Polka Lovers Club of Texas Museum holds program for dance enthusiasts, wanna-be’s

The Polka Lovers Club of Texas Museum (PLCTM) hosted its annual Donor Appreciation Dance on Sunday, Nov. 9. Museum organizers offered polka and waltz dancing for all ages and all levels of experience — from basic steps to twists, turns, and twirls.

Laughter filled the hall, and “happy music for happy people” was abundant.

This annual event honors the individuals, families, businesses, organizations, grant providers, and public officials who play a vital role in the Museum’s success. It is always open to the public.

Held at the Fairgrounds Pavilion, the event began at 2 p.m. with dance lessons led by Louis Stewart of the Mollie B Polka Party and Debra Stewart, both officers of the Po.L.K. of A. dance organization. This dance was different as everyone attending already knew how to dance and were ready to get on the dance floor. Louis commented on the lack of attendees, “I hate it that there are so few people here, but what fun this is and what a great band. This is great!

Lively music was provided by Kenneth Krystinik & The Lavaca County Line, who delivered a lively performance that kept dancers on their feet and listeners thoroughly entertained. Although attendance was lower than usual due to multiple local bands playing at the opening of Wurstfest in New Braunfels, the band remained at the top of its game with lots of energy.

The atmosphere, decorations, hall setup, raffle prizes, and refreshments all contributed to a wellplanned and enjoyable event. Those who didn’t attend truly missed out!

Ted LaPesh of Houston, Texas, remarked, “This is an excellent polka band. Plenty of good food, friendly people, and lots of space for dancers. Well organized, with people coming from all over Texas and even Clovis, New Mexico. An enthusiastic group kept dancing until the last polka was played.”

The PLCTM Board members and volunteers work tirelessly for the Museum. One attendee asked when the next Fairgrounds dance would be held because she had such a wonderful time and wanted to return.

Director, Jane Fries reflected, “The energy of the music, the precision of the polka step-step-step, and the arm movements spinning into twirls reminded me of the dances I attended as a child in the ’40s. As a teenager in the ’50s, I danced those same moves in many country halls popular at the time.”

A short program took place during the band’s break at 4:20 p.m. President Gary Bucek provided an update on Museum progress over the past year and distributed the 2025 Program and Annual Report.

A highlight of the event was a series of raffle drawings. Winners included: 1. $50 Majek Winery Gift Certificate – Kenneth Kristynik 2. 10 Texas Women’s League Drive-Thru Dinners – Randy & Carol Gardner 3. Liquor Basket – Susan Weyand 4. Margarita Pitcher & Two Glasses – Barbara Kalina 5. Jumbo Porta Puzzle – Chris Gurecky 6. Butternut Squash – Chris Gurecky 7. Seite Basket (Chips, Salsa & Seasoning) – Lucille Lancaster Winners of the 50/25/25 Cash Raffle were Wilbert Cernosek and Jeanette Goodson.

Community Support In the spirit of community support, Museum organizers also collected non-perishable food items, toiletries, and children’s toys for distribution to locally sponsored holiday programs.

The Polka Lovers Club of Texas Museum opened in La Grange in 2006 with a mission to preserve, promote, and educate the public about polka music and dance. Exhibits include The Hoelscher Haus, The Hoelscher Family, Po.L.K. of A., Msgr. Father Hybner, Frank’s Place Bar, historic bands, donor recognitions, photo displays, videos, musical instruments, and an extensive music library dating back to the early 1900s.

Located at 275 West Fairgrounds Road, La Grange, TX 78945, the Museum is part of the Czech Village within the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC).

For more information, visit plctm.com, email [email protected], or contact President Gary Bucek at 713-252-2162.