Cookies, Culture, and Community Shine at SPJST District 5 Rally in Houston

CHAMBERS COUNTY– Friends, family, and members gathered August 9 at the Czech Center Museum Houston for the SPJST District 5 Rally, celebrating heritage, community, and generosity.

The event brought together SPJST members from San Augustine to Brazoria counties for games, food, entertainment, and fellowship. The Czech Center Museum, located at 4920 San Jacinto Street, provided the perfect backdrop for the celebration of Czech heritage and fraternal spirit.

The District 5 Rally raised $623 for the Czech Center Museum through a spirited cookie auction. Members baked and donated dozens of homemade cookies. District 5 Director Bradley Stavinoha donated a gift basket featuring meads and honey and local Czech beers.

“It was really good getting everyone together,” Stavinoha said. “I really liked collaborating xwith members from other lodges to think up new ideas to better our communities.”

The afternoon included activities for youth members, including a rocket launch. Rod Rojko, one of SPJST’s newest members, won the rocket launch winning an SPJST piggy bank.

Bingo brought many winners, including one of SPJST’s Royalty, Junior Miss SPJST Kaylee Palmer. She strategically selected her bingo prize.

“I know exactly what I’m going to pick,” Palmer said. “I’m getting the seat cushion for the days I go to my sister’s games and sit on the benches.”

SPJST District 5 includes lodges in the Greater Houston area, with members dedicated to preserving Czech culture and traditions through events, service projects, and youth programs.

The Czech Center Museum Houston is a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Czech and Slovak culture, art, and history. The funds raised through the Rally’s cookie auction will help support the exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach.

Event organizers extend a special thanks to all who attended, donated and volunteered. SPJST Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny is grateful.

“We could not have done this without the generosity of our members,” Zavodny said. “It’s their continued dedication to SPJST’s mission that keeps us serving our communities, advancing our goals, and preserving our rich heritage and culture. 

SPJST invites the public to learn more about its mission and upcoming events at spjst.org. Those interested in supporting the Czech Center Museum Houston can visit czechcenter.org for details.

The District 5 Rally proved that a strong community, rooted in heritage and friendship, can accomplish great things – even with something as simple, sweet, and joyful as cookies.

About SPJST 
Founded in 1897, SPJST is a fraternal benefit society committed to enriching the lives of its members and strengthening communities through fellowship, service, and financial security. With a strong focus on education, volunteerism, and meaningful member engagement, SPJST offers life insurance and annuity products along with youth and adult programs across Texas. Learn more at www.spjst.org. 

Contact: 
Autumn Baker | Communications Specialist 
254-773-1575, ext. 169 
[email protected]