National
Czech & Slovak
Museum & Library
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
2007 News Releases
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 19, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Adds Three Board Members

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA -- The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library announces the recent addition of three members to the board of directors:

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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 23, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Sv. Mikuláš Comes to National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Dec. 1 Ushering a Host of Holiday Happenings

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and Czech Village welcome Svatý Mikuláš (Svaty Mikulas – pronounced SVA-tee MIK-oo-LAHSH), the Angle, and the Devil Saturday, December 1. Festivities begin a the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library at 10:00 a.m. and continue until 4:00 p.m. All activities are free and open to the public thanks to US Bank and United Fire and Casualty.

December 1 activities begin at 10:00 a.m. with a puppet show called Sal Fink, Catfish Wrangler performed by the Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Company in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Eulenspiegel celebrates our rivers and prairies with tall tales starring Iowa folk heroine, Sal Fink, legendary daughter of Mike Fink, the mighty keel boatman. Sal tames a tornado, teaches a bear to dance, and more! The production features live music, written and performed by Iowa musician Ron Hillis. With lots of sound effects and harmony singing, this performance will leave you humming! A free make-and-take puppet workshop follows the Svetlušky Youth Folk Ensemble performance.

The coloring contest deadline approaches. Youngsters may pick up a coloring sheet from the NCSML or any US Bank branch and enter to win a $25.00 savings bond. Color Sv. Mikuláš, the Angel, and the Devil, and turn in your masterpiece to the NCSML or a US Bank branch. Artwork will be displayed at the NCSML from Dec. 1 – Dec. 8. Ages for the drawing are under 5 years-old, 5 – 8-years-old, and 9 – 12-years-old. The drawing for the savings bonds will take place during the Cookie Walk on Dec. 8 in Hruska Grand Hall at 11:00 a.m.

Master Folk Artist Marj Nejdl personalizes Christmas ornaments from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall. Fees are $1 for name and year, $2 for additional messages.

Following the puppet show, Svetlušky, the Cedar Rapids Youth Folk Ensemble gives its debut performance. Youth ages 8 – 17 perform folk dances to live music in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall. Audience participation dance included as we await the arrival of Svatý Mikuláš, the Angel, and the Devil.

It would not be Christmas at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library without a concert by Leonard Reyman Accordion Trio. Enjoy your favorite holiday songs accordion style. Sing-a-long and join the fun! The concert is from noon – 1:00 p.m. in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall.

From 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., visitors of all ages may participate in a Holiday Make-and-Take Workshop to create their own Czech and Slovak holiday decorations. The workshop will be in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall. The workshop is free; however, donations to cover the cost of materials are appreciated.

Every year, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts the popular Santa’s Saxes Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is from 1:15 – 2:30 p.m. in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall.

Legend has it that Svatý Mikuláš (Saint Nicholas) and an angel descend from heaven on a golden rope on December 6 to meet the devil on earth. The trio walks the streets of Prague and visits children’s homes. Svatý Mikuláš asks children about their behavior and the angel records their answers in her book. If the report is good, the child will be rewarded with sweets and treats from the angel. If the child has been naughty, the devil, lurking in the background and rattling his chains, will give the child a lump of coal or a potato. Sv. Mikuláš will remind the children that Christmas is a few short weeks away and they must behave themselves or the baby Jesus will not bring them presents on Christmas Eve.

December 6 is a feast day for Svatý Mikuláš. Be sure to wish your neighbors and friends a hearty "Veselý den Svatého Mikuláša" (Happy Saint Nicholas Day)! The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library celebrates den Svatého Mikuláša annually on the first Saturday of December.

Holiday Happenings Continue on December 8

On December 8, the Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts its annual Cookie Walk. Homemade holiday cookies for sale from 9:30 a.m. until they are gone! Cookies and treats sell for $6.00 per pound, cookbooks are $25.00 each.

From 9:30 – noon, visitors of all ages may participate in a Holiday Make-and-Take Workshop to create their own Czech and Slovak holiday decorations. The workshop will be in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall. The workshop is free; however, donations to cover the cost of materials are appreciated.

At 11:00 a.m., US Bank is giving away three $25 savings bonds to the three winners of the Sv. Mikuláš Coloring Contest in the Hruska Grand Hall.

Master Folk Artist Marj Nejdl personalizes Christmas ornaments from 10 – 3:00 p.m. in the museum’s Hruska Grand Hall. Fees are $1 for name and year, $2 for additional messages.

Last Concert of the Year on December 13

December 13, 2007, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes the Czech Heritage Singers as they perform their annual holiday sing-a-long "Vánocní Koledy" at noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. This event is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.

Closed for the Holiday, December 24 & 25

Please note the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library offices and galleries are closed for the holiday December 24 and 25, 2007.

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 SE, Cedar Rapids. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Immigration Panel at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and Diversity Focus have partnered with Hometown Perry Iowa to present The Immigrant Experience: Old and New, a panel comparing the experiences of Czech immigrants to Iowa a century ago to recent arrivals Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.  The free program will be in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall.  Panelists include museum educator Jan Stoffer, city historian Mark Stoffer Hunter, and University of Northern Iowa professor Dr. Mark Grey of the New Iowan's Program.  The moderator will be Alfred Ramirez of Diversity Focus. 
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 15, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum Gallery Sparkles with New Blue Glass Exhibit
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library opens a new exhibition, Blue Moods:  The Maude B. Trotman Collection, November 17, 2007. Mr. William Trotman, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, generously gave his mother's collection of blue cut glass to the museum in September 2007. Named the Maude B. Trotman Collection in her honor, the set includes thirty-four pieces of sapphire blue cut and etched glassware. Mrs. Trotman began collecting blue cut glass in the 1930's, and continued to add pieces until shortly before her death in 1962. Mrs. Trotman's children enjoyed searching for new pieces to present as gifts to her for her collection. Her son, William, remembers she wanted "only the blue." He recounted his discovery of several sets of cut glass wine goblets. Each set included glasses of different colors; so, he convinced the seller to allow him to purchase only the blue glass from each set for his mother. Mr. Trotman decided the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library was the perfect home for his mother's collection. The exhibit features vases, decanters, bowls, goblets, lidded dishes, and a pitcher, tumbler, and plate. The exhibition is free until January 27, 2008, and closes April 13, 2008.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum Decks the Halls for the Holidays
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is proud to unveil the annual folk art holiday exhibit in Hruska Grand Hall. The Hall features a Folk Art Christmas Tree and four cases demonstrating other Czech and Slovak holiday traditions. New this year is a crčche designed by Slovak master woodcarver Jozef Pekara and carved by Vladimir Tomko from Presov, Slovak Republic. The crčche is created entirely from basswood and took three months to complete.
 
The manger scene includes a little boy giving the newborn his most precious possession, a little wooden horse on wheels. Designer Pekara explains that, as a youngster, his favorite toy was a similar toy made for him by his father. To show his love and respect for Jesus, Pekara took the liberty of adding the little boy offering his favorite toy. The crčche is on loan from Dell Mills.
 
The Grand Hall Christmas Tree was decorated by area children and volunteers. Decorations include oranges, dolls in Czech costume, wheat and fabric garland, gingerbread cookies, strung popcorn, wheat ornaments, and walnuts in crocheted lace –each symbolizing a special aspect of the holiday season. Four cases reveal other Czech and Slovak holiday traditions including Sv. Mikuláš, St. Barbara’s Day, and the Christmas Eve meal. Three other Christmas trees are placed in the gallery and immigrant home.
 
The display is free and open to the public from 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday, and Noon – 4:00 p.m. Sundays. The Christmas exhibit closes January 7, 2008.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
NCSML Guild Cookbook Presentation Nov. 15
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is very proud of the hard work that went into the making of their latest cookbook, Czech and Slovak Heritage...Family Stories..Traditions...Recipes.  Members from the Guild's Cookbook Committee will share the challenges faced and the lessons learned in creating an ethnic cookbook that represents Czechs and Slovaks from across the United States and various points abroad.  The free program begins at noon in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007.  This event is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

NCSML's Life Long Learning Explores Decadence in Czech Art

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts Daniel Malarkey Saturday, November 10, 2007 as he presents "The Czech Avant-Garde Artist and His Artwork (1884-1918):  Catalyst for Social Change, or Decadent Narcissist?" at 2:00 p.m. in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall.  The free program is sponsored by Accident Fund Insurance.

Daniel Malarkey is a student at Grinnell College who spent the past summer conducting academic research in Prague with Professor Anatoly Vishevsky.  He wrote a paper about Czech decadence in art.  The primary artists in his study were Frantisek Kupka, Josef Vachal, Felix Jenewein, Karel Hlavacek, and Jaroslav Panuska.  Eager to share his findings with others, he contacted museum educator Jan Stoffer and offered to present his paper as part of the museum's Life Long Learning series.

"It's always exciting to welcome young researchers to the museum," comments Jan Stoffer.  "Coincidentally, Daniel's presentation fits perfectly with the topics presented in the current special exhibition, The History of the Brave Czech Nation."

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 SE, Cedar Rapids.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Free Admission to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Generous Donation from CRST, Intl. Is a Gift to Eastern Iowans

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Due to a generous gift from CRST International and John and Dyan Smith, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will provide free admission to all galleries and exhibits from November 2, 2007 through January 27, 2008.  The announcement comes as the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library opens the next special exhibition, The History of the Brave Czech Nation, a touring exhibition from the Cultural Ministry of the Czech Republic.  Visitors will walk through the world's biggest book ever, measuring 6 feet high and 210 feet long!  The exhibition is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sundays noon to 4:00 p.m.  The galleries are closed on Mondays.

"This is a gift not only to the museum, but to all of Cedar Rapids," commented Gail Naughton, museum president/CEO.  "CRST wants to assure that everyone in our community can enjoy this fun, family-friendly exhibit at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. It's a pain-free way to learn history and laugh at the clever characters at the same time."

The History of the Brave Czech Nation by Czech artist Lucie Seifertova won acclaim as the Children's Book of the Year in the Czech Republic and that success led to making it a life-size exhibition.  Visitors can experience the joys and miseries of cartoon characters who wind their ways through the labyrinths of time.  Ms. Seifertova's drawing style is playful and her affection for little people caught up in history is endearing.  Of particular interest is her take on the events of 1989 - the fall of communism - and the present day.

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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Former Ambassador to Speak at National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Fall Dinner, Nov. 1

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is proud to welcome Ambassador William J. Cabaniss, Jr. as the keynote speaker for the institution's Annual Fall Dinner on Thursday, November 1, 2007.  Special guests to the dinner include Vilma Anyzova, First Secretary, Head of the Cultural Section at the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, D.C. and Dr. Borek Lizek, Consul, Deputy Head of Mission Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago.  The evenings sponsors are Jim Sattler Custom Homes, Inc. and CRST, Intl.  Reservations are required.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500.

Ambassador Cabaniss was sworn in as United States Ambassador to the Czech Republic by Secretary of State Colin Powell in Washington, D.C. on December 9, 2003.  He arrived in Prague on January 9, 2004, and presented his credentials to President Vaclav Klaus on January 13, 2004.  He completed his service September 23, 2006.

After graduating with a B.A. from Vanderbilt University in 1960, William Cabaniss entered the United States Army, where he served as an Airborne Ranger First Lieutenant.  In 1964, after a three-year tour of duty in Germany, he was awarded the Army Commendation metal.  After his service in the armed forces, Mr. Cabaniss returned to his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, where he began his business career with the Southern Cement Company Division of Martin Marietta Corporation.  In1971, he resigned from his position as Director of Market Development with Southern Cement and acquired the assets of a small metal grinding company.  Since then, he built Precision Grinding, Inc., into a successful steel plate processing and metal machining business.

Mr. Cabaniss has been a leader in the Birmingham business community, receiving the Distinguished Builders of Birmingham award in 2002.  In community affairs, he has volunteered for several not-for-profit organizations including:  Boy Scouts, Junior Achievement of Jefferson County, United Way, and the Birmingham Rotary Club.  In August 2004, Ambassador Cabaniss was inducted into the Alabama Academy of Honor.

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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 11, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Cooking in Babi's Kitchen Returns Saturday, October 20
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Czech kitchen whizzes Joyce Netolicky and Zelda De Hoedt are back for Cooking in Babi's (pronounced BUB-ees) Kitchen.  This month, the two prepare some staple holiday dishes to help you get your family ready for upcoming family gatherings:   zelniky (a closed kolace stuffed with a cabbage filling), kolace stuffed with a cream cheese filling, chicken paprika, and a cottage cheese spread.  The demonstrations begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 20 in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall.  This program is free and open to the public thanks to United Fire and Casualty.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 11, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Internationally Renowned Artist and Author Comes to National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Oct. 1

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Peter Sís (pronounced "cease"), a MacArthur fellow and internationally renowned artist discusses his memoir, THE WALL: GROWING UP BEHIND THE IRON CURTAIN, at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library on Monday, October 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall.  A book signing will follow the presentation at 8:00 p.m.  The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase. Graduate and undergraduate students, teachers, librarians, and young adults interested in art, politics, and Eastern European history are welcome. This program is not suitable for children.

In a brilliant graphic memoir, Peter Sís draws the reader into the world that shaped him - Czechoslovakia during the Cold War.  The Communist Czechoslovakia of Mr. Sís's youth was a place where creativity could be discouraged but not easily killed.

"I was born at the beginning of it all, on the Red side - the Communist side - of the Iron Curtain."  Through annotated illustrations, journals, maps and dreamscapes, Peter Sís shows what life was like for a child who loved to draw, proudly wore the red scarf of a Young Pioneer, stood guard at the giant statue of Stalin, and believed whatever he was told to believe. But adolescence brought questions.  Cracks began to appear in the Iron Curtain, and news from the West slowly filtered into the country.  Sís learned about beat poetry, rock 'n' roll, blue jeans, and Coca-Cola.  He let his hair grow long, secretly read banned books, and joined a rock band.  Then came the Prague Spring of 1968, and for a teenager who wanted to see the world and meet the Beatles, this was a magical time.  It was short-lived, however, brought to a sudden and brutal end by the Soviet-led invasion.  But this brief flowering had provided a glimpse of new possibilities.  Creativity could be discouraged but not easily killed.  By joining memory and history, Sís takes us on his extraordinary journey - from infant with paintbrush in hand to young man borne aloft by the wings of his art.

Václav Havel , the former president of the Czech Republic, says, "Peter Sís's book is most of all about the will to live one's life in freedom and should be required reading for all those who take their freedom for granted."

The Washington Post Book World critic says, "When you enter Sís's worlds.you are swept on voyages of intellect, courage and the creative imagination."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 8, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

NCSML UpBeat! Concert Series Features Local Songwriter, Aug. 18

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes Carlis Faurot, Glenn Lonsdale, and Paul Williams with Tina Dietzgen and Denise Sotelo for a free UpBeat! Concert on Saturday, August 18 at 2:00 p.m. in the museum's Hruska Grand Hall.  Local songwriter Glenn Lonsdale and buddies will perform music centered around the history of Cedar Rapids, including a tune about Little Bohemia's.  The group's newly released CD will be available for purchase.  The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in memory of John and Rose Dryml.

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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 7, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Offers Puppet Making Workshop
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library's August 16th Learn at Lunch program features "Puppets To Go," a workshop led by Jan Stoffer, museum educator.  The free, public program takes place in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall at noon.  The program is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.
 
For this presentation, Stoffer offers quick and simple ways to make puppets out of everyday items.  Among the various types of puppets to be made are stick puppets, cone puppets, cardboard roll puppets, and a simple marionette.  Attendees are encouraged to make their own puppets, and are allowed to take them home.  Materials are provided at no cost; however, donations are appreciated.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
NCSML Open Extended Hours Aug. 8 & 9
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) recognizes the dog days of summer are now hitting Eastern Iowa and invites the public to cool off on two hot August nights.  Wednesday, August 8 and Thursday, August 9, the Museum Store, four galleries, the immigrant home, and the library will be open from 9:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.  In addition, a puppet make-and-take workshop will be in the museum's Grand Hall from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.  Visitors may create their own cardboard roll puppets and perform on the Rozek Puppet Theatre Wagon in the exhibition Puppetry!  Suspended Imagination.  Admission is free to members, $7.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors, $2.00 for children 5 - 16, and free to children under 5 when accompanied by an adult.
 
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 SE, Cedar Rapids.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Enjoy a Cool July Evening at the National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library invites everyone to join us Friday, July 27 for a cool evening with jazz pianist Emil Viklicky (ronounced VIK-lits-skee).
 
Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist Emil Viklicky is accompanied by local jazz favorite Dennis McPartland and Des Moines bass player Steve Charlson.  The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Museum's Grand Hall.  Tickets are $8.00 in advance, $10.00 at the door.  Seating is limited.  Purchase your advance tickets in the NCSML Museum Store Monday - Saturday from 9:30 - 4:00 or Sunday noon - 4:00. 
 
Emil Viklicky is from Olomouc, Moravia, Czech Republic.  As a student at Palacky University, Viklicky made time for jazz while working towards his degree in mathematics.  In 1974, he was awarded the title of Best Soloist at the Czechoslovak Amateur Jazz Festival, and became a member of Karl Velebny's SHQ ensemble.  He continued to win various jazz improvisation competitions, and in 1977, was awarded a scholarship to study composition and arrangement with Herb Pomeroy at the jazz school of Berklee College of Music in Boston.  He continued composition studies with Jarmo Sermila, George Crumb, and Vaclav Kucera.  Since his return to the Czech Republic, Viklicky has continued to compose and arrange music while serving as director of the Summer Jazz Workshops in Frydlant.  As a composer, Viklicky has become noted for creating a synthesis of the expressive elements of modern jazz with the melodies and tones of Moravian folk songs, making him a distinct individual among contemporary jazz circles.  Viklicky often performs in international ensembles during his worldwide tours.  He has performed in the United States, Japan, Mexico, Israel, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Finland, and Norway.  This marks his fourth visit to Cedar Rapids and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.
 
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's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Sokol Cedar Rapids to Teach Czech Folk Dancing

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Sokol Cedar Rapids is offering a six week session in Czech Folk Dance.  Instructor Donna Merkle will be assisted by Guenter Merkle.  The class meets Tuesdays starting July 17 through August 21 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. in Sokol Hall located at 417 3rd Street SE, Cedar Rapids.  The class is for persons age 9 through adults.  Partners and prior dance experience are not required.  The special introductory offer for this session is $35, Sokol membership is not required for this session, and a 10% discount is available for additional family participants.  Registration will happen at the first class.  Students are encouraged to dress casually and wear leather soled shoes; flip-flop sandals are not allowed.

For more information about the class, call Guenter Merkle at 319-390-3742.  For more information about Sokol Cedar Rapids, call Barb Edmunds at 319-396-6851.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum UpBeat! Concert Series Continues June 23

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will host the Marion Big Band as part of their UpBeat! Concert Series on Saturday, June 23, 2007.  The free concert will be in the Museum Garden at 2:00.  Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and enjoy the music.  The UpBeat! Concert Series is sponsored by David H. and Rose Marie Dryml Burke in honor of John and Rose Dryml.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

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.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Naughton Invited to National Conservation Summit in Washington, DC
 
"Connecting to Collections" to focus on saving museum, library collections
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Gail Naughton, president/ceo of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library has been invited to participate in Connecting to Collections: The National Conservation Summit to be held June 27-28, 2007 in Washington, DC. Only four representatives from each state and the District of Columbia, two each from museums and libraries, have been selected to attend this invitation-only national conference sponsored by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The event will underscore the risks that endanger America's books, works of art, documents, and other treasures and promote solutions for saving them.
 
"Those who have been selected to attend the summit have a strong commitment to conservation and are among the best people in the country to spearhead a national conservation initiative," said IMLS Director Anne-Imelda Radice, Ph.D. "After the summit, we hope that the conversation about saving invaluable collections will continue in communities across the U.S."
 
Participants in the meeting represent small and medium-sized museums, libraries, and historic organizations with a proven dedication and commitment to conservation. They will be joined at the meeting by national leaders in conservation, government officials, and leaders in private sector support for conservation.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the only professional museum in the United States to preserve and interpret Czech and Slovak history and culture. With over 9,000 items, the artifact collection includes one-of-a-kind treasures brought by immigrants, fine art, furniture, musical instruments, items that depict the technological marvels created by the two countries, and examples of goods produced by talented folk artists.  Included in the artifact collection is one of the most extensive collections of Czech and Slovak textiles in the United States.  The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is in process of completing a grant funded assessment by the Midwest Art Conservation Center which will advise the museum on a conservation plan for its collections.
 
Heritage Preservation, the national organization devoted to preserving America's heritage, is cooperating with IMLS to organize the summit. Heritage Preservation's 2005 report, A Public Trust at Risk: the Heritage Health Index Report on the State of America's Collections, revealed that there are 4.8 billion artifacts held in this country's archives, libraries, museums, and historical societies, many of these in small to medium sized towns and cities. The report said that 26 percent of collecting institutions have no controls by which to protect their valuable artifacts from temperature, humidity, and light; 59 percent have had their collections damaged by light and 53 percent have had damage by moisture. In addition the report showed that 65 percent of the country's collecting institutions have experienced damage due to improper storage.
 
The conservation summit will also be supported by a grant from the Henry Luce Foundation and by the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities. The summit is being co-hosted by the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
 
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 31, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Hosts Tea Party, June 14 & 15

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Looking for something fun and different to do with your girlfriends?  The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is hosting their famous tea parties on June 14 and 15, 2007.  "It's Showtime! Tea and Tour" promises to be filled with terrific food and fantastic entertainment.  Ventriloquist Denny Naughton and Friends will perform, and party-goers will be treated to an informative presentation about puppetry, a guided tour of the museum's current exhibit, Puppetry! Suspended Imagination, and an opportunity to make their very own puppet.  Door prizes and raffle included in the fun.  The event will be held in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.  Tickets are $14 for museum members and groups of eight (8) or more and $16.00 for non-members.  Advance reservations are required.  Call (319) 362-8500 for more information.  The event is sponsored by Don and Irene Hamous.

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.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 31, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Family Fun at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, June 16
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is hosting their first Puppet Playdate, a family friendly event for kids of all ages, on Saturday, June 16.  Grandparents and parents, are invited to give their special little ones an experience they'll remember.  The event includes tasty treats, a build-your-own puppet workshop, tour of the gallery, and lots of outdoor fun in the Museum Garden.  Storyteller Bettie Jane Bibler from Granger, Iowa will delight everyone with her audience interactive performance.  The event will be in the Museum Garden from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.  Admission is $6.00 per person or $25.00 for a family of five (5).  A family includes parents with their children or grandparents with their grandchildren.  Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.  Advance reservations required.  No refunds will be granted.  For more information, or to reserve your spot on the lawn, call (319) 362-8500.  Sponsored by Rockwell Collins, Gary and Cathy Rozek, and the Linn County Board of Supervisors Witwer Trust.
 
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.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
New Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Crowned During Houby Days
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - The Czech Heritage Foundation crowned Casey Dvorak the 2007 - 2008 Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Saturday, May 20, 2007 at the Babi Buresh Center during the Houby Days festival in Czech Village.  She will represent Iowa at the Miss Czech-Slovak USA pageant in Wilber, NE in August.
 
Casey Dvorak is the daughter of David and Jody Dvorak of West Liberty, IA.  Dvorak attends West Liberty High School where she participates in school plays, show, jazz, and concert choirs, and marching and concert band.  She takes ballet, tap, and jazz dance lessons, and voice lessons.  She has spent two summers taking acting classes in Chicago, and is very active in community theater, her church, and 4-H club.  After graduation, she plans are to attend college majoring in European studies and musical theater.
 
Accompanying Dvorak was her "Little Sister," Annelyn Broghammer.  Broghammer is the daughter of Tim and Laurie Broghammer of Solon, IA.  She is in the second grade at Lakeview Elementary School in Solon.  She takes tap, ballet, and jazz dance lessons and piano lessons.  Broghammer is involved with Brownies, swimming lessons, soccer, WFLA, and her church.
 
The judges for this years pageant were Lorraine David of Montgomery, MN, Irene Hamous of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Dr. James Ripley of Kenosha, WI. 
 
Lorraine David and her husband, Jerry, were instrumental in starting the Miss Czech-Slovak Minnesota pageant after their daughter, Constance, was crowned Miss Czech-Slovak USA in 1989.  She has received the Lady of Libuse Award, has served as the Grand Marshal of Kolacky Days in Montgomery, and was chosen to represent Montgomery during the dedication of the Czech Memorial Highway linking Montgomery and New Prague, MN. 
 
Irene Naxera Hamous is very proud of her Czech heritage, stemming from both her mother and father, George and Alma Naxera.  She has made several trips to Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic to learn more about her heritage.  As a child, she attended the local Czech School, and has been a Sokol member for fifty-five years, where she judged gymnastic competitions at Sokol slets.  She is a member of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, WFLA, CSA, and Damska Matice Skolska.
 
Ripley is chair of the music department and director of instrumental music at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI.  He serves as principal guest conductor of  the Sakuyo Wind Orchestra at Sakuyo University in Kurashiki, Japan.  Prior to his assignment at Carthage, Ripley served as assistant professor of conducting and ensembles at Eastman School of Music at the River Campus of the University of Rochester, New York, was associate director of bands at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, and a faculty member at Luther College.  He taught in the public schools of Iowa and Minnesota for eleven years.
 
Also in attendance for this year's competition were Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa and Miss Czech-Slovak USA 2003 Stasia Krivanek of Cedar Rapids, Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa 2004 Amanda DeHoedt of Cedar Rapids, Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa 2005 Beth Struzynski of Oxford Junction, Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa 2006 Rachel Lehmann of Cedar Rapids, and Leah Sticha Miss Czech-Slovak Minnesota 2007.  The Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Pageant committee members were John and Adeline Volesky of Cedar Rapids, Arlo and Joyce Netolicky of Cedar Rapids, and Dennis and Debbie Volesky of Swisher.
 
The Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Pageant is sponsored by the Czech Heritage Foundation.  The pageant promotes and instills pride in one's Czech heritage, and to keep younger generations active and interested in their heritage.  For more information about the pageant, contact the Czech Heritage Foundation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 10, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Collectors Share Stories about Their Treasured Puppets
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - Thursday, May 17 the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library welcomes several private collectors as they present "Calling All Puppets."  The Learn at Lunch program begins at noon and is free and open to the public.  The presentation takes place in the museum's WFLA Heritage Hall and is sponsored by United Fire.
 
Since opening Puppetry!  Suspended Imagination in April, museum staff members have had several people ask if they could present and discuss their own private, puppet collections."
 
"This is one of the few times museum members and volunteers have offered to speak for a Learn at Lunch program," commented the event's coordinator Patricia Hikiji.  "They are all very excited to talk about their puppets, where they came from, and why they have collected them."
 
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.  For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2007
CONTACT: Linda Grove, Western Fraternal Life Association 363-2653 or e-mail at lgrove@wflains.org
 
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Gardens to Be Beautified on Join Hands Day
 
Numerous volunteers to descend upon museum grounds for joint project
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - May 5, 2007 is Join Hands Day, fraternal national day of service when youths and adults work together to plan and implement projects that benefit their community.  From 9:45 - noon, volunteers from Western Fraternal Life Association Lodge Five Hundred No. 500, Western Fraternal Life Association Lodge Cedar No. 7, Boy Scout Troop 24, Asbury United Methodist Youth Fellowship Youth Group, Catholic Order of Foresters Court 649, and The Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will work together to beautify the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library grounds.  State Representative Tyler Olson has been invited to come and lend a hand as well..  This event offers a unique opportunity for adults and youth to work together on a volunteer project and bridge the generation gap.
 
The City of Cedar Rapids is supporting their efforts by supplying free compost and mulch.  Plants will be donated by fraternal members or purchased by the lodges.  All participants and volunteers are encouraged to bring tools, wheel barrels, gloves, and anything else they may need.  Several volunteers will assist with the snack and water tables.
 
This is the second year the fraternal groups, church members, and scouts have pitched in to spruce up the museum grounds.
 
"Last year, over fifty people came out to help us clean up, plant, and mulch the flower beds, and gardens," commented Linda Grove, one of the event coordinators.  "We anticipate we'll have nearly as many this year."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
Guest Curator from Czech Republic Speaks at National Czech & Slovak Museum
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is pleased to welcome Radek (pronounced ROD-ek) Licek (pronounced LIE-sek) as he presents, "Hanging by a Thread: The Tradition of Czech Puppetry," on Thursday, April 12 at noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Licek is the guest curator from the Museum of Puppetry in Chrudim (pronounced HRUDE-deem), Czech Republic. The program is free and open to the public. The program is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.
 
Licek will also co-lead a tour of the exhibition, Puppetry! Suspended Imagination, on Saturday, April 14 at 2:00 with National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library curator Edith Blanchard. The gallery tour is free to members or with paid admission to the gallery.
 
Licek is helping with the exhibition installation. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is borrowing nearly 100 items, including eighty-eight puppets, from the Museum of Puppet for their latest original exhibition, Puppetry! Suspended Imagination, which opens to the public on April 14. This marks the first time the Museum of Puppetry has been involved with an exhibition in the United States. This is the first time Licek has been to the U.S.
 
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's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org
 
St. Joseph’s Day Activities at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
 
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is celebrating St. Joseph’s Day with a host of activities for the whole family. This year, the Czech Village Association and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library are celebrating the patron saint’s holiday on Saturday, March 24. All museum-related events are sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.
 
Master folk artist Marj Nejdl will teach students to do traditional wax resist egg decorating. Class times are from 9:00 – noon and 1:00 – 4:00. Advance registration by March 17 is required. Class size is limited to 15 students, for ages 8 and up. Please note, an adult must accompany 8 – 11-year-old students. The classes will be in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Cost is $20.00.
 
The St. Joseph’s Day parade is at 11:00 a.m. along 16th Avenue SW. For more information, call (319) 364-0001.
 
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is offering a St. Joseph’s Day Admission Special from 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Persons wearing red, or sporting the name Joe, Josie, or any derivation thereof may receive $1 off admission.
 
Found on Sixteenth Avenue author Karen Roth will be at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library for a book signing from 10:00 – noon in the Hruska Grand Hall. Bring in your own copy, or purchase one from the Museum Store.
 
Join museum educator Jan Stoffer as she leads a guided gallery tour of Homelands: The Story of the Czech and Slovak People, of the museum’s permanent exhibition, at 2:00 p.m. The tour meets in the Hruska Grand Hall. It is free to members or with paid admission to the gallery.
 
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. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2007
CONTACT: Gail Naughton, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500. gnaughton@ncsml.org OR Doug Alberhasky, John’s Grocery, 401 East Market St., Iowa City, IA 52245 (319) 337-2183 doug@johnsgrocery.com

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and John’s Grocery Team Up for Beer Festival and Bohemian Beer Tour

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA -- Iowa City’s world-renowned beer store, John’s Grocery, and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids are teaming up to provide beer lovers with two unique opportunities to experience the diversity of the beer world.

The big event is BrewNost!, the annual beer festival and fundraiser held at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. This is the fourth year the museum and John’s Grocery have teamed up to raise money for the museum while sampling 32 of the best brews from eight different countries, including the Czech Republic, where beer is legendary. This year, attendees will be able to sample dishes prepared with the event’s selected brews and vote for best food and beer pairings. The event will be held on the evening of Friday, October 5th on the museum grounds.

Also at the event, a new beer tour of Bohemia will be offered to patrons who wish to experience Czech beer culture first hand. Doug "the bier guy" Alberhasky and his brother, Mike Alberhasky, from John’s Grocery will travel to the Czech Republic on March 18th for a "Bohemian Beer Blitz" to prepare for the larger Bohemian Beer Tour slated for Spring 2008. The planned tour will have stops in historic Prague, the crown jewel of Europe; Pilzen, the birthplace of Pilser beer; a family-owned microbrewery that also has a beer spa where you can take a bath in a tub of beer; a crystal beer glass manufacturing plant; the historic walled medieval city Ceské Krumlov; and a tour of the original Budweiser brewery in Ceské Budejovice. Beer fans can keep up with the brothers’ travels on the John’s Grocery website www.johnsgrocery.com starting on March 18 to get a glimpse of the tour the museum will be offering in 2008.

For more information on BrewNost! contact the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library at 319-362-8500. For more information on the Bohemian Beer Tour in 2008, contact Doug Alberhasky at John’s Grocery in Iowa City at 319-337-2183.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Slovak Human Rights Activist to Speak at National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will welcome Lubomira Slušná (pronounced LUBE-oh-mirror-ah SLEW-SHNAH) to the Thursday, March 15 Learn at Lunch program. Slusna will speak about the Association for Culture, Education and Communication, an organization she founded in 1999, and her recent work with the Roma people, Europe’s largest minority. The noon program is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.

Lubomira Slusna is currently a visiting scholar at the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay. She is a graduate in history of fine arts from Commenius University in Bratislava. After graduation she worked as a freelance art critic, organizing and opening independent art exhibitions. In 1999, she founded the Association for Culture, Education and Communication, which promotes Slovakia and develops and strengthens international cultural exchange. Her recent work has focused on the lives of the Roma people. Her organization’s efforts include special programs for Roma women and youth and training of Roma candidates for municipal elections.

In addition to her work with human rights, Slusna served as the external advisor of Minister of Foreign Affairs for the representation of Slovakia abroad from 2004 – 2006. Other projects include fostering the development of civil society in emerging democracies such as Yugoslavia, Belarus, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen Program Reveals Recipes from New Cookbook

After three years, the Museum Guild debuts newly released book

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – On March 10, 2007, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts the popular program, Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen. This year, the museum is proud to showcase three recipes found in the newly released cookbook, "Czech and Slovak Heritage…Family Stories, Traditions, Recipes." The program begins at 10:00 a.m. in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. Shirley Alexander will demonstrate Poppy Drops and Rosky (pronounced ROE-sky), two authentic Czech and Slovak cookies. Zelda DeHoedt and Joyce Netolicky will demonstrate Svickova (pronounced S-VEECH-coe-vah), a sauerbraten and the Czech national dish. In addition to seeing and tasting delicious Czech and Slovak foods, attendees will learn about springtime traditions, and throw Morena, also known as Old Mother Winter, in the Cedar River! The program is free and open to the public.

For the past three years, the Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library has diligently worked on a unique cookbook. More than 150 people from across the United States, Czech Republic, and Slovakia submitted heritage information and recipes to create the 472-page book. The book consists of over 87 family stories and more than 230 traditional Czech and Slovak recipes as well as information about Czech and Slovak holiday traditions and the history of the Czechs in Cedar Rapids.

"We are so proud of this book," commented Beula Dvorak, cookbook committee chairwoman. "Our vision for this book was to take readers on a journey through the immigrant life to modern day using recipes hailing from both the Czech Republic and Slovakia."

"An English language cookbook comprising solely of Czech and Slovak recipes is hard to find," explains Jan Stoffer, director of education and programs at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. "People can connect to their heritage through food. Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen allows us the opportunity to demonstrate how these foods are prepared. Best of all, they can taste the finished product."

For more information about Cooking in Babi’s Kitchen or the newly released cookbook, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

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. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

The Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library supports the activities, programs, and the facilities of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library by providing volunteers, financial and charitable support, educational services, and a social opportunities for persons interested in the museum. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the guild's web site, http://www.ncsml.org/about/guild/guild_welcome.htm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 10, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Get Tips on How to Use the NCSML Library, Feb. 15

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Thursday, February 15, 2007, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s (NCSML) cataloger Rebecca Bartlett will present "Do You Have Anything About My Grandfather? Learning to Use the Library at the NCSML." The ever-expanding library houses numerous books and papers for researchers; but, few know how to use this special, research library. Bartlett will offer tips, dos and don’ts, while sharing some of the more interesting questions posed to the library staff. The free program begins at noon in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall. The event is sponsored by United Fire and Casualty.

At 2:00, following the Learn at Lunch lecture, museum curator Edith Blanchard will lead a guided tour of Works by Warhol from the Cochran Collection. The tour will meet in the Hruska Grand Hall and is free to members or with paid admission to the gallery.

For more information about either program, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum’s web site, www.NCSML.org.

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. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Marilyn Monroe Joins Andy Warhol

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The popular Works by Warhol from the Cochran Collection exhibit at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library will receive a shot of star power with the addition of a print of Marilyn Monroe – arguably Warhol’s most famous image - for the last three weeks of the show. Cedar Rapids collectors Tim and Jan White have loaned their Marilyn, which will be unveiled at a special party from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2007. The print will be on exhibit as part of the exhibition until it closes March 11, 2007.

The unveiling party will feature a 1970s disco DJ and iconic foods, such as cheese and fruit fondues. Everyone will have a chance for his or her fifteen minutes of fame as part of a Warhol-inspired movie, being filmed in Hruska Grand Hall during the event. 1960s/70s polyester and Marilyn or Andy Warhol look-alike dress is welcome but optional. Owner of Works by Warhol from the Cochran Collection, Wesley Cochran, will be on-hand for the festivities. Reservations are encouraged. Tickets are $25.00, with the proceeds benefiting the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

"This is going to be a great night," commented Gail Naughton, president/ceo of the museum. "It is a fun chance to have an up-close-and-personal look at Marilyn and take in the exhibit before it closes on March 11. Plus, Wes Cochran will share his experiences collecting one of America’s pop icons."

For more information, or to order tickets, the public is encouraged to call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org. The event is sponsored by Bradley & Riley PC.

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, Iowa. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Was Warhol the Artist of the 20th Century? Lecture Examines Possibility

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA: Saturday, January 27, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hosts University of Iowa art history professor Craig Adcock as he presents "Andy Warhol: Artist of the Century." The free presentation begins at 2:00 p.m. in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall.

Like him or not, Andy Warhol left an indelible mark on the art scene. In his presentation, Adcock will present "evidence" to support his position that Warhol deserves the title of Artist of the 20th Century. Will you agree?

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. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Czech Heritage Foundation Crowns 2007 Czech Prince and Princess

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Czech Heritage Foundation crowned the 2007 Czech Prince and Princess during their annual meeting Monday night, January 22, 2007 at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. The newly crowned royal couple is Princess Emma Lehman and Prince Jordan Netolicky.

Emma Lehman is the daughter of Steve and Karen Lehman of Cedar Rapids. She is 16-years-old and a freshman at Kennedy High School.

Jordan Netolicky is the son of Rex and Joey Netolicky of Swisher. He is 15-years-old and a freshman at Prairie High School.

In addition to a crown and sash, Lehman and Netolicky received a $100 grant to go towards the creation of a kroj. At the end of their reign, they will receive a savings bond.

The Czech Heritage Foundation is proud to support a Royal Court of Honor for the first time. Members of the court each received a $25 grant to go towards the creation of a kroj. Serving on the 2007 Royal Court of Honor are:

During the year, the Prince, Princess, and the Court of Honor will promote Czech heritage to young people of Eastern Iowa by appearing in parades, volunteering for the Czech Heritage Foundation, serving on committees, and becoming involved with activities at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

The Czech Heritage Foundation founded the Czech Prince and Princess program in 1981. The program is intended to serve young people interested in their Czech heritage, to help them gain a better understanding of their cultural roots, and create in them a desire to promote that heritage. Boys and girls of Czech ancestry and between 13 – 15-years-old compete annually for the title of Czech Heritage Prince and Princess. Applicants are judged on a written essay, involvement in Czech activities, and a personal interview.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 4, 2007
CONTACT: Jan Stoffer, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. 319-362-8500 or jan@NCSML.org

Local Students Create and Exhibit Works Inspired by Warhol

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is proud to host two special student exhibitions, Works Inspired by Warhol, Acts I and II. Area students who completed the "Works by Warhol from the Cochran Collection Curriculum" in their classrooms and toured the corresponding exhibition at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library are eligible to enter their artwork in one of two special exhibitions. The first, Works Inspired by Warhol, Act I, opens Saturday, January 13, 2007.

"This marks the first time the museum has exhibited student art, and we’re very excited to be working with such enthusiastic teachers and students," commented museum educator Jan Stoffer. "It’s a nice opportunity to show the public what young artists can do."

The January 13 activities include a Gallery Tour of Works by Warhol from the Cochran Collection led by a member of the curatorial staff at 1:00 p.m. The tour is free to artists and their immediate family members, NCSML museum members, or with paid admission to the gallery.

Following the curatorial tour, the student artists will interpret their creations in the North Hall Gallery. This program is free to artists and their immediate family members, NCSML museum members, or with paid admission to the gallery. A reception in the museum’s WFLA Heritage Hall will follow.

More than 30 pieces will be exhibited in Works Inspired by Warhol, Act I from schools including Metro High School from Cedar Rapids and Benton Community High School from Van Horne. Local judges will critique the art. This is not a competition. There are no awards. Rather, the judges will provide constructive comments intended to help the students grow as artists. The exhibition closes February 4, 2007.

This event is sponsored by White & Johnson P.C. Works Inspired by Warhol, Act II opens February 10, 2007.

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. Admission to the museum galleries is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $2 for youth 5 – 16, and free to children under 5. For more information, call (319) 362-8500 or visit the museum's web site, www.NCSML.org.

 
 
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The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
30 - 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-5904
Phone: 319-362-8500 · Fax: 319-363-2209
 
This page was updated December 19, 2007