Compact archive January 2008

Czech-US missile defense negotiations complete

Thursday 31 January 2008 17:31

illustration photo The radar in Brdy, close to Prague, will be build, announced the Minister of Defense Parkanova.

Both sides agreed that they will return to the talks soon. Before that, there will be consultations regarding taxes and penal jurisdiction.

NATO sees expansion of the missile defences as necessity to protect European members against a possible missile attack from Iran. The radar, which is going to be placed in the Czech Republic, is a unit with 10 interceptor missiles in Poland.

The Greatest opposer of the system is Russia, stating it threatens its security, sometimes threatening the CR variously.

Czech government officials announced an agreement could be entered into in April of this year. The Prime minister Topolanek travels to Washington on February 27, the radar will be expectably the main topic of his meeting with G. W. Bush.

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Blockade of Prague Taxi drivers again

Thursday 31 January 2008 16:01

Prague Holesovice see another protest of taxi drivers today, as the angry drivers block Vrbenskeho street again. They demand the sign which doesn’t allow any other taxis than those from City Taxi company musts go away. The sign doesn’t allow taxis to go through, so they can neither drive their clients to the train station, nor pick them up there.

Vrbenskeho street probably stays blocked the whole day. As on Tuesday, there is about 50 taxi cars. “We keep the expressway blocked, until somebody contacts us. We communicate with Prague 7 Municipal council and City Police.” said the speaker. “we are sorry to everyone who needs to pass, but the situation has gone too far. We defend the rights of all taxi drivers.”

The Prague Municipal council doesn’t want to talk with them: “We are not going to negotiate” commented the speaker. “Now it’s on the police to deal with them.”

The speaker of the taxi drivers became famous when he hunger-stroked for 11 days last year, in front of the municipal council building last year, for the right of charging the customers by 99 CZK/km. In comparison with the price of City Taxi, which is 28 CZK/km, it is more than three times as much.

The Shortest Prison Sentence in History

Thursday 31 January 2008 13:34

prisonbars A 20 year old woman in Brno, Eastern Czech Republic, was send to prison for 24 hours.

This is the shortest sentence in the Czech history. Her Monday, she spent in prison, was filled with activities – she had to go through all the prison formalities. That means, go through the prison regime presentation for two hours, medical check-up, hand over clothes and belongings and put on a prisoner’s outfit.

She spent the day behind the bars for avoiding 2 hours she had left from her 50 hours of community work, to which she had been sentenced to in 2006 for a theft. She has been repeatedly called to take her work up, but she didn’t response. At the end, she was given the prison sentence.

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Czech Hydrogen-Powered Bus Coming Soon

Thursday 31 January 2008 11:17

hydrogen engine by bmw The first Czech hydrogen-powered bus development is in its first half, informed Nuclear Research Institute in Rez near Prague.

The bus with hydrogen machine should start working at the beginning of the year 2009, said the leading engineer of the hydrogen technology department of the institute Ludek Janik. To adjust a bus to hydrogen power costs about 30 millions CZK (12,1 mil €), the project is co-financed by the European Union and the Ministry of Transport.

If successful, the hydrogen vehicle will be the first developed in the new member countries of the EU. The development is supported e.g. by Skoda Auto, that develops the electrical engine and steering system, and at the end puts all the components into the vehicle.

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Union of Architects : Blob won according to the law.

Thursday 31 January 2008 09:55

golden blob The International Union of Architects (UIA) doesn’t change it’s decision – the Blob won by legal and proper way. The President of the Union Gaétan Siew sent the director of National Library Vlastimil Jezek a letter, stating: “This is to confirm, UIA accepts the decision of the International Union, and so the results of hte competition.”

The iniciative to examine legality of the competition came from the ‘Ateliér HSH Architekti’ company, which claims the competition was contested.

The National Library Team continues in their debates about Blob.

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The first Klaus vs Svejnar duel

Wednesday 30 January 2008 17:06

Teh Czech Republic Presidential elections are in 9 days already, however the very first debate of Vaclav Klaus and Jan Svejnar took place yesterday. Who expected a serious debate, which would influence decisions, was disappointed. The 75 minutes debate would be easier to call a TV show (watch here). Questions were given by the CSSD senators.

Meanwhile Svejnar kept his professional poker face, Klaus gesticulated variously, rolled his eyes and his head, when he disagreed with Svejnar.

There were no new or unexpected quotes. The debate was more about irony, performance, and banter. But some quotes are worth translating:

svejnar photo by michigan uni Svejnar

“I thought, you just don’t publish in scientific magazines, but you don’t even read them. “

“You can vote for somebody for the past, or you can vote for somebody for the future.”

klaus photo by i.treehugger Klaus

“When I red one of his publication from the 90’s, I was horrified.”

“I can guarantee knowledgeable presidency, continuity, and enforcement of authentic interests of our country.”

The questions were from themes which are well known, but controversial. Global warming, privatization, European Union or Euro. Hopefully the planned ‘real’ debate will bring more.

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Lenka Smidova qualified for Peking

Wednesday 30 January 2008 15:54

lenka smidova Czech duo Lenka Smidova and Lenka Mrzlikova have qualified for the Olympic Games in Peking at the World Championship in Melbourne in the ship class 470. They have gained the last fifth position. The winning pair are Erin Maxwell and Isabelle Kinsolving from the USA.

Lenka Smidova so have a chance to gain her second Olympics medal. She gained one, when she won the Silver Medal in Olympics 2004 in Athens, Women’s Europe class.

Lenka Smidova is the most sucessfull Czech yachtsman of all times.

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American Solider Stabbed to death by drunk Prague Policeman

Wednesday 30 January 2008 13:55

Close to Prague Sazka Arena, the American solider, who served at a Germany base, was stabbed to death today at two o’clock am. The attacker is a member of the municipal police, and he is at questioning at the moment.

The car with American soldiers was passing the area, when the Czech reportedly did some offensive gestures. The American stepped out of the car, demanding an explanation. The man was however drunk, and attacked instead. He stabbed him three times, into the heart area, after which the person fell at the ground an died at the spot. The attacker than fell into the shock state, and the other two soldiers hold him until the police came.

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Klaus: Passive smoking doesn't harm

Wednesday 30 January 2008 12:02

Meanwhile Al Gore got the Nobel Prize for his fight against Global warming, Klaus denies global warming has anything to do with men. When Blob won the competition of the best National library design, Klaus said he would rather drastically protest against, than saw it build (thanks to him the ‘Blob matter’ has been debated about half a year, with the perspective of another half a year of debates). Now, when the world fights smoking, and in the Czech Republic there are activities to limit smoking at public places, Klaus protests, and supports smokers. Vaclav Klaus himself is a non-smoker.

passive smoking In the CR, the specialists speak about twice as much deaths from passive smoking, than from traffic accidents. That means, over 2500 people died last year, because they were staying in heavily smoky places. The illnesses they died from were all smoking-based, or it’s proved smoking demonstrably worsens the development.

Klaus’ statement for LN surprised the expert community; Eva Kralikova, a practitioner of the centre for smoking quitting, said: “Studies about passive smoking are being carried out in many countries and the outcome is always the same.” To inhale cigarette smoke can lead to lung and heart diseases. Vaclav Klaus doesn’t think so.

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Connection - house, trance party in Prague club Mecca

Wednesday 30 January 2008 09:11

Boosted sound distribution, new stage with perspective talents of dance scene Samuel Wega, DejFF and Cortezz, sexy dancers and possibility to buy tickets to VIP stage waits at Mecca.

Mecca club spaces are ideal for arragement of exclusive club parties. That is why the club management decided to organize a brand new series of parties called Connection. The performance of Netherland trance DJ and producer star Johan Gielen is coming on 15th February.

Gielen was working for artists such as Tiësto, Boy George or Chicane. His music was in Pepsi-Cola commercial advertisement and every fan has to know his song L’Esperanza. We are sure, that the fans of LayDee Jane will be pleased, if they find out that this DJane is coming back to Czech Republic after a relatively long period of time.

Her first performance in Prague will be at the Connection party. “In the last couple of months I have been on tour across Turkey and China, so I am looking forward to play again for Czech audience,“ says LayDee Jane.

VIP lounge costs 490CZK in advance-sale and in front of the club 650CZK. You will get your own privacy, a place next to the DJ, your own bar, catering menu and a luxurious lounge on the second floor in the VIP.

Fridany 15th February, New party Connection presents Johan Gielen in Mecca, Prague, U Pruhonu street 3

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Smetana and Tchaikovsky in Prague

Tuesday 29 January 2008 17:06

If you are looking for a city that offers opportunities to listen to good classical music, Prague is the city for you. The concert in Rudolfinum, advised here, is just one of many concerts Prague Rudolfinum offers. Check their web pages for more.

Afternoons in Rudolfinum with Zdeněk Mácal. B. Smetana – From Czech Forests and Meadows, symphonic poem. P. I. Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor Op. 36 “Fate” Performed by : Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, Conductor: Zdenek Mácal. Approx 1hr 30mins, start 26th April 2008 – 15:00

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Czech Brands Advertisements in the World

Tuesday 29 January 2008 14:59

Skodacarpark When Skoda Auto introduced , during the Christmas season, their skoda-cake advertisement, it was just one of the ads they show to the world. By the way, the British Television Advertising Craft Awards went to this ‘baking’ advertisement.

Skoda advertisements have their place reserved at the web Ads of the Wold, which maps creative ideas, like the one when Skoda inform es they re-plant forests at various places of Earth; “Skoda compensates for the pollution of its cars, reforesting specific areas in the world.” (picture)

The second most well-known Czech product is beer, and the Kozel brand advertisements are recognized by world’s creative minds. Kozel is the beer with the billy-goat in its emblem, and the billy-goat propagates the beer e.g. by presenting ‘beer receipts’ in Finland, or by re-cycling the 3D glasses idea in Russia.

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Amsterdam Klezmer Band in Prague

Tuesday 29 January 2008 14:03

Jewish dances and songs from the Eastern Europe went through a revivalist wave in the last quarter a century. At the beginning there were musicians not from Europe, but from the US. The pioneers were groups like Klezmatics from New York, whose example was followed in the 90’s a whole generation of followers in Europe.

Amsterdam Klezmer Band Most of the Amsterdam Klezmer Band repertory has been created by the band members themselves, who all without exception contribute musically to an ever-growing melting-pot of infectious Balkan/Gypsy/Klezmer cross-overs. In this manner the band endeavours to breathe new life into the Eastern European Balkan, Klezmer and Gypsy music tradition.

The members of the Amsterdam Klezmer Band are passionate musicians and well-versed in a wide range of styles. They have made their musical mark on the Dutch and European club and festival scene and are well known for their parts in various other remarkable pop, jazz and world music projects in the Netherlands , past and present.

The Amsterdam Klezmer Band has managed to extract Klezmer from its dilettante ambiance and added a good dose of street credibility, bringing you the pleasure of Eastern European music as it’s meant, because: The Amsterdam Klezmer Band guarantees a spectacular live show at which there is only one option: Dance until you drop.

31sh January 2008, Palac Akropolis, Kubelikova 27, Prague 3.

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Obcan Havel – Citizen Havel: New Czech Comedy Movie

Tuesday 29 January 2008 12:01

obcan havel The new Czech movie Obcan Havel is a documentary movie depicting fifteen years of Havel’s life, in presidential function and after. But it is much more than just a document – when I started watching, I started to smile a little at first, than more, and than I couldn’t help and started to laugh as the rest of the audience in the cinema I went. The Obcan Havel movie is hilarious.

Vaclav Havel in the presidential role entertains by his shyness and impracticability from the first moment. “Where is my suit?”…. “Where the hell do I have my suit?!?” (running around nervously, meanwhile there are important state matters waiting behind the door) or asking his foreign secretary: “How it is possible you have such a nice new red carpet going to your office, and I have the ugly, old, Husak’s gray one, against which I have been fighting for 7 years?” the foreign secretary: “It is not my fault, I don’t understand it and I don’t agree with it.” Havel: “You have lied yourself nicely out of it.” the secretary: “I don’t know anything about it.”

This film is not just a documentary, it is a film full of comedy, carrying a story of the very special and important human being, we now finding out we were lucky to have as a president.

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Overcrowded Prague Forests

Tuesday 29 January 2008 10:00

prague forests More people go to Prague forests. They want to relax from the noise of the metropolis, but there has never been so many of them.

The recent study of Prague City hall brought quite surprising numbers. Especially those, where Prague forests are compared to touristically attractive Sumava in the South of the Czech Republic. On one hectare of Prague forest 5200 visitors take turns. At turistically attractive Sumava, it is only tens of people.

The most favorite Prague forest is Hvezda park at Prague 6, visited by the same numbers the as the botanical garden in Troja – seven thousand four hundred on one hectare per year.

Prague so started planting of new forests, in supplying of the demand. 100 hectare forest is being planted at Brezineves, another will be planted in Dubec.

Constitutional yard denied Prague Olympics referendum

Monday 28 January 2008 17:05

Prague Constitutional yard denied the petition for whole-state Olympics referendum. Prague so didn’t used it’s own priviledge to propose to the parliament, all the people should speak about the very expensive games.

Prague representatives don’t want the citizens to speak, but they ask for our law and finantial guaratees. Even when the Prague Mayor in 2006 sated that there should be not only Prage, but whole-country referndum.

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Svejnar: I'm willing to give up U.S. citizenship

Monday 28 January 2008 16:49

The title is true – the economist and presidential candidate Jan Svejnar decided to give up his U.S. citizenship if he would became the Czech President. He revealed this truth this weekend to MF Dnes.

Decision, which was according to Svejnar hard, is quite surprising, as when he was confronted with this idea before by the KSCM, he said: “It is like to give up your forester-mother, when your own has forced you out.”

He said many people all over the country, with whom he debated, made him to change his mind.

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Bohemian Carnevale in Prague

Monday 28 January 2008 14:05

Bohemian Carnevale in Prague Under the auspices of the Mayor of the City of Prague Pavel Bém and the Mayor of Prague 1 Petr Hejma the second year of culture is organized.

Why a carnival? Celebrating the joy of life, fantasy, talent, craft, and creativity. Director of the festival Zlatuse J. Müller informs :

“Festivals of this type belong to the all-European culture heritage. They were usual in the Czech lands, as in other parts of Europe, for more than seven centuries and they have its historic tradition, that we would like to bring to life again at the Bohemian Carnevale festival.”

To held marches of masks clearly has long tradition in the Bohemian lands, even when until recently it was for some reason kept outside of big cities. Metropolises like Prague has to find the way to its roots, and Bohemian Carnevale is one of these moments Prague wakes up and brightens with joy, food, and masks.

The organizers have divided the event into four parts, having exotically sounding names; Divertimento Furioso, Cuisine d’Alchimiste, Praga Mysteriosa, Bohemia Divina. Those are quite describing – Divertimento Furioso means ‘Furious Fun’ – that is the part when the masks march the city in joy.

The main theme of this, the second Bohemian Carnevale, is Metamorphosis.

The event in Prague, January 31 – February 5 2008, at Clam-Gallas Palace, Husova 20, Prague 1, and in the centre of Prague. Tickets to Clam-Gallas Pallace at ticketpro.com, or since the day before start at the desk.

Detailed information on Bohemian Carnevale in Prague here

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NHL in Prague

Monday 28 January 2008 10:45

Autumn 2008 means a new season of NHL, but this 91. st season is special – it begins in Prague, Czech Republic.

jagr rangers The most famous ice-hockey contest opens with a match of New York Rangers–Tampa Bay Lightning in Prague Sazka Arena (followed by Pittsburgh Penguins–Ottawa Senators in Globen Hall in Stockholm. Finally, Jaromir Jagr will be seen in Prague.

The organizers want to base the price on the World Championship in Prague 2004, so the tickets should start at 600 CZK, the most expensive ones 6000 CZK. Sazka Arena capacity should be 15 – 16 000 spectators.

Eurosong 2008: Tereza Kerndlova represents Czech Republic

Monday 28 January 2008 10:01

kerndlova This weekend finals in Prague revealed Tereza Kerndlova (21) as the Czech representative of Eurosong 2008. After last year embarrassing debacle with Czech drunk-rock hairy group Kabat, who demonstrated what damage can alcohol do to one’s brain cells, we have launched the exact opposite – Tereza Kerndlova is of the ‘shake your boody’ kind.

Tereza Kerndlova’s last album is a very modern, fresh, and directly pop album, in r’n‘b rhythm. Tereza’s visage is adult and sexy, very much like Jennifer Lopez or especially Beoncé. Looks sells, and Tereza definitely can act like a bombshell to boost her CD sales. But if you youtube her live show from this weekend finals, you may agree with the losing contestants, that her singing wasn’t ‘completely clear’; there might be a little problem without playback, but we will see.

Czech weapons for Eurosong 2008: love, good-looks, soul, desire, and pronouns me and you from all angles.

Why do the Poles like Jozin z Bazin / Józek z bagien

Friday 25 January 2008 18:02

jozek Lidove noviny Brought an Interview with Tomek Grabinski, a Wroclav-living Bohemist. They ask him, what is it in Józek z bagien (Jozeph from swamps) the Poles love.

Which Czech music Poles like… normally?

On one hand the famous Czech pop singers like Helena Vondrackova, Karel Gott and Nohavica, on the other groups like Cechomor, Uz jsme doma and -123 min.

Why Józek z bagien became such a hit in Poland?

It is probably because of Polish TVN 24 broadcasted the video with Polish subtitles in a satirical show. The video than started to spread massively via Youtube. This week, there was even an interview with Ivan Mladek (the author) and the strange dancer. Poles just loved the guy in a weird suit and the lyrics.

What is it about?

Some say it is an ecological song; the civilization intervenes into the nature too much. Others say it is a sociological song – Józek eats especially people from Prague, which represents hatred some people in other regions keep against Prague citizens.

In any case the Poles like the fun Czech are able to make of themselves, fun which the Poles like, but are not quite capable of making by themselves. Some polish cities even have ‘Józek for President’ written on walls.

Ivan Mladek comments it he doesn’t get exited very much – he with his group has been playing the song for 30 years, and the thing that matters is, whether there will be a tour in Poland.

Original article from LN here

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Sausages kiosks stay at Wenceslas Square... for now.

Friday 25 January 2008 15:23

The smell of burning sausages is not going to disappear from Prague Wenceslas Square before long. Wenceslas Square it is going to undergo reconstruction, there should have been some reductions of kiosks standing there, offering bradwursts, burgers, beer, and shots. Rudolf Blazek from the ODS informed those stances do not belong there, and attract ‘troublesome individuals’.

The opposite side in this ‘Battle of Sausages’ is formed by the owner of those kiosks “There has never been any complain on the individuals buying things there”, some historians “There were kiosks with bradwursts during Austria-Hungary” and almost 9000 (!) people who signed the petition the kiosks should stay there.

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The Universal card of a Prague citizen: Opencard

Friday 25 January 2008 13:52

Prague Opencard The Universal card of a Prague citizen called Opencard finds more users every day.

Up to now, the card could have been used as a library card in 33 Prague City libraries, and as a pay card for parking in Prague. The Card of Prague citizens expands its functions; it should work as a pre-paid coupon for Prague Public Transport, too.

It was announced as one of the upgrades, the Prague Public Transport company prepared for improving their services in 2008.

Prague City Hall had invested into the project about 165 mil. czk and has distributed 3500 cards. It is, however, much less, than expected; estimations were to distribute fifty thousands cards up to now.

In 2009 Opencards should start working as regular credit cards, too.

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Dan Marciano concert in Prague

Friday 25 January 2008 12:09

Dan Marciano will perform at the Mecca again! One of the best French DJs, that regullary performs on the biggest fashion parties.

Dan Marciano Dan Marciano is a resident of wellknown Parisian club – The Queen. He performs live on the French biggest dance music radio – Radio FG a he also plays for Fashion TV.

He plays from Bali, Italy, Thailand, Belgium, Israel, Maroc, Tunisia to Prague.

In 2002 he released his first single at Happy music/Absolute sound and year later a new one ‘ Gotta get on’ at Escape records.

Sat 23th February 2008, DAN MARCIANO, Club Mecca, U Pruhonu street 3, Prague 7 Entry: 290,- CZK

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Tomas Verner - Czech Figure Skater won European Championship

Friday 25 January 2008 09:55

Tomas Verner, a figure skater from the Czech Republic, won the European Championship of 2008 yesterday. It is the first golden medal, sixteen years after Czech Petr Barny’s triumph in 1992. By gaining the European title Verner beaten his earlier record – last year silver medal from Warsaw.

“I don’t know what to say, this is my first European prize. I hope it’s not the last.” Verner commented his life success. The Czech 21-years old skater in Zagreb yesterday beaten, being ahead of second Stéphan Lambiel, the double world champion from Switzerland. The last year no. 1 French Brian Jouberd was third.

Prague Club Roxy presents DJ Joop

Thursday 24 January 2008 18:02

dj joop DJ Joop fell in love with DJing at the tender age of 13, three years before he landed his first residency at a local club in his home town of Leeuwarden.

In 2007, Dutch DJ/producer JOOP’s track ‘The Future’ was chosen as the anthem of one of his country’s biggest dance music events – Trance Energy 2007, that saw him performing live on the main stage as the centrepiece of the night.

He already holds a strong reputation as a producer with a tough progressive tech-trance style, his strong rhythms. His main DJing skills are creating of powerful, energetic progressive/tech-trance with a generous dose of melody.

The backing of one of the Netherland’s biggest and most respected dance record labels, High Contrast, has helped push him to the forefront of the trance scene and led to him being recognised as one of its brightest talents.

Dj JOOP, 2th February 2008, Pre-sale 150czk, at the spot 200czk. Start 22:00, Club Roxy, Dlouha 33, 110 00 Prague 1

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Sky Europe + Czech Railways = New Travel Possibilities

Thursday 24 January 2008 15:48

SkyEurope CD (Czech Railways) have finished cooperation with Czech Airways last year. Now, in 2008, they have made a contract with the low-budget airways Sky Europe.

One example of a trip; from Prague to Bratislava and back should cost about 1000 CZK (37 €). It is possible to choose either to go to Prague by a plane and back to Bratislava by Pendolino train or vice versa.

But there are other destinations – Milan, Brussels, Copenhagen or Venice for a very nice price 1290 CZK (48 €)

The main advantage is, according to Ales Ondruj, that the air tickets are possible to buy at a cash desk at a railway station. So one doesn’t need a credit card or the Internet access.

Czech University Students Prostitution

Thursday 24 January 2008 13:28

A 20 years old university student offers... France was recently shocked by the book ‘Mes cheres etudes’ written by a French student, who started to prostitute because of her bad social situation. There is no similar book in the Czech Republic, there are no certain numbers, how many students do prostitution, but… we all know how the social situation in the countries of the former USSR looks like.

In the case you wouldn’t know, it’s not very good. An average students’ part-time jobs are labeled Z (Woman) or M (Man). Those labeled Z consist mostly of cleaning and working at cashier desk, usually paid 35-50 CZK (1,25 – 1,8 € per hour). Those labelled M are hard manual jobs, like truck unloading or supermarket stocking. Usually 40-60 CZK (1,4 – 2,1 € per hour). Do you think no one can survive with that money? You are right…

But that is in Prague. In other regions, some students don’t get any job at all. It is hard to study a university if one lives in a basement, eats spaghetti every day and travels to school by a bicycle, even in winter. Contrasted with more lucky classmates driving cars, wearing fancy clothes, having a life.

Yes, Czech University students prostitute. Especially those from subjects where there is no money – like teaching. Students of Pedagogical faculties prostituting. Get used to it.

Regarding this situation, the very idea of introducing school-fees at Czech Universities seems quite cruel… or is it? What is better; to have better quality education, in highly dignified institutions for upper classes and those willing to work all the time, even prostituting, or have average quality education in average surroundings for all?

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Devil's bible in Prague was seen by 50 000 already

Thursday 24 January 2008 12:00

do you see the devil? Codex Gigas attract attention of unexpected greatness. The biggest book in the world, that can be seen in Prague Klementinum, found it’s 50 000 Czech admirer yesterday.

If you are interested in seeing it, you still have to book tickets online, but you still have time until 9th March, which is the second extension of the time magnificent Devil’s Bible can spend on the Czech ground where it does come from.

Codex Gigas came back after 400 years, it had beed taken away by the Sweedish armada. It is possible to see in Klementinum, everyday except Monday, since 10 am until 7 pm. Ticket reservation is possible on the webpage www.nkp.cz

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The first Buddhist temple opened in the Czech Republic

Thursday 24 January 2008 09:44

Buddha Statue Czech Republic City of Varnsdorf has, as the first city, a Buddhist temple. It was opened by the local Vietnamese community last week. The temple has even gold-plated statues transported form Taiwan.

“This is a great accomplishment for us, Buddhism is not only our religion, but also a part of our culture” the Vietnamese organizer said Pravo “The locals don’t give us any negative reactions.”

The mayor of Varnsdorf, Josef Polacek seems pleased: “I think a Buddhist temple in our town is a really interesting thing. Even the locals can come, it is opened for everybody.”

The opening ceremony took place with participation of the Vietnamese ambassador to the Czech Republic and local government representatives.

Varnsdorf alone hosts 400 citizens of Vietnamese origin. According to Radio Praha, in the Czech Republic officially lives about 22 000 Vietnamese. Their community is most significant as tradesmen.

Svejnar attacks Klaus in His book

Wednesday 23 January 2008 17:35

Both the Presidential candidates in the Czech Republic, Vaclav Klaus and Jan Svejnar, released books before the elections.

Svejnar wanted to get the book published as fast as possible, however because of publisher’s problem it won’t be published until Friday. But we already know the basis of Svejnar’s message – it is Klaus’ fault the Czech Republic got into reccession in 1990’s.

Svejnar labeled Klaus as the direct contravener for bad salary situation in the CR: “due to Klaus’ failure the salaries are every year 10-20% lower than should be.”

Klaus, in his book, contrasts ‘Svejnar’s’ data with ‘his’, as according to him the reforms in 1992-96, during his prime minister secretaryship, increased salaries by 38%.

Klaus in his book focuses primarily on past economics, Svejnar also focuse on his vision of future development. This is also criticized by Svejnar – according to him Klaus belongs to the past.

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ONCE song Falling Slowly got Oscar Nomination

Wednesday 23 January 2008 15:42

The songster Marketa Irglova and Singer Glen Hansard can be happy; their effors and emotions they put into the low-budget movie ONCE got hearts of millions. Combination of tenderness and hope expressed in the song Falling Slowly brought them Oscar nomination.

Once is a 2006 Irish musical film written and directed by John Carney. Set in Dublin, it stars musicians Glen Hansard (of popular Irish rock band The Frames) and Markéta Irglová, a fictional Czech emigrant, as struggling musicians. Falling Slowly already got the prize of the American National Society of Film Critics, for the best original film song.

Falling slowly lyrics

I don’t know you
But I want you
All the more for that
Words fall through me
And always fool me
And I can’t react
And games that never amount
To more than they’re meant
Will play themselves out

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We’ve still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You’ve made it now

Falling slowly, eyes that know me
And I can’t go back
Moods that take me and erase me
And I’m painted black
You have suffered enough
And warred with yourself
It’s time that you won

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We’ve still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You’ve made it now

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We’ve still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You’ve made it now
Falling slowly sing your melody
I’ll sing along

American Radar in Czech Republic: debates coming to end in weeks

Wednesday 23 January 2008 13:45

illustration photo Yesterday, the Pentagon expressed hopes, that they could publish the agreement between them and the Czech Republic in the next few weeks.

The agency AFP brought this news with reference to the speaker of the American ministry of defence. He announced: “We are going to the final stage of negotiations. We hope we will be able to inform about the results in few weeks.” Which, if kept, will be much sooner than negotiations about the rocket base in Poland.

From the reaction of the Czech Ministry of defence and Ministry of foreign affairs it is obvious they don’t have any term for finishing the negotiations, but they put efforts to the content of the document, so it would be profitable for the Czech side.

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Prague underground: probably back to turnstile

Wednesday 23 January 2008 10:01

a turnstile Experts support the idea of coming back to turnstiles. There used to be until 1980’s, now it works on the basis of trust- the passengers buy a ticket, and validate it at the validating machines before entering the metro. If a passenger has or hasn’t a ticket is controlled by a special unit, that can fine those who avoid paying.

This trust-based system is, according to recent studies, ineffective, as 5-10% Czech passengers regularly don’t pay in public transport. In total it makes 1,5 billion CZK (57 mil. €) loses a year.

The Prague Public Transport company published a report, stating the controllers collected over 100 mil. CZK in fines last year, and that is just a fraction of those who do the ‘black rides’ as Czechs call rides for free.

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Prague Café Starbucks opened yesterday

Wednesday 23 January 2008 09:17

starbucks prague The first Starbucks café opened at Prague Mala Strana (Lesser Quarter) yesterday. Now, you can get your favorite coffee in a regular or paper cup with the legendary Siren on it.

It is open for everybody, who like the American style of life, or good coffee. The prices are also American – the smallest cup of espresso for 45 czk, regular coffee is 80 czk, which is about 4$. (the usual price of a standard coffee in the Czech Republic is 20-30 czk)

The next Starbucks is going to be opened in February in Prague Palladium. Starbucks company is probably going to focus solely on Prague.

The Czech Republic is the first country in the Middle Europe to have Starbucks. Poland should be next during this year. The company has enterprises in Romania and Russia already. Hungary should come after Poland.

Case of Police Attack on Katerina Jacques in Prague continues

Tuesday 22 January 2008 17:00

katerina jacques The ex-policeman Tomas Cermak, who, according to the chargers, attacked and brutally beaten on 1st May 2006 Katerina Jacqes, a parliament member of the Green Party on an anti-nazi demonstration, gets back to court on 5th February.

Even when neither the state’s attorney nor the judge wanted prosecution, the Prague city state representation insist on the process. The reason is, the references on Cermak on which bases he was exempted, are considered bribed.

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ALLISTER WHITEHEAD in Prague

Tuesday 22 January 2008 16:33

Allister is one of the four biggest DJ’s in the UK House scene along with Danny Rampling, Graeme Park and CJ Mackintosh. He can be seen at the UK’s most respected clubs currently playing House music, such as Cream or Ministry of Sound.

He is one of the few DJ’s to fill these clubs on his own. Last year he completed a mad year playing in up to 4 countries a week, which he is set to repeat this year and is currently travelling further a field then ever before. Having achieved commercial success in his production and remixing career, working with people like Martha Walsh, NATALIE IMBRUGLIA and ROBBIE WILLIAMS, he has recently set up his own record label ‘Sporting’.

The first release will be ‘Let the Music (Use You)’, with Errol Green on vocals. Errol had a number 1 record in the 90’s as part of China Black called ‘Searching’ and as well as Allister he’s been working alongside the Rhythm Masters. The next track will be ‘Take Some Time Out’, with a fantastic Swedish vocalist called Charlie King. After these 2 he’s made a track with Beverly Skeet who we all remember for the seminal club tracks ‘Isn’t it Time’ by Kuva and of course the cover version of ‘Passion’ by ‘Gat Decor’, ‘Do You Want it Right Now’. The fourth track is currently in production and as with the rest of them utilises the skill of Michele – a keyboardist whom Allister describes as the best he’s ever worked with.

Fri 29th February 2008, Pre-Party in Mecca with all drinks 50 CZK (10-11 PM) Entry 290 CZK, VIP 490, start 10 pm, spre-sale ticketpro.cz Club Mecca, U Pruhonu street 3, Prague 7

Zizkov Carnival – Zizkovsky Masopust

Tuesday 22 January 2008 13:55

At the beginning of February, Carnival parade, dancing in masks, and Czech traditional pork meat fest are being prepared at Prague 3 Zizkov.

The Year 2008 is devoted to Fantisek Sauer and writer Jaroslav Hasek (He wrote the Good Solider Svejk story)

2nd February 2008, Saturday, is the starting day. During the day, there is programme for kids in Zizkov Palace Akropolis, masquerade is planned for evening, with music of Czech group Buty. Sunday continues with fest and entertainment in Zizkov notorious pub U Vystrelenyho Oka, or for kids Kino Aero cinema offers ‘kids afternoon’

Tuesday the 5th Feb. is the main day, the parade starts from Namesti Jiriho z Podebrad square and continues to the Zizkov City Hall. The parade ends there, but programme continues with concerts and performances until the morning.

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Second Big Reconstruction of Prague Congress Centre at hand

Tuesday 22 January 2008 11:36

The Building is probably going to undergo another reconstruction again. Even when there were large innovations eight years ago, ‘Palace of Culture’ or Prague Congress Centre should be improved again.

The major event on the spot was the IMF and the World Bank Summit in 2002. Back there the modifications took place at the side close to Vysehrad, with new buildings containing places for multiple use, including cultural gatherings and administrative premises.

Now the managers speculate they would need more space for accompanying exhibitions. It would mean ‘moving’ of one of its sides forward. The new design wants to look like nothing has changed. And why do they need a space for exhibitions? They want to attract really big congresses to Prague. Reason?

Tomio Okamura, the speaker of the Association of travel bureaus and agencies affirms a common tourist spends 2800 CZK ( 100 €)a day (for everything) in Prague, but a congress tourist about two times more.

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Czech Mayors demand Olympics referendum at Constitutional yard

Tuesday 22 January 2008 09:53

A fraction of the mayors against the Olympic Games have filed a complaint to the constitutional yard. They challenge Prague City Hall for not discussing their petition in the legitimate time.

They want to ‘stop Prague council from doing nothing’ The signers state to care foremostly for keeping the constitutional law. : “…respect for petition law is a sign of respect to democracy. It is possible Prague mayors oversee the petition because it doesn’t fit into their megalomaniac plans, however it is necessary to respect and discuss it according to the law”.

The speaker of Prague City Hall announced on 19th October, they are going to debate about the petition within 60 days. Now is 22th January and the ‘Mayors against the Olympics’ feel discriminated.

The Prague City hall have admitted earlier, they err. Some of Czech smaller cities demand referendum, because they are afraid the Olympics would drain away their budgets.

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Svejnar's presentation

Monday 21 January 2008 17:37

Jan Svejnar, who works as Michigan University professor, made a PowerPoint presentation for the press, Pravo informed. He did it in university fashion.

Svejnar introduced his three pillars – “President should help dialogue on the political scene, with political parties and human society. President should be non-party, legible and fair, representing something universal from the society.” He said, adding that he is against Prague Castle acting as a centre of power.

The third pillar are for Svejnar the future challenges. “…we are not at the end of the WWII, it is necessary to look forwards.”

Svejnar would also like to contribute to the Czech Republic being more successful and self-confident.

Roisin Murphy comes to Prague

Monday 21 January 2008 16:15

roisin murphy Roisín Murphy, the ex-singer of the electronic duo Moloco, comes 24th January to Prague notorious club Roxy, to introduce her last solo album Overpowered, which gained nomination for the prestigious Irish Choice Music Prize.

Roisin comes to Prague with more than two months delay in comparison with her November tour, which she had to postpone because of her eye injury in Moscow.

Music of Roisin Murphy, (as concerts of Moloko) joins electronic dance music and trip-hop with lyrical vocals and catchy melodies of creative whole. This should be shown at the Czech concert, too.

Roisin was nominated for the MTV Europe music awards for her Overpowered – best performance. If she will be in a good shape, there is something to look forward in Prague Roxy.

Czech Original Music Awards

Monday 21 January 2008 13:44

The typical Czech music award ‘Zlaty Slavik’, that concerns with the most commercial music, is altered by ‘Fliter awards’ which are given by one of the most original Czech music magazine Filter.

The best Czech Music group is Sunshine. They became the total winner of the awards, and they also won in the ‘Group of the Year’ category, where they competed with Aneta Langerova, Tata Boys, Vypsana Fixa and Bullerbyne.

The best music video award gained Monkey Business for their video Kit Bike, about a Japanese, who likes Czech things. The best concert Group is Gipsy.cz, who played i.a. at the Glastonburry festival and in South Korea last year.

sunshine The best foreigner concert was made by 50 cent in T-mobile arena.

The Czech album of the year – Sunshine: Dreamer
The best Czech song – Tata Boys: Pesaci
The best Czech concert group: Gipsy.cz
The Czech Group of the Year: Sunshine
The new group: Scissorhands
The best music video: Monkey Business: Kit Bike
The best foreign concert: 50 Cent in Sazka Arena
The best Czech Music Festival: Rock for People

Neo-nazi demonstration in Pilsen results

Monday 21 January 2008 11:58

As in the case of the last march, the right-wing extremists organized in Prague, most of foreign support was hold out of the Republic. The expected German support in the end counted just a few heads, and they arrived to Prague. Prague Paladskeho Square, which is a Prague ‘Hyde Park’, so became the host place for the neo-nazi once more.

As the Pilsen Mayor Pavel Rodr forbid the march in Pilsen, the right-wing radicals moved the place of their march to Prague, and those who stayed in Pilsen faced much dismay of the locals, especially those of Jewish origin, but also left-thinking groups, who organized even an open air concert of punk groups. Few dozens of neo-nazi, facing huge numbers of police, ended their attempts to demonstrate ‘for the freedom of speech’ and moved into a pub. 3 neo-nazis from Poland were taken into custody for heiling, which took place at half past eleven am already.

neo-nazi illustration photo Prague meeting at Paladskeho square attracted about 150 neo-nazi. They had their heads talking about ‘the oppression in which those who tell the truth live’ or about ‘how many foreigners sell drugs to our kids right now’ than they all shouted ‘Protest! Protest!’ The whole action took place without fights, as the police managed the crowd quite professionally. There were also many of ‘civilians’ who came to control the radicals, and many from the press. Four demonstrates were taken into custody, two for identification and two because of weapons they had (a boxer and a nunchuck)

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Prague International Book Fair

Monday 21 January 2008 09:39

prague exhibitiion ground Although each international book fair is unique, all book fairs aim to create a climate for successful business negotiations between exhibitors and visitors. Book fairs draw attention to new releases by publishers and booksellers, and they showcase companies and institutions active in the book market and culture. Like other international trade fairs, Bookworld Prague balances commercial and educational goals.

The first day of the fair is reserved exclusively for trade professionals and members of the press the organizers focus on attracting as many booksellers, librarians, information professionals, literary agents, and representatives of publishers and printers as possible.

Bookworld Prague features numerous programmes for visitors: professional seminars and conferences, meetings with writers, author readings, presentations by publishers, and awards ceremonies for outstanding publishing and creative achievements.

On the humorous note, the Translators Guild presents the annual Rack Anti – award – a prize for the worst translation of a foreign work into Czech.

Bookworld in Prague 2008 – 14 th International Book Fair, 24th – 27th April 2008, At the Industrial Palace Prague – Holesovice Exhibition Grounds.

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Pilsen Bans neo-nazi March

Friday 18 January 2008 15:34

The mayor of Pilsen forbids the Saturday neo-nazi march, after the invitation started to spread among the extremists on international website. Thanks to his decision, the police will be able to do do what they can to prevent the march from starting.

Pilsen Mayor Pavel Rodr: “From the information we got from various webs, we presume the same number of neo-nazi which headed to Prague, heads to Pilsen now.”

We cannot forget Prague is ten times larger than Pilsen, and such number of radicals could do real harm. There will be a great number of police officers in Pilsen on Saturday.

Decision about Prague Blob takes time. Why?

Friday 18 January 2008 14:52

hsh design of czech national library was 3rd The group of architects ‘Ateliér HSH architekti’ fight against the course and outcome of the competition, which Blob won. Their 10 month long protest continues – first they turned to anti-monopoly office, when it didn’t help, they started to sue the National Library. They claim the competition was contested. Their design (picture) ended third.

Their activities complicated yesterday meeting of the National Library Team. The director of National Library said the debates were proper, the Prague Mayor Pavel Bem even that the athmosphere was good. Nonetheless, the team didn’t come to the conclusion. The next meeting is prepared on 27th February.

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Schengen Kontrolle – Border checks Austria x Czech Republic

Friday 18 January 2008 14:01

Not very much changed at the borders of the Czech Republic and Austria from the Austrian side. The Czech Republic entered Schengen space 21th December 2007, which means obvious free movement of goods and folks. But even when the border police disappeared from borders, on the Austrian site they just spread, and they check ‘suspicious vehicles’.

The former border police comments the situation; they want to control the number of refugees. Cars, that could be carrying them, are reported by police officers in civilian cars, up the road. The Schengen Kontrolle has wide support of Austria public.

Growing Interest for Prague Sights

Friday 18 January 2008 12:05

old town hall Into the historic sights, which are governed by the Prague Information Service (PIS), were visited by 18 % more visitors than in the year 2006. That makes the total of sightseers 1,3 million people.

The speaker of PIS Dagmar Holubova informed: “There were definitely more visitors of sights, more tourists came to our information centers, but we also got more hits of our web pages (www.pis.cz) – 3,85 million.

The largest interest from Prague Sights arouses traditionally Old Town City Hall at Old Town Square, which attracted 432 500 visitors last year.

JUDGE JULES on VIBE in Prague

Friday 18 January 2008 10:13

judge jules Starting his DJ and radio career in 1987 on pirate radio station Kiss FM, Judge Jules continued working on the radio for 10 years, starting up his productions, and in 1997 moving to BBC Radio 1 reaching over 2.2 million people a week.

After this he worked on numerous productions under the alias’ Hi-Gate and Yomanda releasing tracks Pitchin’, Gonna Work It Out, Sunshine a You’re Free. These records have reached the Top 20 on Dance and National Charts within England as such enhancing his reputation in the industry.

On top of that he has received over 15 awards including “Top International DJ”, “Best Radio DJ”, “Best Trance DJ” and reaching no. 3 of the illustrious Mixmag Top DJ Poll in 1998 and reaching no. 21 this year round. He has also appeared on numerous TV programs including Top of the Pops and Rapture, and written numerous press articles for leading magazines in the UK over his years at the pinnacle of the dance industry.

Fri 08/02 Entry 390,- CZK / Vip: 590,-Kč / Start: 22.00 / Pre-sale 290,-CZK ticketpro.cz, Club Mecca, U Pruhonu street 3, Prague 7, Sat 02th February 2008

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The Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague permanent exhibitions

Thursday 17 January 2008 17:22

The Museum of Decorative Arts is located in the Jewish Quarters of Prague. The setting cannot be more perfect – the most beautiful buildings of Prague are in the Old town. The building itself was finished in 19th Century in neo-renaissance style, which by its rich design fulfills representative demands. Its decorated ceilings and historic furniture makes impression the place matters.

The second floor features permanent exhibitions. Rich and wide selection of exhibits from the late antiquity till the present day. There are: The Story of Fibre – The Textiles and Fashion Gallery; Print & Image – The Applied Graphic Arts and Photography Gallery; Born in Fire – The Glass and Ceramics Gallery; Treasury – The Metals and Miscellaneous Materials Gallery; Time Machines – The Clocks and Watches Gallery and also a newly exhibited tapestry called “A Side View”, created by the Moravian Tapestry Workshop.

Complete information on Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague / Uměleckoprůmyslové museum v Praze in English here

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German Police: we won't let German neo-nazis to Czech Republic

Thursday 17 January 2008 14:05

The ‘Protest march for freedom of speech’ as the right-wing radicals call their demonstration, is planned on this Saturday 19th January, takes place in Pilsen, Czech Republic.

illustration photo 19th January is the 65th anniversary of the first transport of Jews from Pilsen to concentration camps. Nearly 3000 Pilsen Jews perished in Nazi camps during the World War II.

The German police announced they are going to all the steps necessary to keep the German neo-nazis from travelling to the Saturday march. As the Czech Republic have entered the Schengen space, 700 former Bavarian border police comes back to operate in the border region.

This comes as a consequence Czech radicals put an invitation on an Internet forum, inviting ‘all the German friends’ to the Czech Republic demonstration.

Will T-Mobile intorduce iPhone to Czech Republic?

Thursday 17 January 2008 11:39

iphone The Czech branch of T-Mobile wants to start selling iPhones from Apple this summer. The hot new gadget that slowly makes its way to Europe is already possible to unblock by the pirate way in the Czech Republic, however the three mobile phone companies (Vodafone, T-Mobile and Telefonica O2) that carry mobile business are making endavours for the possibility of official selling.

T-Mobile representatives have expressed earlier they want to sell iPhone in February of this year, but discussionss with Apple inc. took more time than expected.

At the time all the mobile phones have more or less two shapes that basically differs only in colors, Apple iPhone differs by its innovations, design and functionality.

DJ Konrad in Prague live set

Thursday 17 January 2008 10:09

SoundCream in Prague Mecca will be a storming party where you can expect the unexpected. Once again the latest house music sounds will be thrown at you from all quarters and coupled with excellent drinks, amazing dancers and combined with the freshest music to throw clubbers into euphoric highs and positive dimensions.

DJ Konrad is an invariably happy Briton that has been dj-ing for over 15 years with a wide spectrum of sounds and audiences. Having started off with Acid Jazz and Funk, he swiftly gained acclaim for his interpretation and demonstration of the typical London Underground sounds of the 90’s where the soul of the sound was the bass line and rhythmic beats.

Clubbers in London, Paris, Frankfurt, Balearic Islands and even Australia have been treated to his vinyl bag of delights. His close friendship with all at SwagRecords ensure a constant stream of fresh sounds that are an absolute first to be heard on the dance floor – some tracks arriving at the club only hours after being lifted off the vinyl press.

Tickets: 190,- CZK, start : 22.00. SOUNDCREAM, Club Mecca, U Pruhonu street 3, Prague 7, Sat 02th February 2008

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Authentic Copy to National Library Team

Thursday 17 January 2008 09:54

An authentic copy, sent to the prime minister, Prague Mayor Pavel Bem and the minsters of education and scholarship by Prague accademics, says among others:

“Building of the National library is not building of a gymnasium, it is a majestic project, which influences other fate of Clementinum.” academics let the National Library team know.

This time, when we talk about National Lbrary, it is not the case of Blob, or Octopus, but the Original NL building; Clementinum. The academics are afraid Prague centre ‘disneyfies’ and it is becoming an outdoor museum.

One of the typical places, that has always belonged to students, is the space of Palachovo square, where Rudlolphinum, the Modern art Gallery and Clementinum are. The idea is when the Blob, or other library will be opened, the old library should, acording to the politicians, open to tourists. This would, however, destroy the unique atmosphere, which the space posses.

Czech sciencist takes part in butterfly navigation discovery

Wednesday 16 January 2008 16:07

Danaus_plexipus Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexipus) travel from Canada to Mexico and back. The flight is 8000 kilomentres long. The difference between birds is, birds live longer and so they can gather experience, but from the butterflies that are born in Mexico, third or even fith generation would arrive to Canada. So what do they use for navigation? A ‘solar compass’.

The complicated mechanism was uncovered by the team of Professor Steven Reppert from the University of Massachusetts, USA. Sauman, who works in the Entomological Institute of the Academy of Sciences in Ceske Budejovice, took part in the research.

The solar compass maps the Sun’s position, which is connected to butterflies’ inner ‘navigation clock’ by which the butterflies find their way. Sauman says the monarch butterfly is the first organism where this unique navigation was uncovered.

Józek z bagien – 30 years old Czech hit loved by the Poles

Wednesday 16 January 2008 13:45

jozin z bazin Polish people found the music video at youtube, which was made 30 years ago by Ivan Mladek and his group ‘The Banjo Band’. They equipped the video with Polish subtitles. The popularity, which the video after gained in Poland, was sudden and huge. (click to see the video)

The music video on youtube is available with Polish subtitles. Ivan Mladek on the left acts mostly serious, the guy on the right does funny dance.

The Poles like Czech humor, especially the kind of humor where Czechs make fun of themselves. And they know the things the songs is about – Jozin eats especially Prague citizens, Skoda 100 is an old car still used in Eastern Europe. We have similar

experience, we can laugh at the same things. Ivan Mladek himself is glad, because of sudden Polish media interest, but as he has never stopped playing, the thing that matters for him is whether there will be a tour in Poland.

ENGLISH lyrics of Jozin z Bazin:

1. I drive Skoda 100 to camp here on Orava So I hurry, take a risk – go through Moravia The monster lives there, comes out of the bog Eats mostly Prague citizen, its name is Jozin (Joseph)

Chorus: Jozin from the bog creeps through swamp Jozin from the bog closes to the village Jozin from the bog edges its teeth Jozin from the bog bites, strangles To defend Jozin from the bog, who could imagine, only works a plane with manure (white powder)

2. I was driving through the village on road to Vizowice The village mayor greeted me, said to me during drinking Sliwowica (DIY plum vodka) ‘The one who will bring Jozin dead or alive gets my daughter and a half of National Agrarian Farm

Chorus: Jozin…

3. I said: ‘give me a plane and powder, mayor, I’ll bring you Jozin, I see no trouble about that’, Mayor helped me, in the morning I went up in the sky The powder from the plane prettily fell on Jozin.

Chorus: Jozin… …I got Jozin, I seized him, Every penny is fine, I’ll sell him to a Zoo.

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Flowers in the Dustbin : Society and Fashion in Czechoslovakia Exhibition

Wednesday 16 January 2008 12:04

The exhibition is the next instalment of a series of exhibitions of clothing organised by the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague in Prague. Dedicated to the seventies, it seeks to present the lifestyle of the decade in Czechoslovak fashion and fashion accessories together with foreign manufactures and articles made by domestic dress-makers (roughly seventy models and around forty accessories).

flowers in trash From the point of view of developments in international fashion this was a very rich era and in many respects a turning-point. Fashion trends born at the end of the sixties and connected with the ideas of the hippie movement were developed to the full in the following decade. Wardrobes filled up with jeans-style clothes and garments inspired by folklore oriental and South American styles. Concurrently there was a vogue for romantic retro looking back mainly to the thirties and forties. Starting from the middle of the decade, an aggressive style including sadomasochistic elements dress entered fashion with the punk movement. Traditional haute couture developed under the influence of what was known as the “counter-culture” or even “anti-culture”.

December 7th, 2007 -February 17th, 2008, Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, 17. listopadu 2, Prague 1

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BBC reveals shocking truth: Cages are still imposed at disabled in Czech Republic

Wednesday 16 January 2008 12:03

J. K. Rowling, during her visit last year, find out the horrible situation and decided there must be something done. Now, one year after, a BBC team in disguise films that nothing much changed.

BBC – The Czech Republic banned the use of cage-like beds in children’s care homes a year ago, under international pressure. But as Clive Myrie reports for the Ten O’clock News, secret filming shows the use of the beds goes on. Link to the BBC article here.

The pictures they filmed show youngsters with severe mental and physical disabilities being housed in so-called “cage beds”. The cages are 1.5m tall. The personnel touched them only through the bars, as if touching an animal in its cage at the zoo, reports the BBC.

Martin Zarsky, Czech Minister of Social Affairs commented it: “We are trying – it’s difficult to put in a comprehensive system of monitoring overnight.”

The BBC report closes: “If the Czech Republic is truly to fulfil its obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights, then it must look after all its citizens – including those who have been warehoused in cages for society’s convenience.”

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Free Rides in Prague Public Transport can cost you

Wednesday 16 January 2008 09:22

check-revizor-a conroller About 140 controllers travel in Prague Public transport, checking whether the passengers have a valid ticket with them. Those who didn’t have one in 2007, paid total over one hundred million CZK (3,6 mil. €) in fares. Every controller so collected 1 688 fines on the average. 230 000 people tried a free-ride, or as Czechs say, jet nacerno (black ride).

What makes problems for tourists, is the difference between transferable/non-transferable tickets in Prague. Also, some don’t know the non-transferable ticket (the one that costs 18 CZK) can be used for 5 stations only.

The statistics show, that the percentage of passengers who don’t pay for tickets is about 10-20 %. Most of them are 15-25 years old. The MHD (Prague Public Transport Company) tries to help those, who are travelling for free unwillingly, by instituting the possibility of SMS tickets.

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Family Friendly Places for Kids and Parents in Prague

Tuesday 15 January 2008 18:09

Do you have kids in Prague ? Don’t know where to go? The Czech community of Gender Studies has labeled twelve from enterprises located at Prague 1 with their ‘Family Friendly Enterprise’ sticker.

From the announcement it’s clear that to live normally with kids is not an easy task; “I have two kids and I know how hard it is to move with a baby coach in Prague. How a person appreciates any place, where one can feel welcomed with kids, and where are no obstacles.” The founder of action and a deputy of Prague 2 Michaela Marks-Tomin wrote. Her people looked for baby-corners, children menus, nappies changing tables at the WCs, non-smoking environment, whether it is possible to get inside with a carriage and whether they have a baby chair. The list of places is here

Prague OG Questionarie Sent

Tuesday 15 January 2008 14:01

The International Olympic Committee in Lausanne has received the filled the applicant questionary yesterday. The book with 69 pages and 30 CD was send, after debates of Pavel Bem with Mirek Topolanek, whose and his government support was essential.

Prague so placed itself into the society, from which the organizer of summer olympic games 2016 will be chosen. The comitee is going to form a narrower group of candidates this summer. Those are going to fill in an even larger questionnaire and send it to the IOC until 12th February 2009, with the fee 500 thousand dollars. The festive enunciation of the Olympics 2016 organizer takes place 2nd October in Copenhagen.

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New Fabia Combi sale Starts Today

Tuesday 15 January 2008 11:45

fabia combi ext The new type by Skoda Auto goes to sale today and the official sellers inform customers started buying it already. The car in basic set with 1,2 l engine and 44kW output costs 285 900 CZK.

fabia combi int The new model offers more comfort and more space for the luggage. The boot has grown by 54 litres and its volume is 480 litres now. With the rear seats folded flat, the total size of the luggage compartment is 1,460 litres, 235 litres more than in the previous model.

Compared with the existing model, the outside dimensions of the new vehicle have grown. The length, width and height: 4,239 mm, 1,642 mm and 1,498 mm.

Czech football representation prepares for the EURO Cup

Tuesday 15 January 2008 09:55

karel bruckner form:worldcup.sportinglife.com Four and half months until the match with Switzerland, which in Basile opens the football European championship for Czechs. Until the end of may, the representation coach Karel Bruckner decides about the team formation. There is quite a lot of candidates this year.

The first test of the players is the preparing tournament in Cyprus, during which the Czech team is going to battle the selection of Greek national league and Poland. 28 players got the invitation.

The Czech coach Bruckner has reputation of being conservative, so the final choice is going to include probably the goalkeeper Petr Cech and players Pospech, Ujfaluci, Plasil, Pudil, Rosicky, Baros and Koller.

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Lord Bishop (USA) and Volnaya Staya (RU) concert in Prague

Tuesday 15 January 2008 07:28

Lord Bishop Lord Bishop from New York City, journey man, black magic worshiper, voodoo funker has been on the Rock’n‘Roll Road for over 10 years spreading a brand of music, which he describes as: “If the music doesn’t fuck then it doesn’t rock! My influences are Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Frank Zappa, John Lennon, Kurt Cobain, Tina Turner and Janis Joplin.” With over 1000 concerts played in last years and thousands of CDs sold world wide, the Lord carries the torch of Rock’n‘Roll like his predecessors before him. “I will die on stage because it’s the only place I live”.

Volnaya Staya this all-female band plays a pure form of heavy metal and They definitely seem as a big promise for the future. Language doesn’t seem to be a problem (for those who speaks the language of heavy metal) and we wouldn’t exaggerate if we say that they are the best all-female heavy metal band, Russia has got to offer.

29th January 2008, Futurum, Zborovska 7, Prague 5. Tickets: 120 CZK

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Right-wing radicals 'Skinheads' to Czech streets again on 19th

Monday 14 January 2008 14:05

a german neo-nazi Their march was banned. Than the ban was lifted. Than it was banned again. When they tried to break through police cordons in Prague, they got beaten by the special police. The speaker of the group with a small pack got into Prague centre and got beaten up by the anarchists. We are talking about Czech neo-nazis, who, despite the general public standing against them, still don’t give up.

The march in Prague took place on 10th November, and there is a new demonstration planned in Pilsen, Czech Republic, the date is 19th January 2008. Again, there is an international support probably coming, anyone can publicly read on a German right-wing radical forum, where they invite all the ‘free, social and national’ friends.

As with the case of march in Prague, the Jewish community plans to gather at Grand Synagogue. Police prepared an emergency scenario for the occasion.

Permanent exhibition of arts of 19th 20th and 21th in National Gallery Prague

Monday 14 January 2008 13:19

gauguin-fr The permanent exposition of arts in the National Gallery shows, on three levels of the Trade Fair Palace, the development of arts from the CR and abroad of the past two centuries. Large area of the palace allows to exhibit over 2000 pieces.

The exhibition focuses on key works of Czech arts in monographic profiles or in selections of pivotal pieces, along with the work of foreign artists. The image of the period is complemented with examples of architecture, furniture, the applied arts, fashion, design and stage design. You will also find photographs, drawings and prints concentrated in graphic cabinets.

Alongside celebrated characters, artists who have been neglected in the past or are yet to be discovered, are included. Czech art is shown through qualities which distinguish it from its international counterparts and which make it unique. The objectives of this new conception are emphasised by the inventive architectural design of the individual halls.

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Public Sex in Czech Rep. , sentence: 400 hours of community service

Monday 14 January 2008 11:54

Village discotheque at the Czech Republic countryside got distraction one night, when a Czech man, aged 30, had made sex with his ex-girl-friend, aged 40, both being really drunk.

The case got publicity, when the woman first testified she couldn’t defend herself, as she was ‘totally drunk’. The case could develop as a case of rape, however, the court decided that their action was only breach of the peace, as they used to be a couple, and also because when the police came, she ‘ did not behave as any victim of a crime and laughed.’

The witnesses reported the visitors at the disco encouraged them, and some filmed the action by their mobile phones. When the man saw he is being filmed, he took belt from his pants and lashed some of them.

Theme:

Prague Full of Scares kids competition

Monday 14 January 2008 11:04

water-man is a typical supernatural person in czech mythology A few hundreds kids went on the scare hunt to the streets of the old Town in Prague, where the scares wandered around on Saturday, scaring the tourists.

Adventurers searched for werewolf, fisheater, snowitch, Licentious Lucrecia, the butcher with a flaming axe, or the man-eating bear. It was a 25th year of the orientation game, which prepares Prague Scout organization Arcus.

The quest was to decode cyphers first, and so, find where some of the 15 scares dwell. The start and finish was at Tyrsuv dum, Ujezd, where the evening continued by fencing performances and fireshows. At the end the nicest scare was voted.

Theme:

Charles Bridge statues Cleanup

Monday 14 January 2008 09:40

Statues from Charles bridge are going to go under repairs and cleaning this year. The repair of Prague essential Charles Bridge wait until it gets less cold. The restorers are going to clean some of the statues, especially those at the Lesser Quarter. Statues of Charles Bridge are managed by Petra Hoftichova from City Gallery Prague.

Reconstruction is prepared for other well-known Czech sights too. The Prague City Hall plans to spend more than 80 million CZK for sights repairs in 2008.

Theme:

Prague Spring International Music Festival

Friday 11 January 2008 17:25

Prague Spring (Czech: Mezinárodní hudební festival Pražké jaro) 2008 is a significant music event held under the patronage of the President of the Czech Republic Vaclav Klaus and in association with the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic. Outstanding artists, symphony orchestras and chamber music ensembles has been performing at Prague Spring since 1946. G_N_Rozhdestvensky_at_Prague_Spring_Festival_2007

Prague Spring is a permanent showcase for outstanding performing artists, symphony orchestras and chamber music ensembles of the world. The concerts take place in various places in Prague, such as Rudolfinum, Municipal House, Lichtenstein Palace, Church Of St. Simon and St. Juda, etc.

12th May – 4th June 2008, Prague

Theme:

Marriage Festival at Prague Vystaviste

Friday 11 January 2008 15:45

wedding festival If you are looking for an unusual experience, and you like weddings, the Marriage festival in Prague would be your choice. They say it is going the biggest event of this kind in Europe. Last year of the festival demonstrated how huge is the demand for such an event. On the programme are companies presentations, that has something to do with weddings organization, but also entertaining culture programme.

There are concerts, fashion shows, theatre, belly dance or hair and barman shows. The fair offers wedding saloons, agencies, hotel-keepers, goldsmiths, photographers, florists, pastry-cooks, stylists, limo rental services and travel agencies. The cherry on the cake of the programme will be an actual wedding of a couple on Saturday 3 pm.

Wedding Festival Prague, 11th – 13th January 2008, Exhibition Ground Holesovice.

Theme:

Prague Culinary Boom

Friday 11 January 2008 14:01

The Prague Culinary institute wants to link to hundreds years of culinary tradition it the Czech Republic. The Institute was opened yesterday in Prague Suchdol. Master chefs from the top restaurants, such as Radek Subrt are going to organize courses of cooking, as it was common during the ‘First Republic’ era. At that time, courses of Vilem Brabec gained world renown, and his cold dishes are for many still the best.

According to the founder of the Culinary institute in Prague Roman Vanek the Czech Republic is now in its culinary boom period. Expert cooking courses are being organised also by some of Prague most luxurious restaurants.

Unique Historic Treasure in Prague flat

Friday 11 January 2008 11:11

The items, that went through a complex check during the past months are mostly original, some of them are fakes, but all together on the black market would be worth of millions CZK. Unfortunately, as the places where these items were taken from are unknown, expert value have been almost competely lost.

large glasses-like copper pendant Flames, that caused death of the flat owner, revealed secrets of the Prague flat to expert public; the insides hold about 1900 bronze and 1400 iron items, probably prepared to be sold on the black market.

The most unique is quite a large glasses-like pendant. “It is one of the most early proof of metallurgy in the Middle Europe. Its age is estimated on five thousands years. Only a about ten similar pieces are known.”

Streetdance Battles in Prague

Friday 11 January 2008 10:03

Streetdance battle is back. This time in much greater style. In the game there is a new Skoda Fabia or prizes worth 500 000 CZK.

The regular event called Streetdance Battle Nite is held for the third time, and it is one of the most significant and renown events in Karlovy Lazne. Last time, the winning dancers could gain a 5* Boat trip in Carribean. The important thing, the main prizes could have been won only by non-professional dancers in the first season, in the second one all could participate, but they had to be boy-girl pairs.

street dancer This season brings battles 1 vs 1 in all the streetdance styles.

Round 1 – 18th January 2008
Round 2 – 22th February 2008
Round 3 – 21th March 2008
Round 4 – 18th April 2008
Round 5 – 16th May 2008
Final Battle – 20th June 2008

So if you are fond of Streetdance, you have a possibility so see the biggest Czech dance competition in the biggest Czech Club Karlovy Lazne, Smetanovo nabrezi 198, Prague 1

Irglova got BFCA prize for best film song from ONCE

Thursday 10 January 2008 15:08

Once is a 2006 Irish musical film written and directed by John Carney. Set in Dublin, it stars musicians Glen Hansard (of popular Irish rock band The Frames) and Markéta Irglová, a fictional Czech emigrant, as struggling musicians.

The Czech singer and pianist Marketa Irglova and Irish musician Glen Hansard got the prize of the American National Society of Film Critics, for the best original film song. They gained the Critics Choice Award for their song Falling Slowly from the 2007 film Once.

In December, they gained the prize of the Association of Los angeles film critics for the best film music. They are as well nominated for two Grammy Prizes – the best soundtrack and the best song.

Theme:

Winning of Blob Doubted

Thursday 10 January 2008 12:05

The work of the team of lawyers, who were supposed to examine the contest of the National Library designs, ended yesterday. And it ended in quite a puzzled way – according to the MF Dnes intelligence a half of lawyers consider the international competition and the winning architect Jan Kaplicky contested.

A well informed source said to MF Dnes: “At least five members of the commission are convinced the contest principally broke Czech legal regulations.”

What is the problem? Kaplicky placed the books deposit into the underground of his Octopus. The assignment states, books deposits must not be placed in underground levels. According to the National Library of the CR there was not a problem in changing the conditions, they make reference to meeting criteria of the International Union of Architects (UIA)

The official stance of the National Library team will be revealed after their meeting on 17th January.

Theme:

Starbucks comes to the Czech Republic

Thursday 10 January 2008 09:21

starbucks_cup At the end of January, the first Starbucks café opens in Prague, on the Malostranske namesti (Little Quarter). They chose a house that hosted a famous pre-communist café for hundreds of years. Cliff Burrows, the president of Starbucks for Europe, said they are proud to have such an opportunity to take the tradition up again at the place which was a famous destination ‘between work and home’ for many famous Czech philosophers, writers and artists.

The entrepreneur, originally Polish company AmRest agreed with Starbucks Coffee co. on running the cafés in Poland, Hungary and the CR. During 2008, up to 20 Starbucks premises should open in the CR and Poland.

Starbucks sold their first cup of coffee in 1985, now there is more than 4300 cafés in 42 countries of the world.

Czech Prime Minister: Yes to Olympics

Wednesday 09 January 2008 17:45

The Prime mister, even when he was heard not speaking positively about the idea of Olympic Games in Prague, after a debate with Prague mayor Pavel Bem he said the government guarantees the Prague candidacy for 2016.

Even when ODS supports the Olympics, support of the whole government is not so clear. The KDU-CSL are definitely against, and possibly even the Green Party, so if the Olympics are to be put through, the ODS would have to do it themselves.

Most of the other parties are afraid of the financial costs of the enormous event. The Prime minister Mirek Topolanek however suggest, the promised support is not monetary, but juridical.

Theme:

Sensation White - unique massive House music event in Prague

Wednesday 09 January 2008 15:45

Sensationwhite03_2006 The second edition of Sensation White in the Czech Republic is going to take place. What is it? A chance to get to a massive, religious-like house dancing event of your lives.

Sensation is a Dutch (Amsterdam) indoor dance-event. The first edition of Sensation was in 2000, and every year in may cities ever since.

Sensation White is mostly a trance and house event. All the attendees are required to wear white and the Arenas themselves are decorated to match. Sensation White’s slogan is “Be Part Of The Night – Dress in White”. Every event has around 40,000-45,000 tickets available. The Amsterdam ArenA event takes place every year on the first Saturday in July.

Notable DJ’s that have appeared at Sensation White include André Tanneberger, Armin van Buuren, Darren Emerson (one of the Underworld members), David Guetta, Erick E, Erick Morillo, Ferry Corsten, Marco V, Paul van Dyk, Johan Gielen, Sander Kleinenberg, Steve Angello, Tiësto, Fedde Le Grand and Mason.

The regular Ticket sale for this event will go through the Sazka Ticket network. The ticket sale starts Friday 21 December 2008 at 01.15 hrs at all 7.000 Ticket sale points. The tickets will be sold in three steps.

Sensationwhite_2007 – First bulk of 3.000 tickets: CZK 1.090,00 (40,00 Euro)

- Second bulk of tickets: CZK 1.375,00 ( 50,00 Euro)

- Third bulk of tickets: CZK 1.650,00 (60,00 Euro)

Online Ticket sale starts 22 December 2008 and reservations can be made on http://www.sazkaticket.cz/

Golden tickets for the event can be purchased through kribalova@best.sazka.cz and will be sold for CZK 4.490,00 (160,00 Euro). A Golden Ticket gives you access to the main Floor and luxury Club Floor. Free Club Floor VIP catering is included in the Ticket price.

31 May 2008, Sazka Arena in Prague

Theme:

Smokers from Germany find Paradise in the Czech Republic

Wednesday 09 January 2008 14:43

cigarettes pile As there is total ban on smoking in restaurants in Germany from January 2008, the Germans living close to border travel to the Czech Republic to be able to smoke after their meal. “The first thing they ask for, is if they can smoke in here, and when they are seated, they ask for an ashtray immediately.” says a member of staff.

The same situation is with shopping for cigarettes in the Czech Republic. The prizes are low: Marlboro 76 CZK (2,64 €), Lucky Strike 64 CZK (2,3 €), Czech cigarettes Sparta, Petra and others 50-60 CZK (1,8 € – 2,14€) so cigarettes here are really cheap. Now, when the Czech Republic entered the Schengen space, there is no limit for transport.

However, there is a new anti-smoking law being prepared, which should make smoker’s life harder in Czechia, but now, even foreigners know Czech smokers can smoke free.

Czech Prime Minister: Czechs are Cowards

Wednesday 09 January 2008 11:55

4th January 2008: the Czech Prime minister for ODS, Miroslav Topolanek said in an interview for Hospodarske Noviny: “Czechs usually see everything negatively, and when anything happens, they make a mess in their pants.”

The statement immediately alerted those, who haven’t yet lost faith in Czechs, the most significant of them is the mayor of Czech city Cerhenice Karel Semerad, who appealed to Topolanek to apologize for his words, or he is prepared to institute legal proceedings: “The whole thing is much worse, than you, as an author, have one of the most responsible seats in the Czech Republic. How can you represent a nation, you have so low opinion about?” Semerad writes. His original profession is a historian.

Topolanek reacted in a way we got used to from the side of politicians: “I’m not going to apologize, I am ready to sue” He is known for his direct speaking.

Karel Semerad: “Do you know at least some of the thousands of fates of our national resistance, who fighted the Nazi tyranny?” How dare you spit on Czech heroes?”

Young National Democrats’ Party, well known for their neo-nazi marches, have already announced Topolanek committed a crime of seditious libel, defamation of nation and slander.

Prague wants Special Police Unit to deal with Homeless

Wednesday 09 January 2008 08:27

Prague wants to have a special unit of the municipal police, that would increase repression towards the homeless. “The homeless should leave the territory of Prague, or integrate into the society” The vice-mayor of Prague Jiri Janecek said to press.

Janecek at the same time emphasized , that every homeless, who wants to get a job, gets a job. “We have fee spots at the city organizations, like the MHD (Prague Public Transport). We don’t want to support the homeless to the prejudice of the other Prague Citizens”

There is a ‘homeless boat’ in Prague, where the needy can go. It works as a center, where these people get a bed, medical treatment, and it is possible to get information about work offers.

Prague Zoo in search for the New Logo

Tuesday 08 January 2008 17:24

zoo praha old logo The competition for the new logo of Prague Zoo ended in a draw. There is no new logo yet, as from 149 delivered designs none has met all the requirements.

The jury, made of experts for marketing and communication, artists, deputies of Prague City Hall and Prague Zoo, evaluated especially originality, the complete artistic level of solution, simplicity, understandability, datelessness, and marketing potential. Again – none of designs met the requirements.

Critics say it is hard to compete with the past logo, made by Michal Cihlar, whose lino-cut was unique. However Cihlar ended the cooperation with the zoo, as he demanded salary increase, and after retroactively demanded money for the already created logos. Now, he is suing the zoo for unauthorized use.

Petr Fejk announced there will be definitely a new logo competition. We believe there are many artists in the lines of our readers and we are going to inform you about the details, so you can join. Who knows, what is the logo-style the Prague Zoo is looking for…

Theme:

Czech Republic EU Chairmanship in 2009

Tuesday 08 January 2008 15:59

Czech Republic will become the chairman of the European Council in the first half of 2009. The Congress Centre in Prague is going to be the huge building which hosts the delegates. Prague so become the half-year capital of the EU. The total estimations speak of about thirty thousands clerks, politicians, and people from press.

During those twenty seven years the building of the Congress Centre (Or Palace of Culture, as it was called) stands, there was never held such a huge action before. In 2000 it hosted the NATO, and after there were only short-term actions. Now it will be a long term rent, a very prestigious and a very expensive one.

For us who live in Prague, the positive thing is we can look forward to number of social and cultural events, which are going to be held in Prague. Every month in the incoming half-year is going to be devoted to one of our characters, who becomes a theme of exhibitions, conferences or concerts.

Charles Bridge and Astronomical Clock are salt-free

Tuesday 08 January 2008 13:55

Charles Bridge in winter The only bridge, where it is banned to use salt in the Czech Republic, is the Charles Bridge in Prague. The National Heritage institute has to solve the every-year problem of historic sights being damaged by salt. That the situation is not made out was proved by the case of Old Town Square Astronomical Clock we informed you last year. Salt fixes wetness, wetness harms the Astronomical Clock.

Prague City Hall now uses sand instead of salt for Old Town Square. Similarly the Charles Bridge, which is undergoing repairs at the moment, and so is more vulnerable to changes in weather, has special treatment – the snow from it is scraped together, thrown from the bridge to Vltava river, and than sand is spread there.

Famous STOMP come back to Prague

Tuesday 08 January 2008 11:40

stomp-come-to-prague The international music-dance group STOMP comes back to Prague again. The original show has filled Prague Congress Centre with eager audience three times already.

The unique music formation of performers was founded in Brighton in 1991. At that time, the first STOMP performance took place. Quite soon, it was followed by the world’s tour. But the starter to the world success was a season of performances in London theatre Sadler’s Wells in 1994.

STOMP is a unique show of expressive dancers, drummers, equilibrists, steppers and performers. It is characterized by movement, accompanied by unusual rhythmic sounds. Everything is happening without words or dialogues. The artists use objects of everyday use – from trashcans to bottles with water – the audience shouldn’t be only amazed by rhythms, unique effects and dancing abilities, but also entertained.

STOMP have four performances, dating 11 – 13 April 2008, stracting 20:00, on 12th there is also one show on the afternoon. Prague Congress Centre, Metro C Vysehrad. Tickers starting at 1000 CZK (36 €) sold at ticketpro.cz

Theme:

Reggae evening in Prague

Tuesday 08 January 2008 09:04

Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. Music of Reggae is often associated with the Rastafarian movement, an influence on many prominent reggae musicians.

In middle Europe, where Prague is located, it is not easy to find a club, which would focus primarily on such a genre. Sometimes, it is easier to hear some Raggamuffin music or dancehall, but the traditional, non-electronic, non-cut Reggae is hard to find.

At least, for those of you who are in Prague, and want to listen to the music (and can’t refuse it), there is the Club Naftar, U Vinohradské nemocnice 2, Prague 3. At least it provides some concerts sometimes. Like now, 26th January 2008, when there is RIDDIM DRIVEN NIGHT FROM KINGSTON TO PRAGGA, the “SWAMP SAFARI SOUND SYSTEM”, presenting Vincent from Jamaica.

Theme:

Fate of Prague Olympics Will be Decided

Monday 07 January 2008 17:55

prague candidated maybe too eagerly The final word, whether the Czech Government agrees with Czech Candidacy for Olympic Games in 2016 in Prague, will be heard 10th January 2008. The Czech public was given many negative comments of the government so far; the Prime minister Mirek Topolanek (ODS) said during the question time in the House of parliament the government is not guarantying anything to the city in the matter of the Olympic Games.

To gain political support is one of the pivots for Olympic Games organizing. The government however hesitated, and so the Czech Olympic committee candidated without bless of the Czech Government. So far to the bad beginning.

Negative position was also adopted by mayors of smaller cities, who demanded Prague should pay the games itself. According to MAFRA public opinion research, the public demands referendum. The President Vaclav Klaus said it is clear the Olympics are going to be a loss-making business.

Many voices certainly speak against the games. The government decision comes on 10th January.

Theme:

Nathan Fake, electronic laptop prodigy in Prague

Monday 07 January 2008 16:07

Nathanfake Nathan Fake is an electronic music artist from Norfolk, UK who has released numerous singles as well as a full-length album on labels such as Border Community and Traum Schallplatten. He is credited with startling the techno dance community with his first release Outhouse.

Laptop musician Nathan Fake introduces his vision of electronic music, somewhere between dance and headphones hedonism, to Prague club Palac Akropolis. His electronic compositions are inspired by music of Boards Of Canada or Mogwai and are full of emotions and moods. His album Drowning in a Sea of Love gained second place in the questionnaire of Mixmag in 2006.

During the evening EuroConnections on the stage shows also a Moravian laptop miracle Sonority.

30th January 2008, Palac Akropolis, Kubelikova 27, Prague 3

How to Find out Price of Taxi in Prague

Monday 07 January 2008 14:05

Of course we mean the fair price! In Prague, as in all the metropolises in Europe, the taxi drivers try to make some extra money by overcharging. However, there were some positive changes. It seems, that the taxis are getting slightly better, as Prague City Hall informed. According to their information, in 2007, from 831 check rides, only 88 were overcharged. Which means, only every ten taxi ride is a rip-off.

taxi-line-in-prague Verified solution is of course trying some verified taxi companies, that guarantee fair price. This includes also not catching a cab, as many of customers are used to, but calling the cab by a phone.

Finally, if you want to find how much the price should be, try here . They have some nice program to count it.

Theme:

Year 2007 was extremely hot in the Czech Repubic

Monday 07 January 2008 09:58

hot weather in Prague 2007 According to meteorologists, the year 2007 was extremely hot. The winter was not only the warmest one in the history of machine temp. measuring in the Czech Republic, but also warmest in the history of the Middle Europe.

The deputy of the Czech Hydro-meteorological Institute Radim Tolasz wrote for the CTK: “The average temperatures are 9,1 Celsius, which is 1,6 Celsius above the long-term average.”

More than five times more of hot tropical days prepared the year 2007 for Czech folk. Also, there were two times more days with storms. Long-term average of rainfall of 674 l/m2 was grossed up of 77 l/m2

The first tropical day with temperatures higher than 30 Celsius was in 14th May already. During the whole year, 32 days with storms were in the Czech Republic, normal year has 17 storm days here.

Theme:

Czech Lukas Bauer won the Tour de Ski

Monday 07 January 2008 09:26

lukas bauer The ski-runner Lukas Bauer won the serial of eight races in ten days, way ahead of the other contestants. “I knew I would have won, even if I have felt two times” said Bauer. Thanks to his triumph, Lukas Bauer won 100 000 € and also got 586 points to the World Cup, which he leads with a jump of 301 points.

At the top of the running track he got 167 seconds earlier then his competitors. “I missed sweets and rounds at the track” He joked. “I didn’t have the expected crisis, but the last hill was crazy. The Tour de Ski ends with one big craze. I don’t know if I’m more glad I won, or that it’s over now.”

“To catch up with Lukas? Man, have you seen the movie Mission Impossible?” Said before the last phase Norwegian Gjerdalen, who ended fourth. Italian Di Centa was third, second German René Sommerfeld.

The competition takes place annually also in Prague.

Interview With Jan Svejnar

Friday 04 January 2008 16:57

“It is time to unblock our political scene” says Jan Svejnar for Alexander Kramer, Pravo 22-12-2007. We give you the shortened English version here. Who is Svejnar?

Mr. Professor, when you say you’ll bring Vaclav Klaus down, don’t you just give us that ‘American’ strong rhetoric?

jan svejnar It is not just rhetoric, I believe myself – I have a strong support of the CSSD, SZ and two senate clubs. And I suppose the trend in will grow.

It seems the votes of the communist party will be the decisive ones. Do you think you get them?

At least I think I represent for them the ‘lesser evil’. I have a deeply social feeling. The basic difference between me and Vaclav Klaus is I say there are things that the market can’t do, and for social wealth it is necessary to support the market with suitable state solutions.

Communists definitely don’t like you for the Radar…

Vaclav Klaus is for the radar too! But Klaus sees it as a part of our relationship with the USA, meanwhile I see it as a part of NATO and EU inter-relations.

You have said: “To win over Vaclav Klaus is in the interest of the Czech Republic”. Why?

OK, I’ll come back to what I’ve already said: we live in the fast-globalizing world, in more and more competitive environment. The best strategy, how to further our interests, is to actively participate on all the actions which are in progress now. And what is Klaus’ relation to the EU, is well-known.

Does Vaclav Klaus harm the reputation of the Czech Republic?

I’ll leave this on you and your readers. But if you look at how his various statements are commented in the world, the answer suggests itself.

Are you for or against Prague Olympics?

Only in the case we could organize it in a way it wouldn’t be a financial loss. If we couldn’t, we should postpone the candidacy.

Tolerance of people who believe or don’t believe in God is apparent in civilized countries. Are you an atheist, who tolerates believers, or vice versa?

I’m somewhere in the middle. That means – I’m an agnostic – a person, who on question, whether God exists or not, answers: I don’t know.

Why do you want to become the president, Mr professor?

In America, people are educated in a way to believe in ideals and service for the community is regarded as something that deserves respect. Definitely there is also personal satisfaction that a good job gives to a man.

Does the presidential post have something magical inside for you?

Yes, I can’t deny that. But still, in some phases of my life, I would have to turn the offer down. Now I am in a situation that I can afford that and at the same time I think I am able to do good for the Czech Republic.

Theme:

French ConneXion – Ska Party in Prague : LES ÉJECTÉS (FR) and BASTA FIDEL (CZ)

Friday 04 January 2008 14:29

les_ejectes Les Éjectés are a very experienced European ska band of the first class, and not just because of the time they are together, but also because of the number of places, they have played in. Such a visit is now heading to Rock Café, which means a time-proved explosive mix of ska, reggae, dub, rock, soul, hip-hop and punk.

The carrier of Les Éjectés is really a respectable one, they started in 1988 in a French city Limoges. During the following twenty years they have published twelve albums, played with Mano Negra and cooperated with Dennis Morris or Mad Professor. They are not going to Prague for the first time, but this time they are going to celebrate their group birthday, so you can prepare for a real party.

Basta Fidel is a Prague music group. Their music is based on ska music, but they leave their inspiration channels open. They are able to get the audience to warm, but some songs are more to be listened to… (They will sing in French, too) The evening for Francofiles with likes to Jamaican rhymes in body.

31th January 2008, 20:30, Club Rock Café, Narodni 20, Prague 1 Tickets: 170 CZK

Theme:

Prague flat hid thousands of historical items

Friday 04 January 2008 11:53

prehistoric arrow heads Few thousands metal items were collected by a man who died the flat fire in Prague in 2005. When the fire scene was cleaned away, suspicious items were found, which archaeologists dated from prehistoric ages (stone axes) to medieval ages (spurs).

The problem is, the items are not described as unlike archaeologists, metal hunters usually do not register valuable data about their finds. Their scientific value is negligible since concrete localities where the finds come from are unknown.

The collection is in the Prague Archaeological institute right now. The future of it is uncertain, as the museums in Prague probably won’t exhibit items of unknown origin.

The items consist of prehistoric stone axes, arrow tips, Germanic bronze buckles, fragments of weapons, medieval spurs or parts of armor.

Be careful – there are windstorms and snowing in the Czech Republic

Friday 04 January 2008 09:41

winter traffic jam Weather in the Czech Republic – conditions of safety are not met in eastern Bohemia, where the wind reached 119 km/h yesterday, and more of strong wind is expected today night.

According to the district control centre the traffic collapsed during the night on several places. Some roads had to be closed, some are blocked by trucks, some are possible to pass only in one traffic lane.

The information chart board of the D1 highway warns drivers (since Thursday) of danger of icing and strong wind. Temperatures go from minus 7 to plus 3 Celsius. There is overcast.

Theme:

DJ Lee Dagger - Renown DJ in Prague Mecca

Friday 04 January 2008 07:48

LeeDagger Mecca traditionally celebrates its birthday at the end of January. They welcome back to Prague the superstar DJ and producer – DJ Lee Dagger ( Pacha London resident / Bimbo Jones, UK ) in an exclusive 4 hours set.

Lee is also a remixer of such stars as Meck ( Lee´s remix was no.1. in the UK chart ), Fatboy Slim, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Annie Lenox, Pink, Bodyrockers, Deep Dish and many others. His style is based on house music, but full of rock, punk, funky, soulfull and other influences from the modern styles like minimal or electro. Be prepared for a carneval of styles and to party with your hands up all night!

You will also get a taste of the finest local Czech DJs. DJ Kuba Soulcheck is one of the most respected Czech musical talents. He is an excellent DJ, singer and a guitar player as well. He brings forward all his skills when behind the decks.

On sale will be the drink specially made for this occasion – BEEFEATER MECCAMIX, which will surprise you with its delicious taste and friendly price.

Fri 25th January 2008 BEEFEATER MECCAMIX 3rd Mecca Birthday. Entry: 290 CZK, VIP 490 CZK, pre-sale: ticketstream, ticketpro. Club Mecca, U Pruhonu street 3, Prague 7

Theme:

Rapper Mike Jones concert in Prague

Thursday 03 January 2008 17:29

mike jones Mike Jones (b. 1981) is an American southern rap artist and actor.

‘The only ordinary thing about Mike Jones is his name.’ (msnbc)

Thanks to innovative marketing schemes like making his personal phone number public and saying his name as often as possible, the Houston rapper has managed to shoehorn his “Still Tippin”’ single into heavy rotation nationwide. Now comes his debut album, “Who Is Mike Jones?”, which promises to spread his Texas drawl even further. You can listen it for free at his webpage www.whomikejones.com

20th January 2008, MIKE JONES /USA/ live, Tickets in advance (ticketpro.cz) 390 CZK, 490 at the spot. Club Roxy Dlouha 33, Prague 1

Theme:

Contemporary American Art in Prague Rudolfinum

Thursday 03 January 2008 15:52

uncertain states of america Rudolfinum Gallery brings a unique possibility for seeing the things that momentarily move the world of art in the United States: Uncertain States of America exhibition

The exhibition is organized in cooperation of Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art in Oslo. Curators of the exhibition:Hans-Ulrich Obrist, Daniel Birnbaum a Gunnar B. Kvaran.

First shown at The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art in Oslo (October 2005), this project comprises a remarkably succinct compilation of recent evolutions in painting, sculptures, video and other artistic forms used by the new generation of American artists.

Uncertain States of America offers an expanded look at a series of major installations by an emerging generation of artists (most of them were born after 1970). Their source material derives not only from today’s media-saturated world, free-form use of new materials, techniques and procedures which permeate each other and are juxtaposed, but also a canny knowledge of new art-historical references and an ability to respond in a complex and sophisticated way with a various extent of personal commitment as well as a certain distance in an age of political and social dissonances.

American Art in the 3rd Millenium. Rudolfinum Gallery, Adress: Alsovo Nabrezi 12, Prague 1 Until 24th February 2008

Theme:

Political Parties in the Parliament of the Czech Republic

Thursday 03 January 2008 13:35

czech heraldry The political scene in the Czech Republic is dominated by four large parties.

Parties in Chamber of deputies

Civic Democratic Party (ODS – Občanská demokratická strana) – major right-wing party Leader: Miroslav Topolanek

Czech Social Democratic Party (CSSD – Česká strana sociálně demokratická) – major left-wing party Leader: Jiri Paroubek

Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia (KSCM – Komunistická strana Čech a Moravy) – an heir of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia Leader: Vojtech Filip.

Christian and Democratic Union – Czechoslovak People’s Party (KDU-CSL – Křesťanská a demokratická unie – Československá strana lidová) – major conservative party Leader: Ing. Roman Linek

Green Party (SZ – Strana Zelených) – centrist green party Leader: Martin Bursik

TO: 1st January 2008

Klaus' New Year's Speech: We Live Well

Thursday 03 January 2008 12:03

“People living in the Czech Republic live through the best period in their history.” This and more was declared in the new year’s speech of the present president and economist Vaclav Klaus. “Let’s say it loud, let’s say it proud – even when we have much personal and social problems, which we create around, we now live in the best period, the country has ever been in”.

Representatives of other political parties (except the ODS) have labelled his speech as careful and over-positive, as a speech of a president, who wants to be elected again.

The ex-president and freedom fighter Vaclav Havel said in a TV talk show: “The important thing is, the head of the state should be a person who opens the country to get new, fresh air. We need new blood, new impulses.” By which he gave support to the other candidate, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Michigan, Jan Svejnar.

And the problems of both candidates? Critics say the problem of Svejnar is nobody knows him here, and one of Klaus is people here know him too much already.

St. Catharina wants to be new Prague city part

Thursday 03 January 2008 09:06

svata katerina prague Hora Svate Kateriny (Mountain of St. Catarina) wants to became a new part of Prague. The only problem is, that it lies 120 km from the metropolis.

According to the councilmen from Svata Katerina this is the only way, how to get money for maintainable life; “Hora Svate Kateriny gets 8600 CZK (307 €) for one its citizen, meanwhile in Prague the appropriation is 17 000 CZK (607 €) per year. With such a budget, we are not able to keep the willage in the state the law oreders us to.”

The advocate Pavel Marecek stated, it is not possible according to the law, as the two municipalities are not neighbours. But the councilmen from Svata Katerina already know that and are appealing for the law change.

Joe Satriani - genius of electric guitar - concert in Prague

Wednesday 02 January 2008 16:31

Joe_satriani_concert_prague Joe Satriani (b. 1956) is an American guitarist and former guitar instructor. His concert in Prague takes place on the same day as the concert of Metallica, but if you are hesitative and don’t know which one to choose, we just remind you Joe Satriani taught the guitar playing Kirk Hammett years ago.

Joe Satriani is a virtuous artist, who worked himself up into a position of a star. His self-released debut album, Not of This Earth in 1986, opened the way to a world of instrumental rock music in what was then a pop-dominated world.

Influenced heavily by Jimi Hendrix, Satriani often incorporates a warm sound of guitar with a dominant blues and rock tone. Since 1990, he has used his own signature guitar, the Ibanez JS Series, which is widely sold in stores.

Joe Satriani’s unique sound can be herd in Prague, in Sparta Stadium, on 3rd June 2008, the tickets are to buy in Ticketstream and Ticketpro.

Famous Exhibitions in Prague

Wednesday 02 January 2008 15:25

“The year 2007 was a record-breaking one. Nobody have seen such success. The exhibition ‘Lovci mamutu’ (mammoth hunters), showing originals of the Bohemia’s oldest settlement of men, was visited by more than 600 thousands visitors.” said the National Museum Director.

The exhibition that is the most visited at the moment, is called ‘Albrecht Valdstein’ and there are queues every day at the Valdstejnska Jizdarna, where it takes place. It is not only the most visited exhibition, but also the biggest one.

People in Prague showed enormous interest in the Devil’s bible. To see it in the super-modern safe-deposit in Prague Klementinum came 35 thousands already, the exhibition was even prolonged, what’s more, the speaker of the national library announced that they are negotiating further prolongation.

The last record for a place which offers everyday exhibition of animals live: Prague Zoo. It is incredible how much it blossomed under the lead of Petr Fejk ; the year 2007 brought 1,25 million people there.

Based on: MF Dnes

How much do you pay to a doctor in the Czech Republic?

Wednesday 02 January 2008 13:49

Concerning the health reform in the Czech Republic, from January 2008 there is a new system of charges at hospitals, emergency stations and general practitioners.

The particular payments, although same in range, are carried out differently. For example in most of Prague hospitals it is done by a kind of ticket vendor machine. In other Czech cities, like in Nachod and Jicin, they developed a voucher system, with vouchers sold in the hospital, with the possibility of buying in advance.

At the general practitioners, patients pay directly to doctors, who need a special money-box for it and it can be useful to bring the exact amount with you. And the exact payments?

30 CZK – visit at the general practitioner
30 CZK – one unit at a receipt
60 CZK – one day at a hospital
90 CZK – visit at the emergency

Czechs Won a Prize for a Very Curious Death.

Wednesday 02 January 2008 11:54

charles darwin One of the so called Darwin Award of 2007 goes to the Czech Republic. Darwin awards deal with the premise that some people will live long and prosperous lives, while the weaker will weed themselves out by committing unbelievably stupid acts such as smashing into a high-rise window to prove it’s shatterproof, or using dynamite as a means to make a small hole for ice fishing.

(28 July 2007, Czech Republic) A pack of thieves attempted to steal scrap metal from an abandoned factory in Kladno. Unfortunately for them, they selected the steel girders that supported the factory roof. When the roof supports were dismantled, the roof fell, fatally crushing two thieves and injuring three others. (2007 Darwin Award Nominee, Confirmed True by Darwin)

Now that’s an interesting international prize to win!

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Metallica Heading to Prague Concert 2008

Wednesday 02 January 2008 10:01

Kirkhemmettwien Metallica live American rock band Metallica confirmed their Czech concert in 2008.

This is the second time they came to the Czech Republic. They are going to go on tour in Europe, presenting their new, yet not released, album. According to the copy-rights enthusiast and drummer of the band, Lars Ulrich, the new album is supposed to be harder and more melodical at the same time, more similar to their sound form the 80’s; longer and epic.

Metallica rose to fame with its 1991 self-titled album Metallica, and critics say the 1986 release Master of Puppets is one of the most influential and “heaviest” albums. The band has released eight studio albums, two live albums, two EPs, nine videos, and is working on a ninth studio album. Metallica is credited as one of the “big four” thrash metal bands, along with Slayer, Anthrax, and Megadeth.

3rd June 2008, Prague football Stadium SK Slavia Praha.

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