Vestnik 2023.06.12

World War II Veterans Emil Kutra (top photo) of Lodge 142, Houston and Valentine Kusy (bottom photo) of Lodge 81, Needville. Emil was honored with the Grand Age of 100 in September. More on page 16. Valentine received the Grand Age of 96. More on page 12.

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 979-220-7904 • ladyjays@tamu.edu

District Two - Amber Bartek 254-931-0295 • abartek002@yahoo.com

District Three - Mary Steinman 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 936-556-3248 • joneskb06@hotmail.com

District Six - Lisa Bubela

979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com

District Seven - April Haag-Adkins 830-624-9242 • aprhoward@gmail.com

CAMP KUBENA • 2001 Waldeck Rd • Ledbetter, TX

Rob Clift, Executive Director 979-249-5674 • robc@spjst.com

CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM AND GENEALOGY

CENTER

• 19 W French Avenue, Temple, TX

Kenny Lange, Curator 254-899-2935 • klange@spjst.com

SPJST Summer Camp Begins Soon

SPJST will host its summer camp at Camp Kubena on Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25. More than 130 young campers and dedicated chaperones will embark on an incredible experience.

We encourage our campers to make the most of every single moment at camp. Embrace every opportunity to try new things, meet new people, and create lasting memories. Camp is a special place where you can step out of your comfort zone and discover hidden talents and passions. Don’t be afraid to take risks and challenge yourself. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve!

Remember to cherish the friendships you will form at camp. The bonds you create with your fellow campers are truly unique. Treasure the late-night conversations, the laughter, and the shared experiences. These friendships have the potential to last a lifetime, so invest time and effort into building meaningful connections.

Take advantage of the guidance and mentorship from the camp staff. They are there to support you, inspire you, and help you grow. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. They are a valuable resource and are dedicated to making your camp experience exceptional.

While you enjoy the fun and excitement, also take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty at camp. Camp Kubena is nestled in picturesque settings, offering an escape

V

from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take walks, breathe in the fresh air, and marvel at the wonders of nature. It’s a chance to reconnect with the world around you and find peace within yourself.

Lastly, remember to be yourself. Make the most of this opportunity, embrace the adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We will share photos in the Vestnik in July of this unforgettable summer camp journey!

Lodge Secretary’s Listing

The listing of district and local lodge secretaries appeared in the May 22 Vestnik. One of the lodges was inadvertently not included. Our apologies to Lodge 172, Pasadena.

Lodge 172, Pasadena

Barbara Jean Dressler

Vestnik Dates and Deadlines

June 26 Vestnik

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

July 10 Vestnik

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

July 24 Vestnik

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

August 14 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., August 7 at 5 p.m.

August 28 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.

September 11 Vestnik

deadline is Mon., Sept. 4 at 5 p.m. —SPJST—

FAMILY FUN IMPORTANT DATES &

(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)

June 21-25 State Camp • Camp Kubena, Ledbetter

June 24 Lodge 18, Elgin hosts SPJST Float:

Western Days Parade, Elgin (2)

June 28 Lodge 81, Needville Trivia Night (5)

June 30 Youth Showcase Deadline for Entries

July 4 Home Office Closed • Fourth of July Holiday

July 4 SPJST Float: Belton Fourth of July Parade

July 13 Night at the Museum:

Czech Heritage Museum, Temple

July 16 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Annual Picnic (3)

July 26 Lodge 81, Needville Trivia Night (5)

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 10 Night at the Museum:

Czech Heritage Museum, Temple

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)

Oct. 19-21 SPJST Tour: Tyler Rose Festival • spjst.org/tours

Nov. 29-Dec. 11 SPJST Tour: Czech Republic • spjst.org/tours

January 28 Lodge 24, Cyclone hosts SqueezeBox (2)

2024 featuring Ted Lange and Mollie B (2)

June 7-9 34th SPJST Convention • Frank W. Mayborn

2024 Civic and Convention Center, Temple

Reader appreciates Karel Matejka story

Dear Melanie,

Thank you for running the Karel Matejka story. A very wise man. Our freedom is being taken for granted. We may not be far away from losing our freedom. Pay attention. Again, thank you. God Bless, Tom Marek Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

Reader expresses thanks for Karel Matejka story

Melanie,

Thank you for running the Karel Matejka article in the May 22 Vestnik. It’s wonderful to see this article again. I appreciate it being run often. Karel was a friend of mine, and we all miss him very much. God bless you all, and God bless the Vestnik. I appreciate you all sending it to me. Thank you again.

Mary Krippner Lodge 88, Houston —SPJST—

Scholarship recipient shares gratitude

Dear SPJST Scholarship Committee, I am writing to express my gratitude for making the SPJST scholarship possible. I was very excited to learn that I had been selected as a recipient and appreciate your support.

I will be attending Sam Houston State University in the fall where I will major in geology with minors in environmental science and biology. After receiving my degree, I hope to work as a National Park Ranger.

Thank you for your support and generosity. This assistance will help me pay for my college expenses. Thank you once again!

Skylin Bromonsky Lodge 185, New Braunfels —SPJST—

Member invites all to June 24 dance at Lodge 177, Academy

Lodge 177, Academy will host Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 on Saturday, June 24, 2023. Great country and variety dance music will be from 7 to 11 p.m. Cost is $10 per person; under age 12 free. Come out for a good time!

Jerry Haisler Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

Member relays thanks

Thank you for your continued support in my pursuit of an education in plant and soil sciences at Sam Houston State University.

Sincerely,

Elisa Ranly Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

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

It’s Your Life

Possibilities not Roadblocks

F

ocus on possibilities, not roadblocks: The road of life contains a number of potholes and stumbling blocks. Of course, you will encounter them from time to time, and so will your associates. But don’t invest large quantities of your life focusing on past misfortunes. On the road of life, regret is a dead end.

All of us face difficult days. Some-

times even the most optimistic people become discouraged, and you are no exception. If you find yourself enduring difficult circumstances, perhaps it’s time for an extreme intellectual makeoverperhaps it’s time to focus more on your strengths and opportunities, and less on the challenges that confront you. And one more thing: perhaps it’s time to put a little more faith in yourself.

Every day, including this one, is brimming with possibilities. Every day is filled with opportunities to grow, to serve, and to share. But if you are entangled in a web of negativity, you may

From the SPJST Insurance Department

overlook the opportunities that have been scattered along your path. Don’t give into pessimism, to doubt, or cynicism. Instead, keep your eyes upon the possibilities, fix yourself on opportunities, do your best, and success will follow. Once you learn to see opportunities and ignore failure, the road to success will be laid out for you.

Starting today, wake up and say to yourself “when I get this done” instead of “I hope I can get this done” or “if I get it done.” Start with “when the opportunity comes along, I will be there.” Put faith in yourself, and you will start living in a “when” world instead of an “if” world. When I reach my goals. When I

take that trip. When I finish the job. When I see my grandkids. Look forward, not backwards, and you will start to be in a world of “when it happens” instead of “if it happens.”

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”

—Helen Keller

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 - 45 points

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - 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

Three lodges earned an incentive.

Congratulations to:

Lodge 88, Houston - $250 Lodge 219, El Paso - $100 Lodge 92, Fort Worth - $100

A total of 31 lodges earned points. That is three more lodges than last month which was the best month. Lodges are 88, Houston (45 points); 219, El Paso (20 points); 92, Fort Worth (12 points); 9, Snook (9 points); 66, Waco (9 points); 79, Corpus Christi (6 points); 133, San Antonio (6 points); 160, San Angelo (6 points); 29, Taylor (4 points); 35, Elk (4 points); 48, Beyersville (4 points); 97, Placedo (4 points); 142, Houston (4 points), 151, Wharton (4 points); 180, Burleson (4 points); 187, Round

Rock (4 points); 189, Bryan-College Station (4 points); 49, Rowena (3 points); 81, Needville (3 points); 4, Hallettsville (2 points); 25, Ennis (2 points); 28, East Bernard (2 points); 32, Victoria (2 points); 38, Kovar (2 points); 47, Seaton (2 points); 17, New Tabor (1 point); 30, Taiton (1 point); 67, Schulenburg (1 point); 84, Dallas (1 point); 87, Temple (1 point); and 107, Floresville (1 point).

For each month that a lodge earns 10 points, it receives a $100 award. When the lodge reaches 25 points, it receives a $250 award.

Have a safe and blessed week.

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

SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Donors’ List

81 5 SPJST Lodge 81 Needville

SPJST members and friends were encouraged to support the 2022-2023 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive. Donations are tax deductible and 100 percent of the amount that is contributed is used for scholarships to SPJST members. Mail contributions to: SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, P.O. Box 100, Temple, Texas 76503. Thank you for your kind support. For more information or printed donation solicitation forms, please contact the Fraternal Department at 800727-7578.

Guidelines for Giving

1. Donations made by lodges out of lodge funds will be listed as a lodge donation.

2. Collected donations from a lodge meeting will be listed individually by member’s last name in alphabetical order. Individuals submitting a donation will also be listed by member’s last name alphabetically.

3. Gifts of $50 or more will be printed in bold.

4. Families or groups, which desire names listed under a particular last name or group name, should indicate this on the donation form or letter; otherwise, the names will be listed as individual donations by last name in alphabetical order.

5. 100 pennies donations made as a memorial will be listed under memorial donations in a separate listing.

Note: Please print donor’s name(s) clearly.

Donations for the 100 Pennies Drive for 2022-2023 totaled $4,546.87. SPJST Memorial donations and Endowment donations were $15,635.00. The 2022-2023 SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive goal was $25,000. Thank you for your generous donations to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund. Because of your generosity, many young SPJST members will be able to attend or continue with college.

Bartek, Camdon

Bartek, Everhett

Bellanger David and Bernadette

Bellanger, Judy

Beseda, Jeanette

Brown, Blake

Brown, Tyler

Cabrera, Camila

Chmelar, Brylee

Chmelar, Taylor

Comberrel, Janice

Dobecka, Aubrianna

Dobecka, Peggy

Dobecka, Quinlan

Ennis Sewing Circle

Hargraves, Karen

Heart 2 Heart Ladies Fellowship Group at First Baptist Church in Robinson

Howell, Larry

Howell, Larry

84 3 SPJST Lodge 84

Dallas Youth Club

84 3 Tucker, Josh

84 3 Tucker, Kalyne

84 3 Tucker, Kendall

4 6 Vahalik

Philip and Annie

47 2 Webb, Georgia

47 2 Wilde, CJ

47 2 Zavodny, Elaine

47 2 Zavodny, Theresa

25 3 Zhanel

Jason and Stacey

—SPJST—

SPJST Memorial Scholarship Fund Donations

November 2022 through May 2023

In Memory of Adolph Pekar from SPJST Lodge 63, Sweet Home

In Memory of Al Soukup from Barbara Hykel

In Memory of Al Soukup from Jeanette Beseda

In Memory of Al Soukup from Robert and Peggy Dobecka

In Memory of Al Soukup from SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood

In Memory of Albert Koslovsky from SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville

In Memory of Allen Lostak from Lonnie Lostak Family

In Memory of Allen Lostak from Lorenda Baldwin Family

In Memory of Bernard Mladenka from SPJST Lodge 63, Sweet Home

In Memory of David Vanicek from Rita Spinn

In Memory of David Vanicek from SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

In Memory of David Vanicek from SPJST Lodge 48, Beyersville

In Memory of David Vanicek from SPJST Lodge 80, Holland

In Memory of Delores Ann Stavena from SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

In Memory of Edna Kacal from SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

In Memory of Georgie Soukup from Jeanette Beseda

In Memory of Helen Fusig and King B. Hegwood from Insperity

In Memory of Helen Fusig and King B. Hegwood from The Hegwood Family

In Memory of Herbert Kacir from SPJST Lodge 63, Sweet Home

In Memory of Irvin Chumchal from SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

In Memory of Jack and Mary Garrett from Jacko Garrett

In Memory of James Ruemke from SPJST Lodge 80, Holland

In Memory of Julius Dubcak from Larry and Dorothy Schulze

In Memory of Julius Dubcak from Mrs. Wally Sanson

In Memory of Julius Dubcak from Rita Spinn

In Memory of Larry Novosad from SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi

In Memory of Milton Peterson from Jeanette Beseda

In Memory of Milton Peterson from Rita Spinn

In Memory of Reverend Timothy P. Bucek from SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton

In Memory of Rudy and Maxine Sefcik from SPJST Lodge 54, West

In Memory of Samantha Holub from SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia

In Memory of Susan Chandler from Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center

In Memory of Tommie and Gladys Lostak from Gina Maness

In Memory of Tommie and Gladys Lostak from Jerry W. Sadler

In Memory of Vernell Mary Foyt from Anonymous

—SPJST—

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 6, Cottonwood

hosts 125th annual picnic

on July 16

Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky opened the Sunday, June 4, 2023, meeting with 19 people in attendance—15 adult members, three youth,

Lodge 1, Fayetteville bids farewell to Vice President Jeanie Havis

and one guest. All officers were present. Brother Don led the group with the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST Pledge recited by Sister Peggy Dobecka. Minutes of the last meeting were read by Sister Barbara Hykel. One correction to the minutes was made by Brother Don. The minutes were then approved. Sister Peggy Dobecka provided the treasurer’s report, and it was approved as presented.

The fraternal report was given by Sister Jeanette Beseda. Paws for a Cause is this quarter’s focus for donations to be given to a local animal shelter. Charitable projects for future months and other SPJST activities and dates were provided.

Sunshine committee coordinator Sister Barbara reported sympathy cards were sent Dean Snider, Deana Coan, Herb Brem, Bobby Svrcek, and Cyril Svrcek. Sister Barbara also read thank you cards received from the West Fire Department and the family of Eddie Hykel. Hall Manager Sister Peggy provided information on the lodge bookings for June and July. See the last pages of this Vestnik to review the upcoming events.

Lodge 6, Cottonwood members celebrate june birthdays

Happy birthday to Lodge 6, Cottonwood members Don Urbanovsky and Dorothy Kucera. They are both celebrating their birthdays in June and were recognized at the lodge meeting.

—Patti Rosales Reporter

be held shortly after the meal service inside the hall. Stick around for the auction–it is always very entertaining. This fundraiser is a big part of how the lodge is able to donate to local charities. Volunteers are a vital part of the success the lodge has had in the past. Please volunteer — your gift of time is very appreciated. Prize drawing tickets, listing 25 prizes, were distributed at the June meeting. Tickets can be purchased for $1 each or 6 tickets for $5. Thank you, in advance, for supporting Lodge 6, Cottonwood.

Hall work projects were discussed. Designated persons will get bids and report back to hall leadership. A new cooker/deep fryer that was needed for the cook shed has been purchased and will be ready for use at the lodge picnic.

June birthdays were Sister Dorothy Kucera, Brother Don Urbanovsky, and Sister Courtney McGuire.

Lodge 9, Snook welcomes new members

It is with a sad heart to see dedicated Vice President Eugenia (Jeanie) Havis has left our community and lodge to move closer to her children. We greatly appreciate your work at Lodge 1, Fayette, and oh, how you will be missed! May your new adventure bring you much joy and laughter in your new surroundings. Thanks again for your service and all that you did to promote SPJST and our small town. Come see us sometime! Hugs, Jeanie!

Youth Leader Sister Peggy provided an update on youth activities. Donations for Paws for a Cause were collected and will be given to the Waco Humane Society. A cash donation was received for a designated gift of dog food.

Annual Picnic—July 16

Cottonwood hall business was discussed. The 125th annual Lodge 6, Cottonwood picnic will be Sunday, July 16. Meal will consist of fried chicken and sausage, potato salad, sauerkraut, green beans, bread, dessert, and tea. Meals will be available inside the lodge hall as well as to-go plates served from the food booth behind the hall. Live auction will

For the progressive door prize, the name of Nancy Hlavaty was drawn, and she was not present. Attendance door prizes were awarded to Sister Irene, Sister Courtney, and Brother Bobby Dobecka.

Next Meeting—July 2

Don announced that our next lodge meeting will be Sunday, July 2 at 2 p.m. There will be a trustee meeting on Friday, June 9 at 7 p.m. with an evening meal at 6 p.m. and a work project for the picnic.

Respectfully,

Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—

The Sunday, June 4, 2023, meeting of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 1:06 p.m. Hannah Kovar led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was held for departed member Dorothy Hinson. Roll of officers was called. Minutes from the May meeting were approved. Hall manager, communications, youth club, treasurer, and statewide reports were given. Motion was passed to accept new members Harper Pickett, Hallie Choate, Hayes Hejl, Colby Clift, and Sable Clift.

We will have a reception to honor our 50- and 75-year pin recipients following the meeting at 2 p.m. Afterwards, we will join the youth club in cleaning Snook Cemetery.

Motions were passed to donate $250 to Snook Youth Track Program and sponsor the youth division of the Kolache Bake Show for the Kolache Festival.

The meeting adjourned at 1:50 p.m.

Next Meeting—July 5

The next meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5.

Fraternally, Hannah Kovar, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 18, Elgin updates meeting schedule; next meeting is June 20

Lodge 18, Elgin has updated its meeting dates to every other month (even months - February, April, June, August, October, December) on the third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall. The next meeting is Tuesday, June 20 at 7 p.m. We encourage members to attend.

Fraternally, FL Meyer, Trustee —SPJST—

Lodge 32, Victoria seeks names of past presidents

Dear Readers, Lodge 32, Victoria recently contributed $25,000 to Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange. The Center will be posting a plaque of appreciation at its facility. We would like to list all of the past presidents of Lodge 32 on the plaque as a tribute to the leaders of our lodge. We need the names of past lodge presidents from 1900 to 1979.

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

If you can help us with any of these presidents’ names and the years they served, please contact me as soon as possible at 361-212-1143 or mwlester@protonmail.com.

Thank you for your help!

Fraternally, Mark Lester, President —SPJST—

Lodge 47, Seaton hosts successful annual picnic

The June 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton was held on Monday, the 5th at 6:35 p.m., beginning with the presentation of the flags. Flag bearers

were youth club members Seth and KalEl Martinez. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Officers and board members answered roll call. All officers and board members answered with Stephanie Ranly and the Hoelschers present as visitors.

President Brandon Bartek made an announcement that Patsy Koslovsky has resigned as hall secretary and reporter. Chris Ordogne will take over this role until November. The previous lodge minutes were read by Chris Ordogne and approved. There was one correction needed on the previous minutes. The Night at the Museum is held on Thursdays and not Tuesdays. Members voted to transfer Douglas and Karen Hutchins into Lodge 47. The May unofficial board minutes were read by Chris Ordogne.

SPJST Tour to the Texas Rose Festival

Tyler, Texas

Tyler, Texas

October 19-21, 2023

Thursday to Saturday

October 19-21, 2023

HIGHLIGHTS

• On the Road to Tyler: A Stop at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas*

• Palette of Rose Competition, Art Show, and Sale

• Guided Tour of Tyler Municipal Rose Garden

• Coronation Ceremony for the Rose Queen

• Queen’s Tea

• 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 to Tyler with a stop for lunch and sightseeing at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas.* 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 - Queen’s Tea

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Travel to Rose Festival Arts and Crafts Fair. Tyler city tour. Lunch at Potpourri. Queen’s Tea and an opportunity to see 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 either Temple or Houston; two nights accommodations; two breakfasts; one lunch; one dinner; admissions to all events; entrance and guide fees per itinerary including taxes and gratuities. Ground transportation is provided from SPJST Home Office in Temple or SPJST Lodge 88 in Houston. The Houston group will not travel to the State Fair of Texas in Dallas.

* The group traveling from Houston will not attend the events at the State Fair of Texas.

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!

SPJST.ORG/TOURS

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

winning Grandma’s Boyfriends barbershop quartet and a MASTER GARDENER representative

CORONATION OF THE ROSE QUEEN and Queen’s Tea

VIEW THE MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDEN and tour the Rose Museum

INCLUDES: Accommodations at Holiday Inn Conference Center, two full breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner, taxes and gratuities, round trip motor transportation from Temple or Houston *The Houston group will not travel to the State Fair of Texas.

Picnic Thanks

President Brandon Bartek thanked James for heading up sausage-making and many non-members who showed up to help. He also thanked Judy for organizing the coleslaw and all other pre-picnic preparations. He also mentioned the Extravaganza and that we will need help from members. He informed the lodge that if you know any members who want to help, have them contact him directly.

Vice President Danny Stepan also thanked everyone who came out to help during the picnic.

FAC/Parliamentarian Rick Beck reminded the lodge about the Night at the Museum this Thursday, June 8 titled, Stars and Stripes. There will be sausage and sauerkraut available. He also reiterated the need for members to volunteer to help out during events. He was extremely thankful to those who showed up to help.

Youth Leader Amber Bartek mentioned things changing for the youth club meeting this month. They would instead gather for a youth club social after the adult meeting tonight.

Board Chair Chris Ordogne thanked everyone in attendance for their help at the picnic, and encouraged the members to continue volunteering.

Entertainment informed the lodge there will be a Sweet 16 on the 10th of this month, along with the Ocker Brethren Church Father’s Day lunch fund-

raiser on June 18 and a reunion on the 25th.

Treasurer Emily Ordogne gave the treasurer’s report. There were no ordinary transactions for the month of May, and she reported the numbers from the picnic.

Under new business, the electric bill increased a little bit from the previous month. Rick Beck suggested we possibly explore other electrical companies. Brandon Bartek said we will discuss it during the upcoming board meeting.

Brandon Bartek then mentioned the Outdoor Extravaganza. He asked if the lodge still wanted to do it, and the members said yes. Lastly, he reminded everyone about the barbecue cook-off coming up. They are looking for those who want to enter and for judges. Get in touch directly with EJ Pechal.

Birthdays and anniversaries in the month of June were recognized. Father’s Day door prizes were won by Brandon Bartek, James Skrabanek, and Edwin Pechal.

The colors were retired, and the meeting adjourned at 7:12 p.m.

Next Meeting—July 2

The next meeting will be Sunday, July 2 at 2 p.m.

Fraternally, Christopher Michael Ordogne Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—

DYLAN KALMUS Congratulations 2023 graduate!

Dylan is a member of Lodge 4, Hallettsville and a graduate of Ridge Point High School. He is the son of Troy and Jackie Kalmus, and the grandson of Shirley Kalmus.

Dylan’s honors/activities include All State Academic Honorable Mention; All District Academic; Honorable Mention All District; and Magna Cum Laude. Dylan will attend Hendrix College in Arkansas, where he will study business management and play baseball.

“Congrats on the hard work the past 4 years in high school. Best wishes on the next chapter in your life.”

~ Love, Granny

Lodge 49, Rowena to host flag disposal ceremony on June 14

SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena is teaming up with American Legion Post 8 Ballinger to sponsor a flag disposal ceremony on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at 6 p.m. on the SPJST Lodge 49, Rowena Hall grounds, 609 S FM 2133 in Rowena, weather permitting. If you have a flag that needs to be disposed of properly, please contact Ricky Strube, Robert Virden, Bobby Davis, Brad Teplicek, or Laura Pospichal. Make plans to attend this patriotic ceremony.

Beverly Teplicek —SPJST—

Lodge 66, Waco to collect school supplies at luncheon

The May 22, 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 66, Waco, was called to order at 5:34 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and youth club motto.

President Douglas Galler asked for a moment of silence for our departed member, Jamie Yates. We continued with a social meal. Thank you, Brother

John Engelke, who grilled hamburgers for everyone. Brother Michael Galler read the roll call of officers, and all officers were present except Sister Dana McAdams. (I would like to give a big thank you to Sister Diana Engelke for taking the meeting notes for me while my family was on vacation.) Eight members and five visitors were present.

Brother Douglas asked for the reading of the minutes of the last meeting. Brother John made a motion to accept the minutes as printed in the Vestnik. Sister Diana seconded, and the motion passed. Correspondence was read by Sister Diana. She had received a thank you card from Sister Dorothy Veselka. Next, Brother Douglas gave the fraternal report, and Sister Diana gave the youth club report.

In old business, Brother John mentioned adding something to our luncheon flyer. He is asking for school supplies to be brought by members to our luncheon. There was a discussion and verification to meet on May 31 at 11 a.m. to donate to the Humane Society.

In new business, Sister Diana asked for Brother Michael and Joan Shelton to please audit her books from 2020 to 2022. Brother Douglas then asked about donations. The April donation is going to the Humane Society along with the donated supplies brought by members. The May donation is going to Fuzzy Friends as made in a motion by Sister

. PAWS FOR A CAUSE . Lodge 6, cottonwood gives to Waco humane society

Lodge 6, Cottonwood members gather around pet food donations for the “Paws for a Cause” project. The donations were collected and donated by the members and delivered to the Waco Humane Society.

—Patti Rosales, Reporter

Caleb See awarded Donnie And janice victorick spjst scholarship; john william see iv receives ashley victorick spjst scholarship

LEFT PHOTO: Congratulations to Caleb See of Lodge 9, Snook who received the Donnie and Janice Victorick SPJST Scholarship. He is pictured with District One Director Donnie Victorick. CENTER PHOTO: Pictured are, from left, Lodge 9, Snook Assistant Youth Leader Laura Sebesta, Director Victorick, Caleb See, John William See IV, and SPJST

Margaret Narovec, seconded by Brother John, and passed by the membership. Sister Diana mentioned that we will have a guest speaker in June from Shepherd Heart—Mr. Bob Gager.

The door prize was won by Sister Jane Galler, and the 100 percent prize was won by Brother Ronald Neumann. A drawing was held for Mother of the Year, and Sister Margaret won.

Brother John made a motion to adjourn, and Brother Ron seconded. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.

Next Meeting—June 26

The next meeting will be Monday, June 26 at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church in Bellmead. The meal will be sausage, cheese, crackers, dessert, and tea.

Respectfully submitted,

Dana McAdams

Secretary/Reporter

—SPJST—

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members celebrate Mother’s Day

On Sunday, May 21, 2023, Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated a belated Mother’s Day with a meal of pot roast and sides. At 2:05 p.m., President Mark Rebecek called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers. A total of 21 members and guests were in attendance.

President Rebecek introduced guests

District Seven Director Regina House

husband James House and Sales Agent Carlos Benavidez.

Regina stated our lodge needed to appoint an audit committee. Chosen were Regina House, Jerry Sijansky, and Lela Mae Hayek. They will meet on June 18 at 11 a.m.

Sales Agent Carlos Benavidez stated he wanted all to check their policies and see if they needed updating on beneficiaries.

Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the April minutes, and they were approved.

President/CEO Brian Vanicek. The scholarships were presented on May 16, 2023, during the awards program at Snook ISD. RIGHT PHOTO: Congratulations to John William See IV who received the Ashley Victorick SPJST Scholarship. He is pictured with Director Victorick. Best wishes to both John William and Caleb on their future endeavors.

Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the financial report, and it was approved.

Vice President/FAC Michael Urbanovsky stated he will work on his paperwork since he was just elected. He asked all to keep track of their hours.

Youth Leader Marcia Rew gave the youth report. Six members and guests were in attendance. The youth colored and discussed what they were going to do in the summer.

Door prizes of $25 were won by Regina House (she donated it to the youth

Lodge 17, New Tabor; 186, Caldwell teens receive SPJST Scholarships

club) and Luke Garcia. Thank you, Regina!

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

Next Meeting—June 18

The next meeting will be Sunday, June 18. We will be celebrating Father’s Day since the meeting falls on that day. Our meal will be chopped sirloin, and members are asked to bring a side dish. Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville honors Age 96 member, graduate

The May 2023 meeting of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville was held on Sunday, the 21st. At 12 noon, a prayer of thanks was given by Vincent Newman, and everyone enjoyed a meal of barbecue chicken prepared by the American Legion fundraiser. Side dishes and desserts were provided by members.

Congratulations to Caldwell High School seniors, second from left to right, Carson Parker and Ashlyn Kellum, both of Lodge 17, New Tabor, and Keith Ramon of Lodge 186, Caldwell, who all received SPJST scholarships at awards night on May 8, 2023! The scholarships were proudly presented by Assistant District One Youth Counselor Holly Narro, pictured far left.

President Vincent Newman called the business meeting to order at 1 p.m. The youth led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. All officers answered the roll call except Special Funds Chair Marion Morales. I would also like to thank Willie Mae Kuykendall for getting everything ready for us in the kitchen.

Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall

read her report, and it was approved as read. Treasurer Bradley Stavinoha read his report, and it was approved as read. Special Funds Chair Marion Morales will read his report at next month’s meeting.

Since we didn’t have any old business, we moved straight to new business. Under new business, member Valentine Kusy showed us a certificate from the SPJST Home Office honoring him on his 96th birthday. He has been a member of SPJST since 1944. Congratulations, Valentine! We also had the pleasure of honoring Elizabeth Dostal. She is a senior and will be graduating soon. She will also be leaving for basic training on Memorial Day. Thank you for your service.

Family Trivia Nights

Under other business, Kristen Jones announced that our lodge will host Family Trivia Nights on May 24, June 28, and July 27. Come on out and have some fun. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the game starts at 6:30 p.m. There will be a food truck outside. The cost is $25 per team with up to six players on a team.

Door prize winners were Joyce Lamensky, Clarence Myers, Shirley Myers, and Bettye Anheiser. Additional door prize winners for leftover barbecue chicken were Vincent Newman, Jeanette Newman, Kristen Jones, Willie Mae Kuykendall, and Calvin Lamensky.

Congratulations to our winners!

Our next meeting will be on Sunday, June 11 since Father’s Day would fall on our regular meeting day. Bradley Stavinoha said that he will bring chicken/sausage with rice jambalaya. Members, please bring a side dish and/or dessert. See you at the next meeting!

Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville presents summertime Family Trivia Nights

Tease your brain, have good family fun, and win cash prizes this summer at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville Hall! Lodge 81 presents Family Trivia Nights on Wednesday, June 28 and Wednesday, July 26.

Grab dinner at the food truck. Eat inside while you play or watch. Drinks and snacks will be on sale inside the hall. Cost is $25 per team - six players max - school-age children count (preK and under are free of charge).

Come on out for a fun, family time!^

Fraternally, Kristen Jones —SPJST—

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca Honors Mothers

Bryant Hunter ❤ Desna Cramer exchange vows

Bryant Hunter and Desna Cramer rang in the New Year with their wedding date celebration on New Year’s Eve 2022. They married at the Telico Gin in the quaint village of Telico, near the Texas town of Ennis. The venue was previously a working cotton gin in the early 1800s and was refurbished to its current grandeur. Exposed primitive industrial machinery used in the ginning process are visible throughout the venue. The machinery compliments their years of farming in the 1800 era.

The couple’s vows were exchanged in the onsite cotton seed barn amongst beautiful fresh white roses, baby’s breath and festive winter greenery. The candlelit ceremony was formally officiated by Josh Tay, cousin of the groom. Josh and the groom grew up together, attended school and college together, and continue to be the very best of friends.

The maid of honor was the bride’s older sister, Audrey, and the groom’s best man was his younger brother, Jordan.

The bride wore a stunning gown from the Morilee Sinead collection. The designer of the gown was Madeline Gardner, and the style was a satin mermaid silhouette with train. The satin and lace gown was embellished with moonstones, crystals, and pearls with a sweetheart neckline and beaded straps. Her veil was a two-tiered net and rhinestone creation lovingly assembled by the groom’s grandmother, Janie. The bride wore white and rhinestone western boots to compliment her beautiful gown. Her wedding bouquet was a creation of fresh white roses, winter greenery, and eucalyptus.

The groom had a custom-made sagecolored suit and Lucchese cowboy boots complete with a Stetson cowboy hat.

Appetizers included fluffy pigs-in-ablanket and creamy macaroni and cheese along with beverages of your choice. A traditional Czechoslovakian barbecue complete with green beans and parsley potatoes were served. Homemade pecan pies and spritz cookies prepared by the groom’s grandmother and mother were en-

joyed. Wedding cakes were Italian cream and German chocolate.

At midnight, traditional homemade black-eyed peas and buttered cornbread muffins were served with the hope for good luck in the coming New Year 2023.

Dancing the traditional Czech wedding grand march added to the festivities. A highlight of the evening included the groom and guests playing their acoustic guitars and singing classic hits from Johnny Cash and Chris Stapleton.

A spectacular fireworks display for the wedding celebration on New Year’s Eve set the night off as the bride and groom made their getaway in the groom’s late grandfather’s refurbished antique 1953 Ford pickup truck. Grandfather Hunter took pride in his total refurbishment of this 1953 Ford that has been in the family since he acquired it. Their honeymoon was enjoyed in the Dominican Republic resort area. The couple met in Stephenville while attending college there in 2012. Their relationship continued to grow as well as their educational degrees. Desna has a double bachelor’s degree with one in biomedical science and the other in nursing. She is currently an ICU registered nurse in the San Antonio area.

Bryant worked at HEB throughout his high school and college years, acquired his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration with a minor in supply chain management. He is currently at the HEB San Antonio downtown headquarters.

The couple resides in their San Antonio home.

Bryant was active in SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis throughout his school years. He is the son of David and Jenna Hunter. He is the grandson of Jerry and Janie Marusak, and Jean and the late David Joel Hunter, all from the Ennis area.

Desna is the daughter of Carl and the late Patricia Cramer of Weatherford and the granddaughter of the late Audrey and Fred Bennett also of Weatherford. —SPJST—

Mr. & Mrs. Bryant Hunter

Lodge 41, Port Lavaca recognized the mothers who were present at the lodge’s May 16, 2023, meeting. Pictured, left to right, are Lorene Pustejovsky, District Six Director Annie Vahalik, Dora Rendon, Mary Allison, Mary Sitka, and Carolyn Rokyta. Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day!

Lodge 81, Needville to join hands with groups to prepare lunch for seniors

Lodge 81, Needville will join hands with Catholic Life Insurance, Woodmen of the World, KJZT, KJZT Juniors, St. Michael’s Altar Society, Girl Scouts, and Knights of Columbus on Friday, June 30, 2023, to prepare and serve a hamburger lunch to seniors at Senior Site at Immanuel Church in Needville, Texas. All seniors are invited to attend. Come early to play dominoes and bingo.^

Bradley Stavinoha, Treasurer

Lodge 84, Dallas reports on May meeting

Dear Readers,

Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met on Sunday, May 21, 2023, for their monthly meeting. President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order at 2:40 p.m. Flag Bearer Charles Nemec led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence for our departed members, troops serving our country, and those members needing special intentions.

After a quick taking of photos of members with the donated toiletry items for Join Hands Day, President Vicki handed around incentive paperwork from the Home Office and described how these activities would promote

Ian

earnings for the lodge. It included attendance, community service projects, and other activities we can participate in.

Treasurer Jim Liska gave his report before excusing himself to attend to a family activity. Secretary Cherri Petr then read the minutes from the previous month which were approved by all present. She also read correspondence from the Home Office which included termination and surrenders and a report on the 50- and 75-year membership pin recipients. Sunshine committee reported that sympathy cards were sent to the families of Carol Rejcek and Mildred Schaerdel; may your loved ones rest in peace. Get well cards were sent to Sister Lyn Olds, Sister Dorothy Schroeder, Brother Jerry Manak, and Brother Wesley Hubek; we hope you are all doing well.

Vice President Lynda Novak gave her reports on Fraternal Council and Czech Culture. She announced that Heritage Day will be Sunday, October 8 and that plans are still in progress but will be forthcoming as they are confirmed.

Youth Leader Lynda then reported that the youth continue to meet on a regular basis. At the last meeting, she reminded them about continuing to submit their Vestnik projects (monthly caring challenges) and the Paws for a Cause (second quarter charity project). The third quarter project will be collecting school supplies – Back to School Supply Drive. She also mentioned that camp registration closed on May 15 for those planning to attend camp. The deadline to enter the State Youth Showcase is Friday, June 30 with the actual event to be held July 28 and 29 in Temple. There will be no district youth

receives SPJST Scholarship

Congratulations to Ian Ranly of Lodge 47, Seaton who received an SPJST Scholarship. The scholarship was presented by Lodge 47 President Brandon Bartek during an awards ceremony at Rogers ISD. Ian, who was an active youth club member, is a 2023 graduate of Rogers High School. He was also the salutatorian.

Lodge 47, Seaton honors Milestone Members

Lodge 47, Seaton - Star Hall honored its Milestone Members on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Congratulations to 50-year members Debbie Alexander and Kenneth Heese and 75-year members Marilyn Herring and Edwin Marek. Thank you to Lodge 47 President Brandon Bartek for presenting the pins; to SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek for the cool facts from 50 and 75 years ago; and to District Two Director Jesse Pospisil for joining us. —Amber Bartek, Youth Leader

Lodge 47, Seaton Milestone Members. Front, left to right, 75-year member Marilyn Herring, 50-year member Debbie Alexander, 75-year member Edwin Marek, and 50-year member Kenneth Heese. Back, left to right, District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, Lodge 47 President Brandon Bartek, and SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek.

LEFT PHOTO: SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek addresses attendees. PHOTO 2: Director Pospisil and wife Linda join the afternoon event. RIGHT and BOTTOM PHOTOS: Members, family, and friends enjoy the celebration and refreshments.

Ranly of Lodge 47, Seaton

achievement day (YAD); instead, all craft entries are to be submitted on Friday, July 28 to be judged while the youth are attending a Home Officehosted event at Summer Fun Water Park in Belton. Individual and group talent and royalty competitions will be held on Saturday, July 29. All winners will be announced on July 29 at the conclusion of the contests.

President Vicki thanked everyone for attending the meeting. She announced that in lieu of our next meeting date, which falls on Father’s Day, the June meeting would be re-scheduled to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 11 at Tupinamba Cafe located at 9665 North Central Expressway (cross street Walnut Hill Lane) 75231, phone - 972-991-8148.

A motion was then made to adjourn the meeting so that we could enjoy our svacina!

Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 88, Houston: Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out!

Please join us on Father’s Day weekend for barbecue and fun on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 1 to 5 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston. We will serve smoked pork, ribs, sausage, chicken (hot dogs for the kids) along with tasty sides! The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for kids. First come, first serve. Do us a favor: Please buy your tickets early so we know how much to cook. Visit lodge88.org to buy tickets.

Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—

PAWS P

CAUSE

: Lodge 66, Waco

Lodge 66, Waco members visited the Humane Society of Central Texas in Waco on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Lodge members collected and delivered supplies, toured the facility, and visited with the animals. The Humane Society of Central Texas provides adoption, rescue, and foster opportunities for the homeless animals at the Waco Animal Shelter. Their goal is to build a community that promotes animal welfare through compassionate services to animals and people.

—Dana McAdams Secretary/Reporter

Lodge 92, Fort Worth features Randy Tatarevich Band every first Sunday

Lodge 92, Fort Worth - National Hall presents Randy Tatarevich Band every first Sunday of the month, unless otherwise noted. Doors open at 1 p.m.; music starts at 2 p.m. Admission is $10. Barbecue dinner is available for $10. Full bar is available as well.

You don’t want to miss good country/western music and the best dance floor in Texas. Come on out for a great time!

—SPJST—

Lodge 142, Houston reports on May meeting, activities

Lodge 142, Houston met on Sunday, May 21, 2023, in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. Lunch consisted of tacos and dessert. Thank you to Dorothy Pflughaupt for preparing such a delicious lunch. Dennis led the prayer.

President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m., and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. A moment of silence was held for all military men and women who died serving our country.

Roll call of officers showed all present except Secretary Elizabeth Hermis, Assistant Youth Leader Kyle Herrington, Flag Bearer Zac Coleman, and Guide Karole Coleman. Sales Agents

Lodge 79, Corpus Christi presents door prizes

Winners of the $25 door prize winners at the Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting in May were Regina House, left, and Luke Garcia. Regina donated her winnings to the Lodge 79 Youth Club. She is pictured presenting the funds to Youth Leader Marcia Rew. Thank you, Regina!

—Virginia Rebecek Secretary

Lodge 81, Needville member Valentine kusy achieves grand age 96

Congratulations to Valentine Kusy of Lodge 81, Needville! He achieved the Grand Age of 96 and was recognized by President Vincent Newman and the members at the lodge meeting on May 21, 2023.

ABOVE PHOTOS: Lodge 66, Waco members present their collections of pet items to the Humane Society.

LEFT PHOTO: A Humane Society representative leads the Lodge 66 members around the facility. RIGHT PHOTO: Pictured are, left to right, Thomas Galler, Dana and Jodie McAdams, Joan Shelton, Michael Galler, Fiona Galler, Ron Neumann, and Diana and John Engelke.

present were Kerry Herrington, Mary Bird, and Margaret Norris Guerrero. We had 22 members present and two visitors—District Five President Dorothy Pflughaupt and State Fraternal Director Frank Horak.

State Fraternal Director Horak was recognized, and he spoke about the new lodge incentive program and shared examples of what counts as fraternal hours and community service hours as set by the American Fraternal Alliance. Frank answered a lot a questions and provided a broader view of the new program. Thank you, Frank, for attending the meeting.

No minutes were read due to the absence of Elizabeth Hermis who was absent due to illness. She was excused by the membership.

Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave his report, and it was accepted by members.

Youth Leader Amanda Muzny gave her report. She spoke about the upcoming state camp to be held in June and the State Youth Showcase on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. Amanda said she was trying

Lodge 81, Needville members earns scholarship

Lodge 81, Needville Hall Manager Marion Morales, left, and SPJST District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha present an SPJST scholarship to Skyler Bromonsky, who is a graduate of Needville High School. Skyler is a member of Lodge 185, New Braunfels.

her best to get more youth involved in our youth club.

Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider asked all moms to stand in observance of Mother’s Day. This is a day we observe that special person who always gives us unconditional love.

Territory Manager Kerry Herrington stated District Five is in great shape in regards to new applicants, etc. Kerry also spoke about the upcoming Tyler Rose Festival VIP Tour coming up in

Lodge 80, Holland Member performs at Class Act Productions in The Woodlands

October. Should be a lot of fun . . . watch the Vestnik for details.

Sales Agent Mary Bird mentioned that she has several new applicants in the works.

Announced were new member Na-

’Kyia A’Mira Broussard (sales agent Kerry Herrington), one transfer (Patrick J. Kokes) to Lodge 88, and one termination. Keith Kieschnick made a motion to accept the new member, seconded by Barbara Linney Gonzales.

Under old business, the District Five Annual Meeting was applauded as a great day with everyone having fun. Special recognition to Braelyn Muzny for coming in first place for her kite project.

Kerry Herrington reported he was working on setting up a dinner with our new members and telling them about all the programs to help encourage them to attend our meetings.

Under new business, we discussed getting caps/shirts for our members when they go out promoting SPJST. A motion was made by Barbara LinneyGonzales and seconded by Mary Bird. Mary Bird will check into this and will bring information to the next meeting. The renumerations committee met

Lodge 80, Holland Hosts mother’s day dance at the hall on 2268

SPJST Lodge 80, Holland hosted a Mother’s Day dance on Sunday, May 14, 2023, at The Hall on 2268. All women received free admission to the event where more than 100 danced the night away. TOP LEFT PHOTO: Frank Pajestka, Jr. and Rita Spinn are pictured at the ticket booth. TOP RIGHT PHOTO and BELOW LEFT: Dancers enjoy a good time. BELOW RIGHT: Celebrity Lee Roy Eichler (bus driver and transportation manager for George Strait and former drummer for The Moods) is pictured with Lodge 80 President Rita Spinn, center, and The Hall on 2268 owner Lorianne Bland. —Joyce Martinets

On May 27, 2023, Lodge 80, Holland Fraternal Activities Coordinator Frank Pajestka and wife Risa, also of Lodge 80, attended a terrific theatrical performance of The Drowsy Chaperone at Class Act Productions in The Woodlands, Texas. Lodge 80 member Cyril Pajestka was outstanding in the lead role. His lovely wife, Angela, had an important and charming role, too, and she gave a stellar performance. If anyone happens to be in the Conroe/Woodlands area, I highly recommend attending a show produced by Class Act! Check them out on Facebook. Class Act Productions is located at 25275 Budde Road in The Woodlands, Texas 77380. Pictured here after the show are Cyril Pajestka, Shaun Danney, Angela Danney Pajestka, Mark Danney, Risa Pajestka, and Frank Pajestka.

—Risa Pajestka

and approved to raise the salary of the fraternal activities coordinator from $25 to $50 a month due to increased responsibilities.

Dorothy Pfllughaupt reported this year’s Larry W. Pflughaupt Scholarship was awarded to her great-nephew.

Kenneth Malota spoke about attending a special ceremony honoring our member Emil Kutra. Emil is the last of the original 65 World War II veterans from Frydek, Texas. He was honored at a ceremony on April 30 at Frydek’s Grotto Celebration at St. Mary’s Catho-

lic Church. Thank you for your service, Emil!

Birthday celebrants were Jack Manchack on May 24 and Margaret Norris Guerrero also on May 24.

The meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m. Door prizes were awarded. We all played bingo after the meeting. Winners were first place - Debra Ngo, secondJean Herrington, and third and a fourway tie - Barbara Linney-Gonzales, Jack Dowling, Braelyn Muzny, and Jack Manchack. It was decided to have another social after the June meeting.

Lodge 81, Needville hosts Family Friendly Trivia Night

Hello, Readers!

SPJST Lodge 81, Needville hosted our very first Family Friendly Trivia Night fundraiser on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. In an effort to bring this family-centered community together, we hired Code 49 Food Truck (disguised as a SaurKraut Food Truck) to be parked outside our lodge, and we invited everyone in to eat and participate in our family friendly trivia! We had a wonderful turnout with seven teams participating.

Don’t be fooled! Even though it was family friendly, some of these questions were real brain benders!

We are looking forward to our next two trivia nights—Wednesday, June 28 and Wednesday, July 26! The food truck has even committed already since we had such a great turnout! Come by and get dinner as early as 5:30 p.m. and stay for the trivia that starts at 6:30ish.

Can’t wait to see you all there soon! Fraternally, Karen Hargraves

P.S. Visit SPJST Lodge 81 Facebook page. If you share our event on social media, we will give you one free item from the snack bar!

Reminder: our June meeting has been changed to the second Sunday, June 11 with a meal at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston.

Fraternally Pat Schleider (filling in for Elizabeth Hermis) —SPJST—

Lodge 155, Austin meets June 25

Lodge 155, Austin will meet Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Pok-E-Jo’s, 2121 Parmer Lane, Austin, Texas 78727 at 2 p.m. Members are invited and encouraged to attend.

Fraternally, Albert Klinkovsky, President —SPJST—

Lodge 172, Pasadena meets June 14

Members of Lodge 172, Pasadena are invited to the quarterly meeting on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at 6 p.m. at Peppers Steak and Seafood, located at 3604 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena. Make plans to attend our dinner meeting by contacting Jerry Dressler at 512551-9009.^

Fraternally, Jerry Dressler, President —SPJST—

Lodge 177, Academy hosts Jerry Haisler dance on June 24

Lodge 177, Academy invites all to a dance on Saturday, June 24, 2023, with Jerry Haisler and The Melody 5. Doors open at 5 p.m., and the band plays from 7 to 11 p.m. Admission is $10 per person. Kids ages 12 and under will be admitted free of charge.

Academy SPJST 177 is located at 711 East Rio Poco in Academy, Texas.

Come on out for a fun evening of dancing and great country and variety dance music!^

Penny Rowe, FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 185, New Braunfels assists youth with camp registration fees

Hill Country Lodge 185 gathered on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at Peace Lutheran Church to enjoy a wonderful evening and dinner sponsored by the youth club. Each year, the youth club provides a meal as a way of saying thank you to the lodge for all it does for the youth club. This year, the lodge is happy that it is able to help each youth from our lodge who is attending summer camp with $100 toward their registration fee. A lodge meeting preceded the event. Thank you, youth club members, and have fun at camp!

Theresa Haag Secretary/FAC/Reporter —SPJST—

Lodge 81,

Eliza-

graduated from

and was honored with cake and a gift at the Lodge 81 meeting on Sunday, May 21, 2023. Elizabeth was an active youth club member. She enlisted to serve in the United States Army and was scheduled to leave for basic training on Memorial Day. Best wishes to Elizabeth!

LEFT PHOTO: Trivia hosts Karen, Kristen, and Krystal. PHOTO 2: Tripp works at the snack bar. RIGHT PHOTO: Trivia answer pad.

LEFT PHOTO: Trivia food truck. RIGHT PHOTO: Trivia night begins!

Lodge 81, Needville member graduates; leaves for United States Army

Needville member

beth Dostal

Needville High School

Lodge 191, Lufkin presents January meeting minutes

SPJST Lodge 191, Lufkin met on Monday, January 9, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at Catfish King Restaurant in Lufkin, Texas. The meeting was called to order by President George Scogin. Members present were Helen Boyd, Pat Scogin, George Scogin, Ruth Welch, Linda Mount, and Carolyn Hughes. The Pledge of Allegiance and prayer were led by George Scogin.

Minutes from the October 10, 2022, meeting were read by Ruth Welch. The minutes of last meeting did not say who made the motion that the financial report be approved as written. It should have stated that Helen Boyd had made the recommendation to accept as written, and Ruth Welch seconded the motion.

Financial report dated October 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022, was presented by Treasurer Pat Scogin. Helen Boyd made a motion to accept the report as presented. Ruth Welch seconded the motion.

Under old business, Pat Scogin reminded everyone that all dues are to be paid on or before March 31. Only two had paid their dues as of today. George Scogin will announce at the upcoming dance.

Under new business, Linda Murphy and Cheryl Poff applied for social membership. These applicants were presented earlier and voted to admit by an earlier meeting. All present voted in agreement.

Lodge 84, Dallas Members Enjoy Czech Dinner, Brass Band Performance

Lodge 84, Dallas members enjoyed a traditional Czech dinner on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Sokol Dallas. After dinner, they also enjoyed listening and dancing to the music of the Czech

The rules and regulations were updated by committee members which were George Scogin, Ruth Welch, Helen Boyd, and Alma Breazeale. The major change in the rules and regulations was necessary because of the sale of the lodge, reduction in membership, meeting place, and schedule of business meetings. The timing, date, and place of meetings have changed from monthly the 7 p.m. meeting on the Monday before the dance at the lodge hall. Currently, the meetings are being held quarterly at Catfish King Restaurant in Lufkin on the Monday before the second Friday night dance.

Ruth Welch submitted questions of the lodge’s failure to convene an audit committee in November 2022. This failure is due to a lack of available and current members who can or will complete

this audit. She suggested hiring a competent financial person to complete this task.

Communication from the Home Office: Welch read two notices of new insurance/annuities, two member deathsMarlon Ray Register and Stephen J. Duyka. The committee suggested filing these notices in a miscellaneous folder.

Business meetings—The next business meeting will be Monday, April 10, 2023. The place of the meeting will be announced by President Scogin at a later date.

Respectfully submitted, Ruth Welch, Secretary —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas joins hands with Better Life for St. Joseph’s Residence

★ ★ 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.

Bartek family

Get ready to come out to Ratibor Country Bar and Grill for the 60th annual Bartek family reunion on Saturday, July 8, 2023. We are looking forward to seeing everyone and having the opportunity to visit with all those we have not seen in a while.

Registration begins at 11 a.m. at Ratibor Country Grill, 10226 FM-2086, Temple, Texas 76501.

What to bring . . . Please bring dessert, auction items (proceeds keep the reunion alive), yourself and family, good memories, and old pictures to share. Please bring your family! The more the merrier ! Everything else is furnished

Questions? Contact Amy Pagel Devereaux. 254-316-2878 or Paula Pagel Faris 512-818-0259

Paula Pagel Faris Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—

Stribrnanka brass band from the

Czech Republic. Lodge 84 attendees included Mary Dees, Ray Faraizl, Laddie and Helen Gajdica, Kathy and Charles Nemec, Lynda Novak, Edward and Diane G. Oates, and JoAnn Pokladnik. —Kathy Nemec

Lodge 84, Dallas members joined hands with Better Life to collect toiletry items for St. Joseph’s Res-

idence, Inc. Thanks to all members who contributed to the collection. —Anne Cowan, Reporter

Nostalgia: For Those Who Graduated From High School in the 1950s and 1960s

Editor’s Note: Thanks to Mark Rebecek, president of Lodge 79, Corpus Christi, for sharing this article of albeit sweet memories for many of our Vestnik readers.

It took three to five minutes for the TV to warm up.

Nobody owned a purebred dog.

When a quarter was a decent allowance, and made with real silver!

You’d reach into a muddy gutter for a penny. Made with real copper! Looking to see if it was a 1943 copper penny!

You got your windshield cleaned, oil checked, and gas pumped, without asking, all for free, every time.

And you didn’t pay for air. And, you got trading stamps to boot.

Laundry detergent had free glasses, dishes, or towels hidden inside the box.

Not to mention Cracker Jacks!

It was considered a great privilege to be taken out to dinner at a real restaurant with your parents.

They threatened to keep kids back a grade if they failed . . . and they did it!

When a ‘57 Chevy was everyone’s dream car . . . to cruise, peel out, lay rubber, or watch submarine races, and people went steady.

Emil Kutra is the last of the original 65 World Ware II veterans from Frydek, Texas. Emil was honored on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at Frydek’s Grotto Celebration at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Thank you to Kenneth Malota for providing us with these pictures. Emil was a very active lodge member for many years. All of us at Lodge 142, Houston are honored to know him. Emil reached the Grand Age of 100 in September 2022

The monument with all 65 names!

No one ever asked where the car keys were because they were always in the car, in the ignition, and the doors were never locked.

Lying on your back in the grass with your friends and saying things like, “That cloud looks like a . . . ”

Playing baseball with no adults to help kids with the rules of the game.

Stuff from the store came without safety caps and hermetic seals because no one had yet tried to poison a perfect stranger.

And with all our progress, don’t you

just wish, just once, you could slip back in time and savor the slower pace, and share it with the children of today.

When being sent to the principal’s office was nothing compared to the fate that awaited the student at home.

Basically, we were in fear for our lives, but it wasn’t because of drive-by shootings, drugs, gangs, etc. Our parents and grandparents were a much bigger threat! But we survived because their love was greater than the threat.

As well as summers filled with bike rides, hula hoops, and visits to the pool,

Lodge 88, Houston Homecoming

and eating Kool-Aid powder with sugar. Doesn’t that feel good, just to go back and say, “Yeah, I remember that.”

I am sharing this with you today because it ended with a Double Dog Dare to pass it on. To remember what a Double Dog Dare is, read on.

And remember that the perfect age is somewhere between old enough to know better and too young to care.

Send this on to someone who can still remember Howdy Doody and The Peanut Gallery, the Lone Ranger, The Shadow Knows, Nellie Bell, Roy and Dale, Trigger and Buttermilk. Candy cigarettes.

Wax Coke-shaped bottles with colored sugar water inside.

Soda pop machines that dispensed glass bottles.

Coffee shops with table-side jukeboxes. Blackjack, Clove, and Teaberry chewing gum.

Home milk delivery in glass bottles with cardboard stoppers.

Newsreels before the movie.

Telephone numbers with a word prefix (Yukon 2601). Or, some of us remember when there were just four numbers with no word prefix at all. And, nearly everyone had a party line. Peashooters.

Hi-fi’s and 45 RPM records. 78 RPM records!

S&H Green Stamps. Mimeograph paper.

The Fort Apache Play Set.

Do you remember a time when deci-

Sunday June 4, 2023 • SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Hall • Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt

Emil Kutra of Lodge 142, houston: one of the best of the greatest generation

RIGHT PHOTO:

—Pat Schleider, FAC

Czech Connections

Rotary Club Houston hosted Simon Basler, right, of Southern Moravia. District Five Director Bradley Stavinoha was honored to show Simon around Fort Worth and presented Simon with an SPJST challenge coin.

sions were made by going ‘eeny-meenyminey-moe’?

Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, ‘Do Over!’

‘Race issue’ meant arguing about who ran the fastest.

Catching fireflies could happily occupy an entire evening.

It wasn’t odd to have two or three

‘Best Friends.’

Having a weapon in school meant being caught with a slingshot.

Saturday morning cartoons were’'t 30-minute commercials for action figures.

‘Oly-oly-oxen-free’ made perfect sense.

Spinning around, getting dizzy, and falling down was cause for giggles. The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team.

War was a card game.

Baseball cards in the spokes transformed any bike into a motorcycle. Taking drugs meant orange-flavored chewable aspirin.

Water balloons were the ultimate weapon.

If you can remember most or all of these, then you have lived!

—Author Unknown —SPJST—

Lodge 142, Houston Members Enjoy Night of Baseball

Thank you to SPJST District Five Youth for a great night of baseball on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Constellation Field in Sugarland, Texas. It was a little rainy, but the Space Cowboys won the game 7 to 5 over the El Paso Chihuahuas!

—Pat Schleider, FAC

Lodge 142, Houston: May - the month of graduations!

Debra Ngo and Kerry Herrington of Lodge 142, Houston have three grandchildren graduating with some awesome honors!

Autumn Ngo

At the age of 21, granddaughter Autumn Ngo graduated with a master’s degree in data science from Texas Tech University. If this is not awesome enough, Autumn had a 4.0 GPA.

Autumn plans to go to Asia with her church on a missionary trip this summer. After she returns from her trip, she will reside in Dallas and begin a new job.

Autumn is the daughter of Jennifer Lewis.

Ryder Butera

Grandson Ryder Butera graduated from Travis High School in Richmond, Texas. Ryder received a scholarship and has committed to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs on its gymnastics team and his education at Air Force Academy.

Ryder is the son of Jennifer Lewis.

Debra and Kerry are very proud that Ryder will be representing our country and serving in the Air Force.

Ashley Maul

Granddaughter Ashley Maul, age 17, graduated from Texas Connections Academy of Houston. Out of 960-plus students, Ashley ranked 10th in her class.

Ashley received a full four-year scholarship for academics and gymnastics at Penn State University this fall.

Ashley is the daughter of Lisa and Roger Maul.

All three of these young graduates are members of Lodge 142, Houston. They were very active in the lodge’s youth club and participated in the Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program at SPJST summer camp.

Autumn, Ryder, and Ashley, all of us at Lodge 142, Houston are so proud of you!

Pat Schleider

Fraternal Activities Coordinator —SPJST—

Autumn Ngo Ryder Butera Ashley Maul

Explore

How does the heart pump blood?

The heart pumps blood by contracting (squeezing), the way you could squirt water from a water balloon. Over and over, the heart relaxes to let blood flow into its hollow chambers, then squeezes to push the blood out to the body. This action keeps blood moving to carry oxygen and other nutrients throughout the body and to haul away waste.

How does a star blow up?

A hot, bright star blows up when it runs out of fuel. Here's why that happens. The force of gravity is always pulling the matter in the star toward the center. But in that center, small bits of matter called atoms are always fusing together, making bigger atoms and releasing huge amounts of energy. That energy pushes outward and works against the gravity during the star's life. After many millions of years, the star runs out of small atoms. Then it has no more energy to push outward. The star collapses, and when the matter collides in the center, it explodes.

Why don’t clouds and rain form indoors?

To form clouds and rain, water vapor (water that has evaporated into the air) needs both cool temperatures

and a surface on which to condense (turn back into a liquid).

As warm, moist air rises outdoors, it carries water vapor high into the atmosphere where there is less air pressure. The air expands, causing it to cool. Its water vapor condenses on atmospheric dust and may form a cloud.

Indoors, warm, moist air can’t rise high because of ceilings. It can cool by meeting up with cold surfaces like windows. But any drops that form on airborne dust don’t get large enough to fall as rain.

How do straws work?

We live at the bottom of an ocean of air that’s held close to Earth by gravity. This layer of air is more than 60 miles deep, and the weight of the air above us is always pushing down on us. We don’t feel the pressure because we have always lived under it, but we can see its effects.

When you drink from a straw, you create a little space of low pressure inside your mouth and in the top of the straw. Then the air outside the straw pushes down on the surface of the drink and forces the liquid up through the straw and into your mouth.

What is ear cartilage?

Cartilage is a tough tissue made almost entirely of a protein called collagen. Most of the tissues in the body have at least a little collagen, which holds things together when its mole-

. PAWS FOR A CAUSE Lodge 142, Houston gives to local animal shelter

Lodge 142, Houston May 21 meeting & bingo social

BINGO ANYONE? The May social was bingo! Come on out next month, and see what our surprise social will be! You never know if you will be a winner so come on

out. Just a reminder: the meeting was set for the second Sunday, June 11, due to Father’s Day falling on the usual third Sunday meeting date. —Pat Schleider, FAC

Many generous donations were given by Lodge 142, Houston members to the Paws for a Cause drive at the May 21, 2023, meeting. June will be the last month to be collecting items for our furry friends! Thanks to all for their kind support.

We can’t forget to recognize our great cooks! Thanks to Dorothy

—Pat Schleider, FAC

Pflughaupt of Lodge 88, Houston, left, and Barbara Linney-Gonzales of Lodge 142, Houston for the great tacos!

ABOVE: Mary Bird calls bingo.

LEFT PHOTO: Mary Jane Hue wins a very special door prize at the May meeting. She won a Houston Astros door wreath. Go, Astros!

Lodge 187, Round Rock member receives scholarship

eggs couldn’t be much bigger than a soccer ball. A bigger egg would either crack from its own weight or have a shell so thick that it would stop fresh air from seeping through to the developing baby.

Why do we yawn?

For years, researchers thought a yawn was just a deep breath that took in a rush of oxygen and flushed out carbon dioxide. They dropped that idea after some experiments showed that breathing extra oxygen didn’t reduce yawning, and having extra carbon dioxide didn’t increase it.

. PAWS FOR A CAUSE Lodge 180, Burleson gives to Burleson animal shelter

Congratulations to Raelynn Marie Johnson of Lodge 187, Round Rock for earning an SPJST Scholarship in 2023. She is pictured with Lodge 187, Round Rock President Linda Johnson, who presented the scholarship to Raelynn.

cules link up into long, stretchy fibers. But the structures inside some body parts, such as the ears, nose, and joints, contain cartilage, which is more flexible than bone.

How big were dinosaur eggs?

Dinosaur eggs came in many sizes. The smallest known dinosaur— crow-sized Microraptor (MY-krohRAP-tur) - probably had small eggs. As for big dinosaurs, scientists say

Now researchers have an idea that because yawning is “contagious” (seeing someone yawn can make you yawn, too), it may help a group of people or animals go to sleep or wake up at the same time. Yawning might help wolf pups settle down to rest together or help human families wake up to start the day.

There is more to learn about yawning. For example, do researchers feel sleepy while they’re studying it? ZZzzzzzz.

What are the northern lights?

The northern lights - called the aurora borealis - and the southern lights - aurora australis - appear when tiny particles stream out from the Sun and hit Earth’s atmosphere. The particles give some of their energy to atoms and molecules of gases in the upper atmosphere. But the atoms and molecules cannot hold the energy. They quickly give it off as another

Lodge 202, Jourdanton members celebrate anniversary in june

Lodge 202, Jourdanton members James and Regina House will celebrate their 36th wedding anniversary on June 13, 2023. James serves as president of District Seven and Lodge 202, and Regina is District Seven Director and Lodge 202 Youth Leader. Happy anniversary to you both!

—Valerie Barta Lodge 202 Secretary

On Saturday, May 20, 2023, several members of Lodge 180, Burleson participated in the Paws for a Cause project by visiting the Burleson Animal Shelter in Burleson. Members donated gently used towels, dog and cat food, and other items to be used by the staff and volunteers on the current occupants of the shelter. Members are, left to right, Rhonda Hurtik, Patricia Sill, Robert Sill (guest), Joe Hurtik (in back), staff member with friendly canine, Dylan Bowden, Dena Bowden, and Sandy Almonte. Members toured the facility, and Lodge 180 also made a cash donation to the Burleson Animal Shelter.

kind of energy—the colors of light that we call the aurora. These lights occur most often around the North Pole and South Pole because the incoming particles have an electric charge. As the particles arrive, Earth’s magnetic field guides them toward the poles.

Why is soda fizzy once shaken?

Shaking the container makes harmless little particles at the bottom of the

—Robert Sill

container mix throughout the soda. Edges and rough spots on those little bits are places where bubbles can form. So the carbon dioxide gas that was dissolved into the soda to give it fizz comes out of the soda fast, as lots of tiny bubbles.

https://www.highlightskids.com/explore/science-questions/

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members gather for noon luncheon

Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point members, left to right, Melanie Zavodny, Ricki Dixon, Frances McBride, and David Nauert enjoyed a noon lunch together at Bella Blue Cafe in Temple on Monday, May 22, 2023. The next noon luncheon will be Monday, July 10 at Oscar Store.

In Memoriam

In Memory of Dorothy Hinson

Dorothy Virginia Schiller Hinson, 92, of Houston, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, after her battle with dementia.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 6 at 11 a.m. at Houston Brethren Church, followed by burial that afternoon at Jones Prairie Cemetery in Leggett where her husband is buried.

Dorothy was born on April 18, 1930, in Houston to Eddie E. and Ella (Slovacek) Schiller. She graduated from Lamar High School. She was married to Earl B. Hinson for 50 years until his death in 2004. Dorothy was devoted to God and was a devoted member of Houston Brethren Church, where she served as president of the Christian Sisters, president of the Board of Elders, taught Sunday School, and played the organ and piano during church services. She also served as president of the state Christian Sisters’ Union, served on the Unity of the Brethren’s Home Missions Board and Mutual Aid Society Board, and was a Synodical Committee member. Dorothy was proud of her Czech heritage and loved talking about her family.

Dorothy was a member of SPJST Lodge 9, Snook.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son Jimmy Hinson; and granddaughter Christie Dawn Hinson.

She is survived by daughters Lynn Hinson and Frances H. Jensen; son-inlaw Mike Jensen; brother Marvin Schiller and sister-in-law Bobye; grand-

children Shaun Hinson, Jeanette, and Will and Sydney Jensen; and nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made in Dorothy’s honor to The Brethren Journal, c/o Ben Polasek, 1103 Harrisonburg Lane, Col lege Station, Texas 77845. —SPJST—

In Memory of Barbara Tichacek

Barbara Jean Tichacek, age 67, of East Bernard, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 19, 2023.

Barbara was born August 28, 1955, in East Bernard. She graduated from East Bernard High School in 1974. Following high school, she attended Wharton County Junior College.

Barbara was an active member of SPJST Lodge 28, East Bernard and Holy Cross Catholic Church. Barbara was a faithful volunteer at C.A.R.E. She enjoyed gardening and listening to polka and country music.

Barbara was preceeded in death by her parents - mother Helen Hanzelka Tichacek Olson and father Sylvester Tichacek; and stepfather Robert Olson.

She is survived by numerous cousins and friends.

Memorials may be sent to Houston Hospice-El Campo, c/o Hospice Support, Inc., P.O. Box 1417, El Campo, Texas 77437; Holy Cross Catholic Church, PO Box 1325, East Bernard, Texas 77435; or the charity of your choice.

Helen Kelner, Secretary —SPJST—

SPJST YOUTH SECTION

District Five youth enjoy grand slam night at Space Cowboys game

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

Dear Readers, Rain did not stop SPJST District Five youth from having a good time at Constellation Field in Sugar Land, Texas, on Saturday, May 13, 2023. This game was amazing.

Several members arrived when the gates opened to get a free Peña Astros jersey which came in handy to keep the littles warm after getting wet in the rain. We sat in the picnic area so each seat had access to a table. The table was handy when each member redeemed their $15 voucher for a wonderful dinner. I personally enjoyed their barbecue nachos. I also made sure to purchase my girls some Cracker Jacks to enjoy as

Dorothy Hinson

Barbara Tichacek

a dessert. They enjoyed hearing about Cracker Jacks in the seventh inning stretch song, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” song.

Take

me

out to the ball game,

Take me out with the crowd; Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack, I don't care if I never get back.

Let me root, root, root for the home team, If they don't win, it's a shame. For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out, At the old ball game.

We also were able to cheer on the Space Cowboys when they hit a grand slam!

The night – despite the rain – was itself a grand slam!

Kristen Jones District Five Youth Counselor —SPJST—

Lodge 30, Taiton youth earns academic excellence award

Dear Vestnik Readers,

On Monday, May 22, 2023, I received an academic excellence award at our school awards ceremony. It was a great honor to receive this award, and all of my hard work and dedication paid off!

Sincerely,

Bethany Baker, age 16 —SPJST—

Lodge

Lodge 47, Seaton youth excited about summer, junior high, new puppy

Dear Vestnik Readers,

It is summer break! I am so glad school is out for the summer. I can’t wait to go swimming and to the beach. I also have a lot of camps to go to. I am also never going back to elementary school! I am so excited for junior high!

Sunday was our SPJST Lodge 47 picnic. It was a success! There was a polka band, country store (spin-thewheel), chicken, sausage, potato salad, and coleslaw. I had fun.

We just got a new puppy. Her name is Bailey. She is extremely cute. She is also very playful.

Hope you have a great summer!

Fraternally, Travis Ordogne, age 11 —SPJST—

Lodge 81, Needville presents summertime Family Trivia Nights

Tease your brain, have good family fun, and win cash prizes this summer at SPJST Lodge 81, Needville Hall! Lodge 81 presents Family Trivia Nights on

Lodge 17, New Tabor youth club congratulates Carson and ashlyn!

Congratulations to Carson Parker and Ashlyn Kellum on your graduation from Caldwell High School. It has been an honor to watch you grow up in the New Tabor Youth Club. Thanks for being wonderful role models for our younger members. Wishing you much success in the future. ~ Much love, Mrs. Holly Youth Leader

Grab dinner at the food truck. Eat inside while you play or watch. Drinks and snacks will be on sale inside the hall. Cost is $25 per team - six players maxschool-age children count (preK and under are free of charge).

Come on out for a fun, family time!

Fraternally, Kristen Jones —SPJST—

Lodge 84, Dallas youth keeping busy with projects

Dear Readers,

The youth of Lodge 84, Dallas continue to meet with Youth Leader Lynda Novak to keep caught up with everything going on through the youth program.

At the last meeting, Youth Leader Lynda reminded us that camp registration is online and to be sure and sign up before the deadline if we plan to attend. She instructed us on the registration procedure and events that will be taking place at the State Youth Showcase to be held on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 in Temple. The registration deadline for all creative arts projects, talents, and royalty is June 30. Lynda then reminded us about submitting our monthly caring challenges, state quarterly project (Paws for a Cause) for April through June, and Back to School Supply Drive (state quarterly project for July through September). That is a lot to keep us busy. She said she hopes to see us all in Temple in July! I hope to see you in Temple, too!

Fraternally,

Josh Tucker, age 13 —SPJST—

48, Beyersville Youth Club delivers sweet treats to SPJST Assisted Living Residents

Lodge 48, Beyersville Youth Club had a surprise delivery of Tiff’s Treats cookies for all the mothers in the SPJST Senior

Center and SPJST Assisted Living Center in Taylor. —Michelle Newsom, Youth Leader

Wednesday, June 28 and Wednesday, July 26.

Congratulations, Cotton Wood of Lodge 49, Rowena!

Cotton Wood was presented with a perfect attendance award for his entire elementary career—kindergarten through sixth grade. Cotton attended Miles Elementary since he was five years old without missing a single day of school. The school presented him with a set of Apple AirPods. Cotton also won the President’s Award for Educational Achievement. He is a member of Lodge 49, Rowena Youth Club.

Lodge 187, Round Rock Youth Club joins hands with star ranch community for helping hands home

—Jennifer McCarthy, Youth Coordinator

Lodge 187, Round Rock Youth Club joined hands with Star Ranch Community and delivered some needed items to Helping Hands Children’s Home. Members collected items for babies and toddlers along with new teddy bears.

Tentative SPJST Youth Showcase Schedule

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

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.

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.

frankh@spjst.com 254-773-1575, ext. 177

THE 2023 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE

2023 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE

Dear SPJST Kids,

We hope this letter finds you brimming with enthusiasm and ready to embark on an incredible journey of creativity and self-expression! It is with great pleasure and anticipation that we invite you to participate in the SPJST State Youth Showcase.

Entries must be registered online by June 30. The State Youth Showcase is Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 in Temple.

The SPJST State Youth Showcase is a platform designed especially for young individuals like you, in kindergarten to 12th grade, who possess an undeniable passion for the arts and creativity. Whether you have a knack for singing, dancing, acting, playing an instrument, or any other form of artistic expression, this is your chance to shine and share your incredible talent with the world.

This showcase is not just a competition; it is a celebration of your unique abilities. It is a chance to connect with fellow young artists, learn from one another, and grow as performers. The stage is your canvas, and your talent is the paintbrush that will create a mesmerizing masterpiece for all to admire.

As you take part in the SPJST State Youth Showcase, you will have the opportunity to showcase your skills in front of a supportive audience, comprised of family, friends, and fellow creative enthusiasts. The applause and appreciation that you receive will not only ignite your confidence but also serve as a testament to your hard work and dedication.

The showcase will be an experience filled with laughter, inspiration, and personal growth. You will meet fellow SPJST youth members who share your passion and determination, forging friendships that may last a lifetime. This event will be an excellent chance to learn from experienced mentors, who will guide you in honing your craft and unlocking your full potential.

Remember, this is not just about winning or losing. It is about embracing the joy of creativity, pushing your boundaries, and discovering the incredible talent that lies within you. You are capable of achieving great things, and the SPJST State Youth Showcase is the perfect platform for you to unleash your potential and leave an indelible mark on the world.

So, gather your courage, polish your skills, and join us at the SPJST State Youth Showcase. Together, let us create a magical experience that will be cherished forever.

We eagerly await your participation and look forward to witnessing the extraordinary talents that you possess. Join us, and let your brilliance illuminate the stage!

With anticipation and excitement, SPJST

Member

Engagement Team

6:30 - 9:30 PM FREE ADMISSION to youth showcase participants and families!

$5 ADMISSION to non-participants and friends

2022-2023 Youth Club Member Update - Merit Points/Meeting Attendance

1 17 Supak, Emmy

1 17 Supak, Lila

1 17 Turner, Hank

1 17 Turner, Hugh

1 186 Coker, Ciara

2 20 Braden, Kenna 107

2 20 Daulton, Gabriel 105

2 20 David, Maxx 114

2 20 Elwood, Caraline 98

2 20 Elwood, Cooper

2 20 Goodman, Sebastian

2 20 Henley, Braxton

2 20 Marshall, Aubrey

3 25 Oliver, Layne 110 7

3 25 Oliver, Morgan 110 7

3 25 Oliver, Paige 63 7

3 25 Oliver, Victoria (Tori) 110 7

3 25 Roberts, Aubrey 1 0

3 25 Roberts, Avery 1 0

3 25 Ryan, Kaylnn 142 11

3 25 Sullivan, Preston 133 9

3 25 Wyatt, Garrett 149 12

3 84 Ruzicka, Megan 106 12

3 84 Ruzicka, Ryan 99 12

3 84 Tucker, Josh 148 12

3 84 Tucker, Kalyne 138 12

3 84 Tucker, Kendall 105 12

3 154 Burcie, Gentry 68 9

3 154 Burcie, McKenzie 130 12

3 154 Jones, Holly 151 12

3 154 Jones, Miles 142 12

3 154 Sanders, Audrey 64 9

3 154 Suges, Steven 73 10

3 154 Suges, Victoria 73 10

4 49 Schwertner, Grace 95 10

4 49 Schwertner, Olivia 98 10

4 49 Schwertner, Colt 88 10

4 49 Schwertner, Bella 97 10

4 49 Schwertner, Tracy 86 10

Jennifer 57

2 47 Hoelscher, Joseph

2 47 Koslovsky, Tessa

2 47 Kristinek, Gauge

2 47 Kristinek, Riley

2 47 Marek, Jackson

2 47 Martinez, Kal-El 150

2 47 Martinez, Seth 119

2 47 Martinez, Tristan 159 11

2 47 Ordogne, Andrew 173 11

2 47 Ordogne, Travis 173 11

2 47 Ranly, Ian 88 11

2 47 Regan, Emma 67

2 47 Skrabanek, Kyler

2 47 Stock, Tamryn 63

2 47 White, Braxton

2 47 White, Brayton

2 47 Young, Kayla

2 47 Young, Kelsea

2 47 Young, Valora

2 47 Young, Zaydriana

2 48 Bosley, Sarah

2 48 Miksch, Della 130 11

2 48 Newsom, Makayla 141 11

2 48 Poldrack, Tatiana 122 10

2 48 Ransom, Alexa 17

2 48 Reyna, Jayden 32

2 48 Wuensche, Trevor

2 182 Beckendorf, Bailee 100

2 182 Beckendorf, Paetyn 93

2 182 Beckendorf, Tynlee 95

2 187 McCarthy, Luke 139

2 187 McCarthy, Mathieu 149

2 187 Meyer, Alexis 34

2 187 Meyer, Kadnce 135 12

2 187 Meyer, Karter 108 11

2 187 Meyer, Kember 136 12

3 6 Dobecka, Aubrianna 142 12

4 49 Wood, Cotton 140 12

4 49 Wood, Hunter 140 12

4 49 Wood, Tanner 142 12

4 160 Craddock, Brenson 72 8

4 160 Craddock, Carson 72 8

4 160 Craddock, Hayden 67 8

4 160 Craddock, Stella 25 5

4 160 Gallant, Bree 72 9

4 160 Jansa, Caitlynn 90 9

4 160 Jansa, Nolan 90 9

4 160 Jarisch, Luke 30 6

4 160 Miller, Marley 67 7

4 160 Schwartz, Parker 79 9

4 160 Schwartz, Sterling 85 9

5 81 Brown, Addison 118 6

5 81 Dostal, Brady 42 6

5 81 Dostal, Elizabeth 103 10

5 81 Hargraves, Tripp 172 11

5 81 Hargraves, Nathan 98 10

5 81 Jones, Amber 176 11

5 81 Jones, Ruby 172 11

5 81 Jones, Zoey 99 10

5 81 Kelly, Emmett 30 5

5 81 Mikulec, Dayton 85 10

5 81 Mikulec, Miles 85 10

5 81 Mikulec, Rylie 87 10

5 81 Nesvadba, Brylie 42 6

5 81 Parker, Cheyenne 74 6

5 81 Parker, Kinsley 69 6

5 81 Parker, Tyler 64 6

5 81 Stavinoha, Maxx 121 10

5 88 Godwin, Nancy 39 1

5 88 Guerrero, Anahi 5 0

5 88 Guerrero, Juan 5 0

5 88 Guerrero, Sergio 5 0

5 88 Pflughaupt, Evan 146 8

5 88 Pflughaupt, Megan 146 8

5 142 Butera, Embry 17 0

1 17 Pineda, Patsy

1 17 Plachy, Kamden

1 17 Plachy, Kyren 183

1 17 Satsky, Delaney 15

1 17 Satsky, Natalie 20

1 17 Starmer, Channing 146

1 17 Starmer, Collins 140

1 17 Story, Andrea 157

1 17 Story, Ryan

1 17 Stuart, Cooper

3 6 Dobecka, Jackson 32 3

3 6 Dobecka, Quinlan 136 10

3 25 Henson, Beau 69 10

3 25 Henson, Clark 69 10

3 25 Henson, Winnie 70 10

3 25 Holland, June 161 12

3 25 Holland, Luke 152 12

3 25 Holland, Madison 167 12

3 25 Holland, Maison 125 12

3 25 Jurik, Chad 101 9

5 142 Butera, Ryder 36 0

5 142 Coleman, Zachary 17 0

5 142 Coleman, Zoe 17 0

5 142 Comberrel, Brielle 39 0

5 142 Hermis, Aiden 22 1

5 142 Lerner, Jaydan 15 1

5 142 Lerner, Jonathan 15 1

6 30 Bacak, Brett 162 8

6 30 Bacak, Brooke 166 8

6 30 Baker, Bethany 206 12

SPJST Participates in National Polka Festival

Friday and Saturday, May 27-28, 2023 • Ennis, Texas

The winners of the 2023 King and Queen Polka Dance Contest sponsored by SPJST on Friday night were Rick and Debra Halfmann. Runners up were Andrew Brenek and Tandi Schlittman. Polka Prince was Eli Gilbert, and Polka Princess was Audrey Andrad. Congratulations! SPJST members rode the first place float in the National Polka Festival parade on Sat-

urday morning. Riders included 2022 District Three Royalty - King Preston Sullivan, Queen Madison Holland, Duke Luke Holland, and Duchess Jane Holland, all of Lodge 25, Ennis. SPJST also sponsored product information booths downtown and at Lodge 25, Ennis hall. The hall hosted Czech bands and a cultural program and served delicious food on Saturday.

Massacre & Destruction of Lidice

For centuries, Lidice was an ordinary agricultural village, which belonged to the Buštehrad manor, located in a shallow valley of the Lidice Creek in the Kladno district sone 20 km west of Prague. The village is today, a quiet town that lies adjacent to valleys and of meadows, with a few stone ruins of a farmhouse and church, and a striking bronze sculpture of children.

The sleepy town of Lidice had been targeted because the Gestapo in Kladno had intercepted a letter belonging to a local family by the name of Horak, who had a son in the Czech army in Britain. This letter was labeled as “suspicious” and the ensuing action resulted.

What happened to Lidice on June 10, 1942, shocked the entire world: the German government announced that it had destroyed the small village of Lidice, Czechoslovakia, killing every adult male and some 52 women. All surviving women and children were then deported to concentration camps, or if found suitable to be “Germanized,” sent to the greater Reich. The Nazi’s then proudly proclaimed that the village of Lidice, its residents, and its very name, were now forever blotted from memory.

After the Munich Agreement of September 1938, Hitler’s troops occupied the ethnic-German border regions of Bohemia and Moravia (the Sudetenland). Soon afterward, Hungary received territory in southern Slovakia and Ruthenia. Czechoslovakia ceased to exist in March 1939 when Hitler occupied the rest of the Czech lands, and the remaining part of Slovakia became a Nazi puppet state.

Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia had tragic consequences for Lidice. In order to suppress the growing anti-Fascist resistance movement, security police chief SS Obergruppenfuhrer Reinherd Heydrich was appointed deputy Reichs-protektor in September 1941. During his short reign of terror, 5000 anti-Fascist fighters and their helpers were imprisoned.

The courts working under martial law were kept busy, and the Nazis even had people summarily executed without a trial in order to spread fear throughout the country. Many people throughout the Sudetenland died on the scaffold from Heydrich’ s persecution, that he earned himself the nickname the “Hangman”.

Edvard Benes, leader of the Czechoslovak government-inexile, together with Frantisek Moravec (head of Czechoslovak military intelligence), organized and coordinated a resistance network. Emil Hacha (third President of Czechoslovakia, 1938 to 1939), Prime Minister Elias (Czechoslovak general and politician and Prime Minister of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, April 27, 1939 to September 28, 1941), and the Czech resistance also acknowledged Benes’s leadership.

It was decided by Benes and Moravec, together with other political and military leaders in Paris and London, that some action must be taken if they wanted to retain the leadership of the exiled movement under their control. That action was to be the assas-

sination of Reinhard Heydrich.

Operation Anthropoid

The most significant act of resistance was the assassination of SS Obergruppenführer Reinhard Heydrich, the Reich Protector of Bohemia and Moravia, “The Butcher of Prague”. The mission codenamed Operation Anthropoid was to be carried out by seven Czech patriots - Adolf Opaalka, Josef Bublik Jan Kubis, Jaroslav Svarc, Jan Hruby, Josef Valcik, and Josef Gabcik - who had trained with Polish forces in Britain.

May 27, 1942

Jozef Gabcik and Jan Kubis were airlifted along with seven soldiers from Czechoslo-

The village of Lidice. Top - before, and bottom - after its destruction.

village implicated in the Heydrich assassination:

• Execute all adult males over the age of 15.

• Immediately transport all women to concentration camps.

• Place all children suitable for “Germanizing” with SS families in the Reich and raised as Germans.

• Destroy the entire village and level the area.

The sleepy village of Lidice had been targeted because the Gestapo in Kladno had intercepted a letter belonging to a local family by the name of Horak, who had a son in the Czech army in Britain. This letter was labeled as “suspicious” and the ensuing action resulted.

Gestapo agents from Prague were joined in Kladno by two companies of police in battle-dress, and a squad of Security Police. The Security Police were under the command of SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer Max Rostock, who would carry out the executions.

accounts, property records, livestock, agricultural machinery, and food stuffs. As the population was collected, they were relieved of their money, savings books, and jewelry. The communal registry was used to identify each citizen and their age.

In the village, the dead were left lying where they fell, and the newly brought out soon-to-be victims had to first walk past them and stand in front of them. The men were not blindfolded and were taken to the place of execution without bonds and shot by firing squad. This spectacle continued until there were 173 dead bodies lying in the Horak farm orchard. The next day, another 19 men who were working in a mine, along with seven women, were sent to Prague, where they were also shot.

vaki’s army-in-exile. On May 27, 1942, Heydrich had planned to meet Hitler in Berlin. At 10:30 a.m., Heydrich proceeded on his daily commute from his home in Panenske Brezany to Prague Castle. Gabcik and Kubis waited at the tram stop on the hair-pin curve near Bulovka Hospital in Prague 8-Liben. Gabcik tried to open fire, but his Sten gun jammed. Kubis threw a modified anti-tank grenade at the vehicle, which severely wounded Heydrich. Heydrich was taken to Bulovka Hospital. He died eight days later from sepsis on June 4,1942.

Soon after Heydrich’s death, Nazi reprisals began when an enraged Hitler ordered mass executions of the Czech populace. Thankfully for many Czech civilians, Hitler’s threat never materialized; however, Karl Hermann Frank, now Secretary of State for the German Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, reported from Berlin that the Fuhrer had commanded the following concerning any

In the early hours of the morning, trucks filled with Security Police rolled into the small town of Lidice in the Kladno district. All men of the village were rounded up and taken to the farmstead of the Horak family on the edge of the village. Mattresses were taken from neighboring houses where they were stood up against the wall of the Horáks’ barn. Shooting of the men commenced at about 7 a.m. At first, the men shot in groups of five, but the SS commanders thought the executions were proceeding too slowly and ordered that 10 men be shot at a time.

Women and Children

The women of Lidice were no more spared than the children of the village. Separated from their children, most were transported to Ravensbruck concentration camp, where many died. Many of the children were sent to Chelmno - in today’s Poland - where they would be killed by exhaust fumes. Others were sent to Germany for re-education.

The well-organized Gestapo first secured anything of value – the town’s meager funds,

Empty houses were methodically searched, and items of value loaded upon trucks. The village’s St Martin church was plundered for its holy vessels. Any stillstanding walls were blown up. Bulldozers flattened the ruins, uprooted fruit-trees, and filled in the lake and even diverted the stream. Ploughs were driven back and forth across acres of rubble so that no recognizable outline should remain.

Lidice, 1945

The re-establishment of the village began soon after the liberation of Czechoslovakia in May 1945.

Memorial ceremony on the site of the village to honor Lidice victims.

Edvard Benes

Jan Kubis Jozef Gabcik

“The Murder of Lidice”

Edna St. Vincent Millay wrote The Murder of Lidice. Millay (1923 to 1950), was one of the most successful and honored poets in America. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of

the United States into World War II on December 8, 1941, Millay, wrote the ballad, The Murder of Lidice, in 1942 in response to the Nazi-led annihilation and destruction of the village of Lidice in German occupied Czechoslovakia on June 10, 1942.

www.holocaustresearchproject.org/nazioccupation/heydrichkilling.html

Czech Heritage Museum in Temple: Display pays homeage to Lidice

Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC) has a permanent display in memory of Lidice and its people. The Mu-

seum is located at 19 West French Avenue in Temple, and is now under the management of the SPJST Foundation.

Lidice site marker reads: This is the place of rest of 173 men of Lidice, who were murdered by the German Nazi barbarians on the 10th of June, 1942 and their little village destroyed. Honour to their memory. Handwritten note on yellowed piece of paper: Little rocks like this are all that’s left of Lidice, Czechoslovakia.

Lidice Memorial

The Lost Children of the Lidice Massacre

Women of Lidice Memorial Crying Woman Memorial

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them." ~ Laurence Binyon

I am attaching an old newspaper article from the Dallas Morning News published in August 1968. It is based on the memories of Lois Sager Foxhall, a reporter for the Dallas Morning News. She is recalling a Czech woman who was coming to the United States after World War II. The woman used the name Lisa and had been active in the Czech underground, saving the lives of 24 American Air Force pilots and crewmen. I thought that it would make an interesting reprint for the Vestnik. I researched the author Lois Sager Foxhall, who is now deceased.

Blessings!

Georgia

Dallas Morning News, 1968

By Lois Sager Foxhall

I have never been able to forget Lisa, the Czech girl, and I have tried. Especially, I remember her now.

While her countrymen again die in the streets in military occupation likened by them to Hitler's invasion in 1938 and try to subvert a coup called another Munich, I am haunted by Lisa, as I have been, off and on, for 23 years.

Lisa was one of six with whom I shared a stuffy cabin on an archaic troop ship on my return from ravaged postwar Europe. The Nazis were beaten into the rubble. The Russians were our allies.

And, though I was a Josephine-go-lately, I felt the flush of victory, the weary relief of thousands of tired soldiers cramming into the old troop ship to go home to loved ones, family, clean sheets and eggs.

The battle was over. For them, no more fighting and waiting. For me, no more cigarette lines, rationed tires and bacon and the bitter death of heroes.

The Czech girl smiled wistfully at us. Holding her small duffle bag, she waited while we scrambled for a sad choice of dingy bunks. We blurted introductions: The French girl was Hani Richon, her blonde hair not yet grown out from its little boy's crop. In her bag was a medal given her by De Gaulle for her work in the Resistance, she said. Now she was the bride of an American soldier, going to live

with his family in Michigan.

There were three USO stragglers - Jane Tilford, a willowy eastern girls" school drama student, wan and embarrassed over the common GI ailment that kept her hospitalized while her troupe went home earlier; Kay Kingsman, a pretty, throaty singer who had gone to Germany in search of Jewish relatives no longer there; and Eileen Beetlebaum, who had false black eyelashes, Jane Russell's bosom and tiny legs, famous, she said, as the "Beetle" for a spinning top and almost topless dance.

I was a correspondent for The Dallas Morning News, in Texas.

The Czech girl, said simply, "Call me Lisa. I cannot tell you my name. I still have relatives in Czechoslovakia." Long, reddish blonde hair, smoothly brushed, fell over the padded shoulders of a doublebreasted suit, cut from an old Air Force uniform "Czechoslovakia is liberated," I protested her secrecy.

"You are a journalist. Did you go there?" I shook my head, felt a strange stab of conscience. I wondered why I had been so anxious to go home and had given up so easily my attempt to get a visa or military orders after two months being told "Nyet" by the Russians and shrugged off by the military. Lisa’s green eyes looked inside me.

I remember the tragic men and women in displaced persons camps who begged not to be sent home to nations occupied by Russia, the Russian girl I met in the Vienna International Officers Club who asked about cars, radios and "refreezeerators," invited me to lunch, then disappeared, and the children freed from concentration camps whose adoption in America Russia blocked.

It's an old familiar pattern now, but then a prick in our balloon of elation, a prod to our sense of relief.

I tried to forget Lisa's remark and recapture my excitement of going home.

Up on top deck, we cheered with the GIs crowding the rail and waved to France, as the doughty George Washington, carrier of troops in World Wars I and II, inched its way out of the gray, dismal harbor of LeHavre. It was bitter cold. Fog hung barely above us.

We slipped past a giant black and white sign, TEXAS - 2,500 miles. The soldiers cheered. Lisa flashed a grin at me. We were the first ship in the wake of a North Atlantic storm that had broken a smaller Liberty ship in half. By the time we were back in the cabin, the deck had begun to roll.

Hani began to cry. "My husband's family will not like me. I will never see the Champs Elysees again."

"Let us not be sad," Lisa soothed. "We

are on our way to America and Texas. So long we lived with death. Now, we will live with life."

Hours later, we joined the continually moving mess line. We weaved our way down through decks layered with 6-deep hammocks of GIs, some already seasick. We stepped over duffle bags and soldiers. Suddenly, I realized I did not have my sea legs. Hardly anyone did. Back in the bunks, Lisa held our heads, gave us dramamine. We slept.

Next day, our big ship bobbled up and down like a cork, pitched and heaved between green waves rolling higher than skyscrapers, spewing torrents of foam. We sipped tea, nibbled apples, sat on deck to feel the cold wet wind in our faces, at Lisa's suggestion, trying desperately to get back our sea legs. Our charted five-day crossing began stretching into 14, the number of hours it had taken to fly to Europe.

It was days later, even in the intimacy of shipboard conversation, before we pieced together Lisa's story, then only with the help of an Air Force general we met in the captain's cabin.

During the war Lisa, her father and younger brother, working with the massive Czech underground, had saved one by one, the lives of 24 American Air Force pilots and crewmen, shot down in raids over the Ploesti oil fields and Skoda iron works. (Two were Texans.)

Now three Air Force officers whose lives she had saved had managed to send her to America for a college education. She hoped to be a teacher like her father. He was a friend of Masaryk and Benes, Czech freedom leaders in exile.

When I asked to write her story, Lisa said with amazement, "But you are naive, the Russians marched in when the Germans marched out. On our last rescue mission, two Russian soldiers joined my father, my brother, and me. They would not let us out of the house until our American friends came for me. My father and brother are still under their 'protection."

The Czech girl was younger than I in years. In experience and wisdom, she was centuries older. At an age when I was playing dolls and hopscotch Lisa, her mother dead, began working with her father in her small country's fierce resistance to German occupation. At the age when I was trying to learn to spell her country's name, she was mastering English, Russian, German, and French, and discussing with her father the affairs of troubled Europe. While I was cheering a football team and dancing, she was crawling through tunnels, hiding in stables, sneaking through paths to bring Allied soldiers to safety.

Lisa, who would not tell her name, gained the confidence of everyone she met. She roamed the heaving ship like a curious puppy off its leash. She listened, sympathized, comforted, chatted, talked seriously, laughed and stared at the vast eternity of stormy sea.

At the height of the storm, when everyone was ordered below for safety, Lisa disappeared. She returned to the cabin hours later, drenched, her hair tied in a wet scarf. She had been up near the prow. It was glorious, she said, fierce and free.

Lisa, like the sea, was a symbol of her nation's freedom loving people, Bohemian, Moravian, and Slovak, centuries before they were molded together into one nation, Czechoslovakia, they fiercely defended their rights to religious, intellectual and territorial liberty. Their land, the land, the heart of Europe, has been fought over by larger, militarily stronger neighbors for centuries.

Now, this nation of 14 million people squeezed in between Russia, Poland, Hungary, Austria, and Germany, is again a symbol in the eternal struggle of the weak against the strong, of intellect and cunning against military might.

In a tattered PX notebook in the bottom of a desk drawer, I found these defiant words of Lisa's scribbled 23 years ago:

"A nation can sleep with the enemy, get out of bed a virgin, stab him in the groin and write FREEDOM on the wall with his blood."

Finally, the storm bated, and the George Washington once again weighted anchor outside New York harbor waiting to dock in the morning. We watched the twinkling lights in New York's skyline, tried to point out the tiny, faint glow of the Statue of Liberty for Lisa.

In a circle of GIs the Beetle spun like a top, Kay sang a throaty love song, Jane did a comic imitation. But it was Lisa who cast a spell with a plaintive song in Czech that sounded like a gypsy's sad cry under the moon and stars.

Afterward, Hani pleaded, "Stay with me in this country and marry an American." Lisa laughed. “I must go back to my own country. I will teach our children what I learn here about freedom. And I must help my brother and my father. Freedom is in the soul. I could not be free unless I help them also to be free."

—SPJST—

The War was over, but Lisa knew Czechoslovakia’s battle had just begun

Fitzhugh Lodge 25, Ennis

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

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 / networking place with regularly scheduled activities including performances. Admission free. Public is invited. For information, contact organizer Brian Vanicek at vanicek@spjst.com.

76501

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, 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)

Update: Beginning in June 2023, meetings will be held every other month (even months) on the third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. The next meeting is Tuesday, June 20.

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: Held every other month (even months) on the third Tuesday. Call FL Meyer 512-940-7970 for information. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/elginSPJSTlodge18 and on Twitter - @SPJSTelgin18.

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, 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)

Saturday, June 17—Joe Parker and Deryl Dodd

Saturday, June 24—Gordon Collier Band

Saturday, July 1—Rental

Saturday, July 8—Rental

Saturday, July 22—Nolan Pick Band

Saturday, August 12—Rental

Saturday, August 26—Joe Parker Band

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.

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)

Update: Lodge 92, Fort Worth - National Hall presents Randy Tatarevich Band every first Sunday of the month unless otherwise noted. Doors open at 1 p.m.; music starts at 2 p.m. Admission is $10. Barbecue dinner available for $10. Full bar available as well. You don’t want to miss good country/western music and the best dance floor in Texas. Come on out for a great time!

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 infor-

mation, 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.

Saturday, June 24—Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5: Great country and variety dance music. 7 to 11 p.m. $10/person; under age 12, free.

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)

Lodge Meetings: Held on the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21 in Caldwell. Bring your favorite dish for a potluck prior to the meeting. For information, contactact 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 713-515-2835.

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 806-535-8356

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’s Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard. For information, call 325-6697904.

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.

2023 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE

WHO?

Open to all SPJST youth members from Kindergarten to High School Senior (grade level as of fall 2023)

WHAT?

17 contests are offered in Creative Arts, Talent, and Royalty. Youth may enter one entry in each Creative Arts category, once in Individual Talent, once in Group Talent, and once in Royalty. Additionally, each youth group may enter one scrapbook.

CREATIVE ARTS

Christmas Ornament

Constructed Item (Duct Tape)

Dessert (Bar Cookies)

Handicraft

Hobby Kit

Holiday Corner

Photography (Big Machines)

Pictorial Art

Science and Education

Special Category

Video Short

WHEN?

TALENT

Individual Talent Group Talent (2 or more youth)

ROYALTY

Mr. and Miss SPJST Scholarship Program

Junior Mr. and Miss SPJST

Little Mr. and Miss SPJST

YOUTH GROUPS

Scrapbook (Traditional or Digital)

MUST BE REGISTERED ONLINE BY JUNE 30

For Complete Rules and Details vist spjst.org/showcase

Contest is held on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 in Temple

www.spjst.org