The Czech Language Class in West,

The Czech Language Class in West, taught by Joe Janecka, concluded on April 6th, 2009 with 61 students completing the twelve-week course. Once again, the response to this class was remarkable. Joe had originally anticipated about 25 students and had reserved a small conference room at the West library. When 78 students showed up for the first class, it became obvious that a larger facility was needed. The city of West responded by providing the West Community Center for the classes.

Joe would like to personally thank Mrs. Nita Gerik, who besides being a student, opened up the Community Center and helped us set up the classroom. Joe would also like to thank the Vestnik for announcing his class and helped bring in many of the students from the surrounding area.

The Czech language course consisted of concentrated grammar and vocabulary lessons along with presentations on Czech history, traditions, legends and culture. Each class started with a review of the previous lesson in the form of an oral test and checking of the homework assignments. Then new grammar and vocabulary was presented. After a 10-minute break, the history or culture presentations were given. Each student then received a CD-ROM and printed material containing all of the lesson material along with other language exercises for home study. Mr. Jan Vaculik, who grew up and was educated in the Czech Republic, assisted by correcting numerous spelling, grammar and pronunciation errors. Each class concluded with the singing of Czech songs. We were fortunate to have several musicians participate by playing their instruments for this activity, including Milo Dujka, Chris Rybak, Harold Strand, Charles Nemec and Sara Mynarcik. A special thanks go to Karen Osbourn for leading our singing. Everyone truly enjoyed this part of the class.

The course concluded with a party with plenty of food, singing and fellowship.

Joe Janecka and his wife Alice have been providing this class and furnish all of the materials as a hobby and their contribution to the Texas Czech culture. Both are members of SPJST Lodge 180 in Burleson.