Vol. 1 Issue 2 — September 2026

Museum • Library • Archives

 Welcome to our second issue! What began as a bold vision is now the living reality of the Czech Center Museum Houston. Whether you speak Czech, Slovak, or just love culture, you are a vital part of our community. Our mission at CCMH is to inspire. We honor the powerful stories of those who resisted oppression in pursuit of freedom, showing how diverse communities can unite behind a shared vision. We invite everyone to explore and enjoy global traditions while we proudly share Czech and Slovak heritage with the world.

Read on to see this month’s featured board member and volunteer, along with other sections that are truly worth your time!

Know our Board Members | 8.27.26

Barbara Mikulik

Barbara at basilica in Velehrad; svata Barboro’s chapel

Growing up in a dry west Texas cotton farming community, I was proud of my Czech-German descent. But what did that mean? Klobásy, Czech Oom-pah music, pivo, and a smattering of Czech phrases such as “jejdanečky.” In 1996, I went to the Czech Republic for the first time, where words from a church song

“This is holy ground. I’m standing on holy ground.”

reflected my intense feelings for my homeland. I realized my roots were in simple yet complex people who valued honesty, faith in God, a strong work ethic, music, and love of family. I was awestruck.

My ancestors “braved” crossing an ocean to never see their beautiful, forested homeland and remaining family again. They sought a better life. Their immense sacrifice overwhelmed me with admiration. Why (proč)? They experienced numerous obstacles to seek freedom in America, and today, in Czechia, I see a land that has endured hardships over centuries; especially recently, becoming a FREE NATION!

In my own family, my brother is married with 6 children, 17 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. I want them to glimpse the cultural heritage found in traditions, the respect for honest work, and the beauty of Prague and the countryside. In addition, another amazing truth, all ethnic groups coming to America want the same thing – the ability to freely improve their families’ lives.

Therefore, when a board member recommended me to the CCMH board, I was sincerely honored as I consider Czech/Slovak peoples a piece of the puzzle in Texas and America. “Bridging the gap” when we share our commonality with other ethnic groups; yet, we share what makes us unique. As an educator for 35 years with majors in speech and English, my contributions are represented by my dedication, communication, and willingness to achieve a successful, meaningful end.

Book Showcase

 

Freedom to Win by Ethan Scheiner tells the powerful true story of how everyday Czechs and Slovaks helped spark the Velvet Revolution and bring down a communist regime. Inspiring, eye‑opening, and deeply human — it’s a must‑read for anyone who loves history, resilience, and the triumph of democracy.

Pick up your copy during your next visit to CCMH and bring home a piece of modern Czech and Slovak heritage.

 

Volunteer Spotlight | 9.1.2026

Marian Dudek

When I first arrived in Houston—new to the city, in fact, new to America, on a job transfer from Slovakia— I found myself searching for a community that felt like home. Czech Center Museum Houston became a space where I could connect with my heritage and compatriots who shared the same cultural roots. At the Center I found a familiar voice in a foreign place.

Over the years, I’ve had many memorable moments as a volunteer, but nothing compares to becoming St. Nicholas each December for Czech and Slovak children. My favorite moment was when even my own son didn’t recognize me. I love seeing the kids’ excitement as they sing for their parents and receive small gifts from Nicholas, the Angel, and the Devil as a reward for being good all year round.

 

Czech and Slovak culture resonates deeply with me, especially the way our two nations remain closely intertwined. Even the Velvet Divorce couldn’t disturb that bond —something you can see in films with mixed Czech and Slovak casts, in bands beloved on both sides of the border, and in the steady mutual support we offer each other in both joyful and difficult times.

At CCMH, I contribute by recording museum events and publishing them on YouTube. It’s rewarding to see viewers tuning in from near and far, extending the museum’s mission beyond those who can attend in person. I'm at the museum often, even when I'm not volunteering. I love our Book Club, our art shows, and the chamber music concerts.

Fun Fact: I took part in the Velvet Revolution. It began for me in Bratislava on November 16th, 1989, at the student demonstration that came a day before the one in Prague. Our victory over totalitarianism was the happiest time of my life—I even met Václav Havel in person.

Heritage on a Plate | Bublanina (“Bubble Cake”)

Bublanina is a popular Czech fruit sheet cake. It is light as air, lemony, and full of fruit. Whether you use fresh berries, frozen red currants or cherries, or fresh apricots or peaches, it is a favorite year-round.

 

Ingredients

  • 3 cups of fruit (peaches or apricots, cut into eighths)

  • 3 medium eggs

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose unbleached flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

Steps: Preheat the oven to 350° F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and dust it with flour. Crack eggs into a mixing bowl and mix at high speed until frothy, then slowly add the sugar. Reduce the speed and slowly add the flour mixed with baking powder, together with the heavy cream.  Lastly, add the lemon zest.  Pour into the baking dish and arrange the fruit on top. Fruit needs to be dry or powdered with a little flour or almond flour. Bake for 30 to 35 min until golden brown on top.

Stop by the gift shop, pick up a Czech cookbook, and inspire your friends with Czech culinary prowess. Let us know if you are interested in a Recipe Demo Class to uncork your culinary creativity!

 
 

“Přejeme příjemné vaření a dobrou chuť!”

Chef Kuchař

 
 
 
 

Second Saturday for Students

  • 9/12

  • 10/10

  • 11/14

  • 12/12

 
 

Calling all curious minds!

Second Saturday for Students brings interactive lessons, creative projects, and cultural adventures to CCMH. Perfect for kids who love to learn, explore, and create.

Don’t miss this month’s session!