Lodge Section

SPJST Lodge Section

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

Lodge 9, Snook hosts district meeting

The Wednesday, April 6, 2022, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 6:58 p.m. Josef Orsak led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for Neil Beckmann. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the March meeting were approved. Hall manager, fraternal activities coordinator, treasurer, and statewide reports were presented.

The youth club discussed Youth Achievement Day, summer dates, and the district meeting. They will have a cemetery cleanup on May 14.

We will host the District One Annual Meeting on April 10.

We passed a motion to add that there will be no flame candles to our hall rental agreement.

Birthdays for April include David Kovar on the 16th.

Next Meeting—May 4

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 4 at 7 p.m. Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis celebrates March birthdays

Lodge 25, Ennis recognized the March birthday celebrants. Happy birthday to, left to right, Frankie Svehlak, Gene Zhanel, Lori Zajik, Louis Zajik, Joe Valek, and Ronny Dlabaj. —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter

Lodge 18, Elgin donates hall for fundraiser

Lodge 18, Elgin is donating the use of its hall to the tornado relief fundraiser that is set for Saturday, May 21, 2022. Plans include a barbecue dinner, Cajun food, desserts, silent auction, and children’s activities. More to come as plans are finalized. Please plan to attend to help our friends and neighbors. There was extensive tornado damage in Elgin.

We are bringing the dances back, but it is a slow go. Bands can’t afford to play if no one attends. Thank you to the friends who attend. Come out; it’s a fun time and a good time to get some exercise. Please attend if possible. Upcoming dances are:

Sunday, May 22 Edward Kopecky and Fun Time Band Sunday, June 12 Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six Sunday, June 26 Glen Collins and The Alibis

A hug is a great gift, one size fits all, and it’s easy to exchange!

Irene Vrabel, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone to host May 22 district meeting

Lodge 24, Cyclone met on Monday, April 11, 2022, at Flag Hall. The meeting was called to order at 7 p.m. Linda Wilde gave her treasurer’s report which was lengthy and interesting. Main item of interest was the insurance.

Brenda Maddux gave the bar report and hall manager’s report.

Cathy Bruggman gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. October 29 is the car show at Camp Kubena. District Two camp will be held July 7 to 10. Cost for attending camp with no youth credits is $250. Cost for nonmembers (grades kindergarten to seventh) is $350.

The District Two Annual Meeting will be held at Flag Hall on Sunday, May 22. Our valued cooks – Cathy Bruggman and Kim Campbell – are on the job. I know it will be delicious, so make plans to stay and enjoy the meal with us.

The Vrazel Tribute dance scheduled for July 31 has 84 tickets left for sale as of our meeting.

Three air conditioning units are having mechanical issues. Daniel Wilde will check on the issues with Matt Hoel-

Lodge 32, Victoria presents $5,000 scholarship to Jason Marek

SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria President Mark Lester, second from right, proudly presents a $5,000 scholarship from Lodge 32 to Jason Marek. Jason will be attending The University of Texas Austin where he will major in engineering. The lodge wishes Jason a very successful future. They are pictured with Victoria Livestock Show queens. —Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom, Reporter/FAC

Lodge 25, Ennis Hosts Annual Fundraiser

Saturday, April 2, 2022 • Lodge 25, Ennis Hall

And the winner is . . . . . Charlie Jurcik! Suzi and Grayson pick up their winnings!

Lodge 25, Ennis held its annual fundraiser on Saturday, April 2, 2022. Everyone had a great time dancing to the music provided by Lost Money. Attendees also enjoyed a delicious barbecue meal prepared by Frankie Svehlak and Betty Macalik. Thanks to all volunteers who worked hard to make the fundraiser a success. ~ Submitted by Rita Holland —SPJST—

LEFT PHOTO: Cashiers Missy and Amy. PHOTO 2: Pat, Jeff, and Julie at the drink ticket station. PHOTO 3: Margaret and JoAnn greet guests at the front door. PHOTO 4: Serving tea - Jessica, Luke, June,

LEFT PHOTO: Steve, Suzie, and Michael. PHOTO 2: Willie Ann, Debbie, and Evelyn. PHOTO 3: Kitchen crew - Darren, Mark, and David. and Jake. PHOTO 5: Gene and Tammy, Karen, and Lisa at the silent auction ticket station. RIGHT PHOTO: Arlene plays a game of corn hole.

RIGHT PHOTO: The Lipscomb family sells chances for the “Money Cake” at the annual fundraiser.

scher at Hoelscher AC. Some trim was bought to continue to spruce up the hall. The president will look into an AED defibrillator to help keep our patrons safe while they attend activities at our hall.

Birthdays are Abbie Bruggman on April 3 and Danny Bruggman on the same day.

Barbecue Fundraising Meal— October 30

Our annual barbecue fundraising meal is scheduled for Sunday, October 30 so make plans to come out for a wonderful meal. More details coming later.

The Bruggmans had some tornado damage at their home. Please keep them in your prayers. For the Lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 24, Cyclone: Take a trip down memory lane with Vrazels’ Tribute Band

Lodge 24, Cyclone, better known as Flag Hall, is proud to present a dance featuring the Vrazels’ Tribute Band on Sunday, July 31, 2022. Doors, kitchen, and bar will open at noon. Dancing to your favorite Vrazels’ Polka Band tunes will be from 2 to 6 p.m. The tribute band will consist of members John Dujka on accordion, Mark Dujka on saxophone, Scott Hodde on saxophone, Jerry Haisler on guitar, Mike Marek on bass, and Matthew Strmiska on drums. Tickets for the dance are $15, and can be purchased in advance by calling Linda Wilde at 254-985-2258 or 254231-5348.

The kitchen will be serving plates consisting of sausage, pan fried cabbage, parsley new potatoes, green beans, tea, and dessert for $12. The bar will also be open and serving your favorite beverages throughout the afternoon.

So make your plans to come out and take a trip down memory lane! Linda M. Wilde, Treasurer —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new members

Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis met on Thursday, April 14, 2022. Betty served a delicious meal consisting of ham, corn salad, macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, and dessert. Thank you, Betty! The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, prayer, and moment of silence for deceased member Marvin Adams.

All reports were given and approved. JoAnn gave the members a report regarding our successful fundraiser. She also reported that the roof has been repaired, and it is now a solid white color. Sales Agent Margaret announced two new members—Paige Oliver and Wyatt Powell. Both were approved by the membership.

National Polka Festival

Upcoming National Polka Festival which will be held on Memorial Weekend was discussed, and everyone is encouraged to volunteer to help. Our lodge will be open on Saturday, May 28 only, and the music line-up is:

11:30 a.m. - Texas Dutchman with Pardubicka Muzika 4 p.m. - Dujka Brothers 8:30 p.m. - Moravians

The kitchen will be open and serving a full barbecue beef meal.

We openly discussed the purchase of new chairs. After much consideration, it was decided to search for additional options and present them to the members. An upgrade to the existing flagpole structure and surrounding lighting was discussed as well. Plans are in the works to renovate the area.

Birthdays and anniversaries were announced. Everyone then enjoyed a social in the bar.

Next Meeting—May 12

The next meeting will be held Thursday, May 12. Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 29, Taylor reports on April meeting

Lodge 29, Taylor President Ronnie Rieger opened the Wednesday, April 13, 2022, meeting by leading the members in the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for the departed. Officer roll call showed Sharon Kaderka absent. The March minutes were read and approved.

Tammy Cannon gave the treasurer’s report.

Lyn Rieger reminded members that the District Two Annual Meeting will be held at Lodge 24, Cyclone on Sunday, May 22.

Leonard Kaderka reported on Sharon as she is in the hospital.

Members celebrating birthdays in April are Brandon Girod, Kaitlyn Whatley, Ryan Kaderka, Kevin Dewbre, and Wayne Voigt. Mike and Tammy Cannon celebrated their wedding anniversary in April.

Lyn Rieger brought door prizes. Charlie Campbell volunteered to bring door prizes next month.

The meeting was then adjourned. Next Meeting—May 11

The next meeting will be Wednesday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston presents pokrok prize to ana latigo

Lodge 88, Houston President Aaron Rigamonti presents the Pokrok Prize to Ana Latigo at the April 10, 2022 meeting. Ana received the monthly award for her significant work with bingo.

Lodge 32, Victoria awards $5,000 scholarships

Our last meeting was Thursday, March 10, 2022, at the Grapevine Café – so good to see all the people there.

Vice President Jimmy Otto called the meeting to order as President Mark Lester was unable to attend. We discussed the SPJST sales booth manned by Annie Vahalik, Carolina Covarrubia, Mary Jo Salinas, and Jimmy and Joette Otto. The drawing was for a fire pit, and the recipient was Cynthia Davis.

The lodge had voted at the January meeting to honor a graduating senior participating in the Victoria Livestock Show (Est. 1947). A $5,000 scholarship was presented to Jason Marek. Jason will be attending the University of Texas in Austin where he will be majoring in engineering. He was so grateful for the honor and said it definitely will help tremendously with his education.

Next Meeting—May 12

The next meeting will be Thursday, May 12 at Grapevine Café, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, in Victoria. We hope to see you there! Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 35, Elk; Elk Hall, Inc. report on April meetings

Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Incorporated met on Wednesday April 13, 2022. President Randy Pavelka called the meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. We had a very short meeting. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by officers, members, and guest. Present were 13 members and one guest.

On the sick list is Billy Kubitza. We wish him much good health and getting well from his surgery.

All officers gave their monthly reports. All were approved as read and accepted.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:17 p.m.

We also had our fish fry and had a great turnout. Everything was so tasty. Thank you to all who helped make it happen. Special thanks to our social member, Diana Kubitza, who gets our supplies together.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:33 p.m.

Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer Reporter —SPJST—

Happy birthday, fredda kristinek of Lodge 157, Lubbock

Lodge 157, Lubbock wants to wish Fredda Kristinek a very happy birthday! We wish her good health and happiness! —Submitted by Cyndy Kristinek

lodge 187, round rock Shares April meeting scenes

LEFT PHOTO: Kadnce Meyer wins a pineapple. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 187 Youth Leader Jennifer McCarthy brought the youth some Easter goodies. Pictured are, left to right, Mathieu McCarthy, Kadnce Meyer, Kember Meyer, Karter Meyer, and Luke McCarthy (in back). RIGHT PHOTO: Greg McCarthy celebrates his 50th birthday. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy

Lodge 80, Holland meets May 10

Lodge 80, Holland will meet Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. for its bimonthly meeting. The meeting will be held at The Hall (formerly SPJST Lodge 80, Holland hall) located at 12141 east FM 2268 in Holland. Agenda will include regular business items and discussion of upcoming SPJST and community activities.

We look forward to seeing each of you at the meeting. There will be door prizes and social time following the meeting. Fraternally, Rita Spinn President —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas meets May 15

Dear Readers,

The next meeting will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, located at 10707 Webster Terrace in Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions. If planning to attend, please bring a dessert to share with our afternoon svačina! Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 107, Floresville welcomes district director

Lodge 107, Floresville held its regular monthly meeting on Sunday, April 10, 2022. President Trey Bielefeld called the meeting to order at 3 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for deceased members, military members, and Veterans. District Seven Director Regina House was our special guest.

Roll call found Youth Leader Lian Lynn absent. Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved. The treasurer’s report was presented and approved. After discussion, it was determined we will not hold our annual April banquet dinner this year.

District Seven Youth Achievement Day will be held in Jourdanton on Sunday, June 12 at Jourdanton High School.

April birthdays are Richard Blubaugh and Jeffrey Pavliska, both on April 23.

Next Meeting—May

The next meeting will be held on Saturday, May 14 at the lodge hall at 2 pm. Fraternally, Polly Bayer, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo meets May 19

Dear Members,

SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, May 19, 2022, at 4 p.m. The meeting will take place at Los Panchitos Restaurant, located at 34 West Avenue D in San Angelo. Please RSVP to Sandra at 325234-1339 if you plan to attend. We hope you will be able to join us! Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—

Longview/Kilgore area members invited to May 12 at Posados

Greetings, One and All!

You and your family are cordially invited to attend the SPJST Members and Friends Appreciation Dinner on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at 6 p.m. at Posados Café, located 110 Triple Creek Drive in Longview, Texas. A delicious Mexican dinner will be served, and three lucky attendees will receive dining packages to Longview area restaurants. Three lucky youngsters will win gift cards to Academy Sports + Outdoors.

SPJST, which celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2022, is a family organization that cherishes the idea of service to each other and the community. In line

with the history theme, local historian Larry Courington of the Gregg County Historical Museum will present a program on the colorful history of Gregg County. SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and SPJST District Three Director/Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke will also be on hand for the celebration.

Feel free to extend this invitation to others in your household or friends who are not already members. We want this to be a fun event!

Please RSVP on or before 12 noon on Wednesday, May 11 by contacting me at cotham75605@yahoo.com or by phone at 903-758-1966. Thank you for your attention and consideration. I look forward to seeing you on May 12! Fraternally, David Cotham Lodge 178, Longview —SPJST—

Lodge 187 Round Rock to meet at district meeting

We had a great discussion about some landscaping upgrades, but we also should do some upgrades inside the lodge as well. It is still in the works and we are still anticipating the thought of having a new, small sign for our lodge building. We discussed the District Two Annual Meeting that is coming up and reminded all to bring their painted rocks and to bring a silent auction item.

Thank you, Rubie Volek, for door prizes and the wonderful spaghetti and to all the others who made our potluck such a delightful event.

Birthday celebrants were Greg McCarthy who turned 50 years young and Luke McCarthy.

We will have our next gathering at the District Two Annual Meeting in Cyclone on Sunday, May 22. Our hosts will be serving a chicken spaghetti dinner. Yum! Please remember those rocks and a silent auction item. We hope to see you all soon.

Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter —SPJST—

Longview/Kilgore area members invited to Members and Friends Dinner on May 12

In the 1940s, more than 1,000 wooden oil derricks lined the streets of Kilgore, Texas, earning one plot of ground the distinctive title of “the world’s richest acre.” Hear this story and more when Gregg County historian Larry Courington presents the History of Gregg County at the SPJST Members and Friends Appreciation Dinner on Thursday, May 12 at Posadas Café in Longview.

★ ★ Reunions ★ ★

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

Sefcik-Kubin families

The families of George and Francis Kubin Sefcik of the New Tabor community are reminded that we will have a reunion this year. It will be Sunday, June 5, 2022, at New Tabor Church Fellowship Hall. (Take County Road 208 off Highway 21 East of Caldwell).

The noon meal will be catered at no charge. Bring a salad or dessert to complete the meal.

Questions: contact Georgia Sefcik Fritsche 979-255-6439. The reunion will be hosted by the families of Frank G. Sefcik, Alvina Sefcik, and George A. Sefcik.

Submitted by, Georgia Sefcik Fritsche Lodge 17, New Tabor

Kelner family

The 35th Kelner reunion will be a great celebration of family descendants of Anton and Alouise Jancak Kelner on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Riverside Hall in East Bernard, Texas, beginning at 12 noon. Grace and meal is at 1 p.m. The auction and meeting is at 2 p.m. Socializing and games will follow.

Come enjoy family and socialize. Please contact and invite your family members. Bring pictures, etc. to share.

Barbecue meat will be furnished. Please bring a side dish and a dessert. Left over barbecue will be available by auction. BYOB. Cover charge is $3 per person over the age of 10 years.

Utensils, condiments, and drinks will be provided. Please donate items for the auction and silent auction. Bring games for our enjoyment.

Officers are President William Kelner 979-310-3245; Vice President Donnie Kelner 979-318-3245; Secretary Helen Kelner 281-342-2624; and Treasurer Joey Pitman 281-236-7652. Submitted by, Helen Kelner Lodge 28, East Bernard —SPJST—

Finding the Right Addiction Treatment Program in Texas

Addiction can interfere with every aspect of your life, from relationships to your career. If you are trying to maintain an image as an upstanding citizen and want to give back to the world but are being weighed down by addiction, it may be time to seek help. Knowing how to find the right addiction treatment program in Texas can help you on your journey to living your life to the fullest again.

Signs You May Need to Seek Addiction Treatment

Before seeking addiction treatment for addictive behaviors, it is essential to learn what it means to exhibit addictive behavioral patterns. Identifying symptoms of addiction-related behaviors is the first step to finding a suitable treatment for your needs.

Individuals who are struggling with an addiction to drugs and alcohol are likely to exhibit the following addictive behavioral patterns and signs:

• Compulsive urge to use substances • Insatiable cravings for substances • Insomnia or excessive sleep/ disrupted sleep patterns • Incoherent speech patterns • Loss of focus • Dilated pupils when using substances • Inability to control urges or one’s draw to substances

It is also important to keep an eye on additional behavioral signs of addiction in those struggling, such as: • A preoccupation with obtaining and using substances • Prioritizing substances over every other aspect of one’s life, including relationships, careers, and paying bills • Choosing to use a substance to cope with grief or life stressors • Becoming increasingly dependent on a substance to reach a baseline mood or feeling of euphoria in daily life • Hiding or minimizing the use of substances in front of others to feign suspicion • Ongoing abuse of substances, even with physical, mental, and emotional damage

• Experiencing physical, mental, and emotional signs of withdrawal when attempting to stop using the substance in question

What to Look for in an Addiction Treatment Program in Texas

Once you decide to find an addiction treatment program, it is essential to distinguish which programs are right for you based on your needs and the severity of your addiction. Finding the right addiction treatment program is possible by first learning the differences between inpatient and outpatient options.

You should familiarize yourself with the type of activities and education you will need to participate in with each addiction treatment program you are considering.

Whenever you begin searching for a potential rehabilitation center or treatment program, it is advisable to search for a nationally recognized and accredited organization that you can trust for both short-term stays and long-term care programs.

Seek out treatment programs that provide evidence-based treatments that are individualized to your needs. Ensure that your preferred rehabilitation treatment program includes a qualified staff with multiple strategies to engage and motivate patients.

Inpatient Rehab Centers

If you are searching for an addiction treatment program that offers a zero-tolerance substance-free environment, consider Texas’ inpatient addiction treatment program. Inpatient rehabilitation treatment programs require individuals in need of assistance to live on-site throughout their program.

Most inpatient treatment programs for addiction last anywhere from 30 days to longer than six months, depending on the needs of the individual. While you are enrolled in an inpatient treatment program, you will work to rewire your brain to prevent traps and addictive behavior patterns from emerging even after completing your program.

Inpatient rehabilitation centers provide programs that include individual counseling, group therapy, and even therapeutic healing tools and activities. Choosing an inpatient treatment program is ideal for those looking to reset their way of living and thinking when it comes to their addiction and current behavior patterns. Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs are also available for those who are not seeking longterm treatment options and those who prefer substance abuse treatment options outside of work or their home life.

Outpatient treatment programs for addiction may include 12-step programs, sponsor meetings, and even individual therapy. While outpatient programs do not require those in need of help to relocate or remain on-site throughout their treatment, they can help provide necessary resources and support for recovery.

Having a clear understanding of what substance abuse and dependence mean and how it relate to your own life is necessary to find the help you need to make a complete recovery.

Sources: bu.edu - What is Addiction Signs of Substance Abuse and Compulsive Behavior health.harvard.edu - 6 keys to finding a high-quality addiction treatment center csun.edu - Substance Abuse and Dependence

Submitted by, Dr. Tasnova Malek National Suicidal Prevention Center Bangladesh Medical College —SPJST—

Healthy ways to alleviate stress

Stress can affect anyone at any time. Men, women, and even children experience stress, which can be triggered by professional, personal, and social pressures.

Though anyone can experience stress, the pandemic illustrated how some people could be more vulnerable to it than others. A recent poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation indicated heightened stress among women related to the COVID-19 pandemic. That echoes findings from a 2016 study published in The Journal of Brain & Behavior that reported women are twice as likely to suffer from severe stress and anxiety as men.

Chronic stress has been linked to various long-term health issues. That includes some side effects, such as menstrual problems, that are exclusive to

Lodge 32, Victoria Meeting Scenes

Thursday, March 11, 2022 • Grapevine Café, Victoria Submitted by Kathy Ahlstrom, Reporter

District Six Director Annie Vahalik and Susan Smiga. Franklin Elles with daughter Darla and Mark Buccigrossi.

Margaret and George Frederick, and new sales agent Mary Jo Salinas. Philip and Director Vahalik and Margaret Frederick.

Richard Raska and Jimmy Otto. Buddy and Nancy Zaplac.