[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 71 (Friday, June 9, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CELEBRATION OF LOU TREBAR ON HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 8, 2000

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I celebrate Mr. Lou Trebar. On 
Wednesday May 3, 2000, this Cleveland polka legend celebrated his 80th 
birthday with 1,500 of his closest friends. Gathered at the Slovenian 
National Home, thousands of polka fans and eighteen polka bands payed 
tribute to this local artist by giving him ``the greatest day of [his] 
life.''
  Throughout Lou's life, he has made significant contributions to 
Cleveland's culturally diverse community. This Slovenian neighborhood 
native has enhanced Northeast Ohio's culture, and has added to the 
quality that makes Cleveland a polka city. Lou has a lifetime of 
dedication to promoting Cleveland-Style polkas and waltzes and to 
preserving the rich Slovenian heritage from which Cleveland evolved
  This ``Waltz King'' is a true dean of Cleveland-style music. He was a 
pioneer in adapting Slovenian folk music into America's musical 
mainstream as the first Cleveland-style bandleader to create a multi-
part harmony with all types of instruments. His vision and talent have 
greatly decorated the heritage of the Cleveland area.
  I salute Lou for these many artistic accomplishments, and I join in 
with his many fans who wish him a happy 80th birthday.

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