Passing of IPA Hall of Fame Member: Bill Shibilski

It is with great sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of IPA Hall of Fame member; Bill Shibilski. Bill was inducted into the International Polka Association Hall of Fame in 2020 for his outstanding dedication to polka music as a polka promoter and polka broadcaster for over…

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The Passing of John “Foo” Furmaniak

It is with great sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of 2013 International Polka Association Hall of Fame Member John “Foo” Furmaniak. John was the consummate professional when performing with many great polka bands in and around the Chicago area and beyond.  His accordion skills are second…

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Passing of 1982 Hall of Fame Member: “Happy Louie” Dusseault

                                                                            It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of 1982 IPA Hall of Fame Inductee; Louis George “Happy Louie” Dusseault. Happy Louie was one of the most dynamic and charismatic polka entertainers in the field. …

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2021 IPA Polka Hall of Fame Inductees

On behalf of the International Polka Association Board of Trustees and Hall of Fame Committee, the IPA Officers and Directors are pleased to announce the following results of the annual voting cycle as determined by the national Academy of IPA Electors:  The 2021 IPA Polka Hall of Fame Selectees: LIVING…

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2020 IPA Music Award Recipients

On behalf of the International Polka Association Board of Trustees and Hall of Fame Committee, the IPA Officers and Directors are proud to announce that the annual voting cycle conducted by the national Academy of IPA Electors just concluded. Here are the results for the 2020 IPA Music Awards winners:…

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2021 Joe Jozwiak Award Co-Winner: Frank Napiwocki

  Frank Napiwocki and his wife Doris Many years ago, the late Joseph Jozwiak, a director of the IPA, made a suggestion that an award be bestowed upon an individual or group of individuals who have made a significant contribution or endeavor to enhance the promotion of polka music. After…

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2021 Joe Jozwiak Award Co-Winner: Marsha Bulinski

Many years ago, the late Joseph Jozwiak, a director of the IPA, made a suggestion that an award be bestowed upon an individual or group of individuals who have made a significant contribution or endeavor to enhance the promotion of polka music. After much discussion, the International Polka Association (IPA)…

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2021 Leon Kozicki Trustees Award Winner: Don Hunjadi

Don Hunjadi grew up with polka music, often watching his father, Richard, perform on stage as the drummer with Milwaukee polka great, Louie Bashell. Although he started playing trumpet in the fifth grade, by age 14, Don became the bass player with the Joey Klass band. At 17 he began…

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Passing of Former IPA Director – Leonard Wrobel

It is with sadness that we notify our members and friends of the passing of former IPA Director Leonard Wrobel. Lenny served as a director for the International Polka Association and was passionate about polka music.  Lenny passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 22nd, 2021 in Erie, PA.…

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