August 21, 2009 - E-learning and Firefighters' Party

This afternoon we had a presentation on the e-learning possibilities available if we want to continue our Czech studies. The classes are available free of charge to compatriots who register through their Czech embassy. The classes include lots of grammar, vocab, and listening, so would be helpful for everything but actually speaking and getting the tongue twisted. Will be something to consider as I try to keep building on what I've learned so far.

The evening turned out to be hosted by a small town close to Dobruška - Běstviny, which has 71 residents in 31 houses. Basically all the households are part of the volunteer firefighter system and the firefighters have been building the park and buildings where we spent the evening. The downside of this for me was that I didn't get to reconnect with the firefighters from yesterday from Dobruška.

Běstviny Party

When I showed some interest in the old firefighting equipment they had on display, one of the oldest volunteers went into a detailed discussion (fortunately including hand gestures) on how they both worked. I understood some of what he said, but was not able to respond with more than nods and "I understand" in Czech. Later the volunteers demonstrated the equipment and again let people try shooting water from the hoses. The non-motorized one took six people, three on each side, doing a sort of seesaw pumping to make it work. We also had a chance to ride (about 12 at a time) Keystone-Cops-style in the open vehicle used to transport the firefighters to a fire. There were no seatbelts, and the sobriety of the driver was questionable. It was rather thrilling, but no one fell out! (Czechs have a zero tolerance alcohol level for drivers, so generally people have nothing if they are going to be driving.)

Open Transport Vehicle

Besides the unlimited beer, we had sausages we cooked over an open wood fire and several gigantic pork roasts which were also cooked over an open fire.

Sausages

Pork Roasts

The band was a Czech country western band, which seems little weird to me, but they were energetic and got people dancing. Took the early bus back, so was home before 11 p.m., but will miss the farewell disco party for the Swedish guy in my class who is leaving tomorrow morning before the course is completed. I really don't need to be up until 1 or 2 a.m. tonight for that, as the youngins are already well intoxicated before the disco even starts!

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