Empowering Voices: Documentary Collaboration
Welcome to the July Newsletter!
UpRooted is back in the USA and back to researching, planning, and developing the documentary. Here is what we are currently up to!
Documentary Script Writing is underway with the collaboration of Slovaktown!
We are thrilled to share an exciting development in our journey to capture and preserve the unique heritage of Slovaktown. As you know, our organization has embarked on a heartfelt mission to create a documentary that will celebrate the rich history and cultural significance of this historic town.
In pursuit of this endeavor, we are currently holding collaborative meetings with the dedicated Slovaktown descendants in preparation for in-person interviews (timeline TBD). These meetings are pivotal in our efforts to gather invaluable information and personal stories that have shaped the very fabric of this town. During the Zoom meetings we are gathering stories, memories, and historical facts for further research. All of which will be the backbone of the documentary’s historical narrative.
Stephen Saranie and Deah Partak meeting over zoom to talk Sandulak, Saranie, and Town History
As we journey further into this documentary project, we are committed to ensuring as many voices as we can are heard and represented. Your stories are the heartbeat of Slovaktown's history, and we are dedicated to capturing and preserving them for generations to come.
If you have not been contacted, but want to share personal stories, or specific historical information please reach out at deah@uprooted-media.com to schedule a meeting.
T-Shirt Fundraiser ENDS August 1st!
“My Story is a Slovak Story” T-shirts are currently available until August 1st. Get this one-of-a-kind t-shirt!
In addition to our t-shirts, we also have stylish hoodies and cool tank tops available for both children and adults! Whether you're a little one or young at heart, you can show your support for the documentary and support the captivating history and culture of Slovaktown, Arkansas.
Get your whole family geared up in our comfy and fashionable apparel while contributing to a meaningful cause. Each purchase goes directly towards the creation of this special film.
Men’s, Women’s, and children’s sizes in multiple color options
Slovaktown, Arkansas Episode on Radio Slovakia International - English
UpRooted Media is excited to announce the release of Deah and James’ intriguing interview with Zuzana Botíková of RTV about Slovaktown, Arkansas on not just one, but two radio shows! Listen to the engaging story behind Slovaktown, the documentary plans, and James’ unique Slovak-Arkansas inspired soundtrack.
LISTEN HERE IN ENGLISH https://www.rtvs.sk/radio/archiv/1487/2105126
LISTEN HERE IN SLOVAK https://www.rtvs.sk/radio/archiv/1161/2087542
Grants & Donations
As of the latest update, UProoted Media is eagerly awaiting the results of a USA-based grant application, which would provide crucial funding for the production of the documentary. Simultaneously, the team is diligently working on the submission for a grant based in Slovakia, which could potentially add another layer of financial support to the project. With these grant opportunities, UProoted Media is one step closer to bringing this captivating story to life. Stay tuned for further developments!
While these grants are significant opportunities, they do not cover all the funds required for the project. As a result, UProoted Media is actively seeking additional support from donors to ensure the successful completion of this important documentary that explores the cultural connections between Slovakia and Arkansas. With donor support, the team can fully realize their vision and bring this compelling history and present day express of Slovak culture to audiences worldwide. Given that we are VERY appreciative of the individual donations we have been receiving.
The most recent individual donations received through our website have helped pay for English-Slovak translation of legal documents for the Slovakia-based grant application. So THANK YOU!!!!!!
Welcome Our New Project Manager Volunteer!
Our efforts to preserve Slovaktown’s legacy are driven by dedicated volunteers who generously contribute their time and talents. Today, we extend a warm embrace to Amanda Villamil (née Saranie), who joins UpRooted with a commitment to making Slovak history known.
UpRooted’s Volunteer Project Manager Amanda Villamil Saranie
As a nonprofit that centers on serving the Slovak descendant community, we are always seeking enthusiastic individuals who can contribute their unique skills and perspectives. Amanda comes to us with an impressive track record in project management and a genuine appreciation for heritage preservation. With a strong sense of purpose, she is eager to lead and help organize much of the behind the scenes business of making a project as big and important as Slovaktown, Arkansas Documentary succeed.
Aside from her professional qualifications, Amanda has a deep personal connection to her Slovak roots, which fuels their dedication to the cause. She recently has been diving into her Slovak heritage and knows the significance of preserving historical artifacts and narratives for generations to come.
Amanda is the 2nd Great-granddaughter of the Slovaktown founder George Sandulak and great-granddaughter of Stanley Saranie Sr, one of the founders of Slovaktowns’ famous Oysterfest.
Amanda’s grandfather, Stanley “Sonny” Saranie Jr. moved to Costa Rica when he was a young professional. Thanks to him, Amanda and her whole family are proud Slovak-Costa Ricans!
The addition of Amanda to our team not only strengthens our organizational capabilities but also symbolizes the essence of community-collaboration in making this documentary possible. Together, let's continue our journey of preserving and promoting the rich history of Slovaktown’s descendants, empowering our greater Slovak community, and creating lasting connections.
Do you have a passion for this project and want to help make it successful? We are currently looking for volunteers for our Social Media and Fundraising Teams. If interested please check out our our Volunteer page and contact Deah@uprooted-media.com to learn more