35 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2022.07.11
by SPJST
SPJST Lodge Section
The deadline for all Vestnik items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Send your news and photos directly to:
SPJST Vestnik 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
The July meeting of Lodge 6, Cottonwood was called to order by Vice President Don Urbanovsky. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Brother Urbanovsky, and the SPJST Pledge was recited by Sister Peggy Dobecka, followed by a moment of silence for deceased members and military forces fighting for our freedoms. Sister Irene Peterson reported the meeting attendance as 14 adults, three youth, and one guest.
Sister Barbara Hykel read the minutes from the June meeting, and Sister Dobecka provided the treasurer’s report. Both were accepted by the membership present.
Sister Jeanette Beseda presented the fraternal activity report. She reported on the 125th anniversary of SPJST this fall. The Home Office is planning to have 125 prizes to celebrate the 125 years of benevolence and brotherhood. Donation to this celebration will be discussed at next trustee meeting.
Sister Dobecka gave a youth club report. State YAD will be Saturday, July 30 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. Lodge 6 youth members will attend as both were first place winners at the District Three competition. Our youth club will hold a prize drawing at the lodge picnic. Donations for the youth prize drawing are appreciated.
Sister Hykel reported that sympathy cards were sent to the families of Cruz Trevino, Paula Dimerson, Kyle Sembera, Lindell Taylor, Greg Athens, and Diane Adair.
Under old business, Brother Urbanovsky reported on picnic preparations and supplies purchased. The Lodge 6 Cottonwood annual picnic is Sunday, July 17. We are working hard to make this a big success. A special thank you to Robert Hessel for arranging for tent setup for the to-go plates at the booth behind the hall.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood recognized its July birthday celebrants. Congratulations and happy birthday to Henry Blahuta, Peggy Dobecka, center, and Patti Rosales!
—Submitted by Patti Rosales, Reporter
Annual Picnic Help Needed— July 15, 16, and 17
Discussion noted about times we need volunteers to help with picnic preparations. Friday July 15 - potato peeling starts at 5 p.m. On Saturday, July 16, kitchen help is needed starting at 8 a.m. Sunday July 17, picnic setup starts at 7:30 a.m. If you are a member and you can volunteer, please contact Don Urbanovsky or Irene Peterson or arrive at the designated times noted above. Volunteering has so many benefits for the person volunteering. It’s proven that devoting time as a volunteer helps improve your mental and physical health. It helps your lodge grow, and charitable donations are funded back into our community.
Celebrating July birthdays are Peggy Dobecka, Henry Blahuta, and Patti Rosales.
Progressive door prize drawn was Michael Kasberg, not present. Attendance door prizes were presented to Henry Blahuta, Courtney McGuire, and Bobby Dobecka.
Hope to see you soon! Stay safe and stay cool!
Next Meeting—August 5
The next lodge meeting will be Friday evening, August 5 at 6:30 p.m. Patti Rosales Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis meets July 14
Dear Readers,
Lodge 25, Ennis will meet Thursday, July 14, 2022. We will honor graduates and honorary members so please come help us celebrate! We hope to see you all at Lodge 25 soon!^ Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 32, Victoria meets July 14
Lodge 32, Victoria will meet Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 6 p.m. Please note an important venue change. We will meet at Sky Restaurant, located at 236 Foster Field Drive at Victoria Regional Airport. This is a one-time change.
We hope to see you there!^ Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin hosted the SPJST Float in the Western Days Parade on Saturday, June 25, 2022, in downtown Elgin. The float received the third place award in the parade. Pictured are, left to right, David Meyer, FL Meyer, Charles Wilson, and Mike Mogonye.
Lodge 35, Elk reports on June meeting
On Wednesday, June 15, 2022, President Randy Pavelka called the SPJST Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Inc. meetings to order at 6:45 p.m.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance. We had 14 members present.
On the sick list was Billy Kubitza. He is doing well and continuing with his therapy.
In Carla Price’s absence, Tammy Pavelka gave the April meeting reports, and they were approved as read. Treasurer Cari Hammer read her reports, and they were also approved as read. Both Bar Chair Randy Pavelka and Floor Chair Gene Pavelka reported a good month.
I wish everyone a nice, cool, safe summer. Looks like it is going to be a long, hot summer.
The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m. Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland meets July 12
Lodge 80, Holland will meet Tuesday, July 12, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. for its bimonthly meeting. The meeting will be held at The Hall (formerly Holland SPJST Hall), located at 12141 east FM 2268 in Holland. Agenda will include regular business items, future bingo plans, and discussion of upcoming SPJST and community activities. We are looking forward to seeing each of you at the meeting. There will be door prizes and social time following the meeting.^ Rita Spinn President —SPJST—
Congratulations, Dorothy Lastovica! 1947 ~ June 26 ~ 2022
Happy 75th birthday to Dorothy Lastovica of Lodge 38, Kovar! She was honored with a special celebration on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at Lodge 38, Kovar hall, which was filled with family and friends. Attendees enjoyed a delicious sausage and sauerkraut dinner with birthday cake and desserts.
Congratulations to Dorothy on her special day!
Dorothy Lastovica
Helmer W. Dahl celebrates 98th birthday by insuring 22nd great-grandchild with SPJST
Helmer W. Dahl of Lodge 29, Taylor celebrated his 98th birthday on April 19, 2022. He is proud to be celebrating it with his 22nd great-grandchild, Olivia Kathryn Sawyer, who was born on March 21. As with his other great-grandchildren, Helmer made sure she was also a member of SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor. Helmer was a farmer and a musician before retiring. Congratulations to Helmer, and welcome to SPJST, Olivia! Best wishes to both! Their SPJST sales agent is Albin Machu of Lodge 29, Taylor.
Lodge 81, Needville welcomes new members
The June 2022 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 26th. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by President Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed a meal of sandwiches with all the fixings. Desserts and chips were provided by members.
President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. Tripp Hargraves led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll except Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha and Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales. We had a moment of silence for departed member Rosemary Pieper. Our sympathy goes out to her family and friends.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read her report, and it was approved as read. She also read Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha’s report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chairman Marion Morales will read his report at our July meeting.
Under old business, our scholarship winner, Bryce Nesvadba, will receive his scholarship soon.
Under new business, we voted in new transfer members Natalie Zalesky, Kinsley Parker, Tyler Parker, and Cheyenne Parker. A huge welcome goes to these new members. Also under new business, Bradley Stavinoha, via phone call, said one of the air conditioner units was out at the lodge hall. Bradley also mentioned about donating a prize for the 125th anniversary celebration of SPJST which will be Saturday, October 15 in La Grange.
Under other business, District Five Youth Counselor Kristen Jones asked if our lodge would donate money for the Lunches of Love program. It was voted on and passed. She also mentioned that the fall fun day is on Saturday, October 8 at Lodge 88, Houston. Lastly, she reminded us that District Five Youth Achievement Day (YAD) will be at Lodge 81, Needville on Saturday, July 16 and said if anyone would like to be a judge for the projects to arrive at 1 p.m. on that day.
Next Meeting—July 17
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 17, and it was decided to have chicken spaghetti from The Soda Fountain in Rosenberg. Shirley Myers volunteered to pick it up. Thank you, Shirley and Clarence. Members, please bring a side dish and a dessert. See you at the next meeting! Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
What: Lodge 84, Dallas Lakeside Picnic Where: 287 Autumnwood Trail Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 When: Sunday, July 17, 2022 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lodge 84, Dallas will host a lakeside picnic and monthly meeting on Sunday, July 17, 2022. Please join us as we enjoy a day of fun, fellowship, and food.
Everyone is asked to bring a dessert and side dish to share; the lodge will provide meat, bread, and paper goods.
Also, everyone is asked to bring their own folding tables and chairs, a personal cooler filled with their beverage of choice, their own rod and reel for fishing, and their own swimsuit and towel for swimming. Other games and entertainment will be provided.
The picnic is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be served at 12 noon.
Phone numbers in case you have questions or need directions: Justine Yeager 214-564-0269 or Vicki Sims 214-763-0341. See the map below, too.
Hope to see you there!^ Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas invites all members to a lakeside picnic on Sunday, July 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lodge 142, Houston members to enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, homemade ice cream
Dear Readers,
Lodge 142, Houston members met for the monthly meeting on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston. A social and lunch of pizza, salad, and dessert was served at 1 p.m. Dennis Hermis led the prayer.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zac Coleman. Roll call of officers showed all present except Sales Agents Connie Carter and Holly Fraley. In attendance were 31 members and one guest.
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis read the May minutes. J.R. Coleman moved to accept the minutes, seconded by Mary E. Bird. All approved.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave the monthly report, and it was all in order and approved.
Youth Leader Amanda Muzny reported that Ryder Butera will be competing for royalty king at SPJST District Five YAD on Sunday, July 16 at Lodge 81, Needville. It was also stated that a District Five youth activity will be held on Saturday, August 27 at Typhoon Texas.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider reported on the 125-year SPJST anniversary. Father’s Day was June 19, and all fathers were recognized.
The address is 287 Autumnwood Trail Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 A dance will be held at Lodge 196, Houston-West on Saturday, July 16 with the Lonely Road Band. Make plans to attend.
Sick Committee—We were glad to see Pat Schleider at our meeting after a successful knee replacement surgery. Steve Roznovsky was not feeling well. We hope to see you at our next meeting. We were also happy to see Mary Wunderlich at our meeting and feeling well.
Sales Agent Kerry Herrington spoke on District Five regarding our great sales and insurance premiums. J.R. Coleman now serves on the board of S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers. He spoke on information from a meeting held in Temple.
New business was then discussed. Keith made a motion to donate two $50 gift cards for the 125 year anniversary. Motion carried.
Hot dogs, hamburgers, and homemade ice cream was suggested for our next meeting in observance of July 4.
Birthday celebrants were Elizabeth Hermis on the 1st, Zoey Coleman on the 1st, and Keith Kieschnick on the 18th. Happy birthday!
Anniversaries were J.R. and Karole Coleman - 38 years on June 9 and Sherman and Mary E. Bird - six years on June 27. Congratulations!
The meeting adjourned at 2:50 p.m. Door prizes were awarded.
Next Meeting—July 17
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 17 at 2 p.m. with a lunch at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
Congratulations to Eugene and Betty Engbrock on their 70th wedding anniversary which was Sunday, July 3, 2022. The couple celebrated this special occasion on Saturday, July 2, 2022, with a mass at St. Mary Catholic Church followed by dinner at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Temple, Texas.
Eugene is the son of the late Leo and Oliva Engbrock of Cyclone, and Betty is the daughter of the late Otto and Frances Vanicek of Temple.
Eugene and Betty met at a dance in East Bell County and began dating. They were married on July 3, 1952, at St. Mary Catholic Church with Reverend Patrick J. O’Reilly performing the ceremony.
Eugene is a graduate of Rogers High School, and Betty is a graduate of Temple High School. After marriage, they were blessed with nine children. Their children and spouses are Rob and Carmen Storrie of Denton, Pam Engbrock of Temple, Kyle and
Carla Kacir of Rogers, Earl and Pam Engbrock of Temple, Chad and Sonia Engbrock of Lucas, Michael (deceased) and Mary Engbrock of Temple, Philip Engbrock of Irving, Janet Borgman of Grapevine, and Tim and Gwen Petter of Salado. They also have 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Eugene is a United States Army Veteran and a longstanding member of Knights of CoEugene and Betty Engbrock lumbus Council 3444. He worked for J.L. Vanicek Construction starting in 1950. In 1980, Eugene and Betty purchased the business and were owners for 25 years. They are both longtime contributors to the business community of Temple and faithful members of St. Mary Catholic Church and the Diocese of Austin. They are also members of SPJST Lodge 87, Temple. Eugene and Betty are very blessed to have a wonderful, loving family. —SPJST—
Lodge 151, Wharton to honor first SPJST Vice President with grave marker
SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton held its quarterly meeting on Monday, June 13, 2022, at the Wharton Depot Museum. A light meal was served at 6:05 p.m. David Bucek led the prayer before the meal.
President Macha called the meeting to order at 6:35 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. Due to a health issue, Treasurer Carolyn Bucek attended the meeting by telephone. President Macha then welcomed special guests Regional General Agent (RGA) Carolina Covarrubia, Sales Agent Mary Jo Salinas and husband Anton, and Frances Macha.
The March minutes and treasurer’s report were handed out to the members. After they had been reviewed, David Bucek made a motion to accept them. The motion was seconded by Gerald Macha, and it passed.
Communications were read. Secretary Janie Bucek announced our lodge had four new members and gave their names. She also reported one death claim had been paid, and we had six terminations.
Janie then gave the fraternal activities coordinator’s report. She reported the Cars & Guitars event will be held on October 29 at Camp Kubena. She stated lodges, individuals, and districts are being asked to donate items valued at $50 or more for a big prize drawing in conjunction with the 125th Anniversary of SPJST and the Cars & Guitars event. Janie also announced SPJST will celebrate its 125th anniversary on October 15 at the Texas Czech Heritage Cultural Center in La Grange, Texas.
David Bucek presented the cemetery report. He stated the SPJST District Six Cemetery Organization is purchasing a granite grave marker to honor Ferdinand Breska who was elected the first Vice President of SPJST when it was established in 1897. Ferdinand Breska was a member of SPJST Lodge 19, Velehrad and is buried in the SPJST Velehrad Cemetery. David reported SPJST District Six made a $400 donation to the cemetery organization to help cover the expense of the grave marker at its spring meeting. In addition, SPJST Lodge 30, Taiton member Yvonne Marcaurele who has ancestors buried in the SPJST Velehrad Cemetery gave a $200 donation to the cemetery organization to help pay for the grave maker at the district meeting.
Under old business, David Bucek reported our lodge changed banks. Our previous bank issued a high service charge whenever our account balance fell below $5,000. Our present bank issues a lower service charge and doesn’t issue a service charge until the account balance falls below $1,500.
David Bucek made a motion to accept our lodge’s four new members. The motion was seconded by Edith Molberg, and it passed. We would like to welcome Arella D. Scarlett, Jayse J. Clark, Jerrick J. Clark, Jr., and Maurice Neal, Jr. to Lodge 151.
Under new business, Edith Molberg made a motion to donate a $50 gift card for the 125th Anniversary raffle. The motion was seconded by David Bucek, and it passed.
RGA Carolina Covarrubia stated she will be having a virtual meeting with SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty on Wednesday of this week. Carolina announced SPJST is doing well with the sales of annuities. She informed us about the different annuities SPJST has to offer. She also provided the members with literature about different SPJST products. Lastly, she reported our SPJST District Six Fall Meeting will be held on Saturday, October 15 at Texas Czech Heritage Cultural Center in La Grange.
Sales Agent Mary Jo Salinas reported she is getting training to update information in orphan accounts.
We did not have any members with birthdays in April, May, and June.
Door prizes were drawn.
President Macha adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Fraternally, Janie Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 139, Danbury members meet
Lodge 139, Danbury members met Sunday, June 26, 2022, at Main Street Cafe in Danbury. Pictured are, from left, Lorenda Baldwin, Ellamarie Filip, and Eloise and Lonnie Lostak.
1952 Jerry and JoAnn Vojacek 2022
Happy 70th wedding anniversary to Jerry and JoAnn Vojacek who were married on June 10, 1952, in Victoria, Texas. The couple moved to Baytown in 1952.
They are blessed with three children and their spouses: Michael and Sharon Vojacek of Beach City, Texas; Darrell and Brenda Vojacek of Baytown, Texas; and Pamela (Penny) and Mark Murphy of Tuscola, Illinois. They also have eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. JoAnn retired from Sears Roebuck and Company. Jerry and JoAnn both own Fuller’s Tire Company. They are members of SPJST Lodge 91, San Jacinto. Congratulations to Jerry and JoAnn, and best wishes for many more years of marriage. —SPJST—
Lodge 179, Warrenton meets July 14
Lodge 179, Warrenton will meet Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 11 a.m. at JW Steakhouse in Carmine. We look forward to seeing a huge increase in the number of members in attendance. Let’s make Lodge 179 active and plan fraternal and social gatherings for our families. Our officers need your help. Members, please come and let your voices be heard!^ Marceil Malak, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 196, Houston-West hosts July 16 dance
Lodge 196, Houston-West is happy to announce that we are hosting a public dance on Saturday, July 16, 2022, starting at 7 p.m. The music will be by the Lonely Road Band, and this is a familyfriendly event! The event is BYOB -
setups purchased from the hall for $1 cash (sodas, bottled water, and snacks). Admission is $10 per person so bring your family and friends. Mark your calendars, dust off your dancing shoes (boots), and come have some fun.
The lodge is located at 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress, Texas 77429.
For more information or to reserve your tickets, please visit square.link/u/LP5euA34.^ Don Fruin, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock members celebrate SPJST history Lodge 202, Jourdanton members celebrate Summer Birthday
Our June gathering was a great success. Thank you, Rubie Volek, for the door prizes. We discussed the upcoming kids camp out. We talked about celebrating Flag Day and Father’s Day. We also mentioned that the new flag bearers will be Luke and Mathieu McCarthy.
Thanks bunches to Carla Krenek for the entertainment. Mrs. Carla reminded us of the history of SPJST along with all the decisions and provisions that the Texas Czechs went through. The mission still goes on today.
Thanks bunches again to Carla Krenek for recognizing Rubie Volek and Deborah Rohlack for all their services and commitments to our lodge.
We ended our gathering with a tasty potluck. Thank you all for bringing all the home-cooked goodies.
June birthday celebrants were Jennifer McCarthy, Deborah Rohlack, Alexis Meyer, Troy Oman, Thomas Shawn Oman, Lauren Lambert, Luke Fuchs, Nancy Vayo, Danny Canty, Kay Beck Henderson, Paul Gainer, Liam Pachicano, and James Henderson.
Next Gathering—August 14
Our next gathering will be on Sunday, August 14.
See you soon. Blessings to all. Jennifer McCarthy Reporter/Youth Coordinator/ Financial Secretary —SPJST—
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 202 sends birthday wishes to Edward LaGrange who celebrated his special day on July 7. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 202, Jourdanton Flag Bearer Jenna Fair celebrated her birthday on June 21, 2022. Happy birthday, Jenna! RIGHT PHOTO: Best wishes to Kathleen Polasek who will celebrate her birthday on July 25. Kathleen serves as fraternal activities coordinator for Lodge 202. Enjoy your day, Kathleen! Photo by Sandra Hoggard —Submitted by Bettie House, Secretary
Lodge 202, Jourdanton reports on June meeting
SPJST Lodge 202, Jourdanton met Sunday, June 5, 2022, at the Jourdanton Community Center. President James House led the Pledge of Allegiance. Silence was observed for deceased members Susan Kay Hanna and Randy Ramey, for the Uvalde families, and in honor of our armed forces.
President James House welcomed everyone. All officers were present. Regina House gave the table prayer. Secretary Bettie House read the minutes that were approved as read. Two thank you cards were read: Kenzie Ramey appreciated the monetary donation for the placing and selling of her turkeys at the county livestock show. Linda Ramey and family expressed appreciation for the donation to the scholarship fund in memory of Randy Ramey.
Treasurer Sandra Hoggard presented the financial report.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Kathleen Polasek mentioned the dates for summer camp.
Youth Leader/District Seven Director Regina House noted District Seven YAD, hosted by Lodge 202, is June 12. The SPJST Advisory Council held a virtual meeting. SPJST assets have increased, investments are good, and interest rates for annuities increased. SPJST hosted a booth at the Jourdanton 1909 Founder’s Day celebration.
The audit committee reported the financial records of the lodge and the youth club were in order.
Door prize winners of $25 were Regina House, Bettie House, MaKenna Poppe, Lloyd House, Sharon LaGrange, Jennifer Poppe, Kathleen Polasek, and Sandra Hoggard.
Next Meeting—September 11
Sunday, September 11 is the next meal/meeting at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center. The youth club will provide the Czech meal, and the lodge will furnish kolaches. Fraternally, Bettie House, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 187, Round Rock shares July gathering scenes
LEFT PHOTO: Rubie Volek, left, and Deborah Rohlack are pictured with beautiful hanging basket gifts from Carla Krenek.
RIGHT PHOTO: From left, Mathieu McCarthy, Kember Meyer, and Kadnce Meyer “model” our new sign. —Submitted by Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter
★ ★ 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. July 16 Ruzicka family - descendants from the families of John Ruzicka (Mary), Rose (Ruzicka) Tomasek (Charlie), Sophie (Ruzicka) Jekel (Conrad), and Julius Ruzicka (France)—at Church of Christ, 100 East 3rd Street in Cameron. For information, contact Robert Harris 972-746-7565. Submitted by Joseph J. Beran, Lodge 47, Seaton
July 16 Tom Mrazek family—at Richard Borchard Fairgrounds, Ballroom A in Robstown. For information, contact President Leslie Runnels 361-5224232; or mrazekfamilyreunion@ gmail.com. Submitted by Vivian Mrazek Williams, Lodge 117, Robstown.
Hubenak family
Hello, Hubenak Family!
My family is extremely happy to invite you to visit and enjoy a meal with all our Hubenak families - Joe, John, Anton, Ignac, Vince, and Frank - on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at SPJST Lodge 9, Snook Hall, 457 County Road 269 in Snook, Texas, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Those of you who received an invitation to the reunion, please get a check in the mail to reserve your meal plate(s) and ensure it is received by the deadline of July 20. However, if you miss the deadline, please call me immediately. The caterer must have a head count to properly prepare enough food for the meal. By calling me, you can reserve enough plates necessary for your family, and when you register, upon arrival, you can pay for the meal tickets at the door. But I must get a call from you to know you are coming, please.
Also, please bring a dessert to share, and a silent auction item to help raise funds to replenish our treasury after expenses have been paid.
If you did not receive an invitation (after two years of COVID, our address list has lost contact information with some of you due to moving, etc.), please contact Dianne Hubenak Jaster at 979255-3437. I can give you instructions to reserve your meal plates and give you the postal box to mail your check.
Looking forward to seeing you at this year’s Hubenak reunion. Dianne Jaster Lodge 9, Snook
Rejcek family
Descendants and friends are invited to attend the Raymund and Kristyna Rejcek Family Reunion on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Tours Hall, located at 245 St. Martins Church Road in West, Texas 76691. Please notify all your family members. Come renew old friendships and forge new ones as well as learn about your family heritage.
Registration begins at 2 p.m. Costs are $5 for singles and guests; $8 for couples; and $12 for families. Bingo is from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m., and games are from 3:15 to 4 p.m. Guessing games will be available from 2 to 5:15 p.m. Enjoy the silent auction from 3 to 5:45 p.m. The live auction begins at 6 p.m. and is limited to homemade and larger items. You’re invited to bring items for the auction. Other activities include a prize drawing and door prizes.
A meal will be served at 5 p.m. Please bring covered dishes - enough to share - fully cooked (disposable containers preferred).
Please send birth, death, and marriage information since the last reunion in 2018 to james.rejcek@sbcglobal.net. Submitted by, Adell Rejcek Lodge 25, Ennis —SPJST—
SPJST Participates in slavnost “Mayfest”
Sunday, May 15, 2022 • Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange
ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek recognizes Retta Slavik Chandler for the impressive role she has played as founding President of Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center. RIGHT PHOTO: From left are Glorianna Hollingsworth, CHS Texas Czech-Slovak Little Sister 2022-2023; Destiny Hollingsworth, CHS Miss Texas Czech-Slovak 2022-2023; SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek; 2021-2022 SPJST State Queen Megan Ohnheiser; Lauren Gerik, Miss Czech-Slovak US 20212022; and Madison Murphy, CHS Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen 2021-2022.
ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: 2021-2022 SPJST State Queen Megan Ohnheiser is pictured next to the Early Czech Immigrants to Texas Wall at TCHCC. CENTER PHOTO: State Queen Megan assists at the SPJST table. RIGHT PHOTO: District Seven Director Regina House and State Queen Megan.
Editor’s Note: This article by Cindi Becker-Lemkau originally appeared in the March 2022 issue of Needle Arts Magazine. Thanks to Becky Vajdak of Lodge 88, Houston for sharing the article with the Vestnik. Special thanks to Ms. Becker-Lemkau for permission to reprint the article and photos. A version of this article - with even more details of the Moravians’ United States history appears on the author’s blog SamplersOfTheSouth.org/legacy.
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As the Moravian Church took root in the United States, it saw the need for female education - both practical and in the arts.
The Appalachians hold stories of the Scots-Irish who found refuge within its valleys. The mountains secure accounts of ingenuity and determination to sustain life while immersed in poverty. It tells of the people who created the most basic utilitarian objects, using Earth’s elements, which are now known as Fine American Craft.
But the mountains hold another story, one that speaks of land accumulation, wealth, and the desire for education. It begins with the first family to settle in the Blue Ridge, the Davidsons. In 1784, shortly after Colonel Samuel Davidson claimed his Revolutionary War Land Grant awarded to him by the State of North Carolina, he was found scalped near his cabin. It was this incident that ignited a migration of members of his extended family into the mountains, to avenge his death. Those who remained named their village the Swannanoa Settlement. By 1790, Swannanoa became known as Morristown, and would claim a population of 38 by 1800.
Eventually, Morristown would become known as Asheville, North Carolina. In 1793, nine years after the first attempt to homestead in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a small log structure was erected and became known as Union Hill Academy. Both boys and girls attended under the instruction of Reverend Robert Henry. He taught without the support of written text, as books were basically nonexistent within the backcountry at that time.
Beyond the Mountains
Even though Asheville didn’t have the infrastructure to support a formal female institution until the mid-19th century, that didn’t deter the wealthy from sending their daughters approximately
The Moravian Legacy
by Cindi Becker-Lemkau originally published in Needle Arts Magazine
200 miles east to a village called Salem, North Carolina. Eleven young Asheville women have been identified as attending the Salem Female Academy between 1813 and 1830. It was deemed a school that was built through faith, tenacity, and the pure desire to educate. The Academy in Salem was conceived through the efforts of Count An improved road Nicholas Ludthrough Ashevilie wig von Zincirca 1894, 41 years after the journeys made to The Salem zendorf (1700-1760), a Female Academy. German noblePhoto: U.S. Library of man, who beCongress came a leader in the Protestant Reformation and the founder of the Renewed Moravian Church. This was thought to be the first Protestant religion, having formed nearly a century before Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the doors of a Catholic church.
Radical Views on Female Education
The Moravian concept of education was based on the revolutionary philosophies of John Amos Comenius (15921670), now known as the father of modern education, and in whom Count Zinzendorf followed. The Moravians put Comenius’ then-radical principles into practice, creating an educational model that would become a catalyst behind the methodologies of higher education for females in the United States.
Refuge in Georgia
Being empathic to the plight of a small group of persecuted “brethren” who had fled from Bohemia and Moravia (both now regions in the Czech Republic), Count Zinzendorf allowed the revolutionists to take refuge on his land in Germany. The word spread concerning his generosity; thus, a great many more refugees came to him seeking asylum.
Because of the influx, Count Zinzendorf brokered a deal with Georgia Governor George Oglethorpe to purchase land on behalf of those refugees who would become known as Moravians.
In February 1735, 10 men of the “brethren” left London, England, and a few months later arrived at the Savannah, Georgia, harbor. They aimed to establish the first Moravian settlement in America. The second group of 25 men and women arrived in Georgia the following year.
But because of their pacifist beliefs and the impending war with the Spanish by 1739, the decision was made to leave Georgia. Their move east was supported by the noted English evangelist George Whitefield, who had recently purchased 5,000 acres near the Forks of Delaware in Pennsylvania.
In April 1740, the Moravians sailed to what Whitefield called Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Within a few years, the Moravians built Nazareth Hall, considered to be the oldest boarding school for boys in America. It was in operation from 1759 to 1929.
Then Count Zinzendorf, accompanied by his 16year-old daughter Countess Henrietta (17251789), traveled to the Germantown, Pennsylvania, settlement that had been founded in 1683 by German-Dutch settlers. The Zinzendorfs stayed for approximately 14 months, during which time they noticed the lack of female education. They decided to organize a school.
In May 1742, the Countess took on the role of the headmistress and was joined by two assistants. Together, they began the education of 25 young women. In June, the Moravians left Germantown and moved the school 66 miles north. It was on Christmas Eve, and in the presence of the Zinzendorfs, that this new settlement was christened “Bethlehem.” The congregation had been singing a hymn with the line “Not Jerusalem, Lowly Bethlehem.”
Bethlehem was the True Beginning
The Moravians created other schools in the eastern region of the United States, such as Lititz Seminary. But Bethlehem is considered by many to be the first boarding school for girls in the United States. Its students also are considered to have created some of the finest embroideries of the time.
The young women began their school days by rising at 6 a.m. Classes began at 8 a.m.; they included reading, writing, mathematics, history, botany, geography and, of course, the arts, which included embroidery. The school day ended at 4 p.m.
Countess Henrietta, also known as Benigna Zinzendorf, plays a stringed instrument known as a cittern in this painting by an unnown artist. Public domain image Diademia Austin (1804-1893) completed this piece when she was about l3 years old, while a student at the Moravian Seminary for Young Ladies in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Photo: The Bethlehem Digital History Project
The Moravians and Ribbon Work
Silk embroidery made its first appearance in England during the early 18th century, which was known as the Rococo period (approximately 1723-1759). It
was during this period that ribbons became a form of embellishment for not only clothing, but other items as well. It was a way for the wealthy to try to strengthen their ties to the noble class. It is believed that those Moravians who had settled in England observed this lush form of embroidery and became quite skilled in its execution. Then after coming to the United States, they introduced this technique to the young women in their seminaries.
The Ultimate Destination: Salem Female Academy
As Bethlehem and other Moravian communities were continuing to push forward in the east, the idea of a settlement in the American south was conceived. To that end, Count Zinzendorf purchased 98,985 acres of North Carolina land from the Earl of Granville for approximately $655 U.S. and named it Wachovia.
In 1753, 15 Moravian Brethren left Pennsylvania and walked approximately 570 miles to North Carolina, arriving November 17. Their journey took 29and-a-half days to complete. After their arrival, other Moravians from Pennsylvania were asked to take the same journey.
Eventually, the settlement of Bethabara - meaning “House of Passage” took hold. Then in 1766, the name Bethabara was changed to Salem, a derivative of the Hebrew word Shalom, meaning “peace.”
The group first founded what was known as the “Little Girls School” in 1772 for Moravian girls only. In 1804, the Salem Female Academy was founded, open to all females regardless of faith. As it was in Bethlehem, needlework was a strong and viable subject at the academy.
It was quite common for the girls, within their first year, to complete a marking sampler. If they remained in school, they would have the opportunity to advance to what was called Ornamental Embroidery.
By simply introducing and using the term academy, the Salem school proclaimed its offerings included a far more extensive curriculum than would have been offered in a mere seminary. Its curriculum would now revolve around the subjects that had been taught at the male academies for decades. This was a radical step in female education as the common belief at the time was the advanced subjects of the male academy were “far too taxing for the delicate female mind.”
The seminary wanted to disprove the idea that girls couldn’t be equals in education, and embroidery was used as a teaching tool for writing, reading, and refinement as well as strengthening moral values.
After a piece of needlework was brought home, it was most often displayed quite prominently. This was done with the aim that all who entered the house might be impressed by the fine education obtained by the daughter of that household. Thus, the family’s status was of high standing. It was also a way to let a suitor know he had to be as welleducated and as polished as the one he was pursuing. But if per chance marriage was not forthcoming, the same young woman could, at a minimum, support herself by offering her proven sewing skills as a service.
Adeline Geer (1804-1874) was about 11 years old when she worked on this silk piece, using chenille thread. She was a student of the Moravian Seminary for Young Ladies at this time. Photo: The Bethlehem Digital History Project Peggy Allison (1794-1837) completed this piece at about 14 years old, while a student at the Salem Female Academy. Photo: Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) at Old Salem The Young Women of Asheville
As to the 11 Asheville girls mentioned previously, it would be interesting to know whether they realized the deep Moravian devotion to the development of female education. Did they know of the reforms that were made to afford them the privilege of opening the doors to an institution that would set a new educational standard for females throughout this country? Were they aware that the legacy of female academic education was the gift so freely given by the Moravians?
As Comenius wrote: “No reason can be shown why the female sex . . . should be kept from a knowledge of languages and wisdom. For they are also human beings, an image of God, as we are . . . in their minds they are equally gifted to acquire wisdom . . . Why then should we merely dismiss them with the ABC and drive them away from books: Are we afraid of their meddling? The more we introduce them to mental occupations, the less time they will find for meddling, which comes from emptiness of mind.”
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Cindi Becker-Lemkau is a self-described “voyeur of southern textiles on a self-guided tour.” She has a master’s degree in fiber and is a juried member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. —SPJST—
MOM ALWAYS HAS THE BEST ADVICE
John Gottlieb Kummer served as headmaster of the Bethlehem Seminary from 1836 to 1843; his wife, Sarah Hinchcliffe Kummer, taught there, and his sister, Maria Kummer, was an instructress of needlework at the school for 30 years. Below is a a letter that Sarah Hinchcliffe Kummer wrote to two of their daughters, Caroline and Sophia, who also were students there:
Nazareth, July 12th, 1835
My dear children,
I prefer the basket of Flowers to any pattern I saw, and would only observe if the selection and arrangement can be made so as to give a sufficient knowledge of the work, without being so large as to become tedious, and unnecessarily expensive. I would be glad. I think the white silk looks best if you can only be careful enough not to soil it in the working, but you must be extremely particular, for it is not easy to repair mischief of that kind.
from your affectionate
Mother
Caroline Kummer (1821-1902) stitched this floral piece using crepe ribbon, wool, silk, and chenille on silk. She is thought to have completed it while a student at the Moravian Seminary for Young Ladies in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Photo: The Bethlehem Digital History Project
