Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago

Thank you, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, for the warm welcome and insightful Muon g-2 tour! Equally impressed by the Short Baseline Near Detector. A pleasure meeting Laboratory Director, Lia Merminga, and Director of International Engagements, Hema Ramamoorthi. Looking forward to fostering new scientific collaborations between Fermilab and Czech institutions! 🇨🇿 🇺🇸 Diplomacy

The President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel will Attend the NATO Summit in Washington.

On Monday, July 8, 2024, President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel will leave for a working trip to the United States, where he will lead the delegation of the Czech Republic to the NATO Summit, which will be held from July 9 to 11, 2024, in Washington, DC. The program also includes a festive celebration to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of NATO, consisting of a dinner hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House.

Together with the President of the Czech Republic, Czech Minister of Defense Jana Černochová, Czech Minister of Foreign Affairs Jan Lipavský and Chief of the General Staff of the Military of the Czech Republic Karel Řehka will also participate in the meetings.

As part of an additional program in Washington, DC, Czech President Petr Pavel will meet with selected members of the US Congress, have meetings with representatives of leading American think tanks, and participate as one of the main speakers at the NATO Public Forum. He will further hold a number of bilateral negotiations with NATO member and partner states.

On July 12 and 13, 2024, Czech President Petr Pavel will travel to Houston, Texas, where he will participate as a speaker in a debate with local representatives on the topic of NATO and transatlantic collaboration. He will visit NASA's Johnson Space Center, lead a discussion on the topic of energy security and meet with representatives of the Texas and Nebraska National Guards, with which the Czech Republic has been cooperating for a long time. As part of the program in Texas, where the largest part of the original Czech emigration to America lives, there will also be a meeting with Czech compatriots who participate in the preservation and promotion of Czech heritage. At the end of the program, he will attend a Major League Baseball game.

https://mzv.gov.cz/washington/en/czech_u_s_relations/news/the_president_of_the_republic_petr_pavel.html

Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago is organizing consular days in Detroit on July 19 and 20.

Lidice Memorials: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future, same as Památník Lidice .

In the states of Illinois and Michigan, the cities of Crest Hill and Phillips serve as poignant locations where the Lidice memorials stand. These memorials have borne witness to annual gatherings since 1942, with the first gathering held just a month after the tragic events. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the organizers and participants who tirelessly preserve the memory of the Lidice tragedy and ensure its legacy for generations to come.

During the 82nd anniversary commemorative gathering in Crest Hill on June 9, Consul Ondřej Pometlo laid a wreath on behalf of the Consulate General. In his address, he echoed the stance of Czech diplomacy by condemning Russian aggression in Ukraine. He emphasized that the killing of civilians and the abduction of children constitute the same crimes, whether in Lidice or in Ukraine.

With deep respect, we invite you to join a memorial service in Phillips on Friday, June 14, starting at 7:00 p.m, part of Phillips Czechoslovakian Community Festival. Let us come together to honor the past and shape a future rooted in remembrance and peace.

On the 100th anniversary of Franz Kafka’s death, the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut Chicago, organized the first in a series of commemorative events on June 7, 2024. Held at the new premises of the Goethe Institute, this public event marked the first gathering after the ceremonial opening in May. Attendees had the opportunity to watch the film “ Kafka Goes to the Movies ,” which delves into Kafka’s diaries and offers an unconventional perspective on the silent films of Kafka’s era and the intimate aspects of the young writer’s life.
Consul Ondřej Pometlo opened the event by highlighting Kafka’s role as a European figure who embodied the motto of the European Union: “ Unity in Diversity .” He encouraged participants to explore other Kafka anniversary events, including the exhibition "Franz Kafka: A Man of His Own and Our Time ," a Kafka text reading marathon , and additional film screenings. 📽️📚🎉

🌟 A heartfelt thank you to Táňa Klementová and Martin Reiner for their captivating presentation on Moravian Jewish history at the Czech Consulate of Chicago on June 4th!🌟 Their insightful lecture shed light on a rich and complex heritage. We were truly honored to learn about the museum project Mehrin, dedicated to commemorating the vibrant Jewish settlements in Moravia and the families who shaped its history. 🏛️ With everyone’s relentless dedication and passion propelling the project forward, we eagerly anticipate its future successes! 🎉 Special thanks to the Chicago Regional Office of the AJC - American Jewish Committee for their invaluable assistance. Let’s continue celebrating and preserving this invaluable cultural legacy together!
The Consulate was also delighted to present to our attendees a dynamic overview of literary genius Franz Kafka’s life and works, marking the 100th anniversary of his passing on June 3rd 🖊✨

🌟 Honoring 100 years since the passing of the legendary Franz Kafka, a literary genius from Prague 🖊✨

Dive into the fascinating world of Kafka with us as we explore his life, works, and the places that shaped his extraordinary imagination. Did you know he grew up in the picturesque Old Town of Prague, drawing inspiration from its winding streets and mysterious alleys? 🏰

Follow Kafka’s footsteps and uncover the secrets of his literary legacy. Check out this insightful series of broadcasts by Radio Prague International to learn more:

In Kafka's footsteps Franz Kafka was born in Prague, but where specifically did the world-famous writer grow up? Where did he draw inspiration, or even go on holiday?

Last Friday, we had the honor of welcoming the 4 Tenoři to Chicago.🤩🎼 Their recital, celebrating the Year of 🇨🇿 Music, was truly unforgettable!👏

We are immensely grateful to the audience for coming out and making it a remarkable evening. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to us!👍 The songs resonated beautifully, and we are sure everyone had a fantastic time. In particular, the interpretation of Smetana’s "Vltava" was very moving.

A special shoutout to Chicago Sister Cities International and NU AVE ART for co-organizing this incredible event. Your collaboration made it all possible! And heartfelt thanks to Robert Bokuvka and R. Jelinek Co. for their invaluable support.

This Memorial Day, we honored our fallen heroes at the beautifully restored World Wars I and II Memorial at the Bohemian National Cemetery. These brave individuals paid the ultimate price so that Americans, Czechs, and many other people around the world can live free and in peace🕊. The lessons of the past and the realities of the present compel us to stand united in upholding freedom and democracy when threatened.

A heartfelt thanks to the Bohemian National Cemetery Association and Friends of Bohemian National Cemetery for organizing an unforgettable Memorial Day Service. We were honored to participate alongside the U.S. Armed Forces, who led the Color Guard procession, and the students of T. G. Masaryk Czech School, who recited Czech poems and presented the Pledge of Allegiance. Special thanks to David Pimm, Chuck Michalek, and William Hudecek for their thoughtful remarks, and to everyone who participated.👏 Let’s remember our 🇺🇸 🇨🇿fallen heroes.

The talented students of the ZUŠ Kyjov Cimbalom Ensemble brought their exceptional artistry🎼🎻to Chicago last week, leaving an indelible mark on this city.
They captivated audiences with their appearance on FOX 32📺 (https://www.fox32chicago.com/video/1457550), performed beautifully at Michigan Plaza surrounded by breathtaking skyscrapers to mark the 20th anniversary of Czechia’s entry to the European Union 🇪🇺, and gave a heartfelt concert at the United Moravian Societies Clubhouse for our compatriots and their families and friends.

Their presence and performances have greatly enhanced 🇨🇿 cultural image in the city, and we couldn't be prouder👍. A heartfelt thank you to these remarkable performers and to everyone who joined us in celebrating this special occasion. Your support and enthusiasm made these events truly memorable.👏👏👏

Would you like to learn more about the history of Czech immigration to the Windy City? Then be sure not to miss the movie “Czechs in Chicago: A Home in the Heartland!” The documentary by Susan Marcinkus will air on Sunday, May 12th at 2:00 pm on WTTW-Chicago PBS, Channel 11.

🎉Congratulations to National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on another successful and productive Economic Summit! Held on May 3rd in Cedar Rapids, this event once again served as a crucial platform for exchanging views and knowledge within the 🇨🇿+🇸🇰+🇺🇸 triangle, fostering stronger bonds and new partnerships.🌍The Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago and CzechTrade Office in Chicago extend sincere thanks to the organizers, especially the president Cecilia Rokusek, vice-president Dalibor Mikulas and their fantastic team, for the invitation and the chance to actively engage and network with fellow participants. 🤝 Count on us to be there next year too! "

We were honored to host Czech Minister of Industry and Trade Jozef Síkela from Ministerstvo průmyslu a obchodu and President of Svaz průmyslu a dopravy ČR Jan Rafaj, leading a delegation of over 60 cutting-edge companies in AI, advanced manufacturing, and bio/health tech in Chicago!
The largest Czech trade mission to the USA ever, included tours of the MxD Innovates - Digital Manufacturing and Cybersecurity Institute and incubator 1871.
The delegation also enjoyed a Networking Soirée opened by Minister Síkela, Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales, Czech Ambassador Miloslav Stašek from Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, DC and Consul General Jakub Utěšený.
A special musical performance by Ester Pavlů and Ahmad Jafar Hedar added a touch of cultural flair. Big thanks to the Chicago Sister Cities International Prague Committee for their support!
The highlight of the program was the Czech-American Business Innovation Forum, showcasing the brilliance of Czech startups. Congratulations to the Pitch Contest winner, Vision Craft!
We are grateful for our partners Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, World Business Chicago, 1871, mHUB Chicago, and Keiretsu Forum Northwest. A special shoutout to our inspiring keynote speaker, Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871.
A heartfelt thank you from the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago to all the Czech company representatives for their dedication, enthusiasm, and positive energy throughout this incredible event!

Czechia celebrates 20 years in European Union! Our main driving force for returning to Europe was the desire to go back to where we historically belonged. To Europe founded on the values of democracy and freedom. By caring for Europe today, we become true Europeans. Also in this sense, Václav Havel's words about "Europe as a task" can be understood. As part of the European family, Czech citizens currently enjoy many benefits, like freedom to travel, study, work and live in other EU countries.

The recent, second Czech presidency of the EU Council (from July 1 to December 31, 2022) demonstrated our commitment and determination for Europe. Czechia achieved broad consensus on how to respond to the energy crisis. We maintained a strong, united position against Russia and announced several packages of sanctions. And we also finalized the framework for long-term financial assistance to Ukraine. Czechia regularly proves that it has something to offer. We have a clear idea of the direction in which the European Union should evolve.

S potěšením jsme na Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago přivítali delegaci studentů Západočeská univerzita v Plzni a Marquette University spolu s jejich pedagogy. Společné projekty, cesty i přátelství studentů z Milwaukee a Plzně jsou dalším příkladem krásných česko-amerických vztahů. Děkujeme za návštěvu a těšíme se na další spolupráci.

We were pleased to welcome a delegation of Západočeská univerzita v Plzni and Marquette University students together with their teachers. Joint projects, travels and friendships between students from Milwaukee and Pilsen are another example of beautiful Czech-American relations. Thank you for your visit and we look forward to further cooperation.

Česko-americká komunita v St Louis, Missouri, přivítala jaro ve velkém stylu.🎊 Stovky krajanů a přátel Česka zavítali do American Czech Educational Center, kde si během tradičního Českého festivalu 🇨🇿 společně s tanečníky z United Moravian Societies zatančili v rytmu polky, pochutnali na vepřovém se zelím a knedlíky a popovídali u českého piva🍺. Festival si nenechal ujít ani generální konzul Jakub Utěšený, který ve své krátké zdravici připomněl význam české komunity v St Louis, jejíž historie sahá až do pol. 19 století, a může být hrdá na řadu prvenství v rozvoji organizovaných krajanských aktivit a podpoře českého dědictví v USA. Velké díky patří všem, kdo se na organizaci festivalu podíleli, a také všem, kdo ho svou účastí poctili.👏👏👏

The American-Czech community in St. Louis, Missouri, welcomed spring in grand style. Hundreds of compatriots and friends of the Czechia gathered in American Czech Educational Center, where they danced to the rhythm of polka together with performers from United Moravian Societies during the traditional Czech festival. They indulged in pork with cabbage and dumplings and chatted over Czech beer. The festival was not to be missed by the consul general Jakub Utěšený either, who in a brief address highlighted the significance of the Czech community in St. Louis, whose history dates back to the mid-19th century. It can take pride in numerous firsts in the development of organized compatriot activities and support for Czech heritage in the USA. Many thanks go to all who contributed to the organization of the festival, as well as to all who honored it with their presence.

We are very happy to share the post of the United Moravian Societies inviting all dance enthusiasts to start the UMS dance season on May 1st.
If you would like to embrace your heritage and find new friends, this is the place to be.

We had the real pleasure of meeting the talented students from RobUL team! This amazing group, along with their dedicated mentors and the support of the Innovation Center of the Usti Region and other local partners, has been competing in the FIRST Robotics Competition in Chicago this week. We are sending a huge round of applause to the whole team! We know how much hard work and dedication goes into this competition. Good luck now and in the future! 🇨🇿
Bylo nám velkým potěšením potkat talentované studenty z týmu RobUL(Robot Ústí)! Tato úžasná skupina se spolu se svými inspirativními mentory a za podpory Inovační centrum Ústeckého kraje - ICUK a dalších regionálních partnerů tento týden účastní prestižní mezinárodní robotické soutěže FIRST v Chicagu. Klobouk dolů, celému českému týmu! Víme, kolik úsilí a odhodlání za účastí v soutěži stojí! Ať se Vám daří! Hodně štěstí v soutěži i v budoucnu! 🇨🇿 práce

Chcete se naučit péct kváskový chléb, tažený štrůdl či ciabattu?
Zapište se do kurzu DÍLNA PEČENÍ S MAŠKRTNICÍ, který pořádá T. G. Masaryk Czech School dne 14. dubna od 9:30 do 15:00.

🥨 DÍLNA PEČENÍ S MAŠKRTNICÍ 🥨

TERMÍN: neděle 14. dubna, 9:30 – 15:00
KAPACITA: 10 osob
CENA: $150 – v ceně kurzu je občerstvení pro účastníky
CO SE NAUČÍME: kváskový chléb s obilnou kaší či vařeným bramborem, ciabattu, tažený štrůdl + jeden recept, na kterém se po uzavření přihlášek shodnou již vybranÍ účastníci. Kurz je určen všem, kdo mají alespoň minimální zkušenost s kváskem.
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REGISTRACE: do komentářů či na [email protected]. Místo účastníkům rezervujeme až po obdržení platby (přijímáme šeky, PayPal na [email protected]) či Venmo (na -czech-school)

ADRESA: jelikož akce slouží také jako malý fundraiser pro školu, chtěli bychom poděkovat krajance Hance Gulové, která nám otevře dveře svého nádherného domu. Přesnou adresu kuchyně, v jejíž prostorách budeme čarovat, zašleme až po registraci, ale bydliště Hanky se nachází ve městě Wheaton, co by kamenem dohodil do Cantigny Park.

JULIANA FISCHEROVÁ
je blogerka, která na začátku roku 2012 začala psát o pečení z kvasu pod jménem Maškrtnica. Posléze založila spolu s panem Cuketkou kváskovou mapu a hnutí PečemPecen.cz. Odmalička se věnovala pečení především pro rodinu, posléze ve větším na zakázku a následně rok a půl pekla a smažila koblihy pro restauraci Maso a kobliha. Díky boomu domácího pečení se v ČR rozjelo v posledních letech větší množství řemeslných provozoven, které oslavují krásu kváskového chleba, a tak aktuálně pořád učí, konzultuje a tvoří obsah pro čtenáře i některé kuchařky a média. Ve spolupráci s Českým rozhlasem vytváří podcast Ve vlastní šťávě. S manželem žonglují se třemi malými dětmi, a tak doufá, že snad jednou dopíše i kuchařku-pekařku.

We deeply appreciate the dedication of our Czech-American compatriots in upholding Czech heritage in the USA. Yesterday, we held our second meeting of representatives from Czech compatriot organizations and friends of Czechia based in Chicago, following our initial gathering in January. We came together to share the Easter 'Beránek' and discuss detailed plans for the months ahead. A big thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday and contributed to the discussion!

The Kansas City metropolitan area boasts a diverse range of industries, offering ample opportunities for collaboration between 🇨🇿 and 🇺🇸 companies. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and Czech Honorary Consul Sharon Valasek for hosting a fruitful "Trade and Investment Roundtable" focused on CZ-US partnerships.

Our thanks also go to Jan Hladik, Head of the Economic Section of the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, DC, Pavel Eichner representing CzechTrade Chicago and Matěj Zahradník from CzechInvest for sharing their insights into the Czech economic landscape and promising investment sectors. Their inputs were complemented by the contribution of the Consul General Jakub Utěšený focused on Czechia's current economic standing.

These discussions herald exciting prospects for CZ-US business ventures, and we are deeply thankful for the dedication and efforts of all involved in making this event a possible.

Earlier this week, the 🇨🇿 Consul General Jakub Utěšený had the profound privilege of meeting with Lieutenant Governor of Kansas David Toland and his team in Topeka. It was a delightful encounter that allowed for fruitful discussions revolving around several topics concerning the Czech community in Kansas. Together, they also exchanged views on potential projects aimed at strengthening ties between Czechia and Kansas, and explored opportunities for intensified business and scientific cooperation 🤝. We are eagerly anticipate the prospect of future cooperation, which promises to bring mutual benefits to both Kansas and Czechia.

On March 12, 1999, Czechia, Hungary, and Poland formally became members of NATO. Exactly 25 years later, we commemorated this historic occasion in the City of Independence, Missouri, returning to the very site where the accession instruments were exchanged between the foreign ministers of the three nations and U.S. Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, at the Harry S. Truman Library & Museum

During our ceremony, the Czech Consul General, Jakub Utěšený, joined by counterparts from Hungary and Poland, paid tribute to the legacy of President H. S. Truman, whose vision played a pivotal role in the establishment of NATO 75 years ago. In his address, the Consul General underscored the profound impact of NATO enlargement on enhancing security in Central Europe, emphasizing the enduring connection between the destinies of Europe and North America, and advocating for continued support to Ukraine.

In a thought-provoking panel discussion, Maj Gen Daryl Bohac eloquently portrayed the fruitful collaboration between the National Guard of Nebraska and the Czech Army, showcasing the strength of transatlantic partnerships. Our program concluded with stirring musical performances by groups representing the three nations, symbolizing our shared commitment to cooperation.

We extend our deepest appreciation to the Polish Consulate in Chicago, Consulate General of Hungary in Chicago/ Magyarország Főkonzulátusa Chicago, the Czech Honorary Consul Sharon Valasek, the H. S. Truman Library and Museum, and all who contributed to the success of this event. Special thanks are also due to Mayor Rory Rowland of the City of Independence for officially designating March 12, 2024, as the „Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland's 25th Anniversary in NATO Day“.

Today we are remembering, commemorating and celebrating the day Czechia joined NATO 25 years ago. Stronger together!

Big thanks to Zuzana Ambrosova and Miroslav Ambroš for their brilliant performance celebrating the Year of Czech Music 🇨🇿🎼in Chicago. It was trully a special and remarkable musical experience!
We´re thrilled to have had you both here and wish you continued success in Cedar Rapids and Minnesota. Many thanks also to T. G. Masaryk Czech School, Czechoslovak Heritage Museum and the Prague Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International for making this event possible. 👍

Have you been longing for traveling to Czechia but were afraid to do so alone? Are you looking for your roots or just simply like to explore new places? Do you want to meet new friends?

Seize this wonderful opportunity to visit our beautiful country with the T. G. Masaryk Czech School between July 1st – 14th 2024. Registration is now open and runs through March 17th 2024.

For more details please see the attached flyer.

🇨🇿 AROUND THE CZECH REPUBLIC 🇨🇿
✈️ Registration for the 2024 tour is now open! ✈️

Whether you are revisiting your favorite memories, or discovering the sights for the first time, don't miss our seventh annual trip combining the classics of Czech, Slovak and Polish tourism with a variety of sites off the beaten path.

🇨🇿 Tour date: July 1–14, 2024
🇸🇰 Registration deadline: Sunday, March 17, 2024
🇵🇱 Price: $3,305 per person for group of 10–14 participants and $2,870 per person for group of 15–20 participants.

For more information, including a detailed tour schedule, accommodation details and a registration form, visit: https://czechschoolchicago.org/projects/around-the-czech-republic-2024/

Participants don't need to be from Chicago, we have been joined by travelers from all over the USA! Starting earlier or extending the stay in Europe is possible too since everyone is responsible for their own airfare. There is so much to see if your schedule is not tight.

This two-week extravaganza will take travelers to Prague, where they will participate in the Sokol slet, then to Kladno, the birthplace of Chicago Mayor Antonín Čermák, to Olomouc and further to Poland. In Poland, the group will visit Krakow and the Auschwitz concentration camp. The journey will then continue to Slovakia's Tatra Mountains. Travelers will return to Prague through the town of Uherské Hradiště.

We very much hope you will be able to join us on this journey through the heart of Central Europe! 🇨🇿🇸🇰🇵🇱

(Art on the flyer was made by Gabriela Mangerová 🙏🏼)

A heartfelt thank you to Alderperson Andre Vasquez, 40th Ward Chicago for engaging in an enriching discussion with us on the pressing immigration and refugees issues. Our exchange of ideas and experiences was truly inspiring. Looking forward to more collaborations ahead!“

Strengthening ties between 🇨🇿 and Nebraska - that was the main idea behind our Nebraska & Czechia Online Roundtable on Irrigation 💦🚜🌿which took place this morning. We cohosted the event together with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic and Nebraska Department of Economic Development. Big thank you goes to all our amazing speakers, who shared their expertise, and to partners and friends for joining us today 👏. We are still energized from being surrounded by thought irrigation leaders be it on the state, academic or private level.

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Posilování vazeb mezi Českem a Nebraskou – to byl hlavní cíl dnešního online kulatého stolu k zavlažování, který jsme pořádali ve spolupráci s Ministerstvo zemědělství a Nebraským ministerstvem ekonomického rozvoje. Velké poděkování patří všem řečníkům, kteří se podělili o své odborné znalosti, a také všem partnerům a přátelům, kteří se dnes kulatého stolu zúčastnili. Setkání s lídry v oblasti zavlažování, ať už na úrovni státní, akademické či byznysové bylo pro všechny velkým přínosem a zdrojem nových podnětů.