GUSTINE — The Gustine Historical Society will host its annual meeting on Jan. 27, featuring longtime resident and World War II survivor Joe Mosko as the keynote speaker.

Mosko, who was born in Czechoslovakia, was orphaned as World War II began and survived bombings and shootings under Adolf Hitler’s regime before immigrating to the United States. After arriving in California, he settled in Gustine, worked at the John Jensen ranch and attended Gustine High School. He later earned a degree from San Jose State University and married Frances Worthington, a member of one of Gustine’s pioneering families.

“Throughout his remarkable life, Joe contributed to significant projects, including the advanced research anti-radiation missile program for the United States,” the Historical Society stated.

The meeting will be held at Perry’s More Than Pizza at 11:30 a.m. and will include lunch for $15. Mosko’s presentation, titled “A Wonderful Life in Gustine and in the Westside,” will highlight his personal journey and decades of involvement in the community.

The Gustine Historical Society, founded to “uncover, preserve and disseminate knowledge about the history of Gustine and the West Side,” maintains a museum and history center that house artifacts, photographs, documents and exhibits chronicling the region’s agricultural and civic development.

As part of the annual meeting, members will vote on the 2026 slate of officers. Nominees include:

President: Mary Ann Bloom

Vice President: Karen Souza

Secretary: Beth Cressaty

Corresponding Secretary: Nan Bunker

Treasurer: Nathan Amarante

Nominees for the board of directors are Trenton Cordeiro, Janis Peters and Titi Schouten.

Reservations are required and may be made by calling Pat Connor at 2098543284.