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FOS Has Established a Flood Relief Fund
June 25, 2008


Dear Friends,

The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library (NCSML) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa has suffered devastating losses from the recent flooding of the Cedar River. The NCSML is a national treasure for all Czechs and Slovaks. The museum is more than a building; it houses the treasured heritage of the Czechs and Slovaks in America. It needs to be rebuilt.

Gail Naughton, President and CEO of NCSML and member of the Friends of Slovakia Board of Advisors, has advised that the museum was able to remove two semi-truck loads of artifacts and books to safety but were unable to remove everything before authorities told them that they must evacuate. When the waters receded, the staff members were allowed to enter the museum building on Thursday, June 19th and are currently in the process of determining what artifacts and other items can be salvaged. The restoration of those items that can be saved will take time and money. All of the furniture, including bookcases and a piano, are destroyed. Although there was some insurance on the contents, the building itself was not insured for flood damage. While the foundation is safe, the interior of the building was destroyed. Early estimates to repair the building are in the millions.

Slovak President Michal Kovac, Czech President Vaclav Havel and U.S. President Bill Clinton attended the opening of the museum and library in 1995 and it has grown steadily in stature and status..

Everyone's support at this critical time is needed and appreciated. FOS has established a flood relief fund to collect donations for the purpose of supporting the NCSML in rebuilding and has made an initial contribution of $500 towards this effort. FOS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization so your donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. If you would like to help, please send your check, payable to FOS Museum Flood Relief Fund, to:

Friends of Slovakia
Manor Oak Two, Suite 500
1910 Cochran Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15220

With appreciation for any help you are able to provide,

Joseph T. Senko
Chairman & Treasurer