Since I was five years old, every year - and especially every summerwas filled with SPJST activities.
towards their summer camp. I’m so grateful to have been blessed to be a part of this organization as a child . . . my mom was as well, and her parents as well, and their parents as well. It’s wild that my boys are fifth generation SPJST members!
Summer camp was the highlight. We looked forward to it every year. And the boys now look forward to it every year. They learn to shoot a bow and arrow. They make friends. And crafts. They zipline and climb rock walls and obstacle courses. It’s all the things childhood dreams are made of. And each month that we are back in Texas, they do community work or a meeting or an event like today’s trip to TAMU
If you’re looking for a great thing to be a part of - for your kids to be a part of here in Texas - I highly recommend becoming an SPJST member and getting your kids involved!
Women’s Basketball to get credit
Lodge 39, Bryan members Hugh, left, and Hank Turner with grandfather Ronnie Roesler attend a Texas A&M University women’s basketball game with their SPJST youth club.
Lodge 35, Elk welcomed the Nolan Pick Band for New Year’s Eve, and members and guests enjoyed a wonderful time closing out 2024. Pictured are, left to right, Rhonda Vanek, Tammy Pavelka, Cari Hammer, and Megan Mann.
—Lynde Turner Lodge 39, Bryan
Ringing in the new year at Lodge 35, elk
´ VESTNIK
S P J S T H E R A L D
SPJST HOME OFFICE
PO Box 100 • Temple, Texas 76503 800-727-7578 • 254-773-1575
Kristen Bender Jones (District Five) 936-556-3248 • joneskb06@hotmail.com
Lisa Bubela (District Six) 979-543-7120 • lisa_bubela@yahoo.com
April Haag-Adkins (District Seven) 830-624-9242 • aprhoward@gmail.com
SPJST INTEREST RATES
H2025: A Year of SPJST Fun and Adventure!
appy New Year, SPJST family! As we step into 2025, let’s seize every chance to connect, serve, and have a blast together. We’ve got a packed calendar filled with events and initiatives that are sure to bring us all a little closer. Here’s to a year of fun, friendship, and community spirit!
VestnikValentines
This February, show your love through our Vestnik Valentines initiative by sending heartfelt messages and photos, celebrating those you cherish. Details on how to participate can be found on the back page of this week’s Vestnik and at spjst.org/valentines/. The deadline to submit valentines is February 1 at 5 p.m.
Caring Challenges
The 2025 Caring Challenges kick off with a focus on “Exploring Compassion.” We encourage you to craft handmade Valentine’s cards for seniors at local nursing homes or senior centers. This act of kindness is not only a wonderful way to spread joy but also a great activity for lodges, youth groups, or families to undertake together. Capture the smiles and share your experience online with #spjstgives.
Family Fun Days:
Adventure Awaits
Mark your calendars for SPJST Family Fun Days! With events planned across Texas, from the USS Lexington in Corpus Christi to Dinosaur World in Glen Rose, there’s an adventure for everyone. Enjoy discounted tickets and exclusive member benefits, ensuring fun-filled days for the whole family. For event dates, ticket information, and registration, visit spjst.org/family-funday.
Lodge and Youth Club Activities: January 15 Submission Deadline
To ensure eligibility for the 2024 Lodge Incentive Program, it’s crucial that all lodges and youth clubs submit their 2024 activities and other requirements. Timely submissions are key to maintaining qualification and reaping the full benefits of the program. Visit spjst.org/gives for full details.
Vestnik
Dates and Deadlines
January 27 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Jan. 20 at 10 a.m.
February 10 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Feb. 3 at 10 a.m.
Note: No February 24 Vestnik will be published. March 10 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Mar. 3 at 10 a.m.
March 24 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., Mar. 17 at 10 a.m.
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
SPJST FAMILY FUN
IMPORTANT DATES &
(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)
Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day Holiday • SPJST Home Office Closed
Feb. 21-23 SPJST Car Show at Temple Area Builders Association
Home & Garden Show, Belton (2)
March 1 State 42 Domino Tournament
March 2
SPJST Home Office • Temple
Lodge 81, Needville Spring Social Trampoline Park, Missouri City (5)
March 18-19 Executive Committee Meeting
SPJST Home Office • Temple
March 22 Delegates’ Advisory Committee Meeting (online)
March 29
March 30
Family Fun Day: Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown (2)
Family Fun Day: Horseshoe Junction: Brenham (1)
March 31 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends
April 5
Family Fun Day: Dinosaur World, Glen Rose (3)
April 6 Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter Party (3)
April 18
April 26
Good Friday • SPJST Home Office Closed at Noon
Family Fun Day: 7 Acre Wood, Conroe (5)
April 27 Family Fun Day: Outlaw Pass, Victoria (6)
May 3
Family Fun Day: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (5)
From the SPJST President/CEO
SPJST Scholarship Applications Available Through January 31, 2025
SPJST’s scholarship program reflects the Society’s values and commitment to social responsibility, making a lasting impact on the lives of students and Society as a whole. SPJST scholarship applications and all required information must be submitted online at spjst.org before February 1, 2025. Recipients will be announced in April.
In 2024, 33 General Scholarships and five Technical Scholarships were awarded. In addition, at the 2024 State Youth Showcase, two Royalty Scholarships were awarded for a total of 40 scholarships and grants presented in 2024. Since the program’s inception, more than $2 million has been awarded. SPJST scholarships are funded through an annual allocation by SPJST and through voluntary contributions received through the Society’s 100 Pennies Scholarship Drive and memorial donations received throughout the year. Donations are tax deductible. Interested SPJST members who wish to apply for a scholarship must meet the following criteria:
future, and we wish each applicant the best of luck in the application process. Your aspirations are SPJST’s priority and we look forward to seeing the bright talents that emerge from our SPJST family. I hope that we can help make your educational dreams a reality!
Fraternally,
Brian Vanicek President/CEO
—SPJST—
SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE THE VĚSTNÍK BY EMAIL.
Visit www.spjst.org to sign up for an email subscription.
I just received my 2025 SPJST Calendar. Thank y’all very much for sending it to me. I carry this calendar with me everywhere I go. It is my journal. I write all appointments, all notes, birthdays, etc. in each date square.
Thank you again.
Margie Malota Stockman
Lodge 201
Bleiblerville-Nelsonville
—SPJST—
• Have an active SPJST insurance certificate in force for at least one full year as of February 1; if the membership is in the form of an annuity, the amount must be at least $1,250
• Be a full-time student
• Hold an active SPJST insurance certificate and/or annuity for the duration of the scholarship
• Be a high school graduate or equivalent
• Attend an accredited two-or fouryear college, university, or technical college – as designated by one of the six regional accrediting bodies in the United States
I encourage all eligible graduating seniors and undergraduates to apply for an SPJST scholarship. This is an incredible opportunity to invest in your
From The SPJST Executive Committee
October 15 and 16, 2024
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of SPJST Executive Committee held at the SPJST Home Office Temple, Texas
PRESIDING
The meeting was called to order by Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 8:15 a.m.
PARTICIPATING
Board of Directors—Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chair; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chair; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven.
Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek, President/CEO; Delisle Doherty, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller.
Advisory Board Member—Jim Therrell.
Consultant—Dr. Al Burns.
Recording Secretary—Linda Hill, Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer.
Employee—Brett Wheeler, Senior Staff Accountant.
OPENING OF MEETING
Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke opened the meeting with a welcome to all. Attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence was observed in respect for our departed members. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led the Executive Committee in an opening prayer.
Meeting guests were announced: Diana Engelke, who is taking notes for Director Engelke due to an injury and Larry White and Stephen Gonzalez of AQS who will join at 11 a.m. on Tuesday.
APPROVAL OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MINUTES
Director Stavinoha moved, seconded by Director House, to accept the minutes from the July 16 and 17, 2024, regular meeting. Motion carried unanimously.
Director House made a motion, seconded by Director Davis, to accept the Investment Committee meeting minutes. The motion passed unanimously. Director Vahalik, with a second from Director House, pro-
posed accepting the management team meeting notes. The motion carried unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS
President/CEO Vanicek, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty, and CFO Mikeska each presented a report on their old business. Controller Vajdak also shared his report. Vice President of Communication Zavodny presented her report of activities over the past quarter.
USSI UPDATE
Consultant Dr. Al Burns gave an update on projects with USSI.
SPJST MILITARY GRANT UPDATE
President/CEO Vanicek announced an update to the SPJST Military Grant. Under the revised guidelines, individuals will become eligible to receive the grant upon confirmation that they have successfully completed basic training. This update was unanimously approved by all directors.
DISTRICT COUNCIL GUIDELINES
President/CEO Vanicek reviewed the proposed updates to the District Council Guidelines, as outlined in the provided handout. A motion to approve the updated guidelines was made by Director Victorick and seconded by Director House. The motion passed unanimously.
Recess was from 9:20 to 9:30 a.m.
AQS INVESTMENT REPORT
Larry White and Stephen Gonzalez of AQS Asset Management presented a report on SPJST’s investment performance. They also informed the Executive Committee about the book yield increase from 4.37 percent to 5.32 percent since January 1, 2021.
Recess for lunch was from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led the Executive Committee in a prayer prior to the lunch recess.
WILBER CZECH FESTIVAL TRIP
President/CEO Vanicek discussed a bus trip to the 63rd Annual Wilber Czech Festival which began August 2, 2024.
CAMP KUBENA
Vice President of Communications Zavodny requested to be removed as the primary contact for Camp Kubena. A motion was made by Director House, seconded by Director Davis, to transition this responsibility from Vice President of Communications Zavodny to Chief Financial Officer Mikeska who oversees investments. The motion carried unanimously.
Additionally, a group of potential investors has expressed interest in purchasing or leasing Camp Kubena and submitted a proposal. After reviewing the proposal and discussion, the Board of Directors unanimously approved moving forward with the Investment Committee engaging a qualified realtor to handle the potential sale of Camp Kubena. Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska and Controller Roy Vajdak were charged with overseeing this process.
Recess was from 3:15 to 3:30 p.m.
All directors then presented their reports.
NEW BUSINESS
Each Executive Officer presented a report on their new business.
President/CEO Vanicek requested to hire new employees to fill the positions of staff accountant and financial analyst.
SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP
The board discussed social membership in detail and agreed on an annual fee of $30 per person. Of this amount, $20 will be allocated to the requested lodge’s bank account, and $10 will be retained by the SPJST Home Office to cover administrative fees. Those voting in favor were Director Engelke, Director Davis, Director Vahalik, and Director House. Those in opposition were Director Victorick, Director Pospisil, and Director Stavinoha. Motion carried.
ILLUSTRATE INC.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty presented a new program with Illustrate Inc. which would have a faster and more correct underwriting e-delivery system.
INVESTMENT REPORT
Chief Financial Officer Mikeska presented his report of quarterly investments. Director House moved, seconded by Director Pospisil, to ratify the investments for the period from July 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. The motion carried unanimously.
Investment policy statement (IPS) was considered, and no changes were needed.
INTEREST RATES
Interest rates paid out on annuities were reviewed. Director Victorick moved to change rates on A7 annuities to 5.25% and 1-Year and 2-Year Annuities to 4.50%, seconded by Director Stavinoha. Motion was unanimously approved. The annuity rates would be effective as of November 1. Rates appear below.
Director House moved, seconded by Director Davis, to leave interest payout rates on universal life certificates unchanged. The motion carried unanimously.
AUDITORS
A motion was made by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House, that JRBT will be the internal auditors for 2025. The motion carried unanimously.
HOME OFFICE CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY
For the New Year’s holiday, the Home Office will be closed at 12 noon on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, and all day on January 1, 2025.
ANNUITY DIRECT DEPOSIT
A motion was made by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House, that all annuity payments will be sent as direct deposit, effective January 1, 2025. The motion carried unanimously.
Recess for the day was at 6 p.m.
REOPEN MEETING
The meeting was reopened by Director Engelke at 8:15 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty led the Executive Committee in an opening prayer.
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
Controller Vajdak gave his report of the quarterly statement review.
Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny and Dr. Al Burns provided a detailed presentation on
the development of a mobile app aimed at enhancing SPJST’s fraternal reporting and event communication processes. A motion was made by Director House, seconded by Director Victorick, to move forward with the app development process by obtaining pricing from USSI and other potential vendors. The motion carried unanimously.
2028 SPJST CONVENTION
Vice President of Communications Zavodny then presented information and options for the 2028 Convention. After discussion, it was decided to set the convention for Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10, 2028, at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. Host hotels will be Home2 Suites and Hilton Garden Inn.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Senior Staff Accountant Brett Wheeler gave a detailed report and presentation on Enterprise Risk Management (ERM).
Break was from 9:30 to 9:50 a.m.
DIRECTOR OF AUDIT COMMITTEE
Directors elected to serve on the Audit Committee for 2025 are Directors House, Engelke, Vahalik, and Victorick, and Advisory Board Member Jim Therrell.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board of Directors went into executive session from 11 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. to discuss personnel matters.
ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR FOR 2025
Director Pospisil nominated Director Engelke for Chair of the Board of Directors, seconded by Director House. After no other nominations, Director Pospisil moved to cease nominations and that Director Engelke be elected by acclamation. Director House seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.
Director Pospisil nominated Director Victorick for Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, seconded by Director House. After no other nominations, Director House moved, seconded by Director Pospisil, to cease nominations and that Director Victorick be elected by acclamation. Motion carried unanimously.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
DATES FOR 2025
The Executive Committee meeting dates for 2025 were announced as:
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 – Online Meeting at 10 a.m. - Strategic Planning and ERM Review
Monday, March 17 – Audit Committee Meeting
Tuesday and Wednesday, March 18 and 19
Tuesday and Wednesday, May 20 and 21
Monday, August 18 – Audit Committee Meeting
Tuesday and Wednesday, August 19 and 20
Tuesday and Wednesday, November 18 and 19
Thursday, November 20, 2025 – ERM Review
DIRECTORS’ REPORTS
Directors expressed how successful the meeting was and thanked everyone for a great meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business, Director Davis moved for adjournment. Director Pospisil seconded the motion, and the motion to adjourn carried unanimously.
Chair of the Board of Directors Engelke adjourned the meeting at 1:30 p.m.
The next regular meeting of the Executive Committee will begin at 8 a.m. on March 18, 2025. Fraternally submitted by, Linda R. Hill, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—
DISTRICT DIRECTORS’ REPORTS
District One Director
Activity Report
July—State Youth Showcase, Temple. August—Meeting at Camp Kubena - exit interview with Rob Clift; Lodge 17, New Tabor meeting; Lodge 9, Snook meeting; met with Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty; met with Territory Manager Chris Liebum and agents in the Bryan-College Station area; attended Home Office staff meeting; Lodge 48, Beyersville fundraiser.
September—Lodge 9, Snook meeting; Lodge 189, Bryan-College Station meeting; Lodge 13, Dime Box meeting; traveled to Bellville to conduct business for Lodge 201, Blieblerville then to Temple for business for Lodge 13, Dime Box; Lodge 47, Seaton Outdoor Extravaganza; Home Office for Lodge 9, Snook request.
Fraternally, Donnie Victorick
District One Director
Donnie Victorick
District Two Director
Jesse Pospisil
Activity Report
July—State Youth Showcase, Temple; Lodge 177, Academy dinner/meeting.
August—Annual District Two Meeting; Lodge 20, Granger special-called meeting regarding sale of lodge property; Lodge 29, Taylor monthly meeting; Lodge 48, Beyersville annual fundraiser; Lodge 29, Taylor Barbecue Appreciation Dinner; conducted loan evaluation for Lodge 24, Cyclone roof replacement.
July—Peeled potatoes for Lodge 6, Cottonwood picnic; attended funeral for Red Kelly, member of Lodge 180, Burleson; helped in kitchen at Lodge 6, Cottonwood picnic; State Youth Showcase, Temple; Lodge 66, Waco meeting/social.
August—Began inventory of assets at Camp Kubena; Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting with officers; worked drinks and kolaches at Czech Heritage Museum puppet show, Temple; went to Home Office for desserts; attended open house at S.P.J.S.T. Assisted Living at Lake Travis; Senior Living Centers board meeting, Taylor; Lodge 66, Waco meeting and prepared hamburgers; Lodge 6, Cottonwood potato peel for Westfest; attended Westfest parade and helped with float.
September—Lodge 92, Fort Worth meeting; online meeting; went to La Grange planning meeting; Lodge 66, Waco meeting/social.
October—Temple 5K run for Czech Heritage Museum; online meeting regarding Camp Kubena; Czech-Slovak Heritage Day at Sokol Dallas; audit meeting/board meeting/strategic planning meeting; worked/served food at Czech Fest, La Grange.
Fraternally, John Engelke District Three Director
District Four Director Bobby Davis
Activity Report
July—Met with officers of Lodge 73, Seymour; met with Stacy Mcquire with Scouting America on sponsorship; State Youth Showcase, Temple; met with
Nannette Ocon - Scouting; met with Jeff Meuer of American Legion on a program in the district.
August—Lodge 49, Rowena meeting; traveled to Ballinger to meet with Scouts to work with Lodge 49; traveled to Faben meeting and planning with lodge officers; visited with Devin with Scouts on fundraiser and service project; Lodge 160, San Angelo meeting; displayed promotional posters for Jody Nix dance at Lodge 49, Rowena; worked Jody Nix dance at Lodge 49, Rowena; Lodge 229, Abilene meeting/planning; meeting with American Legion and Lodge 49, Rowena.
September—Lodge 49, Rowena meeting with Scouting America; attended funeral for Roger Cuellar; worked on poster for Veterans program at Lodge 49, Rowena; met Delisle in Brownwood; traveled to Rowena to give posters to Beverly Teplicek; Scouting America meeting at Lodge 49, Rowena; traveled to El Paso for meeting and planning with Lodge 219, El Paso; meeting with Lodge 229, Abilene.
October—Set up sign for Rowena Trade Day at Lodge 49, Rowena; helped at Rowena Trade Day; helped clean Lodge 49, Rowena hall and helped Lodge 229, Abilene; put bags together for Scouting America for golf tournament.
September—church picnic, High Hill; Lodge 139, Danbury meeting; Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard meeting; St. Cyril and Methodius church picnic, Damon; District Five - Splashway.
July—Czech Heritage Museum Board tour of Polka Lovers’ Museum in Schulenburg; Executive
Committee meeting; State Youth Showcase, Temple. August—Lodge 184, Moulton quarterly meeting; District Six officer meeting; Lodge 4, Hallettsville quarterly meeting; Lodge 41, Port Lavaca; Lodge 8, Weimar and Lodge 67, Schulenburg quarterly meetings.
September—Lodge 30, Taiton monthly meeting; Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje quarterly meeting; Lodge 151, Wharton-East Bernard quarterly meeting; Lodge 32, Victoria meeting; Lodge 97, Placedo quarterly meeting; District Six Fall Fun Day - Victoria County Czech Heritage Festival; SPJST insurance review.
July—Museum Advisory Committee Tour of Texas Polka Museum, Schulenburg; Board of Directors’ meeting; St. Matthew Czech Day Celebration, Jourdanton; State Youth Showcase, Temple.
August—Lodge 107, Floresville meeting; Czech Puppet Group/Night at the Museum; Lodge 79, Corpus Christi meeting; Lodge 185, New Braunfels meeting.
September—District Seven Fall Fun Day; Lodge 133, San Antonio meeting; October Audit Committee meeting; Board of Directors’ meeting.
Upcoming activities scheduled—October 17Strategic Planning Meeting, Home Office; October 27 - Czech National Day Celebration, Pivovar, Waco
Commentary
Thank you to the Executive Officers and staff for a successful meeting. The discussion around Camp Kubena was extensive, and the decision to list the property for sale was very difficult for me. However, I understand that this was not a decision to be taken lightly, and in the end, it will be best for SPJST as a business. Rest assured, the tradition of summer camp will continue for our youth, and I am confident that new and wonderful memories will be created wherever we choose to camp.
I want to give a special congratulations to Melanie for her 30 years of service at SPJST, along with Brooke, Tamara, and Jennifer. Your dedication to SPJST is definitely appreciated!
Fraternally,
Regina House
District Seven Director
—SPJST—
December 4, 2024
Minutes of the Special Meeting of SPJST Executive Committee held by Online Conference from the SPJST Home Office, Temple, Texas
PARTICIPATING:
Board of Directors—Donnie Victorick - District One/Vice Chair; Jesse Pospisil - District Two; John Engelke - District Three/Chair; Bobby Davis - District Four; Bradley Stavinoha - District Five; Annie Vahalik - District Six; Regina House - District Seven.
Executive Officers—Brian Vanicek, President/CEO; Delisle Doherty, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications; Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer; Roy Vajdak, Controller.
Advisory Board Member—Jim Therrell.
USSI Upgrade Project Manager/Consultant—Dr. Al Burns.
Recording Secretary—Linda Hill, Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer.
PURPOSE OF MEETING
The special called meeting of the SPJST Executive Committee was called and held at 10 a.m. to address the following items:
1. Review and Approval of the 2025 SPJST Budget
2. USSI Upgrades Update
3. Request from USSI to Amend the Existing Work Contract
4. Discussion Related to SPJST Lodge Dues and Scholarships
5. Update on District Council and Incentives Program
6. Update on Prospective Sale of SPJST Properties
The meeting was called to order at 10 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by an opening prayer by Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doherty.
The first agenda item was reviewing the budget for 2025. Controller Vajdak reviewed the budget page by page, and some items were changed. Director Stavinoha moved for approval. Director Davis seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
The USSI Upgrades Update was presented by Upgrade Project Manager Burns who indicated good progress is being made. The project is on target with a focus on priority items.
Request from USSI was considered to amend the existing work contract. After review, the amendments were approved on motion by Director Victorick, seconded by Director House. Motion carried unanimously.
President/CEO Vanicek informed the Executive Committee of the recent concerns he has received from some members of Lodge 88, Houston. Some have expressed concern that with recent changes to the lodge’s Rules and Regulations, the lodge could be pricing itself out of the reach of some family households. With regards to the lodge scholarship program, the lodge will be instructed to maintain its existing scholarship program and guidelines; however, if lodge members would like to award scholarships for nonmembers, the recommendation is that it be constructed as a separate scholarship program.
President/CEO Vanicek invited Vice President of Communications Zavodny to provide an update on the district council and lodge and youth club incentive programs. The Member Engagement Department is currently preparing an outline for the district council meetings, scheduled for late January. Further details will be shared with the directors during their January online meeting and subsequently with district council members ahead of the meetings. Vice President Zavodny commended the lodges and youth clubs for their outstanding fraternal and volunteer contributions to their communities. She also reviewed each lodge’s standings and outlined the criteria needed to achieve the 2024 incentives, announcing that the incentive program will remain relatively unchanged for 2025.
CFO Mikeska gave an update on the listing statuses of the Museum property and Camp Kubena property.
A contract and earnest money were received for sale of the Museum property for $700,000, and details of the transaction were reviewed. The details of an offer of $5 million and our counteroffer of $5.5 million for the Camp Kubena property were also reviewed.
President/CEO Vanicek gave an update on the future of the Museum and possibility of collaborating with the City of Temple that could involve our participation in the city museum district.
Controller Vajdak commented on an update of the third quarter financials.
Upgrade Project Manager Burns commented on the importance of maintaining cyber protection and recommended backup to Controller Vajdak noting the amount of time and required effort working on cyber security. He identified cyber security and implementation of the member portal as being high priority and offered his assistance. He also offered his assistance on work with the fraternal portal.
There being no further business, Director Davis moved for adjournment, Director Stavinoha seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.
Fraternally submitted by, Linda R. Hill, Recording Secretary Leonard Mikeska, Chief Financial Officer —SPJST—
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
New Year, New Beginning
A new year is upon us, promising a fresh start – or so they say. Yet, in today's world, we often find ourselves dragging the old year behind us like a ball and chain. We're relieved to have it behind us, but can't seem to stop discussing it. We strive to move forward but keep looking in the rearview mirror. We make resolutions that we either cannot keep or have no intention of keeping. If you truly desire a new beginning, you must ac-
tively create it.
While I usually advise against dwelling on the past, a new beginning can benefit from a brief reflection. Review your last year: recognize what cannot be undone and dismiss it from your mind. My wife often tells me I drive her up a wall because I seem unfazed by many things. In truth, many things do bother me, but if they’re beyond my control, I simply let them go. Why occupy your mind and create stress over something you can’t change? Remember the wise words from Elsa in Frozen: “Let it go, let it go, let it go!”
Next, focus on the future. With the past behind you, you can learn and start anew. Adopt a positive outlook. Anticipate possible future events and prepare for them. Being prepared helps you handle unexpected challenges more effectively, and you'll begin to notice more positives than negatives.
Lastly, embrace the present. The adage “today is a new day” truly applies if you live in the moment. Living in the present involves helping others when possible, smiling at strangers, and finding solutions to difficulties. It means managing stress and walking away gracefully from conflicts, like those with a difficult co-worker. By living in the present, your positivity becomes contagious, potentially transforming not just your day but also the lives of those around you.
Every Monday morning, I wake at 5 a.m. and get ready to leave my Houston home for my 169-mile commute to Temple. I always stop at Whataburger for my BOB (Breakfast on a Bun). If there’s
someone in the drive-thru behind me, I pay for their meal, asking the clerk to wish them a blessed day on my behalf. It’s often just a coffee or a small sandwich, but this small act might brighten a day that started poorly, influencing their work and family life in turn.
Begin the year by reflecting on the past then let it go. Look forward to the future with preparation, and live in the present to positively affect the world around you. Here’s to finding your new year positive and bright.
“Sometimes the hardest part isn’t letting go but rather learning to start over.” — Nicole Sobon
My door is always open, figuratively, and literally.
Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049 —SPJST—
1 2 3
Marketing, Delisle Doherty, or your Territory Manager to present seminars or offer free insurance reviews. These can be held at your lodge hall or another local venue, if you do not have a building. The Home Office will organize and promote the event and help choose a topic that suits your community.
Member Engagement News
State Fraternal Director shares January updates
Happy New Year!
May the New Year energize your pursuit of new possibilities, reignite your passions, and bring your goals within reach. As we move into 2025, I wish you and your family blessings for a healthy and happy year.
We will be contacting lodge officers that did not attend any of the Lunch & Learn workshops in 2024 to schedule a visit to review the 2025 Incentives Program. District Council representatives will be receiving detailed information about an online workshop to be held in February.
A special thank you to the officers entering the data for the Lodge Incentives Program. These reported hours are vital to maintaining our tax-exempt status year after year.
Incentives Program
We will be sending out another progress report in early January to those lodges needing to complete their paperwork. Please ensure your lodge officer listing is submitted online at spjst.org/lodge-officer-update by January 15, 2025.
The 2025 Incentives Program begins January 1, 2025, and ends December 31, 2025. We ask all lodges to report their lodge community service hours, fraternal activities, and lodge social engagement activities on a quarterly basis:
January to March:
Due April 15, 2025
April to June:
Due July 15, 2025
July to September:
Due October 15, 2025
October to December:
Due January 15, 2026
A Friendly Reminder!
**Important** To receive the 2024 Lodge Incentive, your officer listing must be submitted online by January 15, 2025, at spjst.org/lodge-officer-update. Please add this to your lodge meeting agenda under new business. If your lodge is re-electing the same officers, review all contact information for accuracy, as incorrect email addresses have been noted.
Lodge Officer Legacy Award
The SPJST Lodge Officer Legacy Award recognizes the exceptional dedication and service of outgoing lodge officers who have made significant contributions to their communities and the SPJST organization. This award
celebrates the enduring impact of their leadership and commitment. Each commemorative plaque will be delivered to the lodge by the District Director, ensuring a personal touch in the recognition of each honoree.
Eligibility:
• The nominee must be an outgoing officer who was not re-elected or did not seek re-election.
• The nominee must be a current SPJST member.
• The nominee must be alive at the time of selection.
Award Presentation:
• The award, consisting of a commemorative plaque, will be presented during a lodge meeting to honor the service and commitment of the outgoing officer.
Annual Submission Deadline:
• All nomination forms must be submitted by February 28 of each year.
Submission Instructions:
• Complete this form and submit it by the annual deadline.
• Ensure all information is accurate to facilitate the honoring of the nominee.
To submit a nominee, visit spjst.org/outgoing-officer-forms/
Encourage a 2025 Lodge Calendar
We encourage all lodges to plan their 2025 calendar of events during their first meeting of the year. Use the SPJST calendar mailed to all Vestnik subscribers or download it from our website.
Save the Dates: 2025 Youth Camp and State Youth Showcase
Mark your calendars! Our eagerly anticipated summer camp is set for Sun-
2025 CARING CHALLENGES
Donate Greeting Card Fronts
for
Animal Shelter Volunteer Day
Host a volunteer day at a local animal shelter, helping with tasks such as walking dogs, cleaning, or organizing donations.
Give Eyeglasses
Collect gently used eyeglasses to Lions Club International.
Back-to-School Supply Drive
Collect backpacks and school supplies for underprivileged students.
Local Cemeteries
honor your community’s heritage.
Mindful Mental Health Kits
Pack care packages with journals, stress balls, teas, and affirmations to support mental well-being.
Recycle for a Cause
Gather can tabs for Ronald McDonald House or items like old cell phones, aluminum cans, or newspapers to recycle.
Collect Stamps for Veterans
Contribute used stamps to programs like Stamps for the Wounded to show appreciation for veterans’ service.
Food Drive Challenge
Arrange a friendly competition to collect non-perishable food for local food banks before Thanksgiving.
Toy Drive for Local Charities
Bring new toys to donate to hospitals, shelters, or community toy drives for children in need.
Handmade Valentines for Seniors
Create and deliver Valentine’s cards to brighten the day of nursing home or senior center residents.
day, June 8 to Wednesday, June 11 at the scenic Hermann Sons Youth Camp in Comfort, Texas. This unforgettable ad venture promises a variety of exciting activities and learning experiences designed to build friendships, foster personal growth, and create lifelong memories. From thrilling outdoor adventures to engaging workshops, there’s something for every young member to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with peers in a fun, supportive environment. Registration opens on February 1—stay tuned to secure your child's spot at what’s sure to be one of the highlights of their summer!
The State Youth Showcase will be Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple, Texas. The Showcase Guide will be available soon.
SPJST Family Fun Days
Get ready for a fun-filled year with SPJST Family Fun Days! Whether you're looking to explore Texas, make memories with your loved ones, or experience exciting activities, these events are designed to bring families together for a day of adventure and enjoyment. Mark your calendars for SPJST Family Fun Days across the state!
Saturday, February 15
USS Lexington - Corpus Christi SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, March 29
Inner Space Cavern - Georgetown SPJST member tickets: $5 per person
Sunday, March 30
Horseshoe Junction - Brenham SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, April 5
Dinosaur World - Glen Rose SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, April 26
7 Acre Wood - Conroe
SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Sunday, April 27
Outlaw Pass - Victoria
SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, May 3
The Museum of Fine Arts - Houston
SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, May 10
Abilene Zoo - Abilene
SPJST member tickets: $5 per person
Saturday, May 17
El Paso Zoo - El Paso
SPJST member tickets: $5 per person
Saturday, May 24
National Polka Festival - Ennis
SPJST member tickets: $5 per person
Saturday, August 30
Westfest - West
SPJST member tickets: $10 per person
Saturday, September 13
Kolache Festival - Caldwell Free admission
Saturday, September 28
Slavic Heritage Festival - Houston SPJST member tickets: $1 per person
Saturday, October 18
Heritage Fest - La Grange Free admission
We are excited to offer these special outings across Texas, featuring activities suitable for all ages. Here’s what you need to know about ticketing and event policies:
Minimum Attendance: We require a minimum of 20 registered attendees to proceed with each outing. If this number is not met by the registration deadline, all registered participants will be refunded.
Registration Deadline: Please register no later than 14 days prior to the event.
2025 SPJST STATE FAMILY FUN DAYS!
USS Lexington
Corpus Christi, Texas
Saturday, February 15
Inner Space Cavern
Georgetown, Texas Saturday, March 29
Horseshoe Junction Brenham, Texas Sunday, March 30
Dinosaur World
Glen Rose, Texas Saturday, April 5
7 Acre Wood
Conroe, Texas
Saturday, April 26
Outlaw Pass
Victoria, Texas Sunday, April 27
Museum of Fine Arts
Houston, Texas
Saturday, May 3
After this deadline, no refunds will be available unless the event is canceled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Ticket Availability: A total of 50 discounted tickets are available for SPJST certificate-holding members on a firstcome, first-served basis for each event. Non-members are welcome to attend at the full admission price and can order "friend" tickets online for most activities. If the event is not listed, "friend" tickets will need to be purchased at the gate.
Extras: All outings will include refreshments and a designated group gathering space to enhance your experience. Be sure to register early to secure your discounted tickets and plan accordingly!
Registration and tickets for the outings are available at spjst.org/family-funday.
100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive
Abilene Zoo
Abilene, Texas Saturday, May 10
El Paso Zoo
El Paso, Texas Saturday, May 17
National Polka Festival Ennis, Texas Saturday, May 24
Westfest
West, Texas
Saturday, August 30
Kolache Festival
Caldwell, Texas
Saturday, September 13
Slavic Heritage Festival Houston, Texas Saturday, September 28
Heritage Fest
La Grange, Texas
Saturday, October 18
The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive kicked off on October 1 and will run through March 31, 2025. Donations of any amount are accepted and can be made online at spjst.org/100pennies or mailed to:
SPJST 100 Pennies PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503-0100
Apply for SPJST Scholarships!
The deadline to apply for SPJST scholarships is fast approaching - don’t miss out! Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or continuing your education, SPJST offers scholarships to help support your academic goals. The deadline to submit your application is February 1, 2025. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to help fund your education and further your career aspirations. Visit spjst.org/scholarships for more details on eligibility and how to apply. We look forward to receiving your application!
2025 State Tournaments Schedule
All SPJST State Tournaments for 2025 will take place at the SPJST Home Office in Temple. Registration fee is $30 and includes the noon meal and snacks.
February 1 - Tarok Tournament
March 1 - Regular 42 Dominoes
Tarok Tournament
The SPJST State Tarok Tournament will be held on Saturday, February 1 at
Tickets Available at SPJST.ORG/ FAMILY-FUN-DAY
the SPJST Home Office, 520 North Main Street in Temple. This tournament is open to the public for ages 16 and above. Check-in will take place from 8 to 8:45 a.m., with play beginning at 9 a.m. The registration fee is $30 per player, which includes snacks and lunch. Seating is limited to 60 players, and the format is individual so no partners are needed. Prizes will be awarded to the winners!
To participate, please register by Monday, January 27. For more information, call 254-773-1575, ext. 164, or email tammym@spjst.com. Registration and payment can be completed online at spjst.org/tournaments. Please note that if you do not register by the deadline, participation cannot be guaranteed.
2025 Lodge Membership DriveSPJST Proud!
Information about the 2025 Membership Drive for lodges appears on page 8. This is a great opportunity to get new
members into your lodge – and make a few dollars, too!
2025 Caring Challenges
The 2025 Caring Challenges will follow the theme of “Never Stop Exploring.” The first quarter will focus on “Exploring Compassion.” See the flyer for a complete list of the challenges, with each quarter featuring a giving project, a collection project, and a hands-on project.
January - Handmade Valentines for Seniors
Show your love and kindness by creating and delivering Valentine’s Day cards to seniors at local nursing homes or senior centers. Your handmade cards will brighten their day and bring a smile to their faces. Consider personalizing each card with a special message or drawing to make it even more meaningful. You can involve your family or youth group, making it a fun and re-
warding activity for all ages. Be sure to photograph your projects and participating members. Submit your photos and details at spjst.org/gives and share them on social media using #spjstgives.
Milestone Members
SPJST
Car Show
at TABA Home & Garden Show
SPJST
State Tarok Tournament
Saturday, February 1, 2025
SPJST Home Office
520 North Main Street, Temple, TX 76501
Open to the public; Ages 16 and above!
Check-in: 8 to 8:45 a.m.
Play begins at 9 a.m.
Registration Fee: $30 per player
Includes snacks and lunch
Seating for 60 players only.
Prizes will be awarded!
SPJST is delighted to celebrate its Milestone Members who are reaching 25, 50, and 75 years of membership in 2025. In expression of our gratitude, we are proud to feature these members in a special section of the January 27 edition of the Vestnik. Additionally, lodge presidents and secretaries will receive a list of honorees from their respective lodges to facilitate local celebrations.
SPJST will host the car show at the Temple Area Home Builders Home & Garden Show on Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23 in Belton. This indoor event will include special entertainment by Jerry Haisler and Friends on Sunday afternoon.
Vestnik Valentines
It’s time for Vestnik Valentines! Send yours in today by visiting spjst.org/valentines/ Photos can also be included. More information appears on the back page of this week’s Vestnik.
Fraternally, Frank Horak
State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
Home & Garden SPJST Car Show
District Six Cemetery Association meets January 26 in Hallettsville
Dear District Six Lodges,
You are invited to the annual meeting of the District Six Cemetery Association on Sunday, January 26, 2025. We will begin at 2 p.m. and will be meeting at First Methodist Church Annex, 206 South Dowling Street in Hallettsville. It is located on the east side of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in a house next to a children’s playground.
District Six Cemetery Association is responsible for the upkeep of the cemetery at Velehrad. Items to be discussed include signage and ways to promote
plot sales. Officers for the upcoming year will also be elected.
Anyone interested in the preservation and promotion of this historical landmark cemetery is asked to attend. Refreshments will be served. Please call me at 361-649-4888 if you have any questions or would like more information. I look forward to hearing from you and seeing you there.
Fraternally,
Annie Vahalik District Six Director —SPJST—
Friday, December 20, 2024 • Temple, Texas
SPJST LODGE SECTION
Lodge 6, Cottonwood plans appreciation dinner to honor volunteers
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.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
was provided by Sister Jeanette.
A sympathy card was sent to Nancy Neal by Sister Barbara Hykel.
More business discussed was the microphone issues, caused by crimped wiring. Members approved a purchase of a wireless microphone.
District Three Director John Engelke was present to install the 2025 Lodge 6 officers, and they are:
President Don Urbanovsky
Vice President Kim Seith
Secretary/FAC Jeanette Beseda
Treasurer Peggy Dobecka
Flag Bearer Irene Peterson
Reporter Patti Rosales
Thank you to John for performing this honor for our lodge. See the Vestnik for a picture of our officers.
events: the lodge Easter party on April 6 and our lodge hosting the District Three spring meeting on April 27.
Next Meeting—February
2
The next Lodge 6 meeting will be Sunday, February 2 at 2 p.m. Hope you stay warm and cozy.
Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 13, Dime Box hosts Christmas social
Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky called the Sunday, January 5, 2025, meeting to order, and all present recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST pledge. All officers were present.
Sister Irene Peterson reported there were 11 members, three youth, and two guests in attendance.
December minutes were read by Secretary Jeanette Beseda. The treasurer’s report was provided by Sister Peggy Dobecka. Both reports were accepted by the membership. Home Office news
A
Under old business, Sister Peggy provided a report of donated monies received for the food trailer purchased last August. A shelter for the trailer, like a pole barn, will be discussed at the next trustee meeting.
Under new business, an appreciation dinner was discussed. This brisket/sausage meal will be served to all volunteers who help with lodge activities, such as the annual lodge picnic and the Westfest activities. This catered meal will be held Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. Come an hour before or stay after for dominoes/social time.
Hall Manager Sister Peggy provided information on the lodge bookings for February. See the last section of this Vestnik to review the upcoming events.
Celebrating a January birthday was Sister Barbara Hykel. The attendance door prize winners were Brother Don, Sister Kim, and Brother Bobby Dobecka.
The next Trustee meeting will be Friday, January 17 at 6:30 p.m. Come enjoy pizza before the meeting. There will be discussion about the pole barn for the trailer and the window issues for the cook shed. As time allows, there will be discussion about some upcoming
Lodge 13, Dime Box held its Christmas social meeting on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Country Burger in Birch. The meeting was rescheduled due to conflicts on January 12.
The meeting was called to order by President Ricky Ford, and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. In attendance were eight members.
Kenneth Ford, Tobin Iselt, and Stevie Jatzlau were elected to be on the auditing committee at a date to be determined by the committee and treasurer. Everyone was reminded to turn in their volunteer hours the following week.
Everyone enjoyed a meal prepared by the Country Burger. We thank Karen
Baby Shower
A Baby Shower for
Brooke
for Brooke
Friday, January 3, 2025
SPJST Home O ce • Temple, TX
SPJST Graphic Designer/Communications
Specialist Brooke Hoelscher was honored with a baby shower at the nearing arrival of her baby girl. A beautiful luncheon was held at the SPJST Home Office by the SPJST Communications department.
Duesterhoft for allowing our Christmas dinner meeting to be held at the restaurant.
Next Meeting—March 9
The next meeting will be held at Diamond I Venue on Sunday, March 9 at 1 p.m.
Fraternally, Floyd Kostelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 18, Elgin
to host Montana Lane album release party
January 17
Lodge 18, Elgin will welcome Montana Lane and The Traffic Jam this Friday, January 17, 2025, “Wings” Album Release Party. Doors open at 7 p.m., and music will follow. Under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Native to various parts of Texas, ranging from College Station to Georgetown, Montana Lane and The Traffic Jam is a homegrown band focused on producing a homegrown sound, and keeping it as real as they possibly can with original music and a true Texas blend.
Join Montana at the SPJST Hall in Elgin will be friends Jake Marsac, Teagan Braun, Elle Townley, and Dalton Grice, who will be opening up the show for playing some of their own, original music in a songwriter circle style jam session!
Presenting 2025 Officers
SPJST LODGE 4,
HALLETTSVILLE
and up. Anyone under 36 inches will be free of charge.
Another update is our officers for 2025. We voted to keep them the same as last year. They are:
President Randy Pavelka
Vice President Fred Kubitza
Treasurer Cari Hammer
Secretary Carla Price
Floor Chair James Mann
Reporter Megan Mann
We look forward to seeing you all in the coming year!
Megan Mann, Reporter
—SPJST—
Tickets are $20 at the door or $15 in advance. Advance tickets can be purchased online at montanalane.com.
SPJST Lodge 18 is located at 702 State Highway 95 in Elgin, Texas 78621.
All are welcome to enjoy an evening of music at fun.
Follow Montant Lane and The Traffic Jam on social media to keep up with coming updates and maybe win some “interesting” prizes. Insta: @MontanaLaneThe Songwriter. Facebook: Montana Lane and The Traffic Jam.
—SPJST—
Lodge 35, Elk looking forward to 2025
Happy New Year from Lodge 35, Elk! We have some updates happening for 2025.
We had a wonderful time closing out 2024 with the Nolan Pick Band, and a great time was had by all!
As we begin the new year, we are updating our prices for dances. As always, we welcome our lodge members, families, and friends. We voted in December to charge $8 for anyone 36 inches tall
Lodge 6, Cottonwood celebrates Barbara Jean Hykel
Lodge 6, Cottonwood membership sang “Happy Birthday” to Barbara Jean Hykel for her January birthday. Best wishes!
—Patti Rosales, Reporter
6, Cottonwood shares December activities
LEFT PHOTO: For the December Caring Challenge, Lodge 6, Cottonwood decorated a Christmas tree with Czech ornaments and hosted a raffle at its Christmas party with proceeds going to West Kiwanis Toys for Tots. Sister Peggy Dobecka is pictured adding Czech ornaments to the tree. PHOTO 2: Lodge 6 members Quinlan Dobecka, Knox Morrison, and
Peggy Dobecka staff the lodge Christmas party raffle table. RIGHT PHOTO: Members, left to right, Irene Peterson, Jeanette Beseda, Quinlan Dobecka, Knox Morrison, and Peggy and Bobby Dobecka deliver toys bought from raffle proceeds to the toy collection station.
—Patti Rosales, Reporter
The 2025 officers of Lodge 4, Hallettsville are, left to right, Treasurer/Reporter Patsy Zabransky; Vice President/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Nancy Hadash; Secretary Annie Vahalik; and President Joe Siptak.
Lodge 4, Hallettsville held its annual Christmas social on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Vsetin Czech Moravian Brethren Church Educational Building beginning at 11:30 a.m. with registration.
At noon, a delicious meal of fried chicken provided by the lodge and a large variety of delicious side dishes and desserts brought by the members were enjoyed. The meal prayer was given.
After dinner, our age 95 members were recognized. President Siptak and Secretary Vahalik made the presentations. Vernon Chudej was unable to attend. His Milestone Member blanket was given to his brother, Alton Chudek, to deliver to Vernon. Victoria Zak was
and
present and received her blanket. Virginia Curley was unable to attend. Gayenell Chudej volunteered to present the blanket to her.
The 2025 officers were installed. District Six Director Annie Vahalik installed President Joe Siptak, Vice President/FAC Nancy Hadash, and Treasurer/Reporter Patsy Zabransky. Annie also serves the lodge as secretary.
Door prizes were awarded, and everyone received a goody bag.
Annie then led members in singing Christmas carols. They especially enjoyed singing “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”
Czech bingo was played. It was a lot
in
Mary Schroeder. PHOTO 3:
of fun. Many thanks to Phillip Hadash for calling the words in Czech and English, and to his wife, Nancy, for assisting him. The lodge and members donated the prizes.
Everyone departed for home in the Christmas spirit.
Next Meeting—February 9
The next meeting will be Sunday, February 9 at the Methodist Church Annex building at 3 p.m. Lunch will be served, and door prizes awarded. Fraternally, Patsy Zabransky, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 4 member Janelle Koehne selects a door prize. RIGHT PHOTO: Age 95 Honoree Victoria Zak, seated, receives her SPJST Milestone Member blanket. She is surrounded by family and friends.
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 4, Hallettsville hosted a bake sale on Saturday, November 23 in front of the Hallettsville Walmart. Thanks to members who donated items and the community for supporting. It was a huge success. From left to right are Bernice Marek, Gayenell Chudej, Susan and Joe Siptak, Patsy Zabransky, Nancy Hadash, and Annie Vahalik. CENTER PHOTO: Lodge 4 members’ Walk Across Texas team attended the Fall Wrapup Walk on Tuesday, December 3. The team received second place and a certificate. From left are Susan and Joe Siptak, Natalie Knesek with Texas A&M AgriLife Community
Extension Services, Patsy Zabransky, and Annie and Philip Vahalik. Philip earned a certificate for being one of the top 10 walkers. Not pictured are team members Barbara and Ricky Seffek and Nancy Hadash, who was also in the top 10 walkers. The lodge presented Mrs. Knesek with a donation for the program. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 4 members Annie Vahalik, left, and Patsy Za bransky display toys and a donation check from the lodge for St. Nicholas Ministry for providing toys and food for needy families at Christmas time. —Photo by Philip Vahalik.
LEFT PHOTO: Phillip Hadash calls bingo
Czech
English, assisted by his wife Nancy. PHOTO 2: Enjoying the bingo are, left to right, Adolph Marek, Bernice Marek, Leroy Schroeder, and
ABOVE: Alton Chudej, right, accepts the SPJST Milestone Member blanket and certificate for his brother, Age 95 Honoree Vernon Chudej, from Lodge 4 President Joe Siptak and Secretary Annie Vahalik.
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members enjoy
Christmas meal
On Sunday, December 15, 2024, SPJST Lodge 79, Corpus Christi celebrated an early Christmas with a meal of ham and sides.
The meeting was called to order at 2:10 p.m. with President Mark Rebecek leading in the Pledge of Allegiance. On the sick list was Libbie Tabola, cousin of Youth Leader Marcia Rew.
We had 17 members and guests in attendance. All officers were present. Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the minutes from the November 20 meeting, and they were approved. Treasurer Larry Elzner gave the financial report, and it was approved.
Vice President/FAC Michael Urbanovsky stated that the gifts we collected and the shoe box donations were all taken to the ARK Center. He thanked all who donated and participated the entire year on the projects.
On communications, Secretary Virginia Rebecek read the list of new members, deaths, and lapses.
Under new business, our next meeting will be Sunday, January 19, 2025, with Secretary Virginia Rebecek making meat loaf. Members are asked to bring a side dish.
Youth Leader Marcia Rew had five members and guests in attendance. The youth made Christmas tree ornaments shaped like wreaths and candy canes.
Winners of our $25 door prizes were Jacob Rebecek and Larry Elzner.
Our lodge elected officers for 2025. They are:
Presenting
2025
Officers
SPJST LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD
President Mark Rebecek
Vice President/FAC Gerilyn Donnell
Secretary Virginia Rebecek
Treasurer Larry Elzner
Youth Leader Marcia Rew
President Rebecek thanked all who served in 2024 and thanked outgoing
Vice President/FAC Michael Urbanovsky for his duties in 2024.
Christina Rew made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jerry Sijansky. The meeting was adjourned at 2:55 p.m.
The 2025 officers of Lodge 6, Cottonwood are, front, left to right, Flag Bearer Irene Peterson, Secretary/Fraternal Activities Coordinator Jeanette Beseda, and Reporter Patti Rosales.
BACK: Second from left to right, President Don Urbanovsky, Vice President Kim Seith, and Treasurer Peggy Dobecka. The officers were installed by District Three Director John Engelke, back,
Next Meeting—January 19
The next meeting is Sunday, January 19 at 2 p.m.
Fraternally, Virginia Rebecek, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland meets January 13
Lodge 80, Holland will meet on the second Monday, January 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. for its bimonthly business meeting and social time. The event will be held at Restoration Fellowship, located at 12141 East FM 2268 in Holland.
Agenda will include regular business reports and plans for social activities. A “lite” meal will be served. Please send your reservations to Rita Spinn at rita@hot.rr.com or call/text 254-7606427. Come and enjoy the fellowship. Bring your renewed “fraternal spirit” into the New Year. <>
Rita Spinn, President —SPJST—
Lodge 81, Needville presents Flight of the Keys on February 8
SPJST Lodge 81, Needville will present Flight of the Keys on Saturday, February 8, 2024, from 8 to 11 p.m. Lodge 81 is located at 13609 SH 36 in Needville, Texas.
This dueling piano show is exclusively for adults, featuring some lively language and playful music. Join us, share your song requests, and sing along in this energetic, interactive setting. Plus, you’ll be contributing to a wonderful organization – SPJST Lodge 81, Needville.
Tickets are $25 each; $500 for a front row eight-person VIP table which includes a special 21+ goodie basket; or
—Jeanette Beseda,
Lodge 6, Cottonwood gives to West Volunteer Fire Department; West Volunteer Ambulance
left.
LEFT PHOTO: West Community Volunteer Fire Department member Garrett Graham, left, receives a donation from Lodge 6, Cottonwood President Don Urbanovsky.
RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 6 President Urbanovsky, right, presents a check to West Volunteer Ambulance paramedic Tom Marek.
FAC
$250 for an eight-person table which includes priority seating. Let’s make some noise and have a fantastic time! Don’t forget to bring your favorite drinks and table snacks.
For questions or reservations, contact Bradley Stavinoha 979-739-2386. Fraternally, Kristen Jones —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas meets January 19
Dear Readers,
Be sure to mark your calendars for our next monthly meeting on Sunday, January 19, 2025. We will meet at Enchilada’s Mexican Restaurant, 7050
Greenville Avenue in Dallas, Texas 75231 at 2:30 p.m. <> Fraternally, Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston announces Blue Room events in 2025
The Blue Room is the SPJST Lodge 88, Houston Lounge for adult members and their guests.
Poker Night–January 20
Poker night in the Blue Room with our brand new poker table is Monday, January 20 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Wine/beer are available for purchase, $10 corkage for BYO. Contact Aaron Holt for info: aaronaholt@gmail.com.
Murder Mystery Party–February 22
The Murder Mystery Party in the Blue Room is Saturday, February 22. Mysterious motives, suspicious alibies,
Lodge 25, Ennis honors December Birthdays
and . . . YOU as a potential suspect? Join us for a roaring 20s murder mystery party where the laughs are loud, the clues are juicy, and the drama is entirely staged (we hope). Contact Rob Bialas (Rob.Bialas@gmail.com) or Heather Andrews (HeaAndrews@gmail.com) for details. Spots are limited - too many suspects makes for a messy crime scene. Tickets are $35.
SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis celebrated December birthdays on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Pictured are, left to right, Marvin Martinek, Evelyn Svehlak, and Mark McDonald. Happy birthday!
Wine and Dine in the Blue Room–April 26
Join us for a special evening in the company of the “Dean of Houston Sommelier’s.” Sean Beck spent over 25 years running and creating some of Houston’s most iconic dining spots including Hugo’s, Backstreet Cafe, Caracol, Xochi, and Urbe. He also runs the premier Houston wine event, The Iron
Lodge 18, Elgin members gather for December meeting
—Rita Holland, FAC
PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: Judith Sanders, David Meyer; Johnny and Irene Vrabel; Darren Mogonye, Judith Sanders, and Thomas Frierson;
Judy Wilke, Bill Viogt, Sue Brashar, and Larry Davenport; and FL Meyer. Members enjoyed a delicious meal prior to the December meeting.
PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: Larry Axelson, Thomas and Lafaye Frierson; Bob Haisler and David Nauert; Territory Manager Kerry Herrington speaks to the members; District Two Director Jesse Pospisil, Territory
Sommelier, after having won it three times. Few have shaped how Houstonians’ drink more than Sean. For this special evening, he will be cooking and sharing six magical wines primed for the fall and holiday season. We hope you can join us! Email Sara Wilson for details: Sara.wilson5858@gmail.com Tickets are $150.
Blue Room Trivia - Spring 2025–May 17
Get ready to show off your brainpower, laugh your socks off, and battle it out for the title of “The Smartest Kolache.” What to expect: Mind-bending questions, dinner and drinks to fuel your brilliance, and a prize for the smartest team - your group memorialized in the Blue Room. Cost is $35 for dinner, welcome drink, and a night of fabulous fun. All Blue Room events feature an upgraded wine list ($28/bottle and $8/glass) and your favorite lodge beer/drink selections. Email Heather Andrews HeaAndrews@gmail.com for details.
Ladies Night
Ladies Night is back - the first Thursday of each month. Dates are below and more details to come. Want the inside scoop? Join our “Ladies Night” What’s App Group - Blue Room Ladies Night. Dates are February 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, skip July - Happy 4th, August 7, September 4, October 2, November 6, and December 4. Email Heather Andrews for details at HeaAndrews@gmail.com.
Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 142, Houston elects 2025 officers
Dear Readers,
SPJST Lodge 142, Houston met on Sunday, December 8, 2024, for the annual meeting and election of officers in the annex building. Lunch was served at 1 p.m. and consisted of fried chicken, potato salad, and green beans. Dessert was a beautiful Christmas cake.
President Dennis Hermis called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Flag Bearer Zoey Coleman. A moment of silence was held for all who perished at Pearl Harbor.
Roll call of officers showed all present except Youth Leader Amanda Muzny.
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis stated minutes of the previous meeting were in the Vestnik.
J.R. Coleman spoke on the changes coming in personnel at our S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living Centers.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick gave his financials, and all approved.
Territory Manager Kerry Herrington and Agents Mary Elizabeth Bird and Margaret Norris-Guerrero spoke on annuities and updating beneficiary information.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider thanked everyone for all donations throughout the year as we all are
in compliance. Coming in 2025 will be Family Fun Days throughout the state. Sick Committee reported Dennis Hermis had eye surgery, and we were happy to have him at our meeting. Ms. Jean Herrington was not feeling well.
Audit Committee reported that the books were audited on December 2, and all books were in great order.
New member is Nora Rose Radford - agent is Kerry Herrington. Karole Coleman and Barbara Linney-Gonzalez made a motion and second to welcome her, and all members approved.
2025 Officers
Officers for 2025 were elected as follows:
President Dennis Hermis
Vice President Kerry Herrington
Secretary Elizabeth Hermis
Financial Secretary/Treasurer Keith Kieschnick
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pat Schleider
Youth Leader Karole Coleman
Guide Aiden Hermis Flag Bearer Zoey Coleman
District Council representatives were also selected. They are President Dennis Hermis and Youth Leader Karole Coleman.
Remuneration changes were approved.
Birthday celebrant is J.R. Coleman on December 30. Anniversaries were celebrated by Amy and Keith Kiesch-
Lodge 39, Bryan brings holiday cheer and carols to Lampstand Assisted Living
Dear Readers, Happy New Year! Lodge 39, Bryan met Friday, December 6, 2024, at Lampstand Assisted Living on 29th Street in Bryan, Texas, at 5 p.m. The residents had lots of smiles and were very welcoming. We sang a few songs in the dining hall, then continued singing carols down each hall with the children going into each room, shaking hands and wishing the residents “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
There were so many smiles and happy faces to see the little ones there. It was a great time.
Afterwards, we all continued to
CiCi’s Pizza for our Christmas party. We had a great meal, and the children played games and had a good time.
We held a short meeting and elected officers. Congratulations to everyone.
We wished everyone a happy and safe new year and said our goodbyes.
Next Meeting—March 9
The next meeting will be on the second Sunday in March, which will be Sunday, March 9, 2025.
Sincerely,
Binnie Matejka Roesler Treasurer/Reporter —SPJST—
nick - December 6, and Debra and Kerry Herrington - 18 years on December 12. Congratulations!
We played bingo for our social after the meeting. Fun was had by all.
Next Meeting—January 19
The meeting adjourned at 3:20 p.m. with the next meeting set for Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 2 p.m. with a lunch and social at 1 p.m. in the dining area at Lodge 88, Houston.
Fraternally, Elizabeth Hermis, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 154, Fort Worth shares lodge, Sokol activities
Happy December birthdays to December 1 - BJ Cleveland; December 2Deanne Kearney; December 4 - Patti Gage; and December 9 - Jerry Milan turned 91 years old! Congratulations to our special member birthday - Mary Krupka Schneider, who turned 101 on her big birthday this past fall - October 21, 2024. Mary, we miss you at game nights!
One more Sokol legend - USAG Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2002 - Betty Okino - coached by Sokol Fort Worth member. When Kelly Stoppleman-
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi gives to ARK Center
Lodge 79, Corpus Christi members collected items for the ARK Center. LEFT PHOTO: Members are pictured with the donations. RIGHT PHOTO: Vice President/FAC Michael Urbanosky and his daughters delivered the donations to the ARK Center.
Eaton was living in the Chicago area, she coached Betty Okino at the Illinois Gymnastics Institute in Elmhurst, Illinois. Kelly worked their International Gymnastics Association Clinic in 1986 and coached Betty for five years before Betty moved to Texas where she joined Bela Karolyi’s gym.
Once Betty had made the US National Team, she placed second all around beating Karolyi’s gymnast Kim Zmeskal. Bela Karolyi then recruited her to his gym. Betty was first to do a triple turn on the beam, thus having the skill named after her in the code of
Lodge 48, Beyersville members enjoy Christmas party
went.
Upcoming birthdays are January 2Joe Vrzalik; January 5 - Sheri Humphreys; January 28 - Tal Milan; January 30 - Debbie Kratz-Conaway; February 7 - CL Gage; February 13 - Billie Jo Allred; February 21 - Henrietta Milan. Mary Steinman —SPJST—
Lodge 160, San Angelo meets February 20
—Virginia Rebecek, Secretary
points. Betty also won the bronze Olympic medal in 1992 at the Barcelona Summer Olympics.
Kelly Eaton received “Choreographer of the Year” from Elite Coaches Association in 1998. The Illinois Gymnastic Institute where she coached had taught 20-plus National Team members and 50-plus gymnasts that received full college scholarships for gymnastics. How about that for our Sokol Fort Worth Notable Coach?
Sokol Fort Worth Czech Dancers performed at National Hall Heritage Day in September - Ada Skrasek and BJ Cleveland, Miles Jones and Alina McLane, Reid Jones and CarrieAnn Jones, and Christy Dougan and Nate Shugert. Beseda dancers also performed at Sokol Dallas Heritage Day in October - Ada Skrasek and Carrie Ann Jones, Miles Jones and Alina McLane, Christy Dougan and Nate Shugart, Jody Steinman and Kim Steinman. Great job representing SPJST Lodge 154, Fort Worth and Sokol Fort Worth on the dance floor!
Carrie Ann Jones and Mary Steinman thank you for leading the charge around Sokol Fort Worth this past year! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Member Shout-out! - Janet Fulkerson has recently been seen in a new television commercial. She now has a successful blog called The Grateful Gardenia. In the past, she was a regular on a television show called Silk Stockings which aired in the 1990s. Janet is one of our Sokol Notables.
Many Sokol members and friends ventured to Brazil for 10 days to fish peacock bass on the Amazon River - Jim Mason, Wade and Les Garrett, Scott Allred, Patti Gage were among those who
Dear Members, SPJST Lodge 160, San Angelo will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 5 p.m. The meeting will take place at Los Panchitos Restaurant, located at 34 East Avenue D in San Angelo. We hope you will be able to join us!
Fraternally, Sandra Jansa, President —SPJST—
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members volunteer at Blessing
Cup
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members Charlene Borak, top photo, and Vlasta Bartos begin the year by volunteering at the Blessing Cup.
—Sharon Borak, Secretary
Lodge 48, Beyersville members gathered for a Christmas dinner and fun social on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Circleville Store in Circleville, Texas.
Groundhog Day
Move over local television and radio meteorologists. Come February 2, a different weather expert garners all the forecasting glory.
Groundhog Day celebrations are an entertaining way to break up the bleakness of winter. Groundhog Day evolved from an earlier custom, known as Candlemas Day, which was observed by early European Christians. During Candlemas, clergy blessed candles and distributed them to others as a way to ward off the winter chill. A poem was recited during the ceremony:
If Candlemas be fair and bright, Winter has another fight. If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, Winter will not come again.
German settlers in Pennsylvania likely brought over Candlemas traditions, and they evolved into Groundhog Day customs involving a local animal known for its hibernation habits. Similar to Candlemas Day, if the groundhog "sees" his shadow then winter will continue for another six weeks. If he does not, spring is around the corner. Punxsutawney Phil is the most famous of the prognosticating groundhogs. Phil emerges at festivities in Gobbler's Knob in Pennsylvania each year. But there are others who also look for their own shadows in different regions
Congrats, Lodge 81 Grad!
Congratulations to Sarah Danielle Norman who graduated from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, on Thursday, December 12, 2024, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Allied Health. She earned her degree cum laude and with honors.
Sarah will continue her education at Texas A&M School of Nursing in Round Rock, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She aims to become a registered nurse, building on her impressive academic foundation.
A proud member of SPJST Lodge 81, Needville, Sarah continues her family legacy of service; her late grandfather, Adolph Macha, was a former president of the lodge. She is the daughter of Sheryl and Todd Norman of Needville and the granddaughter of Delores Macha of Needville and Richard and Peggy Norman of Richmond. Best wishes to Sarah in her future endeavors!
of the country. Families can get in on the Groundhog action and do their own weather-predicting activities and other fun stuff. The following are some creative ways to celebrate Groundhog Day.
✦ Make shadow art. Explore how shadows work by gathering some three-
Lodge 91, San Jacinto Gets CrafTy at christmas for waterford senior living home
Lodge 91, San Jacinto brought festive crafts to The Waterford Senior Living Home this past Christmas. Pictured from left to right are Malba Smesny, Marie Stasney, and Kathleen Munsch. Marie, a resident of Waterford in Baytown, Texas, has been a dedicated SPJST member and officer of Lodge 91 for approximately 55 years. Both residents and staff enjoyed the beautifully decorated tables in the main dining room throughout the holiday season.
are extremely intelligent animals that form complex social networks. Groundhogs belong to a group of large ground squirrels known as marmots, and are native to the eastern United States and Canada.
✦ Create a groundhog craft. All you will need is a paper tube made from construction paper, and a cut-out paper groundhog attached to a straw, stick or pipe cleaner for a fun kids' craft. Kids can take turns popping their groundhogs out of the tops of their tubes just like Punxsutawney Phil pops out of his den.
✦ Read a groundhog-themed book. Plenty of books feature groundhogs as the main character. "Wake Up Groundhog!" and "How to Catch a Groundhog" are two such options.
dimensional objects and sidewalk chalk. Venture outdoors during the morning and see if you can trace the shadows of any of the shapes onto the sidewalk or a driveway.
✦ Learn about groundhogs. Groundhogs are interesting creatures that are sometimes referred to as woodchucks. They
✦ Go for a night walk. The days soon will be getting longer and hours of night shorter. Capitalize on the opportunity to enjoy the quiet of the darkness with a neighborhood stroll.
Groundhog Day marks the moment when people learn if winter will stretch on or if spring will soon arrive. It is marked by certain customs that families can make their own. (MS)
—SPJST—
Lodge 49, Rowena celebrated its Christmas party on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the lodge hall. Members wrapped socks donated for local nursing home residents while enjoying an evening of songs, with Teresa Strube providing guitar accompaniment. Finger foods were served, adding to the festive atmosphere of fun and fellowship.
—Sylvia Rollwitz, FAC
Lo d g e 49, Rowena celebrates Christmas
Decadent desserts to try while dining out
Diners can try an array of unique dishes when dining out. Choices can be made based on different criteria, be it international fare or complicated dishes that are best left to professional chefs. But it's not just breakfast, lunch or dinner that tempt the tastebuds while dining out. Don't forget to leave room for dessert, especially at restaurants that feature a number of impressive confections.
Though it's unwise to try them all at once, the following are seven decadent desserts to consider when dining out.
✦ Crème brûlée: Despite having only a few simple ingredients, crème brûlée is an elegant and rich dessert. According to NYT Cooking, most crème brûlée recipes require the use of a small propane torch to toast the top of the dessert to achieve a crackled, sugary top. Vanilla is the custard of choice in this dessert, but some pastry chefs experiment with additional flavors.
✦ Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a layered treat comprised of lady fingers cookies soaked in espresso and topped with sweet and creamy mascarpone cheese and cocoa. This classic Italian dessert is very simple, but decadent nonetheless.
✦ Crêpes Suzette: According to Food & Wine, this dessert is traditionally made with light and airy crêpes topped with an orange-flavored buttery sauce made from caramelized sugar. As the French Crêpes Suzette typically contains Grand Marnier, triple sec or orange Curaçao, it is often flambéed tableside.
✦ Sachertorte: This Austrian dessert classically layers chocolate cake with apricot preserves and is one of the most famous Viennese culinary specialties. The rich dessert is made even more decadent thanks to the dark chocolate gânache glaze.
✦ Napoleon pastry: Napoleon pastry also is known as mille-feuille, which is a classic French dessert that has been enjoyed for hundreds of years. It is made of many layers of puff pastry layered with pastry cream.
✦ New York cheesecake: Various institutions have different interpretations of
New York cheesecake. It may be made only with cream cheese or with the addition of sour cream. Others say that the cheesecake should stand alone with no crust, while other recipes feature a graham cracker crust. Most people agree cheesecake should not have any toppings.
✦ Cannoli: Cannoli is a Sicilian dessert made from tube-shaped shells of fried dough filled with a creamy filling made from a ricotta cheese base dotted with chocolate chips or candied fruit rinds.
Dining out presents perfect opportunities to indulge in any number of decadent desserts. (MS)
—SPJST—
Lodge 88, Houston welcomes Mollie B and Squeezebox with Ted Lange on January 25
Lodge 88, Houston will host a Polka Party featuring Mollie B and Squeezebox with Ted Lange on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 online and $30 at the door. Visit lodge88.org to purchase tickets. Tickets for those 17 and younger should be purchased at the door.
—Mary Hoffman Entertainment Chair
Lodge 92, Fort Worth January Dance Scenes: Randy and the Roadhouse band
Lodge 92, Fort Worth had its first country-western dance of the year on Sunday, January 5, 2025. Randy and the Roadhouse performed. Everyone had a great time on such a cold and windy day. The band sang the “Happy Birthday” song to Bessie Ells-
worth, a lifetime member of Lodge 92. Come join us at the next country-western dance, which is held every first Sunday of the month from 2 to 6 p.m. Enjoy good music and a barbecue dinner. —Lisa Ellsworth, Financial Secretary
Gas fireplace safety tips
Few images capture the spirit of a season as well as a family gathered around a fireplace embodies winter. Winter is indeed a time when families spend more time together indoors, and there's no better gathering spot than around a warm fireplace.
Heartwarming scenes around a fireplace are even more enjoyable when safety has been prioritized. While natural fireplaces with roaring flames are notable safety risks, it's important that
Lodge
107, Floresville
celebrates holiday season
Lodge 107, Floresville members gathered on Sunday, December 22, 2024, to celebrate the holiday season at Maverick Grill.
—Trey
Bielefeld, President
individuals with gas fireplaces embrace fire safety as well. The following are some gas fireplace safety strategies everyone can embrace.
● Avoid the DIY installation route. Even the most skilled do-it-yourselfers are urged to let the professionals install a new gas fireplace. Gas lines are nothing to mess around with, and professional installation teams have ample experience setting up new gas fireplaces in a home.
● Be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector on the same floor as the fireplace. During the gas fireplace installation, ask that a carbon monoxide detector with battery backup is installed on the same floor. The detector alarm will alert individuals if something is amiss, like a gas leak. Periodically inspect the detector to ensure it's working properly.
● Periodically inspect your safety screen. Glass panels are standard features on many gas fireplaces. Such panels separate the fire within the fireplace from the people and items outside of it. Glass panels can become extremely hot, which is why most gas fireplaces come with safety screens as well. These mesh safety screens can keep curious kids and pets from touching hot glass panels, and also protect adults. In-
Lodge 185, New Braunfels hosts Christmas Party in Seguin
Lodge 185, New Braunfels members gathered for their meeting and Christmas party on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Zorn Bowling Club in Seguin. Activities included bowling, dominoes, social time, and a delicious meal.
spect the safety screens periodically to ensure they're still intact and up to the job, replacing them if necessary.
● Keep objects a safe distance away from the fireplace. Experts advise keeping objects a minium of three feet away from the fireplace at all times. Fabrics and other materials that contact the glass pose a fire hazard, so keep the area in front of the fireplace clear.
● Make the fireplace off limits to children and pets. Though the aforementioned safety screens are a vital safety feature that can keep kids and pets safe, it's still best that kids and pets are kept away from the fireplace at all times. Turn off the fireplace if kids are playing in the room, and use safety gates to keep kids and pets away when the fireplace is in use.
Lodge 177, Academy shares November, December activities
PHOTOS 1, 2: Lodge 177, Academy awarded bingo players with special prizes in honor of Thanksgivingcash and Fudge Stripes cookies. PHOTOS 3, 4, 5: Lodge members, bingo workers and families enjoyed the bi-annual dinner at Dynasty Chinese Restaurant in Temple. Several prizes were awarded during the social.
LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 177 hosted a Christmas bingo event in December. All players received a bingo dauber. Other gifts awarded were cookie tins and popcorn.
PHOTO: Ten lucky players also received a cash prize.
—Penny Rowe, FAC
RIGHT
● Book annual fireplace inspections. Annual inspections of the fireplace can ensure everything is working properly. Professional inspections may detect potentially harmful gas leaks, and annual checkups also can help individuals extend the life of their fireplaces.
● Recognize outdoor gas fireplaces have their own safety protocols. Outdoor fireplaces have become wildly popular in recent years. Homeowners who install outdoor gas fireplaces on their properties must recognize these awe-inspiring features require their own unique safety measures, including turning off the gas supply at the end of outdoor entertaining season and protecting the fireplace from the elements when necessary.
Gas fireplace safety strategies can protect residents and also increase the life expectancy of these sought-after features. (MS)
Pick the perfect Valentine's Day flowers
Valentine's Day is steeped in tradition. Valentine's Day is the most lucrative day for florists, with the red rose the most popular flower given on this day for lovebirds.
Just because millions of roses are prepared in advance of Valentine's Day sales doesn't mean this is the type of flower that one has to choose for a bouquet or arrangement. A surprise bouquet can feature unique blooms. Here are tips to give the perfect bouquet to the person who claims your heart.
● Identify your loved one's favorite colors and flowers. Understanding your partner's floral preferences is the first step in choosing a Valentine's Day arrangement. Many have a favorite flower type or color, and everyone's isn't necessarily a red rose. Some people love bright daffodils, while others like exotic lilies. Pay attention to these likes to select flowers that will delight your partner.
● Select fresh flowers. When buying flowers in person, make sure they are fresh by gently feeling the part of the petal that meets the stem. If this part is firm, then the flower is fresh.
Presenting 2025 Officers
SPJST LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT
● Opt for neutral tones. If you're unsure of which flowers to buy, stick with varietals in white and soft, neutral tones. This will lend a more romantic vibe to the bouquet. Bright, high-contrast florals may come off as tacky unless you can guarantee that the person prefers them.
● Keep allergies in mind. Valentine's Day should be about offering love, not a case of the sniffles. If the person in your life suffers from floral allergies, avoid certain blooms, like sunflowers, chrysanthemums and hyacinths. Tulips, irises and hydrangea are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
● Order early. Time is of the essence when getting flowers for Valentine's
Day. Florists may rush or have fewer flowers to work with as Valentine's Day draws closer. Ordering well in advance means you'll get your desired arrangement.
Choosing flowers comes down to a few simple steps to offer a gift of love on Valentine's Day. (MS)
—SPJST—
Scenes from Lodge 219, El Paso Christmas Party
The 2025 officers of Lodge 246, Morgan’s Point are, left to right, Fraternal Activities Coordinator Susan Hutton, Secretary/Treasurer David Nauert, President Ingrid Petrik, and Vice President Frances McBride. The officers were installed by District Two Director Jesse Pospisil at the Christmas volunteer appreciation lunch on December 7, 2024, in Belton.
Lodge 219, El Paso members enjoyed a Christmas party on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Peking Garden in El Paso. TOP PHOTOS: Santa visits with Lodge 219 Vice President Francisco Viniegra and President Aracely Quiz and District Four Director Bobby Davis (center photo). TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Francisco, left, and Director Davis welcome the members. BELOW: Santa hands out surprises to youngsters, and everyone enjoy food and fellowship.
Unique Valentine's Day gift ideas
Gifting is a key component of Valentine's Day celebrations every February 14. Valentine's Day is a mere month-and-a-half after the holiday season, so ideas for more thoughtful gifts may be in short supply. Let these Valentine's day gift ideas serve as inspiration.
✦ Custom painted portrait: Many local artists paint beautiful portraits from photographs. Find an image you like and have it made into an even more impressive work of art.
✦ Doll likeness: The well known Funko POP! brand known for its pop culture figurines enables customers to create likenesses of themselves or loved ones. You can have custom dolls made in your sweetheart's likeness.
✦ Preserved roses: While fresh roses may only last a few days to a week, preserved or "eternity" roses are
Scenes from Lodge 229, Abilene Christmas Party
✦ Experiential gifts: Experiential gifts may be just what is needed this Valentine's Day. Some options include a couple's cooking class, tickets to a sports game or concert, a vacation to a romantic locale, or a day or night out on the town.
✦ Prepare a favorite recipe: Learn what your loved one enjoys eating the most and then recreate the recipe as a thoughtful gift and dinner at home.
This Valentine's Day, people can consider these unique thoughtful gift ideas. (MS)
—SPJST—
treated and specially packaged so they can endure and serve as lasting, welcome reminders of Valentine's Day love.
✦ Journal or scrapbook: A decorative scrapbook or journal enables your special someone to keep track of moments spent together and key milestones.
✦ First date map: Gift a framed picture
of a map marked with the specific location of your first date, whether it was a restaurant, park or museum.
✦ Birthstone jewelry: Jewelry is a popular gift on Valentine's Day. Make gifts even more special by finding pieces that include your special someone's birthstone. The American Gem Society offers a handy chart at www.americangemsociety.org/birthstones/.
Lodge 258, Seguin members, guests enjoy Christmas party
Lodge 258, Seguin held its Christmas party and officer installation on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at El Patron Bar and Grill in Seguin. Members and guests enjoyed a gift exchange and a delicious meal.
LEFT PHOTO: The fun gift exchange. PHOTO 2: The Mills family. PHOTO 3: Lodge 258, President Chester Jenke and wife Colleen. RIGHT PHOTO: Secretary/Treasurer Carrie Origas and husband Steven.
PHOTO 1: Tammy Haecker and Clara Orbeck. PHOTO 2: Vice President Melvin Strey and Peggy Talley. PHOTO 3: District Seven Director Regina House and husband James. PHOTO 4: State Fraternal Director Frank Horak, and Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny and
husband David Nauert. RIGHT PHOTO: President Jenke presents a $300 donation to the SPJST 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive to State Fraternal Director Horak and Vice President of Communications Zavodny. The funds were collected and donated by the members at the meeting.
Lodge 229, Abilene hosted a Christmas party on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Golden Chopsticks Restaurant in Abilene. Members enjoyed good food, a 50-50 drawing, and door prizes.
Residents of S.P.J.S.T. Skilled Nursing Home traveled to the Travis County Expo to participate in the 39th Annual Games for Life. This was SPJST’s first time ever to attend the Games for Life!
Residents participated against 13 other teams from Austin, Bastrop, and Kyle areas. They competed in arts and crafts, volleyball, shot put, discus, wheelchair races, walker races, and spirit.
We had 12 residents who attended and six others who submitted their arts and crafts.
We came out with 36 medals and ribbons, first place spirit award, and third place overall out of 14 teams. The residents are so ready to participate again next year. Winners were:
Roy Allgood - Men’s 90-99 division
Shot Put - 2nd place
Discus - 1st place
Wheelchair - 1st place
Ernest Ariola - Men’s 80-89 division
Discus - 2nd place
Shot Put - 1st place
Walker Race - 2nd place
Lola Elliott - Women’s 90-99 division
Shot put - 3rd place
Discus - 1st place
Walker Race - 2nd place
Harold Eskew - Men’s 70-79 division
Discus - 2nd place
Alice Smith - Women’s 90-99 division
Discus - 1st place
Louis Menk - Men’s 70-79 division
Shot Put - 1st place
Wall Hanging CraftHonorable Mention
Barbara LehmanTable Decoration Craft - 1st place
Curtis Neidig - Men’s 80-89 division
Discus - 2nd place
Shot Put - 2nd place
Wheelchair Race - 3rd place
S.P.J.S.T. Skilled Nursing Home in Taylor Residents Participates in 2024 Games for Life
Tommy Sherek - Men’s 70-79 division Shot Put - 3rd place
Shirley VolcikWall Decorations Craft - 1st place
Joe Vrabel - Men’s 80-89 division Shot Put - 1st place
Discus - 1st place
Wheelchair Race 2nd place
Wall Decoration Craft - 3rd place
Bertha Pistone - Women’s 100+ division Shot Put - 2nd place
Discus - 1st place
Walker Race - 1st place
Diana BeranOil Painting - Honorable Mention
Violet MoldenhourOil painting - 3rd place
Loretta TateDecoupage Craft - 1st place
Frances FreelsWall Decoration - 2nd place
Patty MatthewsDoor Decorations - 2nd place
Delphine SamuelsonAcrylic Painting - 2nd place
Facility AwardT-shirt Design - 1st place
Facility AwardSpirit Award - 1st place
Facility Award - Support Staff
Wheelchair Race - 1st place
Facility Award - Administrator
Wheelchair Race - 1st place
Facility Award - Activity Director Wheelchair Race - 2nd place
Melissa Meiske
Activity Director - Taylor
S.P.J.S.T. Senior Living —SPJST—
SPJST YOUTH SECTION
District Five youth plan Disney vacation
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.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
Travel on a coach bus with other SPJST families to Orlando, Florida, for a Disney vacation on June 7 to 11, 2025. Spend three days at your choice of Disney Park. Enjoy Disney without all the costs. Youth can fundraise at the local level to help with costs. Have any questions?
Price per person for a family of six is $740 each (or $4,440 total); family of five - $760 each (or $3,800 total); family of four - $790 (or $3,160 total); and $850 each for a family of three (or $2,550 total). We will be staying at Fairfield Inn, and each room can sleep up to six people.
Contact Kristen Jones at 936-5563248. A $500 family deposit is due at registration to guarantee spots. Fraternally, Kristen Jones —SPJST—
Talent Show Ideas for Every Type of Talent
By Kristin McCarthy, M.Ed. lovetoknow.com
Article continued from December 23 Vestnik.
Do Some Bike Tricks
Bike tricks can find a space in a family talent show where they might not
fit into a community or school talent show. Head outside and show your loved ones the cool things you can do on your bike. Can you glide with your feet straight out or ride with one or no hands on the handlebars? Can you pop a wheelie or do some cool stops? All these possibilities can be included in a bike routine; just make sure anything performed is parent-approved and you’re wearing all the safety gear.
Sing Your Favorite Ballads
If you’re too shy to sing in front of a crowd at school or in the community but love to belt out a tune in the shower, then sing something for the fam. They’ve heard you singing in the shower anyway, so it’s lower stakes than performing for a bunch of strangers.
Prepare Fancy Foods
Use your kitchen and your culinary skills to create something delicious for your family. Whatever your kitchen talent is, share it in a family talent show. Do you make the perfect grilled cheese? Set up a demo. Decorate cookies or a cake, make sushi rolls, build the coolest, most creative sandwich in the world, or blend up some smoothies. If your talents are in cuisine, then show them off!
Build Something From Lego Bricks
Build something amazing from Lego bricks and show it to everyone on talent show day. Tell your family all about how you made your creation, how long it took, what the challenging parts were, and what your favorite parts of the creation are.
Showcase Bubble Blowing
Bubble blowing is beautiful and fun for people of all ages. Whip up some bubble solution and show everyone how to make bubbles of all shapes and sizes. Experiment with varying tools to create little bubbles, huge bubbles, or masses of bubbles.
Have a Hand Clapping Routine
Grab a sibling and showcase a handclapping game. This is the perfect partner act for the fam.
Do Some Card Tricks
Card tricks can be real crowdpleasers. Start with some super easy card tricks and show your family your newfound skills.
Build a Card House
Speaking of cards, how about showing off your steady hand? Build a card house or card structure to showcase your unique talent.
Try Trampoline or Swing Routines
If you have a trampoline or swing set in the backyard, use it to create a routine for the family talent show. Bounce and flip around, impressing the audience, or show off your swinging abilities on the swing set.
Talent Show Considerations
When it comes to talent show act options, the possibilities are endless. When
deciding on an act, make sure to account for the following:
• Related costs.
Will you need costumes or props to make your routine special?
• Practice time.
Tailor your act to the amount of time that you have to practice. Don’t choose an act that will require hours of practice time each day if you don’t have those houses to devote to the routine.
Make sure it is non-offensive. What’s funny to one person may be highly offensive to another.
• Talent Ideas for Your Talent Show
No matter what you choose as your talent, remember that it’s all in good fun. So get out there and show your skills with our talent show ideas.
Youth Club shares photos from all 2024 Caring Challenges
Lodge 66, Waco Youth Club completed all 12 SPJST Caring Challenges in 2024.
Great job!
Lodge 88, Houston youth member joins school choir to sing National Anthem at Houston Texans game
Dear Members,
On Sunday, December 15, 2024, I attended the Houston Texans game at NRG Stadium. They played the Miami Dolphins. I am part of the St. Cecilia Children’s Choir, and we had the privilege to sing the National Anthem for this game. We had to get there early so we could practice and be ready for about 70,000 people. They fed us breakfast. We got to see Toro and some of the players. I got to stay and watch the Texans win. They are now going to the playoffs. This was a great experience and an opportunity I will never forget.
Sincerely,
Evan Pflughaupt, age __ —SPJST—
In Memoriam
n Memory of Eugene Haisler
Eugene Haisler, age 91, of Burlington, Texas, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, at a local care center.
A visitation for Eugene was held Monday, January 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at ScanioHarper Funeral Home in Temple. A funeral service was Tuesday, January 7 at 2 p.m. at Ocker Brethren Church near Temple. Burial followed at Ocker Brethren Cemetery.
Eugene was born on November 21, 1933, in Temple, the son of L.B. and Bertha Frances (Vanecek) Haisler.
He served his country in the United States Army; was a member and former president of SPJST Lodge 24, Cyclone Flag Hall; and a member of Ocker Brethren Church. Eugene built custom homes for many years as the owner of Haisler Construction Company. He married Vallie Cabla in 1957. On October 2, 1982, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple, he married Dorothy Marie Kucera Vitek.
Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, L. B. and Bertha F. Haisler.
He is survived by wife Dorothy M. Haisler of Burlington; children Myron Haisler and wife Olivia of Morgan’s Point Resort, Alan Haisler and wife Rose of Franklin, Deborah Schiller and husband Reuben of Salado, Dan Vitek and wife Joanne of Angola, Indiana, Cathy Hartley and husband Rick of Amarillo, Tom Vitek and wife Pam of Salado, Mike Vitek and wife Dianne of Keller, and Leonard Vitek of Saginaw; 22 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; brother Melvin Haisler and wife Sandra of Belton; and sister Jeanette Vasek of Temple.
Memorials may be made to Ocker Brethren Church, 17454 TX-53 Temple, Texas 76501.
In Memory of Philip Ruzicka
Philip Ray Ruzicka of Warsaw, Texas, died Sunday, December 15, 2024, after a long battle with prostate cancer. He was 82.
Memorial service will be Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Grove Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 3920 Samuell Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75228 followed by graveside burial with military and Dallas Fire Department honors. Reception to immediately follow at Grove Hill.
Born January 14, 1942, in Dallas to Joseph and Emma Ruzicka, “Zeke” was a retired Dallas firefighter, amateur farmer, pilot, and lover of crossword puzzles. He was a graduate of the inaugural class of WW Samuel Class (1960) and spent many of his high school days making sure his colonial cream 1957 Chevy was the sharpest machine running in Urbandale. He spent two years at then North Texas State University in Denton before transferring to the University of Texas at Austin where he was active in the Delta Upsilon fraternity and met the former Margie Carr, who would later become the love of his life.
Post-graduation, Phil joined the United States Air Force in 1966, achieving the rank of staff sergeant in less than four years and serving as a hydraulic mechanic for F-105 Thunderchiefs and as a rescue crewman on the HH-43B Huskie helicopter in SE Asia. During his Vietnam service, he was recognized for rescuing two downed F-4 Phantom aircrew as well as earning a Purple Heart.
Upon discharge, Phil returned to Dallas where he and Margie married in 1971. He joined the Dallas Fire Department (DFD), serving 30 years until his retirement as Captain of No. 3 Fire Station in 2001. In 1981, the family moved to rural Kaufman County where Phil built the current family farm house.
Phil was a lover of classic cars, restoring a 1956 T-Bird he acquired in lieu of payment for hauling hay during his
Eugene Haisler Phil Ruzicka
Monday, January 13, 2025
time at Air Force tech school in Wichita, Kansas. He also acquired numerous other classics, including antique farm tractors and a variety of machines that would have made him a star on American Pickers.
In later years, he enjoyed watching grandchildren’s activities from sporting events to art shows, recalling tall tales from his time with DFD, and playing poker with a number of friends from his high school and fire department days. He was quick witted, had a knack for writing op-eds to the Dallas Morning News (and Times Herald), loved watching his Longhorns and reading sports columnist Blackie Sherrod.
He was a member of SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas.
A true patriot and Texan at heart, Phil is preceded in death by his parents and sister Helene Ruzicka Hall.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margie; sons Joe (Beth, Emma, and AJ) and John (Danielle, Will, and Phoebe); and daughter Katy (grand dog CL); plus numerous extended family.
The family requests making a donation to the charity of your choice (or just save the money like Phil would).
—SPJST—
In Memory of Frank Zrubek
Frank Joseph Zrubek, age 94, of Granger, Texas, passed away Saturday, December 14, 2024, in Anchorage, Alaska, while in the care of Pamela and Kevin Miller after surviving the March 2022 tornado in Granger.
A mass of Christian burial was on Saturday, December 28 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylor followed by a graveside service at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Taylor.
Frank was born on June 2, 1930, in Granger to Frank Sr. and Annie Zezulka Zrubek. He retired from American Desk in Temple after 47 years of dedicated service. He was a member of the Temple Knights of Columbus; SPJST Lodge 29, Taylor; and a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylor.
Frank enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: eating Blue Bell ice cream, playing straight dominoes, watching Gene Autry, sitting under the double tap root tree on his farm, and attending family functions. In the last two years, he also came to love camping in Alaska with family.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Edwin, Daniel, and Theodore Zrubek; and sisters Elsie Zezulka, Dorothy Nardini, and Mary Ann Wallis.
Frank is survived by sister Evelyn Albritton; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
—SPJST—
Podpora
Temple College’s Lambda Theta, Phi Theta Kappa to host Tex-Czech Awareness Day January 27
Want to learn more about the cultures that make up our amazing Central Texas area? The Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter of Temple College will be hosting a Tex-Czech Awareness Day on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the campus of Temple College - inside the Arnold Student Union Building at 2600 South First Street in Temple, Texas.
Come join us on our growing campus to experience and celebrate Czech heritage here in Bell County. We will have musicians, poetry reading, polka dancers from West, samples of food and drink, and booths for traditional dressmaking, recipes, and more! Event is free to attend, and all are welcome.
Support our local Lambda Theta chapter of Temple College PTK Honors Society in bringing awareness to this beautiful culture with roots right here in Central Texas.
Attractions
• Live Czech music
- Jerry Haisler and Michael Morris
• Czech pastries, food, and beverages
– including the popular Czech drink, Kofola (similar to cola)
- Little Bohemian Bakery
• Czech kroje display
• A display of Czech historical items
- Czech Heritage Museum in Temple
• Czech Kitchen
- Display of Czech cookbooks and recipes
• Czech storytelling and poetry
- Michael Morris
• Czech dancing demonstration
- Evelyn Vybiral Montgomery and Jerry Haisler
• Panel Interview and Questions:
- Michael Morris - Moderator
- Panelists: Czech Heritage and Museum representative
Kenny Lange
Former Miss Czech-Slovak USA and Temple College Faculty
Sarah Armor and other guests . . .
Czech Book Donation Table
Temple College’s Hubert M. Dawson Library is seeking donations of Czech books in hopes to establish a permanent collection. If you’ve got books to donate that are related to anything Czech – specifically Czech Texans – please consider bringing and donating them to this very worthy cause.
There are several ways to reach the South Parking Lot – which is nearest the Arnold Student Union (ASU) Building.
• 2658 South 1st Street (if southbound on 1st Street) - Turn right into the campus, then make an immediate left – go past the Hubert M. Dawson Library. Then turn right into the South Parking Lot. Look for the sidewalk that leads to the ASU – adjacent to the large, new building construction.
• 23900 SE Loop 363 Service Road (if westbound on Loop 363) - Exit the Loop onto the service road (towards South 5th Street and 31st Street). Take the turn into the South Parking Lot on your right. Look for the sidewalk that leads to the ASU – adjacent to the large, new building construction.
• 2705 South 5th Street (if north or southbound on South 5th Street). Turn into the campus and follow the road into the South Parking Lot. Look for the sidewalk that leads to the ASU – adjacent to the large, new building construction.
Děkují!
Michael Morris
Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
Hours of Operation
Czech Cu l tural Calendar
Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center (CHMGC), 119 West French Avenue, Temple TX. 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 at 7 p.m.: Tarok Parties—All ages are welcome. No admission fee. Award-winning 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; email czechheritagemuseum@gmail.com; find them on Facebook; or visit www.czechheritagemuseum.org.
Monday through Saturday
Czech Center Museum Houston (CCMH), 4920 San Jacinto Street, Houston TX. 77004. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibits. Culture, art, music, and stories of Czechs, Slovaks, and people of all cultures who left their country to seek liberty 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 events at CCMH as well as free Czech language lessons and monthly
membership socials. Monthly Movie Night: CCMH has reinstated monthly movie nights. Call 713-528-2060; or visit czechcenter.org.
TCGS Contact Information
Texas Czech Genealogical Society’s new correspondence address is PO Box 150772, Austin, TX 78715. Please send all correspondence to this address including items for Ceske Stopy.
January 24-25
Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion & Blacksmithing Event—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange 78945: Exhibits, demonstrations, saw mill operation, displays, vendors, music. Email info@czechtexas.org; phone 888785-4500; or visit www.czechtexas.org. Watch for details.
January 25
Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) Speaker Event/Annual Membership Meeting/Election of Officers—at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 Texas Highway 21 West in Caldwell, Texas 77836: Registration/morning refreshments begin at 8 a.m. The day’s program begins at 9 a.m. and includes officer election, Czech gift shop, silent auction, and catered lunch. Featured presenters - John Blair, PhD - Researching Your Czech Ancestors’ Military Service with an Emphasis on World War
I; Stan Vitha, PhD - How the Czech Kolaches Conquered the World, or at Least Texas; Mike Middleton, MD - Award-Winning Professional Accordionist; T.J. Slansky - Researching the Opava and Brno Archives in the Czech Republic Workshop registration by January 14, 2025, for TCGS members - $40; nonmembers - $45. Postmarked after January 14: TCGS members - $45. Registration at the door - $60 for members/non-members. To register for the workshop by credit card, please visit https://txczgs.square.site/product/registration/122; or mail a check made payable to TCGS and send with registration information to: Kimary Marble, 14106 Pawnee Trails Drive, Cypress, Texas 77429. For further information, Kimary can be reached at 832-906-0986 and via email at kimary12@gmail.com. Registration includes catered lunch. Cancellations are accepted up to a week prior to the event. For registration forms and information, visit TCGS website https://txczgs.org/. Membership in TCGS is not required to attend.
February 1
Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) spring Ceske Stopy submission deadline. Send to: PO Box 150772, Austin, TX 78715.
—SPJST—
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 78940. 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 979-9663515.
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday (February 9, May 4, August 10, November 9, 2025) at 3 p.m. at First Methodist Church Annex, 206 South Dowling Street, Hallettsville 77964. For information, call President Joe Siptak 979-479-0056.
LODGE 6, COTTONWOOD (3)
Lodge Hall: 700 South Czech Hall Road, West 76691. 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 254266-3810.
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, 712 N US Hwy 77, Schulenburg 78956. For information, call 979-247-4168.
LODGE 9, SNOOK (1)
Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook 77878. 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 979220-4733; loreelewis91@gmail.com.
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 77853 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 76518 (historic hexagon-shaped building with a stone entrance.) Hall Rental Information: 254-2172863. Lodge Meetings: Held monthly at the hall. For meeting time/information, call 254-2172863/Mary Helen Rodriguez.
LODGE 17, NEW TABOR (1)
Lodge Hall: 2674 CR 225, Caldwell 77836. 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)
● Kitchen is open at all dances.
Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin 78621. Lodge 18 is a non-smoking facility. Hall phone: 512-285-3100. Email: elginspjstlodge18@outlook.com. Lodge Meetings: Held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For information, call 737-233-0767/Judith Sanders.
LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)
Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger 76530. Hall Rental Information: Brenna Bohac 512-656-3634.
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. For information, call 512-753-9119/Jvonne Elwood. 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 78956 (located 12 miles south of Schulenburg, in Moravia).
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-743-0369/Kathleen Guenther.
LODGE 24, CYCLONE - FLAG HALL (2)
Lodge Hall: 411 FM 964, Burlington 76519. 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 Ennis Avenue, Ennis 75119. Hall Rental Information: 972-875-8381. Email: SPJSTennis@yahoo.com. Game Room: Open every Wednesday, 5 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 meeting information, call 214-8379490/JoAnn Jones. Youth Club Meetings: For date, time, place, and more information, call Youth Leader Rita Holland 469-337-2284.
Thursday, January 29—January Birthday Celebration; potluck meal at 6:30 p.m.
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 76574. 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 February, April, June, August, October, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 512-415-7225.
Friday, January 17—The Other Band Friday, January 24—Robert Lawhorn and Triple Threat
Friday, January 31—Old Friends (Temple area)
LODGE 30, TAITON (6)
Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month, at 9:45 a.m. at Taiton Community Center, 14221 FM 961, El Campo 77437. For information, call President Yvonne Marcaurele 979-541-6108. 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 979-541-7450.
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 77904. For information, call 361-212-1143/Mark Lester.
LODGE 35, ELK - ELK HALL (3)
Lodge Hall: 9508 Elk Road, Axtell 76624. Hall Rentals/Bookings: Tammy Pavelka 254-722-1454 Hall Phone: 254-863-9320. Lodge Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For meeting information, call 254-744-1426/Randy Pavelka. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855; sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com; Deann Beckendorf 254-275-8028; joh.becken@yahoo.com.
Saturday, January 18—Sundae Drivers Saturday, February 1—Joe Parker & Southern Comfort Saturday, February 22—Chris Colunga
LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)
Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia 78941. Hall Rental Information: 512-2379099/Donna; or 512-581-2672/Dana. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 512-332-6758/Alfred Hellinger.
LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday in March, May, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Mynde Kessler’s office, 2554 Villa Maria, Bryan 77802. For information, call 979406-0158/Ronnie Roesler.
LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday in March, June, September, and December at 1 p.m. at Mikeska’s BBQ off Highway 59, El Campo 77437. For information, contact President Linda Henderson 281-804-5252; email hendersonlj@homail.com; Vice President/Reporter Ardis Bacak 832-247-6350; or Secretary/Treasurer Sharon Borak Sharon_Borak@yahoo.com. Youth Club Meetings: Youth Leader Lisa Reck 512-844-0254; or lisaannie7@hotmail.com.
LODGE 47, SEATON - STAR HALL (2)
Lodge Hall: 10842 State Hwy 53, Temple 76501. 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 254-6244119/Brandon Bartek. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295; abartek002@yahoo.com.
LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2) Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor 76574. 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 512-365-3021. 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: 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Hall rental Information: Beverly Teplicek 325-442-4841. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 970-7992782/Tonya Wales.
Tuesday nights - Cornhole Game Night, 7 to 9 p.m. at the hall, 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Boards will be furnished. Bring your own bags, if you so chose. All ages welcome! For information, call Tony 325-977-0453 or Brad 325-656-0489.
LODGE 54, WEST (3)
Lodge Meetings: First Friday in March, June, and November, and the second Friday in September at 7 p.m. St. Joseph Hall, 303 South Harrison Street, West 76691. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting information, call 361-7812644/Ann Moseley.
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 76705. For information, call 254-715-6765/Dana McAdams. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855, sjbeene1241978@ yahoo.com; Randy House 254-749-4636, rhouse3407@gmail.com.
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in March, June, September, and December at Kountry Bakery, Hwy 77, Schulenburg 78956 at 2 p.m. For information, call 979-743-0310.
LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)
Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi 78415. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For info, call 361-816-2328/Mark Rebecek. 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 361-947-8233.
LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Monday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Restoration Fellowship Church (formerly ‘The Hall on 2268’), 12141 East FM 2268, Holland 76534. Watch the Věstník for changes in dates or times. For information, call 254-760-6427/Rita Spinn.
LODGE 81, NEEDVILLE (5)
Lodge Hall: 13609 Violet Street, Needville 77461. 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 281-633-1882/Vincent Newman. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, email Youth Leader Kristen Jones 936-556-3248; 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 For information, cal 214-763-0341/Vicki Sims.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple 76501. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October at 2 p.m. For information, contact Dan Kacir 254-493-1307.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)
Standing Events:
● Member meetings held every second Sunday of each month. Meal at 1p.m., meeting at 2 p.m.
● 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) 77008. Hall Phone/Rental Information: Call 713-869-5767; or visit www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Held the second 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. Dances 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 91, SAN JACINTO (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December at 11 a.m. at a location to be announced in the Věstník. For information, call 281-798-1092 / Malba Smesny Watch the Věstník for change in dates, times, and locations.
LODGE 92, FORT WORTH - NATIONAL HALL (3)
● Randy Tatarevich Band, country/western: Every first Sunday of the month - unless otherwise noted. Doors open at 1 p.m.; music starts at 2 p.m. Admission - $10. Barbecue dinner - $10. Full bar available. 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 817624-1361. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at the hall - unless otherwise noted. For meeting information, call 817-624-1361. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month. Dressy casual. Visit Lodge 92 website www.nationalhallfwtx.com.
LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5:30 p.m. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.
LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)
Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville 78114. Hall Rental Information: 830-391-0919/Roxy Bertrand. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 210-5354916/Wendy Pruski. 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 Street, Corpus Christi 78410. For information, call 361-241-3754.
LODGE 133, SAN ANTONIO (7)
Update! Meetings resumed in September 2024
LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 12 noon at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street, Danbury 77534. Luncheon follows meeting. For information, call Lorenda 979-864-9999.
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 77474. 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 at 2 p.m. - except in December, meeting is held the second Sunday at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted; lunch served at 1 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, Houston, 1435 Beall Street at West 15th (the Heights) Houston 77008 - in the annex building - unless otherwise noted. For information, contact Lodge142 President Dennis Hermis 713-8262981; or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-7878717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, location as adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Amanda Muzny 713-560-5377; arh210@gmail.com.
LODGE 151, WHARTON-EAST BERNARD (6)
Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 979-532-5884/Janie Bucek; or email jbucek2001@yahoo.com.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)
Meeting Location: 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, 76179. Hall Phone: 817-237-5181. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Sunday of February, May, August, and November at the hall at 3 p.m. For information, call 817-731-2580/Mary Steinman. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leaders CarrieAnn Jones carrieannjones@att.net or 817-371-1727, or Appa Burcie abburcie2015@gmail.com or 817-614-2967 for information.
LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. For date/location, call 512-657-7783/Albert.
LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. at the Kristinek’s home, 2512 Mesa Road, Lubbock 79043. For information, contact Secretary Cynthia Kristinek 806-632-2432; cyndynjerome@gmail.com.
LODGE 160, SAN ANGELO (4)
Lodge Meetings: Third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 5 p.m. For location information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-234-1339; or sandra.jansa@hotmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: For date/time/location, call Youth Leader Ryan Jansa 325-234-5879.
LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the second Wednesday in March, June, September, and November at 6 p.m. For information or questions, call Jerry Dressler 512-551-9009.
LODGE 177, ACADEMY (2)
Lodge Hall: 711 East Rio Poco, Little RiverAcademy 76554. Hall Phone: 254-982-4434. Please leave a message with questions. Board of Trustees/Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly on the second Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. Board Meeting, 6:15 p.m. Regular lodge meeting, 6:30 p.m. For information, call 254-721-8717/George Tomastik. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen open.
LODGE 179, WARRENTON (1)
Lodge Meetings: The lodge meets quarterly. Date and location will be announced in the Věstník prior to the meeting each month. For information, contact Ricky Weyand 979-966-7138.
LODGE 180, BURLESON (3)
Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. Please call for meeting location 817-9052097 / Nancy Kelly; or 972-268-0022 / Rhonda Hurtik.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November. Please call 817-896-5277 for meeting time and location.
LODGE 184, MOULTON (6)
Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of February, May, August, September, and November, 7 p.m. at Moulton VFD meeting room, 205 Cockrill Street, Moulton 77975. For information, contact Secretary Terry Stevenson terrywstevenson@gmail.com or 361-772-0046.
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). Contact Theresa Haag theresa.haag686@gmail.com or 830-832-3664 for meeting information. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-7778215; jmccoy@pta.com.
LODGE 186, CALDWELL (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Caldwell Civic Center, 103 W Highway 21, Caldwell 77836. Bring your favorite dish for a potluck prior to the meeting. For information, contact President Victor Mendez 512-7438297 or vmendez@kmc.net.
LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2)
Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock 78665. Meeting/Hall Rental Information: Call Rubie Volek 512-771-4948. 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 Rudy’s BBQ, 504 Harvey Road, College Station 77840. For information call 979-777-1426/Henry Mayo.
LODGE 191, LUFKIN (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the Monday before the second Friday in March, June, September, and December at 1:30 p.m. at Catfish King Restaurant, 806 Medford Drive, Lufkin 75901. For information, call 936-465-2435/George Scogin.
LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5)
Lodge Hall: 17810 Huffmeister Road, Cypress 77429. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month. Lunch at 1 p.m.; meeting at 2 p.m. For information, call 281-373-9482.
LODGE 202, JOURDANTON (7) Adult Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly on the 3rd Sunday of March and June at 1 p.m., and on the second Sunday in September and December at 1 p.m. at Jourdanton Community Center, 1101 Campbell Avenue, Jourdanton 78026. A meal will be served at each meeting. For information, call 830-570-5800. 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 830-5702046.
LODGE 219, EL PASO (4)
Lodge Meetings: Second Tuesday of each month at Carnitas Queretaro Mexican Restaurant, 9077 Gateway Boulevard, West, El Paso 79938. Phone: 915-633-9877. Contact information: President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.
LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, July and October at 6 p.m. at Rosa’s Cafe, 1026 North Judge Ely Boulevard, Abilene 79601. For information, call 325-370-0573/Jesusita Hudson.
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) Future/tentative Sunday meeting dates in 2025. Location TBD: March 30; June 29; September 21; December 14.
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly at 1 p.m., normally the third month of each quarter. Date, time, and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For information, call 210-4133053/Chester Jenke.
