24 minute read
SPJST LODGE SECTION
from Vestnik 2023.06.26
by SPJST
Lodge 6, Cottonwood invites all to July 16 annual picnic
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SPJST Věstník Editor Melanie Zavodny
P.O. Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503
Email: vestnik@spjst.org
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Questions? Call 800-727-7578 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.^ thanks to David and his helpers. The meeting was called to order by Joann, and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Margaret. On the sick list were Betty Macalik and Linda Trojacek. All reports were approved as presented.
Brenda’s agenda had five items other than the regular reports.
Secretary Cathy Bruggman read the minutes from last meeting, and they were approved. Linda Wilde presented the treasurer’s report. Cathy Bruggman presented the fraternal report mentioning the upcoming SPJST State Youth Showcase on July 28 and 29 in Temple. The deadline to enter is June 30. Complete details are at spjst.org/showcase. Brenda Maddux shared the bar report with a good turn-in.
Old business included the Vrazels’ Tribute Band event with 30 tickets still available. Flag Hall now accepts credit cards. The fundraiser with Cyclone Corral was tabled. A fund for the repair of the roof is in place.
JoAnn thanked everyone for helping at National Polka Festival to make it another successful event. Rita announced that Lodge 25 will host the 2024 District Three Annual Meeting. Youth will be attending Camp Kubena on June 21 to 25 and are also preparing for the State Youth Showcase in Temple on July 28 and July 29.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood will host its 125th annual picnic on Sunday, July 16, 2023. 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 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
Respectfully, Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 24, Cyclone reports on June meeting
Lodge 24, Cyclone met at Flag Hall on Monday, June 12, 2023, amid harvested fields of four feet from the ground. The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Mddux with the Pledge of Allegiance recited, and a silent prayer observed for our deceased.
SPJST Home Office Welcomes Sales agents
Birthday celebrants are Nash and Cade Campbell. Anniversary is Linda and Daniel Wilde - 47 years. Congratulations. On the sick list is Anton Vrazel.
For the lodge, Bobby Hoelscher, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis talks hall improvements
Dear Readers, Our last meeting was held on Thursday, June 8, 2023. Members enjoyed a hamburger supper before the meeting –
New topics that were brought up for discussion . . . Tom mentioned that we may need to repaint the parking lot car stops. The Krajca family proposed to use the money that was donated in Johnnie I’s memory be used to renovate the barbecue shed into a picnic area. The flag pole plaque in memory of Emil Trojacek is slated to be completed in the fall. More discussion on these items will be held at the next meeting.
Next Meeting—July 13
The next meeting will be Thursday, July 13. We will honor the 50-year and 75-year members. Hope to see everyone then!
Margaret Krajca, Reporter —SPJST—
. PAWS FOR A CAUSE Lodge 13, Dime Box gives to Lee county animal shelter
Lodge 32, Victoria members gather for May meeting
The May meeting of Lodge 32, Victoria was held at the new Grapevine Café – this is where we will be meeting from now on. If something changes, we’ll let you know. The café is much larger, and it’s new! The address is 6404 Nursery Drive, Victoria Texas 77904. We had a nice dinner and ordered from the menu. We had a social and had three visitors from Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center. Our lodge made a donation of $25,000 to keep the Czech heritage handed down for generations to come.
In May, we collected several items for pets. I delivered the items to Adopt a Pet. We had dog food, cat food, cat and dog beds, snacks, treats, and toys.
Next Meeting—July 13
The next meeting is Thursday, July 13. We hope to see all of you there!
Fraternally,
Kathy Ahlstrom Reporter/FAC
—SPJST—
.PAWS FOR A CAUSE
Lodge 41, Port Lavaca gives to calhoun co. humane society
Lodge 32, Victoria seeks assistance listing past lodge presidents
SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria recently donated $25,000 to the board of directors of the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) in La Grange. Victoria Lodge President Mark Lester presented the donation on behalf of all Lodge 32 members. A plaque in honor of past lodge presidents will be permanently displayed at the Center.
Lester said the lodge needs help in getting the names of past presidents from 1901 to 1979 so they can be included on the plaque. Those names can no longer be located.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lester by email at mwlester@protonmail.com; or by phone 361-212-1143. Thank you in advance
SPJST Lodge 32, Victoria Chartered April 16, 1900
Past Presidents
J.H. Schiller to First Interim President
Thomas Janota - 1900
Unknown Names - 1901 to 1946
Henry Janota - 1947 to 1959
Josef Kucera - 1960
Henry Janota - 1961 to 1963
John A. Shiller - 1964
Unknown Names - 1965 to 1975
Matt Vanek - 1976 to 1977
Michael Ahlstrom - 1980 to 1984
Ella Arnold - 1984 to 1985
Franklin Elles - 1986 to 1987
John Motal - 1988 to 1989
Michael Ahlstrom - 1990 to 1991
Franklin Elles - 1992 to 1993
Wayne Spiller - 1994 to 1995
Adolph Motal - 1996 to 1998
Michael Ahlstrom - 1998 to 2000
Mary Raska - 2001 to 2002
Franklin Elles - 2003 to 2005
Doris Elsik - 2006 to 2008
Franklin Elles - 2009 to 2012
Michael Ahlstrom - 2013 to 2017 (District Six Director - 2000 to 2012)
Mark Lester - 2018 - 2023 —SPJST—
Lodge 66, Waco members reminded to RSVP for August 12 luncheon
Hello, Lodge 66 Members! This is a reminder to register for the August 12 luncheon that will be held in Cottonwood. We hope to hear from you soon. Fraternally, Diana Engelke —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis celebrates may birthdays
Lodge 80, Holland: July 11 summer fun meeting
Lodge 80, Holland will meet Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. for its bimonthly business and summer fun meeting at The Hall, 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland. Due to the delicious food at our last meeting, we will have a repeat! Come enjoy chicken fried steak with all the trimmings catered by Oscar Store. Please send your reservations to Rita Spinn at rita@hot.rr.com or call/text 254-760-6427. Hope to see you in July!
Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Medical benefit for Tommy Harrison
July 23 at Lodge 29, Taylor
On November 9, 2022, Tommy Harrison was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Colon Cancer to the liver. He has been undergoing chemotherapy since then. He will be required to be on some sort of chemo treatment for remainder of his life. The out-of-pocket medical expenses have become overwhelming so friends and family members have organized this fundraiser to help defray those expenses.
A chicken fried steak dinner fundraiser will be held on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at Lodge 29, Taylor, 5025 FM 619 in Taylor. To-go and dine-in plates will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a donation of $15 per plate. A live auction will start at 1 p.m.
Tommy is the son of Patty Rieger, and Ronnie and Lyn Rieger, all members of Lodge 29. Tommy is a former active Lodge 29, Taylor Youth Club member. Members may also recall that Tommy served as the 1991 SPJST State King.
Lodge 41, Port Lavaca members donated pet supplies to the local Calhoun County Humane Society on Thursday, June 8, 2023. Pictured are Lodge 41 President Larry Rokyta, left, and member Jay Allison.
—Mary Sitka, Secretary
May Birthday Night at Lodge 25, held on Wednesday, May 31,
If you have any questions, need meal tickets, or are interested in donating anything for the live auction or silent auction, please call any of the following: Rita Kelm 512-914-7734; Cindy Stefek 512-924-1259; or Nikki Leschber 512698-2218. Any and all help will be appreciated. Heartfelt thanks in advance.
Patty Rieger —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville members learn about youth activities
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville met on Sunday, June 11, 2023. After a prayer of thanks by the youth, members enjoyed a meal of pizza, side dishes, and desserts made by the youth. A big thanks to Willie Mae Kuykendall for getting everything ready in the kitchen and to Kristen Jones for picking up the pizza.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the youth. Jeanette Newman and Glenn McDonald are still on the sick list. Everyone answered the roll call except Special Funds Chair Marion Morales.
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 present his report at the July meeting.
Since we didn’t have any old business, we moved straight to new business. Youth Leader Kristen Jones announced that District Five will have eight youth attending camp at Camp Kubena this summer. The youth made the desserts for our meeting for member feedback for when they go to the state competition. Everything was delicious. Kristen Jones also reported that the first Trivia Night was a success. She also handed out coloring pages for everyone to color for the “Color a Smile” nonprofit organization that will send these
SPJST pages to a military nursing home for the residents to enjoy. Everyone had fun coloring. Also under new business, Kristen Jones said there is another organization she was looking at called “Hope for Three.” This organization is located in Fort Bend County. They are autism advocates and will hold a golf tournament on October 2 to raise funds at the Sweetwater Country Club. She and some of the youth will attend to volunteer. The last organization Kristen mentioned is called “Take Me Home Program.” They are also in Fort Bend County, and their organization is to help lost persons wandering the streets. All of these organizations which Kristen presented information were very helpful. Thank you, Kristen.
Door prize winners were Jeanette Newman, Leon Anhaiser, Glenn McDonald, and Shirley Myers. Congratulations to our winners!
Next Meeting—July 16
For the next meeting on Sunday, July 16, we decided to have fried chicken. Shirley Meyers volunteered to pick up the chicken at Hartz’s Chicken in Rosenberg. Thank you, Shirley.
Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
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.
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.
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
Lodge 47, SeatonStar Hall
Annual Picnic
Sunday, June 4, 2023
INSIDE. Food/Kitchen/Sweet Booth: Left to right, Linda and SPJST District Two Director Jesse Pospisil; Amber Bartek, Tammy Martinez, Jennifer Hoelscher, Shirley Hoelscher, Dorothy Novosad, Christina Brenek,
Barbara Brenek, Michael Galler, Joan Shelton, Michael Brenek, Andrew Brenek, Eugene Brenek, Kal-El Martinez, Marilyn Herring, Kerri Meier, Nancy Meier, and Joyce Skrabanek.
OUTSIDE. Drive-Thru Plates/Drinks and Raffle Tickets/Live Auction/Country Store. Left to right: Rudy Hrachovy, Emily Ordogne, Adam Martinez, Edwin Vasicek, Brandon Bartek, SPJST President/CEO
Brian Vanicek, Michael Smith, Rick Beck, Danny Stepan, Brandon Bartek, Chris Zavodny, Elaine Zavodny, Joyce Kraatz, Theresa Zavodny, and Jennifer Zavodny.
SPJST
Fraternal Director Frank Horak, SPJST Sales Agent Sandra Garrett, James Sladecek, Eugene Wilde, SPJST Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny,
Lodge 84, Dallas meets July 16
Dear Readers,
Lodge 84, Dallas will host its next monthly meeting at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at the home of Charles and Kathy Nemec, 10707 Webster Terrace in Dallas, Texas 75229. Call 214-351-4214 for directions. At this meeting, we will be adding sandwiches from Potbelly Sandwich Shop to our afternoon svacina. For the sandwiches offered, please refer to Potbelly’s online menu: www.potbelly.com/menu/sandwiches. Then text Kathy Nemec at 214336-7653 with your order no later than Thursday, July 13. Make sure to leave your name and a contact phone number in case she has questions. If you place an order and are unable to attend the meeting, please make sure to notify Kathy no later than Saturday, July 15.
I look forward to seeing you!
Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas shares June meeting details
Dear Readers,
Please note that my May letter which appeared in the June 12 Vestnik should have said that a get well card was sent to Wesley Hubek. We hope he is feeling better.
Lodge 32, Victoria shares meeting scenes
May 11, 2023 ✦ Grapevine Cafe, Victoria
Lodge 84, Dallas members met on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at Tupinamba’s Mexican Cafe for their monthly meeting. President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order at 2:50 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Charles Nemec and a moment of silence was held for our deceased members, troops serving our country, and others who may be needing special intentions at this time.
Secretary Cherri Petr then read the minutes from the last meeting. They were approved. She then reported on correspondence from the Home Office. Sunshine committee said a thinking of you card will be sent to Brother Jerry Manak as he continues to heal from his recent illness. Sister Lynda Novak reported that the Czech Culture Society continues to meet and discuss plans for Czech Day that is scheduled for Sunday, October 8. She then reported that the Fraternal Council is contacting members for available Sunday dates that it can meet at Back Country BBQ for its quarterly meetings.
Youth Leader Lynda Novak then re- ported on the youth. She explained the SPJST State Youth Showcase guidebook, the flyers outlining the tentative SPJST Youth Showcase schedule, guidelines for 2023 youth group incentives, monthly caring challenges, and quarterly community projects. She also gave a brief discussion on the changes being made to the state youth program. Youth Leader Lynda then recognized Ryan Ruzicka, who recently graduated from high school and will be attending
—Linda Pospisil Secretary
Texas A&M this fall. Lynda presented Ryan with a check as a “thank you” for his years of participation in the youth group. Best wishes for a successful collegiate career, Ryan!
FAC Vicki Sims then explained about the coloring activity that is the June Caring Challenge project while Sister Lynda handed out the six forms for everyone to complete and submit to the fraternal department at the Home Office. A discussion was then held about Czech projects that Nina Marcussen from Sokol - Dallas has been teaching the art of making to children and adults. Nina extended an invitation to Lodge 84 membership to teach a limited size class. Please contact Lynda Novak at 972-9484456 or Vicki Sims at 214-763-0341 if interested in learning how to create eggs and cookies decorated in the Czech tradition, make corn husk doll figures, and soap.
Vice President Lynda then mentioned that Charles Nemec is checking with the local animal medical center for any medicinal needs or supplies for their animal clients for the Paws for a Cause activity. For our July/August activities, we will be collecting school supplies so please be generous and bring new school supplies for our local schools when you attend our next meeting.
Treasurer Jim Liska then gave his report before the meeting was adjourned, and we could enjoy our lunch.
Please see the announcement about our upcoming July meeting on page 10 in this publication.
Fraternally, Anne Scott Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville members Color A Smile!
Lodge 81, Needville members participate in the Color A Smile monthly caring challenge at the June meeting. The colorings will benefit senior citizens, troops, and anyone in need of a smile.
—Jeanette Newman, Reporter
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle reports on June meeting
The Ladies Circle of Lodge 92, Fort Worth met on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, with 31 members and two visitors attending. It was a wonderful day to get together and catch up. After the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, President Cathy Simmank welcomed guests and thanked them for coming. Lee Williams gave the devotional then President Cathy addressed unfinished business,
Lodge 92, Forth Worth Ladies Circle
June 13, 2023
Meeting Scenes
● Submitted by Lisa Ellsworth and new business took place.
Those missing due to health issues were Bernie Janecka, Kathy Thome, and Janet Basham. They have been under the weather for a while now, and we are sending prayers for their recovery. Stanley Krenek and Mary Ann Krivanek were with us this day, and we were so happy to have them joining us again. While I did not announce it at the meeting, my cousin Fred Merlick passed away a couple of weeks ago and his service was held on Friday.
A couple months ago, President Cathy asked for suggestions or program ideas for our meetings. So one of those suggestions was to have a CPR demonstration. Therefore, the demonstration/ class has been scheduled and will take place at the July meeting. A representative from TCCC will give instructions on what to do in an emergency. We encourage those of you who are interested to come be with us.
We will also celebrate the birth of our nation - the Fourth of July - with a game or two. For one of the games, participants need to come with their purses stuffed with assorted items. I don’t know how the game will go from there so you will just need to come, join the fun (which I am sure we will have), and find out how it ends!
And for the last order of business, it was announced that we are going to collect pennies/coins for SPJST scholarships. We ask that you bring your change to put in the “jug” that will be emptied when full and sent to the Home Office.
Birthdays were then celebrated; door prizes were won, and lodge activities were shared. It was a busy meeting, and July should be as well. As always, we invite you to join us for our gatherings.
One last bit of news was that President Cathy shared some personal information. She was recently recognized by the United States Bowling Congress for 50 consecutive years of participating at the Women’s National Tourney. What a feat! Congratulations!
Respectfully submitted, Joan Simek Shropshire
Lodge 97, Placedo supports Adopt a Pet
SPJST Lodge 97, Placedo held its quarterly meeting on Monday, June 12, 2023. President Gay Revel opened the meeting. Donna Vanek led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Ken Revel said the prayer. Reports were read.
Lodge 88, Houston Bingo Committee supports christ the good shepherd program
On behalf of SPJST Lodge 88 Bingo Committee, Carol and Donnie Havemann are proud to present a $3,000 donation to Christ the Good Shepherd Pre-School program. The school will use the donation to add thematic unit books, teacher read-alouds, and children’s books to its library. The yellow poster on the wall says, “You can find magic wherever you look, sit back and relax, all you need is a book!”
Lodge 88 is excited to support these teachers as they plant the seeds of literacy to pre-school boys and girls.
—Carol Havemann
Lodge 177, academy honors fathers at bingo
Lodge 177, Academy hosted a Father’s Day-themed bingo in June and gave away several gift cards. Pictured above, Bell County Deputy Sheriff Gomez draws the winning tickets.
—Penny Rowe, Reporter
Under new business, we discussed the lodge incentives. It was decided to present a cash donation to the local Victoria Adopt A Pet. The date and time of the presentation was selected. Then a visit to a member who just moved to a nursing home was set up.
Gay Revel announced the good rates being offered for annuities.
Dennis Vanek said he had met with Joyce Tomas and Darrell Tomas to audit our financial activities for the year.
Donna then moved we adjourn the meeting.
Next Meeting—September 11
The next meeting will be Monday, September 11, 2023. Fraternally, Judy Bellanger, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville shares highlights of June meeting
On Sunday, June 11, 2023, SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville convened its eagerly anticipated monthly gathering at the prestigious lodge hall; beginning promptly at 3 p.m. President Bielefeld skillfully initiated the meeting, setting the stage for a harmonious and productive session. As a symbol of unity and patriotism, attendees reverently recited the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a poignant moment of silence to honor the memory of departed members as well as pay tribute to the valiant military personnel and esteemed veterans.
During the roll call of officers, it was noted that Treasurer Korus and Youth Leader Lynn were unfortunately absent.
PAWS FOR A CAUSE Lodge 97, Placedo gives to Adopt a pet in victoria
Secretary Pruski proceeded to read the minutes from the April meeting, which was unanimously approved as presented. Despite Treasurer Korus’ absence, he had thoughtfully left behind his books, enabling the reading and approval of the March and April treasurer’s report.
The lodge received a heartfelt thank you card from Mrs. Ray Klespies expressing her gratitude for the generous donation made to the Floresville Academic Scholarship Fund. Moreover, Bradley Meuth, a recent graduate and scholarship recipient, took the time to send a thank you card to express his appreciation. Additionally, a letter from the Home Office was shared, highlighting the outstanding achievement of Caitlyn Pettet, a dedicated youth club member, who also received a well-deserved scholarship.
In her report, Hall Manager Bertrand addressed the need for another round of lawn maintenance, emphasizing the importance of keeping our surroundings pristine. Notably, the demand for rentals continues to display remarkable strength. Recognizing the increasing expenses associated with managing the hall, the topic of raising the rent was introduced for discussion. After a fruitful exchange of ideas, it was collectively agreed upon to adjust the prices for both day hall rentals and half-day rentals the day before an event. Furthermore, it was proposed that we organize a hall cleanup day during the forthcoming autumn, taking advantage of the cooler weather.
Under the category of old business, it was raised that acquiring reflective tape for the front door step would enhance its visibility. No new business was brought forward for discussion.
June birthday celebrant was Wendy Pruski on the 5th. Happy birthday, Wendy!
Next Meeting—July 9
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 9 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. Fraternally, Trey Bielefeld, Reporter —SPJST—
Congratulations 2023 graduateS!
Moriah Manchack
Moriah Manchack is a member of Lodge 142, Houston and a May 20, 2023, graduate of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences with a masters degree in communication disorders and sciences. She is the daughter of David and Janice Manchack, and the granddaughter of Jack and Catherine Manchack.
Moriah’s honors include a 4.0 GPA throughout grad school with high honors.
After her mother-daughter trip to Oregon to visit her grandmother’s family, Moriah will begin her nine-month clinical fellowship at The Blossoms at Whitehall in Arkansas in July doing speech therapy rehab at the nursing home.
Eric Manchack
Lodge 97, Placedo presented a $100 donation to Adopt a Pet in Victoria recently. Pictured are, left to right, Judy Bellanger, Donna Vanek, Adopt a Pet representative Rene Moose with dog Jayden, and Gay Revel.
—Judy
Eric Manchack graduated with a degree in biology and chemistry on May 27, 2023. He is
Lodge 88, Houston Honors Graduates, Scholarship Recipients Pittenger and Zahn
Lodge 88, Houston Scholarship Committee was proud to present two $1,000 scholarships at the June monthly meeting.
Our first recipient is Jack Ryan Pittenger, son of Cathy and Dave Pittenger. Jack is the grandson of Carol Globke, and his great-grandparents were the late Josephine and Leander Pflughaupt, all of Lodge 88.
Jack graduated from The Woodlands College Park High School. His activities included Texas Torque, a Marathon Oil Internship, DECA, UIL teams, debate team, Teach 2, a National Charity Roundtable volunteer, a robotics programmer, and a Junior State of Texas technology agent.
Jack will attend the Turing Scholars Computer Science Honors Program at The University of Texas at Austin, and major in computer science.
In his application essay, Jack wrote, “As I continue my education, I plan on seeking out opportunities to serve my community and using my knowledge and skills to positively impact the world.”
Our second recipient is Landon Warren Zahn, son of Melissa and Steven Zahn. Landon is the grandson of Carol and Donnie Havemann. His great-grandparents were the late Gladys and Warren Havemann, all of Lodge 88, Houston.
Landon graduated from Klein Oak High School. His activities included playing the trumpet in the high school marching band, UIL solo/ensemble/marching competitions, FFA member raising a heifer and also a reserve grand champion fryer rabbit, International Brangus Breeders Association member, a CPR certified lifeguard, a host in a local restaurant, and a teen volunteer for his church VBS.
Landon plans to attend Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, where he will major in business supply chain man-
Lodge 88, Houston Barbecue Committee prepares Father’s Day Meal
Saturday, June 17, 2023 ● Submitted by Dorothy Pflughaupt
Lodge 88, Houston’s newly formed Barbecue Committee showcased its combined talents by providing a meal on Saturday, June 17, 2023, honoring all fathers. The Committee prepared pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and chicken as well as all the sides. The meal was enjoyed by all. We look forward to many more great meals! Thank you to all the volunteers for their hard work and loss of sleep.
Graduates/scholarship recipients
Landon Zahn, left, and Jack Pittenger were honored at the Lodge 88, Houston monthly meeting.
Congratulations!
agement. In his essay, Landon wrote about the importance of serving others in even the smallest tasks and he will look for ways in college to continue joining hands to serve others and make a difference.
Congratulations to these two fine young men as they continue their education.
Fraternally, SPJST Lodge 88 Scholarship Committee
Lodge 142, Houston to honor 50-year members
Dear Readers,
At the Lodge 142, Houston meeting on Sunday, July 16, 2023, we will host a special luncheon to recognize this year’s 50-year members. They are Stephen Brezina, Keith Kieschnick, Barbara Kubeczka, Garrett Lyles, Loren Luke, Russell Luke, Donna Pomikal, Byron Rodenburg, Jo Dein Roznovsky, Martha Roznowski, Annette Strayer, Diane Wishkoski, Frances Wishkoski, and Ronnie Wishkoski.
We will be playing our bingo social after the meeting. The third quarter drive is school supplies.
Come out to enjoy and socialize with our 50-year members.
Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary
Lodge 142, Houston honors fathers at June meeting
Dear Readers, Lodge 142, Houston met on Sunday, June 11, 2023, in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston. A delicious lunch of Raising Cane’s Chicken was served. Dennis Hermis led the prayer.
President Dennis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m., and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Roll call of officers showed all present except Secretary Elizabeth Hermis and Flag Bearer Zac
Coleman. They were both excused due to Elizabeth still out on sick leave from eye surgery, and Zac was working at a summer camp. Sales agents present were Kerry Herrington and Margaret Norris-Guerrero. We had 27 members and one guest present.
No minutes were read due to the secretary not present due to illness. A motion was made by Karole Coleman, seconded by Margaret Norris-Guerrero. All approved.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave his report. Motion was made by Margaret Norris-Guerrero, seconded by Debra Ngo, to accept the report.
Youth Leader Amanda Muzny reported on the state youth camp and the SPJST State Youth Showcase. See the Vestnik for details.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider asked all dads to stand in observance of Father’s Day. They were greeted with a big round of applause. She also thanked all who brought food for the Paws for a Cause drive, and she stated that our third quarter drive will be school supplies.
Sales Agent Kerry Herrington confirmed District Five is doing great in sales, and he is looking for more sales agents. Kerry is also visiting various lodges in his territory and keeping very busy. Sales Agent Margaret NorrisGuerrero is working to get more sales written up.
JR Coleman gave his SPJST Senior Living Centers’ board report and reported all senior livings are doing great. Sick Committee reported that Elizabeth Hermis is doing better and Keith Kieschnick is having some eye problems.
Lodge 177, academy gives to ACADEMY ISD
Lodge 177, Academy recently presented a charitable bingo donation to Academy ISD.
Lodge 142, Houston June meeting scenes
Lodge 142, Houston hosted its monthly meeting and social on Sunday, June 11, 2023. All enjoyed Raising Cane’s Chicken for lunch. No one can resist chicken! We honored all dads that were present for Father’s Day. We also collected donations for Paws for a Cause. Attendees then played bingo. —Pat Schleider, Secretary
Food and Fellowship
Bingo!
Father’s Day - Dads Honored
Faithful members have been collecting pet food for three months for Paws for a Cause. All the donations will be delivered to animal shelters shortly. Donations this month were from, left to right, Bob Schleider,
Paws for a Cause
Under new business, Debra Ngo asked if the lodge would consider a $500 donation to Autumn Ngo for her to go on a mission trip this summer. The motion was made by Keith Kieschnick, seconded by J.R. Coleman. Motion carried.
Birthday celebrants for June were Elizabeth Hermis and Zoey Coleman, both on June 1, and Keith Kieschnick on June 18. Anniversary was Karole and JR Coleman - 39 years on June 9. President Dennis said at during our July meeting, we will be recognizing our 50- year members.
The meeting adjourned, and a social of bingo followed. Our June winners were first place - Steve Roznowsky and Kerry Herrington (tie); 2nd - Jean Herrington; and 3rd - Dennis Hermis.
Next Meeting—July 16
The next meeting will be Sunday, July 16 at 2 p.m. with a lunch at 1 p.m. at Lodge 88, Houston.
Fraternally, Pat Schleider (for Elizabeth Hermis)
Lodge 177, Academy hosts Bingo Worker / Member Get-Together at Oscar Store in Temple
.PAWS FOR A CAUSE Lodge 151, wharton gives to friends of animal control
Lodge 258, Seguin collects, donates pet supplies
The Lodge 258, Seguin second quarter meeting was held Sunday, June 11, 2023. We enjoyed visiting and a meal prior to the meeting.
Members voted to join Lodge 202, Jourdanton for their fall fun day on September 10 where we will collect school supplies and have a brief meeting.
The lodge Christmas party has been set for December 17 at 1 p.m. at Rocket Wings in Seguin.
Lodge members collected and donated pet supplies for the Seguin Humane Society.
Friends of Wharton, Texas, Animal Control is grateful to SPJST Lodge 151, Wharton for its pet food donation. Pictured with the donations are Lodge 151 officers Janie and David Bucek.
Birthday wishes went out to Chester Jenke in April and Colleen Jenke and Stephanie Mills in May. Wedding anniversaries were celebrated by James and Henrietta Lowak 62 years in April; Chester and Colleen Jenke - 59 years in June; Dave and Stephanie Mills - 16 years in June; James and Regina House - 36 years in June; and Steve and Carrie Origas - 27 years in June.
Carrie Origas, Reporter —SPJST—
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.
July 8
Bartek family—at Ratibor Country Bar and Grill, 10226 FM 2086, Temple, Texas 76501. Questions? Contact Amy Pagel Devereaux 254-3162878; or Paula Pagel Faris 512-8180259. Submitted by Paula Pagel Faris, Lodge 47, Seaton. —SPJST—