Vestnik 2023.05.08

Sunday Spring Social

Congratulations to past Lodge 162, Iowa Colony Youth Club member and SPJST Scholarship recipient Avery Moyle, second from right! She is pictured with Texas A&M Law School Dean Robert Ahdieh, left, friend Lauren Trevino, and Texas A&M Chancellor John Sharp at the swearing-in ceremony for new Texas A&M Aggie lawyers who passed the bar in July 2022. Chancellor Sharp is a member of SPJST Lodge 97, Placedo.

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

Let’s Recognize Our Graduates!

Congratulations to all 2023 graduates! The Vestnik will soon publish a commemorative special “Senior Spotlight” section celebrating the graduating class of 2023.

All SPJST high school or college seniors —or their parents or grandparents— are encouraged to submit photographs and information that showcase them as a person and an accomplished graduate!

To be included, please complete the information or page 3 and submit along with up to 4 photographs no later than Monday, May 15 at 5 p.m. (deadline). The information can also be submitted online at spjst.org/graduates or emailed to vestnik@spjst.org. Note: Graduates must be SPJST members.

Don’t delay . . . submit today! We look forward to honoring and celebrating our Class of 2023 graduates!

Congrats, Joyce!

Congratulations to Sales Agent Joyce Kotulek of Lodge 207, Iowa Park! She earned a $50 award in the March Top Sales Agents contest. We inadvertently listed the incorrect award amount. We regret the error.

Happy Mother’s Day

Sunday, May 14 is Mother’s Day. Wishing all moms a nice day.

V

For every dream that has taken flight, there’s a mother who believed.

—Jennifer Fujita

She’s a woman of purpose, compassion, and strength . . . my hero, my mom. —Suzanne

Berry

A mother’s love is the sun for growing, the moon for dreaming, the stars for guiding the way.

—Barbara Loots

Some women just have that extra something: extra room in their heart, extra places at their table, and extra time for the people they love.

—Suzanne Berry

Mother’s Day is for every woman who holds nothing back… who gives her heart, soul, and energy to those she cares about and still finds a way to love them more every single day.

—Andrew Blackburn

Mother’s Day is for celebrating the nurturers, the givers, the huggers and helpers, the day-makers and lifechangers . . . and that’s just what you are!

—Keely Chace

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines

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.

FAMILY FUN IMPORTANT DATES &

(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)

May 11 Night at the Museum: Czech Heritage Museum, Temple

May 13 District Five Youth hosts Night at the Ballpark

Constellation Field, Sugar Land (5)

May 13 Lodge 20, Granger hosts SPJST Float:

Granger Lakefest Parade (2)

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

May 22 Lodge 8, Weimar Memorial Service

Oakridge Smokehouse, Schulenburg (6)

May 24 Lodge 39, Bryan Special Called Meeting

Carter’s Burger, Bryan (1)

May 26-27 Lodge 49, Rowena Open House/Membership Drive (4)

May 27 SPJST Float: National Polka Festival Parade, Ennis (3)

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

June 24 Lodge 18, Elgin hosts SPJST Float: Western Days Parade, Elgin (2)

June 30 Youth Showcase Deadline for Entries

July 4 Home Office Closed • Fourth of July Holiday

July 16 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Annual Picnic (3)

July 28 Family Fun Day: Summer Fun Water Park, Belton (2)

July 28-29 State Youth Showcase • Frank W. Mayborn

Civic and Convention Center, Temple

July 30 Lodge 24, Cyclone: Vrazels’ Tribute Band (2)

August 6 District Two Annual Meeting • Lodge 48, Beyersville (2)

August 12 Lodge 66, Waco Member Luncheon Lodge 6, Cottonwood (3)

Sept. 16 Lodge 47, Seaton Outdoor Extravaganza (2)

Sept. 22-23 Lodge 47, Seaton Barbecue Cook-Off (2)

Sept. 29-30 Lodge 29, Taylor Barbecue Cook-Off (2)

SPJST

2023 Graduates

and parents and grandparents of graduates!

The Vestnik will publish a commemorative special section celebrating the graduating class of 2023.

★ ★ ★ Senior Spotlight

All SPJST high school or college seniors are encouraged to submit photographs and information that showcase them as a person and an accomplished graduate!

To be included, please complete the following information and submit along with up to 4 photographs no later than Monday, May 15 at 5 p.m. (deadline) to:

Online - www.spjst.org/graduates

Email - vestnik@spjst.org • Text - 254-534-0807

Mail - SPJST VESTNIK Editor Melanie Zavodny P.O. Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503

Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you wish to have photo(s) returned. For more information, contact the Věstník Office 254-773-1575, ext. 169. Please print clearly. Thank you!

Name

Lodge No. and Name

Graduating from (name of high school or college)

Major/Degree (if applicable)

Parents

Grandparents

Accomplishments (optional) ___________________________________

Future Plans

Message to Graduate/Additional Information (optional) __________ Phone

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

It’s Your Life

Life is Constantly Changing

Life is constantly changing to the point sometimes it is hard to keep up. We move, we get married, we get divorced, we have children/grandchildren, change jobs, have medical issues, or even change as a person. These changes may seem like a part of your everyday life, but with each change could bring a potential problem in the future. What happens if your beneficiaries on your life policies are no longer around. This could be an issue when there is a

need. What if you got married and you haven’t done a name change. That could slow down the process when your family needs the money the most. What if you have children, you don’t want them as your beneficiary? What if you moved and nobody knows where your policy is? All these little things now can make a big difference in the future. If you have had any changes in your life, make sure you contact your life insurance companies and get these changes done. Many times, your agent is no longer around, and you ignore the changes because you don’t know who to contact. Unfortunately, that is an industry problem.

SPJST is taking a proactive approach to help you fix these issues before it becomes a problem. We currently are working our way through all the lodges and calling our members to make sure everything is current. Agents are working together to contact you and ask to spend time to make sure everything is good. Unfortunately, we seem to ignore the agent’s call or just don’t want to welcome them into our homes. We may tell them we don’t need anything and don’t see why they should come by. Then something happens, and you don’t have anyone to call because your agent is no longer around.

When you get that call from the agent, welcome them into your home. Even if you don’t see a need, a nice conversation today may help you in the future. Sometimes just talking to someone makes us feel good. Who knows . . . you may even find a new friend. They will bring a change of agent form so you will have an agent to call if the need does arise. They will make sure you

know what insurance you have and guide you. They will smile and shake your hand or give you a hug. Whatever you want, they are there for you.

We all share the same goal—to make sure all your needs are met. If you have a change in your life, don’t wait for the agent to call. Call your territory manager (listed on page 2 of this Vestnik), and I promise we will be there to serve you.

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”

—Wayne Dyer

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

APRIL AWARDS TO LODGES

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

Lodge 88, Houston - 25 points

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - 14 points

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi - 12 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

Five lodges earned an incentive.

Congratulations to:

Lodge 88, Houston - $250

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi - $100

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - $100

Lodge 133, San Antonio - $100

Lodge 191, Lufkin - $100

A total of 28 lodges earned points. That is six more lodges than last month which was the best month. Lodges are 88, Houston (25 points); 92, Fort Worth (14 points); 79, Corpus Christi (12 points); 133, San Antonio (12 points); 191, Lufkin (10 points); 28, East Bernard (6 points); 76, Wichita Falls (6 points); 185, New Braunfels (6 points); 219, El Paso (6 points); 9, Snook (4 points); 142, Houston (3 points); 10, Shiner (2

points); 25, Ennis (2 points); 29, Taylor (2 points); 30, Taiton (2 points); 49, Rowena (2 points); 54, West (2 points); 67, Schulenburg (2 points); 80, Holland (2 points); 107, Floresville (2 points); 141, Sealy (2 points); 160, San Angelo (2 points); 183, Arlington (2 points); 17, New Tabor (1 point); 84, Dallas (1 point); 94, Wheelock (1 point); 97, Placedo (1 point); and 177, Academy (1 point).

“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal.” —Henry Ford

Have a safe and blessed week.

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

May 11 Night at the Museum to focus on kolaches

by David Stone | Our Town Temple

Central Texas’ favorite pastry will be the focus of this month’s Night at the Museum, a monthly event held at the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, located at 119 West French Avenue in downtown Temple.

Carol White, kolache baker extraordinaire and owner of Temple’s Kolache Kitchen, and Steven Beseda, CEO of Waco Pivovar, will present “The Origin and Evolution of the Kolache” during the May 11 event. Night at the Museum will start at 5 p.m., and the presentation will be at 6:30 p.m.

“If you are passionate about kolaches, this will be the place to be,” said Brian Vanicek, president of the SPJST Foundation and SPJST Fraternal Life Insurance.

“Kolaches are now super trendy,” he said. “You can find them across the state, even in some places where they’re called kolaches but have strayed from their sweet origins in the Czech lands generations ago.”

In addition to Pivovar and Kolache Kitchen, Mikeska Distributing and Woods Flowers will be providing food and beverages for the event. Future celebrations will be June 8, July 13, and August 10, and businesses interested in sponsoring a gathering should contact Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com or 254534-2902.

“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 to present snippets of upcoming performances, including plays, musical performances, dance ensembles, and theatrics.”

Popular Central Texas artist Lisa Chase will be presenting a collection of 12 paintings that will be sold during an online auction that ends on June 8. 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 Sept. 4, 2022. The paintings can be viewed at the Czech Heritage Museum or online at https://galabid.com/spjst-foundation. —SPJST—

The Origin and Evolution of the Kolache!

A Spirited Open House Celebration in Temple’s Historic District Czech Heritage Museum • 119 West French Avenue Thursday, May 11 • 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

COME ONE, COME ALL! IT’S Free!

If you’re passionate about kolaches, our next Night at the Museum is the place to be! Kolaches are now super trendy. You can find them across the state and even in some place where they’re called “kolaches” but have strayed from their sweet origins in the Czech lands generations ago. Come on out for an insightful presentation that covers the kolache from its inception to its evolution. Special guest presenters include Carol White, kolache baker extraordinaire and proprietor of Temple’s Kolache Kitchen, and Steven Beseda, CEO of the amazing Waco Pivovar. Presentation starts at 6:30 p.m.

Thanks to OUR WONDERFUL May Sponsors

Mikeska Distributing

Waco Pivovar • Woods Flowers

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 or the surrounding area, this is your opportunity to spread the good word while you mix and mingle with friends old and new. Night at the Museum is part of a spring and summer series to establish the museum as a community meeting and networking place with regularly scheduled activities including performances and outdoor activities. Night at the Museum networking socials are scheduled for April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13 and August 10. For more information, including sponsorships and to ensure that your organization is represented, please contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

District One Annual Meeting

Sunday April 16, 2023

Lodge 9, Snook Hall

On Sunday, April 16, 2023, District One held its annual meeting at Lodge 9, Snook. A delicious noon meal was served followed by the business meeting, and officers were elected. During the meeting, District One youth from Lodges 17, New Tabor and 9, Snook went to Snook City Park and decorated rocks, played games, and enjoyed the beautiful afternoon. Thank you to Lodge 9, Snook for hosting an afternoon of fun and fellowship.

~ Holly Narro, Assistant District One Youth Counselor

District Three presents annual meeting minutes

The District Three Annual Meeting was called to order at Lodge 6, Cottonwood by District Three President Lori Pace (154) at 1:33 p.m. on Sunday, April 23, 2023. 2022-2023 District Three King Preston Sullivan (25) and Queen Madison Holland (25) gave an opening prayer. District Three Flag Bearers Morgan Oliver (25) and Madison Holland (25) led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance and the youth motto.

President Pace (154) then introduced outgoing District Three King Preston Sullivan (25) and Madison Holland (25).

Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky (6) welcomed the members of District Three. District Three Vice President CarrieAnn Jones (154) recognized guests from the Home Office –Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny (246) and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak (80).

The youth members then recognized departed members in a memorial service

by taking turns reading a poem. Vice President Jones (154) then recognized any Milestone Members who were present. The kitchen staff of Lodge 6, Cottonwood was recognized for their hard work preparing the meal. Following this, President Pace (154) recognized the nominating committee – Candice Oliver (66) and the audit committee –Cheryl Petr (84), Michael Galler (66), and Diana Engelke (66). The next order of business was to recognize today’s contest judges – Joan Shelton (47), a guest from District Two; Lisa Sullivan (25); Patti Rosales (6); and Jane Galler (66).

District Three Secretary Dana McAdams (66) then asked that we accept the minutes as printed in the Vestnik. Mary Steinman (154) made a motion to accept the minutes, and Lynda Novak (84) seconded the motion. The motion passed.

District Three Treasurer Mary Steinman (154) did not have a treasurer’s report.

District Three Director John Engelke (66) made a motion to have the audit completed at another date. The motion was seconded by Michael Galler (66), and it passed. Michael Galler (66) than

spoke about the Governance Committee and asked the membership to submit any ideas to the committee. He also mentioned the upcoming online meeting for delegates from the last Convention. FAC Vicki Sims (84) was recognized next. The next speaker was Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny (246). She mentioned that commercials are being produced that focus on the products and annuities that are available with SPJST. She also mentioned that the Camp Kubena event center will soon have a new name. It will now be called Round Top Meadows. They are hoping that this name change will help to facilitate the use as a wedding venue or for other group functions. Melanie mentioned that the Night at the Museum event was a success, and they are going to continue having the event once a month. Scholarship winners will be announced soon. The SPJST Gives, Cares, Shares campaign was also mentioned.

State Fraternal Director Frank Horak (80) spoke about summer camp and the youth showcase. He will meet with youth leaders after the meeting with up-

dates and to answer questions. Director John Engelke (66) spoke next. He mentioned that 2024 is a convention year. The State Convention will be in Temple on June 7 to 9, 2024. He spoke about several updates at camp. He then recognized Rita Holland (25) and the youth from Lodge 25, Ennis, who raised more than $3,000 at a garage sale to pay for camp and other youth expenses this year. Director Engelke (66) also spoke about annuities and the new JT-21 life product for youth. There will also be the regular Home Office audit by Texas Department of Insurance this year.

President Pace (154) then turned over the meeting to the youth. District Youth Counselor (DYC) Mary Steinman (154) spoke about upcoming events and practicing for the youth showcase. The practice will be at Lodge 92, Fort Worth on Sunday, June 11. Next, the youth elected officers. They are President Miles Jones (154), Vice President Madison Holland (25), Secretary Morgan Oliver (25), and Reporter Layne Oliver (25). There were questions from the floor about the youth showcase and the district practice. Gentry Burcie (154) made a motion to turn

LEFT PHOTO: State Duke Jase Hruska and State King J Beaux Hruska along with District One Director Donnie Victorick lead the Pledge of Allegiance. PHOTO 2: Left to right, District One Officers - Youth Counselor Hannah Kovar (9), Treasurer Sharon Kovar (9), Susan Skrabanek - sitting in for FAC Kyle Skrabanek (17), President Randy Gaas (17), Secretary Sandra Stone (9), and First Vice President Ronnie Roesler (39). Speaking is Director Victorick, far right. PHOTO 3 and RIGHT PHOTO: Meeting attendees. BELOW PHOTOS: Youth enjoy outdoor fun and crafts.

the meeting back over to the adults. The motion was seconded by Aubrianna Dobecka (6) and then passed.

In new business, Sunday, October 8 was discussed as the District Three Fall Fun Day as that is Heritage Day at Dallas Sokol.

The food collected at the district meeting will go to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in West. There were 50 people registered – 33 adults and 17 youth. A total of 304 cans were collected.

DYC Steinman (154) then announced the youth winners of the decorated rock contest:

9th to 12th Grade

1st - Quinlan Dobecka (6)

2nd - Miles Jones (154)

3rd - Holly Jones (154)

6th to 8th Grade

1st - Morgan Oliver (25)

2nd - Aubrianna Dobecka (6)

3rd to 5th Grade

1st - Layne Oliver (25)

2nd - Victoria Oliver (25)

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade

1st - Gentry Burcie (154)

2nd - Paige Oliver (25)

FAC Sims (84) announced the adult winners of the decorated rock contest:

1st - Barbara Hykel (6)

2nd - Vicki Sims (84)

3rd - Patti Rosales (6)

The next order of business was the

election of District Three officers. Candice Oliver (66) recommended that the officers remain the same with the exception of FAC Vicki Sims (84) who would be replaced by Jodie McAdams, Sr. (66). Director Engelke (66) made a motion to accept the nominations, seconded by Jodie McAdams, Sr. (66). The motion was passed. The 2023 officers are:

President Lori Pace (154)

Vice President CarrieAnn Jones (154)

FAC Jodie McAdams, Sr. (66)

Secretary Dana McAdams (66) Treasurer/DYC Mary Steinman (154)

Treasurer Steinman (154) then announced that Lodge 6, Cottonwood would receive a check for $1,000 from the district for hosting the meeting.

Door prizes were won by 12 members at the meeting today. The next order of business was to install the new youth and adult officers.

The next District Three Annual Meeting will be hosted by Lodge 25, Ennis.

A motion was made by Jodie McAdams, Sr. (66) to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Vicki Sims (84). The meeting adjourned at 3:10 p.m.

Dana McAdams (66)

District Three, Secretary —SPJST—

District Three Annual Meeting Scenes

Sunday, April 23, 2023 • SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood Hall • West, Texas

Decorated rock contest. LEFT PHOTO: 9th to 12th Grades - 1st - Quinlan Dobecka (6), 2nd - Miles Jones (154), 3rd - Holly Jones (154). PHOTO 2: 6th to 8th Grades - 1st - Morgan Oliver (25), 2nd - Aubrianna Dobecka (6).

PHOTO 3: 3rd to 5th Grades - 1st - Layne Oliver (25), 2nd - Torri Oliver (25).

PHOTO 4: Kindergarten to 2nd Grades - 1st - Jentry Burcie (154), 2ndPaige Oliver (25). PHOTO 5: Adults - 1st - Barbara Jean Hykel (6), 2ndVicki Sims (84), 3rd - Patti Rosales (6). RIGHT PHOTO: Left to right are Jane Galler (66), Michael Galler (66), and Joan Shelton (47).

LEFT PHOTO: Peggy Dobecka (6), right, displays a quilt of SPJST t-shirts, handmade by Barbara Jean Hykel (6). PHOTO 2: Lynda Novak (84), left, and Cherri Petr (84). PHOTO 3: Diana and District Three Director John Engelke (66). PHOTO 4: Youth leaders meeting. RIGHT PHOTO: Youth fun!

LEFT PHOTO: District Three youth leaders, left to right, Appa Burcie (154), CarrieAnn Jones (154), Rita Holland (25), DYC Mary Steinman (154), Peggy Dobecka (6), Lynda Novak (84), and Vicki Sims (84). PHOTO 2: The district

collected 304 cans of food to be donated to St. Mary’s Catholic Church food bank in West. RIGHT PHOTO: District Three officers take the oath of office for the 2023-2024 year.

District Five Annual Spring Social Scenes

Sunday, April 30, 2023 • SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Hall

Youth painted rocks for Camp Kubena, left photo, and enjoyed making and flying kites. Winners received prizes. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 81, Needville

Youth Club members display their kites after a fun District Five Spring Social.

LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to the Bloody Mary contest winners: nonalcohol - Evan Pflughaupt (88), second from right, and Megan Pflughaupt (88), center, and alcohol - 2nd - Bradley Stavinoha (81), 1st - Lee Pflughaupt (88), and 3rd - Monica Pflughaupt (88).

LEFT PHOTO: Kite-making. PHOTO 2: Members visit. PHOTO 3: Thanks to the Lodge 88 cooks and servers for a great meal. PHOTO 4: Youth leaders!

RIGHT PHOTO: Melanie and Frank catch up with past Lodge 162, Iowa Colony Youth Leader Brenda Moyle, right.

LEFT PHOTO: Bloody Mary judges - Dave Andrews, Dave Holt, and John Rigamonti. OTHER PHOTOS: Members and guests enjoying the beautiful day.

SPJST LODGE SECTION

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

Lodge 4, Hallettsville plans June 11 social with lunch and games

Dear Members, Lodge 4, Hallettsville will meet Sunday, June 11, 2023, at Hallettsville Chamber Meeting Room at 3 p.m. Members are asked to participate in

Lodge 8, Weimar plans May 22 lunch meeting

Lodge 8, Weimar members will have their quarterly meeting on Monday, May 22, 2023, at Oakridge Smokehouse in Schulenburg. The meeting begins at 12 noon with lunch following the meeting.

Lodge 13, Dime Box members enjoy rock painting social

and bring animal supplies for the Paws for a Cause animal shelter drive.

Games will be played and lunch served as usual.

Hope to see you there!

Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—

The annual memorial service for members of Lodge 8, Weimar who passed away during the last year will take place.

All members of Lodge 8, Weimar are invited to attend. Guests are also invited. We look forward to seeing you. May everyone have a blessed spring and summer.

Take care, God bless, be safe.

Carolyn M. Tobola, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 13, Dime Box hosted its May 2, 2023, meeting with eight members in attendance. We all enjoyed painting rocks. In the meeting, it was brought to our attention that the teachers at Dime Box ISD would benefit having a small fridge in the elementary and high school workrooms. It was voted on and passed to donate that to them. We also voted to give the residents of Bec’s Blessing a quarterly outing to the Diamond I Venue if they want to.

Next Meeting—July 4

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 4 at 7 p.m., and we will have supper. Hope to see you then.

Doris Ford, FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Home Office Staff Visits Camp Kubena

Wednesday, April 19, 2023 • Camp Kubena • Ledbetter, Texas

For the April SPJST Caring Challenge, Lodge 13, Dime Box members painted rocks at their May meeting. The rocks will be bring positive joy to all who see them when they are displayed in their community.

Lodge 18, Elgin: please come to our dances, the next one is May 21

If we want to have the bands come to SPJST Lodge 18, Elgin, we need to work on the attendance at the dances. So far this year, we have Glen Collins on Sunday, May 21; Western Days on Saturday, June 24 with Glen Collins; Mark Halata on Sunday, August 13 – the first polka band since February; and the Red Ravens for the Christmas dance on Sunday, December 10. Please attend these dances if you want to keep the polka dances going at Lodge 18. The bands needs money for expenses. They can’t play for a few dollars.

The hall needs income to pay the bands, bills, insurance, etc. We do have some rentals, but we do not have enough members volunteering at the hall to have more rentals. So many SPJST halls are being sold. I don’t want to see that happen to Elgin. Let’s keep the Czech, German, etc. heritage going.

We need sales agents to keep SPJST going. SPJST has many benefits and many plans of insurance. Are you insured to keep the family together if something happens? Check your policy - is it updated? Is the beneficiary correct? This year has been an eye-opener for me. I saw how important it is to have

everything in order. Thank the Lord I have a chance to look into everything. SPJST has been around for a long time . . . check it out!

Irene Vrabel, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis readies of National Polka Festival on May 27

Dear Readers, Lodge 25, Ennis met on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Members enjoyed a meal before the meeting. Thank you, Betty, for the delicious pork roast, knedlicky, gravy, sauerkraut, green beans, with cheese cake and peach cobbler for dessert!

Margaret led the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for deceased member Danny Lee Zaidle and for Carol Rejcek. Prayers also go out to Shep Honza, infant grandson of Larry and Jimmie Honza, who underwent open-heart surgery.

All reports were approved as given. Discussion was held regarding the upcoming National Polka Festival that will be held on Saturday, May 27. JoAnn thanked everyone for their past support and asked for volunteers to help make this day a fun and successful event. If you can help, let us know!

Rita announced that the youth club garage sale was a huge success and thanked everyone for their donations and help. High school scholarship applications for SPJST Lodge 25 members are due and will be presented at the May meeting. Contact Rita if you need more information 469-337-2284.

Margaret announced new member William Ray Walker, grandson of Marlene Clark. Membership approved Janet and James McKensie to transfer to our lodge.

We expressed thanks to domino players representing our lodge who traveled to the state tournament in Temple— Bryan Honza, Ronnie Honza, Dustin Zajik, and Don Wesley.

Next Meeting—May 11

The next meeting will be Thursday, May 11.

Fraternally

yours,

Margaret Krajca Reporter/Sergeant-at-Arms

—SPJST—

Lodge Karel Jonas, No. 28, East Bernard reports on March meeting

Members of Lodge Karel Jonas, No. 28, East Bernard met for its quarterly meeting on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at 12 noon at Riverside Hall in East Bernard. All officers were present.

President Glenn Kaminsky called the meeting to order. All said the Pledge of Allegiance, and he welcomed everyone. Then he said grace for members to partake in our luncheon and social.

When President Kaminsky called the meeting back to order, it was reported that member Cindy Kubicek passed away on February 10. A moment of silent prayer was observed for all who passed away and for members on the sick list.

Next, President Kaminsky called for minutes of the December 2022 meeting. Helen Kelner read the minutes, and they were approved by all members. President Kaminsky then called for the treasurer’s report for December 2022, January 2023, and February 2023. Helen Kelner gave the reports. A motion

Executive

was made and seconded to approve the reports. The motion passed.

President Kaminsky reported on thank you notes from the Boy Scouts for the donation. Also Helen reported on a thank you from Rainbow Room Children Protective Services and the rest homes for the donations from 2022.

Helen reported on correspondence from the Home Office and announced that the District Six Annual Meeting is April 16 in Victoria.

Mary Jo Salinas reported on sales and new activities within SPJST.

Helen requested volunteer hours and donations need to be turned in. Door prizes were drawn.

Next Meeting—June 4

The next quarterly meeting will be Sunday, June 4 at 12 noon at Riverside Hall in East Bernard. Attendees are asked to please bring animal food to be donated to the animal shelter for the Paws for a Cause community service project.

Fraternally, Helen Kelner Secretary/Reporter

SPJST Executive Committee members attended the AQS Insurance Symposium in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 26, 2023. The day was jam-packed with sessions on life insurance, annuities, digital age advertising, economics, and securities. Pictured in front, left to right, are Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny, Controller Roy Vajdak, District Seven Director Regina House, AQS Managing Director Larry White, District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha, and Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty. Back: District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, District Four Director Bobby Davis, District Three Director John Engelke, President/CEO Brian Vanicek, AQS Managing Director Byron White, Portfolio Manager Stephen Gonzalez, and Financial Analyst Lee Stordahl.

—Doris Ford, FAC/Reporter

Lodge 32, Victoria plans May 11 social

The District Six Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 16, 2023, was a real success – if you weren’t present, you

missed out. The Cathedral Center was the perfect venue, and the weather was great for a Sunday afternoon drive.

Lodge 32, Victoria will meet Thursday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Grapevine Café, 110 Medical Drive, Suite 102, in Victoria. We’ll have a social after

the meeting – hope to see you there. We have completed the Souper Bowl soup drive and donated to VCAM. They were very appreciative. If you have something to donate, you might want to consider VCAM – they will take food, clothes, etc.

Taylor Jungmann of Lodge 24, Cyclone joins elite baseball players as Texas officially retires his No. 26 jersey

By Danny Davis - Austin American-Statesman

We will be now collecting items for Adopt-a-Pet for the Paws for a Cause service project. See you on May 11.

Fraternally, Kathy Ahlstrom FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

When Taylor Jungmann first started playing baseball, the T-ball team coached by his father didn’t have a complex way of assigning jersey numbers.

Jungmann was a shortstop, so he was given the No. 6 since that number correlates with the shortstop position in the scorebook. The number stuck. Years later, Jungmann wore No. 6 while leading Rogers High School to a state championship as a star pitcher and infielder.

Jungmann transferred to Georgetown High School for his senior season in 2008, but the Eagles did not have a No. 6 jersey that was big enough for his 6foot-6 frame. So Jungmann added a digit to his uniform and adopted a new number.

Jungmann is the ninth UT baseball player to have his jersey retired. Texas has already set aside Nos. 3 (Keith Moreland), 20 (Burt Hooton), 21 (Roger Clemens and Greg Swindell), 23 (Brooks Kieschnick), and 25 (Scott Bryant and Huston Street).

Kirk Dressendorfer, who wore No. 10 in 1988-90, was honored last month.

Taylor Jungmann delivers a pitch against Kent State at Disch-Falk Field in 2011. Jungmann ranks in the top 10 in UT's record books for career strikeouts (356, sixth), ERA (1.85, seventh) and wins (32, 10th).

“When I was playing, you see those names up there. It’s just, those guys are on a different level, so it’s amazing to be able to have my name up there with those guys,” Jungmann said earlier that week. “University of Texas was my dream school growing up. I’ve bled burnt orange my entire life.”

In 2010, Pierce was an assistant coach on a Rice team that was beaten by Jungmann in an Austin Regional. Since winning a player of the year award is an unofficial but understood requirement for jersey retirements in the Texas athletic department, Jungmann’s ceremony Saturday might not have happened without his 2011 season. But he said his favorite memories at Texas were made in 2009.

lot of fun that year.”

Jungmann was selected by Milwaukee with the 12th overall pick in the 2011 MLB draft. He pitched in 30 MLB games and spent some time playing in Japan. Jungmann attempted a return to professional baseball in the States when he signed a minor league deal with Texas, but he began to rethink his future after that spring training was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 33-year-old Jungmann is now a former baseball player. He lives in Austin with his wife, Brittany. His son, Heath, turned 2 on Friday, April 21, and he has another child due in May. Jungmann invests in real estate and rental properties and owns painting and roofing companies.

Former University of Texas pitcher

Taylor Jungmann and his family put their horns up at Jungmann’s jersey retirement ceremony ahead of the Longhorns’ doubleheader on Saturday, April 22, 2023, against Oklahoma.

So that is the story of why Jungmann chose to wear No. 26 at Texas. Only seven players are known to have worn that number in UT’s history, and there won’t be an eighth. Ahead of its doubleheader against Oklahoma on Saturday, April 22, Texas officially retired the No. 26 that the pitcher wore from 2009 to 2011.

Of the nine Longhorns who have had their jerseys retired by the Texas baseball program, Jungmann is the only one who played in the 2010s. He and Street are the only members of that group who were coached by Augie Garrido.

Jungmann appeared in 61 games for Texas. He ranks in the top 10 in UT’s record books for career strikeouts (356, sixth), ERA (1.85, seventh), and wins (32, 10th).

During the 2011 season, Jungmann went 13-3 with a 1.60 ERA and five complete games. He won the school’s fourth Dick Howser Trophy, an accomplishment that would not happen again until Ivan Melendez was honored as college baseball’s top player last year.

So what was it like to face Jungmann in his heyday?

“Miserable,” recalled current Texas coach David Pierce.

During that 2009 campaign, Texas went 50-16-1. Jungmann, who was a freshman, did his part as he won 11 times. One of those wins was a complete-game five-hitter against LSU that forced a decisive game in the championship series at the College World Series.

“He’s as special a kid as we’ve had since Calvin Schiraldi, Greg Swindell, Brooks Kieschnick, and Kirk Dressendorfer,” Moreland said in that game’s aftermath.

Jungmann’s Omaha heroics weren’t the only highlight of that postseason run. Texas beat Boston College in a 25-inning marathon that is still the NCAA’ s longest game. Preston Clark secured the Austin Regional with a walk-off grand slam against Army. At the College World Series, the Longhorns recorded a walk-off win over Southern Mississippi and rallied from a 6-0 deficit against Arizona State. Texas finished the year as the NCAA runner-up.

“Travis Tucker, Brandon Belt, Michael Torres, Preston Clark, Austin Wood, all those guys, being around those guys, they taught us how to win,” Jungmann recalled. “We just found ways to win. It was just a

While being honored at UFCU Disch-Falk Field ahead of April 22’s action, Jungmann was accompanied to the mound area by his wife, son, parents, and sister. He posed for pictures during the pregame ceremony with Oklahoma coach Skip Johnson, who was his pitching coach at UT. Texas student assistant Cameron Rupp, who was a catcher for UT from 2008 to 2010, caught the ceremonial first pitch from Jungmann. https://www.statesman.com/story/sports/college/longhorns/b aseball/2023/04/22/taylor-jungmann-is-ninth-texas-baseballplayer-with-retired-jersey/70139683007/ —SPJST—

Taylor Jungmann’s No. 26 is unveiled at UFCU Disch-Falk Field during his jersey retirement ceremony Saturday, April 22.

Lodge 39, Bryan invites members to attend special called meeting on Wednesday, May 24

Dear Members, Greetings!

On behalf of the officers of Lodge 39, Bryan, I invite you to attend a meeting at which lodge members will be voting to sell the lodge building and enabling the lodge to capitalize on the equity that exists in the property.

In accordance with SPJST operating procedures, a special called meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 1 p.m. to discuss, consider, and vote on the proposed sale. The meeting will take place at Carter’s Burger, located at 3105 South Texas Avenue 700 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 binnieroesler@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 24.

Thank you for your attention.^

Fraternally,

Omer Everett, President —SPJST—

SPJST Members Enjoy Celebrity Host Dinner

SPJST President/ CEO Brian Vanicek; Frances McBride, center, of Lodge 200, BrucevilleEddy; and Joan Vanicek of Lodge 24, Cyclone enjoy the Third Annual Celebrity Host Dinner for the Temple Children’s Museum held Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the Cultural Activities Center in Temple.

Lodge 39, Bryan encourages members to attend May 24 meeting

Dear Readers, Reminder: Lodge 39, Bryan will be holding a special meeting regarding the sale of its property on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at Carter’s Burger, located at 3105 South Texas Avenue 700 in Bryan. The meeting will start at 1 p.m. Please note: You will need to pay for your own food and drink. Hope to see you there.^

Sincerely,

Binnie Matejka Roesler Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 25, Ennis Honors April Birthdays

Happy April birthdays to Leah Martinek, left, and Marlene Clark! They were recognized by the lodge and presented a birthday cake for all to enjoy.

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca members invited to May 16 meeting and meal

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca will host its quarterly meeting on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. at Six Mile Volunteer Fire Department on Royal Road in Port Lavaca. Usual business will be discussed plus the second quarter requirements for the incentive program. We will also be collecting pet supplies. Members and guests are urged to attend, and a meal will be served.

Fraternally, Mary

Sitka, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 49, Rowena invites all to May 13 cornhole tournament

Lodge 49, Rowena will host a cornhole tournament on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at the lodge hall, located at 609 South FM 2133 in Rowena, Texas. Registration starts at 12 noon, and games begin at 1 p.m.

All ages are welcome to play, and the tournament is open to the first 40 teams. The tournament is double elimination, unless otherwise announced prior to the start of the tournament.

Entry fee is $50 per team with cash prizes to be awarded for first, second, and third place teams. Bags and boards will be provided. No outside bags are allowed.

For more information, call 325-6560489.

We hope to see you in Rowena for an enjoyable day of cornhole play! We’d love to have you participate.^

Fraternally, Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—

—Margaret Krajca Reporter

Czech Heritage Museum: chatting over coffee

Enjoying coffee and an afternoon visit at the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple are, from left, CHM Curator Kenny Lange, Honorary SPJST President Howard Leshikar, and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak.

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Family, friends, and the public are all invited, too. The event is Friday, May 26 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, May 27 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

We will be available to review your coverage, update your beneficiaries, and ensure your life insurance certificate information is still correct. Lost your policy? We can help!

Check out our annuities and credited rates:

1-Year Annuity 4.80%

2-Year Annuity 4.00%

3-Year Annuity 4.25%

5-Year Annuity 4.25%

Traditional and Roth IRAs 4.25%

Enjoy cookies, coffee, and other refreshments!

For more information, contact District Four Director Bobby Davis at 325-4503748 (call/text).

Lodge 49, Rowena hosts May 26-27 open house, membership drive

SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena will host an open house and membership drive with a free insurance review weekend on Friday, May 26 and Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the lodge hall, located at 609 South FM 2133 in Rowena.

Irene Bucanek brings elvis to Taylor Food dudes fundraiser

Lodge 63, Sweet Home members to enjoy meal after May 18 meeting

Lodge 63, Sweet Home will meet Thursday, May 18, 2023, our usual third Thursday of the quarter, at 7 p.m. at Green-Dickson Park in Shiner. Lodge business will be discussed, especially the new changes in reporting fraternal activities. A report will be given from those that recently attended the district meeting in Victoria. Food will be furnished by the lodge. Hope to see you there!

Fraternally, Elaine Berkovsky, FAC

—SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco members vote to start youth club

The Lodge 66, Waco meeting was called to order by President Douglas Galler at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 24, 2023. We met at St. Paul’s Church in Bellmead. Nine members and four visitors were present. All officers were present. A moment of silence was ob-

served for our departed sister, Dorothy Dvorak.

Sister Dana McAdams, lodge secretary, read the minutes from the last meeting. Brother John Engelke made a motion that we accept the minutes as read, and Sister Diana Engelke seconded the motion. The motion passed.

Sister Dana received a thank you card from Acts Storehouse for the canned goods and donation that were given in March. Sister Diana received a thank you card from Shepherd’s Heart for the donation we gave them.

Then Sister Diana gave the treasurer’s report.

Paws for a Cause

Brother Douglas gave the fraternal report. He read an interesting article about gardens. April is National Volunteer Month. During the April through June quarter, we will collect for Paws for a Cause and volunteer at local animal shelters. Camp Kubena registration is also open.

Sister Diana gave the cheer and condolence report. She sent a get well card to Sister Dorothy Veselka who is at the West Nursing Home for rehabilitation. In old business, we decided to send today’s painted rocks to Camp Kubena. There was discussion about door prizes for the members’ luncheon.

in Taylor, Texas. Irene’s bakery was like walking into an Elvis museum.

In support of the Souper Bowl quarterly community service project, Lodge 66, Waco presented a $250 donation to The Shepherd’s Heart in Waco, whose mission is to feed, clothe, empower, and advocate for families in need. Pictured are, left to right, Douglas Galler, Ron Neumann, Michael Galler, Joan Shelton, John and Diana Engelke, Dana and Jodie McAdams, Sr., and Jane Galler. —Dana McAdams, Secretary/Reporter

SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor member Irene Bucanek, right, entertains the public dressed as Elvis Presley for the Taylor 2023 Food Dudes fundraiser. Irene, daughter Debbie Kubiak, left, and granddaughter Jaboa Atkins made and served a variety of homemade cakes for the event. Money raised will help the TEE Foundation build better education and continue Taylor ISD classroom grant program. Irene is the former owner of the Kolache Shoppe

In new business, Sister Dana made a motion to restart the Lodge 66 Youth Club. Brother Michael Galler seconded. Discussion followed about possible members, where they would meet, and about funding for them. Brother Douglas called for a vote, and the motion passed unanimously. Sister Diana then made a recommendation to give the new youth club $500 for start-up funds. Brother John made that suggestion into a motion. After discussion, Sister Dana suggested that we hold off on funds until we have established the group, and we have the tax information to set up a bank account. Brother John also mentioned that there may be funds available at the state level that can be used for new youth clubs.

Next, Brother John presented a list of upcoming state, district, and local SPJST events. The Advisory Council meeting for delegates will be Saturday, May 6 at 10 a.m. (online). National Polka Festival in Ennis - May 26 to 28, SPJST camp - June 21 to 25, Fourth of July Parade in Belton, State Youth Showcase - July 28 and 29, WestfestSeptember 1 to 3, and Westfest ParadeSeptember 2 are all events that Brother John mentioned.

Brother Ronald Neumann had received a list of supplies needed by the Waco Humane Society. We will be collecting puppy food, food bowls, leashes, and collars to donate. Members will meet at the shelter on Wednesday, May 31 at 11 a.m. to spend time and deliver goods. Brother Ronald made a motion to give this month’s $100 donation to Waco Humane Society. The motion, seconded by Sister Diana, passed.

Sister Dana started a discussion about helping youth attend camp this year. She made a motion to pay for five campers to attend camp. Brother John seconded, and the motion passed.

Five members participated in the rock painting challenge this month –Michael, Jodie, Sr., John, Dana, and Diana.

Our visitor Fiona Galler was the only May birthday celebrant.

The door prize was won by Brother Thomas Galler, and Brother Jodie McAdams, Sr. won the 100 percent pot of $5.

Sister Diana made a motion that we adjourn, and Brother Ron seconded. The meeting was dismissed at 7:45 p.m.

Next Meeting—May 22

The next meeting will be Monday, May 22 at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church

in Bellmead. Mothers will be honored, and Brother John volunteered to cook hamburgers.

Respectfully submitted by your Lodge Secretary/Reporter, Dana McAdams —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton - Star Hall ★ Tarok Tournament

On Saturday, April 22, 2023, Lodge 47, Seaton hosted a tarok tournament at Seaton Star Hall. We had 40 players participate in the six-round event, with winners for high round from each round. Players were provided snacks and a delicious meal prepared by members of the lodge.

High round winners were:

Round 1 - Danny Tajchman (185 points)

Round 2 - Joe Cernoch (181 points)

Round 3 - Danny Stepan (181 points)

Round 4 - Danny Stefek, Jr. (183 points)

Round 5 - Jerry Brezina (188 points)

Round 6 - Larry Svehlak (212 points)

Plaque and money winners were:

1st - Victor Marek (784 total points)

2nd - David Kucera (738 total points)

3rd - Jay Zrubek (732 total points)

4th - Mark Brezina (730 total points)

Thank you to the tournament players who attended the 2023 Seaton Tarok Tournament. Special thanks to Jimmie Coufal of Lodge 47 for helping Danny Stepan with set up prior to the tournament and to Jvonne Lalla of Lodge 20, Granger for keeping scores during the tournament. Finally, thank you to all who helped and made the tournament successful. Fraternally, Tammy

Martinez,

Board

Member

—SPJST—

Tournament organizer Danny Stepan, far left, presents plaques and money to winners left to right, 1st place - Victor Marek (784 total points); 2nd - David Kucera (738 total points); 3rd - Jay Zrubek (732 total points); and 4th - Mark Brezina (730 total points). Congratulations!

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi elects new vice president

Lodge 79 Corpus Christi celebrated a belated Easter on Sunday, April 16, 2023, with a meal of fried chicken and sides.

President Mark Rebecek called the meeting to order at 2:10 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers were present. We had 23 members and guests in attendance.

On the sick list was Sales Agent Carlos Benevidez who is recovering from heart surgery. It was nice to see him at the meeting.

President Rebecek introduced guests District Seven Director Regina House, Territory Manager Ralph Juarez, and Sales Agent Carlos Benevidez. Each presented an interesting talk.

Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the March minutes, and Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the financial report for March. Both reports were approved.

Vice President/FAC Jerry Sijansky asked all members to keep track of their fraternal acts. Jerry also announced he will be stepping down from his position as vice president/fraternal activities coordinator, effective immediately. President Rebecek stated that we will be electing a new vice president/fraternal activities coordinator at the end of the meeting.

Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave her report. They had seven members and guests in attendance. The youth decorated Easter cookies.

Birthdays for April were Marcia Rew on the 23rd, Eva Garcia on the 27th, and Michael Urbanovsky on the 28th. Happy birthday, members!

Door prizes in the amount of $25 were won by Luke Garcia and Eva Garcia. Before the meeting was adjourned, the lodge held an election for the vice president/FAC position. Michael Urbanovsky was elected by the membership to fill this position. He was installed by District Seven Director House. Congratulations, Michael, and thank you for accepting this position.

Michael Urbanovsky made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Christina Rew. The meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p.m.

Next Meeting—May 21

The next meeting will be Sunday, May 21 with pot roast as the main meal, and members are asked to bring a side dish. We will be celebrating Mother’s Day.

Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary

Lodge 81, Needville member

Valentine Kusy Achieves Grand Age of 96

SPJST congratulates Brother Valentine Kusy of Lodge 81, Needville who celebrated his 96th birthday on March 25, 2023. As a Grand Age of 96 member, Brother Kusy now receives all SPJST benefits with no further dues or assessments.

Valentine was born in Moravia, Texas, on March 25, 1927, to Eduard and Bessie (Socha) Kusy. His siblings include Edward E. Kusy, Jr., Oscar Kusy, Marcella Kusy Pelzel, and Annie (infant) - all deceased; and Zdenka Kusy Swaim and Jarolyn Kusy - living.

Valentine’s parents knew each other in Czechoslovakia. His father Eduard immigrated from Czechoslovakia in 1911; and his mother Bessie came in 1919.

Valentine married Bernice (Kossa) in Ammansville on June 19, 1951. Bernice passed away in 2014.

Valentine and Bernice were blessed with children Marilyn Kusy Cudny (Robert), Kevin Kusy (Ivy), Gloria Kusy Dockery (Calvin), and Kenneth; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 25 great-great-grandchildren.

Growing up, Valentine recalls attending school barefooted, as did a lot of the children. Shoes were 42 cents a pair. When he was five or six years old, Valentine had a cotton sack about four feet long that he used to pull and pick cotton.

Potatoes and cabbage were raised on the farm. Making sauerkraut - that was Valentine’s job; he was the stomper! He washed his feet and had to walk in the crock and stomp it. Water was drawn from a well. “When the well water was not sufficient to dip in, Daddy would tie a stick of wood on one end drop me down in the well to clean it out, and the water would be good again,” Valentine recalls.

Valentine’s family belonged to a meat club. They would get meat on Sunday, and the neighbors would get together and go swimming in the creek.

Valentine had a Czech teacher when he started going to Komensky School at age six. She lived to be 102!

Valentine would go to the neighbors to help pick cotton and earn money for clothes. During corn harvest season, he didn’t attend the first two or three weeks of school. The work was tough, and it sort of set him behind in school. Later, Valentine was needed on the farm so he quit school after eighth grade.

When World War II broke out, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served 18 months in Hawaii, Japan, and Guam. “This is a story I enjoy in my life,” he said.

Valentine remembers when he joined SPJST: “In 1944, Daddy was president of Rad Cislo No. 3, Novohrad and said,

‘Valentine, buy at least some insurance’ - so that was my first SPJST policy.”

Valentine was a machinist for W-KM for 35 years and also farmed.

He enjoyed building and dancing. Valentine built his first home in a cow pasture, and 18 years later, he says, it was destroyed when a Houston garbage dump was constructed by his place.

Valentine is proud that he built his first home and sold real estate. He also built garages on his place in Needville, where he has been living for the past 48 years.

He recalls that his father always said SPJST was a Czech organization and was for Czechs only . . . “how it has changed,” he remarked.

Again, we congratulate Brother Valentine Kusy on attaining the Grand Age of 96. Thank you, Brother Kusy for your membership in SPJST. Best wishes for good health and happiness.

Editor’s Note: Some information included in Brother Kusy’s article was gleaned from his interview by Fort Bend County Historical Commission’s Oral History Committee in 2011. The complete interview can be accessed online at www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-services/h istorical-commission.

—SPJST—

CLOCKWISE, from BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO: 1. Wedding of Bernice (Kossa) and Valentine Kusy. 2. Father of Valentine Kusy - Eduard Kusy. 3. Parents of Valentine Kusy - Bessie (Socha) and Eduard Kusy. 4. District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha visits with Age 96 Honoree Valentine Kusy.

Lodge 80, Holland next meeting, catered meal is 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 shares April meeting scenes

Lodge 84, Dallas collects toiletry items at May 21 meeting

Dear Readers, Just a reminder that Lodge 84, Dallas will host its next monthly meeting on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace, Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions.

Lodge 80, Holland Announces scholarship recipients

gina House and Lodge 79, Corpus Christi President Mark Rebecek, right, congratulate newly-elected Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Michael Urbanovsky.

At this meeting, we will be collecting travel-size toiletry items for our Join Hands Day project so please be generous and bring some if you plan to attend. Also, don’t forget to bring a dessert item for our svacina after the meeting. Please mark your calendars to join us. We look forward to seeing you!

Fraternally, Anne

Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 142, Houston members enjoy games after meeting

Dear Readers, SPJST Lodge 142, Houston members met on Sunday April 16, 2023, in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Our social and a lunch of fried chicken, potato salad, green beans, and dessert was at served at 1 p.m. Dennis led the prayer.

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

Pflughaupt reminded all about the District Five Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 30 at Lodge 88. Houston Lodges are asked to bring desserts and door prizes and to wear your Houston Astros attire.

Senior Living Center Chair J.R. Coleman indicated all was going well in the S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Center Community.

Secretary Elizabeth Hermis read the March meeting minutes. J.R. Coleman moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Mary Bird. All approved.

Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave his report. J.R. Coleman made a motion to accept the report, and Barbara Linney Gonzalez seconded the motion. All were in favor.

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland recently presented Holland ISD with a check for $600 for its scholarship fund. Presenting the check to Counselor Melany Cearley, pictured far right, is Lodge 80 President Rita Spinn, pictured second from right. Assisting with the presentation is Lodge 80 Treasurer Joyce Martinets, far left. Congratulations to scholarship recipients Jerry Chavez, second from left, and Colton Cargill who will graduate in May. They are both members of Lodge 80, Holland.

Roll call of officers showed all present except Vice President Kerry Herrington, Youth Leader Amanda Muzny, and Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington. Present was Sales Agent Mary E. Bird. We had 18 members and one guest, District Five President Dorothy Pflughaupt.

Sales Agent Mary E. Bird spoke on updates of four territories and to keep updated on beneficiaries.

District Five President Dorothy

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider spoke briefly on the new incentive award program for lodges. Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak will be attending our District Five Spring Social to discuss more on the qualifications. She reminded all of this quarter’s community service project – Paws for a Cause. Please bring your donations to the next lodge meeting.

Sick committee reported Rosie Malota was not feeling well.

Audit committee met on April 4 with all books in very good order.

New member is Stacy Lynette McGarth (Sales Agent Kerry Herrington). Keith made a motion to accept the new member, seconded by Mary Bird. Motion carried.

Under new business, the lodge will donate 10 - $10 door prizes to the Dis-

LEFT PHOTO: Happy April birthdays to, from left, Eva Garcia on the 27th, Marcia Rew on the 23rd, and Michael Urbanovsky on the 28th. CENTER PHOTO: Door prize winners of $25 were Eva Garcia and Luke Garcia. RIGHT PHOTO: District Seven Director Re-

—Virginia Rebecek, Secretary

trict Five Spring Social.

Motion was made, seconded, and passed to change the June meeting to the second Sunday, June 11, instead of June 18, in observance of Father’s Day.

Birthday celebrants were Zac Coleman on the 28th, Mary Jane Hue on the 4th, and Bob Schleider on the 29th. Happy birthday!

Anniversary was Pat and Bob Schleider - 44 years on April 21. Congratulations!

The quarterly capsule drawing was decided on was $10 awarded to all 18 members present at the meeting.

Meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Door prizes were then awarded. We all played bingo after the meeting. Winners were 1st - Steve Roznovsky, 2nd - Dorothy Pflughaupt, and 3rd - Jack Manchack. It was decided to play bingo at the May meeting, too.

Next Meeting—May 21

The next meeting will be Sunday, May 21 at 2 p.m. with a meal at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 151, Wharton meets June 12

SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton will hold its quarterly meeting and social on Monday, June 12, 2023, at Wharton Depot Museum, located at 100 Sunset Street in Wharton.

A light meal will be served at 6:30 p.m. Please RSVP by Thursday, June 8 to Carolyn Bucek at 979-532-1910 or Janie Bucek at 979-532-5884 if you plan to attend.

SPJST’s second quarter challenge is Paws for a Cause, which is an animal shelter drive. Friends of Wharton, Texas, Animal Control (FOWAC) is always in need of dry dog and cat food. Members are encouraged to bring dry dog and cat food to the meeting that will be donated to FOWAC. Any help you can give this organization will be greatly appreciated.

In addition, Tria Svatek will give a talk on “Medicaid Eligibility for Nursing Homes.” Tria is the admissions director for Southbrooke Manor and Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Edna and the Port Lavaca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Port Lavaca. She is also a member of Lodge 151. Members with birthdays in April, May, and June will be honored. We hope you can attend.

Fraternally, Janie

Bucek Secretary/FAC —SPJST—

Lodge 160, San Angelo meets May 18

Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 5 p.m. The meeting will take place at Los Panchito’s Restaurant, located at 34 West Avenue D in San

Lodge 187, Round Rock Members assist at Break the Silence event

For Child Abuse Awareness Month in April, Lodge 187, Round Rock members assisted at the first Break the Silence event held in Taylor with the CAC (Child Advocacy Center). Members helped with Child ID fingerprints.

—Jennifer McCarthy, Youth Coordinator/ Reporter/Financial Secretary

Angelo. We hope you will be able to join us!^

Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—

Lodge 183, Arlington meeting to address sale of property

Dear Members of Lodge 183, Arlington, Please make plans to attend a special called meeting of SPJST Lodge 183, Arlington on Monday, June 5, 2023, at 6 p.m. at the lodge building, located at 3100 Pleasant Valley Lane in Arlington. The purpose of this meeting will be to

communicate the April 17 decision of the SPJST Board of Directors to sell the lodge building on the basis of financial concerns associated with the property. All adult members are encouraged to attend. This will also be an opportune time to discuss ideas for the post-sale future of Lodge 183, Arlington.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, you are invited to share your thoughts with us through email at info@spjst.org. Thank you for your kind attention and for your input.

Fraternally, Brian

Vanicek SPJST President/CEO

—SPJST—

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point sets May 22 lunch social

Dear Members,

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point will host a lunch social on Monday, May 22, 2023, at Bella Blue Café, 1323 South 57th Street in Temple, at 11:15 a.m. For the quarterly Paws for a Cause community service project, members are encouraged to bring food and supplies which will be donated to Tiny Hooves Rescue and Petting Zoo.

We look forward to seeing you on May 22 to enjoy lunch and plan more community projects and fun activities for the summer and fall of 2023.

Fraternally,

David Nauert, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 187, Round Rock members help stuff eggs for united clubs of austin easter hunt

Lodge 187, Round Rock members helped stuff Easter eggs for the United Clubs of Austin. Thanks to all who helped stuff more than 1,000 eggs! CENTER PHOTO:

Hiding all the Easter eggs for the kids to find. RIGHT

PHOTO: Mathieu McCarthy and the Easter Bunny.

—Jennifer McCarthy, Reporter

★ ★ Reunions ★ ★

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

Kelner family

Descendants of Anton and Alouise Jancak Kelner will have their 36th family reunion on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at American Legion Hall in East Bernard.

Kick-off is at 12 noon with grace, and the meal will be served at 1 p.m. Auction and meeting are at 2 p.m. Socializing and games will follow.

Come one, come all to enjoy family and socializing. Please contact family members. Bring pictures to share. Barbecue meat will be prepared, but please

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living - Taylor Residents Enjoy Easter Celebration

S.P.J.S.T. nursing home residents celebrated Easter on Thursday, April 6, 2023 with an indoor Easter egg hunt followed with happy hour. Residents had a blast hunting Easter eggs and were even more excited that they got butterfly nets to help pick up eggs off the ground. We then took pictures in front of the Easter backdrop with the beautiful Easter Cross that residents made.

bring a side dish and dessert. Left over barbecue meat will be auctioned. Utensils, condiments, and drinks will be provided. BYOB and coverage $3 for persons over age 10.

Contacts for the reunion are President William Kelner 979-533-1950; Vice President Donnie Kelner 979-310-3245; Secretary Helen Kelner 830-490-0664; Treasurer Joey Pitman 281-236-7652. Please donate items for the auction. Bring games.

Helen Kelner Lodge 28, East Bernard

~ Melissa Mesecke, Activity Director

Vajdak family

The Vajdak family will meet Sunday, June 12, 2022, at SPJST Lodge 9, Snook. A potluck meal will be served at noon. Please bring a dish to share. There will also be a silent auction and a plant exchange.

For more information, call Carla at 979-229-3630.

Carla Welch Lodge 9, Snook —SPJST—

More Scenes from Lodge 155, Austin Souper Bowl Event

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living facilities in Taylor welcomes new admin

Fernando Castro

fernando.castro@taylorpress.net

Taylor Press • Taylor, Texas August 17, 2022

Some of the area’s oldest residents have a new watchful eye looking after for them.

Larry Beltran was recently named as the new administrator at S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living and S.P.J.S.T. Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation. He succeeds Woody Richards as admin.

“Woody Richards was here for a long time,” said Beltran, “and he ran a good, tight ship and had a good reputation in the area.”

SPJST

Hyde Park

items

Association

Hope Food Pantry to host an Easter Bunny parade on Saturday, April 8, 2023. A total of $1,350 was raised, and many non-perishable

SPJST, a fraternal benefit society, established its first nursing community in Taylor in 1957. SPJST’s board of directors for its communities of care is committed to providing the highest quality care for their guests. High quality of care for the aged was their original mission. This continues to be their focus as they move forward in planning for the future health care needs of the aging population in Texas. The staff in these communities consists of many local residents who have strong ties to the local area.

Beltran continues that reputation since his wife’s family is from the area.

Lodge

155, Austin partnered

with

Neighborhood

and

were collected. Thanks to SPJST, we were able to raise $1,350 for the Hope Food Pantry! This is equivalent to two weeks worth of operations!

—Stephen Gonzalez

His parents-inlaw own Marx Service, a local air conditioning, heating and appliance repair company.

“My family being from here, (Richards) had recently left and so I called up here and got a contact name of somebody from the board whose was taking applications,” said Beltran, “so I sent my resume to him.”

Beltran was born in west Texas but has worked through the state. He most recently came from The Woodlands.

“I’ve been working with seniors, nursing homes and assisted living for almost 30 years,” he said.

As administrator, he will oversee both the assisted living and nursing facilities.

“I kind of run back and forth and making sure that everybody’s being well taken care of and try to visit with the residents and see what we can do to make things better for them and try to make their lives as good as possible,” said Beltran. “We try to do what we can do as a group.”

Making sure that group shares his passion for their residents is paramount. “No. 1 job is to hire good people who care,” said Beltran. “You can teach anybody to do a job, but you can’t teach them to care.”

So, the new man in charge is impressed with what’s around him.

“It’s a great facility and it’s wonderful people here. It’s a great staff,” said Beltran. “The community has always had a great reputation in the healthcare market.”

Outside of the buildings, Beltran has appreciated the friendly community. He’s now trying to get involved with local organizations like the Rotary, Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and other opportunities to contribute while also seeking volunteers.

“I like Taylor a lot,” said Beltran. “It’s got a nice pace. It’s slower. I know it’s growing with Samsung coming in, but I mean it’s still a small town.”

—SPJST—

Explore

Do insects sneeze, cough, or hiccup?

That’s funny to think about, but the answer is no. All of those reactions take place only in breathing systems that are similar to ours. Insects breathe through tiny holes in the skin, so they have no reason to sneeze, cough, or hiccup.

How do cows produce milk?

A cow’s special four-chambered stomach breaks down grasses she eats into things that nourish her and produce milk.

The first chamber softens chewed plant material, which the cow burps up and chews again several times. In the next chamber, microorganisms feed on the plant material, making energy and proteins. As the material moves through the other chambers and into the small intestine, nutrients and excess water are absorbed into the bloodstream and then circulate to the mammary gland in the udder.

There, special cells combine the nutrients with sugars from the cow’s liver to create milk.

Cows, goats, and other ruminants are valued around the world for their ability to digest low-nutrient grass and use it to make nutritious milk and meat.

Why is the sky blue?

The sky is blue because the air scatters blue light from the Sun across the sky and down to our eyes.

We think of air as being clear and transparent, and it is. But air is made up of countless tiny objects, mostly molecules of nitrogen. When sunlight goes thousands of miles through our atmosphere, a tiny amount of light becomes scattered by these objects.

White light is made up of all colors of light. Nitrogen molecules scatter blue light more than they do the other colors. So a little bit of blue light bounces around in the sky and then enters our eyes. That makes the sky look blue.

Why do people get white hair?

Each strand of hair is made by a part of the skin called a hair follicle. The color of the hair comes from a chemical called melanin. The follicle adds melanin as it makes the hair. For many of us, the hair follicles stop making melanin as we age. Hair looks white or gray because of the lack of added color.

Moffat reunion marks 50 years since school was open

David Stone | Our Town Temple April 26, 2023

It’s been 50 years since students last roamed the halls of Moffat School, and that final graduating class was honored on May 6, 2023, during a reunion celebration.

Now known as the Moffat Community Center, students who graduated in the Class of 1974 were honored at the homecoming, said Cheryl Hinckley, a member of the Moffat Community Center Association board.

David Coufal, who attended Moffat School from 1965 to 1971, said the original structure opened to students in 1881 and was not located at the same site as the current Community Center.

“The original Moffat School was in a different location, and the frame structure burned down in the early 1900s,” Coufal said. “The best we can tell, the current building was constructed in 1909 and dedicated the following year. We think classes were held in a local church for about three years before the new school was built.”

The number of grades the school offered varied over the years, but at one time it housed students in first through 12th grade.

“1929 likely was the last year students graduated from high school at Moffat,” Coufal said. “For a time, the school served students through eighth grade, and later sixth grade was the last year. After their sixth-grade year, most students went to Belton but some went to Gatesville, Temple, Moody or a few other places.”

Like the number of grades, the student population of Moffat School fluctuated over the years.

“Usually 40 or 50 kids went to Moffat School, but there were years where we had 60 or more,” Coufal added. “Schools in Bland and Owl Creek closed after Lake Belton was created, so Moffat grew.”

Belton Independent School District annexed Moffat and its school during the 1973-74 school year, then conveyed the property to the Moffat Community Center Association at the end of the year, according to Hinckley.

“The old building was vacant for nearly 40 years, but we replaced the roof in 2006 by taking donations from the community,” Coufal said. “People had an interest in preserving the old school. It’s an important piece of Moffat history.”

In June 2010, under the leadership of Edgar Bounds and a band of dedicated volunteers, efforts to renovate Moffat School got under way.

“We upgraded electrical wiring, installed central heat and air, cleaned out decades of debris, repainted and rebuilt the old barbecue stand,” Hinckley said. “We spruced up the outside, renovated restrooms, removed very smelly carpet and replaced the pavilion. We also added a building to store equipment.”

Today, the renovated school is the Moffat Community Center, and it once again serves as a hub of activity for one of the oldest communities in Bell County.

“The center is well used,” Hinckley said. “It hosts weddings, birthday parties, family reunions, memorial services, baby showers and fundraisers for the Moffat Community Center Association.”

Larry Beltran

David Coufal, a former student at Moffat School, reads letters from other students while sitting at a desk inside the building, which now is known as Moffat Community Center. A reunion marking the 50th anniversary of the last Moffat School classes was held May 6. David is a member and sales agent of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton. Courtesy photo

Why do dinosaur names end in -saurus?

Almost 200 years ago, when people started studying dinosaurs, the giant fossils reminded them of bones from small lizards that exist today. When scientists made up names for the animals, they used the Greek word sauros, which means “lizard.” In fact, the term dinosaur is a combination of the Greek words deinos (“terrible”) and sauros, so it means “terrible lizard.”

Since then, scientists have discovered many dinosaur skeletons and can tell that dinosaurs were not giant lizards. In fact, they are related to birds. But the dinosaurs still have their original names. Changing the names would be confusing for anyone who tried to compare old and new articles about them.

Why do cats lie on paper?

We have not seen a scientific study that tried to answer this question, so we asked Dr. Bonnie V. Beaver, a veterinarian specializing in feline behav

ior. According to Dr. Beaver, some people think cats just like the crinkly sound of paper. Others think it may be the location that the cat likes, rather than the paper. The paper may just happen to be on the cat’s preferred resting spot! And there certainly are cats who will sit or lie on paper or other objects just to get our attention.

Why do we lose our voice?

That can happen when our vocal cords become irritated. The vocal cords are two folds of tissue near the top of the airway. When air from the lungs passes between them, they vibrate, making the sound we call our voice.

But if strain or infection makes them irritated and swollen, they vibrate differently. That can cause a raspy, “hoarse” sound that may be difficult to hear. Some people call that “losing your voice.”

Source: https://www.highlightskids.com/explore/science-questions/ —SPJST—

S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living - Taylor hosts family/community Easter Egg Hunt

We had our big family/community Easter egg hunt at S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living in Taylor on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. We had a nice size crowd of kiddos! Residents had a blast watching the kids hunt for Easter eggs. A big thank you to some of the girls from Taylor High Steppers who came out to help.

~ Melissa Mesecke, Activity Director

SPJST is offering an exclusive VIP, fully guided, three-day unforgettable trip as we celebrate together at the

SPJST Tour to the Texas Rose Festival

Tyler, Texas

Tyler, Texas

October 19-21, 2023

October 19-21, 2023

HIGHLIGHTS

• Texas State Fair

• Palette of Rose Competition, Art Show, and Sale

• Guided Tour of Tyler Municipal Rose Garden

Coronation Ceremony for the Rose Queen

• Tea with the Queen and her Court

• Welcome Dinner with Entertainment

• Rose Festival Arts and Crafts Fair

• Tyler’s Old Rose Open House

The Historic Goodman/Le Grand House

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day One - Travel Day

Travel from Temple to Tyler. Drive to the Texas State Fair, with a stop for lunch and sightseeing. Check into hotel. Welcome dinner with entertainment and a special guest.

Day Two - Texas Rose Festival

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Explore the Municipal Rose Garden, tour of the Rose Museum and Rose Garden displays. Buffet lunch (on your own) at hotel. Return to hotel for rest and to freshen up. Dress up a bit before attending the Texas Rose Festival Coronation of the Rose Queen.

Day Three - Tea with the Queen and her Court

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Travel to Texas Arts and Crafts. Tyler city tour. Lunch at Potpourri. Tea with the queen and her court, an opportunity to meet the Rose Queen and her Court in their full coronation costumes. It is traditionally hosted by the queen’s family and the Texas Rose Festival. Return home.

Pricing includes round trip transportation from SPJST Home Office in Temple, Texas, to Tyler, Texas; two nights accommodations; two breakfasts; one lunch; one dinner; admissions to all events; entrance and guide fees per itinerary including taxes and gratuities.

INCLUDES: Accommodations at Holiday Inn Conference Center, two full breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner, taxes and gratuities, round trip motor transportation from Temple, Texas

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!

SPJST.ORG/TOURS

LUNCH AT THE TEXAS STATE FAIR with attractions, events and shows

LIVE PERFORMANCE & MEET AND GREET award winning Grandma’s Boyfriends barbershop quartet and a MASTER GARDENER representative double triple quad single $419 $367 $349 $551

CORONATION OF THE ROSE QUEEN and tea with the queen and her court

VIEW THE MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDEN and tour the Rose Museum

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

✦ Tommie & Gladys Lostak ✦ Scholarship

Regan Armstrong

Lodge 49, Rowena

Iraan High School

Daughter of Paul Armstrong and Trixie Armstrong

Angelo State University Medicine

Lea Barcak

Lodge 88, Houston

Cunae International School

Daughter of Celine Bru and Jefferey Barcak

University of Texas Studio Art

To SPJST’s 2023 Scholarship Recipients :

Lodge 20, Granger

Stratford High School

Daughter of David Boerm and Melynda Tomasek Boerm

University of Oklahoma

Mechanical Engineering

Skylin Bromonsky

Lodge 185, New Braunfels

Needville High School

Daughter of Barry Bromonsky and JoAnne Bromonsky

Sam Houston State University

Geology

Jaysen Carter

Lodge 47, Seaton

Waco High School

Son of Deanna Burt

Texas State University

Theater

Melanie Cedillo

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

Wharton High School

Daughter of Elia Diaz

University of Texas

Architectural Engineering

Quinlan Dobecka

Lodge 6, Cottonwood

West High School

Daughter of Tory and and Kevin Dobecka College - Undecided

Nursing

Ainsley Driska

Lodge 177, Academy

Cameron C.H. Yoe High School

Daughter of Kenneth Driska, Jr. and Alushka Driska

Southern Louisiana University

Human Science

✦ Gladys Yates ✦ Scholarship

✦ Johnnie R. Krizan ✦ Scholarship

Lauren Boerm

Lodge 38, Kovar

Thrall High School

Daughter of Stacy Hooker and Tommy Hooker

Texas A&M University Business

Lodge 29, Taylor

Brentwood Christian School

Son of Christie Johnson and Brandon Johnson College - Undecided Pre-law

Lodge 187, Round Rock

Thrall High School

Daughter of Brandon and Lauren Johnson

Arlington Baptist University Business Studies

Lodge 154, Fort Worth

Penn Foster High School

Daughter of Loy and CarrieAnn Jones

East Texas Baptist University Christian Ministries

Lodge 54, West West High School

Son of Shawn Kaluza and Naomi Kaluza

TSTC

Automotive Technology

Riley

Lodge 54, West

West High School

Daughter of Kerri Kaluza and Justin Kaluza

McLennan Community College Medical

Lodge 28, East Bernard

Fort Bend Christian Academy

Son of Pam and Clay Kaminsky College - Undecided

AgriBusiness

Lodge 17, New Tabor

Caldwell High School

Daughter of Lori Calhoun and Donald Calhoun, Jr. College - Undecided

Dental Hygiene

Dakota Johnson

✦ Otto Hanus ✦ Scholarship

Holly Jones

✦ Bessie Petr ✦ Scholarship

Kerrigan Hooker

✦ Ernest A. Wentrcek ✦ Scholarship

Raelynn Johnson

Kaluza

✦ Rudy & Maxine Sefcik ✦ Benevolent Scholarship

Ashlyn Kellum

✦ Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. ✦ Scholarship

Landon Kaluza

Camden Kaminsky

Lodge 8, Weimar

Weimar High School

Son of Nicole Billeck

TSTC

Welding Technology

Lodge 133, San Antonio

Richard King High School

Daughter of Brandi Kutil and Charlie Kutil

Nova Southeastern University Psychology

To SPJST’s 2023 Scholarship Recipients :

Lodge 48, Beyersville

Granger High School

Daughter of Anissa and Phillip Lopez

Tarleton State University Agriculture Industry

Lodge 32, Victoria

Sacred Heart Catholic School

Daughter of Yvonne Machicek and Steven Machicek

Texas State University

Fashion Merchandising

Peyton Malina

Lodge 47, Seaton

Temple High School

Son of Kenneth Malina and Terry Malina

University of Mary-Hardin Baylor Business Administration

Taylor Manrriquez

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

El Campo High School

Son of Mario and Kathryn Manrriquez

Tarleton State University Finance

Adryanna Manzano

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje

El Campo High School

Daughter of Lynda Manzano/Cathy Garcia

College - Undecided

Major - Undecided

Parker Mikulas

Lodge 47, Seaton

Marcus High School

Son of Wade and Michelle Mikulas

College - Undecided

Kayla Kutil

Lilly Machicek

Tanner Konvicka

Macey Lopez

✦ Otto Hanus ✦ Scholarship

✦ SPJST District Six ✦ Scholarship

Lodge 6, Cottonwood

Abbott High School

Daughter of Anita Murphy and Jason Murphy

Tarleton State University

Communication Science & Disorders

Lodge 17, New Tabor

Caldwell High School

Son of Jennifer Parker

Blinn College

HVAC Technology

To SPJST’s 2023 Scholarship Recipients :

Lodge 88, Houston

The Woodlands College Park High School

Son of Cathy Pittenger and David Pittenger

College - Undecided

Computer Science

Lodge 229, Abilene

Cooper High School

Daughter of Rebecca Race

Cisco College

Major - Undecided

Keith

Lodge 186, Caldwell

Caldwell High School

Son of Sharon and Christopher Ramon Blinn College

HVAC Technology

Ian Ranly

Lodge 47, Seaton

Rogers High School

Son of Gary and Stephanie Ranly

Texas A&M University Engineering

Lodge 66, Waco

Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing & Visual Arts

Son of Victoria Rosas and Jared Rossi

College - Undecided

Biomedical Engineering

Ryan

Lodge 84, Dallas

Forney High School

Son of Travis Ruzicka and Jennifer Ruzicka

Texas A&M University

Computer Science/Engineering

Carson Parker

✦ Ben & Martha Trcalek ✦ Scholarship

Kasandra Race

Madison Murphy

✦ Nick A. Morris ✦ Scholarship

Jack Pittenger

✦ Larry W. Pflughaupt ✦ Scholarship

✦ Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. ✦ Scholarship

Ruzicka

Ramon

✦ Birdie Hilsher Pech ✦ Scholarship

Preston Rossi

Lodge 92, Fort Worth

Birdville High School

Daughter of Kristin Scaff and Brent Scaff

College - Undecided

Biological Sciences

Lodge 30, Taiton

El Campo High School

Daughter of Lilburn and Stephanie Schulz

Texas A&M University Accounting

Lodge 9, Snook

Snook High School

Son of Randall and Jonna See

Texas A&M University

Animal Sciences

Lodge 9, Snook

Snook High School

Son of John See, III and Robin Burns

Blinn College

Agricultural Leadership and Development

Abbie Stehling

Lodge 30, Taiton

El Campo High School

Daughter of Jeanine Stehling and Nolin Stehling

Texas A&M University

Briley Strey

Lodge 258, Seguin

Marion High School Daughter of Kurt and Barbara Strey

Texas Lutheran University Biology

Lodge 25, Ennis

Ennis High School

Son of Bill and Lisa Sullivan

Culinary Institute of America

Culinary Arts

Trevor Wuensche

Lodge 48, Beyersville

Taylor High School

Son of John Wuensche

Temple College

Major - Undecided

Shannon Schulz

✦ Joe B. Hejny ✦ Scholarship

John See, IV

✦ Ashley Victorick ✦ Scholarship

Hannah Scaff

✦ J.R. Kubena ✦ Scholarship

Caleb See

✦ Donnie & Janice Victorick ✦ Scholarship

✦ Cyrill “Sid” Pokladnik ✦ Scholarship

✦ Denisse Wuensche ✦ Scholarship

Preston Sullivan

✦ Edward L. Marek ✦ Scholarship

Ashley Victorick Scholarship

Ashley was a lifelong member of SPJST, serving as District Five President, secretary of the SPJST Finance Committee, and a delegate at the 2021 SPJST Convention. Ashley helped in almost all areas of SPJST throughout the years. He saw a need to speed up the tabulation process at youth competitions and created a program to expedite it. He supported the youth in every endeavor. At Lodge 88, Houston, Ashley served in many capacities as a member, past chair of the Board of Trustees, Treasurer, and member of the Bingo Committee. Perhaps his favorite time spent at the lodge was serving as bar chair because it combined his love for helping people and his ability to analyze data.

* Ben and Martha Trcalek Scholarship

Ben and Martha Trcalek were longtime members of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor and residents of Cooks Point where they engaged in cattle ranching. Ben and Martha were avid fans of Texas A&M University athletic teams and were both active in the community and strong supporters of numerous civic organizations including VFW, Cooks Point Community Center and Caldwell Brethren Church and, of course, SPJST.

* Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. Scholarship

Ben F. Trcalek, Jr. was a rancher, businessman, investor and civic leader. A native of Bryan, Texas, Mr. Trcalek was a graduate of Texas A&M University and a member of SPJST Lodge 17, New Tabor. An avid sports enthusiast and a past football coach, Mr. Trcalek was a board member and past treasurer of the Czech Educational Foundation of Texas, life member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and a strong supporter of the Texas A&M 12th Man Foundation

* Bessie Petr Scholarship

Bessie Petr was the longtime and devoted youth leader and District YouthCounselor of SPJST District Three. She was extremely active in SPJST and served as the Lodge 84, Dallas Youth Leader for 63 years. Generations of children grew into young adults under her guidance, and lovingly referred to her as Mama Bessie. A devout Catholic and member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Bessie was known throughout the Greater Dallas region for culinary skills and Bessie’s Catering.

Birdie Hilsher Pech Scholarship

Birdie Hilsher Pech of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston was a driving force behind SPJST’s Youth Movement in the early 1950s. In a Věstník column that Sister Pech wrote in 1953, she says, “If you think that the grass is just a little greener on the other side of the fence, better think twice. Our SPJST has all of the green grass. It is up to us to keep it watered now and keep it growing bigger and better all the time. Keep our youth and keep them entertained for a greater future of our SPJST, for without them, we would perish as grass would die without water.”

Cyrill “ Sid ” Pokladnik Scholarship

A successful businessman and lifelong SPJST supporter, Cyrill Polkladnik served as President of Lodge 84, Dallas, District Three President, Director of the Dallas Czech Concert Orchestra, a founding Director of the S.P.J.S.T. Rest Homes, and for 32 years as District Three Director. In addition to his involvement with SPJST, Mr. Pokladnik served as President of the Texas Fraternal Congress and as President of the National Fraternal Congress of America Fraternal Section.

* Denisse Wuensche Scholarship

Denisse Wuensche of SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville loved helping children and teaching them new things. She loved volunteering and serving as the Youth Club Leader and Camp Counselor. An active member of Taylor Brethren Church, Denisse was also a Sunday School Teacher, Brethren Youth Fellowship Sponsor, Junior Sermon Leader, and Vacation Bible School Teacher.

Donnie & Janice Victorick Scholarship

Janice Victorick, the late wife of SPJST District One Director Donnie Victorick, was a very hard worker who was always willing to lend a helping hand. She loved being able to travel with Donnie on trips for SPJST. She went to every lodge meeting with him, even when she was working full time. She loved meeting and talking to people and was never at a loss for words. Helping, caring for, working, and cooking were the things she loved. Janice was a 51-year member of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook when she passed in 2021. She is survived by husband Donnie Victorick.

Edward L. Marek Scholarship

Edward L. Marek was the sixth President of SPJST and service in that capacity from 1949 through 1969. Prior to that, Mr. Marek served as Vice President from 1945 through 1949, and as Financial Secretary from 1933 to 1943.

Sr. Scholarship

Ernest A. Wentrcek, Sr. of Bryan was a founding member and President of SPJST Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station and a 20-year member of the SPJST Finance Committee. Mr. Wentrcek attended Texas A&M University and served as Associate Director for Business Affairs of Texas Engineering Extension Service. He owned two family businesses: W&W General Contractors, Inc. and W&W Real Estate Company and was one of the organizers of the First Federal Savings and Loan in Bryan.

Frank E. Klinkovsky, Sr. Scholarship

Known for always being concerned about others, Frank E. Klinkovsky was a man of service to his country, community, and family. He spent most of his adult life serving SPJST as District Youth Counselor, State Fraternal Activities Coordinator, Life Insurance Agent, was on the Board of Directors as District Two Director. He also held many positions at Lodge 47, Seaton - Star Hall, where he was a life-long member.

* Gladys Yates Scholarship

An active member of Lodge 66, Waco, Gladys Yates was the beloved SPJST State Fraternal Activities Coordinator who served from 2001 until her untimely death in 2004. As a testament to her fraternal commitment, Ms. Yates also served as District Three President and as District Three Assistant Youth Counselor for many years.

* Ernest A. Wentrcek,

*

Joe B. Hejny Scholarship

Joe B. Hejny served as Vice President of SPJST from 1956 until his death in 1978. Mr. Hejny’s passion for SPJST and its fraternal mission fueled Societal growth during his tenure as head of SPJST’s marketing and sales area. It was during Mr. Hejny’s service to SPJST that the SPJST Youth Program became a fully-integrated component of the SPJST’s statewide fraternal outreach programming.

* Johnnie R. Krizan Scholarship

Johnnie R. Krizan served as Director of SPJST District Three from 1997 until his untimely death in 2014. A member of Lodge 6, Cottonwood and graduate of Baylor University, Mr. Krizan also served as President of Lodge 6, Cottonwood and was a top-producing SPJST sales representative for more than 40 years. He was a strong community booster, an avid Texas Rangers fan, and a member of the Baylor University Alumni Association.

J.R. Kubena Scholarship

Known as the “Father of the SPJST,” J. R. Kubena was a member of Lodge 1, Fayetteville and served as SPJST Secretary from 1897 until his death in 1938, administering the affairs of SPJST out of a single room in his general store in Fayetteville. A civic leader with a keen sense of obligation to others, Mr. Kubena served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives for three termsin 1903, 1905 and 1907; and he served for a term as mayor of Fayetteville. He was also a member of the governing body - today known as the Board of Governors - at what was then Texas A&M College.

Scholarships given every other year

Helen (Fusig) and King B. Hegwood

King B. and Helen Fusig Hegwood were active members of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston for many years. King was a member of the Men’s Club, and for more than 40 years, he popped popcorn at the SPJST hall at Thursday night bingos. This earned him the title of “Popcorn King.” Helen served the Home Office as District Five State Field Representative from 1989 to 1998. She also served in local lodge, district, and state roles throughout her 75-year membership. Helen was an award-winning sales agent for many years, receiving the pres-

* Larry W. Pflughaupt Memorial Scholarship

Larry W. Pflughaupt was a 60-year member of SPJST and served as SPJST District Five Director from 2000 to 2016. His affinity for SPJST goes back to when he was 15 and was honored as the first Prince of Lodge 88, Houstona royal title which he earned at an early age and one which set the standard for what was to follow. A member of Lodge 88, Houston, Mr. Pflughaupt served as lodge president and along with his wife, Dorothy, was an avid supporter of the SPJST Youth Program at the lodge, district and state levels.

Nick A. Morris Scholarship

Nick A. Morris served as SPJST President from 1969 until 1984. Prior to that, he served as Editor of SPJST Věstník for six years - selected for the position by the Supreme Lodge after the death of Editor L.O. Hosek. It was during his tenure as Editor that Mr. Morris began the SPJST library collection in West, which would become the cornerstone of the SPJST Library, Archives, and Museum. It was also during Mr. Morris’ Presidency that the SPJST Home Office relocated from its location on Central Avenue in Temple to its new headquarters at 520 North Main Street.

* Otto Hanus Scholarship (2)

A member of Lodge 66, Waco, Otto Hanus was the first librarian, archivist and curator of the SPJST Library, Archives, and Museum serving in that capacity from 1971 until his death in 1987. Mr. Hanus earned the admiration and respect of SPJST leadership and membership for the tireless and meticulous care he devoted in overseeing and maintaining SPJST Library, Archives, and Museum collections.

* Rudy and Maxine Benevolence Scholarship

Rudy and Maxine Sefcik - lifelong SPJST members - earned the respect and admiration of SPJST members and the Texas Czech community statewide for their passion in promoting all things Czech. Rudy Sefcik, who was President of Lodge 88, Houston and later, Lodge 54, West, served as SPJST Věstník Editor from 1968 until 1992. Throughout his tenure as Věstník Editor, Rudy’s wife Maxine remained his faithful assistant, providing backup support in the newspaper’s composition. Perpetual community boosters, Rudy and Maxine also served as Master of Ceremonies for Westfest Cultural Entertainment program from its inception. Following Rudy’s passing in 1993, Maxine continued to serve as event Co-Emcee until health reasons prompted her to step down in 2018. As a lasting testament to Brother Rudy and Sister Maxine’s commitment to all things Czech, the Sefcik Amphitheatre on the Westfest fairgrounds is named in their honor.

* SPJST District Six Scholarship

The SPJST District Six Scholarship is funded annually thanks to the endowment established by the members of SPJST District Six. The scholarship is presented to a graduating senior on the basis of academic stature and activity within the lodge and/or district.

Tommie & Gladys Lostak Scholarship

A devoted fraternalist, Tommie served as secretary of SPJST Lodge 139, Danbury for 36 years and on the Publication Committee for 12 years. He hosted many annual SPJST district meetings at the Lone Pine in Danbury. Tommie was a farmer and rancher. When Tommie wasn’t working, he could be found playing with his children, playing on his softball team, or hunting. Tommie’s wife, Gladys, was a hard worker as well. She balanced many roles as Tommie’s supporter - always by his side, a mom and owner of a kolache shop in Danbury for several years.

* Denotes Endowed Scholarships —SPJST—

tigious Million Dollar Producer Award each year from 1995 to 1999 and in 2001 and 2002. She will also be remembered for her beautiful voice with the Lodge 88 Czech Chorus.

Myles Marek

Myles Marek was a member of SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi. He served his country in the United States Navy during World War II and retired from Sun Oil in 1972 as a senior gas coordinator. Both Myles and his wife, Clarice, were strong supporters of the SPJST Scholarship Program.

Vernell Foyt

Vernell Foyt was passionate about volunteering at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, and she and her husband, Rudy, shared many “two steps” at the lodge hall before his passing. Vernell was on the Rules and Regulations Committee, treasurer of the Birthday Club Sisters, bingo volunteer, a member of the Swimming Pool Committee, and chair of the Entertainment Committee. As the head of the Entertainment Committee, Ms. Foyt enjoyed a special relationship with every band that performed at Lodge 88 as well as members of the lodge.

Bookworm

SPJST YOUTH SECTION

Crafts lead the way for Mother’s Day gifts

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

Mother’s Day is a special time for children to show their appreciation for their mothers, grandmothers, and the other special women in their lives. Older children typically are capable of designing their own Mother’s Day crafts or even shopping for gifts for Mom, while younger children will likely need some help from an adult.

Youngsters may not be able to take charge of Mother’s Day festivities alone, but they certainly have the energy and enthusiasm to chip in. Handmade craft gifts are a thoughtful way for young kids to show their love for Mom. Here are a few ideas that can occupy even the youngest of hands.

Handprint butterfly photo card

All that is necessary for this craft is a printed photograph of the child’s face, paper, scissors, glue, and finger paints. The child should dip hands into the paint and make four handprints on paper in some preferred colors. When dry, cut around the perimeter of the handprints. These will serve as the “wings” of the butterfly. Glue the picture of the child’s face in the middle of a piece of paper or card stock. Draw a butterfly body underneath it (or print out a stock image to use). Draw antennae sticking out of the child’s head and attach the handprints around the head and butterfly body to make the wings.

Heartfelt masterpiece

Children can draw and color all over a large sheet of construction paper or another durable paper. An adult can then use another sheet of paper to make a frame mat of sorts, cutting out a heart shape from the middle. Both pieces of

paper are then trimmed to the dimensions of a photo frame. The artwork is placed first and then the heart matting on top so that the artwork will show through the heart shape. Frame everything together for a lasting memento.

Fuzzy flowers

Kids can make Mom a bouquet of flowers that will never wilt. Print a photo of the child’s face and attach it to a piece of circular card stock that is roughly six inches in diameter. Have the child paint a popsicle stick green, and then attach that to the back of the round card stock. The child then glues small fuzzy pom poms to the card stock surrounding the picture to make a flower. If desired, attach a magnet to the back of the flower so it can be secured to the refrigerator.

Crafts are a great gift option for young children looking to give something special to Mom on Mother’s Day.

(MS)

—SPJST—

Great gifts for moms from all walks of life

Mother’s Day is an opportunity to show moms how much they’re loved and appreciated. Though many moms may insist they don’t want anything beyond spending the day with their children, gifts are a big part of Mother’s Day.

No two moms are the same, and though standards like flowers and greeting cards will always have a place on Mother’s Day, the following are some gift ideas that can put smiles on the faces of moms from all walks of life.

There’s no end to the gift options for mothers who love to curl up with a good book. Of course, some new books may delight Mom, but gifts that can improve the reading experience also merit consideration. For example, an ergonomic

backrest reading pillow can make bedtime reading sessions more comfortable and ensure Mom’s neck and back get ample support as she reads the latest page-turner. A nightstand book holder also can be ideal for moms who can’t seem to keep track of their bookmarks.

District Three Queen Madison Holland attends Annual Meeting, Proud of father

Dear Readers,

I enjoyed the District Three Annual Meeting at Lodge 6, Cottonwood on Sunday, April 23, 2023. It was nice to see my close District Three friends and my king, Preston Sullivan. I’m excited to be vice president alongside our newly elected president, Miles Jones, as well as Secretary Morgan Oliver. It was good to hear from State Fraternal Director Frank Horak about all the upcoming changes in the youth program.

My dad is in the Texas National Guard protecting the Texas border, and he is preparing to be deployed to Egypt for a year. It feels good to know he is helping keep our country safe so that we can enjoy our freedom. While my dad has been gone, my family and youth club have been sending care packages to him and his troop. In the near future, my plan is to continue supporting the troops by sending toiletry items along with snacks and other goodies that might not be available to them overseas. I’m so proud of my loving father, Brian Holland.

Fraternally, Madison Holland, District Three Queen —SPJST—

Fitness enthusiast

Some moms simply love to get in a good workout. Shoppers whose mothers love to break a sweat might want to look into home gym equipment, as many fitness enthusiasts transformed part of their homes into exercise areas during the pandemic. If that sounds like the mom on your shopping list, then a suspension training system won’t take up much room but can provide an intense, fullbody workout. A new yoga mat, some wireless Bluetooth headphones or a compression stretching mat are some additional gifts that might make exerciseloving moms smile this Mother’s Day.

Traveler

Moms whose children still live under the same roof may not have much opportunity to travel, but empty nesters and grandmothers might. For such moms, a foldable, hanging travel bag can make it easy and convenient for mom to carry all of her toiletries and access them without taking up what’s often minimal hotel

room counter space. For moms who want to document their excursions, a leather travel journal encourages them to note their experiences and gives them something they can revisit for years to come. Of course, some new luggage can make the perfect gift for newly retired moms who can’t wait to start visiting places on their travel bucket lists.

Businesswoman

Millions of moms manage to juggle the obligations of family life with a challenging career. Mother’s Day can be a great time to recognize that balancing act. A self-heating coffee mug can ensure Mom’s morning cup o’ joe doesn’t go cold as she traverses her way through a hectic morning routine. Another great gift is a charging mouse pad that can charge all of Mom’s devices even while she’s working. If you want to help Mom remain calm as she navigates her way through a day filled with personal and professional obligations, an essential oils diffuser can create a sense of relaxation on the most hectic of days.

No two moms are the same. Fortunately, great gifts can be found for moms from all walks of life this Mother’s Day. (MS) —SPJST—

Did you know?

A well-edited résumé can go a long way toward helping job candidates make a strong first impression with hiring managers. A recent survey of hiring managers and human resource professionals across companies of various sizes and in an assortment of industries conducted on behalf of CareerBuilder found that certain mistakes were deal breakers for a large percentage of individuals tasked with helping to find new hires. Seventy-seven percent of hiring managers indicated typos or bad grammar on a résumé were enough to disqualify a candidate from consideration. An unprofessional email address (35 percent) and a résumé with long paragraphs of text (25 percent) are some additional mistakes that hiring managers consider deal breakers. This information can prove useful for job seekers, who should know that 39 percent of hiring managers indicated they spend less than a minute looking at a résumé. That brief chance to make an impression should not be undermined by preventable blunders like typos and poor grammar.

—SPJST—

Lodge 185, New Braunfels Youth Club paints rocks, enjoys fun time in April

—Submitted by Jessica McCoy, Youth Leader

185

New Braunfels

Youth Club collects PENNIES, creates designs in march

Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje youth shows rabbits at Wharton County Fair

Hello, SPJST family and friends!

I attend Louise Elementary, and this is my first year joining Junior FFA. I showed my rabbits in the Wharton County Youth Fair on March 26, 2023. I would like to thank my parents for helping me learn how to hold them, feed them, and care for them. I enjoyed the experience and learned more for next year.

NayEli Garcia, age 8

—SPJST—

2023 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE

Creativity at its finest!

2 days of fun!

Friday, July 28 & Saturday, July 29

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center 3033 N Third St • Temple, Texas

The State Youth Showcase provides a platform for SPJST youth members to share their creativity.

The Showcase is divided into three sections: Creative Arts, Talent, and Royalty.

SPJST YOUTH SHOWCASE CATEGORIES

Christmas Ornament • Constructed Item Dessert

Handicraft • Hobby Kit • Holiday Corner

Open to all SPJST youth members from Kindergarten to High School Senior (grade level as of fall 2023) Register at spjst.org/showcase ——— Deadline is June 30 ———

Tentative SPJST Youth Showcase Schedule

Friday, July 28

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center 3033 N Third St • Temple, Texas

1:30 to Check-in creative arts, talent, royalty

3:30 p.m. Talent sound checks

Royalty stage walk-through

4 p.m. Special Category competition

Summer Fun Water Park 1410 Waco Rd • Belton, Texas

6:30 to Make a splash! Enjoy swimming,

9:30 p.m. water slides, lazy river, and tubing Youth Showcase participants/parents: Free!

Non-participants/friends: $5 admission www.summerfunwaterpark.com

Saturday, July 29

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center 3033 N Third St • Temple, Texas

8:30 a.m. Doors open

Creative arts showcase - open all day

9 a.m. Opening ceremony

Beseda

Talent competitions

12 p.m. Country store

Royalty competitions

Recognition of past royalty Awards ceremony

Hotels in Temple for SPJST Youth Showcase

When reserving rooms, please mention SPJST, if a group code is required. Check In – July 28, 2023

1 Best Western Inn and Suites

602 N General Bruce Dr • Temple, TX 76504 • 254-742-1122

15 Double Queen Rooms Reserved until July 14 $99.99 + tax

Check-in: 3 p.m. Reservations may be canceled no later than 4 p.m. of the arrival date.

2 Holiday Inn Temple-Belton

5247 S General Bruce Dr • Temple, TX 76502 • 254-778-5511

15 Double Queen Rooms Reserved until July 14

$124.00 + tax + service fee ($4.99)

Group Code: WAD

Midway Bar & Grill onsite open for dinner 5 - 9 p.m. and breakfast from 7 - 10 a.m. (kids 11 and under eat free for both)

Reservations may be canceled no later than 6 p.m. the day before arrival to avoid a penalty of night room and tax.

• Check out – July 29, 2023

3 Hampton Inn Temple

3816 S General Bruce Dr • Temple, TX 76502 • 254-770-5400

20 Double Queen Rooms Reserved until July 14

$89.00 + tax

Free hot breakfast daily. Free high-speed wireless internet. Reservations may be canceled no later than 6 p.m. 24 hours in advance of arrival date to avoid a fee of one night’s room and tax.

4 Residence Inn/Marriott

4301 S General Bruce Dr • Temple, TX 76502 • 254-773-8400

20 Double Queen Rooms Reserved until July 7

$109.00 + tax + parking fee ($2.31 daily)

Check out – July 30

Check-in: 3 p.m. or later

Reservations may be canceled up to 48 hours prior to arrival without penalty.

Lodge 81, Needville Youth Club

Hosts SPJST Float

Saturday, April 22, 2023

• Needville Youth Fair Parade

In Memoriam

In Memory of Ruby Bulanek

Ruby Orsak Bulanek, age 97, of Crosby Texas, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023. Ruby was born on November 5, 1925, in Sheldons to Emmett and Eloise Orsak.

In addition to being a loving and caring wife and mom, Ruby worked industrially for her family. In her earlier years, she was an avid deer and squirrel hunter. She and dad grew most of their vegetables and never missed a meal for her family. She also canned vegetables and preserves, made delicious kolaches, and was very adept at sewing clothes and making quilts and throw pillows. She truly established a wealth of cherished memories for her family. For leisurely pleasure, she had quite a collection of Czech music that she loved to listen to.

Ruby was a member of SPJST Lodge 88, Houston.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmett and Eloise Orsak; loving husband Pete Bulanek; brothers Adolph Orsak and Emil Orsak; sisters Albina Orsak, Katy Thompson, and Jeffie Thompson; stepbrothers Johnnie Kopinitz, Edward Kopinitz, Gus Kopinitz, and Martin Kopinitz; and great-grandson Michael Greene.

Ruby is survived by son Gary Bulanek and wife Cindy; daughter Peggy Perry and husband Doyle Wayne, Jr.; stepbrother Sigmund Kopinitz; granddaughter Cheli Greene and husband Todd; great-grandson Sean Winn and wife Kelsey; great-great-granddaughter Layla Winn; great-great grandson Jaxson Winn; and, very dear to her heart, her friend and caregiver for 14 years, Anna Hernandez. Bruno, her precious companion and dog, will miss her dearly.

Pallbearers were Gene Bulanek, Daniel Bulanek, Fred Bulanek, Todd Greene, and Melvin Shrewsbury.

The family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Ruby’s memory.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Dorothy “Dot” Dvorak

Dorothy “Dot” Dvorak, age 90, of Penelope, Texas, passed away Monday afternoon, April 17, 2023, at St. Catherine’s Center in Waco.

A rosary was recited at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 20 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 8 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, April 21 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, with Revered Cyril Ejaidu as celebrant. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery near Penelope.

Dorothy was born September 15, 1932, in Penelope, the daughter of John and Olga (Machac) Mraz. She attended school in Penelope. On September 21, 1963, she was united in marriage to Frank Dvorak in Penelope. Frank preceded her in death on August 2, 2012. Dorothy was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West. She was also a member of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco and KJZT Society 35, Penelope. She was a homemaker and mother. Dorothy enjoyed crafting with beads, sewing, quilting, cooking, baking, canning, gardening, listening to polka music, and attending church picnics. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Elsie Dvorak and Mildred Garrison; brothers John, George, Theo, and Jerome Mraz; and granddaughter Samantha Pelham.

Survivors include sons John Dvorak and wife Melody of Itasca and Bobby Dvorak and wife Kay of Waco; sister Mary Ann Dvorak; grandchildren Brandon Dvorak, Jacob and Lauren Pelham, Autumn and Roland Vela, Amber Mach, and Amanda Mach; great-grandchildren Savannah, Reagan, Hudson, Olivia, Alexander, Elena, and Brayden; brotherin-law Joe Dvorak; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Pallbearers were Jeff Potter, Brandon Dvorak, Jacob Pelham, John Dvorak, Mark Dvorak, and Adam Dudik.

Memorials may be made to Providence Hospice.

May she rest in peace. Fraternally, Diana Engelke Lodge 66, Waco —SPJST—

In Memory of Clifton Junek

Clifton John Junek, age 95 years, 10 months, entered into eternal peace Thursday afternoon, April 20, 2023, surrounded by family and loving caregivers.

Visitation was at Hillier Funeral Home in College Station on Monday, May 1 starting at 1 p.m. Memorial services followed at 2 p.m.

Cliff was born June 13, 1927, in Oscar, Bell County, Texas, to John Thomas Junek and Emilie Hejl.

Since Czech was spoken in the family home, he started school at Rogers speaking no English. Immediately after graduating high school, he entered the Navy. He trained as an aircraft gunner and as his unit was being deployed to the South Pacific, he became ill and was held back to join the next group, but no other units were deployed.

After discharge from active duty, Cliff started college at Temple Junior College and finished at Texas A&M in 1950 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Cliff met Gloria Jane Loggins on a blind date, and they married August 31, 1952. At his death, they had been married for 70 years. They have two daughters, Linda and Sharon.

Cliff worked for 30 years in the Houston area for several petrochemical and engineering/construction companies.

In 1980, Cliff moved to College Station where he went to work in the planning division of the Texas A&M System as the mechanical engineer overseeing

mechanical contractors on all construction projects within the A&M system. He retired as the assistant manager in 1999. His last two big projects were Reed Arena and the Bush Library.

Cliff was active in SPJST, selling insurance, for many years.

In retirement, he continued to operate several duplexes, maintained an impressive vegetable garden, played lots of “42” dominoes, and was an active member of area United Methodist churches.

Cliff was a member of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook.

Cliff is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jane Loggins Junek; daughters Linda Suter and husband Bill of Tomball and Sharon Klumpyan and husband Joe of College Station; grandchildren Greg Suter of Farmington Hills, Michigan, Mark Suter of Tomball, Carrie McNicol of College Station, and Kyle Klumpyan of Stephenville; nine greatgrandchildren; and one great-greatgrandson.

Memorial donations may be made to Christ Church of College Station, or your favorite charity.

In Memory of Rita Mardis

Rita Margaret Bearden Mardis went peacefully to the Lord on Sunday, April 16, 2023.

Rita was born to Margaret Taaffe Bearden and Burley Bearden on January 6, 1947, in Grand Prairie, Texas. She was a graduate of Arlington High School and East Texas State Commerce College with a degree in education. It was there that she met and married the love of her life, Wayne Mardis. They lived in Arlington where they raised their two children, and Rita taught school for Arlington ISD.

Rita was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was generous, loyal, encouraging, nonjudgmental, and authentic to her core. She never met a stranger.

Rita was preceded in death by her

Ruby Bulanek

Dot Dvorak

Clifton Junek

Rita Mardis

parents; and husband Wayne.

She is survived by son Barry Wayne Mardis; daughter Melanie (Jess) Hibbs; grandchildren Celia, Jess, Cooper, Roger, Maddox, and Raygen; brother Barry Bearden; and many nieces and nephews.

Rita joined SPJST, becoming a member of Lodge 183, Arlington. She attended meetings regularly. In 2016, Rita transferred to Lodge 180, Burleson. She continued to support the lodge by attending meetings and being present at lodge celebrations such as Christmas parties, rest home visitations, and other social functions. Arlington and Burleson lodges will miss Rita Mardis.

Rita will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Robert and Patricia Sill Lodge 183, Arlington Lodge 180, Burleson —SPJST—

In Memory of Sebastian Martinez

Sebastian Martinez was born January 20, 1949, in El Campo, Texas, to Felix Nieto Martinez, Sr. and Florencia M. Martinez, and died Sunday, March 5, 2023.

He was preceded in death by parents Felix Nieto Martinez, Sr. and Florencia M. Martinez; brother Paul Martinez, and sister Juanita Martinez.

He is survived by brothers Felix Martinez, Jr. and wife Josie, Mario Martinez and wife Alexandra, Joe Martinez and wife Candelaria, Raymond Martinez and wife Mary, Rick Martinez and wife Dora, Paul Martinez and wife Rose, Rudy Martinez and wife Belia, and Anthony Martinez and wife Alexandra; sister Carmen Vargas and husband Johnny; numerous nieces and nephews; and other loving family members.

Pallbearers were Felix Martinez III, Johnny Vargas Jr., Daniel Martinez, Steven Martinez, Michael Martinez, James Martinez, Nick Martinez, and Joshua Martinez.

Sebastian was a member of SPJST Lodge 141, Sealy.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Wanda Mach Sebik

The officers and members of SPJST Lodge 35, Elk sends their condolences to the family of WANDA FAYE MACH SEBIK of Bellmead, Texas, who passed away on Monday, February 6, 2023.

Visitation was Thursday, February 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bellmead Funeral Home.

She was born on January 24, 1944 near Penelope, Texas to John and Edna Navara Mach.

Moving to the Axtell community in 1947, Wanda attended Axtell schools, graduating valedictorian of the 1962 class. In 1963, Wanda married Eugene J. Sebik. Three beautiful daughters resulted from their marriage.

In 1967, Wanda became one of the first female letter carriers in the city of Dallas. In 1979, she moved to the Waco area and finished 30 years with the postal service while raising three daughters.

On May 1, 1999, Wanda married Jack Levy at Saint Mark Lutheran Church in Waco. He preceded her in death on July 29, 2020.

Wanda had a great passion for fair competition and could never sit quietly and watch a sporting event. If Wanda was present, the crowd would know it.

Wanda was a very active member of SPJST Lodge 35, Elk for many years.

Survivors include daughters Carolyn Jane Hanzlicek and fiancée Chris Macias, Tammy Ann Denton, and Linda Kaye Sebik; stepdaughter Cindy Stancil and husband Mike of Bath, North Carolina; grandchildren include Heath and Heather Hanzlicek, Tommy and Addison Denton; stepgrandchildren Derek and Brett Stancil of North Carolina; bonus grandson Cole Mynar; sisters JoAnn Nors and Bernice Schiller and husband Eugene; and brother John Ed Mach and wife Stephanie Dutchman Mach.

Pallbearers were Jeremy and Jeffery Mach, J.R. Vicha, Jason Breton, and Brandon Kubitza.

Wanda will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her dearly. Submitted by her cousin, Janie Brewer Lodge 35, Elk —SPJST—

In Memory of June Smesny

June Ann (Stasney) Smesny of Cove, Texas, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the age of 90.

Funeral service was at Sterling White Funeral Home in Highlands on Tuesday, May 2.

June was born on April 13, 1933, and raised at her family’s home in Crosby by Frank and Vera Stasney. She met Edwin Charlie Smesny, Sr. in 1948 at a dance, and they married on November 5, 1949, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crosby.

June and Edwin settled in North Shore in Houston for 40 years to raise their family. June was employed part time with Galena Park ISD for several years, until her children were older. She was then employed fulltime with Leggett and Platt as the office manager until she retired.

She served as vice president of SPJST Lodge 91, San Jacinto. She also sold life insurance for several years for SPJST and was a member since childhood.

June had many passions of enjoyment in her life. Traveling the United States and overseas, sewing, canvas painting, crocheting, and crafting together with her husband. Her most enjoyed passion was genealogy. She spent hours searching through records and meeting with family descendants to discover their journey to the United States from Europe with the Stasney and Smesny family history.

June was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to many who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Smesny, Sr.; parents Frank and Vera; and brothers Wilson, Lawrence, James, and Chester.

June is survived by son Edwin Smesny, Jr. and wife Denise; daughter Kathleen Smesny Munsch and husband Thomas; daughter Charlene Smesny Dornak and Edwin Brink; grandchildren Charla Smesny McCrory and husband Derek, Breck Smesny Leago, Ryan Neely and wife Sydney, Austin Neely and wife Lisa, Daylan Dornak and Ivan

Cuesta Diaz, and Matthew Dornak; great-grandchildren Kenzi Leago and Theo Neely; loving sister Malba Smesny and husband Robert; sister-inlaw Marie Stasney; and numerous nieces, nephews, other loving relatives, and a host of friends.

Honoring the family by serving as pallbearers were Edwin Smesny, Jr., Thomas Munsch, Edwin Brink, Ryan Neely, Austin Neely, and Matthew Dornak, and honorary pallbearer Aaron Smesny.

—SPJST—

In Memory of Al Soukup

Alfons “Al” Soukup, age 92, of Waco, Texas, passed away early Saturday evening, April 29, 2023, at Providence Hospice Place in Waco.

A rosary was recited at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 3 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel, followed by visitation until 8 p.m. Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 4 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, with Reverend Ed Karasek as celebrant. Military graveside rites followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery, conducted by West Veterans Honor Guard.

Al was born January 20, 1931, in the Tokio community near West, the son of Joe and Mary (Kracmer) Soukup. He attended St. Mary’s School in West, Abbott High School, Baylor University, and 4-C College. On September 25, 1954, he was united in marriage to Georgie Hrabal in Waco. She preceded him in death on January 21, 2023. Al proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, serving in Germany and Colorado where he attended Cold Weather Survivor School and climbed Pikes Peak. Honorably discharged in 1953 at the rank of Master Sergeant, he enlisted with the U.S. Army Reserve, Aviation Engineer Company in Waco, for a total of 28 years of service.

Al was a longtime member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Waco. He was

Sebastian Martinez

Al Soukup

June Smesny

also a member of American Legion Post 478. He was very active with SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood, where he served as past president and director of the lodge food booth at Westfest. KJT Society 31 awarded Al a 75-year membership pin. Al was chair and treasurer of the Soukup and Hrabal family reunion for many years. He was patriarch of the Soukup family deer sausage recipe for several decades and is still ongoing today. Al could fix anything and was willing to help anyone. He was the family strongman and was his mother’s hero when it came to tough times on the farm.

He worked for the Texas Highway Department in Waco for 37 years. Al enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, gardening, working in his yard, mowing, dancing, playing dominoes, playing taroky, and listening to Czech music. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially attending all their sporting events.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; son Richard Soukup, Sr.; brothers Louis J., George, Johnnie B., and Joe Soukup, Sr.; and sisters Katie Kaska, Hattie Kaska, and Rosie Knapek.

Survivors include daughter Beverly Williams of Waco; grandchildren Ricky Soukup, Jr. and wife Brittney, Jake Williams and wife Lindsey, and Tye Williams and wife Lera; greatgrandchildren Alivia, Brynn, Tori, Grady and Claire; brother Steve Soukup and wife Frances; sisters Mary Neckar and Lillie Matus and husband Raymond; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Active pallbearers were Rick Peevey, Aaron Wernet, Don Holy, Buddy Kaska, Allen Soukup, and Joe Williams. Hon-

orary pallbearers were Mark Kocian, Jim Lewis, Mike Soukup, Steve Soukup, Tim Soukup, and Terry Soukup.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery Association.

Peggy Dobecka

Lodge 6, Cottonwood —SPJST—

In Memory of Jamie Yates

Jamie Yates passed away Friday, April 21, 2023. A celebration of life was held Sunday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at the Mount Calm Library.

Jamie was born on October 26, 1967.

He was a member of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco and was a past summer camp chaperone and youth program volunteer.

He was preceded in death by both his parents, James and Gladys Yates; and his grandparents. His mother, Gladys, served as SPJST State Fraternal Activities Coordinator from 2001 to 2004.

Jamie is survived by daughters Makayla and Sherrie Yates; son Dakota Yates and wife Whitney; grandson Kooper due in August; brother Larry Yates; and longtime girlfriend Pamela Gutierrez.

—SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society: Blessed Beyond Measure

When Texas Czech Genealogical Society envisioned the idea of paying a special tribute to our Czech heroes who paid the Ultimate Sacrifice while serving our great nation in uniform, our thought was to have a special recording via an internet link lasting an hour. Because of our Czechs in Uniform Volumes I, II, and III books, and additions we have received since publishing them, we were in possession of many names and photos.

Wanting to pay tribute to as many as possible, we asked for additional submissions. Because of the response, all we can say is “Thank you. We have been blessed beyond measure.”

It is estimated that in order to pay tribute to all our heroes we currently know, it would take nearly seven hours of watching the recording. For this reason, we are saddened to say we will not be able to proceed with the project for this upcoming 2023 Memorial Day week as planned. However, plans are already in the works for a special Tribute to Czech Veterans, especially those who gave their lives for our freedom, in 2024.

Charlene Hurta TCGS Vice President —SPJST—

Dallas Sokol welcomes Czech band Stribrnanka on May 28

Dallas Sokol, located at 7448 Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas, will host Stribrnanka on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Stribrnanka, a band from the Czech Republic, will conclude their Texas tour at Sokol hall. A roast dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m. Music and dancing is from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission is free of charge. Dinner is $15 for adults and $8 for children.

Czech Kolache Klobase Festival

June 10 in East Bernard

This is the 32nd year for the Czech Kolache Klobase Festival scheduled for Sat., June 10, 2023, at Riverside Hall in East Bernard, Texas, located about 45 miles southwest of Houston on Highway 90-A. This event brings people together to enjoy good music, good food, and to celebrate ethnic heritage and culture.

Entertainers

Beginning at 10:30 a.m. and continuing nonstop until 8 p.m., this year’s festival again features a first-rate lineup of entertainers – Ennis Czech Boys, Czech and Then Some, Dujka Brothers, Red Ravens, and Al Sulak’s Country Sounds. The three-band concert at 4:30 p.m. inside the hall will feature Czech and Then Some, Dujka Brothers, and Red Ravens.

Jamie Yates

Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897

Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas

Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter Lodge 84, Dallas —SPJST—

Vše nejlepši ke dni matek

Happy Mother’s Day!

Kolache Eating Contest

A kolache eating contest sponsored by the KJT State Office is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the pavilion.

Festival Details

Festival admission is $10 per person - children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. The admission fee covers all entertainment and music provided by bands and entertainers in the hall and outdoor pavilion. Parking is free of charge, and there are plenty of handicapped parking spaces. Massive water fans will cool the pavilion to provide a more comfortable setting for dancers and spectators. Arts and crafts booths will be located both inside and outside the hall. Crafts and goods of every kind will be available for sale, and there will be a silent auction. This is a good opportunity to shop for all types of handcrafted items, jewelry, and clothing. Win something sweet in the cake walk, buy raffle tickets to win great prizes including beautiful handmade quilts.

Food Available

A plate lunch will be available for purchase featuring sausage, barbecue chicken, sauerkraut, and other trimmings. The sausage and chicken will be prepared on site the morning of the festival by society members assuring a fresh-cooked meal. Serving begins at 11 a.m. Drive-thru plates-to-go will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Of course, there will be hundreds of kolaches for sale throughout the day. Hamburgers and sausage sandwiches will be available for purchase in the afternoon.

Kroj Encouraged

The Festival Committee welcomes and encourages the wearing of Czech costumes to add a festive atmosphere and to further promote the preservation and celebration of ethnic heritage. The Po.L.K. of A. are also urged to attend in their “red and whites” and to join in the spirit of fun and appreciation of the happy sounds of polka and waltz music. A moving flag tribute is scheduled at 3 p.m. and will recognize attending armed services veterans. This will be followed by a grand march featuring the Czech and festive costumes on parade.

For information about game or arts and crafts booths, call 979-531-9747 or email srdujka@gmail.com. For general information or band schedules, call 979533-1902 or 979-232-0265. Visit the festival website at www.kkfest.com for

further information.

KJT Society No. 40, the festival sponsor, is a non-profit organization and has been in existence in East Bernard since 1905. The society participates in a program of charitable works including scholarships, social welfare, and civic support. KJT Society No. 40 would like to extend a special invitation to everyone to come out and enjoy the festival.

Martha Viktorin SPJST

Lodge 28, East Bernard —SPJST—

Texas Czech Genealogical Society

Website: txczgs.org

Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”

For membership: Marie Dulak 979-324-7871

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 254-899-2935 (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

May 11

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Tem-

ple, 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.

May 11, 12

Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) hosts Preserving Czech Language around the World: Texas Legacy Project - by Professor Lida Cope—at TCHCC facility, 250 West Fairgrounds Road in La Grange on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 6 p.m. and Friday, May 12 at 2 p.m. Sessions will be in Hanslik Hall. Event is free of charge and open to the public. (Suggested donation is $5). For information, call 888-785-4500; or visit www.czechtexas.org.

May 21

Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) hosts Slavnost - May Fest—on the grounds of TCHCC, 250 West Fairgrounds Road in La Grange: $12 per person - includes meal and all events and fun for the whole family! Tribute to Czech Immigrants to Texas ceremony - 10:30 a.m.; catered meal in Hanslik Hall - 11:30 a..m. concessions available all afternoon; music by Donnie Wavra and Friends Orchestra11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; May Pole Dance1:30 p.m.; tours - Czech Village, Newspaper Museum, and Saw Mill; classic car show; gift shop; prize drawing; country store; pastry shop. Czech Heritage Society of Texas will have fun activities for children and families; booths include Texas Czech founded organizations. For information, call 979-968-9399; 888-785-4500; email info@czechtexas.org; or visit www.czechtexas.org.

June 8

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 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 13

Night at the Museum—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 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, 119 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—

Buy It Now! / Auction to benefit

Susan Chandler, administrator of the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on September 4, 2022. The SPJST Foundation, which now oversees the Museum, is raising funds to endow a scholarship to honor Susan’s memory. Twelve paintings by local artist Lisa Chase are being offered for sale. All

Susan Chandler Memorial Scholarship

proceeds will go toward the memorial scholarship. To view and bid online, visit galabid.com/spjstfoundation/items. To take advantage of the Buy It Now! auction feature, call the Museum 254-899-2935. Please leave a message if no one picks up. Thank you in advance. See page 39 for auction QR code.

Buy it Now: $850

Uprka’s model in full costume depicting the rich cultural heritage of Moravia.

Buy it Now: $500

Joza Uprka paints a young girl in traditional wedding attire and preserves another slice of of illustrious Czech custom.

Buy it Now: $1,200

“Na Pole” translated “to the fields” is a celebration of workers sowing and harvesting everyday as they provide for their families.

Buy it Now: $750

Joza Uprka captures the folk music on the street in the Southern Moravian region of the Czech Republic.

Buy it Now: $350

“Steinklopfer” is translated “stone breaker.” This man is depicted as one who from the lower economic class, toiled daily in the mines, breaking rocks, and mining iron ore and uranium.

Now: $500

Judging by her tray, Joza Uprka has asked a waitress/barmaid to pose for one of his paintings as he sought to memorialize the culture of the Moravian people.

Buy it Now: $750

“Na Statku,” loosely translated “for the public good,” indicates that the artist apparently considers these animals as valuable resources in the community.

Selecting of Potatoes

Buy it Now: $450

As Joza Uprka portrayed everyday folks in Moravian culture, he chose this young woman in the potato field, selecting and culling potatoes.

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022

Oil on Canvas size 16"W x 24"H

Buy it Now: $500

Since Joza Uprka lived in the same timeframe as the Impressionists and traveled extensively, that influence is evident in the handling of this painting as he documents the folklife of southern Moravia.

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 20"W x 16"H

Buy it Now: $500

Translated as “Flower (Palm) Sunday,” the last of several celebratory days, and is commemorated with the pussywillow branches instead of palms.

Buy it Now: $500

Translated as “A Couple in Smolenice, Slovakia.” Judging from her bouquet, the flowers on his cap and the lush flower garden, this could be a wedding!

Woman in Folk Costume

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 22"W x 28"H

Bride from Kunovice

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil Canvas size 20"W x 16"H

Na Pole

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 40"W x 30"H

Musicians from Hroznova Lhota

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 18"W x 24"H

Steinklopfer

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 9"W x 16"H

A Woman from Maratice

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 12"W x 24"H Buy it

Na Statku

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 24"W x 18"H

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 20"W x 10"H

Woman from Myjava

Kvetna Nedele

Par ze Smolenice na Slovensku

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 22"W x 12"H

Woman in Folkcostume

By Lisa Chase after Joza Uprka, 2022 Oil on Canvas size 10"W x 18"H Buy it Now: $350

Another woman in Czech costume poses for artist Joza Uprka as he documents the rich culture of Moravia.

RIGHT PHOTO: Artist Lisa Chase stands by a portrait of her friend, the late Susan Chandler, CHM Administrator.

SPJST 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, May 20—Kim Seith

Sunday, May 28—Lander reunion

Sunday, June 4—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

Sunday, June 11—RVOS Lodge 46 Family Day

Saturday, June 17—Soukup reunion

Friday, June 23—Farmers Coop Malone

Saturday, June 24—Girard reunion

Sunday, June 25—Beseda reunion

Sunday, July 2—Lodge meeting, 2 p.m.

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 first Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November at Diamond I Venue (former SPJST Lodge 13 Hall), 1081 County Road 425, Dime Box at 7 p.m. For information, contact Ricky Ford 979-884-1451.

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: For information, call 254-217-2863.

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: Call FL Meyer 512-940-7970 for meeting dates/times. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 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 10—Christmas Dance: Red Ravens, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

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.

Wednesday, May 10—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor will hold its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Covered dish meal will follow.

Friday, May 12—Dry County

Friday, May 19—Second Hand Rose

Friday, May 26—Old Friends Band (Temple area)

Friday, June 2—Robert Lawhorn & Triple Threat

Friday, June 9—(New Band) Michael Petty and Outlaw Revival Band

Wednesday, June 14—SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor will hold its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Covered dish meal will follow.

Friday, June 16—The Other Band

Friday, June 23—Gabriel River Band

Friday, June 30—Glen Collins Band

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.

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)

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.

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.

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)

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. Make plans to join us. For information, please contact Lodge 186 President Victor Mendez 512-743-8297 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, 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—

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