A Czech fraternal organization organized in 1897, Western Fraternal, is headquartered in Cedar Rapids. It has over 46,000 members nationwide. Engraved, brass plates inset in a richly stained wood border ring the large room, recognizing the association's individual and lodge contributors from around the country. Rocarek also credits development consultant David Hoeksema of Minneapolis, who successfully ''showed us how and guided us through our capital campaign. Eventually, museum officials will assemble a national advisory board.
Officials also hope to have a permanent executive director in place by year's end.
Alan Beach is serving as interim director.