Saturday, June 19, 2010 turned out to be a typical hot, sunny Texas summer day, but that didn’t stop hundreds of people from descending on Ronnie and Hazel Dutka’s beautiful big red barn in Plantersville, Texas to celebrate their Polish heritage at a fun-filled family reunion. The crowd was made up of members of the Marszalek/Marshall, Borek, Maduzia, Filar, Zabawa and Bartkowiak families along with many of their close friends.
There was plenty of home cooked kielbasa, pierogi and other Polish food for everyone and a big trailer full of cold piwo helped allieviate the heat. Activities included fishing, 42 dominoes, washers and black jack tournaments along with face painting and a Sponge Bob Bounce for the kids. The Creative Farm Hat contest drew a lot of interest as participants paraded around the barn in their interesting hats and attempted to collect pennies from the crowd.
Musical entertainment was provided by the Too Far Gone Band, Bradley Jaye Williams and The Gulf Coast Playboys, Leonard Kasowski and the Westbound Band and a host of other talented musicians who played throughout the day. Dancers were kept busy with a variety of old time Polish, country and Cajun music. A special treat was when Marshall musicians from three different generations, Brian and his two sons Jacob and Michal and his Uncle Eddie, played a song together.
A reunion blessing was given by Father Ed Kucera, pastor of the nearby St. Mary Catholic Church. Following the blessing, the highlight of the afternoon was a very emotional balloon launch. Participates blew up colorful balloons in memory of their departed loved ones, released them all at once and watched them head to the heavens. A photographer in a small planes flew over and shot photos and video as the balloons were launched.
Fun, food, fellowship, music and dancing, what more could you ask for. What a great way to celebrate our families and our Polish traditions.
Below are a few photos of the fun and there is a slideshow of many more photos on page 2.
Slideshow of many more photos on page 2.
James Smock has always held an interest in his Polish ancestors and heritage. He is a native Houstonian with Polish roots in Bremond, Marlin and New Waverly, Texas.