Dear Friends,

Starting another year gives us an opportunity to reflect on our past achievements and to proclaim, predict or at least wish for what the next year will bring.

Without a doubt, BBLA had a truly successful year, and we should all be very proud. What makes me really happy is that our individual organizations and our core team will not only wish for great results but they will also roll up their sleeves and go right to work, shaping those outcomes the best they can. The result is a collection of meaningful events that have a strong unifying goal: of not only preserving but more like presenting our heritage and sharing our interactions with our former homelands.  

We will engage in deeper discussions with our friends, representing various branches of the Czech government, about how our community can participate in the ongoing dialogue concerning the future of the Czech Republic. Our terrific relationship with the Consulate, the Mission to the UN, the Embassy and the Czech Center allows us to be of assistance where we can and where it might bring a positive impact. We also work closely with the representatives of Slovakia.

For instance, hands on participation of our sister organizations, the Vaclav Havel Library Foundation and the American Friends of Czech Republic in the events celebrating 25 Years of Freedom, show profoundly how these activities play such a significant role in the political agendas of the current leadership of the country. We shall continue this work as this is clearly part of our mission. 

Wishing you all a prosperous, happy and above all healthy 2015. 

Joseph Balaz, President 

Bohemian Benevolent & Literary Association