Vestnik 2023.04.10

Lodge 13, Dime Box, Diamond I Venue host dance for Bec s Blessing residents

MARINE CORPS SALUTE

Lodge 13, Dime Box partnered with Diamond I Venue (formerly the SPJST Lodge 13 hall) to provide a special event for some of the residents of Bec’s Blessing in Giddings, Texas. Lodge 13 supplied tickets and a meal to go to an afternoon dance at the former SPJST hall. Diamond I supplied a limo for the residents to travel to the hall and back. The residents enjoyed themselves. —Doris Ford, FAC/Reporter

March Top SPJST Sales Agents

Congratulations to Brock Donnell of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi who was promoted to First Lietenant in the United States Marine Corps. His first salute as First Lietenant was from his grandpa, Jerry Sijansky. Jerry is an Army Veteran and also a member of Lodge 79. Brock is in pilot training at NAS Corpus Christi. More on page 23.

Youth members enjoy the hunt for easter eggs on April 2. LEFT: From Lodge 25, Ennis are June Holland, left, and Julia Wyatt. RIGHT: At Lodge 6, Cottonwood’s Easter egg hunt, Knox Morrison is all smiles.

VESTNIK

SPJST HOME OFFICE

PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575 www.spjst.org

VĚSTNÍK EDITOR: MELANIE ZAVODNY, FIC

254-773-1575 (ext. 122)

Mobile/Text: 254-534-0807

vestnik@spjst.org

melaniez@spjst.com melaniez@usa.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

BRIAN VANICEK, FIC

254-773-1575 (ext. 139)

Mobile: 254-534-2902 vanicek@spjst.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING DELISLE DOHERTY

254-773-1575 (ext. 240)

Mobile: 832-232-2049 delisled@spjst.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

MELANIE ZAVODNY

254-773-1575 (ext. 122)

Mobile: 254-534-0807 melaniez@spjst.com

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

LEONARD D. MIKESKA, FIC

254-773-1575 (ext. 149)

Mobile: 254-721-4739 leonardm@spjst.com

CONTROLLER

ROY VAJDAK

254-773-1575 (ext. 142) royv@spjst.com

DISTRICT ONE DIRECTOR/VICE CHAIR

DONNIE VICTORICK, FIC, CFFM PO Box 85, Snook, TX 77878-0085

Home: 979-272-3265 • Mobile: 979-224-3125 dv.aggie71@gmail.com

DISTRICT TWO DIRECTOR JESSE POSPISIL

4710 FM 1331, Taylor, TX 76574-2164 512-826-7371 jlpospisil@yahoo.com

DISTRICT THREE DIRECTOR/CHAIR

JOHN ENGELKE

6475 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5330 254-717-7534 john.engelke@hotmail.com

DISTRICT FOUR DIRECTOR

BOBBY DAVIS, FICF, CFFM

1886 Pecos St, Ste 3, San Angelo, TX 76901-3268 Mobile: 325-450-3748 • Fax: 325-657-2003 bgdsr2428@aol.com

DISTRICT FIVE DIRECTOR BRADLEY STAVINOHA, FIC

10522 Will Lehmann Rd, Needville, TX 77461-9164

Mobile: 979-739-2386 • Office: 979-793-7411 spjst@earthlink.net

DISTRICT SIX DIRECTOR ANNIE VAHALIK

413 Beechwood Dr, Victoria, TX 77901-4516 361-649-4888 amvahalik@gmail.com

DISTRICT SEVEN DIRECTOR REGINA HOUSE

176 County Road 343, Charlotte, TX 78011-3663

830-570-2046

spjst202youth@gmail.com

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

District One - Bill Orsak, Vice Chair PO Box 252, Snook, TX 77878-0252

979-272-1243 • billorsak@gmail.com

District Two - Edwin Pechal

10660 State Highway 53, Temple, TX 76501-7446

254-721-2887 • edwinpechal@yahoo.com

District Three - Michael Galler

1312 Fawn Lily Dr, Temple, TX 76502-7808

254-744-8973 • mlgaller54@gmail.com

District Four - Brad Teplicek

PO Box 372, Rowena, TX 76875-4006

325-442-2001 • bptep@aol.com

District Five - Dorothy Pflughaupt, Chair

1243 Clovis Rd, Houston, TX 77008-6232

713-859-8976 • dotpflugh@yahoo.com

District Six - Lisa Bubela, Secretary

1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152

979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com

District Seven - Oscar Korus

2565 Bruce Rd, Poteet, TX 78065-5013

830-391-4169 • oscarkorus@gmail.com

STATE FRATERNAL DIRECTOR

FRANK HORAK

Office: 254-773-1575 (ext. 177) • Mobile: 254-534-0681 frankh@spjst.com

TERRITORY MANAGERS EAST TERRITORY

KERRY HERRINGTON

281-704-5737 • kerryh@spjst.com

NORTH TERRITORY

CHRIS LIEBUM, LUTCF®, NSSA® 346-261-2100 • chrisl@spjst.com

WEST TERRITORY

RALPH JUAREZ, FIC, FICF 361-537-5506 • ralphj@spjst.com

DISTRICT YOUTH COUNSELORS

District One - Hannah Kovar PO Box 28, Snook, TX 77878-0028 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu

District Two - Patsy Koslovsky 764 S St Joseph Rd, Burlington, TX 76519-3108 254-718-1606 • patsyk2011@yahoo.com

District Three - Mary Steinman 1136 Westgrove Dr, Saginaw, TX 76179-3463 817-731-2580 • appamary@sbcglobal.net

District Four

Contact State Fraternal Director Frank Horak 254-534-0681 • frankh@spjst.com

District Five - Kristen Bender Jones 9010 Banker St, Needville, TX 77461-9339 936-556-3248 • joneskb06@hotmail.com

District Six - Lisa Bubela

1405 Divide St, El Campo, TX 77437-6152

979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com

District Seven - April Haag-Adkins

814 Madison Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130-3918 830-624-9242 • aprhoward@gmail.com

CAMP KUBENA

• 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com

Thank You, Volunteers!

“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.”

Spoken by Greek philosopher Aristotle over 2300 years ago, one of the most ancient quotes about volunteering offers proof that giving back to the community is hardly a new concept.

From visiting the elderly, serving in a soup kitchen, or assisting at an animal shelter, there are no shortage of ways volunteers can help make a difference. The greatest thing about volunteering are the benefits it offers to individual recipients, their communities, and the volunteers themselves.

National Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 16 to 22! Thank you to all of our outstanding volunteers for the time, energy, and talent they bring to SPJST and our lodges across Texas. We applaud and celebrate our volunteers for the extraordinary difference they make in SPJST.

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

— Muhammad Ali

“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.”

— Sherry Anderson

“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.”

— H. Jackson Brown Jr.

“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” — Oscar

Wilde

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey

Hepburn

“Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another.” —

Erma Bombeck

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?” — Martin

Luther King, Jr.

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines

April 24 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., Apr. 17 at 5 p.m.

May 8 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., May 1 at 5 p.m.

May 22 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., May 15 at 5 p.m.

June 12 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., June 5 at 5 p.m.

June 26 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., June 19 at 5 p.m.

July 10 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., July 3 at 5 p.m. —SPJST—

VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

SPJST FAMILY FUN IMPORTANT DATES &

April 13 Night at the Museum

Czech Heritage Museum, Temple (2)

April 14-16 Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club Garage Sale Fundraiser (3)

April 15 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Casino Night (5)

April 16 District One Annual Meeting • Lodge 9, Snook (1)

April 16 District Six Annual Meeting

Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall, Victoria (6)

April 17-18 Executive Committee Meeting

SPJST Home Office, Temple

April 19 Home Office Closed: Staff Development Day

April 22 Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament (2)

April 22 Lodge 47, Seaton Dance: Czechaholics (2)

April 22 Lodge 81, Needville hosts SPJST Float:

Needville Youth Fair Parade (5)

April 23 District Three Annual Meeting • Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3)

April 23 Lodge 48, Beyersville Bingo Social (2)

April 23 Lodge 219, El Paso Participates in Walk for Wishes

Ascarate Park (4)

April 29 Lodge 219, El Paso Day at the Zoo • El Paso Zoo (4)

April 30 District Five Annual Meeting • Lodge 88, Houston (5)

May 6 Advisory Council (Delegates) Meeting (online)

May 7 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Mother’s Day Lunch (3)

May 13

District Five Youth hosts Night at the Ballpark

Constellation Field, Sugar Land (5)

May 13 Lodge 88, Houston Blue Room Jazz Night (5)

May 22 Lodge 8, Weimar Memorial Service

Oakridge Smokehouse, Schulenburg (6)

May 27 Lodge 25, Ennis hosts National Polka Festival Event (3)

May 29 Home Office Closed: Memorial Day Holiday

June 21-25 State Camp • Camp Kubena, Ledbetter

July 4 Home Office Closed • Fourth of July Holiday

Heart 2 Heart Ladies Fellowship Group at First Baptist Church Robinson expresses thanks

The ‘Heart 2 Heart’ Ladies Fellowship Group at First Baptist Church Robinson display a hat filled with dollar bills and a jar filled with thousands of pennies that were collected at its March monthly meeting.

Dear

Readers, The

ship Group at First Baptist Church Rob inson was very excited to participate in the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive at our March monthly meeting. We were honored to invite Melanie to join our group and speak about this very wor thy cause for deserving SPJST gradu ates. Her speech and demonstration on the art de sign contest was very in formative, and we are submitting our designs with the donations we collected. We appreciate the time she spent with us as we chose this as our March mission, and we feel it was well received by our group.

Sincerely, Debbie

Veselka

Faye Hudson

FBCR Leaders Lodge 24, Cyclone Members —SPJST—

ABOVE: Lodge 24, Cyclone members Faye Hudson, left, and Debbie Veselka display their 100 pennies designs. LEFT: SPJST Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny speaks to the ‘Heart 2 Heart’ fellowship group on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, about SPJST and the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.

Vestnik

‘Heart 2 Heart’ Ladies Fellow

Night at the Museum premieres April 13 at Czech Heritage Museum in Temple

Night at the Museum, a new community engagement series premieres April 13 at the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, located at 19 West French Avenue in Temple, and will continue on the second Thursday of each month through August. The event will run from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and is free of charge to the public.

“This is a new monthly series — an open house for the community to connect and network,” said Brian Vanicek, president of the SPJST Foundation and SPJST Fraternal Life Insurance. “We’re testing the waters for five months and hope to make it a regular event.”

“We want to broaden the perception of what museums are all about,” Vanicek said. “We want the Czech Heritage Museum to be a relevant part of the Temple community. We are planning to host a variety of events and activities ranging from live performances and exhibits to food and beverage tastings and outdoor events.”

Three well-known Central Texas businesses — Ratibor Country Grill, Kolache Kitchen, and Mikeska Distributing — will be providing food and beverages for the inaugural Night at the Museum event. Future celebrations will be on May 11, June 8, July 13, and August 10, and businesses interested in sponsoring a gathering should contact Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

“If your business, civic or cultural organization, church, or school group is working to make a positive difference in Temple, you are invited,” he said. “Likewise, if you’ve got a project or coming event to promote, this is your time to spread the word. We’ll have an open mic for you to promote your activities. We’re also inviting individuals who are engaged in the performing arts – youth/collegiate/adult – to present snippets of upcoming performances, including plays, musical performances, dance ensembles, and theatrics.”

Popular Central Texas artist Lisa Chase will present a collection of 12 paintings that will be sold during an online auction during the month of April. Proceeds from the auction will go toward a newly created memorial scholarship in honor of Susan Chandler, the museum’s curator and director who died unexpectedly on September 4, 2022.

“Susan had been working to establish a local advisory team consisting of movers and shakers from Temple’s business and civic communities,” Vanicek said. “The advisory team has been reestablished and is already making a positive difference.” One of the group’s members is RVOS Corporate Secretary Jamie Smith, whose organization will be hosting the state’s first Czech-American Heritage Run — a 5K walk and run on October 7 that will support the Temple museum.

Please contact Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com or 254-534-2902 for more information on the Night at the Museum program.

—SPJST—

Come

A Spirited Open House in Temple’s Historic District

Czech Heritage Museum • 19 West French Avenue

Celebrating National Volunteer Month in April

Thursday, April 13 • 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Admission Free

Thanks to These April Sponsors

Mikeska Distributing • Ratibor Country Grill & Catering

Kolache Kitchen • The SPJST Foundation

If your business, civic or cultural organization, church or school group is working to make a positive difference in Temple and the surrounding area, Night at the Museum is your opportunity to spread the good word while you mix and mingle with friends old and new. Night at the Museum is a spring and summer series hosted by the SPJST Foundation dedicated to establishing the museum as a community center with regularly scheduled activities including performances and events. Night at the Museum open houses are scheduled for April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13 and August 10. To showcase your group or business at Night at the Museum, including sponsorships, please contact Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com

SPJST Holiday Tour of the Czech Republic Available for Booking; Spaces Limited

Dear Members and Friends,

Greetings from the SPJST Home Office!

It is my great pleasure to invite you to join our SPJST family on the 2023 SPJST Holiday Tour of the Czech Republic. Working with professional organizers in Texas and the Czech Republic, we’ve crafted a comprehensive 11-day journey that will connect you to the historical heritage, culture, and customs of the Czech Republic. Our route will deliver you to some of the Czech Republic’s most popular destinations but also includes some of the rural, lesser-known places. And since we will be touring the Czech Republic in early December, we will be there to experience the holiday charm connected with the Christmas season, including Christmas markets in Prague, Karlovy Vary, and Cesky Krumlov! A partial listing of the many places we’ll see and visit can be found in the tour announcement which appears to the right of this article.

Whether it’s your first time to visit the Czech Republic or if you’ve been a dozen times or more, the 2023 SPJST Holiday Tour is brimming with the potential for memorable experiences. We’ll have a chartered bus for the duration of our stay so getting around will be easy. You’ll be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as our experienced driver and guide escort us to our destinations and provide us with interesting background information along the way.

Group travel is great fun in that it allows folks to enjoy the same experiences, connect, and make new friends. I recall my first group tour to the Czech Republic in 2014 which was organized by the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange. The daily excursions, meals, and shared experiences brought our group together in so many wonderful ways that life-long friendships were initiated. Now Joan and I look forward to joining you on what promises to be a memorable holiday tour of the Czech Republic!

You’ll find that your cost to join in the SPJST’s inaugural tour of the Czech Republic is exceptionally reasonable. Two of our big objectives in putting together this trip were to present an outstanding tour and to pass along the group pricing discounts to our members and friends. Please know that space is limited and booking information is available on the SPJST.org website. In the meantime, you’ll want to go online and perhaps scope out some of the many places we’ll be exploring. If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call at 254-534-2902, or direct your inquiries to

2023 SPJST HOLIDAY TOUR CZECH REPUBLIC

DECEMBER 11

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE*

11 NIGHTS HOTEL PRIVATE BUS FOR DURATION OF TOUR

CZECH-SPEAKING GUIDE

BREAKFAST DAILY AT HOTEL

11 ADDITIONAL MEALS INCLUDED TOUR AND ENTRANCE FEES

Per Person in a Double Room: $3615

Per Person in a Single Room: $4046

NON-MEMBERS, PLEASE ADD $100 PER PERSON.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY! TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE, GO TO SPJST.ORG AND FOLLOW THE SPJST HOLIDAY TOUR LINK! Accompany your SPJST friends and family for an amazing and spirited holiday experience in the Czech Republic! Itinerary includes the following locales: LIDICE: Monument and Museum • KUTNA HORA: Sedlec Ossuary, Cathedral of Saint Barbara and King’s Palace • KARLOVY VARY: Becherovka Museum, Natural Springs, Museum of Glass Moser • PILSEN: Great Synagogue, Saint Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Pilsner Urquell Brewery • CESKY KRUMLOV: Christmas Market and City Tour, Holasovice Baroque Farming Village • ZNOJMO Vineyards and Wine Tasting, Underground Labyrinth, HRUSKY (Tentatively Scheduled City Welcome), VELEHRAD: Basilica Tour • VIZOVICE: Jelinek Distillery Tour • ROZNOV: Wallachian Open Air Museum • Radhost Mountains • TROJANOVICE • FRENSTAT: Muzeum Frenstat • HOSTYN: Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady • PRAGUE: Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Town Square, Christmas Market, Performance at the Estates Theater (Tentatively Scheduled).

*PACKAGE INCLUDES ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE FROM GEORGE BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT IN HOUSTON. Price without air is the package price less $700. If anyone chooses to do their own flight, they should plan to arrive and depart at the same time as the group in order to get on the transportation. If they are unable to arrive at the same time, it will be up to the individuals to catch up with the tour at the hotel.

vanicek@spjst.com. Visit spjst.org/tours to register. Thank you for your kind attention.

Fraternally,

Brian Vanicek President/CEO —SPJST—

LEAVING TEXAS NOVEMBER 29 - RETURNING TO TEXAS

From The SPJST Executive Committee

January 17 and 18, 2023, Minutes of the Regular Meeting of SPJST Executive Committee held at the SPJST Home Office Temple, Texas

PRESIDING

The meeting was called to order by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 10 a.m.

ATTENDING

Board of Directors—Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chair of the Board of Directors; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chair of the Board of Directors; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven.

Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek, President/CEO; Delisle Doherty, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller.

Recording Secretary—Linda Hill, Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer.

OPENING OF MEETING

The meeting was opened by Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke with a welcome to all. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed in respect for our departed members. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led the Executive Committee in an opening prayer with an extra blessing for SPJST Honorary District Seven Director Robert “Bob” Bayer, who passed away on November 26, 2022.

RESOLUTION OF RESPECT

A Resolution of Respect was read by Chief Financial Officer Mikeska in honor of SPJST Honorary District Seven Director Robert “Bob” Bayer. Director House made a motion, seconded by Director Victorick, to accept the Resolution of Respect, and it carried unanimously.

WHEREAS the SPJST Executive Committee and the SPJST membership was saddened to learn of the death Bob Bayer; and,

WHEREAS Brother Bayer left surviving him to mourn his departure, his wife Polly; son John Bayer and wife Peggy; daughter Roxanne and husband Larry Bertrand; daughter Wendy Pruski; grandchildren Kevin, Josh (Donna), Zach, and Hope Bayer,

and Lian (Robert) Lynn; great-grandchildren Colt and Tillie Lynn, Atlas Bayer, and Jack Bayer; sisters MaryAnn (Al) Henke, Ruth Bayer, and Linda (Don) Johnson; brothers-in-law Erich Bielefeld, Joe Bob (Laura Lea) Pavliska, James “Pee Wee” (Leysa) Pavliska, Richard Blubaugh, Jeff (Carol) Pavliska; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom, with all the members of the SPJST Executive Committee, mourn his departure: and,

WHEREAS the Board of Directors of SPJST desire to record their sorrow at the death on November 26, 2022, of Honorary District Seven Director Bob Bayer, who had worked harmoniously and diligently for the good of the Society and served SPJST in the capacity of District Seven Director for 34 years and as Supreme Lodge Chairman for four years. Brother Bayer was also president of Lodge 107, Floresville for more than 30 years and a sales agent. He will be missed and remembered by his many friends mourning his passing. Brother Bayer leaves an enduring legacy of loyal service to the members of SPJST.

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of SPJST meeting as a body in session on January 17, 2023, hereby gives its formal expression of sympathy and does hereby note in its records the passing from this life of a loyal member, who was respected by his associates and loved by his family and friends.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be tendered to the family as an expression of heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement.

FOR THE SPJST

Board of Directors

Brian Vanicek, President/CEO

Leonard Mikeska, Chief

Financial Officer

ANNOUNCEMENTS

President/CEO Vanicek announced the visitors who would be joining the meeting: Larry White and Stephen Gonzalez of AQS Asset Management at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 17; Rob Clift, executive director of Camp Kubena, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 18; and Kristy Davis, CPA of JRBT Certified Public Accountants at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 18.

APPROVAL OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MINUTES

The October 18 and 19, 2022, minutes of the regular meeting of the Executive Committee were reviewed. Director House moved to accept the minutes as presented. Director Pospisil seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

MANAGEMENT TEAM MEETING NOTES

The management team meeting notes were reviewed. Director House moved to accept the team meeting notes as written. Director Victorick seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES

The Special Called meeting minutes were reviewed. Director Victorick moved to accept the minutes as presented. Director House seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS

President/CEO Vanicek, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty, Chief Financial Officer Mikeska, Controller Vajdak, and Vice President of Communications Zavodny each presented a report on their old business. Each officer’s report was accepted as presented.

LODGE OPERATIONS MANUAL

The lodge operations manual was discussed in detail. Director Victorick made a motion to approve the manual as presented. Director Stavinoha seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

SELLING OF LODGE HALL BUILDINGS

A motion was made by Director Davis that when a lodge sells its building, all the money received would be placed in the lodge management fund. Director House seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

THIRD QUARTER INVESTMENTS

Chief Financial Officer Mikeska presented the investments for the third quarter. Director Vahalik made a motion to accept the sales presented, seconded by Director House. The motion carried unanimously.

CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Director Victorick made a motion to establish an advisory committee for the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center. Director Stavinoha seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Members of the committee are Director Pospisil, Director House, Director Vahalik, President/CEO Vanicek, Vice President of Communications Zavodny, and Chief Financial Officer Mikeska.

The Czech Heritage Museum building is now owned by SPJST, and the building is covered by insurance.

RESOLUTION FOR CONFLICT-OF-INTEREST STATEMENT

A resolution was adopted concerning the conflict-ofinterest statement. Director House made a motion to adopt the presented resolution, and it was seconded by Director Pospisil. Motion carried unanimously. All directors, officers, and employees are asked to complete and return the statement.

DIRECTORS’ AUDIT REPORT

Director House gave the report of the directors’ audit report. All accounts were in order. Human Resources Administrator Nancy Miller has the written notes.

Recess was from 10:57 to 11:10 a.m.

AQS INVESTMENT REPORT

Larry White and Stephen Gonzalez of AQS presented a report on SPJST investment performance and reported on book yield increase from 4.37 percent to 5.16 percent since January 1, 2021.

On the IPS (Investment Policy Statement), no changes were made. A motion was made by Director House and seconded by Director Pospisil to leave it as is. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess for lunch was from 12:12 to 1:12 p.m.

DISTRICT MEETING REVITALIZATION

Director Victorick made a motion to increase the incentive per member attending the district meeting from $10 to $20 per member, second by Director Vahalik. The motion carried unanimously. This incentive replaces the previous district funding.

DIRECTORS’ REPORTS

All directors’ reports were accepted as presented.

Recess from 2:25 to 2:45 p.m.

NEW BUSINESS

The Executive Officers each presented a report on their new business.

LODGE MEETINGS

Lodge 13, Dime Box has requested permission to meet bi-monthly. Motion made by Director Victorick to approve the request was seconded by Director Vahalik. Motion carried unanimously.

Lodge 87, Temple has requested permission to meet on a quarterly basis. We have received a written request from Dan Kacir. Motion made by Director Pospisil to approve the request was seconded by Director House. Motion carried unanimously.

INVESTMENT REPORT

Chief Financial Officer Mikeska presented his report of investments. Motion was made by Director Pospisil, seconded by Director House, to ratify the investments for the period beginning October 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. The motion carried unanimously.

INTEREST RATES

Changes to interest paid out on annuities as of February 1, 2023, were presented. With a motion by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House, the changes were unanimously approved. The three-year annuity has been increased to 4.25 percent. Motion carried unanimously.

Director Victorick moved, seconded by Director House, to leave interest payout rates on all other certificates unchanged from February 1, 2023, to April 30, 2023. The motion carried unanimously.

UNIVERSAL LIFE PRODUCT

Director House moved, seconded by Director Vahalik, to leave interest payouts rates on universal life certificates unchanged from February 1, 2023, to April 30, 2023. The motion carried unanimously.

REAL ESTATE DELINQUENCIES

Chief Financial Officer Mikeska, reported on three delinquencies. They are being managed as presented.

2024 CONVENTION

Concerning the Convention, it was discussed to possibly have a prize drawing (similar to the ‘125 Prizes for 125 Years’ drawing held in 2022). A motion was made by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House, to table the item until the April meeting for further discussion. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess for the day at 5:10 pm.

Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke reconvened the meeting at 8:20 a.m. on Wednesday, January 18. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led an opening prayer.

NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED

Controller Officer Roy Vajdak discussed the 2023 SPJST budget.

It was noted that there would be 125 delegates eligible for the 2024 SPJST Convention.

YOUTH PROGRAM REVITALIZATION

A motion was made by Director Pospisil, seconded by Director Davis, to give a vote of confidence to Vice President of Communications Zavodny and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak concerning the updates to the youth program. Motion carried unanimously.

Recess from 10 to 10:20 am.

CAMP KUBENA

Camp Kubena Executive Director Rob Clift presented a comprehensive report on camp operations.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

The Board of Directors entered executive session from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Recess for lunch was from 12 to 1 p.m.

Kristy Davis, CPA from JRBT Certified Public Accountants, discussed the program that they will be using when they begin their audit at the Home Office on April 10, 2023.

Directors expressed how successful the meeting was and thanked everyone for a great meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

With no further business, Director Davis moved for adjournment. Director Pospisil seconded the motion, and the motion to adjourn carried unanimously.

Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke adjourned the meeting at 2:50 p.m.

The next regular meeting of the Executive Committee will begin at 8 a.m. on April 18, 2023. Fraternally submitted by, Linda R. Hill, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, CFO —SPJST—

DISTRICT DIRECTORS’ REPORTS

District One Director

Donnie Victorick

Activity Report

November—Lodge 9, Snook meeting; Camp Kubena Strategic Planning meeting in Temple; Meeting with Brian, Melanie, Frank, and Victor Mendez, president of Lodge 186, Caldwell, to discuss revitalization of lodge.

December—Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center Banquet honoring SPJST in La Grange; attended Honorary District Seven Director Bob Bayer’s rosary in Floresville; Executive Committee meeting at Home Office; Lodge 9, Snook meeting; Lodge 67, Schulenburg Christmas social; Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club Christmas program and social; Lodge 141, Sealy meeting and Christmas social. Fraternally,

Donnie Victorick

District One Director

District Two Director

Jesse Pospisil

Activity Report

October—attended Lodge 29, Taylor monthly meeting; attended SPJST Executive Committee Meeting; attended sales agents’ ethics class (online); attended District Two Fall Fun Day; attended sales agents’ annuities class (online).

November—attended lodge refunds committee meeting (online); attended Lodge 29, Taylor Christmas meeting; attended Special Called Executive Committee meeting; attended Lodge 24, Cyclone Christmas party and installed lodge officers; delivered discretionary checks to Lodges 20, Granger, 15, Buck-

holts, 80, Holland, and 87, Temple; attended Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point Christmas party and installed lodge officers; attended sales meeting with Kerry Herrington at Home Office; attended Lodge 18, Elgin monthly meeting; attended SPJST Home Office Staff Christmas party.

Fraternally, Jesse Pospisil

District Two Director

District Three Director

John Engelke

Activity Report

October—Lodge 66, Waco meeting; Cars and Guitars at Camp Kubena.

November—Lodge 54, West meeting and elections; Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting and elections; Camp Kubena meeting in Temple; deliver checks to Salvation Army and Caritas in Waco; prize drawings in Temple; Lodge 66, Waco meeting and elections; take checks to West Historian dancers; take prizes to Lodge 25, Ennis winners.

December—Lodge 180, Burleson meeting and party; Lodge 84, Dallas party; Lodge 6, Cottonwood meeting and party; Executive Committee meeting at Home Office; Temple Christmas parade; Lodge 35, Elk meeting and party; Lodge 66, Waco meeting and party at Pivovar; check presentation to History of West Museum; funeral for Valerie Barta’s mother; take desserts to Home Office.

January—Camp Kubena meeting in Temple; take prizes to Mesquite; audit at Home Office; Board meeting at Home Office.

Fraternally, District Three Director

John Engelke

District Four Director

Bobby Davis

Activity Report

October—Executive Committee Meeting in Temple; Executive Committee meeting (online); Wichita Falls - meeting with lodge and Ray Esparza.

November—Lodge 49, Rowena meeting; work with Leonard Jansa; lodge refunds committee meeting (online); Wall for Lodge 160, San Angelo annual meeting; lodge refunds committee meeting (online).

December—Lodge 157, Lubbock meeting with lodge officers; Lodge 49, Rowena Christmas party; Special Called meeting at Home Office; meeting with Ralph Juarez and agent; Lodge 230, Midland meeting; Lodge 229, Abilene Christmas party; meeting with San Angelo Chamber of Commerce.

January—Lodge 73, Seymour meeting; visit SPJST Cemetery; visit Lodge 76, Wichita Falls by phone; attended San Angelo Chamber of Commerce meeting; Chamber of Commerce meeting on com-

munity project; agent training with Ralph Juarez and agents.

Fraternally, District Four Director

Bobby Davis

District Five Director

Bradley Stavinoha

Activity Report

November—Committee meeting, Lodge 88, Houston meeting; State Czech Heritage Society meeting in Rosenberg; Legislative conference in Austin; Lodge 81, Needville meeting; lodge refunds committee meeting.

December—Country Christmas in Needville; Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center banquet; Lodge 88, Houston Christmas party; bond market investment meeting in Sugar Land; Lodge 88, Houston meeting; Lodge 142, Houston meeting; youth group - decorate assisted living windows and lodge meeting in Needville; Lodge 81, Needville meeting

January—Portfolio review - Madison investments in Sugar Land; Executive Committee meeting.

Commentary

I am excited to see what 2023 holds for SPJST. In just a couple of years, SPJST is up 110 basis points on the book yield and one year investments are at 6 percent. We are just under 38,000 members and now at $261 million in assets.

I also look forward to our new district get-togethers or “spring fling.” We hope to increase participation and attendance. Lots of changes are coming for these get-togethers. The board also looks forward to the new lodge incentive program. We believe the changes will make your lodge more successful.

Here is a small amount of perspective at this moment that is similar to the time SPJST was formed in 1897. Joe Rogan, the famous podcaster, had an interesting article that I will share with you:

Imagine you were born in 1900. When you are age 14, World War II starts, and ends on your 18th birthday with 22 million people killed. Later in the year, a Spanish Flu epidemic hits the planet and runs until age 20 with 50 million dead from it in two years.

When your 29, the Great Depression begins. Unemployment hits 25 percent, global GDP drops 27 percent. This runs until you are 33. The country nearly collapses along with the world economy. When you turn 39, World War II starts and you’re still not over the hill yet.

When your 41, the United States is fully pulled into World War II. Between your 39th and 45th birthdays, 75 million people perish, and the holocaust kills 12 million. At age 52, the Korean war starts with 5 million dead.

At 64, the Vietnam War begins, and doesn’t end for many years with 4 million dead from the conflict. Ap-

proaching your 62nd birthday, you have the Cuban Missile Crisis, a tipping point in the Cold War. Life on planet Earth could have ended. Great leaders prevented this.

As you turn 75, the Vietnam War finally ends. Still have looming nuclear threat from Russia. Think of everyone on the planet born in 1900. How do you survive all of that? A kid in 1985 didn’t think their 85-year-old grandparent understood how hard school is. Yet, those grandparents/great-grandparents survived through everything listed above.

Perspective is an amazing art. As 2022 ends, let’s try and keep things in perspective. Let’s be smart. Help each other out, and we will get through all of this. In the history of the world, there has never been a storm that lasted. This too, shall pass. Fraternally, District Five Director

Bradley Stavinoha

District Six Director

Annie Vahalik

Activity Report

October—Cars and Guitars and Camp Kubena

November—Lodge 184, Moulton quarterly meeting; Lodge 32, Victoria quarterly meeting; Lodge 4, Hallettsville quarterly meeting; Lodge 41, Port Lavaca quarterly meeting; drawing for 125th anniversary raffle prizes at Home Office; Lodge 8, Weimar quarterly meeting.

December—Lodge 97, Placedo Christmas brunch; Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center Gala in La Grange; Lodge 23, Moravia quarterly meeting and Christmas party; Executive Committee Special Called meeting in Temple; Lodge 32, Victoria Christmas party; Lodge 4, Hallettsville Christmas party; Lodge 151, Wharton quarterly meeting, 50-year member recognition; checked on Velehrad Cemetery.

Commentary

Happy New Year! 2023 is off to a great start at SPJST. We’ve had another busy meeting and with excellent reports from all the officers and information presented, we made decisions that will continue to move SPJST forward.

Thank you to the Fraternal Department for the 42 Progressive Domino Tournament. It had a good attendance, and everyone appreciated how well organized it was. The Insurance Department has had online training and continues to give its agents the information and tools they need to be successful as they serve our members and bring in new members.

I am excited about the upcoming year and look forward to participating in all the projects and activities with our members.

Fraternally,

Annie Vahalik District Six Director

District Seven Director

Regina House

Activity Report

October—Visit Honorary District Seven Director

Bob Bayer in hospital; attended District Seven Fall Fun Day hosted by Lodge 185, New Braunfels; special called meeting; online meeting; attended and assisted at Cars and Guitars at Camp Kubena.

November—Meeting for lodge refunds committee (online); Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting; lodge refunds committee meeting (online); attend funeral for Bob Bayer; Lodge 117, Robstown meeting; Lodge 202, Jourdanton meeting and Christmas party; Lodge 258, Seguin meeting and Christmas party; Lodge 133, San Antonio meeting and Christmas party; attend Home Office Staff Christmas party; Lodge 185, New Braunfels holiday meeting/party.

January—Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting; Audit Committee meeting; Executive Committee meeting.

Commentary

Thank you to all the officers, staff, and fellow directors for another great board meeting. A lot of good discussions were held concerning the upcoming changes in the fraternal and youth department, and I feel confident that we are heading in the right direction.

I also want to thank Rob Clift for his presentation and for tirelessly working to improve Camp Kubena. I’m looking forward to a great camping experience this summer.

Many thanks are also given to AQS for its continued dedication to making SPJST’s investment portfolio a positive one.

Fraternally, District Seven Director Regina House —SPJST—

March 16, 2023, Minutes of the Special Called Meeting of SPJST Executive Committee held via online conference

PRESIDING

The meeting was called to order by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 11 a.m.

ATTENDING

Board of Directors—Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chair of the Board of Directors; John Engelke - District Three/Chair of the Board of Directors; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven.

Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek, President/CEO; Delisle Doherty, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer.

OPENING OF MEETING

The meeting was opened by Board Chair Engelke, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. A moment of silence was observed in respect for our departed members.

President/CEO Vanicek announced the meeting was primarily an informative session to bring the Board up-to-date on various matters.

President/CEO Vanicek informed the Board that an SPJST lodge failed to renew its ad valorem (property tax) exemption. As a result, it ended up owing a considerable amount to the county in property taxes. Because the delinquency had been allowed to continue for two years, the county was preparing to take legal action in order to collect. President/CEO Vanicek indicated that he was able to secure a one-month grace period before the county would take legal action. Efforts to involve the lodge in the matter were largely unsuccessful, and a decision was made by Home Office management to intercede and pay the taxes in

order to retain the property. President/CEO Vanicek indicated that it would likely be necessary for the lodge to sell its property in order to reimburse the Home Office for its expenses. He recommended that the Home Office take such steps as necessary to follow existing protocol relating to the sale of the lodge property.

Director Engelke moved that the lodge be asked to put the building up for sale. Director House seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

President/CEO Vanicek shared information on plans for a sponsored tour of the Czech Republic for SPJST members. He shared details of the 11-day tour which will be limited to 48 participants. The fee for any non-members guests will be $100 more than the member fee as the member will receive a membership discount. Airline and hotel are included.

President/CEO Vanicek announced the Texans of Czech Ancestry (TOCA) appreciation banquet in La Grange on March 25. SPJST will sponsor a wine and cheese reception, and President/CEO Vanicek asked for volunteers from the Board to assist in hosting the event.

President/CEO Vanicek gave an update on Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje and that lodge’s ongoing efforts to proceed with the sale of its building and property. It was agreed by common consent that the lodge should proceed posthaste with the hiring of a licensed appraiser – lowest bid – to furnish the lodge with a certified appraisal of its property.

There being no further business, Director House moved for adjournment. Director Vahalik seconded the motion, and the motion to adjourn carried unanimously.

Board Chair Engelke adjourned the meeting at 11:55 a.m.

Fraternally submitted by, Leonard Mikeska

Chief Financial Officer

—SPJST—

From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing

It’s Your Life

The Gift of Honor

Excerpt from “Daily Insights with Zig Ziglar” (an old but highly recommended book)

Many of us come to a startling conclusion about our parents. In our teens, we believe they are one card short of a full deck. But when we are a bit older, we realize they are really wonderful people . . . flawed, but wonderful. Families are the glue of any society, and our relationships with our parents are important from birth

to death. There’s never a time when we cease to be our parents’ child, and the need to honor them never ends.

Some people read the words of this verse: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” –Exodus 20:12 and understandably grit their teeth and mutter “Never!” They’ve been deeply wounded by their parents, and they’ve spent their lives recovering from the hurts they endured.

Whether our parents were the best on earth or the worst, God gave us a directive

to honor them. That doesn’t mean we approve of all their behavior, or we excuse the wounds they’ve inflicted on us. It means we speak words of appreciation and not complain to them . . . and any time we mention them to others. A lady who was severely abused by her father didn’t follow this pattern and learned to say, “At least he played a part in bringing me into this world. I’m thankful to him for that.”

Speaking words of affirmation to and about our parents has dramatically positive effects. God promises that our obedience in this area results in long life. This promise isn’t repeated for any other command so we are wise to pay attention! How does that work? Learning to treat our parents with respect and honor takes a lot of pressure off one of our most important relationships. If we can relate to them in a positive way, we probably relate to everyone else in our lives with love, respect, and thankfulness. When stress goes down, life expectancy goes up. That’s

God’s promise.

Make a list of things you appreciate about your parents, even if you were abused or abandoned.

“Let parents bequeath to their children not riches, but the spirit of reverence.” —Plato

My door is always open; figuratively and literally. Stay blessed, Delisle

L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049 —SPJST—

2023 SPJST Membership Drive Into The Community

MARCH AWARDS TO LODGES

Congratulations to these lodges who qualified for $100 membership drive awards and move on to the next month in “The Survivor Game”:

Lodge 88, Houston - 31 points

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - 14 points

1 point for a new certificate on an existing member

2 points for a new member

3 points for a new member through a referral card

Here are the lodge membership drive results thru March.

Interesting Facts

During the first quarter, six lodges earned incentives:

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi - $200

Lodge 88, Houston - $600

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - $200

Lodge 160, San Angelo - $200

Lodge 202, Jourdanton - $100

Lodge 219, El Paso - $100

Forty-four lodges had certificates written this quarter. This is the most different lodges with certificates

written in one quarter since at least 2010.

Four lodges are still alive in “The Survivor Game.” They are:

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi

Lodge 88, Houston

Lodge 92, Fort Worth

Lodge 160, San Angelo

A new quarter began on April 1. Everyone can still earn incentives. Have a safe and blessed week

Delisle S. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing —SPJST—

District News

2023 Annual District Meetings

District One - Sunday, April 16 at Lodge 9, Snook

District Two - Sunday, August 6 at Lodge 48, Beyersville

District Three - Sunday, April 23 at Lodge 6, Cottonwood

District Five - Sunday, April 30 at Lodge 88, Houston

District Six - Sunday, April 16 at Cathedral Center St. Gabriel Hall, Victoria

District One Annual Meeting Agenda

Sunday, April 16, 2023 • Lodge 9, Snook Hall 457 County Road 269W • Snook, Texas

The District One Spring Meeting will be Sunday, April 16, 2023, at the lodge hall in Snook. Lodge 9, Snook will host the meeting with registration starting at 12:30 p.m. Lodge 9 is located at 457 CR 269W. A meal will be served from 12 to 1 p.m. The meeting will start at 1:30 p.m. This is also the time for election of district officers and the director of the

District Three Annual Meeting April 23 at Lodge 6, Cottonwood

The District Three Annual Meeting will be held at Lodge 6, Cottonwood in West on Sunday, April 23, 2023. Please bring canned goods to donate to a local food bank. The agenda is included on page 11 The minutes from the 2022 annual meeting appear below. We look forward to seeing you on April 23.

Dana McAdams District Three Secretary —SPJST—

District Three presents 2022 annual meeting minutes

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers board. Youth members will go to the city park to paint rocks and play games. I hope to have a large turnout for our meeting. Hope to see you there. Fraternally, Randy Gaas

District One President —SPJST—

12 to 1 p.m. - Meal Served • 12:30 p.m. - Registration 1:30 pm. - Meeting Begins

501(c)(3) Director’s Report

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers ........................................................Donnie Victorick

Appoint Audit Committee ...............................................................................Randy Gaas

Call Meeting to Order ......................................................................................Randy Gaas

Pledge of Allegiance.............................................................District One King and Queen

Welcome by Lodge 9 President.......................................................................Donnie Hejl

Roll Call of Officers and Lodges.......................................................................Sandra Stone

Recognition of Guests......................................................................................Randy Gaas

Reading of Minutes........................................................................................Sandra Stone

Tribute to Departed Members ........................................Kyle Skrabanek/Ronnie Roesler

Reading of 50- and 75-Year and Age 96 Members ............................Randy/Kyle/Ronnie

Treasurer’s Report ........................................................................................Sharon Kovar

District Youth Counselor Report .................................................................Hannah Kovar

Governance Committee Report ..........................................................................Bill Orsak

Executive Committee Report ................................................................... Delisle Doherty

District Director’s Report...........................................................................Donnie Victorick

Old Business Audit Committee Report

New Business

Election of District Officers for 2023 and 501(c)(3) Director

Selection of Site, Time, Date of Fall Fun Day and 2024 Annual Meeting Adjournment

—SPJST—

The District Three Annual Meeting was held Sunday, April 24, 2022, at Lodge 92, Fort Worth. President Sister Lori Pace (154) called the meeting to order at 1:13 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Youth Motto were led by District Three Flag Bearer Sister Macy Jones (154). President Pace (154) then introduced the 2021-2022 District Three Royalty Queen Macy Jones (154), Duchess Morgan Oliver (25), King Preston Sullivan (25), and Duke Luke Holland (25) - not present. She also introduced 2022-2023 Royalty Queen Madison Holland (25), Duchess June Holland (25) - not present, King Preston Sullivan (25), and Duke Luke Holland (25) - not present. Then Queen Macy Jones (154) and King Preston Sullivan (25) led the youth and membership in the Camp Kubena prayer and a prayer for the meal.

Brother John Paprskar (92), president of Lodge 92, Fort Worth, welcomed the District Three members and invited everyone to ask questions about the hall.

First Vice President Sister CarrieAnn Jones (154) recognized District Three Director Brother John Engelke (66), SPJST Vice President of Communications Sister Melanie Zavodny (246), and State Fraternal Director Brother Frank Horak (80). Sister Jones (154) also recognized a visitor from District Two, Sister Joan Shelton (47).

The youth then read a poem in memoriam for our departed members, and Vice President Jones (154) read the

names of each departed member. The youth donated $1 to the Bessie Petr Scholarship Fund for each departed member. There were 104 departed members. Copies of the lists with these members will be part of the official minutes.

President Pace (154) recognized District Three members who have reached the age of 96, 75-year members, and 50year members.

President Pace (154) then introduced today’s nominating committee - Sister Lynda Novak (84), today’s auditing committee - Sister Diana Engelke (66), Brother Michael Galler (66), and Sister Joan Shelton (47), and today’s rock contest judges - Brother Gene Tesar (92), Sister Jeanette Tesar (92), and Sister Lisa Sullivan (25).

President Pace (154) asked for the reading of the minutes from the last District Three meeting. Sister Vicki Sims (84) made a motion to accept the minutes from the last meeting as printed in the Vestnik by Secretary Sister Dana McAdams (66). The motion, seconded by Sister Lynda Novak (84), passed.

Treasurer Sister Mary Steinman (154) reviewed the treasurer’s report that was available at the sign-in table. Sister McAdams (66) made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, and Sister Novak (84) seconded the motion. The motion was then passed. A copy of the report will be part of the official minutes.

President Pace (154) then paused the adult meeting to recognize District Youth Counselor Sister Mary Steinman (154) and to hand the meeting over to the district youth officers. The district youth officers are President Brother Preston Sullivan (25), Vice President Sister Holly Jones (154), Secretary Sister Macy Jones (154), and Reporter Sister McKenzie Burcie (154) who was absent. Present were 12 youth and two visitors – C.J. Reynolds and Alina McLain. New member welcomed was Paige Oliver (25). Things in old business were Youth Achievement Day (see the Vestnik) and LIT camp.

Under new business, there was discussion about the new age/grade groups for YAD, upcoming LIT camp (June 23 to 26, 2022), junior camp (July 7 to 10, 2022), State YAD (July 30, 2022), and Westfest. Then, the youth elected new officers: President Sister Holly Jones (154), Vice President Sister Madison Holland (25), Secretary Brother Miles Jones (154), and Reporter Sister Morgan Oliver (25).

President Pace (154) then reconvened the adult meeting and asked committee members to give their reports.

Brother Michael Galler (66) gave the Governance Committee report. Sister Vicki Sims (84) gave the FAC report.

Sister Diana Engelke (66) gave the audit committee report. Vice President of Communications Sister Melanie Zavodny (246), State Fraternal Director Brother Frank Horak (80), and District Three Director/Chair of the Board of Directors Brother John Engelke (66) gave Home Office reports. Sister Zavodny (246) spoke about the upcoming 125th anniversary of SPJST and the growth that she has seen in the leadership of Chair Engelke (66) during board meetings. She also encouraged everyone to focus on volunteerism (reporting hours). She thanked Lodge 92 for the meal, commented on the appearance of the hall, and mentioned how professional all of the workers looked in their blue shirts. Brother Horak (80) then mentioned some possible changes in camp. Brother Engelke (66) spoke about the new signage that has been purchased for each lodge. He also mentioned the 125th anniversary event in La Grange, upcoming scholarships awards, and changes in interest rates at the Home Office. Brother Engelke (66) also mentioned several upcoming state and District Three events and that SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek’s office has been working on a new lodge officers’ procedures handbook that should be approved sometime soon and sent out to lodge officers.

Sister Sims (84) then announced the winners of today’s rock contest.

Youth

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade

1st - Paige Oliver (25)

2nd - Victoria Oliver (25)

3rd to 5th Grade

1st - Layne Oliver (25)

6th to 8th Grade

1st - Morgan Oliver (25)

9th to 12th Grade

1st - Miles Jones (154)

2nd - Holly Jones (154)

3rd - Macy Jones (154)

Adult

1st - Diana Engelke (66)

2nd - Candice Oliver (66)

3rd - Dana McAdams (66)

In the next order of business, Brother Engelke (66) gave a short summary of the recent convention.

Under new business, Sister Steinman (154) mentioned having a District Three Fun Day. Districts Six, Seven, and One were planning to use the October 15 event in La Grange as their district fun day this year. Sister Sims (84) spoke about the Pivovar restaurant and biergarten in Waco. Sister Novak was not sure about the dates and times for the Czech/Slovak Heritage Day event this year. All of these were mentioned as possible fun days for District Three. Sister Engelke (66) made a motion that we have the officers decide on possible outings and fun days and post them in the Vestnik. The motion was seconded by Brother Engelke (66) and passed.

Present were 34 members and three guests attending today’s meeting. A total of 111 canned goods were collected to give to St. Vincent De Paul Center.

The election of officers for the next year was held. Sister Sims (84) made a motion that we no longer elect a second vice president. The motion was seconded by Sister Engelke (66) and passed. New officers were elected upon motion by acclamation by Sister Cheryl Petr (84), seconded by Sister Rita Holland (25). The motion passed. New officers are President Sister Lori Pace (154), Vice President Sister CarrieAnn Jones (154), Secretary Sister Dana McAdams (66), Treasurer/Youth Counselor Sister Mary Steinman (154), FAC Sister Vicki Sims (84), and Flag Bearers Sister Madison Holland (25) and Sister Morgan Oliver (25).

Lodge 6, Cottonwood, asked to host the District Three Spring Meeting for 2023 so Sister Petr (84) made a motion to accept their request, and Sister Novak (84) seconded. The motion passed.

Door prizes were brought by Home Office members and won by: Brother Miles Jones (154) won a stuffed dog. Sister Paige Oliver (25) won a thermal cup. Brother John Paprskar (92) won a charger. Sister Betty Macalik (25) won a baseball cap. Sister Candice Oliver (66) won $20. Sister Victoria Oliver (25) won a cooler, and Brother Loy Jones (154) won a set of pens.

The installation of adult and youth officers occurred with District Director Engelke swearing them in.

The meeting adjourned at 3:40 p.m. Submitted by, Dana McAdams (66) District Three Secretary —SPJST—

District Three Annual Meeting Agenda

Sunday, April 23, 2023 • Lodge 6, Cottonwood

700 South Czech Hall Road • West, Texas

Director John Engelke (66)

Officers - President Lori Pace (154) • Vice President CarrieAnn Jones (154) Secretary Dana McAdams (66) • Treasurer/District Youth Counselor Mary Steinman (154)

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Vicki Sims (84) Flag Bearers Madison Holland (25) and Morgan Oliver (25)

Please Note: If anyone is interested in running for office, please contact President Lori Pace 817-237-4749 or Candice Oliver from the Nominating Committee 254-717-0510.

12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Prayer - District Three King Preston Sullivan and Queen Madison Holland

Lunch - Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, sauerkraut, dessert, and tea $8 per plate. District Three will provide a complimentary lunch to each member who donates at least 6 can goods.

12:30 to 1 p.m. - Meeting

Registration for meeting and for youth and adult painted rock contest. Youth and Adult Painted Rock Contestplease contact Vicki Sims or a youth leader if you have questions.

Audit Committee (Cheryl Petr, Michael Galler, Diana Engelke) Meeting

1 to 1:30 p.m.

Painted Rock Contest Judging

1:30 p.m.

Call

Pledge of Allegiance and Youth Motto ..................Madison Holland and Morgan Oliver

Introduction of District Royalty President Lori Pace

Welcome ...................................................................Lodge 6 President Don Urbanovsky

Response and Recognition of Visitors Vice President CarrieAnn Jones

Names of Departed Members and Memorial Service ......District Three Youth Members

Recognition of Milestone Members ...............................Vice President CarrieAnn Jones

Introduce Nominating and Audit Committees President Lori Pace

Introduce Contest Judges ...................................................................President Lori Pace

Approval of Minutes and Correspondence..............................Secretary Dana McAdams

Treasurer’s Report .....................................................................Treasurer Mary Steinman Meeting Floor Turned Over to Youth for Youth Meeting

DYC Youth Report DYC Mary Steinman

Other Reports (Please limit to 3 minutes per report)

Governance Committee ........................................................................Michael Galler

Fraternal Activities Coordinator ..................................................................Vicki Sims

Director’s Report......................................................................................John Engelke

Executive Committee Report .....................Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska

Lifetime Achiever Award ................................................Vice President CarrieAnn Jones

Adult Contest Winners .............................................................................FAC Vicki Sims

Old Business New Business

Announcement of Number of Members in Attendance ..................................Host Lodge

Presentations ..............................................................................Treasurer Mary Steinman

Youth Report and Youth Contest Winners .......................................DYC Mary Steinman

Election of Officers ............................................................................ President Lori Pace

Upcoming Events

• Youth Camp - June 21 to 25, 2023 at Camp Kubena in Ledbetter

• State Youth Showcase - July 28 and 29 at Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple

• District Three Meeting - April 28, 2024 - need a host lodge

Door Prizes ..........................................................................................President Lori Pace

Installation of Officers ............................................District Three Director John Engelke

Adjournment of Meeting.....................................................................President Lori Pace —SPJST—

District Four Annual Meeting Scenes

Saturday, April 1, 2023 ● Lodge 49, Rowena

District Five Spring Social

District Four Director Bobby Davis, far left, installs the 2023 District Four officers during the annual meeting held Saturday, April 1 at Lodge 49, Rowena.

Sunday, April 30, 2023

SPJST Lodge 88, Houston 1435 Beall ST • Houston, Tx 77008

TOP LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 49, Rowena Youth Club members Tanner and Hunter Wood (49) present the flags. TOP PHOTO 2: Members participate in the meeting. TOP PHOTO 3: SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: District Four FAC Janeece Williams (215) lights a candle to honor the deceased members. BELOW

PHOTO: Left to right are Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty, Treasurer Kaycee Lehmann, Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Janeece Williams, President Laura Pospichal, Secretary Joyce Kotulek, Territory Manager Ralph Juarez, Director Davis. —Becky Wood

Youth Kite Building and Flying Contest Door Prizes

Contest chair: Lee Pflughaupt of Lodge 88. Houston and third place winner of the 2013 HLSR Bloody Mary contest

• Single entrants or a team of not more than 2 persons are allowed.

Entrants must be 21 years or older when the use of alcohol is present (alcohol is optional). Those under the age of 21 may enter a non-alcoholic version (pre-mix only).

• A list of ingredients must be provided to the judges (this will be part of the judging of originality). The quantities/measurements of those listed ingredients is optional. MUST SHOW IF ALCOHOL IS PRESENT. This submission may be handwritten or typed on a 4 x 6 index card with a name for their entry, i.e. “Team Bloody Mess.”

• CANNOT use any pre-made Bloody Mary mix. Recipes must be original and tomato-based. Vodka shall be the only alcohol used. The choice of Vodka or garnishment is entirely optional to each entrant(s).

• The entrant(s) may make the non-alcoholic pre-mix, including garnish(es) prior to arrival. Entrant(s) will provide container of pre-mix (with or without alcohol included) at check-in, and given ample time to make presentation prior to the Judge's table. Entrant(s) wishing to infuse Vodka prior to check-in is permissible, or may mix on site after check-in.

• Each entrant or team will need to provide at least 16 - 20 ounces (ice optional), for the official judges, and up to 32 ounces additional for samples to “Public Judges.” That number may vary.

• Turn in for judging the presentation glass (with garnish) to the judges may not be consumed by the judges, but the sampling cups will be consumed and should be prepared accordingly.

Judging

No more than four judges will be assigned, with one being knowledgeable in mixology, if possible.

Official judging will be based on the following point score:

Taste: 40 points

• Presentation/Appearance: 25 points

• Originality: 20 points

• Garnish: 15 points

In the event of a tie, the presiding head judge will make a final decision.

During the contest, the judges’ decisions are final and if necessary, will supersede these rules.

Winners

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will receive prizes and bragging rights.

Bloody Mary Contest

Bloody Mary Contest Rules

Lodge 88, Houston to host District Five Annual Meeting

April 30

SPJST Lodge 88, Houston welcomes all to the District Five Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at 1435 Beall Street in Houston, Texas.

Registration begins at 11 a.m. with a meal from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. prepared by the board and officers. Meeting starts at 1 p.m. with a welcome by Lodge 88 President Aaron Rigamonti. See agenda for meeting details.

Several activities will be ongoing. Youth will have a kite project. Adults will have a Bloody Mary contest so get your recipes out and get ready to register your participation. Guidelines are published on page 13.

Wear your Astros gear, and plan on

staying to cheer them on. Watch the game at 6 p.m. on the patio TVs. Astros will play Philadelphia in a rematch of the 2022 World Series.

We would like to award door prizes so if the lodges in District Five will please donate some cash prizes as we have in the past. Please put the cash in envelopes with the lodge donating and amount enclosed.

For those with a sweet tooth, please bring your favorite dessert to share.

Come join us at Lodge 88, and see all the new additions and changes that have taken place in the last five-plus years. Save the date, and plan to join us! We look forward to seeing you there!

Fraternally Dorothy Pflughaupt

District Five President —SPJST—

District Five Spring Social

Sunday, April 30, 2023 • Lodge 88, Houston 1435 Beall Street • Houston, Texas 77008

Registration 11 a.m. - Youth Kite Project Meal 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Brief Meeting Begins at 1 p.m.

Welcome.................................................District Five President Dorothy Pflughaupt (88) Lodge 88 President Aaron Rigamonti

Pledge of Allegiance

Memorial and Prayer for Departed Members ........................Dorothy Pflughaupt (88)

Introduction of Guests .....................................................................Linda Bratina (196)

Roll Call of Officers.......................................................................Krystal Peterson (81)

Meeting Minutes (printed in handout) ..........................................Krystal Peterson (81)

Treasurer’s Report (printed in handout).....................................Kerry Herrington (142)

DYC Report (printed in handout) ......................................................Kristen Jones (81)

Senior Living Centers’ Report (printed in handout) ..........................JR Coleman (142)

Camp Kubena Report (printed in handout) ............................................Rob Clift (179)

District Director’s Report (printed in handout) .........................Bradley Stavinoha (81)

Executive Committee Report (printed in handout) .....................Delisle Doherty (196)

Each attending lodge is asked to share a report on fundraising, fraternal activities, and/or success stories.

Old Business

New Business

District and Lodge Incentives Program ...............................Melanie Zavodny (246)

Election of District Five Officers

2024 SPJST Convention in Temple

Youth Winners and Raffle Results Announced

Site Selection of Fall Fun Day

Installation of Officers

Door Prizes —SPJST—

District Six Annual Meeting, April 16 in Victoria at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Center, St. Gabriel Hall

Dear Members,

District Six invites its members, families, and guests to the District Six Spring Meeting on Sunday, April 16, 2023, at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Center, St. Gabriel Hall, 1309 East Mesquite in Victoria, Texas. Cathedral Center is located to the right of the church on the corner of Laurent and Airline Streets.

Registration begins at 11 a.m. with a catered meal served at 12 noon. The meal will be followed by the business meeting.

Lodges are asked to bring raffle prizes, door prizes, and desserts for the meeting.

All District Six members and their families are encouraged to attend. Your attendance and support will be appreciated. We look forward to seeing you there. Bring a friend!

Fraternally, Elizabeth Holub, District Six Secretary —SPJST—

District Six Annual Meeting

Sunday, April 16, 2023

Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Hall

1309 East Mesquite Lane • Victoria, Texas

10:30 - Audit and Nominating Committees Meet

Nominating Committee: Debbie Krpec, Carolina Covarrubia, and Johnny Hoffman

Audit Committee: David Bucek, Janie Bucek, and Karen Kaspar

11 a.m. - Registration

12 noon - Catered Meal Served

All lodges are asked to bring two desserts and a door prize.

Special Reports (immediately following the meal)

Czech Heritage Museum ...............................................................Philip Vahalik Camp Kubena......................................................................................Lisa Bubela S.P.J.ST. Living Centers.......................................................................Joe Siptak Cemetery..........................................................................................David Bucek

Tentative Agenda

Business Meeting

Call to Order.........................................................................President Joe Siptak

Posting of Colors......................................................................District Six Youth

Introduction of Guests

Roll Call………………………………………………Secretary Elizabeth Holub

Meeting Minutes (Handout)…………………………….Secretary Elizabeth Holub

Treasurer’s Report…………………………………….Treasurer Marjorie Treumer

DYC Report……………………………………………………..DYC Lisa Bubela

District Director’s Report…………………………......……...............Annie Vahalik

Home Office Report………………………………………..………..Brian Vanicek

Old Business

New Business

District and Lodge Incentives Program

Election of District Six Officers

2024 SPJST Convention in Temple

Youth Winners and Raffle Results Announced

Site Selection of Fall Fun Day

Installation of Officers

Door Prizes —SPJST—

District Six Director expresses appreciation; invites all to April 16 annual meeting in Victoria

Dear District Six Lodges and Readers, The last month has been a challenge with a broken right arm. Thank you for your calls, texts, emails, visits, cards, and prayers. They have truly helped me each day to cope with the long healing process. I have enjoyed hearing about your meetings and am so pleased with your canned soup donations and activities.

Sunday, April 16 will be our annual district meeting at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Center, Saint Gabriel Hall. The address for Our Lady of Victory is 1309 East Mesquite Lane in Victoria. The meeting center is right next door. St Gabriel Hall faces and is located on the corner of Airline and Laurent streets in what used to be JC Penney in the Town Plaza Mall. It is located to the left of the Emmaus Center and St. Vincent de Paul offices.

Welcoming refreshments will be served after 10:30 a.m. For anyone interested, mass at the cathedral is at 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Please reference the agenda on page 14 of this Vestnik for complete meeting time and details.

Country Catering will serve a roast beef meal. Lodges are asked to bring desserts for everyone to enjoy.

All District Six lodge officers and members are encouraged to attend. Our new lodge officer’s handbook will be handed out, and procedures will be covered for the new fraternal incentive program. In addition, we will have a raffle to help cover our meeting expenses. Each lodge is asked to provide a raffle prize, and we look forward to your support for this important fundraising event.

Items from the Czech Heritage Museum will be on display for your viewing.

Our youth will present an interactive program. There will be informative reports from the district committees and the Home Office. Please make sure someone from your lodge is in attendance to represent your lodge and take back this important information to share with all your members.

I am feeling better each week and am looking forward to spring and all of the upcoming events. As always, let me know if I can assist you in any way. I look forward to seeing all of you at our district meeting.

Fraternally, Annie Vahalik

District Six Director —SPJST—

District Five Director speaks to Sharpstown Rotary

District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha, right, was the guest speaker at a recent Rotary Club of Sharpstown meeting in Houston. He talked about Czech dance halls, Czech immigration to Texas, and SPJST. Rotary Club of Sharpstown President Ken Marsh donated a book to the local elementary school in SPJST’s honor.

SPJST LODGE SECTION

Lodge 6, Cottonwood honors members for 50- and 75-year milestones

The deadline for Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Send your news and photos to:

SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny

P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo

Questions? Call 800-727-7578

and Shanona, Keith and Kelly Hykel, Karen and Selby Holder, Lanette and James Gerik.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood will host the District Three Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 23. Look in this Vestnik for details and agenda.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky opened the meeting. Youth member Quinlan Dobecka led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST pledge. Sister Irene Peterson reported 29 adult members, seven youth, and eight guests in attendance. Sister Peggy Dobecka provided March meeting minutes and the treasurer’s report. Both reports were accepted by the membership.

Sister Jeanette Beseda presented the update for fraternal activities. April is National Volunteer Month. Other fraternal activities including rock painting and the current features at the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple were discussed.

Sister Dobecka reported on youth club activities. She thanked everyone for the many donations given to youth club raffle. Youth club members and leader are planning a summer trip to Port Aransas.

Sunshine Committee report shows sympathy cards were sent to Janet Hykel, Bobby and Kathy Hykel, Terry Hykel

SPJST members were recognized for their lengthy membership. Rudolf Novotny was honored for 75 years of membership. Beverly Uptmor and Kristina Lenart Fields were recognized for 50 years of membership. Dorothy Mahac accepted the recognition for her daughter, Sandra Barton, who is also a 50-year member. Lodge 6 extends heartfelt thanks to these members and all others achieving these landmarks.

Easter party with fellowship and a fried chicken meal followed the lodge meeting. See the Easter fun pictures in this Vestnik. April birthdays recognized were Irene Peterson, Jerelene Lenart, Kristi Lenart Fields, and Bobby Dobecka.

Progressive door prize winner was Michael Krizan, not present. Attendance door prizes were awarded to Adam Pechacek, Jody Krizan, and Beverly Uptmor.

SPJST Home Office raises new flag

Maintenance Manager Rudy Constancio hoists a new United States flag on Monday, April 3, 2023. With the start of the ‘patriotic season’ just around the corner, Old Glory will be ready to proudly show off her stars and stripes.

Next Meeting —May 7

Mother’s Day lunch will be at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 7 prior to the 2 p.m. meeting. All members are welcome.

Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 23, Moravia collects, donates soup to Schulenburg Food Pantry

Lodge 23, Moravia met Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at the hall. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by President Elizabeth Olsovsky. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held for our departed members. Roll of officers was called with all officers present.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved followed by the treasurer’s report. Members were reminded and invited to the District Six Annual Meeting in Victoria on Sunday, April 16. More information will be coming out in the Vestnik.

For the Souper Bowl project, our members generously donated 23 cans of soup which will be donated to the Schulenburg Food Pantry. Member Wanda Carpenter will deliver the donation to them.

Next Meeting—June 13

The meeting was then adjourned with a reminder that our next meeting will be Tuesday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m.

Fraternally, Kathleen Guenther, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton plans April 22 tarok tourney, Czech dance

Tarok Tournament in the Morning

Plan to join us at Seaton Star Hall on Saturday, April 22, 2023! Lodge 47, Seaton will begin the day with a tarok tournament. Six rounds of play start at 9 a.m. The $30 registration fee includes lunch and awards. To register or for more information, call 254-760-7819 or 254493-9892.

Czechaholics in the Evening

In the evening, the Czechaholics will play for a dance from 7 to 11 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. The event is family friendly, and the kitchen will be open serving delicious food. Admission is $10

SPJST hosts State 42 Domino Tournament

On Saturday, April 1, 2023, a total of 30 individuals played in our final tournament for 2023. The SPJST State 42 Domino Tournament was held at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Of the 30 players who participated in the 15round tournament, 11 were SPJST members. Players were from Austin, Elk, Ennis, Temple, and surrounding areas. Players were provided snacks and a delicious meal prepared by Wayne Orange of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point and owner of Best Quality Meat and Barbecue in Temple.

At the end of the tournament, door prizes were drawn while results were being tabulated. Ken Grant and Alvin Dudik of West received special prizes for their last place finish—a box of Lucky Charms cereal and a Texas Lottery scratch-off ticket. First through fourth place winners received a plaque and money.

Winners of the tournament were:

1st - Jimmy Turek

Lodge 48, Beyersville

Randy Thweatt of Hutto

2nd - Danny Stepan

Lodge 47, Seaton

Don Wesley of Ennis

3rd - Bryan Honza

Lodge 25, Ennis

Ronnie Honza

Lodge 25, Ennis

4th - Jimmie Coufal

Lodge 47, Seaton

Allen Tschoerner of Schwertner

We look forward to seeing everyone again for the 2024 SPJST tournaments. We will announce the dates later this year.

Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—

per person, and kids under age 12 are admitted free of charge. For more information, call 254-624-4119.^

Fraternally, Brandon

Bartek, President

—SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco plans August 12 members’ luncheon

The meeting of Lodge 66, Waco was called to order by President Douglas Galler at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 27, 2023, at St. Paul’s Church in Bellmead. In roll call of officers, Vice President Ronald Neumann was absent. We had seven members and five guests present. A special welcome was ex-

Congratulations to tournament winners, front, left to right, 1st place - Jimmy Turek of Lodge 48, Beyersville and Randy Thweatt of Hutto; 2nd - Danny Stepan of Lodge 47, Seaton, and Don Wesley of Ennis. Back, second from left, 3rd - Bryan Honza and Ronnie Honza, both of Lodge 25, Ennis; and 4th - Allen Tschoerner of Schwertner and Jimmie Coufal of Lodge 47, Seaton. They are pictured with Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak.

tended to Brother Frank Horak, State Fraternal Director. There was a moment of silence for SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek’s brother, David Vanicek, who passed away last week.

Minutes from the February meeting were read by Lodge 66 Secretary Sister Dana McAdams. Brother John Engelke made a motion to accept the minutes, and Brother Jodie McAdams, Sr. seconded. The motion passed.

Sister Dana then read correspondence from Brother Roy Vajdak, SPJST Controller, concerning two transfer requests from Lodge 66, Waco to Lodge 54, West. Then Sister Dana read another letter from Brother Vajdak referencing the lodge’s enhanced premium refund which has been deposited into the lodge account. Next, Sister Dana read correspondence from Sister Tammy Martinez, SPJST Fraternal Services Specialist at the Home Office. The letter, dated March 15, announced this year’s Milestone Members. Milestone Members are members who have reached 50 years and 75 years of membership in 2023. Each of these members have a 50-year or 75-year pin reserved in their name at the Home Office. Lodge 66 has 20 members eligible for 50-year pins and two members eligible for 75-year pins. Brother John made a motion to award the Lodge 66 pins at our lodge luncheon that is scheduled for August 12 at Lodge 6, Cottonwood in West to those who are willing and able to attend. Brother Jodie, Sr. seconded, and the motion passed. In additional correspondence, Sister Diana Engelke received thank you notes from Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and Elm Mott Fire Department for recent donations.

Brother Douglas gave a fraternal report. He referred to the monthly State Fraternal Director’s report to give us a list of upcoming Caring Challenges. In April, the members are asked to decorate a rock and place it either in your community or at Camp Kubena. In May, we will collect and donate supplies for local animal shelters. Other upcoming challenges are to write a letter to an SPJST veteran or members in the military and to collect and donate school supplies for local schools. Next, Brother Douglas mentioned the upcoming District Three Annual Meeting at Lodge 6, Cottonwood in West on April 23. In continuation, Brother Douglas mentioned that registration is open for youth who wish to attend Camp Kubena this summer. Information was also shared

about the State Youth Showcase that will occur on the weekend of July 28 and 29 in Temple. Registration for this begins April 1.

The Cheer and Condolence Committee sent a sympathy card to Brother Brian Vanicek on the death of his brother.

The treasurer’s report was given by Sister Diana.

In old business, Sister Diana had diligently gathered five quotes for possible caterers for the luncheon in August. We contemplated cost proposals and menus from Eddie Ray’s, Casa Olé, Lone Star Tavern, George’s, and Joe Blanek. After substantial discussion and scrutinization, Sister Dana made a motion to go with the proposal from Eddie Ray’s. Brother Michael Galler seconded the motion, and it passed. Next in order was discussion about the menu. The decision to serve chicken fried steak, green beans, mashed potatoes, and gravy was

reached. Dessert will also be served. Invitations will be mailed out by the Home Office later this year, and all members must RSVP if they plan to attend the luncheon.

Next Meeting—April 24

In new business, the next Lodge 66 meeting will be Monday, April 24 at St. Paul’s Church at 5:30 p.m. There was discussion about our March donation. Sister Diana made a motion to give our March donation to Shepherd’s Heart who operates a monthly drive-thru food bank on the St. Paul’s parking lot in Bellmead. Brother John suggested an addendum to raise the allocation from $100 to $250, which was accepted. Brother Jodie, Sr. seconded, and the motion passed.

Thereupon, Brother Horak handed out literature and spoke about the 2023 lodge incentives and procedure. He delivered valuable information about how

Lodge 66 may participate in and get credit for community and SPJST projects. In addition, he also mentioned the upcoming Night at the Museum event at the Czech Heritage Museum on Thursday, April 13 at 5 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

The March door prize was won by Brother John, and the 100 percent pot of $4 was won by Sister Dana. Brother Horak donated SPJST merchandise for door prizes, and these were won by Brother Douglas, Sister Diana, Brother Thomas Galler, Brother Jodie, Sr., and Brother Michael.

Brother John then made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Sister Diana, and the meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m. Respectfully submitted by your Lodge Secretary/ Reporter, Dana McAdams

Lodge 6, Cottonwood Hosts Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday, April 2, 2023 • Lodge 6, Cottonwood Hall

Stormy weather did not curtail the Easter fun at Lodge 6, Cottonwood on Sunday, April 2, 2023. ABOVE PHOTOS and BELOW LEFT: Youth enjoy hunting eggs and winning prizes. BELOW PHOTO 2: Ages 0 to 5 yearsKnox Morrison found the second place egg and Presley Meadows picked up the first and third prize eggs.

—Patti Rosales, Reporter

BELOW PHOTO 3: Ages 6 to 9 winners were Jackson Dobecka - first prize, Payton Brown - second prize, and Ella McGuire - third prize. BELOW RIGHT PHOTO: Ages 10 to 15 winners were Luke Beseda - first and third and Abigail Bruner - second prize.

Lodge 80, Holland meeting, meal set for May 9

Lodge 80, Holland will meet on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. for its bimonthly meeting. The meeting will be held at The Hall, located at 12141 east FM 2268 in Holland. Agenda will include regular business items, reports, and future events. There will be a catered meal beginning at 6:30 p.m., with the meeting following. Please RSVP to Rita Spinn at 254-760-6427 or email rita@hot.rr.com. We will also honor all mothers during our social time. Hope everyone can come and enjoy the good food and fellowship.

Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrates St. Patrick’s Day

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with a Mexican food meal of enchiladas and sides on Sunday, March 19, 2023. The meeting was called to order by President Mark Rebecek at 2:15 p.m. who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present. We had 20 members and guests in attendance.

A moment of silence was observed for deceased member Jeff Martinez.

Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the February meeting minutes, and Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the financial report. Both were approved.

On communications, Secretary Virginia Rebecek read a letter from Controller Roy Vajdak announcing the amount our lodge will be receiving on the lodge enhanced premium program.

Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky asked all to keep turning in their fraternal acts.

On new business, Secretary Virginia Rebecek talked about the District Seven meeting in Jourdanton. Members were updated on all the information that was discussed.

Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave her youth report. She had seven members and guests in attendance. The youth painted pictures and talked about St. Patrick’s Day. A motion was made by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky that the lodge pay for any youth member who wishes to attend camp this year be paid for by the lodge, seconded by Lela Hajek. Approved.

Birthday for March was Jacob Rebecek on the 1st. Happy birthday, Jacob! Twenty-five dollar door prize winners were won by Brandon Rew and Michael Urbanovsky.

Michael Urbanovsky made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky. The motion was approved, and the meeting adjourned at 3 p.m.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood: Happy April Birthdays!

Next Meeting—April 16

The next meeting will be Sunday, April 16 with fried chicken furnished by the lodge. Members are asked to bring a side dish.

Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—

snook basketball glory days remembered by uil

From Burleson County Tribune Roy Sanders, publisher

Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Roy Sanders of the Burleson Country Tribune for permission to reprint this article that originally appeared in the Tribune on March 23, 2023. Joe Adamek, Mike Junek, Larry Kovar, and Donnie Victorick are members of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook. Brother Victorick also serves as District One Director.

The UIL is celebrating its 100th anniversary for Texas high school boys basketball this year, and Snook High School is featured prominently in their listings of top coaches, teams, and players.

Among the greatest coaches, their list includes Jimmy Horn, who coached nine years at Snook and compiled a 369-56 record (86.9%) with state championships in 1965, 1966, and 1969.

Horn also coached two years in Slidell, going 56-33 as a basketball coach and superintendent, falling in the regional finals in 1972.

His overall record, counting Snook and Slidell, is 425-89.

Their records also showcased Jimmy’s brother Don Horn, who also coached nine years, compiling a 33365 record (83.7%) and two state titles in 1978 and 1979.

Also honored was Donnie Victorick, coaching in Snook for 12 years,

Lodge 84, Dallas meets April 16

Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will meet Sunday, April 16, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. at Back Country BBQ, located at 6940 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231. The restaurant’s phone is 214-696-6940.^

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

going 363-88 (80.5%) with five consecutive state titles – a state record –from 1980 to 1984.

All three were inducted into the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) Hall of Fame.

The overall record for the glory days of those three coaches was 1,065-209.

Also mentioned among the great coaches was Sammie Koudelka, who coached Burton, Dime Box, and Moulton for a total of 40 years, compiling a record of 1,058-331 with state titles at Moulton in 1991, 1998, and 1999.

Three of Snook’s state championship teams were mentioned among the greatest in history.

Snook’s 1965 team was 50-1 and featured players Joe Adamek (All-Tournament at the state tourney), and Calvin Gerke (First Team All-State and All-Tournament).

The 1966 team was 52-0 (a win streak that eventually stretched to 90 consecutive games). It featured Gerke again for First Team All-State and All Tournament and Larry Kovar for All Tournament.

The 1980 team was 44-1 and included Hezekiah Carter (First Team All State and All Tournament), Billy Felder (First Team All State and All Tournament), and Mike Junek (First Team All State).

Snook’s overall state championship run included an incredible seven straight titles stretching from the last two years of Don Horn’s time, 1978 and 1979, and Victorick’s five straight from 1980 to 1984. —SPJST—

Lodge 6, Cottonwood recognized its April birthday celebrants. Happy birthday to, left to right, Bobby Dobecka, Irene Peterson, Jerelene Lenart, and Kristi Fields.

—Photo by Frances Macha • Submitted by Patti Rosales, Reporter

Lodge 6, Cottonwood honors milestone members

Sunday, April 2, 2023

• Submitted by Patti Rosales, Reporter

Lodge 6, Cottonwood recognized its 50-year and 75-year members on Sunday, April 2, 2023. Lodge 6 President Don Urbanovsky congratulated all of the Milestone Members. LEFT PHOTO: Rudolf Novotny, seated, was recognized for his 75-year SPJST membership. Lodge 6 President Don Urbanovsky, back, left, thanked him for his achievement. Sharing in the honor were Brother Novotny’s wife Stella and his sisters, Doris

Lodge 88, Houston: Notice of April 19 Special Meeting

At our April members’ meeting on the 2nd, membership unanimously approved upgrading the annex by adding four windows and a new door with a window towards the backyard at a cost not to exceed $16,000.

We have since received a bid that is inline with our original plan to have two tempered glass overhead doors facing the backyard along with the same door replacement. The bid is still being competed, but we anticipate it would be in excess of the budget already approved by membership.

Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston

We will have a Special Meeting of Lodge 88, Houston on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 7 p.m. at the Lodge to share the options with membership and have a final decision. The Special Meeting is being called in lieu of waiting for the next Member Meeting to expedite completion of the project. This will be the only item on the agenda for the Special Meeting. If you should have any questions in the interim or want to have your opinion read at the meeting, please email that to members@lodge88.org. As a reminder, only those attending the meeting in person will be able to vote.

Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle enjoys St. Patrick’s Day-themed meeting, lunch

The Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth, Texas, met on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, with 30 ladies and three men attending. As usual, President Cathy Simmank started us off by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lucy Martinez shared a couple of sweet poems and Lee Williams told a cute story about the Blarney Stone. She

and Jane Novotny. PHOTO 2: Kristi Lenart Fields was recognized for 50 years of membership. Her mother, Jerelene Lenart also attended.

PHOTO

Dorothy Machac accepted the 50-year membership recognition for her daughter, Sandra Barton. RIGHT PHOTO: Beverly Uptmor was recognized for her 50-year membership. Beverly’s sister-in-law Shirley Uptmor also attended.

then became the choir director and led the group in singing, “I’m Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover.” Quite a change from the ordinary. I’ve been a member for more than 12 years now, and this was a first for me and a lot of fun. As always, we had our business meeting and reports. Some items of interest for those of you who weren’t able to come are listed below.

Updates were given on those who are having health issues and need our prayers. Stanley Krenek fell a few days ago and was in surgery this day. Marlene Bass had hip surgery and is recovering nicely. Mary Ann Krivanek is still un-

Lodge 6, Cottonwood members create fun designs for 100 pennies drive

dergoing chemo. Janet Basham was in the hospital recently and has several auto immune problems. Robyn Brownlee had a heart attack. (We received notice today, Saturday March 25, that Robyn has passed away.) Also several have had family members who have passed away very recently. It’s mind boggling that so many are having to deal with so much.

President Cathy announced that in April, the Easter Bunny will come, and we will have our annual indoor Easter egg hunt. “The Bunny,” aka President Cathy, puts in a great deal of time making sure we have interesting and fun activities. The egg hunt is a chance for us to see who gets the prize egg or eggs and who gets shut out. Ahh, those memories of beautiful baskets and lovely little frocks in our childhood.

Also happening in April, we will have a presentation on floral arranging by a representative from Azle High School Career and Technology Center. Everyone is anxious to learn a few new tips on this art form. In the future, plans are being made to have a CPR training session from the American Heart Association, and a speaker from the Salvation Army will come to tell us about the work she does.

We only celebrated Saint Patrick’s Day since Mardi Gras had already happened. We selected the smallest leprechaun we could find. While one would think there would not be anyone shorter than last year’s leprechaun, there was! One of our members who recently joined us was the shortest gnome of all.

3:

Lodge 6, Cottonwood members Patti Rosales, left, and Jeanette Beseda created origami trees, hearts, and butterfly art for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Thanks to these members for their generous donations to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.

Artemisa Massey made the cut, and she looked every bit the part with her new hat, leis, etc. Lydia Acosta came in second, and the two of them were almost the same size. Too much fun we have at our meetings!

A community announcement was shared by Leila Puckett. She along with some of our other ladies work at the polls on election day. Her group is needing one more person to work in May.

Sandi Celusniak announced that the VOA is holding balance classes for seniors in the Lake Worth area.

Hostesses were then thanked for their work in the kitchen, and Jon Durham gave the update on lodge activities and building projects scheduled. Birthday celebrants were serenaded and acknowledged. Door prizes were awarded to seven lucky ladies. Vice President Lee offered our prayer of thanksgiving for the lovely meal we were about to have.

The meeting ended, and lunch was served. Bingo followed.

Respectfully,

Joan Simek Shropshire Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 94,

Wheelock

invites members to attend special called meeting on May 2

Dear Members, Greetings! On behalf the officers of Lodge 94, Wheelock, I invite you to attend a meeting at which lodge members will be voting to sell the lodge building and enable the lodge to capitalize on the equity that exists in the property.

In accordance with SPJST operating

S UPER BOWL gives cares shares

Lodge 23, Moravia

Lodge 117, Robstown members encouraged to attend meetings

Dear Readers,

I would like to encourage Lodge l17, Robstown members to attend our meetings, which are held at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard Street in Corpus Christi. Meetings start at 1:30 p.m. The next meeting will be on Saturday, June 3, 2023.

SPJST has started community service projects. The next project will be during April, May, and June to collect items for local animal shelters. The project is called Paws for a Cause. If you would like to donate, you can bring items to the June meeting.

We hope to see some of you at the next meeting on June 3.

Fraternally, Kathryn Marek, Treasurer —SPJST—

procedures, a special called meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 2, 2023, at 6 p.m. to discuss, consider, and vote on the proposed sale. The meeting will take place at C&J’s Barbeque in Bryan. All adult members are encouraged to attend and to weigh in on the discussion.

SPJST District One Director Donnie Victorick and SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek will be in attendance.

In the event that members decide to sell, this will be a good opportunity for us to discuss our future going forward as a lodge. If you are unable to attend the meeting, you are invited to share your thoughts with us through email at linanwil@gmail.com; however, please note, in order to vote on the proposed

transaction, it will be necessary for you to be in attendance at the meeting on May 2.

Thank you for your attention.

Fraternally,

William Scasta, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 133, San Antonio shares meeting minutes

Lodge 133, San Antonio met on Sunday, March 26, 2023. All officers were present. District Seven Director Regina House also attended.

We began our meeting by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The secretary/ treasurer read the minutes and treasurer’s report; both were approved.

Director House presented plaques and flowers in appreciation to outgoing officers - Jarolyn Popp, Vicki Reese, and Kelsey Trinidad - for their many years of service to our lodge.

A motion was made by Ken Reese and seconded by Ricardo Uribe to allow

Lodge 28, East Bernard Meeting Scenes ● Riverside Hall in East Bernard

Due to construction at Wharton County Library - our usual meeting location - members of Lodge 28, East Bernard met at Riverside Hall in East Bernard on Sunday, March 12, 2023. LEFT PHOTO: Left to right, Anton Kelner and Mary Jo and Anton Salinas. PHOTO 2: Glenn Kaminsky and

Helen Kelner. PHOTO 3: Left to right, Johnnie Jochec, Barbara Tichacek, and Jeanette Kaminsky. RIGHT PHOTO: Glenn Kaminsky, standing, draws names for door prizes after a delightful lunch and dessert had been served. —Submitted by Mary Jo Salinas, Sales Agent

Lodge 23, Moravia members participated in the Souper Bowl project. They collected and donated 23 cans of soup. LEFT PHOTO: Pictured at the lodge meeting on March 14, 2023, are, left to right, Theresa Rerich, Elizabeth Holub, Wanda Carpenter, and Kathy Guenther. RIGHT PHOTO: Wanda Carpenter delivered the soup to Schulenburg Area Food Pantry. Pictured with her are Gerald Smith, left, and William Michalke. —Kathy Guenther, Secretary

a member to transfer from Lodge 209, Brownwood into our lodge.

Vicki Reese made a motion, seconded by Gloria Comancho, to move our bank account from IBC Bank into a bank that will accommodate our nonprofit needs.

President Garcia said that at each meeting, she plans to provide some type of helpful information to our members. This meeting she explained the benefits of accessing your social security account to keep track of any social security/medicare history and benefits. You can access this info at ssa.gov.

Three March birthdays were announced - Rick and Kathy Uribe and Leora Uribe-Lacy. Door prizes were donated by Marie Garcia and Director House.

After the meeting, we enjoyed a meal, fellowship, and games.

Our thanks to Director House for helping us so much during our transition of officers.

We had a fun afternoon.

Next Meeting—June 25

The next meeting will be Sunday, June 25 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the same location - Bill Miller Barbecue, 1418 Pleasanton Road. We invite and encourage all of our members to attend.

Kathy Uribe Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco honors March birthdays

S UPER BOWL gives cares shares

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca members collected and donated 30 soup and other items to Calhoun County Community Food Pantry. Pictured are Mary Allison, left, and Mary Sitka delivering the cans of soup.

Lodge 179, Warrenton hosts membership activity on April 13

We invite and encourage all members to attend our next meeting on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at J W Steakhouse in Carmine beginning at 11 a.m. Since we have begun meeting quarterly, it is important that we make plans for activities well in advance. Please attend this meeting and help us plan further community events, as well as provide a membership activity for the enjoyment and benefit to you— the membership.

We look forward to a large crowd at this meeting!

Fraternally, Marceil Malak

Lodge 142, Houston seeks Paws for a Cause donations

Dear Readers, SPJST Lodge 142, Houston’s monthly meeting was held on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Lodge 88, Houston. A social and delicious lunch of sausage, potatoes, sauerkraut, and dessert was served at 1 p.m. Prayer was led by Dennis Hermis.

President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2:15 p.m. Flag Bearer Zac Coleman led us all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Roll call of officers showed all officers present except Youth Leader Amanda Muzny, Assistant Kyle Herrington, and Sales Agents Connie Carter, Mary E. Bird, and Margaret NorrisGuerro. We had 20 members in attendance.

Secretary Elizabeth Hermis read the February minutes. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Karole Coleman, seconded by Barbara Linney Gonzales. All approved.

Financial Secretary Treasurer Keith Kieschnick reported on our lodge refund for 2022.

Happy March birthdays to member John Engelke and guest Joan Shelton. They were recognized at the Lodge 66, Waco meeting on March 27, 2023.

—Dana McAdams, Secretary

Territory Manager Kerry Herrington reported on information around the state. Senior Living Center Director J.R. Coleman gave a report stating that we now have four senior living centers.

Kerry Herrington gave Youth Leader Amanda Muzny’s report in her absence. Camp registration is now open and other youth activities are underway.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider reported that the District Five Spring Social at Lodge 88, Houston is Sunday, April 30. The animal shelter drive Paws for a Cause is from April 1 to June 30. Bring your items to the meeting for donating.

July 28 and 29 is the State Youth Showcase at Frank W. Mayborn Convention Center in Temple.

SPJST District Five presents a baseball night on Saturday, May 13 at Constellation Field in Sugarland. Sign up by April 18.

The audit committee reported that books are to be audited by April 4.

New members are Scott Douglas McGarth and Michael William Childers. Sales agent is Kerry Herrington. Welcome!

Birthday celebrants are Karole Coleman on the 20th and Steve Roznovsky on the 3rd. We all sang “Happy Birthday!”

The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Door prizes were awarded.

Next Meeting—April 16

The next meeting is Sunday, April 16 at 2 p.m. with lunch at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—

Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

Lodge 219, El Paso to participate in April 23 Walk for Wishes

Dear Member, I am writing to extend my warmest invitation to you to the Walk for Wishes event. We are excited to have you join us for this special occasion.

The event will be Sunday, April 23, 2023, all day starting at 10 a.m. at Ascarate Park, 6900 Delta Drive in El Paso.

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi recognizes members

Jacob Rebecek of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated his birthday on March 1, 2023. Happy birthday, Jacob! RIGHT PHOTO: Prize winners of $25 at the March 19 Lodge 79 meeting were Brandon Rew, left, and Michael Urbanovsky. Congratulations!

—Virginia Rebecek, Secretary

This fundraiser event supports granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. It’s a family-friendly event powered by wish families, volunteers, companies, donors, and friends. It promises to be an insightful and funfilled occasion, and we believe that your presence will greatly contribute to the success of the event.

SPJST Lodge 219 will be a donor and participant. The organizers have put together a comprehensive program that includes a 5K walk-run, games, and a family fun picnic.

Your attendance at this event will be highly appreciated. Please let us know if you can attend, and if so, kindly RSVP by calling Aracely Quiz 915-9992062. If you have any special requirements or preferences, please do not hesitate to let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate them.

We look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you at the event. Look for us!

Fraternally, Aracely Quiz, President 915-999-2062

—SPJST—

Lodge 219, El Paso invites members to April 29 Day at the Zoo

Dear Members,

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming member event, a Day at the Zoo, which will be Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at El Paso Zoo, 4001 East Paisano Drive. This event is an opportunity for us to show our appreciation for your support and loyalty, as well as to connect with fellow members.

At the event, we will provide food and drinks, and we’ll have activities and presentations that will help you learn more about SPJST and the work we do. We will be giving away door prizes and hosting a raffle for all attendees.

We hope that you will be able to join us and celebrate with us. To RSVP or for any questions, please contact Aracely Quiz at 915-999-2062.

Thank you for being a valued member of SPJST. We look forward to seeing you at the event. Please bring non-perishable food items for our service project.

Fraternally, Aracely Quiz, President 915-999-2062

—SPJST—

Lodge 48, Beyersville

Lodge 258, Seguin meets Sunday, June 11

Lodge 258, Seguin will hold its next meeting on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Rocket Wings, 380 North Highway 123 Bypass, in Seguin. Please mark this information on your calendar.

Chester Jenke, President —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena hosts Cornhole Tournament

Lodge 49, Rowena hosted its first annual cornhole tournament on Saturday March 25, 2023, at the lodge hall, starting at 9 a.m. There were teams and spectators from San Angelo, Ballinger, Brownwood, and Rowena. Brad Teplicek and Beverly Teplicek were in charge of the tournament while Sylvia Rollwitz and Nancy Schwertner served sandwiches and Terry Neff and Tanya Wales worked the concession stand.

Cash prizes were awarded to first, second, and third place winners. Thanks to District Four Director Bobby Davis for the cornhole bags and SPJST Home Office for use of the boards. All

participants thanked the lodge for sponsoring the tournament and showed interest in playing in Rowena again in the near future.

Lodge 49 also hosted a cornhole tournament on the square in downtown Rowena later that same day at 6 p.m. with the proceeds benefiting the Rowena Volunteer Fire Department, Runnels County Law Enforcement, and St. Jude’s. This tournament was manned by Brad Teplicek, Terry Neff, Tanya Wales, and Beverly Teplicek. A good time was had by all in attendance. —SPJST—

Adult and youth members of Lodge 48, Beyersville are pictured donating soup cans to Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry in Taylor. The adult lodge members collected and donated 25 soup cans, and the youth members collected and donated 10 soup cans.

—Michelle Newsom, Youth Leader

How to Support Grieving Families If You Cannot Attend a Funeral

How can I support the family from a distance?

by Sabrina N. Young, CFSP SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Member and Owner of Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center

Funerals often come unexpectedly, and while many try to make these important events—some may not be able to travel or attend at short notice. In these cases, it is still important to acknowledge the loss of an individual and share support. Expressing condolences during such a difficult time can be a tough process for many, but there are many ways to show support aside from attending a funeral service.

Send Flowers and Cards

Flowers are a beautiful and common way to express sympathies for friends and family who have lost a loved one. After selecting a tasteful arrangement of flowers or plants, it is a good idea to have them delivered to the funeral home or place where the service will occur. If the service has passed, sending them di-

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI MEMBER PROMOTED TO USMC FIRST LIEUTENANT

Visit the Family

Those who live nearby or are close to the family of the deceased may find that if they cannot attend a funeral, it is a good idea to visit the family’s home. Grieving will typically continue long after the service, and it is always nice to help show support during this process. When visiting, it may be helpful to offer home cooked meals, help with cleaning, watch children or simply have a conversation with those in mourning.

Have questions or comments? Please call us at 254-401-1302. We will be honored to assist you with your needs. You can also reach out by email at youngsdaughtersfuneralhome@gmail.com. Or you can visit our website for more information at www.youngsdaughters.com.

Brock Donnell, third from left, was recently promoted to First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps by Captain Studwell, third from right. Pictured with them are Brock’s grandparents Jill and Jerry Sijansky and Brock’s parents Gerilyn and Matt Donnell. Brock and his family are all members of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi, and Brock is a former youth club member. Brock is in pilot training at NAS Corpus Christi.

rectly to the family’s home is also acceptable. Including a small note or card in addition to an arrangement is also a way to express warm thoughts.

Signing an Online Guestbook

Online guestbooks and memorial sites have become a common way for

Lodge 66, Waco

gives cares shares

Now Hiring! Camp Kubena seeks summer staff

individuals to express thoughts, support and love after one has passed away. Signing a guestbook can be a great way to share your condolences, as loved ones of the deceased will likely look back on these messages time and time again to remember the deceased.

Some memorial sites allow guests to share pictures of the deceased—allowing all to look back on their life with fond memories. Funeral homes often help arrange these services and should be contacted for more information on where to access them.

Hey, Everyone!

I am looking for some great people who are 18 years or age and older to work at Camp Kubena this summer and make a little money. We are going to have a fantastic summer camp season. Camp Kubena will provide meals and housing all summer long. Here are some of the details on our open positions:

Seasonal Program Staff

This position is trained in lifeguarding, high and low ropes, shooting sports,

Lodge 80, Holland: St. Patrick’s Day Bingo Scenes

Lodge 66, Waco members collected 50 soups and donated them to Acts Church Storehouse in Waco. They also presented a monetary contribution. Pictured with the Acts Church Storehouse representative are, from left, Diana Engelke, Joan Shelton, Michael Galler, Ronald Neumann, Jodie McAdams, John Engelke, and Dana McAdams.

the bingo patrons. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 80 members Victoria Zajicek and son Thomas Zajicek help clean the floors at The Hall on 2268 in preparation for bingo. RIGHT PHOTO: Buddy and Jeanette Wald, standing, hand out free green bingo daubers to bingo players for St. Patrick’s Day.

—Submitted by Risa Pajestka

LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 80, Holland members Bethany Zajicek and Frank Pajestka get the many bingo daubers ready to give to

Monday, April 10, 2023

and educational programs. Will work directly with youth.

Seasonal Ranger Staff

This position works with a team to perform maintenance and housekeeping duties. Can be cross-trained for program duties.

Seasonal Kitchen Staff

This position works with a team to prepare meals and maintains the dining hall.

Employment dates are:

Start – May 15, 2023

End – August 4, 2023

Pay Scale

Starting pay, no experience or involvement with SPJST - $300 per week

Experienced lifeguard, participated with SPJST, or other good qualifications - $325 per week

Kitchen staff start - $325 per week.

Experienced kitchen staff or participated with SPJST - $350 per week.

Anyone who reads this Vestnik letter that is hired will receive a $50 sign-on bonus.

Any Camp Kubena staff that refers another employee that gets hired will receive an additional $50 bonus for each referral.

To apply, do one or all of the following: Complete the online application at https://www.campkubena.com/jobs

Email Rob Clift at robc@spjst.com

Call Rob Clift at 979-220-4256

I am looking forward to seeing some SPJST young adults this summer! See complete details on pages 26 and 27 of this Vestnik.

Rob Clift, Director Camp Kubena

979-220-4256

www.campkubena.com

—SPJST—

BEEA Rummage, Bake Sale set for April 14 in Seaton

Bell County Extension Education Association (BEEA) fundraiser is scheduled for Friday, April 14, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, April 15 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Seaton Community Center, 12287 Highway 53, Temple, Texas (Seaton).

The multi-family rummage sale will include crafts, miscellaneous household items, including small furniture, gently used clothing and accessories, CDs, wall hangings, sports equipment, kitchen utensils, bedding, potted plants, and assorted baked goods.

The event will benefit Bell County 4H graduating seniors with scholarships and BEEA activities. For additional information, call Gayle 254-742-5431.

Gayle Pomykal Lodge 24, Cyclone —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas member George Babek Achieves Grand Age of 96

couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary before Ella passed away in 2020.

George and Ella were blessed with children Dolores Dlabaj (Leonard), David Babek (Mary), and Danny Babek (Kristin); eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

George served in the United States Navy and retired from LTV.

He enjoys fishing, gardening, and his dog Booger.

DIY May Day Baskets

Do you celebrate May Day? These are fun and cute DIY May Day Baskets that are perfect for kids to share. All you need is some paper to make the basket and fun treats and goodies to put in it! Then go hang them on your friends door and have fun.

anonymously on someone’s doorstep, but make sure to ring the doorbell and run away. The person that answers the door is supposed to chase you, and try to kiss you!

Most of the supplies needed are already in your house! Any color of cardstock will do. No need to go out and buy new - just use what you have. Hit the Dollar Store for any items neededtreats, kid toys, etc. Add a lollipop or few pieces of candy, and that’s all you need.

Materials

2 Coordinating 12”x12” scrapbook paper sheets (or one piece of medium-heavy cardstock) Clear tape

Lodge 133, San Antonio Shares March Meeting Scenes

Submitted by Leona Uribe-Lacy

SPJST congratulates Brother George Babek of Lodge 84, Dallas, who celebrated his 96th birthday on January 18, 2023.

Brother Babek now receives all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments.

George was born in Ennis, Texas, on January 18, 1927, to parents Frank and Frances Babek. He had two sisters - Lillian Toth and Frances Peter, both deceased.

He married Ella Zabojnik Babek on August 27, 1949, in Ennis. The

George recalls admiring his dad working very hard at Babek Blacksmith Shop in Ennis; his mom making crepes for him when he was a young boy; and having a wife that liked sharing his favorite things especially fishing.

Again, we congratulate Brother George Babek on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Brother Babek, for your devotion to SPJST.

May God bless you and your family with many more years of good health and happiness.

—SPJST—

These baskets are made out of a paper cone and filled with toys and treats. You can do whichever version you’d like, but it’s so much fun so make sure to participate this year. The kids will have such a blast running around the neighborhood and delivering goodies or visiting their friend’s house and surprising them. These are such an easy and fun activity to do that always makes great memories!

What is May Day?

First of all, it always occurs on May 1. In the United States, the tradition involves making May Day baskets to celebrate Spring. It can also include activities like a maypole dance and crowning a queen of May. May baskets are little baskets that are filled with flowers traditionally, but to make them kid friendly, fill them with treats and toys. Make your baskets then leave them

Scissors or exacto knife

Ribbon

Tissue paper

Treats/toys to fill basket

Instructions

If using two sheets of thin lightweight scrapbook paper, lay them back to back before making basket.

Start rolling a cone shape in the middle of one edge. Tape down the inside as you go to hold in place. Then tape the outside corner in place. If needed, add a little tape around the bottom of the cone for extra support - especially if you’re filling it with heavier items.

Cut 6 vertical slits around the top of the cone using scissors or exacto knife. Cut a piece of ribbon about 3 feet long and weave through the six holes.

Tie the two ends together and finish by curling the ribbon or tying in a bow. Fill the bottom of the cone with tissue paper and arrange the treats inside. https://kidsactivityzone.com/diy-may-day-baskets/

Pull-Apart Pizza Bread

Pull a piece of pizza!

What You’ll Need Nonstick cooking spray

3 Tablespoons butter

1/2 cup chopped bell pepper

1/2 cup chopped black olives

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/3 cup pasta or pizza sauce

1 can (12 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough

3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Before you begin, spray a 1-quart Bundt or angel food cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Adult: Preheat oven to 350°F. Melt the butter. Chop the bell pepper and olives into small pieces.

S UPER BOWL gives cares shares

Lodge 151, Wharton

Lodge 196, Houston-West Members Fill Easter Eggs

Directions

Sprinkle 3 Tablespoons of the cheese and 1 1/2 Tablespoons of sauce around bottom of pan. Separate biscuits and tear each into three pieces.

Dip half of the biscuits into melted butter and put them in pan.

Sprinkle remaining cheese and sauce, olives, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning on top.

Dip remaining biscuits into melted butter and place on top.

Adult: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until browned. Remove from oven. Cool 5 minutes on a rack. Remove

S UPER BOWL

https://www.highlightskids.com/activities/recipes/pullapart-pizza-bread —SPJST—

Lodge 180, Burleson members collected and donated 108 cans of soup to Harvest House Food Pantry in Burleson. —Rhonda Hurtik, Treasurer

Lodge 180, Burleson

gives cares shares

Members of Lodge 196, Houston-West work to fill hundreds of eggs for the lodge’s annual Easter hunt on Saturday, April 1, 2023. —Don Fruin, Reporter

Lodge 151, Wharton members collected and donated 42 cans of soup to Share in Wharton. —Janie Bucek, FAC

bread from pan and place on a serving plate.

Camp Kubena Job Postings apply at campkubena.com/jobs

Food Service Manager

Classification: Seasonal (Summer), Paid and Onsite Housing

Reports to: Executive Camp Director

Position Purpose

The Food Service Manager directs the overall food-service operation of the camp including purchasing, preparation, nutrition, service, sanitation, security, personnel management, customer service, and record keeping.

Essential Job Functions

1. Manage the daily operations of the camp food and dining service including coordinating activities between the kitchen and dining room.

2. Oversee the inventory and ordering of food, equipment, and supplies and arrange for the routine maintenance, sanitation, and upkeep of the camp kitchen, its equipment, and facilities.

3. Manage all administrative and human-resource functions regarding kitchen and dining room employees.

Qualifications

• Experience in institutional or large food service setting.

• Knowledge of and experience in food service: ordering, inventory, budgeting, food preparation, family-style serving, buffet serving, cleaning, and institutional kitchen equipment.

• Must hold current certification or licensure for operating a kitchen in the camp’s jurisdiction.

• Ability to work within a budget and purchase supplies efficiently.

• Experience in supervision.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of current health and safety laws and practices is essential.

• Knowledge of and experience in preparation of special dietary foods.

Physical Aspects of the Job

• Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing.

• Physical ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.

• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards

of the site and facilities and camper and staff behavior.

• Physical mobility and endurance to perform tasks while standing/walking for long periods of time (60 minutes or more).

• Ability to safely and properly use kitchen equipment.

• Ability to provide first aid and to assist campers and staff in an emergency.

Complete Job Description and How To Apply

For complete job description and application, visit campkubena.org/jobs

Kitchen Staff

Classification: Seasonal (Fall, Summer, Spring), Paid and Onsite Housing Reports to: Head Chef

Position Purpose

To assist the Head Chef in preparing and serving nutritious meals and in maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen and dishwashing area.

Essential Job Functions

1. Assist in the daily operations of the camp food service.

2. Assist in routine sanitation of the kitchen and related equipment.

3. Assist in the preparation and packaging of food for use outside the camp dining hall.

Qualifications

• Desire to work in the food service area.

• Knowledge of food preparation and serving, storage of food and dishwashing procedures is preferred.

Physical Aspects of the

Job

• Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds including unloading food, carry trays of dishes, lifting supplies and equipment as needed.

• Visual ability to identify and respond to environmental hazards.

• Physical ability to operate kitchen equipment according to safe recommended methods.

• Physical mobility and endurance to perform tasks while standing for long periods of time (60 minutes or more).

• Determine cleanliness of dishes, food surfaces, and kitchen area.

Complete Job Description and How To Apply

For complete job description and application, visit campkubena.org/jobs

Program Commissioner

Classification: Seasonal (Fall, Summer, Spring), Paid and Onsite Housing Reports to: Executive Camp Director Supervises: Summer Activity Staff, Retreat Staff

Position Purpose

To further the mission of the SPJST Camps through the planning and delivery of program activities and events. Design and deliver program activities that are safe, fun, and appropriate. Assist in the management of the overall camp operation at the direction of the executive director.

Essential Job Functions

1. Deliver a fun program to campers/ groups.

2. Ensure that camp staff and campers/groups know and follow safety and educational procedures during camp programs.

3. Assist in the management and care of the physical facilities and equipment in all program areas.

4. Supervise and evaluate staff to develop and implement all facets of camp program activities

5. Develop and implement schedules and records for all areas of camp program and facilities.

Qualifications

• 3 years in experience in recreation/camp experience field.

• Experience in the development and delivery of programs and activities for similar population.

• Current certification in first aid and CPR.

• Preferred certifications: Life Guard Instructor, High/Low Ropes Certification (or ability to obtain)

• Ability to relate with and convey enthusiasm for supporting SPJST's mission as stated in the Preamble of the SPJST By-Laws.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Training and experience in instruction.

• Desire and ability to work with participants outdoors.

• Mac and Microsoft word processing programs as well as presentation programs.

Physical Aspects of the Position:

• Ability to communicate and work with groups participating and provide necessary instruction to campers and staff.

• Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency proce-

dures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.

• Ability to observe staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate management techniques.

• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.

• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.

• Standing (sometimes for long periods), frequent bending, stooping, and stretching

• Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours delivering program in the facility available.

• Must be able to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds periodically.

• Operate with daily exposure to the sun and heat and varying weather conditions.

Complete Job Description

and How To Apply

For complete job description and application, visit campkubena.org/jobs

Summer Activity Staff

Classification: Seasonal, Paid with Room and Board Reports to: Program Commissioner

Position Purpose

Activity staff are responsible for facilitating, and carrying out all activities that Camp Kubena offers.

Essential Job Functions

1. Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers within activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the intended camper outcomes.

2. Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers within the mission and outcomes.

3. Maintain high standards of health and safety in all activities for campers and staff.

4. Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior.

Other Job Duties

• Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communication as requested.

• Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning, and leading those as assigned.

• Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and supervise evening programs, special events, and other all-camp activities and camp functions.

• Assist in the planning of any special events on or near the waterfront.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or high school graduate.

• Must be able to obtain or become certified in First Aid/CPR.

• Must submit health history record and examination form prior to first day of work.

• Ability to interact with all age levels.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understand the development needs of youth.

• Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner.

• Demonstrate knowledge and skill in program areas designated camp program areas.

Physical Aspects of the Job

• Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers and staff.

• Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.

• Ability to observe staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate management techniques.

• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.

• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.

• Physical requirements - endurance including prolonged standing, some bending, stooping, walking long distances, hiking, climbing, and stretching; requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to manipulate outdoor equipment and camp activities; requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare, and communicate appropriate camper activities/programs and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs; willing to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours with limited or simple equipment and facilities; and with daily exposure to the sun, heat, and animals such as bugs, snakes, bats, etc.

Complete Job Description and How To Apply

For complete job description and application, visit campkubena.org/jobs

Ranger Staff

Classification: Full Time - Seasonal Reports to: Assistant Camp Director

Position Purpose

The Ranger Staff is responsible for executing plans developed by Camp Management. This includes installation, repair, and upkeep operations of Camp Kubena's facilities and property. Additionally, The Part Time Maintenance Staff will have a solid understanding of plumbing and electrical systems as well as carpentry, landscaping, commercial kitchen equipment, and other crafts.

Essential Job Functions

• Responsible for implementing the daily operations and maintenance of Camp Kubena. (Prevention, correction, and construction).

• Perform regular maintenance and upkeep of camp buildings including, but not limited to routine duties such as; painting, building repairs, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, ect.

• Manage the grounds and landscaping needs such as mowing, weeding, spraying, tree trimming and removal, pest control, pond management, wildlife damage repairs and other duties.

• Help with the implementation of new construction projects as directed by the Maintenance Manager.

• Supervise camp staff in the safe use of camp maintenance equipment.

• Report to the Assistant Camp Director for daily camp operations.

• Works with other mangers and directors as needed.

• Respond to emergencies on physical plant and site.

• Responsible for obtaining appropriate licenses, permits, approvals from local and state regulatory agencies.

• Works with the Maintenance Manager to keep logs of inventory and service.

• Secure and put away all equipment, tools, and chemicals at the end of each day.

• Check daily all areas of Camp Kubena for safety, cleanliness, and good repair.

• Clean and sanitize all cabins between groups

• Clean and sanitize dining hall and kitchen

• Clean and sanitize all restroom facilities

• Wash, fold, distribute, and maintain all linen service

Equipment Used

• Tractor with front end loader and threepoint rear attachments

• Zero-turn mower

• Power tools such as chain saw, drills, log splitter, pneumatic tools

• Welder and cutting torch

• Gas and electric carts

Qualifications – 2 years of experience in:

• Facility and building management

• Landscaping

• Plumbing

• Electrical

• HVAC

• Construction

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• The position requires working knowledge in areas of engineering, painting, carpentry, electrical wiring and controls, plumbing, water and sewage treatment, vehicle and machinery operation, including maintenance.

• Proficiency in the safe and proper use of power equipment and tools, heavy and light machinery, and building materials.

• Must have knowledge of proper techniques in the following areas: construction, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and grounds keeping.

Physical Aspects of the Position

• Ability to understand and implement safety regulations and procedures.

• Ability to follow procedures and regulations to staff and guests.

• Ability, both visual and auditory, to identify and respond to safety and environmental hazards and inform campers, staff, and guests.

HEY, YOUNG ADULTS!

• Physical strength to lift equipment and supplies (up to 50 pounds).

• Physical mobility and endurance to perform tasks while standing/walking for long periods of time (60 minutes or more).

• Ability to safely and properly use power tools and equipment.

• Ability to safely drive cars, light trucks, tractors, and other motorized vehicles including trailers.

• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist anyone in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury).

Complete Job Description and How To Apply

For complete job description and application, visit campkubena.org/jobs

Summer employment dates are May 14 to August 4, 2023

Housing and meals provided

All staff will be professionally trained and certified in high ropes, first aid/CPR, lifeguarding, camp programs, and more.

Starting at $300/week

Applications are available at campkubena.com/jobs

For more information contact Rob at robc@spjst.com or 979-249-5674

In Memoriam

In Memory of Carol Petty

Carol Ann Trcalek Petty left this world after a perfect day of goodbyes with all those she loved and danced into Bud’s arms on Friday, March 24, 2023.

Carol, 67, was born in Bryan, Texas, on September 3, 1955, to Willie Trcalek and Gladys Masar Trcalek Hejl. Carol grew up in the New Tabor community where she was active in New Tabor Brethren Church, the BYF and the SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club. She graduated from Caldwell High School in 1974. Carol married the love of her life, Bud Petty, on May 5, 1979, at New Tabor Brethren Church with their reception held at New Tabor Hall. They made their home on Trcalek family land where they raised their three children and lived until her death.

Carol worked as the J.P. #3 clerk for many years until her retirement in 2010. She was currently serving as president of RVOS Lodge 9, a position she has held since 1980. Carol was also the current secretary of CSA Lodge Svetlo 277, serving in this position since 2014. She also served as the hall manager for New Tabor Hall for several years. She was a member of New Tabor Brethren Church; SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor; CSA Lodge 277 Svetlo; and RVOS Lodge 9.

Carol enjoyed her many trips to Louisiana and Las Vegas, playing dominoes at the Texan, playing in SPJST tarok tournaments, and playing Bunco with her group of friends. She enjoyed baking, canning, cooking, making homemade noodles, and gardening, but her biggest joy and the light of her life was loving her grandbabies. She also enjoyed going to the many community fundraisers and donating and purchasing items to help support others, especially the youth of our community. Carol had the honor of sponsoring Thatcher’s soccer and basketball teams this year and was so tickled to have their jerseys read,

“Thatcher’s Grandma’s Team.” She also loved working in the beer ticket booth at the Burleson County Fair.

Carol was preceded in death by husband of 32 years, George (Bud) Petty; parents Willie H. Trcalek and Gladys Masar Trcalek Hejl; and stepfather Daniel (Rusty) Hejl.

She is survived by children Mica (Michael) McFarlane, Marshall (Roxanne) Petty, and Mabrey Petty; grandchildren Tyler (Mariah) Sandner, Joshawa and Hunter Petty, and Tabor, Maylee, Millison, and Thatcher Dowell; great-granddaughter Sawyer Sandner; sisters and their spouses, Betty (Donnie) Suehs, Susan (Gary) Skrabanek, and Donna (Bruce) Jones; nephews Kyle (Mikaela) Skrabanek (her Godson) and Logan Jones; nieces Holly (Ralph) Narro, Mindy (Michael) Bammel, Lacy Jones, and Lindsey Collins; greatnephew Dillon Narro (Savanna); and great-nieces Macy Narro and Madelynn Bammel. Carol was so excited about her newest great-niece due in August, Lydia Skrabanek.

We will forever cherish her, as well as the love and memories we share.

Memorials can be made to SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club, c/o Holly Narro, 1505 CR 208, Caldwell, Texas 77836 or a charity of your choice. Condolences can be expressed at PhillipsandLuckey.com.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Margaret Smotek

The Resolution Committee of Lodge Karel Havlicek No. 4, Hallettsville, on behalf of our entire membership, wish to express our sincerest and deepest sympathy to the family of our departed lodge sister, MARGARET A. SMOTEK, age 95, of Hallettsville, Texas, who went to be with the Lord on March 14, 2023.

Visitation began at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 17 at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville. Funeral service was at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 18 at Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Vsetin with Reverend Dr. Mark Labaj officiating. Burial followed in the Vsetin Cemetery.

Margaret was born in Howellville on February 25, 1926, to Eddie and Amalie Klechka Schiller. On September 14, 1946, Margaret married Albert E. Smotek in Houston.

She was a member of the Houston Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Houston for many years. She was active in the Christian Sisters and taught confirmation classes. She worked for 25 years at Curtis 1000, a printing company, as an executive secretary.

Upon retirement, Margaret and Albert moved to Hallettsville and attended Czech Moravian Brethren Church of Vsetin. She participated in numerous organizations including the Extension Club, American Legion Auxiliary, the local food bank, and Czech Heritage Society. She was also a member of SPJST Lodge 4, Hallettsville for more than 50 years.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and brother Elton Schiller.

Margaret is survived by daughter Peggy Frese (Patrick); son Glenn Smotek (Ronda); seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorials may be made to Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Vsetin or donor’s choice.

May our departed sister rest in eternal peace.

Resolution Committee

Victoria Zak

Gayenell Chudej —SPJST—

In Memory of Eddie Hykel, Jr.

Edward R. “Eddie” Hykel, Jr., age 60, of West, Texas, passed away early Tuesday afternoon, March 28, 2023 while on a call with the West Volunteer Fire Department in West.

Rosary was recited at 4 p.m. Sunday April 1 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, followed by visitation until 6 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, April 3 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption with Reverend Walter Dhanwar as celebrant, assisted by Deacon Robin Waters and Reverend John Crowder. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Eddie was born November 7, 1962 in Waco, the son of Barbara (Hessel) and Edward Hykel, Sr. He was a 1981 graduate of West High School.

On September 13, 1986 he was united in marriage to Janet Gerik in Tours.

Eddie was a member of St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tours. He worked in the public works department for the City of West since March of 2007, prior to that he worked for Huck Manufacturing for 19 years. Eddie was a very active member of the West Volunteer Fire Department since 2011.

Eddie was a 49-year member of SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood, where he was a past SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood Youth Club member and beseda dancer.

Eddie enjoyed restoring old tractors and trucks, painting anything he could get his hands on, working in his pasture, and messing with his cows.

He was very outspoken, never met a stranger, and was always there to lend a hand. He loved spending time with his friends and family especially his grandchildren.

Eddie was preceded in death by his father, Edward Hykel, Sr.; parents-inlaw Leona and Eugene Gerik, Sr.; and brother-in-law Eugene Gerik, Jr.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 37 years, Janet Hykel; mother Barbara Jean Hykel; children Chris Hykel and wife Sammy Jo and Ashley Mynarcik

Carol Petty

Eddie Hykel

Margaret Smotek

and husband Chad, all of West; grandchildren RaeLynn Ward, Dylan Cassity, Luke Mynarcik, and Dannie Mynarcik; brothers Bobby Hykel and wife Kathy, Terry Hykel and Shanona Goodman, and Keith Hykel and wife Kelly; sisters, Karen Holder and husband Selby, and Lanette Gerik and husband James; sisters-in-law Patricia Reesing and husband Robert, Bernice Gerik and Jilji Gerik; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Active pallbearers were David Girard, Kevin Chupik, Phillip Webre, Emanuel Mitchell, CJ Gillaspie, John Hurtick, Mark Gerik, and Dylan Moon. Honorary pallbearers are all past and present members of the West Volunteer Fire Department, City of West Employees, and West Volunteer Ambulance Association.

Memorials may be made to West Volunteer Fire Department; West Volunteer

Join us THIS SUMMER AT SPJST STATE CAMP

Ambulance Association; or charity of your choice.

Fraternally, Peggy Dobecka

Lodge 6, Cottonwood —SPJST—

SPJST YOUTH SECTION

SPJST Summer Camp registration continues through May 15

The deadline for Věstník items is 5 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Send your news and photos to:

SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny

P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503

Email: vestnik@spjst.org

Online: spjst.org/news/submitarticle-photo

Questions? Call 800-727-7578

All fees must be paid by June 1. Fees (except non-refundable registration fees) are refundable until June 6.

SPJST will host one state camp session this summer beginning Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Camp Kubena in Ledbetter, Texas. The session will be open to SPJST members and non-members, pending availability.

SPJST youth members who will be in first through 12th grade as of September 1, 2023, are eligible to attend. Activities will be age-specific for both teens/leaders-in-training and juniors, and programs will run parallel during the camp session.

Registration for members closes when filled or on May 1. Camper slots are first come, first serve and a waiting list will be created, if necessary. The fee for youth members is $335. The fee for youth who have attended at least seven lodge/youth club meetings between June 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023, is $125, which includes a $25 non-refundable registration fee. Fees will be prorated for youth who have attended less than seven meetings.

The camp fee for non-members is $450, which includes a $50 non-refundable registration fee.

Late Registration - May 2 to 15

Late registration is May 2 to May 15. The non-refundable registration fee will increase during this time. Late registration camp fee is $335 for SPJST members (which includes a $50 non-refundable registration fee). The late registration camp fee for non-members is $450 (which includes a $100 non-refundable registration fee). All registration ends on May 15.

Camperships (Camp Scholarships) What are Camperships?

Through the generosity of our donors, SPJST is able to offer camp scholarships (camperships) to individuals and families in financial need. The Campership funds make it possible for children and families to attend camp regardless of their ability to pay.

Donating to Camperships

Will you help us make this the best summer ever for an SPJST camper this year? Lodges and members are encouraged to help youth in need experience a fantastic summer opportunity. There are several ways to give to our campership program: donate online at spjst.org/camp or send your donation to SPJST c/o Summer Camp, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.

Applying for a Campership

Financial assistance is based on the United States poverty guideline. The application form may be found at spjst.org/camp or contact the State Fraternal Director at 254-534-0681. Mail your completed application to SPJST State Fraternal Director, PO Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503-0100. After you have been approved for a campership, you may register online with your financial deposit.

For more information about SPJST Summer Camp, visit spjst.org/camp or contact State Fraternal Director Frank Horak at frankh@spjst.com or 254-7751575, ext. 177 or Fraternal Services Specialist Tammy Martinez at tammym@spjst.com or 254-773-1575, ext. 164.

—SPJST—

District Five youth night at the ballpark May 13 in Sugar Land

Dear Readers,

Are you a fan of our nation’s favorite pastime, baseball?

Come join District Five Youth Club, and enjoy a night at the ball park on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Constellation Field in Sugar Land will open at 5 p.m. Join us for an evening of food and fun. This event is for any youth club member and young-at-heart.

You will receive com plimentary admission into the game and a $15 voucher for food and drinks in the park. A park ing pass will also be in cluded for each family.

Complete the Google form using the QR code on the flyer to sign up. We will no longer take signups after April 18.

Hope to see you there! Go, Space Cowboys!^

Kristen Jones

District Five Youth Counselor —SPJST—

District Six youth to decorate rocks for Camp Kubena April 16 in Victoria

Hello to all of District Six Youth Club Members and Parents!

Our district meeting is around the corner — Sunday, April 16, 2023. It will be held in Victoria, Texas, at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Center, Saint Gabriel Hall, 1309 East Mesquite Lane. State Fraternal Director Frank Horak will be attending our meeting and will be presenting the upcoming changes to SPJST Youth Program such as service projects, camp, State Youth Showcase, and much more. If you have any concerns about the youth program this is the time to get your questions answered. It will be a very informative gathering that begins at 10 a.m. I strongly encourage the parents of District Six to attend.

The youth are asked to bring a decorated rock for a participation award for the April monthly challenge “Decorate A Rock” for Camp Kubena.

I have also come up with a program that the youth attending will present at the district meeting. I will go over it with you all on that day.

The district is also asking for raffle and auction items to help fund our district meeting expenses. If I may ask, will each family please bring an item suitable for a raffle or silent auction prize?

Lodge 9, Snook youth restores 1945 tractor; wins awards in San Angelo, San Antonio, Houston shows

Hagan Sebesta of Lodge 9, Snook Youth Club is pictured with his restored 1945 Farmall B tractor. He placed fourth overall at the San Angelo Ag Mechanics Show, placed first in his class at the San Antonio Ag Mechanics Show, and received a blue rosette ribbon at the Houston Ag Mechanics Show.

Please check the agenda for the day’s event in this Vestnik on page 14.

See you all on Sunday, April 16 in Victoria.

Lisa Bubela District Six Youth Counselor —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club to host April 14 - 16 garage sale to raise funds for camp

Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club met on Sunday, April 2, 2023. After our Mexican food meal, State Fraternal Director Frank Horak updated members of the exciting changes to the SPJST Youth Program. We then had our annual Easter egg hunt.

Garage Sale—April 14, 15, 16

A reminder that we will have a garage sale on Friday, April 14, Saturday, April 15, and Sunday, April 16 to raise money to send our kids to camp. If

Lodge 17, New Tabor adult and youth members collected and donated approximately 200 soup items to fill the Blessing Box in Caldwell. —Holly Narro, Youth Leader

Lodge 17, New Tabor Youth Club

anyone has a donation, please call me at 469-337-2284.

Next Meeting—May 7

The next meeting will be Sunday, May 7 at 2 p.m. at the hall. See you then!

Fraternally yours, Rita Holland, Youth Leader —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth attends school Easter party

Dear SPJST, Today is my last class Easter party at school. Next year, I will be in seventh grade.

This year has been good and fun. We are going to the rodeo on Friday. Then all my cousins will be here on Saturday for Easter.

Cotton Wood, age 12 —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club Celebrates Easter

Sunday, April 2, 2023

• Submitted by Rita Holland, Youth Leader

Lodge 49, Rowena youth ready to graduate high school

Dear SPJST,

Today may be my last time running track. It is district, and we have the 4x100 relay today. I hope we advance and keep going. School is getting longer by the days. I’m so ready to graduate.

Tanner Wood, age 18 —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena youth advances to regionals in tennis

Dear SPJST, I made it to regionals in tennis. We leave Easter Sunday, and I play on Monday. I’m excited and nervous at the same time. I hope we do good and keep going. I play boys double.

Hunter Wood, age 17 —SPJST—

Now Hiring! Camp Kubena seeks summer staff

Hey, Everyone!

I am looking for some great people who are 18 years or age and older to work at Camp Kubena this summer and make a little money. We are going to have a fantastic summer camp season. Camp Kubena will provide meals and housing all summer long. Here are some of the details on our open positions:

Seasonal Program Staff

This position is trained in lifeguarding, high and low ropes, shooting sports, and educational programs. Will work directly with youth.

Seasonal Ranger Staff

This position works with a team to perform maintenance and housekeeping duties. Can be cross-trained for program duties.

Seasonal Kitchen Staff

This position works with a team to prepare meals and maintains the dining hall.

Employment dates are May 15, 2023 (start) to August 4, 2023 (end).

Pay Scale

Starting pay, no experience or involvement with SPJST - $300 per week. Experienced lifeguard, participated with SPJST, or other good qualifications - $325 per week.

Kitchen staff start - $325 per week. Experienced kitchen staff or participated with SPJST - $350 per week.

Anyone who reads this Vestnik letter that is hired will receive a $50 sign-on bonus.

Any Camp Kubena staff that refers another employee that gets hired will receive an additional $50 bonus for each referral.

Apply at campkubena.com/jobs

To apply, do one or all of the following:

Complete the online application at https://www.campkubena.com/jobs

Email Rob Clift at robc@spjst.com Call Rob Clift at 979-220-4256

I am looking forward to seeing some SPJST young adults this summer! Rob Clift, Director Camp Kubena 979-220-4256

www.campkubena.com —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis youth member wins huge Easter prize egg

Dear Readers,

LEFT PHOTO: Garrett found the prize egg in his age group. PHOTO 2: Grayson and Luke. PHOTO 3: Suzi and Emmi. PHOTO 4: Maison poses with Jackson, right, who found the prize egg. RIGHT PHOTO: June and Julia.

LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 25, Ennis Youth Club members. CENTER PHOTO: Allis, Joann, Betty, and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak. RIGHT PHOTO: Marlene, Scooter, Margaret, Brian, Melissa, and Jake.

LEFT PHOTO: Lisa and Preston. PHOTO 2: Jessica, June, Luke, Grayson, Suzi, and Emmi. PHOTO 3: SFD Frank and Lodge 25 Youth Leaders Rita, Betty, and Margaret. RIGHT PHOTO: Jake, at left, gives instructions to the youth on where to find the Easter eggs.

I won the prize egg. It was huge. Fraternally yours, Garrett Wyatt, age 6 —SPJST—

Pigs make awesome pets

Oink, oink! Close your eyes and imagine a pig. Where do you see it? Maybe on a farm, rolling around in some mud. But what about on a leash?

Now that might seem silly. And maybe you’re thinking, “But dogs walk on leashes!” True, but recently, more and more people are putting collars (and sometimes sweaters) on pigs.

They’re still a big commitment, and need lots of outdoor space to play in, but who knows? Your family may be just right for a pet pig. So the next time you’re thinking of an animal friend, remember these reasons why pigs make awesome pets!

Pigs are squeaky clean

We tend to think pigs only hang around in muddy places. But that doesn’t mean they’re not clean animals! Pigs can’t sweat. So on hot days, they roll around in the mud to keep cool. And did you know, pigs can swim and they

Lodge 30, Taiton youth wins awards at Wharton County Youth Fair

Lodge 30, Taiton Youth Creates entry gate in Ag mechanics for County Fair

Hey, SPJST Members. My friend and I made an entry gate for ag mechanics and showed it in our county fair. It was fun to see our design come to life and create it. I’m looking forward to doing it again next year!

Grant Bubela age 17

—SPJST— Grant, right, and friend are pictured behind the gate.

Flower Pretzel Bites

Simple, pretty, and tasty! No-bake and take just a few minutes to throw together. Sweet and salty treats that are bright and cheerful, they are the perfect gift for kids to make for their mom for Mother’s Day, take to their classroom, or just as a fun sweet treat that can easily be made with many different colors of flowers since there are plenty of M&M’s colors. Perfect for any last minute “oops I forgot I’m bringing the dessert” moments!

Selecting Ingredients for Flower Pretzel Bites

● Pretzels – Be sure you get the rectangle shaped pretzels (or mini pretzel twists) so you have plenty of surface area to make the flowers!

like it? So that’s another way they can keep clean. When properly cared for, pigs are also free of any funky smells.

Pigs can learn tricks

Grown-ups may not think it’s a cool trick if your pet pig can get into the fridge. But it’ll certainly keep you entertained! Pigs are a lot like dogs. It’s easy to train them to follow commands. And did you know pigs are thought to be about as smart as dolphins? They can learn to roll over and shake a hoof as easily as they can master doors — fridge included.

Pigs are curious

You’ll often see pigs with their snouts to the ground. That’s because they’re always checking out their environment. Just like how dogs sniff everything around them. Pigs rely on their sense of smell to map out their surroundings. And here’s a fun fact — pigs can smell up to 25 feet underground!

Pigs won’t make you sneeze

pig wants snuggles because they have some serious communication skills. They can bark, cough, squeal, and even laugh! Okay, it’s an extra joyful squeal that sounds like laughter. But pigs only use it when they’re really happy about something. If a pig considers you their friend, you’ll be greeted with a happy squeal!

So the next time you’re thinking you want a cat or a dog . . . maybe you can be best buds with a pig instead!

https://www.cbc.ca/kids/articles/5-reasons-pigs-make-awesome-pets; February 8, 2023 —SPJST—

● If you’re not able to find seasonal Easter M&M’s, regular color M&M’s will work fine; your flowers just won’t be super “springy.”

● White Candy Melts - White candy melts works easiest in this recipe, but if you can’t find them, use white chocolate chips.

Ingredients

42 square pretzels

42 candy melts, white

(1) 10-ounce bag color M&M’s Note: Choose pastel M&M’s if you can find them

Directions

Preheat the oven to 250°F and prepare

Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club

gives cares shares

Dear Readers,

On March 29, 2023, I showed my goat, Jerry, at the Wharton County Youth Fair. I placed fifth in my class and third in junior showmanship. It was my first year to raise a project, and I had so much fun. I can’t wait to do it again next year.

Grady Lange, age 8

—SPJST—

Ever pet a pig? If you have, you know they’re not as soft as say, a cat. But that’s because they don’t have fur, they have hair. A pig’s hair feels scratchy, but that’s actually a good thing for anyone who is allergic to animals. The bristly hair that pigs have is hypoallergenic (say “hai-poh-al-er-gen-ick”). Meaning it’s unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.

Pigs want to cuddle

Like us, pigs are pack animals. So they crave attention and time with their loved ones. You’ll know when your pet

Youth members Joseph and Jennifer Hoelscher of Lodge 24, Cyclone present 45 soup cans to a representative of Ronald McDonald House in Temple. The soup cans were collected and donated by youth members attending the Lodge 47, Seaton Youth Club meeting.

Lodge 81, Needville; 88, houston youth create art with 100 pennies

2023 SPJST SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

Youth from Lodges 81, Needville and 88, Houston created designs with 100 pennies for the March Caring Challenge benefitting the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. Youth pictured are Copeland Johnson, Enzo Johnson, Amber Jones, Ruby Jones, Zoey Jones, and Jaya Wegmann.

—Kristen Jones, District Five Youth Counselor

a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the square pretzels evenly separated on the prepared baking sheet. Next, place a white candy melt on each of the pretzels. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 2 minutes or until the candies are slightly melted. You want to avoid melting them to a point where they melt through the pretzel. Remove them from the oven and place

the Easter M&M’s on the softened white candy melt in a circular flower pedal design. Choose your favorite color combo. Allow the pretzel bites to dry for at least 30 minutes or until the candy is hardened. Serve on your favorite platter.

How Long do Flower Pretzels Last?

Store your flower pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for 7 days.

Lodge 84, Dallas youth get creative for 100 pennies

scholarship fund drive

Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Club members Kalyne, Kendall, and Josh Tucker are pictured with their March Caring Challenge creations for the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. The youth folded dollar bills into shapes - star, heart, and ring. The dollars were then donated to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.

5 DAYS, 4 NIGHTS • JUNE 21 - 25, 2023 REGISTER ONLINE AT SPJST.ORG/CAMP

Tips for Flower Pretzel Bites

✓ Be sure to work quickly while decorating these spring flower pretzel bites so that the candy does not set before you place the M&M’s. If you are making these by yourself, work in batches and melt the candy 8-10 pretzels at a time.

✓ Don’t overheat the candy melts! You

want them to be just softened, not melted enough that they are dripping through the pretzel.

✓ Separate your M&M’s into colors before you decorate so you can easily find the color you are looking for.

https://kidsactivityzone.com/flower-pretzels/ —SPJST—

—Regina

Members of Lodge 202, Jourdanton Youth Club are pictured donating 84 soup cans to St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Pleasanton.

Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´

Czech Ex-Students Assn. of Texas meets; needs help promoting Czech language classes

Czech Ex-Students Association of Texas (CESAT) had its annual membership meeting on Saturday, February 4, 2023. The meeting was called to order at 10 a.m. at the Schulenburg Public Library.

CESAT members allocated up to $3,000 (based on availability of funds) for Czech language scholarships to Blinn College Foundation. The classes are live and recorded for later viewing. With the scholarships that CESAT and member organizations of TOCA offer, the tuition for the class is free of charge. All the student needs is to buy the textbook.

Blinn College now offers nine classes of Czech (four of these are credit classes):

• Beginning Czech 1471

Fall Semester, 4 hours credit

• Beginning Czech 1472

Spring Semester, 4 hours credit

• Intermediate Czech 1371

Fall Semester, 3 hours credit

• Intermediate Czech 1372

Spring Semester, 3 hours credit

• Non-credit Conversational Czech I taken at the same time with Czech 1471

• Non-credit Conversational Czech II taken as the same time with Czech 1472

• Non-credit Conversational Intermediate Czech I taken at the same time as Czech 1371

• Non-credit Conversational Intermediate Czech II taken at the same time as Czech 1372

• Advanced Czech Fall Semester

and Spring 9 weeks, non-credit Blinn College had:

• 2 university students take Czech 1471.

• 3 high school students take dual credit Czech 1471.

• 15 adults take Conversational Czech at the same time as Czech 1471.

• 6 university students take Czech 1371.

• 7 adults take Conversational Czech II at the same time as 1371.

• 10 adults take Advanced Conversational Czech in the evening.

• A total of 43 students took Czech this fall at Blinn College.

The following high schools offer Czech: Caldwell, Dime Box, El Campo, and Schulenburg.

CESAT, in cooperation with Schulenburg Public Library, continues to offer every Friday night Ceska Beseda at 8 p.m.

From November through December, Czech Christmas carols are presented. Drills on pronunciation and English translation of the carols are presented as well as the variants that are sung by three to four Czech choirs in Texas and the impact of dialect on the Carols in Texas.

From January through October, Czech history in bilingual presentations covering Czech history from 450 to the Velvet Revolution are presented with links to Texas Czech history and communities. On Saturday mornings, CESAT offers Czech language lessons for children ages five to 12 from 8 to 8:30 a.m.

Join Us in This Mission

CESAT needs the help of parents and Czech organizations in Texas to speak to high schools to request that dual

credit Czech be offered and asks parents and grandparents to encourage their children to study Czech. It is the mission of CESAT to help preserve the Czech language and culture in Texas. Wouldn’t you like to join us in this mission?

Thadious Polasek Lodge 67, Schulenburg —SPJST—

Spring into family research with Texas Czech Genealogical Society on April 29

As spring arrives, it brings new beauty and color to our lives. We marvel at the beauty of the Texas bluebonnets and Indian Blankets along the road; and as we see them dotted along the way with pink buttercups, a new smile crosses our face.

As the beauty of spring fills the corners of our lives, our mind also drifts to “unfinished projects . . . things we have put on the back burner, so to speak. We hit a roadblock while looking and put the project on hold. It could be while looking into your family – past and present. Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) will offer you an excellent opportunity to find ways of traveling through, and around, the roadblock and onto beautiful answers.

On Saturday, April 29 at Caldwell Civic Center in Caldwell, Texas, you will be given the opportunity to hear four professional speakers present programs which will offer a wealth of knowledge.

Moving past entering a name in Google or Family Search, Bernard Meisner will present “Techniques and Strategies for More Effective Online Searching.” Having seen his handout sheet, you will definitely want your pencil handy, adding additional notations to the many his handout currently lists.

Those who have viewed a virtual program online with Texas State Genealogical Society have become familiar with Tony Hanson as he guides the audience. So here is a question. Have you been to Aunt Susie-Q’s house and she brings out a photo or document you would just love to have a copy of . . . but, you know she is not going to let it

out of her sight? It seems as if our cell phone never leaves our sight. Come learn another use for your phone as Tony presents “Using Your Smart Phone When a Scanner is Not Available.”

During the course of time, past and present, world conflict has left many with the question: What happened to my special family member (hero)? He/She seemed to have disappeared off planet Earth while serving our country. Many of us own and have read Ken Breaux’s book, Known Only to God. Ken works closely with a number of large organizations seeking to find answers of how and when those brave men and women lost their lives during past wars. We are thrilled to let you know that Ken has released a new book, Known But to God – America’s Twentieth Century Wars and the Search for the Missing. We have been in awe with previous presentations Ken has brought, and we eagerly await learning new, current details as we move forward through searching for those MIAs or KIAs in our lives.

You have spent years collecting, saving, and building your family history. At first, it filled a small box; the box grew to a container on the closet shelf – then to two containers . . . Now, you have lots of odds-and-ends papers and/or photos you know are valuable – perhaps originals only you possess – but, what do you do with all of it? In her presentation, “Organizing Genealogy Stuff,” Barbara Coakley will give us ways to handle and preserve each special treasure.

Adding to our day’s lineup of professional speakers will be TCGS Webmaster and Lifetime Member Danny Lesikar. Danny has spent years building what is termed “Czech Family Files.” He searches and researches the world over adding daily to these files which now exceed 115,000 . . . and he offers his information to you free of charge. You will need to provide a flash drive for him to download whatever information and/or photos he has on your family. You may be surprised. Chances are he has something you do not have.

Doors to the Caldwell Civic Center will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 29 with morning refreshments being offered. The day’s program will begin at 9 a.m. As with all TCGS events, lunch of grilled pork steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, rolls, tea, and cake for dessert will be included in the registration fee. Spring early bird registra-

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

tion postmarked on or before Thursday, April 13 is $45 for TCGS members and $50 for non-members. Early registration postmarked on or before Thursday, April 20 will be $50 for TCGS members and $55 for non-members. A registration of $60 will be charged at the door for members and non-members alike.

A colorful event flyer as well as a registration form is available on the TCGS website at txczgs.org. To register and pay by credit card, visit https://txczgs.square.site. To register by check, make check payable to TCGS,

complete the registration form and mail to Susan Crutchfield, 507 West Street, Sealy, Texas 77474. For further information, Susan can be reached by email at scrutch3@att.net.

We look forward to seeing you at Caldwell Civic Center on April 29 as we Spring into Family Research.

Fraternally, Charlene Hurta TCGS Vice President Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy —SPJST—

Czech Cu l tural Calendar

Hours of Operation

Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC), 119 West French Avenue, Temple. Hours: Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for those 60 or older, and $2 for kids, 12 and under. Every First and Third Tuesday Evenings: Tarok Parties—All ages and anyone interested are welcome. No admission or fee. Awardwinning tournament champions Jimmie and Carolyn Coufal not only teach beginners, but also help experienced players increase their skill. For Museum information: tours, happenings, and activities, call: CHMGC 254-899-297735 (can leave a message); email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; find them on Facebook; or visit the Center’s website https://czechheritagemuseum.org

Monday through Saturday

Czech Center Museum Houston, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibits. Experience the culture, art, music, and stories of many Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty and democracy in America. Beginner Czech Lessons: Monday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Conversational Czech hour - Saturdays, 1 to 2 p.m. Bring a friend or neighbor and come practice your Czech! Not a member? Join today for early access to concerts, movie nights, lectures, and events at CCMH as well as free Czech language lessons and monthly membership socials. Monthly Movie Night: CCMH has reinstated monthly movie nights. CCMH, 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston. For information, call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org

April 11

Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society (TWCCHS) Meeting—at Springhill Catfish Restaurant, 2505 West Pecan Street in Pflugerville, 1:30 to 3:30

p.m. Special guest Frances Barton will speak about her book Czech Songs in Texas and entertain us with accordion music. For information, contact TWCCHS President Dotty Davis at dottydavis9@gmail.com; or call 512-6636592. Submitted by Janie Zbranek, TWCCHS Reporter.

April 11

Czech That Film Texas: The Last Race (Posledni zavod)—at Violet Crown Cinemas, 434 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 at 7 p.m. Directed by Tomas Hodan. Film honors include Czech Oscar and Best Cinematography. Film is in Czech with English subtitles. Tickets available at www.violetcrown.com. For information, visit www.czechthatfilmtexas.com.

April 13

TCGS Registration Deadline for April 29 Spring into Family Research event at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 Presidential Corridor, (Highway 21), Caldwell, Texas: Early Bird Registration postmarked on or before Thursday, April 13 - $45 for TCGS members; $50 for non-members. Early Registration postmarked on or before Thursday, April 20 - $50 for TCGS members; $55 for non-members. Registration at the door for members and non-members alike - $60. Registration form available on at txczgs.org. To register and pay by credit card, visit https://txczgs.square.site. To register by check, make check payable to TCGS, complete the registration form and mail to Susan Crutchfield, 507 West Street, Sealy, Texas 77474. Susan can be reached via email at scrutch3@att.net.

Submitted by Charlene Hurta, TCGS Vice President / SPJST Lodge 200, Bruceville-Eddy.

April 13

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 19 West French Avenue, Tem-

ple, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: Part of a spring / summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting / networkng place with regularly scheduled activities including performances, outdoor activities. Celebrating National Volunteer Month in April. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

April 25

Czech That Film Texas: Nightsiren (Svètlonoc)—at Violet Crown Cinemas, 434 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 at 7 p.m. Directed by Tereza Nvotová. Film honors are Best Feature - Locarno IFF and 11 Czech Oscar Nominations. Film is in Czech with English subtitles. Tickets available at www.violetcrown.com.For information, visit www.czechthatfilmtexas.com.

May 3

Czech That Film Texas: Buko—at Violet Crown Cinemas, 434 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 at 7 p.m. Directed by Alice Nellis. Film awards are Czech Oscar Best Supporting Role - Martha Issová. Film is in Czech with English subtitles. Tickets available at www.violetcrown.com. For information, visit www.czechthatfilmtexas.com.

May 11

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 19 West French Avenue, Temple, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Part of a spring / summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting / networkng place with regularly scheduled activities including performances, outdoor activities. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

June 8

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 19 West French Avenue, Tem-

ple, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: Part of a spring / summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting / networkng place with regularly scheduled activities including performances, outdoor activities. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

July 13

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 19 West French Avenue, Temple, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: Part of a spring / summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting / networkng place with regularly scheduled activities including performances, outdoor activities. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

July 30

Save the Date! Vrazels’ Tribute Band—at SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall, 411 FM 964, Burlington, Texas 76519. Take a trip down memory lane. Doors / kitchen open at noon. Dance 2 to 6 p.m. For advance tickets and reservations, call 254985-2258 or 254-231-5348.

August 10

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 19 West French Avenue, Temple, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: Part of a spring / summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting / networkng place with regularly scheduled activities including performances, outdoor activities. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

—SPJST—

Czech Center Museum Houston: Join our events

Join CCMH to Celebrate Upcoming Events

Thursday, April 20—Jazz Appreciation Month. Listen and dance to Sparky’s Jazz Express. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; performance is 7 to 9 p.m. Capacity is limited so please RSVP and purchase your ticket in advance. We are charging a symbolic ticket price of $6. All proceeds will be used to benefit the activities of the CCHM. Complimentary valet parking is available onsite.

Saturday, April 29—Spring Festival, 12 noon to 5 p.m. Eat, learn, and play! Celebrate Czech culture with performances, arts and crafts, Czech cuisine, and so much more! Experience Czech food, beer, and live music featuring Czech folk singers. A special dance and music program for kids will be at 2:45 p.m. Take part in our competitive kolache eating contest at 3:30 p.m. The event also includes craft your own flower crown; meet the Texas

Czech/Slovak queens; feast on baked goods, Czech sausages, sauerkraut, and pivo; get creative with face painting and chalk art; try your hand at lawn games. Learn, dance, play, and explore with friends, family, and neighbors. Note: Registration is required.

Tuesday, May 23 Stribrnanka Brass Band, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Performance starts at 7 p.m. Founded in 1970, Stribrnanka is a professional band from Stribrnice, Czech Republic, in south Moravia. The band has a distinctive unmistakable sound, playing a wide repertoire of Czech and Moravian folk music, concert, solo, and dance songs. Stribrnanka has its repertoire based almost exclusively on its own compositions and compositions written directly for this band. We are charging a symbolic ticket price of $8. All the proceeds will be used to benefit the activities of the CCMH.

We hope you will join us! Czech Center Museum Houston is located at 4920 San Jacinto Street in Houston, Texas. For information, call 713-5282060. Visit www.czechcenter.org.

—SPJST—

Czech museum to return original Beethoven score to heirs

Karel Janicek, The Associated Press

Published Saturday, December 3, 2022

PRAGUE — A musical manuscript handwritten by Ludwig van Beethoven is getting returned to the heirs of the richest family in pre-World War II Czechoslovakia, whose members had to flee the country to escape the Holocaust.

The Moravian Museum in the Czech city of Brno has had the original manuscript for the fourth movement of Beethoven’s String Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 130 in its collection for more than 80 years. The museum put the score on display for the first time in December in anticipation of handing it over to its rightful owners.

“It’s one of the most precious items in our collections,” museum curator Simona Šindelářová said.

The museum said a restitution law on property stolen by German Nazis made the return possible. Details about how the family, whose wealth came mainly from mining industry and banking in Central Europe, after World War I acquired the piece from one of the German composer’s late quartets is unknown.

have almost 300 pages of the entire autograph in their possession.

It’s known that Beethoven, who died in 1827, gave the fourth movement to his secretary, Karl Holz, and at least two other private owners in Vienna acquired it before the Petscheks.

The family tried but failed to send the manuscript abroad by mail in March 1939 during the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, drawing the attention of the Gestapo.

According to Šindelářová, the Germans asked an expert from the Moravian Museum at the time to verify Beethoven had penned the document, and “he denied that in an effort to save it” from the occupiers.

The lie could have cost him dearly, but it worked; the museum was allowed to keep the piece. However, the Nazis seized most of the Petschek family’s assets and possessions, which Czechoslovakia’s Communist regime nationalized after the war.

From his new home in the United States, Franz Petschek, who had run the family’s mining businesses in Czechoslovakia, tried to get the piece back but was unsuccessful due to the post-war division in Europe and creation of the Iron Curtain.

The Czech Heritage Museum Advisory Committee hosted a workday at the Museum on Monday, March 27, 2023, to help prepare for the new “Night at the Museum” events, which begin on Thursday, April 13 and continue on the second Thursday of each month from 5 to 7:30 p.m. through August. LEFT PHOTO: SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek and District Seven Director Regina House look over Museum store items. BELOW LEFT PHOTO: District Two Director Jesse Pospisil arranges

“We’re sorry about losing it, but it rightly belongs to the Petschek family,” Šindelářová said.

Beethoven composed the six-movement String Quartet in B-flat Major in 1825 to 1826 as part of his work on a series of quartets commissioned by Russian Prince Nicholas Galitzin. It premiered in March 1826 at the Musikverein concert hall in Vienna, Austria.

Museums, archives, and libraries in the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Poland, and the United States currently

The Moravian Museum signed a deal on August 3 to transfer the ownership of the manuscript to his heirs. However, other families with claims to property and valuable items lost during World War II are still waiting for their cases to be resolved.

Anne Webber, co-chair of the London-based Commission for Looted Art in Europe, said that despite 47 countries agreeing in 2009 to try to resolve Holocaust-era injustices, “the restitution of artworks that were looted often seems to be as distant prospect as ever.”

“Some 90 percent of all artworks being sought today by families have been neither found nor returned,” Webber said at a conference held in Prague last month to review the progress made since the non-binding Terezín Declaration was adopted.

The declaration urged governments to make every effort to return former Jewish communal and religious property confiscated by the Nazis, fascists and their collaborators, and recommended that countries implement programs to address the issue of private buildings and land.

https://www.cp24.com/entertainment-news/czechmuseum-to-return-original-beethoven-score-toheirs-1.6179610 —SPJST—

A musical manuscript - handwritten by Ludwig van Beethoven - is seen in the Moravian Museum’s collection in Brno on Nov. 30, 2022, in Brno, Slovakia. (Šálek Václav/CTK via AP)

t-shirts in the store display. BELOW RIGHT

PHOTO: Museum Curator Kenny Lange points to artwork that is on display in the Museum.

Czech heritage museum advisory committee hosts workday to prepare for “night at the museum” events

Emil Boceklast Czech RAF pilot during WWII - dies at 100

The last living Czech pilot who fought the Nazis while serving with Britain’s Royal Air Force during World War II died at age 100. A community center for war veterans in the Czech Republic city of Brno said General Emil Bocek died on Saturday, March 25, 2023. The Czech Defense Ministry confirmed his death.

Bocek fled Czechoslovakia in 1939 at age 16 following the country’s occupation by Germany. He fought the Nazis in France then moved to Britain, where he joined an RAF fighter squadron as a pilot in 1944.

After the war, he was persecuted by the communist regime and was only recognized for his services after the Velvet Revolution in 1989. He received many awards including the highest Czech state distinction, the Order of the White Lion.

In 2016, Bocek described Britain’s Spitfire combat aircraft as “a perfect plane.”

Funeral service for General Bocek was held at Brno’s Central Cemetery on Tuesday, April 4.

https://www.cecildaily.com/obituaries/emil-bocek-lastczech-raf-pilot-during-wwii-dies-at-100/article_16a237bd45c8-53fd-a261-b38221eb3075.html

—SPJST—

TCHCC hosts Texas Czech Legacy Project illustrated talk by Professor Lida Cope on May 11 and 12

Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) will host an illustrated talk - Preserving Czech Language around the World: Texas Legacy Project - by Professor Lida Cope on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 6 p.m. and Friday, May 12, 2023, at 2 p.m. The sessions will be held in Hanslik Hall at the TCHCC facility, 250 West Fairgrounds

McLennan Community College Students Visit Czech Heritage Museum

Road in La Grange, Texas. Event is free of charge and open to the public. (Suggested donation is $5).

Lida Cope is a professor of applied linguistics at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. Her areas of expertise include first language attrition, language contact and diaspora, and language documentation. Her research examines the questions of language, culture, and identity in historically Czech Moravian communities in Texas. Dr. Cope directs the Texas Czech Legacy Project, housed at the University of Texas at Austin, whose main objective is to build an open-access corpus of Texas Czech speech.

She will review the historical waves of Czech emigration around the world and focus on the language and culture in the historically Czechs communities in Texas. She will discuss efforts to document the dying dialect of Czech Moravians who started arriving in Texas in the second half of the 19th century, the discovery of Svatava Pirkova Jakobson’s 1982 documentary, and the challenges in promoting and preserving Czech language, culture, and identity in the English-speaking world.

Her recent publications include a comprehensive overview of Czech communities around the world Language

loss: Czech in the diaspora (co-authored with Robert Dittmann of Charles University, BRILL 2020) and Taking Stock and Looking Forward: Documenting a diasporic variety of Czech in Texas (Nase rec [Our Speech] 2021).

For more information call 888-7854500 or visit www.czechtexas.org.

—SPJST—

Save the Date! July 30: Vrazels’ Tribute Band at Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall

Lodge 24, Cyclone - Flag Hall invites you to take a trip down memory lane with music by Vrazels’ Tribute Band on Sunday, July 30, 2023. Dance is from 2 to 6 p.m. Doors and kitchen open at noon. For advance tickets and reservations, call 254985-2258 or 254-231-5348. Vrazels’ Tribute Band features John Dujka, Mark Dujka, Jerry Haisler, Scott Hodde, Mike Marek, and Matthew Strmiska. Flag Hall is located at 411 FM 964, Burlington, Texas 76519. Get your tickets today!

—SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society

Website: txczgs.org Promoting

Gen. Emil Bocek

The Czech Heritage Museum in Temple, Texas, was honored to welcome a group of students from McLennan Community College in Waco on March 24, 2023. Pictured are, front, left to right, Laison Uptmor, Maddison Uptmor, Kaylyn Forrest, Aaliyah Jones, and Faith Lauderdale. BACK: John Hillman, Jessica Zbeida (professor), Lessly Rebollar, Isabela Morales, Jakub Partyka, Lucie Tomastikova, Marie Vazacova, Kaden Huff, and Amy Antoninka (professor). Jakub, Lucie, and Marie are from the Czech Republic. Thanks to Mr. Hillman for arranging the visit.

Fraternal Activities and Entertainment

Post your lodge’s upcoming SPJST fraternal activities, entertainment dates, and information here. These listings are free. The deadline for submitting information for the Fraternal Activities and Entertainment Guide is the first and third Mondays of each month at 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Send updates to: VĚSTNÍK, c/o Editor Melanie Zavodny, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Email to: vestnik@spjst.org. Advertising rates are $2 per column inch for lodge ads; $4 per column inch for non-profit organization ads; and $6 per column inch for commercial ads. For advertising information, please call the Editor at 800-727-7578 or email vestnik@spjst.org.

LODGE 1, FAYETTEVILLE (1)

Lodge Hall: 507 East Main Street, Fayetteville. Hall

Rental Information: 979-966-3795. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-966-3515.

LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday — June 11, August 13, and November 12 at 3 p.m. at Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, 1614 North Texana Street, Hallettsville. For information/updates, call President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056.

LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3)

Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West. Hall

Rental Information: Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383 or Jeanette Beseda 254-717-7840. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the lodge hall at 2 p.m. For information, call 254-227-8759. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the hall at 1:30 p.m. For information, contact Youth Leader Peggy Dobecka 254-717-0383; or dataped@sbcglobal.net.

Saturday, April 22—Birthday party

Sunday, April 23—District Three Annual Meeting

Sunday, April 30—Penelope School reunion

Sunday, May 7—Meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 28—Lander reunion

LODGE 8, WEIMAR (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the fourth Monday of February, May, August, and November at 12 p.m. at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, Schulenburg. For information, call 979-247-4168.

LODGE 9, SNOOK (1)

Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook. Hall Rentals/Information: 979-272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-272-3732. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733.

LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held the second Thursday of oddnumbered months at Diamond I Venue (former SPJST Lodge 13 Hall), 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box at 7 p.m. For information, contact Ricky Ford 979-8841451.

LODGE 15, BUCKHOLTS (2)

Lodge Hall: 600 State Hwy 190/Hwy 36, Buckholts (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Hall Rental Information: 254-217-2863. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly. For information, call 254-7213902.

LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1)

Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell. Hall Rental Information: 979-272-3440. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at the hall at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-272-3440. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931.

LODGE 18, ELGIN (2)

Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Polka and country band bookings: FL Meyer 512-940-7970. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Dances: 3 to 7 p.m.; cover $10 per person - unless otherwise noted. Lodge Meetings: Third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlod ge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18

Sunday, May 21—Glen Collins

Saturday, June 24—Western Days’ Dance: Glen Collins

Sunday, July 16—Glen Collins

Sunday, August 13—Mark Halata

Sunday, September 17—Glen Collins

Sunday, November 5—Glen Collins

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Glen Collins

LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)

Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-859-2584. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at the hall at 6:30 p.m. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Goodman for information 254-541-5344.

LODGE 23, MORAVIA (6)

Lodge Hall: FM 957 North, Schulenburg (located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia). Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on Tuesday in March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-562-2124.

LODGE 24, CYCLONE - FLAG HALL (2)

Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Cyclone. Hall Rental Information: Mark Maddux 254-721-1774 or Brenda Maddux 254-721-1682. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month at the hall at 7 p.m. For information, call 254-721-1682.

LODGE 25, ENNIS (3)

Lodge Hall: 1901 East Hwy 34, Ennis. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Mail: PO Box 129, Ennis, Texas 75120. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the lodge dining room with supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary social in the game room. For information, call 214-837-9490. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.

LODGE 28, EAST BERNARD (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Wharton County Library - East Bernard Branch, 746 Clubside Drive in East Bernard. Call 832-595-4231 for information.

LODGE 29, TAYLOR (2)

• All Friday night dances 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Free admission • Hamburgers served at 6 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 5025 FM 619, Taylor. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 512-352-9139. Regular business hours: Hall is open Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 512415-7225.

Friday, April 14—New Band: Michael Petty and The Outlaw Revival Band

Friday, April 21—The Other Band

Friday, April 28—Glen Collins

LODGE 30, TAITON (6)

Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For information, call President Yvonne Marcaurele 979-543-8146. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 2:30 p.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo. For youth club information, call Youth Leader Lisa Bubela 979-5437120.

LODGE 32, VICTORIA (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Thursday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, Victoria. For information, call 361676-7561.

LODGE 35, ELK - ELK HALL (3)

Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell. Hall Rental Information: Gene Pavelka 254-749-3326. Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-722-1454. Sales Agent: James (Dude) Mann 254715-0275; mrdudemann@yahoo.com.

Saturday, April 15—Joe Parker Band

Saturday, April 29—Nolan Pick Band

LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)

Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia. Hall Rental Information: 512-237-9099/Donna; or 512-5812672/Dana. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512332-6758/Alfred.

LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)

Lodge Hall: Cherry Bend Circle, Lot 12, Bryan. For information, call President Omer Everett, Jr. 979-6935287; or FAC Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158.

LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)

Lodge Hall: 30420 Loop 524 US Hwy 59, Hillje. Hall Rental Information: Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614; Hall Phone: 979-648-2317. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-332-1614. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date, time, location, call Youth Leader Cathy Garcia 979-332-1614.

LODGE 41, PORT LAVACA (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Tuesday of February, May, August, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Room, Royal Road, Port Lavaca. For information, call 361649-4736; or email danmarysitka@yahoo.com.

LODGE 47, SEATON - STAR HALL (2)

Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple. Star Hall is a non-smoking facility. Hall Rental Information: Amber Bartek 254-931-0295; Hall Phone: 254-985-2548. Visit www.seatonstarhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 254-624-4119. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295.

LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)

Sunday, April 23—Lodge 48, Beyersville Bingo Social, 2 to 5 p.m.

Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Lisa Jonse 512-739-9324 or email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-635-3021. Youth Club Meetings: Held at Taylor Animal Shelter on Saturday morning. For date/time and information, contact Youth Leader Michelle Newsom 512-913-0226; mrn81978@gmail.com.

LODGE 49, ROWENA (4)

Lodge Hall: 706 FM 2133, Rowena. Hall Rental Information: 325-442-4841 - Beverly Teplicek. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at the hall. Call Laura Pospichal for information 325-365-6485. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Becky Wood for information 325-656-0029.

LODGE 54, WEST (3)

Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street in West, 7 p.m. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.

LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)

Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting location and information, call Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.

LODGE 66, WACO (3)

Lodge Meetings: The fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1301 Hogan Lane in Bellmead. For information, call 254-717-7534.

LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at Kountry Bakery, Hwy 77 in Schulenburg at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-7430310.

LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For info, call 361-816-2328. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-563-6779.

LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at “The Hall on 2268” (formerly SPJST Lodge 80 Hall), 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 254-760-6427. Watch the Věstník for changes in dates or times. For information, call 254760-6427. Bingo has returned!

LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)

Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street in Needville. Hall Manager/Bookings/Rentals: Marion Morales 281-650-4466. Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m.; meal at 12 noon. For information, call 281-781-3156. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, email Youth Leader Kristen Jones joneskb06@hotmail.com.

LODGE 84, DALLAS (3)

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Meeting location will be posted in the Věstník. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m.unless otherwise announced in the Věstník. Contact Youth Leader Lynda Novak 972-948-4456.

LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)

Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street in Temple. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of January, April, July and October at 2 p.m. For information, contact Dan Kacir 254-899-2332; or via email dkatty2000@yahoo.com

LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)

Standing Events:

● Bingo every Thursday evening

● Beer Garden every Friday

● Ladies Night - first Thursday of each month

● Guys Night - third Thursday of each month

Visit www.lodge88.org/special-event for updates

Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights). Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Dances are held 8 to 11:30 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. For information, call 713-869-5767, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beer, set-ups, soda, and ice sold at bar. Please do not bring from outside. *Dress Code dances: evening attire for ladies and gentlemen. *Introductory pricing. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501. Lodge Meetings: Held the first Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call 713-869-5767. Youth Club Meetings: Held second Sunday of each month at the hall at 1 p.m. (one hour prior to adult lodge meeting). For youth club information, contact Youth Leader Sarah Itz 713-303-8845.

Saturday, April 22—Telstars, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Sunday, June 4—Homecoming with Mark Halata and Texavia, and Czechaholics

Saturday, June 24—Yelba’s Variety Band, 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Friday, July 14—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 27—Chris Rybak, 2 to 6 p.m.

Saturday, September 30—Nitebeat, 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Saturday, November 11—Red Ravens, 7 to 11 p.m.

Friday, December 1—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 31—New Year’s Eve: Mark Halata and Texavia, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 12 p.m. at a local restaurant. For information, call 832694-8762

LODGE 92, FORT WORTH - NATIONAL HALL (3)

Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfwtx.com. Ladies

Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Randy and the 92nd Road House Band plays every first Sunday. Dressy casual. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. For information, call 817-688-9958.

LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the following second Mondays: March 13; June 12; and September 11 at 5:30 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, Victoria 77904. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.

LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)

Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville. Hall Rental Information: 830-393-2600/Roxy. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 210-535-4916. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737.

LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 1:30 p.m. at Hilltop Community Center, 11425 Leopard in Corpus Christi. For information, call 361-695-8280.

LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. For meeting location/date/information, call 210-861-4958.

LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street in Danbury. Meeting; luncheon follows. For information, call Lonnie 979-922-1553.

LODGE 141, SEALY (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6 p.m. at Gordon Memorial Library, 917 North Circle Drive, Sealy. December meeting is held at Tony’s Restaurant; complimentary meal for members. For information, call 979-885-4900.

LODGE 142, HOUSTON (5)

Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month except in December, meeting is on the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; lunch served at 1 p.m. Meetings are held at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th (the Heights) in Houston in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held at the same date, time, and location as the adult lodge meetingsunless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377.

LODGE 151, WHARTON (6)

Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Wharton Depot Museum, 100 South Sunset Street in Wharton. For information, call 979-532-5884 or email jbucek2001@yahoo.com.

LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)

Lodge Hall: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at the hall at 3 p.m. For information, call 817731-2580. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727, carrieannjones@att.net or Appa Burcie 817-614-2967, abburcie2015@gmail.com for information.

LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)

Note: Lodge 155, Austin will hold its next meeting on Sunday, March 19 at 2 p.m. at Pok-E-Jo’s Smokehouse, 2121 West Parmer Lane, Austin TX 78727. Please mark the date on your calendar and plan to join us.

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December. For dates/time/location, call 512-472-1721.

LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the last Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at 2512 Mesa Road in Lubbock. For information, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek 806-763-7245; cyndynjerome@gmail.com.

LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4)

Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, and August; the November meeting is held the third Sunday. Watch the Věstník for meeting time/location. For information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-651-8045; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325234-5879.

LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)

Lodge Meetings: Quarterly meetings to be announced in the Vestnik. For information or questions, call Jerry Dressler 512-551-9009.

LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)

Lodge Hall: 711 East Rio Poco, Little River-Academy. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November - Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen is open.

LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1)

Lodge Meetings: The lodge meets quarterly. Date and location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138.

LODGE 180, BURLESON (3)

Lodge Meetings: First Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. Please call for meeting location 817-905-2097 or 972-268-0022.

LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)

Lodge Hall: 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane, Arlington. Hall Rental Information/Hall Phone: 682-800-3485. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 817-896-5277.

LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)

Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD meeting room. For information, contact Secretary Terry Stevenson 361-772-0046; terrywstevenson@gmail.com.

LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7)

Lodge Meetings: Bi-monthly in the months of February, April, June, August, October, and December on the fourth Sunday (except for June and December). For meeting information, contact Theresa Haag 830-8323664; theresa.haag686@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-777-8215; jmccoy@pta.com.

LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1)

UPDATE: SPJST Lodge 186, Caldwell has secured Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21 in Caldwell as its meeting location in 2023. Meetings will be held the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. Bring your favorite dish as we will enjoy a potluck prior to the meeting. The next meeting is Tuesday, March 14. Make plans to join us. For information, please contact Lodge 186 President Victor Mendez 512-7438297 or vmendez@kmc.net.

LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)

Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place in Round Rock. Hall Rental Information: Call Rubie Volek 512-7714948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, beginning at 2 p.m. at the hall, followed by entertainment and potluck meal. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall followed by entertainment and potluck meal. For information, call Jennifer McCarthy 512-565-9156.

LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at C and J Barbecue, 1010 South Texas Avenue in Bryan - unless otherwise noted. For information call 979-777-1426.

LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the Monday before the second Friday at Catfish King Restaurant. Watch for meeting announcement in the Vestnik. For information, call George Scogin 936-875-2867.

LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5)

Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road in Cypress. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, contact Cadance Wager 715-515-2835.

LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7)

Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the 3rd Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton. A meal will be served at each meeting. For information, call 830-570-7750. Youth Club Meetings: Youth attend quarterly adult lodge meetings and interim monthly meetings held the second Sunday of the month. Time and location TBD monthly. For information, contact Youth Leader Regina House 830570-2046.

LODGE 207, IOWA PARK (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 6 p.m. at 2302 FM 369 South in Iowa Park. For information, call Secretary Joyce Kotulek 940-855-0882.

LODGE 215, SOUTH PLAINS (4)

Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at John Witt Butane Gas Company., LLC, 631 Lockwood Street in Tahoka at 6 p.m. For information, call 806535-8356

LODGE 219, EL PASO (4)

Lodge Meetings: Second Thursday of each month, at 12 noon, at Corner Bakery Cafe, 655 Sunland Park Drive in El Paso. For questions, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.

LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, June, and September at Rosa Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard. For information, call 325-669-7904.

Monday, April 24—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m. Monday, June 5—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m.

Monday, September 11—Lodge meeting, 6 p.m.

LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2)

Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Monday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 11:15 a.m. For meeting location, call President Ingrid Petrik 254-760-1831.

LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7)

Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly, normally the third month of each quarter. Date, time and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For meeting date, location, and time, contact Chester Jenke 210-413-3053; Colleen Jenke 210-215-9494; or Carrie Origas -210-415-8744.

Sunday, June 11—Lodge meeting at 1 p.m. at Rocket Wings, 380 North Highway 123 Bypass, in Seguin. Mark this information on your calendar and please make plans to join us. —SPJST—