Czech heritage important; support it

Thank you so much for the delightful articles about Czech traditions printed recently. The Czech community was hit hard by the flood of 2008, but the hard work and determination of our dedicated people have been shown by the progress being made in reopening of businesses and the interim location for the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

Our traditions, such as the egg decorating taught by Marj Nejdl and the dumpling making by the Sokols, are dear to so many of us. The local churches, St. Ludmila's and St. Wenceslaus, keep the kolaches coming.

Marj is one of the best assets this community has. She is not only a Master Artist, but she twice has won the egg-decorating contest at the Iowa State Fair and has been honored in Washington, D.C., for her talents.

We have much to be proud of in Cedar Rapids, and our Czech heritage is important.

I call on those who are able to support the festivals, schools, dinners, parades, etc., in the coming months and really get this area back on the road to prosperity.

Betty Gallagher

Swisher