. had three unwed daughters. The family had lost all of their money and the old man feared that his daughters would not be able to marry without dowries. Residents of his village shared his story with St. Nicholas. Knowing the man would not take charity, Nicholas snuck into the house using the chimney and filled the girls’ stockings drying by the fire with gold coins. The next morning, the family was ecstatic to find the gold in the stockings! The father now had dowries so his girls
could marry well, and he would not be alone and poor in his old age. This folk tale has a very wonderful message: be kind to those less fortunate.
CCMH to honor Holocaust survivor at October 28 event
The Symbol of the Heart No. C-1221 - $16 The human heart has long been a symbol of love, respect, and gratitude. At one time, it was viewed as the source of all human activity, both intellectual and emotional. It has also been used to symbolize the center of things, such as the heart of the home or the heart of the city. It could also represent the character of a person, such as describing someone as having a good heart. The red heart ornament, adorned with pearls and white glitter accents will make a perfect Christmas gift for someone you love, admire, and respect
Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMH) will honor 99-year-old Holocaust survivor Dr. Ervin Adam at a world premiere event on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. The evening will feature newly discovered music composed and played by Czech musicians while in the camps. The tribute to Holocaust victims and survivors will be performed by Houston Symphony cellist Louis Marie Fardet and pianist Sherry Cheng. The event will further Houston’s continued commitment to celebrating its diverse cultural landscape. This in-person event will include Czech hors d’ouvres and other refreshments. Doors open at 6 p.m. —SPJST—
For questions, comments, or to place an order, contact Nancy Machu at nbmachu@gmail.com; or by calling 512-971-4284. Leave a short message for a return call. Shipping charges will be added, based on the number of ornaments ordered. Submitted by, Nancy Machu Lodge 20, Granger —SPJST—
CESAT offers online Czech Christmas carol lessons Czech Ex-Students of Texas (CESAT) is pleased to announce the Schulenburg Public Library will offer free Czech Christmas carol lessons online, beginning with the last Saturday of October through December at 9 a.m. Individuals - from the comfort of their homes - will be able to learn the words for Czech Christmas carols and the melodies to these carols. To receive an invitation to the online meeting, please email your request to schulenburgpubliclibrary@yahoo.com. Submitted by, Thadious Polasek Lodge 67, Schulenburg —SPJST—
TCGS offers Památník Čechoslováků as October Book of the Month Have you ever wondered how your ancestors felt leaving their families and homeland of Moravia to come to Texas? It must have been very difficult to make that decision, but the lure of freedom and the ability to own land overcame their doubts because not only they, but many others from that same area, made the trip to Texas in the mid to late 1800s. After visiting the Czech Republic (Czechia) and seeing how beautiful the land is with its mountains, castles, and quaint villages, I wondered if they had any regrets when they saw the difference in the Texas landscape. They had a new life in a new land, but there were still strong ties to their homeland, “the mother country.” As soon as World War I started, articles appeared in Czech magazines in the United States, asking readers to help “our” people in the Old Country. It was understood that the Czechs living in Eu-
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Monday, October 11, 2021
rope would be horribly affected by the war, taking a toll on the status, health, and livelihood of the people. It became clear that it was up to the American branch of the Czechoslovak nation to help in every way possible. Collections were taken up in various places across Texas and sent directly to Omaha and Chicago to aid this effort. Groups, such as the Union of Texas Catholics, were also organized to receive donations. However, it was the SPJST Convention at Galveston on July 24, 1916, with 144 delegates present from various Czech Moravian communities in Texas, that established the foundation for the continued effort. Delegates to the convention carried the message back to their communities and branches of the Czech National Association (Ceske Narodni Sdruzeni, CNS) were established all over Texas. Contributions were solicited and collected for wounded soldiers, widows, orphans, and prisoners. Supplies, such as medical cotton, were also gathered. All together, the Czech Moravians of Texas collected $100,000 in the course of the war to benefit the liberation of the homeland. The original Památník Čechoslováků, written in Czech, was published by CNS in 1920 in memory of the Czech Moravians who settled in Texas. They wished to preserve, through words and pictures, the memory of this generation, as they had proven them-
selves to be “faithful sons and daughters of the Old Country, even in a land so distant from their homeland.” Památník Čechoslováků, republished in English by the Texas Czech Genealogical Society in 2019, is a hard-bound memorial book of 222 pages, documenting and honoring the Czechs of Texas for the work they carried out in the years 1914 to 1920 to benefit the liberation of the Czech Lands in World War I. It contains group photos, with most including a list of members, of 59 Czech National Alliance branches that were located in Texas. Some soldiers of Czechoslovak origin who served during the war in the United States Army or in the Czechoslovak Army are also listed, with many including a photo and short description of the soldier. The book ends with an index of the CNS branches that submitted information and a list of member surnames, making it easy to find family ancestors. To order this unique book, send a check for $48 (a savings of $10 shipping/handling if ordered before October 31, 2021; $58 total cost after October 31, 2021) payable to TCGS to Nancy Machu, 3337 Bianco Terrace, Round Rock, Texas 78665. If you have questions, please call Nancy at 512-9714284, leave a message and your phone
number and she will return your call. You may find a complete list of all TCGS publications on our website at https://txczgs.org. Gladys Valchar TCGS Secretary Lodge 87, Temple —SPJST—
TCHCC hosts Heritage Festival and Muziky Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) in La Grange, Texas, will host its annual Heritage Festival and Muziky on Friday, October 15 and Saturday, October 16, 2021. The Fest will open on Friday in front of the Main Center. Friday’s Octoberfest on the Deck will begin at 4 p.m. with music by the Dujka Brothers, sponsored by the Texas Polka News, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. On Saturday, the day kicks off with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. The La Grange Ford Hospoda will be filled with cold pivo and musical entertainment by the Ennis Czech Boys of Ennis, Texas, and the Czech Melody Masters of Austin from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy more music at the Muziky, Muziky event from 7 to 9:30 p.m. in the Sanford Schmid Amphitheater.
Czech Cultural Calendar Tuesday through Saturday Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private small group tour, contact the Museum: czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; or leave a message 254-899-2935. The Museum hosts Czech Films on the second Tuesdays of the month - at Beltonian Theatre, 219 East Central Avenue, Belton: Matinee at 3 p.m.; Night - 6 p.m. Free admission. Donations accepted online or through a donation box at the concession window. Imported Czech beer, wine available. Every First and Third Tuesday Evenings Tarok Parties—at Czech Heritage Museum, Temple, 119 West French. All ages and anyone interested are welcome. No admission or fee. Jimmie and Carolyn Cou-
fal are award-winning tournament champions who not only teach beginners, but also help experienced players increase their skill. For information, call CHMGC 254-899-2935; find them on Facebook; or on the web at https://czechheritagemuseum.org. Monday through Saturday Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, Texas 77004-5719, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit revamped exhibits. 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. For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org. Through November 15 Exhibit: Texas-Czech Wedding Apparel and Tradition—at Texas Czech Heritage
and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road on US Highway 77, La Grange: exhibit includes 10 dresses that have been donated by our members and are from weddings that occurred from 1883 to 1946; view fragile mementos; and leave with an understanding of Czech culture and traditions that are still alive today. October 17 Celebrate Heritage Day—at Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stay tuned for more information. Event is presented by the American Czech Culture Societies and its member societies - Sokol Dallas, SPJST, WFLA, KJT, KJZT, VH Czech School of Dallas, and RVOS. You may contact Bob Podhrasky pod@att.net; Nina Marcussen czechschoolofdallas@yahoo.com; or Lynda Novak magiclady_46@hotmail.com for information. —SPJST—
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Stroll the Village You’re invited to stroll the Czech Village, an early 1900s recreated village complete with residential houses, barns, and stores. Demonstrations of early life for the immigrants will take place throughout the grounds all day, including working in the saw mill, the operation of the Czech Newspaper Museum press and engine, blacksmithing, corn shelling and grinding, hay pressing, and the making of textiles, soap, noodles, sausage, honey and wine. Children activities will be available along with many other activities for everyone to take part in. Plenty of food and cold beverages will be available as well. Other activities include an antique farm equipment show, an antique/classic car show, vendors and craft booths, country store, farm practices and implements displays, and horse-drawn wagon rides. Inside the TCHCC Main Center, stop by the Czech Gift Shop. Enjoy the current exhibits at the center: Wedding Apparel and Traditions of the Past in the Museum and the updated Military and Glass Exhibits in the Library. The spacious Melnar Library will offer help with genealogy research. The Hanslik Hall will be the site of the annual KJT State Taroky Championship. For more info, visit czechtexas.org. —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
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Monday, October 11, 2021
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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 Wednesday at 12 noon, unless otherwise posted. Send updates directly 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 nonprofit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org. LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1) Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Directions: Lodge hall is located on Hwy 159 East, 3 blocks from the town square. Hall Rental Information: 979-966-3795. 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, 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 361-7983347. 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 254-7170383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net. LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6) Monday, November 22—Lodge meeting Lodge Meetings: Fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. 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: 979-272-3732. 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: 979-884-1451. 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: 254217-2863. 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: 979-2723440. 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) Sunday, November 14—Czechchoices, polka Sunday, November 21—Glen Collins and The Alibis, country Sunday, December 12—Christmas Dance: Red Ravens, polka Friday, December 31—News Year’s Eve: Glen Collins and The Alibis, country. $20 Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a nonsmoking facility. Polka and Country band bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person - unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18 . 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) Hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. All Friday dances: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. with free admission. Clay Raesz serves hamburgers each Friday beginning at 6 p.m.
Friday, October 1–Old Friends Friday, October 8–Second Hand Rose Wednesday, October 13–SPJST Lodge 29 members will hold their monthly meeting beginning at 6:30 pm. Covered dish meal served following the meeting. Friday, October 15–Texas Neon Ramblers Friday, October 22–Les and the Leftovers Friday, October 29–Dry Country 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 361-2207725. LODGE 35, ELK (3) Saturday, October 2—Wedding Sunday, October 10—RVOS Meeting Saturday, October 16—Wedding Saturday, October 23—Dustin Teral Band Saturday, October 30—Justin Hewitt Band Saturday, November 6—Cacean Ballou & The Dirty Crawfish Saturday, November 13—Gordon Collier Saturday, November 20—Nolan Pick Band Saturday, November 27—Wedding Saturday, December 4—Wedding Saturday, December 11—Steve Dansby Saturday, December 18—Gordon Collier 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 254715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com. LODGE 38, KOVAR (1) Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/day; 830-839-4353/night. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-332-6758. 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 979-218-3527; 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 361-552-5170 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: 254-985-2548. 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) 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. Update: Hall is complete! We are now taking bookings. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Kim Ogden 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. Youth club meetings: Held prior to the adult meeting at 5:15 p.m. Call Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226 for information. A notification will be sent to members if meeting times need to be changed. LODGE 49, ROWENA (4) Saturday, October 23—Dance: Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. 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 325-656-0029. 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: 254-657-2485. 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. 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: 361-7934742. 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 936-556-3248 or Assistant Youth Leader Krystle Bender 832-792-1194.
VĚSTNÍK 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 254773-2363. LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5) Friday, October 22—Texas Sundown, 8 to 12 a.m. Saturday, November 13—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m. 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 information, call 713-869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. 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 281745-1697. 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 817-624-1361. 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 214-9063385 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 830-9645135.
Monday, October 11, 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 979922-1553. 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 713-560-5377. 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 979618-1890. 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 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 817731-2580. 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 512-472-1721. 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) Sunday, November 21—Lodge 160, San Angelo Annual Meeting 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 325-234-5879. 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 713-3031471.
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 979-251LODGE 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 713920-7172 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 182, FALLS COUNTY (2) Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at The Chicken Place, 504 Bridge Street, Marlin. Youth 100 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 254-7495732. 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: 682-800-3485. 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 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 361-772-3876 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 979-777-8215. 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: 979567-4264. 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 979-567-0637. 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: 281-373-9482; 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 713-515-2835. 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 254-7184798. 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 830-281-8246. 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 940-8550882. 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—
OC tober: Czech Heritage Month in Texas! During Czech Heritage Month, celebrate the rich cultural heritage of American Czechs and the many contributions they have made to America. The Věstník invites you to participate in its Czech Heritage Month activities. Czech-themed items will be awarded in a drawing from entries received.
Entry deadline: November 1, 2021. Winners will be announced in the November 8 Věstník. Mail entry to: SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny v PO Box 100 v Temple, TX 76503 v Email entry to: info@spjst.org
Name _______________________________________________
Phone No. ( ________ )_________________________________
Address _____________________________________________
Email _______________________________________________
City/State/Zip _________________________________________
Lodge Name/No. ______________________________________
color the Czech couple from Plzen'