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ABOVE: Use the U-Bahn or S-Bahn to reach museums and other attractions in Berlin. From Obama and JFK to Dali and The Ramones, Berlin pays tribute to cultural iconsLos Angeles, April, 2009 -- Many of Berlin's more than 175 museums, as well as public spaces and venues, are known for their dedication to renowned cultural or political figures. In summer 2009, the list continues to grow with new openings and special showings, enticing visitors to experience even more cultural icons. "President Barack Obama: On the tracks of the Kennedys?" opens at The Kennedys MuseumA special exhibition devoted to Barack Obama is scheduled to open on May 1st, marking the new president's 100th day in office. The showing at Berlin's The Kennedys Museum will feature some 50 exhibits, including many photographs by official White House photographer Pete Souza, who also accompanied Mr. Obama during his term as U.S. Senator. The exhibition "President Barrack Obama: On the tracks of the Kennedys?" focuses on the much discussed parallels and connections between Obama and various Kennedy family members, exploring to what extent these comparisons are truly justified. Promoting change, both Kennedy and Obama symbolize the dynamics and progress of a new generation. Underscoring optimism, new perspectives, and the spirit of a new beginning, both politicians electrified people and rallied them to support their cause. Images will show each subject in both their political and private lives. Focusing on the numerous parallels drawn between the 35th and 44th Presidents of the United States, the exhibition will offer viewers the opportunity to draw their own conclusions. (The Kennedys Museum, May 1 - August 2, 2009, open daily 10 am - 6 pm. Admission 7 Euro/ 3,50 Euro, www.thekennedys.de). New Design Hotel "John F'"inspired by the era of the popular U.S. PresidentCentrally located in the government quarter and within view of the Berlin Cathedral, the four-star superior, privately-owned, Arcotel "John F" features 190 rooms, suites and apartments. Inspired by the era of President John F. Kennedy, architect/designer Harald Schreiber used clear lines, elegant dark woods, marble floors and added special touches, including a copy of the late president's rocking chair in every room and lobby area, and lamp shades inspired by a dress of the former First Lady. The new hotel also features WLAN, flatscreen TVs, meeting space, health spa and two themed rooms. For a true West Wing feel, the "Kennedy Room" presents oval office window drapings, U.S. flags, American bath fixtures, and a light blue draped bed inspired by the First Lady's bedroom. In contrast, the design of the "International Style Room" is influenced by the Modernist Architecture movement (1925 - 1965), and includes Marcel Breuer chairs with matching armoire, as well as a historic refrigerator. The hotel bar claims to have the largest selection of high quality Bourbons in Berlin. Guests may choose from over 60 different American Bourbon and American Rye Whiskeys, including the rare 24-year old Bitter Truth Bourbon, the 22-year old Hirsch Selection or the Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey. (www.arcotel.at). (Note: John F. Kennedy was extremely popular with the people of Berlin. His famous "Ich bin ein Berliner" speech of June 26, 1963, in front of Berlin Schöneberg Town Hall, still to this day resonates with local residents and Germans citizens.) Ramones Museum at new location in Berlin-Mitte"Born to die in Berlin," the final song of the last studio album of the world's most influential punk band, The Ramones, was written by base player Dee Dee Ramone, who spend some of his childhood in Berlin as the son of an American GI. Berlin today boasts the world's only museum dedicated exclusively to the legendary punk band. Originally founded in 2005, The Ramones Museum reopened at its new location in the fall of 2008. The unique museum features over 500 artifacts and original items spanning 20 years of The Ramones' history, collected by museum founder Florian Hayler, who has gathered memorabilia since his first Ramones concert in 1992. The exhibit includes tour posters, T-shirts, manuscripts, guitars, as well as original clothing items. Visitors may also enjoy Café Mania, and special music programs at the museum (www.ramonesmuseum.com). Dalí Museum now open at Postdamer PlatzA new museum honoring the Spanish artist Salvador Dalí opened on February 5, 2009 across from Berlin's Potsdamer Platz. The Dalí museum offers an overview of the graphic works of the versatile surrealist, featuring more than 400 portfolios, illustrated books, sculptures, coins and three-dimensional installations. Visitors will be able to turn to experts named "Dalí scouts" for assistance in understanding the artworks that include famous as well as some lesser known works. The Dalí exhibition will be complemented by an alternating selection of over 3,000 works by the artist. (www.dalimuseum.de). For more information on travel to Berlin, see
www.VisitBerlin.de. Photo: Nikada.
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