Recent Press Release

Alliant Energy Foundation grant to help us remember 1968

Grant supports the National Czech & Slovak Museum memorable exhibit

MADISON, WI – May 2, 2008 – The Alliant Energy Foundation is providing a $3,500 grant to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library as they turn back the clock to remember 1968: Twelve Volatile Months that Changed the World. This original exhibit is the only one of its kind in the U.S. commemorating the 40th anniversary of 1968.

“1968 was a pivotal year, filled with the kind of tragedy and triumph that shaped generations,” says Leah Wilson, Director – Programs and Marketing at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. “We are deeply grateful to Alliant Energy, for helping us tell the story of a year that changed the world.”

It was a year when Vietnam War protests sent shock waves through the US, Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy were assassinated and the riots outside the Democratic Party National Convention in Chicago were brutally subdued. In Czechoslovakia, unarmed students faced down Soviets tanks marking the beginning of the end of the Cold War. Visitors will experience the art, propaganda and politics relevant to this unstable time in history. The temporary exhibit will be open until January 25, 2009.

The Alliant Energy Foundation is committed to helping to improve the quality of life – now and in the future in the communities where Alliant Energy has a presence. The Foundation supports health and human service programs, education endeavors, civic activities, cultural and arts initiatives and environmental efforts.

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is internationally known for its permanent and changing exhibits featuring exquisite Czech and Slovak folk art and costumes, fine art, political history, maps and militaria. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Liberty is located at 30 16th Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids.

Media Contact: Nancy Craig (319) 786-4788