Registration open! 2024-09-06 22:00:00Z 0

A worthy scholarship

Posted on Sep 02, 2024
This year, Bach Vu, a young man from Vietnam, has received a global grant from Rotary to study International Human Rights Law at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands.
 
Our Club is one of the sponsoring clubs and RC Rijswijk will support Bach throughout his time at the University.
 
A worthy scholarship Radka Rajska 2024-09-01 22:00:00Z 0

Welcome Message from the President Saiz Hassan Mamun

 
Dear Rotarians and Friends,
 
I am honored to serve as the President of Rotary Club Prague International for this 2024-2025 year. Our club thrives on diversity, unity, and a shared commitment to service above self. Together, we have accomplished significant projects, from local community support to international aid. It is my goal to continue this tradition together with our exceptional club as we have fun wile doing good.
 
As we move forward, let's continue our mission with enthusiasm and compassion. I encourage everyone to participate actively in our initiatives and bring innovative ideas to our club. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
 
Yours in Rotary,
Saiz Mamun Hassan  
President, Rotary Club Prague International 2024-2205
Welcome Message from the President Saiz Hassan Mamun 2024-07-03 22:00:00Z 0
❗REGISTER - RCPI Charity Gala Evening - 9 November 2024❗ Nelly Jenicek-Morisson 2024-06-09 22:00:00Z 0

4 Days of cycling and Rotary friendship

Posted on Jun 01, 2024
RCPI and especially its cycling section were thrilled to host 101 Rotarian cyclists from all over the world for 4 Days of cycling and Rotary friendship. The 2024 was the 33rd edition of the 4 Days cycling event taking place for the first time in the state capital Prague and in the former 'iron wall' country. Due to this fact and probably also due to the most horrible weather one could imagine for cycling - this edition has been called legendary...
 
Legendary also because of a wonderful cooperation of participants esp. those who took part in so called Epic rides to Prague from Austria, Germany and Poland contributing largely to the outcome of charity donations in following forms: Austrians collecting USD 100.000 (to be tripled by Gates foundation) to combat polio, Germans riding to support delivery of Buffalo bikes to Africa (100 in total to be complemented by 100 pieces from RCPI) and last but not least - RCPI contributing CZK 200.000 for tree planting to Nadace Partnerstvi.
 
Partner program managed to accomplish the most of Prague highlights - Prague Castle and the Old Town the first day, tour in Jewish Quarter next day and due to the horrible weather - pouring rain - there was a lecture in the hotel and a visit to the Centre of Contemporary Art in DOX.
 
We are all looking forward to 2025 four Days taking part in Cereste-en-Luberon from May 28th - June 1st 2025.
 
ALL HAIL CYCLING IN RCPI !!!
4 Days of cycling and Rotary friendship Helena Kovaříková 2024-05-31 22:00:00Z 0

Join Us for 4 Days Prague Cycling Event

We're thrilled to welcome you to our exciting 4-day cycling extravaganza taking place in the heart of Prague from May 29th to June 2nd, 2024.

Hosted by the esteemed Rotary Club Prague International, this event promises an unforgettable experience for cycling enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Event Highlights:

  • Scenic Routes: Explore the picturesque landscapes and iconic landmarks of Prague while pedaling through specially curated cycling routes.

  • Community Engagement: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and engage with fellow cyclists from around the globe.

  • Rotary Impact: Support meaningful causes and initiatives championed by Rotary Club Prague International, dedicated to making a positive difference in the community.

You can find more information, including registration information, at the 4 Days Prague website here https://4days-prague.cz/.

Join Us for 4 Days Prague Cycling Event Helena Kovaříková 2024-04-23 22:00:00Z 0

Celebrating the Spirit of Giving: RC Prague International's Christmas Event at Zatec Children's Home

 
9 December 2023 - As the festive season wrapped its warmth around us, Rotary Club Prague International embraced the true essence of Christmas – the joy of giving. In a heartwarming celebration at the children's home in Zatec, Czech Republic, we not only brought festive cheer to the young residents but also honored an extraordinary individual, Mgr. Lenka Woloszczuková, for her dedication and service.
 
Celebrating the Spirit of Giving: RC Prague International's Christmas Event at Zatec Children's Home Sanan Phutrakul 2023-12-08 23:00:00Z 0

A Heartwarming Gesture of Support: Rotaract Club Prague International Reaches Out to Ukrainian Refugee Children

Posted on Dec 04, 2023
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Prague, Czech Republic - In a heartwarming display of solidarity and compassion, the Rotaract Club Prague International recently conducted a remarkable event, bringing a ray of hope to Ukrainian refugee children in the Czech Republic. This event, made possible by the generous financial support of the Rotary Club Prague International, encapsulated the spirit of community service and international fellowship.

The gathering, marked by enthusiasm and a shared commitment to making a difference, saw members of the Rotaract Club Prague come together to prepare and package eight personalized gift sets. These gifts, destined for the hands of young Ukrainian refugees, were not just items but symbols of love, care, and support from a community standing with them in their time of need.

Hleb Tkachenko, the Vice President of the Rotaract Club Prague International, was very happy about the event. It wasn't just fun; it was a manifestation of Rotaract Prague's dedication to service above self. Thanks to the Rotary Club Prague International, Rotaract Prague members were able to turn our compassion into action, providing these children with something to smile about.

Photographs from the meeting, which capture the essence of this charitable endeavor, offer a glimpse into the joy and teamwork that characterized the day. The images depict club members in high spirits, diligently assembling the gift sets, each item carefully selected to bring joy to the young recipients.

This event is not just a one-time gesture but a part of an ongoing commitment by the Rotaract and Rotary Clubs to provide support and solace to those affected by the crisis in Ukraine. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that compassionate acts can have, bringing light into the lives of those who need it most.

As the Rotaract Club Prague International continues its efforts, they stand as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of community and the enduring spirit of international solidarity.

A Heartwarming Gesture of Support: Rotaract Club Prague International Reaches Out to Ukrainian Refugee Children Sanan Phutrakul 2023-12-03 23:00:00Z 0 Rotaract Prague

Seeking Sponsors: Join Us in Making a Difference Together

Posted on Jul 09, 2023

Our passion for creating positive change constantly drives us forward. As an NGO committed to support communities across the world, for the last three years we have been working tirelessly to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young adults without parents. However, we understand that our vision cannot be realized without the invaluable support of sponsors who share our dedication to making the world a better place.

We are currently seeking sponsors who believe in our mission and are eager to contribute to our initiative Speechless Reconciliation. Speechless Reconciliation is a program for children without parental care in the age 16-21 and give those youngsters opportunities to build understanding and create bridges between themselves and to expand their vision of what it is possible to achieve in their own lives.

Seeking Sponsors: Join Us in Making a Difference Together 2023-07-08 22:00:00Z 0
A Riveting Evening with MUDr. Tomáš Šebek at Rotary Club Prague International Sanan Phutrakul 2023-06-11 22:00:00Z 0 Health,Médicins San Frontiéres

Exploring the Transformative Power of Coaching with Horses with Karin

 
At Rotary Club Prague International, we are always on the lookout for inspiring individuals who are making a positive impact in our community. Recently, two of our members, Radka Rajska and Sanan Phutrakul, had the privilege of visiting Karin Genton-L'Epée at Coaching with Horses. This unique organization, located at www.coachingwithhorses.cz, combines the wisdom and intuition of horses with the transformative practice of coaching. Join us as we delve into the incredible work Karin and her team are doing with these magnificent creatures.
Exploring the Transformative Power of Coaching with Horses with Karin Radka Rajska 2023-06-03 22:00:00Z 0

Speechless Reconciliation Gala

Posted on Jun 03, 2023
🎉✨ Celebrating an Unforgettable Evening of Giving and Joy at the Fundraiser Event! ✨🎉
 
We are thrilled to share the incredible success of our recent fundraiser event organized by our Club for the Speechless Reconciliation program that took place on June 3, 2023 at the Kaiserštejnský palác on Malá Strana in the heart of Prague. It was a night filled with laughter, heartfelt connections, and an outpouring of generosity.
 
 
 
Speechless Reconciliation Gala Matěj Keka 2023-06-02 22:00:00Z 0 Fundraising,Making a difference,Speechless Reconcilliation

Another new member!

Posted on May 15, 2023
Today, we have pinned a new member, Glacier! We are very happy to have him on board and look forward to the good and fun we will do and have together.
 
Another new member! Radka Rajská 2023-05-14 22:00:00Z 0

A new beginning for the future

Posted on Apr 20, 2023
On 24 February, Russia invaded Ukraine. As a result millions of Ukrainians fled the country and sought a refuge in the neighboring countries, such as Poland, Romania, Moldavia, Slovakia or Czech Republic. The majority of them are women, children, elderly and disabled people. Some of them moved further west in their attempt to seek for a shelter were youngsters and children from organizations such as SOS Children's Villages Ukraine.
 
In April, we organized a special camp for the youngsters without parents that had to flee Ukraine. Theme of the camp was: "A new beginning for a better future".
 
 
A new beginning for the future Radka Rajská 2023-04-19 22:00:00Z 0

25 years of RCPI

Posted on Apr 17, 2023
On April 17, 2023 we have celebrated 25 years of existence of our Club!
 
25 years of RCPI Radka Rajská 2023-04-16 22:00:00Z 0

Another FUN!

Posted on Mar 06, 2023
This time, we met in a café Ty Kávo and enjoyed Stand Up Comedy show! We laughed so much that at the end of the show we were not able to speak... :-)
 
Guess who also performed? Casey! Watch yourself here: https://youtu.be/vqty3TPeW8M
 
Another FUN! Radka Rajská 2023-03-05 23:00:00Z 0

Rotary and Peace throughout the World

Posted on Feb 20, 2023
On February 20, 2023 we were honored by Paula Boyd-Billings of Rugby Saturday Breakfast from District 1060 (UK) who visited our regular meeting in NH Hotel Prague City.
 
Paula came to Prague to look for a friend's cat and soon realized that our Club speaks English. A great opportunity to make new friendship for all of us!
 
We even made it to the District 1060 Newsletter - see for yourself here.
 
Rotary and Peace throughout the World Radka Rajská 2023-02-19 23:00:00Z 0

We are growing!

Posted on Feb 20, 2023
Yay! We have a new member!
 
Gavin started visiting our Club in September last year and since then has been very active. He has been visiting us regularly, supported our projects, e.g., Indian Food Helps!, and also enjoyed our FUN meetings.
 
We are happy to have him on board and are looking forward to our friendship.
We are growing! Radka Rajská 2023-02-19 23:00:00Z 0
We Karaoke! Radka Rajská 2023-02-05 23:00:00Z 0
Dragon Boat Charity Challenge 2023 Radka Rajská 2023-01-29 23:00:00Z 0

Christmas Party

Posted on Dec 19, 2022
 
On December 19, 2022 we hold a Christmas party for our friends from Ukraine. About 30 friends enjoyed an evening full of festive atmosphere, good food, and pleasant music. At the end, Santa Claus left some gifts for the kids. What a nice surprise!
Christmas Party Radka Rajská 2022-12-18 23:00:00Z 0

Gerry's Birthday Party

Posted on Dec 12, 2022
We raised 41,000 CZK during one small birthday party!
 
This sum will be shared between our Kenyan students fund, our Indian Schools project and the Peter James Association. In each case it will help to make a big difference to the lives of those less fortunate than ourselves.
Gerry's Birthday Party Radka Rajská 2022-12-11 23:00:00Z 0

District 2240 Governor's visit

Posted on Dec 05, 2022
Today, we had a special guest! District Governor, George Podzimek, visited us at our meeting in the Hotel Fitzgerald. First, he talked to the Board and later to the whole Club. We discussed situation in the District and received thanks for being such an exemplary Club!
 
District 2240 Governor's visit Radka Rajská 2022-12-04 23:00:00Z 0
Christmas Market in Mozart Radka Rajska 2022-11-25 23:00:00Z 0
Friendship it is what makes the difference Radka Rajska 2022-11-10 23:00:00Z 0

Piano Party!

At the beginning of November, we raised 10,000 CZK at the Piano Party, we organized as part of FUN Meetings in the Hotel Fitzgerald. We donated the funds to Appla Jižní Čechy, a Czech NGO helping individuals and their families with autism. It was a very special evening full of music performed by our own members Ota and Lucie Hlídek. We also helped a bit – see yourself at this link.
 
What a great band we would be!
 
Piano Party! Radka Rajska 2022-11-06 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps! Again!

Posted on Oct 31, 2022
Once again, for two weeks commencing 31 October you can enjoy great Indian lunches prepared by The Curry House Restaurant, voted the Best Curry in Prague.
 
All the proceeds from this action go towards supporting primary schooling in rural Rajasthan. We will buy equipment for the schools, school bags, exercise books and writing materials, school uniforms, hygiene kits and pay school fees for poor families. One lunch will enable us to buy 2 school bags or two girls uniforms. Five lunches can pay for the school fees of one child for a year. All proceeds will be spent on material needs of the children and the school. There are no administration costs, no salaries, we are all volunteers!
 
 
Click at Read more to make an order for yourself and your friends!
Indian Food Helps! Again! Radka Rajská 2022-10-30 23:00:00Z 0

Alley for Sir Nicholas Winton

Posted on Oct 28, 2022
We have celebrated the 28th October in style! 🇨🇿 🌍 🌳
 
 
We planted trees at Račiněves to commemorate Sir Nicholas Winton and him saving 669 Jewish children.
 
The event was organized by Nadace Partnerství and supported by our Rotary Club Prague International. We planted 91 trees and 58 bushes not far from the legendary Říp mountain.
 
Prime Minister Petr Fiala attended the event in the morning and Czech railways provided the transportation for volunteers.
 
We were touched to meet 4 children saved by Nicholas Winton - Lady Milena Grenfell - Baines, Mrs. Zuzana Marešová, Lord Alfred Dubs and pplk. Jiri Pavel Kafka.
 
Visit the alley and read the messages for the future we have left there. 
Alley for Sir Nicholas Winton Linda Stucbartová 2022-10-27 22:00:00Z 0

10th Prague Rotary Bowling Cup

Posted on Oct 25, 2022
On Tuesday October 25, together with members from other Prague Rotary clubs, we stretched our muscles at the 10th Prague Rotary Bowling Cup, organized by RC Ekumena.
 
The competition was tough. Eight teams were playing hard and all were great! And the winner of the Cup? Mamun’s daughter! Come next year so you can win the trophy yourself!
 
10th Prague Rotary Bowling Cup Radka Rajska 2022-10-24 22:00:00Z 0

SANANIM Gala 2022

Posted on Oct 08, 2022
 
The 32nd Anniversary SANANIM Charity Gala, honoring the oldest NGO of its kind in the Czech Republic, returned this year with an evening of celebration in the Martinický Palác. Organized by Naomi Sullivan-Callender and Rotary Club Prague International and coordinated by Alexa Entertainment, the event was attended by many friends of SANANIM, members of several Rotary Clubs in Prague and several VIPs. All were excited to attend the red carpet event of the season  after a two year hiatus to commemorate SANANIM for its achievements in the community, raise money and have a fun evening with friends "doing good".
SANANIM Gala 2022 Radka Rajska 2022-10-07 22:00:00Z 0

We call them FUN MEETINGS!

Posted on Oct 03, 2022
 
Don't want to sit through all your meetings including the Rotary ones? Don't worry! Every Monday we meet somewhere else than at our regular meeting place and have fun. We call them FUN Meetings.
 
This month we went for a walk to Petřín and enjoyed the beautiful views of Prague. See yourself in the picture. Surely after the walk we, being hungry, had a delicious dinner and a glass (or two) of Czech beer in the restaurant Kolkovna nearby. Guess who loves "smažák"?
We call them FUN MEETINGS! Radka Rajská 2022-10-02 22:00:00Z 0

Wow, what a camp!!!

Posted on Aug 31, 2022
What a powerful and unforgettable week it was for the participants, group leaders, project team, volunteers and Rotary members. It was a week that will be remembered by many for a long time. In the following paragraphs you can briefly read about what happened during 10 days of August 2022 when 35 youngsters from six different countries - Lithuania, Kosovo, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia - came to the Czech Republic as part of our program Speechless Reconciliation. 
 
Wow, what a camp!!! Matěj Keka 2022-08-30 22:00:00Z 0

First charity event on behalf of the Speechless Reconciliation project

On Saturday, 28th of May together with our partners from Late Night Diplomacy and Lastavica, we have organized the first edition of a charity event with the aim to raise funds for the organization of the summer camp for almost 100 youngsters from homes for children without parental care from different countries in the region of Western Balkans.
Apart from our main intention to raise funds, we also wanted people to come to celebrate our first year of the Speechless Reconciliation together with other supporters.
First charity event on behalf of the Speechless Reconciliation project András Auber 2022-07-17 22:00:00Z 0
A WELCOME FROM THE CLUB PRESIDENT  Radka Rajská 2022-06-30 22:00:00Z 0 President
Rotary Club Prague International is a member of Keeping Children Safe Andras Auber 2022-02-08 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI Dawn Ride 2021

Our members and friends participated in our traditional annual Dawn Ride across Prague starting before sunrise of the longest day of 2021, followed by a lovely breakfast.
RCPI Dawn Ride 2021 Andras Auber 2021-06-18 22:00:00Z 0

Baking for Kladno Hospital

Following up on the success of the Kladno Hospital Easter Baking project, after reaching out to the Bc. Barbora Pittnerova from the hospital, Nina and Karin decided to repeat the Baking Project before Christmas.
Thanks to the support of our fabulous Rotarians members and friends (Jana J., Andreas, Roman, Gerry, Nelly, Alica, Mamun, Yvonne and Veronicah) as well as our wonderful non-Rotarian friends, on Saturday November 21st, 26 boxes filled with delicious cakes and dessert were delivered to the Kladno Hospital.
Many thanks to those who contributed to this wonderful project and a big THANK YOU to Karin for organisning it.
 
Baking for Kladno Hospital 2020-11-27 23:00:00Z 0

Nina Hustedova Appeal

The daughter of our dear friend, Birger Husted, lost her life in tragic circumstances in Prague on Friday, 6th November, 2020. Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies go to Birger and his family.
Nina's life dream was to build a senior home with a kindergarten. When Nina’s grandmother died in Denmark, she and her sister Anna worked over the summer helping in the local retirement home. Nina was very impressed by the kindness, care, love, and opportunity for senior citizens to have a decent life in the facility and wanted to build a senior home that would operate on similar principles in their home country of Czech Republic. Unfortunately, Nina left us forever, so this dream cannot be fulfilled by her. But it can be fulfilled for her.
Nina's family together with closest friends would like to enhance and improve senior living in the Czech Republic by initiating a senior home concept whereby senior citizens will find understanding and love, where there will always be things to do and where everyone will find their place and dignity. The family are presently studying the best way to launch this concept and will share further details in the coming weeks.
Our club would like to support the family to make Nina's dream come true. This dream describes in the best way what Nina was like. It is a dream that the family want to spread as much as possible among as many people as possible.
 
Nina’s family have decided to start a collection in her name with our support, so that she can continue to help others. You can make a donation HERE.
 
A Facebook page has also been set up where updates will be posted.
 
Nina Hustedova Appeal 2020-11-20 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps!

For one week commencing 19 October you can once again enjoy great Indian lunches prepared by The Curry House Restaurant, voted the Best Curry in Prague. A second week of this service is planned for the week commencing 2 November.
 
All the proceeds from this action go towards supporting primary schooling in rural Rajasthan. We will buy equipment for the schools, school bags, exercise books and writing materials, school uniforms, hygiene kits and pay school fees for poor families.
One lunch will enable us to buy 2 school bags or two girls uniforms. Five lunches can pay for the school fees of one child for a year. All proceeds will be spent on material needs of the children and the school. There are no administration costs.
 
Please order your food by 18:00 pm the day before required using our on-line order form at www.indianfoodhelps.cz
Payment should be made with order by debit or credit card
Delivery will be between 11.30 – 13.30
 
Home Working? Have Indian food delivered to your door (Minimum order 4 meals). Since they are cooked fresh on the day you can pop what you do not eat in the freezer and enjoy it another day.
Indian Food Helps! 2020-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

Disaster Aid Europe Sky Hydrant Appeal Albanian Night

The Disaster Aid Europe Sky Hydrant Appeal Albanian Night was a great success last Friday 28th August, with the Albanian Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Ilirian Kuka as the Guest of Honour.  We were so lucky to have our District Governor Nominee George Podzimek as our Master of Ceremonies – he was marvellous. 
We had 55 people and 4 children come to the evening – programme attached; it was a great turnout! However, we had many more donations from those who could not attend, both due to Covid and other commitments, as well as from our Club Fun Evening fund raiser Curry Night.  
The Albanian Night was a very enjoyable evening at the International Hotel in Prague 6 (outside until the rain came!) with delicious Mediterranean food, beer, wine, soft drinks ; fantastic mood music provided by a violinist and musician/singer Roberto Caporali, and Stuart provided an exhibition of the Sky Hydrant and other DA Europe information.  There was also terrific Tombola and Auction (attached prize list).  And the Ambassador with his wife stayed and enjoyed the event until 22.00. In fact most did not want to leave even at 22.30!  
 
Disaster Aid Europe, a project of this club (RC Prague International) raised over 100,000czk during this evening! an amazing result and so A BIG THANK YOU to all sponsors of the Auction and Tombola, and above all A BIG THANK YOU to all who either donated through a ticket purchase (700czk from each ticket sale was a donation) or sent a donation.  The proceeds of the evening were based on ticket sales (as stated before, each participant paid a ticket price which included an amount to cover the cost of the evening plus also a donation), an auction of 5 prizes and a Tombola of about 37 prizes.  The leading Auction prize, donated by RC Durres, Albania, Disaster Aid Europe’s partner in DAE’s work in Albania was 5 – 7 nights hotel stay for 2 people in either Hotel Kitarrat or Hotel Arvi, Durres, Albania and this was won by one of the DAE Trustees and member of our Club (Immediate Past President), Fernanda Escobar Illoldi! Congratulations! 
 
Disaster Aid Europe thanks all of you (DAE member, RCPI members, friends and family) who contributed to making the evening such an enjoyable success! 
 
Including other donations plus a final ‘top up’ of 248euro from our own RCPI club, Disaster Aid Europe Sky Hydrant Appeal has now achieved its target of 5,000euro! So soon the purchase of a Sky Hydrant will be made, sent from Disaster Aid Australia direct to Albania, and then Stuart Amesbury, a DAE Trustee and RCPI member will travel to Durres help the RC Durres team to install it at a University facility, hopefully in October!  
 
You can see the full album of pictures HERE
 
Thank you again everyone!!
 
Irena Brichter
Disaster Aid Europe Sky Hydrant Appeal Albanian Night 2020-09-05 22:00:00Z 0

Indian food helps!

Buy a lunch which is delivered to you and help seniors in the Czech Republic.
 
During this challenging COVID-19 time, Rotary Club Prague International is helping a local charity ŽIVOT 90 by making and delivering lunches throughout Prague. ŽIVOT 90 will use financial assistance to purchase protective clothing and equipment for volunteers to help seniors safely and effectively. You can once again enjoy great Indian lunches prepared by The Curry House Restaurant which was voted the Best Curry in Prague
 
Your contribution will make a difference so please order a lunch!
 
 
The programme will run for two weeks from Tuesday 14.4. to Friday 24.4.2020
 
 
 
 
You can also make additional donations to our project at : darujme.cz/projekt/1202809 or to: Rotary Club Prague International, Unicredit Bank a.s. account no. 2500440001/2700
For other enquiries please write to us at: indianfoodhelps@gmail.com
Indian food helps! 2020-04-10 22:00:00Z 0
Vesela Koruna Contributions Gerry Tipple 2020-03-29 22:00:00Z 0

Important Announcement Regarding COVID-19

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Dear Rotarians and friends of our club,
 
As you will be aware, the Czech government has declared a state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
"With effect from today, 12th of March 2020 at 14.00, theatre, music, film and other artistic performances, sports, cultural, religious, dance, exhibitions, festivals, pilgrimages, shows, markets, fairs, educational events, both public and private, with a participation of more than 30 people at the same time, are prohibited. This measure does not apply to meetings of constitutional bodies, public authorities, courts and other public or private persons."
 
In conformity with the state of emergency, the Board of RCPI has taken the decision to suspend our weekly meetings until further notice. In the first phase until April 20th, as the state of emergency will last 30 days.
 
Thank you for your understanding and I extend my good wishes to your families.
 
Yours in Rotary,
 
Fernanda
Important Announcement Regarding COVID-19 Fernanda Escobar Illoldi 2020-03-11 23:00:00Z 0

The 2020 Charity Dragon Boat Challenge

Důležitá zpráva: Charitativní závod Rotary Dračích lodí 2020

 

Aktuální situaci a opatření proti šíření Coronaviru mají bohužel dopad i na tuto tradiční charitativní akci. Plánovaný termín 23. května je zrušen a závody se neuskuteční.

Stále doufáme, že se nám podaří naplánovat náhradní termín v září, ale vše záleží na vývoji situace a samozřejmě také zájmu týmů a posádek. V každém případě budeme všechny příznivce a podporovatele Dračích lodí včas informovat.

Děkujeme všem posádkám a podporovatelům našeho Rotary klubu za trvalou podporu a pochopení.

Přejeme nám všem pevné zdraví a abychom se mohli zase brzo vrátit zpět k normálnímu životu.

Rotary Club Prague International

 

Important news: Rotary Dragon Boats Charity Race 2020

 

Unfortunately, the current situation and protective measures against the spread of Coronavirus have also an impact on this traditional charity event. The scheduled date of May 23 is canceled, and the Dragon Boats charity race will not take place.

We still hope that we will be able to organize an alternative date in September, but it all depends on the development of the situation and of course, on the interest of paddling teams. We promise to inform all teams and supporters of Dragon Boats in advance.

We would like to thank all the paddling teams and supporters of our Rotary club for their continued support and understanding.

We wish us all good health and we hope for all of us to be able to return to normal life soon.

Rotary Club Prague International

The 2020 Charity Dragon Boat Challenge Christian Noll 2020-01-04 23:00:00Z 0

"Thank You" from SANANIM

The SANANIM Gala, organised by our very own Naomi, was a great success and raised substantial funds for the charity who thanked us in a delightful letter:
 
Our Dearest Naomi & David, all members of RCPI, volunteers, friends,
 
We sincerely thank you for once again absolutely perfect and heartfelt organization of the best-of-the-year event dedicated to SANANIM !
 
The 29th SANANIM Anniversary Gala at Zlata Praha was indeed splendid, as always. We can't thank you enough for all your efforts, as we fully realize that the organization is highly demanding.
 
Thank you for bringing together such an amazing group of people, brave and mature enough to support our non-popular topic. Even after the five years, it is hard for us to believe, that thanks to you, so many people are willing to help our cause. We may repeat ourselves, but it is still very rare. You and your friends are totally unique in your attitude, personal values and generosity. Thank you for bringing these values to the Czech Republic!
 
Thank you for keeping the Gala night amusing, warm, entertaining and so pleasant for everybody. Your long term support means for all of us in SANANIM more than can be expressed by words. Please, do stay with us, we will do our best to nurture our friendship forever.
Thank you ! We are looking forward to seeing you and your friends soon !
 
"Thank You" from SANANIM Christian Noll 2020-01-04 23:00:00Z 0

Christmas curry for a good cause

Posted on Dec 15, 2019
For the first time Rotarians offered a Xmas Curry at the market organised by the Park Lane International school on Valdštejnsnká, thanks to the invitation of Lucie and Ota Hlidek.Three popular curries were prepared by our Rotarian Mamun and they were very well received by visitors to the market. the result was we raised 8,000 Kč for our Indian Schools project. Elsewhere on the market Ota and Lucie were kept busy selling mistletoe for the benefit of Sananim. Another successful fun and fund raising event has been added to the RCPI calendar!"
Christmas curry for a good cause 2019-12-14 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI is International

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 23, 2019
Rotary's world wide reach and presence is never more apparent than when we greet our exchange students. At a recent club meeting four of the students presented the Rotary flags from their clubs from Brazil, Mexico and Argentina. Welcome to a global family: doing good and having fun.
RCPI is International Christian Noll 2019-11-22 23:00:00Z 0

Pavel Fischer @ RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 18, 2019
RCPI was privileged and delighted to host Pavel Fischer as our guest speaker at our recent club meeting.
Pavel is a Czech independent politician, diplomat and senator who graduated from Charles University and also successfully finished Ecole Nationale d'Administration (ENA) in Paris. He served as Head of the Department of Politics in the office of the Czech president Vaclav Havel.
In 2018 he was a candidate in the Czech presidential election and finished in third place. He was subsequently elected to the Czech Senate where he holds the position of the Chair of International Committee.
In his speech to Rotarians and Guests, Pavel talked about Vaclav Havel and politics and linked the past with the present. Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, Pavels speech and thoughts were extremely poignant and thought provoking.
Club President Fernanda and Club Sectretary Helena thanked Pavel for taking the time and for enthralling us with his words.
Pavel Fischer @ RCPI Christian Noll 2019-11-17 23:00:00Z 0

Mistletoe for Charity 2019

Posted on Nov 16, 2019
After the tremendous success last year RCPI is once again offering Mistletoe for Charity:
 
  • Mistletoe in Natural, Silver, Gold
  • Minimum order quantity is 20 pcs
  • Delivery time is 1 week
  • Price 50 CZK/pc
  • Pls order at www.mistletoehelps.cz or www.jmelipomaha.cz
  • Logistics provided by SANANIM or Rotarians volunteers
  • Payment by cash upon collection, during the Monday Meeting or if an invoice is required then the invoice may be settled by bank transfer to the RCPI account. Bank details for payment will be indicated within the invoice.
Let’s have a Great Campaign and thus supporting SANANIM on their incredibly important mission of prevention, treatment and re-socializing people!
Thank you all in advance for your contribution to the success of Mistletoe Campaign 2019!
Jan Bohacek & Mistletoe Campaign Team 2019
Mobile 724607400
Mistletoe for Charity 2019 noll 2019-11-15 23:00:00Z 0

SANANIM

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 11, 2019
The SANANIM Gala was a great success and it is still possible to make donations via our on-line portal. Remember, there is a benefactor who will increase the total amount depending on how much has been donated. Go on - cut out Starbucks this week and donate the money to SANANIM through RCPI!
Click HERE to make an on-line donation
SANANIM Christian Noll 2019-11-10 23:00:00Z 0

2019 SANANIM Anniversary Gala

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 20, 2019
A huge THANK YOU to Naomi SullivanCallender for organising the SANANIM Gala Evening which once again raised funds for this amazing and life transforming charity. SANANIM  provides services in the area of prevention, treatment and re-socialization of non-alcoholic drug addictions. SANANIM has a number of different programmes including an Outreach Program where the primary goal is to find the risk users of injected non-alcoholic drugs directly in the streets, to protect them (and, at the same time, the healthy population that is in everyday contact with them) from infectious diseases, to motivate them keep them in the best social and medical state possible before they decide to abstain form substances all together.
 
"It is wonderful to see so many generous supporters this evening", said event organiser Naomi. "The funds raised this evening will go towards transforming lives and make a real difference to individuals and families and I would like to thank everyone who contributed on the evening and also the generous supporters and sponsors of the event."
 
Wonderful company, delicious food, amazing auction prizes accompanied by live swing music from Peter Kroutil and his band made this an evening to remember. This really was an evening which exemplified our Rotary club motto: "having fun - doing good".
 
See the pictures of the event HERE
2019 SANANIM Anniversary Gala Christian Noll 2019-10-19 22:00:00Z 0

Indian Food really helps - new record set!

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 15, 2019
Dear Friends & Rotarians,
Thank you very much for your help and support for this year's Indian Food Helps! fund raiser for our Indian schools project.
Thanks to you, whether you promoted, ordered food for yourself, delivered food, or all three as some Rotarians did. We sold 735 lunches which is 10 more than last year and a new record. As a result we made 59,260 Kč which is also a record. Very well done.
A thank you mail has been sent to every organisation and individual who ordered along with the certificate of appreciation which is attached also for you.
Special thanks must go first and naturally to Mamun without whose hard work and generosity this would not be possible and also to our dedicated delivery Superstars who did a truly amazing job this year.
We will be in India once again in January to see how our efforts help more children and more schools. If you are interested in joining, do please contact me.
Best regards,
Gerry Tipple
Indian Food really helps - new record set! Christian Noll 2019-10-14 22:00:00Z 0

Thank you to Allianz and Eva Nagajová

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 04, 2019
Eva Nagajová from Allianz Insurance has been a great supporter of Rotary Club Prague International by providing public liability insurance for the club. "In the very unlikely situation that something should happen at one of our RCPI Events it is very reassuring to know that we are covered by insurance from Allianz." said Fernanda Escobar, RCPI President 2019/20. Handing over a small gift to Eva, Fendanda went on to say: "We would like to thank Eva and Allianz for their ongoing support, it is very much appreciated by our club."
Thank you to Allianz and Eva Nagajová Christian Noll 2019-10-03 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI Donates CSK 84,000 to ICTUS

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 30, 2019
The annual charity Dragon Boat Challenge is one of the main fundraising events for Rotary Club Prague International. The money raised through the event id donated to charities and at the last RCPI club meeting ICTUS was the recipient of a cheque for CZK 84,000. ICTUS cares for stroke victims to help them to lead a full life and engage in activities in society.  Jan Dohnalek, representing ICTUS was absolutely delighted with the donation which presented by past RCPI President Josef. Jan thanked the members for the donation and for the long term support which RCPI has provided to ICTUS.
RCPI Donates CSK 84,000 to ICTUS Christian Noll 2019-09-29 22:00:00Z 0

Jan Dohnálek awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 30, 2019
To become a Paul Harris Fellow is one of the most prestigious awards in Rotary International, especially when it is bestowed on someone who is not a member of RI. This is how Jan Jan Dohnálek was honoured at our last club meeting for his tireless work for stroke victims through the ICTUS charity. RCPI has supported ICTUS with funding for many years and Jan has led the charity throughout all this time. "Jan is a very special person who has dedicated himself to improving teh lives of others." said Marie Jehlickova at the award ceremony. Gerry Tipple explained that the Paul Harris Fellowship was a very special recognition from our club for Jan and his tremendous work in the community.
Jan Dohnálek awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship Christian Noll 2019-09-29 22:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps!

 
Dear Friends & Lovers of Indian Food,
 
We are now entering the second week of the Indian Food Helps service. The week two menu has a selection of new dishes which will delight your tastebuds. Every meal you order raises much needed funds  to support the primary education of children in rural Rajasthan, India.
 
Please order your food by 18:00 pm the day before using our on-line order form.
www.indianfoodhelps.cz
Delivery will be between 11.30 – 13.30
 
All the funds raised will go to our project. There is no administration costs. From one lunch we can buy 2 school bags or two girls school uniforms. Five lunches would pay the primary school fees for a child for one year. Please use the on-line order form to place the order for your office. You can order ahead for any day during the programme.
 
If you would like to give more to support our project, you can donate online at darujme.cz
Any questions, please write to us at indianfoodhelps@gmail.com
Eat, enjoy and help others at the same time.
 
Best regards,
Rotary Indian Food Helps! Team
Indian Food Helps! 2019-09-26 22:00:00Z 0

The Mexican Ambassador at RCPI

The Ambassador of Mexico, the Honorable Leonora Rueda, joined our club meeting this week at the invitation of RCPI President Fernanda Escobar.
Ambassador Rueda made an excellent presentation to members and friends about Mexico and the ties and connections with Europe and the Czech Republic. In fact the Czech Republic has influenced Mexico significantly right back to the 15th Century when Czechs brought expertise in the areas of medicine and music which have had a lasting influence. In more recent history Mexico remembered the atrocities which took place at Lidice by naming a town (now part of Mexico City) San Jerónimo Lídice. Ambassador Rueda informed the meeting that sunsequently Lidice was also taken up as a girls name in Mexico.
Fernanda Escobar thanked the Ambassador for her very interesting and relevant speech and wished Mexico and the Czech Republic a long and successful collaboration.
The Mexican Ambassador at RCPI 2019-09-26 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI helps ZIVOT90 with a €8000 donation

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 02, 2019
Rotary is all about helping those less fortunate than ourselves and it was a pleasure for Fernanda Escobar to welcome members of the ZIVOT90 charity to our recent club meeting. On behalf of RCPI, Fernanda presented a cheque for CZK 205,000 (Euro 8,000) to help the charity continue its tremendous work for the elderly. Jaroslav Lorman, Dagmar Sladká and Jan Lorman were delighted on behalf of all the people helped by ZIVOT90 to receive the donation which was raised through the Charity Dragon Boat Challenge this year. Jan commented on the longstanding relationship RCPI has with ZIVOT90 and emphasised how important this is for the continued operation of the charity.
RCPI helps ZIVOT90 with a €8000 donation Christian Noll 2019-09-01 22:00:00Z 0

International Visitors

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 02, 2019
International Friendship is a huge part of Rotary and it is wonderful to welcome visitors from other countries to our meetings. At our last club meeting Fernanda, RCPI President, welcomed Gérard Pouet, Past President of Rotary Club Pau, YEO and Treasurer Eliane Voisin, President of Rotary Club Bordeaux Bouscat. It is traditional in Rotary to exchange flags as a sign of international friendship and as a long term reminder of all the clubs which have linked up by members visiting each other.
International Visitors Christian Noll 2019-09-01 22:00:00Z 0

Next Weekend is..... BURGERFEST!!!

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 31, 2019
The annual Prague Burgerfest will take place on the 7th and 8th of September at Krizik's fountain in Exhibition grounds, Výstaviště 67, Praha 7, Holešovice. RCPI will be there with our famous DRAGON Burger (in fact two burgers for the price of one!). Come and enjoy the day and support RCPI - all profit from our stand is donated to charity so you can dispel any guilt and even have two burgers knowing that you are eating them for a good cause. Volunteers to make and serve burgers are very welcome. Please contact casey@rcpi.club
Next Weekend is..... BURGERFEST!!! Christian Noll 2019-08-30 22:00:00Z 0

Four students set off to a life abroad

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 06, 2019
"Rotary Youth Exchange is about World Peace through building friendships and understanding" said Sanan, the RCPI Youth exchange Officer as the four students met Rotarians prior to departing on the Rotary Youth Exchange Programme. The students will spend an academic year with a host family as far afield as South Korea where they will integrate into normal family life, learn the language and attend school alongside their host family 'brothers and sisters'. "It is a tremendous opportunity for young people to really experience another country from the point of view of a resident rather than a tourist" said Sanan, "Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens.'
Our four youth exchange students with their families
 
Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is a Rotary International student exchange program for students in secondary school. Since 1929, Rotary International has sent young people around the globe to experience new cultures. Currently, about 9,000 students are sponsored by Rotary clubs every year. The Rotary Club of Copenhagen, Denmark initiated the first Rotary exchange in 1927, and the Rotary Club of Nice, France followed suit soon after in 1929. Although exchanges today usually last ten months, the first exchanges took place during school vacations for only a couple of weeks. The year-long Rotary Youth Exchange program was created in 1958 in Lake Placid at a Rotary Governors assembly.  In 1962 the first youth exchange involving Japan and Germany was arranged after tense relations between the nations following World War II. Since its conception 80 years ago, the Rotary Youth Exchange program has expanded rapidly to exchange 9,000 students annually between 80 countries.
 
Contact YOUTH@RCPI.CLUB to find out more.
 
 
 
Four students set off to a life abroad Christian Noll 2019-08-05 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI Dawn Cycle Ride

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 29, 2019
The 4am start was definitely worth it as we set off on our ride through and around Prague enjoying the short night and early dawn. By 4;30 we saw the night revellers leaving the nightclubs rather unsteady on their feet. By 5:30 the early dog walkers weer out and about for that morning outing with man's best friend. By 7am the city has started to wake up, however few tourists surface unless you happen to be taking wedding pictures with the old town as a backdrop. Street cleaners remove the last evidences of the 'night before' to ready Prague for another day of tourist pictures and enjoyment as the 4th most visited city in Europe after London, Paris and Rome.
At precisely 8.30 (unbelievable timing by Jonathan)  we turn into the tiny square where Cafe Limonada is waiting to serve us delicious coffee and breakfast.
A great way to start the day whilst also raising some funds for charity. CZK 2400 will be donated to the Rotary Foundation.
Setting off at 4am
 
 
RCPI Dawn Cycle Ride Christian Noll 2019-06-28 22:00:00Z 0

The Great British Curry - for charity

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 16, 2019
The Curry House and Rotary Club Prague International achieved record sales at the British Market in Dolní Břežany with our Great British Curry offering. We again sold out of everything and Mamun had to return to the Curry House restaurant to replenish our supplies. There's no doubt that his food is really popular at these events. The event raised 13,000 Kč which will be  added to the funds for our Indian Schools campaign.
 
Congratulations to Mamun, Gerry and the entire team who made the event such a great success.
 
The Great British Curry - for charity Christian Noll 2019-06-15 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI 2017 Annual Report

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 16, 2019
The RCPI Annual report is now available. It contains a wealth of information about the activities of the club as well as financial statements showing the income and donations the club made in the calender year 2017. You can download the report in PDF format by clicking HERE.
RCPI 2017 Annual Report Christian Noll 2019-06-15 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI is a member of the British Chamber

Posted by Sanan Phutrakul on Jun 11, 2019
The RCPI board have agreed to once again renew our club's associate membership with the British Chamber of Commerce in Prague. With this comes the opportunity for any active member of the club to join the chamber as a member, which brings all the benefits of chamber membership including membership pricing to all events (even though many are free).
 
If interested, members of our club need to contact Pavel Fara and mention that they, as active members at RC Prague International, want to join the BCC under our club's associate membership status. Pavel's email address is pavel.fara@britcham.cz.
 
We hope our members take advantage of this opportunity as Prague's chamber was voted the most active in Europe, holding no less than four events every month. You can find out more here https://www.britishchamber.cz/.
RCPI is a member of the British Chamber Sanan Phutrakul 2019-06-10 22:00:00Z 0

Inspiration from others

Posted by Christian Noll on May 27, 2019
Inspiration comes from observing the work of others and so it was when I visited Rotary Club Sofia Triaditsa in Bulgaria.
 
Despite being a relatively newly formed club RC Triaditsa has immediately set to work doing good. The energy and enthusiasm of the members has resulted in projects such as setting up an opthamlic examination programme for 3 to 4 year olds which visits nurseries and has screened over 1200 children to date. The project value is over 50,000 euro which is a testimony to the power of Rotary and the leadership of this club. Other projects include a performing arts programme and a project to restore a building as a centre for activities to support social inclusion for people at the fringes of society.

The meeting was made even more special because it was a joint club meeting with RC Sofia International, again an initiative of both clubs to meet and exchange ideas and talk about projects they are engaged in.
I presented the work of our club both in terms of the projects as well as how we are structured. There was real interest in the activity points concept as a measure of member engagement. Judging by the energy in the room activity points would be awarded all round on a weekly basis.  Congratulations for what you have achieved to date and we wish much success to RC Sofia Triaditsa and RC Sofia International
.
Inspiration from others Christian Noll 2019-05-26 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI at the District 20 year celebration

Posted by Christian Noll on May 18, 2019
The sun shone and visitors streamed across the Zofin bridge to explore the many activities which the clubs and district set up as part of the 20 year celebration of District 2240. The RCPI tent was the point of orientation and welcome for visitors and it was lovely to meet and greet so many Rotarians and visitors from many countries. In the tent we exhibited pictures of the amazing work we are engaged in from Dragon Boats to Water and Sanitation projects in India. We swapped banners with other clubs and of course Ota never missed an opportunity to sell caps and shirts for good causes!
A little further on Stewart set up the Disaster Aid stand where he and volunteers demonstrated how dirty water could be turned into clean water using advanced but affordable filters as well as presenting the whole set of emergency relief capabilities which Disaster Aid Europe has at its disposal.
 
A big thank you to everyone who participated and and supported our club on this auspicious day where we really 'met the public in their hundreds'.
RCPI at the District 20 year celebration Christian Noll 2019-05-17 22:00:00Z 0

Hundreds of Paddlers... all for Charity

Posted by Christian Noll on May 11, 2019
Hundreds of paddlers took part in the 2019 Rotary Club Prague International Dragon Boat Charity Challenge. Teams from companies, clubs, organisations and friends  joined in the challenge to paddle the course as fast as possible AND in the process to raise hundreds of thousands of crowns for charities. Three charity partners who will share the proceeds: ŽIVOT 90, an organisation providing a wide range of services for senior citizens, Nadace Naše Dítě who offer much needed help and support for many children in very difficult circumstances and Výbor dobré vůle (VDV) whose main purpose is to help disabled, abandoned and discriminated against people to integrate into society.
"A big THANK You to the RCPI organising committee together with the Czech Dragon Boat Organisation who made the day possible through their energy and enthusiasm to create an event which was enjoyed by hundreds and will benefit hundreds more" said Josef Simpartl, President of  RCPI. "In terms of who won? - of course the Charities won by receiving hundreds of thousands of crowns of donations, as for the race... well, Rotary Club Stare Mesto won once again so the challenge is set for next year. Well done and thank you to everyone who participated."
 
 
More pictures are in the 2019 Dragon Boat Album
Hundreds of Paddlers... all for Charity Christian Noll 2019-05-10 22:00:00Z 0

An Ambassadorial Visit

Posted by Christian Noll
Dr Christoph Israng,  Ambassador of Germany to the Czech Republic joined Members and guests at our club meeting. Dr Israng explained the importance of the relationship between Germany and the Czech Republic in a number of dimensions. "In trade, the volumes are greater than those traded with the Russian Federation" said Dr Irsang, emphasising that the Czech Republic is a key partner of Germany not least because of its 815km long border. Dr Israng commented that in some areas there is always room for improvement, not least in logistical matters of ambulances or snowploughs crossing the border - here we can make things more efficient.
Dr Israng also reflected on the historic relations of the countries starting with the 16,000 people who sought refuge in the West German Embassy in Prague in 1989 as they sought a way to a new and free life in the West which they were granted.  Dr Israng invited Members to join the "Festival of Freedom" on the 28th of September where, 30 years later, the Embassy will open its doors and events of 1989  will be remembered.He also did not shy away from discussing the impact of the second world war. "I have visited many places where atrocities were committed including Terezin. I have met the families and survivors of the atrocities and whilst I understand that some cannot forgive, many recognise that the Germany of today is a changed country. These are the most emotional experiences of my work."
 
RCPI President Josef Simpartl thanked Dr Israng on behalf of Rotary Club Prague International for his insightful and interesting account.
An Ambassadorial Visit Christian Noll 2019-04-29 22:00:00Z 0

Collecting for an Orphanage

Posted by Christian Noll on Apr 29, 2019
RCPI Members arrived before our regular meeting in cars stuffed full of household items for donation to the Orphanage in Senožaty. Despite the drizzling rain the items were transferred by willing volunteers into two vans. All of the donations will go towards the operation of the orphanage and helping the young adults on their way as they leave the orphanage. Martina Buchalova Horska , Director of the House of orphans Senožaty thanked Members for the tremendous contribution which will really make a difference. Rotary - Having fun doing good. A big THANK you goes to RCPI Member Marie Jehlikova for organising the collection.
Martina Buchalova Horska with Marie and Josef
Lots of boxes of goodies
The team from the Orphanage with Fernanda
Collecting for an Orphanage Christian Noll 2019-04-28 22:00:00Z 0

TechPlomacy from Denmark

Posted by Christian Noll on Apr 08, 2019
The ambassador of Denmark, H.E. Mr. Ole Henrik FRIJS-MADSEN, visited our club and gave members and friends an insight into the culture and dynamics of life in Denmark. Rather than looking back, Ole concentrated on the future and referenced how Denmark is taking a progressive role in a number of areas including social, environment and especially in the role of IT in society. Denmark is the first country to apoint a Tech Ambassador. Ole explained that IT Tech and digital diplomacy, in short TechPlomacy is an acknowledgement of the key role tech plays and will increasingly play in the future for individuals and societies alike.
The club thanked Ole for his insightful presentation and we look forward to hearing of the progress TechPlomacy makes in Czech / Danish relations.
TechPlomacy from Denmark Christian Noll 2019-04-07 22:00:00Z 0

Enter a team to the Dragon Boat Challenge!

Posted on Mar 30, 2019
The 10th Fabulous Year of the ROTARY DRAGON BOAT CHARITY CHALLENGE will take place on the 11th of May 2019 at Žluté lázně, Podolské nábřeží 3/1184, 140 00 Praha 4-Podolí.
 
The 10th Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is a part of the Prague Dragon Boat Festival -
the oldest Dragon Boat race in Czech Republic - organized by Czech Dragon Boat Association.
 
The Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is fast becoming the premier charity event of a Prague Spring. It’s an event that combines Team-building, Corporate social responsibility, live entertainment and family fun in one great programme. The sight of teams of highly motivated paddlers going all out for the finish line makes an exciting spectacle that draws big crowds.
 
Click HERE to find out more
Enter a team to the Dragon Boat Challenge! 2019-03-29 23:00:00Z 0

Donate unwanted items to help Orphans

Posted on Mar 30, 2019
When cleaning out in Spring this year please think of orphans in Dětský dům Senožaty /https://www.ddsenozaty.cz/ and bring all items you will no more need on Monday  APRIL 29,2019 FROM 2 - 6 PM to hotel HOLIDAY INN (our normal meeting venue) prior to our regular meeting.
 
A truck from Senožaty will come /with some children to help onloading/ and you will have a nice feeling of HAVING FUN BY DOING GOOD.
 
In this House of orphans children are staying up to 18 years of age and are being helped to arrange their new life incl household so, any thing is being needed /clothing, shoes, non-used TV sets, chairs, toys,etc./
 
On behalf of all children from Senožaty I just: THANK YOU.
 
Regards
Marie Jehličková
MC Chair
 
Donate unwanted items to help Orphans 2019-03-29 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI makes NEWS in India

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 12, 2019
Members of RCPI and the Jyoti Foundation made breaking TV news in India as they presented educational materials and equipment to local schools.
 
RCPI makes NEWS in India Christian Noll 2019-02-11 23:00:00Z 0

An Update from India

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 12, 2019
Members of RCPI are in Rajasthan at the moment meeting our partner clubs and distributing the donations which were collected by members and friends of the club throughout the year. Here is a short video update from Helen:
 
An Update from India Christian Noll 2019-02-11 23:00:00Z 0

A Czech Success Story

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 12, 2019
Armed with a pencil and paper Josef Orei had a great idea back in 1992. Having left his previous employer he was involved in research which led to him and his associates filing a patent to detect substances. The group left the research establishment, acquired the rights to the patent and set up their own company which has since grown into one of the foremost suppliers of equipment to detect noxious and dangerous agents including chemical weapons. Josef explained to members that at any one time there are many thousands of tons of dangerous chemicals on the move by road, sea and air and that in the event of an accident detection and decontamination is critical. Oritest supplies fire brigades, rescue services, decontamination units and the military throughout the world with detection and protection equipment.
As the owner of the company Josef is also supportive of community projects and has sponsored projects throughout the world including a music school and is seeking closer collaboration with Rotary International. RCPI president Josef Simpartl thanked Josef for his very interesting and informative presentation.
A Czech Success Story Christian Noll 2019-02-11 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI visits the Werich Villa

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 04, 2019
Members and Friends visited the now fully restored Werich Villa on Kampa Island, in the heart of historic Prague. Few Prague buildings are enshrouded in such a mysterious history and conceal the fates of so many important personalities who have one thing in common: words. Exhibitions setting out the work of Jan Werich and Jiri Voskovek are located on the first floor in a new exhibition space. Marie Jehlickova organised the event including a lovely reception and food and drink in the roof theatre space of the villa after a fascinating guided tour of the villa. See all the pictures of the visit HERE. In the spirit of Rotary we were Having Fun and Doing good: all proceeds go to Ictus.

 
 
RCPI visits the Werich Villa Christian Noll 2019-02-03 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI is host club for Global Alzheimer Workshop

Posted on Nov 13, 2018

Prague's Charles University was the location for an international conference on Alzheimer's titled 'Making the Point', it was held under the auspices Rotarian Action Group for Peace and hosted by RCPI.

The conference invited specialists in neurodegenerative diseases to meet and learn more about their specific fields and put together a more comprehensive outlook for the disease. The discussions varied from molecular blood samples on how to phyisically manage patients with the disease.  The reason for bringing these great minds together is because in developed countries, Alzheimer's is and will continue to be a massive drain on the health and finances of many countries, as we live longer and are unable to take care of ourselves.

In the same way that Rotary has been instrumental in the eradication of Polio, it is hoped that with the help of the UN, Rotary will play a key part in the research and care of Alzheimer's patients.  It is a issue that can not be ignored for much longer by governments. Two thirds of Alzheimer's patients are women, they tend to live longer but they are also the caregivers.  If they are unable to look after themselves it leaves a real problem for someone else to deal with.  The aging population is proving to be a drain on welfare and social services throughout the developed world.

The conference discussed risk factors, possible routes of a cure and the care of those suffering.    The diagnosis of Alzheimer's is also an issue and a professor from Spain talked of how molecular genetics may improve Alzheimer's diagnosis.  Thus giving patients the opportunity to receive more specific treatments earlier and hopefully slow down the degenerative process.

Rotary Club Prague International was the host club, Helen Noll was our representative there and was able to meet with fellow Rotarians from RC New York – (host club of America and the United Nations) and members from RC Rome, Professor Sergio Bernardini who was leading the conference.

It is hoped that in the Spring, Rotarian Action Group for Peace will hold another bigger conference in Prague, as this had proved to be such a successful meeting of specialists in Alzheimer's.

 

RCPI is host club for Global Alzheimer Workshop 2018-11-12 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI at DOX

Posted on Nov 12, 2018
RCPI member Helena organised a truly exclusive tour of DOX, the Centre for Contemporary Art in Prague. Members and friends were greeted by Michaela Silpochova (Head of International projects) and were then joined by Leos Valka - the Director and founder of DOX which opened in a converted factory in Prague’s Holešovice district in 2008. Today Leos serves as its director and chairman of the board. In 2011, based on a nomination by Václav Havel, he received an award from the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic for long-term merit in the area of fine art.
Michaela guided members to the recently opened theater and performance auditorium which is one of the newest and best equipped contemporary spaces in Prague for performers to perform. A tour of the current exhibition called HARD TIMES was given another dimension by Michaela's explanations of the many factors which influenced the artists and exhibition.  Then on and upward to Gulliver's Airship which is a realtively new addition to the exhibition and interpretation spaces of DOX. Constructed of wood the airship leaves the visitor with a sense of marvel at the structure and a feeling of an open space whilst being enclosed. A masterpiece.
 
The tour was followed by conversation, food and of course a few drinks in the cafe at DOX where a reception had been specially prepared for us. Many thanks Michaela, Leos and of course Helena.
 
If you missed the trip please do consider making a private visit to DOX to experience the art and spaces for yourself. Membership, both personal and corporate is available and goes a long way to sustaining this truly unique art space in Prague.
 
You can view all the pictures of the visit HERE
RCPI at DOX 2018-11-11 23:00:00Z 0

Indian food breaks all records

A new record was set in November when, for another year, Indian meals were delivered to individuals and businesses throughout Prague as part of the RCPI Indian Food Helps campaign. Gerry worked tirelessly organising volunteers, Blanka took hundreds of orders whilst Mamun and his team prepared over 800 meals. One day peaked with 166 meals prepared and deliverd!
The food is cooked by the award winning Curry House Restaurant. All the proceeds go towards supporting primary schooling in rural Rajasthan. We will buy equipment for the schools, school bags, exercise books and writing materials, school uniforms, hygiene kits and pay school fees for poor families. We also arrange health checks and basic treatment for children and mothers.
One lunch will enable us to buy 2 school bags or two girl's uniforms. Five lunches can pay for the school fees of one child for a year.
Just some members of the terrific Indian Food Helps Delivery Team
Indian food breaks all records 2018-11-09 23:00:00Z 0

2019 Dragon Boat Charity Challenge

The 10th Fabulous Year of the

ROTARY DRAGON BOAT CHARITY CHALLENGE

will take place on the 11th of May 2019
 

at Žluté lázně, Podolské nábřeží 3/1184, 140 00 Praha 4-Podolí

The 10th Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is a part of the Prague Dragon Boat Festival -
the oldest Dragon Boat race in Czech Republic - organized by Czech Dragon Boat Association.
DETAILS on the left hand menu
2019 Dragon Boat Charity Challenge 2018-11-09 23:00:00Z 0

Order a meal and support a child's education

Posted on Nov 01, 2018
We are once again raising funds by delivering Indian food to you at your workplace. The food is cooked by the award winning Curry House Restaurant. All the proceeds go towards supporting primary schooling in rural Rajasthan. We will buy equipment for the schools, school bags, exercise books and writing materials, school uniforms, hygiene kits and pay school fees for poor families. We also arrange health checks and basic treatment for children and mothers.
One lunch will enable us to buy 2 school bags or two girls uniforms. Five lunches can pay for the school fees of one child for a year. All proceeds will be spent on material needs without deduction of any administration costs.
More information can be found at: www.rcpi.club

Here is the menu in Czech and in English. Please order your food by 5:00 pm the day before by email to: indianfoodhelps@gmail.com Delivery will be between 11.30 – 13.30
 
If you cannot order a meal, you can still help by making a donation at: darujme.cz/projekt/1200660
 
Thank you on behalf of Rotary Club Prague International and especially on behalf of the children.
Order a meal and support a child's education 2018-10-31 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps - Starting 28 October 2018

Dear Friends & Rotarians,
 
Our Indian Food Helps! action will once again be launched for two weeks commencing Monday 29 October.
 
Please download the leaflets ENGLISH  CZECH to promote our action to your friends and business associates. Last year we delivered a record 722 lunches and raised more than 50,000 Kč. It would be fantastic to beat that this year.
 
As usual, the success of the action depends not only on us promoting it to all our friends and colleagues, but critically on our Delivery Superstars.  We need lots of volunteers who can deliver lunches between 11:30 and 13.30. Normally this means collecting them from The Curry House at 11:00. Those with cars are particularly welcome, but there are usually plenty of orders that can also be easily done by public transport.
 
Please let me know which days you can be available to make deliveries during these two weeks and confirm your current mobile phone no.
 
Many thanks for your continued support to our Indian Schools Project and best regards,
 
Gerry
Indian Food Helps - Starting 28 October 2018 2018-10-21 22:00:00Z 0

Sananim Gala Dinner 2018

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 20, 2018
Fundraising with glamour! The Sananim Anniversary Gala took place in the Zlatá Praha Restaurant at the Intercontinental Hotel in Prague yesterday evening, organised by Naomi Sullivan Callender and her able team. Jiri Richter, CEO of Sananim, thanked everyone for attending and explained the work of the charity and how important funding from donors is to the operation of the charity. Peter Kroutil and his band entertained the guests with song and music throughout the evening. The event raised substantial funding for the Sananim Charity which makes such a tremendous difference to the lives of those with drug addiction.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make the event possible and to those who attended and were so very generous on the evening. You made a difference to someone's life.
Click to see the photo album
Sananim Gala Dinner 2018 Christian Noll 2018-10-19 22:00:00Z 0

Walking in Wales

Members of RCPI flew to Bristol, England, to meet up with members of RC Bristol Breakfast, our partner club. The weather was a little on the damp side, however that did not dampen the enthusiasm of the group who spent the weekend, walking, talking, eating and enjoying a few drinks as well. Thank you RC Bristol Breakfast for a great weekend. View the PHOTO ALBUM.
Walking in Wales 2018-10-19 22:00:00Z 0

A word from the DG

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 16, 2018
Zdeněk Michálek, the 2018/19 District Governor, visited our club meeting and, as well as presenting the club with an award, made a speech outlining not only the history of the district but also the vision of the future. The vision is clear and wholly aligned to Rotary International:
 
The D2240 vision is
a common Czecho-Slovak District,
living the Rotary values

To achieve the vision we have to set some priorities and these are centered around the membership of Rotary:

Membership development
Stop the decline in numbers
Improve the membership base
Rejuvenate the membership base
Strengthen club support
Reduce administration

This flows to a series of requests, starting with the presidents of the clubs in D2240:

PRESIDENTS OF CLUBS
Introduce the district strategy to its clubs In co-operation with members, they create their own club strategy and action plans
The agreed goals will be entered into the data of your club at Rotary Club Central
DISTRICT GOVERNOR ASSISTANT
Encourage presidents to create club strategies They will help with the insertion of goals into the Rotary Club Central
PRESIDENT DISTRICT COMMITTEES
They discuss the district strategy with committee members and develop strategies for their committees, supporting the district strategy
DISTRICT GOVERNOR
In cooperation with DGE, DGN, IPDG, DG Assistants, Committee Chairmen and Rotary and Rotaract club presidents, will ensure a gradual implementation of the strategy.

The full presentation is available HERE
A word from the DG Christian Noll 2018-10-15 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI: Number 1 Club in D2240

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 15, 2018
A proud moment for RC Prague International: We are the Number One Club in District 2240 for making the highest per capita contribution to the Rotary Foundation 2017/18. Thank you to all who made this possible and in doing so helped the Rotary Foundation in transforming lives for the better throughout the world.
District Governor Zdenek presented the award to RCPI President Josef at a recent club meeting.
RCPI: Number 1 Club in D2240 Christian Noll 2018-10-14 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI recognised for tree planting program

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 02, 2018

RCPI received recognition for our tree planing program which has to date funded the planting of 2500 trees in Zambia.

Letter from ESRAG:

Dear Rotary Club Prague International,
President Ian Riseley wanted Rotarians to look towards the environment so he created “The Rotary International President's Tree Planting Challenge 2017-18!” Rotarians around the world enthusiastically took President Riseley's tree planting challenge to heart, placing service above self by serving the environment and planting many millions of trees. Healthy trees are the foundation for a healthy environment and a healthy environment will create a healthy community.

The Environmental Sustainability Rotarian Action Group (ESRAG) would like to recognize your club for its contribution to President Riseley's 1.2 Million Tree Planting Challenge. We are enclosing with this note a Certificate of Appreciation commemorating your club's participation in President Riseley's tree planting challenge. ESRAG's hope is that President Riseley’s Tree Planting Challenge will serve as the starting point for Rotarians around the world to work to improve the environment using the premise of environmental sustainability.

Thank you again for supporting President Ian Riseley's tree planting Initiative and the environment.

Best regards,

Peter

Peter Moralée
Chair, ESRAG

RCPI recognised for tree planting program Christian Noll 2018-10-01 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI goes to Barrandov

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 01, 2018
Fernanda organised a wonderful evening for Rotarians and Friends at the Barrandov Studios in Prague. A guided tour of the museum and one
of the historic studios constructed back to the 1930's was rounded off by great discussions and a meal in one of the Studio's reception rooms. Throughout the evening Lenka guided us through the exhibitions and Petr Tichý, CEO of the Studio, accompanied us with explanations and tales from the past and present. The evening was in aid of SKP HOPO Azylový dům and Gabriela Selinger, who leads this very worthwhile charity, addressed the Members with words of thanks.
Fernanda and Gabriela Selinger
Petr Tichý explains the history of one of the original studios at Barrandov
 
You can see all the pictures of the event by clicking HERE
RCPI goes to Barrandov Christian Noll 2018-09-30 22:00:00Z 0

Burgerfest 2018

Posted on Sep 10, 2018
For the third year running RCPI has been flipping burgers for charity at the Prague Burgerfest. The weather was great and the RCPI volunteers worked hard making and selling our very own Dragon Burgers with the secret chilli sauce provided by Mamun. One customer, who was a restaurant owner, was so impressed with our burger that he asked for the recipe. He could not get over the combination of low fat pork mixed with shredded apple plus a few other ingredients.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who helped at Burgerfest 2018. Especially of course to Casey who not only organised the event but also stood in our burger stall for two days making Burgerfest a success. An equally big THANK YOU to the Rotarians who could not attend in person, however made generous donations to Burgerfest 2018.
 
Burgerfest 2018 2018-09-09 22:00:00Z 0

Welcome to Prague

Posted on Aug 29, 2018
Student Exchanges are very much a part of Rotary International and RCPI is proud to welcome our exchange student, Sheila, from Colorado to our beautiful city. Have a great time in the Czech Republic!
Welcome to Prague 2018-08-28 22:00:00Z 0

Dr. Vladimír Beneš - Neurosurgeon

Dr. Vladimír Beneš kindly agreed to be the guest speaker at a recent RCPI club meeting. Dr Beneš explained the history of neurosurgery and how three generations of his family became neurosurgeons. "Neurosurgery is not something one does lightly", said Vladimír, "it involves interventions which are irreversible, hence we spend a great deal of time on diagnostics which over the years have advanced tremendously from the original x-rays". Members and visitors thanked Vladimír for a truly interesting and enlightening presentation.
Dr. Vladimír Beneš - Neurosurgeon Christian Noll 2018-06-26 22:00:00Z 0

Presidential Handover

Posted on Jun 26, 2018
At our club meeting yesterday RCPI President Helen Helen Murphy Noll recounted the many and varied activities which the club engaged in during the past Rotary year. Helen congratulated all members and friends for their tremendous efforts, enthusiasm and energy which make RCPI such an active club. Helen passes the presidency to Josef Simpartl who thanked Helen for her leadership and will present his plan for the club at the next meeting.
Presidential Handover 2018-06-25 22:00:00Z 0

WASH for Rajasthan

RCPI is the lead international partner in the installation a global grant WASH project in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Many schools do not have adequate toilet facilities for boys and girls. There are often no hand washing facilities and little or no hygiene education.
Working with RC Udaipur Heritage our project aims to provide schools, install or upgrade the toilet facilities for boys and girls in 51 schools, we will also provide a menstrual hygiene programme.  We expect to reduce related illnesses, improve school attendance and therefore have happy, better educated children.
 
 
WASH for Rajasthan 2018-04-21 22:00:00Z 0

Behind the scenes: Public Health

Posted by Christian Noll on Apr 17, 2018
Fernanda introduced Dr. Ivo Krysa, the director of the department of general and communal hygiene - Public Health Authority of the City of Prague. Ivo presented a fascinating insight into the world of Public Health to members at our recent meeting. From the policies which underpin Public Health through to education programmes for school Children Ivo explained the importance of public health in developing the well being of the population. Initiatives range from HIV through smoking to HIV. "There are many areas where we are at work, even in this room" said Ivo, "this includes drinking water quality and the food hygiene controls."
Following the presentation there was a lively round of questions and answers including a discussion relating to smoking and the initiatives to reduce the number of smokers, particularly amongst the young.
RCPI President Helen Noll thanked Ivo for his presentation and the insights into something we could easily take for granted, drawing on her recent experiences of the RCPI club visit to India where public health has quite different and more fundamental challenges.
Behind the scenes: Public Health Christian Noll 2018-04-16 22:00:00Z 0

District Governor visits RCPI

Július Tomka introduced members and friends of RCPI to the strategy of District 2240 at our recent club meeting. In his speech he outlined the three themes of Membership, Image and Opportunities for the Young and being central to the work of Rotary International at the district level. With over 1400 members and 76 clubs, the district covers the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Clubs range from RCPI as the largest with 50 members to smaller clubs with less than 10 members. Yulo encouraged Rotarians to share the ideas and collaborate at District events so that best practice is transmitted from one club to another. "not everything which is applicable in a club of 50 members will be practical in a small club" said Yulo, "however many good ideas can be shared and adapted to work".
Yulo went on to explain how 3 new clubs are in the process of being founded at the moment and how he believes we can strengthen the collaboration with Roteract throughout the district.
Helen Noll, President of RCPI, thanked Yulo for visiting our club and for his very informative presentation. The club gave Yulo a warm reception with a hearty round of applause. Yulo was accompanied by Ilja Chocholous who is well known to members of RCPI through his great support of activities including the Annual Dragon Boat Event
District Governor visits RCPI 2018-03-05 23:00:00Z 0

Supporting the Dog Shelter

Members of Rotary Club Prague International, along with Zdeněk Střžek, owner of Bejzment Burger Pub and also the promoter of the Jack Daniel’s BurgerFest in Prague, visited Psí útulek Trója to deliver a cheque for CZK 10,000 and bags of dog food. This donation came from the proceeds of RCPI’s participation in BurgerFest 2017
Dogs are brought to Psí útulek Trója for various reasons. Some are stray dogs found wandering the Prague streets, often because owners abandon them. Lucie Skalska took the members of RCPI on a guided tour of the facilities which house on average 90 dogs at any one time. Dogs are homed in individual kennels and are given walks - a dog shelter dog walker walks up to 25km on any one day!
 
The shelter checks the health of every animal, they are given injections and any medical treatment needed and, after a period of acclimatisation, can be adopted by suitable new owners.
 
Members of RCPI were truly impressed with the high standards of the facilities and the competency and skills of the staff.
 
 
Supporting the Dog Shelter 2018-02-23 23:00:00Z 0

A thousand postcards for charity

Posted on Feb 20, 2018
"I did not choose to become an artist - art was my escape", said David Sandum when he spoke to Members and visitors at our recent RCPI club meeting. Our own member, Martin Sebek, introduced David and has himself been involved in assisting the Art Project which David presented. Following a very successful career start in IT  the demands of his job, on the heels of many years of stress, took a toll on his health, and he fell into a severe depression. It was during this difficult time that he began to draw and paint, inspired by Edvard Munch’s philosophy that we should all write or paint our life story.
In 2010, David earned international acclaim by founding Twitter Art Exhibit, a social media initiative whereby artists from around the world send hand-painted postcards that are exhibited for local charities in need of funding. This annual event has gone global, taking place in such cities as Los Angeles, Orlando, and New York City. The 2017 exhibit in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, attracted more than 1,000 artists from 65 countries. The 2018 exhibition is in Canberra, Australia.
The project is growing every year and the volunteers managing it are very stretched in terms of their time. David asked RCPI members to consider how TAE could move to the next level of operation. "It is not just about money, it is also about ideas and suggestions from people in business and other walks of life" said David. You can find David on Twitter: @DavidSandum
A thousand postcards for charity 2018-02-19 23:00:00Z 0

ROTARY DRAGON BOAT CHARITY CHALLENGE

Races take place on the 12th of May 2018
at Žluté lázně, Podolské nábřeží 3/1184, 140 00 Praha 4-Podolí
The 9th Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is a part of the Prague Dragon Boat Festival -
the oldest Dragon Boat race in Czech Republic - organized by Czech Dragon Boat Association.

Click HERE for more information and how to join in the fun
ROTARY DRAGON BOAT CHARITY CHALLENGE 2018-02-11 23:00:00Z 0

Valentine Fundraiser

Janet Feinstein and Pawel Farsky attended our recent club meeting at the invitation of one of our members and presented their fundraising project to help the Motol Hospital Pediatric Oncology department: A Valentine Cabaret Fundraiser held at Divadlo Korunni on the 17th February 2018 at 20:00h. More information is available at www.bit.ly/vcabaret.
This is not an RCPI event.
Valentine Fundraiser 2018-01-30 23:00:00Z 0

Helping Stroke Victims

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 28, 2018
Jan Dohnálek from the charity ICTUS came to our recent club meeting to explain how ICTUS is helping those who have suffered a stroke. "Many stroke victims find their condition has dramatically changed their life so much so that they cannot see a way forward" said Jan, "ICTUS is there to guide, assist and show that it is absolutely possible to approach life after a stroke with a positive attitude and through therapies to bring joy and a positive view of the future".
ICTUS is a well established charity which works with stroke victims throughout the Czech Republic through a large network of volunteers and professionals providing many different services. "from a listening ear and a friendly visitor to swimming lessons, outings, ICTUS is there to help those with stroke live fuller lives and explain that the situation is far from hopeless" explained Jan.
One of the activities Jan focused on as especially beneficial are the swimming therapy sessions where volunteers work with those who have suffered a stroke to restore movement, build muscles and above all develop self confidence and a sense of achievement. The sessions cost just CZK 150 each and a course of ten sessions can truly make a difference. However finding the funding is difficult.
RCPI Member Marie Jehličková presented Jan with a donation of CZK 36,000 which Marie and others raised through a number of golf events. Jan was, needless to say, delighted.
You too can help by making a donation which will fund swimming lessons. Just click on the donation button below or go to our special donation page for Swimming Lessons for Stroke Victims.
 
 
Helping Stroke Victims Christian Noll 2018-01-27 23:00:00Z 0

Music to our ears...

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 22, 2018
Ota, Eduard, Jiri
 
It was a privilege and a delight to welcome Eduard Kollert to our recent club meeting. Eduard is 14 years old and is an absolutely astounding violinist. He decided to learn the violin after he and his father attended a performance of maestro Josef Suk. He attended  the Prague School of Music aged 7 where his talent was developed further. After just two years he performed Bach’s Violin concerto and Beethoven Piano concerto at a concert with the Prague Philharmonia. He was invited by the Spanish royal family to play at a special recital in Palacio del Pardo in Madrid. Since then he has performed and won prizes and competitions in  Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Czech republic, Russia. Recently he opened the “Young Prague” festival in cooperation with the Prague Spring festival with Prokofiev’s second violin concerto with Prague Philharmonia.
Eduard is studying in Switzerland and continues to enthrall audiences with his talents.
Eduard was accompanied to RCPI by his father Jiri who is an accomplished and celebrated pianist. Jiri is tremendously proud of Eduard's accomplishments however commented that whilst Eduard has many followers who appreciate his abilities and enjoy his music, funding for his education and instruments is not so readily available.

 

Music to our ears... Christian Noll 2018-01-21 23:00:00Z 0

Two new members!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 22, 2018
Andras, Greg, Diana, Fernanda, Helen
 
RCPI welcomed Greg and Diana as members of our club at a 'pinning' ceremony held at our regular venue, the Holiday Inn at the Convention Centre in Prague. Led by Greg and Diana all members recited the Rotary 4 way test to remind us all that we are in members of Rotary to do good and to place service above self.
"Welcoming new members is a privilege and an honour for the club and the members" said Helen Noll, President of RCPI addressing the Members, "when two individuals chose to dedicate themselves to the work of Rotary we all have an obligation to welcome them to Rotary and to show how we live by the values of Rotary".
If you are interested in joining Rotary please contact Fernanda who is our Membership Chair. membership@rcpi.club
 
 
 
Two new members! Christian Noll 2018-01-21 23:00:00Z 0

Pins for Rotary Alumni

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 08, 2018
Irena Brichter presented four visitors to our club meeting with a special lapel pin to recognise their contribution as Rotary Alumni. Denisa, Albert, Natalie and Ralph have all been part of one or more Rotary programes in the past.

 

You qualify for this status if you participated in any of the following programs:

, , , New Generations Service Exchange, (RYLA), , (funded by global grants or district grants), (members and leaders), Ambassadorial Scholarships, Grants for University Teachers, Group Study Exchange (members and leaders), and Rotary Volunteers.

Pins for Rotary Alumni Christian Noll 2018-01-07 23:00:00Z 0

Tales from far away lands...

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 08, 2018
At our club meeting Denisa and Albert, both Rotary Exchange Students, presented to club members and friends a glimpse of the highlights of their Rotary Youth Exchange. Denisa flew West and spent the best part of a year in Canada attending school and learning about the country and the culture. Albert traveled East to Taiwan where he spent his time with host families near Taipei. Albert commented that this really was an immersion in a different culture. His stay involved him learning Chinese rather rapidly since in one of his host families no English was spoken.
Both Albert and Denisa said how much they enjoyed the Rotary Youth Exchange programme.
Martin and Birger oversee the Rotary Youth Exchange Programme for RCPI. To contact them email youth@rcpi.club
Tales from far away lands... Christian Noll 2018-01-07 23:00:00Z 0

Sananim: a record breaker

At a recent meeting of RCPI, Nelly and Naomi presented Sananim with a cheque for CZK 257,000 (€10,000). The donation was as a result of the Gala Dinner which Naomi and Nelly organised for the charity and represents a record, topping even the very successful 2016 Gala.
Jiri Richter, Pepa Sedivy and Agáta Jankovská received the donation and thanked RCPI for the donation which will make a real difference to the lives of those being rehabilitated. Jiri commented that such a donation is particularly welcome in the uncertain times when state funding is continually being reviewed.
Founded in 1990, SANANIM is one of the largest non-governmental organizations in the Czech Republic that provides complex services in the area of prevention, treatment and re-socialization of non-alcoholic drug addictions.
Sananim: a record breaker Christian Noll 2017-12-16 23:00:00Z 0

Israel, Czech Republic and Rotary - Ambassador Meron explains

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 28, 2017
His Excellency, Ambassador Daniel Meron of Israel and his wife visited our club where he gave an excellent speech focusing on the Czech - Israeli relationships and how an active exchange takes place between the two countries at many levels. Over 200,000 Israelis visit the Czech Republic every year whilst Skoda cars represent the third most popular make of car driven in Israel. Israel is renowned for many innovations including in the field of technology, computer software, pharmaceuticals and water management. In the latter area a delegation of 60 experts from the Czech Republic recently visited Israel to learn about effective water management and conservation, in particular drip irrigation technologies developed in Israel.
In 1990 Václav Havel visited Israel and in his memory a small garden can be found in Jerusalem with a commemorative plaque recalling the visit. In Prague, the Israeli community is very active organising film festivals and celebrations including the most recent attendance at the DSA Christmas Market.
Ambassador Meron has a long and distinguished diplomatic career which started some 30 years ago with a posting to Cyprus and has led via many countries and postings to his most recent move to Prague earlier this year.  Ambassador Meron is well informed about Rotary, his father was the President of Rotary Club Jerusalem and he was taken to meetings by his father on numerous occasions. In the spirit of Rotary, the club welcomed members of all faiths.
Following the presentation, RCPI members asked numerous questions ranging from the political situation to the formation of startup companies. RCPI President, Helen Noll,  and Members thanked the Ambassador for his very interesting and enlightening presentation and wished him and his wife success in the Czech Republic.
Israel, Czech Republic and Rotary - Ambassador Meron explains Christian Noll 2017-11-27 23:00:00Z 0

“Hi, I am Gary Powers, the son of Gary Powers”

Posted by Florian Korallus on Nov 11, 2017
On Monday October 10, we had the visit of Gary Powers junior, whose father was the pilot of the U2 spyplane that was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960, who was captured and subsequently exchanged for a Soviet spy who had been apprehended in the U.S. Gary made a great presentation about the event, which would also define his own life, the historical context including some myth busting, showed video and photo material. The event has been captured both in various books and in the recent movie Bridge of Spies (the title referring to the exchange that took place over the famous Glienicker Bridge between Berlin and Potsdam). Much more importantly, Gary has made it his life’s mission to educate the public, and especially the “young public”, all over the world about the Cold War, the historical context, the circumstances that led to it and how it came to sustain that delicate but dangerous balance for so long. He has worked with both private and public, educational and commercial  institutions, museums etc. in the Americas and Europe. He is now on a trip through Europe, with official invitations to Prague, Berlin and Warsaw.
Following his presentation, lively discussions evolved to which many participants contributed their observations and personal memories of the time of the Cold War, obviously from both sides of the former Iron Curton. How important it is to keep the memories of that period alive and not leave it to the history books!
“Hi, I am Gary Powers, the son of Gary Powers” Florian Korallus 2017-11-10 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps 2017

Good news for Indian food lovers!  Indian Food Helps! is back and will be delivering wonderful Indian lunches to offices around the city for two weeks commencing 30 October 2017.
The Curry House restaurant which has been voted the Best place in Prague for Indian Food is again preparing your lunches.  With new dishes on the menu and no delivery charges, life will taste good for you soon.
Read all about it HERE
Indian Food Helps 2017 2017-10-22 22:00:00Z 0

Sananim Gala Auction

The 27th Sananim Charity Gala takes place on Saturday the 21st October at the Intercontinental Hotel in Prague. Many generous individuals and organisations have donated prizes for the charity auction which will take place on the night. Here is a selection - come and join in the Gala and place a bid at the auction.
 
Donations for auction
 
InterContinental Hotel
Hotel Stay in Suite 
InterContinental Hotel
ZP Brunch
Hotel Stay 
weekend stay w breakfast, Germany 
Hotel Stay 
2 nights B+B Hotel Laurin in Bolzano Italy
AJETO Glassworks/LASVIT in Lindava/nový Bor
Glass Vase 
Jana
Painting
COncert tickets 26/10
2 tickets Nocholas Cave @O2
L'Occitane 
L'Occitane gift box
Sara McAulay
Personal training
Slim Diet 
Box of Nutritional Meals for 7 days 
Nama Fiji
skincare
NSC
Isagenix system
African Safari
min 2,500 USD
DBC
2 Nights stay in Jenstejnska
NSC
Go Pro Hero 5 black 
NSC
Black handbag
NSC 
Red handbag
DH & LH
Lisa Hoffman frargrance jewelry
NSC
Echo Dot
NSC
Magical Christmas Wand to light tree
NSC
watch
NSC
LA Kings offficial signed hockey jersey
Dejvice Dent
dental exam & voucher
Fernanda Escobar Illoldi & Krzysztof
Spanish products (wine, gourmet food, olive oil)
Jenny Day 
Prague Green City Guide
Jaroslav Endrst
Segway Tour 3 hours for 2
Jaroslav Endrst, Galard Tailor 
bespoke shirt from Galard Tailor 
Ivan Galik
Walking tour for 2
Ivan Galik
Walking tour for 2
SANANIM social services
Pig Fest
SANANIM social services
Dinner for 4
SANANIM social services
Goose Fest
Pepa Streda 
Photo 
A & J
Hugo car share voucher
JL
IT services voucher
Horse riding lesson
1 hour Sr. William Wallace with trainor
Golf
Greens fee for 2 Mlada Boleslav
Restaurant Certificates
Curry House 
Linda
Old St. Andrews Club House Whiskey
SANANIM social services
Blue tea set
SANANIM social services
Xmas wreath
SANANIM social services
Angel statue
SANANIM social services
3x star candle (for tombola?)
Lobkowicz 
Lobkowicz voucher for membership 
Congress Centre
Rocky Musical Tickets for 2 
 
Sananim Gala Auction 2017-10-16 22:00:00Z 0

News and fake news....

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 10, 2017
Thomas Kent, President of Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty,  joined us at one of our club meetings where he explored how news is assimilated, edited, influenced, distributed and digested.
Tom joined Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty on June 27, 2016 after a career of more than 40 years at The Associated Press. Most recently, he was AP’s standards editor, responsible for the fairness and accuracy of the news agency’s content in text, photos, video, audio, interactives, and on social networks. Tom outlined how news gathering has changed and how forces with vested interests exert influence on audiences through many and varied channels. 'Even a picture is not always what it may be reported to be', said Tom, as he showed examples of images which have been used to support unfounded stories. He explained the construct and mission of Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty and in particular that both organisations set out to cover local news in countries where state media bias is rife. Tom's presentation was revealing and truly thought provoking - knowing which source to trust and how to cross check information is a skill which is ever more important in the information age where news is disseminated through many channels within seconds of the event happening anywhere in the world.
Helen Noll, RCPI President, thanked Tom Kent for his truly insightful presentation to the club.
News and fake news.... Christian Noll 2017-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

Rotary international - it really is INTERNATIONAL

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 10, 2017
We are privileged to be visited by Rotarians from many different countries and so it was at our recent club meeting where Igor joined us representing his club in Macedonia. Helen Murphy Noll, President of RCPI, welcomed Igor and exchanged banners as a sign of Rotary friendship.
Rotary international - it really is INTERNATIONAL Christian Noll 2017-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI: Going from strength to strength

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 10, 2017
After a busy summer RCPI is back to a regular programme of meetings and events. This includes awarding members who joined recently with their official RCPI membership certificates. Casey presented the certificates to Jan, Anthony, Daniel and Frank as Rotarians and Friends attending our regular Monday meeting applauded.
RCPI: Going from strength to strength Christian Noll 2017-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

A new member joins RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 10, 2017
It was a proud moment both for Jan and the club when Sanan presented the Rotary Pin, formally welcoming him as a member of Rotary and of our Club. In her capacity as chair of the Membership Committee, Fernanda set out what it means to be a Rotarian and reminding all present that Service above self is the foundation of the organisation. Jan led all members in reciting the 4 way test and Casey presented Jan with his membership certificate. Rotarians applauded as Jan thanked Sanan for being his sponsor and the club for welcoming him.
Fernanda, Jan, Sanan, Casey
A new member joins RCPI Christian Noll 2017-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

Trees for life by video link from UK and Zambia

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 10, 2017
In a first for RCPI we were joined yesterday evening by Dan Sokell and Matthias De Beenhouwer via video conference from the UK and Zambia. Dan and Matthias are part of WeForest, our partner organisation in the Trees for Life initiative. Dan and Matthias explained to Rotarians and friends how WeForest is engaged in sustainable reforestation. Planting trees really makes a long term difference not only to the planet but also very directly to the lives of the farmers and their families in Zambia. For more information go to our Trees for Life Page
Trees for life by video link from UK and Zambia Christian Noll 2017-10-09 22:00:00Z 0

Going for a hike....

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 07, 2017
We really missed our dear friends from RC Bristol this weekend who could not attend the annual hike due to the cancellation of their flight. The hike took place nevertheless and we explored monasteries and ruined castles as well as beautiful Cesky Krumlov. The weather was kind to us and the autumn created memorable backdrops as woodlands displayed their green, orange and fiery red foliage. As usual on the Rotary Club walks we chatted and laughed not only whilst walking but also late into the night with good Czech beer and maybe just one or two Becherovka.
 
To see more pictures go to the ALBUM
Going for a hike.... Christian Noll 2017-10-06 22:00:00Z 0

SANANIM 27th Anniversary Gala

Following the great success of the past years the Sananim Anniversary Gala will once again take place on the 21st October at the Zlata Praha Restaurant on the top floor of the Prague Intercontinental Hotel. Naomi is, as in previous years, organising the event with her team of helpers with the proceeds donated Sananim. The album of pictures from the spectacular event last year is available here.
 
For more information and tickets click HERE
SANANIM 27th Anniversary Gala 2017-09-02 22:00:00Z 0

Letter from the District Governor

Posted on Sep 01, 2017
Yulo Tomka mentions RCPI in his latest letter to all clubs. We have teamed up with the District in the Trees for Life initiative and all clubs in District 2240 have been invited to join us in planting trees in Zambia in association with WeForest, our NGO partner. You can read Yulo's letter by clicking on the links (English Letter) (Appendix) (Trees for Life invitation).
 
President RCPI 2017/18
Letter from the District Governor 2017-08-31 22:00:00Z 0

This is a Fairytale

Posted on Aug 27, 2017
That was the feeling of 16 children from the Zatek orphanage who enjoyed a day out at the Internationales Märchenfilm-Festival "fabulix" in Annaberg-Bucholtz thanks to Rotary Club Prague International.
Rotarians Filip Albrecht and Sanan Phutrakul organised the visit which turned out to be 'the best trip ever' as described by the children on their return.
Filip's inspiration founded the festival and he organised many special surprises for the children which started with a Czech viewing of “Korunni Princ” in the main square. They met a real life Princess and Prince (Alexandra and Georg zur Lippe) in a private reception and the Mayor, Rolf Schmidt, who presented the children each with a bag full of gifts to remember the day by.  A highlight was the the “Merchen Bergparade” followed by the closing show of the festival and as well as a tour of the Barrandov Studio museum dedicated to fairy tale costumes. For many of the children that had not only been a spectacular day but also their first excursion to to Germany adding another highlight to an already packed day.
The children had more food, ice cream and cookies than they could eat and in the end were a very very happy and tired bunch as the coach made its way back to Prague.
Rotary - making a difference to the lives of others.
 
 
 
 
This is a Fairytale 2017-08-26 22:00:00Z 0

An Actor Calls

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 21, 2017
Bob Boudreaux joined Rotarians and friends at our meeting this week as our guest speaker. Bob started his career in the US military, however decided that addressing audiences was more his thing and, after leaving his post as a helicopter flight instructer, took on a post as television news reporter and anchorman. After 13 years as Channel 13 news anchor, it was a chance meeting with Guy Roberts at the Huston Shakespeare festival which changed his career direction once more and Bob joined The Prague Shakespeare Company where he has continued his acting career.
"Shakespeare in English language is not a new idea." said Bob, "After the plague struck in England all theatres were closed whilst those in central Europe remained open. A number of actors traveled to Bohemia in order to make a living and brought with them English language Shakespeare".
Bob enthralled the audience with an explanation of the cadence of Shakespeare "10 beats a line - just like the human heart when spoken" and the background to a production which Bob is producing which has a very personal connection: Man of La Mancha written by Dale Wasserman. Bob told the audience that this play was the career tipping point for him from flight instructor to actor. "I saw the play whilst on a short leave from the services. It just captured me as it has captured audiences ever since. A play within a play within a play. A story of transformation which is as applicable now as it was when first written. It is all about recognising the good in others and transforming." Our very own RCPI Member, Linda, has recently published an interview with Lane Davis who start in the production.
Man of La Mancha plays from the 6th of October in Prague.
Bob is a former Rotarian and Paul Harris fellow.
 
An Actor Calls Christian Noll 2017-08-20 22:00:00Z 0

2017 Burgerfest

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 19, 2017
Rotary Club Prague International will once again be selling Burgers for Charity at the annual Burgerfest held at the Holesovice exhibition ground. Apart from burgers there is live entertainment which makes for a great day out sampling the best Prague has to offer. We are looking for volunteers to help cook the burgers, serve and to assist with the logistics.
The slots are:
Friday 8th September - 6pm to 9pm - Setup of stall
Saturday 9th September - 9:30 to 14 - Burger cooking and selling
Saturday 9th September - 14 to 18 - Burger cooking and selling
Saturday 9th September - 18 to 22 - Burger cooking and selling
Sunday 10th September - 10 to 14 - Burger cooking and selling
Sunday 10th September - 14 to 17 - Burger cooking and selling
Sunday 10th September - 17 to 21 - Burger cooking and selling (plus taking down stall)
Plus any other offers of help such as drivers to collect burger buns.
 
Volunteers please email PR@RCPI.CLUB indicating when you can help.
2017 Burgerfest Christian Noll 2017-08-18 22:00:00Z 0

A home for families

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 14, 2017
Gabriela Selinger and Pavel Kholl joined our recent club meeting to present the work of SKP HOPO, Středisko křesťanské pomoci Horní Počernice, the Christian Aid Centre which provides accommodation and care for displaced families. Gabriela explained how easy it is to fall into a poverty trap and how families are often separated in the process of being placed in the social system, SKP HOPO differentiates by offering accommodation for entire families so that the family unit remains together at this crucial time of stress and change.
Over 3000 individuals have been helped by the centre since its founding in 1999, with around about 80 people in residence at any one time. The foundation has been restoring and adding to the large historic castle in Praze-Horních Počernicích which was  used as an orphanage from 1927 to 1947 and then underwent a series of ownership changes including nationalisation.
"There are many stories of people who need help due to being made homeless", said Gabriela, "some are due to a series of incidents which build up over time and result in a family loosing its home. It is out mission to assist and help through housing and other means to put these families back on their feet."
The maximum stay for a family at the foundation is one year as dictated by Czech law. Club members asked Gabriela and Pavel many questions and if you would like more information about the work of the foundation please contact Gabriela by EMAIL.
 
A home for families Christian Noll 2017-08-13 22:00:00Z 0

Trees for life

Posted by Christian Noll on Jul 21, 2017
Rotary District of Czech Republic & Slovakia and Rotary Club Prague International have partnered with WeForest to plant trees in Zambia. WeForest have a long track record of successful projects which not only involve planting trees but also creating a sustainable eco system to benefits the community as well as the planet.
 
WeForest has been operating for many years and has a successful reforestation programme in the Luanshya district of Zambia. The project is based on sustainable reforestation which includes not only planting trees but also delivering benefits for the local community so that the trees become part of the income and livelihood of the community. Our participation was prompted by Iain Riseley, RI President, who challenged all Rotary Clubs to plant one tree for every member by April 28th 2018 - we have exceeded that target already and have raised funds for over 1700 trees
To find out more and join in click HERE
Trees for life Christian Noll 2017-07-20 22:00:00Z 0

Amelie - Humanising cancer care

Posted by Christian Noll on Jul 10, 2017
Václav Špáňa and Jitka Polanská presented the work of Amelie to members of the club at our recent meeting.
In 2005 Pavla Tichá was diagnosed with cancer and rather than giving up she realised that whilst he medical treatment was very good, the support patients require to cope with the holistic aspects of cancer were lacking. She founded Amelie, a charity which sets out to humanise the system of cancer care by providing assistance to patients and their families.
Václav and Jitka explained that the organisation relies principally on volunteers to meet and help cancer sufferers. This can be the simplest gesture such as  being the smiling person in the oncology clinic waiting room offering patients the chance to talk with a cup of tea and a biscuit. Hundreds of volunteers throughout the Czech republic give up their time to help patients. Jidka commented: 'it is a very rewarding experience not only for the patient but also for the volunteer'. Every volunteer is professionally trained to give assistance  and advice of a non-clinical nature. Whilst Amelie receives generous grants from public funds, the organisation is looking to broaden the funding base through voluntary donations from the public as well as other funding bodies.
 
 
 
Amelie - Humanising cancer care Christian Noll 2017-07-09 22:00:00Z 0

Supporting Good Causes

Posted by Christian Noll on Jul 02, 2017
Raising funds for and supporting good causes is the heart of what Rotary, and Rotary Club Prague International, sets out to achieve. Our members work on many different initiatives to raise funds which we proudly donate to good causes. We have started a page on our website to celebrate the charitable donations made. Take a look - there are many more to add! In 2017 alone we donated over CZK 1.2m.
 
Supporting Good Causes Christian Noll 2017-07-01 22:00:00Z 0

Helen Noll - RCPI President 2017/18

Posted on Jul 01, 2017
At the last club meeting of the Rotary Year 2016/17 Sanan Phutrakul handed over his presidency of RCPI to Helen Noll. Helen was welcomed as the new President of our club by MD. Ilja Chocholouš, Deputy District Govenor of district 2240.
Helen spoke to the club members of her vision and strategy for the club. She spoke of inclusion and changing the demographics of the club. Paul Harris founded Rotary at the age of 36 and we need to embrace and attract younger members to the club as well as continuing to encourage more women to join and contribute to Rotary. Rotary has many values but at it's core is service, to those who really need it most and this year I will be looking to get my hands dirty in the name of service and make a difference. As the largest club in our district -  where we lead, others are sure to follow. Helen has written a letter of welcome to Members and those interested in finding out more about Rotary.
Helen Noll - RCPI President 2017/18 2017-06-30 22:00:00Z 0

Birthday presents..... for charity

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 30, 2017
In 1911, Service above Self was approved as the Rotary motto at the second convention of the National Association of Rotary Clubs of America, in Portland, Oregon. One of our members really took this to heart when, on her birthday, Linda Štucbartová asked her friends not to give her presents or flowers but to pool the money they would have spent to make a charitable donation.
This idea caught on and on this occasion Linda's husband celebrated his birthday in a similar manner. The result: a donation of CZK 15,000 which was presented through Rotary by Linda to Jeanne Bočková of the Centre for Talented Minds. Jeanne came to our recent club meeting to receive the cheque and thanked Linda and her husband for the generous donation.
 
The communist system brutally suppressed any elites, gifted children education and individualized approach to learning. This legacy still affects the educational system in the Czech Republic.  While there are many institutions helping with inclusion and children with special needs, the opportunities for gifted are very limited.
CTM aims to motivate talented hardworking young minds in Central Europe to excellence in education; help prepare students for admission to university studies at home and abroad and Create opportunities for the professional development of teachers and instructors.
 
Birthday presents..... for charity Christian Noll 2017-06-29 22:00:00Z 0

Time to say nashledanou

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 29, 2017
Our Rotary Exchange students will be returning to their home countries at the end of this month. At the last club meeting the students recounted the positive experiences and friendships they have made during their stay with RCPI members and how valuable the experience has been to their lives.
RCPI has a very active student exchange programme which gives young people from our region the chance to live in another country as well as students sponsored by other clubs to experience life in the Czech Republic. If you would like to know more about the programme please contact youth@rcpi.club
Uea-angkun Rattanayan, Anusri Arulmozhi,Laura Chironi with RCPI President Sanan Phutrakul
 
 
Time to say nashledanou Christian Noll 2017-06-28 22:00:00Z 0
Rotary International - Themes for 2017/18 Christian Noll 2017-06-25 22:00:00Z 0

Four Paul Harris Fellows!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 25, 2017
Four members of RCPI were awarded Paul Harris Fellowships for their contribution to the Rotary Foundation.

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of US$1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. It was established in 1957 to show appreciation for and encourage substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. 

Karin receives her Paul Harris Fellow recognition


Sanan receives his Paul Harris Fellow recognition
Andreas receives his Paul Harris Fellow recognition
Christian receives his Paul Harris Fellow recognition
 
Four Paul Harris Fellows! Christian Noll 2017-06-24 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI receives Rotary Significant Achievement Award

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 25, 2017
MD. Ilja Chocholouš, Deputy District Govenor of district 2240 presented Sanan Phutrakul, President of Rotary Club Prague International, with the Significant Achievement Award for the contribution to Rotary in the year 2016/16. RCPI has grown as a club, raised thousands for charity and led the way in transforming the club into an organisation where like minded people come together to do good whilst having fun. The President's citation is a recognition of the very significant achievements in different aspects of Rotary.
RCPI receives Rotary Significant Achievement Award Christian Noll 2017-06-24 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI donates to Charity

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 19, 2017
The recent Dragon Boat Charity Challenge was a huge success and raised over 500,000 CZK for charities. A huge vote of thanks was given by members of the club to Peter Klima and the Czech Dragon Boat Association for the tremendous support without which the event would not have been possible. RCPI would also like to thank all the companies, teams and clubs who participated - you raised the funds which will change lives. Thank You.
 
This week Rotary Club Prague International presented the receiving charities with their donation certificates:
CZK 50,000 received by Lucie Hnojnová on behalf of  APLA Jižní Čechy, z.ú.
 
CZK 180,000 received by Zuzana Baudysova on behalf of Nadace Nase Dite
 
CZK 100,000 received by Marie Svobodová on behalf of VDV
 
CZK 140,000 received by Tereza Sobotova on behalf of Zivot 90
 
RCPI also donated CZK 40,000 to Muzy Detem
RCPI donates to Charity Christian Noll 2017-06-18 22:00:00Z 0

Up at Dawn...

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 17, 2017
Twenty two Members and Friends met up at 3:30am this morning with their bicycles to start the annual Rotary Club Prague International dawn cycle ride. On what is nearly the longest day the possy cycled around a deserted Prague on a tour specially devised by organiser, Petr Smejcky. The tour took a route to parts of Prague which were new to many members as well as to some of the best viewpoints from where the cyclists observed the city slowly waking up.
On the return to Mala Strana, Cafe Limonade opened their doors early to welcome the hungry team. Petr organised a quiz which was enjoyed by all as they munched their way through breakfast. The event raised CZK 7000 for charity.
 
Up at Dawn... Christian Noll 2017-06-16 22:00:00Z 0

A new home for RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 08, 2017
Our regular meeting venue has moved to the Holiday Inn Prague Congress Centre. Many thanks to Roman Straub for hosting us.
The full address is:
Holiday Inn Congress Centre Na Pankráci 1684/15, 140 00 Praha 4.
Located beside the Congress Centre.
Nearest Metro: Vyšehrad, Line C (Red Line)
A new home for RCPI Christian Noll 2017-06-07 22:00:00Z 0

2016/17 - an outstanding Rotary year

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 02, 2017
As the Rotary year draws to a close, RCPI president Sanan Phutrakul addressed the members at our recent meeting. "It has been an outstanding year" commented Sanan, reflecting on the many achievements of the club. RCPI raised over CZK 1.2m for charity through a wide range of events which culminated in the annual Dragon Boat Charity Challenge which raised over CZK 500,000 on one day.
Many new members have joined the club and we have bid some farewell as they have moved away. We have enjoyed social events as well as many occasions where we have come together to raise funds including selling mulled wine, Burger fest, members for members parties and of course the Sananim Gala Dinner.
Our aim is to be awarded a Rotary Presidential Citation for the great work we have done throughout the year." Sanan presented the goals and targets which the club has to meet by the end of June 2017 in order to achieve a citation. "We are on track in many respects and just need a little bit of a push in some areas where we are just short of achieving the goal."
Helen Noll will take on the role of RCPI President for the Rotary Year 2017/18.
2016/17 - an outstanding Rotary year Christian Noll 2017-06-01 22:00:00Z 0

Thoughts from a student....

Posted by Christian Noll on May 30, 2017
Laura has been a Rotary Exchange Student with RCPI for the past 9 months. Sanan and Radka are her host 'parents' and Laura has integrated into the Czech way of life including schooling. Here are her thoughts about being an Exchange Student:
 
 
Laura speaks to Helen Noll
Thoughts from a student.... Christian Noll 2017-05-29 22:00:00Z 0

Youth Exchange Update

Posted by Martin Sebek on May 21, 2017
Our club currently hosts three students, two girls and one boy. One of the girls is from India and the second is from Italy while the boy comes from Thailand. We have also three Czech students that are out in the world being hosted by Rotarians.
 
The students in the whole district 2240 (Czech and Slovak) just finished a two week Euro trip together and are slowly preparing for the return to their home countries. Its a tough time for the students, with separation of close friendships that they have made with the other students and the host families.  But  the good thing is that many of these friendships are for life so most of them will keep in touch and meet again. 
 
At this moment preparations (paperwork for Visa application) are going on for next school year 2017/2018, where we will be sending one Czech girl to Canada and we will be hosting one boy from US. 
 
We also have a family exchange student, a girl that will be leaving for Taiwan first part of the summer and spend the second part of the summer by hosting a Taiwanese girl here in Czech Republic.
 
Youth Exchange Update Martin Sebek 2017-05-20 22:00:00Z 0

Points mean Prizes

Posted by Christian Noll on May 19, 2017
At our recent club meeting Gerry Tipple awarded members with Activity Point Certificates in recognition of their participation in club activities. RCPI, as one of the most innovative clubs, has introduced a programme which awards points to members for participating in club activities. For example attending a meeting will gain a member one point. There are many other ways to be awarded points including organising events, making donations, participating in committees and many more. The more a member engages in Rotary activities the more points are awarded.
You may ask - "what does one do with points?" Each point is equivalent to $1 which is donated on behalf of the member to The Rotary Foundation. The funding for the programme is generated through the donations made at meetings held throughout the year. Once 1000 points are accumulated, the member will be eligible for a Paul Harris Fellow recognition. So, points really do mean prizes!
You can read all about the Activity Points Programme HERE
Points mean Prizes Christian Noll 2017-05-18 22:00:00Z 0

Youth Exchange Euro Tour

Posted by Christian Noll on May 19, 2017
Exchange students Laura and Anusri joined 85 other Rotary International Yourh Exchange students on a tour of Europe. The Euro Tour is part of the Youth Exchange Programme where young people from another country are hosted by Rotarians and live, learn and attend school as part of a family. The programme is very active in our District and is seen as one of the most successful Youth Exchange programmes in the world.
The Euro Tour took the 85 students from Prague to Paris and on to Spain. From Barcelona they crossed by ship to Italy where they enjoyed the sights of Rome, Florence, Pompai and Venice. "The whole trip was just an amazing experience" said Laura, "we learnt so much about the history and culture of Europe as well as about ourselves - two weeks on a tour bus is a good way to get to know one another!" For Anusri the trip was the highlight of the exchange: "I had to pinch myself to check that I am not in a dream. We cried when we had to say good-bye to our fellow students and guides."
If you are interested to find out more about the Rotary International Youth Exchange Programme please contact us by email: youth@rcpi.club or click HERE
Youth Exchange Euro Tour Christian Noll 2017-05-18 22:00:00Z 0

Neo Liberalism in an unstable world

Posted by Christian Noll on May 16, 2017
Mr. David Langwallner provoked thoughts and comments with his interesting lecture to Rotarians and Guests at our meeting this week. He used his native Ireland as an example of how economic policies can fundamentally alter the trajectory of a country. David argued: "Capitalism is being destroyed by neo liberalism" because the basic safety nets of a decent society are eroded away and thus quash the entrepreneurship of the individual to try new ventures in the knowledge that failure is a step towards success. "Small businesses are not nurtured in this system", said David as he complemented the Czech Republic for maintaining a system where the small shop and entrepreneur continued to thrive.
As society strives for more materialism, David suggested that in the future we will have to make do with less, however whilst not sacrificing quality of life. "What's wrong with being nice to each other" David  concluded, expressing values of community, collaboration and an approach where individuals care, not only about themselves but also about the society in which they live and work.

David Langwallner is Lecturer Professor at the Honourable Society of The Kings Inns in Constitutional Law (Irish Bar) and Distinguished Senior Lecturer at the Anglo American University.
 

Mr. David Langwallner will speak to us about neo liberalism and development - an unstable world.

David Langwallner is Lecturer Professor at the Honourable Society of The Kings Inns in Constitutional Law (Irish Bar) and Distinguished Senior Lecturer at the Anglo American University.

- See more at: http://rotarypragueinternational.org/event/regular-club-meeting-35/#sthash.t9nEC8aR.dpuf

Mr. David Langwallner will speak to us about neo liberalism and development - an unstable world.

David Langwallner is Lecturer Professor at the Honourable Society of The Kings Inns in Constitutional Law (Irish Bar) and Distinguished Senior Lecturer at the Anglo American University.

- See more at: http://rotarypragueinternational.org/event/regular-club-meeting-35/#sthash.t9nEC8aR.dpuf

Mr. David Langwallner will speak to us about neo liberalism and development - an unstable world.

David Langwallner is Lecturer Professor at the Honourable Society of The Kings Inns in Constitutional Law (Irish Bar) and Distinguished Senior Lecturer at the Anglo American University.

- See more at: http://rotarypragueinternational.org/event/regular-club-meeting-35/#sthash.t9nEC8aR.dpuf
Neo Liberalism in an unstable world Christian Noll 2017-05-15 22:00:00Z 0

The 8th Charity Dragon Boat Festival was another triumph

Posted by Christian Noll on May 13, 2017
27 teams entered the Rotary Charity Dragon Boat Challenge and competed in the name of charity on the Valtava river in Prague. The teams were made up from clubs, societies, organisations and companies from the Prague region including Rotary clubs. Good natured rivalry and a determination to win spurred on the paddlers whose competence and confidence increased with each heat. However it was not all about winning - the event raised substantial sums for the three charities which were selected as the beneficiaries from the 2017 event: ŽIVOT 90, an organisation providing a wide range of services for senior citizens, Nadace Naše Dítě who offer much needed help and support for many children in very difficult circumstances and Výbor dobré vůle (VDV) whose main purpose is to help disabled, abandoned and discriminated against people to integrate into society. A big THANK YOU has to also go to Peter Klima and the Czech Dragon Boat Association for their kind help and assistance without which this event would not be possible. The full results are available at: http://www.dragonboat.cz/vysledky/187/
The 8th Charity Dragon Boat Festival was another triumph Christian Noll 2017-05-12 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI helps Mathilda Foundation

Posted by Christian Noll on Mar 26, 2017
The Mathilda foundation, a registered charity,  was founded in 2010 and its mission is to support individuals with severely impaired vision. Though an individual Member's donation RCPI was able to channel 10,000 CZK to the Foundation to help with their work assisting the blind and partially sighted in the Czech Republic. Luboš Krapka from the foundation thanked RCPI in the name of the people they help for our excellent support.
(Picture: Mathilda volunteer training guide dogs)
RCPI helps Mathilda Foundation Christian Noll 2017-03-25 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI receives Membership Development Award

Rotary Club Prague International was presented with the membership Development Award 2016/17 by Štěpán de Wolf  the district Govenor for Czech republic and Slovakia. (Disctrict 2240).
Receiving the award on behalf of the club are Sanan(right) and Fernanda (middle). The award is given for excellence in membership recruitment and the management of membership within the club.
RCPI receives Membership Development Award 2017-03-25 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI helps Canine Rescue

Posted by Casey Holt on Mar 24, 2017
Members of Rotary Club Prague International, along with Zdeněk Střžek, owner of Bejzment Burger Pub and also the promoter of the Jack Daniel’s BurgerFest in Prague, visited Psí útulek Trója to deliver several large bags of quality dog food and a pet carrier. This donation came from the proceeds of RCPI’s participation in BurgerFest 2016.

Psí útulek Trója is the city-owned dog shelter for Prague, and cares for 120 or more dogs at any moment, with sometimes more than 200 dogs coming through the facility in a single month. In 2016, the shelter cared for more than 2,000 dogs, and  the Prague animal protection service reached the milestone of having processed the adoption of 80,000 animals (dogs, cats and others) since it opened in 1993.
 
Dogs end up at Psí útulek Trója for various reasons. Some are stray dogs found wandering the Prague streets, often because irresponsible owners abandon them. Most come from owners who, for different reasons, no longer can or will keep a dog. According to Mr. Marcel Kovářík, a very skilled and caring dog attendant, who provided a complete and informative tour, most dogs are left by people who are going into retirement.
 
When a dog arrives, it is checked for fleas, ticks and other parasites, washed, and given a thorough examination by a veterinarian. Any medical conditions that can be safely and effectively undertaken to bring a dog back to good health are performed.
 
The dogs are housed in various sections of the facility according to size – small, medium and large – and dogs who have been outside for most of their lives are provided with comfortable shelter in outside pens. Very aggressive dogs are housed separately from the main population until such time as they lose their aggression through training and good treatment.
 
All dogs at the shelter are on offer for adoption, and stay until they are either adopted or their health collapses. “A dog may be here for three hours or for three years,” Mr. Kovářík explained. The shelter does not put animals to sleep unless they can no longer live a good life.
 
Dog are not the only animals kept at Psí útulek Trója – the shelter also gets an occasional pig, sheep, horses, exotic birds (including the peacocks witnessed on the property), quite a few snakes and lizards, and more. But not cats, which are kept at another facility, Útulek Měcholupy.
 
As you can imagine, it is not inexpensive to take care of more than 100 dogs and other animals every day, while also giving tours, promoting adoptions, and sending officers out to catch abandoned animals. When Zed Střžek suggested Psí útulek Trója as the designated recipient of the funds that RCPI would generate at BurgerFest, we were very happy to cooperate. Our ability to generate those funds was made greater when Mr. Střžek offered to let the club participate at BurgerFest without having to pay the participation fee, since RCPI is also a non-profit, with all-volunteer staff.
 
Nearly half of the RCPI members participated during the 2-day BurgerFest event, organized by co-chairs Christian Noll, Mamun Hassan and Casey Holt. Everyone enjoyed the days and the event, and the RCPI board has voted to make participation in it one of the club’s annual efforts. We are welcomed by Mr. Střžek and BurgerFest, and now that the logistics of being burger vendors have been worked out, we look forward to raising even more money for a good cause in future years.
RCPI helps Canine Rescue Casey Holt 2017-03-23 23:00:00Z 0

Roman - Welcome to RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Mar 20, 2017
Rotary Club Prague International welcomes Roman as a new member of the club. Nelly (left) sponsored Roman to become a member and will coach and mentor him through the next months as the whole club welcomes him to Rotary. Fernanda (right), The Chair of the Membership Committee of RCPI, welcomed Roman to the club and wished him well. Roman intends to actively participate in club activities and we are all delighted to welcome him.
Roman - Welcome to RCPI Christian Noll 2017-03-19 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI at PETS

Posted by Helen Noll on Mar 20, 2017

On Friday 17th & Saturday 18th I attended District 2240 PETS training in Olomounc. This is to prepare all us up and coming Presidents to be efficient and follow Rotary protocols.  Not only President Elects but District Governor Elects, and Assistant District Governors, in all about 150 attended the conference from all over the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

We met up on Friday evening for a meal, a chance to introduce ourselves to those seated near us. Saturday the conference was kicked off early to a full conference room.  We were given talks on how to attract new members, especially younger members and keep fees low to encourage those who have vocational jobs, who do caring work to join Rotary, these are the members who are most likely to volunteer and that is a very valuable contribution, more so than just putting your hand in your pocket and producing some cash. Rotary is much more than simply business networking.

We discussed many issues, a number of Clubs presented their projects in the hope to inspire others to do similar.  Many focused on the wellbeing of children: at home and abroad, providing specialist play equipment and medical support for families who have a child with extreme special needs.  I spoke with Hana who is running a project in Malawi, 'Happy Classrooms' – encouraging children to attend school and teaching teachers how to keep children in school when poverty usually demands they leave and find paid work.  All this possible through the Global Grant programme of the Rotary Foundation.

We discussed the District's finances and where our contributions go.  What the District does with this money and what funds local Clubs can use for specialist projects.  The Administration of Clubs, communication with committee chairs and other useful functional tools.

Prague International is the biggest club in the District, it is also the only English speaking club, whilst there are other 'International' clubs the tend to speak a mixture of English/Czech/German.  There is a lot of translating going on – especially for me at the conference, as I don't speak much Czech and I need to thank Helena for taking the time to help me out.

I was left knowing what is expected of me as President and having met some interesting people who are doing great things in the name of Rotary.  Key comments were to increase the number of younger members, keep membership fees affordable, especially to people who work in low paid vocational work.  We need a variety of members and should take members from all walks of life.

RCPI at PETS Helen Noll 2017-03-19 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI meets the Italian Ambassador

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 08, 2017
This week's RCPI club meeting was kindly hosted by His Excellency the Ambassador Aldo Amati at the Italian Embassy in Prague. Ambassador Amati addressed the Rotarians and commented on a number of very topical issues such as the plight of the refugees coming to Europe and the special burden Italy and Greece have due to their geographic position whereby both countries become the primary countries of entry to the European Union. Ambassador Amati was most engaging as he moved on to other topics including the Italian Embassy in Prague. RCPI President, Sanan Phutrakul, thanked the ambassador on behalf of all the members of the club for a most interesting and informative evening.
RCPI meets the Italian Ambassador Christian Noll 2017-02-07 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI is number ONE .... twice!

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 04, 2017
Rotary District Govenor, Stepan de Wolf, presented RCPI the award for the highest Rotary Foundation contribution per member out of the 72 clubs in the District. The foundation is the charitable arm of Rotary. It taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into , such as and . Foundation empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact. Strong , a stellar , and a unique mean that the foundation make the very most of every donation. RCPI has an innovative approach to increasing donations, members receive activity points for their contribution club activities and these in turn are transformed into donations to the Foundation. RCPI President, Sanan Phutrakul, received the award on behalf of the club.
RCPI also received the award for Membership Development. This award is given to the club which has attracted the most members in the previous Rotary year. Fernanda Escobar, RCPI Membership Chair, accepted the award from DG Stepan de Wolf.
RCPI is number ONE .... twice! Christian Noll 2017-02-03 23:00:00Z 0

Brexit in a broader context - Ambassador Ed Hoeks

Ambassador Ed Hoeks of the Netherlands  joined Rotarians, visitors and friends at our recent club meetings. Following club proceedings and dinner he presented Brexit in the broader context of events both contemporary and historical. Drawing a link between the French revolution, the Russian Revolution and the rise of nationalism, he proposed that we are exiting a period of libertarianism and are entering uncertain times as nations focus inwards and on themselves rather than having themes of cooperation. Ambassador Hoeks went on to share how he had also not predicted that the UK would vote to exit the European Union and that a great partner of the Netherlands will distance itself. Of course no view of Brexit would be complete without a comment on the election of the US president and Ambassador Hoeks drew parallels by observing that the less affluent middle classes, previously silent have now shaped the course for history for years to come. His insightful remarks and observations kept the attention of the audience and some lively questions rounded off a most interesting evening.
Brexit in a broader context - Ambassador Ed Hoeks Christian Noll 2017-01-22 23:00:00Z 0

Dancing the night away....

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 20, 2017
The debutantes walzed to “My Life is Love and Pleasure” by Josef Strauss as part of the opening ceremony of the Ball der Österreicher held at the stunning Palac Zofin in Prague. Rotary Club Prague International was represented in the opening ceremony by two of our exchange students Laura Chironi, from Italy and  Anusri Aral from India who were accompanied by their Czech dance partners. Rotarians and friends danced the night away to traditional walzes and polkas as well as some rather more modern disco beats in the smaller hall of the Zofin.
Dancing the night away.... Christian Noll 2017-01-19 23:00:00Z 0

Join in!  Dragon Boat Racing for Charity

The 2017 Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is open and the races will be on the 13th May 2017. Enter a team, have fun  and raise funds for three very worthwhile Czech charities. Find out more by clicking HERE
Join in! Dragon Boat Racing for Charity 2017-01-16 23:00:00Z 0

Preserving Czech Heritage

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 16, 2017
Peter Kysel joined Members, visitors and friends at our club meeting in Prague. Peter is an experienced Investment Banker and Consultant and has been actively involved in the voluntary sector since 1986. He spoke to us in his capacity of Board member of the Friends of Czech Heritage, an organisation dedicated to preserving fine examples of Czech architecture. Peter explained that his organisation uses their funds as seed corn to leverage further fund and to set projects off on a path to completion. "Very often a relatively small sum will will demonstrate to others that the project has backing and other grant money will begin to flow" said Peter. The organisation also helps in very practical ways by organising volunteers where willing and able individuals spend time physically working on a project. "no experience necessary" explained Peter "we provide all the know how - you just have to be willing and have a pair of gloves and wellington boots". Expert consultancy to help owners of historic buildings to consider how to preserve the building whilst always bearing in mind that an ultimate purpose and use is really important. "we restore and preserve so that the building has a use. Without this it would fall into disrepair again in 5 years" said Peter. The club thanked Peter for a very interesting and enlightening talk. More at www.czechfriends.net
Peter Kyse
Preserving Czech Heritage Christian Noll 2017-01-15 23:00:00Z 0

Bowling for fun!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 09, 2017
Over 35 Rotarians and friends enjoyed an evening of bowling in Prague as part of our series of fun club meetings. Bowling, chatting and a few glasses of good Czech beer made a very enjoyable evening. It was great to have some of our exchange students and friends at the meeting which spanned an age range of 13 to over 70.
Just some of the RCPI Bowling Crowd
Bowling for fun! Christian Noll 2017-01-08 23:00:00Z 0

The 2017 Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is OPEN!

The Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is fast becoming the premier charity event of a Prague Spring. This year's event takes place on the 17th May. It’s an event that combines Team-building, Corporate social responsibility, live entertainment and family fun in one great programme. The sight of teams of highly motivated paddlers going all out for the finish line makes an exciting spectacle that draws big crowds.
We expect more than 30 teams to enter, some for fun and some to earnestly compete to win. If you are a company, a club or association or just a great group of friends, now is the time to enter your team. All the details you need in Czech and English are HERE.
 
 
The 2017 Rotary Dragon Boat Charity Challenge is OPEN! 2017-01-07 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps breaking all records

Posted by Gerry Tipple on Jan 03, 2017
The Indian Food for Indian schools project was more successful than ever in 2016.
A record 547 Indian lunches were delivered to hungry customers over 9 days during October. Thanks to additional donations from Rotarians we were able to send 250,000 Indian Rupees [94,000 Kč] to support one large primary school and an anganwadi in Rajsamand.  175 Children were helped and the school was provided with some computer equipment, classroom furniture and kitchen equipment as well as sports & music supplies.
11 More able children with good academic results from poorer families who were also given financial scholarships.
We also visited schools that were helped in 2013 and 2014 and were pleased to notice that progress had been maintained.
More pictures from our trip HERE
Indian Food Helps breaking all records Gerry Tipple 2017-01-02 23:00:00Z 0

Training in San Diego

Posted by Christian Noll on Jan 03, 2017
Irena Brichta and Stuart Amesbury from our club will be traveling to San Diego to take part as Training Leaders in the Rotary International Assembly which is Rotary's annual training meeting for incoming district governors. Irena and Stuart were trainers at the assembly last year and have the honour of having been asked back for a second year to be discussion leaders and help District Governors elect (including our own DGE, Julius Tomka (RC Banska Bystrica) share their insights, experience and knowledge with the other incoming district governors from around the world. Whilst San Diego may sound enticing, the event is hard work for the trainers who start at 6.30am to set up the workshop rooms, and do not finish until 8pm in a tightly packed programme of lectures and workshops. “Stuart and I are really looking forward to meeting the incoming DGs and their partners” said Irena, “One can really see the power of Rotary through the representation of leaders from all continents”.
A five day training program for the trainers precedes the International Assembly where the trainers familiarise themselves with the newest concepts and ideas emanating from Rotary and have an opportunity to practice the teaching sessions prior to the arrival of over 530 incoming district governors.
Training in San Diego Christian Noll 2017-01-02 23:00:00Z 0

It's Election time....

It is that time of year again for officer elections for the next Rotary year, which begins on July 1, 2017. According to the club's by-laws, the club officers are defined as follows (current holder in brackets):
 
  • The President (Sanan Phutrakul)
  • The President Elect (Helen Noll)
  • The Immediate Past President (Petr Smejcky)
  • The Secretary (Radka Rajska)
  • The Treasurer (Karin Genton L'Epee)
 
Next year, Helen becomes President and I become Immediate Past President, so we will be electing all three incoming officer positions for the Rotary Year 2017/2018. These are:
  • President Nominee (will be President Elect in 2017/18)
  • Secretary Elect (Radka will step down at the end of the current Rotary year)
  • Treasurer Elect (Karin will step down at the end of the current Rotary year)
If you would like to submit yourself as a nominee, please email president@rcpi.club . If you would like to nominate someone else, please make sure that you first get his/her consent before doing so. Please submit your nominations by January 16, 2017. Elections will take place at our club assembly on January 30, 2017 @ 18:00-20:00.
If you are considering a position as an officer and/or have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask me or any officer above.
Kindest regards,
Sanan Phutrakul
Club President 2016/17
RC Prague International
It's Election time.... 2017-01-02 23:00:00Z 0
Rainer joins RCPI as the newest Member 2017-01-01 23:00:00Z 0

Happy New Year 2017

As we look forward with high hopes and aspirations towards what 2017 will bring we, at RCPI, wish you all the very best for the new year. The world faces challenges and through Rotary Clubs such as ours we can all contribute to make the world a better place. Sometimes the small things make all the difference such as noticing and acknowledging someone less fortunate than yourself. 
 
The Rotary 4 way test provides a simple guide:
  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year 2017 2016-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

Sananim Gala Evening.... SUPERB!

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 14, 2016
 
The annual SANANIM fundraising gala evening was once a gain a great success. Great company, great food and great entertainment made a perfect evening for over 100 guests. The evening was dedicated to fundraising for SANANIM, a charity,  which  provides services in the area of prevention, treatment and re-socialization of non-alcoholic drug addictions. SANANIM has a number of different programmes including an Outreach Program where the primary goal is to find the risk users of injected non-alcoholic drugs directly in the streets, to protect them (and, at the same time, the healthy population that is in everyday contact with them) from infectious diseases, to motivate them keep them in the best social and medical state possible before they decide for abstinence.
The 26th Anniversary Gala was supported by many companies and individuals who gave donations and their time to make this event such a success. "This event is a superb example of the generosity of individuals, companies and clubs." said Naomi Sullivan-Callender who coordinated the event. "Everyone came together to increased the awareness of SANANIM and their work as well as raising a substantial sum for the organisation".
The final amount raised by the Gala event will be revealed in a ceremony where a cheque will be presented to Sananim.
See the pictures in the RCPI ALBUM
The 25th Anniversary Gala was supported by many companies and
individuals who gave donations and their time to make this event such a success. "This event would not have been possible without the support of so many individuals and organisations" said Naomi Sullivan who coordinated the event. "We have not only increased the awareness of SANANIM and their work but have also have raised a substantial sum for the organisation".
- See more at: http://rotarypragueinternational.org/Stories#sthash.B5uWcfjK.dpuf
 
Sananim Gala Evening.... SUPERB! Christian Noll 2016-11-13 23:00:00Z 0

Degustation in Praha

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 08, 2016
 
 
Our recent club meeting was dedicated to the appreciation wine and , of course, having fun together with doing good. Martin Filipec, the founder of "The Wine Society" and head sommelier Regina Chlumska guided us through a selection of red and white wines from Italy, Austria, France and Spain. Starting with a fresh and slightly acidic Gruener Veltliner  and finishing with the full bodied Puteus Salice from Puglia. The journey was one of attention to detail, explanations, however ultimately a very personal experience since no wine tastes quite the same to two indioviduals. We also learnt about leaf days, fruit days and the bio calender of days when some consider wine to be at its best or worst. A most enjoyable evening which fused great wine with great friendship in the most delightful surroundings of The Wine Society Cellar.
The Wine Society is an exclusive club whose members enjoy an exclusive wine lounge, diverse tastings and a wide selection of wines selected to be consumed for pleasure. www.winesociety.cz
 
Degustation in Praha Christian Noll 2016-11-07 23:00:00Z 0

Take off with Vaclav Havel Airport

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 25, 2016
 
"2016 will be a record year" said Jiří Kraus, referring to the number of passengers passing through Prague Airport, when he presented at a recent RCPI Club Meeting. Jiri has a long association with the airport having started as a technician working on the runway systems and is now the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vaclav Havel Airport.
Jiri explained how the airport has expanded from a single terminal back in 1937 and is now the second busiest airport in Central and Eastern Europe.
Running an airport is a complex business. More than 14,000 people work at the site of the airport and at peak times the airport can handle more than one aircraft per minute. This requires planning, coordination and a cool head. "We have to continue to update and evolve", said Jiri, commenting on the recent refurbishment of the Terminal 1 arrivals area to make it more visitor friendly as well as the installation of the new air bridges to handle the Airbus A380 which flies regularly between Prague and Dubai.
Sanan, President of RCPI, thanked Jiri for a fascinating and insightful presentation and a behind the scenes look at a facility which most of us have used at one time or another.
 
Take off with Vaclav Havel Airport Christian Noll 2016-10-24 22:00:00Z 0

Indian Food Helps!

Indian Food Helps! is back and will be delivering wonderful Indian lunches to offices around the city during the week commencing 17 October 2016.

All the proceeds from this action will go towards supporting primary schooling in rural Rajasthan. We will buy equipment for the schools, exercise books and writing materials, school uniforms, hygiene kits and pay school fees for poor families. We also arrange health checks and basic treatment for children and mothers.

One lunch can enable us to buy 2 exercise books or a workbook and pencil. Five lunches can pay for the school fees of one child for a year. All proceeds will be spent on the materials without deduction of any administration costs. Find out how to order HERE

Indian Food Helps! 2016-10-13 22:00:00Z 0

Walking Wales

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 09, 2016
 
 
Great countryside, great company, great food, great walking  and a lot of laughter. That was the formula when 9 members of RCPI joined our partner club Rotary Club Bristol Breakfast for a long weekend of walking in the Welsh countryside.
On the first day we walked part of the Wye valley way from Chepstow to the fabulous Tintern Abbey and returned along a section of Offa's Dyke.
The Black Mountains were our challenge on day two with a steep ascent however we enjoyed superb views as a reward. Of course a pub lunch was a mandatory break in the middle of the day with sampling of ales. A whole weekend in wales in October without a drop of rain - we were very lucky!
A big thank you to all our friends from Bristol who were superb hosts and organisers of a very memorable weekend.
 
Walking Wales Christian Noll 2016-10-08 22:00:00Z 0

SKODA - A private Tour

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 04, 2016
 
Cars, technology, passion, innovation and a clear strategy for the future was the message from Mr Bernhard Maier, CEO of Skoda when fourty Rotarians from RCPI and RC Bohemia visited the Skoda facilities in Mlada Boleslav. Following a very kind invitation from Florian Weymar we not only toured the museum, listened to the CEO, toured the factory but also enjoyed a superb dinner in the restaurant.
It was interesting to see the dedication and focus Skoda apply to everything they do from training the staff to innovation and of course manufacturing. Mr Maier explained that because of the product and the quality, the Skoda client is one of the most brand loyal in the industry. One can see why when visiting the factory which is meticulously organised to deliver over 1000 high quality vehicles per day. Both clubs thanked Mr Maier and Florian for their tremendous hospitality and presented Mr Maier with a gift as a token of our appreciation.
Bernhard Maier, Florian Weymar
SKODA - A private Tour Christian Noll 2016-10-03 22:00:00Z 0

Super Hot Chilli Burger!

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 25, 2016
 
A new venture for RCPI - Burgerfest!
Over a dozen Rotarians helped to make Burgerfest 2016 a weekend to remember. We created a very special burger: Pork and Apple with a variety of dressings including Mamun's super hot chilly paste. It was a runaway success with hardcore chilli fans queuing up for more. The event attracted thousands of visitors and we promoted Rotary with leaflets and of course burgers.
Our chief burger griller was our very own Casey Holt who now has at least 1000 burgers to his name!
Super Hot Chilli Burger! Christian Noll 2016-09-24 22:00:00Z 0

Light for the World

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 22, 2016
 
At a recent RCPI club meeting Prof. Martin Filipec presented his work with a charitable institution called Light for the World. It is a Non-govermental organization focusing on the prevention and treatment of blindness and the systemic support of people with disabilities in developing countries. He made us aware that there are 38 million blind people in the world and the most common causes of blindness in the developing world are cataract and trachoma. Cataract can be removed in a 10 minute operation and trachoma is entirely preventable. Light for the World has been operating since 1988 and has 181 projects in19 developing countries. In 2015 alone the organisation reached 1.3 million people. In Ethiopia for instance there are only 110 eye doctors caring for 100 million people so the work of Light for the World becomes a lifeline for thousands. Martin's energy, knowledge and enthusiasm gripped the room as he went on to explain the work of the organisation and the pros and cons of different aid models. His approach is a holistic one, not just eye surgery but also prevention, education and the creation of a sustainable infrastructure which has lasting impact. RCPI President Sanan thanked Martin for his speech and the club wishes him and his organisation all the best in their vital work.
 
 
Light for the World Christian Noll 2016-09-21 22:00:00Z 0
Sananim Anniversary Gala - 12 November 2016-09-20 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI at SANANIM

Posted by Helen Noll on Sep 06, 2016
 
RCPI Member Josef Simpartl organised a club visit to Sananim, a charity which works hard to help those overcoming drug addiction. Their mission statement includes the following phrase:
'We do not wish to walk indifferently away from those who have lost faith in themselves'
The facility we visited is above Prague 5: a centre which treats men and woman, with their families to get well after the effects of drug addiction. They learn skills along the way, making cheese from their own goats, growing vegetables and also run a cafe in Prague – Cafe Therapy!
For us they laid on some clay works, it was easy to see how this therapy can be helpful, it is relaxing but also consumes the mind, we were very quiet whilst concentrating on various bowls, plates and mugs.  In November RCPI will hold a major fund-raising event for Sananim, as we did last year and it is great to see and hear what work they are doing.  They success rate is around 70% of people being clean after one year and they are the only place in the Czech Republic that accepts broken families, they all need healing. The team at Sananim are caring and compassionate, it takes a special kind of person to work in this type of environment.
RCPI at SANANIM Helen Noll 2016-09-05 22:00:00Z 0

TEDx Prague visits RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 17, 2016
 
Matej Novak, the organiser of TEDx Prague visited our club and made a great TEDx style presentation about TEDx. Now what does this all mean? You may ask. TED was born in 1984 out of Richard Saul Wurman's observation of a powerful convergence among three fields: technology, entertainment and design. The first TED included a demo of the compact disc, the e-book and cutting-edge 3D graphics, while mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot demonstrated how to map coastlines using his developing theory of fractal geometry. TED became so popular that it spawned TEDx - locally organised events which follow the principles of TED.
 
The most important aspects of a TEDx talk is that it has to be 'an idea worth spreading' and has to be delivered in 18 minutes. There are over 30,000 talks in the free library to date originating from 133 countries.
 
Matej organises the annual TEDx Prague conference which will take place on the 30th October. The theme of this year's conference is “Ours and theirs”. Among other things, this also concerns current society-wide issues.
Sanan, RCPI President, thanked Matej for a very interesting talk and a concept 'definitely worth sharing'.
TEDx Prague visits RCPI Christian Noll 2016-08-16 22:00:00Z 0

Médecins Sans Frontières @ RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 12, 2016
 
Reena Sattar, HR Officer of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Czech republic, visited RCPI recently and introduced members and guests to the challenging and rewarding world of this very well known organisation. MSF, founded in 1971,  is an international humanitarian-aid non-governmental organization (NGO) best known for its projects in war-torn regions and developing countries facing endemic diseases. The objective is to deliver emergency medical aid quickly, effectively, and impartially.
Reena explained the work of the organisation, its origins and its values. She has been a member of MSF for many years and has worked in many countries where medical aid is desperately needed. Reena's passion for selflessly helping others in need was infectious as she told of how she worked in war torn countries, setting up hospitals and treating patients in private houses because no other facilities were available. MSF has gained huge international respect and is on many occasions the first organisation to reach a crisis zone. The impartiality of the organisation has earned it the respect and trust which allows it to operate, on many occasions treating patients  from both sides of a conflict. Reena explained: "we have a strict rule - no guns allowed inside our hospitals, and preferably no military uniforms. We treat patients as human beings not as soldiers or civilians."
Sanan, RCPI President, thanked Reena for a truly informative and passionate presentation. If you want to know more abut the work of MSF or want to offer your services please email Reena.

 

Médecins Sans Frontières @ RCPI Christian Noll 2016-08-11 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI presents Marie a Paul Harris Fellowship

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 12, 2016
 
At a recent club meeting RCPI President Sanan Puhtrakul presented Marie Jehlickova with a Paul Harris Fellowship. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of US$1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. It was established in 1957 to show appreciation for and encourage substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. 
Marie is a long standing member of RCPI and is a strong supporter of 'doing good' which she demonstrates through her continuous involvement in and support of club activities.
Marie received a standing ovation from members of the club as Sanan presented her with the certificate.
RCPI presents Marie a Paul Harris Fellowship Christian Noll 2016-08-11 22:00:00Z 0

Linda Hurdová and Jan Hergeth present Rozhled to RCPI

Project Rozhled helps young adults from children´s homes and foster care with their future development. They help with choosing appropriate future careers, preparation for important factors which will inevitably change in their personal lives, and to utilize their skills in the labor market. Their goal is to help those young people to find their place in the world once they leave a children´s home.
Linda Hurdová and Jan Hergeth presented the project to RCPI members at one of our meetings.
"We were honored Monday evening to present our work before members of the Rotary Club Prague International at Barcelo Old Town" said Linda, "Thank you for a very enjoyable evening."
Sanan, the RCPI president, thanked Linda and Jan for the very interesting presentation.
Linda Hurdová and Jan Hergeth present Rozhled to RCPI 2016-07-24 22:00:00Z 0
RCPI donates CZK 40,000 to ICTUS 2016-07-23 22:00:00Z 0

Butler MBA Students visit RCPI

As part of a busy schedule in the Czech Republic, students and staff from the Butler University, Indianapolis US, visited our club. Marietta Stalcup and Heidi Thompson explained the construct and background to the MBA programme which is recognised as one of the most innovative in the US. Students take part in trips to Europe where they are exposed to business and cultural experiences which broaden their perspectives. The students introduced themselves and both Members and students enjoyed lively discussions over dinner at the Malostranská beseda where the club met in the historic lesser town of Prague.
Butler MBA Students visit RCPI 2016-06-24 22:00:00Z 0

Dawn ride through Prague

The alarm clock sounds at 3am. Get Up! - it is time to join the members of RCPI for a dawn ride through Prague on what is (almost) the longest day of the year. By 4am we set of - and by 4:30 the sun rose over the horizon basking us in its golden rays. The weather was the best in the 5 year history of the "Dawn Ride" and spirits were high as we criss crossed Prague on our bicycles. In the Old Town the revelers from the night before were still active. "Hey mate, can you tell me the way to the nearest kebap shop" came the request from someone who had obviously had a great night out with his friends. "200 meters on the right" - Rotarians are always helpful and obliging.
Technical issues are also no problem for a motivated team of Rotarians - two inner tube  changes and a number of other technical challenges were soon resolved and the team continued on its way.
The ride ended at Cafe Limonade who kindly opened early for us. Nothing like eggs and bacon and a big cup of steaming coffee to revive after such an early start.
4am on Charles Bridge
Dawn ride through Prague Christian Noll 2016-06-17 22:00:00Z 0

Presidential Citation for RCPI

Rotary International President Ravi Ravindran presented Petr Smejcky, President of Rotary Club Prague International with the coveted President's Citation Award. The award recognises the work of the members of the club in helping make a difference to the lives of people all over the world. "It is a tremendous honour for our club to be recognised" said Petr, "It celebrates the work done by the 50 members of the club over an extended period of time. I am very proud to accept this award on behalf of all our members."
Ravi Ravindran visited District 2240 last weekend and met members of Rotary at a special dinner held in his honour.
Presidential Citation for RCPI 2016-06-12 22:00:00Z 0

A word from the District Conference

Posted by Petr Smejcky on Jun 13, 2016
On a fine May weekend a number of RCPI members traveled to Ostrava to take part in the Annual District Conference. Expecting a rather dull official occasion I am sure that they would all agree it turned out to be an interesting and amicable experience.
 
Despite most of the travelers arriving too late to attend an extraordinary theatre performance where live actors mingled with life-size puppets (I was told that it was amazing) the Friday evening continued with a late-evening buffet snack after which some of the die-hards decided to explore the Ostrava city centre night-life. Many continued their Rotary old-friend-reunions & new-friend-introductions into the small hours of Saturday.
 
An independent sight-seeing program had been organised for accompanying attendants who did not take part in the Rotary Business part of the Conference. The Saturday morning was dedicated to dealing with administrative & Rotary related business issues. Delegates listened to presentations and voted on some key issues for the forthcoming Rotary year.
 
The Saturday afternoon provided a colourful excursion into the artistic virtues of the RC Exchange Students presenting the cultural background of the nations they came from. Often one could not but stand in awe how well they had mastered then difficulties of the Czech language in the course of their 12 month stay sadly coming to end. This year we accommodated over 95 of them with a number exceeding a hundred planned for next year, we were told.
 
After a great meal based on the Czech cuisine, the Saturday Gala Evening took off with music & dance. In the foyer small & large groups were to be seen enjoying conversations over snacks & drinks with the intermixing exchange students adding international colour. The wide-screen TV´s turned on silent showing a high-pressure World Championship ice-hockey game between CZ & Latvia added the final spicy topping as both local as well as international hockey enthusiasts followed the score swing from one side to the other.
 
For those who did not have to leave early on Sunday a guided tour of the revitalised industry zone of Vitkovice was organised, an event generally underlining the simple fact that Ostrava has over the recent years made progress towards transgressing from a drab grey industrial agglomeration into a modern centre of business & industry, all suited for a good quality of life as well. Certainly still some way to go but you can already see the difference.
 
The event let me take away a strong impression - a District Conference of this sort is an experience that is always nice to attend if you like interacting with Rotarians, no matter if it is serious Rotary business or just being among like-wise minded friends.
A word from the District Conference Petr Smejcky 2016-06-12 22:00:00Z 0

Congratulations Gerry!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 12, 2016
Our very own Gerry Tipple was presented with the District Service Award for outstanding service in promoting The Rotary Foundation and its goal of promoting world understanding and peace. Rotary International President Ravi Ravindran presented the award together with some gifts to Gerry at a dinner held in the President's honour in Prague.
 
"Recognition is nice, but it's like the icing on the cake." commented Gerry, " You can have too much of it and it doesn't compare to the real satisfaction that comes from being able to help others. Once you have discovered that, you want to do more and more. In the last 7 years we have raised 2.25 million crowns for local charities from Dragon Boats and sent more than 300,000 crowns to India to support primary school education. That has helped probably thousands of children and families and that's what matters."
Congratulations Gerry! Christian Noll 2016-06-11 22:00:00Z 0

Rotary International President K.R. Ravindran visits Prague

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 12, 2016
"Ravi" Ravindran and his wife Vanathy met with members of the Czech and Slovak Rotary Clubs in Prague yesterday. Ravi addressed the Members and explained his vision for Rotary and some of the changes he has implemented which will be carried forward by future Presidents. Ravi and Vanathy have been traveling throughout the world, visiting 43 since his appointment in July 2015 and spending only 11 days at home, in Sri Lanka since then. He explained that this was his way of  'giving back' for the tremendous opportunities and friendship Rotary has given him since he joined at the age of 21.
Ravi urged members to engage more with the many youth exchange students in order that they become Members themselves and contribute to doing good for the world and enjoying further opportunities in Rotary. He went on to explain how he, in the role of RI President, contributes to Rotary and gave many examples where his leadership and interventions have brought about good. However Rotary is about the 1.2 million members who are active across the world, doing good. "Operating with transparency and a business oriented approach is the way Rotary will thrive" said Ravi as he gave examples of how concepts from business have been successfully adopted. "Finding funding is no issue if you have a great idea and present it well, explaining the benefits for all concerned" said Ravi, reciting how he raised millions for schools in Sri Lanka following the 2004 tsunami by involving large corporations at a local level.
Ravi hands over the reigns of the RI Presidency to John F. Germ at the end of June 2016.
 
Rotary International President K.R. Ravindran visits Prague Christian Noll 2016-06-11 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI presents 460,000 Kc for good causes

In a special award ceremony held this week, RCPI presented four charities with funds raised at the Rotary Charity Dragon Boat Challenge. The donatios were made to Nadace Nase dite 200,000Kc, ZIVOT 90, 200,000 Kc Muzy Detem, 40,000 Kc and ASOCIACE POMÁHAJÍCÍ LIDEM S AUTISMEM Association to help people with autism, 20,000 Kc. "A fundamental principle of Rotary is to help those in need" said Petr Smejcky, Club President. "our club is proud that we can make significant financial contributions which we know will change the lives of those in need".
RCPI presents 460,000 Kc for good causes 2016-06-08 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI fun meeting at Vyšehrad castle in Prague

Posted on Jun 03, 2016
Not all RCPI meetings take place indoors at the Barcelo hotel. Last Thursday our club held a 'fun' meeting which involved a guided tour of the famous Vyšehrad castle in Prague. Our guide took us on a journey though history including Prague's oldest surviving building, the Rotunda of St Martin from the 11th century as well as the the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, containing the remains of many famous people from Czech history, among them Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana.
Rotary really is fun!
RCPI fun meeting at Vyšehrad castle in Prague 2016-06-02 22:00:00Z 0

Doing Good Beyond the Grave: District 2240 recognizes its first Bequest Society Member

Posted on Jun 02, 2016
“When the new Czech civil code was introduced I realized that it was time to make a will. Reaching 70 years of age encouraged this thought too. I also had the idea that after taking care of my children and grandchildren, I wanted to leave a permanent legacy of doing good in the world,” says Gerry Tipple of Prague International Rotary Club.  “The Rotary Foundation gives us all the opportunity to establish such a legacy by making a commitment to the endowment fund.  So I finalized my will to include a gift to The Rotary Foundation.  The gift will establish an Endowed Fund for Basic Education and Literacy.  This means that the income from my bequest will be used to support education and literacy grant projects around the world. People that know me know that I’ve been involved in educational projects in India for several years.  The fund I have created will continue to support educational projects, designed and implemented by Rotarians, long after I am gone.”
 
Gerry’s decision represents a milestone for District 2240, as he is the first Rotarian in the Czech Republic and in the district to become a member of the Rotary Foundation’s Bequest Society.  The Bequest Society honors individuals or couples who have made commitments in their estate plans of US $10,000 or more: globally, more than 11,250 Rotarians have already made this commitment. With a gift or commitment of US $25,000 or more to the endowment, any Rotarian can establish a personalized fund to support the area of focus of the donor’s choosing.  Last year, the endowment fund provided more than US $10.7M in support for Rotary Foundation programs.
 
During his presentation, Gerry asked members of his club: “How many of you have taken a look at your finances and written a proper will?  Do you know what will happen to your money after you are gone?  If you haven’t already thought about the legacy you will leave, I encourage you to do so soon.  You don’t have to be wealthy to be philanthropic, and it would be natural for you to consider The Rotary Foundation as a means to achieving your goals.  Prague International’s motto is ‘Having fun doing good,’ but research has convinced me that ‘having fun’ is over when we die. However, we can all continue to do good beyond the grave through our Foundation.”
 
A presentation on Czech inheritance law and tax is planned for club members.  Contact Gerry Tipple at gerry.tipple@gmail.com for more details.  Download the “Your Rotary Legacy” brochure at https://www.rotary.org/en/endowment-fund, or contact David Neumann, Endowment and Major Gift Advisor for Zone 19 (neumannjerusalem@hotmail.com) or Elizabeth Lamberti, Fund Development Advisor at the RI Europe-Africa Office (elizabeth.lamberti@rotary.org) for additional information on legacy giving.
 
Gerry Tipple is presented with the Bequest Society pin and crystal as a token of thanks from The Rotary Foundation.
Pictured:  Elizabeth Lamberti, Fund Development Advisor, RI Europe-Africa Office
Gerry Tipple, Past President, Prague International Rotary Club
Petr Smejcky, 2015-16 President, Prague International Rotary Club.
Doing Good Beyond the Grave: District 2240 recognizes its first Bequest Society Member 2016-06-01 22:00:00Z 0

Members for members raises 40,000 Czk for Charity

On 31 March, our club organized a member for member evening at Malostranska beseda. The purpose of the event was to meet members and their guests in a different setting and raise money for charity. A part of the evening was a lesson in country (line) dance taught by a professional line dance teacher. We found out that a combination and coordination of simple dance steps is not easy but can be rewarding, exhausting and fun. Some members found the steps easier to follow that others but all had a good time together. Dancing enthusiasts among ourselves continued spending time on the floor with music carefully selected by the Radio 1 DJ, while others retreated to the bar or to the buffet which sported exquisite salads and desserts from different parts of the world prepared by the members for members.
 
The event raised CZK 40.000 for Ictus, an organization which helps people after stroke.  The event was organized and managed by Marie Jehlickova, Ales Zidek, Andreas Fehrens and Sanan Phutrakul. Many thanks to supporting members, Selin Zeybek, Fernanda Escobar and our friends at Rotaract.
Members for members raises 40,000 Czk for Charity Aleš Zídek 2016-05-25 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI has a new logo

Posted by Christian Noll on May 23, 2016
Thanks to Casey Holt, our club has a new and refreshed logo which is aligned to the Rotary International branding. Feel free to use it when you are communicating with others in emails or presentations. The logo can be downloaded from our document library or simply cut and pasted from HERE
RCPI has a new logo Christian Noll 2016-05-22 22:00:00Z 0

2016 Charity Dragon Boat Racing was a HUGE success

The sun shone and hundreds of paddlers took to the water cheered on by even more supporters all to have fun and raise money for charity.
The competition was good spirited and teams competed in multiple heats to battle for the coveted trophy. The winner was team "World Class" with a final time of 51 seconds to cover the 200m course. Rotary Club Prague International would like to thank everyone who participated, supported and helped in the oragnisation of the event which has raised hundreds of thousands of crowns for good causes.
 
This event is not just about the dragon boat racing, although that is the most exciting part of Prague’s Dragon Day. It is also about raising money for local charities that do invaluable work in supporting and helping those in need. It’s a unique opportunity for companies and organisations to get their brand and their name attached to the great causes that are being supported and to raise their profile.  Our 2016 main charity partners are ŽIVOT 90, an organisation providing a wide range of services for senior citizens and Nadace Naše Dítě who offer much needed help and support for many children in very difficult circumstances. World Class won the cup with a time of 51 SecondsA particular vote of thanks goes to Peter Klima and the Czech Dragon Boat Association for allowing us to use their boats and set-up on the day. Without this the day would not be possible.
 
The full results list is available HERE
 
You can see more pictures of the event by clicking HERE
2016 Charity Dragon Boat Racing was a HUGE success 2016-05-13 22:00:00Z 0

Lída Baarová - Charity Screening

The screening of The Devil's Mistress was a sell out and the audience listened with interest as Filip Albrecht from Rotary Club Prague International introduced Filip Renc (Director), Ivan Hubac (Screenplay), Pavel Kríz (Hitler) and Zdenka Procházková (Lída Baarová at 80) to the audience. Their comments and remarks about the making of the film added another dimension to the enjoyment of the film.
 
The RCPI charity screening was the first time the international version of the film (the German-Czech version with English subtitles) has been shown in the Czech Republic. It was a real pleasure to hear actors such as Karl Markovics (Goebbles) speak in their native language.
The screening was attended by dignitaries from the Embassies of The United States, Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands and Israel as well as film enthusiasts eager to meet the cast and enjoy this unique experience.
The event raised funds for The Rotary Foundation - a charity which has a mission to to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty.
Lída Baarová - Charity Screening 2016-04-15 22:00:00Z 0

Social Clinic - a passion for improving lives

Posted by Christian Noll on Mar 19, 2016
Barbora Janeckova visited Rotary Club Prague International and motivated the Members and friends with a passionate presentation about a topic she has been involved with for many years. Helping those who require psychotherapy, however do not have access to the services of a Psychotherapist due to financial or social reasons. it is difficult, if not impossible to obtain psychotherapeutic treatment in the Czech Republic without resorting to private financial means. However on many occasions early intervention can make all the difference before someone slides into a dark place resulting in a spiral of catastrophic consequences.
Barbora recounted one incident of a man who was attacked on a tram. He was not hurt, however lost the confidence to travel by public transport. As a result of this he was absent from work, the consequence of which was that he lost his job. Not being able to pay the rent meant that he lost his apartment and became homeless and so the spiral continues. Luckily The Social Clinic managed to help and with a small number of therapeutic sessions he overcame his fears and is now back at work and living in a new apartment.
 
The Clinic is funded entirely by charitable means, starting with the donation of their time by a team of over 52 therapists and augmented by donations from the public and other organisations. "Funding is our major issue" said Barbora "the State does not provide these services and because we cannot bear to see people suffering needlessly we founded this charitable organisation".
More information at www.socialniklinika.cz
 
 
Social Clinic - a passion for improving lives Christian Noll 2016-03-18 23:00:00Z 0

Exclusive Screening: The Devil's Mistress

We are hosting an exclusive charity screening of the movie THE DEVIL´S MISTRESS (Czech title: Lída Baarová) on Friday April 15th at 6pm in the KINO ATLAS,  Sokolovská 1, Praha 8.
At this point all tickets have been allocated. If you would like a standby ticket please contact tickets@rcpi.club
In this screening we show the international version of the movie (the German-Czech version with english subtitles), and it´s the only opportunity to watch this version – therefore we recommend the screening for all German- and English-speaking Friends. For those of you who already have seen the Czech version in the cinemas, it could be also very interesting to see the differences between the two versions and to hear the main stars as Karl Markovics (Goebbels) or Gedeon Burkhard (Froehlich) with their original voices.
We are proud to announce you that some members of the film crew and some actors will personally participate in this screening, and will make an introduction about the history of the film before the screening. They will be also available for your questions.
THE DEVIL´S MISTRESS is one of the internationally most successful Czech movies of the last two decades. In the Czech and Slovac cinemas the films has around 450.000 admissions.
 
We are looking forward to see you at this unique cultural event.
Exclusive Screening: The Devil's Mistress 2016-03-15 23:00:00Z 0

WASH team visit to India

Posted by Gerry Tipple on Mar 13, 2016
Four Rotarians from our club spent a week in Rajasthan doing the preliminary assessment of the potential for a WASH [Water Sanitation and Hygiene] project with a Rotary Foundation global grant.
The trip was a great success with many field trips visiting rural communities and schools to make first-hand observations of the drinking water supply, toilet facilities and hygiene standards or lack thereof. These visits served to open our eyes to the poor condition in which most of these rural populations live and the lack of systemic support to health and hygiene in most places
Meetings and presentations were had with three very well respected local NGOs that could be prospective partners and all of their work in the field was quite impressive.
Our members also met with two Rotary clubs from Udaipur who are prospective partners for our project and one of those was particularly positive.
Our general conclusion is that in the rural communities of Udaipur and Rajsamand there is plenty of scope to support improvements in the availability of safe drinking water, the availability and use of toilets and the education and habits of hygiene.
 
WASH team visit to India Gerry Tipple 2016-03-12 23:00:00Z 0

Indian Food for Indian Schools programme

Posted on Mar 13, 2016
After a very successful fundraising with our Indian Food Helps! project, a group of Rotarians from our club took part in a ceremony delivering school equipment and supplies to Ghati village school in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. Including many individual donations almost 100,000 Kč was raised to support primary education in rural India.
Present for the ceremony were the District Collector and other officials, village elders and parents of the children. More than 230 children were given school bags containing shoes, exercise books, uniforms, mats and hygiene materials. Equipment for the school included 50 bench-desks, two computers, books, and some sports and musical instruments. Village elders and families expressed their sincere appreciation to Rotarians and the Karnawat family for supporting their children's education over many years.
There was a sizable press corps present and the event made local TV, radio and press news in the next 24 hours.
Club members taking part were Helen Noll, Melody Munz, Gerry Tipple and Jonathan Wootliffe.
Indian Food for Indian Schools programme 2016-03-12 23:00:00Z 0

A new member joins RCPI - welcome Fernanda!

Posted by Christian Noll
At this weeks RCPI Club meeting Fernanda was welcomed as the newest member of the Global Rotary Organisation and of course our club here in Prague. Fernanda has lived in many places around the world including he home country of Mexico, Madrid and England before settling in Prague. Very much at home with 'doing good' Fernanda has been engaged in many  projects and activities where she has donated her time and energy.
Casey welcomed Fernanda with a short speech outlining the importance of and commitment of joining Rotary before Helen 'pinned' Fernanda with the rotary pin and Petr handed Fernanda her certificate of membership.
 
A new member joins RCPI - welcome Fernanda! Christian Noll 2016-03-11 23:00:00Z 0

Water Works!

Posted by András Auber on Mar 12, 2016
Did you know that the city of Prague uses four cubic meters of drinking water each second?
This month Rotary Club Prague International visited Prague's Podolí Waterworks. Prague is served with fresh water from two directions through aqueducts tens of kilometres long. The Podolí Waterworks is a standby facility that is only activated in an emergency, then it ramps up in a matter of hours to convert water from river Vltava to drinking water through a complex process of mechanical, chemical and biological filtration.
We visited the site's museum, where a small aquarium reminds visitors of the time when trout were used to detect water contamination in public waterworks. Private water supply networks appeared as early as 12th century in Prague, later a sophisticated network of pumps, water towers, clay and wooden ducts have been built to supply water to public fountains within the walls of Prague, only the richest families could afford to have running water in their houses.
 
We concluded the tour visiting the Podolí water tower and enjoyed the view of south of Prague at night time.
 
Pictures by Luu Anh Nhat. For more information about visits, tours and outings of our club visit the EVENTS diary on our webslie.
 
For more information about Prague water visit the PVS History of Prague Water website
 
Water Works! András Auber 2016-03-11 23:00:00Z 0
Fun, Fun, Fun... Western Line Dancing for a good cause 2016-02-26 23:00:00Z 0

A new member joins RCPI

Posted by Christian Noll on Feb 27, 2016
At this weeks meeting Helena was welcomed as a new member to Rotary Club Prague International. Helena is keen to contribute to the club and even volunteered to organise the next bowling tournament - a great start for a new member on day one! The members welcomed Helena and we are all looking forward to working with Helena on a variety of charitable and fun projects.
 
If you are interested in joining RCPI please contact us through our website www.rcpi.club
 
In the Picture from left to right: Sanan, Helena and Petr
A new member joins RCPI Christian Noll 2016-02-26 23:00:00Z 0

Having fun bowling....

This weeks meeting was a fun meeting at the bowling alley where RCPI Rotarians and Friends enjoyed themselves in good company and cheer. If you want to find out more about Rotary please contact us.

 
Having fun bowling.... 2016-02-06 23:00:00Z 0

A Rotary welcome to Marcela

Posted by Christian Noll
Rotary Club Prague International has a new member. Our President, Petr Smejcky, welcomed Marcela and presented her formally with her Rotary pin. Marcela lives in Prague and has been active and working with NGOs for some years. A resounding round of applause welcomed our newest member.
A Rotary welcome to Marcela Christian Noll 2016-01-02 23:00:00Z 0

Happy Birthday Gerry!

Posted by Christian Noll on Dec 19, 2015
RCPI met for a very special occasion this week: Gerry Tipple's Birthday, and a special one at that. Over thirty Rotarians and Friends attended a combined Christmas meal and celebration of Gerry's birthday. Gerry recounted some of the events of his early life including how his mother named me after Geraldo of  'Geraldo and his Concert Orchestra' fame, as he was on the radio that evening. "Geraldo's real name was Gerald Walcan Bright. I guess I'm lucky not be called Walcan - especially as my father's name was Wallace" said Gerry with a smile.
 
In line with the theme of birthdays Rotarians enjoyed the quizz based on 'can you guess who this is.... aged 4'. Some Rotarians have not changed a bit. The Barcelo served a delicious fare of roast duck, traditional dumplings as well as a variety of other courses followed by super puddings. Another quiz had Rotarians debating what are the ingredients of famous cocktails and how many Olympic medals the Czech Ice Hockey team has won.
 
Gerry kindly sponsored the food and wine and Members contributed  to our Indian School project with a generous 21,500 Kc with still some more to come. It's a great contribution that will ensure we send the promised 80,000 Kc (200,000 Indian Rupees) as part of our Indian Food Helps Programme that will provide a lot support to the education of poor rural children in Rajsamand.
 
The evening was also the one where we all wished Ben Ivory farewell as he and Maureen return to Chicago. Ben has been an active member of RCPI for a number of years whilst working on an international assignment for Graebel. Of course we never say good-bye since Rotary is a great family and we already look forward to Ben and Maureen visiting us again. Ben did offer to host RCPI Rotarians in Chicago so book your slot!
 
Rotary is about doing good and having fun. Our meeting was a perfect example of fun, friendship, celebration and raising funds for good causes.
 
A very Merry Christmas from Rotary Club Prague International!
 
Photography by Natalie Rajska
 
Happy Birthday Gerry! Christian Noll 2015-12-18 23:00:00Z 0

Letter from the District Governor - Dec 2015

Dear Rotary Friends,
Christmas is just round the corner.....
Many of you have given generously. Bodo Hauswald, president of RC Bratislava Danube has told me of his club’s support of 3,650 EUR for Slovak volunteers who work as ambulance volunteers. Many individuals and clubs support Rotary projects. Rotary punch (mulled wine) and other drinks waft through numerous market squares and shopping centres with the proceeds already designated to specific causes. Sincere Rotary thank you to you all. Rotary is not only about finance. Support and work for Rotary and for our communities cannot always be counted financially. Organising trips, special evenings, normal club activities and help to the disadvantaged is all part and parcel of club life. And so also for this activity, I sincerely thank you.
As a small gift to our not so computer literate Rotary friends, I have arranged for the input of missing club officials onto the RI database! Presidents and Secretaries of clubs now have the opportunity, after logging into: https://www.rotary.org/myrotary/en/, to edit their members‘ details, and before the end of 2015 to in put all elected officials for the Rotary year 2016 - 2017, including the Executive Secretary position . At the same time as reminding you of club elections, I wish to remind you to nominate Rotarians for the position of District Governor 2018/19 (instructions and form is attached).
During my club visits, I have been asked about the fate of the publication „Opava Rotarian“ , which many received and then for quite a while it did not appear. I have good news for you; the Opava Rotarian lives again: http://1drv.ms/1IL9JmF
I would like to wish you all and your families a wonderful, peaceful and enjoyable Christmas season, and much good health and energy in the New Year, as well as great friendship within clubs and during multi club gatherings across the District.
And don’t forget to be „A gift to the World“
Yours,
Vladimír Adámek
Letter from the District Governor - Dec 2015 2015-12-16 23:00:00Z 0

RCPI presents cheque for 250,000 CZK to Sananim

Posted by Christian Noll on Nov 22, 2015
Jiří Richter, Executive President of SANANIM received a cheque for CZK 250,000 from Rotary Club Prague international at the recent club meeting. RCPI member Nelly Jenicek together with Jiří Richter explained the work of Sananim and some of the extraordinary successes the charity has achieved in the 25 years of operation.
 
RCPI club member Naomi Sullivan-Callender co-organised the fundraising gala to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Sananim which was not only an outstanding evening of celebration but also raised such a significant sum for the charity. Jiří thanked RCPI and Naomi in particular for her exceptional efforts which made the event possible.
 
Founded in 1990, SANANIM is now one of the largest non-governmental organizations in the Czech Republic that provides complex services in the area of prevention, treatment and re-socialization of non-alcoholic drug addictions. The 25th Anniversary Gala was supported by many companies and individuals who gave donations and their time to make this event such a success.  
 
"We have not only increased the awareness of SANANIM and their work but have also have raised a substantial sum for this amazing organisation",  said Naomi Sullivan-Callender, co-chair of the event.  “It was a thrill to experience such a dynamic and exciting event.  It’s an honour to work with our friends at SANANIM to celebrate their great success.  This event would not have been possible without the support of so many individuals and organisations.”
The other stars were all our guests who bid for auction items and pledged donations with great verve and generosity. 
 
Pictures of the event can be viewed HERE and of the cheque presentation HERE
 
 
RCPI presents cheque for 250,000 CZK to Sananim Christian Noll 2015-11-21 23:00:00Z 0

Letter from the District Governor

Dear Rotary Friends,

In my last letter I informed you of news that there were 2 cases of child polio in the Ukraine. Our friend Rasťo Maďar from RC Ostrava City sent me clarification and comforting news which I wish to share with you:

Dear Governor, dear Vadimir,
I would like to follow up on your recent District Governor letter no. 3, which spoke of the infectious child polio. In my professional capacity, I focus on infectious diseases, vaccines and Epidemiology, and further more I travel to Africa and Asia on medical humanitarian missions, so I follow very closely the process of eradication.
Just a few days ago, the World Commission on Child Polio Eradication Certification confirmed that the virus of the contagious child polio type 2 has definitely been eradicated from our planet.
This means that there remain two last virus types: 1 and 3. Til now, the last occurence of type 3 was in Nigeria in November 2012 and type 1 is circulating only in 2 countries of the world: Afghanistan and Pakistan. Unfortunately there, armed terrorists have fired on vaccination healthcare workers and some have been killed.
The recent cases of child polio in the Ukraine were caused by a weakened vaccine from an old generation of live vaccine applied by spoon into the mouth, a method not used in our country anymore. These cases were not an occurence of the wild polio virus, which happily no longer exists in Europe, and there was no epidemic. In this geographic area, the solution is to use non-live vacine as we do in our country or to increase the vaccination rate (still using the traditional method – by spoon)to pre war levels.
The eradication certification of type 2 polio virus means that there is no longer a need to vaccinate against this type and to change triple strength vaccine (OPV 1,2,3) to a double strength (OPV 1,2).The future eradication of the last 2 types would be a great success for the human race, which would mean the deletion of vaccination against infectious child polio from the vaccination chart in all countries of the world. As we all know, this has only happened in the case of one disease – dangerous true smallpox (varioly).
It is expected that total eradication of the remaining 2 types of poliovirus will be achieved in the next few years and it will be a great success for the whole Rotary movement.
I mainly wanted to point out that in the Ukraine, we are not talking about a real epidemic of child polio cases even though the clinical cases created by the weakened virus vaccine could have further serious repercussions. There is no danger of a great epidemic even though there is a civil war on going and there is no change in the European status of the eradication of poliomyelitis.
Sincere wishes,
Rasťo
Doc. MUDr. Rastislav Maďar, Ph.D., FRCPS

On the occasion of World Polio Day (23rd October, 2015), we are asked to make a contribution to The Rotary Foundation because for this Day, as an exception, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will triple, not double a matching contribution. Individual as well as club contributions can be sent directly to www.rotary.org (at the same time informing our Finance Chair, Vladimir Jandik) or to the District account (account number is on page XIV of the Rotary District Directory, VS is the RI club number with the specific symbol 99).

On 23.10.2015 at 23.30 you have watch a direct broadcast from World Polio Day on: http://www.endpolio.org/worldpolioday.

„...........the unpleasant Syrian refugee situation is the lithmus test for world compassion.........“ says General Secretary Rotary International John Hewko. „ Rotarians throughout the world are deeply affected by this migrant crisis which is now developing in many parts of the world“ which the UN have stated is the worst crisis in recent history. „Rotary is following the situation carefully, says Hewko, we know that our members have a natural desire to negotiate, as well as lessen the suffering and uncertainty of these families and people. We ask you to act as Rotarians have acted in more than 100 years..... use your professional knowledge and experience, your contacts and mobilise your local communities to offer the appropriate help and financial means to resolve this humanitarian crisis.
Rotarians can donate money to alleviate the suffering to RI partners like ShelterBoxhttp://shelterbox.org/. This organisation works together with other agencies so that they can distribute help in the required areas. ShelterBox is also working with communities in Greece to offer help to the homeless migrants.

Our friend Jozef Klement from RC Zvolen has created a challenge to our clubs. Assistant District Governors will be in touch with clubs to let them know more about this challenge.
As the month of November is about focus on support and help through The Rotary Foundation, with our donations to the TRF, we are helping the needy.

Be a gift to the world!

Yours,
 
Letter from the District Governor 2015-10-28 23:00:00Z 0

Rotaract Charity Christmas Card

Rotaract Prague is selling Christmas Cards again to support children in orphanages in the Czech Republic. Please support this worthy cause.
 
Find out more HERE
Rotaract Charity Christmas Card 2015-10-24 22:00:00Z 0

How do you know that you know what you know?

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 25, 2015
Jason Kucker from the Nový PORG gymnázium a základní škola in Prague was the guest speaker at our club meeting. Jason's lecture challenged some fundamentals of knowledge and started with a provocative statement: The Greeks were invented by some academics in the 1960's - discuss! Members and friends joined in a lively debate challenging perceptions and assertions which proved precisely the point that knowledge is not a universal truth.  The members and Friends thanked Jason for an interesting, challenging and informative presentation.
How do you know that you know what you know? Christian Noll 2015-10-24 22:00:00Z 0

Celebrating in style - SANANIM 25th Anniversary Gala

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 17, 2015
The gala was a tremendous success and not only celebrated Sananim's 25th year but also raised substantial funds for the charity. Over 140 guests attended at the Intercontinental Hotel in Prague and enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by award winning chef Pavel Buchwaldek and danced the night away. Jiří Richter, Executive President of Sananim made a passionate speech thanking the guests for their support and stressing the importance of the work of Sananim. Founded in 1990, SANANIM is now one of the largest non-governmental organizations in the Czech Republic that provides complex services in the area of prevention, treatment and re-socialization of non-alcoholic drug addictions.
 
The 25th Anniversary Gala was supported by many companies and
individuals who gave donations and their time to make this event such a success. "This event would not have been possible without the support of so many individuals and organisations" said Naomi Sullivan who coordinated the event. "We have not only increased the awareness of SANANIM and their work but have also have raised a substantial sum for the organisation".
 
An auction of donated prizes was held during the event and raised tens of thousands for the charity. Two etchings by the famous artist Martin Sladky have also been donated and are now available for auction. Click HERE for more details.
 
The final amount raised by the Gala event will be revealed in a ceremony where a cheque will be presented to Sananim.
 
See more pictures by browsing the RCPI Photo Gallery
 
An excellent collection of pictures is ready for you to view on SNAPFISH
Celebrating in style - SANANIM 25th Anniversary Gala Christian Noll 2015-10-16 22:00:00Z 0

English for Novy Prostor

Posted by Gerry Tipple on Oct 14, 2015
The club has a new project working with Novy Prostor, the organisation that creates the Novy Prostor magazine and trains and manages homeless people to sell them. The homeless thereby earn a little money and more importantly have some work to do and some self-respect.
In discussion with N.P. Vlasta and Gerry came up with the idea of an "Academy" for the vendors where they could be encouraged to learn new things. The most popular subject chosen by them was Basic English and lessons began on 7 October with Gerry ably assisted by Prague Rotaract President Michaela. If you see one of these vendors on the street, please introduce yourself to them in English - and don't forget to buy the magazine.
 
More volunteers welcome!
English for Novy Prostor Gerry Tipple 2015-10-13 22:00:00Z 0

Climbing to the highest peak

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 12, 2015
Rotary Club Prague International teamed up with our Partner Club: Rotary Bristol Breakfast to climb the highest mountain in the Czech Republic. Lots of walking, lots of laughing, lots of talking and lots of eating and drinking. A great weekend to remember.
 
Climbing to the highest peak Christian Noll 2015-10-11 22:00:00Z 0

Indian Food - Raising money for children in India

Posted by Christian Noll on Oct 06, 2015
The annual Indian Food Helps campaign starts on the 19th October 2015 and runs for two weeks.
The Curry House restaurant ,which has been voted the Best place in Prague for Indian Food, is once again preparing your lunches.  With new dishes on the menu and no delivery charges your order will make a real difference to a child's life and prospects in India.
Read more about how you can support the fund raising campaign by clicking HERE
Indian Food - Raising money for children in India Christian Noll 2015-10-05 22:00:00Z 0
Rotary International President speaks on Polio Eradication 2015-09-22 22:00:00Z 0

A very special letter

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 20, 2015
Petr Smejcky and Gerry Tipple of RCPIIn 1938 Sir Nicholas Winton (1909 - 2015) and a small dedicated group evacuated 669 children from Nazi occupied Czechoslovakia in an operation which later became known as the Kindertransport. Sir Nicolas died peacefully at the age of 106 in 2015 and to commemorate his life the Czech Post Office issued a commemorative stamp.
Sir Nicholas lived in Maidenhead in England and as a gesture of international fellowship Rotary Club Prague International has sent a letter together with the commemorative first day cover bearing the stamp to the Rotary Club of Maidenhead where Sir Nicholas was a member.
 
Dear President Tony and Members of RC Maidenhead,
As a symbol of our international Rotary fellowship, we are pleased to send to you, a first day cover of a special stamp issued by the Czech Postal Service which commemorates your distinguished former member, Sir Nicholas Winton. We know that you are aware of the extraordinarily high esteem with which Sir Nicholas is held in the Czech Republic and you should also know that he remains an inspiration to us here as well as Rotarians everywhere. At a time when refugees are again high on the agenda, it is perhaps more appropriate than ever to remind ourselves of Sir Nicholas’s example. You may also like to know that at our meeting on the 3rd September we toasted your club with our usual international Rotary greeting:
 
To all of you there, from all of us here,
In Moravian wine and good Czech beer.
From beautiful Prague, a Rotarian cheer!
 
Our very best wishes to all of you.
Best regards,
 
 
A very special letter Christian Noll 2015-09-19 22:00:00Z 0

From Indonesia to South Africa - stories of doing good

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 20, 2015
The speaker at the RCPI club meeting this week was Linda Kaplanova who spoke about her 2.5 year travel in Indonesia and showed a delightful slideshow - what an adventure. We  were joined by visitors from clubs from around the world as well as NGCE interns Antonina from Poland and Sharon from Taiwan. Visitors from RC Agra West India, Dr. Arun Sarabhai and his son Arjun Sarabhai who is a medical student at Charles University. The President of RC Calgary and Alfred Huber of RC Zurich-Dictikon who is doing a 24,000 km (!) bike ride from the northern tip of Norway to the bottom of South Africa… with his dog. Yes, his dog is literally running beside him. Rotary Club International - interesting people with a common goal - helping those less fortunate than ourselves.
From Indonesia to South Africa - stories of doing good Christian Noll 2015-09-19 22:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Exchange Programme - another record year

Posted by Sanan Phutrakul on Sep 14, 2015
This weekend, District 2240 hosted this year’s Rotary Youth Exchange Programme inbound students in Strecno, Slovakia for the annual orientation weekend. The district welcomes 82 students this year from all over the world. District 2240 is proud to be the most active Rotary district in the world, as we send or receive more exchange 
students per Rotarian than anywhere else. Inbound students were given the oppotyunity to meet each other and other Youth Exchange Officers (YEOs) in the district, while also learning the ins and outs of life in Czech Republic and Slovakia. YEOs, a few of whom are first-timers, attended a seminar preparing them for leading each club’s inbound students.
 
District Governor, Vladimir Adamek and Youth Exchange Chairperson, Jaromir Barak offered RCPI’s own Radka Rajska the role of Family Exchange Chairperson for District 2240, which she proudly accepted. Sanan Phutrakul was also offered and accepted the role of New Generations Service Exchange (NGSE) Chairperson for District 2240. Both will be working to increase the number of family exchanges and youth internships between districts. RCPI wished them and all the students in YEP a very productive year.
Rotary Youth Exchange Programme - another record year Sanan Phutrakul 2015-09-13 22:00:00Z 0

Vlasta is named a Paul Harris Fellow

Posted by Christian Noll on Sep 11, 2015
It was with great pride that RCPI President Petr Smejcky and Gerry Tipple and presented Vlasta Krahulcova with the certificate and lapel pin and officially named Vlasta a Paul Harris Fellow. The honour is bestowed on Rotarians in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world. Vlasta was President of RCPI in the past year and has made a tremendous contribution not only to the club in Prague but also to Rotary overall. Vlasta made a short speech thanking the members.
Vlasta is named a Paul Harris Fellow Christian Noll 2015-09-10 22:00:00Z 0

Sunny Sweden - Rotary hospitality

Posted by Gerry Tipple on Sep 09, 2015
Members of our club were invited to visit RC Trollhattan in Sweden following a project cooperation. President Petr, his wife Jana and past presidents Vlasta and Gerry were superbly hosted by Rotarians from Trollhattan and given a very interesting three days. In Trollhattan they visited the famous canals, the more than a century old hydro power plant and the old Saab factory amongst other interesting things.
The second day was spent in the nearby national park which has moose and deer and is a regular hunting place for the king and his friends. Finally, a day trip to the coast, looking at bronze age carvings en route and visiting the seaside town of Smogen before spending time on a beautiful island in the North sea. Only the bravest two dared the 20 degree water. Rotary hospitality at its best!
Sunny Sweden - Rotary hospitality Gerry Tipple 2015-09-08 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI: A modern and innovative club

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 26, 2015
RCPI has set itself the objective to continually innovate and be a thoroughly modern and innovative Rotary club. The format of meetings has been adapted to include meetings where members very actively participate including poetry readings. Activities including walking and cycling are taking place for members to meet anc enjoy themselves. Fund raising events for good causes are at an all time high and yesterday the club took another step towards embracing technology by hosting the first Board Meeting where participants were not only physically together at our normal meeting place but also joined the meeting via Skype. The experiment was a total success. Thanks to RCPI President, Peter Smejcky, who set up the cameras and microphones the quality of the participation experience was excellent. This allows members who are traveling abroad to join and be part of RCPI even when they cannot be physically in Prague. On this occasion a member joined from a business trip to Budapest. Innovation is taking RCPI to a new era of participation and services for members.
RCPI: A modern and innovative club Christian Noll 2015-08-25 22:00:00Z 0

The Magic Box - A box of magic

Posted by Christian Noll on Aug 20, 2015
This weeks meeting of the Rotary Club International Prague was very well attended with over 20 Rotarians and Friends coming together to meet, enjoy a meal, discuss, listen and learn. And learning was very much the theme of the evening as Jaroslev Vesely and Ilona Babkova introduced the members to the Magic Box. Sometimes the most successful inventions go right back to basics and this is what the Magic Box has achieved. With this entirely Czech invention Jaroslav has recognised that young children learn best in groups and do so whilst interacting playing on the floor. It's just natural. So, he invented a machine which projects an image of an interactive learning game onto the floor. Children absolutely love the concept - playing in groups on the floor whilst learning through interactive multi media. The Magic Box is just that, a box on wheels so that it can be moved from one classroom to another and be ready for action in a matter of seconds.
Members asked lots of questions and Ilona and Jaroslav explained not only the concept but also how they are expanding not only in Czech republic but also world wide with Magic Boxes now installed in Australia, Canada, Russia and the Middle east as well as throughout Europe.
Inevitably the funding of the purchase is a challenge for many pre-school organisations however Jaroslav explained that teaches, once they have seen the Magic Box and have used it in a classroom are absolutely convinced that it significantly enhances the learning experience for children.
The Magic Box - A box of magic Christian Noll 2015-08-19 22:00:00Z 0

Stars all around us....

Posted by Casey Holt on Aug 11, 2015
During the meeting of 6 August 2015, RCPI’s band of natives and aliens (many of the club’s members are not Czech nationals) enjoyed a presentation by Dr. Martin Pauer.
 
In addition to being Project Manager at Rockwell automation, and a lead ringer of the bells at St. Vitus cathedral, Dr. Pauer is, by training and avocation, a geologist and planetary geophysicist. He is also a volunteer at the Štefánik Observatory on Petřín Hill in Prague, where several RCPI members and friends had already enjoyed the benefit of his assistance with gazing into the night sky through the observatory’s telescopes.
 
During an engaging and informative presentation that lasted well past our usual 20:00 meeting close, but which kept all but a couple members and guests glued to their chairs, Dr. Pauer provided a PowerPoint tour of the Sun, the planets and their moons, sprinkling in little tidbits of information that came as a surprise to most, including the fact that our moon “wobbles” a little as it rotates, so we actually see about 60 percent of it during the course of a month.
 
Attendees also learned that all moons but one orbit their planets in the same direction the planet rotates - counter-clockwise. But Triton orbits Neptune in a retrograde - clockwise - fashion. Venus also rotates clockwise, the only planet to do so; and Uranus rotates on its side relative to its travels around the Sun!
 
Very interesting stuff, and you can see Dr. Pauer’s slides here:
 
https://onedrive.live.com/view.aspx?resid=961D161A48C42C4E!4549&app=PowerPoint&authkey=!AP2YecxWbwYI_74
 
You can also take a trip up to the Štefánik Observatory any night before 23:00 to take a closer look at the heavens yourself. And look for news of a future presentation by Dr. Pauer about the bells at St. Vitus. Perhaps we’ll go watch he and his friends ring them!
Stars all around us.... Casey Holt 2015-08-10 22:00:00Z 0

Poetry Please

Posted by Christian Noll on Jul 23, 2015
A club meeting with a difference - poetry and prose.  RCPI is innovating and this weeks meeting tested out a new format with universal approval. In the delightfully cool surroundings of the old cellars of the Bacelo Hotel, we assembled, enjoyed welcome drinks and tapas food and proceeded to listen to members reciting poems they brought along. The range of material was truly entertaining including Spike Milligan, Sir John Betjeman, Shakespeare, Rudyard Kipling and many more. Some members brought poems they had written themselves and one member composed a poem during the evening. The fast fire limericks were much enjoyed by all.
A super evening with a difference which was only temporarily interrupted by the 8pm bell marking the end of the official meeting however continued on with more poems and prose. The members and guests also heard about the virtues and tremendous literary output of the Czech Republics most famous poet, writer and inventor: Jára Cimrman.
Poetry Please Christian Noll 2015-07-22 22:00:00Z 0

Power Companies are changing

Posted by Christian Noll on Jul 19, 2015
Eckart Baum, CFO of E-ON in Czech Republic gave a fascinating presentation to RCPI Rotarians and guests at our most recent club meeting. Eckart explained the background to the global and European energy industry, the policies of the EU, market forces and decreasing electricity prices on the wholesale trading exchanges whilst the consumer price continues to rise. E-On is particularly innovative and will shortly be splitting the company into two components to focus on generation and energy resources and a second part to focus on the interaction with the consumer.
Eckart went on to describe how energy may have a role in current conflict such as in Ukraine. He showed an interesting map which shows the shale gas deposits in Ukraine and beside it a map of the current conflict zones - the correlation is certainly thought provoking.
The topic really stirred the audience and the questions came in close succession. A big thank you to Eckart for such an insightful presentation
 
Picture: Gerry Tipple, RCPI (Left), Eckart Baum, EON (Right)
Power Companies are changing Christian Noll 2015-07-18 22:00:00Z 0

Overview of 2014/2015 Rotary Year of RCPI

Posted by Linda Stucbartova on Jun 29, 2015
RCPI is the biggest and the most dynamic club in the District and at our last meeting we reflected on the past year (The new Rotary Year starts in July) and our achievements. 30 Rotarians and guests came on Thursday night to regular venue at Barcelo hotel, to find out how successful our Rotarian Year has been and Vlasta Krahulcova passed presidency of RCPI to Petr Smejcky.
 
What does it mean to be a member of the biggest and the most dynamic club?
 
We kept doing what we are good at:
  • Indian Food Lunch Delivery
  • Christmas Wine Sale
  • Members for Members Dinner
  • Dragon Boats
  • Prague Night Bike Ride
  • Youth Exchange
In 2014/15 we supported following activities and charities…
  • Polio plus
  • Život 90
  • Our Child Founhdation
  • Project Patrik
  • Indian School
  • TIPA Turkana
  • Modrý klíč
  • Good Will Foundation
  • Modrý klíč
  • Škola Klíček
 And let's not forget the International dimension – these clubs are closely co-operating with RCPI
  • RC Montreal
  • RC Coral Gables
  • RC Goldener Rieter Dresden
  • RC Bristol
  • Graz konference
  • RC Tollhattan
 
We held 50 meetings and we had exciting and interesting guests coming and sharing their experience with us.
 
We welcomed 11 new members and currently have 48 members in total!
 
We introduced new web and Facebook pages!
 
Do you want  to become a member of RCPI family? Contact Sanan at membership@rcpi.club or come in and see us at club meetings or following events.
 
Save the dates:
 
September 21, 2015 – Golf Tournament – supporting Matilda fund – contact Marie Jehličková for details
Rotary Hike and meeting with RC Bristol and RC Dresden Clubs – October 7 and 8 – contact Petr Šmejcký for details
 
Yes, we all are RCPI and we love having fun doing good!
Overview of 2014/2015 Rotary Year of RCPI Linda Stucbartova 2015-06-28 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI makes a record 400,000 CZK donation to charity

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 24, 2015

At an award ceremony in Prague the Rotary Club Prague International handed over a record 400,000 CZK (€14,500) to charity from the proceeds of the 2015 Dragon Boat Charity Challenge. Twenty Six teams entered and over 1000 people attended the event which was held on the 23rd May at Žluté lázně, Podolské nábřeží, Praha. Participation was the name of the game and crews from companies, clubs and societies, including one from Germany, entered into the spirit of the event. The winning team was Rotary Club Stare Mesto.  The main beneficiaries are ŽIVOT 90, an organisation providing a wide range of services for senior citizens and Nadace Naše Dítě who offer much needed help and support for many children in very difficult circumstances.

A big thank you from the Rotary Club Prague International goes to all who took part, the companies and organisations who sponsored the event and of course all who made such generous donations of time and money to make the event possible.

RCPI makes a record 400,000 CZK donation to charity Christian Noll 2015-06-23 22:00:00Z 0

On a bicycle at 4am in Prague in midsummer.... they must be Rotarians!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 20, 2015
The Rotarians set off this morning on the Midsummer Dawn Cycle Ride around Prague. Despite a little drizzle of rain, the spirits were high as the group wound their way through the streets of the city visiting significant landmarks along the way such as Vysehrad Castle, Old Town Square, The Žižkov Television Tower, Prague Castle, Petrin Park and many more. The drizzle ceased half way through the ride, spirits rose and the pace quickened.
 
At 5am on a Saturday morning the city is quite different from the buzzing tourist metropolis which it will become again just a few hours later. The last party goers are on their way home, there are few cars about and those which are navigating the streets are mostly taxis taking home the revellers who started their fun many hours before on Friday evening. The early dog walkers are out as well as of course the deliveries bringing fresh produce to the cities hotels and restaurants. As we ride there is a light scent of rain on cobbled streets, blossom opening and the occasional whiff of freshly baked bread emanating from the many bakeries which have been busy throughout the night.
At 8:30 the ride returns to Mala Strana and we enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cukrkávalimonáda who have opened their doors especially early for us on this occasion. Petr has organised a quiz and the riders, strengthened by food and coffee, complete question, solve riddles and identify pictures with a prize at stake. We also raised 6000 Czk for charity along the way!
 
A big thanks goes to Petr Smejcky for organising the event. If you enjoy this kind of event and want to find out more, come ans join us at one of our regular Thursday evening meetings. Everyone is welcome.
On a bicycle at 4am in Prague in midsummer.... they must be Rotarians! Christian Noll 2015-06-19 22:00:00Z 0

RCPI – the place to meet extraordinary guests...

Posted by Linda Stucbartova on Jun 19, 2015

Rotary Club Prague International hosted 20 members and 11 guest.  They all came to listen to Radka Machova, the only women pilot leading formation the world for The Flying Bulls team.
 
Radka Machova has to keep her eye on the ball at all times. Three other pilots looking to her for instructions as they fly within a hair’s breadth of each other.
The Czech pilot, who got her wings while studying at the University of Transportation, Air Transport Department in Žilina, Slovak Republic, stays calm under pressure and has a lifetime’s experience in the cockpit to call upon, when things get tough. Radka shared with us her view on how 15 minutes of flying equals to 8 hours of mining as formation aerobatics is the most challenging way of flying.  She mentioned how she succeeded after a 67 years old colleague of her resigned, testing male pilots first and only after their failure Rada was successful.

Did you know that in order to perform aerobatics overseas, it takes them 3 days to disassemble the plane so that it can be shipped by sea container, then the team have to assemble the plane, perform for three days and then disassemble the plane again?  Each member is responsible for his/ her plane assembly!
 
Incredible stories, inspiring personalities.  Come to RCPI to be part of the group that combines charity with inspiration!
Contact Sanan at sanan@seznam.cz if interested in coming.
 
Linda Štucbartová, Club Secretary
RCPI – the place to meet extraordinary guests... Linda Stucbartova 2015-06-18 22:00:00Z 0

Dawn Cycle Ride - Next Saturday Morning 20 June - 4am start on the longest day.

Experience Prague as never before by cycling through the deserted streets on what in nearly the shortest night of the year. The annual Rotary Dawn Cycle Ride is a wonderful chance to do something you may not have the motivation to do on our own, however together in a group of Rotarians - you know it makes sense and will be fun. The Ride would take us through some prominent places in Old Town Prague as well to several points providing breath taking views of the city in the early summer morning hours. The cycling pace is very easy we shall cover approximately 40 km in about 4 hrs – average 10 km.p.h.
 
For more details including registration click HERE
Dawn Cycle Ride - Next Saturday Morning 20 June - 4am start on the longest day. 2015-06-12 22:00:00Z 0

Another night of having fun and doing good.

13 Rotarians and 3 guests gathered at hospital Na Frantisku in Prague for an excursion with the aim to provide books, mugs, hygienic supplies and printing paper to the hospital Na Frantisku in Prague.

This unique hospital is one of the longest serving hospitals within the region of Central Europe, having a continuous history of providing medical services from 1354.  The hospital was always given special attention from the sovereigns, from Charles IV. to Ferdinand d´Este.  Before the WW I, it had 200 beds and was the largest hospital in Prague area.  The group was given a special tour around gardens, dining hall and other premises.  As the hospital is now funded from Prague municipality budget, it always looks for some material and or financial support.

If you have missed the visit, just contact Gabriela Kozlova at gkozlova@seznam.cz if you speak Czech and if you don’t please contact Sanan Phutrakul at sanan@seznam.cz and he’ll translate/relay messages to provide donations in form of needed supplies.
Another night of having fun and doing good. 2015-06-03 22:00:00Z 0

Dragon Boats - a great day!

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 02, 2015
The 2015 Charity Dragon Boat Challenge was a MASSIVE success. Over 1000 people attended the event and 28 teams competed and a record amount was donated to charity. A big THANK YOU to everyone who attended, organised and facilitated the event.
 
The weather could not have been better on the day as the starting gun fired and the dragon boats, crewed by teams made up of 17 keen and eager paddlers, made their way along the 200 m course to the finish line. Good hearted rivalry between teams ensured there was a certain competitiveness in the air however winning was not everyone's objective. Taking part and raising money for charity was the primary reason why over 1000 participants, supporters and fans gathered on Saturday morning to participate in the 6th Rotary Charity Dragon Boat Festival.
 
Click HERE to view the youtube video of pictures of the great day.
 
You can view the results, including precise photo finish timings by clicking HERE.
 
Pictures of the photo finish and of the day are available HERE
 
 
Dragon Boats - a great day! Christian Noll 2015-06-01 22:00:00Z 0

What's in a (Domain) Name?

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 02, 2015
We try to keep things simple and this is also true for the way we name our club on the world wide web. As of June the new domain name rcpi.club is active and provides and easy to remember name for our club. Typing it into a web browser will take you to the club website. The existing domain names will of course continue to work as before.
 
Email addresses for the key positions in the club have also been set up. These include:
  • treasurer@rcpi.club              
  • president@rcpi.club                    
  • secretary@rcpi.club                    
  • membership@rcpi.club  
  • pr@rcpi.club                                
  • enquiries@rcpi.club                     
  • info@rcpi.club                             
  • dragons@rcpi.club
So, if you can't remember the longer domain names or individual email addresses, just mail one of the above.
 
If you would like a private @rcpi.club email address please let me know and I will arrange a re-route so that mail sent to <yourname>@rcpi.club is routed to your private email address.
 
Proud to be a Rotarian@RCPI
 
Christian
pr@rcpi.club
What's in a (Domain) Name? Christian Noll 2015-06-01 22:00:00Z 0

Where does our water come from....?

Posted by Christian Noll on Jun 01, 2015
At the RCPI meeting Petr Smejcky addressed a rather topical subject: Where does the water you drink come from. The subject is topical since last week Prague 6 experienced a water contamination which has now been resolved. Petr took us back to the earliest times when water was taken from teh riven and distributed in wooden pipes throughout the city. The water towers still stand from the time where animals were used to power water raising devices which would fill tanks in the top of the towers. For example, the Šitkovská Water-tower was built in 1588 and served as a water tower until 1881.
 
Approximately 60 percent of Prague water today comes from the Zelivka Dam, about 90 kilometers (56 miles) south of Prague; 30 percent is pumped from underground sources; and the remaining 10 percent is taken directly from the Vltava River (4 times a year). From these sources, the water goes to one of Prague's two waterworks, where it is cleaned and tested before making its way to homes around the city.
 
The club thanked Petr for an interesting and insightful talk which brought alive something we take for granted every single day.
Where does our water come from....? Christian Noll 2015-05-31 22:00:00Z 0

Dragon Boats!

The 2015 Charity Dragon Boat Challenge was a MASSIVE success. Over 1000 people attended the event and 28 teams competed and a record amount was donated to charity. A big THANK YOU to everyone who attended, organised and facilitated the event.
 
The weather could not have been better on the day as the starting gun fired and the dragon boats, crewed by teams made up of 17 keen and eager paddlers, made their way along the 200 m course to the finish line. Good hearted rivalry between teams ensured there was a certain competitiveness in the air however winning was not everyone's objective. Taking part and raising money for charity was the primary reason why over 1000 participants, supporters and fans gathered on Saturday morning to participate in the 6th Rotary Charity Dragon Boat Festival.
 
 
You can view the results, including precise photo finish timings by clicking HERE.
 
Pictures of the photo finish and of the day are available HERE
 
 
Dragon Boats! Christian Noll 2015-05-23 22:00:00Z 0

Mozart, Canaletto, Bruegel.... all in Prague @ Lobkowicz

Posted by Christian Noll on May 23, 2015
RCPI was privileged to have Veronika Wolf as our guest speaker. Veronika was invited by our very own Casey Holt who introduced her as the Director of one of the most beautiful, fascinating, extensive and indeed hidden gems in the city of Prague.
 
Veronika is the Director at the Lobkowicz Collection which is housed not only at the Lobkowicz Palace, Prague Castle, but also in a number of castles throughout the Czech Republic. In a delightful visual tour, Veronika took the assembled Rotarians through the treasures of the collection which go back many centuries. She spoke of the tremendous efforts to bring the collection together once again after the Velvet revolution and the task she as the Director has now to maintain, restore, catalogue, interpret and display the thousands of artifacts.
 
Rotarians were fascinated by the account of the Breugel paintings and of course the most famous Canaletto painting London: The Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day, looking towards the City and St. Paul’s Cathedral (circa 1750) which formed the visual centrepiece of the celebrations of the Exhibition in London: Royal River: Power, Pageantry and the Thames to mark Queen Elizabeth's 60th year of reign. Veronika smiled as she told the club of her pride as she ascended the escalator at Victoria Station in London to be greeted by a massive banner proclaiming the celebrations - the backdrop - of course - the Lobkowicz Canaletto!
The club thanked Veronika for the fascinating talk and insight into the collection and the work of the Collection.
 
A great way to not only see but also support the collection is to be come a member. Membership not only allows you access to the collection but you will also be invited to special private events, viewings and concerts not normally open to the public. A must do and must see in Prague.
Mozart, Canaletto, Bruegel.... all in Prague @ Lobkowicz Christian Noll 2015-05-22 22:00:00Z 0

Helen joins RCPI!

Helen formally joined the Rotary Club Prague International at our most recent club meeting. Joining Rotary is more than just joining a club, it is becoming a member of a world wide organisation which has the objectives:
  • FIRST: The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
  • SECOND: High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society;
  • THIRD: The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business, and community life;
  • FOURTH: The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
Vlasta congratulated Helen and 'pinned' her with the famous Rotary Pin which is given to all Rotarians world Wide to signify membership of the club.Helen is the 11th member to join RCPI this year and was warmly welcome by all the members.
Helen joins RCPI! 2015-05-22 22:00:00Z 0

An insight into Prague International School

Dr Arnie Bieber, the Director of the Prague International School joined Rotarians, visitors and friends at our club meeting where he explained the philosophy of the school and gave his views on education in the 21st century. The emphasis is no longer on 'chalk and talk' said Arnie, todays classroom is about discovery and learning in a quite different way. Inspiring Learners for Life is the mission statement which is expanded to include: "ISP inspires learners to lead healthy, fulfilling and purposeful lives, preparing them to adapt and contribute responsibly to our changing world."
 
Pupils at the school have access not only to some of the most modern teaching facilities but also to a team of highly motivated teachers. The Club thanked Arnie for a very insightful and interesting presentation.
An insight into Prague International School 2015-05-19 22:00:00Z 0

A new Member!

RCPI has gained a new member, in fact the 10th new member this year - welcome Martin! Martin has joined RCPI for a number of meetings and recently presented his 'story' to the club. Rotary Club Prague welcomes new members who wish to join in the activities of the club and 'have fun by doing good'.
A new Member! Christian Noll 2015-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

Shelter Box Appeal

Rotary Club Prague International is raising funds to purchase a Shelter Box which will provide a temporary home to a family in Nepal following the devastation caused by the earthquake. The boxes are packed and sent to the disaster zones by a registered charity called Shelter Box based in the UK.

Read more HERE

Shelter Box Appeal Christian Noll 2015-05-03 00:00:00Z 0

From Russia to Prague via Africa.... Eduard W. M. V. Hoeks speaks at RCPI

His excellency Eduard W. M. V. Hoeks, ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands joined over 30 members of RCPI at our regular meeting at the Barcelo Hotel. The Ambassador gave a fascinating account of his work at diplomatic postings at the Embassies of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Nairobi, Sofia, Moscow, Dhaka, Algiers, Ouagadougou and Jakarta. His insights and observations of culture and behaviour held the attention of the members as he continued to expand on the changing role of the Diplomat in a world where, when he started his work, a physical diplomatic bag arrived once a week by plane and has now been replaced by electronic communication where distance is no longer a barrier. He observed that new topics had joined the agenda of the Diplomat including Migration, Climate Change, Energy, Cyber Crime and latterly Ebola.
 
The club thanked Ambassador Hoeks for his not only informative but also highly entertaining speech.
 
Postsctipt: Ambassador Hoeks publishes a blog and his most recent post can be found at:
 
From Russia to Prague via Africa.... Eduard W. M. V. Hoeks speaks at RCPI Christian Noll 2015-04-24 00:00:00Z 0

Welcome Jiri!

Posted by Christian Noll

Rotary Club Prague International welcomed a new member at our weekly meeting. Vlasta, President of RCPI formally presented Jiri with his Rotary Pin and welcomed him to the club. Jiri has already been very active in the club with an attendance record spanning many months and organising participation in a 10k run in Prague.
Welcome Jiri! Christian Noll 2015-04-22 00:00:00Z 0

April letter from the District Govenor

Dear Rotary Friends,

Following on from our spring holidays, we see and feel nature around us in all its renewed energy – this has influence on all our activities, even our Rotary activities. Two weeks ago, all future Club Presidents and Secretaries met at PETS and District Training, so that under the DGE Vladimir Adamek’s conductors baton ‚they gained inspiration and information for the new Rotary year 2015- 2016.
The month of April in our Rotary calendar is Magazine Month. As you know, it a Rotarian’s duty and right to receive a Rotarian magazine, either The Rotarian, or a regional publication like in our District, our own „ROTARY GOOD NEWS“ (RGN). Its not uninteresting that we belong to that greater proportion of the Rotary world who have their very own magazine. If you are curious about which regions or districts have their own magazine, this you can find on: Rotary World Magazine Press.

I was even more proud of our magazine, when the April information for DGs from the European Office of RI displayed a regional magazine and it was our own RGN! It is the magazine for all of us, which helps us be informed about Club activities in our District and about The Rotary Foundation; the English supplement we provide is very highly regarded by many Rotarians, publishers and other readers! Sometimes, when visiting clubs, I hear the view that our magazine gives more information from the Rotary world but less about our own club activities. The Editorial Board of RGN brings us the specific material sent from RI HQ – this is a requirement under our licence to publish a regional magazine – and in many cases, this is the only way we are informed about Rotary activities worldwide. So I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who, regularly or only sometimes, send articles to RGN and also to the Editorial Board, who has managed to make our magazine one of the best!
 
I would very much like to welcome a new club into our District, RC Ostrava City, who were chartered on 4.2.2015, and also our District’s first satellite club: Karlovy Vary Spa Satellite Club of RC Most. Welcome into our Rotary District 2240 family! We have received information that RIP Gary Huang has named his Representative to our District Conference in Kosice (22-25.5.2015), and it will be PDG Moshe Yoan from Israel. So I also remind you to register for the District Conference – see attached. Please do not miss this unique opportunity to participate in the 3rd District Conference in Kosice / the first was in 1935, second in 2009. Finally, I would like to ask all those clubs who during the winter months focused their activities on supporting the eradication of Polio – project POLIO, to send these funds as soon as possible to our
District account (name of club, plus word: POLIO), so that the District can send these contributions to RI before the end of the Rotarian Year, as is required. Please send information on your contribution also to Pawel Jurkiewicz, RC Piestany (member of District TRF team): coffeetea01@gmail.com Those of us who wish to find out more about Rotary and meet with RC President Gary Huang, still have time to register for the President’s Conference in Graz 24-25.4.2015, which is focused on the 25th anniversary of re-establishing Rotary in Central and East Europe. Arising from the resolution at the District Training Gathering in Olomouc, the District Legislative Committee will distribute and send out the D2240 Bye Law to each club for their comments, so that the final version can be agreed by the District Conference in Kosice. I wish to thank everyone, including clubs who are working together on this important document.
 
Yours in Rotary,
 
Jozefa Poláková,
 
DG RI D 2240
2014/2015
April letter from the District Govenor 2015-04-19 00:00:00Z 0

Flexible and Innovative Club

16 Rotarians and 5 guests attended the Club meeting.  Guests included exchange student Lara, Martin Sebek and his son Simon, Martin Zikmund and Jiří Bavor.
 
Members were informed the results of on-line voting.  Members agreed to apply for Pilot Project on the topic „Flexible and Innovative Club“.  This project is aimed at increasing membership via introducing possibilities of family and corporate memberships.
It can bring the change in meetings set up (more project meetings as opposed to formal club meetings) and different rules with regards to attendance – priority given to project work.
Announcements:
 
Check the district website for your entries with regards to publishing RI Club Directory.  Deadline March 31.
In case you need an assistance, please ask Sanan for help.
 
Karin mentioned the idea of making use of the requirements of certain schools for Community / volunteer work with regards to RI projects.
 
Put in your diaries dates and events Petr Smejcky is organizing.
 
Last but not least, check the list of companies Petr Smejcky is going to send with regards to Dragon Boats participation.
 
The Toast went to the town of Alhmult.
 
Yours in Rotary
 
Linda Štucbartová, Club Secretary
Flexible and Innovative Club 2015-03-27 00:00:00Z 0

Full House @ Rotary Club Prague International

Over 30 members joined the weekly dinner at the Bacelo Hotel to hear Jozefa Poláková, the Rotary District Governor, speak about Rotary. the numbers were also swelled by a number of very welcome guests. Two guests were ex members of the club during their residency in Prague from 2001 to 2003 and are now back at home in Stoke on Trent in the UK. The club toasted their club called Etruria.

Jozefa thanked RCPI for the energy and drive and described the club as one which has embraced the 21st Century. She particularly emphasisd how positive it was to see a club embracing the values of Rotary and be open to women and men. A special thanks went to Staffen who, in the role as treasurer, has kept the accounts superbly and in all the years has not needed a single reminder form the district!

Petr reminded the members and friends that the Dragon Boat Charity Race is on the 23rd of May and asked all present to use their contacts to encourage companies, club and associations to enter boats.
Jiri updated members on the results of the 10k run which took place the previous weekend - well done to Staffen's son, Hugo, who finished in an amazing 39.01 minutes.
 
The evening was a great occasion of like minded people coming together to share stories, chat and have a really great time 'doing good'. It is thrilling to see such an active club.
 
 
Full House @ Rotary Club Prague International Christian Noll 2015-03-21 00:00:00Z 0

A new member!

Posted by Christian Noll
Rotary Club Prague International continues to grow and at last week's meeting Ales was welcomed by Vlasta as the newest member of the club. Ales has been active in the club for some time and previously made his presentation to the members who welcomed him as an active participant who has much to give whilst at the same time having fun!
A new member! Christian Noll 2015-03-08 00:00:00Z 0

Run, Run , Run.....

Posted by Christian Noll
On a bright and sunny Saturday morning six Rotarians and guests joined in the Palestra 10 KM run. The conditions could not have been better and as the starting pistol sounded 1700 runners set off to show what they can do. Half way around the course and having been overtaken by what seemed like a stampede I set myself the objective that 'taking part is what really matters' and completing the race is what it is all about. The Czech nation is not only one of tennis and ice hockey players but also has running talents. The best time (alas not from our team) was 30 minutes and 14 seconds however Staffen's son Hugo finished in an amazing 39.01 minutes. A big thanks to Jiri Bavor for organising our participation and a note for your diaries - Jiri is already working on the next run: 15K on the 31st May around the Macha lake.
Run, Run , Run..... Christian Noll 2015-03-08 00:00:00Z 0

February Letter from the District Governor

Dear Rotary Friends,

The month of February is full of significant events in our Rotary lives, as Rotary Clubs traditionally organise benefit balls, and other such gatherings, as a result of which they can implement their projects to help others. In February on the 23rd specifically, we remember, our 110th anniversary of the establishment of our international organisation, and this day is also the Day of International Understanding. It is also the time of rekindling of our contacts across borders, which have brought us so much Rotary fellowship and friendship. In some clubs, we have forgotten these contacts and have focused in, on ourselves, which cuts us off from friendships, as well as our ability to prepare projects together.

International Service is a focus from another angle, and that on POLIO Plus the eradication of childhood polio. Truly, we are so close to the complete eradication of this polio virus from the world, and Rotarians throughout the world are fulfilling their promise of its eradication, helped modestly by our own help.

International Service is also mirrored in our Youth Service our Youth Exchange Committee is working hard with all inbound students in our District, organising for them the best possible conditions, so that they can in the future be the carriers of understanding and peace back to their own countries. They focus too on our outbound students, who represent our two republics so well.

The month of February, is also a month, when we prepare plans for the new Rotary Year. The best place for getting information, the full background, and above all, inspiration, is PETS President Elect Training Seminar and District Training Assembly - which will take place in Olomouc on 13th 15th March 2015. I look forward to meeting the future Presidents and Secretaries, who will lead our clubs in the Rotary year 2015-2016. Please find the detailed invitation from DGE Vladimir Adamek in Appendix 8-1.

In Appendix 8-2, you will find the proposed draft Bye Laws for District 2240, which the District Legislative Committee drafted in accordance with the District Conference 2014 resolution, and is therefore here submitted for discussion at Club level. If you have any comments, please send them to the Chair of the District Legislative Committee, Dr František Vavroch: akvavroch@akvavroch.cz: by 10.3.2015, so that the proposed Bye Laws can then be put to the District Training Assembly in Olomouc for approval.

Yours in Rotary,

Jozefa Poláková, DG 2240, 2014/2015

February Letter from the District Governor 2015-02-10 00:00:00Z 0

Thomas Tietjen presents at Rotary

22 Rotarians and friends gathered on February 5.
 
The guests included Norwegian Rotarian Sam Carsten Aase who comes to our Club whenever he travels from Norway to Prague and Zaza Tsereteli, Georgian by origin by now Norwegian Ministry of Health and Care Services i Tallin, Estonia.
 
The Club announcements:
 
·         Come and bring guests to Members for Members event on February 14.
 
·         Come and join other Prague Rotary Clubs for Prague Rotary Bowling Cup on February 18, from 7 to 9 pm at Radava Bowling Clubs.
 
·         Start informing Peter Smejcky / Gerry Tipple about Dragon Boats, now it is time to secure marketing and CSR budgets!
 
Our honorary member, Thomas Tietjen gave a great presentation on Alzheimer disease and its links to vascular risk factors.
 
Did you know that human body has 100 000 km vessels as the transport organ?
The layer of Endothelium as the control unit for small vessels ranges from 5 000 to 8 000 square kms?
Do you know the equation from Mr. Poiseule for flow rate and friction?
 
Well, perhaps it is high time you start doing the following to avoid your vessels ageing…
1.       Exercise. Daily. (ask Staffan for the contact to World Class Gym.)
2.       Consume antioxydants (including red wine – consult George).
3.       Eat vegetarian food (go to Mamun´s place more often).
4.       Destress…
5.       Foster social contacts (improve your RI attendance).
6.       Try physical vascular therapy (contact Thomas to lease a special mattrace for a trial period).
 
Come next time to listen to another brilliant member and excellent speaker, Roman Frkous.
 
Vesela koruna was happy to bring 1100 CZK.
 
Until next time,

Yours Club Secretary Linda Stucbartova
Thomas Tietjen presents at Rotary 2015-02-08 00:00:00Z 0

A shipment arrives from Sweden

RC Prague International has been supporting Project Klicek in conjunction with our partner club the Rotary Club of Lomma-Bjärred in Sweden. The donation of funds was turned into practical reality when crates of teaching materials arrived from Sweden just as Rotarians Gerry, Birger and Staffan visited the project and met the project director. (In the Picture from left to right: David Havelka, Staffan and Birger - Gerry behind the camera!)
Staffan updated Rotarians at this weeks meeting commenting how overwhelmed he was at the dedication and energy the teaching staff gave to the school which in turn creates a really positive learning environment for children with special needs. The shipment is one of a number which will reach the school over the next months as part of the assistance Rotary International is giving to this very worthwhile project.
A shipment arrives from Sweden 2015-01-29 00:00:00Z 0

Annual members for members dinner party - 14th Feb 2015

We are set for our annual members for members dinner party, Saturday 14 February 2015 from 19:00 at Malostranska Beseda. The theme of this year's party will be 1920s prohibition, so ladies and gents please get your period dress ready. If you need inspiration, please do an online image search for "Boardwalk Empire".
 
Real machine guns will not be allowed, however, food and "booze" will be available in copious amounts.  The venue is the appropriately named "Trick Bar" at Malostranska Beseda, which has a capacity of about 100. The Trick Bar is comprised of 4 rooms: a sit-down bar, a dance floor with stage, and two lounges/saloons. The place looks like a "speak easy," that used to be very popular during the 1920s in the US.
 
The evening will include cold/hot buffet, unlimited beer/wine/non-alcoholic drinks, an cash bar serving spirits. Entertainment will be provided by the 11-member Miloslav Novotny Jazz Swing Orchestra. There will be a couple of surprises awaiting you.
 
All this for an entry of 1,200 Kc! More details to follow, including a formal invitation and how to book your places.
Annual members for members dinner party - 14th Feb 2015 2015-01-17 00:00:00Z 0

Where we came from? Love your fish...

Vlasta welcomed our members and guest including Maggie and Tom who joined us from Rotary Club Westminster, London. Club business was discussed including the planning work for the Rotary Dragon Boat Race which is taking place on the 30th May 2015. The information relating to the race is on the club website and key articles have been translated into Czech with the kind assistance of Jiri Bavor who has attended numerous club meetings as a guest.
 
The highlight of the club meeting this week was a most entertaining and informative talk given by Jan Malat where he took the members right back to the beginning of the universe and then, by winding time forward set out the clear path which shows the evolution of the earliest fish into todays human being. With good humour and plenty of science Jan made the evening a fascinating journey of discovery which will be much talked about and not easily forgotten.
 
 
Where we came from? Love your fish... 2015-01-16 00:00:00Z 0

Melody in Mali

Dear Rotarians,
 
I am definitely missing a little frosty air, mulled wine and good company in December!   It sounds like you had a nice nice time!
I'm afraid that if I write much about what I'm doing here in Mali, it might sound a bit like propaganda. In spite of the dust and some major logistical challenges, I'm quite enjoying this 'gig.'
 
I have been as busy as expected since the moment I arrived in Mali to set up the Ebola prevention program for the International Rescue Committee (www.rescue.org).  The first case of Ebola appeared in Mali just as I arrived and was quickly followed by a few more so an emergency situation seemed imminent.  Fortunately, since mid-December, there have been no active cases here and Mali will be declared Ebola-free on January 18.  Nevertheless, the need to keep working on improving preventive measures - at home, schools in health centres, stores and anywhere crowds gather - is here to stay as long as there is active transmission in neighboring Guinea.  The Ebola outbreak has been and continues to be an invaluable learning experience on so many levels. Although the disease is not yet fully understood, we've learned a lot about how it is transmitted and about local cultural practices, fears and attitudes that can help to break those transmission routes with our interventions.  It's really boiled down to providing raising awareness and mobilizing communities.   
 
I'm attaching a photo of part of our Ebola team of doctors, engineers and clowns (yes, clowns - - - can you tell which is which??), a picture of one of our staff interviewing a woman about about Ebola (she's collecting data on that phone in her hand - very handy way to do a survey, and surprisingly well-received here!) and finally a not all work and no play photo of me with some hashing buddies on the pre-Christmas 22k amble over hill and dale and river beds!  
 
It looks like my replacement is arriving this week so I may be back in Prague before the end of the month.  Hope to see you all then!
 
All the best,

Melody Munz
Melody in Mali 2015-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

Gloegging Great!

Posted by Gerry Tipple
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On Saturday and Sunday, 19-20 December a small group of very dedicated club members led by Marie, stood in temperatures reaching minus 12 degrees and offered Swedish Gloegg to passers by in return for donations to our iCTUS campaign.
Gloegging Great! Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

Great Achievement of Club Recognised

Posted by Gerry Tipple

Our club earns the Presidential Citation with Distinction for our activities in the last Rotary Year. The award is given by past RI President Ron Burton and is here being presented by our past District Governor, Irena Brichta to current and immediate past Presidents Vlasta and Gerry. Prague International is the only club in the District to earn this award.

Bravo to all our members!Image

Great Achievement of Club Recognised Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

Rotarian Linda goes into print

Posted by Gerry Tipple

Image    Image

Our Rotarian Linda Stucbartova talks to Radio Prague about her recently published book.

It's a must read for the young and ambitious. The interview is 

here

Rotarian Linda goes into print Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

Polio Awareness Day and Fund-Raising Campaign

Posted by Gerry Tipple



Club launches End Polio Now fund raiser.


With support from well-known Prague restaurant the Indian Jewel, we are organising an Indian lunch delivery service for offices and workplaces in Prague for the whole week of 24 to 28 October. Not only will participants have a great Indian lunch delivered to them, they will learn about Rotary's End Polio Now campaign and will help us to raise funds for it. Contact ladislava@jasanska.com or gerry@gerrytipple.com to find out more and take part in this great offer.
Support Rotary's no. 1 target End Polio Now

Polio Awareness Day and Fund-Raising Campaign Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0
Club gives to Shelterbox typhoon Haiyan appeal Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

Great Clean-up in Prague 5

Posted by Gerry Tipple
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Members and friends Clean-up Mrazovka Park in Prague 5 on Rotary in Action Day. Good work and a good time had by all. The club carried out this action in support of the Clean-up-the-world campaign.
Great Clean-up in Prague 5 Gerry Tipple 2014-12-31 23:00:00Z 0

DG Letter December 2014

Dear Rotary Friends,

Time flies so quickly and we are already in Advent the pre Christimas time, when we meet with friends, go to benefit concerts, sell mulled wine or Christmas punch all to help those who are not so lucky and do not have so much as we do.

This is family month in our Rotary calendar its a month in which we remember our family ties and relationships, as well as the wonderful fellowship in our big Rotary family. Its a month in which we invite our nearest and dearest to many lovely events, so we can also bring them into the activities of Rotary life.

December is also a club month, because you elect your future president for the Rotary year: 2016- 2017 and you place this information into the Rotary International database (please send a copy of this information to our District Secretary, Ota Kovar: ota.kovar@seznam.cz), as well as also placing on the RI database those members, whom you have elected to Club Board positions for the Rotary year 2015-2016. Please don’t forget the important dates of 31.12.2014 by which your Club will have had its election! And 31.1.2015, by which you will have informed both RI and the District. This will maintain good communications by each club with RI as well as with the District! Attached is a helpful translation of the New Invoice Process a reminder of the new Club Membership Dues Invoice from RI from 1.1.2015.

I sincerely invite all future Club Presidents and Secretaries, to PETS President Elect Training Seminar - in Olomouc on 14 15.3.2015; DGE Vladimir Adamek will send out an invitation and registration form at a later date.

At this time of Club elections, its a good opportunity to think about a potential candidate for District Governor from amongst your members for the Rotary year 2017-2018 and Ihave named a Nomination Committee in line with the Manual of Procedures of RI, with chairman PDG František Ryneš. The Nomination Committee will prepare a timetable, which will be issued with the following DG letter in January 2015.

At Christmas time, we are more sensitive to, and think more deeply about and are more aware of our nearest and dearest and also of our surroundings. It is a time to ponder on what we have achieved, what makes us happy and also what makes us serve others and do good in the future. Many Rotary Clubs in the Czech Republic have committed themselves to contributing financially to the Bone Marrow Foundation. Please remember this committment, as you read the attached letter from Rotarian Jan Machálek from RC Poděbrady, who, along with others, gives his time and energy to this Foundation.

One of our Avenues of Service is to the Young Generation, and I am very happy to be able to attach to my monthly letter an invitation to young people to attend a great event RYLA, which for many years has been organised by our Rotarian Zdenek Michalek. Please don’t forget to find appropriate young people, potential leaders, and invite them to RYLA it is a wonderful worthy event.

Dear Rotarian friends, thank you for our work together this half year, thank you for all your good deeds and activities for others, and I wish you a wonderful Christmas, full of love, happiness and family joy.

Thank you to everyone who has helped to implement so many projects, and for all the young people’s lives you have changed!

I wish you a very happy New Year and all the best, peace, hope, health and happiness in 2015

Jozefa Poláková

DG Letter December 2014 2014-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

Politics, intrigue, visions and a dose of corruption....

The meeting of the Prague RC International this week was really quite special. We welcomed guests from Canada, Florida and Australia and exchanged flags. Following our tradition we toasted a rotary club from another part of the world, this time Waga Waga in Australia.
Following a delicious dinner of Czech Rabbit we listened as Jan Kasl, our guest speaker, opened up the world of Prague politics, city planning and some of the things which go on behind the scenes. Jan was Mayor of Prague from 1998 to 2002 and spoke with passion about his visions for the city. He believes that a city can only evolve if it has a plan and that the role of the Mayor and his/her team is to ensure such a plan is in place and is executed. He told of the ongoing struggle to connect the airport to the city even though elegant and 'smart' solutions exist. Jan also enlightened us about some of the less desirable aspects of Prague politics including corruption, personal interests before serving the city and ex STB agents in positions of power. When asked about the priorities he sees as critical for Prague today, he answered without hesitation: To become the Headquarter for Central Europe by adopting a Smarter City Policy, integrating transport and making Prague a Safe, Clean and Green City managed by a legislature with transparent and honest governance. He elaborated on each of the points with great examples of how it could work, however also with examples of how Prague has been less than effective in achieving some of these goals. Jan has now returned to his passion of city design and architecture and runs a successful architecture studio in Prague. And as for the future in politics, well we'll see....
A few reminders for our Members and Friends: our fundraiser: Selling Mulled Wine will be taking place on the 4th, 5th and 6th of December - more details to come. A Service of Remembrance will be held at the Military Cemetery to remember and honour those who gave their lives in the First World War and other conflicts. All welcome.
 

 
 
Politics, intrigue, visions and a dose of corruption.... Christian Noll 2014-11-07 00:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day on 24 October

Posted by Christian Noll

Rotary celebrates World Polio Day on 24 October with a Livestream event featuring expert speakers and celebrity performers. Hosted by Time magazine science and technology editor , the Chicago event also includes a global status update on the fight to end polio and the challenges that remain, as well as information about joining Rotary's historic campaign.

The program, being held before a live audience at 18:30 Chicago time (UTC-5), includes a performance from , 2013 winner of the TV show "The Voice," an introductory message and videotaped performance by reggae star Ziggy Marley, and a speech by , a polio survivor and Ironman competitor. After the event, Chin will hold a concert in Chicago to benefit the End Polio Now campaign. 

Other speakers include Dr. James Alexander, senior medical epidemiologist at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, representatives of , the largest manufacturer of polio vaccine, Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko, and Rotary Foundation Vice chair Michael McGovern.

For more on this and other polio eradication activities, visit .

 
 
World Polio Day on 24 October Christian Noll 2014-10-22 00:00:00Z 0

Sailor’s Ball of Prague Rotarians: next Friday 17.10.2014

Posted by Christian Noll
The Rotary Club Praha City invite all Rotarians, their families and friends......
 
 
Naloďování v pátek 17.10., v 18,30 Praha - Rašínovo nábřeží u Jiráskova mostu (ca. hodinu čekáme na opozdilce). Vylodění možné před i po 22 hodině
Embarkation on Friday 17.10 at 18.30 - Rašínovo nábřeží at Jirasek Bridge . We wait max 1 hr for latecomers! Disembarking is possible before and after 22.00
Sailor’s Ball of Prague Rotarians: next Friday 17.10.2014 Christian Noll 2014-10-12 00:00:00Z 0

Petr Bisek - an enthralling journey of seeing and seizing opportunity

Posted by Christian Noll
Our meeting at the Barcelo Hotel Old Town Prague was attended by over 25 members and friends. Five members of the Holbaek Inner Wheel Club Joined us, the oldest Inner Wheel club in Denmark and were very welcome.
 
Lara, our exchange student presented the club with the flag from her home club, Minden in Nevada.
Gerry updated the members and friends on the tremendous success of the fundraising effort "Indian Food Helps" where meals are delivered to offices with a significant contribution from each meal going to help Indian schoolchildren with their education. Over 50% more meals have been sold than last year!
Sanan raised the awareness of the club about a funding issue at a local hospital which is funded by the municipality of Prague 1. The situation is some wards is very difficult and Sanan is liaising with the hospital to determine if Rotary can help.
Our guest speaker was Petr Bisek who gave a fascinating account of how he has seen and seized opportunities throughout his life. Opportunities which have resulted in Petr being awarded medals of honour, meeting prime ministers and presidents, publishing a Czech language newspaper in the US and coaching a rowing team to medal success. It all really started when, under a previous regime, he threw a hand grenade 83 meters in a competition, much further than anyone else had ever thrown one.....