A first-time Czech dinner benefit on Nov. 10 — organized by brothers Mike, Dave and Dan Ruzek, all of Austin — raised $2,643 that will stay in Mower County for the Disabled American Veterans Arnold Brandt Chapter 27. The brothers recently donated those funds to local DAV leaders.

The Ruzek brothers wanted to organize a benefit dinner to support veterans with disabilities as a fitting tribute to their late father, Carl Ruzek, a World War II veteran who had disabilities and was a lifetime member of both the Mower County DAV and Austin VFW. The dinner also served as an honor to those who are or have been caregivers to veterans with disabilities, including their late mother, Stella Ruzek, who also was known for making delicious Czech meals and baked goods, especially kolaches.

A limited number of tickets for the Czech dinner sold out about a week in advance of the event. Additional funds were raised through silent auctions and cash donations from numerous organizations and individuals.

The DAV helps provide and maintain equipment, such as electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters, for veterans with disabilities. Among numerous other services, the DAV also provides Thanksgiving food baskets for disabled veterans and transportation when veterans with disabilities need to visit non-Veterans Affairs medical facilities.