National
Czech & Slovak
Museum & Library
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
2004 News Releases
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Czech Heritage Singers Perform for NCSML’s Learn at Lunch

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes the Czech Heritage Singers as they perform their annual Christmas concert and sing-a-long on Thursday, December 16, 2004. The free concert will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall and begins at noon. Attendees are encouraged to bring a sack lunch and enjoy Czech Christmas carols.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution collecting, exhibiting, preserving, and interpreting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 11, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Ethnic Christmas Display at National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library unveils a folk art Christmas tree in the museum’s Grand Hall on Tuesday, November 23, 2004. Area children and volunteers had a hand in creating the decorations that appear on the tree. Three exhibit cases will contain items related to Czech and Slovak holiday traditions including Svatý Mikuláš (Svaty Mikulas/Saint Nicholas), St. Barbara’s Day, and the Christmas Eve meal. The holiday display is free and open to the public during museum hours, Tuesday through Saturday 9:30 – 4:00, and Sundays noon – 4:00.

Decoration on the Christmas tree include oranges, dolls in Czech costume, porcelain gingerbread cookies, strung popcorn, wheat ornaments, walnuts in crochet lace, and an angel tree topper. Area school children and youth groups who visited the museum in 2004 made wheat and fabric garland for the tree. Each item on the tree symbolizes a special aspect of the holiday season. For example, the strung popcorn represents the rope Joseph used to lead the donkey upon which Mary rode.

The museum will also have two other Christmas trees are in the museum’s exhibit Homelands: A Story of the Czech and Slovak People, and one tree is in the restored 19th century immigrant home. These trees may be viewed with paid admission to the galleries.

All Christmas trees and holiday exhibit cases will close to the public on January 9, 2005.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2004
CONTACT: Shirley Rosencrans, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. (319) 362-8500. Giftstore@ncsml.org. www.NCSML.org

Open House Offers Unique Holiday Experience

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Museum Store at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is having an Open House November 19, 20 and 21, 2004. Shoppers may enjoy hot apple cider and homemade Czech treats. Unique selection of crystal, porcelain, wooden toys, books and Pipka figurines, featuring the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library commissioned Svatý Mikuláš (Svaty Mikulas), Angel, and Devil is available in the Museum Store. The two in store specials include, buy 3 ornaments get one free, and buy any cookbook to get a cookie cutter at ? price. Museum Store hours are Friday and Saturday, 9:30 – 4:00, Sunday noon – 4:00.

On November 20, Master Folk Artist Marj Nejdl will personalize beautiful Czech glass ornaments from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. in the museum’s Grand Hall.

November 21, Leonard Reyman’s Iowa Accordion Club performs a concert in the museum’s Grand Hall at 2:00 p.m. NCSML audiences truly appreciate this group’s music, and their contagious fun. Now they have a new CD. You won’t want to miss this one. There is no charge for the concert; but a free will offering is appreciated.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2004
CONTACT: Patricia Hikiji, 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. (319) 362-8500. Phikiji@NCSML.org. www.NCSML.org
Czech and Slovak Holiday Traditions Presented at NCSML, Nov. 18
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s Learn at Lunch program on Thursday, November 18 is "Christmas Customs and Traditions in the Czech Republic and Slovakia." Museum volunteer Dell Mills will deliver the presentation. The program is free and open to the public. It begins at noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Attendees are invited to bring a sack lunch and learn about how the Christmas season is celebrated by Czechs and Slovaks.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Celebrate 30 Years

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is 30 years old this year. To celebrate, the museum will host two events on November 12, 2004 – the opening reception for an original exhibition titled Dux, Dolls and Automobiles: 30 Years of Collecting and the NCSML’s 10th Annual Fall Dinner.

The Annual Fall Dinner is at the Cedar Rapids Marriott, 1200 Collins Road NE. Honored guests include Ross Marine, Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic, and Sharon Valášek (pronounced VA-LA-sheck), Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic. A performance of Czech compositions by concert pianist Ourania Menelaou, a University of Iowa doctoral candidate, is the featured program for the evening. The Fall Dinner is sponsored by Guaranty Bank and Bradley & Riley PC.

Advanced reservations are required for the Dux, Dolls and Automobiles opening reception and the Fall Dinner. To receive an invitation, call (319) 362-8500.

Dux, Dolls and Automobiles showcases collection items that have never been exhibited before and celebrates the growth and change of the NCSML over the past 30 years. Featured items in the exhibition include: Royal Dux (pronounced "ducks") porcelain, a newly acquired Slovak kroj {folk costume, pronounced "kroy") from Serbia and Montenegro, and a 1964 Tatra T-603 automobile made in former Czechoslovakia. Egermann glassware, wooden figures, and spa mineral water glasses are also included in the exhibit. Dux, Dolls and Automobiles closes January 23, 2005. The opening reception for the exhibit will be held at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library at 5:30 p.m. and is sponsored by Bankers Trust.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500.

NOTE TO EDITORS:
Photos and captions are available at http://www.ncsml.org/mediakit-dux.htm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum To Host Gallery Tours of New Exhibit
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is 30 years old this year. To celebrate, the museum created an original exhibition that tells the story of the museum. The public will have an opportunity to tour the exhibition, titled Dux, Dolls, and Automobiles: 30 Years of Collecting, with curator Edith Blanchard on Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. The tour is free to members or with paid admission to the galleries.
 
Gallery tours will also be offered on Thursday, November 18, Saturday, December 9, and Thursday, December 18 at 2:00 p.m. All tours are free to museum member or with paid admission to the galleries.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Make Holiday Tray at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Porcelain painting students will make a unique holiday tray in November. Instructor JoAnne Neff will teach students, young and old, experienced or not, how to paint lovely holly leaves onto a porcelain snack tray. Class size is limited to 15 students, all abilities welcome. The class meets three nights, Thursday November 4, 11, and 18 in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. The class feel is $25.00 with a materials fee of $10.00. Please enroll by November 2 by calling Jan at (319) 362-8500.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 12, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Experience Czech & Slovak Cinema, Oct. 23 & 24

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts the popular program, Exploring Czech and Slovak Cinema Series, on October 23 and 24, 2004. This fall, two Miloš Foreman films have been selected. The Fireman’s Ball (1967) will be shown Saturday, October 23, and Loves of a Blonde (1966) will be shown on Sunday, October 24 in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall beginning at 2:00 p.m. There is no charge. Both films were made before the fall of the Prague Spring, a topic to be addressed at the History and Culture Conference in March 2005.

The Fireman’s Ball was an Academy Award™ nominee. The film has everything, a beauty pageant, plenty of beer, a blazing fire, and biting black comedic sensibility. It is in Czech with English subtitles and 86 minutes long. The Oscar© nominated film, Loves of a Blonde, was made at the height of the Cold War. This romantic comedy tells the tale of a young woman’s romantic notions after a one-night-stand. The film is in Czech with English subtitles and 73 minutes long. The cinematographer for both films is Miroslav Ondricek, who also did Silkwood and A League of Their Own.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Historic Bakery Is the Topic of the National Czech & Slovak Museum’s Learn at Lunch Program, Oct. 16

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Owner John Rocarek will talk about Sykorá’s Bakery’s rich history in his presentation "100 Years of Rye Bread and Koláce” at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on Thursday, October 21, 2004. The free program is open to the public and begins at noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Attendees are invited to bring their sack lunch and learn about the oldest Czech bakery in town.

In 1904, C.K. Kosek bought a one-story building on 16th Avenue SW and opened a Czech bakery. In 1905, he bought the adjoining two-story building, expanded his bakery, opened a candy shop, and moved his family upstairs. Today, the bakery, called Sykorá’s since 1926, is still a Czech-owned business.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer or Edith Blanchard, 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. (319) 362-8500. www.NCSML.org. Jan@NCSML.org or eblanchard@NCSML.org.
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Celebrates 30 Years
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is 30 years old this year. To celebrate, the museum will open an original exhibition titled Dux, Dolls, and Automobiles: 30 Years of Collecting on November 13, 2004. The exhibition showcases collection items that have never been seen before or have been "resting" for a while.
 
"A number of items in our collection have been in storage, resting, for a few years. It’s time to let the public see them again," explains curator Edith Blanchard. "This exhibition allows us to show off some of the new items that have come into the collection. Visitors will have a wonderful opportunity to see how much the collection has grown in a very short time."
 
Dux, Dolls, and Automobiles celebrates the growth and change of the museum. Important items included in the exhibition are: Royal Dux (pronounced "ducks") porcelain, a newly acquired Slovak kroj {folk costume, pronounced "kroy") from Serbia and Montenegro, and the 1964 Tatra 603 automobile made in Czechoslovakia. Egermann Glass works, wooden figures, and mineral water glasses are also featured in the exhibit.
 
The exhibition closes January 23, 2005.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
 
Note to editors: photos and captions are available at http://www.ncsml.org/mediakit-dux.htm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Learn How to Cook Just Like Grandma

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Ever wonder how Grandma made those delightful Czech and Slovak comfort foods? Here’s your chance to find out.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Museum Store presents Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen on Saturday, October 16, 2004. Expert Czech and Slovak cooks prepare and demonstrate the steps (and tricks) behind preparing bread dumplings (10:00 – 11:30 a.m.), koláce (11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.), honey cookies (1:00 – 2:30 p.m.), and babovka [a poppy seed cake] (2:30 – 4:00 p.m.) in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. The Museum Store will have drawings every hour from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Test your chance at winning some fabulous Czech-made wares, must be present to win. In store specials offered all day. And, don’t miss your opportunity to meet with representatives from Kavalier Company, a Czech glass company. Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen runs from 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. in the Museum Store and Heritage Hall. This free event is open to the public. For more information, call (319) 362-8500.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Wheat Weaving Classes Offered Through the National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering three wheat weaving classes this summer and fall. Students will learn how to make traditional Czech and Slovak Christmas ornaments out of wheat with instructor Robin Buckallew. Class sizes are limited to 7 students, all abilities welcome. Classes are from 9:00 a.m. – noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall and cost $20.00, materials included. The class meets on Saturday, October 9, 2004. To enroll, call Jan at (319) 362-8500 or register via e-mail, Jan@NCSML.org.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum Offers Porcelain Painting Class in October

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering a porcelain painting class October 7, 14 and 21 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. This month, instructor JoAnne Neff will teacher students how to paint a rose and bird scene on a pitcher. The project may be seen at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. Class size is limited to 15 students, all abilities from novice to master welcome. The class will be at St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, 1224 5th Street SE, Cedar Rapids. The instructor fee is $25.00, materials fee $10.00. To enroll or for more information, call Jan at (319) 362-8500.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Brings Musicians from Czech Republic to Cedar Rapids

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library proudly presents From Starched Shirt Cuff…A Dvorák Celebration, a two-concert set in honor of the 100th anniversary of Antonín Dvorák’s death. In a unique musical exchange, Quartetto Telemann from Prague, Czech Republic will join Red Cedar Chamber Music of Marion in premiering Spillville Variations on a Theme of Dvorák. The United States premier is a two-part concert, Saturday, October 2 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, October 3, 2004 at 7 p.m. in Hruska Grand Hall at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A reception will follow the Saturday concert. Tickets to attend both nights are $20.00, $14.00 for students. Tickets for a single concert are $12.00, $8.00 for students. Tickets may be purchased at the Museum Store or by calling (319) 362-8500. The concerts are sponsored by Rockwell Collins. The two ensembles will also premiere Spillville Variations on a Theme of Dvorák on the historic stairs in the mail building of the National Museum in Prague on October 12, 2004. The Prague concert is a benefit for the National Museum.

The Prague-based ensemble Quartetto Telemann flutist Vladimir Petr, English hornist David Prosek, and guitarist David Holy are joined by Red Cedar Trio artists flutist Jan Boland, violist David Miller, and guitarist John Dowdall.  This Czech Musical Exchange features newly-commissioned chamber music entitled Spillville Variations on a Theme of Dvorák inspired by Dvorák’s work in Spillville, Iowa, in 1893. The theme is the well-known Scherzo movement of the American String Quartet in F Major. Dvorák wrote this Scherzo theme to imitate the chirping Iowa bird, the Scarlet Tanager, which he frequently heard while living in Spillville.

Variations on this theme have been added by Iowa composers Peter Bloesch, Jan Boland, Don Chamberlain, Jonathan Chenette, Michael Daugherty, Lyle Dockendorff, Michael Gilbertson, Lucas Gullickson, Peter Hamlin, Dan Knight, Robert Linsey Nassif, Jerry Owen, Tracey Rush, Pat Smith and Harvey Sollberger. The fifteenth variation was composed by Ivo Medek, Director of the Janácek Academy in Brno. The work was commissioned by Red Cedar Chamber Music with funds provided by the Iowa Arts Council.

This unique exchange of talent strengthens ties between the Czech Republic and Cedar Rapids, Iowa and raises awareness of the unique musical tradition that relates them through one of the world’s most beloved composers.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call 319-362-8500 or visit the museum web site www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Author Looks "Through Different Eyes"

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA -- The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes author J. Barbara Alvord as she discusses her recent book Through Different Eyes. The free Life Long Learning program is at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 26, 2004 in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. A book signing will follow the presentation.

Alvord’s book is about her grandmother’s quest for a new life in the United States. Anna Mrkvicka emigrated from Bohemia in 1903 and found her way to Center Point, Iowa where she struggled and worked to bring seven members of her family and a foster brother to Iowa six years later. Anna later moved to Cedar Rapids and settled in the Czech Village area of the community. Alvord’s book details the difficulties and challenges Anna overcame in her life.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

BrewNost: An International Beer Tasting on the Cedar River comes to Cedar Rapids

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Today’s beer aficionados have the Czech Republic to thank for many of their favored brews.

The world’s original Pilsner beer was born in Plzen, Czech Republic. And the ever-popular Budweiser originated in the Czech town of Ceske Budejovice. Each region of the Czech and Slovak Republics has its own age-old recipe, some of which are considered the world’s premium tastes.

On Friday, September 24, 6 – 9 p.m. the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library debuts BrewNost, its first annual international beer tasting event. This one-of-a-kind evening will take place in the Museum Garden, in the Hruska Grand Hall, and on the Naxera Terrace overlooking the Cedar River. Major sponsorship is provided by Wells Fargo, with additional support from Gary and Robin Skogman, Lujack Lexus of the Quad Cities, Gray, Stefani & Mitvalsky, PLC, Moyer & Bergman, PLC, RFK Transportation, Inc., Jim Sattler Construction, Inc., Shuttleworth & Ingersoll, PLC., and Lynch Ford. Tickets are $40 per person. Advance reservations are required. Call (319) 362-8500 for ticket information.

BrewNost brings the dazzling world of beer to Cedar Rapids’ world-famous museum. Attendees will taste some of the finest Czech and Slovak beers, along with brews from Belgium, Germany, England, Scotland, Ireland and the United States. John’s Grocery of Iowa City will provide the beer selection and expertise. Foods have been carefully selected and specially paired to complement the beers, Moravian wines are also featured. Live music by Billylee Janey and the Compak3, an International Market Silent Auction, and a raffle of a trip for two to Prague, will round out the gala.

"This event is designed with something for everyone," said museum president/CEO Gail Naughton. "For example, unique taste treats include an English stout with ice cream, cherry beer with chocolates, and some wonderful Moravian wines, in addition to more traditional ales and lagers. We have planned a fun, memorable evening taking advantage of our scenic location on the banks of the Cedar River to highlight one of the most colorful and tasty Czech and Slovak traditions."

NOTE TO EDITORS: Additional story idea follows.

Alberhasky family of John’s Grocery taps Czech roots for NCSML beer tasting

Tasting and beer expertise for the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library BrewNost, An International Beer Tasting on the Cedar River will be provided by John’s Grocery of Iowa City, owned by the Alberhasky family who are of Czech heritage. According to Doug Alberhasky, store manager and designated "beer guy," the Alberhasky family emigrated to Iowa in the mid-1850s with the early wave of Czech immigration. The current John’s Grocery location was purchased by descendants John and Erma Alberhasky in 1948. With the help of their seven children and countless grandchildren, John and Erma turned a fledgling business into an Iowa City icon. Today John's Grocery's concentration is centered on gourmet beer, wine, unique foods and impeccable customer service. The combination of personal service with a selection of over 650 beers from around the world makes it one of the 80 best beer retailers in the world as identified by "All About Beer," a trade magazine in the brewing industry. The Alberhaskys will connect with their Czech roots to make BrewNost a one-of-a-kind event in Cedar Rapids.

For more information contact:
Doug Alberhasky
John’s Grocery
319-337-2183
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

High-Ranking Slovak Official to Visit Cedar Rapids

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes the Honorable Ivan Surkos, Consul General of the Slovak Republic to Cedar Rapids, IA today, September 9, 2004. This is the first visit to Cedar Rapids for Surkos, who will tour the museum and Czech Village and meet with Czech and Slovak citizens in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City communities.

The Slovak Republic maintains two career consular offices in the United States, Consular Section of the Slovak Embassy in Washington DC and the Consulate General in New York. Surkos is based in the New York office and serves the following twenty-five states: Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 3, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Red Cedar Chamber Music Previews New Work, Sept. 16

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Red Cedar Chamber Music as they perform for the Learn at Lunch on Thursday, September 16. The program will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall at noon and is free and open to the public.

Violist, Chris Hanson, a senior at Kennedy High School, joins Jan Boland, flute and John Dowdall, guitar, for a Chamber Music Now preview performance of Spillville Variations on a Theme by Dvorák. Spillville. Variations on a Theme by Dvorák is a new work by fifteen Iowa composers, inspired by music Dvorák wrote when he lived in Spillville in 1893. The U.S. premier will be October 2 & 3 at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library when Red Cedar will perform with members of the Quartetto Telemann from Prague.

Spillville Variations on a Theme by Dvorák was commissioned by Red Cedar Chamber Music with commissioning funds granted by the Iowa Arts Council.

Jan Boland participated in the composition of Spillville Variations on a Theme by Dvorák, arranging the theme from the Scherzo movement of Dvorák's “American” String Quartet in F Major for flute, viola and guitar. Dvorák wrote this Scherzo theme to imitate the chirping Iowa bird, the Scarlet Tanager, which he frequently heard while living in Spillville.

Variations on this theme have been added by Iowa composers Peter Bloesch, Don Chamberlain, Jonathan Chenette, Michael Daugherty, Lyle Dockendorff, Michael Gilbertson, Lucas Gullickson, Peter Hamlin, Dan Knight, Robert Linsey Nassif, Jerry Owen, Tracey Rush, Pat Smith and Harvey Sollberger. The 15th variation was composed by Ivo Medek, Director of the Janacek Academy in Brno. According to John Dowdall, "The wide variety of musical styles and inventive ways the composers chose to vary the theme is musically delightful and intellectually fascinating." Dvorák's popular work Humoreske will also be performed.

The Chamber Music Now program gives talented young musicians the opportunity to join professional chamber musicians in rehearsal and performance and is sponsored by William P. Whipple. Chamber Music Now is part of Red Cedar’s Community Connections program which is hosted by the Marion Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by GreatAmerica Leasing, the City of Marion, the Iowa Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional support comes from Rockwell Collins, Farmers State Bank, the McGrath Automotive Group Fund of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust. For information call 319-377-8028.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Final UpBeat! Concert Features Leonard Reyman’s Accordion Band

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: The final National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library UpBeat! Concert Series for 2004 features Leonard Reyman’s Accordion Band. The free concert is Saturday, September 11, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. on the museum’s Garden Stage. Audience members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and enjoy this fun concert. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved into the Grand Hall. The concert is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site at www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
UpBeat! Concert Saturday, Sept. 4
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s UpBeat! Concert Series continues with a special concert by pianist Ourania Menelaou. Menelaou is a concert pianist and doctoral candidate at The University of Iowa. The free concert will take place in the museum’s Grand Hall at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 4. The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 12, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer or Edith Blanchard, 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. (319) 362-8500. www.NCSML.org eblanchard@NCSML.org or Jan@NCSML.org

Artist Returns to National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA -- Photographer Chad Evans Wyatt returns to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library to unveil his latest project, Roma Rising, in the museum’s Laska Gallery. The portrait exhibition will feature Romany who are successful, contributing members to the larger society. The exhibition opens August 28, 2004 and closes January 2, 2005.

Traditionally, the Roma, a minority group in the Czech and Slovak Republics, have enjoyed little or no human or political rights. Today, the Roma are politically active, securing their rights in written constitutions. These powerful, photographs include Roma leaders and well-known professionals, as well as lesser known Roma, who have overcome stereotypes and barriers to create successful careers.

Wyatt will lead two gallery tours. The tours are at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 28, 2004 and are free with paid admission to the galleries.

At 2:00 p.m., museum collections manager Stefanie Kohn will lead a tour of the current special exhibition, Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music. Those on the tour should meet in the museum’s Grand Hall. This event is free with paid admission to the galleries.

Celebrate the opening of Roma Rising with a Grand Night of Music Concert featuring the Clearwater Hot Club, presenting the music of Django Reinhart. The concert begins at 8:00 p.m. in the museum’s Grand Hall. Tickets are $6.00 with a valid NCSML membership card or $8.00 without. Cash or check only, credit cards will not be accepted. Grand Night of Music is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty, Liberty Bank and Armstrong Realty.

On Sunday, Aug. 29, 2004, Wyatt presents a Life Long Learning presentation. The photographer will talk about the recently completed project, Roma Rising, on exhibit at the NCSML. Guided tour of Roma Rising to follow. The presentation begins at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s Heritage Hall and is free and open to the public.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Eastern Iowa Brass Band Performs for National Czech & Slovak Museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Eastern Iowa Brass Band, under the direction of Earle Dickinson, will perform in the garden at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on Sunday, August 21, 2004 as part of the museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and enjoy the best brass band in Iowa. The free performance begins at 2:00 p.m. and is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

The Eastern Iowa Brass Band grew from a brass ensemble that was part of the Mt. Vernon, Iowa, City Band in 1985. The band competed in its first North American Brass Band Association Championship in April of 1986 where they placed second in their class. The strong showing at such a prestigious competition prompted the founders to incorporate and formed the foundation for what is now one of the most prominent amateur brass bands in the country.

The 35-member band performs from a repertoire that features original works for brass band, as well as arrangements of well known orchestral and wind band literature. In addition, featured soloists are frequently used in concert programs that include a variety of musical styles. For this concert, the band will perform a few tunes by Czech and Slovak composers and will feature Czech and Slovak pieces.

The Eastern Iowa Brass Band has competed in the North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) annual championship competition since 1986 and has been named division champions six times. They have also won seven NABBA video competitions. In 1991, the band was featured by the Smithsonian Institution in the Festival of American Folklife in Washington D.C. On four occasions the band has been invited to present a feature program at the annual convention of the Iowa Bandmasters Association, and recently performed to a sellout crowd at the American School Band Directors Association convention.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming events, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Gallery Tour of Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music on August 19

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will sponsor a gallery tour of their newest, original exhibition Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music on Saturday, August 19, 2004. Collections manager Stefanie Kohn will guide the 2:00 p.m. tour and offer interesting insights about Czech and Slovak music history. This special tour is free with paid admission to the galleries and meets in the museum’s Grand Hall.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, collecting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or see the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Rose Garden Presentation at the National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Helen Venneman will deliver an "You Never Promised Me a Rose Garden" at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on Thursday, August 19, 2004. The free Learn at Lunch program is open to the public. The presentation will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Attendees are invited to bring a sack lunch and learn about rose gardens.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 3, 2004
CONTACT: Edie Blanchard, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or eblanchard@NCSML.org

Roma Rising photo portraiture exhibit premiers in United States

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) is proud to host the United States premier of Roma Rising, by Chad Evans Wyatt, a study of more than 100 middle-class and professional class Czech Roma, in the Andrew and Vera Laska Gallery from August 28, 2004 through January 2, 2005.

Roma Rising portrays more than 100 Czech citizens, middle class and professional class Roma who, by their very existence, forcefully counter widely-held stereotypes that "gypsies" merely play music, dress in folkloric costumes, wander the country, work little. The foundation they are building promises to lead, with time, to new understanding and success in bringing this minority fully into the Czech society as equal participants. This project honors their courage.

The artist, Chad Evans Wyatt, will be on hand for premier weekend activities. An opening reception is from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The public is welcome free of charge. Following at 8 p.m. in Hruska Grand Hall A Grand Night of Music presents the Clearwater Hot Club performing the gypsy jazz music of Django Reinhart. Tickets are $8, $6 for members. The concert is sponsored by United Fire & Casualty, Liberty Bank and Armstrong Realty.

On Saturday, August 28, 2004, Wyatt will give two gallery talks at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Laska Gallery. Free for members or with paid admission to the galleries.

On Sunday, August 29 at 2 p.m. Wyatt will present a Life Long Learning talk about his project, Roma Rising: Inside a Closed Community in WFLA Heritage Hall. A guided tour will follow. Free admission.

For more information about Roma Rising and opening weekend activities, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Czech Heritage Singers to Perform at the National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Cedar Rapids’ own Czech Heritage Singers on Sunday August 14, 2004. The 2:00 p.m. concert is free and open to the public and will be in the museum’s Grand Hall. The performance is part of the museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series, sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml in honor of John and Rose Dryml.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming events and programs, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

UpBeat! Concert August 4 at National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Eric McEwen, pianist, as he performs at the museum in Wednesday, August 4, 2004. The free UpBeat! Concert is at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s Grand Hall. The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

Sixteen-year-old Eric McEwen is an accomplished classical pianist from Helena, Montana. He has performed in several recitals and competitions in the United States and Canada and has been featured in the Helena Symphony Orchestra children's concert. He attended the Orford Center for the Arts in Quebec in 2000 and the Summer Music Festival in Courchevel France in 2003. His most recent concert was June 19 at the Myrna Loy Center for the Performing Arts in Helena. For the past 5 years, Eric studied under Michael Angell at the Mount Royal College Conservatory in Calgary, Alberta. Eric is the grandson of J. Donald Musil of Ely, Iowa.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Wheat Weaving Classes Offered Through the National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering three wheat weaving classes this summer and fall. Students will learn how to make traditional Czech and Slovak Christmas ornaments out of wheat with instructor Robin Buckallew. Class sizes are limited to 7 students, all abilities welcome. Classes are from 9:00 a.m. – noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall and cost $20.00, materials included. The classes meet on Saturday August 7, Saturday September 11, and Saturday October 9, 2004. To enroll, call Jan at (319) 362-8500 or register via e-mail, Jan@NCSML.org.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

A Grand Night of Music presents Brian Wright and Jaromila Chaloupková.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – British lutenist Brian Wright and Czech singer Jaromila Chaloupková bring songs from the 16th and 17th centuries to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Cedar Rapids July 31, 2004 at 8:00 p.m. Grand Hall. Tickets $6.00 with NCSML membership card, $8.00 without NCSML membership card. Cash or check only, credit cards will not be accepted. Grand Night of Music is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty, Liberty Bank and Armstrong Realty.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Dance Up a Storm at the National Czech & Slovak Museum, July 17 & 18

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s 3rd Annual National Bohemian, Moravian, and Slovak Folk Dance Festival is Sunday, July 17 and 18, 2004. The two-day event begins Saturday, July 17 with a Street Dance in the Round House Parking Lot, across from the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. The Mark Vyhlidal Band returns to Cedar Rapids to perform for the dance. Tickets are $10.00 in advance and $12.00 at the gate. Advance tickets are available in the Museum Store, (319) 362-8500. Food and beverages are available from SoDexHo Catering.

Sunday, the festival will be in the Round House Parking Lot, under a tent, with bleacher seating available, rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs. Coolers and pets are not allowed on the grounds during the festival. Tickets are $5.00 for adults, $2.00 for children 5 – 12, and children under 4 are free.

Please note: The Round House Parking Lot is not available for public parking. Attendees may park in the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library lot, 15th Avenue SW lots, 17th Avenue SW lots, P-3 Union Hall lot (Sunday only), and the large parking lot at the corner of 12th Avenue and 2nd Street SE. The festival will not greatly impact Farmer’s Market on July 17. The Farmer’s Market will proceed as scheduled.

Sunday, the museum galleries open at 9:30 a.m. At 11:00 a.m., the gates open and ticket, food, and beverage sales begin. From 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., the Slovak artist Pipka will sign her figures in Hruska Grand Hall. Artisans will demonstrate authentic folk crafts in Hruska Grand Hall from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. At noon, continual music begins on the main stage and folk dancing performances begin at 1:00 p.m.

Featured folk dancers for this year’s festival are the United Moravian Society Dancers from Chicago, the Oklahoma Czech Folk Dancers from Oklahoma City, the Domaci Czech Folk Dancers from New Prague, MN, and the Veselica Slovak Folk Ensemble from Chicago. The UMS Singers will perform with Joe Polach of the St. Louis Czech Express Band. And, Cedar Rapids’ own Czech School Singers will perform.

The 3rd Annual National Bohemian, Moravian, and Slovak Folk Dance Festival is sponsored by Western Fraternal Life Association.

SoDexHo Catering is providing bratwursts, hot dogs, hamburgers, and beverages, including beer, for the festival. And, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s volunteers will sell ice cream and koláce.

"The folk dance festival is a unique event. No other organization in the United States hosts a festival emphasizing Czech and Slovak folk dance," remarked Jan Stoffer, Director of Education and Programming for the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. "This will be a fun day for all ages to come to the museum and experience something new."

Last year’s event drew over 600 people from across the United States.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States museum collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum Looks at the Polka, July 15

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Thursday, July 15, David Kralik, also known as Dave Franklin of KMRY Radio, will present "The Changing Face of Polka Music in America from a Broadcaster’s Perspective." The free Learn at Lunch program begins a noon and will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Attendees are invited to bring a sack lunch and learn America’s polka traditions.

David Franklin Kralik is a Cedar Rapids native. He attended Coe College as a music education major and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in radio-TV-film at Michigan State University. He continued his education at Michigan State and has partially completed his masters degree.

He held key positions in several TV and radio stations, including film director at KCRG-TV for 18 years and was the co-host and host of Polka Music at KCRG Radio for 40 years. He has played with numerous bands and orchestras. Currently, he is the leader of his own group, The Party Time Band with Dave Franklin. In 1982, Kralik was inducted into the Iowa Polka Music Hall of Fame in the Promoter Category. Today, he is a semi-retired sales representative for KMRY Radio and has been the producer of the Sunday Morning Polka Show at KMRY for the past 3 ˝ years.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and other programs, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Fulbright Scholar to Speak at the National Czech & Slovak Museum, July 11

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Fulbright Scholar Radek Spicar on Sunday, July 11, 2004. Spicar will present "Central European Ethnic Communities in the U.S. and Their Influence on Foreign Policy During and After the Cold War" as part of the museum’s Life Long Learning series. The free program will take place in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall at 2:00 p.m. Spicar is a doctoral candidate at Georgetown University currently on a Fulbright Scholarship from the Czech Republic.

Spicar is a recent graduate of the University of Cambridge, Trinity College in International Relations. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Prague at the Faculty of Arts, Charles University. In his dissertation, he focuses on the Central European ethnic lobbies in the United States and their influence on U.S. foreign policy after the end of the Cold War. He is especially interested in politically oriented ethnic organizations established by the Czech-Americans, Polish-Americans, and Hungarian-Americans. At Georgetown he will be working on his research with Professor Yossi Shain.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Year of Music Celebration Continues with Muzika Workshop at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will host a Muzika (music) Workshop on Saturday, July 10, 2004. Children ages 4 – 10 years old and their parents can learn about how music is made and make their own instruments. The workshop will take place in the museum’s Grand hall at 1:00. There is a materials fee of $3.00. The workshop is limited to 20 children. For more information or to register, call Jan at (319) 362-8500.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Christmas in July at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is celebrating Christmas in July! Take a porcelain painting class and in three sessions, have a plate with a dramatic depiction of the three kings. Instructor JoAnne Neff will teach 15 students of all abilities, from novice to master artist, with humor and fun. The class meets at St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, 1224 5th Street, SE from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. on Thursdays July 8, 15, and 22, 2004. To register, call Jan at (319) 362-8500. The class fee is $25.00, with a materials fee of $7.50.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 23, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum Welcomes Czech Plus Band, July 4

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will host the Czech Plus Band as they perform on the museum’s Garden Stage on July 4 at 2:00 p.m. This special UpBeat! concert is free and open to the public. The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

For 26 years, the Czech Plus Band has performed authentic Czech Music. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the Official Czech Band of Czech Village.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Dance Up a Storm at the National Czech & Slovak Museum, July 17 & 18

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s 3Bohemian, Moravian, and Slovak Folk Dance Festival is Sunday, July 17 and 18, 2004. The two-day event begins Saturday, July 17 with a Street Dance in the Round House Parking Lot, across from the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. The Mark Vyhlidal Band returns to Cedar Rapids to perform for the dance. Tickets are $10.00 in advance and $12.00 at the gate. Advance tickets are available in the Museum Store, (319) 362-8500. rd Annual National

Sunday, the festival will be in the Round House Parking Lot, under a tent, with bleacher seating available, rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs. Coolers and pets are not allowed on the grounds during the festival. Tickets are $5.00 for adults, $2.00 for children 5 – 12, and children under 4 are free.

Please note: The Round House Parking Lot is not available for public parking. Attendees may park in the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library lot, 15th Avenue SW lots, 17th Avenue SW lots, P-3 Union Hall lot (Sunday only), and the large parking lot at the corner of 12th Avenue and 2nd Street SE.

Sunday, the museum galleries open at 9:30 a.m. At 11:00 a.m., the gates open and ticket, food, and beverage sales begin. From 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., the Slovak artist Pipka will sign her figures in Hruska Grand Hall. Artisans will demonstrate authentic folk crafts in Hruska Grand Hall from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. At noon, continual music begins on the main stage and folk dancing performances begin at 1:00 p.m.

Featured folk dancers for this year’s festival are the United Moravian Society Dancers from Chicago, the Oklahoma Czech Dancers from Oklahoma City, the Domaci Czech Folk Dancers from New Prague, MN, and the Veselica Slovak Folk Ensemble from Chicago. The UMS Singers will perform with Joe Polach of the St. Louis Czech Express Band.

The 3Western Fraternal Life Association. rd Annual National Bohemian, Moravian, and Slovak Folk Dance Festival is sponsored by

Dostal’s Catering is providing bratwursts, hot dogs, hamburgers, and beverages, including beer, for the festival. And, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s volunteers will sell ice cream novelties and koláce.

"The folk dance festival is a unique event. No other organization in the United States hosts a festival emphasizing Czech and Slovak folk dance," remarked Jan Stoffer, Director of Education and Programming for the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. "This will be a fun day for all ages to come to the museum and experience something new."

Last year’s event drew over 600 people from across the United States.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States museum collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Cedar Rapids Municipal Band Performs for National Czech & Slovak Museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series in Riverside Park

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Cedar Rapids Municipal Band will perform in Riverside Park on Sunday, June 27, 2004 as part of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s UpBeat! Concert Series. The free performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming events, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Walking Tours of Historic Czech Village Have Freedom Festival Benefit

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering two opportunities to tour the east side of the historic Czech Village as part of Freedom Festival. Saturdays, June 26 and July 3. Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Educator, will lead a guided walking tour of the neighborhood. Both tours begin at 11:00 a.m. in the museum’s Grand Hall and are $5.00 for nonmembers of the museum or $4.00 for members or with a Freedom Festival button. Space is limited. To register, call (319) 362-8500.
 
The tour will begin in the museum’s Grand Hall, proceed across the Bridge of Lions, down 2nd Street SE to 11th Avenue SE, up 3rd Street SE to 14th Avenue SE, across the Bridge of Lions, and conclude in the Museum Garden. Participants will learn about the first significant Bohemian settlement in Cedar Rapids, see architecturally unique features, and gain a greater appreciation for Cedar Rapids’ only commercial district on the National Registry of Historic Places.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming events, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
Cedar Rapids’ Czech School Singers Perform at National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Cedar Rapids’ Czech School Singers as they perform Saturday, June 26, 2004. This free UpBeat! Concert will be in the museum’s Grand Hall at 2:00 p.m. The concert is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml. A reception, hosted by Sokol Cedar Rapids, will follow in Heritage Hall.
 
The Czech School has been active in Cedar Rapids since 1870, making it the longest, continuously running ethnic school in the United States. Children meet everyday for 5 weeks to learn Czech language, culture, history, and traditions.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming programs and events, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site,
www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Bell Choir from Kansas Coming to the National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes the Plymouth Ringers from Plymouth, Kansas on June 23, 2004. The 2:00 p.m. concert is free and open to the public and will be in the museum’s Grand Hall. The performance is part of the museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series, sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about this and upcoming events and programs, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Gallery Tours of Muzika! at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: This summer, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s collection manager, Stefanie Kohn, will give guided tours of the exhibition Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music. The 45-minute tours begin in the museum’s Grand Hall and are free with paid admission to the galleries. The tours are scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. on the following days:
 
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Saturday, July 10, 2004
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Saturday, August 28, 2004
 
No registration is required and the tours are open to the public. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information about upcoming events and exhibits, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum’s web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Take an Virtual Tour of the Czech Republic at the National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Max Naxera will deliver an "Armchair Tour of the Czech Republic" at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on Thursday, June 17. The free Learn at Lunch program is open to the public. The presentation will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Attendees are invited to bring a sack lunch and learn about the sights and sounds of the Czech Republic.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum Re-Opens Gallery with Albright Lecture

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is re-opening the ‘Three Struggles’ gallery of the "Homelands: The Story of the Czech and Slovak People" exhibit on Sunday, June 6, 2004. This gallery highlights the three struggles the Czechs and Slovaks have battled for independence: World War I and the battle to overthrow the Austria-Hungarian Empire; World War II and the fight against the Nazis; and the Velvet Revolution, the victory over communism. The gallery has new additions including an interactive map, communist-era videos of the political cartoon "No Comment," and artifacts such as gas masks, bayonet, helmets, canteens, and more photographs of depicting these events.

Dr. Margaret Haupt delivers the presentation "Josef Korbel and Madeline Albright: A Twentieth Century Czech-America Odyssey" at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s Heritage Hall on Sunday, June 6. The free lecture coincides with the official opening of the gallery. Haupt will give an overview of developments that have affected the destiny of an independent and democratic Czech nation. She will especially highlight the life and writing of a distinguished Czech diplomat and commentator, Josef Korbel, who was the father of Madeleine Albright, the recent American Secretary of State.

Dr. Margaret Haupt is the Joan and Abbot Lipsky Professor of Political Science at Coe College. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. Her teaching fields have included International Politics, American Foreign Policy, and the Politics of Western Europe.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. For more information , call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Grand Night of Music Concert Series Begins June 12 at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s Grand Night of Music Concert Series begins on June 12, 2004 with pianist Trevor Stephenson in the museum’s Grand Hall. The 8:00 p.m. concert features his performance on a replica of an 18th century fortepiano. Tickets are $6.00 with a NCSML membership and $8.00 for non-members. Advance ticket sales begin in the Museum Store on June 1, 2004.

Trevor Stephenson was born in 1959 in Kansas City, Missouri. He began piano studies at age ten, and at twelve decided upon a life in music. Following degrees in piano performance from the University of Missouri and University of Illinois, he received a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Historical Performance of Eighteenth-Century Music from Cornell University. In 1990, he moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where, with Norman Sheppard, he began rebuilding and customizing a series of keyboard instruments. He founded the Light & Shadow concert and recording company in 1994. His performance at the museum is on a 1989 replica by Thomas Ciul of a 1780 Viennese Fortepiano. The concert keyboard instrument is of high classical style.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as pianist Trevor Stephenson gives an interpretive program compares Czech composers to their contemporaries, Mozart and Haydn.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Czech and Slovak Music Symposium at the National Czech & Slovak Museum

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will host "Hitting the High Notes! A Czech and Slovak Music Symposium" on June 11 and 12, 2004. The symposium will present an insightful and entertaining examination of a variety of Czech and Slovak composers, compositions, and genres. The symposium begins with a keynote address by Dr. Michael Beckerman, the Chair of the Department of Music at New York University, about Iowa’s influence on Antonín Dvorák’s compositions. Noted scholars, including Joel Blahnik, Sarah Meredith, John Novak, Diane Paige, Cathryn Wilkinson, Arian Sheets, will discuss topics ranging from Slovak vocal repertoire, to how bring Czech bands in the U.S. to polka music in Iowa and Texas. Included with the symposium are two concerts. Leonard Reyman’s Iowa Accordion Band will perform Friday night and pianist Trevor Stephenson performs Saturday evening. Stephenson will compare and contrast Czech composers with their contemporary counterparts, Haydn and Mozart, on his replica of an 1780 Viennese Fortepiano.

To register or for more information about the symposium, call Jan at (319) 362-8500.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or consult the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series Continues May 29

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts St. The Polka Dots from Iowa City as part of the UpBeat! Concert Series on Sunday, May 29, 2004. The free concert will be held in the Museum Garden at 2:00 p.m. The concert will be moved to the Grand Hall in case of bad weather. The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or consult the web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum’s UpBeat! Concert Series Continues May 23
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church Choir as part of the UpBeat! Concert Series on Sunday, May 23, 2004. The free concert will be held in the museum’s Grand Hall at 2:00 p.m. The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or consult the web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
New Curator and Director of Development at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library announces the hiring of Carmen Langel to the position of Director of Development and Edith Blanchard to the position of curator.
 
In 1996, Langel joined the staff of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s staff in the position of curator. She holds a MS and BS in geology from The University of Iowa. She assumed her new position on May 1, 2004.
 
Blanchard was previously the collections manager at the University of Northern Iowa Museum. She received her MA in museum science from Texas Tech University and a BS in history from Iowa State University. She assumed her new position on April 1, 2004.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or consult the web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
Houby Days are Coming to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and Czech Village, May 14 – 16, 2004
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – It’s that time of year again. Folks all over Eastern Iowa are hunting the evasive, and delicious, morel mushroom. The Czech Village Association and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will celebrate the season with Houby Days! The three-day festival features food, music, and fun.
 
The three-day festival begins May 14 with A Taste of Czech & Slovak. The public may sample favorite Czech and Slovak foods at this tasty annual event. The event will be held in the museum’s Heritage Hall from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $3.00 for 10 samples or $6.00 for 20. Proceeds benefit the Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. Afterwards, enjoy a Walking Tour of Historic Czech Village. Learn about the west side of Czech Village with Jan Stoffer Tursi, NCSML educator from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. The tour begins in the museum’s Grand Hall. Tickets are $4.00 members, $5.00 nonmembers. To register, call (319) 362-8500.
 
On Saturday, May 15, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts a May Pole Dance at 10:00 a.m. and at 1:00 p.m. in the NCSML Garden. Inside the museum, visitors can enjoy $1.00 off admission for knowing houby are mushrooms or for wearing red. Also, there will be a free Batik Egg Decorating Demonstration by Master Folk Artist Marj Nejdl from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the museum’s Grand Hall.
 
Following the 1:00 p.m. May Pole Dance, see the 27th Annual Houby Days Parade. Look for the NCSML's 1964 Tatra T-603 and an appearance by the Jawa Motorcycle Club. The parade starts at 2:00 p.m. on the east side of the Bridge of Lions (14th Ave. SE) and concludes at the corner of 16th Ave. SW and C Street SW. To register for the parade, contact Two Star Detective Agency at (319) 364-0001.
 
At 3:00 p.m., festival goers may attend the free UpBeat! Concert Series presenting Leonard Reyman’s Iowa Accordion Club in the NCSML Garden. The concert will be moved into the Grand Hall in the case of rain. Or, pop in to see the Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Pageant Talent Competition also at 3:00 p.m. in the museum’s Heritage Hall.
 
On Sunday, May 16, the Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Pageant concludes with the final stages of the competition are held on the museum’s Garden Stage. Hear the interview, appreciate the interpretation of the kroje, and hold your breath with the rest of us as they announce the winner. The excitement begins at 1:30 p.m. Following the crowing, at 3:00 p.m., a stunning Parade of Kroje highlights the beautiful folk costumes of the Czech and Slovak people in the NCSML Garden.
 
Again, food, music and other interesting events will occur on Sunday. For more information about Houby Days, call (319) 364-0001.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, and collecting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the web site, www.NCSML.org/.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Spring Porcelain Painting Class Offered by National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering a porcelain painting class in May. Students will learn how to paint an iris on a beautiful vase from instructor JoAnne Neff. The class meets three Thursday evenings, May 6, 13, and 20, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, 1224 5th Avenue SE from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Class size is limited to 15 students, all abilities from novice to master artist welcome. The class fee is $25.00 with a materials fee of $10.00. Please enroll by April 29 by calling Jan at (319) 362-8500.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, collecting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or see the web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Gallery Tour of Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music on May 8th
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will sponsor a gallery tour of their newest, original exhibition Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music on Saturday, May 8, 2004. Collections manager Stefanie Kohn will guide the 2:00 p.m. tour and offer interesting insights about Czech and Slovak music history. This special tour is free with paid admission to the galleries and meets in the museum’s Grand Hall.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, interpreting, collecting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or see the web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Year of Music Opening Weekend Festivities Will Set Your Toes to Tapping
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a Year of Music. The festivities kick off on Friday, April 16 with the opening of Muzika! A Celebration of Czech and Slovak Music." The special, original exhibition will be open to the public on Saturday, April 17. It closes October 17, 2004.
 
To help open the show, the St. Louis Czech Express Polka Band performs at the Riverside Round House from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the Museum Store and are $10.00 in advance or $12.00 at the door. Food and beverages will be available.
 
On Sunday, April 18, the celebration continues with a concert by a 27-member Silesian Choir from Ostrava, Czech Republic. The performance will be in the NCSML's Heritage Hall at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $6.00 members, $8.00 non-members, and $2.00 youth ages 5 – 18.
 
The Year of Music Celebration Dance and Silesian Choir Concert are sponsored by Hall & Hall Engineers Inc., Brosh Chapel Cedar Rapids and Solon, and BankIowa.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, collecting, exhibiting, and interpreting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum’s web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
2004 Year of Music is planned for 30th Anniversary Celebration of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – It may seem like only yesterday, but the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is 30 years old this year. In recognition of this milestone, an exciting celebration is planned – a Year of Music. From Cedar Rapids’ Czech School children to world-renowned musicians, from chamber music to Roma guitar to polka bands, it will be happening at the NCSML this year. The celebration coincides with the Czech Republic’s own 2004 Year of Music and the Slovak Republic’s ongoing musical heritage focus.
Board of Directors Vice-Chair Tony Golobic and his wife Magda, through their company, GreatAmerica Leasing Corporation, have generously agreed to be "presenting sponsors" for the Year of Music.
Major events in the Year of Music include:
For details on all of these events, visit the web site www.NCSML.org or call 319-362-8500. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, exhibiting, collecting, and interpreting Czech and Slovak history and culture.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2004
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer Tursi, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Miss Czech-Slovak USA to Speak at National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, April 4
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will host Miss Czech-Slovak USA 2003 – 2004 and Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa 2003 – 2004, Stasia Krivanek at a Life Long Learning program on Sunday, April 4, 2004. In her presentation, "Helping Today's Youth Preserve Their Czech Heritage," she will discuss the role youth play in keeping their ethnic heritage alive, experiences she has had serving as Miss Czech-Slovak USA, and her hopes for Czech and Slovak heritage in the future. The free program is open to the public and begins at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the leading United States institution preserving, collecting, interpreting, and exhibiting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is located at 30 16th