Texas Polka News - January 2016 Volume 27 | Isssue 12 INSIDE Texas Polka News THIS ISSUE 2 Bohemian Princess Diary Theresa Cernoch Parker Starting the year with great polka It's National news 3 Editor’s Log Gary E. McKee Polka Month! Getting old or older? By Theresa Parker Story on Page 4 3 From the TPN Archives January 2014: National Polka Month 4-5 Featured Story It's National Polka Month! International Polka Association Appoints Texan to Hall of Fame Board 6-9 It Was Never a Job: The Telstars 10-11 Best of 2015 Photos 12-14 Dances, Festivals, Events, Live Music 16 PoLK of A Report President Clinton Ellebracht's last column 17 Remembering Clarence Baca 18-19 TCHCC Gala; More Best Of Photos 20-23 Festival/Dance Notes

24 Polka Smiles Sponsored by Hruska's

Page 2 Texas Polka News - January 2016 SPJST Lodge 88 for agreeing to be the Bohemian Princess venue of what will be a historic event. Texas Polka News Staff And the Texas Polka News is proud to Diary sponsor this first ever Texas event. Theresa Cernoch Parker, Publisher Gary E. McKee, Editor/Photo Journalist Now, that's not to say, we Texans Jeff Brosch, Artist/Graphic Designer are going to bully our way in and get Contributors: dozens of people inducted into the Julie Ardery Mark Hiebert Alec Seegers hall. There are deserving candidates Louise Barcak Julie Matus Will Seegers all over the country and I admire Bill Bishop Earline Berger Okruhlik Karen Williams the very detailed process the HOF Lauren Haase John Roberts committee goes through to be fair in its selections. What is exciting is that we now have a stronger voice from Contact By Theresa Cernoch Parker this region, and it will indeed be an Theresa Parker, Texas Polka News honor to have more representation P.O. Box 800183 • Houston, TX 77280 We start the year with great news! from this part of the country in the 281-836-5362 The International Polka Association hall of fame. [email protected] | Gary: [email protected] has appointed Danny Zapletal as a Many states, like Nebraska, trustee to its board that makes the Wisconsin, and Ohio, have their own decisions about who gets inducted Polka Halls of Fame. Texas doesn't. Ads/Media each year into the Hall of Fame, and I believe the founder of this paper, Articles, ads, letters to the editor deadline: 1st of the month for the next month who wins the annual music awards. Julius Tupa, was headed in that direction when he created the Texas Ad Rates 1/3 page: $170 1/8: $55 They have flirted in the past with Full page: $455 1/4 page: $115 1/16: $35 having Texas representation. Carl Polka Music Association, presenting 1/2 page: $255 3/16 page: $75 Finch of Brave Combo has served as annual awards to musicians, band, one of the electors having a say in the DJs, and promoters. Perhaps that Discounts available for multiple runs. Combo deals available for ads in TPN and polkabeat.com. voting. And, in 2006, Joyce Bohuslav might be something our polka Contact Theresa Parker for information. of the Polka Lovers Club of Texas musuems in Schulenburg and La Museum, was elected to the IPA Board Grange should consider instituting. of Directors, and served until 2010. Till then, I look forward to seeing On The Cover She nominated Alfred Vrazel for HOF LOTS of polka fans at the first Texas induction during her tenure and as we IPA Fundraiser on Sun., Feb. 7, at Gary McKee captured this image of Barbie and Russell Loitz at Swiss all know, Alfred was at last inducted Lodge 88. Read more about the IPA Alp Dance Club on April 19, 2015, KC Hall in Schulenburg. Barbie and in the Polka Pioneer category in 2014. and the dance on pages 4-5. Russell are the king and queen of PoLK of A Texas Chapter. This is the first time a trustee ****** has been chosen to represent the Thank you Alvin Dean Bachkora of geographic area of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas for sending me a necklace About Texas Polka News and New Mexico. Danny will be he had made in Mexico. He said he The Texas Polka News was started by Julius resumed publishing in September 2014. selecting 14 electors to work with him told them it Tupa of Houston in 1987 with the mission In addition to polka, the paper covers to make sure this region's polka artists should say, to preserve and promote polka music and other dance hall music including Country, are represented in the nominations "Bohemian dance. When Julius passed away in 2002, Western Swing, and Cajun, and celebrates his wife, Marie, continued as publisher, live music, such as Opry, across the state. process. Princess," and his friend, John Rivard, took the reins Theresa also founded polkabeat.com in In talking with IPA Prez Rick but it says, as volunteer editor. John stepped down as 2010 to honor the memory of her dad, Rzeszutko, they have realized for "Bohemia." editor in June 2014, and Marie sold the Willie “Bill” Cernoch, to promote polka some time that representation was I told him paper to Theresa Cernoch Parker, who music and heritage. needed from this region and found that's okay. the perfect candidate in Danny Z. I Makes agree. Danny knows the Texas polka me sound more official! Alvin is Get/Give The Texas Polka News scene. He lives the Texas polka scene celebrating his 91st birthday this Continue the polka tradition! Give your children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, as musician with Czech and Then month (see ad, p. 8). He fits in nieces and nephews a subscription to Texas Polka News. We’ll extend your current TPN Some, as executive director of the well with Gary's column on aging. subscription one month for each subscription you designate as a family gift. Published monthly. One year (12 issues) for $25. National Polka Festival, as owner of a Another TPN fan, Paul Minar Sr. in Clip this out & mail check for $25 (outside U.S. $40) to The Texas Polka News recording studio, as polka DJ, and as a Cat Spring, is another example of P.O. Box 800183 Houston, TX 77280. Or click on the TPN link on polkabeat.com to promoter, encouraging young people, showing that age is just a number. subscribe or renew online with a credit card. including his son, Josh, to be proud He recently renewed his subscription of their Czech and polka heritage. It for two years. He's 97. And, Clarence Name ______didn't take long for him to set to work. Baca, who was 95, when he passed Street ______With the support of his good friends away in November, never missed City ______ST ______Zip ______Mollie B and Ted Lange, he set an an opportunity to dance, walker be Ph ______Email______idea in motion to have a fundraiser damned! Please read his story on p. 17. for the IPA Hall of Fame. Congrats to Polka On! ❏ New ❏ Renewal ❏ Gift ❏ Address change (include old address) Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 3 old. As a teen we were counseled by Editor's Log our friends to never trust anyone over 30, and my age group sang along loudly with The Who’s Hope I Die Getting Old Before I Get Old cause those old folks or Older? were ignorant. The over 30 crowd expected us to respect the wisdom of the elders (why isn’t it called olders?). As the calendar pages flew by we noticed that our parents and other elders had become smarter on life’s choices. In 1937, singer Sophie Tucker From the TPN Archives: January 2014 commented: “In [your] twenties and the thirties you want your love in large As reported by Willie Bohuslav in the support the many polka events not just amounts, but after you reach forty, it’s PoLK of A column, January 2014 issue. in January but throughout the entire the quality that counts.” How true. January is ‘National Polka Music Month.’ year. And continue to listen and support By Gary E. McKee Governor Rick Perry proclaimed your local polka radio shows every week. DANCE OF LIFE January 2014 to be ‘Polka Music Month Remember, without your support, these in Texas,’ so I encourage all of you to go events and radio shows will not survive Polkadate January 2016. The editor When researching a paper about ‘polka dancing’ in January. Attend and throughout the coming years! has looked around and noticed he has an ethnic group’s reactions when become one of those “old people” he confronted with an abrupt change has been talking about the last five in lifestyles, I concluded that every decades. Trying to get a grip on what person acted as events guided them, has snuck up on him, he gives it quick but with their own personality, not consideration, and continues on (with ethnicity. This applies to the aging the help of ibuprofen). process in the dance of life. Youthful exuberance equals music and dancing With the beginning of a new year, to what is currently popular, i.e., according to the commonly used rockabilly, jazz, swing, rock-n-roll, and Gregorian (Catholic) calendar, it’s completely new steps to contemporary a time to reflect on aging, because that’s what old people do - nothing country. And for those of you who - just sit around trying to remember have left Texas and are currently in the events or trying to find the remote. state of Denial on the aging process, January 2014 was proclaimed “Polka Music Month” in Fayette Co. by official Proclamation on Our subscribers undoubtedly will here are a few quotes from folks that Tuesday, Nov. 5 (2013) by County Judge Ed Janecka. Witnessing the Proclomation signing are Po.L.K. take issue with that horribly incorrect were born before me: of A. members: Seated - Verdell Hafer, Willie Bohuslav, Judge Ed Janecka, Clinton Ellebracht, and observation, because you’re probably • I’m looking for my wallet and my Dorothy Ellebracht; Standing - Alton Hafer, Rene Sustr, Lorine Christ, Mildred & EJ Bayer. taking a break from attending a dance car keys. Well they can’t have gone and planning the next. After years too far and just as soon as I find From Our Readers of observing the dance scene from my glasses I’ll see where they are. rock-n-roll to western swing to polka; Tom Rush lyrics Frank Kovar, Wallis dancing is an all ages “sport,” unlike, • Getting old ain’t so bad, you just (It was nice to meet you and the Regners at say pro football. Former TPN editor have to adjust, but it seems like the Fest. And thanks for subscribing! - TP) John Rivard’s quote that “Dancing you have to adjust more frequently adds years to your life and life to your every day. W.B., 84 His advice to years!” is spot on. stay young - Do not resist arrest. • I don’t feel like I’m growing old. I DEFINE 'OLD' take no nap, and keep busy. H.L., As I see it, the main problem with 91 getting old is the definition of old. One • I never get old, only older. Old is of the many sayings such as “you don’t what antiques and automobiles Frances Regner, Frank Kovar, James Regner/ have to grow up, just grow old” are are. Polka keeps you young. M.L., Parker photo good but don't address the “old” part. 85 • You become more of whatever you I went to the Ellinger Polka Fest Sunday, Aging is unpreventable (just ask Ponce de Leon about that Fountain of Youth). are. B.B., 62 12-6-15 with my friends, James and Growing old is a perception. To keep the subject balanced, I Frances Regner from McCoy, TX, south When you were in elementary school, of San Antonio. They asked me to come asked some “youngsters” about their you couldn’t wait to be old, you even outlook on aging: and I really enjoyed myself. I was born in used half years on your age: “I’m six Fayetteville, TX, June 3, 1939, between and half years old.” Then later in your • It’s revealing the naivety of my the Kovars and Bacas. I love polka music. younger self, how important my Gary makes sure to start his granddaughter, teens, you couldn’t wait to be “21”, Used to go every Saturday where Lee Roy Juniper Mae Mytyk, off with the right reading the old was dropped and everyone health is, and that freedom come Matocha or Vrazels were playing. material. else born prior to your birthday was Continued on page 8 Page 4 Texas Polka News - January 2016 many different styles of polka music January Is National in our region.” Polka Month! WHO'S ON THE BOARD "The board of trustees has the By Theresa Parker responsibility to vet new candidate January is National Polka Month as biographies that could be added to declared by the International Polka the list of both living and deceased Association (IPA), based in Chicago. individuals who have made To celebrate, the IPA will present significant contributions to the polka the 47th Annual Chicago Festival of world," explained Fred Bulinski, HOF Polka Bands Weekend on Jan. 16-17. Committee Chairman. The IPA is also celebrating by The trustees are responsible for announcing the appointment of appointing the electors, who are a new trustee to its Hall of Fame knowledgeable on the current, as well board - Danny Zapletal, of Ennis. as historic aspects of polka music. Since the IPA was formed in 1968, 11 Danny Z (center) with family and CATS members. L-R: Mike and Deborah Logue, National Polka The electors vote via secret ballots trustees have governed the processes Fest King and Queen; David Slovak; Danny's son, Josh; his wife, Yvonne; and Dana and John Schumacher at Fredericksburg Oktoberfest./McKee photo governed by an independent election that select Hall of Fame (HOF) judge (chief auditor for the state of inductees and recognize polka artists he was a kid. His dad, Raymond, the polka industry at large.” Delaware) on the candidates for the with awards. Each trustee oversees was one of the founders of the fest, Danny said he's excited about Polka Music Hall of Fame as well as 14 electors chosen to represent a which will celebrate its 50th year on this opportunity. “I think it’s very the music awards. given geographic area of the United Memorial Day weekend. important that Texas, Oklahoma, Members of the Board of States and Canada. He was appointed festival and New Mexico are going to be Trustees are responsible for specific These 165 electors participate in vice-president in 1992, president in represented with the IPA,” Danny areas of the United States and the annual voting that elects HOF 1993, and has served as the festival’s said. Canada. "We welcome Danny inductees and music award winners. executive director since 2000. “Texas especially has a lot to and all of the new electors he is To better serve a large portion of He is the host of two polka radio offer in the world of polka music. appointing from Texas and the other the U.S. and its diversity of polka shows broadcast in both Texas and states under his management as we styles, the IPA executive board Take all of the festivals that we have, Wisconsin. As a trumpet player, move forward to be more inclusive recently moved to establish a new as well as the picnics and just regular Danny joined the Texas Dutchmen throughout the polka world," Fred trustee position to represent Texas, dances. Polka music is strong in in 1980, and formed his own band - said. Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Texas and we continue to get the Czech and Then Some in 1997. In addition to Danny, the other “Texas is a hotbed of polka youth to participate and enjoy going He also owns a recording studio trustees are: activity and we want to have to the dances, festivals, and picnics. where most of the polka bands from Fred Bulinski, Polka Music Hall representation from that area,” said They seem to be proud of their northern Texas record. “Danny is of Fame committee. He coordinates IPA President Rick Rzeszutko. heritage as they support polka music. proud and knowledgeable of his and manages the awards process Czech heritage but is also familiar If we continue to unite together as a polka family then we will continue and Hall of Fame election. His TEXAS HAS LOT TO OFFER with all polka styles,” Rick said. “The area includes Maryland, Delaware, to get bigger and stronger.” Danny Z is an Ennis, Texas native IPA welcomes Danny to its academy Virginia, North and South Carolina, Danny said his appointment not who has been involved with the of electors and looks forward to Georgia, and Florida. Fred was a Ennis National Polka Festival since leveraging his knowledge in serving only represents expansion of more musician, bandleader, and promoter Czech- and German-style polka of Polkamotion by the Ocean music, but Norteño, Conjunto, and in Rehoboth, Delaware. He was Cajun as well. inducted into the Hall of Fame in “This is truly an honor to be 1992. chosen as a trustee. It’s one more Dick Pillar, musician, The International Polka Association is a way for us to keep our polka music bandleader, and promoter of Pillar's Join Today! non-profi t organization whose purpose is and heritages alive and strong,” the advancement of polka music. Your membership dues allow the IPA to Polkabration and many Catskill Danny said. “There are so many continue its mission. Join today and be a part of this exciting organization! polka weekends. Dick is responsible people in Texas who do so much for for Connecticut and Long Island, Visit ipapolkas.com/store to join, or send your check to: polka music, and to be chosen as a NY. He was inducted into the Hall of John Krawisz, Financial Secretary Dues are only $15 a year. representative for Texas, Oklahoma, Fame in 1974. International Polka Association You’ll receive 6 newsletters to keep and New Mexico, means a great deal Jimmy Sturr, bandleader, PO Box 1484 up with IPA events, radio shows, to me. This gives us a chance to show multiple-Grammy winner, promoter, Plainfi eld, IL 60585 and award news. other parts of the world all of the and 1984 Hall of Fame inductee. Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 5 He is responsible for Eastern styles, but we needed to expand our Pennsylvania, Eastern New York awards. We are continually looking State, and New York City. for ways to improve our processes John Gora, musician, and be more representative of all bandleader, recording artist, and polka styles,” Rick said. promoter. He was inducted into the Polka artists who released Hall of Fame in 2011. His area is the recordings between January 1 and entire country of Canada, and he is December 31, 2015, are encouraged also responsible for Western New to submit their CDs by January York State and Alaska. 14, 2016. Details can be found at Gary Brueggen, musician and ipapolkas.com or contact Fred at bandleader. He is responsible for [email protected] or 443- Wisconsin and Minnesota. 956-3087. Tish Blazonczyk, wife of late Hall of Famer Eddie Blazonczyk. IPA SUPER POLKA PARTY She is responsible for Indiana and Danny has wasted no time in Michigan. showing the IPA how serious we Sandy Schuster, knowledgeable are about polka in Texas. Working and active polka fan. She is with Mollie B and Ted Lange, he Sunday, February 7, 2016 responsible for North and South has coordinated the first Texas Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, and fundraiser for the IPA Hall of Fame. SPJST Lodge 88 Houston |1435 Beall St. Wyoming. The dance, featuring Squeezebox, Jackie Libera, musician and will be held on Sun., Feb. 7, 2016, at 2003 Hall of Fame inductee. His area SPJST Lodge 88 in Houston, from Fundraiser for the includes all of New England minus 1-4 pm. See the ad at right for more International Polka Association Connecticut. info and let’s show the IPA how we Sponsored by Texas Polka News Larry Walk, polka DJ from the Polka On! Texas style. Cleveland-Youngstown, Ohio area, and 1994 Hall of Fame inductee. His ABOUT THE IPA “Come on out and learn about the IPA and area is Western Pennsylvania, Ohio, The International Polka Association and West Virginia. is a non-profit organization whose its Hall of Fame, become a member, and help Leon Kozicki, 1977 inductee purpose is the advancement of polka polka music stay alive and well!” into the Hall of Fame. Leon was the music. The concept of a national original chairman of the trustees polka convention had been developed Dance 1:00-4:00 and Hall of Fame. His area is and pioneered originally in Chicago. Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri. The first polka convention was held (only one intermission) Gene Swick, polka promoter in 1963. This developed into the from California. He takes care of International Polka Convention which Food will be available. California, Nevada, Arizona, and was presented each year in Chicago, other western states. Detroit, and Buffalo, New York. Meet and Greet In January 1968, a steering SqueezeBox members NEW AWARD committee comprised of Johnny In addition to expanding its Hyzny, Leon Kozicki, Joe and Jean (Mollie B, Ted Lange, geographic reach, the IPA also has Salomon, Eddie Blazonczyk, and Don & Dana Lindblad) established a new award – Favorite Jodlowski voted to form the IPA and 11:30am -12:45pm International Polka Album, which establish the Polka Music Hall of Merchandise will be will recognize a deserving album Fame and Polka Music Awards. available at this time. from the non-Polish styles such Since 1968 the International as Slovenian, Czech, German, Polka Festival has been presented or Dutchmen. The other annual under the auspices of the Tickets are $12 in advance awards are Favorite Polish Polka International Polka Association. The (available on the Internet only) and $15 at the door. Album, Favorite Song, Favorite Male 2016 Festival will be held on Labor Vocalist, Favorite Female Vocalist, Day Weekend in Buffalo. To learn For advance tickets, visit SqueezeBoxBand.com, more about the IPA and how to and Favorite Band. click on “PURCHASE TICKETS,” “Our Hall of Fame inductees become a member, see ad, p. 4, and then click on ticket and fi nish the order. represent a good diversity of polka visit ipapolkas.com. Page 6 Texas Polka News - January 2016 With the encouragement of an It Was Never A Job “adult,” the 12-, 13-, and 14-year-olds, WE WERE JUST GOING TO being naïve, began recruiting all their A PARTY EVERY TIME WE musical friends and the band quickly PLAYED tripled in size. Their first full band consisted of the aforementioned, By Gary E. McKee plus Dennis Stryk, Dennis Fajkus, James Ohnheiser, Ricky Meyer, There are few bands with the same Edward Beyer, and Willie Joe Vacek. name anywhere that are still going Practicing in the Kubala garage on strong continuously after 50 years. West Avenue in Schulenburg inspired An even smaller subset are groups the band name The Westside Nine. with more than one original member Considering the tender age, it who never left. The Telstars of was natural for members to drop out Schulenburg, Texas, fall into this and be replaced, or not. The exact microcosm. Long-time fans who date of birth for the name Telstars attend their dances today are people is somewhat hazy, but most agree who don’t come to hear what was a it is a reference to the launch of great band back then; but to hear a the first communications satellite, group of musicians who are making Telstar I, which enabled the world to better music each gig. communicate via outer space. The satellite was the new and upcoming IN THE BEGINNING thing in the world and the Telstars In 1962, Leo Kopecky, Billy Paul were a new and upcoming band that Late 1960s, back row (L-R): Larry Sabrsula, Herb Dieringer, Edward Beyer. Front row (L-R): Leo Kubala, and John Pratka were has outlasted the satellite by 53 years. Kopecky, Royce Shimek, Dennis Stryk, and Rueben Rodriguez./Telstars Archive jamming in the Kubala garage when The quality of this young band Billy Paul’s dad came home. He was spread and soon a representative the band. The Telstars chose to diary), Herbert Dieringer was playing impressed and suggested they start a from KWHI radio in Brenham record Red Raven Polka. Now this trumpet and since he was the only one band. showed up in Schulenburg to record was approximately 1964, when possessing a driver’s license, he was radio played vinyl recordings. The duly elected to drive the teen-agers to recorder hooked up a microphone to gigs, pulling a little two wheel open The Czech polka bands of Ennis invite you to the 10th annuala device that actually cut the record trailer with a tarp over the top. as they were playing. He told them Somehow, The Telstars got a gig to do their best and don’t make any in Old Ocean, which is between Bay mistakes as you only get one attempt. City and Brazoria, which was over 100 They watched the vinyl platter being miles from Schulenburg and to these grooved as they played. It was a small-town teens, could have been Saturday, February 13, 2016 success and the one and only copy half-way around the world. 1:00PM to 10:30PM was soon being broadcast over the After the gig, it was decided that Sokol Activity Center airwaves. they should go see the Gulf of Mexico 2622 E Hwy 34 – Ennis, TX 75119 (in the middle of the night), so they RED COAT INVASION drove and drove and finally reached CZECH HARVESTERS 1:00 By the late 1960s, the band had some beach, where they proceeded to JODIE MIKULA ORCHESTRA 3:00 stabilized for several years with Leo, walk in the surf, wearing their spiffy CZECH & THEN SOME 5:00 Royce Shimek, Leroy Joswiak, Mark matching black pants. Once this Stryk, Butch Michalec, Dennis Stryk, was accomplished, they drove back MORAVIANS 7:00 Hoss Venghaus, Larry Sabrsula, to their very concerned parents in ENNIS CZECH BOYS 9:00 Rueben Rodriguez, and Bobby Wick Schulenburg arriving just as the sun becoming core members. Playing came up. Only $8 Per Person - Ages 13 & Under Free - Doors Open 12:00PM anywhere that would pay, the band Another story about their uniform No reservations - Kitchen Open - Cash Bar - Raffle Prizes began building a reputation as a was a publicity photo taken where Dress casual, or this would be a great time to put on your “kroj” (CZECH COSTUME) competent, fun, and professional Herbert is wearing a different color Feb 12th – Polka On! Pre-Party group of guys to hire. coat than the rest of the band. The 6PM-11PM in Sokol Clubroom (back entrance) – DOORS OPEN 5PM - No cover charge This was still an era where band reason was that he had lost his jacket Ennis’ newest & youngest polka band OUT OF THE BOX 7:00-11:00PM members dressed alike and had a in a house fire and was unable to “This is a great way to extend your support & appreciation for Czech music & heritage” “look.” The Telstars all had matching replace it. Stay tuned to the KBEC Polka Party 9AM-11AM every Sunday on KBEC 1390 or www.KBEC.com red sport coats and black pants. At www.EnnisCzechMusicFestival.com some point (this was 50 years ago, MIGHTY FINE ORCHESTRA [email protected] | 972-878-4748 | Like Us On Facebook and nobody was keeping a band In the SPJST newsletter, Vĕstník, Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 7

leis and a great time for everyone. Taiton Community Center Superb Dancing to music by The Presents Telstars from South Texas. The band you have been waiting for - dancing 9 29th Annual to 1 - adm $2.50-bar-setups and beer- YCBYOB-Czech klobase. Gentlemen Required to Wear Coats.” Hmm….nice sport coat with an EL CAMPO emblem on it along with flowered shorts and sandals. The band had been POLKA FEST playing so much in Space City that Sunday, Jan. 31 they were billed as from Houston. Music from 1-7P Twice a week gigs soon expanded in three nights, playing clubs, and Fritz Hodde/Fab 6...... 1:00-2:00P parties; when the Urban Cowboy Leo Majek Orchestra...... 2:00-3:00P craze hit in 1980s, the bookings Red Ravens...... 3:00-4:00P 3 Band Concert...... 4:00-4:30P exploded as everybody wanted a real Fritz Hodde/Fab 6...... 4:30-5:20P country band, and there were few Leo Majek Orchestra...... 5:20-6:10P Late 1970s/early '80s (L-R): Melvin Barta, Mike Brinkmeyer, Bobby Wick, Ronnie Machac, Leo as seasoned and well known as The Red Ravens...... 6:10-7:00P Kopecky, and Greg Machac./Telstars Archive Telstars. For the next several years they were playing four and five nights Admission: $10 in March of 1966, a notice appeared When They Played Here in March!” a week AND having day jobs. During Burgers, Fried Gizzards, & announcing: “I want to remind all of the 1970s, to find time to learn new Chicken Noodle Soup will be FABULOUS TELSTARS served throughout the day you that we have a mighty fine orchestra songs, they met in Sealy every Monday Doors open at 11A playing at our Chandelier Ballroom this Two years later, the Lodge’s newsletter, at a small rented venue. Saturday: The Telstars of Schulenburg written by Jode Elzner, reported that: The last half of the 1970s and 80s, are rated with the top orchestras we have “Harley Cox got a big hand from the FM 961 (7 miles north of El Campo) the present lineup was falling into Info: Lawrence 979-543-6557 had this month. This is the first time teenagers when he asked the well-liked place as Ronnie and Greg Machac, they will play at our ballroom, they are Telstars to play longer; The Telstars Melvin Barta, and Mike Brinkmeyer, very popular and draw huge crowds were great and liked by all ages! The and Bruce Brosch replaced departing wherever they play!” Telstars played Happy Birthday The Telstars had begun their for lovely little Doraine Lovelace, members. lifelong pilgrimage to Houston and granddaughter of the Buddy Henskes Various excellent musicians came back to Schulenburg. In a short period at the Princess Ball held on Easter through the group in their formative of time, the “orchestra” became Sunday. I know the teens and juniors years and went on to join other monthly regulars at the Lodge and had a good time at the ball because I bands, the City Polka Boys, Shiner soon Bill Mraz’s Ballroom, and then at must say I have never seen them enjoy Hobos, and the Velvets. The draft Czech Heritage Tours the dozens of clubs and dancehalls in dancing as much as they did Sunday claimed two members of the band, Presents the big city. night to the music of 'The Fabulous Rueben Rodriguez and Edwin Beyer, Our 2016 The band must have lived up Telstars' And 'fabulous' is the word unfortunately Edwin didn’t survive European Tours! to their press hype being that four for this band as each of the teens will Vietnam. June 12-25, 2016 months later in August of 1966, tell you. May I take this opportunity The largest public exposure the Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, the paper announced that: “This to thank The Telstars for making our band has ever had was performing Austria, Czech Republic Saturday at Lodge 88 we have The Princess Ball truly a 'ball.' The Tel- at the Houston Livestock Show and Telstars of Schulenburg, and they Stars played some real good music for Rodeo for over 15 years. They have hit are the orchestra many of you have our Easter dance.” the stage at every venue possible that Sept. 26-Oct. 10, 2016 wanted ever since they played at our the rodeo provides, from pre-rodeo Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, ballroom in March! Come to our air- DALLAS IS CALLING sponsored parties to performing Italy, France, Spain conditioned Chandelier Ballroom and By 1970, The Telstars were playing all before 10,000 rodeo fans in the Featuring 6-day ground tour & enjoy dancing to The Telstars good the local dance halls, church picnics, Astrohall to playing the Hideout, an 7-day Mediterranean cruise music. Waldo Kalich is a great booster and parties they could handle around elite club within the rodeo, that hosts of the Telstars Orchestra, he will be For more information, please visit Schulenburg. As the 1970s rolled entertainers such as John Conlee, CzechHeritageTours.com glad to tell you all about this popular on, The Telstars were in demand orchestra.” Johnny Rodriguez, and Eddie Raven as far as Dallas. In July of 1972 an Contact Steavy Jakubik or Renee Valek It’s interesting to note that at that to name a few. advertisement announced that soon The Telstars have always utilized [email protected] or time Lodge 88 offered waiter service. 972-878-2929 A paid advertisement described the it would be: “Hawaiian Night at the their great personal musical talents to band as: “The Orchestra All Loved Sokol Athletic Center…Dallas. Free Continued on next page 219 W. Ennis Ave. Ennis, TX 75119 Page 8 Texas Polka News - January 2016 Editor's Log The Telstars Continued from page 3 Continued from page 7

with a great deal of responsibility. mold a set list to the crowd or venue J.P., 30 by playing country, polkas, waltzes, • Growing old? I plan on living and rock and roll all very well and not forever, so far, so good!” (Tongue be pigeonholed as a certain type of in cheek.) B.H. 24 band. • I try to live my life like every day is my last while still having the goals of that attitude to pursue MEET THE TELSTARS indefinitely! B.H. 24 Leo Kopecky, a “city boy” from Schulenburg, first saw a saxophone YOUNG AT HEART at his grade school alma mater, St. These attitudes are a positive comment Rose. Richard Collins of Collins on the future. I recently attended a Music Center from El Campo (still “youth” dance at Swiss Alp Dance in business) used to visit area schools Hall, and made a point to see what with instruments for sale to promote has changed since I first attended this establishment in the mid-1960s. Not the school bands. Leo’s mother paid much has changed - cliques standing over a hundred dollars for a sax on together, two girls outside having a a payment plan. That very first night conversation about some intensely Leo played Mary Had A Little Lamb serious subject, the steady stream of (taking no lessons) and a lifelong love two-way traffic through the doors, affair with the instrument began. some very good dancing by couples Leo has been the musical nucleus and groups, and a very loud roar of of The Telstars and the face of the At the movies (L-R): Bobby Wick, Royce Shimek, Leo Kopecky, Ronnie Machac, and Leroy conversations and music (a little too band through his engaging stage Joswiak./Telstars Archive much bass for me). patter. When college time came What I found interesting is that around, he was caught up in a Catch music knowledge and allowed him to 20,000-squarefoot newly built metal when the band (The Emotions) played the Ben E. King song (1962,), 22 scenario. Leo wanted to major hear both old and the latest music. building in northeast Houston. It Stand By Me, everyone - average age in music, however that required Royce Shimek, saxophonist, was was built by Florian Stolarski, the 18 - sang along, proving a great song being in the college band and taking a Telstar from 1962 to 1985 and had son of Chappell Hill’s Brazos River is timeless. The only real difference extra music classes. This schedule grown up being around the Wence Hall Polish dancehall owner Tom I noticed between then and now interfered with his Telstars schedule Shimek Orchestra, which was his Stolarski. Bobby, who had previously was the increased presence and that was paying for his tuition. So, family’s band. The public loved it played with Adolph Falke’s Orchestra aggressiveness of the county deputies. as a compromise, he went before a when Royce’s and Leo’s saxophones stepped in to replace Rueben Another difference was the massive college committee, who allowed him blended so well together as they Rodriguez who had answered Uncle consumption of bottled water and to get a minor degree in music and a always did. Royce is now with the Sam’s call. For 18 years, Bobby, a self no glass bottles to make money off major degree in geography. Leo later Shiner Hobo Band. taught drummer, had made the almost of, and oh yeah, no Tietjen hot dogs. took the band director’s position at Bobby Wick, who occupied the nightly trek to Houston, Dime Box, So, onward thru the fog, and as Frank Sinatra and Doris Day (for his high school alma mater, Bishop onstage back seat and kept rock- and the triangle of Schulenburg KC, you reallly old folks) sang: "Fairy tales Forest, which he held for 10 years. His steady rhythm from 1969-1987, Weimar Veterans, and La Grange can come true. It can happen to you if long stint as a polka and country DJ fondly remembers the fun crowds at Roundup halls. His favorite was you're young at heart." at KVLG in La Grange expanded his Dance Town USA. This venue was a playing New Bielau Hall with its long Sunday, Jan. 17 91 Years Young! Big Shelby Harmonie Hall Alvin Dean Bachkora January 26 Three Red Ravens Central Texas Sounds Polka Fritz Hodde/Fabulous 6

Fest $10 Admission Food available. 509 W FM 389 1-7 PM Info: Anna Rose Brandt 979-836-7474 He'd love to hear from his Texas friends! HarmonieHall.com PO Box 395 West Memphis, AR 72303 Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 9 multiple instruments as needed. was called The New World of Polka. Bruce’s brother, Jeff, was also included The back cover notes described it as in this mixture as drummer, and is the "Now" sound of polka that appeals now the graphics wizard for the TPN. to young and old alike. It goes on to The current Telstars lineup is say, "The Telstars have 'blasted' into Melvin Barta, keyboards and brass; an orbit of popularity, due to their Bruce Brosch, bass and drums; Greg versatility. Their performances include Machac on drums, accordion, and music from the old-time province bass; Ronnie Machac on lead guitar; of Bohemia to excellent County and Mike Brinkmeyer on steel guitar; Western music." and Leo Kopecky on vocals and The second LP was called The saxophones. All members take turns Telstars Do It Their Way and features on the vocals and harmonize vocally cover art and musically as only folks who have a la Yellow been playing together for decades can. The band plays annual events such Submarine. as the Toys for Tots Dance at the KC No polka Hall in Houston, and the Valentine's on this one. Telstars are usually in the music lineup for Gedenke in Weimar, like this appearance in 2013. Day Dance at the VFW in Tomball. Country (L-R): Bruce Brosch, Melvin Barta, Ronnie Machac, Greg Machac, Leo Kopecky, and Mike tunes, plus Brinkmeyer. Bruce and Greg also play in the band Texavia with Mark Halata./Parker photo This year's dance is on Sat., Feb. 13. Visit The Telstars’ Facebook page or Doobie belt driven system of ceiling fans band since 1977. When he was 10, his check the listings in this paper to see Brothers hundreds of times. At each of these mother bought him an Olds trumpet where this still up-and-coming band and Lynyrd Skynryd covers. Glenn venues crowds of 800 to 1000 fans which he stills plays to this day. He will be going to the next party. Gaertner of KVLG Radio described showed up. got his inspiration from his father, the band members in the back cover Two brothers, Ronnie and Greg Julius, who played trumpet with ORBIT OF POPULARITY notes, "Leo can sing anything on any Machac, both of whom had been the Adolph Falke Orchestra and The Telstars given day, a talker, a listener. Royce playing with Jimmy Brosch and His Claude Marty, local school band and recorded is a performer first, wide vocal range Happy Country Boys along with their musician. Melvin had been previously two albums of perfection, a thinker. Bobby is a father, Paul Machac, had grown up performing in Wildfire and Wild in the 1970s drummer topnotch, has perfect timing surrounded by the sounds of family West, local country flavored bands. at Ray (I set my watch by him once), a friend. members playing music including Bruce Brosch, son of the legendary Doggett Ronnie is a picker, a grinner, a slide their mother who played accordion. Jimmy Brosch, shared the stage with Studio in guitar genius, entertainment. Leroy Both brothers started playing Ronnie and Greg, from infancy. Greg Houston. on electric bass guitar is one of the professionally at the age of 12. Ronnie said they were both in diapers in the The first best, a musician." has kept The Telstars sounding great wings of the stage as their parents over the decades by owning his own were performing. Growing up in speaker repair business and currently the band meant learning to master plays fiddle, bass and lead guitars. To provide a fuller sound, Mike Photo from Dancetown Facebook page. Brinkmeyer was brought in along with his steel guitar in the mid 1970s. Mike, back in high school, learned the six-string guitar, and fell in with a friend’s country garage band. They decided that they needed a steel guitar to make them sound better so Mike ANNUAL NEW YEAR'S PARTY bought one and taught himself to play. He, like other Telstars, went straight with music by the Dujka Brothers - Saturday, Jan. 2 from jamming in a garage to playing 8p-midnight | Moulton KC Hall (200 Nelson St.) honky-tonks and dancehalls. The legendary Buddy Emmons was Mike’s Open to the public 7:30pm | $8 admission donation idol and loves making his steel cry out Silent Auction • Door Prizes those notes. Melvin Barta, keyboards and South Texas Wheel Spinners & Crank Twisters Info: 361-772-4619 trumpet, has been playing with the Page 10 Texas Polka News - January 2016

Continuing with more 'Best Of' from our staff, with these events from November and December.

Gary McKee photos - top row: Elana James performs with her band, Hot Club of Cowtown, at the Second Annual Festival of Texas Fiddling at La Bahia Turn Verein Hall in Burton. Bob and Joan Potter at Ellinger Polka Fest. Gene and Rosie Giesie in Ellinger. The Blackmons in Ellinger. Angie Livanec and Jim Krause at KULP Polka Expo in New Taiton. KULP staff: Frank Milder, Ricki Johansen, Courtney Gomez, Drew Wilson, Clinto Robinson, and station owner Stephen Zetsche. Paul and Helen Flessner celebrated their anniversary at the KULP Expo. Opposite page: Joyce Rybak dances with Mark Halata at the Moravia Store Christmas party. Ennis Czech Boy Jerry Petter says he has won many an ugly Christmas sweater contest. Mark and Ashley Hermes enjoy some down time at the Moravia Store after the TCHCC Czech Band Gala. Julie Matus photo - Kristinka Rybak tells Santa what she wants for Christmas while Daddy Chris provides the music at the Tomball German Christmas Market. Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 11

SPJST Lodge #88

Details Save the Date! FREE Public Dance Coming Soon! Saturday, May 14, 2016 Goodtime Polka & Waltz Dance Club Eagles Hall - New Braunfels Guests welcome. Memberships Memberships/info: 830-660-4866, Available 830-660-0437 Sunday, Jan. 9 3-7 pm Litt'l Fishermen New Braunfels Dance to polkas, waltzes, country, big band on great wood floor. Nine dances/year Sat nights or Sun afternoons. 257 E. South St. From S. Seguin Ave., turn right (east) on San Antonio St. (at the square). Turn left on S. Union. Take first right on E. South St. Page 12 Texas Polka News - January 2016 DANCES - FESTIVALS - EVENTS - LIVE MUSIC Friday, January 1 HOUSTON: German Singing 7:30-11:30P Saturday, January 16 BRADY: New Year’s Day Dance @ Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P WEBSTER: Kenny James @ Alpine GRANGER: Jody Nix @ Cotton Heart of Texas Events Center HOUSTON: Houston Accordion Brauhaus, 6-9P Club, 9P-1A Justin Trevino, Johnny Bush, Association Jam @ Son Nam HOUSTON: Lost Cause @ SPJST 8P-12A Vietnamese Restaurant, 2903 Sunday, January 10 Lodge 88, 8-11:30P (Ad p. 17) EAGLE LAKE: Charles/Fab 4 @ Woodridge @ Winkler, 6:30P ELGIN: Mark Halata/Texavia @ LIBERTY: Liberty Opry on the Community Center, 7:30-10:30P SPJST Lodge 18, 3-7P (Ad p. 15) Square – 50s & 60s, 7P Wednesday, January 6 GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz NAVASOTA: Billy Mata @ Western Saturday, January 2 FLATONIA: Mike Stroup @ Red @ Cotton Club, 5-10P Club, 8:30P GATESVILLE: Spur City Rounders @ Vault Bistro, 7-9P HOUSTON: East River @ VFW PROCTOR: Jason Roberts @ The VFW, 8P SAN ANTONIO: Country #10352, 2-6P (Ad, p. 20) River Club, 8:30P GOLIAD: Aaron Watson @ Tradition @ Martinez Social Club, NEW BRAUNFELS: Litt’l Fishermen VICTORIA: Red Ravens @ Da Costa Schroeder Hall, 8P-1A 7:30-10:30P (Goodtime Club) @ Eagles Hall, Hermann Sons, 8:30P-12A GRANGER: Kenny Orts @ Cotton SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ 3-7P (Ad p. 11) WALLIS: This Is It! @ American Club, 9P-1A Sengelmann Hall, 7P SAN ANTONIO: Countrymen @ Legion, 8-11:30P GRANGER: Battle Dance – All Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P WEBSTER: Kenny James @ Alpine Around Czechs, Moravians @ Thursday, January 7 SEALY: PoLK of A Dance – Fritz Brauhaus, 6-9P Sts. Cyril/Methodius Rec Center, AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Hodde/Fab 6, 2-6P 7P-12A Austin Cajun Aces @ Cypress Grill, Sunday, January 17 HOUSTON: Das Ist Lustig @ Rudi 6:30-8:30P Monday, January 11 ELGIN: Glen Collins @ SPJST Lechner’s, 6-10P BASTROP: Farm Street Opry @ AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Lodge 18, 3-7P (Ad p. 15) MOULTON: South Texas Wheel Bastrop Convention Center, 7P Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz Spinners/Crank Twisters New EL CAMPO: Gravel Road @ Cafe, 6:30-8:30P @ Cotton Club, 5-10P Year’s Party - Dujka Brothers @ KC American Legion, 7:30-10P (Ad p. HOUSTON: Texas Roadrunners @ Hall, 7:30P (Ad, p. 9) 22) Tuesday, January 12 HOUSTON VFW #10352, 2-6P (Ad p. 20) NEW BADEN: New Baden THE WOODLANDS: Glenn : German Singing HOUSTON: Cajun Music Jam & Jamboree @ Community Center, Lenderman (60+ Dance Club) @ S. Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P YOAKUM Dance - Steve Bing/Bayou Hotshots 6-10P County Community Center, 6:30- : Yoakum Country Music @ Pizza Inn (Mangum & 18th), SAN ANTONIO: Off the Grid @ 9:30P USA @ Community Center, 7-10P 6-8:30P Pearl Farmers Market, 10A-Noon SAN ANTONIO: Jim Bolado @ WEBSTER: Kenny James @ Alpine Friday, January 8 Wednesday, January 13 GOLIAD SAN ANTONIO: Vernon Doege @ Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P Brauhaus, 6-9P : Tommy Elskes @ SEATON (Temple): Jerry Haisler/ Schroeder Hall, 6P Martinez Social Club, 7:30-10:30P GRANGER SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ Melody 5 @ Sefcik Hall, 6-10P Sunday, January 3 : Sydney Michele @ SHELBY: Big 3 Polka Fest – Red AUSTIN: Jason Roberts @ Little Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A Sengelmann Hall, 7P SEGUIN Ravens, Central Texas Sounds, Longhorn Saloon, 4-8P : Charles/Fab 4 @ Silver Fritz Hodde/Fab 6 @ Harmonie GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz Center, 7:30-11P Thursday, January 14 DRIPPING SPRINGS (Austin): Hall, 1-7P (Ad p. 8) @ Cotton Club, 5-10P SWEET HOME: Charles/Fab 4 @ HOUSTON: Loose Change @ VFW Saturday, January 9 Charles Thibodeaux/Austin Cajun AUSTIN: Off the Grid @ Callahans Aces @ Hudson’s on Mercer, 7-10P Community Center, 2-6P #10352, 2-6P (Ad, p. 20) EL CAMPO ROSENBERG: Battle Dance @ General Store, 12-3P : Charles/Fab 4 @ BOERNE American Legion, 7:30-10P (Ad p. Monday, January 18 American Legion - Red Ravens, : Billy Mata @ Kendall AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ County Fairgrounds, TBA 22) Texas Sound Check, 2-7P GIDDINGS Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline SAN ANTONIO: Bimbo/Borderline FRENSTAT: Red Ravens @ Holy : Lone Star Opry @ Giddings High School, 7:30P Cafe, 6:30-8:30P @ Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P Rosary Rec Center, 7-10P LA GRANGE GRANGER : Fayette County : People’s Choice @ Country Opry @ KC Hall, 7:30P Monday, January 4 Cotton Club, 9P-1A Friday, January 15 AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ HOUSTON: Charlie Prause Band @ AUSTIN: Jason Roberts @ Broken Tuesday, January 19 Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline SPJST Lodge 88, 8-11:30P (Ad p. 17) Spoke, 9:30P-1A HOUSTON: German Singing LIBERTY Cafe, 6:30-8:30P : Liberty Opry on the CONROE: Grateful Geezers (60+ Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P GIDDINGS: Lone Star Opry @ Square – Gospel, 2P Dance Club) @ Conroe Activity HOUSTON ROSENBERG: Fritz Hodde/Fab 6 : Houston Accordion Giddings High School, 7:30P Center, 6:30-10P Association Jam @ Pizza Inn on (Happy Cousins Club) @ American GRANGER: Texas Family Tradition Tuesday, January 5 Legion, 8-11:30P Mangum & 18th, 6P GERONIMO: The Gathering Music SAN ANTONIO: John Botter/Cher @ Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A SEABROOK: Mike Gest/Night Show @ VFW, 7P La-Bas (CFMA) @ Hermann Sons, Session @ Bay Area Community Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 13 DANCES - FESTIVALS - EVENTS - LIVE MUSIC

Center, 7-10P GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz Sunnyside Saloon, 8P-12A American Legion, 7:30-10P WACO: Spur City Rounders @ Sul @ Cotton Club, 5-10P GOLIAD: Oak Ridge Boys @ (Ad p. 22) Ross, 7P HOUSTON: Country Jim/Allstars Schroeder Hall, 8P MISSION: Squeezebox @ Bentsen Wednesday, January 20 @ VFW #10352, 2-6P (Ad, p. 20) GRANGER: Scooter Dubec @ Grove, 7P (Ad p. 22) AUSTIN: Don Walser Tribute – SAN ANTONIO: Jim Byrom @ Cotton Club, 9P-1A THE WOODLANDS: Mike Gest/ Jason Roberts w/Pure Texas Band, Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P LIBERTY: Liberty Opry on the Night Session (60+ Dance Club) 9:30P Square – Specialty – 7P @ S. County Community Center, FLATONIA: Mike Stroup @ Red Monday, January 25 SAN ANTONIO: Off the Grid @ 6:30-9:30P Vault Bistro, 7-9P AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Pearl Farmers Market, 10A-Noon TOMBALL: Alex Meixner @ Main SAN ANTONIO: Most Wanted @ Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline WEBSTER: Kenny James @ Alpine Street Crossing, 8P (Ad p. 11) Martinez Social Club, 7:30-10:30P Cafe, 6:30-8:30P Brauhaus, 6-9P SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ SHELBY: Four County Opry @ Friday, February 5 Sengelmann Hall, 7P American Legion, 6:30P Sunday, January 31 EAGLE LAKE: Lazy Farmers @ Thursday, January 21 AUSTIN: Jason Roberts @ Little Community Center, 7:30-10:30P Tuesday, January 26 Longhorn Saloon, 4-8P ENNIS: Alex Meixner @ KJT Hall, BRENHAM: Bluebonnet Opry @ EDNA: Flag City Opry @ Jackson GERONIMO: Charles/Fab 4 @ 7:30-11P (Ad p. 11) Silver Wings Ballroom, 7P County Services Building, 7P BUDA: Off the Grid @ Onion Creek VFW, 3-6:30P GRANGER: The Pearl Snaps @ HOUSTON: German Singing Seniors Open Dance, 6-9P GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P COLORADO CITY (near Big @ Cotton Club, 5-10P MISSION: Squeezebox @ Mission NEW BRAUNFELS: Comal Country Spring): C City Opry, 7P HOUSTON: Texas Ramblers @ Bell RV Resort, 7-10P (Ad p. 22) EL CAMPO: Czechmates @ Music Show @ KC Hall, 7:30P VFW #10352, 2-6P (Ad p. 20) American Legion, 7:30-10P (Ad p. SAN ANTONIO: San Antonio NEW TAITON Saturday, February 6 22) : El Campo Polka Accordion Assoc. Meeting, 6P Fest – Red Ravens, Leo Majek AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Friday, January 22 @ Chester’s Hamburgers, NE Orchestra, Fritz Hodde/Fab 6 @ Austin Cajun Aces @ Callahans CONROE: Glenn Lenderman (60+ Loop 410 between Nacogdoches & Taiton Community Center, 1-7P General Store, 12-4P Dance Club) @ Conroe Activity Broadway (Ad p. 7) AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Center, 6:30-10P SAN ANTONIO: SA Country @ Austin Cajun Aces @ Central GRANGER: Clay Caster Debut Wednesday, January 27 Market North, 6:30-9P HOUSTON: Steve Bing/Bayou Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P Dance @ Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A GATESVILLE: Spur City Rounders @ Hotshots @ Happy Fatz Restaurant Monday, February 1 VFW, 8P Saturday, January 23 (Heights), 7-9P AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ GRANGER: People’s Choice @ EL CAMPO: Charles/Fab 4 @ SAN ANTONIO: Bimbo/Borderline Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline Cotton Club, 9P-1A Sunnyside Saloon, 7-11P @ Martinez Social Club, 7:30- Cafe, 6:30-8:30P GRANGER: Squeezebox @ Sts. FAYETTEVILLE: Lost Cause @ Heh 10:30P Cyril/Methodius Rec Center, 6-10P Remember When, 7:30-11:30P SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ Tuesday, February 2 (Ad p. 22) GRANGER: Debonaires @ Cotton Sengelmann Hall, 7P HOUSTON: German Singing LIBERTY: Liberty Opry on the Club, 9P-1A Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P HOUSTON: Cajun Souls & Friends Thursday, January 28 Square – Gospel, 2P @ KC Hall #2917, 7:30-11:30P (Ad EL CAMPO: Odessa @ American Wednesday, February 3 YOAKUM: Los Kolaches (Pearl p. 20) Legion, 7:30-10P (Ad p. 22) HALLETTSVILLE: Squeezebox @ KC City Club) @ Turner Hall, 8P-12A LIBERTY: Liberty Opry on the Friday, January 29 Hall, 7-10P (Ad p. 22) Sunday, February 7 Square – Country Western, 7P CONROE: Texas Roadrunners (60+ SAN ANTONIO: Rex McNeil @ AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ SAN ANTONIO: Bobby Flores @ Dance Club) @ Conroe Activity Martinez Social Club, 7:30-10:30P Austin Cajun Aces @ The Leon Springs Dance Hall, 8:15- Center, 6:30-10P SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ Continental Club, 3:30-6:30P GRANGER: Out of the Blue @ 11:45P Sengelmann Hall, 7P HOUSTON: East River @ VFW WEBSTER: Kenny James @ Alpine Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A Thursday, February 4 #10352, 2-6P (Ad p. 20) Brauhaus, 6-9P Saturday, January 30 HOUSTON: International AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Sunday, January 24 AUSTIN: Billy Mata @ Broken Austin Cajun Aces @ Cypress Grill, Polka Association Fundraiser – CORPUS CHRISTI: San Antonio Spoke, 9:30P 6:30-8:30P Squeezebox @ SPJST Lodge 88, Combo @ Sokol Hall, 4-7P EL CAMPO: Lost Cause @ EL CAMPO: Texas Mavericks @ 1-4P (Ad p. 5) Page 14 Texas Polka News - January 2016 DANCES - FESTIVALS - EVENTS - LIVE MUSIC

SAN ANTONIO: Country Polka On! Pre-Party - Out of the FEBRUARY 5-7 KC Hall, Hallettsville, Texas Tradition @ Martinez Social Club, Box Band @ Sokol Clubroom, Illinois PolkaFest 28 361-798-2311 / kchall.com 3-6:30P 6-11P (Ad p. 6) Hyatt Regency, Schaumburg, IL MARCH 26 FORT WORTH 815-514-4041 / primetimepolkas.com Monday, February 8 : Jason Roberts @ 3rd Annual Sausage Festival Lil’ Reds Longhorn Saloon, AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ FEBRUARY 8-11 Schulenburg, Texas Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline 9:15P-1A 25th Annual Southwest 866-504-5294 GRANGER Cafe, 6:30-8:30P : Scooter Dubec @ Polka Party schulenburgsausagefest.com Cotton Club, 8:30P-12A The Orleans Hotel, Las Vegas Tuesday, February 9 701-367-9696 / southwestpolka.com APRIL 1-3 AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Saturday, February 13 Tomball German Heritage CANTON Austin Cajun Aces @ All Saints : 8th Western Swing FEBRUARY 11-13 Festival Valentine Party @ Civic Center - 8th Annual Western Swing Tomball, Texas / 281-379-6844 Episcopal Church, 3:30-6P Billy Mata/Texas Tradition, Jason AUSTIN: Charles Thibodeaux/ Valentine Party tomballgermanfest.org Roberts Band, Noon-10P Civic Center, Canton, Texas Austin Cajun Aces @ Evangeline ENNIS : 10th Czech Music Fest 903-245-6300 or 903-567-0575 APRIL 9 Cafe, 7:30-9:30P @ Sokol Hall, 1-10:30P - Czech Annual Crawfish & Shrimp Boil HOUSTON: German Singing Harvesters, Jodie Mikula FEBRUARY 12-13 Society @ Liederkranz Hall, 7P Orchestra, Czech & Then Some, Anhalt, Texas 10th Czech Music Festival 210-355-1157 / anhalthall.com NEW BRAUNFELS: Fat Tuesday – Moravians, Ennis Czech Boys (Ad Sokol Hall, Ennis, Texas p. 6) Alex Meixner @ Brauntex Theater, 972-878-4748 / ennisczechmusicfest.com APRIL 16-17 7:30-9:30P (Ad p. 11) GRANGER: Kenny Orts @ Cotton Club, 9P-1A 27th Annual Cotton Gin Festival FEBRUARY 27 Burton, Texas Wednesday, February 10 ROSENBERG: Texas Sound Check 31st Annual Polka Fest SAN ANTONIO: Countrymen @ (Happy Cousins Club) @ American cottonginmuseum.org Legion, 8-11:30P Sokol Hall, Corpus Christi, Texas Martinez Social Club, 7:30-10:30P 361-960-3220 APRIL 22-24 SCHULENBURG: Pettit Brothers @ TOMBALL: Annual Valentine’s Dance w/The Telstars @ VFW, 8P 41st Annual Germanfest Sengelmann Hall, 7P MARCH 5-6 Muenster, Texas Arizona PoLK of A Music Fest Thursday, February 11 Sunday, February 14 940-759-2227 / muensterchamber.com ELGIN: Dujka Brothers @ SPJST Fountain of the Sun, Mesa, Arizona CANTON: 8th Western Swing 701-270-8197 APRIL 22-24 Valentine Party @ Civic Center - Lodge 18, 3-7P (Ad p. 15) GRANGER: Can’t Hardly Playboyz MARCH 6 5th Annual Wisconsin Dells Justin Trevino/Amber Digby, Hoss Polka Fest Huggins/Ponderosa Band, Noon- @ Cotton Club, 5-10P Bexar County Czech Heritage HOUSTON: Detour @ VFW Society Dance Chula Vista Resort 10P dellspolkafest.com DRIPPING SPRINGS (Austin): #10352, 2-6P (Ad, p. 20) Martinez Social Club, San Antonio NEW BRAUNFELS 210-648-2681 Charles Thibodeaux/Austin Cajun : Barefoot Becky MAY 6-8 (Goodtime Club) @ Eagles Hall, Aces @ Hudson’s on Mercer, 7-10P 126th Annual Maifest 3-7P (Ad p. 18) MARCH 10-13 EL CAMPO: Charlie Merta @ Brenham, Texas SAN ANTONIO Best Little Cowboy Gathering American Legion, 7:30-10P : Jim Byrom @ maifest.org Martinez Social Club, 3-6:30P in Texas (Ad p. 22) Fayette County Fairgrounds, SEATON (Temple): Jerry Haisler/ MAY 26-29 Melody 5 @ Sefcik Hall, 6-10P La Grange / 979-702-0086 Friday, February 12 bestlittlecowboygathering.org 22nd Polka Fest @ Larry Olsen CANTON: 8th Western Swing Farm / Lake Benton, MN Valentine Party @ Civic Center MARCH 18-20 larryolsenband.com - Jeff Woolsey/Dancehall Kings, Mardi Gras Polka Fest 2016 International Dance Club MAY 27-29 Bobby Flores/Yellow Rose Band, 50th National Polka Festival Noon-10P U.S. Music Events Colorado Springs, Colorado 719-598-2311 Ennis, Texas CONROE: JEM Dandy Legends nationalpolkafestival.com (60+ Dance Club) @ Conroe internationaldanceclub.org Add a dance/festival: Activity Center, 6:30-10P MARCH 18-20 [email protected] Go to PolkaBeat. ENNIS Check polkabeat.com for complete : Ennis Czech Music Fest South Texas Polka & Sausage Fest com every week for updates. listing of Texas/U.S. festivals Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 15

Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center Genealogy Library Reception Hall Mike’s Texas Polkas Period Houses Amphitheater Celebrating 13 years of Continuous Museum Exhibits broadcasting on Polkas Gift Shop - Featuring Many Things CZECH! Waltzes Cajun Variety of music CDs * Cookbooks * Books * Kolace candles Czech crystal * Garnet/Czech crystal jewelry * Aprons * Wooden toys Tejano Accordions * Baby bibs * T-shirts * Rosaries * Czech multicolored blown- glass and painted-egg ornaments * Czech magnets * Czech greeting cards And more!

250 W. Fairgrounds Road La Grange, Texas www.live365.com/stations/hungerfordmike czechtexas.org [email protected] 979-968-9399 1-888-785-4500 Mike Konvicka, Hungerford Texas, 979-532-3117 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-4 p.m. / Sat 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Email: [email protected] Danny Zapletal invites you to listen every Saturday 1-3 p.m.

Czech Polka 1 p.m. central Texas Czech Polka 2 p.m. central Contact information: Danny Zapletal, 6635 FM 879 Ennis, TX 75119 [email protected]

SPJST #18 Hall www.wrjqradio.com DANCEHALL Elgin, TX SOUNDS Sunday, 3-7 pm / $8 MUSICAL Kitchen Open Award-Winning VARIETY DJ Allen Pollard January for the Brings you traditional 10 Mark Halata/Texavia BUTTON BOX recorded country dance music 17 Glen Collins Learn Polka, Waltz, Schottische, Two-step, polka, waltz & February 2-Step, Latin, Swing specialty dances 14 Dujka Brothers - Chord stamp method books and cassettes Polka music on your Available for your next 21 Barefoot Becky - Easy to read, for 3 & 4 row accordions computer 24 hours a day public or private dance party 28 Glen Collins - For beginning thru advanced students 361-459-4033 - Internet instruction available [email protected] 702 Hwy 95 N / 512-281-3711 Plus many LIVE and Send for flyer. Marge Ford - pre-recorded shows Old Time Music Co. P.O. Box 92294 Anchorage, AK 99509 247POLKAHEAVEN.COM 907-561-6862 l [email protected] www.polkajammernetwork.org POLKA Polkas Free Catalog KBEC Polka Party MUSIC 24/7 with Danny Zapletal Sundays 9-11 a.m. Your Favorite Listen online @ kbec.com Music & Shows January Send your requests for birthdays, 17 Charles/Fabulous 4 anniversaries & other celebrations Log on to the World’s * CDs Contact us to Most Listened to [email protected] Polka Network Check website for * DVDs today! more 2016 dates.

2-6 pm $8 unless otherwise noted. Call Toll Free (866) 901-6138 Advertise in the Texas Polka News 348 CR 391E SweetHomeHall.com Page 16 Texas Polka News - January 2016 Po. L.K. of A. Texas

By Clinton Ellebracht, President

As I come to the end of my term as the president I look back and wonder Willie Bohuslav, PLCTM President, and Clinton Ellebracht, PoLK of A President, where the time went. It has been a welcomed everyone./Bill Bishop photo great pleasure to serve three years but the time has come to turn this office over to someone else. There are so many highlights that room does About 150 people attended the 10th Annual Memorial Service on Nov. 21. The day included a polka Mass, video presentation, turkey dinner, and dance with Texas Sound Check./Earline not allow me to recall them all. I will Berger Okruhlik photo mention a few that stand out. The relationship between the News has been important to the as publisher and John (and Marlys) office of president and Texas Polka Klub's success. First with Marie Tupa Rivard as editor, this continued when Theresa Parker bought the publication. Theresa as publisher and Sunday, Jan. 10 Gary McKee as editor have supported General Membership the Klub well in their coverage. Dorothy Ellebracht and Delores Schulte made The Klub awarded plaques to excellent greeters./Berger Okruhlik photo Meeting & Dance people who promoted polka music Sealy American Legion Po. L. K. of A. Fritz Hodde/Fab 6 through their careers. These included 11:30 am meeting/2 pm dance the Dujka Brothers for 25 years, Fritz TEXAS CHAPTER Hodde and Al Sulak for 50 years, and Alfred Varzel for his induction Sunday, Feb. 21 into the IPA Music Hall of Fame. Klub Fundraiser Current policy is to give awards to Wallis American Legion individuals on their 25th and 50th Red Ravens 2-6 pm anniversaries or other outstanding accomplishments. Polka Lovers Klub of America We also honored John Rivard and Annual Dues: Couple $24 / Single $12 Klub newsletter 2 times/year, 2 free dances/year, parade float, scholarships, support of Marie Tupa with plaques for their polka organizations, shared activities w/Polka Lovers Club of Texas Musuem contribution through the Texas Polka Lucille and Rudy Antrich enjoyed the dance./ For more info: polkabeat.com/polk-of-a-texas-chapter-i News. Gary E. McKee photo Clinton Ellebracht, President, 830-302-9667 An additional achievement was a Kathy Cernosek, Membership Secretary, 281-471-7672 closer working relationship between and active. the Klub and The Polka Lovers Club Dorothy and I both appreciate the of Texas Museum. The museum is opportunity to serve the Klub and the the keeper of all PoLK of A records support shown to us as Sunshine Lady Monarch along with showcasing its history. and President. Also, this year the Memorial Service I urge everyone who loves their for deceased members of both heritage, that includes polka music, Printing organizations was co-sponsored by to consider joining the Texas Chapter For the Finest in the Klub. of PoLKofA. Also, I remind members Quality Printing The Klub was fortunate to to attend the General Meeting on in the Houston area have such a dedicated board that January 10th at the American Legion always had the interest of all of the Hall in Sealy. The free dance starts at membership in mind in making 2 pm, and is open to the public, with Evelyn & Larry Maresh 6605 McGrew, Houston, 77087 decisions. I thank them for their Fritz Hodde and the Fabulous Six Owners & Polka Promoters 713-645-2845 dedication to keep the Klub strong providing the music. Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 17 in Galveston; playing Houston dance Remembering halls like Bill Mraz, the Shamrock; standing gigs with Lodge 88; plus Clarence Baca several radio appearances. Clarence Baca, 95, passed away on Clarence lived a life full of family, November 30, 2015. Clarence was music, and dancing. He danced to his born on February 9, 1920, to John R. favorites at his 95th birthday party at and Marie Lodge 88. He passed away peacefully (Zelesky) surrounded by family with his polka Baca in music playing. He was remembered Fayetteville for autographing CDs with "Keep where his dancing the Polka!" – Clarence Baca. parents He was preceded in death by operated his wife of 20 years, Lou Wernli a grocery Baca (who passed away in October store. 2015), his parents, John and Marie Following Baca, his brother Lee Edward Baca, the long and his first wife of 49 years, Pasty. standing Surviving relatives include sister, That's Clarence on drums in the John R. Baca Band./Baca Family Photo family Rose Marie Baca Rohde and husband, tradition of music, he learned the Jim, of Fayetteville; stepchildren, Wanna dance?” That became the Concert Band at age 90 during Czech drums. Clarence joined his father's Russell Wernli and wife, Joni; Cheryl standard. I knew when I saw Clarence Day. His last public performance. band, the John R. Baca Band, and Wernli Angell and husband, Steve; at the Lodge that he was going to As I approached Clarence’s coffin played his first paid job at age 13. Mark Wernli and wife, Lee; and move his walker aside, give me a kiss, at the funeral service, polka music He fondly remembered getting paid Troy Wernli and wife, Karen; and grab my hands, and lead me to the playing and tons of photos flashing a 25 cents for the gig. This was the several grandchildren and great floor to dance. wonderful life filled with music and beginning of his love for polka music grandchildren. I also had the privilege of a loving family, I could not suppress for the rest of his life. Clarence requested that donations interviewing Clarence for a chapter this huge smile, then tears of joy. He graduated from Fayetteville be made in his memory to the on his band and his family’s band in There was Clarence in a Texas A&M High School in 1939 with a class of 20 Fayetteville Museum, SPJST Museum the book Jimmy Brosch Remembers shirt, the vest he always wore when and was proud to have attended Texas in Temple, or SPJST Lodge 88. Twenty Legendary Czech Bands. leading his band, his drumsticks, and A&M University. We pored over stacks of keepsakes, a Polka On! button. I had no doubt he His college career was interrupted THANKS FOR THE DANCE! records, and photos, as he told stories was reuniting with his buddy, Jimmy by the war so Clarence never received I first met Clarence at Lodge 88, about playing the music he loved. The Brosch, in heaven, breaking into Corn his Aggie ring, but was one of the probably when he was about 89 years chapter includes a photo of Clarence Cockle Polka once again. - Theresa most devout Aggies you would ever old. His response, “Nice to meet you. playing the drums with the Lodge 88 Parker meet. He worked in Todd's Shipyards in Houston, then joined the Navy in It's time to dance! 1943. His LST was hit by a kamikaze in the Pacific an experience he felt very fortunate to have survived Chandelier Ballroom and remained in contact with other surviving shipmates for many years. SPJST Lodge 88 Returning to civilian life, Clarence began a 37-year career with the United 1435 Beall Street States Post Office, while continuing Houston 77008 to play with the John R. Baca Band. Clarence began his own band in 1960, Sat., Jan. 9 Charlie Prause Band Big Band (Dress Code) $15 playing until 1998. Clarence, along Sat., Jan. 16 Lost Cause Polka/Variety $10 with Maurice Hafrnik and Raymond Sat., Feb. 6 Moonglow Orchestra Big Band (Dress Code) $15 Zapatel, formed the first SPJST Lodge Sun., Feb. 7 SqueezeBox Polka/Variety 1-4 pm 88 Concert Band in Houston. Super Bowl Polka Party Fundraiser (see ad, p. 4 for details) High points in his career include four recordings (Corn Cockle Polka, Farmer's Waltz, Grasshopper Polka, Dances 8-11:30 pm unless otherwise noted. All dances are open to public and singles welcome. and Baca's Waltz); playing the Rice Clarence and I danced at his 95th birthday party Hotel in Houston and The Buccaneer at Lodge 88 in February./Alec Seegers photo 713-869-5767 / lodge88.org Page 18 Texas Polka News - January 2016 Vrazel, Majeks Honored at Gala It was truly a Cameron homecoming at the 6th Annual Gala Honoring Czech Bands, hosted by the Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center, on Sat., Dec. 5, in La Grange. The Vrazel and Majek families from Czechoslovakia settled in the Cameron/Temple area of Texas. Alfred Vrazel recalled the families knew each other well. "On the Feast of St. Joseph, I remember Leo Majek Sr., coming by to visit with my father L-R: Alfred Vrazel, Retta Chandler, and the Majeks - Jerry, Martha, Heidi, Justin, Jerome, Michael, Randy, Mark, and in the front row, Austin and to have a pivo or two," he told the gala Lauren./Gary E. McKee photo attendees. KMIL in Cameron. presented each with a brick that will The Majek family moved to The Czechaholics provided be installed on the center's Walk Corpus Christi in the 1930s and the music for the gala evening, of Fame, joining past recipients continued the orchestra that Leo Sr. and band members Mark Hermes such as The Hi-Toppers, Joe Patek had started in the old country. Majeks (also director of TCHCC) and Band, Baca Family Band, Bill Mraz have been making polka music for Brian Svetlik compiled special Orchestra, and many more. 118 years, and there is no end in site recordings of Alfred's radio show, as the fifth generation has joined the Vrazels Band recordings, and Leo band. Alfred was honored for having Majek Sr. Orchestra recordings for been inducted into the International the presentations. TCHCC Board Jerry and Martha Majek./McKee photo Polka Association Hall of Fame for his President Retta Chandler introduced 60 years as DJ of his polka show on the honorees and their guests, and

Barefoot Becky & The Ivanhoe Dutchmen Winter Tour Schedule - 2016 TEXAS Sun Feb 14 – Eagles Hall 257 E South St., New Braunfels, TX 3-7pm Info: 830-626-3303 Mon Feb 15 – Mission Bell 1711 E Bus Hwy 83, Mission, TX 7-10pm Info: 956-585-4833 Bernice and Alfred on the dance floor./Parker photo Alfred and daughter, Cindy, lead the crowd in A Ja Sam./Patsy Polasek photo Tues Feb 16 – Victoria Palms Resort 602 N Victoria Rd., Donna, TX 7-10pm Info: 956-464-7801 Thurs Feb 18 – Riverside Club 214 E Chimney Rd., Mission, TX 2-6pm Info: 956-581-1033 Fri Feb 19 – Pharr South Park 1402 S Cage, Pharr, TX 7-10pm Info: 956-787-7839 Sat Feb 20 – SPJST Lodge #88/Chandelier Ballroom 1435 Beall St., Houston, TX 8-11:30pm For More Information: 713-869-5767 or 713-861-0223 Sun Feb 21 – Elgin SPJST #18/Stardust Ballroom 702 Hwy 95 N., Elgin, TX 3-7pm

BECKY LIVERMORE Also touring KANSAS, COLORADO, 1257 IVANHOE RD ARIZONA & LAS VEGAS, NV MT VERNON, IA 52314 See BareFootBecky.com for complete schedule. 877-499-7133 [email protected] ALL ALLDANCES DANCES ARE WITH BareFootBecky.com ARE WITH THE FULL THE5 FULLPIECE BAND! 5 PIECE BAND! Hon. Czech Consul Brian Vanicek, Nancy Braus, and Joan Vanicek./Parker photo Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 19

Wurstfest! Top row: Shiner Hobo David Kocurek/Berger Okruhlik photo; Patrick Hoffman/McKee photo; Gator/McKee photo. Second row: Alex Meixner/Julie Matus photo; Shiner Hobo Laddie Kurtz and friends/McKee photo. Third row: Die Bayrische 7 leader/McKee photo; Cheryl Cypert, Pam Murdoch, and Valina Polka/ McKee photo; Mollie B and Lisa Barr/ Karen Williams photo; Mollie and Ted/ Williams photo. Fourth row: Jimmy Sturr/ Williams photo; Ed and Marlene Kadlecek and granddaughter, Jayde Ferlet; Gene Hackemack/Theresa Parker photo. Page 20 Texas Polka News - January 2016 and Vegas, before arriving in Texas to HOUSTON Festival & Dance play in New Braunfels on Sun., Feb. VFW POST 14. The rest of her tour features stops Notes in Mission, Donna, and Pharr to visit 10352 the snowbirds, then on to Houston, POLKA STARS HEAD SOUTH and Elgin. See ad, p. 18. Sundays The Squeezebox Band, featuring Let’s get out there and show these 2-6 p.m. Mollie B and Ted Lange, will tour hard-working polka stars some Texas Country/Variety love! Dance $7 SUPER POLKA FUN Mollie, Ted, and Alex are betting there January are polka fans in Texas who will come 03 Loose Change out on Super Bowl Sunday to dance, 10 East River Hall of Fame in 2007. Joe Tierney, who drink, and lament the fact there are joined Alex at Wurstfest, will also no Texas teams in the premier sports 17 Texas Roadrunners event of the year. Did I hear you say, 24 Country Jim/Allstars be on this trip, playing sax, clarinet, guitar, and vocals. And on drums, “Hell, yeah!” 31 Texas Ramblers Tom Haller. See ad, p. 11. Squeezebox will be playing Barefoot Becky and the Ivanhoe a dance and fundraiser for the International Polka Association on Dutchmen start their Winter Tour in Super Bowl Sunday at SPJST Lodge 88, 16035 Waverly Drive Arizona through Jan. 17. After the Kansas, head to Colorado, Arizona, from 1-4 pm. "Come on out and learn Houston, TX 77032 All-Star Polka Cruise II with Jimmy about the IPA and its Hall of Fame, Non-Smoking / BYOB Sturr and Mark Halata/Texavia, become a member, and help polka the band heads to Texas for dates in music stay alive and well," Mollie said. 281-443-2023 Hallettsville, Mission to play for their As usual, Alex will be doing snowbird fans, Granger, and Houston a different kind of polka event in WesternDancingGala.com in February. See ad, p. 22. Round Top. The Texas Dance Hall TheAlex Meixner Band begins Documentary Project will present its Texas Tour on Thurs., Feb. 4, Polka Bowl 2016 LIVE at Rifle in Tomball, then heads to Ennis, Hall. You'll have two chances to see Houston, and Round Top to finish the Alex - starting at 12:30 pm, filming weekend before playing a Fat Tuesday will begin as Alex performs Dance concert on Feb. 9, at the Brauntex Hall Days several times for the Theater in New Braunfels. documentary. Dancers are needed for Joining Alex on this tour will be this shoot. Hank Guzevich from the four-time Erik McCowan, film director, said, "Be prepared to hear the song Cajun Dance Houston Grammy-nominated Polka Family 4th Saturday every month over and over again, but you'll be a Band, on trumpet, sax, clarinet, part of the upcoming documentary on 7:30-11:30P and vocals. He is also recognized as KC #2917 Texas dance halls." The shooting will an award-winning composer and take about two hours. January 23 recording engineer/producer, and was Then come back at 5 pm for the Cajun Souls & Friends inducted into the International Polka Polka Bowl as they screen Super Bowl 50 on the biggest screen in Fayette Mardi Gras Fun 625 N. Main, Schulenburg, TX County. Alex will perform live during Children's Washboard & Triangle Playing 979-743-4752 the halftime show. See ad, p. 11. Contests, Umbrella Decorating, Open Thurs, Fri, Sat 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. & Mardi Gras Parade texaspolkamuseum.com CATCH A GOOD TIME Bands of Texas Volume 4 CD The Goodtime Polka and Waltz Club Now Available! invites you to its first dance of the year Dedicated to Museum’s 10th Anniversary on Sun., Jan. 10, at Eagles Hall, from 3-7 pm. The Litt’l Fishermen will The Museum honors Texas Polka Bands of European ancestry - Czech, provide the music. The club hosts nine Wood dance floor, smoke free! German, Polish - and polka DJs. Select from over 75 CDs plus TPMM CD 607 E. Whitney Dr. off Airline collection (Volumes 1-4), Czech song books, TPMM shirts and caps. dances a year on Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons. They welcome all Info: Helen 281-256-3097 For more information contact: Herb Schneider, Home (281) 807-3244, Cell (832) 477-0648 guests and would love to sign up some or Brian Svetlik (979) 541-6166 new members for the new year. To Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 21 learn more about the dance club, call points out there will be children-size from 7 pm-midnight. The Rosenberg 830-660-4866 or 830-660-0437. See washboards available. battle is at the American Legion Hall ad, p. 11. And you won’t want to miss from 2-7 pm. Carpe diem! Polka On! Store the Mardi Gras parade (yes, they’ll THURSDAY IS THE NEW be throwing goodies) and umbrella REALLY BIG SHOW IN PolkaBeat.com decorating. Laissez les bon temps FRIDAY SHELBY CDs, T-shirts, koozies, towels & more! The El Campo Seniors invite you rouler, y’all! See ad, p. 20. The annual Big Three Polka Fest at to go dancing on Thursdays at the Shelby’s Harmonie Hall will be held American Legion Hall from 7:30- NO EXCUSES SUNDAYS Sun., Jan. 17, from 1-7 pm. Dance in 31st ANNUAL 11 pm. January has a great lineup The VFW Hall on Waverly Drive in this great historic hall to the music of with Gravel Road, Charles/Fab Houston wants to help you meet that Red Ravens, Central Texas Sounds, POLKA FEST 4, Czechmates, and Odessa. The New Year’s resolution to be more and Fritz Hodde/Fab 6. See ad, p. 8. February 27, 2016 first dance of the month is always a active. They have five blockbuster Sokol Hall celebration of attendees’ birthdays, dances on Sundays in January. You YELLOW ROSE IN SAN 5502 Kostoryz and the last dance of the month is for can break in those new boots you ANTONE Corpus Christi bringing food to share. (That’s the one got for Christmas AND burn some Bobby Flores & the Yellow Rose Band I would go to!) Singles and all ages are calories. Check out this lineup: will be at Leon Springs Dance Hall on Admission: $10 welcome. See ad, p. 22. Loose Change, East River, Texas Sat., Jan. 23, from 8:15-11:45 pm. See Roadrunners, Country Jim/The ad, this page. Bobby and the band will Band Schedule TEXAVIA IN ELGIN Allstars, and Texas Ramblers. The be in Canton on Thurs., Feb. 12, for 10 am Doors Open Mark Halata and Texavia will head dances are always 2-6 pm. See ad, this the Western Swing Valentine Party, 10:15-11 am...... Sokol Gymnastics farther west than usual to make their page. before heading out on the 6th Annual 11 am-12 pm...... Czechaholics Western Swing Caribbean Cruise on 12-1 pm...... Red Ravens first ever appearance at SPJST Lodge 1-2 pm...... The Majeks 18 on Sun., Jan. 10. Glen Collins will SWEET HOME MYSTERY Feb. 21. 2-3 pm 3 Band Concert make it country time, on Sun., Jan. 17. We know Charles/Fab 4 is playing at 3-3:15 pm...... Grand March Line Up The dances are 3-7 pm, the kitchen is the Sweet Home Community Center POLKA & FRIED GIZZARDS 3:15 pm...... Grand March/Red Ravens open, and the bar is serving ice cold 4:15 pm Raffle Drawing on Sun., Jan. 17, but we don’t have the It has been a winning combo for 28 4:45-5:45 pm...... Czechaholics pivo. See ad, p. 15. lineup for the 10th and 24th. Check years at the El Campo Polka Fest, so 5:45-7 pm...... The Majeks the website sometime after the first to why change anything for the 29th unravel this mystery. See ad, p. 15 . MARDI GRAS MADNESS annual event?!? Get ready to feast and Meals Available for Purchase The Cajun French Music Association fest on Sun., Jan. 31, from 1-7 pm at Sausage, sauerkraut, potatoes, green beans, bread in Houston will host Cajun Souls & CRANK IT UP! the Taiton Community Center. It’s Chicken noodle soup * BBQ beef sandwich Beer, tea & soft drinks (No BYOB) Friends on Sat., Jan. 23, at the KC Okay, so you’ll have one day to rest another Big Three dance-a-thon with Hall on Whitney Drive. This dance Fritz Hodde/Fab 6, Leo Majek up after you party on New Year’s Eve. Raffle Silent Auction Kolaches will be fun for the kids, says CFMA Continued on next page * * Crank it up again on Sat., Jan. 2, in chsSouthTexas.org Prez Helen Pulnik. “We are having Moulton. The South Texas Wheel a contest for washboard and triangle Spinners & Crank Twisters will host playing, and will teach the children the Dujka Brothers at its annual just before the dance starts.” Helen New Year’s Party at the KC Hall. The public is invited to dance, bid on silent Bobby Flores auction items, and win door prizes! See ad, p. 9. Performances

PICK YOUR BATTLE Just as I declared the first battle dance Bobby & Yellow Rose Band of the year to be on Sun., Jan. 3, with Red Ravens and Texas Sound Check in Rosenberg, I got an announcement Saturday, January 23 from The All Around Czechs that 8:15-11:45 pm they will battle The Moravians on Leon Springs Dance Hall Sat., Jan. 2, in Granger. So, that’s 24135 IH 10W San Antonio 78257 officially the first. 210-698-7070 Either way, we all win this battle with great music on Sat. AND Sun. LeonSpringsDanceHall.com The Granger dance will be held at the For more info on Bobby, the band, & his record company, please visit Sts. Cyril & Methodius Rec Center BobbyFlores.com and YellowRoseRecords.com Page 22 Texas Polka News - January 2016 Senior Citizen Festival & Dance Dancers Every Thursday Notes 7:30-10 p.m. Continued from page 21 El Campo Orchestra, and Red Ravens. You’ll A variety of music! want to be sure to be there from 4-4:30 pm for the three-band concert. January BTW: I checked with Weight Watchers 7 Gravel Road (B) and one serving of fried gizzards is 14 Charles/Fab 4 12 points. Ah, but the question, how 21 Czechmates many gizzards in a serving. Your call! 28 Odessa (F) See ad, p. 7.

February 10TH ENNIS MUSIC FEST 4 Texas Mavericks (B) Ten years ago, the Ennis polka bunch 11 Charlie Merta felt blue after the hoopla of Super 18 Gravel Road Bowl Sunday. They said, "Let's throw 25 Charles/Fab 4 (F) The South Texas Czech Heritage Society says come on down to Corpus for the 31st Polka Fest. a party!" Thus, began the tradition of (L-R): Jeraldine and Randy Sykora, Tre Morris, and Cathy Chaloupka. Gary McKee captured this B=Birthday celebrations (6:30 p.m.) the Ennis Czech Music Fest, always F=Food night (6:30 p.m.) image at last year's event before a power outage hit Corpus. The music continued and so did the on the weekend following the Super dancing! Czechs are a hardy bunch! American Legion Post 251 Bowl. 2241 S Hwy 71 This year's event gets started with newest polka band to hit the circuit beverages, and kolaches. See ad, this Singles & all ages welcome! a Polka On! Pre-Party on Fri., Feb. - Out of the Box, plus the musicians' page. Non-smoking/Non-drinking 12, in the Sokol Club Room from 6-11 jam. Bring your own soft drinks, pm. You'll have a chance to win some The fest on Saturday gets tea and coffee provided. cool Polka On! prizes and hear the underway at 1 pm with the Czech Jimmy Brosch 979-543-5396 Harvesters, followed by Jodie Mikula, Czech and Then Some, Moravians, Honored with and Ennis Czech Boys. See ad, p. 6 Blaha-Hejl Award CORPUS CALLS ALL CZECHS The Czech Heritage Society of Texas The South Texas Czech Heritage presented the Blaha-Hejl Memorial Society invites you to the 31st Annual Award to Jimmy Brosch for all he Polka Fest on Sat., Feb. 27, at Sokol did to preserve and promote Czech Hall. They won’t check your DNA heritage in Texas. The presentation at the door – you can be Czech for was made at the Society's annual fall the day! Enjoy dancing to the Red state membership meeting held Nov. Ravens, Czechaholics, and Corpus 14 in Galveston. Jimmy's widow, Lucy, natives, The Majeks. They promise and son, Bruce, accepted the award on 2016 SOUTHERN TOUR to once again offer great Czech food, behalf of the Brosch family. Thursday, Dec 31 Chandler, AZ Lone Butte Casino 12-3 pm 602-228-7908 Saturday, Jan 2 Mesa, AZ Greenfield Village 1-5 pm 602-228-7908 Sunday, Jan 3 Mesa, AZ Greenfield Village 1-5 pm 602-228-7908 Saturday, Jan 9 Chandler, AZ Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 8 pm stage show 602-228-7908 Sunday, Jan 10 Mesa, AZ Love of Christ Church on Power Road 10:30 am service Thursday, Jan 14 Chandler, AZ Lone Butte Casino 12-3 pm 602-228-7908 Friday, Jan 15 Mesa, AZ Greenfield Village 11:30am-3:30 pm 602-228-7908 Saturday, Jan 16 Mesa, AZ Greenfield Village 1-5 pm 602-228-7908 Sunday, Jan 17 Mesa, AZ Greenfield Village 1-5 pm 602-228-7908 Thursday, Jan 21 Holiday, FL Polish American Club 1-5 pm 352-428-8340 Sunday, Jan 31 Holiday, FL Polish American Club 2-6 pm 352-428-8340 Wednesday, Feb 3 Hallettsville, TX KC Hall 7-10 pm/Doors 5:30 361-798-2311 Thursday, Feb 4 Mission, TX Bentsen Grove 7 PM/doors 5:30 956-585-0703 Friday, Feb 5 Mission, TX Mission Bell RV Resort 7-10 pm/Doors 5:00 605-610-6114 Saturday, Feb 6 Granger, TX Sts. Cyril/Methodius Rec Center 6-10 pm/Doors 4:30 512-859-2236 Sunday, Feb 7 Houston, TX SPJST Lodge 88 1-4PM/Doors 11:30 713-869-5767 Lucy and Bruce Brosch received the Blaha-Hejl Memorial Award in memory of Jimmy Brosch from the Czech Heritage Society of Texas (L-R): Phyllis Tekyl, Past State President; Allison Sexton, State Check for updates on SqueezeBoxBand.com CHS Queen; and Richard Skopik, CHS State President. Texas Polka News - January 2016 Page 23 Summer and Fall Accordion Cowboy The Twilights “The New” The Chris Rybak Texas European Tours Variety Dutchmasters Dance Music Plainsmen Polkas & Waltzes Czech Heritage Tours of Ennis is Music for taking reservations for its summer Country & Western Weddings • Anniversaries Playing your Club Dances • Parties and fall tours to Europe. The summer Cajun & Tex-Mex favorite polka,waltz all occasions Festivals tour will be held June 12-25 with stops & variety music Plus DJ music 270 County Rd. 201 in Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, The Twilights Hallettsville, TX 77964 Eugene Janis 713-569-6270 Austria, and the Czech Republic. Don Merta 361-772-4703 or 512-963-6660 [email protected] A.J. Drabek The fall tour is set for Sept. 281-460-5273 [email protected] “Rusty” Uhyrek 281-240-4229 713-729-6097 [email protected] 26-Oct. 10, with stops in the Czech Czech out chrisrybak.com CDs Available Republic, Austria, Germany, Italy, France, and Spain. This special tour features a six-day ground tour and Kovanda’s Texas Legacy Texas Sound Incredible seven-day Mediterranean cruise. For more information, contact Czech Band Czech Band Check Band Music Makers Steavy Jakubik or Renee Valek at 972- Authentic Czech Polka Benny Okruhlik Polkas/waltzes, 878-2929. See ad, p. 7. and Waltz Music Polka & variety 5314 Tatum Lane country & variety Spring, TX 77389 Bookings: in the for any occasions 281-353-5892 Kathryn Jolly 713-728-3750 Texas Tradition [email protected] New CD & Ben Orsak T-shirts available. Recordings: 3511 Margaret Steven Kutra 979-885-7144 Bob Suttie Needville, TX 77461 Jason Bartos [email protected] 832-781-8888 979-793-7828 361-865-2167 [email protected] kovandasczechband.org TexasSoundCheck.com [email protected]

Kenny James Czechmates Charles & The Czech Melody For a Variety of Music Best Czech Band in Texas! Fabulous 4 Masters 281-997-7456 100% Czech All the classic Texas Czech, Great Accordion Music German & Western Swing Country/Western & Play for any occasion Play for Polka Mass Polkas/Waltzes Thomas Durnin 512-296-1397 For booking, call Charles Marburger 2204 Whitestone Dr 1-979-541-6909 979-249-5285, Austin TX 78745 El Campo 979-249-6976 (cell) [email protected] “Solo accordionist with 1-281-455-8523 Renee Valek and Steavy Jakubik the sound of a band.” Katy charlesandthefabulous4.com czechpolka.com

Mike Borelli, Master Litt’l Fishermen/ Accordionist Bohemian Master technician, tuner. Dutchmen 50 years experience 9 or 6 piece playing, restoring/repairing acoustic & Band Ads. Only 3 Left! German/Czech polka band electronic accordions. Charter member or 10 piece National Accordion Association - ballroom & variety authorized repairman. FREE estimates. Call Roy G Haag, 1334 Rivercrest Check out his Performer/Teacher - Dr, New Braunfels TX performances on All occasions, all styles from Theresa Cernoch Parker YouTube! classical to classic rock, 281-836-5362 78130-3438 polka, waltz, pop, & traditional. 830-625-8262 Ft.Worth/Dallas area 817-713-2483 [email protected] Page 24 Texas Polka News - January 2016

TEXAS POLKA NEWS PRSRT STD Polka Smiles - Brought to you by Hruska's US POSTAGE P.O. BOX 800183 PAID HOUSTON, TEXAS 77280 BRYAN TX 77802 PERMIT #23 Address Service Requested

Sealy Dance Club: Norma & Elroy Kloesel/ Toys for Tots Dance: Pat & AJ KULP Polka Expo: Happy Berger Okruhlik Kubicek/McKee Birthday Judy Foster/McKee

Night in Old Pearl City: Dennis & Bernice Wurstfest: Diana & Benedict Kallus/ Wurstfest: Willie & Joyce Bohuslav/ KULP Expo: Georgia Gavranovic & Frank Huvar Wurstfest: Silly hat/McKee Ellinghausen/Williams Parker Parker celebrate Frank's birthday/Roberts See more great photos at polkabeat.com/flickr

Whether you’re an Ellinger local or a Highway Family-owned and -operated since 1912, Hruska’s 71 traveler, Hruska’s offers something for continues to provide cleanliness, community and everybody – from convenience-store essentials, to home-cooking to thousands of visitors each year. one of Texas’ best cheeseburgers, to 16 varieties No matter how far folks have traveled, Hruska’s of top-notch kolaches. makes the trip worthwhile!

Located halfway between Austin and Houston, Hruska’s Store & Bakery has been serving its own tradition of deliciousness for almost a full century.

109 W State Hwy 71 | Ellinger, TX 78938 | (979) 378-2333