Celebrating Kolaches in Texas

Last Saturday the Austin American-Statesman dispatched me to the Kolache Festival in Caldwell, Texas, an event that celebrates the kolache, a Czech pastry that’s been quite popular in Texas for many years.    The festival included ample samplings of Czech culture in the form of their music and colorful clothing as well.   Jim Matcek and his wife Claudia were joined in the Parade of Costumes by their 23-month-old grandson, Cooper Matcek.   Edward Kopecky, a member of the Fun Time Czech Band, did great work on both his trumpet and accordian.  Rita Janak was there to lead the Shiner Hobo Band.  17-year-old Anna Faust of Snook, Texas was crowned this year’s Kolache Queen.  Just up the street, at Caldwell’s First United Methodist Church, judges poured over entries in the kolache-baking competition.   Among those entered was 11-year-old Kaitlyn Kindt, who awoke at 4a.m. to bake the creations she and mom Shayna made.   The judges obviously took their work very seriously, but did seem to enjoy their task.   Back outside, Rachel Avecedo and Kenny Wilson were among the entrants in the kolache-eating contest, where entrants had to devour the pastries faster than their opponents, a sometimes messy affair.   This was a whole lot of fun!   Jak Se Mas, by the way, asks “How Are You?” in Czech.    The great state of Texas celebrates its diversity in so many wonderful ways.