29 minute read
Lodge Section
from Vestnik 2022.08.08
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
Lodge 4, Hallettsville meets August 14
Dear Members,
Lodge 4, Hallettsville will meet Sunday, August 14 at the Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. Lunch will be served, and door prizes will be given.^ Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 6, Cottonwood president expresses thanks to picnic supporters
Dear Members and Friends,
I would like to give a big thank you to everyone who helped with the picnic in any way . . . whether it was prior to the event gathering raffle prizes and/or auction items or anyone who helped Friday night with the potato peeling party, anyone who helped on Saturday with the preparations, and anyone who helped with the big day on Sunday. I’m not going to call out any names because I would probably unintentionally leave someone out. But to anyone who helped
The SPJST Executive Committee recognized Brian Vanicek, right, for 30 years of service at a Home Office Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Brian serves as President/CEO and was presented a certificate of appreciation by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke. Congratulations, Brian! in any way, I want to say a great big thank you! Thank you also to those who attended and supported the event. We appreciate you all! Fraternally, Milton Peterson, President —SPJST—
Lodge 8, Weimar meets August 22
Lodge 8, Weimar will meet Monday, August 22, 2022, at 12 noon at Oakridge Restaurant in Schulenburg. We hope to see everybody. Carolyn M. Tobola Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin invites all to August, September dances
Well, it’s been very hot, and this is just July. We really need rain as you all probably do, too. Things are slow here in Elgin. We are hoping everyone will get back in the dancing mood. If we do not get more people to attend our dances, we are afraid that the bands will no longer be able to come.
With the price of gas and everything, it’s a challenge for all of us. All I can say is don’t give up . . . we are tough, good people and with the Lord’s help, we can do it.
So with that, we hope to see everyone going again. We miss all you good friends. Life is short . . . let’s not miss out.
Our upcoming dances are:
Sunday, August 14 Mark Halata
Sunday, August 21 Glen Collins and the Alibis
Sunday, September 18 Czech Melody Masters
Come out to Elgin SPJST to see everyone again and get some exercise. It’s cool inside the hall!
Happy July birthday to Johnny Vrabel, the love of my life.
As you close your eyes in slumber, do you think that God would say —
You have made the world much better for the life you’ve lived today? Good health to all! Irene Vrabel, Reporter —SPJST—
The SPJST Executive Committee recognized Sandra Dubcak for 25 years of service at a Home Office Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Sandra serves as Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and was presented a certificate of appreciation by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke, left, and President/CEO Brian Vanicek, who is her supervisor. Congratulations, Sandra!
Lodge 25, Ennis awards scholarships
Dear Readers,
Lodge 25, Ennis held its meeting on Thursday, July 14, 2022. Betty prepared a delicious meal consisting of barbecue with all the trimmings. Thank you, Betty!
Scholarships and 50- and 75-year membership pins were presented. Samuel Zmolik and Misty Dvorak each received a $500 scholarship from the local lodge. Janie Marusak and Dorothy Dvorak received their 75-year pins. Julie Gilmore, Danny Salik, Larry Zhanel, Pat Zapletal, and Raymond Starek were present to receive their 50-year membership pins. Congratulations to all!
After the presentations, the meeting began. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Margaret. All reports were approved as read. We discussed a donation for SPJST’s 125th celebration in October. Membership approved to donate a $50 gift card.
Ennis Chamber reached out to our lodge to donate an SPJST item to be put in a time capsule in honor of Ennis celebrating its 150th birthday this year. It was decided that we should offer a set of SPJST dominoes for this.
A thank you note was read from the Catholic Daughters who are grateful that our lodge offers them space to have their monthly meetings.
Reagan Lynette Betik was approved by the membership as a new member. Sales agent is Margaret Krajca.
We hope to see everyone at our next birthday celebration which will be held on Wednesday, July 27. Everyone, please bring a dish. There will not be a meeting in August, but mark your calendar for the next one which will be on Thursday, September 8. Fraternally yours, Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 29, Taylor barbecue cook-off set for Sept. 23-24
Lodge 29, Taylor will host its barbecue cook-off on September 23 and 24. Members are asked to bring items for the silent auction at the cook-off. Baked items always do well.
Next Meeting—August 10
The next lodge meeting will be Wednesday, August 10 at 6:30 p.m.^ Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary-Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk supports “125 Prizes for 125 Years”
On Wednesday, July 27, 2022, President Randy Pavelka called the SPJST Lodge 35, Elk and Elk Hall, Inc. meetings to order at 7:24 p.m. Ten members were present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by officers and members.
Barbara Pavelka had been on the sick list, but she is doing better. Many blessings to here for a complete recovery.
Secretary Carla gave her reports for the June 15 meetings. With no additions or corrections, the minutes were approved as read.
Treasurer Cari Hammer gave her reports from the June 15 meeting, and with no corrections, they were approved as read.
Floor Chair Gene Pavelka reported a great month, and Bar Chair Randy Pavelka also had a great turn-in.
Happy Retirement, Debbie Dohnalik!
Friday, July 29, 2022 • SPJST Home Office
Congratulations to Debbie Dohnalik, who served as Accounting Manager in the Controller’s department. Debbie retired on July 29 after 45 years of service with SPJST Home Office. She was honored with a luncheon at the SPJST Home Office on Wednesday, July 20.
Best wishes, Debbie! We will miss you.
LEFT PHOTO: Debbie, right, is pictured with her sister, Judy Vaculin. CENTER PHOTO: Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke, left, President/CEO Brian Vanicek, second from left, and Controller Roy Vajdak present a plaque to Debbie during the staff luncheon on Wednesday, July 20 at the Home Office. The plaque reads, “In grateful appreciation of your 45 years of outstanding and dedicating service to SPJST Accounting Manager - October 26, 1976 - July 29, 2022.” RIGHT PHOTO: Controller’s Department staff congratulate Debbie. Left to right are Jennifer Wright, Danny Walden, Sharon Ingram, Debbie, Lisa Kirby, Roy Vajdak, and Dorothy Stuchly.
Under new business, Cari Hammer made a motion to make two $50 donations to the “125 Prizes for 125 Years” celebration with SPJST. Dude Mann seconded the motion, and it was approved.
We discussed when to have a fish fry again, but nothing was decided at that time.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Next Meeting—August 24
The next meeting will be Wednesday, August 24 around 7 p.m. after hall cleanup.
Fraternally yours, Janie Brewer, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 38, Kovar receives notes of thanks from FFA students
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Dear SPJST Lodge 38, Kovar,
Thank you for contributing to my broiler project. The money I received will be put into a savings account for my future education. Your support is greatly appreciated. Thank you again. Kunzie Behrens
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Letters submitted to the Vestnik by, Dorothy Lastovica Lodge 38, Kovar —SPJST—
Thank you for supporting my Smithville Jr. FFA rabbit project. It is generous people like you all that help our agricultural community and kids like me. I learned about being responsible and taking care of my rabbits and working with them every day. I will use this money to buy next year’s rabbits and supplies, the rest for college. I hope to see you all next year. Sincerely, Morgan Adams
Happy 40th Anniversary, Annie and Philip! 15 Years of SPJST Home Office Service: Congratulations, Frank Horak!
The SPJST Executive Committee recognized Frank Horak, center, for 15 years of service at a Home Office Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Frank serves as State Fraternal Director and was presented a certificate of appreciation by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, who is his supervisor. Congratulations, Frank!
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje meets August 14
Dear Members,
The next meeting of Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje is Sunday, August 14, 2022, at 1 p.m. at the lodge hall. We hope to see you there! Fraternally, Cathy Garcia, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville meets August 21
Lodge 81, Needville will meet Sunday, August 21. We will have barbecue plates from the Needville Fire Department fundraiser. Bradley will pick up the plates. Members, please bring a dessert. See you at the next meeting!^ Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Congratulations to Annie and Philip Vahalik on their 40th wedding anniversary. They joined family members at Splashway in Sheridan for a weekend of water fun, games, good food, and reminiscing. Annie and Philip are blessed with three children - Nicholas and wife Sarah of Belton, Elizabeth and husband Jordan Hargrove of Leander, and Jonathan and wife Jordyn of Victoria. They are the proud grandparents of Asher and Charlie Vahalik and George and Thomas Hargrove. Annie and Philip were married on June 5, 1982, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville. Annie serves as District Six Director. She and Philip are members of Lodge 4, Hallettsville where Annie is vice president and fraternal activities coordinator. They reside in Victoria.
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meets August 14
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi will meet Sunday, August 14. A fried chicken meal will be served. Members are asked to bring a side dish.^ Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas meets August 21
Dear Readers,
Lodge 84, Dallas members will meet Sunday, August 21, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. for their monthly meeting. Please make plans to join us at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace in Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214351-4214 for directions. If planning to attend, please bring a dessert to share for our afternoon svacina. Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston announces August 14 Day of Caring
We are excited to pair up with our own Heights area schools, both elementary and secondary (middle/high), for our second lodge-wide Day of Caring in 2022! This year, the schools need typical school supplies as well as basic hygiene items such as toothbrushes/toothpaste, deodorant, body soap, underwear, and socks.
Last year’s back to school drive was a big success, and we hope to help even more kids start the school year off successfully! Our goal is to pack at least 100 backpacks and another 100 hygiene kits for the local students.
How can I contribute?
Items can be purchased from our Amazon wish list and sent directly to Lodge 88 (gift cards may be purchased from the list – we will use these extra funds to purchase remaining items) Donations of gently used uniform clothing
If you would like to donate clothing or wish to purchase supply items elsewhere, you may drop off at the donation boxes located at the Lodge backyard or at Swim Club entrance. We will be collecting items until Sunday, August 14. Reach out to Megan Grohman with questions by contacting her at 281-7442240 or grohman.megan@gmail.com
Nominating Committee
We are still seeking volunteers to serve on our nominating committee. Essentially, the committee will bring a recommendation to membership before the annual meeting as to who should serve as the 2023 officers, trustees, and some committee chars for the Lodge.
To be clear, this is just a nomination. Others may still be nominated from the floor and actual elections will occur if there are alternate candidates.
This is how the nominating committee will likely go about their responsibility (but it’s ultimately up to them):
Check with current officers, chairs, and trustees to see who is still interested in serving in 2023.
Solicit other nominees from membership for any willing and qualified candidates. Individuals can self-nominate to the committee.
Where there are multiple candidates for a position, pick an official committee endorsed nominee.
Where there are gaps, actively find quality candidates.
Present the full slate of candidates at the October meeting.
We would like to have the nominating committee in place by the August meeting to give them 60 days to create
Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member Reagan Lynette Betik. Reagan is the daughter of Lauren and Coarey. She was born on Friday, June 2, 2022, at Baylor Scott White Medical Center in Waxahachie. Maternal grandparents are Randy and Carmen Thomas. Paternal grandparents are Steve and Suzi Betik. Sales agent is Margaret Krajca.
—SPJST—
Lodge 28, East Bernard shares June Meeting Scenes
Lodge 28, East Bernard members met Sunday, June 12, 2022, at Wharton County Library in East Bernard Members enjoyed a luncheon prior to the meeting. —Submitted by Carolina Covarrubia
their nominations. If you would like to serve your fellow lodge members on this committee or want to nominate someone you think is well qualified, please do so by calling the lodge office and leaving a message.
One Note: Members of the nominating committee are not precluded from being among the slate of nominated candidates.
Here are the lodge officers that are to be elected:
President* First Vice President -
Fraternal Activities Coordinator* Second Vice President - Bingo Chair Third Vice President - Swim Club Chair* Recording Secretary Treasurer Youth Leader Guide Sergeant-at-Arms 6 at-large Trustees Entertainment Committee Chair Blue Room Co-Chair
If you have an interest in serving the Lodge in this capacity, please reach out. (* indicates that the position is both an officer and trustee of the Lodge).
Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston plans Sept. 10 adults, kids nights out
G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S . . . flying first class . . . The Blue Room Committee at Lodge 88, Houston presents “A Night in Old Hollywood” on Saturday, September 10, 2022.
Red carpet: 5:30 p.m. until you call an Uber. Dinner: Chatters Café.
Calling all stars - join us for a magic night in the Blue Room. Come as you are or as your best Hollywood leading man or starlet. Prizes for the most glamorous among us.
The cost is $27 per person until September 1. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.lodge88.org/products/theblue-room-presents-a-night-in-old-hollywood
Kids Night Out
For those attending the Blue Room event on September 10 . . . it’s Kids Night Out from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Childcare will be provided by the Motherhood Center. The cost is $35 per child for pizza, friends, games, fun, and a magician. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.lodge88.org/products/kidsnight-out-sept-10 Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis shares July meeting scenes
LEFT PHOTO: Happy June birthdays to Jill, Don Jr., Rita, Irene, Allis, Kari, June (in front), and Marshall (in back). ABOVE: Members in attendance at the July 14, 2022, meeting. TOP RIGHT: Officers during the meal prayer. BELOW LEFT: Receiving membership pins are, left to right, Pat Zapletal, Larry Zhanel, Misty Dvorak (on behalf of her dad, Danny), Daniel Salik, Julie Gilmore, and Raymond Stare. BELOW RIGHT: Misty Dvorak, left, and Samuel Zmolik receive their scholarships presented by Rita. —Submitted by Margaret Krajca, Reporter
Lodge 107, Floresville reports on July meeting
The monthly meeting of Lodge 107, Floresville was held on Sunday, July 10, 2022, at the lodge hall. President Bielefeld called the meeting to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for military and deceased members.
Roll call of officers found Treasurer Korus absent due to illness.
Last month’s minutes were read by Secretary Pruski, and they were approved. New members of the lodge are Mateo Ridge Gorham and Kaia Rosie Ehlers.
Hall Manager Bertrand reported the hall cooler drain has been repaired, the outside lights have been fixed, and the air conditioner filters were replaced.
Under old business, the sign from the Home Office should be installed in the next week or two.
New business - the lodge will help the youth club on transportation costs to take the kids to camp.
July birthdays were Polly Bayer on the 4th and Tillie Rae Lynn on the 10th.
Next Meeting—August 14
The next meeting will be Sunday, August 14 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. Fraternally, Polly Bayer, Reporter —SPJST—
Dear Readers,
Lodge 142, Houston met for its monthly meeting on Sunday, July 17, 2022, at Lodge 88, Houston. A social and lunch of fried chicken, potato salad, and dessert with ice cream was served at 1 p.m. Dennis Hermis led us in prayer.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2:20 p.m. Officers not present were Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington, Guide Karole Coleman, and Flag Bearer Zac Coleman, and Sales Agents Connie Carter and Holly Fraley. We had 22 members in attendance.
At this time, President Dennis made a suggestion to suspend all reports and to continue with an ice cream social for National Ice Cream Day, provided by Barbara Linney-Gonzales.
Youth Leader Amanda Muzny gave her report on SPJST District Five Youth Achievement Day held on Saturday, July 16 at Lodge 81, Needville. We were proud to announce that Lodge 142 youth Ryder Butera is representing District Five as king. At District Five YAD, Brielle Comberrel won five first places and will be representing at State YAD. Congratulations to all youth! We were also reminded that on August 27 will be a District Five outing at Typhoon Texas from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A transfer to our lodge from Lodge 191, Lufkin was announced as Faye Marie Hopkins. Keith Kieschnick made a motion to accept the transfer, seconded by Barbara Linney-Gonzalez.
Birthday celebrants were Kerry Herrington on July 1, Pat Schleider on July 7, and Dennis Hermis on July 27. Happy birthday!
Our quarterly capsule drawing winners were Kenneth Malota, Elizabeth Hermis, Dennis Hermis, and Amanda Muzny.
The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m., and door prizes were awarded.
Next Meeting—August 21
The next meeting will be Sunday, August 21 at 2 p.m. with a meal at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 160, San Angelo meets August 18
Dear Members,
SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, August 18, 2022, at 4 p.m. The meeting will take place at Los Panchito’s Restaurant, located at 34 West Avenue D in San Angelo. We hope you will be able to join us!
Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—
Lodge 180, Burleson gives to Wounded Warriors, local animal shelton
Lodge 180, Burleson had its monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at Napoli’s Restaurant in Joshua, Texas. All active members were present and accounted for. We had a short meting where we all said the Pledge of Alliance. This was followed by a moment of silent prayer for our Nation, our military, and all the people that lost their lives in Uvalde as well as those who are ill. This includes one of our members that is dealing with cancer and is presently doing well with her treatments. She is in our prayers on a daily basis.
Minutes were read and approved as read. No new financials were discussed. The two monthly donations that were selected were Wounded Warriors and Burleson Animal Shelter which were selected by Pat and Robert Sill.
Birthday recipients for July were Sandy Almonte and Red Kelly. They received some little bundtlets in lieu of a cake, and all present helped them to enjoy their treats. All July birthdays celebrants are Sandra Almonte, Chester Bean, Meredith Cox, Renee Greenlees, John Hilcher, Bradley Janek, Ernest Kelly Jr., Janet Payne, Gary Skinner, Fabian Soria Jr., and Don Thomas. Wishing all of these people a special birthday greeting from your lodge.
The next meeting will be held at Spring Creek Barbeque in Burleson on Tuesday, August 2 at 6 p.m. Looking forward to seeing each of you at the next meeting. Nancy Kelly President/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 258, Seguin meets August 21
Lodge 258, Seguin will meet at Rocket Wings, located at 380 North Highway 123 Bypass in Seguin on Sunday, August 21, 2022. The meeting will begin at 1 p.m. Chester Jenke, President —SPJST—
Wildfire risks: Projects to help you protect your home
From Texas Department of Insurance
There are several simple steps you can take to protect your home from a wildfire. Make each of these a weekend project, and you’ll be ready in no time.
Create fire-safe space around your house
Remove anything flammable within five feet from your house, such as leaves, firewood, or building materials. Use hard surfaces, such as stone, brick, gravel, or concrete as a buffer.
Remove plants near windows, vents, or siding that could catch fire.
Trim branches hanging over your roof. Trim lower branches on trees that could ignite from fire on the ground.
Keep your lawn and plants watered and remove dead branches or leaves.
Maintain roof and gutters
Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your rain gutters and roof. They can be ignited easily from windblown embers that travel ahead of a wildfire. You should do this regularly.
Maintain decks
Check your deck for any material that can catch fire, such as potted plants or mulch beneath the deck. Don’t store wood on or under your deck. If a wildfire threatens, move wooden patio furniture or shade umbrellas inside.
Check your insurance
This is an indoor project! Review your homeowners insurance policy to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild your house if it’s destroyed. In addition, create a home inventory to help if you have to file a claim.
Lodge 81, Needville member completes internship in Prague
Lodge 81, Needville member Baley Stavinoha recently completed a summer internship for 76 days in Prague, Czech Republic. She is a marketing major at Texas A&M University and will graduate in December.
Baley said Prague reminded her of a scene from Game of Thrones with all the castles and cobblestone streets. She was waiting on a dragon to fly out! Baley was pleased that most Czech citizens under the age of 35 speak English. She enjoyed boat rides at night on Vltava River to see the lighted skyline. She made new friends from across Europe, and now has a new perspective on the world. Baley’s sister, Evan Stavinoha, who is also a member of Lodge 81, visited for two weeks in Prague during the summer.
The young ladies are the daughters of District Five Director Bradley and Cecilia Stavinoha. —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville celebrates July birthdays
Lodge 107, Floresville recognized its July birthday celebrants at the meeting on July 10, 2022. Happy birthday to Tillie Rae Lynn on July 10 (standing in is Tillie’s grandmother Wendy Pruski) and Polly Bayer on July 4.
Source: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/tips/protecthome-wildfire.html —SPJST—
5 Ways to Show Seniors They’re Appreciated
Senior citizens account for a significant percentage of the overall population. Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau released in 2020 indicate the nation’s 65-and-older population had grown by more than one-third over the preceding decade. By 2050, the number of senior citizens is expected to be close to 90 million. As of 2021, Statistics Canada reported there were roughly 7.1 million persons age 65 and older living in Canada.
People are living longer than ever, and as individuals age, the demand for senior services continues to grow - as does the need to be patient and respect the elderly. There are many ways to show seniors just how much they’re appreciated. 1. Help with chores.
Lend a hand with chores around the house that may have grown difficult for seniors. This can include mowing the lawn, weeding garden beds, shoveling snow, raking leaves, or even taking the garbage pails in and out on collection days. 2. Visit more often.
Frequent visits are one of the simplest ways to show seniors you care. Whether seniors live in a private home or managed care facility, visitors brighten their days, especially if they no longer get out and about as frequently as they once did. Spending time together and sharing stories can bring smiles to the faces of older adults.
3. Plan activities with seniors in mind.
When organizing parties and special events, consider the needs of seniors on the guest list. Add music from their era to playlists or DJ requests. Seat seniors with mobility issues near exits and restrooms. Make sure to arrange for photos with the guest of honor to keep family history alive.
4. Thank seniors.
Find any reason to thank a senior. Perhaps someone served in the military or volunteered their time with children. Celebrate accomplishments big and small with a simple "thank you."
5. Prepare a meal.
Invite a special senior over for a home-cooked meal with the family. Make it a regular occurrence on the calendar. If he or she cannot get out easily, bring a hot meal over to his or her place, instead.
Simple gestures of gratitude and appreciation can brighten a senior's day and let that person know he or she has not been forgotten. (MS) —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville Installs New Sign
With the help of Lodge 202, Jourdanton member James House of House Construction, Lodge 107, Floresville now has a sign at its lodge hall. Thank you, James, for constructing and installing the signs. —Submitted by Polly Bayer, Reporter
Lodge 142, Houston members are pictured enjoying their Sunday, July 17, 2022, lodge meeting with an ice cream social on National Ice Cream Day. Members also enjoyed a fried chicken lunch prior to the ice cream. —Submitted by Pat Schleider, Fraternal Activities Coordinator
7 Study Tips for High School Students
Assessments such as quizzes and exams help educators recognize areas where students are excelling and where they might need a little extra help. In addition to tests in the classroom, high schoolers generally take standardized testing for state or provincial assessment purposes.
Testing may come easier to some students than others, but having solid study techniques can improve students’ performance on a wide range of exams. In fact, research by Stanford scholars, whose data was published in Psychological Science, found that applying a strategic approach to studying helped college students improve their exam scores by an average of one-third of a letter grade.
The testing preparation resource PrepScholar says it is important to build and maintain strong study habits to help students avoid undue stress and last-minute cramming. The following are seven techniques that may help foster good study skills. 1. Find value in the lessons.
Many students lament that what they learn in school just isn’t relevant in daily life. That can make the subject matter feel less important and uninteresting. Finding value in what one is learning and seeing how it can be applied outside of the classroom may make a student more inclined to learn and retain information.
2. Avoid distractions.
Study time is time to take a break from social media, video games, and any other distractions that can pull a student away from studying. Constantly checking notifications can interrupt thoughts and make it hard to learn the material.
3. Establish a study schedule.
Develop a system and a schedule for studying. Students should establish a fixed habit of studying each day or week - whatever is best for him or her. Over time, studying will become routine.
Happy 64th Anniversary, Lloyd and Bettie House!
Lodge 202, Jourdanton members Lloyd and Bettie House will celebrate their 64th anniversary on Tuesday, August 23, 2022. For many years, Lloyd served as either president or vice president. Bettie is the lodge secretary. Congratulations! 4. Establish dedicated study spots.
Students should locate places that work best for them as study and homework stations. Certain individuals may
Lodge 202, Jourdanton officers will celebrate August birthdays. President James House’s birthday is August 30, and Secretary Bettie House’s birthday is on August 12. Best wishes for many more! —Photo by Sandra Hoggard need the quiet of a library or a bookstore. Others may do best with the hum of conversation around them or in a group. There’s no right or wrong study spot. Maintaining consistency will help the mind associate a place with studying.
5. Use grades as benchmarks and motivators.
Blaming a teacher for a poor grade won’t get a student anywhere. Rather, grades should indicate how well one is learning the material, and in turn, the effectiveness of students’ studying habits. Students can tweak their habits if they find their grades are not where they want them to be.
6. Rephrase material.
Textbook language can be dry and unappealing. Students can try putting the material into their own words or rephrase passages to make them easier to remember and recall. Similarly, teaching or sharing the material with another person also may improve retention.
7. Make a formula sheet.
Depending on the subject, having a sheet with shortcuts, formulas, or diagrams can put the material into smaller bursts of information that are easier to digest. Along this same vein, writing information down can help improve recall.
These are a few study tips that high schoolers can utilize to improve their grades so they can be more successful in school. (MS) —SPJST—
continued from page 1 SPJST Scholarship to Honor the Memory of Tommie and Gladys Lostak
Following his graduation from the University of Texas in 1941, Tommie was employed by Humble Oil and Refining Company. On August 9, 1941, Tommie married Gladys Mollie Kosina. During Tommie’s 10-year stint with Humble Oil, Tommie and Gladys were blessed with three children - Lorenda, Lonnie, and Mollie. In 1956, Tommie and Gladys welcomed a second son, Harold.
When Tommie wasn’t working, he could be found playing with his children, playing on his softball team, or hunting.
“Times were hard,” Lorenda recalls. “For entertainment, the kids remember going to the drive-in picture show and one or two having to get down on the floorboard in the back seat, going to dad’s ballgames, and those good old Czech dances.”
Tommie was a Danbury rice farmer and rancher since 1951, retiring from farming in 1983 and ranching in 1997.
A devoted fraternalist, Tommie served as secretary of SPJST Lodge 139, Danbury for 36 years and on the Publication Committee for 12 years. He hosted many annual SPJST district meetings at the Lone Pine in Danbury. He also served on the school board and as president of the Brazoria County Farm Bureau. Tommie was an honorary 4-H member and life member of Future Farmers of America and life member of the Texas Ex-Students’ Association of the University of Texas. He was a past member of the Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, past executive board member with Brazoria County Fair Association, Brazoria County Cattlemen’s Association, Danbury Athletic Booster Club, and charter member of the Angleton-Danbury hospital. He was a big fan and booster of Danbury athletics and Danbury Little League.
Tommie’s wife, Gladys, was a hard worker as well. She balanced many roles as Tommie’s supporter — always by his side, a mom and owner of a kolache shop in Danbury for several years. Both Gladys and Tommie shared a passion for traveling. Gladys passed away in November 1988. The last 16 years of Tommie’s happy life, he lived with daughter Lorenda and her husband, David Baldwin, until Tommie’s passing in February 2008.
Individuals seeking to honor the memory of Tommie and Gladys Lostak with a gift to the endowed fund, please visit www.spjst.org/scholarships/
SPJST has awarded 51 scholarships totaling $52,500 for the 2022-2023 academic year. New endowed named scholarships can be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. For information on establishing a named scholarship, please contact SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek at 254-773-1575 or by email at vanicek@spjst.com. —SPJST—
