Czech President Visits PLCT Museum

The Polka Lovers Club of Texas Museum, located at 275 W. Fairgrounds Rd. in La Grange, and located within the Czech Village of the La Grange Fairgrounds, experienced a once in a lifetime event on Saturday, July 13. Czech Republic President, Petr Pavel and his wife, Eva Pavlova along with their Presidential Brigade, Secret Service, DPS, Local Law Enforcement, the U.S. Czech Ambassador, his staff and representatives of the Czech Center Museum Houston were hosted by the Texas Czech Heritage Cultural Center (TCHCC) located at.

Saturday morning began in Dubina where the entourage stopped at Dubina’s St. Cyril Methodius Church for the President to straddle a Harley motorcycle to encounter a beautiful morning country ride to the La Grange Fairgrounds.

After a quick change, President Pavel and The First Lady were escorted through a Czech-clad welcoming group to the Opening Ceremony located on the front patio of TCHCC.

The ceremony included a large audience of Public Viewers, Center Members, Invited Guests and Public Officials.

The ceremony began with a welcome from the Center’s Staff, followed by the Presidential Address followed by presentations and resolutions from public officials.

After the ceremony and prior to delicious Texas barbecue dining, the entourage toured various highlights of the Czech village including The Polka Lovers Club of Texas Museum.

President Pavel and his entourage were delighted with the energizing polka music playing as they toured the museum.

The President’s wife, Eva Pavlova, danced a Polka with the Gary Bucek, PLCTM President.

Attendees along with the President enjoyed ice cold Shiner Beer made right here in Texas. The President hoisted his beer in front of the museum’s newest exhibit, Frank’s Bar.

As the delegation left, President Pavel signed the Museum’s Register. President and The First Lady were very congenial and took time before lunch to talk with the public.

President Pavel was in the United States for the highly stressful 2024 NATO Summit in Washington DC. NATO summit meetings provide periodic opportunities for the Heads of State and Government of NATO member countries to discuss important issues facing the Alliance and provide strategic direction for its activities.

The recent NATO Summit marked 75 years of historic achievements, demonstrated the strength and unity of our transatlantic bond, advanced the implementation of the most robust deterrence and defense plans since the end of the Cold War, and showcased NATO’s vital role in defending our future for generations to come.

He chose to spend some relaxing time in Texas before returning to The Czech Republic.