Polka News: Wurst Report, Polka Jack, La Grange Daytripping, Czech Cultural Weekend

Wurst Report: Alex Meixner and his three-ring circus are psyched and ready to polka their brains out at Wurstfest. Alex tells polkabeat about the special musicians who will be joining him this year. “For the opening weekend only (Fri-Sat-Sun) I will have a special guest with the band—Michael Bridge. He is a 19-year-old Canadian National Champion Accordionist and a very energetic and virtuoso performer. Great kid too. Also, for the whole run (the Meixner band appears Friday through Thursday, Nov. 2-8), the horn man in the band will be Hank Guzevich, the leader of the four-time Grammy nominated Polka Family Band. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest trumpet players ever to play in an American polka band and will be featured on trumpet, sax, clarinet, guitar and vocals. As always, Michael Kramar from Sacramento, California, will be on accordion, button box, trumpet, baritone horn, bass, banjo, guitar and vocals, and Ed Klancnik from Nashville will be supplying the big beat of the band. We’re all looking forward to entertaining our Texas fans!” Mollie B and Ted Lange are also looking forward to entertaining Texas fans. Joining them with their Squeezebox band this year are Dana Lindblad on drums, Al Piatowski on accordion and special guest Jim Busta (Mollie’s dad) on concertina. Squeezebox will be performing Nov. 2-4, then Mollie B and Ted head to Branson to prepare for their Christmas special, Nov. 10-12. Check out Wurstfest’s full line up of bands and times.

Great story in the San Antonio Express about the Opas who keep the Wurstfest running smoothly each year.

More Dancers at Mollie B Christmas Special: Mollie B tells polkabeat that this year’s Christmas Special will feature a few more dancers, including a talented four-year-old who goes by the name “Polka Jack.” Also new this year, is a children’s chorus that Mollie says is sure to bring smiles to the audience. “I am happy to say all those performing in the special are active polka performers and dancers,” she says.

“Just like last year, the 2012 special includes plenty of songs to sing along, as well as to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Santa is also making a trip from the North Pole again, still tootin’ on his tuba.” Read more about the lineup of performers. RFD-TV reports that 17 buses are coming in for the show from Iowa, Texas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio. Tickets are still available for the Sunday, Nov. 11 show at 2 PM and Monday, Nov. 12 show at 7:30 PM. Call 417-332-2344 for more info.

Great story about Mollie and Ted in the Sentinel Tribune of Bowling Green, Ohio.

Daytripping in La Grange: The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center was wonderfully represented on television show The Daytripper, an informational travel series that airs on KLRN Austin. Congratulations to the center and its very own stars Janis Hrncir and Bea Patek, who were interviewed for the piece. BTW: the background music is by the Czechaholics band. The show debuted Oct. 25, and can be seen online. Czech it out!

Czech Cultural Weekend at TCHCC: Hear a lecture on what Christmas is like in Czech Republic and Slovakia, make your own tree ornaments and learn the art of egg decorating from Daniela Sipkova Mahoney, who will also be signing her latest book on the subject. All takes place this weekend Nov. 2-4 at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center. Find out more.

Polka News: Must-Read Polka Book, Frauenpower at Wurstfest & More!

Give the Gift of Polka History: Jimmy Brosch Remembers Twenty Legendary Texas Czech Polka Bands book makes a perfect Christmas present for the family. “Not just for your mom and dad or grandma and grandpa, but for the kids as well,” says Jimmy Brosch. “They can read about the music that their parents and grandparents grew up with. It can become an heirloom passed on for future generations to enjoy.” Excerpt from Chapter 2: Jimmy Brosch and His Happy Country Boys Growing up in Praha: Jimmy would arrive at a dance with 50 cents in his pocket. He paid 25 cents for admission and during intermission he’d treat the young lady he was dancing with to a soda water. “We’d walk across the street to Blahuta’s store. She would have a red soda water and I’d have a root beer—five cents each. Same thing at second intermission. I was lucky she didn’t want something to eat because I wouldn’t have had enough money. After all that, I would still have a nickel left and I would save it for the next dance.”

The book also comes with a companion CD. “While you’re reading a chapter on a band, you can listen to their music,” Jimmy says. The book costs $28. The book and CD make a great gift set and costs $38. To place an order, send a check made out to Jimmy Brosch to 24707 Weld Ct. Katy, TX 77494. If you mention this article, Jimmy will offer free holiday shipping if ordered by December 15. You can also order online at www.20polkabands.com. Enter code LODGE88 for free shipping.

Now, for any of you who know Jimmy, offering FREE shipping is a big deal. Hurry and order before he changes his mind!

New at Wurstfest: Die Bayriche 7 (Your Bavarian 7), an all-girl band from Germany. The group celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. The band’s objective is to transfer their skills, their musical diversity, their good mood to the audience and to the famous "spark" überpringen - typical female way. Um, that’s the website English translation. In any language, I think the goal is for their audience to have a good time. Check them out on YouTube. They play each day at Wurstfest except Tuesday, Nov. 6. Check the schedule for times. Frauenpower!

Burton Jams Are Back: Yay! Gene and Allison are back the second Wednesdays of every month in the biergarten of the Pig 'n Whistle. Next jam is Wednesday, November 14. Gene says bring your hammer and join in the fun! MAP

Mikayla Wavra Fund: The October 20 dinner and polka jam in New Ulm were a huge success. Polka musicians provided music benefitting Mikayla Wavra, daughter of polka musician Duane Wavra. Mikayla is still recovering from an accident this summer and the dance, dinner and auction will help pay some of her medical bills. If you weren’t able to attend, but would like to make a donation, send it to: Mikayla Wavra Recovery Fund, Columbus State Bank, P.O. Box 249, Columbus, TX 78934.

Polka News: Mollie B, Rybak Tours, Accordion Fest & More!

Polka On Mollie B: RFD-TV has announced the Mollie B Polka Party show will return for two more years. I sent Mollie a congratulatory email and she responded, “THANKS! We hope to be in Texas again!” Of course, Mollie and her husband, Ted, will be in New Braunfels the first weekend of Wurstfest with their Squeezebox band. Then they’re off to Branson to perform the Mollie B Christmas Special at RFD-TV Theatre, November 11-12. I know of two busloads from Texas heading to the show. Go to Europe with the Rybaks: Chris and Edita Rybak have set the dates for not one, but two European tours next year. The first is June 16-28, 2013 and includes visits to France (Paris & Normandy), Luxembourg, Germany (Rudesheim, Furth) & Czech Republic (Prague, Karlovy Vary & Frenstat). The second one is planned for September 2013 (no set dates yet) and will take you to Hungary (Budapest, Szentendre), Slovakia (Kosice, High Tatras, Strbske Pleso), Czech Republic (Roznov pod Radhostem, Lichnov, Frenstat, Karlovy Vary and Prague) and Germany (Nuremberg and Munich - Oktoberfest!) Learn more about the tours and how to sign up.

Squeezed Out?: If it’s October, it must be time for the International Accordion Festival in San Antonio, right? Not this year. The 12th annual homage to the accordion would have been held last weekend, but the festival ran into some financial troubles, mostly brought on by poor concession sales at last year’s rainy fest. No need to cry in your beer though. The festival board is moving the festival to September 13-15, 2013. Glad to hear it since they always include some of our favorite accordionists like Chris Rybak and Mark Halata. Read more.

Don't Forget Mikayla Wavra Benefit: Polka musicians are gathering Saturday, October 20 to provide music benefitting Mikayla Wavra, daughter of polka musician Duane Wavra. Mikayla is still recovering from an accident this summer and the dance, dinner and auction will help pay some of her medical bills. The benefit will be held at New Ulm Fireman’s Park beginning at 5 PM. Find out more about this special event.

Have You Ordered Your Ein Prosit CD Yet?: The hardest working man in polka, Alex Meixner, is always thinking. His latest brilliant idea was to record Stand and Sing Ein Prosit, an ep (a short CD with only 6 songs) with proceeds going to the Wurstfest Scholarship Trust. “I feel it’s very important to support the scholarship so more young people will have the opportunity to study and continue the traditions of German culture, music and language here in the U.S. Buy yours today for only $5 and support the promotion of polka and education at the same time!

Polka News: New Dance Dates, Mikayla Wavra Benefit, ECB New Release, Gold ’N Crisp Anny & More!

New Dance Dates: The Texas Dutchmen will play Sunday, October 14, beginning at 12:30 PM at the St John Vianney Church Fest, off Memorial between Eldridge and Dairy Ashford. Praha Brothers also will play Sunday at the Annual Homecoming Picnic at Westphalia from noon to 3 PM. Mikayla Wavra Benefit: Polka musicians are gathering Saturday, October 20 to provide music benefitting Mikayla Wavra, daughter of polka musician Duane Wavra. Mikayla is still recovering from an accident this summer and the dance, dinner and auction will help pay some of her medical bills. The benefit will be held at New Ulm Fireman's Park beginning at 5 PM. Find out more about this special event.

ECB New Release: It’s finally here! Ennis Czech Boys new CD You Have the Right to Polka! Order yours today!

Congrats Gold ’N Crisp & the Plumber in the Family: Congratulations to Sidney and Emily Cernoch and Phyllis Cernoch Chavarria on the 40th anniversary of the Gold ’N Crisp in La Grange. Uncle Sidney says he remembers their first customer, a young lady on her way to start college at UT. They tried contacting her, but have since lost touch. I’ve always thought it was the best fried chicken in Texas and then lo and behold the Best of Fayette County Awards are announced and GNC is chosen for best hamburger. Wow! Best chicken AND burgers. Also congrats to cousin Daniel, his wife, Rose, and everyone at Cernoch Plumbing, voted Best Plumber in Fayette County.

New Texas Czech Polka Show: Danny Zapletal now has a Texas Czech Polka Hour to complement his Czech Polka Show broadcast on Saturdays from 1 to 2 PM at WRJQ. The new Texas Czech Polka Hour follows from 2 to 3 PM. It was bound to happen. There is just too much good Texas polka music that deserves its own hour!

Great Idea: The hardest working man in polka, Alex Meixner, is always thinking. His latest brilliant idea was to record Stand and Sing Ein Prosit, an ep (a short CD with only 6 songs) with proceeds going to the Wurstfest Scholarship Trust. “I feel it’s very important to support the scholarship so more young people will have the opportunity to study and continue the traditions of German culture, music and language here in the U.S. Buy yours today for only $5 and support the promotion of polka and education at the same time!

Speaking of Wursfest: It will be here soon. Wurst Director Herb Skoog says the Wurstfest tickets are in the mail. Watch for your chance to win them in the Polkabeat Weekend Lineup newsletter. New this year, Herb says, is an all-girl band from Munich. Das ist wunderbar! Check out the schedule of events.

Polka News: New CD; Band Added to Oktoberfest Lineup; New Radio Show & More

Oktoberfest Scoop Ennis Czech Boys are in the lineup in Fredericksburg this weekend. Be among the first to buy their new CD You Have the Right to Polka! You can also order online. It’s an impressive lineup for the 32nd annual fest with 24 bands (at least that’s how many I counted). There’s always room for one more! Thomas Durnin with the Czech Melody Masters band and host/producer of Czech Melody Time on KOOP 91.7FM of the Czech Melody Masters told polkabeat they have been signed on to close out the fest from 4-6 PM on Sunday.

Festival Coordinator Debbie Farquhar says you’ll also want to check out what's new at the fest this year. "One is Strassen Zelt (street tent) located on Adams and will seat over 200 people. Strassen Zelt will have Oktoberfest souvenirs, Paulaner beer, wurst and cheese, a photo booth, German Schuhplattler performances on Saturday and Sunday and our 3rd Annual 42 tournament on Sunday," Debbie says. Prost y'all!

New Texas Czech Polka Show Danny Zapletal now has a Texas Czech Polka Hour to complement his Czech Polka Show broadcast on Saturdays from 1 to 2 PM at WRJQ. The new Texas Czech Polka Hour follows from 2 to 3 PM. It was bound to happen. There is just too much good Texas polka music that deserves its own hour!

Congrats Gold ’N Crisp & the Plumber in the Family Congratulations to Sidney and Emily Cernoch and Phyllis Cernoch Chavarria on the 40th anniversary of the Gold ’N Crisp in La Grange. Uncle Sidney says he remembers their first customer, a young lady on her way to start college at UT. They tried contacting her, but have since lost touch. I’ve always thought it was the best fried chicken in Texas and then lo and behold the Best of Fayette County Awards are announced and GNC is chosen for best hamburger. Wow! Best chicken AND burgers. Also congrats to cousin Daniel, his wife, Rose, and everyone at Cernoch Plumbing, voted Best Plumber in Fayette County.

Great Idea The hardest working man in polka, Alex Meixner, is always thinking. His latest brilliant idea was to record Stand and Sing Ein Prosit, an ep (a short CD with only 6 songs) with proceeds going to the Wurstfest Scholarship Trust. "I feel it’s very important to support the scholarship so more young people will have the opportunity to study and continue the traditions of German culture, music and language here in the U.S. Buy yours today for only $5 and support the promotion of polka and education at the same time!

Speaking of Wursfest It will be here soon. Wurst Director Herb Skoog says the Wurstfest tickets are in the mail. Watch for your chance to win them in the Polkabeat Weekend Lineup newsletter. New this year, Herb says, is an all-girl band from Munich. Das ist wunderbar! Check out the schedule of events.

Just Added Jerry Haisler told polkabeat that he, Alfred Vrazel and their friends will jam on the patio at Ratibor Country Grill in Temple this Saturday, October 6 from 7-10 PM. Polka on!

Nearing a Sellout Vernell Foyt at SPJST Lodge 88 told polkabeat that she has only three tables remaining for the Red Ravens dance on Saturday, October 13. Contact the lodge and make your reservation today!

National Polka Festival King and Queen Are Ready for Westfest

It was great to see a young couple crowned king and queen at the National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas this past May. Jake and Jessica Holland won the dance contest to claim the prize. They love dancing and their Czech heritage. One of their duties is to attend other polka festivals to promote the National Polka Fest. They're looking forward to attending Westfest over Labor Day weekend. Over the summer, I had a chance to visit with the couple who just celebrated their second wedding anniversary on June 26.

Why did y'all enter the dance contest? We entered for fun with hopes of winning! We really enjoy dancing together.

You've entered before, right? Yes, this was our fourth consecutive year to dance together in the contest. (Before that Jake danced with his sister, April.)

What's your favorite polka/waltz? Jessica: Seven Step Polka because she grew up dancing it with her dad, and Black Gypsy Waltz. Jake: Pretty Dancing Girl and Hastrman by the Vrazels.

Do y'all go to polka dances often? Yes, we both grew up going to weddings where polka bands played and go to dances if there are any in town.

What are your day jobs? Jessica: pre-k special education teacher in Ennis. Jake: construction manager for the Beck Group in Dallas.

Born and raised in Ennis, right? Yes. Jessica's entire family is Czech and still lives in Ennis. Jake was born and raised in Ennis and is a fitfh generation Czech Texan.

What are some of your best memories of National Polka Festival growing up? Jessica - My favorite memories are being in the parade. I have dressed up as a Girl Scout cookie and handed out candy, rode four years as a high school cheerleader, and rode in my grandparents Vera & Wesley Betik's Model-A wearing a kroj that she had made when she was 16. It made me feel proud to represent my Czech heritage and happy to see so many people enjoying themselves at the parade. Jake- I remember as a kid always looking for the booth that sold rubberband guns, those were a lot of fun, and wanting to ride the carnival rides but mom wouldn't let me saying they were dangerous. (Now that I'm older I realize that she was right.) I also enjoyed riding on floats in high school when we had a float for the football team and again when I rode in a corvette as the SPJST State King. It was fun to spot and wave to my friends and family in the crowd. A specific favorite memory was when my great grandma Annie Martinek dressed up in her kroj and rode on a float in the parade. She was in her 90s at the time.

What do you think would attract more young people to attend polka dances? For us, we grew up going to weddings that had polka music and listening to the Sunday morning polka show. Our parents, grandparents and great grandparents, instilled in us an appreciation for our Czech heritage including polka dancing. We think it is up to the families to keep the young people interested in polka dancing and promote it at a young age.

Polka on! Jake and Jessica

Polkabeat Fan Yodels Her Way to Germany

Lufthansa celebrated its first flight of an Airbus 380 from Houston Intercontinental Airport with a German-style polka party and yodeling contest. The festivities were held on August 1 at the airport terminal with entertainment by Das Ist Lustig. Polkabeat fan Andi Meckna, much to her surprise, won the yodeling contest. Andi and her husband, Robbie, heard about the contest from Valina and Ross of Das Ist Lustig. The group has a standing gig most Thursday nights at King's Biergarten in Pearland where they offered patrons yodeling lessons to prepare for the contest. "We both tried yodeling about two weeks before the contest," says Andi. "I was awful but surprisingly Robbie turn out to be pretty good (even though he is not a great singer). Our plan was that he would yodel and I would do the costume contest."

When the couple arrived at the terminal, they were the only ones out of about 500 people who had bothered to dress in costume. "So I knew we had the costume contest in the bag and we won that," says Andi, noting the prize was a dinner for two at Rudi Lechner's Restaurant in Houston.

The yodeling was a different story. "They drew 10 names to compete in the yodeling contest and as fate would have it, my name was drawn and Robbie's wasn't," Andi says. "I was terrified because I have extreme stage fright. As I was on the stage, I looked at Robbie and knew that I had to win for the family so I belted out my best attempt at yodeling. Thank goodness there were no professionals competing."

Andi made it to the final three and ended up winning with an altered version of The Hills Are alive with the Sound of Music. She says it was like a dream and can't believe they now have two round-trip tickets to Germany on Lufthansa A380. "It was such an incredible gift because I've never been and it was high on my bucket list," Andi says. "I have to thank Ross and Valina for their support and I could never have done it without Robbie!"

The couple plan to take their trip in the spring of 2013. "Dreams really do come true," Andi says.

Caitlin Orsak Named First Runner-Up in Miss Czech Slovak US Contest

Caitlin Orsak, Miss Texas Czech Slovak, was named first runner-up in the US contest held this past weekend in Wilber, Nebraska. Jennifer Salva of Kansas was crowned queen and Allie Knouse of Nebraska was second runner-up. Caitlin says it was one of the best experiences of her life!

"All of the girls I competed against were so sweet and so involved in their heritage! We were all so proud to represent our states at the national competition," Caitlin reports. "I cannot wait to travel more and spread my love of Czech culture on a broader scale. The pageant went smoothly thanks to MaryElizabeth Lackey and the Wilber Hotel where we stayed was lovely. We were in two parades and went to St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church. We also visited the residents in the nursing home and met the Czech Ambassador. The food was great! Nebraska knows how to throw a Czech Festival. Almost as good as us Texans ;)."

If they selected Miss Czech-Slovak US based only on smiles, then Caitlin from Shiner would have won hands down. Her smile just lights up the room. But the US pageant goes for more than looks. The girls were judged on personal interviews with the judges, an on-stage interview and question related to their desires to celebrate and preserve their heritage, kroj modeling and a talent competition. Jennifer Salva won numerous prizes, including a free trip to the Czech Republic. In looking at pageant history since 1987, there have been two Miss Czech-Slovak US queens from Texas--Angela Young of Houston in 1993 and Sarah Middlebrook of West in 2006. We have had second runner-up once and two first runners up, including Melanie Zavodny in 1995. Melanie is the director of communications for SPJST in Temple and the editor of Vestnik. Meet the 2012-13 court.

I met Caitlin at the Kolache Festival in East Bernard. I'm proud to know that she is Czech and has such a bright future ahead of her. Polkabeat fans congratulate her on representing Texas so well. Now, let's find out a little more about her.

Why did you participate in the Miss Texas Czech Slovak contest? I was really interested in the Czech pageant and loved the idea of being able to help spread Czech heritage all over Texas.

Where did you get the kroj? My aunt and I made the kroj. It was a great experience for both of us and we are thinking about making another one.

What did you do for the talent portion of the contest? I sang the Immigrants’ Waltz. It is a song written by Daniel Klapuk and sung by the Dujka Brothers that tells of the journey from Europe to America.

What are your duties as MTCS? I attend many parades, festivals, polka dances, and celebrations throughout Texas and spread awareness of Cezh heritage. I have also given a few presentations on Czech heritage to different groups ranging from elementary children to adults.

Are you in school? If so, what are you majoring in? In August I will be attending Texas A&M University and majoring in Agribusiness. I’m not totally decided yet what I'll do after graduation. There’s a few options I’m looking into. But one day I would really like to own my own business and get into marketing.

Tell me about your family. All polka lovers? Yes. My family is full of polka lovers. Everyone from aunts and uncles to cousins, to my grandparents attend many polka dances and listen to polka music daily. It is something I have grown up with and some of my favorite songs are polka music. (She is also the niece of Mark Hermes of the Czechaholics Polka Band and plays the flute.)

What's your favorite polka? Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie. It has been my favorite since I was little and I got to sing it with my Little Sister, Kenna Kubenka, and the Czechaholics at the Queen’s Dance in West after the Miss Texas Pageant.

Which polka CD/mp3 songs have you been listening to lately? Immigrants’ Waltz, Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie, A Ja Sam, Moon Over Moravia, In Heaven There is No Beer, Pretty Dancing Girl, Beer Barrel Polka, Red Rose Polka, Shiner Polka...

Do you go to polka dances often? I go to polka dances as much as I go to country dances. I love to dance to polkas and waltzes; they are a lot of fun and I love the music.

What do you think would help attract more young people to attend polka dances? Many young people like polka music and will dance to it but they prefer country. A polka dance with only polka music isn’t enough. If you incorporated some country songs every now and then more young dancers would come. Whenever there is a dance with a country band and a polka band playing there are more young people, and they will dance to both the country and the polkas.

Polka on Caitlin!

Polka Klub Picks Two Amazing Scholarship Winners

The Polka Lovers Klub of America (PoLK of A) Texas Chapter I recently presented a $500 scholarship to Emily Barton of Needville and Scott Lyssy of Falls City. Like the Klub’s recipients in the past, Emily and Scott just blew me away with all their accomplishments and great attitude. It was inspiring to visit with them about their future plans and thoughts on their polka music heritage. Emily graduated from Needville High School as valedictorian, was the president of the National Honor Society, played French horn in the band, homecoming queen and band sweetheart, worked as a waitress. Her brother, John Paul, received the scholarship in 2009. He is entering his senior year at Texas A&M, trumpet player and leader of the Fightin’ Aggie Band. He announced at the PoLK of A meeting that he is considering entering the seminary. Emily plans to attend Texas A&M in College Station and major in international studies.

Scott graduated from Falls City High School (Falls City is about an hour south of San Antonio), playing just about every sport there was, president of National Honor Society, FFA, member of the band and working at Lyssy Brothers Tree Farm. Scott plans to attend Texas A&M in Corpus Christi and major in business.

It was great to find out more about these two overachievers!

See more photos.

Did you grow up going to polka dances? What do you remember about them? Emily: I did grow up going to polka dances. I remember them being very hot, especially the Dubina and High Hill Picnics. I also remember my dad teaching me how to polka dance. Scott: I have danced a little polka at weddings.

Do you go to polka dances now? Emily: Yes, I do occasionally go to polka dances. I still go to the Dubina and High Hill Picnics almost every year, as well as a few local church picnics that have polka dancing there. Scott: Just mainly at weddings.

Who are some of your favorite bands? Emily: My favorite band, of course, is the Shiner Hobo Band (Emily’s grandfather Johnny Barton is a member of the band), followed by the Red Ravens and the Dujka Brothers. Scott: Any type of Texas country.

What are some of your favorite polka tunes? Emily: Beer Barrel Polka, The Shiner Song, Fraulein, The Fire Brigade Polka, Blueberry Hill and In Heaven There Is No Beer. Scott: Beer Barrel Polka.

Do you have any polka tunes on your mp3 player? Emily: I have a few of my favorites mentioned above! Scott: No, not yet.

What was the best thing about growing up in a small town? Emily: The best thing about growing up in Needville is having a nice, quiet, safe community around me that fostered healthy growth and education. Scott: The small town atmosphere and having the chance to be very involved in extracurricular activities. I also love living in the country.

What do you hope to do with your degree? Emily: I'm not really sure. Maybe I will be a translator of some sort (she speaks Spanish). I still have to do a lot of research about it. Scott: I chose A&M Corpus Christi because I have heard great things about the campus and its professors and the campus atmosphere as a whole. I have also had three older brothers who have, or are currently, attending college there. I hope to get a job in the business field that I will enjoy and become successful in.

Which instruments do you play? Will you continue playing in college? Emily: I play the French Horn and a little piano. I probably will not play the French Horn anymore, because they cost around $4,000. Hopefully I will be able to practice more on the piano in college. I do really love music and want to increase my skills in it. Scott: I have played the baritone since I was in fifth grade, and throughout high school I was a baritone section leader. If it will work into my schedule I may attempt to continue playing.

How can we get more young people to attend polka dances? Emily: I think most young people don't even know what polka music or polka dancing is, because when I talk to them about it, they always ask me, "What is that?" So in order to get them to attend polka dances, I think we just need to spread the word on what good, clean fun it is! Maybe also advertise for some free food at the dance--kids always go for free food! But once they learn how easy it is to polka, and once they get that polka music in their heart, I don't understand why they wouldn't want to attend! I will definitely Polka On, and I will spread as much polka fever in college as I can! Scott: In our area there really are not many polka dances taking place so I really don't know how to attract teenagers, but if I had to take a guess I would say have door prizes for those who attend the dance and help advertise polka to other young teens.

Check out Eurofest and TubaMeisters in Fredericksburg

If you’re attending Night in Old Fredericksburg this weekend, you’ll want to be sure and catch the performances by Eurofest and The TubaMeisters, both from San Antonio. One is a newly formed group and the other has been performing for 20 years. Tuba player Ray Grim belongs to both and offers his thoughts on German vs. Czech polkas, upcoming gigs, CD plans and why the tuba is such a cool instrument. Eurofest was formed earlier this year. How did that come about? It is primarily comprised of performers who were formerly members of the well-known group, The Sauerkrauts. When the leader, Gary Trumet, decided he wasn’t taking any more bookings, other members of the group decided to not let the talent of the group go to waste. Members of Eurofest are: Robert Atwood—extremely talented accordionist, who performed with The Sauerkrauts for 20 years; Kevin Hatcher—vocalist, yodeler, and former bandleader, who performed with The Sauerkrauts for 20+ years; Ray Grim—tuba, a former high school band director, also a member of The TubaMeisters, performed with The Sauerkrauts for six years; Eric Miculka—drums, a frequent substitute performer with The Sauerkrauts; and Suellen Grim—clarinet, Ray’s wife, and a new member to the group.

How did the TubaMeisters get their start? The TubaMeisters became a group in 1992, and performed at Fiesta Texas in San Antonio every weekend during its first season. We specialize in good quality music, interspersed with good, clean fun. Members include: Ray Grim—tuba and vocals; Richard Wallace—tuba and euphonium, a retired school band director, who now conducts the Alzafar Shrine Band and founding member of the band; Al Tapia—euphonium and vocals, a retired U.S. Army bandmaster, who presently serves as the director of both the Comal Community Band, the New Braunfels Village Brass Band, and the Beethoven Concert Band. He was a founding member of the TubaMeisters; and Ezra Johnson—euphonium and vocals, a former middle school band director who takes music very seriously. He is a graduate of the University of Texas and former Longhorn Band member.

Do you have CDs or plans to record one? Both groups have two CDs. The TubaMeisters are planning to begin recording another next month.

Are you all about German music? Although we may be more German, we like that good old Czech music and Tejano tunes as well.

What are the top three tunes y’all like to play for each genre? That’s a difficult one to answer. Probably each one of us has a different answer. Here’s my take: German—Auf der Autobahn, Bergvagabunden, Die Kleine Kneipe Czech—Corn Cockle Polka, Musicians, Come and Play, Polka Time in Texas Tejano (or similar style)—Viva Seguin, Rancho Grande, Peanuts Polka

Is there a difference between a German polka and a Czech polka? Yes. The German polka tends to follow the rules better. The phrases in Czech polkas can be a little irregular. Although I’m almost 100% in my German heritage, I believe I like the Czech polkas better. They have better melodies.

Did the guys in both groups all grow up attending polka dances? Come from musical families? As far as I know, none of the members of either group grew up attending dances. Most have been to dozens of festivals. We all have come to truly like the music we play. I’m not really sure about everyone else, but there is a definite line of musicians in my family, but we never had any kind of family band. My oldest son, Hans, is a professional musician in the Ft. Worth area. He plays piano and sings. He serves as music director for local productions, performs at weddings, directs choirs, etc. His wife, Mary, performs in professional musical productions. My younger son, Evan, along with his wife, Adell, performed for several years in our church orchestra, along with Suellen and myself. Evan plays trombone and Adell plays trumpet. And, of course, my wife Suellen plays clarinet. Both Hans and Evan were in band and choir in high school. I have had the pleasure of performing in the pit, for a couple of productions that Hans has directed. So, there has been a good deal of family involvement.

Where are you originally from? I grew up in Gonzales, Texas. From time to time, I pop in to see John Zavadil, while he is hosting his polka show (on KCTI AM 1450). He is a very, very nice guy. He plays our music, every once in a while. And, lastly, I have a brother, Paul, who assists with the brewing at the Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner. So, I have roots in the Czech/Bohemian area of Texas.

Y'all were part of the Mollie B taping in Ennis, right? What was that like? Were you happy with your performance? We did perform on the Mollie B taping. It was our very first performance as a new group and the very first polka gig my wife ever played. I’d call that a “baptism under fire,” or something like that. The event was very well organized. It was good to hear some really fine bands, and the audience was terrific. Mollie B and (her husband) Ted (Lange) were very professional, as well as being warm hosts for the event. I would have to describe our performance as OK. We will definitely be better as time goes on. All in all, though, it was a very enjoyable experience.

What other gigs do y’all have for the rest of the year? We’re still working on that. For Eurofest, we have a couple of major fests. We will perform at the Ernte-Fest, in Freistaat, Missouri, in August, and at the 47th Annual Oktoberfest in Helen, Georgia), the first week of October. With the TubaMeisters, the major performances include North by Northwest Oktoberfest in Austin, Fredericksburg Oktoberfest and Tomball German Christmas Fest. Both groups will likely be invited to perform at Wurstfest, in New Braunfels, which, of course, is one of the largest festivals in Texas.

Why is the tuba such a cool instrument? I believe most tuba players have come to appreciate the SOUND. It stirs something inside of both the listener, and the performer. When played well, the tuba is a very versatile instrument. In my opinion, it is an under-utilized resource. For convenience sake, many bands use an electric bass, which is both easier to play, and easier to last for a four hour gig.

Dad Would Love to Polka!

It's Dad's turn to polka. What a great way to celebrate Father's Day. And there are plenty of polka dances in Texas to choose from. If I were given one wish, I'd like to dance once more with my dad, Willie Cernoch. A passionate polka promoter, my dad loved to dance. He passed away in 2009 and any time I'm at a polka dance, I can't help but feel he's there with me--dancing to A Ja Sam, one of our favorites. So, this Sunday, grab your dad by the hand and dance the afternoon away at one of these great venues.

Ammansville: Church Picnic Charles & the Fabulous 4, Incredible Music Makers @ St. John the Baptist Boerne: Oma and Oompas, Boerne Village Band, Texas Lady Bugs Elgin: Czech and Then Some @ SPJST Lodge 18 Millheim: Annual Father’s Day BBQ Lazy Farmers @ Harmonic Hall New Taiton: Texas Legacy Czech Band @ Community Center Sweet Home: Original Sweet Home Boys @ Community Center West: Father Ed Karasek Celebration Red Ravens, Dujka Brothers @ KC Hall

Polka on Dad!

Polka On at the East Bernard Kolache Festival

Some polka festivals are spread out over a weekend or even weeks, but no one packs as much entertainment and great food in only one day than the Kolache and Klobase Festival in East Bernard, Texas. You don't want to miss the 22nd running of this great fest on Saturday, June 9. Here are my Top 10 reasons you need to be in East Bernard on Saturday. 10. Non-stop entertainment. From 10:30 AM to 11 PM eight bands perform in the pavilion and in the historic Riverside Hall. 9. The food! They start serving plate lunches of sausage, barbecue chicken and all the trimmings at 11 AM. 8. The kolaches! Dozens and dozens. My favorite is cheese. 7. The vendors. Lots of talented people selling their creations. Polkabeat.com will be there with new items from the Polka On! store. 6. The people. None friendlier than a polka crowd. 5. The hall. Lots of room to dance and great floor. 4. The flag tribute and grand march. Starts at 3 PM. Makes you proud to be an American and a polka lover! 3. The 3-band concert. Starts after the flag tribute and features Czech and Then Some, Dujka Brothers and Red Ravens. 2. The dancing. All the bands play a great variety of music from polka to country to cha cha. 1. The tradition. It's just one of the best run festivals in the state.

Czech Out the National Polka Festival in Ennis

As we approach Memorial Day Weekend and the 46th National Polka Festival in Ennis, I give you my Top 10 reasons why you need to be there! 10. Dance to the music of 14 live bands at 3 halls and 2 street dances. Awesome! See the schedule. 9. King and Queen Dance Contest on Friday night at Sokol Hall. 8. Parade at 10 AM Saturday through downtown Ennis with Miss Texas 2011 as grand marshal. Enjoy the music of the festival's polka bands riding on decorated floats and the sounds of the award-winning Ennis High School Marching Band. 7. Kolache Eating Contest at 1 PM on Saturday at Downtown stage. 6. Live Remote with the KBEC Johnnie I. Krajca Polka Show at KJT Hall on Sunday from 9-11 AM, featuring the music of the Ennis Czech Boys and The Moravians. FREE admission, kolaches and door prizes! 5. Thursday night pre-festival jam sponsored by polkabeat.com. Lots of great Polka On! giveaways and those great Polka On! shirts will be available for only $10. Price goes up to $15 the rest of the weekend. 4. Polkabeat.com table at KJT Hall on Saturday and Sokol Hall on Sunday. Stop by to stock up on the latest Polka On! products--bumper stickers, fans, car windshield sunshades, and jewelry. 3. The food! OMG! 2. Celebrate Texas Czech heritage! 1. It's a family tradition.

Brave Combo Makes Sounds of the Hollow

It always intrigues me how artists come up with names for their works. So, of course when Brave Combo released Sounds of the Hollow this month, I dashed off an email to leader Carl Finch to find out how they arrived at that name. Sounds of the Hollow is an album of passion and variety, demonstrating our passion for variety, says Carl. The song list includes polkas, cumbias, rumbas, a waltz, a twist, a tango, and even more disparate styles. This is also the first official Brave Combo recording to feature the group's newest member, and musical powerhouse, Ginny Mac on accordion.

How did you come up with the name for the album? Carl: The title has a couple of meanings, actually, but mainly I have this new theory that music doesn't come from anywhere. It just started one day and kept evolving, with people inserting their own ideas, which can all be traced to nothing, eventually. No one can claim anything, in a way. It's just a mysterious force. A hollow is like anti-matter. It's a void. A song is something from nothing, but then becomes a part of the nothing. This is also another BC album of variety, not just a polka album or latin album or strict dance album.

How many Brave Combo albums are there? Carl: I don't know because there are foreign releases that have different configurations of songs, there are weird little compilations of our music in different places. There are some things in Japan, for instance, that are not available here, at all; two albums totally in Japanese of just Japanese music. But I would guess that there are probably between 40-50 albums out there, maybe a few more. I know there are some BC releases I don't have and many compilations we're on that I've never even seen or heard.

Is Sounds of the Hollow Brave Combo's best ever? Carl: I try not to think in terms of good/bad, right/wrong, best/worst. Things just are. Striving to live that way is what led me to polka music and, ultimately, made me want to stand up for polka music. I will say that Brave Combo's current sound is unique to the band and Sounds of the Hollow faithfully captures how we are right now. I'm biased, but I think it's a great album. And, for what it's worth, at all of our CD Release parties in the next few months, we will be selling it for only $5. So, in terms of that price, it's a masterpiece, well worth it. So, everyone should try to see us between now and when the September polka season kicks in. Can't guarantee we will be selling them for less than $10 by the time West Fest comes around.

How did the collaboration with Ginny Mac come about? Carl: Ginny has been a fan and friend of Brave Combo since she was 14. When our trumpet player, Danny, decided he didn't want to travel as much, we thought about what instrument should come in, especially since Danny was still going to play about half of the gigs with us; things like Ennis and Westfest, for sure. I had been jamming on accordion with one of Ginny's bands for a couple of years, just as a fun thing and one day I asked her to come over and play through some things with Brave Combo. Everything just clicked. We had to have a full-on powerhouse to fill Danny's shoes and that's just what she is. We did a gig in Denton a few weeks ago at The Arts and Jazz Festival and had Ginny and Danny, both, plus Danny Jerabek from Wisonsin (Copperbox button-box/trombonist) and Joe Cripps, our long-time percussionist. It was quite a sound. Danny and I have just finished a polka album under the name The Nice Musics. We hope to have it in a tangible form by polka season or before.

Brave Combo will be at the National Polka Festival in Ennis on Saturday and Sunday, May 26-27 and at Dosey Doe's in The Woodlands on Thursday, May 31.

Polka on BC!

Take Mom Polka Dancing

Nothing says I love you like polka music. This Mother's Day, treat Mom like a queen and take her dancing. Check out this lineup Texas polka fans: May 11-12 Gedenke! Weimar

Friday, May 11 Edna: Charles & the Fabulous 4 @ Country Oaks Weimar: DJ Johnny Loco, Southbound 955 @ Municipal Park Pavilion

Saturday, May 12 Dallas: Brave Combo @ Sons of Hermann. This is BC's CD release party for their new recording Sounds of the Hollow. How cool is that. You can take Mom dancing AND buy her the new BC CD. The recording features a little bit of everything: polkas, cumbias, rumbas, a waltz, a twist, a tango, and more! Rosenberg: Odessa @ American Legion Swiss Alp: Tim Hall Band Weimar: DJ Darren Kunz, Telstars, The Hit Men @ Municipal Park Pavilion

Sunday, May 13 Schulenburg: Brunch & Dance Tim Hall Band @ Sengelmann Hall Seaton (Temple): Jerry Haisler & the Melody 5 @ Sefcik Hall

Check out polkabeat.com for times and maps and stuff.

Polka On Moms!

Alex Meixner's Top 10 Perfect Polka Moments at Tomball Festival

Hurricane Alex arrived in Tomball on March 30. There were no casualties, but the city was hit head on by a polka party like no other. Alex Meixner left quite an impression on festival goers and as it turns out they left quite an impression on Alex. Here are his Top 10 Perfect Polka Moments at the 12th Annual Tomball German Heritage Festival. [caption id="attachment_90" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Theresa Parker presents Alex with the official Polka On! t-shirt from polkabeat.com. Photo by Mark Hiebert/HiebertPhotography.com"]

10. Having the opportunity to come to the fine town of Tomball and experience the great hospitality.

9. Seeing friends from New York and Florida from high school and college now living in the Houston area... everyone wants to be in Texas.

8. Theresa Parker presenting the Polka On T-shirt on stage.

7. Seeing the Deer Park High School German folk dance groups performing during the breaks.

6. Finding out that Tom Jones (our sax player) is Boots Randolf reincarnated.

5. Getting a whole crowd of people screaming "Polka is HOT in Texas!"

4. Being joined on stage by the premier heavy metal group The TubaMeisters.

3. Going through 5 cases of Gatorade in one night because we were sweating so much.

2, Having the best MC of all time in Valina Polka.

AND NUMBER 1: Getting to "Polka On" with the awesome people of the great state of Texas!

See the photos.

See the videos.

Texas Band Plays the Music of Prague at Kennedy Center

The Polkabeat Nation was abuzz Wednesday, March 21, when Czech & Then Some performed on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. They were asked by the Czech Ambassador to the U.S. Petr Gandalovič to represent the music of Prague for the Kennedy Center's special program The Music of Budapest, Prague and Vienna that ran from Feb. 25- March 29. The King and Queen of the National Polka Festival of Ennis, David and Diane Liska, also attended the performance to lead dance lessons before and during the band's set. I caught up with Danny Zapletal, leader of CATS, to find out more about the performance. Czech and Then Some members include Danny Zapletal - trumpet, keyboard, vocals and arranger; Aaron Schumacher--trumpet; Zeke Martinez – drums; John Schumacher (Aaron's dad) - bass and vocals; Jennifer Marek - sax and clarinet; David Slovak - accordion, piano, guitar, and vocals; and Michelle Slovak (Danny's sister and David's wife) - sax and clarinet. David Czarnek - sax and clarinet also joins the band on occasion.

How did y'all get this gig? Danny: We were asked by the Czech Embassy to play for the "Music of Budapest, Prague, Vienna" festival. I met Ambassador Gandalovič at last year's National Polka Festival (held in Ennis every Memorial Day weekend). He will not be able to attend this year, but we are working for him to come to Ennis for the Festival in 2013.

Loved the costumes y'all wore for the Kennedy Center performance. Why don't y'all wear that for each performance in Texas? Danny: We wear the costumes maybe twice a year. We always wear the costumes at The National Polka Festival in Ennis. We don't wear them all of the time because they are very hot and not the most comfortable clothes to wear. Even in the Czech Republic they only wear costumes like this at special occassions like a festival, wedding, anniversary, etc.

How did you decide what songs to play to represent the music of Prague? Danny: As far as the music that was chosen to play, I chose the ones that are the most popular Czech songs plus a few that other bands play, but they are all popular in the Czech Republic. Three Yanks is not a Czech song but a great arrangement and it has a lot of drive. The crowd really likes that song. [Note: The band opened with Three Yanks as they usually do at dances. It's high energy and gets the crowd dancing right away!]

It was good to see Dave Czarnek of the Texas Dutchmen perform with y'all. Why did you include him in the performance? Danny: David and I go way back to when I was about 9 or 10 years old and all of the years I played with the Texas Dutchmen. David has played with Czech and Then Some the last two years. When Michelle and David (Slovak) were expecting their daughter, Isabella, David played the majority of the jobs. So it was only natural that David play with us at the Kennedy Center. He also always plays with Czech and Then Some when we take bus trips to different festivals.

What kind of comments did you get from the audience? Danny: I was really amazed at how many people attended our performance and really enjoyed it. I didn't know what to expect. Everyone was real positive about polka music and Czech and Then Some. It was really exciting to hear people appreciate polka music and Czech music.

It was a tremendous honor to play at the Kennedy Center, but it was even a greater honor to be ask by the Czech Embassy to represent all of the wonderful Czech people in the United States. We had a great visit with Ambassador Gandalovič. The Czech Embassy was wonderful to Czech and Then Some. I cannot express in words what an experience this was for me and the band. We could not do this without all of the wonderful people who regularly attend our dances. A big thank you to all who supports Czech and Then Some and polka, Czech music.

As Danny said during the performance, "Please, everyone dance. Czech music, polka music, is happy music. It's meant to be danced!"

Polka on Danny and CATS!

See the performance.

Wisconsin Polka Dancers Add a Touch of Ballroom Class

Before each taping of the Mollie B Polka Party in Ennis Thursday through Saturday, Randy and Ashley Thull gave dance lessons. Then they attended the tapings and continued dancing with each other and others. And they never seemed to run out of energy. I thought it was cool how they made polka look like those other ballroom dances you see on Dancing with the Stars, which by the way, when are they going to have the stars dance polka instead of fox trot? Anyway, meet these great young polka ambassadors.

How did y'all meet? We met at a Wisconsin German Polka Fest 12 years ago. We danced the night away. After that we became friends and danced together at dances when we ran into each other. Eight years ago we started dating and then were married two years later.

What are your polka stories? Randy: I'm German and Polish and I grew up dancing to my grandfather's band, The Bill Thull Orchestra. I went to many dances with my parents starting at a very young age, mostly dancing to Dutchmen style music. In fifth grade, I started playing clarinet in the school band and later switched to trumpet in seventh grade. I currently perform with my family in a band called The Goodtime Dutchmen, which started in August 1991.

Ashley: I grew up polka dancing with my family. My parents taught me and my two brothers how to dance. Dad was a polka dance instructor for the Wisconsin Polka Boosters, which is where he met my mom and the dancing began. I have a German heritage, but danced mostly to Polish style polkas.

Why dance and promote polka? We dance and promote polka because we truly enjoy dancing and polka music. Our hope is to help influence the younger generations that see us that it can be an energetic and fun dance. It can also be comparable to professional ballroom dancing as well, which it really hasn’t been before.

We love polka and can’t imagine life without it. Also, it helps keep us in shape and is fun exercise. We have been blessed with many opportunities that would not have been available to us, such as Randy went to Japan and Washington D.C. to promote polka music and demonstrate the polka (I was pregnant with our second child at the time, so I was unable to go to Japan). We were also featured in three theatre shows, as well as with Mollie B’s Christmas Special and have danced with Jimmy Sturr. Polka has taught us that even though many think it is not a cool thing to do, being true to who you are can take you to more places than we ever thought possible.

What do you tell people when some say it's a dying music genre? It depends where you are. There are towns and cities that we have been to where polka music is still played at high school dances, in parades, and also where young musicians seem to start up their own polka bands. We have found these towns/cities bring their kids along when they go to polka dances. That is one way to bring change and grow polka music. Everyone needs to work together to bring polka music back around. Just as a smile is contagious so is polka music. We have never seen a person not smile when hearing polka music.

What did you think of the Texas polka dancers? We thought they are great! We had a lot of fun dancing and talking with so many people in Texas we are already trying to figure out when we can get back down there to see everyone again. In our eyes, Texas is filled with wonderful people and hearts as big as Texas.

What surprised you the most as you danced with Texans at the Mollie B tapings? We loved the atmosphere, the people, but the beautiful Texas waltzes surprised us the most. They are played much slower in Texas than they are in Wisconsin and they were a lot of fun to dance to!

What are your day jobs? Randy: I am the herd manager on the family dairy farm in Kewaskum, WI, where I work with my dad, uncle and grandfather. We have a herd of about 320 cows. Most of the milking part is done by hired help, but I handle the breeding, herd checks, taking care of the sick, and even do the hoof trimming. Ashley: I work for US Foods – Milwaukee as a Procurement Coordinator/Administrative Assistant to the Vice President.

We dance mostly on the weekends, but we also take ballroom dance lessons during the week to learn other dances and be a more rounded couple. We have also converted our living room into a dance studio so we can practice during the week after our kids have gone to bed. We try to fit in dancing as much as we can, but it can be difficult with our work schedules.

Cows give more milk when they listen to polka. Is that true? We believe that is true. A happy cow gives more milk. Since polka is happy music, you'll have happy cows.

How old are your kids? Our son, Ryan, is 4 and our daughter, Ashlyn is 3.

Too young to compete in dancing? They are still learning how to dance the polka, and we have not put them in any competitions. If in the future they want to compete we will help them do so.

Ashley, what are your job duties as dance director for Polka America Corporation? My main duty for PAC is to provide someone looking for dance lessons or dancers a contact in which they can get in touch with. Based on where they are, I can recommend dancers that I know in that area to help them out or dance instructors in the area that could help provide dance lessons. PAC has also in the past put on a show called “Polka Dancing Stars.” In this show my main role is to keep the dancers up to date on what is going on with the show, make sure they know when they need to be where, help with make-up, hair, dance costumes, or wherever needed.

There have been three Polka Dancing Stars shows produced and available on DVD. We did have one every year, but we haven't done one in while due to funding and the participation of good dancers. It is not a competition, but rather a theatre show, which features good dancers who perform/choerograph songs they have chosen. It's about a two-hour show with audience participation, in which they danced on stage for a portion of the show. We also did a couple of group dances, such as group polka, group waltz, and group swing.

What's the first thing you tell someone who is learning to dance the polka? One of the first things we tell someone who is learning to dance is, “Even if you don’t get it right away, you’ll get there. It’s just like riding a bike, it takes a couple of times and before you know you’ll be dancing like a pro! But most of all have fun! Polka is all about having a good time!”

Can anyone dance the polka? Absolutely! Our feeling is, if you can walk, you can polka!

See Mollie B taping photos. See Mollie B taping videos.

From Nigeria to Ohio to Texas; Polka Dancing Is Fun!

When you’re at a polka dance with a bunch of Czechs and Germans, it doesn’t take long to notice the guy from Nigeria. Oluwadamilare Adeyeri—'damilare for short—was at the Mollie B Polka Party Taping in Ennis, March 8-11, helping out with tickets, taking photos and giving dance lessons. Of course, I had to find out how he got involved with polka dancing.

'damilare and Mollie B dancing at the Mollie B Polka Party Ennis, TX - Day 2

'damilare and Mollie B dancing at the Mollie B Polka Party Ennis, TX - Day 2

Where in Nigeria are you originally from?

I was born in Akure, Ondo State in the South-west part of Nigeria but have lived and traveled across different parts of the country.

When did you come to the U.S.?

I initially came to the U.S. in the summers of 2008 and 2009, for an exchange program and then back again in 2010 for graduate school.

Ohio, right? Where in Ohio?

I currently live in Bowling Green, Ohio.

Why did you come here?

When I first came in 2008 and 2009, I was on educational and cultural exchange through the International YMCA Camp Counselor Program, which brings young people from different parts of the world to work with children in U.S. summer camps to teach Americans about international people and cultures as well as for us to learn about U.S. culture. I returned to Nigeria both years at the end of the summer camps, until January 2010 when I came back to the U.S. to work on a Master's degree in Cross-cultural and International Education at Bowling Green State University, where I currently am.

How did you get involved in polka dancing?

Mid last year, I was invited by my friend who is a former professor at the university to one of the polka events at the Bavarian Haus in Deshler, OH. From there, I connected with another couple who are retired professors from the university who keep me posted on polka events in the area.

Why do you like to dance polka?

It's a combination of things I enjoy very much. I enjoy dancing and engaging with different cultures and polka dancing enables these. My dance background actually covers social dancing, teaching, and performing across different dance genres, including Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Swing, Chacha, Waltz, Argentine Tango, Samba, AfroCuban, and African dance medleys.

When did you start working with Mollie B Polka Party staff?

I do not work as a regular staff for the Mollie B Polka Party. I met Mollie B in July last year at the Hamler Summer Fest in Hamler Ohio, which I attended and her band SqueezeBox had played. We exchanged contacts, later became friends, and continued to be in touch since then. Earlier this year, Mollie asked me if I could be available to be part of the Ennis, TX tapings and it worked out with my schedule.

What are your job duties?

As a fill-in volunteer for the tapings of the Mollie B Polka Party at Ennis, TX, I covered various duties as required. I, however, mainly helped with ticketing at the door and photography of the event for the four days. I also filled in at the pre-party dance lessons when needed and had a great time dancing and being part of the dancing crowd at the parties.

Polka on 'damilare!

See more photos of the Mollie B taping in Ennis. See the videos.