Issuu

Polish AmericAn council of TexAs

2022-2023

Directory

Everything Polish in Texas!

Calendar Photos

www.PACTX.org

Members & More

Directory Index individual Members

Bartosiewicz, Roger............................................26 Bielamowicz, Jerome..........................................26 Brown, Maureen.................................................13 Cebrowski, John & Amanda...............................13 Conger, Marilyn..................................................26 Coughlin, Laura..................................................26 Ellisor, Jane.........................................................26 Gmurowski, Art..................................................13 Kraus, Genny......................................................14 Kruzel, Dr. Marian..............................................26 Kubiak, Denis.....................................................14 Kurtin, Michael...................................................15 Lukaszewski, Dr. Witold.....................................15 Malak, Clara........................................................26 Mazewski-Dryden, Jolanta..................................15 Mazik, Nicholas..................................................15 Mazurkiewicz, James..........................................16 McCarthy, Marguerite Sue.................................16 Moczygemba, Elaine & Virgil.............................16 Moczygemba-McKinsey, Susan..........................16 Mushinski, Bradley.............................................17 Opiela, Eric.........................................................26 Ostrowski, Tom..................................................26 Pienkos, Dr. Mark...............................................17 Pienkos, Ann.......................................................17 Rusiecki, Robert - Consulate General of the Republic of Poland ..........................................13 Schirmer, Mary Ann Kotara...............................18 Sontag, Marie......................................................18 Stephens, Elaine Mazurek...................................18 Walicki, Mark......................................................19 Yanta, Bishop John W...................................19, 20 Zawistowski, Thaddeus.......................................26 Zielinski, Rafal....................................................26 Zientek Jr., John..................................................19

family Members

Brzezinski, Debbie..............................................21 Czyz, Joseph........................................................26 Dunal, Artur & Magdalena.................................26 Dylla, Laura & Paul.............................................21 Korzekwa, Bertha & Gabriel...............................21 Kotara, Susie & Sam...........................................21 Kowalik, George & Betty....................................22 Kubiak, Nick.......................................................14 Kusinski, Grzegorz & Stephanie.........................22 Kundrotas, Dr. Leon & Mrs. Alina Ordon.........26 Mazurkiewicz, Dr. Jim & Kathy..........................23 Maroney, Joan & Dave........................................27 Mitchell, Pamela & Dwight................................26 Notzon, Aloys & Angela.....................................23 Priebe, Dr. Waldemar..........................................26 Przybylski, Dr. Piotr...........................................24 Schaefer, Amanda & Steven................................26 Sikorski, Mark & Zhanna....................................26 2

Skrobarcek, Eddie & Debbie..............................26 Skrobarczyk, John & Denise...............................23 Titzman, Lambert & Rosalie..............................23 Wojtasczyk, John & Christie...............................24

Organization Members

Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, St. Hedwig..........................27 Austin Polish Society..........................................28 Bandera County Sister Partnership Association ...28 Bremond Chamber of Commerce......................29 Chappell Hill Historical Society.........................30 Father Leopold Moczygemba Foundation.........30 General Casimir Pulaski Society........................31 Holy Cross Catholic Church, Yorktown ............31 Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Panna Maria .............32 Jagoda Polish Folk Dance Ensemble ..................32 Jan Karski Polish School of Dallas......................33 Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish.......................33 Panna Maria Historical Society .........................34 Polish American Chamber of Commerce...........34 Polish American Priests Association .................35 Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria..............36 Polish National Alliance.....................................35 Sacred Heart Historical Society .........................37 St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Kosciusko ...............37 St. Michael Catholic Church..............................38 St. John Paul II Institute, University of St. Thomas ...................................................25 St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Bandera............38 St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Chappell Hill ..................................................39 University of Texas at Austin Center for European Studies.............................................39 University of Texas at Austin Center for Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies....40

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Texas A&M Polish Association..........................41 University of Texas Polish Club .........................41

Corporate Members

Apolonia Catering ..............................................41 Anna Palka-Boyet, Certified Translator.............42 Beata Burgeson, Real Estate Agent.....................42 Burzynski Clinic.................................................43 Yvonne Chauvin, Compass.................................43 European in Texas Market Café..........................44 Kotara Enterprises LLC.....................................44 Polonia Restaurant and Polish Food Store & Deli ................................45 Re-Excel Realty, Mark Hunek............................45 Rekieta Supply Appliance ..................................46 Wilson County News .........................................46 Ziggy’s Kielbasa House.......................................47

Publication designed and printed by Wilson County News (see page 46)

PACT President, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz opened the 2021 Annual Meeting in the beautiful hall at St. Joseph church in New Waverly. Attendees included members from all over Texas who discussed PACT business and plans for the future.

Polish American Council of Texas

Board of Directors

Officers 2022

Maureen Brown Jola Mazewski-Dryden Susie Kotara Genny Kraus Michael Kurtin Dr. Witold Lukaszewski Sue McCarthy Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz Eric Opiela Dr. Waldemar Priebe Dr. Piotr Przybylski Joanna Sikorski Elaine Mazurek Stephens John Wojtasczyk John Zientek, Jr. Honorary Director: Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Houston, Robert Rusiecki

President: Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz 1st Vice President: Dr. Piotr Przybylski 2nd Vice President: Eric Opiela 3rd Vice President: Elaine Mazurek Stephens Secretary: Jola Mazewski-Dryden Treasurer: John Wojtasczyk Youth Vice President: Josephine Jaraczewski, President of the Texas A&M Polish Association Youth Vice President: Nathan Silverstein, President of the University of Texas Polish Club Chairman Emeritus: Bishop Emeritus John W. Yanta D.D. Directory/Membership Chairman: Elaine Mazurek Stephens Silent Auction Chairman: Maureen Brown

he Polish American Council of Texas (PACT) has become the umbrella organization bringing together all of Texas Polonia. We want to express our appreciation to our members and sponsors as PACT moves into our second decade, continuing the vision of our founder Bishop John W. Yanta Emeritus and several key Polonia leaders. Their vision of furthering the knowledge of Polish culture, traditions, history, language, arts, current affairs, and statewide events in Texas by networking among Polonia in Texas, nationally and abroad, has guided our way. The PACT’s achievements and business model of working together as one Polonia has been most successful and is recognized and admired in the US, Poland, and internationally. There is strength in unity. — Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, President Polish American Council of Texas View ALL our directories on PACTx.org!

4 Major Waves of Polish Immigration to Texas I Silesia Region (Prussian partition) since 1854 II Wielkopolska / Kujawy (Prussian partition) and Malopolska / Galicia (Austrian partition) since 1867 III Marshall Law, Poles came from all over Poland since 1980 and 1945 after World War II IV All of Poland and from California, the US Mid-West and East Coast since 2000-present

I – II waves “za chlebem” (for bread) III wave “Solidarnościowa (solidarity) IV wave “dla gospodarki” (for the economy)

Congratulations to the 2021

Polish Texan Lifetime Achievement Awardees Raymond Belinowski Joe Malak, Jr (Posthumously) Virginia Felchak Hill

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2021 Polish Texan Lifetime Achievement Awards, standing with PACT Officers at the 2021 Annual Meeting. L-R; John Wojtasczyk, Eric Opiela, Polish Consul General Robert Rusiecki, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz. With awards, Clara Malak accepting for her late husband, Joe Malak, Jr., Virginia Felchak Hill, and Raymond Belinowski. PACT Officers from right; Jola Mazewski-Dryden, Krzysztof Gajda, Susie Kotara, Elaine Mazurek Stephens, Dr. Piotr Przybylski.

Gratulacje!

Kendell Lyssy - attends Falls City High School, will attend University of Texas San Antonio

Jeralyn Wiatrek - attends Poth High School, will attend Texas Tech University

We are proud to announce the winners of our 2021 Scholarship Essay Contest. Each student received a $1000 scholarship, payable to their university.

Jacob R. Campbell - attends Texas A&M University

Emily Glowski - attends Texas A&M University

Visit our website for details about our Scholarship Program. We welcome donations to this fund, www.PACTX.org 5

Scenes from 2021

Member Events Jagoda Polish Dance Ensemble continued to entertain with their beautiful, traditional Polish dances!

In October 2021, The Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria celebrated its Grand Opening with special blessings by the Founder, Bishop John W. Yanta.

Valentine’s Day at the European in Texas Market Cafe (Southlake, TX) was filled with sweetness and family fun!

Bishop Yanta’s 90th birthday party on October 5, 2021, was attended by many of his loving friends and family, including the Archbishop of San Antonio, His Excellency, Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS. Also celebrating with Bishop Yanta were several PACT officers. L-R: Sam Kotara, Genny Kraus, Matt Kraus, Elaine Mazurek Stephens, Kathy and Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, Archbishop GarcíaSiller, and Maureen Brown. We appreciate the many people who have shared photos with us and welcome all photos of member events!

MEMBER EVENTS 2022-2023 Please check the Member website for details and up-to-date information. Check www.PACTX.org for more events. January 1 PACT dues become due TBA Polskie kolędy - Chappell Hill - St. Stanislaus 5 Mini Wawel Bonfire Party Houston - Our Lady of Czestochowa 30 Deadline to pay dues in order to be included in the next PACT directory February TBA Polish Film Fest - Austin Austin Polish Film Festival/Austin Polish Society 16 Shana Penn, speech online Polish Club at UT 17 Dr. Russell Hittinger on JPII online - Univ. of St. Thomas JP II Institute March 19 Bigos Cook-Off and Hike Austin - Austin Polish Society 19 Dr. Norman Davies, speaker online - The Polish Club at UT Austin April 6 Deadline PACT Essay Scholarship contest 9 Pisanki Easter Egg decorating and hunt - Austin - Austin Polish Society 9 Family Day Program “Celebrating Polish Easter Traditions” - Panna Maria Polish Heritage Center 16 Easter Basket Blessing Houston - Our Lady of Czestochowa 18 Deadline FLMF Essay Scholarship contest

Last Sunday Parish Feast Day St. Hedwig - Annunciation of the BVM

October

April 29-May 1 Houston Polish Festival - Houston - Our Lady of Czestochowa Catholic Church

TBA Polish Heritage Day in the Park - Cypress - Harris Co Pct. 4

May 1st Sunday Annual Parish Festival - Bandera St. Stanislaus 3 Musical performance by Tekla Klebetnico - Panna Maria Polish Heritage Center TBA Annual Bazaar - Stoneham - St. Joseph 21 Polski karnawal - Dallas Jagoda Dance Ensemble June 24-25 Polski Dzień - Bremond Bremond Chamber of Commerce

Polish Heritage Month

2nd Sunday Annual Homecoming & Turkey Dinner Panna Maria - Immaculate Conception of the BVM TBA Annual Dożynki Chappell Hill November TBA Polish Film Festival Houston 11 Polish Independence Day 12 PACT Annual Meeting St. Hedwig - Annunciation of the BVM church December

August

TBA Polish Home Christmas Party - Houston

1st Sunday Annual Picnic Kosciusko - St. Ann

TBA Kolędy Events - Chappell Hill & Bremond

2nd Sunday Parish Festival Yorktown - Holy Cross

24 Wigilia - St. Hedwig Annunciation of the BVM Church

TBA Annual Homecoming Bazaar - Plantersville - St. Mary TBA Homecoming Bazaar Anderson - St. Stanislaus September 1st Sunday Annual Homecoming/Bazaar & Dożynki - Chappell Hill TBA Annual Bazaar - New Waverly - St. Joseph 16-19 Polish Harvest Festival Houston - Our Lady of Czestochowa 30 Deadline to pay dues in order to vote at PACT Annual Mtg.

TBA New Exhibit Celebrating Women’s History Month - Panna Maria - Polish Heritage Center TBA Opening of the PHC Library - Panna Maria - Polish Heritage Center

cover photos: A Wawel Dance Group selfie with Yessica Krozel, left, and Magdalena Chyrk [and] PACT members and friends attending Mass at St. Joseph’s in New Waverly during our annual meeting in 2021.

Scenes from the 2021

PACT Annual Meeting

in New Waverly, TX Nov. 13, 2021

PACT President, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, right, prepares to lead the procession to the church, including members from regions all over Texas and special guests, Chairman of the St. Joseph Host Committee, Clara Malak (center), the Mayor of New Waverly, Nathaniel James (with bread and salt), Walker County Judge, Danny Pierce (red tie), and Walker County Commissioner Pct. 4, Jimmy Henry, second from right.

Once again, we say

Dziekuje bardzo!

to New Waverly and St. Joseph Catholic Church for making our annual meetings fun and outstanding! Visit our NEW website for MORE photos of the 2021 Annual Meeting at PACTx.org. Mass was celebrated by Reverend Daokim Nguyen at St. Joseph Catholic Church who welcomed PACT warmly.

Wawel Dancers lead us in a fun dance contest!

Photos courtesy of Maureen Brown, Elaine Stephens and others who graciously shared.

St. Joseph parishioners welcomed our Annual Meeting in New Waverly with great food and beautiful decorations!

The Wawel Polish Dance Group also performed for us!

Polish songs were sung at Mass by soloist, Yessica Krozel.

Lt. Andrzej Feliks Wardzinski, one of 43 Polish “Freedom Fighters” from the Texas Revolutionary War in 1836. Recognized war hero from the Battle of San Jacinto assisting in the capture of General Santa Anna. See more photos on next page.

More from the 2021 PACT Annual Meeting

The procession to Mass included PACT members from all over Texas!

Of course, there is always delicious food and lots of fun at the annual meetings!

Join us November 12, in St. Hedwig, tX for the 2022 PAct Annual Meeting.

PACT 2021 scholarship winner, Emily Glowski, attended the PACT Annual Meeting with her family.

Each year, all proceeds from the beautiful silent auction benefit the PACT Scholarship fund.

Photos courtesy of Maureen Brown, Elaine Stephens and others who graciously shared.

Polish American Council of Texas Accomplishments 2021 ■ The PACT board addressed the issue of discrimination concerning the book “100 Dresses” by Eleanor Estes published in 1944. ■ Krzysztof Gajda suggested supporting the PHC with the idea of hosting the ACPC annual meeting in San Antonio. ■ January 2021: Dr. Piotr Przybylski coordinated a Texas visit of Piotr Orlowski from Polish Radio 1030 and TV Polonia to record a movie about Polonia in Texas. Several recordings were made: 1. New Polish Studies Program and St. John Paul II Studies programs at the University of St. Thomas in Houston by Dr. John Hittinger and Urszula Szuleta 2. Consulate General of the Republic of Poland by Consul Robert Rusiecki 3. Burzynski Clinic by Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski 4. Mikolaus Copernicus Polish Saturday School by Dir. Hanna Tomaszkiewicz 5. NASA and Galveston by Dr. Piotr Przybylski 6. Houston Polonia by Dr. Zbigniew Wojciechowski 7. Texas Polonia, Polish Kolędy celebrations (singing, playing) and other traditions by Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz provided a lecture about “Polish Texans – The History of Texas Polonia” for promotion of Polish Studies Program at the University of St. Thomas on October 4 – Organized by Dr. John Hittinger and Dr. Piotr Przybylski. ■ On October 4 at the University of St. Thomas, a painting of Lt. Feliks Wardziński was presented to St. Thomas University by Master Robert Kraszewski, music on the violin by Maestro Hubert Pralitz and a dramatic recitation of homily of Bl. Fr. Jerzy Popiełuszko by famous Hollywood actor Marek Probosz. – Organized by Dr. John Hittinger and Dr. Piotr Przybylski. ■ Met with a prospective donor for lunch on July 19 in Houston. ■ Polish Ambassador Piotr Wilczek was hosted virtually by the TAMU Bush School of Government on February 23, 2021, and the PACT helped promote the event. ■ In August of 2021, discussed a live broadcast to be held at the PHC “Condition of American Polonia,” to be held October 9 but this did not materialize. ■ Extensive research has been undertaken by Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, Krzysztof Gajda, and others concerning Lt. Andrzej Feliks Wardzinski and the “43 Freedom Fighters” for Texas Independence. ■ A sketch of Lt. Andrzej Feliks Wardzinski and a brief history was accepted by the Jacinto Museum from Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, and it is now available to the public. ■ Held the PACT Annual Meeting with St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish in New Waverly, Texas on November 13, 2021. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz held a meeting on March 1, 2021, with Brian Patterson a successful developer in Poland concerning collabora-

tion, business opportunities, and hosting Texas Polonia in Warsaw. ■ On April 27, 2021, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz did an interview discussing the history of the Brazos Valley immigration to the region for the documentary for the 150th Anniversary Celebration of the city of Bryan. ■ On behalf of PACT, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz submitted a letter on May 28, 2021, to Ambassador Piotr Wilczek concerning the Holocaust and the failure of human beings to understand the commonality of their fellow human species. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz furnished a list of potential speakers for both the Texas A&M Polish Association and the University of Texas Polish Club. ■ On April 27, 2021, Jola Mazewski-Dryden prepared a PACT donation receipt for all donors to have for the Income Tax Returns. ■ Elaine Mazurek Stephens chairs the PACT membership and prepares a detailed summary of the PACT Membership and contact information as well as administers the PACT Directory. ■ On January 21, 2021, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz provided a 90-minute lecture virtually for the Polish Heritage Center in Panna Maria (PHC) virtually with guests from Texas, the United States, and Poland online. ■ Eric Opiela made a presentation in October 2021 for the University of Texas Polish Club about the PACT and Texas Polonia. ■ The PACT supported HB 506 by Texas House of Representative James White, District 19. Eric Opiela was the PACT representative on this House Bill. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz furnished a letter of support for the Polish musicians that played for the 2018 PACT Annual Meeting in Chappell Hill, Texas. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz gave a program on Monday, November 8 about the “Polish Texans – The History of Texas Polonia” to the Huntsville Public Library. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz gave a program on Sunday, November 7 about the “Polish Texans – The History of Texas Polonia” to the St. Stanislaus Catholic Parish and public in Chappell Hill, Texas. ■ Eric Opiela and John Wojtasczyk completed and submitted the PACT 2020 Income Tax Returns. ■ Justyna Lopez translating the Andrzej Feliks Wardzinski book from Polish into English. ■ On June 15, 2021, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz provided several historical edits and corrections of Dr. James Olsen’s scholarly work about the Polish Ethnoreligion of East Texas: The Case of St. Joseph’s Parish, 1866-1900, published in the East Texas Historical Journal. See more accomplishments on next page.

Polish American Council of Texas Accomplishments 2021 ■ On January 9, 2021, Dr. Jim and Kathy Mazurkiewicz hosted a Kolędy Party for TVP Polonia. ■ The St. John Paul II Institute, a PACT member at the University of St. Thomas, was hosted the Polish Independence Day Celebration in Houston on November 10, 2021, organized by the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz and the St. John Paul II Institute provided support to a new music festival in Texas – International Paderewski Music Festival. I am hoping that the inaugural edition will take place in November 2022, with 3 – 5 events including one on November 11 – The Polish Independence Day and American Veterans Day organized by Maestro Mariusz Smolij. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz provided a brief overview of PACT to Mitchel Panek, Mark Pienkos, and the Polish American Association of Sarasota, Florida with the Polish Heritage Center presentation in the April and August of 2021. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz and Kathy visited the home and birthplace of Father Leopold Moczygemba in Pluznica Wielka, Poland representing PACT and Texas Polonia on September 25, 2021. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz provided suggestions for student internships for PACT youth members. ■ As PACT President Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz attended a virtual program hosted by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency in Houston “In November Bridge Event” between Texas and Poland held on April 4, 2021. ■ Dr. Mazurkiewicz helped coordinate the birthday celebration for Bishop John Yanta held in San Antonio on October 2. ■ Dr. Mazurkiewicz organized the showing of an award-winning film about the Auschwitz Volunteer Witold Pilecki “the Death of Captain Pilecki” hosted by the Texas A&M University and co-hosted by PACT, PAofT in Dallas, Texas A&M Polish Association, and UT Polish Club. The showing of the film was held on November 11, 2021, on Polish Independence Day. The event is financially sponsored by The Polish Consulate General in Houston and Dr. Jim & Kathy Mazurkiewicz and Dr. Malgorzata Gajda and Krzysztof Gajda. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz contacted the PHC and the priest at Our Lady of Czestochowa in Houston for Krzysztof Gajda about Paul Piekarczyk and his musicians playing in Houston on October 22 and in Panna Maria for the second day of the PHC opening on October 23. ■ The PACT sponsored 4 $1000 collegiate scholarships for students in 2021 from our 2020 earnings.

■ The PACT sponsored $5,000 to the Polish Heritage Center in Panna Maria and two additional anonymous $5,000 sponsorships were added to the PACT donation to make it a $15,000 donation to the PHC. This gave the PACT recognition at the Kosciusko level and the PACT asked to have a mural of the map of Texas immigration hung in the Polish Heritage Center to highlight all four major Texas Polish immigrations to the present day. ■ Dr. Mazurkiewicz on behalf of PACT, has supported the grant to the Polish Government for the past three years in support of the Polish Heritage Center requesting financial support from the Polish government. ■ Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz did three interviews with Waldmar Biniecki, Editor of Kuryer Polski in 2021. ■ Dr. Mazurkiewicz did an interview with Witold Gadowski in Krakow, Poland about Texas and Texas Polonia on September 22, 2021, representing PACT and Texas A&M University. ■ On September 17, 2021, in Warsaw, Poland, Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, President of PACT was recognized by SGGW University in Warsaw for his work between Texas and Poland. ■ PACT was represented at a wide variety of events throughout the year with PACT directory being distributed via Polish Events & Happenings – Jolanta Mazewski-Dryden: Taste of Poland Festival Houston (May), Sts Cyril and Methodius Slavic Festival – Houston (September), Dożynki Festival Houston (October), St. Stanislaus Catholic Church – 67th Homecoming Bazaar (October), Polish Heritage Center Grand Opening in Panna Maria (October). ■ Jolanta Mazewski-Dryden submitted quarterly articles on Texas Polonia in the Polish National Alliance Magazine Zgoda - https://pnaznp.org/fraternal-benefits/zgoda-magazine-formembers-of-pna-and-more/ ■ October - Mike Kurtin and the Polish Club at the University of Texas taught the traditional Polish dance, Polonaise, to the students. ■ October 30th – Bryan, College Station, Texas – Meeting of the Universities: Texas A & M Polish Association and the University of Texas Polish Club had a joint meeting at Dr. Jim & Kathy Mazurkiewicz’s home in Bryan. Homemade Polish Food was served and prepared by the club members. Dr. Jim discussed the upcoming events and Polish Texas History. ■ Jolanta Mazewski-Dryden working with Maureen Brown for a June 16th, Live Virtual Zoom Program on Traditional Polish Dancing in Texas; presented by Genny & Dr. Matthew Kraus of Mazurka Polish Dancers of San Antonio & Erica Dryden & Lukas Bielecki of Wawel Houston Dancer, PNA Polish Progressive members

In memory of my great-greatgrandparents, John Kush and Josephine Opiela Kush.

They both came to Texas from the region of Silesia, in Poland. John arrived on the first ship in 1854 and was a stonemason who settled in downtown San Antonio and helped build many churches and buildings, including St. Michael’s Church that stood in the footprint of the Tower of Americas, and where the couple wed in 1868. Josephine had come to Texas with her parents, Nicolaus and Josephine Opiela (buried in Panna Maria) and seven siblings in 1856. Their family home John Kush built remains in its original location in Hemisfair Park. I hope to honor them by serving as Director for the PACT and Marketing Director for the Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria. I only learned of my Polish ancestors after working with the PHC, Bishop Yanta, and the communities and now I am blessed and will treasure this heritage and will pass on to my family.

John & Amanda Cebrowski

In Memory of…

Wacław Siekierski and Jozefa Rząsińska Siekierski

— Maureen “Mo” Brown

In Memory of

Romuald Gmurowski 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 525 Houston TX, 77056, USA www.gov.pl/web/usa @PLinHouston

1938-2021 Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather — Art Gmurowski —

I’m a proud descendant of 1850 Polish settlers, the Kosub & Ploch families.

Genny Kraus Mazurka Polish Dancer PACT Member

Proudly helping Grimes County and beyond with genealogy and translations! Michael Kurtin 13300 FM 362 Navasota, TX 77868 713-446-7813 mktexwh@yahoo.com

Dr. Witold Lukaszewski

Then & Now Jolanta A. Mazewski- Dryden ✦ Secretary – Polish American Council of Texas

✦ Fraternal Advisor – Region H,

Polish National Alliance (Texas, Colorado, Florida, Missouri & Nebraska) ✦ Sales Representative – Polish National Alliance Fraternal Insurance ✦ President, Polish Progressive Lodge 2336 & Council 182 Representative ✦ Polish Events and Happenings in Texas & Beyond Immigrated from Poland in the early 60’s to Texas. Actively involved in the Polish community and organizations since the age of 5, performed with the Polish Eagle dancers for over 30 years. Held a variety of positions in the Polish community for five decades. Active promoter of the Polish culture, history, language, arts, and heritage via Polish displays throughout Texas. Involved in festivals, consumer events, bazaars, and private events. Does speaking engagements and TV promos. Check out Polish Events and Happenings in Texas and Beyond on FB for up-to-date info in the Polish community. Owns a consulting, PR, marketing, and event production firm – Dryden Event Productions. Contact: jola@drydeneventproductions.

In Memory of

Joseph and Ursula Maziuk From Grodno, Poland Married June 19, 1911 — Nicholas Mazik 15

Descendant of Wielkopolska and Kujawsko-Pomorskie whose ancestors settled in Chappell Hill, Texas Washington County “The birthplace of Texas” in the 1880’s James Mazurkiewicz Equine Field Service Equine Dentistry Technician Texas A&M University Large Animal Hospital Cell: (979) 229-0780 jmazurkiewicz@cvm.tamu.edu jamesmaz4m@hotmail.com

Moczygemba,

Virgil and Elaine

In Memory of our Lyssy and Moczygemba Parents 16

Happy to be part of the PACT as it fosters continued interest in the wonderful Polish Heritage. — Sue McCarthy

Blessings from Susan MoczygembaMcKinsey Panna Maria, TX

3rd generation Polish-American. Born in New Jersey. Relocated to Houston to attend the University of Houston. Acquired a Master’s Degree in Public Policy. Currently employed with Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner, R. Jack Cagle.

Bradley V.Z. Mushinski Graduate Student ❘ University of Houston

“Best wishes to the Polish American Council of Texas throughout 2022!”

Dr. Mark Pienkos

National First Vice President Polish American Congress markpienkos2012@gmail.com 262-325-8039 • pac1944.org

“Continued Great Success in 2022!”

Ann Pienkos

President of The Polish-American Association of Sarasota, Inc. www.PolishSarasota.org annpienkos@gmail.com 17

Mary Ann Kotara Schirmer

5th Generation in Panna Maria Best Wishes to All!

Honoring the 1855 Polish Pioneers in Bandera, Texas

1930 - Last survivors of the original Polish settlers who came to Bandera in 1855.

Top Row: Annie Haiduk, Mary Anderwald, Joe Anderwald, Josephine Pyka, John Pyka, Francis Moravietz, Mr. and Mrs. Gabe Anderwald. Front Row: Annie Anderwald, Coustian Dugosh, Agnes Dugosh, Constantina Adamietz, Rose Jureczki, Leonard Jureczki.

Elaine Mazurek Stephens 18

In memory of

John Zientek Jr. Jerzy-Piotr Walicki

3rd generation

Born: June 28, 1920 Deceased: June 2, 2007 — Mark G. Walicki, son Richard Walicki, son Kristina Cashin, daughter

In Memory of John and Stella Zientek

who arrived in the United States from the region of Bialystock in Poland on October 27, 1949.

Founder & Chairman Emeritus of the Polish American Council of Texas:

Bishop John W. Yanta Above: President of the Republic of Poland, Andrzej Duda, presenting the highest award to a non-citizen of Poland, the Commander’s Cross of the Order of Merit during his Presidential visit to Our Lady of Częstochowa Church, Houston, Texas, June 13, 2019. This award was presented for Bishop Yanta’s long history of promoting, supporting, and preserving Polonia not only here in Texas, but throughout America. On right: the Commander’s Cross of the Order of Merit award with certificate of authenticity. 19

Founder & Chairman Emeritus of the Polish American Council of Texas Most Rev. John W. Yanta, Bishop Emeritus, Diocese of Amarillo

ORDAINED PRIEST: March 17, 1956, San Antonio, Texas ORDAINED BISHOP: December 30, 1994, Panna Maria, Texas Founded PACT: January 27, 2011 Founder and charter member of group of priests which launched the Polish American Priests Association of Texas (P.A.P.A.), 1970, which grew into a national entity. Founder of the Texas Division of the Polish American Congress, 1971. Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria Foundation, 2011. 20

FAMILY & BUSINESS INSURANCE SINCE 1973

Debbie Brzezinski 300 E. Sonterra Blvd. Suite 1100 San Antonio, Texas 78258 debbieb@wspinsurance.com Ofﬁce (210) 477-4286 Cell (210) 865-2966

Gabe & Bertha Dworaczyk Korzekwa

Paul & Laura Dylla In Memory of

Engelbert & Elenora Krawietz and Lawrence & Alice Dylla

Sam & Susie Kotara Honoring the Polish heritage of the Broll, Kotara, and Wojtasczyk families

In Memory Of

Hagan Dworaczyk & Pelagia (Wiatrek) Dworaczyk

Benedict Korzekwa & Hattie (Hoffmann) Korzekwa

while being actively involved in the development of the Polish Heritage Center USA at Panna Maria and the PACT.

George & Betty Kowalik

Supporting the Polish Heritage Center to instill pride and knowledge of our ancestors’ Polish heritage, faith, family and community and working to keep their history from being lost.

We pay Tribute to our ancestors and honor their sacriﬁces.

Greg and Stephanie Kusinski Hania, Amelia, and Adela 22

Descendant of Wielkopolska and Kujawsko-Pomorskie whose ancestors settled in Chappell Hill, Texas Washington County “The birthplace of Texas” in the 1880’s Dr. Jim & Kathy Mazurkiewicz President & PACT Board Member Director, Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria Board Member, Polish American Chamber of Commerce in Texas Professor, Regents Fellow & Leadership Program Director Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication Texas A&M University 1470 William D. Fitch Parkway, Ste. 121 A College Station, Texas 77843-2137 Cell: 979-229-8855 • j-mazurkiewicz@tamu.edu http://tall.tamu.edu

Al & Angela

Notzon

I have been working with Bishop John Yanta and have been involved in the Polish Heritage Center from its inception. I am so thankful that my Polish ancestors risked so much to come to America and am humbled by the sacrifices they made for their future generations. I have sponsored the St. Michael’s Cemetery window representation since my greatgrandfather and great-grandmother Notzon are buried there, and I want to honor their memories as well as all my Polish ancestors through my gifts to the Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria.

John & Denise

SKROBARCZYK 5th generation descendants of immigrants Josef & Joanna Skrobarczyk who arrived in Panna Maria in 1855

In Memory of Parents Joe Vincent 1913-1972 & Theresa (Wollney) 1918-1986 PAWELEK and John Ignatz 1903-1967 & Eleanor (Keller) 1909-2005 TITZMAN By Lambert & Rosalie Pawelek Titzman 23

Dr. Piotr Przybylski •1st Vice President of PACT and PACT Board Member •Born and raised in Kraków, Poland •University of St. Thomas Assistant Director for Polish Studies

Don’t be left out!

John (Treasurer for PACT) & Christie Wojtasczyk; Descendants of Morawiecz, Schlesia, Pawlik, Hagel, Migura, Bednorz, Brzezina, Skrobarczyk, Grabon, Kowalik, Respondek, Czerner, & Ibrom 24

If you are interested in placing an ad in next year's PACT Directory, contact us at Office@PACTx.org or visit www.PACTx.org

Polish American Council of Texas

Additional PACT Members INDIVIDUALS

Roger E. Bartosiewicz Clara Malak Jerome Bielamowicz Eric Opiela Marilyn Conger Tom Ostrowski Laura Coughlin Thaddeus Zawistowski Jane Ellisor Rafal Zielinski Dr. Marian Kruzel

FAMILIES

Joseph Czyz Artur & Magdalena Dunal Dr. Leon & Mrs. Alina Ordon Kundrotas Pamela & Dwight Mitchell Dr. Waldemar Priebe Amanda & Steven Schaefer Mark & Zhanna Sikorski Eddie & Debbie Skrobarcek

Interested in joining PACT? Join online at PACTx.org

The Church was founded in 1855.

Annunciation BVM Church Feast Day Celebration

Last Sunday in April beginning with Mass at 9:30 am St. John Paul II Parish Center

Pastor, Fr. Bill (Boleslaw) Zadora, SDS 14011 FM 1346, P.O. Box 100 Saint Hedwig, TX 78152 210-667-1232 • FAX: 210-667-9088 annun@sthcc.org • www.sthcc.org 27

Austin Polish Society

Cultural and Artistic events

Celebrating Polish Heritage, Culture, Language, and Arts

Support for the Polish Studies Endowment at the University of Texas at Austin Polish Language Classes Call Magda Boudni, 512-586-1104

AustinPolishSociety.org

Monthly Polish Films at the Public Library

Presenting Polish films, poster art, and artists since 2006

Polish Books Collection Cooking Classes Traditional Holiday Events Social Events

AustinPolishFilm.com

JOIN us! We are on Facebook and Twitter

Bandera County Sister Partnership Association

The Mission of the Bandera County Sister Partnership (BCSPA) is to advance peace through lasting relationships and international understanding, friendships, and diplomatic relations. We take the United States of America, Texas, and Bandera County with us when we go abroad. Our goal is to spread peace and goodwill through sister partnerships with international cities, counties, schools, citizens, and diplomatic exchanges; to promote Bandera as the USA’s best western cowboy culture vacation attraction helping to expand economic development in the city and county of Bandera. The BCSPA promotes tourism, culture, and the cowboy traditions of Bandera County, Texas since first established in 2004.

The world is opening their arms and ready to embrace Bandera County and the City of Bandera,

“The Cowboy Capital of the World.”

9220 Poplar St., Chappell Hill, TX 77426 ChappellHillMuseum@gmail.com 979-836-6033 ChappellHillHistoricalSociety.com

Father Leopold Moczygemba Foundation In the early 1850s, Father Leopold Moczygemba, from Pluznica, Silesia, a region in Europe, now southwest Poland, came to south Texas to help his friends and families. He had encouraged them to move to Texas, settling in Panna Maria and many other Texas communities. The Foundation sponsors an annual essay scholarship contest, and maintains two websites, resulting in the building of bridges and relationships between Silesia and Texas.

www.FLMFoundation.org www.SilesianTexans.com 30

These books are available free with a $5 donation (each) for shipping and handling. Both books are available in limited supplies.

•The Father Leopold Moczygemba Foundation book prepared in 20l9 answers the questions, “What is the purpose of the Foundation?” “How did it get started?” “Who is involved in this organization?” •Silesia for Silesian Texans, a book researched by the Silesian Profiles Committee, presents the history of Silesia and the villages of the ancestors of the Silesian Texans. ISBN 978-83-7342-687-0. Please send your mailing address and a check payable to FLMF, P. O. Box 23568, San Antonio, Texas, 78223. The FLMF is a 501-C-3 nonprofit organization.

General Casimir Pulaski Society

GCPS is located in El Paso, Texas and serves people in West Texas, southern New Mexico and Juarez (Mexico).

Regular cultural and social events make GCPS a little piece of Poland in the heart of the Sun City. We might not be big, but we sure are great!

www.poloniaelpaso.org • E-mail: polishsocietyelpaso@gmail.com Facebook.com/PolishAmericanSocietyElPaso

Holy Cross Catholic Church Rev. Roger Hawes 1214 Zorn road Yorktown, tX 78164 361-564-2893 HolYCrossYorktown.net mass: Sat. 5 pm; Sun. 9:30 am

parish festival - 2nd sunday in september “We are proud of our Holy Cross Catholic Church Cemetery and our ancestors whose memories we honor there.” 31

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church

The Oldest Polish Permanent Settlement in the Nation Founded 1854 Mass: Sat. 4:30 pm Sun. 8:30 am

Saint John Paul II quote September 13, 1987: “In Poland, Panna Maria, Texas is very famous. Everyone knows of Panna Maria and those first Polish immigrants who responded to the call of their pastor and spiritual leader, Father Leopold Moczygemba. All of our great American Polonia credits its origin to you. Panna Maria, as the first nest built on American soil by Polish immigrants inspiring others to follow in your footsteps.”

Annual Homecoming and Turkey Dinner 2nd Sunday in October

P.O. Box 9, Panna Maria, Texas 78144 • 830-780-2748

Jagoda Poli sh

Fol k Dan ce

E n s e m b l e

Join us today! Alicja 214-842-1612 contact@jagodadance.org Facebook/jagodafolkdance www.jagodadance.org 32

Jan Karski Polish School of Dallas

JAN KARSKI

POLISH SCHOOL OF DALLAS

offers classes for children 4 and up. Students learn reading, writing, and speaking in Polish, the history and geography of Poland, as well as Polish culture and traditions.

Children and adults who do not speak Polish, learn Polish as a second language in two “Polish 101” classes. We prepare our students to Seal of Biliteracy exam.

For more information contact us at jankarski@polishschooldallas.org or visit our website www.polishschooldallas.org.

Panna Maria Visitors’ Center & Historical Society

Located in the Panna Maria Historic District on FM 81 in the historic Pilarczyk’s Store building OPen Thursdays: March thru October 10 am–4 pm November thru February 10am-3 pm every 3rd & 4th full weekend of the month: Saturdays 10 am–4 pm, Sundays 1-4 pm

Call for tours and information

830-780-4471

or email: pmhs.vstrctr@gmail.com. 13860 FM 81, P.O. BOX 52, Panna Maria, TX 78144

www.pannamariatexas.org

Founded in Houston in 2017, the Polish American Chamber of Commerce in Texas is a non-profit organization serving to connect and facilitate business interests between Poland and Texas; and in a broader sense between Poland and the USA.

We aspire to collaborate with businesses regardless of industry and ranging from the smallest businesses to the largest multi-nationals on both sides of the Atlantic as well as with all relevant governmental, academic and non-profit organizations.

www.polchamtx.org • Email: ofﬁce@polchamtx.org • Twitter: @PolchamTx Greg Kusinski, Ph.D., EMBA - President • Email: gkusinski@polchamtx.org • Twitter: @kusinski_greg 34

Polish American Priests Association Honorary Members of PACT “The Polish American Council of Texas honors and prays for all Texas priests from Poland and those of Polish descent.”

SACRED HEART HISTORICAL SOCIETY “Thankful for our Polish ancestors”

Window from the original church, moved to the present church built in 1961 P.O. BOX 427 WHITE DEER, TEXAS 79097

St. Ann’s Catholic Church

Annual Picnic 1st Sunday in August

830-745-2541 • stannskos.com Corner of FM 541 & 1347, Kosciusko, TX 78160

Kosciusko, or more properly spelled Kosciuszko, was named for the Polish General Thaddeus Kosciusko when it was established March 12, 1880 by sixty-five Polish families. In 1892 a Polish Catholic school was built. The first Church was built in 1898. The people gathered together and with $2,000 built the first Church and named it St. Ann’s. The wooden church measured 80ft x 40ft.

Mass: Sat. 5:30 pm Sun. 8:00 am 37

St. Michael Catholic Church The original St. Michael Catholic Church was the center of the third oldest parish in San Antonio, Texas, and a nucleus for the Polish people of the city. It began with the arrival of Father Vincent Barzynski of the Resurrectionist Order who was the earliest resident pastor. On November 18, 1866, the first Mass of the newly organized parish was celebrated in the San Fernando Cathedral. St. Michael’s divine services were initially held in a rented one-story, rock building owned by Emanuel Rzeppa. In 1922, the original church was torn down and a larger edifice of white brick was erected. The cornerstone of this majestic church was laid on July 4, 1922, followed by the dedication on October 25, 1922. The blessing of the beautiful stained glass windows took place on December 2, 1923. This historic church, with St. Michael the Archangel as its standard bearer, was demolished to make room for the 1968 HemisFair. Info courtesy of SilesianTexans.com.

Please see SilesianTexans.com for beautiful images and more information about this historic church.

The modern St. Michael Catholic Church is located at 418 Indiana St., San Antonio, Texas 78210. For information please call 210-263-7270.

St. Stanislaus

Catholic Church & Cemetery

PARISH FESTIVAL First Sunday in May

Church grounds, 7th St. & Cypress St. Mass: Saturday 5 pm Sunday 8 am, 11 am (Bilingual), 4 pm

Monsignor Frank Kurzaj 311 7th St., Bandera, TX 78003 830-460-4712 www.ststanislausbandera.com 38

St. Stanislaus Catholic Church

EVENTS

Check the website for event dates. Annual Homecoming Bazaar & Dożynki (Harvest) Mass & Celebration

1st Sunday in September Food, Games, Live Auction, Polish Music

Polskie Kolędy (Christmas Caroling) December

Pastor: Reverend Jozef Musiol, SDS, JCD

Polish Traditions, Polish Food, Polish Singing, Polish Music

9175 FM 1371, Chappell Hill, TX 77426 979-836-3030 • www.ststanislauschappellhill.org

The Center for European Studies (CES) at University of Texas at Austin promotes the study of Europe in the form of: language study; providing courses on European culture, history, economics, business, and politics; creating opportunities for study abroad and internships abroad; and assisting students in pursuing work opportunities connected to Europe. CES also serves civic, nonprofit, and business associations with activities in Europe; academic leaders and institutions from Europe with collaborative agreements with UT; governmental and multilateral agencies dedicated to social and economic betterment in Europe; and the general public in Texas and the U.S. whose world outlook includes Europe.

For inquiries, please contact CES at ces@austin.utexas.edu. 39

Texas A&M University

Cześć! We are the UT Polish Club, students dedicated to all things POLISH! Wednesdays 7pm 45-minutes via Zoom

To raise awareness and to promote Polish heritage and culture at Texas A&M and the Aggie Community. FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

We discuss Polish politics, food, history, and more! We also have esteemed guest speakers, participate in Polish community events, cook Polish food together, offer Polish movie nights, and host social events. Join the UT Polish Club, meet like-minded Longhorns, and indulge in Poland’s rich culture. “Everybody is welcome, whether you are Polish or not.” Contact Nsilverstein@utexas.edu for info.

Homemade

Polish & European Cuisine

Located in Austin, TX Owner: Asia Gonczar

www.apoloniacatering.com apoloniacatering@gmail.com 41

X U R Y LU

I S

R V I C E , E R

S P I R A T I O I N

O U R

R E A L E S TAT E E X P E R T

YOUR LOCAL

A R D , N D

A N D

B E ATA BURGESON www.austinfinehomes.com

POLISH AMERICAN COUNCIL OF TEXAS - PAST TREASURER AUSTIN POLISH SOCIETY - CO-FOUNDER, PAST PRESIDENT AUSTIN POLISH FILM FESTIVAL - PAST COMMITTEE MEMBER

yvonnechauvin@yvonnechauvin.com www.compass.com/agents/yvonne-chauvin/ www.facebook.com/yvonnechauvin123/ Yvonne Chauvin is a Master Certified Negotiations Expert (MCNE), an Accredited Luxury Home Specialist (ALHS), and a Certified New Home Specialist (CNHS). She balances tenacity and empathy to create exceptional client experiences and successful outcomes. Fiercely loyal when pursuing her client’s goals, she is endlessly patient, attentive, and supportive. Since her first day in the business, Yvonne has been devoted to treating every client like a close family member and a lifelong friend. Her clients’ satisfaction is always her greatest reward. “When I see the look of joy and satisfaction in their faces — after completing a complicated transaction or finding their dream home — those are my favorite moments.” Yvonne was born and raised in Poland and speaks Polish. She is a longtime Houstonian serving the Greater Houston area, including Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, Fulshear, Spring, Magnolia, Waller, Montgomery, Conroe, Kingwood, and Cypress.

Kotara Enterprises LLC 44

Polonia Restaurant Special Events ~ Catering ~ Reservations Polish favorites as pierogi, golabki (cabbage rolls) original Polish sausage, bigos (hunter stew) golonka (pork shank) & much more

Polish Food Store Extensive selection of authentic, hard to find Polish delicacies and Polish memorabilia

Polonia Restaurant 713-464-9900 • Polish Food Store 713-464-9901 1780 Blalock Rd., Houston, TX 77080 • www. poloniarestaurant.com

Family Owned and Operated by Sharon & Andrzej Szpak • Located in Houston since 2003

We are proud to be a Member of PACT.

Your one stop source for Real Estate service in Katy and Houston area. Visit my website to help make your selling or buying process less intimidating.

www.re-excelrealty.com

RE-EXCEL Mark Hunek

Real Estate Broker

Realty, Inc. 281-646-7363 832-723-7320 (cell)

We’re proud of our Polish heritage!

REKIETA SUPPLY APPLIANCE Sales / Service / Parts

254-746-7215 Keith Rekieta • Bremond, Texas

NEWS

For Locals. By Locals. Want to know what’s happening at City Hall? Wondering what’s new in the neighborhood? Shopping around for the latest local sales and coupon offers? Making weekend plans? Craving dinner and a movie? Looking for a great cup of coffee? Make us your go-to resource for all this and so much more!

Wilson County News Get the App for your community! For Android/iOS

1012 C Street, Floresville • 830-216-4519 wilsoncountynews.com • reader@wcn-online.com

830-216-4519 wilsoncountynews.com/subscribe 52 weeks for $29

Advertise

830-216-4519 wilsoncountynews.com/advertise Reach 18,400 readers/week

Mission stateMent

PACT is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization established with the following mission: To further knowledge of Polish culture, traditions, history, language, arts, current affairs, and statewide events in Texas. To facilitate networking among Polish American groups in Texas.

Who We are

Our members include Polish American individuals, clubs, organizations, churches, professionals, societies, artists, genealogists, teachers, cultural events, businesses and more. We welcome you!

contact us Email: Office@PACTx.org Web: PACTx.org Phone: 830-779-2636 Facebook: PACTx Twitter: @PolishAmerTX PO Box 1357, La Vernia, Texas 78121