Journey in Time: From Texas to Prague, Juliana’s Věstník Voyage
In a charming blend of the past and present, we revisit the journey of Juliana Huppe, the great-granddaughter of Virginia Williams of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts. Over the years, Juliana has not only grown in age but also in her connection to her Czech heritage, illustrated poignantly through her travels from Texas to Prague with a copy of the Vestnik in hand.
Lodge 15, Buckholts member Juliana Huppe’s story with the Vestnik started when she was just a baby. Featured in the January 2008 issue of the Vestnik, a young Juliana was captured engrossed in a copy of the publication, an early hint at her deep-rooted ties to SPJST. Fast forward to the present, and Juliana continues to embrace her heritage, this time against the historic backdrop of the Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic, showcasing the same Vestnik that has been a staple of her family’s reading material for generations.
As Juliana stood on the Charles Bridge—the same bridge that has connected the banks of the Vltava River since the 15th century—she reflected on her personal history and cultural roots, exemplifying the lasting impact of SPJST’s commitment to fostering cultural awareness among its youth.
Bridging continents: Juliana Huppe, granddaughter of Virginia Williams of SPJST Lodge 15, Buckholts, proudly holds the Vestnik on Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge, merging her Texas roots with her Czech heritage.
This delightful “then and now” portrayal not only highlights Juliana’s growth but also her continued engagement with SPJST’s mission to preserve and promote Czech culture among its members, wherever they may be in the world.
—SPJST—
We invite our readers to share their stories of how the Vestnik has touched their lives, whether at home or abroad, as we continue to celebrate the rich heritage and community spirit of SPJST. Please send your stories to vestnik@spjst.com.
From the archives: The January 2008 issue of the Vestnik featuring young Juliana Huppe, marking the beginning of her journey with SPJST.
Flashback to 2008: “Baby Browses Bulletin” — Juliana Huppe, a member of Lodge 15, Buckholts, explores a copy of the Vestnik at just nine months old.
´ 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
Hello, SPJST Family.
Standing Strong Together
As we welcome the warmth of a new season, it’s a good time to think about what keeps us strong. We all face challenges—some are clear for all to see, while others we carry quietly within us. But what truly defines us is how we come together to support one another during these times.
Lately, we’ve felt the strain of unexpected changes and the normal stresses that life throws our way. These moments have truly tested our resilience, but they’ve also shown just how supportive and tight-knit our community is. There’s a real strength in that unity, and it’s something we should both cherish and nurture as we move forward.
There’s much to look forward to. Whether it’s our youth stepping into leadership roles, our lodge and community gatherings, or simply the day-to-day interactions, each one holds a promise of growth and renewed energy.
I encourage us all to take a moment to acknowledge the effort it takes to keep our community thriving. Your hard work, passion, and care for one another are what make us more than just a group of people — they make us a family.
As always, I believe in us. Your participation, ideas, and enthusiasm are crucial as we continue to build
on what we’ve already achieved. Let’s stay committed to supporting each other and looking ahead with hope and excitement.
Thank you for all that you do. Here’s to a season filled with new opportunities and continued camaraderie.
Lodge Membership DriveFebruary Summary
From Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty . . . “Two lodges earned incentives in February. Congratulations to Lodge 160, San Angelo - 24 points - $100 incentive and Lodge 9, Snook - 10 points - $100 incentive. These incentives will be paid at the end of the first quarter.”
Vestnik Dates and Deadlines
April 14 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., April 7 at 10 a.m.
April 28 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., April 21 at 10 a.m.
Note: No May 12 Vestnik will be published.
May 26 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., May 19 at 10 a.m.
June 9 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., June 2 at 10 a.m.
June 23 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., June 16 at 10 a.m.
July 14 Vestnik
deadline is Mon., July 7 at 10 a.m. —SPJST—
VĚSTNÍK, (USPS 658480) is published on the second and fourth Mondays of each month by SPJST, PO Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100. Subscription rates are $25 per year for non-members. Members’ fees are paid as part of the insurance fee collected by SPJST, 520 North Main, Temple, TX 76501. Second-class postage paid at Temple, TX and additional mailing offices. The exchange of opinions, ideas and information is a vital aspect of our fraternal Society and enables us to make more informed decisions. The views expressed by writers in the Věstník do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or SPJST management. Please sign all correspondence intended for publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VĚSTNÍK c/o Controller Roy Vajdak, P.O. Box 100, Temple, TX 76503-0100.
SPJST FAMILY FUN
March 29
March 30
IMPORTANT DATES &
(Number in parentheses denotes SPJST district location.)
Family Fun Day: Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown (2)
Family Fun Day: Aggieland Safari, Bryan (1)
March 30 Lodge 185, New Braunfels Spring Fling
March 31
April 5
Peace Lutheran Church, New Braunfels (7)
100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive Ends
Family Fun Day: Dinosaur World, Glen Rose (3)
April 5 Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament (2)
April 5 Lodge 88, Houston Crawfish Boil (5)
April 6 Czech Heritage Museum Easter Program and Concert Cultural Activities Center, Temple (2)
April 6 Lodge 92, Fort Worth Country/Western Dance (3)
April 12 Czech Heritage Museum Book Signing Event
April 12 Lodge 23, Moravia Don’t Mess With Texas Trash-Off Event (6)
April 12 Lodge 177, Academy Dance: Backroads Band (2)
April 12 Lodge 196, Houston-West Easter Egg Hunt (5)
April 14 Delegates’ Advisory Council Meeting (online)
April 15 Lodge 139, Danbury Scholarship App Deadline (5)
April 18 Good Friday • SPJST Home Office Closed at Noon
April 19 Lodge 155, Austin hosts SPJST Float
April 26
April 27
Hyde Park Neighborhood Parade, Austin (2)
Family Fun Day: 7 Acre Wood, Conroe (5)
Family Fun Day: Outlaw Pass, Victoria (6)
May 3 Family Fun Day: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (5)
May 10
May 17
May 18
Family Fun Day: Abilene Zoo, Abilene (4)
Family Fun Day: El Paso Zoo, El Paso (4)
SPJST Rally in District Seven • Lodge 107, Floresville (7)
May 18 Lodge 81, Needville honors Milestone Members (5)
May 24 Family Fun Day: National Polka Festival, Ennis (3)
May 26 Memorial Day Holiday: SPJST Home Office Closed
May 31
SPJST Rally in District Four • Lodge 49, Rowena (4)
June 1 Lodge 47, Seaton Picnic (2)
June 7-11 District Five Youth Disney World Trip (5)
June 8-11
SPJST Summer Youth Camp • Comfort, Texas
June 21 SPJST Rally in District One • Lodge 9, Snook (1)
June 22 SPJST Rally in District Two • Lodge 48, Beyersville (2)
June 28 Lodge 18, Elgin hosts SPJST Float Western Days Parade, Elgin (2)
District One - Saturday, June 21
Lodge 9, Snook
District Two - Sunday, June 22
Lodge 48, Beyersville
District Three - Sunday, June 29
Lodge 6, Cottonwood
District Four - Saturday, May 31
Lodge 49, Rowena
District Five - Saturday, August 9
Lodge 196, Houston-West
District Six - Saturday, July 12
Taiton Community Center
District Seven - Sunday, May 18
Lodge 107, Floresville
Watch the Vestnik for more details about the annual District Rallies!
CELEBRATING A CZECH EASTER! PROGRAM
& CONCERT
FEATURING A PERFORMANCE BY the University of North Texas Brass Band
Sunday, April 6, 2025
Cultural Activities Center 3011 North THIRD in TEMPLE
Hosted by the Czech Heritage Museum
DOORS OPEN 3 P.M. ★ PROGRAM STARTS 3:30 P.M. ADULTS $10 ★ UNDER 18 ADMITTED FREE
A delightful exploration of cherished Czech traditions, laughter, and music, perfect for families and friends of all ages. Opening program by Temple College’s Michael Morris and SPJST’s Brian Vanicek
DOOR PRIZES ★ SILENT AUCTION TO DONATE AUCTION ITEMS: VANICEK@SPJST.COM
The University of North Texas Dechovka (Brass Band) registration, medical claims, request for DD214, and more.
Young’s Daughters to host veterans’ benefits briefings
Dear Vestnik Readers,
We will be hosting a veterans benefits briefing at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center, located at 4235 E US Hwy 190 in Temple, Texas, on these Fridays at 6 p.m.: March 28, April 18, May 23, June 27, July 25, August 15, September 26, October 24, November 14, and December 5
The briefing is free of charge to the public. Items to be reviewed include free wills, POA, pre-veterans cemetery
Kayla Young SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center 254-401-1302 www.youngsdaughters.com —SPJST—
Seaton Cemetery plans April 5 workday
Seaton Cemetery Association, 12561 State Highway 53, Temple, will host a workday on Saturday, April 5, 2025, beginning at 8 a.m. All are invited to help. Nancy Chlapek Lodge 47, Seaton —SPJST—
SAVE THE DATE: 2025 Advisory Council Meeting
Monday, April 14 at 7 p.m.
All 2024 Convention delegates and interested members are encouraged to attend the annual virtual meeting to hear from SPJST leaders.
Meeting invitations will be emailed to all delegates.
Delegates and members may also register online at spjst.org/convention
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
How Was Your Day?
T
he other day, while driving and pondering topics for my next article, a radio DJ posed an intriguing question: “What is the most common question asked of kids at the dinner table?” The answer, “How was your day?” was no surprise. Then, on this Christian station, she suggested a different question: “Did you do anything to help make someone’s day better?” That question really made me think.
“How was your day?” is straightforward. The answers are routine: good, bad, okay. It’s easy to drift through life on autopilot. But this got me wondering: As I navigate my daily routines, am I impacting anyone’s life, or just mindlessly existing? When you enter a store, think about how many people you pass by. How many do you merely acknowledge, and how many do you actually engage with? Do I ask “How are you?” while passing by without pausing for a response? Do I exchange a genuine greeting with the cashier, or just mumble a quick “Hi”? When someone is in my way, do I simply sidestep them, or do I offer assistance?
During a recent grocery trip, I made it a point to observe how many people I walked past and what they were doing. If someone made eye contact, I smiled. If they seemed confused or in search of something, I offered help. If they were in my way, I waited patiently. If they had children, I greeted the kids and made
small talk with the parents. In the checkout line, I struck up conversations with those around me. An older couple commented on my infectious smile. I thanked them and quipped, “Now you’ve got to pass it on.” The wife chuckled and remarked, “Maybe we should do that more often,” to which I responded, “It’s free, easy, and immune to inflation." We all laughed, and it felt like a genuinely good exchange that might have brightened their day.
I can’t say for certain if I changed anyone’s life that day, but I certainly felt better for trying. It made me more aware of my surroundings, allowed me to see people in a different light, and made me more courteous. I’ve decided to make an effort every day to positively affect at least one person’s day.
So now, I pass the question onto you: “Did you do anything to help make someone’s day better?”
“When life inside feels down and blue helping others will give to you, too!”
—Catherine Pulsifer
My door is always open, figuratively, and literally.
Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice President of Sales and Marketing
832-232-2049
—SPJST—
Member Engagement News
State Fraternal Director shares April updates
We’re already four months into 2025, and with April upon us, spring has officially sprung. Hopefully, the weather is cheerful and sunny where you are, with lush green grass underfoot. At our home, Connie has been busy in the garden, planting radishes and potatoes, and nurturing tomato, pepper, and marigold seedlings. Our cats, Bandit and Lulu, are enjoying the outdoors—climbing trees and, much to my dismay, occasionally the roof!
In this newsletter, I am introducing a new section called “Incentive Submission Tips.” These tips are designed to help our members overcome minor hurdles and improve their submissions, making the process more efficient and less stressful. Our goal is to empower you to reach your full potential with each submission.
Incentive Submission Tips
Please note that if you are still using a sign-in sheet from 2024, it’s time to switch to our updated 2025 version, which includes several important upgrades. We’ve added three checkboxes between the name printing area and the signature line to indicate whether attendees are Adults (A), Youths (Y), or Guests (G). You can download the new form from SPJSTGives.org.
Additionally, when a lodge hosts a combined meeting, social event, and/or service project on the same date for both adults and youth, please ensure to submit only one form for the entire event, rather than separate forms for each activity. Along with the sign-in sheet, please upload some photos of the activities to provide visual documentation of the event.
2025 SPJST Family Fun Days
On Friday evenings, whenever possible, Connie and I cherish the time we spend with our granddaughter. She’s just over four months old now and lights up with joy whenever she sees us. It’s a wonderful time to bond and enjoy the simple pleasures of family.
Thank You for Your
Community Service Submissions!
Thank you for submitting your community service hours for the first quarter. As of March 1, we’ve received an impressive 80 entries—a fantastic turnout for the first quarter!
We have three exciting Family Fun Days planned for April! These include Dinosaur World in Glen Rose, Texas, on Saturday, April 5 where membership tickets are available for $10. Registration deadline is March 29.
The second April event is scheduled for 7 Acre Wood on Sunday, April 26 in Conroe, Texas, with membership tickets priced at $5. The third event is Outlaw Pass in Victoria, Texas, on Sunday, April
27 with membership tickets priced at $10. The registration deadline for both events is Sunday, April 20.
Non-members are welcome to attend but will need to pay the full admission price, which may be discounted through our group rates.
Below are details for the April and May Family Fun Days. For complete details, registration, and ticket purchases, visit https://spjst.org/family-funday/.
Dinosaur World Journey
Saturday, April 5
Dinosaur World
1058 Park Road • Glen Rose, TX 76043
Venue Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 1 p.m.
Member Tickets: $10
Details: Wander among life-sized dinosaurs and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
7 Acre Wood Family Retreat
Saturday, April 26
7 Acre Wood 4401 N. Frazier St. • Conroe, TX 77303
Venue Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 1 p.m.
Member Tickets: $5
Details: Enjoy mini-golf, petting zoo, zip line, and numerous other activities. Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
Outlaw Pass Adventure Day
Sunday, April 27
Outlaw Pass
78 Tate Rd • Victoria, TX 77904
Venue Hours: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 1 p.m.
Member Tickets: $10
Details: Have a blast with go-karts, adventure golf, and arcade games, including food and drinks.
Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
Museum of Fine Arts Exploration Day
Saturday, May 3
The Museum of Fine Arts
1001 Bissonnet St • Houston, TX 77005
Venue Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 1 p.m.
Member Tickets: $10
Details: Explore the vast collections of art spanning six continents and every era, including special exhibitions, at Houston’s prestigious Museum of Fine Arts.
Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
Abilene Zoo Adventure Day
Saturday, May 10
Abilene Zoo - Abilene
2070 Zoo Ln • Abilene, TX 77808
Venue Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 10 a.m.
Member Tickets: $5
Details: Discover the wonders of the Abilene Zoo with access to eight diverse areas including the African savanna, Caribbean cove, and the South American trails. Unwind in nearby Nelson Park after your zoo adventure.
Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
El Paso Zoo Exploration Day
Saturday, May 17
El Paso Zoo
4001 E. Paisano • El Paso, TX 79905
Venue Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
SPJST meet-up is 10 a.m.
Member Tickets: $5
Details: Dive into a world of wildlife and discovery at the El Paso Zoo, featuring four unique environments: the Americas, Africa, Chihuahuan Desert, and Asia. Continue the fun with a social event at Washington Park.
Registration and More Info: spjst.org/family-fun-day
Saturday, May 24
National Polka Festival - Ennis SPJST members - $5 per person
Upcoming SPJST Youth Camp
Details and Online Introduction to HSL Camp
We’re excited to bring you updates on this year’s SPJST Youth Camp and an opportunity to get to know our partner camp better.
Online Introduction to Hermann Sons Life Camp (HSLC) – Join us for an online session with Ian “Gunner” Brassett, Executive Camp Director at HSLC, who will introduce the camp’s facilities and answer your questions. This session is perfect for parents who want to learn more before our summer begins. Due to Ian’s busy schedule, we’ve arranged for the meeting to take place on:
Date: Monday, April 7 Time: 7 p.m.
We will send the online link via email and post it on our closed Youth Facebook pages. HSLC operates in a manner very similar to our camp and is also a fraternal society like SPJST. Ian, a veteran of summer camp programs since 1988, brings a wealth of experience, having led camps in Pennsylvania and California before joining HSLC in 2018. In addition to his extensive camp leadership experience, Mr. Brassett volunteers as a visitor for the American Camping Association.
2025 SPJST Youth Camp Details
• Dates: Sunday, June 8 to Wednesday, June 11
• Location: Hermann Sons Life Camp in Comfort, Texas
• Registration Deadline: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Tammy and I will be attending HSLC camp staff training from Tuesday, June 3, through Saturday, June 7, as we gear up for the arrival of our SPJST campers on Sunday, June 8. This year’s camp is set to offer thrilling outdoor adventures, engaging workshops, and unforgettable experiences that are sure to foster friendships and personal growth. Secure a spot for your child today by registering at spjst.org/camp.
Eligibility and Registration
- Open to children from kindergarten to incoming high school seniors. We encourage early registration as spaces are limited.
Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Program
Our LITs are an integral part of our summer camp, embodying the spirit of leadership and mentorship that SPJST stands for. These young leaders, especially our Senior LITs who are 18 years of age, play a pivotal role in guiding our younger campers and setting a positive example.
This year, we will continue our tradition of dedicated LIT time each evening, allowing these young leaders to connect, reflect, and plan their activities. Senior LITs are invited to join us for the full duration of the camp, registering via the adult registration form.
Additionally, all LITs are required to complete a specialized online training program, provided by Hermann Sons Life Camp, prior to the camp dates. This preparation is crucial as it equips our
LITs with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles. Please be aware that there is a specific timeframe to complete this training, ensuring all leaders are ready and prepared before camp begins.
Our LIT program is not just about leadership; it’s about growth, responsibility, and the joy of making a difference in the lives of others. As we continue to nurture and expand this program, we are excited to see how our Leaders-in-Training will rise to the occasion and inspire everyone at camp.
Camp Fees
• Non-Members: $50 registration fee plus $675 balance due by May 1.
• Non-Active Youth Members: $50 registration fee plus $550 balance due by May 1.
• Active Youth Members: $25 registration fee. Active members can reduce their tuition to $100 by earning credits through participation in SPJST activities.
Important Dates:
• Final Payment Due: May 1, 2025
• Refund Deadline: Refunds available until May 1 (excluding non-refundable registration fee).
For questions about payments or registrations, please contact Tammy at the SPJST Home Office or by email at tammym@spjst.com.
For complete summer camp details, visit spjst.org/camp. We look forward to a summer filled with learning, fun, and adventure. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for SPJST programs!
State Youth Showcase
Dates and Venue: Join us for the State Youth Showcase on Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26, at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple, Texas. For complete details, please visit spjst.org/showcase.
Pre-Showcase Party at Spare Time: Kick off the weekend with a bang! We are excited to invite all participants and their parents to a Pre-Showcase Party at Spare Time, a nearby
family entertainment venue, following registration and the special category contest on Friday afternoon.
Activities and Refreshments: Youth participants will enjoy three hours packed with fun activities including bowling, laser tag, and unlimited video games. We’ve also reserved a special SPJST party room where youth can enjoy two slices of pizza and unlimited soft drinks.
Schedule: Registration for the Showcase will be from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. The Special Category contest will begin at 2 p.m., giving participants ample time to travel to Spare Time for an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment and bonding.
100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive
The 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive runs 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 Scholarship Fund Drive PO Box 100 Temple, Texas 76503-0100
2025 Caring Challenges
The 2025 Caring Challenges follows the theme of “Never Stop Exploring.” The second quarter focuses on “Exploring Growth,” and each quarter features a giving project, a collection project, and a hands-on project.
April - Beautify Local Cemeteries
SPJST youth groups, lodges, and members are invited to beautify local cemeteries. Find ways to beautify a cemetery near you! Organize a team to clean up, place flowers, or place flags at a cemetery to honor your community’s heritage.
Remember to document your Caring Challenge project. Take photos of your members in action and submit them at spjst.org/gives. Also, share your photos on social media using the hashtag #SPJSTGives to spread the word about our collective impact.
Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director 254-773-1575, ext. 177 frankh@spjst.com —SPJST—
SPJST LODGE SECTION
Lodge 6, Cottonwood Easter party
Sunday, April 6
The deadline for Věstník items is 10 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood will host an Easter party on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The regular monthly meeting will begin at 2 p.m. Milestone honorees will be recognized for their 75-year, 50-year, and 25-year membership achievements. SPJST Lodge 6 trustee meeting will commence at 3 p.m. Easter egg hunt will begin at 4 p.m. Let’s pray for good weather for some outdoor fun! After the prize eggs are awarded, a meal of fried chicken/ham and trimmings will follow. We would love for our members and their guests to join us!<>
Patti Rosales, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 9, Snook welcomes two new youth members
The Wednesday, March 5, 2025, SPJST Lodge 9, Snook meeting was called to order by President Donnie Hejl at 7:04 p.m. Kinsley Crump and Ivey Lewis led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call of officers was held. The minutes from the February meeting were approved. Hall manager, communications, and treasurer reports were given.
The youth club discussed camp and the youth showcase at their meeting. We welcomed two new members – Keely Hays and Stockton Hargrove.
Under old business, motions were made to donate to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive, sponsor Little League Baseball, and have trees trimmed around the hall. March birthdays include Donnie Victorick on the 23rd.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, April 2, at 7 p.m.
Fraternally, Sheila Orsak, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 13, Dime Box welcomes District Director to March meeting
Lodge 13, Dime Box held its meeting on Sunday, March 2, 2025, and President Ricky Ford called the meeting to order at 1:05 p.m. Everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Ten members and guests were present, including District One Director Donnie Victorick.
The audit committee will get together in the near future. A motion was made and seconded to donate $100 to the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive. The motion passed.
Director Victorick gave an update on SPJST activities, the 2025 youth camp schedule, and Camp Kubena.
Members decided to participate in the 2025 Caring Challenge by recycling for a cause. The next meeting will be Sunday, May 4, and everyone is asked to bring recyclable items and meet at the recycling building at 1 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 1:45 p.m.
Floyd Kostelka, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia hosts highway cleanup event
All members of Lodge 23, Moravia are asked to assist in picking up highway trash on Saturday, April 12, 2025, starting at 8 a.m. We will meet at the lodge hall. Trash bags and vests will be provided, and refreshments will be served. Our lodge is in charge of a twomile stretch of FM 957 for the Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off event.
Kathleen Guenther
Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 23, Moravia discusses lodge updates and upcoming events
SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia met Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at our lodge hall.
The meeting was called to order by President Elizabeth Holub at 6:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed for departed members, Marilyn Berger Palmquist and William Olsovsky. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Our
“Vanishing Texas” photographer shares Lodge 15, Buckholts history
In 1897, Central Texas Czechs organized Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas (SPJST), a fraternal society that promoted social activities and insurance benefits for its members. SPJST members from Cameron, Marak, and Buckholts established Lodge 15 in October of 1907. The official name of the Lodge was Svornost Jihu, which translates as Southern Unity, though that name has been seldom used. Josep Slovacek and other members drew plans and built the first meeting hall, dedicated on this site on July 4, 1911, but destroyed by a 1915 storm. Temple Architect Josef Tudlacka designed the next building, which thieves set on fire in March 1936 to distract citizens while attempting to rob the bank.
Head Carpenters Aley Horstman and Jeff Reeder built the present building in the summer of 1936. The distinctive frame meeting and dance hall features an octagonal plan, hinged windows, and central vent for air circulation, roof arches, and hardwood floors. The site also includes barbecue pits dug into the ground.
To non-members, the Buckholts SPJST Lodge Hall represents social functions. Dances, barbecues, receptions, fundraisers, commercial entertainment, and social clubs continue to this day. Live broadcasts by Taylor radio station KTAE in the 1950s made the hall and Buckholts known to a wide audience. Noted country, polka, and western swing musicians including Jimmy Heap, Johnny Horton, Webb Pierce, Bob Wills and Vrazels’ Polka Band have played this venue. The Vrazel family also managed the hall from 1957 to
1971. As a fraternal lodge, social center, and dance hall, the site has been a Central Texas Landmark for generations.
“My family managed the hall, and my uncles played there. My momma and daddy ran the bar; I was born in 1967 and I had a play pen behind the bar.”
~Debbie Vrazel
“I was there many times for birthday and anniversary celebrations, and ‘just because.’” ~Barbara Vansa
“Many pleasant memories at this hall as well as the others nearby. Many polkas and pivos.” ~Kenneth Kohutek
—Facebook - December 24, 2024
Recorded Texas Historical Landmark - 2008 marker is property of the State of Texas. —Historical Marker
Vanishing Texas is dedicated to documenting historical, abandoned buildings with history, agriculture. Visit Vanishing Texas on Facebook and at vanishingtexas.net
—SPJST—
treasurer presented the checking account and lodge fund management amounts.
Discussion of plans for future events included our participation in the Walk Across Texas program, collecting pull tabs, and joining the Adopt-A-Highway program by picking up two miles of trash on April 12, starting at 8 a.m. Our lodge restroom still needs some work, which will be done by Vrana’s Well Service of Moravia.
Fraternal Activities Coordinator
Wanda Carpenter reported all correspondence she had received and also delivered valentines to Regency Nursing Home in Schulenburg.
The meeting was then adjourned, followed by lunch and visiting.
Next Meeting — June 10
The next meeting will be Tuesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m.
Kathleen Guenther Secretary/Treasurer —SPJST—
Lodge 25, Ennis welcomes new member
Dear Vestnik Readers,
Lodge 25, Ennis met on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., starting out with a hamburger supper made for us by David, Tom, and Gene. Great job, guys!
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Linda. Prayers were said for sick members, and a moment of silence was held for deceased members Glenn Skrivanek and Ronnie Cikanek.
Tammy Martinez: 25 Years of Home Office Service
All reports were approved. Joann announced that the bar cooler is not working properly, and members decided that it was necessary to replace the unit.
New member Tate Droste was introduced. Welcome, Tate!
Rita asked everyone to continue collecting can pull tabs, and she announced upcoming youth club events: Dinosaur World in Glen Rose on Saturday, April 5 and the Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 12.
Birthday Wednesday—March 26
The next Birthday Wednesday is Wednesday, March 26, at 6:30 p.m. Please bring a dish.
Next Meeting—April 10
The next meeting will be Thursday, April 10. Hope to see y’all soon!
Fraternally yours, Rita Holland, FAC —SPJST—
Bobby Davis: 5 Years of Home Office Service
Congratulations to District Four Director Bobby Davis, center, for achieving five years of SPJST Home Office service. He was recognized at the Executive Committee meeting on March 19, 2025. Bobby is pictured with Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and SPJST President/ CEO Brian Vanicek.
Congratulations to Member Engagement Specialist Tammy Martinez, center, for achieving 25 years of SPJST Home Office service. She was recognized at the Executive Committee meeting on March 19, 2025. Tammy is pictured with Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and her supervisor, Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny.
Lodge 29, Taylor meets April 9
The next meeting will be Wednesday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m.
Fraternally submitted, Linda Pospisil Secretary/Reporter/FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton: hall repair updates and 2025 events
Dear Vestnik Readers, Lodge 47, Seaton members gathered for the monthly lodge meeting on Sunday, March 2, 2025. President Brandon Bartek called the meeting to order. A
moment of silence was held for deceased lodge members Lucille Roark, Helen Wiley, and Katherine Morris Smith. Secretary Brenda Hoelscher read the February lodge and board meeting minutes. Member on the sick list was Mason Baker.
Danny Stepan gave the bar report for the January and February bookings, as well as Friday night gatherings.
Brenda provided an update from the Events Planning Committee meeting held on February 23. The Events Planning Committee started timelines and to-do lists for lodge events (picnic and extravaganza). If you would like to help with these lists, volunteer at any of these events, or have past experience with Seaton’s events, please contact us on Seaton Star Hall Facebook Messenger or join us at the next lodge meeting on Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m. Seaton’s annual picnic is scheduled for Sunday, June 1, and Seaton’s extravaganza is Saturday, September 20.
Brandon read the financials for February. Youth Leader Amber Bartek stated that the youth group had five members at their meeting. The youth group put together 10 cake boxes to deliver locally to those in need. The boxes contained a 13x9 foil pan with cake mix, icing, candles, and a 12-ounce can of soda. The youth group will be cleaning a local cemetery in April. Amber also discussed the upcoming March hall bookings.
President Brandon discussed the siding contractors finishing the siding replacement and painting. Clean-up and the walk-through are the last tasks to be completed. Hall repairs inside continue to progress.
Maria De La Cruz: 5 Years of Home Office Service
Congratulations to Assistant Office Manager Maria De La Cruz for achieving five years of SPJST Home Office service. She was recognized at the Executive Committee meeting on March 19, 2025. Maria is pictured with Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and her supervisor, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Delisle Doherty.
March birthday, anniversary, and door prize winners were recognized.
Next Meeting —April 6
The next meeting will be held on Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m.
Lodge 47 continues to gather and provide a place for members, family, and friends in the surrounding community to enjoy.
Keep an eye out for upcoming events and fundraisers. It is always a great time with SPJST. As always, follow Lodge 47 on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Lodge47Sea tonStarHall/.
Thank you, everyone, for reading. I hope you all have a blessed day!
Fraternally, Brenda Hoelscher
Reporter/Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 47, Seaton to host April 5 tarok tournament
The SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton Tarok Tournament is Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Seaton Star Hall, 10842 State Highway 53, Temple, Texas. Everyone is welcome. Registration is from 8 to 8:45 a.m., and play begins at 9 a.m. Entry fee is $25 per person and includes lunch, snacks, and prizes. Special trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to first, second, third, and fourth places. The high round winner will each be paid.
Rudy Constancio: 20 Years of Home Office Service
Late entries will be accepted if play slots are available. Please pre-register to help us estimate our food supply. For more information and to register, contact Danny Stepan at 254-760-7819 or Tammy Martinez at 254-493-9892 / email tammym@spjst.com.
Fraternally, Tammy Martinez, FAC —SPJST—
Danny Walden: 5 Years of Home Office Service
Congratulations to Accounting Assistant Danny Walden, center, for achieving five years of SPJST Home Office service. He was recognized at the Executive Committee meeting on March 19, 2025. Danny is pictured with Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and his supervisor, Controller Roy Vajdak.
Congratulations to Maintenance Manager Rudy Constancio, center, for achieving 20 years of SPJST Home Office service. He was recognized at the Executive Committee meeting on March 19, 2025. Rudy is pictured with Chair of the Board of Directors John Engelke and his supervisor, Chief Financial Officer Leonard Mikeska.
Lodge 66, Waco gives to St. Paul’s Children’s Fund for annual Easter egg hunt
The meeting of Lodge 66, Waco, was called to order by President Douglas Galler at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Bellmead, Texas. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the SPJST youth motto. A moment of silence was observed for Katherine Morris Smith,
who served as the SPJST Vestnik/Communications Specialist, Kenneth Krivanek from Lodge 92, Fort Worth, and Woody Richards, former CEO of the SPJST Senior Living Centers, who had all recently passed away.
Diana Engelke made a motion to accept last month’s minutes as published in the Vestnik. The motion was seconded by Ronald Neumann and passed. In correspondence, Diana had received three thank you notes from our recent donations. FAC Jodie McAdams, Sr. then mentioned two upcoming Family Fun Days to Inner Space Caverns on March 29 and Aggieland Safari on March 30. He also mentioned the Legacy Lodge Officers Award, dates for the 2025 Youth Camp and State Youth Showcase, and the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive.
Secretary Dana McAdams then gave the insurance report. Dana reported that the youth group had not yet met for February, but were scheduled to meet at the church on Friday, February 28 at 5:30 p.m.
Treasurer Diana Engelke gave her report. Tax information has been given to the accountant, and all taxes should be filed soon.
In old business, Dana read the upcoming 2025 Caring Challenges, collected used greeting cards, and
A Big SPJST Welcome to Kristen Mikeska!
The SPJST Communications/Member Engagement Department is excited to welcome Kristen Mikeska as the new Digital Communications Assistant. Kristen, a lifelong member of SPJST Lodge 47, Seaton, was formally introduced to the Executive Committee by her supervisor, Melanie Zavodny, Vice President of Communications. Joining us at the SPJST Home Office, Kristen follows in the footsteps of her grandfather, Leonard Mikeska, our Chief Financial Officer. We are excited to see her carry forward the legacy of dedicated service and commitment to our membership.
encouraged members to bring toys and small gifts for the Birthday in a Box project for March. There was a discussion about choosing a local cemetery to beautify, bringing care supplies for mental well-being, and recycling old cell phones, aluminum cans, or newspapers for our next three months of Caring Challenges.
In new business, Diana made a motion to pay the $5 entry fee for any of the members who would like to attend the Inner Space Cavern Family Fun Day. Dana seconded the motion, and it was passed. Then there was a discussion about having a members’ luncheon this year. Dana mentioned that she had received a message from a member asking about maybe planning a Christmas party for this year. The member was willing to do a lot of the leg work for the party, such as contacting the caterers, arranging the hall rental, and finding a band. There was also a discussion about our upcoming anniversary in two years and having an event then. No decisions were made at this time.
Ronald Neumann made a motion to give our donation for February to St. Paul’s Children’s Fund for their annual Easter egg hunt/activities. Margaret Na-
rovic seconded, and the motion was passed.
Today’s door prize was won by Jodie McAdams, Sr. and the 100 percent pot of $9 was won by Margaret Narovic.
Upcoming Activities
District Three Director John Engelke presented a list of upcoming activities. The delegates’ Advisory Council online meeting has been changed to Monday, April 14. Additionally, there will be a Czech Easter party in Temple on Sunday, April 6. Ronald Neumann also mentioned that his church is having a fish fry and raffle on Friday, April 18.
The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m.
Lodge 66 Gives to 100 Pennies
After the meeting adjourned, Diana Engelke realized that the 100 Pennies Scholarship Fund Drive ends this month, and we had not voted on our annual donation. She sent the active members a text asking them to vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ for the $500 donation to the 100 Pennies Drive. Ten members who replied sent a ‘yes,’ and no one replied with a ‘no.’ So Diana will mail a check to the Home Office next week.
Lodge 6, Cottonwood collects card fronts
Next Meeting — March 31
Our next meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m.
Respectfully, Dana McAdams Secretary/Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje Members meet at Mikeska’s in March
Lodge 81, Needville receives incentive awards
Lodge 81, Needville met on Sunday, March 16, 2025. After a prayer of thanks, everyone enjoyed a meal of hot dogs purchased and prepared by Bradley Stavinoha. Members brought sides and desserts.
At 1 p.m., President Vincent Newman opened the meeting. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Vincent Newman. We had a moment of silence for departed member Dorothy Kuban. We wish to send our condolences to her friends and family. She will truly be missed.
Everyone answered the roll call. Those added to our sick list were Marion Morales and Shirley Meyers. We send our well wishes your way.
Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read the minutes, and they were approved as read.
Bradley Stavinoha read his treasurer’s report and special funds report, and they were both approved as read.
Under old business, we were reminded that the Needville Youth Fair Parade is on Saturday, April 26. The youth will be riding on the SPJST Float provided by the Home Office. Also under old business, it was decided to honor our 25-, 50-, and 75-year members at the May 18 meeting.
Under new business, President Vincent Newman read a letter announcing that our lodge received its incentives award, and the youth group also received an incentives award. Congratulations to everyone for all their hard work!
Lodge 6, Cottonwood officers Jeanette Beseda, left, and Patti Rosales sort greeting card fronts that were donated by lodge members for the monthly Caring Challenge. RIGHT PHOTO: Lodge 6 FAC Jeanette Beseda presents the card fronts to Director of Member Engagement Frank Horak at the Home Office.
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members met on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Mikeska’s in El Campo. Everyone enjoyed cookies and conversation. The next event
will be a quilt show on Saturday, April 5 with sign-in start at 10 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in El Campo. —Sharon Borak, FAC
Youth Leader Kristen Jones announced that there will be a District Five Rally in Cypress on Saturday, August 9. She also reminded everyone that the district council will have an online meeting on April 1.
Under new business, Secretary Willie Mae Kuykendall read a thank-you letter from the Czech Heritage Society thanking us for our gift card donation.
Under other business, lodge member Glenn McDonald announced that he was commissioned an Honorary Admiral in the Texas Navy, and he also received a certificate signed by the Governor of Texas. Congratulations to Glenn!
Door prize winners were Willie Mae Kuykendall, Clarence Meyers, Amber Jones, and Joyce Lamensky. Congratulations to our lucky winners!
Next Meeting — April 27
The next meeting will be Sunday, April 27, since our regular meeting would fall on Easter Sunday. It was decided that we will have fried chicken. Clarence and Shirley Meyers volunteered to pick it up. Members, please bring a side dish and dessert.
See you at the next meeting, Fraternally, Jeanette Newman, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 80, Holland supports Teachers Appreciation Week
Lodge 80, Holland Vice President Michelle Taylor presents a donation check to Dr. Craig Wilson, principal of Double Creek Elementary in Jarrell, Texas, to benefit Teachers Appreciation Week, which will be May 5 to 9, 2025.
Lodge 84, Dallas plans April 6 Easter Celebration
What: Easter Celebration hosted by KJT No. 111, KJZT No. 108, and SPJST Lodge 84
12 p.m. - Social hour with dinner following catered by Babe’s Chicken
Afternoon events include:
Visit by the Easter Bunny with an Easter egg hunt. (Children, remember to bring your easter basket.)
Please bring canned goods for donating to St. Vincent DePaul food pantry. No cans with expired dates or dents, please.
Also, kindly bring your receipt or know the estimated cost of your donation.
Please RSVP to Lindsay Prasifka at 214-801-8179 no later than March 31 so she can have an accurate count for the dinner meal.
I hope to see you there!
Fraternally, Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas supports Czech language classes
Dear Readers,
Members of Lodge 84, Dallas met on Sunday, March 16, 2025, for their monthly meeting. President Vicki Sims brought the meeting to order at 2:30 p.m.
Flag Bearer Charles Nemec led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance with a moment of silence held afterwards for Brother Richard Sykora, those affected by the tornadoes in Ennis and surrounding area, and our troops serving our country. Secretary Cherri Petr then read the minutes from last month’s meeting and the correspondence that we received.
In the absence of Vice President Lynda Novak, President Sims gave her reports. Fraternal Activities Coordinator
Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje delivers baskets, cards to Senior Living Centers
On Saturday, March 15, 2025, SPJST Lodge 40, El Campo-Hillje members visited Paradigm at the Prairies and SPJST Senior Living in Hillje. Members enjoyed giving baskets and cards to Veterans to show appreciation for serving their country. Retirement communities will be posting more pictures of the activity at paradigmattheprairies.com and spjstseniorliving.com. —Sharon Borak, FAC
Vicki reported that the Caring Challenge activity of handmade valentines for seniors had been delivered to a senior center facility to brighten the day of their residents. The greeting card fronts, collected at the February meeting, are in the process of being delivered to the SPJST Home Office. FAC Vicki reminded everyone to be collecting can tabs for the Recycle for a Cause Caring Challenge in April.
Sunshine committee reported that a sympathy card was sent to the family of Brother Richard Sykora. May he rest in peace.
In the absence of Treasurer Jim Liska, President Sims gave his report.
Under new business, Charles and Kathy Nemec, members of Czech ExStudents Association of Texas (CESAT), made a motion that Lodge 84 donate to support a request from Blinn College at Schulenburg for funds for scholarships for the fall semester of 2025 and spring semester of 2026. Charles and Kathy explained the purpose of the funds and how they would benefit those students enrolled in the Czech language credit courses being offered and how they help students meet their foreign language requirements. The motion was approved, and Lodge 84 will be sending a donation to support the scholarship fund to. If any other lodge or member is interested in helping fund the cause, donations can be made to Blinn College Foundation (with
a note on the check ‘for Czech classes’) and mailed to Ms. Becky Garlick at Blinn College, Schulenburg Campus, 100 Ranger Drive, Schulenburg, Texas 78956.
President Vicki then thanked everyone for attending the meeting, and she reminded everyone that she hoped to see them at the Easter celebration on Sunday, April 6, at Sokol Dallas.
The meeting was then adjourned so everyone could enjoy the svacina! Fraternally, Anne Cowan, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 84, Dallas Easter party
Sunday, April 6
Dear Readers,
I hope everyone is enjoying the warmer weather; and hopefully, we can put those heavy coats back in the closet!
Well, it’s spring! The flowers are trying to bloom and who do I see in the garden . . . the Easter Bunny!
So on Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Easter Bunny will stop by Sokol Dallas, 7448 Greenville Road, Dallas 75231.
SPJST Lodge 84, Dallas; KJZT; and KJT will host an Easter party that day with a Catholic mass at 11 a.m. followed by fellowship and a catered dinner.
To ensure plenty of food and Easter treats, please RSVP for both children and adults by calling Lindsay Prasifka at 214-801-8179. Let her know how many will be attending and how many little ones to prepare for when the Easter bunny arrives.
I am hoping to see you soon to celebrate the springlike weather at Sokol Dallas. Don’t forget to call Lindsay!
Fraternally, Lynda Novak, Vice President —SPJST—
Lodge
81, Needville
member receives award
Congratulations to Lodge 81, Needville member Glenn McDonald! He was recently commissioned an Honorary Admiral in the Texas Navy, and he also received a certificate signed by the Governor of Texas.
Lodge 88, Houston: March is going to be a blast!
Crawfish Boil—April 5
Spring is in the air, and we can taste the crawfish! We’re hitting a major milestone this year as the Crawfish Boil turns 5! The Men’s Committee sponsors this event, and it’s always a blast. It will be held on Saturday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Members and guests are welcome. Crawfish with corn, potato, and sausage, pizza, beer, and music. Entertainment is Westmoats Dogs from 2 to 3 p.m. and DeSoto Rose from 3 to 5 p.m. There is no doubt that the yard will be rocking, and you don’t want to miss out!
Volunteers Needed
Calling all Cajuns (and friends)!
These mudbugs aren’t going to cook themselves. Knock out your volunteer hours, and be part of one of the most fun events of the year! Sign up on our website.
March Music Continues . . .
Fab 5—Saturday, March 28
We welcome Fab 5 on Saturday, March 28, from 8 to 11:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door! Children’s tickets should be purchased at the door. Time to get Groovy! Pull out those bell bottoms and go-go boots!
2025 Opening Day BBQ—March 28
Join us for the 2025 Opening Day
BBQ on Friday, March 28 in the beer garden at 6 p.m. We will have live music by Colorzzoflove. The first game of the season is New York Mets at the Astros at 7:10 p.m. Bellville sausages and hot dogs are $5 and available for purchase on the day of event. BBQ proceeds benefit the Lodge 88 Youth Club.
Guitars in the Gazebo
Get your tickets now! We will host Guitars in the Gazebo on three Fridays:
April 11 - David & Robert
April 18 - Good Friday Fish Fry
April 25 - David & Robert (Steak Night – ribeye steak plates –presale only)
More Music . . . Tonewise Piano Show
Please join us on Friday, April 11, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. for a piano show with a group that will make their first appearance at Lodge 88. Tickets are $20 online and $30 online for a VIP spot. VIP tickets include some special bonuses!
Find the Committee That’s Right for You
SPJST Lodge 88 relies on the time and talents of our member volunteers to create the community that we all enjoy. All members are responsible for completing service hours throughout the year. The best way to do this is by joining a lodge committee. Committee service:
• uses your specific talents • engages your interests • maximizes time spent with friends.
Lodge 80, Holland Shares Scenes from March Meeting, Social, and Meal
—Jeanette Newman, Reporter
Lodge 80, Holland hosted its March 9, 2025, meeting, social, and meal at Restoration Fellowship in Holland. LEFT PHOTO: Lodge 80 members donate greeting card fronts for the SPJST Caring Challenge. Pictured, from left to right, are Connie Horak, Monica McDougal, Michelle Taylor,
Silveria Tschoerner, Rita Spinn, Jeanette Wald, John and Angie Pavelka. RIGHT PHOTO: Thomas and Bethany Zajicek assist Lodge 80 Fraternal Activities Coordinator Michelle Taylor with drawing names for door prizes. —Michelle Taylor, FAC
Make your membership work for you by selecting your interest to join a committee in the lodge. Upcoming strategic planning meetings for committees also offer good opportunities to meet other people and experience how the committee works.
Disney Trip – June 7 to 11
Disney trip is open to all who want to come party at Disney with us in June! For more information or to sign up, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAI pQLSe0SCdDLZc5dUj2yDbXohXFbC K3LEGZsm1T0MfHjD2sdsIkcg/viewform
Save the Dates: June 8 to 11 SPJST Summer Youth Camp
Mark your calendars! SPJST Summer Camp is set for Sunday, June 8 to Wednesday, June 11, at the scenic Hermann Sons Youth Camp in Comfort, Texas.
To make the journey easier for families, Lodge 88 is looking to organize a shuttle bus so the kids can ride together. Pick-up/drop-off for families would be at Lodge 88, with a supervised ride to Comfort. If you are considering attending camp, please get in touch so we can coordinate transit.
For families new to SPJST sleepaway camp, this is an unforgettable adventure that promises a variety of exciting activities and learning experiences designed to build friendships, foster personal growth, and create lifelong memories. Last year, the kids from Lodge 88 had an awesome time! They came home full of classic camp stories and self-confidence.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with other kids in a fun, supportive environment at a fraction of the cost of other summer camps. Membership in SPJST has its benefits, and this one can’t be beat! Register today at spjst.org/camp.<>
Fraternally, Aaron Rigamonti, President —SPJST—
Lodge 92, Fort Worth invites all to April 6 dance
National Hall – SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth, is gearing up for an exciting spring, and you’re invited to join in the fun! Located at 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road in Fort Worth, Texas, National Hall is the place to be for live music, great food, and community spirit!
Country and Western Dance—
Sunday, April 6
Join us every first Sunday of the month for the country and western dance at National Hall featuring Randy and the Boys. Barbecue dinner will also
be available. Doors open at 1 p.m., and the dance is from 2 to 6 p.m. Buy tickets at nationalhallfwtx.com. <>
Fraternally, Jon Durham, Hall Manager —SPJST—
Lodge 97, Placedo reports on 2024 successes and upcoming incentives
Lodge 97, Placedo, held its quarterly meeting on Monday, March 10, 2025, in the meeting room at Victoria Mall.
President Gay Revel opened the meeting, Judy Bellanger said the prayer, and David Bellanger led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Minutes from December were read, and the treasurer’s report was given by Dennis Vanek. He said that we had received notification that we had met all lodge requirements for 2024 and were
Lodge 92, Fort Worth St Patrick’s Day Polka Dance with music from Alpen Musikanten
receiving a nice incentive award for our work.
Correspondence was read from VCAM and Ronald McDonald House, thanking us for our donations.
Discussion was held about upcoming incentives to participate in.
Gay Revel opened the insurance report, gave a report on sales, and told about the interest being paid on annuities.
The meeting adjourned. Fraternally, Judy Bellanger Secretary/Reporter
—SPJST—
Lodge 107, Floresville shares progress on hall maintenance
SPJST Lodge 107, Floresville held its monthly meeting on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 3 p.m. in the lodge hall. President Trey Bielefeld called the meeting to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by youth member Colt Lynn, and a moment of silence to honor deceased members, military personnel, and veterans.
A roll call showed Treasurer Korus absent. Secretary Wendy Pruski read the minutes from the February meeting, which were approved as presented.
During the correspondence report, Trey Bielefeld shared that he had received an email from District Seven Director House regarding the paperwork required for the 2024 annual financial
report. Sandra, from the SPJST Home Office, also sent a reminder about the property tax exemption.
SPJST Caring Challenges
FAC Stacy Bielefeld reported that birthday boxes and used cards will be collected at the April meeting, and she will send a reminder a week prior.
Reporter Trey Bielefeld confirmed that the February meeting report had been submitted to the Vestnik.
Hall Manager Roxy Bertrand provided an update on facility maintenance, noting that the mice issue is being addressed. With no more freezing temperatures expected, the water and water heater have been turned back on. Rentals will begin in mid-March and continue uninterrupted through November 2025, with inquiries already coming in for 2026. She also announced that a replacement pecan tree has been donated, and plans are underway for planting.
In old business, letters were sent to members celebrating their 25-, 50-, and 75-year milestones, but no RSVPs have been received yet.
Following the meeting, members enjoyed a St. Patrick’s Day cake made by Roxy Bertrand. Roxy, Stacy, and Trey removed large branches from the yard and set up tree watering.
Next Meeting—April 13
The next lodge meeting is scheduled for Sunday, April 13 at 3 p.m. in the lodge hall.
Fraternally, Trey Bielefeld, President —SPJST—
Lodge 97, Placedo participates in Caring Challenges
Lodge 139, Danbury seeks scholarship applicants
If you are a high school senior graduating in May and have been a member of Lodge 139, Danbury for the past two years, you may apply for the Lodge 139 scholarship by calling Lorenda Baldwin at 979-864-9999 by April 15, 2025. <> Lorena Baldwin, FAC —SPJST—
lodge 92, fort worth ladies circle celebrates st. patrick’s day
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 • Submitted by Lisa Ellsworth
After their March 10, 2025, meeting, members of Lodge 97, Placedo are pictured with collections of canned drink pull tabs for Ronald McDonald House and greeting card fronts that they collected for the SPJST Caring Challenges.
—Judith Bellanger Secretary
Lodge 155, Austin meets June 8
Lodge 155, Austin will meet Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Pok-e-Jo’s Smokehouse, 2121 West Parmer Lane in Austin.
Michelle House, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 177, Academy welcomes Backroads band on April 12
Hello, Vestnik Readers!
Lodge 177, Academy invites everyone to its next dance on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the lodge hall, located at 711 East Rio Poco. Enjoy live music by Backroads, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the band playing from 7 to 11 p.m. Admission is just $10 per person, and children 12 and under can attend for free. We hope to see you there! <>
Fraternally, Penny Rowe, FAC —SPJST—
Lodge 92, Fort Worth Ladies Circle celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at the March 11, 2025, meeting. LEFT PHOTO: Claire Rooney was picked as Ms. Shamrock and was presented with a shamrock plant. CENTER
PHOTO: “Happy Birthday” was sung to Lee Williams who is celebrating a birthday this month. RIGHT PHOTO: March hostesses were JuDawn Potter, Judy Ackerman, Nancy Davis, and Margaret Laymance.
Lodge 185, New Braunfels cohosts Spring Fling on March 30
Lodge 185, New Braunfels and the Lodge 185 Youth Club will cohost their spring fling and quarterly meeting on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Peace Lutheran Church in New Braunfels, Texas.
The youth club will meet at 3 p.m. The project for this month is putting together birthday boxes for kids in foster care. Each box contains a box of cake mix, icing, a can of soda, birthday candles, and small gifts. Youth club members and adults are asked to help by donating any of the items listed.
The adult lodge quarterly meeting will begin at 4 p.m.
Delicious fried chicken and drinks will be furnished by the lodge and youth club after the meeting. Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.
A special guest for the evening will be a New Braunfels Rotary exchange student from the Czech Republic. It will be exciting to hear from this young lady and learn more about her hometown.
Theresa Haag, Secretary —SPJST—
Lodge 196, Houston-West plans April 12 annual Easter egg hunt
Lodge 196, Houston-West will host its annual Easter egg hunt at the lodge hall on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. We are putting in great effort to make this our best Easter egg hunt yet! Hope to see you there! <>
Don Fruin, Reporter —SPJST—
Lodge 202, Jourdanton shares youth group happenings, future plans
Lodge 202, Jourdanton met on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Jourdanton Community Center. A total of 17 lodge members were present, plus one guest. The reading of the minutes was postponed until the next quarterly meeting. Treasurer Vivien Howe provided a financial report. FAC Kathleen Polasek reported on the SPJST Family Fun Days scheduled and the camp and youth showcase dates.
Youth Leader Regina House reported on youth group happenings and planned activities for the next quarter. Used eyeglasses were collected by the youth
Lodge 160, San Angelo Collects, Gives Cards
The February Caring Challenge for Lodge 160 was collecting greeting card fronts. The members brought many cards to the meeting for this donation. The cards were to be given to District Four Director Bobby Davis to take to the SPJST Home Office. Pictured are, from left, Sandra, Nolan, Caitlynn, Ryan, and Springer Jansa, Nancy and Dewyan Weise, Betty Schwartz, Sharon Hohmann, and Charlene Dusek.
Lodge 107, Floresville members enjoy St. Patrick’s Day cake
Following the March 9, 2025, meeting of Lodge 107, Floresville, members enjoyed a St. Patrick’s Day cake made by Roxy Bertrand. Pictured are, left to right, Akobir Muhameda, Roxy Bertrand, Colt Pruski, Wendy Pruski, and Polly Bayer. In back are Trey Bielefeld and Lian Pruski. In front next to the cake is Tillie Lynn.
group. Regina brought two jars filled with candy for the members to guess the number of pieces of candy. The winners of the guessing contest were Cooper Evans and Kathleen Polasek.
The June meeting meal was discussed. President James House volunteered to bring a barbecue pit so that we could roast hot dogs. Members are to bring side dishes that go with hot dogs or a dessert.
Door prizes were won by Patti Foster, Jenna Fair, Cooper Evans, Davina Evans, and Karen Fair.
After the meeting was adjourned, we enjoyed homemade beef stew and cornbread. Youth members provided delicious desserts.
Next Meeting — June 1
The next lodge meeting will be Sunday, June 1 at 1 p.m. Valerie Barta, Secretary —SPJST—
Westphalia KCs to host shrimp and fish fry every Friday ‘til April 11
Westphalia Knights of Columbus Council 13902 will sponsor a drive-thru shrimp and fish fry every Friday evening beginning March 7 through April 11. Plates will be “to-go only” starting at 3:30 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. (or until sold out). Plates will consist of fried shrimp, fried fish, beans, slaw, and french fries. Cost will be $15 per plate. Plates can be picked up in a drive-thru lane behind the Westphalia Parish Hall, 3000 State Highway 320, Westphalia. Proceeds support the KCs charity goals for the year. Thank you, James Kahlig —SPJST—
Texas Czech Genealogical Society announces April 12 “Czech Family Origins” event in Caldwell
On Saturday April 12, 2025, Texas Czech Genealogical Society (TCGS) will host “Czech Family Origins” at the Caldwell Civic Center - 103 Highway 21 West in Caldwell, Texas 77836. Doors open at 8 a.m. to get acquainted while enjoying provided kolaches and coffee or juice. The program begins at 9 a.m. with a welcome by President Patrick Janis, singing of the US and Czech national anthems, two speakers before lunch, and two speakers after lunch. Registration includes a catered lunch. There is also a large Czech gift shop and silent auction.
TCGS will have a full day of events including a catered lunch at the Civic Center. See www.txczgs.org for registration information, form, and fee. Everyone is invited to attend.
Czech Family Origins Speakers
T.J. Slansky - Researching the Opava and Brno Archives in the Czech Republic. As an avid genealogical researcher for the past 30 years, Mr. Slansky attended a workshop about the Opava Archives in Roznov in 2005. In 2010, the Opava Archives became available to the public, and he was able to do his own research as well as to help others by using his knowledge of this archive facility which has information about the many Czechs in Texas who came from this area of the Czech lands.
T.J. has given a number of presentations on Researching Czech Archives in the Opava and Brno archives and is always sought after at TCGS Genealogy Workshops. He and Ted Kaspar organized the Hovezi Village Area Reunion which meets in La Grange with the last one in 2019 with 100 members in attendance.
Tomas Pansky - Czech Republic “Unplugged.” Tomas Pansky grew up in the hilly rural South-Western part of Czech Republic, the region called Sumava [Black Forest], close to the town
of Plzeň. After completing a five-year college degree at South Bohemia University in Ceske Budejovice, he decided to study abroad. He completed his masters in poultry science at Mississippi State University, where he later received his doctorate in the College of Veterinary Medicine. He moved to Texas knowing about its lively Czech culture. Currently, he resides in Navasota and works as a veterinary medical officer for USDA in Bryan. He is a member of the Brazos Valley Czech Heritage Society and taught the Czech language class and dancing lessons for the chapter. Tomas Pansky’s presentation may show you pictures you would not have a chance to see during a pre-planned official tour of Czech Republic.
Clint Williams - Discovering Your Czech Roots Through Oral Histories. Clint Williams has worked with audio, video, pictures, and text with students for over 20 years in Texas schools. He has used many software tools to solve problems. After retiring from education, he became involved in genealogical or-
ganizations and began to pursue genealogical research on and off line to answer genealogical questions. He also is called on to answer questions for other genealogical organizations. Oral histories have been used through out time to preserve the past. Only one person knew the stories to pass to others. As writing developed stories could be shared with a larger group.
Registration Information
Registration includes kolaches and coffee or juice, a catered lunch, silent auction, and Czech Gift Shop . Detailed information and registration forms are on the TCGS website at https://www.txczgs.org under “Events” https://txczgs.org/eventListings.php?nm =38.
To register by credit card, please visit txczgs.square.site or mail a check made payable to TCGS and send with registration form to Kimary Marble, 14106 Pawnee Trails Drive, Cypress, Texas 77429. For further information, Kimary can be reached at 832-906-0986 and by email kimary12@gmail.com. If post-
Lodge 142, Houston members enjoy march meeting and social
LEFT PHOTO: Shelby Bradford serves pizza to, from left, Mary Bird, Diane Weikel, and Margaret Norris Guerrero. PHOTO 2: Members Jo Dein Roznovsky, Diane Weikel, Larry Weikel, and Mary Bird play a joyous game of dominoes! PHOTO 3: A cake
made in remembrance of the deceased members of 2024. PHOTO 4: Members Pat Schleider, Michael, Catherine, and Jack Manchack enjoy friendly rivalry in a game of dominoes. RIGHT PHOTO: Zoey Coleman is all smiles!
LEFT PHOTO: Members Barbara Linney Gonzales and Keith Kieschnick help serve delicious pizza to Zayne Coleman. PHOTO 2: Aiden Hermis, Pat Schleider, and Zoey Coleman lead the ceremony to honor deceased members. PHOTO 3: Lodge 142 honors its February and March birthdays! Seated, in front, are Jack Dowling and Barbara Linney Gonzales. In back,
from left to right, are Michael Manchack, Aiden Hermis, Shelby Bradford, Karole Coleman, Diane Weikel, and Steve Roznovsky. RIGHT PHOTO: Members Dennis Hermis, Keith Kieschnick, Elizabeth Hermis, and Steve Roznovsky play a spirited game of dominoes! —Pat Schleider, FAC
marked on/before April 1, TCGS members price is $40, and non-TCGS members are $45.00; if postmarked after April 1, TCGS members - $45 and nonTCGS members - $50; and at the door (all) - $60.
To attend, one does not have to be a TCGS member or be of Czech heritage. The Texas Czech Genealogical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Sara Barton TCGS Publicity Chair —SPJST—
Cyclone church sets April 13 Springfest
Dear Vestnik Readers,
St. Mary’s Altar Society at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Cyclone invites you to our annual Springfest on Sunday, April 13, 2025! Join us at 20120 FM 485, Burlington, Texas, for a day of food, fun, and fellowship.
Serving lines begin at 11 a.m. Homefried chicken and sausage with all the trimmings will be served – dine in or plates-to-go – for $15 each. Other activities include a silent auction, themed baskets supporting our youth, country store with home-baked goods, and parish cookbooks. We look forward to seeing you there!
Carla Kacir
Lodge 87, Temple —SPJST—
Lodge 183, Arlington members enjoy lunch meeting at BJ’s
100 Years Ago This Month: Historical events from March 1925
The month of March has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in March 1925.
• A military committee in France concludes that Germany committed gross violations of the Treaty of Versailles on March 1. The committee, led by Marshal Ferdinand Foch, accuses Germany of violating provisions related to the disarmament of its military.
• Huff Daland Dusters Inc., is founded in Macon, Georgia, on March 2. The
Lodge 219, El Paso hosts SPJST table at Bingo Plus
company, which began as a drop dusting firm formed to combat a boll weevil infestation of cotton crops, would be sold near the end of 1928, at which time it is renamed Delta Air Service.
• The United States Congress authorizes the Mount Rushmore Memorial Commission on March 3. The initial design for Mount Rushmore initially fea-
LEFT PHOTO: Debra Daniel holds her beautiful granddaughter, Kaizlee Daniel. PHOTO 2: Congrats to 25-Year Milestone Member Milka Bralic, center, with District Three Director John Engelke and Lodge 183 President
Ann Pustejovsky. PHOTO 3: From back to front, Lorene Higgins, Kelly Johnson (holding son Hunter Green), Diane Johnson, and Mark Johnson (holding granddaughter Jade Green). RIGHT PHOTO: Tom and Katie Weeks.
LEFT PHOTO: From left to right, Mila, Charlie, and Maya Bolton and Mira, Milena, and Milka Bralic enjoy fellowship at the lunch meeting! CENTER PHOTO: District Three Director John Engelke and wife Diana.
RIGHT PHOTO: From left to right, Tyce Tobola, Colby Ake, and Colton and Melanie Daniel strengthen bonds and build memories! —Kay Weeks, Secretary/Reporter
Lodge 219, El Paso hosts a table at Bingo Plus promoting and offering SPJST’s products and fraternal benefits. Sometimes, during intermission, the lodge offers free donuts to the attendees. Pictured here, Lodge
219 Vice President and Agent Francisco Viniegra shares morning scenes from the Friday, January 31, 2025, event. Lodge 219 appreciates those who visit their SPJST table each week.
tured each president depicted from head to waist. But funding for the sculpture dried up in 1941, so only President George Washington’s sculpture features any details below chin level.
• The second inauguration of United States President Calvin Coolidge takes place on March 4. It is the first inauguration to be nationally broadcast on radio.
• Alan Rowe opens the chamber of the tomb of Hetepheres I on March 8 in Egypt. Rowe, who was serving as deputy director of the Harvard-Boston Expedition, is the first person in 4,500 years to open the chamber.
• The state of Bavaria in Germany bans Adolf Hitler from speaking in public for two years on March 9. The ban limits Hitler to speaking only in private, closed meetings.
• Greek football club Olympiacos F.C. is founded in Piraeus on March 10. Olympiacos is now the most successful club in Greek football history, with 47 league titles to its credit.
• Cuba and the United States sign the Hay-Quesada Treaty on March 13. The treaty recognizes that the Isla de Pinos, now known as the Isla de la Juventud, is the territory of Cuba.
• Walter Camp passes away in New York City on March 14 at the age of 65. Camp, a college football coach considered the “Father of American Football,” created the sport’s system of downs and the line of scrimmage.
• An estimated 5,000 people are killed when a 7.0 magnitude earthquake strikes the Chinese province of Yunnan on March 16.
·• Edvard Benes of Czechoslovakia proposes a “United States of Europe” on March 17. The proposal is an attempt to secure peace in Europe and includes a western bloc featuring nations including England and France, and an eastern bloc made up of countries including Poland and Austria.
• On March 19, Martha Wise confesses to poisoning 17 members of her family. Wise was connected to the crimes by Medina County, Ohio, sheriff Fred Roshon, who had discovered a day earlier that she had recently purchased a sizable quantity of arsenic from a drug store.
• Clifton R. Wharton begins his diplomatic career on March 20. Wharton would become the first African American admitted to the United States Foreign Service and the first black U.S. envoy to Romania and the first black U.S. ambassador to Norway.
• The Butler Act takes effect in Tennessee on March 21. The act prohibits school teachers from denying the Biblical account of the origins of humanity and remains on the books until 1967.
• The Tokyo Broadcasting Station transmits the first radio broadcast in Japan on March 22. The first broadcast includes a recording of the Beethoven opera “Fidelio.”
• Scottish inventor John Logie Baird publicly demonstrates the transmission
of moving silhouette pictures at a London department store on March 25. A contemporary report in Nature magazine characterizes Baird’s design as “television.”
·• Fascists and Communists engage in a fistfight within the Italian Chamber of Deputies on March 26. The fisticuffs break out on the day Benito Mussolini returns to the Chamber for the first time in more than a month.
• The Philadelphia Daily News begins publication as a tabloid morning newspaper on March 31. (MS) —SPJST—
Did you know?
The American Heart Association reports that a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is normal for most adults. However, a physically active person or athlete may have a resting heart rate as low as 40 beats per minute. Individuals may recognize resting heart rate or know it from past wellness exams, but why is it important? According to the AHA, a person’s resting heart rate can be an important clue into how healthy or unhealthy that person may be. The AHA notes that a lower resting heart rate indicates the heart muscle is in good condition and therefore does not have to work as hard to maintain a steady beat. Conversely, a higher resting heart rate has been linked to lower levels of physical fitness, higher blood pressure and elevated body weight. (MS) —SPJST—
• The Breakers, a luxury hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, burns down on March 18. The cause of the fire is later traced to the wife of Chicago mayor William Hale Thompson, who left an electric curling iron plugged in.
This year’s Valentine’s Day celebration at SPJST Senior Living in Taylor was extra special! Traditionally, the festivities begin with a Sweetheart Luncheon for our couples, followed by a lively party for all residents. But this time, we brought back a cherished tradition from our former building: the crowning of the SPJST King and Queen. Thanks to votes from both residents and staff, we are thrilled to announce the 2025 SPJST Duke and Duchess, as well as the 2025 SPJST King & Queen!
LEFT PHOTO: 2025 SPJST Duke and Duchess, Dud Morris and Gail Heger. RIGHT PHOTO: 2025 SPJST King and Queen, Roy and Lois Allgood. —Melissa Meiske, Activities Director
From the Desk of Delisle L. Doherty SPJST Vice President of Sales and Marketing
It’s Your Life
Join Me in Jackson Hole!
When planning vacations in the USA, popular choices often include Las Vagas, Orlando, Washington DC, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Las Angeles. These are the epitome of tourist destinations offering everything a visitor could ask for. While it’s exciting to explore these urban landscapes with family, such trips often come with hectic schedules and little time for relaxation.
This year, why not opt for a real vacation? Let’s embrace the stunning natural beauty America has to offer, and truly unwind. I’m inviting you to explore Wyoming with me—home to Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks, as well as the majestic Grand Tetons. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and serene rivers, this trip offers a chance to witness some of the best wildlife in their natural habitats.
SPJST has provided our agents the opportunity to earn this trip, and now I extend the invitation to you. Join us to meet our team, learn more about what we do, and share stories about our families. I’m looking forward to a week of beauty and relaxation, and I’d love for you to be part of it.
Our Itinerary Through America’s Wilderness:
Day 1 - Montana: Today, we fly to Kalispell, Montana. Upon arrival, we will be transported to our hotel. This evening, you can get to know your traveling companions at our welcome dinner. (Note: Travelers are responsible for providing their own transportation to the airport.)
Day 2 - Glacier National Park: Glacier National Park offers a million acres of the finest mountain scenery you’ll ever see. The U-shaped valleys and high peaks were carved by vast glaciers that
covered this area during the last Ice Age.
We are passengers on one of Glacier National Park’s special touring vehicles for a spectacular tour along the “Going to the Sun” highway, one of the most breathtaking roadways in the world, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. This area is a veritable fairyland of snow frosted peaks and sparkling ice caps. We overnight again in Montana.
Day 3 - Helena and Gates of the Mountains: Starting our day just north of Helena, we arrive at Gates of the Mountains. Here, we take a scenic boat tour on the Missouri River. We’ll glide through magnificent country viewing towering walls of limestone. Look for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, osprey, and eagles as we travel through this timeless beauty. We pass through Helena, making our way to West Yellowstone for the evening. We overnight in West Yellowstone.
Day 4 - Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks: This morning, we visit Yellowstone National Park, the favorite stomping ground of Teddy Roosevelt. To many, Yellowstone is a fleeting glimpse of a geyser, a bear, or a canyon, but Yellowstone is much more than that. It’s a collection of scenic features and natural curiosities. “Old Faithful” is the park’s best known attraction, but you’ll see numerous other geysers, fumaroles, hot springs, and mud paint pots, not to mention wild animals, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and magnificent Yellowstone Falls. Late this afternoon, we exit Yellowstone and travel through majestic Grand Teton National Park on our way to the valley of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for a two-night stay.
meal on your own, relax, or take an optional adventure excursion. Some of the optional excursions include Snake River scenic float trip, horseback riding, ATV tours, and more! After an amazing day in this beautiful town, we sit down this evening to a delicious dinner.
Day 6 – Salt Lake City: This morning, we travel through the town of Afton, where some 3,000 elk horns form the arch across Main Street. We enter the southern tip of Idaho, making a photo stop along the shores of Bear Lake then continue through Logan and Ogden arriving in Salt Lake City. We drive by Temple Square, with its imposing temple and tabernacle. After checking into our hotel, we have a chance to freshen up before enjoying dinner together this evening.
Day 7 - Flight Home: This morning, our motorcoach will transfer us to the airport for our flight home.
Travel Dates: Sunday, July 27, 2025 to Saturday, August 2, 2025
Pricing Per Person (excluding airfare):
Single: $3,299
Double: $2,535
Triple: $2,285
Quad: $2,159
Dinner is included on several nights. If you are interested in joining this unforgettable adventure, please contact Terry Mansfield with Majestic Tours at 281725-1574 for more details.
I look forward to exploring the majestic landscapes of Wyoming with you!
My door is always open, figuratively, and literally.
Stay blessed, Delisle L. Doherty Vice
President
of Sales and Marketing 832-232-2049 —SPJST—
COME SEE NATIONAL PARKS!
July 27 to August 2, 2025
Day 5 – Jackson Hole: Today is a great day to explore and enjoy the beautiful western town of Jackson, Wyoming. There is so much to do here! Stroll the western boardwalk to shop and have a
JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING
Scenic Going to the Sun highway drive at Glacier National Park.
Gates of the Mountains boat tour near Helena, Montana.
Leisure time in Jackson Hole and Salt Lake City.
INCLUDES THREE NATIONAL PARKS: Yellowstone
Grand Tetons
Glacier National Park
Embark on this 7-day journey exploring the breathtaking scenery of Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Utah.
&
SPJST YOUTH SECTION
Register now for SPJST Summer Camp on June 8 to 11 in Comfort, Texas
Dear Parents and Guardians,
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
Embracing Tradition and Innovation
present to see them off as they head home on Wednesday.
Camp Fee Structure and Registration Details
• Active Youth Members: $25 registration fee; total cost can be reduced to $100 through participation credits.
frankh@spjst.com or give me a call at 254-534-0681. Please read the Vestnik and my newsletter as I will share more camp information as we get closer to the summer.
Fraternally, Frank Horak State Fraternal Director —SPJST—
We are thrilled to announce that SPJST will be hosting this year’s summer camp from June 8 to June 11 at the Hermann Sons Life Camp, located on the scenic Guadalupe River just outside of Comfort, Texas. This new venue marks a continuation of our tradition of providing memorable summer experiences for our youth.
Camp Highlights and Registration
This year’s camp offers an array of activities designed to foster learning, build friendships, and create lasting memories. We’re excited to offer outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and various opportunities for our youth to explore new interests and skills in a nurturing environment. Registration is now open—reserve your child’s spot today by visiting spjst.org/camp.
In our commitment to combining tradition with innovation, we chose Hermann Sons Life Camp for its excellent facilities, dedicated staff, and a robust program of activities. After extensive research, this site was selected for its outstanding service and beautiful location, ensuring a high-quality camp experience.
Staffing Update
A significant update for this year is the transition to using professionally trained activity leaders and cabin staff. This enhancement means that parents and adult youth leaders will no longer need to attend camp as chaperones or activity leaders. Rest assured, your children will be cared for by dedicated professionals who are specifically trained to provide a fun, engaging, and safe camp experience. Tammy Martinez, our Member Engagement Specialist, and I will be actively overseeing the camp’s operation to ensure everything runs smoothly. We will both be there to greet your children upon their arrival on Sunday, will remain at camp throughout our SPJST campers’ stay, and will also be
• Non-Active Youth Members: $50 registration fee; remaining balance of $550 due by May 1, 2025. (Applies to youth with an SPJST policy who do not actively participate in SPJST youth group activities.)
• Non-Members: $50 registration fee; remaining balance of $675 due by May 1, 2025.
Active Youth Member Tuition Credits
Active members can earn credits through participation in SPJST youth activities, each credit deducting $70 from the overall camp fee. Up to 7 credits can be earned, allowing a reduction in total camp fees to just $100.
Additional Information
All fees, except the non-refundable registration fee, are fully refundable until May 1. For detailed payment instructions or to discuss any payment concerns, please contact Tammy at tammym@spjst.com or call our office 254773-1575.
Once again, I invite and encourage you to enroll your children in this enriching experience where they will make memories that last a lifetime. If you have any questions about any of this information or other questions about camp, please drop me a line at
3 Fun Ways to Involve Kids in April Fools’ Day
Fun is a common component of many holidays, but perhaps no holiday is more exclusively devoted to merriment than April Fools’ Day. Fun might be the lone demand of April Fools’ Day, when people of all ages can engage in some lighthearted pranks and share a few laughs with loved ones.
Families can join in the fun this April Fools’ Day by embracing the many ways to involve children in the merry pranking that makes the first day of April so enjoyable. The following are three ways to get kids in on the action this April Fools’ Day.
1. Prank a parent. Pranks are tailormade for the young and the young-atheart, and kids might be particularly engaged if they’re enlisted to pull a fast one on Mom and Dad. Parents can work behind each others’ backs to prank their spouse, enlisting the services of the kids to pull off a prank the whole family can get a kick out of. Whether it’s removing shoelaces from Dad’s sneakers and putting them back in backwards or hiding plastic insects on or around Mom’s car keys, pranking a parent can be just what
Lodge 30, Taiton Youth assist with cake walk at St. John’s Altar Society Chicken dinner
Lodge 30, Taiton youth work the cake walk at the St. John’s Altar Society Annual Chicken Dinner and Spring Festival on Sunday, March 9, 2025
at Taiton Community Center. Thanks to the youth for a great job! —Kirby Lange, Assistant Youth Leader
kids to embrace the spirit of April Fools’ Day.
2. Make April Fools’ Day Auto-Correct Day. Another fun way to get kids in on the prank-filled fun is to enlist their help in setting a ridiculous auto-correct on a parent’s or older sibling’s phone. Ask kids to offer an alternative to a phrase a parent or sibling often shares via text message, and then go into the phone and set it up so that oft-used phrase automatically auto-corrects to the phrase kids offered up. For example, if an older sibling loves to text “lol,” make that phrase automatically auto-correct to, “I will do my brother’s (or sister’s) chores.”
3. Prank the youngsters, too. Of course, kids can not only be prank perpetrators, but also recipients of April Fools’ Day tomfoolery. Parents can incorporate children’s love of dessert into their April Fools’ Day pranking, swapping out the filling in a cookie or the icing on a piece of cake with mashed potatoes. Watch as youngsters take a bite of cake only to realize that sugary icing they love so much is actually garlic mashed potatoes.
April Fools’ Day can be made that much more fun when children give a little and get a little of the pranking that makes this annual day of practical joking so enjoyable. (MS)
—SPJST—
Did You Know?
Wearing eyeglasses is not strictly reserved for adults. In fact, many children wear eyeglasses, and they may need them for different reasons. The American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus says children may benefit from glasses while their visual systems are still developing, within the first 12 years of life. Glasses can be important for the normal development of kids' vision, including providing better vision; straightening crossed or misaligned eyes; protecting one eye that sees better when the other eye has poor vision; and strengthening a weak (lazy) eye. It’s recommended children have an eye screening before they enter school. (MS)
—SPJST—
*
AT SPJST STATE CAMP Join Us This Summer
For complete details and to register, visit spjst.org/camp or contact frankh@spjst.com or 254-773-1575, ext. 177
2025 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE
Friday, July 25 & Saturday, July 26
OVER 15 CATEGORIES!
Open to all SPJST youth members from Kindergarten to High School Senior (grade level as of fall 2025)
In Memoriam
In Memory of Ronnie Cikanek
Ronnie Alan Cikanek, 72, of Ennis, Texas, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025.
Visitation was Tuesday, March 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. at J.E. Keever Mortuary in Ennis. Celebration of life followed at 11 a.m. at J.E. Keever Mortuary.
Born on June 6, 1952, in Ennis to Antone and Adelle Cikanek, Ronnie lived a life defined by integrity, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family.
A graduate of St. John’s High School in 1970, Ronnie built a career rooted in dedication and craftsmanship. He brought his work ethic and skill to Coors Distributing and LaDew Fire Protection before finding his home at Leggett & Platt, where he spent 29 years before retiring. He was a valued member of SPJST Lodge 25, Ennis; KJT; and the Crow Barn Boys Club, where he formed lasting friendships and shared countless memories.
Ronnie was a man of few words, yet his presence spoke volumes. He never sought attention or praise—respect and admiration followed him naturally. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: the stillness of a hunting morning, working in his shop, watching the ever-changing Texas skies, and the thrill of a close game in any sport. But above all, his heart belonged to his family, especially his children and grandchildren, who were the true pride of his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Antone and Adelle Cikanek; and his loyal four-legged companions, Hank and Sam.
Ronnie is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Kathy, whose love and partnership were his greatest blessings; beloved daughters Linsey Cikanek and Casey Cikanek Davis and husband Jake; treasured grandchildren Calan Dodd Davis and Finley Lou Davis, who were the light of his life; faithful canine companion, Mac; honorary son Kris Brock, who held a special place in his heart; and
many cherished cousins and lifelong friends.
Pallbearers honoring Ronnie’s life were Joe Crow, Joey Glaspy, Joe Dolezalik, Gary Wright, Charlie Patak, Kevin Fincher, and Ira Bradford, each carrying him forward with the same love and respect he gave so freely in life.
Although his physical presence will be greatly missed, his spirit of strength, kindness, and quiet wisdom will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His family finds comfort in the countless memories and the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion.
Submitted by Rita Holland, FAC Lodge 25, Ennis —SPJST—
In Memory of Mary Jane Kane
Mary Jane Kane, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 1, 2025, with her family by her side.
Rosary was at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 8 at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Mass of Christian burial followed at 1:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Catholic. Interment was at Laurel Land Memorial Park.
Mary Jane was born in West — best known for its Czech heritage — on May 1, 1937. She grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, attended J.P. Elder Middle School, and graduated from Northside High School. She then went on to study at Texas Christian University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree with a teaching certificate. She graduated with honors and was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority.
Mary Jane was proud of her Czech heritage and was a longstanding member of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth. From an early age, Mary Jane was also an accomplished athlete. She was a member of Sokol (Czech for “fal-
con”) Gymnastics for many years and won several competitions.
Mary Jane retired from teaching in 1994 from Fort Worth ISD, earning many awards and accolades. Her legacy lives on through all her former students and their families she mentored through the years, many of whom she stayed in touch with long after she retired.
Her foremost passion, however, was supporting her family. “Once a teacher, always a teacher.” She taught us something every day — literally up to her very last breath. Her smile was infectious. There was always a twinkle in her beautiful blue eyes, and she never lost her sense of humor and her personal style. She was extremely generous and was willing to help anyone in need. She also had a big heart for any little furry creature (cats, dogs, etc.) who needed her help.
She was a lifelong member of SPJST Lodge 92, Fort Worth and enjoyed the community. As a lifelong member of St. Andrews Catholic Church, Mary Jane embraced her strong faith in God. She truly earned her wings long before her passing.
She was preceded in death by first husband Joseph H. Dederichs, III; parents Eleanor Rose and Alfred Albin Svacek; daughter Kathryn Ann Dederichs; and most recently, her husband Joseph C. Kane.
She is survived by children Joseph H. Dederichs IV and Mary M. Dederichs; daughter-in-law Jenee M. Dederichs; and grandson Joseph H. Dederichs V. Memorials may be made to the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (trtf.org), 313 East 12th Street, Suite 220, Austin, Texas 78701.
—SPJST—
In Memory of Edward Smajstrla
Edward Henry Smajstrla, 98, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas. Visitation was Wednesday, March 12 at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home in Houston from 5 to 7 p.m., with a vigil service and rosary re cited at 6 p.m. A mass
of Christian burial was held on Thursday, March 13 at Saint John Vianney Catholic Church in Houston. Interment followed at Memorial Oaks Cemetery. Edward was born on July 31,1926, in the community of Cottonwood near West to Ed and Annie (Holecek) Smajstrla. Edward was a devoted husband to his late wife, Tracie (Kallus) Smajstrla, for many years and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ed grew up in Cottonwood where he attended school and picked cotton on the family farm. He went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy during World War II.
Following his service, he returned home and built a successful career as a businessman. He managed and coowned a variety of businesses in West and Marlin which included Ben Franklin Variety Stores, West Food Mart, West True Value, Fashion Fabrics, and a beer parlor. He also served on the board of directors of Marlin National Bank.
When he was not hunting or fishing, he enjoyed polka dancing and traveling the world with his wife. He deeply cherished his Czech heritage and was a proud member of the Red and White Polka Club, American Legion Post 271, SPJST Lodge 6, Cottonwood, and the Knights of Columbus. Above all, he was a devout Catholic and an active member of Saint John Vianney Catholic Church in Houston.
Ed was a proud grandfather of two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Tracie; his parents; brother George; and sister Helen Zapalac.
He is survived by daughter Monica Greene and husband Richard Greene; grandson Jonathan Greene and wife Leslie, and their children, Charlotte and Benjamin; and granddaughter Christina McAllen and husband David and their daughter, Marie.
His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with those who went before him. Ed’s family will always remember him as a pillar of strength and love. They cherish his affectionate nature, the stories he shared about growing up in Cottonwood, and the way his face lit up when polka music played or when he was surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
—SPJST—
Ronnie Cikanek
Mary Jane Kane
Ed Smajstrla
Slovanská Podporující Jednota Státu Texas
eská Část
Podpora ★ Lidskost ★ Bratrstvi´
Uředni orgán SPJST ★ Založené roku 1897
Celebrating a Czech Easter: an enchanting family event in Temple on April 6
Make plans to enjoy an unforgettable afternoon as the Czech Heritage Museum of Temple proudly presents “Celebrating a Czech Easter” on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This festive event promises to be a delightful exploration of cherished Czech traditions and music –perfect for families and individuals of all ages. It all takes place at the Temple Cultural Activities Center, located at 3011 North Third Street.
Doors open at 3 p.m. for the program – a lively and thoughtful review of Czech Easter traditions led by Temple College’s Michael Morris of Lodge 47, Seaton and SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek – which starts at 3:30 p.m. Following the presentation, get ready to be entertained by the University of North Texas Dechovka (Brass Band), under the direction of Dr. Ben Graf, starting at 4 p.m. Their lively tunes will fill the air with joy and celebration, transporting you straight to the heart of Czech festivities.
Admission is a suggested donation of $10 for adults, while children can enter free of charge—making this event an accessible opportunity for all families to come and celebrate Czech heritage. A silent auction will be held with all proceeds benefitting the Czech Heritage Museum. Individuals or businesses wishing to contribute to the silent auction are requested to field inquiries to vanicek@spjst.com.
For more information about the event, please contact President/CEO Vanicek at 254-534-2902.
As Easter approaches, let’s gather to reflect on what makes our traditions so special. Celebrating a Czech Easter on April 6 at Temple’s Cultural Activities
Center presents a wonderful opportunity to bond with family and friends while honoring the Texas Czech heritage.
About Temple’s
Czech Heritage Museum
The Czech Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting Czech culture and traditions through engaging programs, educational initiatives, and community involvement.
“Celebrating a Czech Easter” is part of the museum’s ongoing museum without walls initiative with the emphasis on delivering concert performances, art exhibitions, and “all-things Czech” presentations to the public.
—SPJST—
Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society meets April 8
The Travis-Williamson Counties Czech Heritage Society will meet Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Springhill Catfish Restaurant, 2505 West Pecan Street, Pflugerville, Texas. We begin gathering at 1 p.m. to order lunch (optional), and the meeting will begin at 2 p.m. for business, fellowship, etc.
Vlasta Vitek will give a presentation on Easter.
For more information, contact Julia Johnson at 512-836-1726 or email juliamjohnson@gmail.com.
Janie Zbranek, Reporter
TWCCHS
—SPJST—
Czech author Anna Ashton to hold April 12 book signing at Czech Heritage Museum
Ashton’s Latest Children’s Book, “Frog in the Glass Jar,” to be featured on April 12
The Czech Heritage Museum, located at 119 West French Avenue in Temple, is excited to announce a special book signing event with author Anna Ashton on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 4 p.m. Ms. Ashton will be signing copies of her latest children’s book, Frog in the Glass Jar, a captivating tale that has already garnered high praise from early readers and is currently on the Amazon Best Seller List.
Frog in the Glass Jar tells the story of Poppet, a young frog whose adventurous spirit leads him and his family to escape their confining glass jar home in the enchanting land of Lily Pod. Illustrated by Lukas Hrusovsky, the book combines lush visuals with a narrative that celebrates courage, discovery, and the pursuit of freedom. Mr. Hrusovsky will be joining Ms. Ashton at the book signing.
About Anna Ashton
Anna Ashton is from the country of Slovakia, born in 1959 in Czechoslovakia. She grew up in a small rural farming
village where family, community, and respect for the land was the fabric of life. As a young woman, she went to agriculture school, majoring in viticulture and enology, with dreams of working her own land by making wine and managing vineyards. However, as the oppression and political persecution of Soviet communism grew, the freedoms of her country became very restricted.
In December 1985, now a wife and young mother of two small children, Anna and her husband made the risky decision to flee the country, narrowly escaping capture of the totalitarian government. Arriving in America without speaking English, and with no possessions, Anna and her family worked to become United States citizens, experiencing the American dream in ways few have.
Anna currently resides in Taylor, Texas and considers her faith and family, which now includes three grandchildren, to be most important to her. If she isn’t spending time with her friends and family, she’s traveling or volunteering, giving back to the community and country she loves, sharing her story through Poppet the frog, proving that dreams do really come true.
“Through Poppet the frog, I hope to inspire children and adults to never give up on their dreams, just as I never did,” Anna says. “I look forward to sharing this message and connecting with readers at the Czech Heritage Museum.”
The book signing event will provide a unique opportunity for fans and newcomers alike to meet Ms. Ashton and Mr. Hrusovsky and hear firsthand about the inspirations behind their work. The event will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Czech Heritage Museum in Temple. Attendees can enjoy not only the signing but also explore the museum’s exhibits, which celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Czech community in Texas. Refreshments will also be served.
For more information about the book signing or to reserve a copy of Frog in the Glass Jar, visitors can contact the museum directly or visit the museum’s website at czechheritagemuseum.org. Don’t miss this chance to meet a truly inspiring author and pick up a book that promises to enchant and motivate.
—SPJST—
12 at 4 p.m. for a book signing.
Frog in the Glass Jar Author Anna Ashton and Illustrator Lukas Hrusovsky will visit the Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue in Temple, on Saturday, April
Wilber Czech Festival Bus Trip set for July 31 to August 4
Hello, Travelers!
The 64th Annual Wilber Czech Festival runs Friday, August 1 though Sunday, August 3, 2025, and is expected to attract more than 30,000 Czech culture enthusiasts to the community of Wilber, Nebraska, population 1,940. Wilber, which is located in the heart of an early Nebraska Czech settlement, was identified as the “Czech Capital of the USA” in a Joint Resolution issued by Congress in 1987.
Promoters of the annual event have characterized the Wilber Czech Festival as “three days of parades, dancing, music, and Czech food galore” with the crowning event being the Miss CzechSlovak US Pageant competition that takes place on Sunday evening. If you have ever considered attending the Wilber Czech Festival, let 2025 be your year! SPJST is happy to offer its members and friends what promises to be a fun, five-day, four-night road trip through mid-America and the opportunity to enjoy the 64th Annual Wilber Czech Festival.
Thursday, July 31 to Monday, August 4, 2025 Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska
Package includes:
• 4 nights hotel at Kansas Star Casino
• Breakfast daily at hotel
• Round trip bus from Temple, Texas (possible other pick-up points based on interest)
• Wilber Festival Activities
• Tour director
• Special group dinner
• Private bus
Double occupancy - $1,130 per person
Single occupancy - $1,415 per person
• Discount of $50 per person for SPJST, KJT, KJZT, and Sokol members.
• Prices above include processing fees.
• $200 per person due at time of booking
• 50 percent per person due by March 30
• Remaining balance due by June 1.
To book your spot on the trip or for more information, visit https://jteammgt.com/planit-custom-tours; send an email to planit@jteammgt.com; or call 800-399-0791.
Lori Laznovsky —SPJST—
Czech Cu l tural Calendar
Hours of Operation
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 713-5282060; 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
April 6
Celebrating a Czech Easter Program and Concert—at Cultural Activities Center, 3011 North Third Street in Temple. 3 p.m. - doors open; 3:30 p.m.program begins. Featuring a performance by the University of North Texas Brass Band. Adult admission: $10; under 18 admitted free of charge.
April 12
“Frog in the Glass Jar” Book Signing Event—at Czech Heritage Museum, 119 West French Avenue, Temple. 4 to 6 p.m. Meet Author Anna Ashton and Illustrator Lukas Hrusovsky.
May 18
Slavnost/May Fest & Tribute to Czech Immigrants to Texas—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange 78945: 10:30 a.m.- tribute ceremony; 11:30 a.m. - chicken fried chicken dinner; 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.music by Donnie Wavra and Friends Orchestra; 2 p.m. - traditional May pole dance; classic car show; saw mill and newspaper museum operation; village open. In case of rain, the event will move to the Pavilion Hall. For information, call 888-785-4500; email info@czechtexas.org; or visit www.czechtexas.org
July 12
Czech Heritage Society of Texas Youth Pageant—at Sokol Hall, Ennis. Categories include Little Princess and Prince (ages 6 to 10), Junior Queen and King (ages 11 to 16), and Queen and King (ages 16 to 26). For information, contact Lauren Gerik laurengerik@gmail.com or Kathy Podsednik at kathypods@gmail.com.
October 17 and 18
Heritage Fest & Muziky—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange 78945. Friday: 4:30 p.m. - Oktoberfest on the Deck, 5:30 p.m. - famous TCHCC Chicken and Dumplings, 6 to 9:30 p.m. - music by the Dujka Brothers; Saturday: antique farm show, car show, demonstrations, KJT Tarok Tourney, children’s activities, food, drinks, historical exhibits, more; 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. - music by Mark Halata and Texavia and Lavaca County Line at Hospoda Pavilion; 12 to 3 p.m. - Band TBA at Fraternal Mutual Pavilion; 7 p.m.Muziky, Muziky - Legends Series Part XI at Amphitheater; 9:30 p.m. - HEB Fireworks Finalé.
December 6
Heritage Fest & Muziky—at Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC), 250 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange 78945. Christmas Open House, gift shop specials, museum feature, vintage decorated village. —SPJST—
Chamber Music Society finds pleasure, if not treasure,
in rare works by Czech masters
By David Wright newyorkclassicalreview.com
March 10, 2025
Catchy and melodious, Czech music has admirers everywhere. Most chamber music fans can name favorite pieces by Bedřich Smetana, Antonín Dvořák and Leoš Janáček, and maybe even Josef Suk.
The concert of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center on Sunday, March 9 at Alice Tully Hall featured all four of that Mount Rushmore of Czech composers from the Romantic and early modern eras. But if attendees expected familiar fare, that’s not what they got.
Instead, the Society dug a little deeper in those composers’ output and came up with lesser-known items that add new dimensions to listeners’ view of them.
A year after completing Má vlast (My Fatherland), his cycle of six symphonic poems that remains the epic of musical nationalism in the Romantic era, Smetana composed a modest addendum, Z domoviny (From the Homeland) for violin and piano, “more for domestic use than concert performance but without ruling it out entirely.”
And in fact, Smetana’s piece, with its two movements in moderate tempos, made an agreeably unshowy opener for Sunday’s concert. In the first movement, violinist Chad Hoopes spun out a long song that slipped in and out of major and minor in a characteristically Czech way, while pianist Sahun Sam Hong accompanied unobtrusively.
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performed Dvořák’s String Quintet in G Minor Sunday night at Alice Tully Hal.
—Photo: Cherylynn Tsushima
Hong stepped out with a bold solo to open the second movement, but the rest of the piece belonged to the violinist, who marked out the various dance rhythms with more polish than passion, at least until the Presto coda turned up the heat.
In the 21st century, people in Central Europe may be wary of all things Russian, but in the 19th and early 20th, many Czechs suffering under Habsburg rule looked eastward to their Slavic neighbor for inspiration and support.
Janáček’s Pohádka (Fairy Tale) for cello and piano sprang from his reading of a narrative poem by Vasiliy Zhukovsky, in which a tsar is captured by Kaschei the Immortal—the same evil fellow as in Stravinsky’s Firebird—and adventures ensue.
In mostly fast tempos that suggested narrative action or urgent dialogue, cellist David Requiro and pianist Hong matched wits over three movements, beginning in a “once upon a time” mood for bardic piano and pizzicato cello and proceeding to an urgent duet between the cello and the pianist’s right hand.
The second movement grew from desultory dialogue to an impassioned cello melody, and the finale reflected Zhukovsky’s happy ending with music that went from energetic to flowing to a contented decrescendo at the end. Requiro and Hong spun out the eventful tale with imagination and charm.
If Janáček’s piece was eventful because of its literary source, Josef Suk’s Opus 1, a Quartet in A minor for piano,
violin, viola and cello, had the air of the 17-year-old composer trying to put all his bright ideas in one piece. This star pupil (and eventual son-in-law) of Dvořák went on to a distinguished performing career as second violinist of the Bohemian (later renamed Czech) Quartet, but at this early age he was clearly enamored of the brawny piano-andstrings sonorities of Brahms.
The piece launched with a big piano chord and assertive octaves in the strings. The first movement had its moments of lyrical relief, but it seemed a stretto passage to a forte climax was always just around the corner. The Adagio offered relief in a songful cello solo, then dialogue among the strings, but soon all four players were at it again, with whiplash mood shifts and everchanging piano-string textures.
The piano again led the way in the dancing finale, which abounded in infectious rhythms and saucy dialogue for all players. The student seemed to sass his elders as bit with some running off the rails harmonically–although Dvořák himself played a few tricks like that in his day—before bringing the piece to a sonorous close.
The players—violinist Hoopes, violist Paul Neubauer, cellist Requiro, and pianist Hong—seemed to channel their 17-year-old selves as they talked over each other and generally got in the spirit of this breathlessly ambitious music.
Antonín Dvořák was a famously late bloomer as a composer, and he wasn’t thrilled when, at the height of his fame,
Group Visits Czech Heritage Museum in Temple
his publisher tried to pass off one of his early works as new. If it had been numbered accurately, Dvořák’s Quintet in G major for two violins, viola, cello, and double bass, Op. 77, would have been his Op. 18—not exactly juvenilia, but not yet the renowned master of later years, either.
At its eventual publication, the piece’s five-movement layout was trimmed to a more conventional four by the omission of the second movement, a dreamy Intermezzo, which the composer eventually used in another work.
On March 9, the Intermezzo was restored to its original place, providing a restful pause after the exertions of the Allegro con fuoco first movement.
The ensemble, consisting of the above players minus pianist Hong and with the addition of violinist Stella Chen and double bassist Nina Bernat, explored the mellow sonorities of this lowpitched music without going overboard. Although she got actively involved in some passages, Bernat also discreetly provided the harmonic foundation, liberating cellist Requiro to fly high and engage the other players.
Persistent dance rhythms kept the first movement from bogging down in its low sonorities. In the brief Intermezzo, muted strings created a whole different sound world of misty long
Texas Czech Genealogical Society
Website: txczgs.org
Promoting the study of the genealogy of the particular group of people known as “Texas Czechs.”
For membership: Marie Dulak 979-324-7871
lines over pizzicato bass. The big collective upbow on the Scherzo’s opening chord seemed to provide all the lift this capricious movement needed, settling down only for an expressive violin melody in the trio section.
The three-to-a-bar rhythm of the Poco andante swayed gently under a sumptuous cello solo, then a soaring violin; a tapping rhythm arose in the middle, sparking tender conversation among the instruments. The finale mixed crisp and curvy phrases in incisive counterpoint that gave an equal role at last to Bernat’s double bass.
The CMS players brought it all off with taste, attention to balances, and enthusiasm. If this wasn’t Dvořák at his composing high noon, it made a refreshing morning cup of coffee.
For more information about The Chamber Music Society, visit chambermusicsociety.org.
St. Mary’s Altar Society & St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Cyclone invites everyone to join for the annual
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
20120 FM 485 Burlington, TX 76519
Sunday, April 13
Serving lines begin at 11 a.m.
Dine In or Plates To Go
$15 per plate
Home-Fried Chicken and Sausage with all the trimmings
Silent Auction
Themed Baskets ~ Country Store ~ Home-baked goods Parish cookbooks
Public invited!
Members of Manchaca Baptist Church in Austin, Texas, visited the Czech Heritage Museum on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
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 - the first Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Sharon Fritsch 979-966-3515.
LODGE 4, HALLETTSVILLE (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - Sundays - 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 hall at 2 p.m. For meeting information, call Irene Peterson 254-266-3810.
Sunday, April 6—Meeting 2 p.m./Easter party Sunday, April 20—Marek Easter Sunday, May 4—Meeting, 2 p.m. Saturday, May 24—Graduation party Sunday, May 25—Lander reunion
LODGE 9, SNOOK (1)
Lodge Hall: 457 CR 269, Snook 77878. Hall Rentals/Information: Call 979-272-3732. Lodge Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call 979-272-3732. Youth Club Meetings: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Loree Lewis 979-220-4733; loreelewis91@gmail.com.
LODGE 13, DIME BOX (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the first Sunday 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 Doris Ford 979777-5458.
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 quarterly - Second Tuesdays in January, April, July, and October at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Mary Helen Rodriguez 254-217-2863.
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 Susan Skrabanek 979820-2218. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Youth Leader Holly Narro 979-218-4931.
LODGE 18, ELGIN (2)
Lodge Hall: 702 Hwy 95 North, Elgin 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. at the hall. For information, call Darren Mogonye 512-229-6906.
LODGE 20, GRANGER (2)
Lodge Hall: 114 West Davilla, Granger 76530. Lodge Meetings: Held monthly. A light meal is served before each meeting. All members are invited. Meeting date/time/location varies; for information, call Jvonne Elwood 512-753-9119. Youth Club Meetings: Second Sunday of each month, 1:30 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Brita Bohac 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 - the second Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at the hall at 6:30 p.m. For information, call Kathleen Guenther 979-562-2124.
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: Held monthly - the second Sunday, September through May at 5 p.m.; and the second Monday, June through August at 6:30 p.m. - at the hall. For information, call Brenda 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.
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: Held bi-monthly - the second Wednesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December at 6:30 p.m. at the hall For information, call Linda Pospisil 512-415-7225.
Friday, March 28—Sterling Country Friday, April 4—Second Hand Rose Friday, April 11—The Other Band Friday, April 18—no band scheduled Friday, April 25—Keen Country
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 - the second Thursday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6 p.m. at Grapevine Cafe, 110 Medical Drive - Suite 102, Victoria 77904. For information, call Mark Lester 361-2121143.
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 Randy Pavelka 254744-1426. Agents: Samantha Beene 903-644-1855 / sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com; Deann Beckendorf 254-275-8028 / joh.becken@yahoo.com.
LODGE 38, KOVAR (1)
Lodge Hall: 278 Zimmerhanzel Road, Flatonia 78941. Hall Rental Information: Call Donna 512237-9099 or Dana 512-581-2672. Lodge Meetings: Second Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Alfred Hellinger 512332-6758.
LODGE 39, BRYAN (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday in March, May, September, and December. Social/lunch begins at 12:30 p.m., meeting starts at 1 p.m. at Mynde Kessler’s office, 2554 Villa Maria, Bryan 77802. For information, call Ronnie Roesler 979-406-0158.
LODGE 40, EL CAMPO-HILLJE (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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 281-804-5251; email hendersonlj@hotmail.com; Vice President/Reporter Ardis Bacak 832-247-6350; or Secretary/Treasurer Sharon Borak 940-300-7151. Youth Club Meetings: Youth Leader Lisa Reck 512-844-0254 / 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, call/text 254-985-2548. Visit www.seaton-
starhall.com. Lodge Meetings: First Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Brandon Bartek 254-624-4119. Youth Club Meetings: First Sunday of each month, 1 p.m. at the hall. Call Youth Leader Amber Bartek for information 254-931-0295 / abartek002@yahoo.com.
LODGE 48, BEYERSVILLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 10450 FM 619, Taylor 76574. Hall Bookings/Rentals: Call Lisa Jonse 512-739-9324 / email SPJST48@gmail.com. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Jennifer Miksch 512-924-3669. 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) 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 Hall: 609 S FM 2133, Rowena 78675. Hall Rental Information: Beverly Teplicek 325-3656400. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - first Wednesday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Tonya Wales 970-799-2782.
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, 301 South Harrison Street, West 76691. For information, call Freddie Kaluza 254-709-2303.
LODGE 63, SWEET HOME (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 7 p.m. For meeting information, call Ann Moseley 361-781-2644.
LODGE 66, WACO (3)
Lodge Meetings: The fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1301 Hogan Lane in Bellmead 76705. For information, call Dana McAdams 254-715-6765 / danamcad@aol.com. Agents: Samantha Beene 903644-1855 / sjbeene1241978@yahoo.com; Randy House 254-749-4636 / rhouse3407@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Contact Youth Leader Dana McAdams 254-715-6765 / danamcad@aol.com for information.
LODGE 67, SCHULENBURG-WEIMAR (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held the fourth Friday of March, June, and September; and a December Christmas party at noon at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant, 712 North US Highway 77, Schulenburg 78956. For information, call Adrienne Kobza 979743-5629.
LODGE 76, WICHITA FALLS (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Thursday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Jason’s Deli, 2907 Garnett Avenue, Wichita Falls 76308. For information, call Dianna Ibarra 940-224-7383.
LODGE 79, CORPUS CHRISTI (7)
Lodge Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi 78415. Meal served; meeting follows. Visitors welcome. For information, call Mark Rebecek 361-816-2328. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Sokol Hall, 5502 Kostoryz Road, Corpus Christi. Call Youth Leader Marcia Rew for information 361-947-8233.
LODGE 80, HOLLAND (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held Quarterly on the second Monday in February, May, August, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Restoration Fellowship, 12141 East FM 2268, Holland, Texas 76534. For information, call Rita Spinn 254-760-6427.
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 Vincent Newman 281-6331882. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at the hall. For information, contact 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, call Vicki Sims 214-763-0341.
LODGE 87, TEMPLE (2)
Lodge Hall: 320 North 50th Street, Temple 76501. Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October at 2:30 p.m. For information, call Dan Kacir 254-493-1307.
LODGE 88, HOUSTON (5)
Standing Events:
● Bingo every Thursday evening
● Beer Garden every Friday
● Ladies Night - first Thursday of each month
● Guys Night - third Thursday of each month Visit www.lodge88.org/special-event for updates.
Lodge Hall: 1435 Beall Street at West 15th, Houston (the Heights) 77008. Hall Phone/Rental Information: 713-869-5767 / www.lodge88.org. Lodge Meetings: Held the second Sunday, 2 p.m. at the hall; lunch served at 1 p.m. For information, call Lucy Gilmore 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 Lucy 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. Bingo: Every Thursday evening; games start at 7 p.m. License No. 17407503501.
Friday, March 28—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Friday, April 11—Tonewise Piano Show, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10—Original Remnants, 8 to 11 p.m.
Sunday, June 1—Homecoming: Dujka Brothers Friday, June 20—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 28—Billy Mata & the Texas Tradition, 7 to 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 26—Moonglow Orchestra, 7 to 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 6—Steel Country, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Friday, September 19—Fab 5, 8 to 11:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 11—Czechfest: Chris Rybak
Sunday, November 30—Red Ravens, 1 to 5 p.m
Wednesday, December 31—New Year’s Eve
Dance: Fab 5, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
LODGE 91, SAN JACINTO (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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 Malba Smesny 281798-1092 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): April 6, May 4, June 1, July 6, August 3, September 7, October 5, November 2, December 7: Admission $10. Doors open at 1 p.m. Music, full bar, BBQ dinner $102 to 6 p.m. Best dance floor in Texas. Come on out for a great time!
Visit www.nationalhallfwtx.com Lodge Hall: 3316 Roberts Cut Off Road, Fort Worth 76114 Lodge Meetings: Held at the hall on the second Sunday of each month, at 2 p.m. - unless otherwise noted. All members and guests welcome! For meeting information, call Frankie Tesar 817-504-3632. Ladies Circle: Meets the second Tuesday of each month, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hall Event/Rental Information: Call National Hall Events Manager Jon Durham 817-624-1361. Dances: Some dances have presale tickets available. Dressy casual.
Saturday, June 14—Father’s Day Dance featuring Latin Express, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $12. BBQ dinner available. Saturday, September 20—Czech Heritage Day
LODGE 97, PLACEDO (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Monday of March, June, September, and December at 5:30 p.m. at Victoria Mall Meeting Room, 7800 North Nararro, Victoria 77904. For information, call Secretary Judy Bellanger 361-576-2935.
LODGE 107, FLORESVILLE (7)
Lodge Hall: 1156 FM 1303, Floresville 78114. Hall Rental Information: Call Roxy Bertrand 830-3910919. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. at the hall. For information, call Wendy Pruski 210-535-4916. Youth Club Meetings: For meeting date/time/location, contact Youth Leader Lian Lynn 830-480-2737.
LODGE 117, ROBSTOWN (7)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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 Frances McDonald 361-695-8280.
LODGE 139, DANBURY (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December at 11:30 a.m. at Main Street Steakhouse, 1802 Main Street, Danbury 77534. Luncheon follows meeting. For information, call Lorenda Baldwin 979864-9999.
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 Lodge 142 President Dennis Hermis 713-826-2981 or Secretary Elizabeth Hermis 281-787-8717. Youth Club Meetings: Held the same date, time, location as adult lodge meetings - unless otherwise noted. For information, call Youth Leader Karole Coleman 346-497-0254 / karoleque@outlook.com.
LODGE 151, WHARTON-EAST BERNARD (6)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Monday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. For information, call Edith Molberg 979332-1289.
LODGE 154, FORT WORTH (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 3 p.m. at Sokol hall, 6500 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, 76179. For information, call CarrieAnn Jones 817-371-1727. Youth Club Meetings: Third Sunday of each month, 5 p.m. For meeting location, contact Youth Leader Appa Burcie 817-6142967, abburcie2015@gmail.com
LODGE 155, AUSTIN (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - in March, June, September, and December at 2 p.m. For date/location, call Albert Klinkovsky 512-657-7783.
LODGE 157, LUBBOCK (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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: Held quarterly - the third Thursday of February, May, August, and November at 5 p.m. For location information, contact Sandra Jansa 325-234-1339 / sandra.jansa@hotmail.com.
LODGE 172, PASADENA (5)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the second Wednesday in March, June, September, and November at 6 p.m. For location, contact Delores Hicks 281-476-9055.
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 - 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 George Tomastik 254-721-8717. Bingo: Every Tuesday and Friday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Kitchen open.
LODGE 180, BURLESON (3)
Lodge Meetings: First Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at Burleson Fire Station, 250 E Hidden Parkway, Burleson 76028. For information, call Rhonda Hurtik 972-268-0022.
LODGE 183, ARLINGTON (3)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the third Sunday of February, May, August, and November at 2 p.m. For meeting location, call Kay Weeks 817-8965277.
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 361-772-0046 / terrywstevenson@gmail.com.
LODGE 185, NEW BRAUNFELS (7)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the fourth Sunday of March, June, September, and December For information, contact Theresa Haag 830-8323664 / theresa.haag686@gmail.com. Youth Club Meetings: Fourth Sunday of each month. For meeting time/location, contact Youth Leader Jessica McCoy 979-777-8215 / jmccoy@pta.com.
LODGE 187, ROUND ROCK (2) Lodge Hall: 920 Luther Peterson Place, Round Rock 78665. Lodge Meeting/Hall Rental Information: Rubie Volek 512-771-4948. Lodge Meetings: Second Sunday of each month 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.
LODGE 189, BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION (1)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - 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 Henry Mayo 979-777-1426.
LODGE 196, HOUSTON-WEST (5) Saturday, April 12—Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 2 to 4 p.m.
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 - the first Sunday of March, June, 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 Regina House 830-570-2046. 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 830-570-2046.
LODGE 219, EL PASO (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - the first Tuesday of March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at Carnitas Queretaro Mexican Restaurant, 9077 Gateway Boulevard West, El Paso 79938. For information, call President Aracely Quiz 915-999-2062.
LODGE 229, ABILENE (4)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly in January, April, July, and October at 11 a.m. - April 22; July 1; and October 7 - at Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant, Abilene. For information, call Janice Stevens 325669-7904.
LODGE 246, MORGAN’S POINT (2)
Lodge Meetings: Held bi-monthly - the second Tuesday in February, April, June, August, October, and December at 11:15 a.m. For meeting location, call David Nauert 254-534-0809.
LODGE 258, SEGUIN (7)
Lodge Meetings: Held quarterly - March 30, June 29, September 21, and December 14 at 1 p.m. Date, time, and location varies and is voted on by members at each meeting. For information, call Chester Jenke 210-413-3053.
