Press Release - Saturday, September 02, 2006
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Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn Declares Polish Polka Day in Illinois
(CHICAGO) - Today Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn declared "Polish Polka Day" in Illinois, honoring the state's large and thriving Polish-American community and the distinctive musical style that has delighted listeners and dancers worldwide. Quinn made the declaration at the Taste of Polonia Festival at the Copernicus Center in Chicago.
"Here in the Land of Lincoln, there are nearly 1 million Polish-Americans - about one in every 13 Illinoisans," Quinn said. "The Polish community has contributed enormously to the rich cultural heritage of our state. By declaring "Polish Polka Day" throughout the State of Illinois, we are saluting a lively, innovative musical style and the equally vital, hard-working Polish-American community that created and supported it."
Polish-style polka developed in the Chicago area after World War II and rapidly drew fans throughout America and around the world. The expressive, improvisational Polish polka style features accordions, clarinets and trumpets, and often includes both Polish and English lyrics.
The Polish polka style was created in large part by Walter "Li'l Wally" Jagiello, often known as "The Polka King." On August 17 of this year, polka enthusiasts were saddened by the death of the legendary polka composer and performer. "Li'l Wally was probably best known to Chicagoans as the co-author of "Let's Go Go Go White Sox," but his long list of hits made him beloved by polka fans everywhere," Quinn said. "He helped to make Chicago the polka capital of the world."
Jagiello, born in Chicago, was one of the first musicians inducted into the International Polka Association's Polka Hall of Fame. Jagiello often said the highlight of his long and successful career came in 1984, when he was asked to perform for Pope John Paul II. Jagiello wrote a song for the occasion, "God Bless Our Polish Pope."
"On Polish Polka Day, I hope that polka lovers everywhere will take a moment to honor the memory of this great musician," Quinn said. "His talent brought renown to Chicago's Polish-American community and the entire state of Illinois."
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