[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 150 (Tuesday, October 20, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S12688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      THE LEGENDARY FRANK YANKOVIC

  Mr. DeWINE. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to one of the 
greatest musicmakers in the history of the Buckeye State, the legenday 
``Polka King,'' Frank Yankovic, who died yesterday at age 83.
  Frank Yankovic was from Cleveland, OH, but he had fans not just in 
Ohio but all over America. He brought joy to millions with his 
lighthearted polka hits--songs whose very titles can occasion a smile--
songs like and ``Champagne Taste and a Beer Bankroll'' and ``In Heaven 
There Is No Beer.''
  Frank Yankovic won a Grammy Award, and was nominated for three more. 
With his passing, the world of music, and indeed all Americans who 
believe that music is supposed to be fun, have lost a true friend.
  The voice of Frank Yankovic resounds through the decades, asking the 
question that most everyone in northeast Ohio grew up with: ``Who stole 
the kishkes?''
  Mr. President, it is my hope and strong belief that St. Peter is even 
now answering this question for Frank Yankovic--as he welcomes him to 
the polka band that used to be known as the heavenly choir.
  On behalf of the people of Ohio, let me say thank you to this great 
Ohioan--for a lifetime of entertainment.

                          ____________________