The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer Hank Haller

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of 2003 IPA Hall of Fame Inductee, Hank Haller. Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Haller family and all of Hank’s Friends and Fans. Everyone remembers Hank Haller for his oom-pah music and lederhosen. But Hank was…

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IPA Wisconsin Festival of Bands Weekend

The IPA is excited to have the Wisconsin Festival of Bands Weekend. Located at: Townline Pub and Grill 2544 Lineville Road Suamico, WI 54313 Saturday, May 6, 2023 6 pm-10 pm 2014 IPA Hall of Fame Inductee Eddie Biegaj and Crusade Sunday May 7, 2023 – 12 pm – 5…

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54th Annual Chicago Festival of Bands

Join the International Polka Association in Celebrating January as National Polka Month Saturday, January 14, 2023 Music by: Lenny Gomulka and Chicago Push Doors open at 4:30 pm – Music: 5 pm – 9 pm ADMISSION: $20 at the Door **A Special 2-Day pass will be available for $40** 54th…

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The Passing of Laura Bethke

It’s with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Laura Bethke.  Laura was a past financial secretary of the IPA for several years as well as the newsletter editor. She then assisted Leon Kozicki with the IPA Hall of Fame process when he was the Chairman.  Laura…

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Polonia Banquets Closing

The IPA is sad to announce the closing of the historical Polonia Banquets. Polonia Banquets had an enormous history with polkas and the IPA. The full letter from the Machay family is presented below. After 58 years serving as the premier banquet facility in Chicago’s Brighton Park neighborhood, Polonia Banquets…

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Passing of Karen Olszewski-Polisky

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Karen Olszewski-Polisky. Karen is the wife of bandleader and 2007 IPA Hall of Fame inductee Dennis Polisky of the Maestros Men. On behalf of the Officers, Directors and members of the IPA, we extended our deepest condolences…

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2022 IPA Hall of Fame Inductees & 2021 Music Award Winners!

International Polka Association Announces Hall of Fame Selections and Music Award Winners! The International Polka Association is proud to announce the results of the annual election conducted by the Academy of Electors and Trustees.  At this time they have determined the 2022 Hall of Fame selectees and winners of the…

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