The Wrocław International, July 2011

EE R F RY E EV NTH MO

Issue 9

Wrocław’s first English-language newspaper

July 2011 ISSN 2082-730X

Alcohol Ban Controversial new city regulations affecting the sale of alcohol in the old town have many shop owners protesting as well as local residents. P2

The House of Europe is open

Celebrating Independence We find out how Americans and the French celebrate their national holidays and also learn of their historical similarities. P10 and P11

Poland & Europe We cover many aspects of Poland’s links with Europe, P3 Commentary in Polish and English on Polish Presidency of EC, P6 Poland’s high stakes bet on Culture during its Presidency, P12 Europe needs a strategy to maintain its position in the world, P13 we talk to Adam Chmielewski, head of the team that led and won Wrocław’s bid to become European Capital of Culture 2016 about what is to come.

International Voices Articles written in Italian and French. In Italian we have an article about the future of the Italian Prime Minister and in French the significance of the 14th of July in France. P14

We meet Wergi Professional World Champion K-1 Rules WKN 2011 P18

www.wergi.pl

A day to remember in Wrocław, only two European Parliament information offices were opened in Poland; one in Warsaw and the second in Wrocław (ul. Widok 10). Pictured above, Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament (former Prime Minister of Poland) with EC Vice-President Viviane Reading gazing up as balloons are released at the opening.

On the 1st of July, the first day of the Polish Presidency of the European Parliament, a former Polish Prime Minister and the current President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, opened a new European Parliament information office and regional department of the European Commission in Wrocław, called The House of Europe. It is the second office of this type in Poland.

The first was established in Warsaw.

The main purpose of The House

of Europe is to disseminate knowledge about the European Union, the European Parliament and the European Commission amo ng citizens, organize conferences, seminars and debates with EP deputies and clerks and publish information brochures. It will also assist in establishing contacts between local councils, journalists and citizens as dialogue is one of the main European values.

Poland joined the group of the 6 largest European countries having 2 information offices each (United Kingdom, Spain, France,

Germany, Italy and now Poland).

It shows that the economic and political significance of Poland is beginning to be seen all around Europe.

During the ceremony Mr. Buzek was accompanied by the VicePresident of the European Commission Mrs. Viviane Reading. They both spoke about the significance of Poland in the European Union and the long way it has come from becoming a sovereign country to being a rapidly growing free-market economy and an important player in the EU.

The event was connected with the awards ceremony for the European Civic Award. It was given to Elżbieta Lech-Gotthardt, who has been involved for years in the renovation of old polish cottages called ‘domy przysłupowe’.

It is hoped that becoming the European Capital of Culture 2016; one of the organizers of Euro 2012 and a place for the House of Europe is just the beginning of Wrocław’s growing importance in South-West Poland as a cultural and economic centre.

City News

Editorial The surface of Wrocław appears shiny and bright with many significant and notorious projects in the offing.

Underneath however seem to be ripples of discontent particularly about recent laws being introduced without discourse or warning.

Members of the international community have been drawn to Wrocław as have many Poles from other parts of the country.

That intangible factor which attracts us and keeps us is hard to explain but surely part of it is the beat of daily life in this town. That beat seems to be starting to race slightly and with

Alcohol Sale Restrictions it the temperatures of residents and retailers rising.

Recent traffic laws have left some shop -owners reeling without any passing trade. Now new alcohol bans could also cause others to close or lay-off staff or even relocate to a soulless Mall.

Could Affect Whole City Gregor Gowans New city regulations affecting the sale of alcohol in the old town were voted through earlier this month. Eighteen of the city’s councilors voted for the proposals, which ban the sale of alcohol in shops within the old town vicinity after 9pm. There were thirteen votes against, whilst six councilors abstained from voting – meaning the bill was passed through without an overall majority of councilors voting for it.

Without small retailers the city will become just a collection of pubs and restaurants. Local people will leave the centre to do their business elsewhere and Wrocław’s heart will become another tourist trap like Prague or Kraków. Whilst we applaud the City for having the courage of its convictions, we hope their vision is sure and true.

Brian Turner

Councilors opposing the ban suggested increasing the amount of police officers on the street.

Instead of voting for this measure, which could have created more jobs, eighteen of the city’s councilors shockingly voted through regulations that will result in job losses. This is in stark contrast to many other European nations which are cracking down on anti-social behavior by staffing extra police.

Newsround Compiled by Magdalena Katuszewska & Lara Kalashnikova Honorary Citizen, Władysław Frasyniuk On 24th of June the prize of Honorary Citizen of Wrocław was awarded to Mr. Władysław Frasyniuk. Mr Frasyniuk is a great symbol of Lower Silesian Solidarity and is a bold man, who fought hard for Polish freedom. With the award in his hand, he said “the prize was not for me, but for great Solidarity.”

Fitch Ratings, London/Warsaw, July 7, 2011 Fitch Rating confirmed “BBB+” level for Wrocław in terms of foreign currency and “A+” for domestic currency.

MPK get tough on fare-dodgers Since new rules were introduced, MPK Wrocław (Municipal Transport Company) has had five times more prosecutions of faredodgers compared to recent years. Fines start at 700zł.

7,000zł up for grabs in Wrocław film contest The fourth edition of the 'Kręci cię Wrocław? Kręć Wrocław!' film contest will take place this year. The organizer and co-organizer (City Promotion Office and Multimedia Polska) have invited all professional and amateur filmmakers to make a fascinating piece about Wrocław, which should promote the city both in Poland and abroad. Films can be submitted up to the deadline of the 14th of October, with the verdict due in November. The hard work of the winning filmmakers will not go unnoticed either, with a massive 7,000 zł cash prize on offer. www.krecwroclaw.pl Wrocław’s bid for The World Games in 2017 Not content with winning the 2016 European Capital of Culture, Wrocław is also applying to be the host of The World Games in 2017. The World Games is a prestigious sporting event held every four years, featuring sports which are not part of the Olympic Games. More info can be found at www.worldgames2017.pl

The Wrocław International July 2011

The controversial regulations have been met with stern opposition from shop owners.

One store owner, who did not wish to be identified, feared for his business. “I feel this law discriminates us. If they want to apply these laws to shops then why not also for clubs, pubs and restaurants? I’m afraid my shop will go under, as people usually buy alcohol in the evenings, basically from 9pm to 12am. I intend to claim money from the City. First they gave me a concession and now they are banning us from selling alcohol after 9pm. It's wrong.”

On the subject of job losses and shop closures, a municipality representative did not hide the fact there will be jobs lost due to the new regulations. “It is inevitable that there will be redundancies as the store owners restructure their businesses.

However it is very unlikely the stores themselves will close down.

Initially it will only affect one-third of the 30 stores in the old town vicinity.

Unfortunately we need to make some sacrifices in order to do what is best for the city.”

The admission about job losses becomes even more worrying now that the extension of the ban has come to light. A lot has been documented on the small number of shops affected by the ban, but The Wrocław International can reveal that the highly criticized measures could soon be extended to the whole

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city. The municipality representative revealed to The Wrocław International that there are plans to extend the restrictions to shops near places like public parks, skate parks, Wyspa Słodowa and other popular walking routes by the river. Many local residential councils are in favour of the ban, and this could see further restrictions in places far beyond that of the old town’s borders.

This could result in more job losses when the ban is extended, hitting family-run shops in local communities.

Those against the ban claim that it restricts their rights under the Act on the freedom of economic activity. However the Municipality believes the act on sobriety and education must also be taken into consideration. The municipality representative added, “It is this act that will allow the local councils to i mp o s e t h e s e ad d i t io n a l restrictions. There are too many teenagers drinking in public, and this sends the wrong message to future generations of children.

Statistics show that people are drinking from a younger and younger age, and the new regulations intend to buck this trend.”

Supporters of the ban believe it will benefit the city. The municipality representative explained exactly why it is being put in place. “The ban is being used as a complimentary tool to help the police and city guards to maintain law and order, as well as the safety of the people.

We believe it will help to tackle the problem of anti-social behaviour and acts of violence

on the streets.”

Once all the legislative procedures have been completed and the law comes into effect, the new regulations will be valid until September 2012. There will be no trial period, as has been reported by some of the press recently. The municipality representative also confirmed that the ban will only affect shops and not bars and restaurants near religious buildings. Therefore the city’s iconic pubs such as Mleczarnia and Jaś i Małgosia are safe for now.

Polish history has shown that people are more than willing to rebel when they believe their freedoms have been restricted.

We quizzed the municipality representative on the matter, and he did not deny that there will be p eo p l e wh o i g n o re t he regulations. “There will always be those rebelling against the new regulations, and alcohol is proving a controversial topic.

Some shop owners may choose to ignore the law; however they will be met with harsh penalties.”

The opposition to the prohibition law is growing, with a Facebook group attracting over 17,000 followers. Only time will tell if the new rules will be obeyed, or if they will achieve the results the city council is looking for.

The results of the ban will be eagerly monitored by the rest of Poland, who could choose to replicate the measures should they prove to be 'successful'. (if you have an opinion on this story then please write to g.gowans@wroclawinternational.pl

City News

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Komentator - Europe Germany Poland Lower Silesia is the monthly online portal which raises political and economic topics, publishes interviews with leading politicians and businessmen, deals with EU and PolishGerman issues.

Dr Krzysztof Tokarz, Komentator’s Editor in Chief, is an expert in Polish -German relations. He has been published in media such as International Relationship, Polish-German POINT, Gazeta Lwowska. He has also given expert commentary on Wprost TV, Polsat News & Wrocław Radio.

Polska prezydencja Krzysztof Tokarz Z dniem pierwszego lipca Polska po raz pierwszy w swojej historii objęła na pół roku przewodnictwo w Radzie Unii Europejskiej.

Przewodnictwo jest rotacyjne i poszczególne państwa pełnią tę rolę raz na jakiś czas.

Zadań przed Polską jest wiele.

Walki Greków na ulicach Aten przeciwko narzucanym im przez kraje unijne reformom doskonale pokazują, że czas, który przypadł Polakom wcale do najłatwiejszych nie należy.

Zresztą cały bieżący rok jest jednym z najtrudniejszych w historii europejskiej wspólnoty.

Kraj z Europy Wschodniej, tzw. nowy członek, pełniąc przewodnictwo w radzie Unii, mo że ud o wo d nić starym członkom, że nie różni się niczym od nich, że jest równie sprawny w zarządzaniu tak ogromną strukturą.

Donald Tusk w wywiadzie, którego udzielił dla „Frankfurter

On the 1st of July, Poland took over the rotational presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first time in its history. Its term will last for a duration of six months.

Poland has a lot of work to do.

The rioting of Greeks in the streets of Athens in protest of strong regulations imposed on their country by other European nations clearly indicates that the term of the Polish presidency will definitely not be easy. Additionally, the current year has been one of the most demanding in the history of the European Union.

As an Eastern European country, and one of 'the new ones', Poland has a unique chance to show Western European countries that it is not too different from them. Hopefully, Poland will also prove just as effective in managing such a huge institution as the European Union.

Polish Prime Minister, Mr. Don-

Allgemeine Zeitung”, zapewnił, że nasi zachodni bracia nie mają się czego bać. Polski premier za jedno z najważniejszych zadań uznał odzyskanie nadwyrężonego zaufania dla całej Unii.

Tusk, odpowiadając na pytanie niemieckiego dziennikarza, powiedział, że on jako Polak rozumie lepiej niż inni w zachodniej Europie wartość, jaką jest wspólny i pozbawiony wewnętrznych granic rynek.

W kolejnym pytaniu dziennikarz „Frankfurter Allge meine Zeitung” stwierdził, że nastąpiło załamanie wspólnej polityki zagranicznej Unii Europejskiej w czasie interwencji w krajach Afryki Północnej, zwłaszcza podczas obecnej kampanii w Libii. Polski premier odpowiedział, że nie będzie polskich samolotów wojskowych nad Libią, co nie powinno nikogo dziwić - Polacy wyczerpali swój potencjał, wysyłając wojska do

ald Tusk, in an interview with the German newspaper, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, assured our western neighbours that they have nothing to fear.

Mr. Tusk stated that one of the most important goals of the Polish presidency is to regain the strained trust of the European Union.

Mr. Tusk, answering another German journalist’s question, said that as a Pole he understands, like no one else, the importance of a free and unlimited European market.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung's journalist concluded that European foreign policy has been weakened by the recent conflicts in North Africa, especially during recent clashes in Libya. The Polish Prime Minister replied that there would not be a single Polish aircraft in the Libyan sky, which should not be a surprise as Poland has spent its entire military budget participating in the conflict in Afghani-

Afganistanu.

Pojawia się też pytanie ze strony zachodnich partnerów, czy P o lska po rad zi sob ie z szalejącym kryzysem w Grecji.

W dobie kryzysu Niemcy, które same są płatnikiem i reprezentują interesy państw najwięcej wpłacających do unijnego budżetu, preferują politykę oszczędności. Nawołują do solidarności i ograniczania środków wypłacanych dla krajów biedniejszych. Bogaci nie mają ochoty już łożyć ogromnych środków na tzw. politykę spójności, a kryzys daje im doskonałe alibi, aby ugrać coś na swoją korzyść.

Polacy, Węgrzy i pozostałe biedniejsze kraje nie są w najmniejszym stopniu zainteresowane poparciem tego stanowiska. Dzięki środkom, z których korzystają, mogą nadrobić zacofanie c y wi l iza c yj n e i z a s yp ać przepaść, która dzieli je od starego Zachodu. Przy

stan.

Western countries have every right to wonder whether Poland will be able to cope with the effects of the financial crisis in Greece. Germany, which is a supporter and representative of the interests of the biggest contributors to the EU budget, favors savings. They have called for solidarity and to limit financial resources paid to developing EU countries. Rich countries are no longer interested in paying huge amounts for a so-called 'cohesion policy', and the current crisis is a great opportunity for them to gain an advantage and fulfill this desire.

Poland, Hungary and other developing EU countries are not in favor of backing this position.

The financial help that they benefit from is a valid and effective tool that helps fill the gap separating them from the 'old West'. If the austerity measures suggested by Germany and other countries are implemented,

proponowanych ograniczeniach biedniejsze kraje nie mają szans na reformy kluczowych gałęzi, jak chociażby energetyka.

Polska, przewodnicząc Unii, będzie jednocześnie reprezentowała ją w pertraktacjach klimatycznych pod egidą ONZ. Nie ukrywano, że to fatalny zbieg okoliczności (to właśnie Polska zawetowała drastyczne ograniczenia w emisji dwutlenku węgla).

Niemcy, które zainwestowały w tzw. energetykę odnawialną, forsują drakońskie normy, które dla Polski mogą być zbyt wymagające. Poza tym kraje Europy Zachodniej nie chcą przyjąć do wiadomości, że technolo gia wydob ycia i spalania węgla dziś jest o wiele bardziej zaawansowana i mniej szkodliwa, niż to było kiedyś.

Na zakończenie warto też dodać, że przed Polską stanie wyzwanie w postaci ożywienia polityki wschodniej Unii. Warszawa, jak

poorer countries would stand no chance of reforming key sectors of their economies, such as energy production.

As President of the Council of the European Union, Poland will also be representing the EU in climate negotiations under UN auspices. It is no secret there are those who consider this is an awkward coincidence, as it was Poland who vetoed a drastic reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Germany, who invested in renewable energy sources, is trying to push through draconian standards, which may be too demanding for Poland. In addition, Western European countries do not want to acknowledge that the technology of coal extraction and burning is much more advanced and less harmful to the environment today than it once was.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that Poland will face the dilemma when reviving the EU's

żadna inna stolica, czuje się najbardziej predysponowana do tego, aby tchnąć życie w obumarłą ostatnio politykę wobec Białorusi i Ukrainy.

Wspólna polityka wobec Kijowa czy Mińska nie jest łatwa do pogodzenia z interesami Polski i Niemiec, a teraz dochodzi do tego jeszcze grubo ponad 20 państw Unii plus kwestia tego, jak Unia ma postępować z Rosją.

Minister spraw zagranicznych Radosław Sikorski i jego niemiecki odpowiednik Guido Westerwelle wspólnie zapewniają, że są w stanie nadawać nowe kierunki w europejskiej debacie. Te zapewnienia zweryfikuje polskie przewodnictwo w Radzie Unii Europejskiej i już w grudniu będziemy mieli pewność, czy to były szczere deklaracje czy tylko niezobowiąz ująca polityczna nowomowa.

eastern expansion policy. Warsaw, like no other European capital, feels obliged to breathe life into the neglected policy towards Belarus and Ukraine.

Finding a common policy regarding Kiev and Minsk that fulfills the mutual interests of Poland and Germany will prove difficult enough, not to mention having over 20 other European countries involved.

The Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Radosław Sikorski, and his German counterpart, Guido Westerwelle, have pledged that they will be able to give a new direction to the European debate.

These assurances will be verified by the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. In December, it will become clear whether they are being genuinely sincere, or simply making a series of unmanageable promises via political sound bites.

Translation by: Dawid Knurowski

The Wrocław International

July 2011

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Business

Stay in the cultural loop with HP Aleksandra Guzdek The HP Culture initiative was established two years ago as a response to employees’ need for cultural offerings as communicated in a yearly employee feedback round. The group consists of seven members who broaden the contact list of cooperating organizations and institutions on a regular basis. Offerings vary from cinema tickets or pop concerts to Wratislavia Cantans or non-mainstream theatre. These offerings are adjusted to employees’ needs and preferences.

In July, the program dove into culture at its fullest and covered

Brave Festival, which featured artists and people who are trying to protect their cultures from oblivion. HP employees could make use of discounts to see movies made by directors of diverse nationalities, touching on issues such as the destruction of tradition and spiritual heritage. Taking advantage of this destruction are commercial interests that are often meaningless and temporary.

Not that much into cultural analysis? The upcoming Erykah Badu concert is currently a hot topic for the HP Culture group.

The offer was highly appreciated within the organization. If you are planning to visit Słodowa Island on August 7th, you will most likely see the HP community enjoying the neo-soul feast.

Photo: Courtesy of HP

Great synergy between business and entertainment is keeping HP employees in good spiritual shape.

A cultural package for HP employees covers discounts on various cultural events taking place in Wrocław.

A team of devoted cultural detectives keeps an eye on where to blow off steam, art-wise, and provides discount offers on a regular basis. However, as in tough business, tough rules apply here as well: first come, first served, and the HP Culture packages enjoy great popularity indeed.

Sound appealing? Then we are happy to introduce you to a new section presenting open job positions within Hewlett-Packard Global e-Business Operations.

We will keep you posted on where you can find your match within our multicultural and culture-oriented organization.

AmCham update Joanna Bensz The European Commission recently published a Green Book on R&D and innovation, which launched a public debate devoted to the need for a common strategy and better synergy in the “kno wledge triangle” (research, education and innovation), to create new mechanisms and better coordination of financing for R&D and innovation projects.

Advertisement

In late June AmCham hosted a breakfast meeting for member companies in Wrocław, which was a perfect opportunity for face time with Prof. Jerzy Langer, Foreign Secretary of Academia Europaea and former Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education. He is also a science and innovation advisor to the Mayor of Wrocław.

The Wrocław International

July 2011

At the AmCham Wrocław event, Prof. Langer spoke about financing large-scale R&D initiatives using EU funds and introduced the early stages of the concept of Wrocław Research Centre EIT+, the institute’s current activities and its future development plans. He pointed out that the current level of about 700 mln zł may greatly expand its support in the next financial perspective,

thanks to a redefined cohesion policy, dedicating up to 20% of the structural funds for best proinnovative projects in the less developed regions of EU (currently only about 5%).

Under the Regional Strategy for Lower Silesia 2007–2013, the EIT+ project, supported in large part by EU structural and cohesion funds, will play a pivotal

role in making Lower Silesia the fastest growing Knowledge and Innovation Creation Region in Central Europe by creating material conditions for a strong partnership among the higher education, research and business communities and the innovative economy.

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Business

Doors open day at KOGENERACJA S.A. Alice Renard tribution of electricity. The visit was held by workers of the plant. Most of the 200 employees of the Czechnica plant live among the 5,000 inhabitants of this town.

producing both electric power and hot water for heating and domestic usage.

A bit of green - Poland adhering to Sources of Energy 2020 Regulations!

What are the main sources for producing electrical power in Poland?

Being a European Union member, Poland has been respecting and adhering to new regulations established by the European parliament on sources of energy in 2020: 20% renewable energy consumption and 20% savings in energy consumption. KOGENERACJA S.A. has been innovative and since November 27th, 2010, one of the four boilers in EC Czechnica has been working with 100% biomass.

About 95% of electricity in Poland is produced from local coal and the rest from wind, hydraulic and biomass sources. Power stations are often located in towns, with remarkable red and white chimneys. There are three such power plants in Wrocław,

What is biomass?

Photo: Alice Renard

Photo: www.kogeneracja.com.pl

In Czechnica, biomass takes the form of vegetable energy composed with 60% wooden residue from the forest industry and 40% from maize leaf residue from agriculture.

To lower the emission of CO2 in the next years, KOGENERACJA S.A., as its strategic goal, adopted an increase in the share of biomass in the fuels it combusts. A pile of biomass (left) and biomass close-up (right).

Chinese halt highway construction

COVEC, with more than 280,000 staff worldwide, is one of the largest engineering construction companies in Asia. In 2009 they won the bid to build two sections of Poland's A2 highway, which will stretch 49 kilometres and run from Warsaw to the German border. The company said the total cost of the A2 highway construction will reach $786 million, 76% higher than

Arkadiusz Repczynski (left), Senior Chief Engineer and In-Charge Biomass Process and Philippe Gagneux (right), CEO KOGENERACJA S.A. The Czechnica combined heat and power plant The Czechnica Plant, built in 1911, is celebrating its 100th birthday. It still has some of the typical industrial architecture from that era. The plant includes a railway station for the trains transporting coal produced in Silesia.

A modern biomass station was built in 2010, with 20% funds from the EU and a specific contract to sell “green” electricity generated by biomass at a higher price. During summertime, a reduced amount of heat is needed to generate electricity.

Hence, the biomass boiler is sufficient and it requires 1,000 tons of biomass for operating every day.

Biomass produces no carbon dioxide, 10 times less sulphur, and less dust and ashes than coal, but is 4 times less profitable than conventional sources.

So, without spending more money, how do you use biomass and sell electricity at the same price? These are the political choices. So the questions arise: Are people ready to pay more in the future in order to pollute less and will Poland also decide to implement nuclear power plants?

More flights from SAS Lara Kalashnikova

Darren Chong China Overseas Engineering Group (COVEC) is withdrawing from a $447 million highway construction project in Poland after incurring heavy losses. COVEC, a Beijing -based company, is the first Chinese enterprise to win a large European highway contract, and had pledged to complete the highway before the 2012 European Football Championships, which Poland is co-hosting with Ukraine.

Photo: Alice Renard

KOGENERACJA S.A., a subsidiary of the French Group EDF (Electricité de France), held “doors open day” at their Czechnica combined heat and power plant on June 18th. This special entrance to the premises gave the local residents an opportunity to visit the power plant and understand their industrial neighbour and its work better. Many locals visited the power plant and saw electricity generation first hand, from the transportation of coal and biomass, broilers to the state -of-the-art computer control room to the generation and dis-

the original estimate, due to its Polish partner imposing a higher construction standard and the price of building materials soaring unexpectedly.

According to reports in the People's Daily, COVEC invested more than $140 million in the project since it began in July of last year, and has finished nearly 20% of the construction. With the contract termination, the Polish road agency is claiming 741 million zlotys ($271.1 million) in compensation from COVEC. The Deputy Head of GDDKiA (General Directorate for the National Roads and Motorways), Andrzej Maciejewski, said that there were provisions in the agreement providing for a withdrawal penalty, with bank guarantees, and there is confirmation that it will be paid to Poland.

Two years ago when COVEC won the tender (after offering a

bid that was less than half the cost estimated by GDDKiA), it stirred a dispute and disapproval from many Polish companies especially given the grant of such a huge contract to a foreign company. With the recent withdrawal of COVEC, will Chinese companies be awarded any major projects in Europe again? Will this influence the business and diplomatic relationships between the two countries?

Any Chinese enterprise entering a foreign market should be familiar with international law and the market environment of the host country. On the other hand, the host country plays a major role in making sure their foreign business counterparts possess a high level of diversity as well as local cultural awareness to avoid any international cooperation failures. www.connectasia.pl

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) increased the frequency of the flights from Copenhagen to Wrocław and launched two additional flights. The popularity of the air connections is so huge that SAS decided to increase the number of flights. SAS flies to Wrocław six times per week.

New flights will start running on Tuesdays and Thursdays (flying time 1 hour and 20 minutes).

On these days, the route will be operated by two new aircrafts: CRJ900 with 88 seats on board and CRJ200 offering 50 seats.

Winda Brociek from SAS Scandinavian Airlanes, says, ‘In winter the distribution of seats will double. With a d d i t i o n a l fl i g h t s fr o m Wrocław, passengers will gain new opportunities to travel to Copenhagen or to Scandinavia,

Europe, and on intercontinental routes.’

‘Customers with business needs in Wrocław will especially appreciate the convenience and speed of travel. Considering the business potential and dynamic economic development of the region, I am convinced that the demand for this type of connection will grow,’ says Dariusz Kuś, President of Wrocław Airport. As a result, in May 2011, Wrocław Airport recorded an increase of international traffic at the traditional 23.4% compared to May 2010. In June, Wrocław Airport served 22,643 passengers in this segment.

SAS CRJ900 Aircraft

Photo courtesy of Wroc aw Airport

The Wrocław International

July 2011

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www.pl2011.eu

Culture

Poland bets on culture Jolanta The Polish EU Presidency has created a rich cultural programme for the coming six months. It will be comprised of a series of various events, from cultural happenings to artistic projects, held in Poland but also widely promoting Polish culture in Europe and around the world.

Some of these events are already underway, such as the exhibition "Poland: Treasures and Art Collections", showing the Golden Age of the Polish Republic at Madrid’s Royal Palace, and "Power of Fantasy: Imagination at Work", presenting modern and contemporary art from Poland at the Brussels' Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR).

Polish culture globlises

Reflection on culture

A group scene from the production of opera quilt. It is one of the six socalled flagship projects of the cultural programme of the Polish Presidency of the EU. Another highlight will be the world tour of the performance ‘Planet Lem’ and the debut of the works of Polish composer Karol Szymanowski, including his masterpiece ‘King Roger’ in 'La Monnaie’, in Brussels and other

www.culture.pl

cities. The latter is linked with the ‘I, Culture Orchestra’ project, which will gather musicians under 25 years of age from countries east of the EU border to play in renowned European concert halls, as a way to promote the Eastern Partnership.

The audiobook versions of selected Czesław Miłosz poems, recorded by recognised actors

The central purpose of the cultural programme of the Polish EU Presidency is not only the promotion of the country’s own culture but also recognition of the prospects for the future development of European culture.

This will be the main issue of the European Congress of Culture, which will take place in September 2011 at Wrocław’s Centennial Hall. This exceptional event will be attended by 300 artists, scientists, philosophers, and activists. The key element of the Congress will be the meeting of the ministers in

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Let flowers say it for you...

The final question is whether this cultural display of the Polish EU Presidency will bring the country some tangible benefits.

Poland will have to face discussion of the new EU budget for 2014-2020, the situation in North Africa, the G20 summit in Cannes, as well as indifference to the Eastern Partnership and the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. If everything goes well, and Poland does not slip up on one of these points, the cultural programme might build up its image and make the EU admire Poland just as in the new 3D film by Tomasz Bagiński promoting the Polish EU Presidency. (Official website: www.pl2011.eu)

aw Ratha Yatra

HI SORRY THANKS CONGRATULATIONS WELCOME CONDOLENCES FAREWELL ◆

charge of culture for the EU members states; however, for the ordinary culture participants, the events open to the public will be the most important. All information and the programme of the European Congress of Culture is available on the website: www.culturecongress.eu.

Kuba Pozdzior aw, June 2011

Zielona Weranda is the place where flowers are our passion.

We make flower decorations and bouquets for all occasions, including weddings, anniversaries, conferences, business meetings.

Photo: Madhava

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One of the ongoing contemporary crafts projects is ‘I, Culture’ which kicked off on the 1st of July in London. This project will be continued in 10 European and Asian capital cities, where the residents will create their own patchwork puzzle (20x20 m) for a huge

and writers, are on release since June until September as inserts in major newspapers or magazines in ten European capitals.

The documentary series, "Rock, Fashion, Sex, Himalaism and Toys", is also a flagship of the EU Presidency's cultural programme to help foreigners understand the history, culture and character of Polish society. All events are presented on the website: www.culture.pl.

We recently served the Swedish Royal Couple and the Wrocław Global Forum.

CONTACT

Zielona Weranda ul. Tyrmanda 37 (Muchobór Wielki), 54-608 Wrocław telephone: +48 698 556 720 (we speak English)

On June 21, this huge and colourful cart was pulled by a singing crowd on the Old Town Square. Many residents of Wrocław were standing in astonishment at seeing this phenomenon.

The tradition of carriage of Jagannath’s image is very old and it originated in East India, in the town of Jagannath Puri, Orissa.

The legend says that the statues of Jagannatha were made by a mythical sculptor of gods, Vishvakarma, on the request of King Indradyumna. Unfortunately the sculptor was not able to finish his work. Nevertheless Indradyumna, a great devotee of

The Wrocław International

July 2011

Krishna, asked that the unfinished statues be painted and then placed in a purpose-built temple.

Throughout the ages in Puri annual parades of chariots attracted hundreds of thousands of people. In the 1960s the tradition was moved to the West

by Bhaktivedanta Swami and his International Society for Krishna Consciousness. In this way it came also to Wrocław, enriching its wide cultural face!

The statues of Jagannath may be seen at the Ethnographic Museum (ul. Traugutta 111/113) until August 14th.

Culture

The last edition of TWI listed Falanster as an important alternative venue in Wrocław; it is particularly influential in shaping the city’s contemporary art scene. However, it is struggling to survive as a private enterprise. Without Falanster, a cultural hub will be lost.

Falanster (on ul. Św Antoniego 23) is a cooperative enterprise made up of 11 people from a social and arts background. Despite being two years old, most Wrocławians know Falanster as a flagship venue for a place of social and political engagement, bookshop, an arts centre, or an ecological café. It is well used as a gathering place for creatives.

Sadly, its popularity does not pay the rent. Its main income is from the café however – just like most cafes – they rely on ex-pat and tourist spending. Attracting this group is a problem because the cafe it not in Rynek (The Market) and the Dzielnica Czterech Świątyń (Borough of Four Temples) which means Falanster appeals to a niche market.

the city, Falanster‟s status of a private enterprise means they can not obtain government assistance. Maybe this could change, as the public-private model is becoming more common. More importantly, Falanster is what European policy would call an „incubation space‟ (a place where people meet and ideas spark). In theory European funds should slowly filter down to places like Falanster. However, it may not be soon enough for Falanster.

Today, Falanster is attempting to attract regulars by turning the bookshop into a library, cocreating more events, like Pink Piknik, at pasaż Ruska – św.

Antoniego, and creating events of their own. Visit www.falanster.pl for more details.

On July 14, the House of Peace foundation hosted a very special musical workshop for kids who spend their summer holidays in Wrocław.

The 21 youngsters enjoyed a morning full of rhythm, singing and dancing which reached its climax with a final concert for a delighted audience.

On Saturday, July 16, there was a special benefit auction of locally donated artwork. This act of kindness illustrated the importance of Falanster to local creatives. If it closes down, there will be less „incubation space‟ in Wrocław and fewer chances for creatives to develop.

The workshop was run by members of the Utrecht Students Orchestra, who were in Wrocław for a performance. “We did it in Croatia last year. It was a great success,” says Laura, one of the violinists from the Dutch orchestra. The kids were divided into three groups: percussionists, singers and dancers.

Despite the cultural emphasis of

Doodle is known as a decorative change made to the Google logo to celebrate a holiday or any other special event.

The concept of the doodle appeared in 1998 when Larry and Sergey, the Google founders placed a stick figure drawing behind the 2nd „o‟ to inform users that they were “out of office”.

The idea of decorating the logo was so well received that in 2000 they asked Dennis Hwang, the current webmaster who was an intern then, to create doodle to honour Bastille Day. Since then doodles have occurred regularly on the Google homepage.

Doodle for Poland On July 1, 2011, the Google homepage for Poland was decorated with the doodle honouring the beginning of the Polish EU Presidency. There were already doodles celebrating Polish events and holidays on the Google website as the Fat Thursday (tłusty czwartek) with two donuts instead of double „o‟ in 2007 (first Polish doodle ever) or a treble clef instead of „g‟ for Frederic Chopin‟s Birthday last year.

This year, on the occasion of the

7

Singers and dancers were train-

beginning of the Polish EU Presidency, the contest „Doodle 4 Google‟ was organised in Poland for the school children aged 7 to 12 years. Each participant was asked to send artwork, drawn or painted, accompanied by a completed phrase with the words „Everyone knows that in Poland...‟.

The mountains and the sheep The contest generated a huge amount of interest within schools and children. All together the organizer received a few thousand designs with the themes of Polish legends, landscape, national symbols, historical monuments or well-known Poles like Lech Wałęsa, Nicolaus Copernicus, Frederic Chopin as well as the folk scenes and regional culi-

ing the whole morning in a nearby club while percussionists stayed at the House of Peace beating food and drink containers by way of drums and snares until exhausted. All this took place under the watchful gaze of their tutors from the organization Stowarzyszenie Zyc Inaczy (an organization that takes care of the children during the summer while their parents are working).

By 12:30p.m., the three groups gathered to perform a concert before an audience of more than 50 people. The different languages spoken by teachers and pupils (Dutch and Polish) did not seem an impediment for the music to flow, as the final warm applause confirmed.

nary specialties.

The winning doodle was the panorama of the Polish Tatra Mts., showing two sheep, a highlander, his sheepdog, Giewont‟s summit and a cross on its top, designed by Martyna Króliszewska from Murzasichle near Zakopane. Martyna completed the phrase as „Everyone knows that in Poland the Highlanders graze sheep under Mount Giewont‟.

The young winner was awarded with 15,000zł of a scholarship for artistic development. The school she attends received 25,000zł as a technology grant.

Just a pity that this doodle was not visible throughout the European Union but only at www.google.pl.

As reported in our June edition, Wrocławian children participated in the project “Kids’ Guernica”. Above we have captured a picture of the finished work at Rynek before it goes on display. The composition of the painting is nearly the same as Picasso‟s original artwork but the colours are completely different. „Guernica‟,

painted by children in Wrocław, possesses the same elements as the original painting: horse, people, buildings, etc. However, they emerge as the pieces of a happy children‟s world rather than the monochromatic remnants of heavy bombing of the Basque town. It is definitely not a scream of despair but rather an optimistic vision.

The Wrocław International July 2011

8 Culture

The progressive impact of the church caused the merger of many old-fashioned Pagan holidays with new Christia n cust o ms a nd traditions.

Despite contradictions between the two churches, many traditions were respected. Kupala Night was one of the most joyful Slavic holidays; therefore people did not want to leave this tradition.

Eventually, the church gave up and decided to adapt the new holiday. First they linked it with Zielone Świątki (White Sunday), and then a new patron was assigned to it together with the new name and new concept of holiday itself. Thus the new Christian holiday of John the Baptist (Ioann Krestitel) replaced the old pagan holiday of Kupala Night in the 10th century.

“Ivan Kupala”, “Midsummer” or “Sobotka,” are all different names of the most poetic celebrations in the Russian, Polish, Ukrainian and Belarusian ritual calendar. In Poland, it is celebrated on June 24th, because it is the longest day of the year.

Not only Nikolay Gogol (the author of “The Eve of Ivan Kupala”) was inspired by those midsummer lights, but also many other gifted people of that time enjoyed that amazing holiday.

There is an ancient belief that the Eve of Ivan Kupala is the only time of the year when the ferns bloom. On that night, people from the villages roam through the forests looking for magical herbs. Whoever finds a fern-flower would become immensely rich and successful.

The celebrations usually take place during the night. Young

unmarried men in villages create the Kupalytsia doll and dress it up like a woman. Young women prepare the Kupala doll and dress it up in a male style. At the end of celebration, the Kupala doll is burned, and the Kupalytsia is drowned in water.

Young boys and girls jump over a fire holding hands. According to the legend, the couple will stay together as long as they keep holding their hands. The women sing special songs "kupalni", with a lot of references to marriage.

One of the most important rituals is floating wreaths of flowers lit with candles on rivers. Relationship fortunes are told by looking at the way flowers reflect on water.

The tradition of having fun during Kupala Night exists quite often in different forms: in evening walks to the boats, in

fireworks shows, in concerts, performances of street artists and in many other ways. Such transformation helps to keep the traditions alive and also delves

deeper into knowing ancient Slavic culture.

This local newspaper is widely distributed throughout Wrocław. You can get your free issue at the tourist information in the Rynek, at the American Corner in the Biblioteka/Library on the Rynek, at the airport, in hotels, different restaurants, international schools and various cultural centres. Here is a list of some of the places we leave our paper. If you would like to be added to our distribution list, just email admin@wroclawinternational.pl Company 3M

Higher Education Akademia Ekonomiczna

Hotels Art Hotel

Cafes/Bars

Other Places

Blue Bar Cafe

American Corner

Bank Santander BNY Mellon Cadbury

Akademia Medyczna Akademia Sztuk Pięknych Politechnika Wrocławska

Hotel ETAP Hotel Europeum Hotel Jana Pawła II

Coffee Heaven Coffee Planet Guinness Pub

AVIS Car Rental Empik International Friends of Wrocław

Capgemini

Wydział Filologii UWr

Hotel Mercure

John Bull Pub

Kino Helios

Cargill

Wyższa Szkoła Handlowa

Hotel Monopol

Klubokawiarnia Mleczarnia

Kuchnia Świata,Magnolia Park

CSS

Hotel Novotel

Literatka

Smaki Świata

Deloitte

Language Schools

Hotel Platinum

Moloco

Urząd Wojewódzki

Google

Alliance Francaise

Hotel Park Plaza

Palm Cafe

Wrocław Airport

HP

Berlitz

Hotel Tumski

Paparazzi Bar & Cafe

Wrocław Biblioteka

IBM KPMG

International House Profi-Lingua

Hotel Wrocław Południe Hotel Wrocław Stadion

Soul Cafe Starbucks - Plac Grunwaldzki

Wrocław City Hall Wrocław Tourist Office

LG

Queen’s School of English

Orbis Hotel

Starbucks – Rynek

Lukas Bank

Speed School

Qubus Hotel

McKinsey

Restaurants

Radisson Blu Hotel

Cultural Centres

Lulu Cafe

Nasza Klasa

Schools

Sofitel

Bente Kahan Foundation

Abrams’ Tower

NSN Nokia Siemens

British International School

Hotel Jasek

Centennial Hall

America Bar & Grill, Magnolia Park

Orsay

International Preschool

Hotel Diament

Falanstar Book Shop

Bistro Parisien

Pantoni

Wrocław International Children’s House

Best Western Prima Hotel

Filharmonia

Cantina

Tieto

Wrocław International School

Impart Centre of the Arts

Capri Italian Restaurant

Sports Centres

National Museum

Cesarz Chinese Restaurant

Toshiba UPS

New Additions

Aquapark

Panorama Racławicka

Darea Korean Restaurant

VB Leasing

Francuski Piesek Restaurant

Matchpoint Racquet Club

Łokietka 5

Masala Indian Restaurant

Verity Development Wrocław Technology Park

Olympic Stadium

Mosaiq

VPM Raflatac

Remax

Toya Golf Club

Pod Papugami

Wipro

BOSCH

The Wrocław International July 2011

Sarah Restaurant

Culture

9

Grammar Secrets 3 Edyta Juszczyszyn

In Polish we have several verbs of motion which are always translated into English as “to go”. Everything depends on whether we are going somewhere on foot or if we are planning to use machines with wheels, such as buses, cars, bicycles, motorbikes, trams, the metro, or taxis. For example, if we want to say: "I am going to the cinema" we have to use the verb "iść" (to go on foot), because this activity (going to the cinema) in general use is done by using the feet.

Dzisiaj idę do kina. (Today I go to the cinema.)

Teraz idę do kina. (Now I go to the cinema.)

If we want to go somewhere by means of transportation, we must use the verb "jechać".

Of course we have more verbs of motion, and it is useful to mention the verb "to fly". To describe going somewhere by plane, we have to use the verb "lecieć" or "latać".

Dzisiaj jadę do Warszawy.

(Today I go to Warsaw.)

Jutro jadę do Paryża.

(Tomorrow I go to Paris – the present tense used as the future tense.)

Dzisiaj lecę do Madrytu.

(Today I go to Madrid.)

Another problem is when we want to tell somebody about going somewhere as a frequent activity, such as regularly, every day, from time to time, rarely or never. To talk about going somewhere frequently on foot we must use "chodzić" and to talk about going somewhere by transportation, we make use of "jeździć".

Co ty dzień la ta m do Monachium. (Every week I go to Munich.)

This is not the end of the challenges you have to accept about motion verbs. Motion verbs require different prepositions depending on the physical place we are going, such as inside a building, an open space, an island, or to an event.

Codziennie chodzę na basen.

(Every day I go to the swimming pool.)

The sentences: "Idę do pubu." (I go to the pub), "Idę do klubu." (I go to the club), "Idę do szkoły" (I go to the school) requires the preposition "do" using the Genitive case. The same with going to a country or city: "Jadę do Madrytu" (I go to Madrid), "Jadę do Szwecji" (I go to Sweden). However, going to an island joins the preposition "na" with the Accusative case, like: "Lecę na Dominikanę" (I fly to Dominikana), "Lecę na Kubę" (I fly to Cuba). Exceptions regarding going to islands are: "Jadę na Litwę, na Łotwę, na Białoruś, na Ukrainę, na Węgry". (I go to Lithuania, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine, Hungary).

Zwykle nie chodzę do teatru.

(Usually I do not go to the theatre.)

Regularnie chodzę na siłownię. (I regularly go to the gym.)

Zawsze chodzę do szkoły. (I always go to school.)

Często jeżdżę do Berlina. (I often go to Berlin.)

Rzadko jeżdżę do Rzymu. (I rarely go to Rome.)

Mav Hall Nigdy nie jeżdżę do Tokio, bo jest za daleko. (I never go to Tokyo because it’s too far.)

drawing by Paulina Mager

Summer is already here, and a lot of us are going somewhere to rest after a year of hard work. You would probably like to tell your Polish friends, in Polish, where you are going or where you have been after you get back.

Unfortunately, when telling your interesting story filled with plenty of adventures, you can come across some basic problems with verbs of motion.

Illustration of people travelling by car. The verb means of transportation to commute.

Also, if we want to tell somebody about going to some event, we must use the preposition "na" using the Accusative case. "Idę na koncert" (I go to the concert), "Idę na piwo" (I go for a beer), "Jadę na spektakl" (I go for a spectacle).

Going to the mountains requires the preposition "w". "Jadę w Alpy, w Karpaty, w Himalaje, w Tatry". (I go to the Alps, to the Carpathian Mountains, to the Himalaya Mountains, to the Tatra Mountains).

Going to the sea, ocean or any body of water requires the preposition "nad" using the Instrumental case. "Jadę nad morze, nad Bałtyk, nad Atlan-

tyk, nad jezioro (I go to the Baltic Sea, to the Atlantic Ocean, to the lake).

As you can see, motion verbs are one of the most confusing grammar problems in Polish. To make it easier, I suggest imagining yourself first the space where you will go and the setup (if it is going to be inside, in an open space, or at an event) and after that think about what is actually treated as an event in Polish.

I hope my story made you even more curious. I wish all of you happy holidays and please do not give up on Polish! Use Polish! Sing in Polish! Dream in Polish!

Thank you, Please! - understanding and being understood Terence Clark-Ward

Let us start with "dziękuję". If you are offered a cup of coffee (and would like one), you could reply "dziękuję" with the stress on the first syllable. Put the stress on the second syllable "dziękuję" and this shows polite refusal. Put the emphasis on the final syllable and your host will

think you are impersonating someone from Warsaw or just making fun of someone. Once you realise that Poles often sidestep time-wasting pleasantries without causing offence, you might reject "dziękuję" and adopt a simple "tak" or "nie" to clearly indicate your preference.

This will take some time, especially for Brits, since the urge to be polite (except for lager-louts on stag nights) is overwhelming.

Sometimes, it is more a question of when you say "dziękuję".

Take paying the bill at a restaurant, for instance. By saying "dziękuję" whilst, or directly after handing cash to a waiter is a clear message that you do not expect any change. Ironically, this is quite economical, linguistically speaking, because this single word is expressing something along the lines of: ''Thank you very much for a lovely

meal. The service was great and we would like you to keep the change''. My advice is either leave the "dziękuję" until you have received the change or pay by credit card and nod your head on the way out!

drawing by Paulina Mager

Amongst the first words a foreigner picks up in any language, "thank you" and "plea se" ("dziękuję" i "proszę" in Polish) come top.

Granted, they do not roll off the tongue like honey, but after a few attempts most settlers to Poland will manage to be understood and recognised for the effort with exaggerated, though hospitable, smiling faces. However, these ubiquitous terms of deference are embedded with ambiguity and deception, as I have learnt at my own cost.

"Proszę" is a tricky word too.

How so? It is used at the end or beginning of a sentence to establish polite exchange, is it not?

Well, yes. The problem is that "proszę" means far more than simply "please" but is not always translated to anything more than "please" leading to confusion. To the right is a list of the main uses of "proszę".

Proszę – please (of course!)

So, the next time you hear "proszę" from a security guard, a doctor, your host or a smug colleague, you will know what they are banging on about!

Proszę – here you are (said when handing something to someone)

Terence Clark-Ward has been living in Wrocław for the past 11 years and is director of 'The Queen's School of English' and author of Żegnajcie Błędy – Angielski dla Polaków", a book addressing mistakes frequently made by Polish speakers of English.

Proszę – come in Proszę – next!

Proszę – after you Proszę – you're welcome Proszę – don't mention it!

Proszę – go ahead / feel free/ help yourself/ be my guest

Proszę – sorry? what was that? pardon? come again?

And just a few more…

Proszę pana! - Excuse me mister! e.g. Was that your parking space?

No proszę! - I told you so!

Proszę, proszę! – Well, well, well!

The Wrocław International July 2011

10 Country Page: America

“

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Happiness.

The Declaration of Independence

Americans on the 4th of July:

Independence Day in the U.S.A. Kathryn Getty rights: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Photo: www.newsgates.com

Independence Day is a time for all Americans to come together to celebrate our freedoms, remember those that fought and still fight to protect them and to reignite a sense of patriotism and brotherhood with our neighbors.

Throughout the U.S. this holiday is celebrated with parades, barbecues with family and friends, and of course with fireworks.

Fourth of July Fireworks behind the Statue of Liberty in New York, New York “There are those, I know, who will say that the liberation of humanity, the freedom of man and mind, is nothing but a dream. They are right.

It is the American dream.” Archibald MacLeish In the United States, the Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday that celebrates the birth of American independence on July 4, 1776. On that date the Decla-

ration of Independence was officially approved and adopted by the Continental Congress, formalizing the Thirteen Colonies' desire to be an independent country, known as the United States of America, free from the rule of the British King and Parliament.

The document is significant not only for its establishment of the U.S. as an independent country, but also for its statements of human equality and unalienable

While the foods that people enjoy at their July 4th barbecues and picnics vary from region to region, the traditional foods include hot dogs and hamburgers, barbecued ribs or chicken, baked beans, potato salad and pies and the standard drinks include iced tea, lemonade and of course ice cold beer. Many communities organize weekend long picnics and festivals with games, rides, friendly competitions, food concessions, beer tents and live music.

The Fourth of July tradition that the majority of Americans look forward to the most is attending their town’s fireworks display.

From the smallest towns to the largest cities, Americans come together at dusk over the July 4th weekend to “ooh” and “ahh” over their communities’ pyrotechnic presentations. Some towns cho-

reograph their displays to patriotic music, via the local radio station or a live band or orchestra. I have fond memories of attending the musical fireworks shows in the various towns I have lived in over the years.

During the grand finale it is common to play “God Bless the U.S.A.” (aka “Proud to Be An American”) by Lee Greenwood.

It is one of those “goosebumps” moments where you feel yourself getting a little emotional and feeling a patriotic bond with those around you.

The Declaration of Independence is America's most cherished symbol of liberty and freedom. Independence Day is a time to celebrate what this great document represents: the birth of our nation and the dawning of the American Dream.

Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence

Kathryn Getty cant, given his important contributions during the Revolutionary War, was General Casimir Pulaski.

There have been many Poles who have played a significant role in American history. One of the more signifiThe Wrocław International

Casimir Pulaski, born Kazimierz Pułaski on March 6, 1745 in Warka, Poland, was already a great Polish war hero after fighting for years against invading Prussian and Russian forces, when he met Benjamin Franklin in France. Through Franklin he learned of the Americans’ war for independence and, impressed with their plight for freedom, decided to volunteer to fight alongside the Americans in the war. Franklin was equally impressed with Pulaski’s Polish military accomplishments and highly recommended him to General George Washington.

July 2011

After arriving in America, Pulaski wrote a letter to Washington and stated “I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it.”

His first military accomplishments in the U.S. came during the 1777 Battle of Brandywine where legend has it he saved Washington’s life by uncovering a sneak attack by the British.

Soon thereafter Washington put him in charge of the military’s cavalry and is today known as the “Father of American Cavalry.” In October 1779 he was fatally wounded in battle in Savannah, Georgia.

General Pulaski’s significance in American history is evident given the number of towns,

streets and parks named after him and the numerous memorials that have been erected in his honor.

In addition, throughout the U.S. October 11th is recognized as General Pulaski Memorial Day and several states, in particular Wisconsin and Illinois, celebrate this American war hero with a special day of remembrance and celebration at the beginning of March. One of the more significant tributes to General Pulaski came on November 6, 2009 when President Obama signed a bill posthumously conferring honorary U.S. citizenship on Pulaski, making him only the seventh person in U.S. history to be so honored, joining the likes of Winston Churchill and Mother Teresa.

SHARI WILLSON Minneapolis, Minnesota “I celebrate every 4th of July in my small hometown of St. Peter, MN, which is the most "American" and best place for this day. We watch the parade go through Main Street and then go to the park to be with family and friends.

There is music, a fried chicken meal, activities for the children, beer, ice cream, picnics and much more. At night we go to the local fairgrounds to see the fireworks.”

RON DARCY New York, New York “Our 4th of July celebration is a wonderful outdoor party at the beach; BBQ is a must!

Hot dogs, burgers, seafood especially clams and shrimp...sharing cold beers and soda with friends and family and then watching the fireworks at night.”

NANCY MARCET Bay City, Michigan “The 4th of July is a huge celebration in Bay City, where I grew up. We have three days of fireworks over the long weekend. I got to be there this year! My family from all over Michigan gathered to celebrate my mom's 4th of July birthday. It was her 80th birthday!”

Country Page: France "Renoncer à sa liberté c'est renoncer à sa qualité d'homme, aux droits de l'humanité, même à ses devoirs."

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

The 14th of July, National Day in France

11

”

Alice Renard & Yolande Marechal For a French citizen, the day unfolds in the same way every year.

In the morning, official ceremonies take place, including military parades, laying of wreaths at monuments paying homage to those who have given their lives for their country, and speeches.

Everywhere parties take place which are open to everyone (the most famous being the Fireman’s Ball) with many events: bike races, regattas, fishing competitions, pétanque (a French game using boules), card games, etc. In the evening, people of all ages watch the fireworks. After that, dances take place, often in the open air under the night sky.

The 14th of July is a public holiday, an occasion to visit family and friends.

But what exactly do the French celebrate on the 14th of July?

What date should be chosen for the national day? This question had been mulled over for many years. At the end of the 19th Century, when the French Republic was firmly established, the 14th of July was fixed (in 1880). Why? One may ask this question as other dates in French history could have also been chosen, such as: - the 4th of August, the abolition of privileges (the night of the 4th

Who is Marianne?

of August 1789) - the 10th of August (1792), the end of the absolute monarchy with divine rights - the 21st of September (1792), the date of the proclamation of the Republic, the day after the victory of Valmy, which was marked by the death of the King (the 21st of January 1793) and the Terror. This traumatic time weighed for a long time on the national conscience, in particular during the 19th Century.

The 14th of July, 1789 or 1790?

The 14th of July 1789 was considered too bloody. On the 14th of July 1790, a remarkable but little known event, The Festival of the Federation, was agreed upon. It was a major unifying event of the age, associating the nation and the king, as well as the national flag in blue, white, and red. Today, the French commemorate the storming of the Bastille on the 14th of July, but many have forgotten that this date is also connected to Federation Day. This idea of national unity explains why a military parade is always associated with a popular festival on the 14th of July, symbolic of the alliance of revolutionary victories (Valmy in particular) and jubilation.

Freedom, Equality and Brotherhood The storming of the Bastille took place on the 14th of July 1789, although Louis 16th wrote "Nothing" in his diary that day, because he caught nothing when hunting. This minor event, in fact, has a considerable and essential symbolic strength: the beginning of a new era, with the end of a society divided by class and the beginning of the implementation of the ideas of the Enlightenment, as well as freedom of conscience - freedom, equality and property. Although the Declaration of Human Rights and the Citizen was written shortly after July 14, 1789 by Lafayette and Mirabeau, it was not until the 1848 Revolution that the word brotherhood appeared. It appears as the preamble to our Constitution: "Men are born free and equal in rights."

The case can be made that this sentence has revolutionized the years that followed.

That is why the 14th of July is so important in the collective memory of the French. This day commemorates the universality of the values mentioned. Both festival - a traditional ball - and Republican - parade - two highlights of the 14 July-alone symbolize the last two centuries of French history.

The motto of the French Republic: Freedom, Equality, Brotherhood.

Soon after the French revolution, the motto was sometime written as "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, or Death". The "death" part was later dropped for being too strongly associated with the Reign of Terror.

Michel Imbert contributed to this article.

Under the guise of a woman wearing a Phrygian cap, Marianne plays the French Republic. The revolutionaries adopted this representation to symbolize the change of regime and highlight the symbolism of the "mother country" who protects children from the Republic. Today, Marianne is the effigy of the stamp, the faces of French euro cents, logo of the government's communications tools. You can also recognize Marianne in the statue of liberty, offered by France to the USA, by walking around Republic Square in Paris, by entering a French town hall or by admiring the famous painting of Eugene Delacroix “ Liberty guiding the people”.

Blue, White, Red

The Marseillaise

The tricolour flag The National Emblem of the Republic, the tricolour flag was born during the French Revolution: blue and red are the colours of the city of Paris, in the middle white represents the colour of the King. Today, the tricolour flag flies over all public buildings. It is deployed in most official ceremonies, whether civil or military.

Freedom, Equality, Brotherhood

Marseille)

Legacy of the Enlightenment, the motto " Freedom, EqualThe original revolutionary war ity, Brotherhood " is invoked song and hymn to freedom, the for the first time during the Marseillaise has gradually be- French Revolution. At last it come a national anthem. It now was established under the accompanies most official events. Third Republic (1870). It was First "Battle Hymn of the Rhine enshrined in the constitution Army", this song was taken by the of 1958 and is now part of our Federated from Marseille partici- national heritage. pating in the insurrection of the Tuileries, 1792. It was declared the national anthem on July 14, 1795. Nowadays, the lyrics could seem aggressive if people do not know its historical background.

Allons enfants de la Patrie Le jour de gloire est arrivé...

The Wrocław International July 2011

12 Europe

Europa Quo Vadis The Renaissance of European Strategic Thinking I met Antoni Kukliński at the Europa Quo Vadis conference in Wrocław last month. He is a formidable fellow with a legacy of highminded works of literature and speech. He believes in Europe, in the European Union, has vision and passion and when you speak to him you know he means every word he says and he has lived long enough not to waste time with small talk, just big ideas.

Prof. Kukliński is a member of the Club of Rome. It is an international Think Tank with over 1,800 members working on the ‘World Problematique’, the complex set of interconnected problems facing humanity.

Why Wrocław?

When discussing why this conference was held in Wrocław, Professor Kukliński maintained that Wrocław is dynamic academically, socially and politically with ambitions to formulate not only value judgements about Lower Silesia and Poland but also the EU. Europe is at a crossroads and it is important that metropolitan regions are interested in Europe.

How Poland perceives the EU Kukliński believes the EU is well perceived here as Poland is interested in a united and strong

Courtesy of Club of Rome

Grace Sexton

Europe and of course is expecting and receiving support from the EU through structural funding. It is important that Poland contributes to a strong EU to be an inspiration for internal transformation of the Union, to improve the position of the EU on a global scale, otherwise Europe will be marginalised.

I discussed with Kukliński the fact that some Poles feel the West sold them out especially at the end of WWII. He maintains that Poland was not totally abandoned by the West and that the situation is different now with more classical alliances existing between France and Germany and Poland and Germany. Reconciliation is a very important foundation of the EU. Also the fact that Poland is a member of NATO guarantees Poland is not alone. Kukliński says Poland’s present situation is the best it has been for ages.

‘The Atlantic Community, the Titanic of the XXI Century’ Kukliński explains the meaning of the above quote from last years conference.

‘Global history for the last 200 years has been dominated by the Atlantic Community. For the last 500 years the Atlantic Community has somehow been the deciding factor in establishing global order. We now face a very deep challenge, the old global order, equilibrium with China and I n d i a a n d t h e At l a n t i c Community . Although the US is in decline, it does not mean it will not remain a superpower but will not be a dominating one as the US has a deficit of economic power. On the other hand we have a bigger deficit in the EU, power, integrity, demographic decline, innovation and European identity’. Kukliński believes there should be a cordial alliance which will create a new face, a renaissance, between the two continents then bargaining power will be immense, like the Titanic.

Is there a general will in Europe for a Renaissance in Strategic Thinking or is it a Utopian Dream?

Kukliński believes that we should establish a grand scale sociological study to question whether there is a will to build a

united and strong Europe, thereby creating a demand for strategic thinking or should Europe surrender and agree to exist in the shadow of a new power. He thinks there is not enough effort in the media to put into the mind of European society that Europe has a choice and it is at a crossroads and emerging from the present crisis there will be a European Renaissance.

Kukliński asks will Europe be a coauthor of global order or not.

The European Renaissance programme is a platform to mobilise the community of Lower Silesia which will form a p la t fo r m to o r ga n i se a renaissance in the EU. There are a lot of questions to be asked, when do we formulate the answers and how do we find the right leaders to implement them?

Kukliński is confident that leaders will emerge through the normal political process. But we can create a climate of a mission of European Renaissance accepted at least by part of the political elite. He explains he already has backing of some MEPs and Jerzy Buzek, current President of the European Parliament is aware of the situation. He further explains that the integrity of the Euro

Europa Quo Vadis - Conference Highlights From the 16th to the 19th of June, Wrocław City Hall played host to a strategic think tank on Europe. It was called Europa Quo Vadis, The Renaissance of European Strategic Thinking. This was the second in a series of such conferences to be held here and a third is planned next year, again in Wrocław. It was organised by the Lower Silesian Foundation for Regional Development (www.forum.pl) with City and Regional backing and European patronage.

It was proposed on the conference agenda that the ten topics would be discussed by a series of eminent speakers.

Herewith we include the highlights from some of the conference speakers.

Roman

Galar

(Wrocław

Technical University): ‘The key to the future is to make EU citizens clearly realise their situation ... In the West these answers don’t seem to be available anytime soon.’

Ivo Slaus (The World Academy of Art & Science)...

‘This conference needs more young people to be present .....

The world is global, it is connected, there is no way out....

Humans can change, it’s our greatest resource and our greatest threat, we have been destroying our own planet.. We remain inactive as if there is nothing to do... We should really be a representative of the people...it is extremely important to empower human capital, it is precisely in regions like Lower Silesia that we will be able to bring what is needed, i.e. Good governance.’

The Wrocław International July 2011

Herman Baeyens (Regional Development Advisor): ‘We are on our way to European Federation and I am optimistic....

We need big thinking, we need to improve the working of all the world’s institutions... There should be more women involved in strategic thinking to make the balance.’

Alexey Sidorenko (Global Voices Online: ‘European strategic planning is more long term and value based at least from a Russian perspective.’

Raoul Weiler (Club of Rome): ‘Organisations and universities are too strongly bound by national programmes.’

Ewa Freyberg (Warsaw School of Economics): ‘We need to think strategically, with more people who behave like giraffes, to create a good strategy to think long term, we need to ignore

culture is facing new challenges both externally and internally. It is wrong to fall into the trap of anti-Muslim antagonism.

Christianity must have more courage to be more active.

Why do you believe in Europe?

In the words of Professor Kukliński: ‘We have the history of Europe and its contribution to global history, economics, culture and education. You can criticise Europe but you can not write the history of the world without Europe. It presently has huge potential, and immense power. What is lacking is the will to power, it is too dispersed, there is a deficit of will to have a cummulative approach.

The European mind is not dead, it is innovative.

The original renaissance was an amalgamation of knowledge and imagination. We need a new Leonardo da Vinci. With all its we a k ne sse s, E uro p e ha s produced the European Union to organise the continent, for the first time in modern history providing some integrated solutions to the guidance of Europe.’

‘The Union is a precious instrument to build the future of Europe but must be used well.’

Conference Agenda I. The thinking

culture

of

strategic

short term interests and think interdisciplinarily.’

II. The doctrines of strategic thinking

Paul Drewe (Delft University of Technology): ‘If Poland can get together enough Euro realists then it might become the microcosm of Europe.’

III. The starting point: the preliminary definition of strategic thinking

Gilbert Fayle (The Global Round Table): ‘At the end of the day any political systems should serve the interests of the taxpayers...

Satisfaction indicators might be a useful experiment... I would like to recommend that the regions have their o wn complimentary competitive assembly.’

Antoni Kukliński (Polish Association of the Club of Rome): ‘We are living now in a world different from the past, some strategies may be very good but designed for another century, we need new strategies.’

IV. The capacities to govern V. The concept of strategic thinking VI. Strategic thinking in different perceptions of development VII. Strategic thinking – the grand actors of the global scene VIII. The culmination of European strategic thinking of the XX century. The creation of the European Union IX. The strategic deficit. The Achilles Heel of Europe X. The renaissance of European strategic thinking. A feasible reality or a Utopian Dream.

Europe 13

Lublin’s focus on the East and Eastern relations and ’the universality of the bid.’

Adam Chmielewski is the Director of the team that has won the bid to be the Polish European Capital of Culture in 2016.

Chmielewski believes that:

‘Culture is everywhere, in everything we do because we are cultivated creatures.’

Winning the competition is the culmination of one and a half years work and as Prof.

Chmielewski put it, ‘It’s still sinking in that we’ve won’.

Unfortunately even before it was announced that Wrocław had won, the city of Lublin (a competing city in Poland) had submitted two objections claiming that Wrocław had an unfair advantage as 25 million euro has been promised to Wrocław for reconstruction.

The bid for European City of Culture is submitted in two parts. The final presentation took place in Warsaw last month. Gdańsk, Katowice and Lublin had their presentations before that. Lublin was the main competitor but according to Chmielewski, they knew each others weaknesses. The application and presentation was based on an application document and there was a set limit of pages. A copy of this application is now available on the wro2016 website.

Once the presentation was over, the team from Wrocław felt much better.

They took half an hour to explain the bid and they did this in a novel way fitting the subject, as actors on stage. There were thirteen judges and their main

The idea of Spaces for Beauty is a challenge for all of us. This message needs focus and the team needs more time to get the message to everyone. questions afterward were regarding the budget of Wrocław, the organisation of the project here and the concept of Beauty, as this was a slogan of the Wrocław bid ‘Spaces for Beauty’.

The team owes their success to the bid which diagnosed social and political problems in the EU and with our neighbours. It also explains the complicated history of this place, this city.

Six people from Wrocław represented the City during the application process, Mayor Dutkiewicz, Prof. Chmielewski, (Director of wro2016), Roland Zarzycki (co-author of the application), Karolina Bieniek (Survival Festival), Anna Zubrzycki (Songs of the Goat Theatre) & Anna Elektra Malkogiorgos (Agora Cultural Centre). The team were amazed that at the end of their application presentation the jurors actually applauded them, quite a break from protocol. As a result they felt confident once this meeting was over.

Prof. Chmielewski has had much advise along the way, which he appreciated, but also said that when things got too muddled by differing opinions ‘he followed his own path’.

According to Chmielewski the judge from Graz appreciated

much. They have also implemented a twin project called Kids Guernica with San Sebastian which we wrote about in our last issue. Guernica actually has an historical and cultural tie to Wrocław. The wro2016 team know the team in San Sebastian and have a good relationship in terms of cooperation. In fact, they intend to build on this and cooperate together in the future.

Their bids had many things in common, also addressing the problem of peace Prof. Chmielewski believes it is important that Wrocław also formulates and follows its own plan and path. He and his team will prioritise combating exclusion, cooperating with and using NGOs, and activating the general public.

Some innovative ideas he include reinforcing each zen’s cultural obligation by ing away cultural bonds.

has citigivHis

vision is inclusive of all Wrocławians obtaining as much access as possible to culture and to the events that will be taking place in the city.

Prof. Chmielewski also confirmed that he and the team will be working with other cities in Poland. They will speak to the other cities, organise conferences and brainstorming sessions. He wants Wrocław to represent all Poland.

When asked of his highest ambition in the future, Chmielewski stated that it is for Wrocław to be the best ever European Capital of Culture.

So from a city that has lost almost everything, been renamed continuously, half destroyed, half rebuilt, we expect so much.

It is up to the team at wro2016 to find the path and it is up to its citizens to take part and ignite it.

Chmielewski believes that in order to build an EU identity we must learn about cultures.

‘Verona is only half the size of Wrocław and yet everyone knows of it’.

The bid is about values, the future of Europe and assuming responsibility.

San Sebastian is the other Capital of Culture 2016.

Chmielewski and some of his team were there and liked it very

Jacqueline Pacaud (Manager of the European Capital of Culture Action) shares an insight into how the European Commission organises and implements the European Capital of Culture (speaking with Grace Sexton) We met at Łokietka 5 during the visit of the European Capital of Culture (ECoC) judges to Wrocław on the 16th June 2011.

The original idea of the European Capital of Culture originated from a Greek Culture Minister about 26 years ago.

The aim of the programme has not changed through the years of getting to know each other, and the notion of EU citizenship.

‘you can feel you are European if you know your neighbours’ The way of achieving this has changed along with the knowledge and potential of culture in the development of cities. For years there was no

real criteria nor formal process for judging the ECoC . The EU Council of Ministers of Culture and the European Parliament agreed that there needed to be more transparency and a method for the application and decision making process. They therefore adopted a real competitive process for the 2013 title onward.

With Glasgow’s success the image of ECoC has changed. In 2004 Lille was so successful a lot of people realised the benefits of winning ECoC. Lille was a catalyst. With the crisis cities are also seeing the potential of winning the ECoC.

‘culture is not only a cost’ It has a benefit for the economy.

Also for social change and for culture of course. The economy of culture has very specific elements and has external effects which are (a) difficult to quantify and (b) may have indirect effects. The city may be more attractive and there may be more investments but the effect is very diffused.

We have to make the most of the event, for the city, for the EU, for culture. The criteria as of 2013 is much more efficient, with a two round competition.

It is important to check the exchange of good practices. To pass the baton from city to city to keep improving. The ECoC has published a guide - keys to success and organises an information day at the beginning

for the cities applying. Also there is a small library with all submitted proposals for the title.

It is difficult to change things just with ‘only culture’. The main part of the budget comes from the applicant city, its region, the State. The budget from the EU is just symbolic, 1.5 million. It must stay modest and is difficult to evaluate.

And speaking of current events, of course getting the title is very important for all.

‘getting the title is not a guarantee of success’ Losers will win if they take advantage of their preparation and overcome their disappointment to go further.

The Wrocław International July 2011

14

International Voices

International Voices is a platform for our readers, to express in their own language, views, opinions and share stories. If you would like to submit an article or a letter, please email editor@wroclawinternational.pl

Le 14 juillet : jour de la fête nationale en France Alice Renard & Yolande Marechal

Le matin, se succèdent cérémonies officielles, défilés militaires, dépôts de gerbes de fleurs sur les monuments aux morts en hommage à ceux qui sont morts pour la patrie, discours, etc. Partout ont lieu des fêtes locales et populaires (et les fameux bals des pompiers) avec diverses animations : courses cyclistes, régates, concours de pêche, de pétanque, de belote. Le soir les feux d’artifice attirent petits et grands. Ensuite les bals populaires se poursuivent dans la nuit souvent dehors, été oblige.

Le 14 juillet est un jour férié, occasion de réunions familiales et amicales.

Mais que fête-t-on exactement le 14 juillet ?

Quelle date choisir pour la fête nationale ? Pendant de longues années cette question a taraudé les esprits. A la fin du XIXème siècle, date à laquelle la République s’installe durablement en France, le 14 juillet est fixé (en 1880). Pourquoi ? On peut se poser la question car d’autres dates sont liées à l’Histoire de la France : Le 4 août, avec l’abolition des privilèges (nuit du 4 août 1789), le 10 août (1792), la fin de la monarchie absolue de droit divin

o u encore le 21 sep tembre (1792), date de la proclamation de la République, le lendemain de la victoire de Valmy, mais qui est marquée par la mort du roi (le 21 janvier 1793) et la Terreur. Ce traumatisme a longtemps figé les consciences, en particulier au XIXème siècle.

Le Bistro Parisien à

Le 14 juillet 1789 ou 1790 ?

Association de la Nation et du roi - drapeau bleu, blanc et rouge -, le 14 juillet 1790, événement très marquant et peu connu, la fête de la Fédération a réuni les suffrages : événement majeur à l’époque car unificateur, le 14 juillet 1789 avait été considéré comme trop sanglant. Aujourd’hui on commémore la prise de la Bastille (nous sommes dans un climat apaisé très éloigné des inquiétudes de l’époque) mais beaucoup ont oublié aujourd’hui, qu’au départ, cette date est associée à un autre événement.

Cette idée d’union nationale explique pourquoi un défilé militaire est toujours associé à une fête populaire ce jour-là : l’alliance des victoires révolutionnaires (Valmy en particulier) et la liesse populaire.

Liberté, égalité, fraternité Le 14 juillet 1789 avec la prise de la Bastille (Louis XVI avait marqué « rien » sur son cahier ce jour-là, il n’avait rien pris à la chasse), cet événement mineur

Photo: Mav Hall

Pour un citoyen français, la journée se déroule selon un processus immuable :

dans les faits possède une force symbolique essentielle et considérable: le début d’une ère nouvelle avec la fin de la société divisée en ordres et le début de la mise en application des idées des Lumières : le contrat social et la liberté de conscience - liberté, égalité et propriété. Il faut attendre la révolution de 1848 pour que le mot fraternité apparaisse aux frontons de nos valeurs qui sont universelles. La Déclaration des droits de l’hom-

me et du citoyen rédigée peu après le 14 juillet 1789 par Lafayette et Mirabeau est entrée dans le marbre de notre inconscient (et conscient) collectif. Elle figure comme le préambule de notre Constitution : « Les hommes naissent libres et égaux en droit ». Cette phrase a véritablement révolutionné (c’est le cas de le dire) les années qui ont suivi.

Voilà pourquoi le-14 juillet est si

important dans la mémoire des Français. Ce jour commémore l’universalité des valeurs énoncées. A la fois fête populaire - le traditionnel bal - et républicaine - défilé militaire -, ces deux moments forts du 14-juillet symbolisent à eux seuls les deux derniers siècles de notre Histoire. Écrit avec la participation de Michel Imbert.

: Il Crepuscolo di Silvio Gianbruno Torrano Mentre sulla Polonia splende il sole come prima e piu' di prima (Wrocław sara' anche Capitale Europea della Cultura 2016) nel buio dell'Italia si e' acceso un piccolo lumino, un piccolo grande raggio di speranza di cambiamento.

Dopo circa venti anni di populismo, il narciso della politica, il benefattore di se' stesso sembra aver esaurito tutte le sue carte, sembra non riuscire piu' ad infiammare le masse che risultano non piu' interessate ai giudici comunisti che mangiano i bambini.

La vittoria di due sindaci in citta' importanti come Milano e Napoli nonche' i quattro SI al Referendum di Giugno sono segnali espliciti che un'era sta finendo: il Berlusconismo e' al crepuscolo.

L'interesse primario del paese Italia sono la stagnante situazione economica, la precaria situazione lavorativa e co nseguentemen te l'impossibilita' di pianificare il futuro in particolar modo per i

The Wrocław International

July 2011

giovani che ormai da tempo hanno perso la speranza di averne uno.

Nessun incendio puo' dirsi domato finche' l'ultimo focolare non e' stato spento e cosi' anche il nostro antieroe moderno e anche un po' patetico tenta di tenere insieme gli alleati in rivolta che sempre piu' vogliono massimizzare i vantaggi per i loro partiti ed elettori e pensano al dopo-Silvio come ad un evento incombente ed ineluttabile.

In effetti e' soprattutto questa la questione che blocca la frana politica italia, un sassolino dalla potenza di una valanga, chi potra' rimpiazzare l'uomo che tutto ha potuto riuscendo ad unire ex-democristiani, exfascisti e leghisti secessionisti?

Praticamente nessuno.

La sinistra litigiosa ed assente ormai da decenni non sa che fare e soffre il peso di queste ultime elezio ni vinte da forze antiberlusconiane non legate ai partiti nazionali come il PD.

La destra spaventata dalla fine del percorso politico di un leader che non potra' sostituire gia' si vede all'opposizione per altri cinquant'anni.

Rimane un'unica speranza. La nascita di un uomo nuovo, non legato ai partiti e quindi pulito politicamente che decida di mettere in campo le proprie conoscenze e capacita' al servizio del paese.

Praticamente un'utopia.

Education

15

Medical Research: Passion or “Cash Cow?” Basic Science Versus Applied Science

Georg Friedrich (Fritz) Melchers is the author of hundreds of scientific publications and book chapters.

He is co-editor of several immunological journals and serves as an expert for many foundations and boards. He has organized conferences, symposiums, congresses and workshops all over the world, including such centres as: Bethesda, Maryland, USA; Austria; Spain; Brazil; Kyoto Japan; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Berlin, Germany; Prague, CSSR; Utrecht, Holland; Budapest, Hungary; Barcelona, Spain; San Francisco, California, USA; New Delhi, India; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Stockholm, Sweden; Poznan, Poland; Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

The recipient of many honorary degrees and doctorates for his work, Dr. Melchers„ research focuses on advising, teaching and researching B-lymphocytes (antibody producing cells) in normal immune reactions, and in autoimmune, immunodeficient and malignant diseases.

From 1970-80 he was a permanent member of the Basel Institute for Immunology in Basel, Switzerland, and from 1980-2001 he became the director of the Basel Institute for Immunology. In this position Prof. Melchers selected, supported, guided, critically reviewed and integrated over 300 scientists with their research projects in most major fields of immunology, their work three times awarded Nobel Prizes.

The Basel Institute for Immunology (BII) was founded in 1969 as a basic research institute in immunology. It was located in Basel, Switzerland on the Rhine River near the main Hoffmann-La Roche campus near the SwissGerman border. Its doors opened in 1971 and was a unique concept in the history of the mechanisms for funding basic science and the relationship between basic science and industry. It was here that the drug company, Hoffmann-LaRoche committed unrestricted support of $24 million per year and freedom of design of the institute to its founding director Niels K. Jerne. Jerne retired in 1980 and was succeeded by Professor Melchers.

Basic vs. Applied Sciences. Dr. Melchers described the structure of the institute saying that it was constructed to consist of about 50 scientists in interactive research groups of 3 to 5 researchers supported by technical staff with no titles other than “member” with renewable contracts of 2 to 5 years. Long term careers could not be counted on. In this venue, members were motivated to participate through curiosity and the love of the scientific research that is available in the basic science venue.

Scientists from beginning postdoctoral to senior professors were provided complete freedom of research design without the pressures of individual fund raising, proposal writing, politicking and pressure to fit research to popular demands and funding source(s). The institute‟s administrative structure was minimal, keeping operating costs low. Continuous visits by distinguished visiting scientists from around the world for periods of a day to months enriched the environment.

In stark contrast, Dr. Melchers described the fame and fortune that would be more possible in an applied science venue. He contrasted the differences in the two, saying that applied science is motivated by moral medical precepts and/or financial goals. It is customarily funded by private capital – sponsors who allow little opportunity for academic freedom. He stressed that, “You cannot serve two masters. When you do scientific research, you must choose one or the other.”

The BII was known as a training ground for independent thinking and career development rather than being a place to work for an entire career. While maintaining a relatively constant core of 50 scientists over its 30 year history, the average age was at any one time, 35 years.

The BII gave rise to over 500 scientists who worked and trained there who with their scientific progeny represented the core of the field of immunology worldwide. Institute scientists were awarded 27 prestigious international awards in immunology that included three Nobel Prizes.

In 2000, the BII was dissolved by Hoffmann-La Roche to be succeeded at the Hoffmann-LaRoche campus by a more traditional mission and profit-oriented research and development (R&D) division of the company, the Roche Center for Medical Genomics. In 2010, the original site of the Basel Institute for Immunology was listed as the home of Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd.

Photo: Mav Hall

On Wednesday, May 11th, Wrocław was host to an outstanding scientist at the Czekanowski Anthropologic College. Funded by The City of Wrocław, under the Visiting Professors, Scientiae Wratislavienses Fund, this lecture was organized by the Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences.

Dr. Melchers After his retirement he began consulting for law firms and biotech companies. In December 2002 he became a co-founder of a Biotech company called 4-Antibody; a company whose intentions are to produce and improve human antibodies. In the fall of 2003 he accepted an offer by the Max Planck-Institute for Infection Biology in Berlin, Germany, to head a Senior Research Group where he continues to research stem cells and B cell development.

Interview with Dr. Melchers May 2011.

Interviewed by Mav Hall, Vankleek, Hill, Ontario Canada - living in Wrocław, Poland and Alice Renard, France - living in Wrocław, Poland. m.hall@wroclawinternational.pl a.renard@wroclawinternational.pl

ATTENTION The winner of the VII editio n o f the co ntest "STUDENT in the U.S.", organized by The Wasie Foundation of Minnesota and Namysłów Brewery Sp. z o.o., is Marta Aleszewicz, student of Technical University of Wrocław.

The main prize in the competition is a 4-year scholarship at the University of Saint Mary's in Minnesota in the United States of America. Organizers also cover the total cost of maintenance during the 4-year studies and the cost of flights to the USA. The competition was directed to first and second year students of universities of the region of Lower Silesia and Opole region, distinguished by excellent knowledge of English and interest in social, political and cultural issues in

Poland and abroad. The winners, so far, of six editions of the contest are students of Wrocław universities: Marta Bujnowska (University of Economics), Jakub Kalla (Technical University of Wrocław), Radoslaw Tomczak (University of Economics), Agnieszka Kadej (Wrocław University), Paweł Szczepkowski (University of Economics), Justyna Kujtkowska (University of Economics) and student of University of Opole Agnieszka Prusak Namysłów Brewery Sp. z o.o. intends to continue the contest "STUDENT in the U.S." The VIII edition of the contest is going to begin in October 2011.

If you have a used car for sale please contact Anna who is searching for a reliable used car, Mobile: 669 995 614

For more information, please visit the website www.zamkowe.com.pl.

The Wrocław International July 2011

16

Food & Wine

Cantina Shannon Soesbe

ask the waiter for a suggestion.

The offerings are limited to what is fresh, so expect changes on a near-daily basis at the chef's discretion. Currently, there is no wine menu available, but the capable staff are happy to guide you, in English, through their plentiful and mostly-Italian selections.

of a traditional Italian trattoria. Step inside and the food is even more authentic than the doorstep chatter.

A dark wood and brick interior, e l e g a n t l y a c ce n t ed wi t h clementine trees and pots of lively rosemary, welcomes you to a cozy dining experience.

There are no menus, just a blackboard on the wall with the day's dishes listed. Feel free to

However, you would be remiss if you did not try one of Cantina's pasta dishes. The pappardelle in tomato sauce with veal and orcchiette with tomato

Dessert is not forgotten here.

Tiramisu gives diners a jolt of coffee flavor tempered by a silky cream filling. The chocolate tortino is a small dark chocolate cake with a lava-like chocolate filling that is neither too sweet nor too much after a rich meal.

Coffee from the restaurant's shiny red sports car of an espresso maker goes perfectly with either.

Cantina provides its guests with the opportunity to step out of a Polish summer and into an Italian one, with fresh and delight-

ful dishes served by people who are clearly happy to share their passion for great food.

Starters from 5 PLN , Main dishes from 25 PLN, Desserts from 10 PLN. Details: ul. Nożownicza 4 50-119 Wrocław +48 603 139 108

Photos: Shannon Soesbe

Walking along the outskirts of the Rynek on a summer's evening, in search of a memorable and delicious meal, you may very well over-hear a conversation in Italian at the door of ul. Nożownicza's Cantina. The Italian chefs and waiters like to chat on the front step with each other and passing friends, evoking the warm and welcoming feeling

As a starter, you cannot go wrong with the bruschetta. A thick slice of country bread is toasted, rubbed with garlic, drizzled generously with fresh, grassy olive oil, and topped with a simple but abundant pile of ruby-red tomatoes and a sprig of basil. A small pool of aged balsamic vinegar and a cracking of pepper enliven the traditional presentation and create bursts of flavour on your tongue that leave you thinking you could have just this for dinner. Every night.

sauce and pecorino cheese are buttery and rich, with winy undertones that play beautifully with the toothsome flavor of the Italian-sourced pasta. The meaty robustness of the veal adds to the delicate flavor of the tomato sauce rather than simply overwhelming it. For creamy pasta lovers, the tagliatelle in gorgonzola sauce with pears might be just the trick. A bit on the heavy side, the chunks of softened pear add a needed sweetness to the dish.

Bruschetta

Tagliatelle

Pappardelle

Tiramisu

Chocolate Tortino

Wines for summertime

A wide variety of white and rosé wines is available that range from extra-dry and dry, to semisweet, sweet, and extra-sweet.

Rosé wines are popular in France, Italy and Spain. They are produced as rosé; they are not a mixture of red and white.

Rosé wines are made from red grapes without leaving the skins

A selection of white and rosé wines of the fruit in the grape "must" more than a few hours when pressing just after harvest.

Fish is often eaten with white wine, but rosé can suit fish as well. For raw shellfish, a dry, slight lemon flavour will balance the iodine taste of the sea.

Any white and rosé can accompany a barbecue, including grilled meat, salads, and any types of seasoning, even with citrus or vinegar.

The Wrocław International July 2011

Advertisement

White and Rosé wines are a perfect companion for the warm summer days as these can be enjoyed chilled.

The preferred method is to refrigerate the wine to avoid using ice cubes in the wine glass. Unlike red wines that benefit when allowed to breathe, bottles of white and rosé wines can be opened just before serving and placed in an ice bucket to maintain a cold temperature.

Ice buckets can be used in and outdoors.

Photo: Mav Hall

Alice Renard

Food & Wine

17

Spicy Delight Apple Crisp

Quiche Lorraine A classic French savoury tart with bacon, cheese and rich custard filling…a tasty option for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

We are grateful to Le Bistrot Parisien, owned by French connoisseurs Pascal and Didier, for sharing this recipe with our readers.

The key to making the perfect Quiche Lorraine is simplicity, as you can see with this flavourful recipe.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes + 60 minutes for chilling Cooking Time: 60 to 75 minutes Servings: 6-8 (one 30-cm quiche) baking.] Remove from the oven and let cool.

INGREDIENTS

A traditional American dessert with a sweet combination of baked apples topped with a crispy, crumbly, delicious crust… certainly hard to resist!

We are grateful to Kathryn Getty, an American ex-pat living in Wrocław, for kindly sharing this recipe with our readers. This classic American treat is a must-try…your family will love it.

FOR THE PASTRY

FOR THE FILLING

300 g flour

200 ml double cream (30%)

a pinch of salt

150 ml whole milk

150 g salted butter

5 eggs

2 or 3 eggs

200 g smoked bacon, chopped 150 g grated cheese, cheddar or gruyere

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time: 30 to 40 minutes DIRECTIONS:

Servings: 6 to 8 INGREDIENTS FOR THE FILLING

FOR THE TOPPING

5 medium tart cooking apples (about 875 g or 5 cups), peeled, cored and sliced*

50 g (1/2 cup) all purpose flour (550 or 650 Polish flour)

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (sprinkle on apples as you peel/ slice to prevent browning)

40 g (1/2 cup oats) oats (quick cooking or old fashioned)

75 g (1/3 cup) white sugar

100 g (1/2 cup) packed, light brown sugar (a soft sugar with molasses)**

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 tsp nutmeg

1 teaspoon all purpose flour (550 or 650 Polish flour)

1/2 tsp cinnamon

pinch of salt

75 g (1/3 cup) cold butter, softened

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter, using a pastry blender or a pair of knives, until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add eggs (one by one) and mix gently to form pliable dough.

2. On a slightly floured surface, shape the dough into a flattened round and roll out into a 30-cm round shape (of 5 mm thickness). Place it carefully in a quiche pan or pie dish and trim any overhanging edges using scissors. Press the pastry into the flutes and lightly perforate

the base with the tines of a fork to prevent bubbling when baking. Wrap in cling wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This allows the butter to firm up and results in a flakier pastry.

5. Scatter the bacon generously over the bottom of the pastry shell. Pour in the creamy mixture and sprinkle evenly with grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in centre of oven for 45 minutes or until knife inserted in the centre comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool.

SERVING SUGGESTION: Garnish with salad and serve.

Best to eat fresh while still a bit warm.

TIPS: You may bake the pastry shell a day ahead.

3. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together double cream, whole milk and egg, and set aside.

Spinach with Roquefort cheese (in small quantity) is a good filling substitute for bacon.

4. Preheat the oven to 165 degrees Celsius. Blind bake the pastry shell for about 30 minutes or until edges turn light golden brown. [You may line the pastry shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans to retain its shape when

For a quicker quiche, you may use store-bought pastry. Ciastka Francuskie (ready-to-use French pastry) is readily available at Tesco, Kaufland and other grocery stores in Wrocław.

2 tablespoons water DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Place sliced apples in a 2quart square or rectangle casserole dish. Add the white sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp flour, pinch of salt and 2 tbsp water to the apples and mix well.

3. In a separate large bowl, stir together the first five “topping” ingredients until well blended.

Cut butter into flour mixture, using a pastry blender or a pair of knives, until the mixture gets crumbly. Scatter the topping over the apples evenly.

4. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or

until the topping is browned and the apples are fork tender. Allow to cool.

SERVING SUGGESTION: Spoon it warm into a bowl and serve with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. Dig in!

TIPS: *This recipe is also great with peaches, blueberries, strawberry or rhubarb, etc., in place of the apples. **Make your own light brown sugar by mixing 1/2 tablespoon of molasses or treacle with 1/2 cup of white sugar.

Using tart, firm textured cooking apples is highly suggested as they retain their shape when baking.

The Wrocław International July 2011

Active Life

It is never too late to learn and Paweł Jędrzejczyk is a perfect example. Paweł (nicknamed Wergi) began his Muay Thai training at the age of 19 and is a two-time K-1 Rules WKN Professional World Champion and WMF Muay Thai European Champion 2007. The 30year-old Champion gets into the ring with only one strategy - to win.

Thai, it is very important to maintain a steady weight. So it is better to be on a low-carb diet and eat lean meat like chicken breast. I tend to eat Thai food rather than Polish cuisine, the latter being higher in carbohydrates and not so good for a boxer.

TWI: life?

The Wrocław International got in touch with Paweł to find out about the discipline of Muay Thai and his future career plans.

The Wrocław International: Muay Thai?

PJ: It has had a really positive impact for sure. I have learned a lot about self discipline, control and humility. I represent my nation all over the world and can fight and win for Poland. It is a beautiful, unimaginable feeling and is the most rewarding thing for me.

How did you get into

Paweł Jędrzejczyk: I was in Thailand, aged 14, when I saw my first Muay Thai fight and I absolutely loved it.

However, I didn’t take it any further from there and I almost forgot about the sport. But when I was 19 I began my Muay Thai studies and training, and I continued it for three to four years before starting my career with amateur fights in 2004. I joined the Polish National Team in the same year, winning my first amateur fight. I also trained in Thailand for three years where I won another bout.

My first professional fight was in 2007, followed by amateur and professional competitions until 2009. I retired from amateur competition in 2009 with a record of 38 wins and 6 losses and with winning a bronze medal in the Muay Thai Championships in Bangkok.

My Professional career really kick started after my victory over Wojciech Hoły, when I won the Professional Polish Low-Kick belt. I gathered further momentum in late 2008 through 2009, when I received further opportunities to compete. All the hard work in training paid dividends in the ring, as I fought to many victories in style. My current pro fights record is 10 wins, 2 losses.

TWI: For the benefit of our readers, could you please explain what Muay Thai is exactly?

PJ: Muay Thai is a form of martial arts and is Thailand’s national sport. Its objective is to physically defeat other people or defend oneself or others from physical threat. Muay Thai is for everyone, irrespective of gender and physical stature. But you must be passionate about it and be strong – physically and mentally.

TWI: What does Muay Thai emphasise on?

PJ: Muay Thai is famous for its devastating knee, elbow and shin kicks. It is by far one of the deadliest martial arts because this sport-oriented art has little or no emphasis on forms. It puts a high emphasis on sparring and

How do you think fighting has impacted your

TWI: What does your family think of your profession?

suits most body types, both for men and women, and it doesn't require great flexibility either. Furthermore, all strikes are allowed in the ring, unlike western boxing, which prohibits all but strikes with gloved fists.

TWI: Is it easy to get into Muay Thai in Poland?

PJ: Sadly Muay Thai is not very popular in Poland. It needs to be promoted far more and people need to be educated about it. The cost of Muay Thai lessons in Poland is very reasonable though. When you want to train only for yourself, it is not very expensive. You need very little equipment in the beginning. As you progress you may need to buy Muay Thai shorts, bag gloves and sparring gloves, shin pads, a groin guard, hand wraps, and a mouth guard. To be fair this is a very modest investment compared to some other sports. It is also not too dangerous if you are only training. It is when you become a professional that it becomes more dangerous.

TWI: What is your training schedule like?

PJ: My training schedule depends on my fight schedule.

Up until two months before a fight, I train six days a week and have two 2-hour training sessions. Closer to the fight, I practice only for an hour a day. I rest completely one week before a fight. My training varies. I run five kilometres every day and do strength training twice a week in the gym. I also work with sparring partners and with my trainer, Janusz Janowksi to perfect my technique. There is a lot of training to do, everyday.

TWI: Is there a specific diet that you need to follow?

PJ: My family supports me completely. My father and my girlfriend attend all of my fights. My mom usually stays home because she has a hard time watching the fights live.

TWI: What are your future goals?

PJ: I have the desire and ambition to become a multiple world champion and for that my health is the most important factor. When you are healthy, you can do a lot of things. So I want to stay healthy, fit and train for more fights. I feel both physically good and strong.

TWI: Are there any upcoming fights on the agenda?

PJ: I will fight on November 5th in Szczecin. I don’t know the opponent yet but I hope it will be a good fight and show.

TWI: On behalf of The Wrocław International and our readers, thanks for your time. Good luck with your next fight!

Achievements of Paweł “Wergi” Jędrzejczyk 2 x Professional World Champion K-1 Rules WKN 2009/2011 Muay Thai European Champion 2007 WMF International Professional Muay Thai Champion 2009 Polish WPMF Professional Polish Champion Low-Kick Kickboxing ISKA 2007 5 x Champion Muay Thai, Polish, Kickboxing Low Kick Multimedalista Championships and World Cups, FIFA and the Polish Cup. Member of the National Team in Kickboxing and Muay Thai since 2005

Interview with Paweł Jędrzejczyk, July 2011.

Interviewed by Renu Singh. Darren Chong contributed to this interview.

PJ: Since there are different weight categories in Muay

Śląsk Wrocław will take a 1-0 lead into the away leg of their Europa League qualifier, following a hard fought victory of Scottish side Dundee Utd. The visitors had the best of the opening exchanges, with Johnny Russell squandering a great chance to give his side the lead in the first half. As the game went on however, the home side got to grips with their opponents and began to dominate possession. Spurred on by the best fans in Poland, Wrocław broke the deadlock in the 75th minute thanks to a Johan Voskamp header. The final whistle was met with rapturous celebrations from the home fans, who were well aware of the historical significance of the match.

It is history, in part, that is motivating Śląsk coach Orest Lenc-

zyk, a man desperate to lay aside the ghosts that have haunted his past. It was back on the 1st of October 1981 when Dundee United last met the Polish viceChampions in European competition. Lenczyk's side lost 7-2, crashing out of the tournament in the process. A few days later, the coach of the green-whitereds was fired.

Many years have passed, but Śląsk are at their level best following their astounding return to form. Now Orest Lenczyk is back, and is grabbing the opportunity to have a second crack in Europe with Śląsk. The veteran coach could be forgiven for experiencing a case of Deja Vu, as he saw his club draw the Tangerines – bringing back those painful memories of 20 years ago.

The Wrocław International July 2011

Despite that infamous loss, an encouraging pre-season has given the fans and the team the belief they can avenge their aggregate defeat of 1981. After a narrow defeat against Jagellonia Bialystock, Wrocław bounced back with a string of good results, including 2-1 victories against Slovakia's strongest side - Slovan Bratyslava, and Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb.

Fellow Croatian side NK Varazdin were also promptly despatched, and a 1-0 win against Inter Zaprešić saw Śląsk leave the country undefeated. Lower Silesia's finest then finished their tour with a mammoth 7-0 victory against Zeljeznicar Sarajevo.

Due to the strenuous nature of last season, Lenczyk spoke of the need to acquire reinforce-

ments in almost all positions.

The club has given its backing, with reinforcements coming in the shape of some shrewd signings - none more important than Slovak goalkeeper Marian Kelemen, the agile shot-stopper who was named the Ekstraklasa's best goal-keeper last season. The back four has been bolstered too, with 31-year-old Polish International Darius Pietrasiak signing on from Polonia Warsawa.

In addition to the defence, the midfield and attack have been significantly strengthened. After three long years, Śląsk have finally succeeded in luring midfielder Mateusz Cetnarski to the club. The former GKS Bełchatów man cited the influence of Orest Lenczyk, the form of the side and the lure of Europe as his motivation for putting pen

to paper. Śląsk fans can also look forward to seeing more from silky skilled Argentinian striker Christian Diaz, who has pledged his future to the side.

Diaz will play alongside new signing Johan Voskamp from Sparta Rotterdam, who scored a sensational 29 goals in 31 games last season.

With the Europa League tie on a knife-edge, Śląsk fans will be glued to their screens come the away leg on July the 21st. Wrocław fans lucky enough to see the game in person will be doing their utmost to make some noise.

Hey Śląsk!

Gregor Gowans contributed to this article.

Active Life

Summer is an ideal time to get your bike out of the cellar and go biking around the city . There are numerous bike routes in and around Wrocław featured in detail in various cycling maps such as “Rowerowy Wrocław - scieżki i szłaki rowerowe,” “Atlas rowerowy - Trasy wokół Wrocławia,” and the guide “Wrocław i okolice na rowerze”.

There are plenty of places to go cycling in the city depending on

how far you want to go and if you prefer to do sightseeing or just have a relaxing ride. There are a lot of parks with plenty of space for riding bikes. A few good examples would be Grabiszyński Park or Szczytynicki Park. These are vast parklands that require nearly one hour to cycle through.

for other activities like jogging, Nordic walking or simply having a walk. If you prefer to visit the city centre, you may ride your bike along the moat. Here you can see the most beautiful architecture in Wrocław! If you are really ambitious and fit, you may even want to check out some of the bicycle routes in the “Kotlina Klodzka” mountains.

Another option is to go cycling through the levees. The distance of the levees’ route is about 50 km. This is also a good place

Aside from experiencing beautiful scenery, another reason many people take up cycling is because it is a cheap mode of

transportation and a terrific way of keeping fit and healthy.

a bicycle shop; avoid the supermarkets.

If you do not already own a bicycle, there are a few things you should consider before you purchase one. In general, there are two types of bicycles:

Before embarking on your bicycle adventure, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:

1. A city bike, which has large tires, lights and a comfortable seat. It usually also has a basket attached to it, which for example you could use to transport your grocery shopping. The size of a city bicycle varies according to whether it is designed for males or females. City bicycles are usually fairly cheap; a secondhand bicycle can be purchased for approximately 200 zł. A good place to search for a second-hand bicycle is at the Młyn Market, which takes place every Sunday.

2. An athletic bicycle is more suitable for athletes. The tires on athletic bikes are usually smaller than on city bikes. Instead of a basket, they are equipped with a bottle holder.

One attractive property of athletic bicycles is that they have gears which make them very useful for tackling mountain routes. However, the saddle is usually less comfortable and these bikes are considerably more expensive. Good ones start from 1,500 zł and you can even expect to pay up to 10,000zł. The best way to purchase one is via the Internet or in

Who does not like summer - long sunny days and warm evenings? I really missed it during the long Polish winter. Sunlight gives me energy and keeps the blues away. I love sunbathing, suntanning or, as we call it in Lebanon, bronzage; it makes me feel young and sporty.

Unfortunately our skin does not love the sun as much as we do. Sunlight exposure is one of the strongest aging factors; excessive tanning dries up skin, can cause burns or even damage deep layers of skin.

You cannot avoid sun in my country; we have at least 8 months a year as sunny and warm as June and July in Poland. If you cannot avoid something, you learn how to deal with it. I will share with you some secrets of Lebanese girls: what to carry in your purse, how to wear and what to eat.

First have a big bag; you will need it. We always carry: 50+ sunscreen for lunch time walks or to use on skin imperfections (moles, pigmentation etc); a big bottle of regular 15-30 sunscreen to use during the rest of the day on the face, neck, palms and decollage; and lipstick sunscreen to protect our lip area from wrinkles and make it seductive at the same time. On top of that, I recommend a can of moisture mist hydrating spray. Spray yourself each time you feel like your skin is drying. And last but not least, you should carry a bottle of water to sip throughout the day.

A few words about sunscreens: it must be hypoallergenic and moisturizing. You can find even special ones for your skin type.

Try to apply every two hours or more as needed. Do not forget about your hands, especially the upper sides.

19

1. Check the brakes, tire pressure and grease the chain. You do not want your bicycle to break down half-way on your journey.

2. Wear appropriate clothing; comfortable shorts and a climacool T-shirt are a good idea.

Bring a pair of sunglasses and always wear your helmet! You should also consider taking a waterproof jacket; the weather can change at any time.

3. Plan your route and consider your objective. Are you setting out on a leisurely ride to take in the scenery and have a picnic, or are you planning to cover a very long distance?

4. Encourage your friends and family to accompany you. It is a great way of spending time together.

Have fun discovering Wrocław on wheels!!!

Maria Burmecha is a qualified personal trainer; ski, Nordic walking, tennis and Pilates instructor; and a nutritionist. For more info, contact at maria.burmecha@gmail.com or +48 507 033 375.

If you think that is enough protection: wrong. Put on sunglasses. The area around the eyes has very thin and sensitive skin. Do not miss an occasion to fashion a hat – the bigger the better.

Someone said, “We are what we eat.” During the summer I eat a lot of fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin C (excellent antioxidant), such as raw red pepper, kiwi, papaya, mango, and broccoli. I drink water all day, at least 1,5 liters. I add to my diet skimmed milk shakes and buttermilk drinks; they are rich in vitamin B. Vitamins from this group help your skin to stay moisturized.

Recipe for homemade summer face mask. (Apply in the evening, twice a week, to help your skin revive itself).

- ½ papaya fruit (eat the rest)

- Small natural yoghurt (full fat this time) - Spoon of honey - Two spoons of oats - Spoon of rose water (for dry skin) or lemon juice (for oily skin) Mix all together well, apply generously to the face, neck and bust. Keep on for 15 minutes, then ask your hubby or boy-

friend to try it. It is tasty!

If all my advice fails and you get sunburnt, I recommend aloe vera gel; but you can also use cabbage leaves or gauze soaked in whey.

Nisrine Assi is from Lebanon, a Cosmetologist by trade and passion. Married to a Pole, one year in Poland, 6 months in Wrocław. nisrine.stec@hotmail.com

The Wrocław International July 2011

20 Travel

Former Nazi Complex open to visitors Sonia Pacheco can almost breathe in the history of what happened all those years ago. This is even before we mention all the guard posts, vintage cars, vans, lorries, ambulances and World War II train wagons on show. It is as though time has stood still in this fascinating complex….

Complex Włodarz is not far from Wrocław (aprox. 78 kms) next to Walim, in the heart of the Sowie Mountains. This un-

ers lived and died here while constructing the complex.

derground complex was part of a project called the Riese (Giant in German) which included another 5 similar subterranean designed complexes (Rzeczka, Jugowice, Soboń, Sokoloec, Osówka) as well as the Castle of Książ.

This project started in 1943, the purpose of which still remains unclear today. There are many stories and myths surrounding it, with some claiming it could have been Hitler’s next headquarters, others say it was to be a massive weapons plant. What we do know however is that a lot of prisoners (most of them from concentration camps) were used in its construction. Some estimates state that over 30,000 prisoners worked intensively there, and that as a result 5,000 people died due to the strenuous labour, disease and exhaustion.

These figures clearly indicate that this Nazi complex was to be anything but a small facility.

Włodarz is the largest of these series of complexes and is open to visitors. It has approximately 3,000 meters of corridors, with 4 different entrances. The tunnel’s dimensions in some parts are 3 metres by 2.5 metres, though in some other parts it could have been up to 50 meters by 10 meters. As a matter of interest 30%

Photos: Sonia Pacheco

Arriving at the former Nazi Complex of Włodarz, somehow you feel like you have stepped back in time to the 1940s. Indeed, the path that lead us to the entrance of this massively huge complex of underground tunnels is steeped in history, and allows you to feel the past. This is not merely because of the war like music that welcomes you as you approach the entrance, but also due to the forest's atmosphere where you

of the corridors were partially flooded intentionally in 1945, so part of the visit must have been made using boats.

Some other little inner settings are also part of the underground tunnel complex, such us the hospital, the cement storage (in which still you can see fossilized cement bags), water storage, the bunker and the ruins of what it was the Wolsfberg concentration camp, where prisoners lived and died while constructing the complex.

and to make a full-day visit to this fascinating attraction and surroundings (including stunning mountainous landscapes), please do not forget a jumper, as the temperature inside the tunnels plummets to a mere 5ºC. Sonia Pacheco is Spanish, has a professional background as event coordinator and she is currently extending her studies in Tourism at UNED University (Spain). s.pacheco@wroclawinternational.pl

If you decide to jump in your car

New guided tour unlocks hidden treasures Zuzana Ochodnicka & Joaquin Cubero ent countries. The first information we received was about the history of founding Wrocław, and its changes over the centuries.

The journey continued around the square, taking stops at main attractions where the guide enlightened everyone on the tour with some fascinating facts and stories.

Then we headed towards the University of Wrocław and its church, where amusing stories regarding former students were told in the delightful surrounding of the church itself.

the tour's gems coming to the fore at its climax. The final journey took place on a boat reserved for us near Słowackiego Park, which took passengers to the Cathedral Island and further around the city.

Finally, the journey finished in a beautifully quaint restaurant.

There could not have been a better setting for everyone to get to know each other better and to integrate, including the DOT employees and Director, Rajmund Jacek Papiernik.

For those who are keen to know Wrocław better and love meeting new people, this guided tour would be an ideal treat.

Contact: DOT ul.Ostrowskiego 9 phone: +48 71 793 97 22 e-mail: dot@dot.org.pl www.dot.org.pl (To speak in English, Italian, Russian Polish or French, contact Silvia Castellana at castellanasilvia@gmail.com) Fredro Statue at Rynek (left) and Catheral Island (right)

The best was saved for last, with

One of the NGOs providing a new tour service in Wrocław is the Dolnośląska Organizacja Turystyczna (DOT) which was established by the local government of Lower Silesia. With more than 11 years of experience, DOT’s main focus is to promote the Lower Silesia re-

gion. An essential part of this promotion is the guided tour, which we had the fortune of experiencing for ourselves. This project is the brainchild of Silvia Castellana of the DOT, who herself is an international resident of Wrocław.

The adventure began at Rynek in front of Fredro statue, where a professional English speaking tour guide was waiting for the arrival of people from 12 differ-

The Wrocław International July 2011

Photos: DOT

What is the best way to get to know a city? The answer is simple: take a guided tour!

Music 21

Recently Wrocław has been experiencing an unprecedented cultural surge. Many Wrocławians have become involved in different forms of artistic selfexpression, which has brought together talented people from many different cultural areas. The contemporary music scene is progressing as well. The number of newly created music bands is growing in conjunction with the number of their fans. “Tweenings” is one of these bands, so The Wrocław International decided to meet with them and ask them about their story. These young talented musicians - Karolina (vocal), Woytek (double bass) and Karol (guitar) - are ready to make their dreams come true: playing emotional music which strikes directly to the soul.

The Wrocław International: How did you decide to start a music band?

Karolina: It was a huge coincidence.

TWI: What was the most challenging thing for you? Do you have a written „band agreement‟?

Karolina: Still waiting for the big challenges, do you agree with me Karol?

Karol: For sure!

Karolina: Our biggest challenge came in the beginning, when Karol and I had problems with finding a good double bass player and were very close to resigning, but we were patient and waited about 7 or 8 months until we met Wojtek.

Karol: And I remember our first performance in "Szewska Pasja" as well. We were supposed to play Jewish music. I was doing it for the first time in my life.

TWI: What is your musical background? (education, skills etc.)

Karolina: Karol and I are students of the Wrocław Jazz School. Wojtek is studying classical double bass at the Music Academy in Wrocław. I also love to attend vocal workshops to learn a greater variety of techniques and to mix them together to find something that suits me.

Wojtek: So, as you can see we spend a lot of time on vocal training! Music has been a part of my life since my childhood. After several years of playing the violin I‟ve moved on to something slightly larger. You know – big boys like big toys. As for my education, many teachers have tried, but only a few have succeeded.

Karol: Well, I had my first training in classical music school, some private lessons on electric guitar and now training at a jazz music school.

TWI: Why do you want to record and release your own tracks?

Wojtek: And of course, it is because we want to make people around the world happy with our music.

Karol: I totally agree with you guys and for me another important thing is the opinion of the people around me.

TWI: Who are you directing your music to? Who‟s your target audience?

Karolina: We chose jazz and right now it is a very classical jazz. I am trying to get Karol and Wojtek to play “free” jazz (from the „60s) and we are making some. We don‟t play it because people necessarily like it, but because I just really want to play this kind of music, for me.

Once someone said about “free” jazz: “We call it „free‟ because no one would ever want to pay for it”. We do have a mainstream song as well - this is also for us and for the audiences in the pubs in which we play.

Hewa Thompson

Karol: Oh, yes, Karolina you are right. I remember that one day I decided to put an advertisement in my music school, that I was looking for musicians for a jazz band, and Karolina replied to me. Soon we met each other, played some songs and enjoyed it.

Karolina: Oh, I am so happy to say that we have released some records, finally. For me it is a kind of challenge. People around the world can hear my voice right now. We are creating our musical identity. I feel like we are beginning to no longer be anonymous.

Wojtek: And, of course, to anyone who will be able to appreciate that music. We would like to reach as many people as we can.

Karol: I have quite another answer on this question.

Honestly we play music that we like, and actually we don't focus on any target audience.

TWI: What are your songs about? Which genre does it belong to?

Karolina: Jazz and blues. Jazz is about everything, no borders. Many numbers were written as instrumentals, with a saxophone or trumpet and a main melody, and later someone else added lyrics. That's why harmony is difficult, it takes time to learn it as a vocalist. And the lyrics are very simple. The simpler they are, the more difficult is to perform and be honest with it.

Vaughan, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cassandra Wilson, Patricia Barber, Ella Fitzgerald. From jazz I adore musicians like: Wayne Shorter, Wynton Marsalis, Sun Ra, Doug Carn, Cecil Taylor, Leroy Jenkins, Vijay Iyer, Albert Ayler.

Wojtek: By the way, Karolina, do you remember my favorite quote? It was written by Patrick Suskind: Bo w tym magnetycznym polu pomiędzy

Karol: Yes, all these people are legends, but still, there are too many influences to list them all here. I find new influences every day. One of the most? Maybe Jimi Hendrix?

tu i tam, wysoko i nisko rozgrywa się wszystko to, co w muzyce ma

TWI: What are your plans for the future? Which dreams do you have?

sens; tam rodzi się muzyczny sens i życie, tak, po prostu życie.

Karolina: My plans are huge, but first, I want to make my own music. I still don‟t feel like I‟m ready for it yet.

So many influences. I don't want to start from nothing, I want to create something I can be proud of. I still have to prepare myself to be ready for it.

(niech ktoś mądry to przetłumaczy) TWI: Do you write music yourself?

Karolina: Not yet. But we want to. And we will do it.

Right now we are still searching. We do jazz because we all love it, it's our music right now.

TWI: Who influenced your music preferences/tastes?

Karolina: I could talk for hours about my favorite musicians and vocalists. I'll give you here only jazz vocalists whom I adore: Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Sara

Karol: I want to make and play my own music and I want people to be happy while they are listening to it.

TWI: On behalf of The Wrocław International and our readers, thanks for your time and best of luck.

[Interviewed by Lara Kalashnikova. Lara is from Moscow and an Erasmus student from Wrocław University. l.kalashnikova@wroclawinternational.pl]

Tel +48 506 150 925 / email: info@movetowroclaw.com The Wrocław International

July 2011

Events

July 24, 2011

August 21, 2011

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Sergio Orabona, organ, Italy

All the guests enjoyed trying their hands at Golf.

July 31, 2011

MANTRA TRIO

Matthias Janz - organ, Germany

August 28, 2011

Zdzisław Madej - tenor

Vincent de Pol - organ, Germany

August 7, 2011

Hanna Turonek - flute, Poland

Park, Jeon Eon – organ

September 4, 2011

Ji, Suk – Mi - soprano, Korea

Roman Perucki - organ, Poland

August 14, 2011

Servi Domini Cantores:

Christoph Geiser - organ, Switzerland

Piotr Sobierajski - tenor

VOICE FACTORY - vocal ensemble of the Mu-

Rafał Kobyliński - tenor

Szybalska - Matczak, Poland

Zdzisław Madej - tenor

IMPART ART CENTRE ul. Mazowiecka 17 +48 71 341 94 32 / 344 39 45 rezerwacje@impart.art.pl www.impart.art.pl Tickets sale: www.eventim.pl / www.demolika.pl

Concerts take place on Sundays at 19:30 at the University Church, pl. Uniwersytecki 1,

Photo: Courtesy of JP Weber Golf Challenge 2011

- organ, Poland

Toya Golf & Country Club and JP Weber organised the JP Weber Golf Challenge 2011 on Saturday, July 9th.

The event lasted all day long with golf lessons for first timers and a tournament for the seasoned players. The guests (tournament players, Golf Academy participants and spectators) enjoyed the relaxed sports atmosphere at the club.

The results of the tournament: Best score gross (Medalist) Otti Rim (27 points); best score net 1st HCP Group (0-28) - Lee Jei Hoon (42 points); best score net 2nd HCP Group (28,1-54 + beginner) - Jeon II Shil (39 points). The tournament was sponsored by Alior Bank, Audi Centrum Wrocław, ARAW and Media Patronage ‘Golf & Roll’.

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Impart Art Centre Ul. Mazowiecka 17 50aw box office: +48 71 341 94 32 www.impart.art.pl July · September · October VISUAL ARTS Exhibition of paintings @ Impart Gallery UNTIL JULY 30 / free admission

2]

THEATER

[collective exhibition at Impart Art Gallery, Sep-

The Abbot [performance by Group Te-O-Ka (Poland)]

tember 15 to October 2]

Collapse, PSYCHO-SOMATIC GAYm [monodrama by Janusz A Biedrzycki (Chorea

[painting and theatrical events, Chamber Hall, Impart Theater, September 16 @ 19:00]

Edgar Allan Pooh: The Raven [Vesele Skoky Theater (Czech)]

ANDRZEJ DUDEK- DÜRER "Crossing" [multimedia performance, Film Lounge, Impart Theatre, September 21 @ 19:00]

Requiescat [performed by Theatralia (Italy)] [performed by The European Theater of Thought and Word, Photos: Courtesy of IMPART

feBus, the artist, has been always painting, but is also interested in the useful arts, dyeing technology, architecture, interior design, especially adaptation of the lofts in the Old Town in Warsaw.

Broken nails: A Marlene Dietrich Dialogue [monodrama by Anna Skubik, Wiczy

Fedra [monodrama by Anna Skubik]

feBus explicitly rejects all `neo' and `post`, because, as he claims, contemporary style is very precise, colourful and sterile. Contemporary painting technology and particular way of seeing the objects and figures should reflect all these features. The sense of matter and structural form of the objects that surrounds us needs precision. Impressionists, cubists, abstractionists, they found nanorealism is an attempt to present our contemporaneity and my days".

The Wrocław International July 2011

[performance at Rynek, September 25 @ 15:00] Events of the group STARY BANAN

MUSIC

THEATER WORKSHOP

Used Songs in two male voices [concert of The Song Theater - Piotr Machalica / Marek Dyjak]

Laboratory of Art [theater and dance workshop led by French dancer, actor and choreographer Romain Ravenel and Pietro Cennamo, director of Theatralia]

Zbigniew Lewandowski TRIO & Sibel Kose [jazz concert]

As an youngster, he created and belective outdoor workshops and exhibitions and was significantly influenced by

[video installation September 15 to October

14th September to 2nd October

CONTEMPORARY DANCE (performances by artists from Poland, Greece,

Special Jazz Sekstet Netherlands, Slovakia, Portugal and Great Britain) ! [International edition]

Eyes in the Colors of the Rain [Rootless Root Company with the participation of

FILM The Rite of Spring [performed by Janusza Orlik, Nicholas Keegan and Joel Claesson] Presentation of School for New Dance Development - SNDO [from Amsterdam film screenings and performances in the implementation of min: Michele Rizzo,

NEW WAVE OF ROMANIAN CINEMA MUSIC FILMS BY Piotr Szalsza SPANISH CINEMA FOR THE BEGINNING OF CENTURY CHIINESE TRILOGY

D.I.Y. (DIVE IN YOURSELF) [António Maia starring Nicolas Roses& Clary Saito and Patchwork Agatha Siniarskiej and Marty Ziolek]

23

Please note that this is just a sampling list of events currently taking place. If you have an event you would like included in future editions, please send details to : events@wroclawinternational.pl UNTIL 28th August, Summer at the White Stork Synagogue.

The 5th edition of the festival with a series of concerts (every summer Sunday at 17:00) presenting a wide spectrum of sounds from traditional Jewish music to the Balkan rhythms (bands from Poland, Israel, Slovakia, Belarus and Norway). It’s a unique opportunity to get to know Jewish culture and music. www.fbk.org.pl UNTIL 18th August, Young Classic Wratislavia. A series of concerts performed by young, enthusiastic hothead musicians.

The orchestras from Wrocław , Wałbrzych, Leśnica, Opole, Utrecht and Potsdam play movie music hits as well as the classical themes. The concerts take place at St.Maria Magdalena church. www.fbk.org.pl UNTIL 30th July, Acts from the 1920’s. An exhibition of the charming photographs of Walery, Polish count Stanisław Julian Ignacy Ostroróg leading an photo atelier in London and Paris at the beginning of the 20th century. The artistic photos shows the author’s attention to the women's body treated as an object of compositional study aroused controversy at that time and were considered indecent and iconoclastic. The exhibition takes place at Domek Romański, Nankiera 8. www.okis.pl

UNTIL 29th July, Time and Gesture. An exhibition of Lech Twardowski works with mural painted directly on the gallery wall and video record of his artistic activity as the highlights will be presented at Entropia Gallery. The artist is well known in Europe and his works are in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in Paris as well as in Polish collections. www.entropia.art.pl 21st to 24th July, Castle party.

This unique musical event in East and Central Europe takes place at Grodziec castle in Bolków and gathers the biggest stars of the independent dark scene. www.castleparty.com 26th July, 20:00, Narcotango.

The only one in this part of the country, a concert of an Argentinian group playing vibrant sounds from Buenos Aires; two times nominated for the Latin Grammy Awards in the category of the best tango album. The organiser of the concert is Polish Radio and it will take place in the concert hall at u l . K a r k o n o s k a . www.radioram.pl 21st to 31st July, Nowe Horyzonty. NEW HORIZONS is a festival of films that go beyond the limits of conventional cinema. A place for directors who go against the current, for individualists who use their own style, their own inimitable language. www.nowehoryzonty.pl 22nd to 28th August, Melodrama & The European Theater. The 4th edition of the International Festival of School Theatre will be held in JelczLaskowice. There will be theatre

workshops organized every day led by the teachers participating in the festival. The highlights will be the two new entries: Vilnius Theatre School and Łódź Film and Theatre School. These schools have produced many famous and successful directors in the past and are constantly gaining popularity for bringing out the new artistic talent. During the Festival, a conference titled "Is a European Theatre possible?" will also take place.

The participants will discuss the possibilities of creating a European Theatre and shows where native languages may be used. www.melodrama.com.pl .

27th August, 10:00 to 17:00, Day trip to Barycz Valley. The organiser will provide transport to Milicz Town (beside Barycz Valley), visit to the Town and to Barycz Valley River as well as to the wetlands. The local guide will welcome and introduce everyone and there are many activities to partake in such as canoeing, biking, walking, birdwatching, or just generally relaxing and enjoying being outside. The visit will be followed by a Picnic/Lunch and return to Wrocław. Approximate cost - transport - 35zł per adult, price of lunch not included and it is optional to bring a picnic. * If we have enough participants we can hire our own coach which will make the visit more c o m f o r t a b l e . ** Those who wish to take their own car can meet us there. *** The trip will be subject to having enough confirmed participants (primarily we need 24 people for the bus) To attend, email events@wroclawinternational.pl

or call +48 506150925.

About the Barycz Valley The Barycz Valley River. A vast mosaic of forest, ponds, meadows and wetlands. A kingdom of birds, with 300 species recorded.

The natural treasures of the Valley were developed thanks to centuries-long interaction of nature and human activity. Due to its unique natural values, the Barycz Valley is protected as a part of the European Network of Natura 2000. www.barycz.pl 4th August, 18:00, Double fault.

A concert by a Russian band playing a mixture of ska, punk, hardcore with the elements of jazz and rock’n roll will take place in the music club Madness. www.madnes.website.pl 24th August, 18:30, Pub Quiz / Trivia Quiz. For those who enjoy general knowledge and pub games , this is a chance to join in and be on a team or form your own team of players. Entry is 10 zł and the proceeds go to the PROM Foundation (after school care for disadvantage children).

There will be seven rounds with seven questions each (Music, Movies, Sport, Polish Language & Culture, History, General Knowledge, Arts & Literature).

To register just email: events@wroclawinternational.pl 26th September, European Day of Languages. This event has been celebrated every year since 2001. Throughout Europe, the 800 million Europeans represented in the Council of Europe's 47 member states are encouraged to learn more languages, at any age, in and out of school. Convinced that linguistic diversity achieves greater intercultural

understanding, as well as being a key element in the cultural heritage of our continent, the Council of Europe promotes European languages to the whole of the continent.

REGULAR EVENTS Every Monday 10am – Ladies Golf – for details contact reservations@toya.pl or call 713887600.

3rd Monday of Every Month, 10:00 - Wrocław Day - Idea Place - Coworking Day, Idea Place, Plac Solny 15. Every 3rd Monday of the month, Idea Place will hold workshops, lectures and open days. Coffee is supplied free by Starbucks.

Every Wednesday at 10:30am – IFW coffee Morning – for details contact internationalfriendsofwroclaw@gmail.com Every Friday at 20:00 – Let’s Speak Polish, Social Evening – for details contact edyta@inpolish.edu.pl Every Week at Aqua Park Aqua Park has a special program (Bąble w wodzie/ kids in water) for parents with their kids (aged 1-3). Every week parents come with their kids to the Aqua Park for 2 hours stay, and during that time they have half an hour animation with one of the swimming instructors, and the rest to spend with the kids on their own.

Aqua Park is now completing an English speaking group (taking place every Thursday at 10 am).

The cost is: regular 2hour ticket per adult + PLN 5 extra for the 30 minutes animation for the kids. All classes for children should be pre-booked through informacja@parkwodny.wroc.pl.

For more information, visit

www.parkwodny.wroc.pl.

St Christopher’s Church/Kościół św. Krzysztofa we Wrocławiu,

The Wrocław International

July 2011

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The first local newspaper in English, written by international residents of Wrocław Editor - Grace Sexton (editor@wroclawinternational.pl) Editorial Team - Renu Singh, Jolanta Kłonowska, Edyta Juszczyszyn, Gregor Gowans, Shannon Soesbe, Kathryn Getty, Mav Hall, Adnan Umar & Jenna Makowski Photography - Mav Hall Layout - Renu Singh We welcome your press-releases, contributions and comments to our paper, please email: editor@wroclawinternational.pl If you are interested in receiving additional copies, please contact +48 506 150 925 or 694 604 679 or email: admin@wroclawinternational.pl

If you are interested in advertising in our paper, please contact Przemek Esik +48 791 951 274 email: p.esik@wroclawinternational.pl Published by The Wrocław International, c/o ul. Krucza 68/9 Original illustrations by local artist Paulina Mager www.paulinamager.art.pl