2 minute read
Punkie’s Place
They call him Turk
BY LOU CHRISTINE
The easy going, Talat Tekis, is referred to by most who know him as Turk, for obvious reasons. Stemming from the nation of Turkey, Turk has resided in the States for a number of decades, and become part of the great American melting pot. After leaving his homeland, Turk lived on the East Coast, but for the last five years he’s set up shop and has settled in Round Top with his home and his “DJEM” (D-gem) headquarters right on Texas Highway, 237.
You won’t find Turk lipping, “Y’all come back now,” or “Bless your heart,” but he’s gotten somewhat downhome while merging with the community, and at the same time being a sought-after vendor for his wares at the shows. Turk purchased and now has a second location as he has spread his horizons in the area. (More about that later.)
Turk’s early education, key contacts and memories about Middle Eastern culture have far from faded. With modern day travel he’s never that far from his roots and invaluable contacts. Those resources have enabled Turk to zero in on Turkish, Armenian and Greek vintage items, like rugs and carpets, urns, rare furniture, and even old parts all marketed by his company, DJEM Unique Ideas.
Turk’s, DJEM, is not only an importer of fine vintage goods from that part of the world but now also produces custom-made furniture including Sofas and Chairs and of course—why not?—Ottomans.
Turk wants all to know his production company is nature and that DJEM creates no waste or residue that would damage the environment.
About that earlier “more about that later” and new horizons: Turk has further spread his wings by purchasing Bediko’s International Retreat, 475 FM 1291 in Warrenton.
Kwaku Bediko and his wife Barbara have owned and worked the property on FM 1291 for the past 20 years. Bediko, the artist, and a beloved old-timer raconteur in Warrenton, confesses he’s getting up in age and has been busy with newer projects that are taking the lion’s share of his creativity time. At the same time he and Barbara have been spending more leisure time at their Belize beachfront property.
Turk and the Bediko’s have been friends for ages and a deal was struck between all parties, where as DJEM takes over the Bediko spread, while managing the enterprising taking place on-and-off shows. DJEM will also provide expanded accommodations for dealers or shoppers attending shows. A unique caveat struck by the all parties, is that the Bedikos have the right to reside on the property whenever they desire, for life!
Turk will be socillating between both locations during this fall show. DJEM will market their treasures from the Middle East at both locations, the one in Round Top and other in Warrenton. Look him up, he would love to meet you!□
