Verne Meisner – Living Category – Inducted 1989

  The musical story of Verne Meisner began in 1949 when Verne, at the age of eleven, received his first accordion and twelve lessons.  Verne attended dances and listened to the music of Frank Yankovic and the Six Fat Dutchmen on his wind up phonograph.  In a few months Verne…

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Lucian Kryger – Living Category – Inducted 1989

    As a teenager Lucian Kryger had recorded several 78 RPM recordings with his father’s orchestra (Brunon Kryger) on the Harmonia Label of N.Y. In 1951 Lucian, Jerry and brother Bruce recorded two 78 rpm recordings for Polo Records.  One of the hit sides was entitled, “Little Boy Oberek.” …

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Joe Czerniak – Pioneer Category – Inducted 1989

    Joseph F. Czerniak of Duluth, Minnesota, was elected to the polka Music Hall of Fame in the Pioneer category.  Joe was inducted along with other inductees, on Saturday, August 5, during the annual International Polka Association Convention and Festival, at the Ramada O’Hare Hotel, in Chicago.   Joe…

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Kenny Bass – Deceased Category – Inducted 1989

  Kenny Bass (Peter Bastasic, Jr.) was considered one of the all time polka greats that made Cleveland the great polka center that it is.  Since 1948 he had hosted radio programs on local area stations including former WSRS, WJMO, WBKC, WELW, WLYT and currently on the Chardon station.  …

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