Protivin’s Masopust celebrates tradition

CRESCO - Protivin’s 12th Annual Masopust was even more special for those attending than it had been other years. The year 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the Czech Republic’s independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

There was lots of dancing, with music provided by Malek’s Fishermen Band and eating, with a traditional Czech meal available. Of course there were kolaches to purchase as well!

Also taking place was the annual skit, which was well-received by all who attended.

 

Special acknowledgements

• In honor of the occasion, Borek Lizec, Consul General of the Czech Republic in Chicago, his wife and mother-in-law were invited to attend the Czech-style Mardis Gras festival on Feb. 10.

He told those gathered he found it amazing there were still so many descendents who still spoke Czech. “Even after 100 years! Our president would be proud you still celebrate.

“Czech-Americans still care about their heritage. We admire that,” Lizec said.

• Also attending and signing his book, “Journey for Freedom,” were Peter Vodenka and his wife. Several years ago Vodenkas attended Masopust and told his story of escaping from Communist Czechoslovakia.

• Judy Busta presented the Joseph J. and Martha M. Pecinovsky Scholarship of $750 to Lucas Feltz of South Winn., who attended with his parents, Lynn and Rodney Franzen. Lucas plans to attend UNI.

• Ken Zajicek, new president of Czech Heritage Partnership presented two commemorative glasses to Eileen Tlusty for her work on the Masopust and Czech Heritage Partnership boards for many years. “We gave you two glasses, because we know you don’t like to drink alone,” Zajicek joked.

It is highly unlikely that anyone drinks alone at Masopust. Don’t believe it? Czech it out next year!