Czech Compatriots
Bohemian National Hall, New York City, 2019
Vít Hořejš, In the USA since 1979
In the 1980s, he discovered 69 puppets aged from 100 to 200 years. He founded the Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre (CAMT).
“In 1990, I traveled across the USA with Czech and Slovak fairy tales. 151 performances in 14 weeks.”
Jitka Volavka – Illner, In the USA since 1969
The three-time Czechoslovak tennis champion became a UN interpreter in NYC. She is the president of the New York Society of Arts and Sciences (SVU). She organizes lectures or art exhibitions, among others.
Milan Hospodka, In the USA since 1983
He achieved a professional level in the construction and architecture sector. He was able to take care of his large family. He likes to race on road bikes.
"America is giving everyone a chance. I am an example of this…"
Vít Stuchl, In the USA since 1981
Since 2015, he has run the Bohemian Spirit Restaurant, which is part of the Czech National Hall.
"The good old United States gave me a sense of freedom of decision, speech, business and self-realization."
Michal Hendrych, In the USA since 1981
He founded a company that financed international trade. He was President and CEO of the Canadian bank CIBC.
"There is huge support for talent, growth and work in the U.S. An immigrant like me can start from scratch and succeed.”
Joseph Baláž, In the USA since 1984
He achieved great success in the field of construction. He is the president of the BBLA.
"In the US, I discovered huge dynamism and strength while understanding the fragility of the system, which still needs to be protected."
Helena Belska Fišera, In the USA since early 80’s
She specializes in bilingual, cross-cultural studies and science of education.
She worked as a translator, interpreter, reader, lexicographer, editor, teaching and research fellow (Harvard Univ.), language department head and professor. She set up a language department at Charles University in Prague.
"I am Interested in arts, literature, history and philosophy, social commitment and in transmitting “le travail de mémoire”."
Jiří Boudník, In the USA since 1989
He mapped the WTC wreckage. His computerized 4D model was used to imagine the dismantling of destroyed structures.
He participated in the design and construction of many skyscrapers.
"My strongest experiences relate to the events of Sept. 11, 2001."
Majda Kallab Whitaker, In the USA since 1947
She has worked in the field of international relations and in independent curatorial and research projects in the field of culture and design history.
"I am honored to organize the activities of the Dvořák American Heritage Association (DAHA).“
George Suchanek, In the USA since 1965
The Sucháneks founded the Zlatá Praha restaurant in the Queens district, NYC.
They organized balls and concerts for compatriots, e.g. the Karel Gott performances.
"The community of active Czech-Americans is an integral part of the U.S. prosperity.“
Milly Suchanek, In the USA since 1980
The Sucháneks founded the Zlatá Praha restaurant in the Queens district, NYC.
They organized balls and concerts for compatriots, e.g. the Karel Gott performances.
"The community of active Czech-Americans is an integral part of the U.S. prosperity.“
