[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 166 (Wednesday, October 25, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2028]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO SARAH FABRY SMEJA

                                 ______


                             HON. DAVE CAMP

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 25, 1995

  Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sarah Fabry Smeja as she 
is recognized for her vast contribution to polka and the State of 
Michigan. Sarah Fabry Smeja was inducted into the State of Michigan 
Polka Music Hall of Fame on Sunday, October 1, 1995.
  America was built by the hard work and commitment of settlers who 
brought with them a rich and varied heritage. Polka flourished in 
Michigan largely due to the devotion of those who brought with them 
their families' traditions and customs, as well as their love of polka. 
Sarah is just one of those special individuals who is proud to keep an 
honored tradition alive.
  Sarah Fabry Smeja is Swartz Creek, MI, especially enjoys 
Czechoslovakian melodies first introduced to her by her father at a 
very early age. Throughout her career she has played the piano, 
trumpet, and baritone. Sarah also conducted a choir which consisted of 
56 regular members. With some help in language editing, Sarah research, 
composed, and typed three song books which helped maintain the singers 
club. Sarah and her husband, Al Smeja, are now retired and reside in 
Plant City, FL. They are currently associated with the St. Petersburg, 
C.S.A. and are members of the Czech-American Tourist Club.
  Mr. Speaker, thanks to Sarah's efforts, we are all able to enjoy an 
old musical tradition from many years ago. She was honored at a 
reception in Owosso, MI, because of her dedication and commitment to 
spreading the polka tradition and helping others enjoy this special 
music. I am confident that the musical legacy of this outstanding 
individual will be remembered for decades to come.

                          ____________________